chapter 17
MONEY CHANGERS
Church Leadership and the Support of it
Now let's consider Christ's attitude concerning church leadership among God's people. Then later, we can see what the Word of God has to say about their means of financial support.
We've already looked at any New Testament scriptures where tithes are mentioned and have seen that Jesus did not say that tithing was to be the New Testament means of supporting ministers. We've also seen that all born again believers are ministers of his temple. Yet we know too, that God does call individuals to particular ministries, such as pastoring and evangelizing. God's Word does give us the answers we need, although his answers are not always what men would design, if it were up to them. God's ways are certainly best however, for all who belong to him.
Before Jesus died on the cross, he spent some time in prayer with his father. If we look at what he prayed, we can see what was important to him. We can see what was on his mind and heart before his death.
John 17:9-11 I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.
10 And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them.
11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one as we are.
The subjects of the Lord's prayer were all those who God had given him, which were those who had come to believe in him, and accept him as their Lord. This is his church, his body, his temple. We have already seen that God is a God of unity and we see this again in this prayer, as he asks the Father to make us one as he and the Father are one.
Jesus also prayed for the Father to keep his children through God's own name. The Greek word for 'keep' in verse 11, is tereo, tay-reh'-o; “to guard (from loss or injury, prop. by keeping the eye upon; ... [Strong's]) The Greek word for 'name' is onoma, on'-om-ah; “a “name” (lit. or fig.) [authority, character]: ...
We might say that Jesus was asking his Father to guard his children from loss or injury through his own authority and power. The protection of God's people, then, comes first and foremost through the Father's name. It is his name that has all power and is the ultimate authority. God will never use any minister to lead us in any direction that is outside of God's own authority and character. When we live 'in' Christ and in agreement with his Word, then we live in the realm of God's own authority, which is the safe place to dwell. And if we live our lives based on the Word of God and in agreement with that Word, as his Spirit reveals it to us, we will begin to take on God's character.
There is one word that describes God's character well. It is the word 'love', for love is what God is.
1 John 4:8 “ ... God is love.”
Always keep this in mind when considering any teaching or doctrine. God is not merely rules, regulation and order. He is love! He will give no doctrine or law that is outside of love. Unity and love go together, for love is a unifying force. Selfishness and hatred are divisive forces.
So then, since Jesus is the living Word and he is love, as members of his body grow in his Word, they become more able to be unified as one holy temple for his Spirit to dwell in. Yes, unity is the heart of God.
The attitude that pleases God could be seen in his people in the book of Acts, after the day of Pentecost, when there were about three thousand people saved and baptized. After the holy Ghost had been sent, and these people received Jesus into their lives, look at what sort of attitude they demonstrated.
Acts 2:44+45 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
Perhaps these people got a glimpse of what Abraham had seen; that they were pilgrims and strangers headed for a better place. For certain, the love of God had come into their lives. They sold what they had and shared with others, not because the Law said they must, but this was in agreement with the attitude Jesus had taught. How selfless they became! They began to look to each others needs once the love of God came into their hearts. Self gain and preeminence were no longer what mattered.
Paul told the people in Philippians, what their attitude should be.
Phil. 2:3+4 Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem OTHER BETTER THAN THEMSELVES.
4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
(emphasis mine)
The Lexicon gives the meaning for the word 'look', here as - “to look at, that is, care for, have regard to, a thing.”
The idea seems to be to actually involve oneself with taking care of others. This agrees with Jesus' instruction to deny self and take up our cross and follow him. (Mark 8:34) The cross is a symbol of self denial and self sacrifice, that others might live.
Notice in verse ten of John 17, when Jesus spoke of those who belong to him and the Father, he said, “... I am glorified in them.”
When we live the giving, caring life that Jesus lived, THEN he is glorified in us.
When parents see their children grow to become strong, accomplished adults, who carry on the training their parents have instilled in them, the parents are then proud and satisfied. Even so, we please God when we, his children, reflect the character and authority of God.
Now look at what Jesus said about leadership and authority in Matthew.
Matt. 20:25-28 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.
26 But IT SHALL NOT BE SO AMONG YOU: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;
27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:
28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (emphasis mine)
Isn't it wonderful how clear Jesus made his opinions and his ways to us? Yet man often establishes his own ways contrary to God's heart, while thinking he is doing God a service. But God's ways cannot be improved upon! What Jesus said in those verses, he said to the disciples after Zebedee's wife had come to him and asked him to allow her two sons to sit, one on either side of him in his kingdom, and the other disciples were upset over this request. In other words, she had asked him to give her sons places of honor, when he sat upon his throne one day. Jesus asked her sons an interesting question in response to their mother's request, in verse 22.
Matt. 20:22 “ ... Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? ...
Interestingly enough, he did not ask them for any other qualifications. But what he was asking them meant, are ye able to suffer what I must suffer? We see this to be the meaning by what Jesus said later in John, when the soldiers came for him and Peter tried to stop them with his sword.
John 18:11 Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?
The cup represented his suffering. So Jesus asked, concerning those who would desire positions of honor, if they could give up their own lives for others as he was about to do. When the other disciples heard what had been asked of him they were moved with indignation, or greatly displeased. This is what happens when men seek to have positions above others. The results are conflict and offense.
Jesus was very clear when he called them to him and gave them the instructions in Matthew 20:25-28, that between his followers, he wanted no one exercising authority over another, as the princes (rulers [Strong's}) of the Gentiles did. Now this may not agree with some of the modern day teachings on so-called 'spiritual authority', but it would do us all good to hear the words of Jesus, just the same.
One of the meanings for the words 'exercise authority', in the Greek, is “subjugate”. (Strong's) Subjugate means “to conquor; to compel to submit; ... (Webster's,) To exercise authority means, “to have (wield) full privilege over ... (Strong's) Jesus stated plainly “ ... “it shall not be so among you.”
There were no if , ands, or buts, about it “ ... it shall not be so among you.” If only the disciples would have understood what Jesus had meant about drinking the cup he would drink, perhaps this would have already been clear to them.
Notice that Jesus did not tell them that in order to be a great leader, they must attend seminary, be knowledgeable in scripture, be an eloquent speaker, know how to dress properly and be able to handle leadership with class and dignity. What he did say was “ ... Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister.” But dear reader, this does not mean to be what we call a licensed minister today. The Greek word for minister is diakonos, dee-ak'-on-os;; prop. from diako (to run errands): an attendant, that is, (gen.) a waiter (at table or other menial duties); ... (Strong's)
He also said , “ ... whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant.” The Greek word for 'chief' os protos; “foremost (in time, place, order, or importance): ... “ (Strong's) and the Greek word for 'servant' is doulos, doo'-los; a slave (lit. or fig. invol. or vol.; frequently therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency); - bond (-man), servant.” (Strong's)
Jesus' qualifications for positions of importance, certainly do not sound too glamorous, do they? Jesus' standard for one who would be great, foremost in importance, was to be the one willing to, and indeed active in, waiting on and serving the others, to the point of disregard for material gain.
Notice also that in these passages, Jesus doesn't refer to our serving him, but rather to our serving each other. Are you surprised by this? Look what he says in John 15:12-15
12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
Jesus calls those who do what he commands, 'friends', not servants.
AND WHAT DID HE JUST COMMAND?
He commanded that we love one another, as he loved us!
HOW DID HE LOVE US?
He gave his life for us! Those doing as he did are called his friends.
WHAT DOES IT REALLY MEAN TO BE A FRIEND OF GOD?
The Greek word for 'friends' is philos, fee'-los; “prop. dear, that is, a friend; act. fond; that is, friendly [still as a noun, an associate, neighbor, etc.]: friend.”
Associate is according to Webster, “To adopt as a partner, companion, or the like; to join intimately (things together); to connect mentally (ideas or feelings): to unite; to combine ...
Jesus opened himself to his disciples and shared things from his mind and heart which he received from his Father. This was very intimate discourse. Jesus wants us to be united with him, sharing his heart, and his character. To be a friend or partner we must partake in his work, which involves the care of his children and also involves suffering.
I am afraid that far too many in the church world today, have missed what Jesus' requirements are for leadership and greatness. We have heard about serving Jesus many times. But God is almighty. He can speak into existence, anything he wants. It takes only a word for him to create. He doesn't need you or I to bring him his slippers, or his scepter, nor to dust or shine his throne. The kind of servants he wants are those who tend to the needs of his little ones, his children. After all, remember, we are created in his image. We are to be a reflection of him on the earth, not just a voice which declares words of explanation about who and what he is. We are to demonstrate him!!
(Jesus speaking) - John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go to my Father.
When we read this, we may think of wondrous healings etc., but let us not forget those things which he did, such as washing the disciples feet. He served others. THIS IS WHAT HE DID!
MARK 9:41 For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name,
because you belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
(speaking of judgment) Matthew 15:40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Matthew 25:45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not unto one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.
If you give even a cup of cold water to one of God's little ones, in his name, you will receive a reward. What we do to God's children, we do to him.
DOESN'T NATURAL MEN FEEL THE SAME WAY ABOUT THEIR CHILDREN?
HOW MANY TIMES HAS A PARENT WISHED HE COULD BEAR HIS CHILD'S PAIN FOR HIM?
HOW MUCH JOY DOES A PARENT RECEIVE WHEN HE SEES HIS CHILD HAPPY?
Jesus' heart is toward his children! If then, you are a minister of him, that is where your heart should be also! So, it is when someone gives you a cup of water in HIS name – BECAUSE YOU BELONG TO CHRIST – FOR THAT REASON, HE WILL NOT LOSE HIS REWARD! The service God wants from us, is to care for our precious each others, who are his little ones.
OH! But this is not the way to greatness that appeals to human flesh! Men like to be honored and to hold positions of importance, based on their schooling, their talents, their claim to a call from God, etc. And for so long now men have loved to have men look up to, follow after, and to represent THEM, rather than to give God alone that place of honor.
From the beginning God wanted to lead and guide men, himself. But eventually his people decided to have a man for a king, against the will of God, and brought many problems upon themselves because of their attitude. Oh! That man would ever follow God's ways and his alone!
In the Old Testament, there were no kings over God's people, after Melchizedek, until Samuel anointed the first of Israel's kings. (see 1Sam. 10) Instead of kings, God chose certain men, and raised them up to be judges over his people. The Holy Spirit came upon these men and enabled them to accomplish God's will. God alone was Israel's ruler, but he moved by his Spirit upon the judge, and he then could judge the people righteously, as an instrument of God.
There came a time, however, when Samuel, the sixteenth judge of Israel, made his sons Joel and Abiah, judges over Israel. (see 1 Sam. 8:1-7) But his sons did not walk in their father's ways of godliness. Rather, they behaved sinfully. The elders of Israel were very displeased and decided they wanted a change. Apparently though, they did not seek God's will in the matter, but decided on their own that they wanted to have a king, rather than a judge, over the people.
The elders approached Samuel and told him to make them a king to judge them like other nations. Doesn't that sound familiar? There are always people wanting to be like others. Samuel was not pleased, but God assured him that these men were not rejecting Samuel, but that they had rejected God himself. God himself was supposed to be their ruler, not a man. In 1 Sam. 8:11-18, Samuel warned the people of the problems that would arise if thy had a king with; his' kingdom, but the elders had their minds made up. They wanted a man for a king. Even though he considered it a personal rejection, God let them have what they wanted. Today men continue to want a man to honor, count as their hero, and give respect and glory to. The apostle Paul had to deal with such an attitude in the New Testament. He addressed this issue in 1 Corinthians, which shows Paul's own attitude and also his instructions to the people.
1 Cor. 1:11-13 For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions (a quarrel ...[Strong's] ) among you.
12 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
(added notation)
The type of division that Paul learned was in the church, sounds rather familiar, does it not? People are some times known by the name of their pastor, or denomination and often have a certain pride in this. When Paul heard what was happening, he could have taken the opportunity to instruct the people to be faithful to their particular leader or group. He could have told them that their leader was their spiritual authority and as such, they were obligated to submit themselves to him. Perhaps some of you have heard similar teaching in recent times. But brother Paul shared Jesus' view of unity for God's people. Paul understood that we, as the body of Christ, are to be unified, not divided. So he asked the question, “Is God divided?” Even when Paul was among the people proclaiming the message of Jesus, some wanted to exalt certain men as spiritual leaders and this still goes on today.
Acts 18: 24-28, we find that Apollos was a Jew, who was an eloquent man, mighty in scripture, who “mightily” convinced the Jews that Jesus was Christ, by using scriptures. So evidently the men who they sough to exalt were ministers of the gospel. But Paul told them how it was supposed to be.
1 Cor. 1:30+31 But of HIM are ye IN CHRIST JESUS, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.
31 That according as it is written, “He that glorieth , let him glory in the Lord.” (emphasis mine)
Notice the word 'of' in verse 30. Who are we 'of'? We are of Christ and in Christ. But who is Christ of? He is of God.! So then, is Christ, whom we are of, divided? Paul's voice clearly agreed with that of Jesus; that no one is to exercise authority over us, or to be Lord over us, except for Jesus himself.
There is definitely a place for pastors, evangelists, etc., in the body of Christ, but obviously it is not a place of domination over the rest of the body. Listen to Paul as he further expresses God's will, using himself as an example.
1 Cor. 2:2, 4:+5 For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of mans wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.
5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Paul, the same man who was sent by God to the Gentiles, the man accredited with writing many of the epistles of the Bible, tells the people that he determined not to know anything except Jesus, when he came among them. He didn't care to show his persona or knowledge of anything except Jesus his Lord. He didn't try to convince the people of his own importance, based on his position as a gospel preacher, or based on his own wisdom, or the wisdom of any other man, whether scholars or scientist, etc. He clearly states that our faith should not stand in the wisdom of men,. Our faith is to stand in the power and person of God himself.
Paul had stated earlier, these important words -
1 Cor. 1:25-29 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men: and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.
28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and the things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
29 That no flesh should glory in his presence.
Of those God calls, not many are the wise, mighty or noble men, after the flesh. God will always be Lord and King, and will not have us lift man above himself. Why should we lift up man whose wisdom is nothing when compared to the wisdom of our God?
Now hear Paul a little more.
1 Cor. 3:4-7 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not yet carnal?
5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?
6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
7 So neither is he that planted anything, neither he that waterth; but God gave the increase.
The Greek word for 'carnal' is sarkikos, sar-kee-kos'; “pertaining to the flesh, that is, (by ext.) bodily, temporal, or (by impl.) animal, unregenerate:- carnal, fleshly.”
The man who looks to a man to be his conscience and to hear from God for him, is not spiritual, but thinks as an unregenerate (unsaved) individual.
Paul said that he and Apollos were just ministers by whom the people believed. He was calling himself and Apollos that word 'diakonos, meaning, “one who runs errands, a waiter at table or other menial duties, etc. as we saw from the Strong's Concordance. He then went on to say that they were not anything. The Lexicon gives the meaning for 'anything', here, as, “it is used emphatically, equiv. to something of consequence, something extraordinary.” If Paul says that he, who men consider to be a great and mighty man of God, is not anything of consequence and nothing extraordinary, where does that put the rest of us, including preachers today? As Paul stated and knew quite well, it is only God who gives increase and anything we accomplish, it is with his help and by his power working in and through us.
(Jesus speaking) John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him; and I will raise him up at the last day. (emphasis mine)
Preachers can preach until they lose their voices, but no one is going to come to Jesus unless God the Father, draws him, himself. It would behoove pastors, evangelists, etc. to place their total dependency on the Lord, for in themselves they are nothing, no matter how educated in scripture or any other thing.
What then did Paul want men to think of him and the other preachers who had been named?
1 Cor. 3:20-23 And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.
21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours.
22 Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours;
23 And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's.
1 Cor. 4:1 Let a man so account ( ... estimate ... [Strong's]) of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. (added notation)
For 'ministers' the Lexicon says, “anyone who aids another in any work; an assistant: of a preacher of the gospel.” These men served God's children, knowing that they too were his children. They had been given truths of God to share with others, but those truths came from God and any authority they had, was only the authority of God's word and his name, not their own.
God had not appointed his ministers to exercise their own authority over other Christians. They were to give the gospel and the Word of God, which is the authority, since after all, Jesus is the living Word and HE has all power and authority. As we've already seen, in the prayer Jesus prayed, we are all kept by one thing; - the Father's name. It is God's authority that keeps us, not that of any man. No matter what he claims his title to be, or claims his calling to be. No man has authority, outside of God's Word, over God's children. If God's Word does not say it, no man has the right to impose it.
It is a normal thing for a new Christian to have a tendency to depend heavily, for spiritual insight, on the person through which he first heard and received the gospel; the one who led him to Christ. And those who are mature, are indeed, to be examples to those who are younger in the Lord. But all Christian leaders, and in fact, all older Christians, should be sure that the example they are giving is that of Christ, not self.
Paul told the Thessalonians this concerning a particular issue.
2 Thes. 3& For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us; for we behaved not unseemly among you.
The word 'follow' here comes from the Greek word mimeomia, mim-eh'-om-ahee; “(a mimc); to imitate.” He spoke of following his example of behavior; mimicing him, not following his person as an idol. Paul said this also.
1Tim. 1:15-16 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
16 Howbeit (nevertheless [Strong's]) for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.
God chose to take a sinner who had persecuted Christians and demonstrate his longsuffering, by saving Paul, letting others see how merciful he is. So Paul became an example of what God will do for even the lowest of sinners, who will except him as Savior and Lord. It was not only what he did that was an example to us, but also what God did for and through Paul. God changed Paul as no man ever could have done. He filled Paul with love for those he had once persecuted. He revealed spiritual truth to him and gave him the power and ability, through the Holy Spirit, to live the Word of God. Paul's' example is of what God can and will do in us, if we submit to HIM. It was not a call to lift up and glorify Paul or his own works.
2 Thes. 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, ...
The Greek word for 'command' is paraggello, par-ang-gel'-o; to transmit a message ... - (give in) charge ...(Strong's) Paul was transmitting a message of authority from God. We should never let a man tell us what God wants us to do with our lives, unless he is sharing the Word of God itself with us, or, that is, speaking in total agreement with God's Word; giving us the authority of God. God alone is our Lord.
Paul wanted the people to pray for him, in Ephesians.
Eph. 6:19+20 ... that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel.
20 For which I am an ambassador ...
And in Corinthians he said -
2 Cor. 5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ ...
In the Greek, 'ambassador' means - to be a senior, that is, “(by impl.) act as a representative” ... Paul wasn't out to proclaim the importance of self, but rather, to represent and demonstrate, Jesus Christ!
Christ came to serve mankind. Is that what our Christian leaders demonstrate? Oh, that all Christian leaders would point people to dependency on Christ and Christ alone!
Giving the Word of God to unsaved people is sowing a seed that only Christ can cause to grow. Man is not the seed, cannot make it grow, and should give all glory to God when a soul is saved.
New born babies are held by their mothers and fed until they are old enough and strong enough to eat on their own. Eventually, however, a healthy child will grow to be an adult capable of feeding himself. So it is with a newborn babe in Christ. He may be fed the Word of God, but if he is fed only the Word of God, on God's authority alone, not mixed with the opinions of men, he should grow to the point that he is eating that Word on his own, developing a personal walk with the Lord and learning to know God's voice for himself.
1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grown thereby.
The Greek word for 'sincere' is adolos, ad'-o-los; “undeceitful, that is, (fig.) unadulterated: sincere. (Strong's)
Unadulterated means – genuine; pure. (Webster's) Pure means - “Free from all unnecessary matter, esp. from anything that pollutes; free from anything that contaminates ...” (Webster's)
God knew there was nothing more suitable to a new born baby's digestive system than its mother's milk. Anything else, except perhaps, pure water, could cause digestive problems, allergies, etc. Likewise, he knew, that for the new babes in Christ, there is nothing more suited to his inner man, his spirit, than the pure Word of God, to make him grow in spiritual health. Too often though, new Christians hear some of the Word, but their system becomes polluted with the doctrine and opinions of men. As scriptures show, their need is for the pure Word of God, free from all unnecessary matter.
So God calls individuals to preach the gospel, that those who do not know Christ, might receive him and to feed his Word to new Christians. He also calls teachers to feed his Word to others. In fact, all Christians, being part of God's priesthood, have a responsibility to share his Word with others.
Babies get hungry, they desire to be fed, but they do not know how to feed themselves and will trustingly open their tiny mouths for anything that is brought to their lips. If the first thing they receive is mother's milk, received from mother, and are fed this over a period of time, they may refuse to drink any other formula offered to them, having acquired a taste for their mother's milk and being secure in nursing. However this can also work in reverse.
Babies are born with an instinct to suck and their hunger comes naturally, but they do not know what they are supposed to receive. There are some foods they could receive and could grow and even get fat, while, at the same time causing difficulty to their digestive system, such as constipation, unhealthy fat, allergies, etc. Still they would grow. But if they receive only what God originally designed for their tiny bodies, not only will they grow outwardly, but there will be far more internal peace, greater resistance to sickness, infection and disease. Babies are vulnerable to those adults who care for them.
In spiritual things, there is also a vulnerability in the new convert, to those more knowledgeable, who feed them spiritual things.
So those who are older in the Lord need to realize this and remember that we are called to build up, or edify each other. Leaders need to be careful to feed only the pure Word of God, and to demonstrate the life of Christ to those young in Christ, for their health, peace and resistance to the enemy of their souls.
1 Cor. 14:26 ... let all things be done unto edifying.
WHAT IS IT PREACHERS ARE TO PREACH?
Luke 9: 1+2 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.
2 And he sent them to preach the KINGDOM OF GOD, and to heal the sick. (emphasis mine)
They were given power and authority from God himself. THEY WERE TO PREACH THE KINGDOM of who? Remember, the kingdom of God is that realm of God, where he himself rules and reigns, not man! Preachers are not to direct people to dependency on themselves for all spiritual guidance, but rather, to lead them to dependency on Jesus. They are to teach them to stay in the realm of God's rulership and his authority (his name), where he will keep them safe from harm. This is what Phillip did in Acts.
Acts 8:12 But when they believed Phillip preaching CONCERNING THE KINGDOM OF GOD, and the NAME of Jesus Christ ... (emphasis mine)
And look at what Jesus did when he appeared to his disciples after the resurrection.
Mark 16:15 And he said unto then, Go ye into all the world, and preach the GOSPEL to every creature. (emphasis mine)
They were to preach the good news that the Messiah (Savior) had come, fulfilled the Law, redeemed them from Satan and his rulership, had taken their sin, and was willing to usher them into the realm of God's authority. They were to let the people know that Christ had made the way for them to commune with God, without having to go through other men to reach him. Never be deceived into thinking that you cannot hear from God personally.
1Cor. 6:20 For you are bought with a price ...
Children of God, if we do not carry the message our king wants given, in his name, which is his authority, our authority may be debated and will not be received by our arch-enemy, who will bow to no one but Christ.
Even Christ himself, while on earth as a man, came only in his Father's name. He would only speak and do what his Father told him to do.
John 7:16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
John 12:49 For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.
John 5:43 I am com in my Father's name ...
Heb. 4:15+16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
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.
The call to preach the kingdom of God and the name, or authority of God, is the same today as it was then. Preachers are to let people know these truths, and let the people know how that Jesus made access for each of us, to come directly to the throne of God. That privilege is not reserved for the clergy. As the Lord told Ananias in Acts, concerning Paul, it is the same for ministers today. They are to carry the 'name' of God to others.
Acts 9:15 But the Lord said unto him. Go thy way: for he (Paul) is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear MY NAME before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: (emphasis mine)
(speaking of Jesus) - Phil. 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
Who could be a better example of leadership according to the will of God, than Jesus, the Son of God, the king of kings? He, the creator, exalted and honored the one who had sent him, and not himself, though he too was God!
Leaders, lead to God, not self. Hear what your Lord had to say!
John 5:44 How can ye believe, which receive honour of one another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?
Leaders, establish one thing ever so clearly in the minds of new believers, and that is the fact that there is one way and only one way for proper growth and for victorious lives, spiritually, mentally and physically. There is only one eternally true voice to listen to and believe. It is Jesus Christ, who is truth, who is love and who is the Word of God!
Leaders, lay the proper foundation for the believer's life; JESUS!
It may be tempting to exalt yourself, since men to look to men for guidance, but resist such temptation. Never take a position which belongs to Christ alone.
Young child of God, get away from any leader who tells you that you must submit to 'his' authority, because he is a man of God. But the man who speaks God's Word to you and points you to dependency on God and his Word, is a man to respect, to learn from and to support.
SO THEN, WHY DO WE HAVE APOSTLES, PROPHETS, EVANGELISTS, PASTORS AND TEACHERS?
HOW SHOULD WE REGARD THEM?
WHAT IS THEIR ROLE?
HOW ARE THEY TO BE SUPPORTED?
Eph. 4:8+11-16 Wherefore he saith , When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
14 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 lie in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
This could be interpreted in two ways. One is that Christ gave some individuals the gift of apostleship, etc. The other is that he gave apostles, prophets, etc. to the church as gifts. Both may be true. If these are gifts from God to us, should we not appreciate them, love them and care for them? Verse 2 tells us plainly God's purpose for giving them. He gave them for the perfecting of the saints. Perfecting means “complete furnishing ...” (Strong's). Furnish means “To provide or supply with something necessary, useful, or desired ...” (Webster's)
AND WHO ARE THE SAINTS? They are all those who have been born again and washed in the blood of the Lamb of God. They are the children of God. We've already seen what it means to 'minister' as Christ did; who laid down his life for others, and these 'gifts' are given for the work of the 'ministry'.
TO WHAT END DO THESE GIFTS MINISTER TO THE BODY?
For the edifying, or building up of the body, which is Christ's temple. Where his Spirit dwells. These gifts then, are building tools. Look for a moment at verse 13. What does the word 'till' suggest to you?
The Greek word for it is mechri, mekh'-ree; or mechris, mekh-ris'; “as far as, that is, up to a certain point; (as prep. Of extent [denoting the terminus] (Strong's)
Terminus means , “The end or limit; the finishing point or goal; extremity; either termination point of a travel line. (Webster's)
The word 'till' then, suggests that these gifts are given to help us reach a certain goal. Once that goal is reached, the tools used for getting there are no longer needed for that purpose. Once the house is built, the building tools are put away. (see 1Cor. 13:8-13) We are told what the goal is. It is for the members of the body to come into the unity of the faith and unity of the knowledge of the Son of God. These gifts are to help bring us to the point of being one unified man, having the measure ( ... degree ... [Strong's]) of maturity of the fullness of Christ. At that point, those gifts, in these capacities, will not need to lead us any more, for we will be unified with them.
So the ultimate goal of a minister should not be to obtain a position of authority over others, so as to bring glory to himself. We should desire to be used of God in the capacity he gives us, to aid in the growth of the body, until ...
We should be pleased when our brother or sister had grown to the point that they are ready to take on leadership themselves and no longer need our leadership. A true man of God should never suppress the people in order to retain some authority position over them. As verse 15 says, God is the head. No man can ever take his place.
The goal will only be reached if the leaders speak the truth in love. Jesus is the truth! When we know the truth we will not easily be tossed back and forth by different doctrines which men try to put on us, which they have formulated in their own carnal minds
If the entire body of Christ were fitly joined together and compacted (put together ... of the parts of the body 'knit together' into one whole, ;;; [Lexicon]), so that every joint (prop. ligament (as fastening ...[Strong's]) could effectually supply, to the body, what it should, then there would be an increase in Christ's body, and a building up in love. We need these gifts which God had given to us for our good, as love tools. They cannot give us God's fullness, but they can direct us to him who can. They receive their strength and ability from their source, Jesus Christ.
Col. 1:16-19 For by him (Jesus) were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him and for him.
17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning,the firstborn from the dead; that in ALL THINGS he might have the PRE-EMINENCE.
19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell; (emphasis mine)
Our faith is not to stand in man, but in Jesus our king, our high priest, who is our head,and in whom all fullness dwells.
(Paul speaking) Eph. 3:14-19 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and in earth is named,
16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;
17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,
18 May be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;
19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.
Paul was one minister who understood his mission; that it was not earthly fame or dominance for himself. He prayed for the people to be filled with the fullness of God. He certainly did not try to keep them subdued spiritually, beneath him. Rather, Paul wanted and prayed for them to be increased in the things of God. He worked toward that goal of unity for God's children, that they would become one as Jesus wanted them to be!
Child of God, the fullness is in Jesus and you can be filled with him!!
Those children of God who give their lives serving God's little ones, leading them to Jesus and the life 'in' him, surely deserve to be cared for and supported.
After looking at scripture concerning pastors, we will see how God wants his ministers to be supported and what pleases the heart of our God.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Tithing of Spoils of Battle - Versus - Tithing of Earnings Chapter Sixteen
CHAPTER 16
Tithing of Spoils of Battle – Versus- Tithing of Earnings
Abraham, Melchisedec, and Bera, King of Sodom
We have spoken of tithing in the Mosaic Law. We know that tithing today is expected to be paid from our earnings, We've also spoken of how Abraham gave a tithe of the spoils of a battle. But I believe it to be of great value and importance to look into the story of that momentous and eventful day when Abraham gave this tithe, for far more happened that day than the giving of a tithe. In fact, I believe this story to be an amazing allegory representing awesome truths that can effect our lives in a marvelous way, once we see and understand them. One of the important things for us to grasp hold of, is what the spoils of battle represented. Seeing this can help us understand better, how to give in a way that pleases God.
On that day so many years ago, Abraham had two encounters of great consequence, that would represent important truths from Adam to eternity. One encounter was with king Melchizedek, and the other with the king of Sodom. First look at some information to set the stage for the story of these encounters.
Abraham, who at the time of this story was still called Abram, had taken a wife, Sarai, and began a journey, in obedience to God. (Gen. 12:1) His nephew Lot also went with him. Later on, Abram and Lot parted and Lot went to live in or near the city of Sodom, (Gen.3:12) while Abram lived in the plain of Mamre, which is Hebron. (Ge. 13:18)
Scripture gives us a glimpse of what Sodom was like at the time Lot moved his family there.
Gen. 13:13 “But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the Lord exceedingly.”
This city has become known as a place of sodomy, which according to the New Webster's Dictionary, is “unnatural sexual intercourse, esp. of one man with another or of a human being with an animal.”
Even in Gen. 19:4+5 we find that when angels of God came to Lot's home, the people of the city came to Lot's door with evil on their minds.
Gen. 19:4+5 “Before they lay down (the angels), the men of the city , even of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter.
5 And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them.
(parenthesis mine)
It is evident that when they spoke of 'knowing' the angels, they were not speaking only of visiting with them, as we can see from Lot's response to them.
Gen 19:7+8 “And (Lot) said, I pray you, brethren, do not so wickedly.” (parenthesis mine)
Lot knew what they had in mind, and it was very wicked. He then offered to send out his two daughters instead, saying of his daughters -
8 “... which have not known man; let me, I pray you, bring them out unto you, and do ye to them as is good in your eyes: ...”
These evil men, however, did not want Lot's virgin daughters. They wanted men. They threatened to do worse to Lot than they planned to do to the angels, in verse 9, and came to break down the door. But the angels pulled Lot into the house and smote the evil men with blindness. (v. 10+11)
Sodom, being a city full of homosexuality, was finally destroyed by God.
Gen. 19:24+25 “Then the Lord rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah, brimstone and fire from heaven;
25 And he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground.
We see then, that the king of Sodom was the ruler of a very wicked and vile city, and ruled over evil men.
The story we will be looking into, is in Gen.14 and was before the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. We will see three main characters in this drama, being representations of significance. We've already seen that Melchizedek was the representation of Christ. I believe we can see Bera, king of Sodom as a representation of Satan, who is the one who rules the hearts of wicked men and is presently the ruler of this world, including every evil city and all the wickedness that is in them. The king of Sodom ruled evil men who were later destroyed by God with fire, and we know that fire awaits evil men even now. Even the name 'Sodom' in the Hebrew is the word Ce/dome, sed-ome'; “from an unused root meaning scorch; burnt (that is, volcanic or bituminous) district; ...”
Lastly, we have seen Abraham, who I believe is a clear representation of all those that believe.
Rom. 4:11 (speaking of Abraham) “ ... that he might be the father of all those that believe, ... “ (parenthesis mine)
The Lexicon gives this usage of the word 'father' in this particular verse as - “the author of a family or society of persons animated by the same spirit as himself.” Keep in mind what each of these men represent as we begin considering this important day in history.
As Gen. 14 begins, we are told of several kings who with their armies, were doing much battle. In one of the battles the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah were defeated.
Gen. 14:10 “And the vale of Siddim was full of slimepits; and the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, and fell there; and they that remained fled to the mountain.
When this defeat took place Lot was captured.
Gen. 14:12-15 “And they took Lot, Abram's brother's son, who dwelt in Sodom, and his goods, and departed.
13 And there came one that had escaped, and told Abram the Hebrew; for he dwelt in the plain of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eschol, and brother of Aner: and these were confederate with Abram.
14 And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan.
15 And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand of Damascus.
Abram might never have been involved in this battle, except for the fact that a member of his family had been taken captive. There is no record in the scripture, of Abraham entering into battle any time before or after this. But Lot was a relative and he was counted as a righteous man, though he lived around ungodly men. God was with Abraham when he took trained servants and three friends, and went to battle against kings and armies. God had made a promise to him before this situation arose.
Gen. 12:3 “... I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: ...”
An amazing feat was accomplished that day as Abram and his three hundred and eighteen trained servants defeated kings and their armies that were united in battle. This was done by faith! Through God, Abram was victorious, as God delivered the enemy into his hand.
Gen. 14:16 “And he brought back all the goods, and the women also, and the people.”
Not only did Abram rescue Lot, but he also brought back his belongings, and much spoils of battle. There were people as well as material goods, which had been taken with the people, when they were captured by the enemy.
When Abram returned from the battle, king Bera, king of Sodom, went out to meet him. It seems that he had escaped. He came to Abram in order to attempt to make a deal with him, who he probably already knew to be a righteous man.
Gen. 14:17 “And the king of Sodom went out to meet him after his return from the slaughter of Chedorlaomer, and of the kings that were with him, at the valley of Shavah, which is the kings dale.
At this point Abram has the people who, until the time of their capture, had been under the rulership of king Bera. Now Bera wants his people back from Abram. He knows Abram has the right to keep them and all else that are spoils of the battle, but he intends to try to convince him to give them back. But someone else has arrived on the scene who has personal business with Abram, which does not include king Bera.
King Melchizedek is now with Abram, and anything involving this man takes precedence over any concern of king Bera, for Melchizedek is the priest of the most high God. Bera must wait. Being a wicked and ungodly man, he can take no part in the important fellowship between Abram and Melchizedek, or the events about to take place between them. As he waits, this is what happens.
Gen. 14:18-20 “And Melchizedek king of Salem (Jerusalem) brought forth bread and wine: and he was priest of the most high
19 And he “Melchizedek” blessed him “Abram” and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth:
20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he 'Abram' gave him tithes of all.” (parenthesis mine)
As Abram turns one tenth of all the people and material goods over to Melchizedek, king Bera speaks not one word in opposition to the transaction. He says nothing until the dealings between Abram and Melchizedek are completed. Then he speaks to Abram.
21 “And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself”
Surely this time, Bera is aware that God is with Abram and that he does not have to give anyone or anything back to him. But perhaps he reasoned that since these people were unclean, evil and used to living in homosexuality, that Abram would consider parting with them. Even to keep them as slaves, their influence could mean much trouble. But look at Abram's response.
22 And Abram said to the king of Sodom. I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God, possessor of Heaven and earth,
23 That I will not take from a thread even to a shoe latchet, and that I will not take anything that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich.
24 Save only that which the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men that went with me, Aner, Eshcol, and Mame; let them take their portion.”
Apparently Abram had already had a talk with God and told him that he was not going to keep even the smallest items which had come from Sodom, that unclean place. He would not give King Bera a chance to say he had made him rich. God remained the only one to be glorified in Abram's life.
Now let me share with you some of the spiritual significance of the happenings of this unusual day. Then you, dear reader, weigh the matter for yourself and see what you find.
The first scene in this story was of evil and greedy men battling to conquer, posses and control. I believe that this is, in part, a picture of the condition of the world without God. When men follow their own lusts, war and greed are inevitable.
We see Lot, who can easily represent those who try to live righteously, but without the infilling of the Holy Spirit. But I see, even more, a representation of those Christians who do not totally let go of the world. Lot was in the family of the man of faith, but he held so strongly to material things, that he was willing to live among the ungodly for the material advantages it afforded him, and perhaps even the sake of prestige. He probably did not realize the full effect the influence of evil was having on him and his family.
Isn't this like many Christians today? They are troubled in their spirit by the evil around them, but they try to convince themselves they still can serve God, without separating themselves from Satan's atmosphere and his domain, even when it gets them into trouble. For this they pay a great price!
The apostle Peter gives us an idea of how Lot was effected.
2 Peter 2:7+8 “And (God) delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation (behavior [Strong's]) of the wicked:
8 For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;” (parenthesis mine) (added notation)
The Lexicon gives the meaning for the word 'righteous' here, as - “in a wide sense, upright, righteous, virtuous, keeping the commands of God.” So evidently Lot did keep the commands of God, but he was vexed. The word 'vexed' in verse 7, is the Greek word kataponeo, kat-ap-on-eh'o; (Strong's). The Lexicon gives it this meaning “to tire down with toil, exhaust with labor; hence to afflict or oppress with evils; to make trouble for; to treat roughly:”
The filthy behavior of the people around Lot did have an effect on him. I believe that although Lot had not given in to committing the same sins, yet the filth around him was weakening him, as he became exhausted with battling in his own mind against it. The word 'vexed' in verse 8, is the Greek word basanizo, bas-an-id'-zo; “to torture;-pain, toil, torment, toss, vex.” (Strong's) It would seem that Lot suffered assaults on his own mind, his feelings and perhaps his desires. He was tormented. Perhaps he was even tempted to indulge in the sinful activities going on around him.
I believe that we can see that indeed he had been effected when we look at the day when Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed and see Lot having difficulty in responding to the angels of God. He had such a hard time obeying the instructions of the Lord that he came close to loosing his own life. But God was merciful to him.
Gen. 19:15+16 “And when the morning arose, then the angels hastened ( ...press...hurry [Strong's]) Lot, saying, Arise, take thy wife, and thy two daughters, which are here; lest thou be consumed in THE INIQUITY of the city.
16 And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters: the Lord being merciful unto him; and they brought them forth, and set him without the city.” (emphasis mine) (added notation)
Even after being told that the city was going to be destroyed, Lot 'lingered', which is,in the Hebrew, - mahahh, ma-ha'; prop. to question or hesitate, that is, (by impl.) to be reluctant;- delay, linger, stay selves, tarry”.
Both Abram and Lot believed in God. Abram, however, had his eyes on eternal things, while Lot had his eyes on earthly things and had trouble letting them go or seeing beyond them, as do so many Christians today. If not for the mercy of God, and the help of loving brothers and sisters, these would be lost, and indeed some will hesitate too long and will be lost. Lot almost hesitated to the point of death, but though he made it out, his family had been so effected by the influence of sin, that his wife was lost and his daughters later committed very vile sins against their own father.
Now going back to the story in Gen. 14, we find that Lot, while living in Satan's domain, was taken captive and it was Abram who stepped out in love, concern and the power of God, to rescue him. This, I see as representative of those who stay in close fellowship with God, reaching out to the weaker brothers and sisters, who have been brought under bondage by living too close to the world, or reaching out to those who believe in the existence of God, but do not have a personal relationship with him.
The only lasting hope for such people, though, is not that they will always be rescued by some other person, who is strong in faith, but it is salvation through Jesus Christ. As we have seen, Abraham knew this to be true. He, representing the born again believers who walk in faith, willingly went to battle for a brother. Today a child of God can do battle for a brother or sister by interceding to God, in prayer for him.
As soon as Abram brought back Lot and the others from their captors, he went through a ceremony that would serve to show the need and hope for them all, if only they would have seen and understood. All of those people, who were, themselves, spoils of the battle, probably were witnesses to the communion taken by Abram and Melchizedek. I believe an important message was being given to them, which is also for us, as Abram and Melchizedek took bread and wine and partook. I believe that the beautiful and awesome message was, that just as Abram had fought one battle for the life of Lot, so one day, the Savior, Jesus Christ, whom Melchizedek represented, would fight one battle for all of mankind.
As they broke the bread they symbolized the breaking of the Saviors body. As they ate of it, they symbolized man's union with Christ, and the importance of putting his Word inside of you. As they took the wine, they were symbolizing the shedding of Messiah's blood for all of our sins and as they drank it, they symbolized the receiving of the Spirit of God, the new life source; that could only indwell man after the death and resurrection of the Savior. Thus Abram and Melchizedek demonstrated for them all, what it would take for total victory over Satan and all evil! It would take the death and resurrection of the Savior.
As represented in the battle Abram fought to bring back his nephew, Jesus would fight one battle against Satan, and through death and resurrection, he would defeat Satan, bringing victory and deliverance to us all. Any battle that any child of God would fight against the enemy of our souls, would be spiritual, but as was the case in the battle Abram fought, each time, God would give victory by his own power, for the victory and the communion were prophetic pictures.
Immediately after taking the communion, Melchizedek blessed Abram, or we could say that symbolically, Jesus blessed the children of faith. I believe this blessing was given because Abram had believed God for the victory in the battle he had just been in, and for the victory the Savior was going to bring for all mankind. So,symbolically, we see the children of God being blessed for believing in Jesus Christ their Savior and the victory he brought at Calvary.
Next Melchizedek blessed, or gave honor to God, who had delivered Abram's enemy into his hand. All praise, honor and glory should be given to God, who by his own will, his own love, his own power and purpose, has given us the victory over our enemies, which we could never have gotten on our own!
After this, we see Abram giving one tenth of the spoils of the battle to Melchizedek. I see these spoils of battle representing the spoils of the battle which our Savior would one day fight and which was represented in the communion just taken.
WHAT DO YOU THINK THESE SPOILS MIGHT BE?
Since Jesus laid down his life for mankind, then you and I, who receive him, are the spoils of the battle Jesus fought and won! Yes! YOU are the spoils of HIS BATTLE!
You notice that of all Abram brought back, he only gave a small portion to Melchizedek; only a tenth. Though Jesus died for all mankind, only a small percent are willing to surrender their lives to him, leaving their hopeless, sinful lives behind.
While all this was going on, King Bera, representative of Satan, waited on the sidelines, hoping to get back at least part of what he had once controlled. Satan has always known that it was the people of God, who God loved and wanted fellowship with. He knew God had no need for material things. It was our bodies a living sacrifice that God would ask for, one day. When King Bera (Satan) finally spoke up, what sort of deal did he try to make with Abram? He tried to get him to keep all the material goods which were confiscated from the battle and to give him the people.
Does this remind you of anything? Do you remember how Satan offered Jesus material gain, if he would only worship him?
Satan, speaking to Jesus said this -
Matt. 4:9 “And saith unto him, all these things will I give thee, if thou will fall down and worship me.”
Satan uses the same tactics over and over. Of course Jesus would not submit to such a deal and neither did Abram agree to King Bera's offer.
Not only would Abram let those people, who had been ruled by King Bera, return to him, but he would have no part of any material thing that came from him. Abram had already been in communication with the Lord and would remain an example to us all, of total dependency on God and God alone. God would receive all credit for all progress, all victory and all provision, in the life of the man of faith. And Abram would not give Satan any opportunity to take any credit for what Abram had. This is how it should be in the lives of all followers of Christ.
I believe this story is a magnificent allegory and example to God's children, in which Abraham, as always, represents the life of faith in Christ our Savior.
SHALL WE FOLLOW HIS EXAMPLE?
SHALL WE TITHE AS HE DID?
WILL WE GO TO BATTLE FOR THE PEOPLE JESUS LAID DOWN HIS LIFE FOR?
WHO ARE THE SPOILS OF THE BATTLE HE FOUGHT AND WON?
AND WILL WE BRING ALL THAT WE CAN BACK TO HIM?
You see it is not really a matter of percentages. The percentage was symbolic of the small amount of people who will actually come to Christ and of putting God first and foremost. Our goal is not to limit ourselves to giving 10% of those in bondage, back to Jesus. We should be willing to give ourselves to reaching as many as we can. Yet we know in reality, that only a small percent of all people who Jesus died for, will ever come to him.
Giving as Abram did, is giving what is Gods to God and taking no part of what is Satan's.
SHALL WE GIVE AS HE GAVE AND FOLLOW HIS EXAMPLE?
WOULD WE RATHER DIMINISH THE MEANING OF WHAT REALLY TOOK PLACE THAT DAY AND SAY ONLY THAT IT WAS AN EXAMPLE FOR US TO PAY TEN PERCENT OF OUR EARNINGS TO GOD, WHILE KEEPING THE OTHER NINETY PERCENT, WHEN WHAT ABRAM GAVE HAD NOTHING WHATSOEVER TO DO WITH EARNINGS?
This was, in no way, a story about earnings. It was a story about love, mercy and selflessness. It is a story of grace! It's the story of a man of faith going to battle for a brother who had gotten into trouble by living too close to the world. It is a demonstration of acting out of grace and moving in faith; dying to self that another might live.
If you, dear reader, choose to look at Abraham as your example of proper behavior, go all the way! You, dear brother and sister, are the spoils of the battle Jesus fought and won, which were only represented that day so long ago. Will you give ten percent or all?
Never forget this one important fact; you are what Jesus gave his life for, so you are the spoils of his battle! It is you he died for! It is you he wants! BE HIS! Be a child of faith, and an heir with Abraham, of eternal life through Jesus our Lord.
Rom. 4:14-16 “For if they which are of the law be heirs, FAITH IS MADE VOID, and the promises made of none effect.
15 Because the law worketh wrath; for where no law is, there is no transgression.
16 Therefore it is of FAITH, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all.” (emphasis mine)
The promise given to Abraham is of faith and must be received by faith. Shall we make it of no effect? Will we turn Abraham into a representation of something opposite of what God intended?
Men today may give God ten percent of their earnings and expect to get one hundred times as much back from God, but Abraham had his eyes on the Savior, eternity, and a city not made by any man, but only by God.
Do you prefer souls for eternity more than material gain? If not, ask God to change your heart, fill you with his love and make you to be like him. He can do a marvelous work in your life and you can find out what the greatest riches of all are, which money can never afford!
Tithing of Spoils of Battle – Versus- Tithing of Earnings
Abraham, Melchisedec, and Bera, King of Sodom
We have spoken of tithing in the Mosaic Law. We know that tithing today is expected to be paid from our earnings, We've also spoken of how Abraham gave a tithe of the spoils of a battle. But I believe it to be of great value and importance to look into the story of that momentous and eventful day when Abraham gave this tithe, for far more happened that day than the giving of a tithe. In fact, I believe this story to be an amazing allegory representing awesome truths that can effect our lives in a marvelous way, once we see and understand them. One of the important things for us to grasp hold of, is what the spoils of battle represented. Seeing this can help us understand better, how to give in a way that pleases God.
On that day so many years ago, Abraham had two encounters of great consequence, that would represent important truths from Adam to eternity. One encounter was with king Melchizedek, and the other with the king of Sodom. First look at some information to set the stage for the story of these encounters.
Abraham, who at the time of this story was still called Abram, had taken a wife, Sarai, and began a journey, in obedience to God. (Gen. 12:1) His nephew Lot also went with him. Later on, Abram and Lot parted and Lot went to live in or near the city of Sodom, (Gen.3:12) while Abram lived in the plain of Mamre, which is Hebron. (Ge. 13:18)
Scripture gives us a glimpse of what Sodom was like at the time Lot moved his family there.
Gen. 13:13 “But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the Lord exceedingly.”
This city has become known as a place of sodomy, which according to the New Webster's Dictionary, is “unnatural sexual intercourse, esp. of one man with another or of a human being with an animal.”
Even in Gen. 19:4+5 we find that when angels of God came to Lot's home, the people of the city came to Lot's door with evil on their minds.
Gen. 19:4+5 “Before they lay down (the angels), the men of the city , even of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter.
5 And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them.
(parenthesis mine)
It is evident that when they spoke of 'knowing' the angels, they were not speaking only of visiting with them, as we can see from Lot's response to them.
Gen 19:7+8 “And (Lot) said, I pray you, brethren, do not so wickedly.” (parenthesis mine)
Lot knew what they had in mind, and it was very wicked. He then offered to send out his two daughters instead, saying of his daughters -
8 “... which have not known man; let me, I pray you, bring them out unto you, and do ye to them as is good in your eyes: ...”
These evil men, however, did not want Lot's virgin daughters. They wanted men. They threatened to do worse to Lot than they planned to do to the angels, in verse 9, and came to break down the door. But the angels pulled Lot into the house and smote the evil men with blindness. (v. 10+11)
Sodom, being a city full of homosexuality, was finally destroyed by God.
Gen. 19:24+25 “Then the Lord rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah, brimstone and fire from heaven;
25 And he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground.
We see then, that the king of Sodom was the ruler of a very wicked and vile city, and ruled over evil men.
The story we will be looking into, is in Gen.14 and was before the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. We will see three main characters in this drama, being representations of significance. We've already seen that Melchizedek was the representation of Christ. I believe we can see Bera, king of Sodom as a representation of Satan, who is the one who rules the hearts of wicked men and is presently the ruler of this world, including every evil city and all the wickedness that is in them. The king of Sodom ruled evil men who were later destroyed by God with fire, and we know that fire awaits evil men even now. Even the name 'Sodom' in the Hebrew is the word Ce/dome, sed-ome'; “from an unused root meaning scorch; burnt (that is, volcanic or bituminous) district; ...”
Lastly, we have seen Abraham, who I believe is a clear representation of all those that believe.
Rom. 4:11 (speaking of Abraham) “ ... that he might be the father of all those that believe, ... “ (parenthesis mine)
The Lexicon gives this usage of the word 'father' in this particular verse as - “the author of a family or society of persons animated by the same spirit as himself.” Keep in mind what each of these men represent as we begin considering this important day in history.
As Gen. 14 begins, we are told of several kings who with their armies, were doing much battle. In one of the battles the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah were defeated.
Gen. 14:10 “And the vale of Siddim was full of slimepits; and the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, and fell there; and they that remained fled to the mountain.
When this defeat took place Lot was captured.
Gen. 14:12-15 “And they took Lot, Abram's brother's son, who dwelt in Sodom, and his goods, and departed.
13 And there came one that had escaped, and told Abram the Hebrew; for he dwelt in the plain of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eschol, and brother of Aner: and these were confederate with Abram.
14 And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan.
15 And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand of Damascus.
Abram might never have been involved in this battle, except for the fact that a member of his family had been taken captive. There is no record in the scripture, of Abraham entering into battle any time before or after this. But Lot was a relative and he was counted as a righteous man, though he lived around ungodly men. God was with Abraham when he took trained servants and three friends, and went to battle against kings and armies. God had made a promise to him before this situation arose.
Gen. 12:3 “... I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: ...”
An amazing feat was accomplished that day as Abram and his three hundred and eighteen trained servants defeated kings and their armies that were united in battle. This was done by faith! Through God, Abram was victorious, as God delivered the enemy into his hand.
Gen. 14:16 “And he brought back all the goods, and the women also, and the people.”
Not only did Abram rescue Lot, but he also brought back his belongings, and much spoils of battle. There were people as well as material goods, which had been taken with the people, when they were captured by the enemy.
When Abram returned from the battle, king Bera, king of Sodom, went out to meet him. It seems that he had escaped. He came to Abram in order to attempt to make a deal with him, who he probably already knew to be a righteous man.
Gen. 14:17 “And the king of Sodom went out to meet him after his return from the slaughter of Chedorlaomer, and of the kings that were with him, at the valley of Shavah, which is the kings dale.
At this point Abram has the people who, until the time of their capture, had been under the rulership of king Bera. Now Bera wants his people back from Abram. He knows Abram has the right to keep them and all else that are spoils of the battle, but he intends to try to convince him to give them back. But someone else has arrived on the scene who has personal business with Abram, which does not include king Bera.
King Melchizedek is now with Abram, and anything involving this man takes precedence over any concern of king Bera, for Melchizedek is the priest of the most high God. Bera must wait. Being a wicked and ungodly man, he can take no part in the important fellowship between Abram and Melchizedek, or the events about to take place between them. As he waits, this is what happens.
Gen. 14:18-20 “And Melchizedek king of Salem (Jerusalem) brought forth bread and wine: and he was priest of the most high
19 And he “Melchizedek” blessed him “Abram” and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth:
20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he 'Abram' gave him tithes of all.” (parenthesis mine)
As Abram turns one tenth of all the people and material goods over to Melchizedek, king Bera speaks not one word in opposition to the transaction. He says nothing until the dealings between Abram and Melchizedek are completed. Then he speaks to Abram.
21 “And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself”
Surely this time, Bera is aware that God is with Abram and that he does not have to give anyone or anything back to him. But perhaps he reasoned that since these people were unclean, evil and used to living in homosexuality, that Abram would consider parting with them. Even to keep them as slaves, their influence could mean much trouble. But look at Abram's response.
22 And Abram said to the king of Sodom. I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God, possessor of Heaven and earth,
23 That I will not take from a thread even to a shoe latchet, and that I will not take anything that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich.
24 Save only that which the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men that went with me, Aner, Eshcol, and Mame; let them take their portion.”
Apparently Abram had already had a talk with God and told him that he was not going to keep even the smallest items which had come from Sodom, that unclean place. He would not give King Bera a chance to say he had made him rich. God remained the only one to be glorified in Abram's life.
Now let me share with you some of the spiritual significance of the happenings of this unusual day. Then you, dear reader, weigh the matter for yourself and see what you find.
The first scene in this story was of evil and greedy men battling to conquer, posses and control. I believe that this is, in part, a picture of the condition of the world without God. When men follow their own lusts, war and greed are inevitable.
We see Lot, who can easily represent those who try to live righteously, but without the infilling of the Holy Spirit. But I see, even more, a representation of those Christians who do not totally let go of the world. Lot was in the family of the man of faith, but he held so strongly to material things, that he was willing to live among the ungodly for the material advantages it afforded him, and perhaps even the sake of prestige. He probably did not realize the full effect the influence of evil was having on him and his family.
Isn't this like many Christians today? They are troubled in their spirit by the evil around them, but they try to convince themselves they still can serve God, without separating themselves from Satan's atmosphere and his domain, even when it gets them into trouble. For this they pay a great price!
The apostle Peter gives us an idea of how Lot was effected.
2 Peter 2:7+8 “And (God) delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation (behavior [Strong's]) of the wicked:
8 For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;” (parenthesis mine) (added notation)
The Lexicon gives the meaning for the word 'righteous' here, as - “in a wide sense, upright, righteous, virtuous, keeping the commands of God.” So evidently Lot did keep the commands of God, but he was vexed. The word 'vexed' in verse 7, is the Greek word kataponeo, kat-ap-on-eh'o; (Strong's). The Lexicon gives it this meaning “to tire down with toil, exhaust with labor; hence to afflict or oppress with evils; to make trouble for; to treat roughly:”
The filthy behavior of the people around Lot did have an effect on him. I believe that although Lot had not given in to committing the same sins, yet the filth around him was weakening him, as he became exhausted with battling in his own mind against it. The word 'vexed' in verse 8, is the Greek word basanizo, bas-an-id'-zo; “to torture;-pain, toil, torment, toss, vex.” (Strong's) It would seem that Lot suffered assaults on his own mind, his feelings and perhaps his desires. He was tormented. Perhaps he was even tempted to indulge in the sinful activities going on around him.
I believe that we can see that indeed he had been effected when we look at the day when Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed and see Lot having difficulty in responding to the angels of God. He had such a hard time obeying the instructions of the Lord that he came close to loosing his own life. But God was merciful to him.
Gen. 19:15+16 “And when the morning arose, then the angels hastened ( ...press...hurry [Strong's]) Lot, saying, Arise, take thy wife, and thy two daughters, which are here; lest thou be consumed in THE INIQUITY of the city.
16 And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters: the Lord being merciful unto him; and they brought them forth, and set him without the city.” (emphasis mine) (added notation)
Even after being told that the city was going to be destroyed, Lot 'lingered', which is,in the Hebrew, - mahahh, ma-ha'; prop. to question or hesitate, that is, (by impl.) to be reluctant;- delay, linger, stay selves, tarry”.
Both Abram and Lot believed in God. Abram, however, had his eyes on eternal things, while Lot had his eyes on earthly things and had trouble letting them go or seeing beyond them, as do so many Christians today. If not for the mercy of God, and the help of loving brothers and sisters, these would be lost, and indeed some will hesitate too long and will be lost. Lot almost hesitated to the point of death, but though he made it out, his family had been so effected by the influence of sin, that his wife was lost and his daughters later committed very vile sins against their own father.
Now going back to the story in Gen. 14, we find that Lot, while living in Satan's domain, was taken captive and it was Abram who stepped out in love, concern and the power of God, to rescue him. This, I see as representative of those who stay in close fellowship with God, reaching out to the weaker brothers and sisters, who have been brought under bondage by living too close to the world, or reaching out to those who believe in the existence of God, but do not have a personal relationship with him.
The only lasting hope for such people, though, is not that they will always be rescued by some other person, who is strong in faith, but it is salvation through Jesus Christ. As we have seen, Abraham knew this to be true. He, representing the born again believers who walk in faith, willingly went to battle for a brother. Today a child of God can do battle for a brother or sister by interceding to God, in prayer for him.
As soon as Abram brought back Lot and the others from their captors, he went through a ceremony that would serve to show the need and hope for them all, if only they would have seen and understood. All of those people, who were, themselves, spoils of the battle, probably were witnesses to the communion taken by Abram and Melchizedek. I believe an important message was being given to them, which is also for us, as Abram and Melchizedek took bread and wine and partook. I believe that the beautiful and awesome message was, that just as Abram had fought one battle for the life of Lot, so one day, the Savior, Jesus Christ, whom Melchizedek represented, would fight one battle for all of mankind.
As they broke the bread they symbolized the breaking of the Saviors body. As they ate of it, they symbolized man's union with Christ, and the importance of putting his Word inside of you. As they took the wine, they were symbolizing the shedding of Messiah's blood for all of our sins and as they drank it, they symbolized the receiving of the Spirit of God, the new life source; that could only indwell man after the death and resurrection of the Savior. Thus Abram and Melchizedek demonstrated for them all, what it would take for total victory over Satan and all evil! It would take the death and resurrection of the Savior.
As represented in the battle Abram fought to bring back his nephew, Jesus would fight one battle against Satan, and through death and resurrection, he would defeat Satan, bringing victory and deliverance to us all. Any battle that any child of God would fight against the enemy of our souls, would be spiritual, but as was the case in the battle Abram fought, each time, God would give victory by his own power, for the victory and the communion were prophetic pictures.
Immediately after taking the communion, Melchizedek blessed Abram, or we could say that symbolically, Jesus blessed the children of faith. I believe this blessing was given because Abram had believed God for the victory in the battle he had just been in, and for the victory the Savior was going to bring for all mankind. So,symbolically, we see the children of God being blessed for believing in Jesus Christ their Savior and the victory he brought at Calvary.
Next Melchizedek blessed, or gave honor to God, who had delivered Abram's enemy into his hand. All praise, honor and glory should be given to God, who by his own will, his own love, his own power and purpose, has given us the victory over our enemies, which we could never have gotten on our own!
After this, we see Abram giving one tenth of the spoils of the battle to Melchizedek. I see these spoils of battle representing the spoils of the battle which our Savior would one day fight and which was represented in the communion just taken.
WHAT DO YOU THINK THESE SPOILS MIGHT BE?
Since Jesus laid down his life for mankind, then you and I, who receive him, are the spoils of the battle Jesus fought and won! Yes! YOU are the spoils of HIS BATTLE!
You notice that of all Abram brought back, he only gave a small portion to Melchizedek; only a tenth. Though Jesus died for all mankind, only a small percent are willing to surrender their lives to him, leaving their hopeless, sinful lives behind.
While all this was going on, King Bera, representative of Satan, waited on the sidelines, hoping to get back at least part of what he had once controlled. Satan has always known that it was the people of God, who God loved and wanted fellowship with. He knew God had no need for material things. It was our bodies a living sacrifice that God would ask for, one day. When King Bera (Satan) finally spoke up, what sort of deal did he try to make with Abram? He tried to get him to keep all the material goods which were confiscated from the battle and to give him the people.
Does this remind you of anything? Do you remember how Satan offered Jesus material gain, if he would only worship him?
Satan, speaking to Jesus said this -
Matt. 4:9 “And saith unto him, all these things will I give thee, if thou will fall down and worship me.”
Satan uses the same tactics over and over. Of course Jesus would not submit to such a deal and neither did Abram agree to King Bera's offer.
Not only would Abram let those people, who had been ruled by King Bera, return to him, but he would have no part of any material thing that came from him. Abram had already been in communication with the Lord and would remain an example to us all, of total dependency on God and God alone. God would receive all credit for all progress, all victory and all provision, in the life of the man of faith. And Abram would not give Satan any opportunity to take any credit for what Abram had. This is how it should be in the lives of all followers of Christ.
I believe this story is a magnificent allegory and example to God's children, in which Abraham, as always, represents the life of faith in Christ our Savior.
SHALL WE FOLLOW HIS EXAMPLE?
SHALL WE TITHE AS HE DID?
WILL WE GO TO BATTLE FOR THE PEOPLE JESUS LAID DOWN HIS LIFE FOR?
WHO ARE THE SPOILS OF THE BATTLE HE FOUGHT AND WON?
AND WILL WE BRING ALL THAT WE CAN BACK TO HIM?
You see it is not really a matter of percentages. The percentage was symbolic of the small amount of people who will actually come to Christ and of putting God first and foremost. Our goal is not to limit ourselves to giving 10% of those in bondage, back to Jesus. We should be willing to give ourselves to reaching as many as we can. Yet we know in reality, that only a small percent of all people who Jesus died for, will ever come to him.
Giving as Abram did, is giving what is Gods to God and taking no part of what is Satan's.
SHALL WE GIVE AS HE GAVE AND FOLLOW HIS EXAMPLE?
WOULD WE RATHER DIMINISH THE MEANING OF WHAT REALLY TOOK PLACE THAT DAY AND SAY ONLY THAT IT WAS AN EXAMPLE FOR US TO PAY TEN PERCENT OF OUR EARNINGS TO GOD, WHILE KEEPING THE OTHER NINETY PERCENT, WHEN WHAT ABRAM GAVE HAD NOTHING WHATSOEVER TO DO WITH EARNINGS?
This was, in no way, a story about earnings. It was a story about love, mercy and selflessness. It is a story of grace! It's the story of a man of faith going to battle for a brother who had gotten into trouble by living too close to the world. It is a demonstration of acting out of grace and moving in faith; dying to self that another might live.
If you, dear reader, choose to look at Abraham as your example of proper behavior, go all the way! You, dear brother and sister, are the spoils of the battle Jesus fought and won, which were only represented that day so long ago. Will you give ten percent or all?
Never forget this one important fact; you are what Jesus gave his life for, so you are the spoils of his battle! It is you he died for! It is you he wants! BE HIS! Be a child of faith, and an heir with Abraham, of eternal life through Jesus our Lord.
Rom. 4:14-16 “For if they which are of the law be heirs, FAITH IS MADE VOID, and the promises made of none effect.
15 Because the law worketh wrath; for where no law is, there is no transgression.
16 Therefore it is of FAITH, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all.” (emphasis mine)
The promise given to Abraham is of faith and must be received by faith. Shall we make it of no effect? Will we turn Abraham into a representation of something opposite of what God intended?
Men today may give God ten percent of their earnings and expect to get one hundred times as much back from God, but Abraham had his eyes on the Savior, eternity, and a city not made by any man, but only by God.
Do you prefer souls for eternity more than material gain? If not, ask God to change your heart, fill you with his love and make you to be like him. He can do a marvelous work in your life and you can find out what the greatest riches of all are, which money can never afford!
Parables and Allegories Chapter Fifteen
Chapter 15
PARABLES AND ALLEGORIES
Is all of the Bible for today? Even parables? Are we to read part of the Bible as fact and consider part as only fables? Never! The entire Bible is for us today. However there are times in scripture when God speaks to us using examples and demonstrations for what he wants us to know and understand.
When we read about what Jesus did in the New Testament, then look back into the Old Testament and read what was prophesied of him, and also of the representations of him in the Law, it is confirmation that, in truth, he is the Messiah sent from Jehovah God.
There were also things done before the Mosaic Law that give us messages about God's purpose for man, and shows us his heart and character. It is important that we get the right message when reading an account of events that happened in scripture.
Jesus used parables when teaching in the New Testament, and there are many allegories in the Old Testament. A parable, according to the Greek is a parabole, par-ab-ol-ay'; a similitude (“parable”), that is, (symbol) fictitious narrative (of common life conveying a moral), apothegm, or adage:- comparison, figure, parable, proverb. (Strong's)
Similitude means “likeness; a counter part or double; an imaginative likeness, as an allegory or parable. (Webster's)
An allegory is, is Greek, allegoreo, al-lay-gor-eh'-o: be an allegory [the Greek word itself]
Webster's says an allegory is “ ... a symbolic representation ...”
So we find a narrative of common life representing or portraying an important truth, or we may find an account of something which actually took place and is a symbolic representation of another truth.
In Galations we find a true story about two women, Sarah and Hagar (called Agar), but the writer says this -
Gal. 4:24 “Which things are an allegory ...”
So whenever we read something that we believe is an example to us, we need to look honestly at what is being said, and consider the attitude of heart that is being demonstrated, in order to see what pleases God and what does not. God does not go against his own character or purpose in what he teaches. For example consider John 13:13–15,
John 13:13-15
13 “Ye call me master and Lord; and ye say well; for so I am.
14 If then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.
15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.”
WHAT IS THE EXAMPLE THAT JESUS GAVE HERE? WHAT DID HE DO?
He who was greatest, even the creator of all mankind, lowered himself and served the very ones he had created from dust! So whether or nor you think Jesus was instructing us to literally wash one another's feet, he clearly was demonstrating to us a willingness to humble ourselves to a very low degree for each other. How low would you have to stoop to actually wash your brother's feet? How much then, would you say that Jesus wants you to deny self to serve another? And how many Christians do you know who demonstrate such an attitude, even though it was the attitude of Jesus?
Now let's look at another scripture that gives us an example of the attitude we should have.
James 5:10&11 “Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.
11 Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; (the way the Lord ended the matter) that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.” (parenthesis mine)
The point of this story is not to show us that when we suffer pain and loss we should sit in sackcloth and ashes as Job did. The example is that of being willing and able to suffer what afflictions come, with patience and faith in our God, and that we will be happy if we endure to the end. We are to know that our God will be the one to end the matter in his own way. What are his ways? He is full of pity and tender mercy and will end things greater than they began. Of course our greatest example was Jesus himself.
1 Peter 2:21-23 “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ suffered for us, LEAVING US AN EXAMPLE, that ye should follow in his steps.
22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered he threatened not; but committed himself to him (the Father) that judgeth righteously. (parenthesis mine and emphasis)
Obviously we are not being told that we all have to die on a cross in order to suffer as Jesus did. But the example our Lord gives us is an example of heart. It is an example of giving ourselves over completely to God, that is, 100% and no less. It is an example of loving those who come against us, and never returning evil for evil, It is also an example of holding our peace; holding our tongue and speaking only according to the will of God.
Matt. 5:10-12 “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 Blessed are ye, 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.”
Indeed our forefathers left us many examples and so did our Lord. As we learn to understand Gods' character, his heart and his purpose, we will better understand what he is showing us through the parables, allegories and examples in scripture.
Now let's go back to Abraham who is called the father of all who receive Jesus Christ by faith. It is reasonable to consider him to be a good example to us since he was blessed of God and because of what we are told of him in Galations.
Gal. 3:7 Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
WHAT WAS IT ABOUT THIS MAN THAT PLEASED GOD SO? WAS IT THAT HE HAD GIVEN A TITHE TO MELCHIZEDEK, ONE TIME LONG AGO?
GAL. 3:6 “Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”
(Also see Gen. 15:6)
IT WAS NEVER ABRAHAMS' WORKS THAT MADE HIM RIGHTEOUS!! IT WAS HIS FAITH IN GOD!
Romans 4:1-5 “What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found?
2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath thereof to glory; but not before God.
3 For what saith the scriptures? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.
4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not of grace, but of debt, (if you get a reward you have worked for and earned, then it is not an unearned gift of grace.)
5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.”
Gal. 3:8-14+16-18
8 And scripture, forseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, PREACHED BFORE THE GOSPEL UNTO ABRAHAM, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.
9 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham
10 For as many as are of the works of the law ARE UNDER THE CURSE: for it is written, Cursed is everyone that continueth not in ALL the things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
11 But that NO MAN is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall LIVE BY FAITH.
12 And the law IS NOT OF FAITH: but the man that doeth them shall live in them.
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 from a tree.
14 That the blessings of Abraham might come on the Gentiles, through Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through FAITH.
16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many, but as of one. And to thy seed, which is CHRIST.
17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.
18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is NO MORE of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” (parenthesis and emphasis mine)
Isn't it interesting that the very man of whom we are told, was not justified by 'works' is the man, which some preachers use as an example of one particular 'work', and tell us that because Abraham did this one particular 'work', now we must do it also? They would make one of his works a law to us.
HOW CAN ANYONE BLATANTLY DESTROY THE TRUE PURPOSE OF WHAT HE REPRESENTED?
HOW MUCH CLEARER MUST SCRIPTURE BE BEFORE WE HEAR WHAT IS BEING SAID?
Surely many eyes have been blinded by a cunning and sly enemy who does not want God's people to be free to do God's work unencumbered by weights that inhibit their progress. Abraham's example was no more that we must tithe than it was that we must take three hundred trained servants and go to battle as he did. His example was of total faith in the Almighty God who will never fail, and faith in the Savior, that he was going to send, in the new and better way and in eternal life.
Why do I say he was an example of faith in the Savior? One reason is because of what is said in verse 8, where we are told that God preached the gospel to Abraham. The word 'gospel' in this verse comes from the same word translated 'gospel' in other places in the New Testament, but has to do with being done in advance. In the Greek it is - proeuaggelizomai, pro-yoo-ang-ghel-id'-zom-ahee; “to announce glad news in advance: -preach before the gospel.” (Strong's)
The gospel message that the Savior would come and save us from our sins, was preached to Abraham long years before Jesus did finally come. But Abraham believed it even then.
When God told Abraham In Gen. 12:13 ... and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.”, Abraham understood that he was receiving the promise of the Messiah! This was the promise on which all the other promises Abraham would believe for, were based. Jesus told about this truth in John 8:56 -
“Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.”
The Greek Lexicon gives the meaning for the word 'day', in this verse as -
“the time when I should appear among men as the messiah”
Through eyes of faith Abraham saw Jesus in the future, believed in him and rejoiced! What an awesome thought! Abraham understood that all nations would be blessed 'in him”, because that through him would come the Savior of the world!
We are told that in seeing this Abraham rejoiced. The Greek word for 'rejoiced' is agalliao, ag-al-lee-ah'-o; to jump for joy, that is, exult: be (exceeding) glad, with exceeding joy, rejoice (greatly). (Strong's) This glimpse into the future was probably a great motivating factor in Abraham's life.
This promise given to Abraham was the promise of the seed that would one day bruise (“... snap ... break ...” [Strong's]) the serpent, or that is, Satans' head, given in Gen. 3:15. And Abraham was more than a little bit happy over the news! The seed spoken of in Gal. 3:16 “Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made ...”, was the same one that had been prophesied in Gen. 3:15.
15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head and thou shalt bruise his heel.
Truly this seed did come and destroy the power of Satan, for all who believe in, and receive Jesus as Savior and Lord.
So, Abraham was never an example of the Mosaic Law, or any works of the Law. When he and Melchisedec partook of the bread and wine, they knew what they were doing. The man Melchisedec, who represented Jesus Christ, who Jesus would succeed as high priest of God, and Abraham the father of all who would believe in and receive the Savior and his redemptive work, acknowledged the Savior's giving of his life before it ever happened, through the bread and wine, which represented his body and blood! After doing this, Abraham was blessed for his faith, not his works of giving a tithe of the spoils of a battle. Please read over these scriptures until you hear them well.
Abraham's faith was in Jesus Christ 430 years before the Law of Moses was ever given. It is faith in Jesus and his new covenant that Abraham is an example of. Let us not be deceived into thinking differently.
Heb. 11:8-10 “By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should afterward receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and went out, not knowing whither he went.
9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.”
Abraham was able to follow God, not knowing exactly where he would end up because his eyes were not earthbound, and because he had a promise. WHAT WAS THE PROMISE? It was the promise of the giver of eternal life! If the Savior was going to come and bring eternal life, they could look for that city that was built by the eternal God, and know that it would be their eternal home.
The Greek word for 'looked' is ekdechomai, ek-dekh'-om-ahee; to accept from some source, that is, (by impl.) to await: - expect, look (tarry) for, wait (for) (Strong's).
The source of Abraham's information was Jehovah God, who had promised it. Abraham believed God to the extent that he expected, looked for and willingly waited for it.
It is important to not forget what is said in Gal. 3:18 -
“For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise; but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” (emphasis mine)
Abraham was to inherit eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, not by keeping the Law, nor by giving a tithe before the Law. And how are we to inherit eternal life? We inherit because -
Gal. 3:13 “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, ...
and because -
Rom. 5:18 “ ... by the righteousness of one (Jesus) the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.
(emphasis mine)
We too receive this free gift by faith. Because we were redeemed from the curse of the Law, even the Gentiles can receive the blessings of Abraham, and the promise of the Spirit of God through faith. You see, dear child of God, the only way to receive this promise is by faith. It took the redemptive work of Jesus to do what the Law was incapable of doing. No one can receive this gift by staying under the Law. It can only be received by faith, and as the FREE gift that it is. Hebrews, chapter eleven is considered the faith chapter. There is one thing, however, that is often overlooked concerning the people named in this chapter. We find that these people were able to believe God for the various promises he gave them because they had already believed in the promise of the Savior to come. Look at what is said of Sarah, Abraham's wife.
Heb. 11:11-13 “Through faith also Sarah herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.
12 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.”
Here it says that Sarah believed God, conceived and did receive the child God had promised. But look what the next verse says.
13 “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on earth.”
On the one hand it says Sarah did receive what she was promised, while on the other hand, it says she and others died not having received the promises. They were persuaded, or convinced and believed to receive, but did not get them at the time.
The explanation is found in verses 14+16.
14 “For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.” (father-land [Strong's])
16 “But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.” (added notation)
Why would these dear people have believed in an eternal home, built by God, unless they also believed in life eternal with which to enjoy it? Their faith was based on the most important thing of all; God himself, their redeemer, and the promise of his coming as Savior and Lord.
They were not so tied to this earth, because their citizenship was in a country that was their fatherland. They believed in the eternal life the Messiah was going to give them and looked for that eternal city which God, himself, was building for them to live in forever. With such a faith in things that are eternal, they could endure hardships and trust their God in all other matters during their pilgrimage from earth to heaven.
While you may have thought that Abraham and the others spoken of in Hebrews eleven had great faith to be able to obey God and see so many mighty things take place, always remember what the foundation of their faith was. It was Jesus their redeemer who was to bring a better way. Even Moses' sights had been on Jesus Christ. Look!
Heb. 11:24-27 “By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;
25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
26 Esteeming the reproach of CHRIST greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the RECOMPENCE OF THE REWARD.
27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as SEEING HIM WHO IS INVISABLE.” (emphasis mine)
HALLELUJAH!!
WHAT DID MOSES HAVE HIS MIND ON? WHERE WERE HIS SIGHTS SET?
His sights were set on Christ and the reward that came with suffering for his sake! Moses considered the reproach of Christ to be greater riches than all the wealth he could have had as the son of the Pharaoh's daughter. He must have known and understood that reproaches do come when one chooses the way of Christ, but he considered those reproaches to be riches of the greatest kind! OH! If only men today would have such a mindset, instead of trying to carry Christ's name and avoid the suffering that goes with it!!
What does it mean that Moses had “respect unto the recompense of the reward”? The Greek word for respect is apoblepo, ap-ob-lep'-o; “to look away from everything else, that is, (fig.) intently regard:- have respect.” Recompense of the reward is, misthapodosia, mis-thap-od-os-ee'-ah; “requital (good or bad) :- recompense of reward.” (Strong's) To requite is - :To repay; to recompense or reward; to do or give in return.” (Webster's)
Evidently Moses kept his eye on the reward that would come from God, to the point of looking away from all else. He was intent on his goal! He knew Christ, who would give him eternal life. Believing in him first and foremost, he then could believe for any other miracle God would do in his life. Every other marvelous miracle was small in comparison to eternal life. Moses' faith, too, had the right foundation!
Dear child of God, these great people were indeed examples to us, that all things are possible to those who believe in the God of their salvation.
Mark 9:23 “Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”
Faith in Christ and eternal life should motivate us to believe for all else God says he will do. Why would a person believe for eternal life and not believe God at all times and for all he says he will do? We should be willing to endure the hard times, knowing that our end will be far greater than our beginning.
We also have examples, in the Old Testament, of those who did not believe, such as the Children of Israel, who did not enter the promised land because of their unbelief. (See Num. 14:22+23, 26:64+65 and Heb. 13:15-19)
Heb. 4:1+2 “Let us therefore fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.
2 For unto us was the gospel preached, AS WELL AS UNTO THEM: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with FAITH in them that heard it.” (emphasis mine)
Even the Children of Israel who escaped Egypt, had the gospel preached to them and had a chance to believe like Abraham and Moses, but many would not!
Heb. 4:11 “Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.”
Let us all, who call upon the name of Jesus Christ, choose to believe in him and the New Covenant he has brought us and refuse to be brought under a deception of works, self justification or the Old Law!
Let us choose the teachings of Jesus over the teachings of men!
PARABLES AND ALLEGORIES
Is all of the Bible for today? Even parables? Are we to read part of the Bible as fact and consider part as only fables? Never! The entire Bible is for us today. However there are times in scripture when God speaks to us using examples and demonstrations for what he wants us to know and understand.
When we read about what Jesus did in the New Testament, then look back into the Old Testament and read what was prophesied of him, and also of the representations of him in the Law, it is confirmation that, in truth, he is the Messiah sent from Jehovah God.
There were also things done before the Mosaic Law that give us messages about God's purpose for man, and shows us his heart and character. It is important that we get the right message when reading an account of events that happened in scripture.
Jesus used parables when teaching in the New Testament, and there are many allegories in the Old Testament. A parable, according to the Greek is a parabole, par-ab-ol-ay'; a similitude (“parable”), that is, (symbol) fictitious narrative (of common life conveying a moral), apothegm, or adage:- comparison, figure, parable, proverb. (Strong's)
Similitude means “likeness; a counter part or double; an imaginative likeness, as an allegory or parable. (Webster's)
An allegory is, is Greek, allegoreo, al-lay-gor-eh'-o: be an allegory [the Greek word itself]
Webster's says an allegory is “ ... a symbolic representation ...”
So we find a narrative of common life representing or portraying an important truth, or we may find an account of something which actually took place and is a symbolic representation of another truth.
In Galations we find a true story about two women, Sarah and Hagar (called Agar), but the writer says this -
Gal. 4:24 “Which things are an allegory ...”
So whenever we read something that we believe is an example to us, we need to look honestly at what is being said, and consider the attitude of heart that is being demonstrated, in order to see what pleases God and what does not. God does not go against his own character or purpose in what he teaches. For example consider John 13:13–15,
John 13:13-15
13 “Ye call me master and Lord; and ye say well; for so I am.
14 If then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.
15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.”
WHAT IS THE EXAMPLE THAT JESUS GAVE HERE? WHAT DID HE DO?
He who was greatest, even the creator of all mankind, lowered himself and served the very ones he had created from dust! So whether or nor you think Jesus was instructing us to literally wash one another's feet, he clearly was demonstrating to us a willingness to humble ourselves to a very low degree for each other. How low would you have to stoop to actually wash your brother's feet? How much then, would you say that Jesus wants you to deny self to serve another? And how many Christians do you know who demonstrate such an attitude, even though it was the attitude of Jesus?
Now let's look at another scripture that gives us an example of the attitude we should have.
James 5:10&11 “Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.
11 Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; (the way the Lord ended the matter) that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.” (parenthesis mine)
The point of this story is not to show us that when we suffer pain and loss we should sit in sackcloth and ashes as Job did. The example is that of being willing and able to suffer what afflictions come, with patience and faith in our God, and that we will be happy if we endure to the end. We are to know that our God will be the one to end the matter in his own way. What are his ways? He is full of pity and tender mercy and will end things greater than they began. Of course our greatest example was Jesus himself.
1 Peter 2:21-23 “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ suffered for us, LEAVING US AN EXAMPLE, that ye should follow in his steps.
22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered he threatened not; but committed himself to him (the Father) that judgeth righteously. (parenthesis mine and emphasis)
Obviously we are not being told that we all have to die on a cross in order to suffer as Jesus did. But the example our Lord gives us is an example of heart. It is an example of giving ourselves over completely to God, that is, 100% and no less. It is an example of loving those who come against us, and never returning evil for evil, It is also an example of holding our peace; holding our tongue and speaking only according to the will of God.
Matt. 5:10-12 “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 Blessed are ye, 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.”
Indeed our forefathers left us many examples and so did our Lord. As we learn to understand Gods' character, his heart and his purpose, we will better understand what he is showing us through the parables, allegories and examples in scripture.
Now let's go back to Abraham who is called the father of all who receive Jesus Christ by faith. It is reasonable to consider him to be a good example to us since he was blessed of God and because of what we are told of him in Galations.
Gal. 3:7 Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
WHAT WAS IT ABOUT THIS MAN THAT PLEASED GOD SO? WAS IT THAT HE HAD GIVEN A TITHE TO MELCHIZEDEK, ONE TIME LONG AGO?
GAL. 3:6 “Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”
(Also see Gen. 15:6)
IT WAS NEVER ABRAHAMS' WORKS THAT MADE HIM RIGHTEOUS!! IT WAS HIS FAITH IN GOD!
Romans 4:1-5 “What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found?
2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath thereof to glory; but not before God.
3 For what saith the scriptures? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.
4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not of grace, but of debt, (if you get a reward you have worked for and earned, then it is not an unearned gift of grace.)
5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.”
Gal. 3:8-14+16-18
8 And scripture, forseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, PREACHED BFORE THE GOSPEL UNTO ABRAHAM, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.
9 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham
10 For as many as are of the works of the law ARE UNDER THE CURSE: for it is written, Cursed is everyone that continueth not in ALL the things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
11 But that NO MAN is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall LIVE BY FAITH.
12 And the law IS NOT OF FAITH: but the man that doeth them shall live in them.
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 from a tree.
14 That the blessings of Abraham might come on the Gentiles, through Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through FAITH.
16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many, but as of one. And to thy seed, which is CHRIST.
17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.
18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is NO MORE of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” (parenthesis and emphasis mine)
Isn't it interesting that the very man of whom we are told, was not justified by 'works' is the man, which some preachers use as an example of one particular 'work', and tell us that because Abraham did this one particular 'work', now we must do it also? They would make one of his works a law to us.
HOW CAN ANYONE BLATANTLY DESTROY THE TRUE PURPOSE OF WHAT HE REPRESENTED?
HOW MUCH CLEARER MUST SCRIPTURE BE BEFORE WE HEAR WHAT IS BEING SAID?
Surely many eyes have been blinded by a cunning and sly enemy who does not want God's people to be free to do God's work unencumbered by weights that inhibit their progress. Abraham's example was no more that we must tithe than it was that we must take three hundred trained servants and go to battle as he did. His example was of total faith in the Almighty God who will never fail, and faith in the Savior, that he was going to send, in the new and better way and in eternal life.
Why do I say he was an example of faith in the Savior? One reason is because of what is said in verse 8, where we are told that God preached the gospel to Abraham. The word 'gospel' in this verse comes from the same word translated 'gospel' in other places in the New Testament, but has to do with being done in advance. In the Greek it is - proeuaggelizomai, pro-yoo-ang-ghel-id'-zom-ahee; “to announce glad news in advance: -preach before the gospel.” (Strong's)
The gospel message that the Savior would come and save us from our sins, was preached to Abraham long years before Jesus did finally come. But Abraham believed it even then.
When God told Abraham In Gen. 12:13 ... and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.”, Abraham understood that he was receiving the promise of the Messiah! This was the promise on which all the other promises Abraham would believe for, were based. Jesus told about this truth in John 8:56 -
“Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.”
The Greek Lexicon gives the meaning for the word 'day', in this verse as -
“the time when I should appear among men as the messiah”
Through eyes of faith Abraham saw Jesus in the future, believed in him and rejoiced! What an awesome thought! Abraham understood that all nations would be blessed 'in him”, because that through him would come the Savior of the world!
We are told that in seeing this Abraham rejoiced. The Greek word for 'rejoiced' is agalliao, ag-al-lee-ah'-o; to jump for joy, that is, exult: be (exceeding) glad, with exceeding joy, rejoice (greatly). (Strong's) This glimpse into the future was probably a great motivating factor in Abraham's life.
This promise given to Abraham was the promise of the seed that would one day bruise (“... snap ... break ...” [Strong's]) the serpent, or that is, Satans' head, given in Gen. 3:15. And Abraham was more than a little bit happy over the news! The seed spoken of in Gal. 3:16 “Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made ...”, was the same one that had been prophesied in Gen. 3:15.
15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head and thou shalt bruise his heel.
Truly this seed did come and destroy the power of Satan, for all who believe in, and receive Jesus as Savior and Lord.
So, Abraham was never an example of the Mosaic Law, or any works of the Law. When he and Melchisedec partook of the bread and wine, they knew what they were doing. The man Melchisedec, who represented Jesus Christ, who Jesus would succeed as high priest of God, and Abraham the father of all who would believe in and receive the Savior and his redemptive work, acknowledged the Savior's giving of his life before it ever happened, through the bread and wine, which represented his body and blood! After doing this, Abraham was blessed for his faith, not his works of giving a tithe of the spoils of a battle. Please read over these scriptures until you hear them well.
Abraham's faith was in Jesus Christ 430 years before the Law of Moses was ever given. It is faith in Jesus and his new covenant that Abraham is an example of. Let us not be deceived into thinking differently.
Heb. 11:8-10 “By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should afterward receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and went out, not knowing whither he went.
9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.”
Abraham was able to follow God, not knowing exactly where he would end up because his eyes were not earthbound, and because he had a promise. WHAT WAS THE PROMISE? It was the promise of the giver of eternal life! If the Savior was going to come and bring eternal life, they could look for that city that was built by the eternal God, and know that it would be their eternal home.
The Greek word for 'looked' is ekdechomai, ek-dekh'-om-ahee; to accept from some source, that is, (by impl.) to await: - expect, look (tarry) for, wait (for) (Strong's).
The source of Abraham's information was Jehovah God, who had promised it. Abraham believed God to the extent that he expected, looked for and willingly waited for it.
It is important to not forget what is said in Gal. 3:18 -
“For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise; but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” (emphasis mine)
Abraham was to inherit eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, not by keeping the Law, nor by giving a tithe before the Law. And how are we to inherit eternal life? We inherit because -
Gal. 3:13 “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, ...
and because -
Rom. 5:18 “ ... by the righteousness of one (Jesus) the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.
(emphasis mine)
We too receive this free gift by faith. Because we were redeemed from the curse of the Law, even the Gentiles can receive the blessings of Abraham, and the promise of the Spirit of God through faith. You see, dear child of God, the only way to receive this promise is by faith. It took the redemptive work of Jesus to do what the Law was incapable of doing. No one can receive this gift by staying under the Law. It can only be received by faith, and as the FREE gift that it is. Hebrews, chapter eleven is considered the faith chapter. There is one thing, however, that is often overlooked concerning the people named in this chapter. We find that these people were able to believe God for the various promises he gave them because they had already believed in the promise of the Savior to come. Look at what is said of Sarah, Abraham's wife.
Heb. 11:11-13 “Through faith also Sarah herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.
12 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.”
Here it says that Sarah believed God, conceived and did receive the child God had promised. But look what the next verse says.
13 “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on earth.”
On the one hand it says Sarah did receive what she was promised, while on the other hand, it says she and others died not having received the promises. They were persuaded, or convinced and believed to receive, but did not get them at the time.
The explanation is found in verses 14+16.
14 “For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.” (father-land [Strong's])
16 “But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.” (added notation)
Why would these dear people have believed in an eternal home, built by God, unless they also believed in life eternal with which to enjoy it? Their faith was based on the most important thing of all; God himself, their redeemer, and the promise of his coming as Savior and Lord.
They were not so tied to this earth, because their citizenship was in a country that was their fatherland. They believed in the eternal life the Messiah was going to give them and looked for that eternal city which God, himself, was building for them to live in forever. With such a faith in things that are eternal, they could endure hardships and trust their God in all other matters during their pilgrimage from earth to heaven.
While you may have thought that Abraham and the others spoken of in Hebrews eleven had great faith to be able to obey God and see so many mighty things take place, always remember what the foundation of their faith was. It was Jesus their redeemer who was to bring a better way. Even Moses' sights had been on Jesus Christ. Look!
Heb. 11:24-27 “By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;
25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
26 Esteeming the reproach of CHRIST greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the RECOMPENCE OF THE REWARD.
27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as SEEING HIM WHO IS INVISABLE.” (emphasis mine)
HALLELUJAH!!
WHAT DID MOSES HAVE HIS MIND ON? WHERE WERE HIS SIGHTS SET?
His sights were set on Christ and the reward that came with suffering for his sake! Moses considered the reproach of Christ to be greater riches than all the wealth he could have had as the son of the Pharaoh's daughter. He must have known and understood that reproaches do come when one chooses the way of Christ, but he considered those reproaches to be riches of the greatest kind! OH! If only men today would have such a mindset, instead of trying to carry Christ's name and avoid the suffering that goes with it!!
What does it mean that Moses had “respect unto the recompense of the reward”? The Greek word for respect is apoblepo, ap-ob-lep'-o; “to look away from everything else, that is, (fig.) intently regard:- have respect.” Recompense of the reward is, misthapodosia, mis-thap-od-os-ee'-ah; “requital (good or bad) :- recompense of reward.” (Strong's) To requite is - :To repay; to recompense or reward; to do or give in return.” (Webster's)
Evidently Moses kept his eye on the reward that would come from God, to the point of looking away from all else. He was intent on his goal! He knew Christ, who would give him eternal life. Believing in him first and foremost, he then could believe for any other miracle God would do in his life. Every other marvelous miracle was small in comparison to eternal life. Moses' faith, too, had the right foundation!
Dear child of God, these great people were indeed examples to us, that all things are possible to those who believe in the God of their salvation.
Mark 9:23 “Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”
Faith in Christ and eternal life should motivate us to believe for all else God says he will do. Why would a person believe for eternal life and not believe God at all times and for all he says he will do? We should be willing to endure the hard times, knowing that our end will be far greater than our beginning.
We also have examples, in the Old Testament, of those who did not believe, such as the Children of Israel, who did not enter the promised land because of their unbelief. (See Num. 14:22+23, 26:64+65 and Heb. 13:15-19)
Heb. 4:1+2 “Let us therefore fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.
2 For unto us was the gospel preached, AS WELL AS UNTO THEM: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with FAITH in them that heard it.” (emphasis mine)
Even the Children of Israel who escaped Egypt, had the gospel preached to them and had a chance to believe like Abraham and Moses, but many would not!
Heb. 4:11 “Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.”
Let us all, who call upon the name of Jesus Christ, choose to believe in him and the New Covenant he has brought us and refuse to be brought under a deception of works, self justification or the Old Law!
Let us choose the teachings of Jesus over the teachings of men!
Abraham's Tithe Chapter Fourteen
Chapter 14
ABRAHAM'S TITHE
Go with me now to Gen. 14:18-20, where we read about Abraham giving a tithe to Melchisedec, and discover some very interesting things. I believe there is a beautiful allegory in this chapter which we will look at later, but for now let's consider the aspect of the giving of this tithe.
Gen. 14:18-20 “And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God
19 And he (Melchizedek) blessed him (Abraham) and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth:
20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he (Abraham) gave him tithes of all.” (of 'all' the spoils of the battle) (parenthesis mine)
As we can see in Mal. 3:10&11, tithes given by the Law were brought to a storehouse. The tithes had to be given according to God's instructions, and then he would bless them abundantly and rebuke the devourer for their sakes. Probably most ministers consider this devourer to be Satan, although there are many kinds of pests that will eat at, and destroy crops. We know that Satan can bring many kinds of destruction if not stopped by the power and name of Jesus, so very often he is considered to be the devourer that God was saying He would rebuke. If that were the case, then God would have been promising victory over Satan when his people obeyed the law of tithing.
When we look at what happened with Abraham, however, we see that God had already given him victory over his enemies before he gave a tithe to Melchizedek. Furthermore, we do not see Abraham bringing this tithe to a storehouse, for Melchizedek appears to have come to Abraham after he returned from the battle he had been in. Also before Abraham gave the tithe, Melchizedek brought forth bread and wine, which are emblems of the Lord's supper, or communion as we call it today. After having taken communion, Melchizedek blessed Abraham, then he blessed God, who had already delivered Abraham's enemies into his hand. So many things were done in reverse in Abraham's case, from the way tithing was to be done according to the Law. With Abraham, it was not a case of tithing first and then being blessed, but rather, it was a matter of victory, communion and blessing coming first, then a tithe being given. I believe this to be very significant!
Another important difference was that this tithe was not of anything that Abraham himself had grown in the field or raised, as it was to be according to the Mosaic Law. (Lev. 27:30&32) But the tithes that Abraham gave had nothing at all to do with anything that had previously belonged to him. The only thing that scripture ever tells us that Abraham ever tithed of, was what he had brought back from a battle which God himself had won. For God gave the enemy into Abraham's hand.
Another difference was that this tithe did not go to support a priesthood, in a plural sense, that is, there was no group of priests mentioned, who would take this tithe as their own, then from it give a tenth to the high priest as in the Law. There is no mention of any other priests being under Melchizedek at that time, who needed to be supported by tithes. Abraham gave this tithe directly to God's high priest.
(NOTE: WHO IS OUR HIGH PRIEST?)
Another important difference is that, in the Law people gave 10% and kept the other 90%, but Abraham gave 10% of the spoils of the battle to Melchizedek and kept 0% for himself. The spoils of the battle were the material goods and the people captured from Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham kept nothing that belonged to the king of Sodom.
Gen. 14:21-23 “And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself.
22 And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth.
23 That I will not take from a thread even to a shoe latchet, and that I will not take anything that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich:”
Whatever belonged to Abraham before the battle, evidently still belonged to him when it was over. He had neither gained nor lost any material thing worth speaking of. In fact scripture does not tell us that Abraham ever tithed of his own personal belongings, nor does it say that God had commanded him to give what he gave. Abraham had gotten his nephew Lot out of bondage and captivity and given some of the spoils of the battle to God's high priest. The king of Sodom had suffered loss. Abraham received spiritual blessing. The entire situation was quite different from the giving of tithes in the Old Law.
If this story is an example to us, it is not an example for us to go back under the law concerning tithing. This happened before the Law was ever given and was not done in accordance with the Law. Do not forget that the reason Abraham was blessed by God was for his faith, not his works.
Gal. 3:6 “Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”
Abraham is an example of faith, not works. So to tithe as Abraham did, in this day and age, would require some consideration and probably some learning, in order to know how to go about it.
We can see an amazing allegory in the encounter with Abraham and Melchizedek. But before studying this, let's stop for awhile and think about what allegories and parables are.
ABRAHAM'S TITHE
Go with me now to Gen. 14:18-20, where we read about Abraham giving a tithe to Melchisedec, and discover some very interesting things. I believe there is a beautiful allegory in this chapter which we will look at later, but for now let's consider the aspect of the giving of this tithe.
Gen. 14:18-20 “And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God
19 And he (Melchizedek) blessed him (Abraham) and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth:
20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he (Abraham) gave him tithes of all.” (of 'all' the spoils of the battle) (parenthesis mine)
As we can see in Mal. 3:10&11, tithes given by the Law were brought to a storehouse. The tithes had to be given according to God's instructions, and then he would bless them abundantly and rebuke the devourer for their sakes. Probably most ministers consider this devourer to be Satan, although there are many kinds of pests that will eat at, and destroy crops. We know that Satan can bring many kinds of destruction if not stopped by the power and name of Jesus, so very often he is considered to be the devourer that God was saying He would rebuke. If that were the case, then God would have been promising victory over Satan when his people obeyed the law of tithing.
When we look at what happened with Abraham, however, we see that God had already given him victory over his enemies before he gave a tithe to Melchizedek. Furthermore, we do not see Abraham bringing this tithe to a storehouse, for Melchizedek appears to have come to Abraham after he returned from the battle he had been in. Also before Abraham gave the tithe, Melchizedek brought forth bread and wine, which are emblems of the Lord's supper, or communion as we call it today. After having taken communion, Melchizedek blessed Abraham, then he blessed God, who had already delivered Abraham's enemies into his hand. So many things were done in reverse in Abraham's case, from the way tithing was to be done according to the Law. With Abraham, it was not a case of tithing first and then being blessed, but rather, it was a matter of victory, communion and blessing coming first, then a tithe being given. I believe this to be very significant!
Another important difference was that this tithe was not of anything that Abraham himself had grown in the field or raised, as it was to be according to the Mosaic Law. (Lev. 27:30&32) But the tithes that Abraham gave had nothing at all to do with anything that had previously belonged to him. The only thing that scripture ever tells us that Abraham ever tithed of, was what he had brought back from a battle which God himself had won. For God gave the enemy into Abraham's hand.
Another difference was that this tithe did not go to support a priesthood, in a plural sense, that is, there was no group of priests mentioned, who would take this tithe as their own, then from it give a tenth to the high priest as in the Law. There is no mention of any other priests being under Melchizedek at that time, who needed to be supported by tithes. Abraham gave this tithe directly to God's high priest.
(NOTE: WHO IS OUR HIGH PRIEST?)
Another important difference is that, in the Law people gave 10% and kept the other 90%, but Abraham gave 10% of the spoils of the battle to Melchizedek and kept 0% for himself. The spoils of the battle were the material goods and the people captured from Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham kept nothing that belonged to the king of Sodom.
Gen. 14:21-23 “And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself.
22 And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth.
23 That I will not take from a thread even to a shoe latchet, and that I will not take anything that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich:”
Whatever belonged to Abraham before the battle, evidently still belonged to him when it was over. He had neither gained nor lost any material thing worth speaking of. In fact scripture does not tell us that Abraham ever tithed of his own personal belongings, nor does it say that God had commanded him to give what he gave. Abraham had gotten his nephew Lot out of bondage and captivity and given some of the spoils of the battle to God's high priest. The king of Sodom had suffered loss. Abraham received spiritual blessing. The entire situation was quite different from the giving of tithes in the Old Law.
If this story is an example to us, it is not an example for us to go back under the law concerning tithing. This happened before the Law was ever given and was not done in accordance with the Law. Do not forget that the reason Abraham was blessed by God was for his faith, not his works.
Gal. 3:6 “Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”
Abraham is an example of faith, not works. So to tithe as Abraham did, in this day and age, would require some consideration and probably some learning, in order to know how to go about it.
We can see an amazing allegory in the encounter with Abraham and Melchizedek. But before studying this, let's stop for awhile and think about what allegories and parables are.
Hebrews Chapter Seven Chapter Thirteen
Chapter 13
Hebrews Chapter Seven
As chapter seven of Hebrews begins, the writer is speaking of Melchisedec, who we have already discussed, and his encounter with Abram, which took place after the battle in Gen. 14.
I will cover this encounter more later and look into what it signifies. In verse two we are told that Abram gave a tenth part of 'all' to this Melchisedec, who was, as verse one tells us, the priest of the most high God. The 'all' spoken of here, was all of the spoils of the battle that had taken place.
Heb. 7:4 “Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils.
Now this is not just a little history thrown in here, and the issue is not tithing itself. The issue is what the writer is wanting us to 'consider'. The point he is making and which he wants us to consider is, how great this man Melchisedec was. His position was so high that even Abraham, the founder of Israel,who is still looked on by the Jews, as being both great and the father of the man Israel himself, paid homage to him.
We find in Gen. that this high priest of God, gave a blessing to Abraham. In Hebrews we're told that the less of the two men was blessed by the better.
Heb. 7:7 “And with out all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.”
Now let's consider two words in verse four of this chapter, the word gave and the word spoils. The Greek word for the word 'gave' here, is not the same word used when Jesus spoke of the Pharisees 'paying' tithes, which as we saw, was a word denoting obligation. It is the word didomi; did'-o-mee; to give ... (Strong's) It is not stated that Abraham was commanded to give this tithe. But it was a show of honor and did serve to demonstrate the greatness of the man who received it.
The Greek word for spoils is akrothinion, ak-roth-in'-ee-on; (a heap); prop. (in the plural) the top of the heap, that is, (by impl.) best of the booty: - spoils. (Strong's)
So it appears that Abraham gave Melchisedec the best of the goods and people confiscated from the battle that had just taken place and in which God had given him the victory.
Verse three tells us that Melchisedec was made like unto the Son of God. So we can see why Abraham would honor him.
We have spoken before of rightly dividing the Word of truth, and this chapter demonstrates some very definite dividing. Between verse 5 and 11, we find the writer speaking of things that were “ ...according to the law ...”. and then verse 12 tells us
“For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.”
This is important to keep in mind as we continue, if we are to really see what the writer is trying to show us. Let us also remember that at the time of this writing, our Lord had already died and rose again. Most of the Jews, however, did not accept him as their Messiah, so they continued living under the old covenant. Now take a look at verses 5-10.
Heb. 7:5-10 And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, (the other eleven tribes of Israel) though they come out of the loins of Abraham.
6 But he whose descent is not counted (Melchisedec) from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.
7 And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.
8 And here men that die receive tithes, but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.
9 And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, paid tithes in Abraham.
10 For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him.” (emphasis and parenthesis mine)
Even those men of the tribe of Levi, who would later be separated from the other eleven tribes, to be the priesthood, and who would be commanded by the Law of Moses, to receive tithes from the other tribes, actually gave a tithe themselves to this great man who was never a part of the nation of Israel. They did this representatively through Abraham, while still in his loins. This showed the superiority of Melchisedec.
The Greek word for 'loins' is osphus, os-foos'; ... the loin (extern.), that is, the hip, intern. (by extens.) procreative power: ...
Notice that verse 5 says that the sons of Levi were commanded to take tithes of their brethren. This was law and not a matter of choice, and it was to be taken from other Israelites. So those who would be commanded to 'take', 'gave' in this incident. However when verse 6 tells us that Melchisedec received a tithe from them, there is no mention of him being commanded to do so. Melchisedec received this from Abraham before the Law of Moses was ever given.
There was no law of tithing, that we know of, at that time. The Greek word for 'paid' in verse 9 is dekatoo; ... to give or take a tenth: - pay (receive) tithes [Strong's]) This could suggest that it was something required, in that one of the meanings given is 'pay'. However, it is obvious that the writer did not choose the word apodekatoo, which Jesus used when speaking of the Pharisees 'paying' tithes, which was clearly to tithe as a debtor or creditor. And he used the word didomi (to give) in verse four. Dekatoo can also mean 'to give'.
Let's keep in mind what the point of all this is. Remember that the writer was expressing how great Melchisedec was, who lived before there was a Levitical priesthood or a law of tithing to them. This was a man who was honored by the Levites and who represented Jesus. These verses did not serve to show that these men were supposed to either continue holding the office of priesthood nor receiving tithes after the law was fulfilled, which can clearly be seen as we read on.
11 “If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should arise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?
12 For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law”. (emphasis mine)
We can get a better understanding of what is being said here if we take a look at the meaning of the word “perfection” in verse 11. Perfection in the Greek is teleiosis, tel-i'-o-sis; (the act) completion, that is, (of prophecy), verification, or (of expiation) absolution: - perfection, performance. (Strong's)
The 'completion' of prophecy could not come by the Levitical priesthood, because the Old Testament prophecy was of a Saviour who would be a descendant of David, and come out of the tribe of Judah, (2 Sam.7:8-16, Is. 9:6-8), not the tribe of Levi. He is described in Revelation 5:5
5 “And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book ...”
As long as the Mosaic Law remained in effect and all priests had to be Levites, Jesus the Saviour, could never have been our high priest. The Mosaic Law would have to end in order for Jesus, who was of the tribe of Judah, to be able to hold the office of high priest, otherwise it would have been illegal.
Now let's look at this word 'perfection' a little more. Two words given for the word 'perfection' reveal a lot to us. First look at the word 'expiation'. Expiate means “To make up or pay; to make redress or reparation for. (Webster's) Reparation means “The act of repairing, repair, what is done to repair a wrong. pl. indemnification for loss or damage, as demanded of a country defeated in war.” (Webster's) Indemnify means “To secure against loss, damage, or penalty: to reimburse for expenditures made or damages suffered.” (Webster's)
So then, by the Levitical Priesthood the prophecy could not be fulfilled, nor could the completion of expiation happen. In other words, by the Levitical priesthood, the completed work of buying man back from rulership and bondage of Satan, could not happen. We could not receive complete healing and restoration from the damages suffered at his hand, nor gain back what we had lost.
Rom. 7:14 (Paul speaking) “For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.”
Heb. 10:4 “For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins.” (parenthesis mine)
Now the second word given as a definition for the word 'perfection' that we'll look at is 'absolution'. Absolution means “The act of absolving, or the state of being absolved; forgiveness; remission, as of sin ...” (Webster's) To absolve means “To set free or release from some duty, obligation, or responsibility; to liberate from consequences or penalties arising from actions; to aquit: to forgive or grant remission, of sins to (with from).” (Webster's)
Man sinned and there were consequences to be paid, and punishment to be received. The sentence for the crime was death. The Old Law could not absolve us, that is, liberate us from the consequences or penalties that had arisen from our sins. But what the Mosaic Law could not accomplish, Jesus did! He took our consequences and penalties on himself. He acquitted us! Only a Saviour could do this. No works done by any other man could ever accomplish our salvation. But Jesus had to end the Law of Moses to be able to legally become our king and high priest.
Much of Hebrews has been covered in the sections on Melchisedec and the new priesthood, for this chapter deals so much with the reason for and need for the New Covenant, new priesthood and a change of the Law. It's purpose is clearly not to show us a need to take up the Old Law. However some may argue that if the first priest of the order of Melchisedec received tithes of Abraham, and symbolically by his descendants, that this demonstrates to us, that all those who are called the children of Abraham, should give tithes to his successor, Jesus Christ.
WAS THIS NOT AN EXAMPLE TO US?
Probably many do believe this to be the case. Before coming to any definite conclusions, however, let's look at how this tithe was given, for it was done quite differently in Abraham's case than it was carried out according to the Law of Moses.
Hebrews Chapter Seven
As chapter seven of Hebrews begins, the writer is speaking of Melchisedec, who we have already discussed, and his encounter with Abram, which took place after the battle in Gen. 14.
I will cover this encounter more later and look into what it signifies. In verse two we are told that Abram gave a tenth part of 'all' to this Melchisedec, who was, as verse one tells us, the priest of the most high God. The 'all' spoken of here, was all of the spoils of the battle that had taken place.
Heb. 7:4 “Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils.
Now this is not just a little history thrown in here, and the issue is not tithing itself. The issue is what the writer is wanting us to 'consider'. The point he is making and which he wants us to consider is, how great this man Melchisedec was. His position was so high that even Abraham, the founder of Israel,who is still looked on by the Jews, as being both great and the father of the man Israel himself, paid homage to him.
We find in Gen. that this high priest of God, gave a blessing to Abraham. In Hebrews we're told that the less of the two men was blessed by the better.
Heb. 7:7 “And with out all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.”
Now let's consider two words in verse four of this chapter, the word gave and the word spoils. The Greek word for the word 'gave' here, is not the same word used when Jesus spoke of the Pharisees 'paying' tithes, which as we saw, was a word denoting obligation. It is the word didomi; did'-o-mee; to give ... (Strong's) It is not stated that Abraham was commanded to give this tithe. But it was a show of honor and did serve to demonstrate the greatness of the man who received it.
The Greek word for spoils is akrothinion, ak-roth-in'-ee-on; (a heap); prop. (in the plural) the top of the heap, that is, (by impl.) best of the booty: - spoils. (Strong's)
So it appears that Abraham gave Melchisedec the best of the goods and people confiscated from the battle that had just taken place and in which God had given him the victory.
Verse three tells us that Melchisedec was made like unto the Son of God. So we can see why Abraham would honor him.
We have spoken before of rightly dividing the Word of truth, and this chapter demonstrates some very definite dividing. Between verse 5 and 11, we find the writer speaking of things that were “ ...according to the law ...”. and then verse 12 tells us
“For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.”
This is important to keep in mind as we continue, if we are to really see what the writer is trying to show us. Let us also remember that at the time of this writing, our Lord had already died and rose again. Most of the Jews, however, did not accept him as their Messiah, so they continued living under the old covenant. Now take a look at verses 5-10.
Heb. 7:5-10 And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, (the other eleven tribes of Israel) though they come out of the loins of Abraham.
6 But he whose descent is not counted (Melchisedec) from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.
7 And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.
8 And here men that die receive tithes, but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.
9 And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, paid tithes in Abraham.
10 For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him.” (emphasis and parenthesis mine)
Even those men of the tribe of Levi, who would later be separated from the other eleven tribes, to be the priesthood, and who would be commanded by the Law of Moses, to receive tithes from the other tribes, actually gave a tithe themselves to this great man who was never a part of the nation of Israel. They did this representatively through Abraham, while still in his loins. This showed the superiority of Melchisedec.
The Greek word for 'loins' is osphus, os-foos'; ... the loin (extern.), that is, the hip, intern. (by extens.) procreative power: ...
Notice that verse 5 says that the sons of Levi were commanded to take tithes of their brethren. This was law and not a matter of choice, and it was to be taken from other Israelites. So those who would be commanded to 'take', 'gave' in this incident. However when verse 6 tells us that Melchisedec received a tithe from them, there is no mention of him being commanded to do so. Melchisedec received this from Abraham before the Law of Moses was ever given.
There was no law of tithing, that we know of, at that time. The Greek word for 'paid' in verse 9 is dekatoo; ... to give or take a tenth: - pay (receive) tithes [Strong's]) This could suggest that it was something required, in that one of the meanings given is 'pay'. However, it is obvious that the writer did not choose the word apodekatoo, which Jesus used when speaking of the Pharisees 'paying' tithes, which was clearly to tithe as a debtor or creditor. And he used the word didomi (to give) in verse four. Dekatoo can also mean 'to give'.
Let's keep in mind what the point of all this is. Remember that the writer was expressing how great Melchisedec was, who lived before there was a Levitical priesthood or a law of tithing to them. This was a man who was honored by the Levites and who represented Jesus. These verses did not serve to show that these men were supposed to either continue holding the office of priesthood nor receiving tithes after the law was fulfilled, which can clearly be seen as we read on.
11 “If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should arise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?
12 For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law”. (emphasis mine)
We can get a better understanding of what is being said here if we take a look at the meaning of the word “perfection” in verse 11. Perfection in the Greek is teleiosis, tel-i'-o-sis; (the act) completion, that is, (of prophecy), verification, or (of expiation) absolution: - perfection, performance. (Strong's)
The 'completion' of prophecy could not come by the Levitical priesthood, because the Old Testament prophecy was of a Saviour who would be a descendant of David, and come out of the tribe of Judah, (2 Sam.7:8-16, Is. 9:6-8), not the tribe of Levi. He is described in Revelation 5:5
5 “And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book ...”
As long as the Mosaic Law remained in effect and all priests had to be Levites, Jesus the Saviour, could never have been our high priest. The Mosaic Law would have to end in order for Jesus, who was of the tribe of Judah, to be able to hold the office of high priest, otherwise it would have been illegal.
Now let's look at this word 'perfection' a little more. Two words given for the word 'perfection' reveal a lot to us. First look at the word 'expiation'. Expiate means “To make up or pay; to make redress or reparation for. (Webster's) Reparation means “The act of repairing, repair, what is done to repair a wrong. pl. indemnification for loss or damage, as demanded of a country defeated in war.” (Webster's) Indemnify means “To secure against loss, damage, or penalty: to reimburse for expenditures made or damages suffered.” (Webster's)
So then, by the Levitical Priesthood the prophecy could not be fulfilled, nor could the completion of expiation happen. In other words, by the Levitical priesthood, the completed work of buying man back from rulership and bondage of Satan, could not happen. We could not receive complete healing and restoration from the damages suffered at his hand, nor gain back what we had lost.
Rom. 7:14 (Paul speaking) “For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.”
Heb. 10:4 “For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins.” (parenthesis mine)
Now the second word given as a definition for the word 'perfection' that we'll look at is 'absolution'. Absolution means “The act of absolving, or the state of being absolved; forgiveness; remission, as of sin ...” (Webster's) To absolve means “To set free or release from some duty, obligation, or responsibility; to liberate from consequences or penalties arising from actions; to aquit: to forgive or grant remission, of sins to (with from).” (Webster's)
Man sinned and there were consequences to be paid, and punishment to be received. The sentence for the crime was death. The Old Law could not absolve us, that is, liberate us from the consequences or penalties that had arisen from our sins. But what the Mosaic Law could not accomplish, Jesus did! He took our consequences and penalties on himself. He acquitted us! Only a Saviour could do this. No works done by any other man could ever accomplish our salvation. But Jesus had to end the Law of Moses to be able to legally become our king and high priest.
Much of Hebrews has been covered in the sections on Melchisedec and the new priesthood, for this chapter deals so much with the reason for and need for the New Covenant, new priesthood and a change of the Law. It's purpose is clearly not to show us a need to take up the Old Law. However some may argue that if the first priest of the order of Melchisedec received tithes of Abraham, and symbolically by his descendants, that this demonstrates to us, that all those who are called the children of Abraham, should give tithes to his successor, Jesus Christ.
WAS THIS NOT AN EXAMPLE TO US?
Probably many do believe this to be the case. Before coming to any definite conclusions, however, let's look at how this tithe was given, for it was done quite differently in Abraham's case than it was carried out according to the Law of Moses.
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