Category: Devotion
Devotion
Mining the Scriptures: 1 Thessalonians 2:8-12
As we previously pointed our in verses1-7, Paul had a great love for the Thessalonians which led to his ministry to them. The though continues in these verses, as he declares his affection, and his willingness even to die in his efforts to share with them the “gospel of God.”
The Thessalonians were well aware of Paul’s efforts, as he had labored diligently among them. Further, his secular worked was a testament to his love, so that he would not be a financial burden to the brethren there. (Though note, such support was certainly scripturally defensible, cf. 1 Timothy 5:18).
But Paul, in every way wanted only to benefit his brethren. Thus he always acted in a way to protect his reputation, that his work of ministry would not be hindered. He acted, “devoutly and justly and blamelessly” among them.
Paul’s concern was not for himself — only for them! His hope for them was a worthy walk, and an eternal reward.
“…We could no longer endure it”
Paul was a man motivated by love and concern for others, especially his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. This is evident from his life of ministry, going to various congregations to preach to them, writing letters, and sending his companions when he couldn’t go himself to help them during trials or difficulties. One example of this is 1 Thessalonians 3:1-3:
“Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this.”
Can you imagine a love for your brethren so strong that concern for their well being troubles you beyond the point of endurance? So, Paul sent Timothy to help them by establishing them in the faith, and encouraging them.
He did not want their faith to be shaken. It is the lot of all of us to suffer tribulation. The help of our brethren can aid our maintaining faithfulness despite such trials.
To our point, do you have the same love for your brethren that Paul exhibited? We are spiritual family! (cf. Matthew 12:46-50).
“Oh what a weariness”
Church attendance, Bible study, prayer, gospel meetings, concern for brethren, sacrificial giving, volunteer duties, self-sacrifice, benevolence, hospitality, etc., etc., etc. It is a substantial commitment to become a Christian.
Of course, anything of importance and value takes commitment. A sports fan will spend hours and money following his team. Travels to away games, purchasing clothes and trinkets to “represent” their favorites. The cost of season tickets. Hours spent at the stadium. The tedium of traffic congestion, etc., etc., etc. And yet, it is not considered burdensome, rather these are sacrifices born out of devotion and interest. Continue reading ““Oh what a weariness””
Devoutly, Justly, Blamelessly
The apostle Paul loved his brethren. It is evident in every epistle he wrote, including his first epistle to the Christians in Thessalonica. Paul defends his conduct beginning in the second chapter. He was bold in his preaching, despite previous persecution, and conflict in that city (2). He spoke honestly and he spoke the truth from God (3). He did not seek to flatter them, nor did he seek glory in his speech (5-6). He was gentle in dealing with them, and clearly expressed his affection for them (7-8). He labored day and night, both in a physical trade, and in his ministry toward them. He did not want to be a burden to them as he proclaimed to them the gospel (9).
This led him to say in verse 10 of the text, “You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe.” This wonderful proclamation both expresses Paul’s ministry, and the manner of life we all should practice.
Devotion, justice and blamelessness are the proper life choices of all who have named the name of Christ. It is a response to God for the gift of grace, and the discipleship that he requires of us. It is characteristic of our interactions with the world, and especially our brethren. Why? Because it serves as edification! Paul said that his actions were so that “you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory” (vs. 12).
Devoutly, justly, and blamelessly… does this correctly describe your interactions with God and man?
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Sermon: Principles of Leadership
Jehoshaphat was an outstanding king of Judah. By looking at his character and reign, we can learn a great deal about the need for godly leadership in our country, homes and churches.
Compliments from Christ
My son Jeremiah preached a lesson with this title a few weeks ago. This article basically takes his outline, and puts a portion of it in article form. The points made are worthy of consideration.
Everyone enjoys being complimented, but the value of a compliment is very much dependent upon the person who is giving it. A compliment from a wicked man would mean little, as would one that comes from insincere flattery. However, if a compliment were to come from the Lord Himself, that would truly be a great honor. So, consider the following individuals, and the compliments they received from the Lord. If the Lord complimented them, we know that if we do or are the same, we will please Him as well!
The Genuineness of Nathanael
“Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, ‘Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!’” (John 1:47). Consider Jesus’ description of the man, “an Israelite indeed…” This distinguishes between a merely physical lineage (born a Jew), and one who is truly faithful to the law of Moses, seeking to serve God. “For they are not all Israel who are of Israel” (Romans 9:6).
Sermon: Are You a Friend TO Jesus?
In order to be a friend of Jesus, like Abraham, you need to be friendly. I.e. – You need to be a friend TO Jesus. Things like sacrifice, loyalty and faith. Are YOU a friend TO Jesus?
Sermon: The Widow’s Offering
Jesus observed a poor widow putting a pittance in the treasury, and commended her for her devotion. There are lessons we can learn about sacrifice, generosity and devotion from her example.
Sermon: Mary and Martha
The lesson is an examination of Luke 10:38-42, and a comparison of the two sisters who Jesus loved.
Devoted Disciples
The Lord’s church today needs devoted disciples! Webster’s New World Dictionary, in describing the nuances of the term “devote”, states, “Devote suggests the giving up or applying of oneself or something with the seriousness or earnestness evoked by a formal vow (to devote one’s life to a cause).” Consider the Apostle Paul’s sentiment as recorded in Galatians 2:20, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” It must be stated that the only true disciple of Christ is the devoted disciple of Christ.
Sermon: Marks of True Devotion
A discussion of Romans 12:1-8, indicating the need for self examination to ensure we are diligently sacrificing ourselves to our Lord as transformed individuals. This requires us to be active in our service to Him.
Sermon: Christians are Servants
As Christians, our service to God and His Son must be characterized by complete devotion (cf. Romans 6:15-23).
Devotions, Devotionals, Devos
It is typical of the young to have their own lingo. It is a way of differentiating themselves from older generations. In the 1920’s if a teenager managed a ride in a breezer (convertible), then everything was copacetic (wonderful). In the 1930’s a Joe (average guy) was ecstatic with a sawbuck ($10 bill) in his pocket. In the 1940’s khaki wacky (boy crazy) girls sometimes flipped their wigs (lost control of themselves) when a cute boy walked by. In the 1950’s an ankle biter (child) might go ape (get excited) over a piece of candy. In the 1960’s it wasn’t hip (acceptable) to hang out (spend time with) the old man (your father). In the 1970’s it was a bummer (depressing) if someone was bogarting (being selfish with) the TV. In the 1980’s an enjoyable time was totally (completely) gnarly (very good). In the 1990’s, however, the same enjoyable time was all that and a bag of chips. In the 2000’s, one person might be going postal (becoming uncontrollably angry), while another person might just be whatever (indifferent). (Thanks to the internet for the above examples, though I have to admit that I have used the term copacetic myself from time to time!)
Sermon: A Heart with Purpose
In Daniel 1:8, the text reveals that Daniel purposed in his heart not to defile himself with the King’s delicacies. This text introduces the importance of having a heart with purpose to please God.
