Category: Works
Subject: Works
To Boast Or Not To Boast
Fourteen years before writing 2 Corinthians, Paul had be “caught up” (to snatch or catch away) to Paradise. This was a forceful action. In other words, Paul did not work or earn this passage, he was transported. It was a wonderful thing, a blessed gift or privilege. While wonderful, it was not a legitimate thing to boast about because it was a gift from God.
So, while Paul mentioned it as another proof of his choosing by God, he wrote in 2 Corinthians 12:5, “Of such a one (Paul’s oblique reference to himself) I will boast; yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities.”
Paul’s explanation, though a bit hard to understand, establishes a very important truth. Our standing with God is based upon a given gift, not our own merited works. There is a big difference between required obedience, and the mercy of God. Jesus told His disciples, “So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do’” (Luke 17:10).
Paul was only willing to boast in a way that would bring God the glory. Consider his conclusion, “Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10).
The Practice of Your Faith
In the last chapter of Colossians, after giving some specific instruction regarding familial responsibilities, the great apostle ended his admonitions to his readers with some general instruction in living the Christian life. Note the following, in Colossians 4:2-6:
“Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
These verses serve as an inspired explanation of James’ contention, “But someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works.’ Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works” (James 2:18). These admonitions of Paul in Colossians 4 begin to flesh out that of which a life of faith should consist. Continue reading “The Practice of Your Faith”
Sermon: God Requires Obedience (Deuteronomy 5-9)
A discussion of Deuteronomy 5-9, showing that God always requires obedience of His children. This is the basis of the 10 commandments, the entireity of God’s Old Covenant, as well as what is required as a part of Faith in Christ.
Sermon Powerpoint View and Download:
<<———><><———>
Sermon: The Sinner’s Prayer
The Bible indeed teaches that we must receive the gift of God’s grace to be saved. How do we receive it? Scripture reveals that it IS NOT by saying a “Sinner’s Prayer.”
Sermon Powerpoint View and Download:
<<———><><———>>
Sermon: The Just Shall Live By Faith
An examination of the phrase found in Habakkuk 2:4, establishing the difference between the proud and insolent, and the believer who humbles himself before God.
Sermon Powerpoint View and Download:
<<———><><———>>
Walk Circumspectly
In Ephesians 5:15-16 the apostle Paul wrote, “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” It is an interesting passage, expressing the need to live our lives as God directs, and expressing the motivation for our discipleship. Consider the following: Continue reading “Walk Circumspectly”
What Can I Do for Others?
Fairly soon after leading Israel out of Egypt, Moses met with his father-in-law Jethro in the wilderness. As they talked, Jethro witnessed Moses acting as judge before the people, and suggested that Moses give some of the responsibility to others. “And let them judge the people at all times. Then it will be that every great matter they shall bring to you, but every small matter they themselves shall judge. So it will be easier for you, for they will bear the burden with you” (Exodus 18:22). Moses liked the idea, and it apparently pleased God as well, (cf. 18:19), so Moses followed the advice.
There is an analogue to this in the church. Paul wrote in Ephesians 4 that the work of evangelists, pastors and teachers is to equip the saints “for the work of ministry” (4:12). So, the whole body will grow by the work done by “every joint”, “according to the effective working by which every part does its share” (4:16).
Rather than the clergy/laity model, where the clergy ministers to the needs of the laity, God’s pattern is for the spiritually mature to equip all others so that they can themselves become ministers of the gospel. In simple terms, it is not my purpose to do for you. Rather, my purpose is to train you to do your own work; to equip you for ministry; to help you take part in the work of edification.
We each have our own part to play. Is your attitude, “What can you do for me?” Or, “What can I do for others?!”
Click below to…
Sermon: Christ, Our Peace
A discussion of the entire context of Ephesians, chapter 2. The sermon establishes the central position of Jesus Christ in our scheme of redemption, and refutes the false dichotomy that salvation by Grace precludes the necessity of obedience.
Sermon: “Therefore let us”
Paul’s language in Philippians 3 describes a wonderful relationship between believers, as we together seek to gain the resurrection, and an eternal reward in heaven.
Sermon: Be Strong!
The lesson examines Paul’s exhortation to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:1-7 to be strong! Endure hardship as a soldier, compete honestly as an athlete, and work diligently as a farmer.
Sermon: Participation Matters
The lesson is designed to encourage work in the local congregation. Both the duties and blessings of participation are discussed.
Sermon: The Law of Sowing and Reaping
The law of sowing and reaping is inviolate, both physically and spiritually. The text of Galatians 6 clearly shows that we will reap what we so. If we sow to the flesh, we will reap corruption. If we sow to the Spirit, we will reap everlasting life.
The Patternists: Christ Does ALL the Work?
A woman, in commenting on an article I had written, stated her belief that we are saved by grace (which is a given), then stated regarding her eternal salvation that yes, we need to follow Jesus, but that He does all the work. And, regarding her life, maybe Jesus hasn’t gone through all the steps as of yet.
This idea is a bit different from what is commonly stated by those who teach salvation by faith alone. They claim we do nothing, rather that we trust in the finished work of Christ.
To be clear, Jesus secured our hope for redemption when he shed His blood for our sins (cf. Matthew 26:28). After His resurrection, He ascended to the right hand of the Father. His work in redeeming men is finished. The gift of grace has been extended. But, if nothing else is clear in scripture, this is – God expects us to do our part!
Consider Hebrews 5:9, “And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.” If we want to be with Christ in eternity, there is work we too must do!
To see The Patternists Page on Facebook, click here, and Like!
Invitation: A Summary of God’s Scheme of Redemption
Invitation delivered by: Josh Cox
The text of Ephesians 2:1-10 is examined to provide a concise summary of God’s scheme of redemption for mankind.
Sermon: Grace and Obedience
The texts of Ephesians 2:8-10, Philippians 2:12-13; James 2:14-26 and Luke 17:7-10 are used to describe the relationship of grace and obedience to the salvation of men.
