What is the Mission?

What is the church’s commission? What is the church’s mission? The study of the church’s mission is called missiology.

The Witness and Light

What is a witness? Where were the disciples to witness?

but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth. (Acts 1:8 NASB)

What is a light? What does that light bring?

For this is what the Lord has commanded us: "I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth." (Acts 13:47 NIV)

A Short Term Mission Trip

Short term mission trips are as old as Jesus sending the 70. First, notice a strange word. The Greek word for “apostle” is also a verb. We don’t use it that way in English. Let’s see.

“… the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent [apostled] them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.” (Luke 10:1 NKJV)

How does this compare to many short-term missions trips today?

Two by Two

There is great wisdom in going two by two, providing encouragement and protection in dangerous areas.

Where He was to Go

Notice that these missionaries were also sent in anticipation of Jesus’ arrival, into every city and place where Jesus was about to go. It was new, not old ground. Sending missionaries to repair churches and give health care is good, but it is not what these were sent on. These were pioneers.

It’s a Big Job

Pioneer missionaries have a big job.

The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. (Luke 10:2 NKJV)

This mission prepared for Jesus’ arrival. Short term missions should prepare for Jesus’ arrival in the sense of His teachings.

Lambs Among Wolves

The dangers are made quite clear.

Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves. (Luke 10:3 NKJV)

The world uses slander, violence and murderous threats like wolves. Christians are supposed to be more like lambs.

A Journey of Faith

Although in later missions, people could carry money and changes of clothing, that was not the case here.

Carry neither money bag, knapsack, nor sandals; and greet no one along the road. (Luke 10:4 NKJV)

They were not to carry money, bag or spare sandals. Why? It was an exercise in faith. This is very different to many short-term missions today. Do we lack faith or willingness to sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel?

Greet No One

There was no time for idle chatter. There was a sense of urgency, focus and drive to their mission. How many missions waste time taking in the sights and other non-mission focused pursuits?

Bring Peace

We notice that an offering of peace was made, which may be stated in different terms in our language.

But whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest on it; if not, it will return to you. (Luke 10:5-6 NKJV)

This greeting tested their welcome, whether the peace of the Gospel might also be welcome.

Stay Put

They stayed where they were welcomed, not different nights in different places. This would provide a certain amount of stability, making it easier for the curious to find them.

And remain in the same house, eating and drinking such things as they give, for the laborer is worthy of his wages. Do not go from house to house. (Luke 10:7 NKJV)

The Laborer is Worthy

This is not a call to be a freeloader, because the Gospel is work. Churches should provide some stipend, no matter how minuscule, for their local pastor. This is the Lord’s will.

Learn to Shake it Off

When we are not made welcome, shake it off and move on. A small ritual can help.

But whatever city you enter, and they do not receive you, go out into its streets and say, ‘The very dust of your city which clings to us we wipe off against you. (Luke 10:10-11 NKJV)

This was bad news for them. Jesus said it would be more tolerable for Sodom on judgment day than that city.

Joy

The mission brings joy, but we should rejoice more that our names are written in heaven.

Why Go

We declare His works among the nations.

… Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples. (Psalm 96:1-3 NKJV)

Long before people will hear a preacher, they will hear lay people. What do they hear out of our mouths? How can they believe if they have not heard?

… how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? (Romans 10:13-14 NLT)

The Great Commission

Jesus gave what many call the Great Commission. What is that all about?

… Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:18-20 NIV)

Having Gone

The first verb is “go.” It literally means “having gone.” We don’t go if we stay home, hide in an isolated monastery, an exclusive church group, if we are not friendly with outsiders, if we are not hospitable. We’re not all called to foreign lands, but we should mix with our communities.

Make

To “make” disciples means make an effort, and not just wait around. It is called “outreach.” That can be advertising, personal invitation, and so on. We can’t be lazy Christians. We must make some kind of an effort to be involved in our communities, and share Jesus’ teachings.

Of All Nations

This means that we mix culturally. It may be a new adventure, learning new things, and developing new friendships. Don’t insult their culture, language or religion, but do be hospitable and tactfully tell them about Jesus.

Baptizing

Baptizing new converts is usually the job of a church leader, but we can baptize them with our love and shower them with our friendship. Few people come to Jesus because of a pastor. Most do so because of a friend. Most churches baptize in the singular name of the three, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, because churches with a healthy theology believe in the Trinity.

Teaching Them

Teaching what Augustine, or Luther, or Chrisostom taught is not so important, as teaching what Jesus taught. Jesus takes priority. A short-term catechism or pre-baptismal teaching course is only the beginning of a Christian’s life-time of learning. It takes years to learn and understand the depths. Lifelong learning is important.

I am with You

Jesus said He would send the Comforter, but He is also with us always. The missionary leaving is a good thing for the development of the new church, but Jesus will never leave us.

“I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5 ESV)

Summary

Our commission is to be witnesses to the ends of the earth. The first missionaries went two by two to prepare the way for Jesus to come. We should not be merely “swapping sheep” between churches, but looking for “lost sheep.” The disciples were to make disciples, baptize and teach them what Jesus had commanded.

Christian Hospitality

How important is it to be a welcoming church? How are we received? How do we receive faithful Bible teachers, each other, and new or weak disciples? Let’s look at the importance of hospitality in Matthew 10:40-42.

Now it happened one day that Elisha went to Shunem, where there was a notable woman… she said to her husband… let us make a small upper room on the wall… he can turn in there.”

… he had called her… What can I do for you? … Then he said, “About this time next year you shall embrace a son.” And … the woman conceived, and bore a son… (2 Kings 4:8-17 NKJV)

This is a wonderful story of hospitality. A wealthy woman and her husband went to considerable trouble and expense building a spare room for Elisha to rest on his journeys. He learned that she was childless. The prophet said she would bear a child. God rewarded her for remarkable hospitality.

“He who receives you [plural] receives Me, and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.” (Matthew 10:40 NKJV)

Do we receive Christians of other theological persuasions? If Calvinists, Arminians, Catholics, Protestants and Orthodox also receive Jesus, do we receive them? Why would we NOT receive anyone who receives Jesus? We MAY not accept some details of their doctrines, but do we receive them as fellow believers in Jesus?

“He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward. And he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward.” (Matthew 10:41 NKJV)

A prophet proclaims a divine message. A prophet is someone to whom God reveals His truth, and through whom He speaks. OT prophets preached salvation, grace and glory yet to be accomplished. NT prophets preach of salvation and grace already accomplished, and glory yet to be fulfilled in the future.

A righteous man acts on a divine message. Bengel’s Gnomon says, “A prophet is one who speaks, a righteous man one who acts, in the name of God, and is distinguished for his remarkable righteousness.” Welcome a preacher or righteous person, and we receive the same reward in eternity.

“And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.” (Matthew 10:42 NKJV)

A glass of water is the least hospitable thing that we can do for a guest. Who is a little one? Is it broadly applicable to different people? It seems they are a disciple. New Christians, humble Christians, Christians with faulty theology, certain addictions or habitual sins are little ones.

Jesus gave four points on hospitality: 1) Receive you, and receive Jesus. 2) Receive a preacher of truth, though all are faulty. 3) Receive those righteous by faith in Jesus, though still faulty. 4) Receive new or weak disciples, though little or not yet righteous, give them a warm welcome.

In this context, Jesus was not speaking about hospitality towards false prophets or other unrepentant troublemakers. He spoke of various levels of discipleship, from the original twelve to the littlest disciple. Let’s be thankful for those who receive us. Let’s welcome faithful preachers of truth, the righteous and little ones.

The Holy Bible, New King James Version, Copyright © 1982 Thomas Nelson. All rights reserved.

References

Johann Albrecht Bengel. Gnomon Novi Testamenti, Exegetical Annotations on the New Testament. 1742.

Bullinger, Rev. Ethelbert W. A. Critical Lexicon and Concordance to the English and Greek New Testament. London: Longmans, Green & Co., 1895. 2008 TheBible.org

Readings

Genesis 22:1-14 “The best evidence of our fearing God is our being willing to honour him with that which is dearest to us, and to part with all to him, or for him.” (John Wesley’s Commentary)

Psalm 13 In moments of despair trust in His love, rejoice in His salvation, sing of His goodness

Jeremiah 28:5-9 "Those who do not declare the alarming as well as the encouraging parts of God's word, and call men to repentance, and faith, and holiness, tread in the steps of the false prophets." (Matthew Henry’s Commentary)

Psalm 89:1-4, 15-18 a throne forever, fulfilled in a descendant of David

Romans 6:12-23 in Jesus we have complete victory over sin

Matthew 10:40-42 in Rhyme

He who receives you, receives Me
Receives the One who sent Me, He
Receive a prophet in his name
And receive his reward, the same

Receives the righteous in his name
And receive his reward, the same
Give a little one just water
A disciple, son or daughter

Believe me, you won’t be ignored
You’ll by no means lose your reward

What is the Church?

What is the church? Why the church? How is the church governed? What are the most important rituals of the church? What does the church do?

What is the church?

The Greek Term

The early church borrowed a Greek term, meaning a gathering of citizens called out from their homes into a public place. From the Greek word ekklésia we call the study of the church ecclesiology. The word church can describe a home church in a certain city, as most churches were in those days.

To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, saints by calling, with all who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours (1 Corinthians 1:2 NASB)

The word church can mean the church in a region or province.

Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers. (Acts 9:31 NIV)

The word church can even refer to the universal church.

Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. (Ephesians 4:11 NLT)

The Hebrew Term

This Old Testament word for church also meant “assembly, company, and congregation.”

You shall keep it until the fourteenth day of the same month, then the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel is to kill it at twilight. (Exodus 12:6 NASB)

As we have seen, in the Bible the word church usually refers to the people of God not a building.

Metaphors of the Church

The church is called the body of Christ, a family, a vine and branches, the pillar and ground of the truth, God’s field, God’s building, a spiritual building, a living temple that is still under construction, a holy temple, a royal priesthood and a holy nation, composed of living stones built around a cornerstone, salt and light.

Why the church?

Jesus said that he would build his church and that the gates of Hades, a pagan Greek term referring to the abode of the dead, would not prevail against the church. In other words, the church would not cease as each passing generation dies.

And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. (Matthew 16:18 NIV)

One purpose for the church is a place where the Lord gathers those who will be saved.

Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:47 KJV)

The church is a gathering of disciples to be taught what Jesus taught.

Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age. (Matthew 28:20 NLT)

The church is a place for testimony about what God has done.

When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and elders, to whom they reported everything God had done through them. (Acts 15:4 NIV)

Church gatherings are for believers to be strengthened in faith.

So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily. (Acts 16:5 NKJV)

The church is a place to be spiritually fed.

Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. (Acts 20:28 NIV)

The church is a place for prophecy or inspired preaching.

… one who speaks a word of prophecy strengthens the entire church. (1 Corinthians 14:4 NLT)

The church is a place for collections for the saints.

Now regarding your question about the money being collected for God's people in Jerusalem. You should follow the same procedure I gave to the churches in Galatia. (1 Corinthians 16:1 NLT)

The church is a gathering to learn of God’s wisdom.

His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 3:10 NIV)

The assembly of the saints is a place to get spiritually cleansed.

… Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish… (Ephesians 5:25-28 NKJV)

The church is a convocation to sing God’s praises.

… “I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise.” (Hebrews 2:12 ESV)

The church is also a place to be healed.

… Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. (James 5:13-15 NKJV)

How is the church governed?

Holy Scripture is flexible enough to allow variety in the manner that we govern churches, called church polity. There is great leeway for adaptability to local culture and the leadership styles and personality types of local leaders. Episcopal, Presbyterian, Congregational, and unstructured formats exist. Each preference has strengths and weaknesses.

Formal Leadership

Church leaders are called elders, and sometimes presbyters or priests.

Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. (Acts 14:23 NIV)

Bishop originally was an alternative to the word elder, an overseer of a local church.

Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons (Philippians 1:1 NKJV)

Alongside the elders came a group of men and women who took care of church business called deacons.

In the same way, deacons must be well respected and have integrity… (1 Timothy 3:8-13 NLT)

Some churches approach these offices very formally and others very informally, yet all churches have leaders who fit into these same broad categories of leading or serving, and ought to be qualified by living within these minimal standards of Christian conduct.

What are the rites of the church?

The two most important rites of the church are observed by all Christians. One rite uses water. The other uses bread and a cup.

The Water

Baptism has always been a practice of the church. It was instituted by Jesus himself.

Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them… (Matthew 28:19-20 NKJV)

The Bread and Wine

On that Passover before his crucifixion, at the Last Supper, Jesus instituted the elements of bread and wine.

“This is my body [“is” is a mystery, a sacrament], which is for you; do this [do is an ordinance] in remembrance of me [communion is a memorial].” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is [again “is,” a mystery or sacrament] the new covenant in my blood; do this [again “do,” an ordinance], whenever you drink it, in remembrance [again, a memorial] of me.” (1 Corinthians 11:24-26 NIV)

Summary

The church is a gathering, or assembly. It does not primarily refer to the building, but the congregation. The church is a gathering for those who will be saved, a place to be taught, a place for testimony, to be strengthened in faith, to be spiritually fed, for prophecy or inspired preaching, for collections for the saints, to learn of God’s wisdom, to be spiritually cleansed, to sing God’s praises, to be healed, to be baptized, to receive the Lord's Supper, and to bless others.

Confessing Jesus

Do we stand for what is right or do we let the world bully us into silence about our faith? Are we courageous disciples? Let’s examine confessing Jesus in the midst of opposition in Matthew 10:24-39. 

“A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for a disciple that he be like his teacher, and a servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more will they call those of his household!” (Matthew 10:24-25 NKJV)

Have we ever been insulted or harassed for our faith? Does it discourage us? Were we ridiculed because we believe in Jesus, the Resurrection or that the Bible is God’s Word? Take the mockery as a wonderful compliment. Receive the verbal abuse as unwitting praise. Use it to be encouraged!

“Therefore do not fear them. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known.” (Matthew 10:26 NKJV)

Many overbearing and vocal bullies dominate conversations across the church. We certainly can have faith that, “there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known.” But, we also need to speak up and not be afraid. Jesus encouraged us not to be silent.

“Whatever I tell you in the dark, speak in the light; and what you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops.” (Matthew 10:27 NKJV)

Do we confess Christ bravely and preach on the housetops? Heretical winds of doctrine, ancient but vain traditions, materialistic and nationalistic false Gospels bully those who believe in historic Christianity. In authoritarian countries Christian churches are bulldozed and believers are imprisoned or murdered. Yet, faith is the opposite of fear.

“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:28-31 NKJV)

Even murderous persecutors cannot touch our souls. Where is God when Christians are persecuted? We are highly treasured by God. Though He may not save our bodies, He is with us during the most severe trials, and will do the most important thing, which is the saving of our souls.

“Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 10:32-33 NKJV)

Christians are encouraged to publicly confess Jesus, and will not be bullied into silence. If persecutors harass, the most they can do is take our physical lives, not our eternity. Let’s acknowledge our faith in Jesus and the Bible openly before others without fear. Let’s not be bullied into silence.

“Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. For I have come to ‘set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; and ‘a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.’ He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.” (Matthew 10:34-37 NKJV)

Jesus explained that faith sometimes divides even families. God allowed our first parents to choose an opposing way of life, and we believe that God knew what He was doing with Adam and Eve. And so, we have hope that He has a plan for our unbelieving family members too.

“And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matthew 10:38-39 NKJV)

Sugar-coated sermons are for baby Christians. We are at war against corruption and greed. We abandon our selfish life and adopt a selfless life. How do we do this? We give instead of take, die to selfishness, admit we cannot solve even our own problems, and Jesus is the way?

Do we stand for what is right or do we let the world, or watered down Christianity so-called, push us around and tell us to be quiet? Jesus wants us not to fear, to speak, to shout from the housetops, confess Him, love Him first and trust Him enough to give our lives to Him.

New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Readings

Genesis 21:8-21 Abraham became father of the faithful, not because he was perfect, but because he had faith

Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 This Psalm is modeled on earlier Psalms and is a model for prayer

Jeremiah 20:7-13 the prophet, in fulfilling his duties, is the object of scorn, yet God’s word burns within him

Psalm 69:7-18 family estrangement is a sometime result of following God, which a true believer gladly bears

Romans 6:1-11 Christians reckon themselves dead to sin and alive in Christ

Matthew 10:24-39 in Rhyme

They called the master Beelzebub
Disciples are in the same club
Don’t fear! What’s hidden will be known
All that’s covered up will be shown

What I tell you, speak in the light
And preach it from the housetops’ height
Don’t fear what kills the physical
Fear Him who has the spiritual

He cares for all the little birds
Your life’s worth more, and it He guards
Who confesses Me before men
I’ll confess before God in heav’n

I didn’t come for peace on earth
But family strife to call forth
So, take your cross and follow Me
Lose your life, gain eternity

What is Salvation?

What is salvation? How does it work? Are there components of salvation? In Greek the word for Savior or Deliverer is σωτήρ (soter) and so we call the study of salvation soteriology.

What is salvation?

Temporal Salvation

When enthusiastic Christians ask others if they have been saved, many don’t even know what that means. Salvation in the Bible refers both to a physical and spiritual rescue. In the case of ancient Israel, they were saved from slavery in Egypt.

Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians; and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore. (Exodus 14:30 KJV)

Later Israel was saved from many national calamities. Many individuals were saved from personal misfortune or sickness.

O Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed; if you save me, I will be truly saved. My praises are for you alone! (Jeremiah 17:14 NLT)

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us (Luke 1:68-71 ESV)

Eternal Salvation

More important than temporary physical salvation is permanent eternal salvation, humanity saved from sin and the consequences of it. What makes the salvation of the world possible is Jesus Christ.

They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” (John 4:42 NIV)

We have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. (1 John 4:14 NASB)

Facets of Salvation

Although salvation can refer to being saved from a calamity or sickness, generally it refers to eternal salvation, and contains several important aspects. 

Election

In the New Testament the people, who are often referred to as the church of God, become God’s elect and it is a group open to all people of the world.

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. (1 Peter 2:9 ESV)

Calling

We are called to be holy, set apart by God, which is what the word saint means.

To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 1:7 KJV)

Regeneration

Regeneration is a strange word, almost machine-like to our modern ears, but let’s understand that it is also called being born again or born from above.

Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God… I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life. So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’” (John 3:1-7 NLT)

Conversion

In Greek the word conversion is ἐπιστροφή (epistrophé) meaning a turning about. The process of conversion involves repentance and faith.

repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 20:21 KJV)

Christian Unity in Christ

The divisions between Christians are only worldly. In reality there is no division between genuine Christians because we are one body in union with Christ.

So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. (Romans 12:5 KJV)

Justification

In Greek the word for justification is δικαίωσις (dikaiosis) and means simply declared righteous. It can also mean an acquittal, a declaration of “not guilty” even though we were guilty. God declares sinners righteous because of Jesus’ righteousness not because we were blameless.

Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin… and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus… For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law. (Romans 3:20; 24, 28 NIV)

Adoption

In ancient times there was often no difference between an adopted child and a natural born one. An adopted child received all the rights and privileges of a biological child. That is the meaning in the Bible. We have a special relationship as an adopted child of God.

For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:26 NLT)

How do we know if we are children of God? Are we led by the Spirit of God?

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. (Romans 8:14 NLT)

Sanctification

Sanctify means to set apart or dedicate something for special use. In the New Testament Jesus prayed that his disciples would be sanctified in the truth, God’s word is truth.

Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. (John 17:17 NIV)

We are also sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. (2 Thessalonians 2:13 NIV)

We are also sanctified in Jesus Christ.

To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours: (1 Corinthians 1:2 ESV)

Even an unbelieving spouse is sanctified by being married to a believing spouse.

For the unbelieving husband is sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified through her believing husband; for otherwise your children are unclean, but now they are holy. (1 Corinthians 7:14 NASB)

Christians often pray when they eat because food is sanctified by prayer.

For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. (1 Timothy 4:5 KJV)

Perseverance

If we hold steadfast throughout life we are partakers with Christ, who will help us through to receive the promise of eternal life.

For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ. (Hebrews 3:14 NLT)

Glorification

Glorification has to do with the high honor and spiritual bodies that we have in eternity.

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself. (Philippians 3:20-21 NKJV)

Summary

Salvation can refer to being saved from physical problems, but ultimately and primarily refers to being saved from death and hell. Salvation is a process that includes such things as calling, election, rebirth, conversion, unity in Christ, justification, adoption, being made holy, persevering and being glorified in eternity.

Shepherds and Harvests

What do tending sheep and harvesting crops have to do with church? Let’s look at some important farm lessons that apply to our local church in Matthew 9:35-10:8.

Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. (Matthew 9:35-36 NKJV)

Pastor means shepherd. The ideal national leader is pictured as a caring shepherd. When sheep are not fed and cared for, they become “distressed and dispirited” (NASB). People are burdened by leaders with vain traditions and bad ideas, weighed down in ignorance, neglected and scattered abroad without care and attention.

Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” (Matthew 9:37-38 NKJV)

Metaphorically, the Great Commission is a harvest, with few field workers. Jesus encourages us to pray the Lord would urgently drive workers into the fields. Jesus calls us to a compelling mission. Perhaps one of the major problems of the Church is that we don’t have a sense of urgency.

And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him. (Matthew 10:1-4 NKJV)

There were 12 disciples, 12 Patriarchs, 12 tribes and 12 gates in New Jerusalem. Apostle means “one sent.” Jesus gave them a little of the power that He revealed during His earthly ministry. As the 12 Patriarchs were the Fathers of Israel, these men became the Fathers of the Church.

These twelve Jesus sent out and commanded them, saying: “Do not go into the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans. But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. (Matthew 10:5-8 NKJV)

How were “the lost sheep” lost? Were they not being led “in the paths of righteousness” (Psalm 23)? Had their [national and religious shepherds] led them astray (Jeremiah 50:6)? Had THEY “gone astray like a lost sheep” (Psalm 119:176)? Have our modern day shepherds been leading us astray?

Who is lost? Who does not go to church, has no friends, is an addict, is depressed, feels abandoned, is materialistic, has ruined their lives in sexual immorality, has bad anger issues, thinks that theft is an appropriate way to live? The lost are everywhere and they are our assignment.

Provide neither gold nor silver nor copper in your money belts, nor bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor staffs; for a worker is worthy of his food. “Now whatever city or town you enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there till you go out. And when you go into a household, greet it. If the household is worthy, let your peace come upon it. But if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. (Revelation 14:9-13 NKJV)

A small child can be led by the hand of a faithful parent or grandparent. They trust the one who leads them. Do we trust the one who leads us? Can we go, not knowing where, but knowing that the One whose hand we hold will always lead us faithfully?

“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you. (Revelation 14:14-20 NKJV)

The harvest is ready (Revelation 14:14-20). The harvest is thrown “into the great winepress of the wrath of God.” The blood of the grape symbolizes Armageddon (Revelation 16:12-16; Joel 3:13). The wheat and tares (Matthew 13:36-43) grow together until harvest. May we be among the righteous!

An urgent task in the church is still to seek and care for lost sheep and bring them into the kingdom. Let’s not be lazy Christians, but seek out and care for the lost sheep in or communities.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Vincent's Word Studies. Marvin Richardson Vincent. 1886

Readings:

Genesis 18:1-15, (21:1-7) an epiphany prepares for the birth of Isaac

Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 what can we offer the Lord for all He has done for us?

Exodus 19:2-8 God makes a conditional promise to Israel

Psalm 100 a doxology, a Psalm of praise

Romans 5:1-8 made right by faith

Matthew 9:35-10:8 in Rhyme

Jesus saw the people weary
Sheep without a shepherd, dreary
He said the harvest’s plentiful
The workers imperceptible

Pray to the Lord of the harvest
For more laborers to harness
He gave the disciples power
To heal from that very hour

Don’t go into the Gentile towns
But just stay within Israel’s grounds
Preach heaven’s kingdom is at hand
Heal and freely give should be planned

A worker’s worthy of his hire
Towns you enter you should inquire
Who in it’s worthy, and stay there
If the household’s worthy, peace share

You’ll be sheep among predators
Be wise and harmless on your tours
Beware, you’ll testify to kings
God will help you say the right things

What is the Bible?

How does God reveal himself in the Bible? What are inerrancy and infallibility? How do we understand the Bible? How does the Holy Spirit help us understand the Bible? All this is a special part of studying God. Studying how important God's revelation in the Bible is, is called bibliology.

How God Reveals Himself

Since ancient times God has revealed Himself to humans in various ways that are familiar to us. He reveals Himself to us in everyday experiences of His creation, and God also reveals Himself in special ways. One of those special forms of self-disclosure is the Bible.

1. General Revelation

Does all creation broadcast the abundant and compelling evidence for God’s existence?

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. (Psalm 19:1-4 NIV)

Do people suppress the truth of God’s existence?

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. (Romans 1:18-20 NASB)

Is God’s law universally instinctive throughout human cultures?

Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right. (Romans 2:14-15 NLT)

Does God still provide even to those who ignore Him and the obvious evidence for His existence?

… turn from these useless things to the living God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all things that are in them, who in bygone generations allowed all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good, gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. (Acts 14:15-17 NKJV)

God reveals himself in his creation, in human culture and in history.

… in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’ … He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness… (Acts 17:22-31 NKJV)

There is common ground between believers and unbelievers on the evils of murder, theft and a host of other things. However, that common ground is limited.

How far can we discover information about God unless he also provides us with extra, special revelation?

2. Special Revelation

When God provides us special revelation beyond what we can observe with our eyes, He is unveiling His person to us and His plan of salvation in Jesus.

You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. (John 5:39-40 NIV)

He must condescend to and accommodate our limited human abilities. We are only physical and cannot understand spiritual things without extra help. There have been other kinds of special revelation.

Dreams

God has revealed Himself in dreams.

But God came to Abimelek in a dream one night and said to him, "You are as good as dead because of the woman you have taken; she is a married woman." (Genesis 20:3 NIV)

Visions

God has also revealed Himself in visions.

In a vision during the night, I saw a man sitting on a red horse that was standing among some myrtle trees in a small valley. Behind him were riders on red, brown, and white horses. (Zechariah 1:8 NLT)

Theophanies

A theophany is a visible manifestation of God.

When Joshua was by Jericho, he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man was standing before him… I am the commander of the army of the Lord… Take off your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so. (Joshua 5:13-15 ESV)

Divine Speech

God has revealed Himself in voice only.

Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said, “Who is this that darkens counsel By words without knowledge? (Job 38:1-2 NASB)

Special Acts

God has revealed Himself in special acts.

And Israel saw that great work which the LORD did upon the Egyptians: and the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD, and his servant Moses. (Exodus 14:31 KJV)

Jesus Christ

God is revealed in Jesus.

No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him. (John 1:18 NKJV)

The Bible

The Bible is a written form of special revelation.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV)

The Bible is what witnesses have written down over perhaps forty generations of testimony and inspiration of God. They also made special claims about its source.

for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. (2 Peter 1:21 NKJV)

So, in summary, the Bible was all given by inspiration of God as its writers were moved by the Holy Spirit.

How did we get the Bible?

The putting together of the Bible over thousands of years is called canonization. Canon means rule or measure and the Bible canon is the measure of Christian faith. Canonization was the process whereby books were considered as the authoritative written measure of our faith and incorporated into the Bible by the Jews and the Church.

The Old Testament or Hebrew canon was put together in a gradual process beginning with the earliest records compiled by Moses and concluding with Ezra. The New Testament canon was unofficially recognized widely even before it was made official.

Factors involved in deciding which books ought to be in the New Testament include that each piece was to be of apostolic origin, catholic (that is, universally accepted), Christ-centered, orthodox in its teaching, and contain internal evidence supporting it.

The number of books in the Christian Bible varies across Protestant, Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Assyrian Eastern traditions. However, they all agree on the same central 66 books. The Christian Bible was finalized at one of the many North African meetings of church leaders known as the Council of Carthage in 397 and 419 AD.

Inerrancy and infallibility

Inerrancy is a term that is much misunderstood. Although it is not found in the Bible itself, it has been widely used to expound upon the Bible’s own definition of itself as truth.

Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. (John 17:17 NIV)

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV)

Inerrancy is a term used to mean that the Bible is completely truthful and accurate. In today’s world, the word truth has taken on a relative meaning, so the word inerrancy is often used to explain what truth is supposed to mean. It is not meant to include translation errors or other such apparent discrepancies, and includes the concept that the Bible will not fail in the purpose for which it was written

Inerrancy is not a perfect word but is widely used among conservative Christians and usually limited to the original writings not later translations. All scholars tend to agree that no translation of the Bible is perfect.

Another widely accepted description is the infallibility of the Bible. To some people, it just sounds better than inerrancy though it can mean the same thing. Infallibility means that the Bible is completely trustworthy as a guide to salvation and faith. It will not fail and will accomplish its purpose.

How to Understand the Bible

Interpretation

How do we understand the Bible? Obviously, because the meaning is spiritual, heaven must illuminate the scriptures to our understanding.

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. (John 14:26 NASB)

There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. (John 1:9 NASB)

The most widely accepted process of understanding the Bible among faithful experts is to start with exegesis. That means to prayerfully extract as best we can the original meaning. We begin in the past. We must look at the grammar, genre, history, ask “What did the author intend?” and “What did God intend?”

The process of exegesis is already done in large part down through history by dedicated theologians who understand the original languages and study ancient history. One of the very best places to start is by using trusted commentaries. Commentaries exist for all levels of education from the very simple and popular to the very deep and thorough “critical” (meaning analytical) commentaries. Just take a look through a Christian book store or on the internet to find commentaries that will help with every book of the Bible.

It is almost a useless exercise asking a group questions like, “What does this verse mean to you?” In reality, we don’t care what people think a text means, but what it really does mean. That’s where experts who write commentaries help.

Application

Only once we understand the past can the Holy Spirit can help us begin to see how to apply the Bible to our present situations. The whole process from past to present becomes a complete hermeneutic or interpretation.

As we learn the interpretation, formulate scriptural principles, meditate and correlate them and most importantly pray, we can then begin to understand how to apply God’s instructions in theory or practice today.

Application is at once a dangerous step and also a joyful journey of Christian discussion. However, the next step, application, is where everyone can be an expert.

One person in a discussion may have ideas as to how a particular passage of Scripture applies to the business world and another to government. One may see applications in church life and another may see applications in farming life.

The danger in the application process that we ought to avoid is making up lists of do’s and don’ts. This is a form of legalism, whereby we make up the rules for others to follow and is a major cause of heresies in the church.

The Holy Spirit’s Help

The Holy Spirit can help us understand the Bible. However, we still need to be careful. Many people have gone off in crazy directions claiming that the Holy Spirit led them there. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Bible to our understanding, but He also lights up the understanding of others, so it is always wise to double check in a commentary or with those who are better trained in what the Bible says.

… these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit… that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual… they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:9-14 ESV)

I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. (Ephesians 1:18 NLT)

The Word of God

The Scriptures and the Word of God are treated synonymously throughout the Bible.

For instance, on the one hand God said:

I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you. (Genesis 12:3 NIV)

This is also described as something that scripture said:

Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: ‘All nations will be blessed through you.’ (Galatians 3:8 NIV)

Again we read that God said:

But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” (Exodus 9:16 NIV)

But elsewhere this is something that scripture said:

Scripture says to Pharaoh: ‘I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.’ (Romans 9:17 NIV)

Again scripture says:

That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. (Genesis 2:24 NIV)

And again, scripture saying is the same as God saying:

‘Haven’t you read,’ he replied, ‘that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’?’ (Matthew 19:4-5 NIV)

David composed a Psalm asking:

Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?” (Psalm 2:1 NIV)

Yet, Peter and John prayed to God:

You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: ‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?' (Acts 4:24-25 NIV)

On the one hand we read:

The Lord says, ‘Don’t harden your hearts as Israel did at Meribah, as they did at Massah in the wilderness.’” (Psalm 95:8 NLT)

And this is the same as:

the Holy Spirit says, ‘Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled, when they tested me in the wilderness.’ (Hebrews 3:7-8 NLT)

Summary

The Bible is one way God specially reveals Himself to us. All Scripture, not just part, is gently breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. All Christians agree on the core books of the Bible. Conservative, orthodox Christians use terms like inerrant and infallible to describe the Bible to a world that no longer understands what truth means. The Holy Spirit illuminates understanding of the Bible to those led by the Spirit. Exegesis attempts to draw out the true meaning whereas eisegesis just shoves our heresies into the Bible. We apply the Scriptures to our lives carefully, trying not to create legalistic, man-made rules that are not in the Bible. The Scriptures are the Word of God.

Beyond Prejudices

The Great Commission challenges Christians to go beyond national and tribal prejudices. Let’s look at Jesus’ instructions in Matthew 28:16-20.

Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. (Matthew 28:16-17 NKJV)

The particular mountain is not named, but was perhaps a place well-known to them. Perhaps this event included others, for they worshipped him, but “some” doubted, probably not meaning some of the apostles. Paul said that the resurrected Jesus was seen by over five hundred brethren (1 Corinthians 15:6).

And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” (Matthew 28:18 NKJV)

Jesus humbled Himself to death. God gave Him the name above every other name. Every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. (Philippians 2:7-11) God sat Jesus at His right hand and made Him head over all things to the church, which is His body. (Ephesians 1:20-23)

Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19 NKJV)

Go literally means “having gone.” This is not the Great Suggestion, but a commission. It would be easier just to stay home and not go. It would be more convenient not to make that phone call or be involved in a difficult world, but we are not given that option.

The verb is also plural and can be translated as “Go ye [plural of you]” or “Ye having gone.” It is our collective task. Our job is the saving of souls. Every Christian has this same commission. It is most difficult in nations that abuse the human rights of Christians.

The next imperative is to “make.” Disciples are pupils, scholars, trained, instructed. Christianity is action in “all nations,” not just the safe ones. “Nations” includes the idea of different ethnic groups and customs. “All” means nobody is left out. God challenges us to a level of sentiment beyond worldly nationalism.

“Baptism” only begins our instruction. As a child was circumcised in the Old Testament so may they be baptized in the New Testament (Colossians 2:11-12). As entire families of ancient Israel were baptized into Moses in the Red Sea, so children may be baptized today (1 Corinthians 10:1-4).

Baptism can mean wash (Mark 7:4; Luke 11:38; Acts 22:16), passing through the sea (1 Corinthians 10:1-4), and suffering (Mark 10:38). Jesus and the eunuch came up out of, or away from the water. The mode is not specified; the act is (Acts 2:38).

Father, Son and Holy Spirit have one “name.” Jesus prayed to the Father. Jesus is the Word which was God. The Holy Spirit makes decisions, teaches, guides, convicts, grieves, can be blasphemed, lied to, resisted and we can have fellowship with Him. God is three and one — a mystery.

teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. (Matthew 28:20 NKJV)

The main thing is the main thing. Jesus specifically said teach what I have taught YOU. All healthy mainstream churches preach the whole Bible, but their focus is on the Gospels, where most of Jesus’ teachings are located. Healthy preaching covers the Bible and includes a Gospel lesson every week.

What unites us, whether we are Catholic, Orthodox, or Protestant? We believe what Christ taught. Jesus is the priority in the Bible, the words He taught His first disciples. When we focus on Jesus, other issues seem to fade into the background. We find common ground that unites Christian churches.

The Gospel challenges us to go beyond national and tribal prejudices. We are to go, make, baptize and teach disciples what Jesus taught. This overrides all our artificial borders between nations and prejudices between tribes. Our Father’s business is to all people, everywhere.

New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Readings

Genesis 1:1-2:4 There are dozens of theories about this chapter, summarized as old earth and young earth creationism. I’m not ashamed to call myself a young earth creationist, but I gladly take communion with those who believe otherwise. We all agree on one point: In the beginning God created everything.

Psalm 8 When we consider the works of God’s hands, do we also ask, What is humanity that God is mindful of us? How incredibly magnificent is God?

2 Corinthians 13:11-13 In days of social distancing, how do we greet each other? Hopefully, still with much affection in our hearts.

Matthew 28:16-20 in Rhyme

Eleven went to Galilee
To the mount Jesus did decree
When they saw Him, they worshiped Him
But some doubted. He spoke to them

“All authority’s given Me
In heaven and on earth you see
Having gone therefore disciple
Teach and baptize ev’ry nation

“Baptizing them into the Name
Of Father and Son we proclaim
And the Holy Spirit the same
Three in One but singular Name

“Teaching them all things to observe
What I, commanding you, conferred
And surely, I’m with you always
Even to the end of the age.”

Amen.

Matthew 28:16-20

What is Sin?

What is sin? How did sin originate? Did we inherit sin? What happens when Christians sin? Does God have a solution to sin?

This Strange Word

Sin is a strange word to our modern ears. To some people it comes across as very judgmental or even archaic. But that is not the case at all when we understand what it really means.

Our English word sin is a translation of many different words in the original languages of the Bible, Hebrew and sometimes Aramaic in the Old Testament and Greek in the New Testament. The ancient meanings actually have very important relevance for us today.

Missing the Mark

One Hebrew word חָטָא (chata) simply means to miss the mark or miss the way.

Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid; for God has come in order to test you, and in order that the fear of Him may remain with you, so that you may not sin." (Exodus 20:20 NASB)

We may think of archers or shooters aiming for the bull’s eye on a target or a traveler taking the wrong road.

God created us for an ideal life, which we often miss out on for any number of reasons. We miss out because of our own bad decisions or the consequences of other people’s wrong choices.

When we come to the New Testament one of the common Greek words for sin ἁμαρτία (hamartia) also means to miss the mark.

When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned. (Romans 5:12 NLT)

This is the word that gives rise to a branch of theology, the study of sin called hamartiology.

Moral Evil

Another Hebrew word רַע (ra) is much more serious, meaning evil or ruin.

But Er was a wicked man in the LORD's sight, so the LORD took his life. (Genesis 38:7 NLT)

We all recognize that some human actions are just plain evil or ruinous. We could think of such actions like murder and theft. That is not judgmentalism, but a simple fact of life. We all recognize that some things are just plain wrong.

Another Greek word πονηρός (poneros) also refers to the more serious side of sin, moral evil.

See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. (Hebrews 3:12 NIV)

Morality plays a role in keeping any society civilized. When moral evil becomes too prevalent the social order begins to break down into chaos.

Going Astray

Another Hebrew word translated as sin שָׁגָה (shag’ah) means going astray.

But if you sin unintentionally, and do not observe all these commandments that the LORD has spoken to Moses… (Numbers 15:22 ESV)

We could have in mind a young person who makes some bad decisions, a spouse who cheats in their marriage or an executive who engages in fraud. While we all make mistakes, some mistakes are big ones with long-term consequences.

Lawlessness

When a society begins to collapse into anarchy another Greek word describing sin ἀνομία (anomia) meaning lawlessness becomes more relevant.

Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. (1 John 3:4 NIV)

All free societies must balance the twin sides of “freedom to” and “freedom from”. Our freedom to do what we want must be balanced by the need to be free from the negative consequences of our own actions and those of others.

One of the greatest threats to freedom is lawlessness, yet in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus explained how difficult it is for a Christian to keep the spirit of the law. So, we need someone to set us free from our innate inability to keep the law. Hence, true freedom is only found in Christ. We are not free to continue sinning, but no longer slaves to the penalty for past sins.

What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. (Romans 6:15 KJV)

So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law. (Galatians 5:1 NLT)

Sin’s Origin

According to the Bible, sin did not actually begin in humanity but in the angelic realm.

Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” (Genesis 3:1 NIV)

But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. (2 Corinthians 11:3 KJV)

You were in Eden, the garden of God… I ordained and anointed you as the mighty angelic guardian. You had access to the holy mountain of God and walked among the stones of fire. “You were blameless in all you did from the day you were created until the day evil was found in you.” (Ezekiel 28:12-19 NLT)

Sin was transferred from there to the human family.

When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned. (Romans 5:12 NLT)

and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation (Acts 17:26 NASB)

Inherited Sin

When it comes to sin, none of us can be snobs who look down on other families as inferior. Sin is like a bad family character trait passed on from generation to generation, and every family is infected. For example, anger issues pass through families. Environment is probably the main reason here, and the inspired Proverbs seem to agree.

Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared. (Proverbs 22:24-25 NIV)

Because of Adam’s sin we were all born with the hereditary blemish that fills our environment, the stain of sin, and as a result, all humanity experiences suffering and death.

For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:12-21 NLT)

For I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me. (Psalm 51:5 NLT)

All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. (Ephesians 2:3 NIV)

When Christians Sin

Christians have a life-changing “metanoia” experience in regard to sin. Yet, all Christians still sin, even after conversion. The difference is that Christians no longer want to sin and when they do fall as they will; they confess it, ask for forgiveness and receive it, being justified by faith.

Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them. (Romans 4:7-8 NIV)

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:32 KJV)

Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. (Romans 5:1 NLT)

This is no excuse for bad behavior. Christians ought to be good examples to their neighbors, even though they are not perfect.

Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life! Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, do you ask for a ruling from those whose way of life is scorned in the church? (1 Corinthians 6:1-8 NIV)

These older women must train the younger women… Then they will not bring shame on the word of God. In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely… Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us. (Titus 2:4-8 NLT)

When Christian’s sin God does chasten them.

For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. (Hebrews 12:6 (KJV)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9 NIV)

If it becomes serious enough and adversely affects others, the church may even need to intervene.

Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. (Hebrews 3:12-13 KJV)

If another believer sins against you, go privately… if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you… If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won’t accept the church’s decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector. (Matthew 18:15-17 NLT)

It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you… hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord… Therefore let us keep the Festival, not with the old bread leavened with malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. (1 Corinthians 5:1-8 NIV)

God’s Solution for Sin

The consequences of sin are death. All people will die at least once.

Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment (Hebrews 9:27 NIV)

For those who reject God’s offer of forgiveness of sin, there is a second death.

Then the King will turn to those on the left and say, ‘Away with you, you cursed ones, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his demons… And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life. (Matthew 25:41, 46 NLT)

Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:14-15 NASB)

Our sins prevent us from finding true joy and happiness, but God offers us His help. We must be willing to allow God to form and shape our lives so that we can reach our full potential.

Pictured as the Master Potter, God’s primary goal is our formation into valuable vessels.

Now we see how God does make us acceptable to him. The Law and the Prophets tell how we become acceptable, and it isn’t by obeying the Law of Moses. God treats everyone alike. He accepts people only because they have faith in Jesus Christ… (Romans 3:21-26 CEV)

You will say to me then, “Why does he still find fault? For who can resist his will?” But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, “Why have you made me like this?” Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for dishonorable use?... (Romans 9:19-23 ESV)

He deals with our imperfections in two ways. First, He covers them because of His love.

Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, Whose sin is covered. (Psalm 32:1 NKJV)

You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins. (Psalm 85:2 NIV)

Hatred stirs up strife, But love covers all sins. (Proverbs 10:12 NKJV)

Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. (Romans 4:7 KJV)

Second, He forgives our foibles and offenses.

He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. (Psalm 103:3 NLT)

Forgive us for doing wrong, as we forgive others. (Matthew 6:12 CEV)

This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. (Matthew 26:28 NIV)

To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name. (Acts 10:43 ESV)

In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace (Ephesians 1:7 NIV)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9 KJV)

I am writing to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name. (1 John 2:12 NIV)

Well that’s it for this time. Next time we’ll discuss the importance of the Bible.