Biddeford Church of Christ

When it comes to the subject of faith driven water baptism and its role in God’s redemptive plan, a bible verse is often quoted to suggest it plays no role in salvation.  That text is Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”  I find great comfort in these two verses, for it reveals that my hope rests securely in that amazing gift given to sinful man which is Jesus Christ.  The use of these verses to suggest the idea that water baptism is not a necessary act of faith in God’s redemptive plan centers around the words “not of works.”  Although this is not the text I wish to focus on today, it does bring forth a question I wish to consider.  What is meant by works?  Some understand it to mean it as a “work of merit.”  Thus, because one is baptized God is obligated to save.  As though somehow through the obedient act, one earns their salvation.  It then becomes imperative to answer this question, “Is the act of water baptism a work of merit or an act of faith?”

Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized

in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins… (Acts 2:38)

So many questions, I can understand the turmoil in all this.  So, let’s re-frame these questions with one more question, “How Lord, because of Your wonderful gift of grace found in Jesus Christ, do I respond to Your invitation to save me?”  Once again, as I was watching the TV this past week, another Franklin Graham advertisement came on encouraging people to place their trust in Jesus.  In that ad, the need for repentance; that is, the necessary change of mind and direction, away from sin, was stressed and the fact that God will help one accomplish it.  We can’t get around it, when it comes to salvation there is some level of involvement we contribute.  But does obedience, also known as an act of faith, necessitate merit?  Was it grace that healed the blind man in John 9:7, or was it that he listened to Jesus by going to wash in the pool of Siloam?  Prior to Jesus healing the man with the withered hand in Luke 6, He invited the man to “Arise and stand here” (Luke 6:8).  What healed him?  What caused the walls to fall in Jericho?  What caused God’s people to win the battle in Exodus 17:8-16?  Was it because the rod remained lifted or because God brought them victory?  Over and over again, faith is seen not merely a conviction, but a thought that is accompanied by an action that places confidence in God’s promise.

So, where does this bring us?  It is the words all those who believe in Christ want to be confident in; that is, the remission (i.e., forgiveness) of sins.  Salvation!  Peter invitation to the crowd on Pentecost was to “repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sin.”  By the authority and work of Christ, forgiveness is possible.  I think of 1st Peter 3:21, “There is also an anti-type which now saves us-baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ…”  In days past, I would use this verse to prove baptism’s essentialness in God’s plan of salvation, to the point of neglecting was it has any effect in the first place.  The difference is in the power of Christ’s resurrection!  It is His work that makes repentance and water baptism a life changer.  It is why Paul would say, “I thank God-through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 7:25).  It is why he said, “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1^st Corinthians 15:57).  Acts of faith do not save in and of themselves.  It is only because of Christ that they matter!

What if water baptism was seen through the lens, like repentance, as an invitation?  God inviting sinful man to come and receive the abundance of His grace found only in Christ Jesus.  What if the act is simply a sign of someone who fully trust that God will fulfill His promise to forgive?  What if water baptism was simply viewed as nothing other than an act of faith?  Taking God at His word.  No merit!  No earning!  Just someone incapable of paying the debt of their sin and accepting the invitation to find grace in Christ.  Truth be told, Jesus is the One that did all the work necessary.

Dennis

The lesson today will come from Acts 2:38, with the focus on the subject of baptism.  It is necessary to be reminded of several things as we try and filter through the problem areas concerning this biblical teaching.  A few weeks ago, you may remember that I talked about the Jewish audience that were present on that special day of Pentecost. These Jews were not theologians with access to commentaries and other literature, but ordinary Jews. After Peter’s sermon which caused them to see Jesus, the man they crucified, as both “Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36), they were “cut to the heart” (Acts 2:37) and asked a simple question. The question was, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”  Peter gives them a simple answer, but before we consider it once again, it would be helpful to understand more background of these Jewish believers.

For instance, do you know what a mikveh is?  It was a Jewish tradition of immersion in water to purify themselves for various reasons.  Jerusalem would have had multiple locations where one could participate in this ritual.  So, in their mind, to associate purification with the act of water baptism was simple.  These same Jews would have been familiar on some level with the teaching of John the Baptist.  In Matthew 3:11, we read, “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”  What I am getting at is this, the Jews who heard the response of Peter to their question, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…” would undoubtedly understand it as water baptism.

He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (Matthew 3:11)

Okay, then what about the latter part of Matthew 3:11?  Is that not providing evidence that the baptism of the Holy Spirit will replace water baptism?  Okay, remember, I am an ordinary man, and so I look for a simple answer.  Consider what I said in that previous lesson: that Peter (along with the other apostles) had received the Holy Spirit, which would guide them into all truth (Acts 2:3; John 14:26; 16:13).  So, Peter’s response that they needed to baptism was the truth, right?  Some may argue that it does not say that it is water baptism, which is true.  So how can I be sure that it is?

I go to the story of Philip and the eunuch in Acts 8.  First, who is Philip?  Back in chapter 6, we see him as one of a handful of men chosen to serve the church who were “full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom” (Acts 8:3, 5).   We know that “an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip” (Acts 8:26, guiding him to the Ethiopian eunuch chariot.)  With permission given, “Philip opened his mouth, and beginning at this Scripture, preached Jesus to him” (Acts 8:35).  What did he teach?  Of course, he spoke of what Isaiah prophesied about (Isaiah 53:7-8); that is, the sacrifice of Christ.  Nothing could be more important!  But is that all?  No!  He must have talked about water baptism as well.  What did he teach?

Now, as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said,

“See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?”

                                                                            Acts 8:36            

This eunuch was returning from worshiping in Jerusalem (Acts 8:27).  Although no info is available as to whether he was a proselyte, it is clear he had committed himself to the Jewish faith on some level.  It is reasonable that he knew of, if not himself, partook in, the Jewish ritual of purification.  So, Philip is asked a question by an eager disciple who has just come to understand the hope that is in Christ, “See, here is water.  What hinders me from being baptized?”  Guided by the Holy Spirit, full of wisdom, now is the time to bring clarity.  He answers, “If you believe with all your heart, you may” (Acts 8:37).  The eunuch responds, “I believe that Jesus is the Son of God” (Acts 2:37).  What happened next, you already know.  The eunuch stopped the chariot, and he and Philip went down into the water, and the eunuch submitted to water baptism.

Being filled with the Holy Spirit and entrusted with the gospel, Philip preaches the truth about Christ and God’s redemption through His sacrifice.  What was included was the need for water baptism.  One final observation concerning the story of the eunuch.  After he was baptized in water “he went on his way rejoicing” (Acts 8:39).  Something happened at the moment, during that event called baptism, that resulted in him rejoicing.  It all points to Christ and the salvation that is found in Him.

Dennis

Are you at all like me?  There are times that the situations of life begin to dominate my mind, often it results in me losing sight of my future.  Okay, so what is my future?  Our future?  Your future?  Well, if you are in Christ, there is a lot to say about your future, more about that in a moment.  Without question, the last year or so has been difficult for so many with the pandemic, job issues, health issues, family issues and the list goes on.  Inflation is being projected, gas prices going up, let alone that our society is changing at such a rapid pace.  The drumbeat of life’s adversities can consume the mind, robbing us of hope, peace, and anticipation. What anticipation you ask?  It is that which I desire to share with you this day.   In the face of all we encounter, it would benefit us to always anticipate what awaits us as believers.  If you have been following my meditation for the last few days, you know where I am going.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead… (1^st Peter 1:3)

            Peter says that God is “blessed” or as the ETRV translates it, “praise.”  Psalm 34:1, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.”  Habakkuk 3:17-18, “Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls– Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.”  When was the last time you genuinely praised God?  Especially when faced with adversity.  That is the setting in which Peter shares these thoughts.  There will be times when believers will face “various trials that the genuineness of your faith…may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1^st Peter 1:6-7).  It would seem the point here by Peter is to not lose sight of the prize.  Through the giving of His Son and our faith in His sacrifice and resurrection, we have been given “a living hope.”  Hope here means expectation, trust, confidence.  In what?  Let’s continue.

…to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.  (1^st Peter 1:4-5)

Okay, so let’s talk about anticipation.  I am going to show my age, but I can remember the Heinz ketchup ad from 1970’s.  The ad closes with someone saying, “Sorry you had to wait.”  The response was, “I’m not.”  People don’t like waiting for anything it would seem.  But when you understand what you are waiting for, it makes it easier.   I like the ETRV translation, “Now we wait to receive the blessings God has for his children.”  Peter wants his readers to look forward with anticipation of what is down the road.  And what is down the road is worth waiting!   As heirs (Romans 8:17; Ephesians 1:14) we have an inheritance that awaits us all who are in Christ.  Jesus told His disciples just prior to His death that “In My Father’s house are many mansions” and that He must go to “prepare a place for you” (John 14:1-4).  Those early Christians who faced such incredible adversity, were convinced that they had “a better and an enduring possession for yourselves in heaven” (Hebrews 10:32-36).  Something that Peter says is “incorruptible…undefiled and does not fade away.”  Their hope was not only in His redemptive work for sinful man now, but also in what awaits them later.

It is true, life can be overwhelming and frustrating at times.  You can feel like throwing your hands up in the air and say, “What is the sense of all this?”  When seemingly trapped in the cycle we call life, it can be difficult to see beyond the now.  That is why we would benefit from a little faith driven anticipation.  See with our faith what God says to be true and that awaits us.  Realize that this is all temporary and the real eternity is just around the corner.  May God strengthen us to keep our eyes on the prize.

Dennis

Who Is at Work?

            When it comes to the subject of faith driven water baptism and its role in God’s redemptive plan, a bible verse is often quoted to suggest it plays no role in salvation.  That text is Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”  I find great comfort in these two verses, for it reveals that my hope rests securely in that amazing gift given to sinful man which is Jesus Christ.  The use of these verses to suggest the idea that water baptism is not a necessary act of faith in God’s redemptive plan centers around the words “not of works.”  Although this is not the text I wish to focus on today, it does bring forth a question I wish to consider.  What is meant by works?  Some understand it to mean it as a “work of merit.”  Thus, because one is baptized God is obligated to save.  As though somehow through the obedient act, one earns their salvation.  It then becomes imperative to answer this question, “Is the act of water baptism a work of merit or an act of faith?”

Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized

in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins… (Acts 2:38)

So many questions, I can understand the turmoil in all this.  So, let’s reframe these questions with one more question, “How Lord, because of Your wonderful gift of grace found in Jesus Christ, do I respond to Your invitation to save me?”  Once again, as I was watching the TV this past week, another Franklin Graham advertisement came on encouraging people to place their trust in Jesus.  In that ad, the need for repentance; that is, the necessary change of mind and direction, away from sin, was stressed and the fact that God will help one accomplish it.  We can’t get around it, when it comes to salvation there is some level of involvement we contribute.  But does obedience, also known as an act of faith, necessitate merit?  Was it grace that healed the blind man in John 9:7, or was it that he listened to Jesus by going to wash in the pool of Siloam?  Prior to Jesus healing the man with the withered hand in Luke 6, He invited the man to “Arise and stand here” (Luke 6:8).  What healed him?  What caused the walls to fall in Jericho?  What caused God’s people to win the battle in Exodus 17:8-16?  Was it because the rod remained lifted or because God brought them victory?  Over and over again, faith is seen not merely a conviction, but a thought that is accompanied by an action that places confidence in God’s promise.

So, where does this bring us?  It is the words all those who believe in Christ want to be confident in; that is, the remission (i.e., forgiveness) of sins.  Salvation!  Peter invitation to the crowd on Pentecost was to “repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sin.”  By the authority and work of Christ, forgiveness is possible.  I think of 1^st Peter 3:21, “There is also an antitype which now saves us-baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ…”  In days past, I would use this verse to prove baptism’s essentialness in God’s plan of salvation, to the point of neglecting was it has any effect in the first place.  The difference is in the power of Christ’s resurrection!  It is His work that makes repentance and water baptism a life changer.  It is why Paul would say, “I thank God-through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 7:25).  It is why he said, “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1^st Corinthians 15:57).  Acts of faith do not save in and of themselves.  It is only because of Christ that they matter!

What if water baptism was seen through the lens, like repentance, as an invitation?  God inviting sinful man to come and receive the abundance of His grace found only in Christ Jesus.  What if the act is simply a sign of someone who fully trust that God will fulfill His promise to forgive?  What if water baptism was simply viewed as nothing other than an act of faith?  Taking God at His word.  No merit!  No earning!  Just someone incapable of paying the debt of their sin and accepting the invitation to find grace in Christ.  Truth be told, Jesus is the One that did all the work necessary.

Dennis

I know I spoke about doing a lesson on God’s redemptive plan and the role of baptism in that plan, but I was drawn in another direction this past week.  Let me begin by first asking a question, “What causes you to lose focus?”  For me, the answer is painfully simple all to often, patience; that is, the lack of it.  If you have been following my meditation thoughts recently, you may remember these quotes.  Augustine wrote, “Patience is the companion of wisdom.”  Then there is this one that truly caught my attention, “Those times when you feel like quitting can be times of great opportunity, for God uses your troubles to help you grow.”  Have you ever got to a place in your mind where frustration was so intense you said to yourself, “I am tired of waiting”?  Okay, so what makes me lose focus at times is my impatience.  Thus, I reflect on James 1:2-8 to once again reorient my mind to regain that focus.

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,

knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.

                                                                                                                                                                                        James 1:2-3           

What came first, the chicken or the egg?  Ironically, the very thing that is needed to face a trial is the very thing the trial is developing.  I have often struggled with this whole idea of being “joyful” in the midst of adversity; that is, until God reminded me of something once again.  It is not the trial that is intended to bring joy, but rather, what God is able to do because of it.  Here, joy is the result of anticipation, knowing God is at work in your life.  God is in the business of not only redeeming sinful man, but also maturing the redeemed.  Although patience is part of the gift of the Holy Spirit given to all who are in Christ, it is something that needs development and refining.  The trials of life are the very forge God is using to bring about that growth.  Without them, we could not achieve our fullest potential as Christians.  Patience is a critical aspect of the Christian character, helping us to “bear with one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2) and equipping us in part to forgive one another (Colossians 3:13).  Patience enables us to wait on the Lord in the midst of a broken and sinful world (Psalm 37:7).  Patience is not the only thing we can receive from the Lord during trials.  Patience itself has a goal in mind.

But let patience have its perfect work,

that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

                                                                        James 1:4

I really like how the ETRV translates this verse, “If you let that patience work in you, the end result will be good” (James 1:4).  The ability to “stay focused” is linked to me knowing (i.e., faith) that God is at work within me…that is the key.  Sometimes I am looking to see the circumstance change, when all along, God’s intent was for me to change.  Then it dawned on me.  No matter what circumstance I may find myself in, the one thing that will always have the opportunity to change is me.  So, my focus, as much as I may desire something outside of me to change, needs to be on God changing me.  God helping me to gain wisdom; that is, a better way to handle the adversity I am faced with (note James 1:5).   Adversity sets the stage to gain patience, which in turn, promotes the development of godly wisdom.  Thus, patience truly is a virtue.  And with that as my goal, there is always reason to be joyful.  Help me Lord to see You at work in me each day. 

Dennis

Last week our objective was to wrestle with the idea that there is something sinful man needs to do to find hope.  We began this quest by considering the question posed to Peter and the other apostles in Acts 2:37, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”  Before we look at a part of the answer given, it is important to note what has already happened.  Remember, these were Jews who have for hundreds of years sat in synagogues listening to the written word speak of the coming Messiah and His resurrection.  The Old Testament scriptures would be declared fulfilled in the man they call Jesus (Acts 2:25-28, cf. Psalm 16:8-11; Acts 2:34, cf. Psalm 110:1).  The heartbreaking verse is Acts 2:36, “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ” (emphasis mine).  That must have been horrifying to come to such a realization!  We read that they were “cut to the heart” or as the ETRV says, “…they were very, very sorry.”  The very fact that they asked the question we are considering means they believed what they were being told.  Faith was present.  The conviction was undeniable.  So, how can we make things right?  Well, you can’t, but Jesus can and here’s how.

Then Peter said to them, “Repent…” (Acts 2:38)           

Over the years, I have come to find the “steps to salvation” that is often used to be a little mechanical.  Still, there does seem to be a sort of process that takes place.  One part of that process is called repentance.  Exactly what is repentance?  The word used in Acts 2:38 is defined by Strong’s as to think differently or afterwards, i.e., reconsider.  Thayer’s adds another layer to this saying it is to change one’s mind for the better, heartily to amend with abhorrence of one’s past sins.  One person simply defined it this way, “A change of heart and will.”  Okay, is that something you do?  If we have free will, then the answer has to be yes.

Concerning the Jews in Acts 2, we see the need to repent, but of what?  The answer to that question is because they judged Jesus falsely!  They saw Him as a blasphemer (Matthew 26:65).  Their minds were so poisonous that, as He hung on the cross, the chief priests, scribes and elders said, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save.  If He is the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him” (Matthew 27:42).  Those who passed by as He hung on that cross blasphemed Him (Matthew 27:39).  I can understand why many of them felt cut to the heart, grieving over what has happened.  The apostle Paul would state that “godly sorrow produces repentance” (2nd Corinthians 7:10).  Now grieved by their actions, they needed to repent; that is, change their minds about Jesus.  They had to accept that they were in some way responsible for Jesus’ crucifixion.  They had to change their minds about the One they mocked and come to realize that he was who He claimed to be, both Lord and Christ.

Okay, so repentance is necessary.  But how crucial?  To my knowledge, there is no argument about the essential nature of repentance across the Christian community.  Part of John the Baptist message was “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Matthew 3:2)  At that time, such repentance would be evidenced by their actions, “bear fruits worthy of repentance” (Matthew 3:8).  Jesus Himself taught that “unless you repent you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:5).  Clearly, the role of repentance in God’s redemptive plan is critical for those coming to believe in Him.  But it is also vital for those who once placed their faith in Him.  Once again, we consider 2nd Corinthians 7:10 which says, “For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted…”  Sometimes repentance is needed by a believer who has wandered from His grace and once again embraced sin in their lives.  For salvation to return, repentance is once again necessary.

It seems apparent that the importance and essentialness of repentance is part of God’s redemptive plan.  When people come to realize the good news, or are reminded of it again, they become convicted, cut to the heart.  What must one do?  A good place to start is with repentance.

Dennis

The is no more significant question that needs answering when it comes to Christianity than “what must I do?”  Before I seek to try and answer this in part, I need to state some facts about how my reasoning has changed.  When I first came to Christ, my often boastful and arrogant spirit would view the religious world around me with some form of contempt.  I would even question one’s claim of loving God simply because they were not adhering to a doctrine found in the scriptures.  Jews, Baptists, Catholics, Jehovah Witnesses and the list could go on.  So, I state unequivocally that I was wrong to think in such a fashion.  That said, it is important to note that having a love for God doesn’t make one right with God either.  God determines that through His redemptive plan.  It is that which I seek to set forth today and, in the weeks, to come.  What must some do, if anything, to be saved?

Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest

of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Acts 2:37           

I need to admit something up front, I am a simple man in mind.  I am no great theologian, nor am I a bibliophilia; that is, a bookworm.  So, the question that is so often asked in Christianity, was a question that was asked at the very beginning.  To me then, looking to see the answer given when it was first asked seems only reasonable to me.  Let’s take a moment and considered the question itself first.  The ETRV reads, “Brothers, what should we do?”  The words shall we do come from a Greek word meaning I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause, a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do.  These Jews of 2000 years ago, simple in many ways like myself, found themselves in a predicament where they were asking, “How do I correct this wrong and make it right?”  The question of Acts 2:37 is critical as noted by Gareth Reese, “This is an expression of earnestness.  They want to know what to do to avoid the wrath of God upon them.”  They had just participated in the killing of the one who God made “both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36).  They were “cut to the heart,” overwhelmed with the reality of what they had done.  What shall we do?!!

However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth…

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                John 16:13           

Unlike us today, the apostles did not have the New Testament before them, so they were reliant upon the Holy Spirit to guide them in a miraculous manner concerning what God would want them to say.  Now, filled with the Spirit (Acts 2:4), Peter finds himself preaching the first sermon about the Christ who had come and had risen.  That same Spirit that guided him to proclaim Christ now guides him to answer that aged old question, only this time, it is not aged or old, for it is the first time it was ever asked after Christ’s resurrection and ascension.  His answer would be from the Spirit.  If there is nothing one would need to do, this would be the time to make it clear.  Spirit of God, what shall we do?

Then Peter said to them, “Repent and let everyone of you be baptized in

the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Acts 2:38           

Clearly, the Spirit of God makes it known that there is something those cut to the heart by the message of Christ must do.  Something that does not earn them forgiveness; but instead, connects them to that forgiveness.  Please forgive my simplicity, but I see it like an electrical cord that is the conduit between the power and the item needing that power.  It is the means by which one receives that which they need.  None of these people would have the luxury of vast libraries to deliberate the ideas of what is being presented.  No great theologians to help them wrestle with what is being said.  What they did have was a simple answer to their question, what shall we do?

Dennis

Several weeks ago I presented a lesson from 1st Peter 3:15. In that lesson, we were reminded that God calls us to “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.”  Contextually, this inquiry by someone is because they witness something about you that doesn’t correspond with your circumstances; that is, a sense of hope.  In the case of 1st Peter 3, Christians were encountering “various trials” (1st Peter 1:6) because of their faith.  Although trials are possible today, that is not usually the reason for contact with others; rather, it is our willingness to invite someone to consider God’s word and the hope that it offers.  That is itself intimidating, don’t you think?  Having the courage to invite someone to talk about religious things is challenging.  Of course, the most important message we can share with another is our hope in Christ.  But where, in this religious society we live in, when many believe even in Christ, do we begin?           

I think the book of Acts can help us gain insight into this question.  For instance, when Philip talked with the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts chapter eight, he started where the eunuch was in his mind as he pondered Isaiah 53:7-8 (Acts 8:35).  In Acts 17:22ff, the apostle Paul found himself in the Areopagus about to share the message of Christ with them.  Where did he begin?  He started where they were at, a people who worshipped objects upon which one was said, “TO THE UNKNOWN GOD” (Acts 17:23).  Acts 18:24-28 is another insightful text that has always intrigued me, and it is the focus of the lesson for today.

“This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit,

he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism; of John.”

                                                                                                            Acts 18:25            

Apollos was an “eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures” (v24).  He was a skillful orator capable of proclaiming his message about God.  He was taught about the ways of the Lord, but not entirely.  More about that in a moment.  He was “fervent in spirit”; that is, he was passionate about what he knew to be true. Apollos is someone who, we might say, “Is on fire for the Lord.”  We find him in is a synagogue “speaking boldly” about what he knew.  That day, two individuals were there listening to his message, and their names were Aquila and Priscilla.  Back at the beginning of Acts 18, we find that they were husband and wife (Acts 18:2) and involved with Paul’s ministry while he was in Corinth.  Undoubtedly, they heard many sermons from the apostle Paul.  So, what can we learn from them that would be helpful to us concerning the question, where do I begin?

“So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue.  When Aquila and Priscilla heard him,

they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.”

                                                                                                            Acts 18:26            

Before I try to answer our question, I need to note how cool it is to see a husband and wife teaming up together to share the message of Christ.  There is much to glean simply from that example.  That said, notice a couple of important things that take place.  First, they did not seek to correct him in front of others.  Maybe it was the etiquette of the synagogue; I am not sure.  But there is something to say about being patient and trying to create the best opportunity.  So, once they realized Apollos’s message was deficient, they took him aside, or as the ETRV says, “They took him to their home.”  The approach would seem to imply an invitation.  If the home was the location, I could see the benefit of making things less formal.   Now in their home, they sought to “explain to him the way of God more accurately,” or as the ETRV says, they “helped him understand the way of God better.”  Apollos was well-intended and genuine about his cause, but he lacked some information.  He loved the Lord.  Pricilla and Aquila approached him in that fashion, with respect and care.

In our religious society, we too will come across individuals like this, passionate about what they know and eager to share it.  They have a love for God and Christ, no different than any of us.  They may be deficient in some areas.  Our job is to invite them to sit down and talk, starting with right where they are at.  That seems to be an excellent place to begin. 

Dennis

I humbly enter this day, recognizing more than ever that I need my Lord, His strength, His wisdom, His Word, and His patience.  There are times when I feel I can conquer just about anything, and then there are times where I find myself desperately clinging to my faith.  One of the tools God encourages His children to use to help them through this chaotic life is prayer.  Paul knew he could use this help, right along with the children of God, asking the church in Ephesus to offer “supplication for all the saints and me” (Ephesians 6:18-19).  Prayer is something we can do to help others as well as ourselves.  Today I thought we would revisit one of those Bible verses that speak about prayer and remind ourselves of its critical role in our spiritual walk.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks;

for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      1st Thessalonians 5:16-18            

Consider for a moment how the ETRV translates this verse, “Always be full of joy.  Never stop praying.  Whatever happens, always be thankful.  This guidance is how God wants you to live in Christ Jesus.”  Let’s consider the three things spoken of here and their connection.  First, this idea of rejoicing always.  Always?  As I write this article, I have a heavy heart for a variety of reasons.  Tears have flowed, and anguished has rested on my soul.  It is a natural part of this journey in this broken world where I am one of the broken pieces.  Paul wept for those who were “enemies of the cross of Christ” (Philippians 3:18).  He along with the elders at Ephesus, mourned as Paul was about to leave them (Acts 20:36), and of course, we know of two or three instances where Jesus Himself wept (John 11:35, Luke 19:41, Luke 22:44).  There will be times that we find ourselves in such places emotionally. So how do we always rejoice, something Paul also taught the church in Philippi (Philippians 4:4)?  May I suggest that the objective of rejoicing is the goal that we pursue with intent?  When adversity strikes, whether self-inflicted or not, it can distract us from our true hope in Christ.  We can become cynical, doubtful as to whether something will happen or whether it is worthwhile.  So, please do your best to rejoice always in what you have in Christ (Romans 5:3-5) to fight against those times that might cause you to question whether it is all worth it.           

Intentionally, I skip the second (prayer) to go to the third, which is “in everything give thanks.”  There is no need to define words here, only wrestle with the idea of “everything.”  Do we know prayer should include thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6) but in everything?  In Colossians 3:17, Paul writes, “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” It is difficult at times to “see the silver lining,” so to speak, in life.  Adversity strikes, anguish finds a resting place in the mind, and in such situations, it is challenging to be thankful: not because there is nothing to be grateful about, but because it is hard at that moment to see why we should be thankful.  Maybe there is in part the reason for this urging.  When we seek to be grateful, to be thankful genuinely, we can find those things the Lord is doing amid adversity.  When we do that, it loosens the grip of our perceived reality and allows God to reign in our minds as the benevolent God that He is.

So now we come to prayer; that is, to supplicate, worship. This exhortation is elevated by the words “without ceasing,” which means unceasingly, without remission, uninterruptedly.  As unreasonable as the first may have seemed, this one is equally troublesome if viewed through the lens of religious duty.  Paul’s exhortation in Romans 12:12 is that we are “continuing steadfastly in prayer.”  The idea here, as one commentator writes, is that the disciple is to have prayer “be the accompaniment of our whole lives.”  Why?  It links us to peace which can help to guard our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:6-7), to God’s strength (2nd Corinthians 12:8-10), to personal growth (Ephesians 3:14-19), and so many other God-centered things.  As someone said, the Christian who purposes himself or herself with a life of prayer and thanksgiving is better apt to rejoice always.  Help me, Lord, to rejoice in You.

Dennis

Francis de Sales once said, “We cannot help conforming ourselves to what we love.”  This caused me to think of 1st John 2:15, “Do not love the world or the things in the world.  If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.”  Conformity, at least how it is used in Romans 12:2, is something we must, and I mean must, fight against!  In a world seemingly bent on destruction, our society is ever more defiant toward the truth and moral compass of God and His word.  Who is behind all this?  It is Satan.  It is as though he is speaking those words all over again, “Has God indeed said…” (Genesis 3:1).  This is heightened by the ongoing pressure of this cancel culture that seeks to silence those who openly think differently, to the point of destroying their lives and businesses.  Of course, all this can be avoided if you simply conform.           

This notion of conforming is easy on some levels to both articulate and recognize.  This is due largely to the convictions that presently reside within many Christians today.  Is it right to lie?  Be sexually active outside of marriage?  Take the life of another?  You get the idea.  Yet, even these once held truths of morality are being challenged in the Christian community.  Why?  Is it because some deeper truth from God’s word has been found, or is it because of the pressure being placed on us by the world we live in?  As much as I wanted to speak to this idea, I was personally confronted with a rather difficult question as I meditated on Romans 12:2 a while back.  Have I bought into this notion of conforming?  Sadly, I had to answer yes, and I suspect many others would as well.  Could it be that God’s desire for us to be transform is what breaks the chains of the world’s conforming power? 

Romans 12:2           

Over the past thirty years, the number of times I have done a lesson from this text cannot be counted on both my hands.  This time, a renewed idea of the pressure called conformity has caused me to pause.  What does it mean to conform?  Well, the Greek word used here means to fashion alike.  It would seem like the idea of being transformed, so what is the difference?  This following quote may help answer that question, “It is the difference between an outward conformity or disguise and a thorough inward assimilation.”  Consider for a moment the ETRV of this verse, “Don’t change yourselves to be like the people of this world, but let God change you inside with a new way of thinking.”  Conformity is driven by the world.  We are warned against this in so many places (Proverbs 1:10, 15; Jeremiah 10:2).  Conformity is going along with the crowd, even if it conflicts with your convictions concerning God and His moral truths.  Exodus 23:2, God’s people under the old law were warned, “You shall not follow a crowd to do evil; nor shall you testify in a dispute so as to turn aside after many to pervert justice.”  Another is the warning used in Deuteronomy 7 concerning marrying anyone of the seven nations God would hand over in defeat to Israel.  The concern was stated, “For they will turn your sons away from following Me, to serve other gods…” (Deuteronomy 7:4).  God’s concern for His people was conformity.           

Are we susceptible to this idea to conform?  Our culture takes the edge off drug use by calling it recreational.  The taking of an innocent life is now called women’s health care.  Sexuality is redefined, resulting in men competing with women.  To think differently about these and many other subjects means you are narrow minded, not woke.  To speak up is to be discriminatory.  You must conform or simply be silent.            

So, how do I fight against the pressure of conformity?  By allowing God to transform your mind.  We are God’s voice in a lost and dying world that we were once a part of before Jesus redeemed us.  With love, patience, and grace, let us speak the transforming power of God’s truth. 

Dennis