“My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions’ mouths, that they have not hurt me.” (Daniel 6:22a).
In the book of Daniel, we find a powerful metaphor for the trials and challenges that believers face in their spiritual journey. When Daniel was cast into the lion’s den, he faced a den of fierce, hungry lions, yet he emerged unscathed because of his unwavering faith in God. Today, we face different kinds of lions—threats that may not have sharp teeth or roar, but still seek to destroy us spiritually. Using Daniel’s story as a foundation, let us examine the lions we encounter in this life.
The Roaring Lion. The Apostle Peter warned us of a fierce predator who constantly stalks us: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). This roaring lion represents Satan, who seeks to devour souls by pulling us away from God. Though Satan has been bound and limited in power by Christ’s victory on the cross, his influence continues through false teachings and deception. As Paul wrote, “Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:15, KJV). To resist this roaring lion, we are called to “submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).
The Lion of Idolatry. One of the lions that seeks to devour us today is the lion of idolatry. Paul warned the Colossians to “mortify… covetousness, which is idolatry” (Colossians 3:5). Idolatry is not merely the worship of carved images or false gods; it is also the elevation of anything in our lives above God. Whether it be money, fame, power, or even ourselves, anything that takes the place of God in our hearts becomes an idol. We must guard our hearts against this lion, ensuring that God remains first and foremost in all we do.
The Lion of Oppression. Living a faithful Christian life often brings us face-to-face with the lion of oppression. Paul told Timothy, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). Oppression can take many forms, from direct persecution for our faith to more subtle societal pressures that tempt us to compromise our beliefs. Today, we must be prepared to endure trials and trust that God will deliver us.
The Lion of Nationalism. Another lion that seeks to devour our faith is the lion of naturalism—trusting in earthly solutions and human institutions rather than in God. The role of government is ordained by God, and we are called to submit to it, as Paul explained in Romans 13:1-7. The lion of naturalism deceives us into believing that the solutions to life’s problems are found purely in this world, but as Christians, our hope is in the eternal promises of God. As Paul reminds us, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable” (1 Corinthians 15:19).
The Lion of Sin. Finally, perhaps the most dangerous lion we face is the lion of sin. James wrote, “Every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death” (James 1:14-15). Sin crouches at the door, waiting to devour us, and often it begins with the smallest temptation. Like a lion stalking its prey, sin often sneaks up on us gradually, catching us in moments of weakness. The key to overcoming this lion is to stay alert and grounded in God’s Word.
Other scriptural arguments that refute “Eternal Security”
A. The fact the Bible exhorts to faithfulness proves one can be lost be steadfast immovable: 1 Cor 15:58 If these qualities are yours…2 Pe 1:5-11 we will reap if we do not grow weary: Gal 6:9 be faithful unto death and I will give crown of life: Rev 2:10 practice these things and God will be with you: Phil 4:9
B. Man has a free will: Josh 24:15 to argue otherwise is nonsense and is a veiled form of existentialism
C. The Bible clearly prophesied some would fall away: Acts 20:28; 1 Ti 4:1
D. Christians are to restore the fallen: Gal 6:1; Jas 5:19-20
Several of the world’s denominations teach that Christians cannot sin so as to become lost; that is, there is no way that a true convert of Christ he cannot go to hell may sin, and thereby, receive eternal damnation – he cannot go to hell after having once been saved. This is popularly spoken of as the doctrine of “once saved, always saved”.
On one extreme, this doctrine is expressed as, “True Christians will not sin as they lack the desire and the capability to sin, because their allegiance to Christ has changed their nature”. At its other extreme, this doctrine is expressed as, “No matter how grievous, the sins of Christians will not be held against them in the final judgement”. Those who hold this last view believe that Christians can do wrong, but they also believe that Christ will forgive them of any, and every, sin so that they will be blameless on the day of judgement.
You researched this question to find, not what man teaches, but what the Bible teaches about the possibility of Christians falling from the way of truth, and becoming lost.
The most clear treatment of this subject in the New Testament is found in the second chapter of II Peter. Study this entire chapter carefully. I quote now verses 20 and 21, which best summarize its teachings,
“For if after they have escaped the pollution of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them“.
Unquestionably the people spoken of here were once Christians, for the writer speaks of them as those who had, “(quote) escaped from the pollution of the world through the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ” (unquote). Unquestionably these same people were, again, entangled in worldly pollution, that is, they had fallen from the way of the truth, and had (again) become sinners. Also, unquestionably they are subject to condemnation for these sins, for the verse says that their final state is worse than their initial state, that is, they are worse off than before they were saved. Thus, the doctrine of “once saved, always saved”, is not supported by the scriptures, for the Bible here shows that Christians can sin, and that they may receive punishment for those deeds.
All verses of the Bible agree with all other verses when the subject is the same, and when the rule, or law of God, is the same. Also, when the rule, or law, is consistent, clear verses serve to explain less clear verses about the same subject. Said in a different way, the Bible never contradicts itself, and the Bible is its own best interpreter. Remember, God cannot lie, and God is not the author of confusion. Study Hebrews 6:18, and I Corinthians 14:33. To illustrate this, we can study verses about baptism (for instance) in the New Testament books written by the apostles John, Paul, and James, and expect agreement. But, we cannot necessarily expect agreement between the Old Testament writings of Moses and the New Testament writings of Paul concerning (say) worship; Moses’ laws were in effect until Jesus’ death ended them. See Col. 2:14. Paul’s writings, however, are a part of the will of Christ, His New Testament. The New Testament is our guide today.
In I John 3:9, we read, “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God“. If this verse teaches, “once saved, always saved”, it is contrary to II Peter 2:20 and 21 (which we read previously). Thus, a contradiction is forced into the scriptures which cannot exist. However, apparent conflict disappears when we see that the writer is stating the obvious fact that Christians cannot sin and remain faithful followers of the Lord. This is verified by the very same writer in the very same letter where the apostle, John, in I John 1:8-10 says, “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us“.
Here, again, we find an inspired writer telling true believers, Christians (including himself) that they can sin, and that they can do unrighteousness. More deeply, John is here instructing Christians how they can find forgiveness for their sins; Christians are to confess their sins and they will be forgiven them. This instruction is not for sinners who have never become Christians. Christians are citizens of God’s kingdom, and must abide by its rules. People who are not citizens in the kingdom must first become so before its laws apply to them. We suggest that you find how to become a citizen of God’s kingdom through study the message, “What Must I Do To Be Saved?” and “Are We Saved By Faith Only?”.
Belief in, “once saved, always saved” may seem justified by John 10:27-29, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand“. If this scripture proves, “once saved, always saved”, the scriptures contradict each other, and this, of course, is an impossibility. To harmonize the scriptures (to make them agree, one with another), we must notice that Jesus did not say that his sheep could not leave of their own accord; He said that no man could pluck them away.
Each Christian may leave Christ, if he chooses; but unless the individual wishes to go, no one else can make him leave. Notice in verse 27, Jesus said that His sheep, “know me and follow me“, and thus, following, and continuing to follow the Savior is a condition that we must fulfill if the promise, “neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand” is to be kept.
And so, in addition to those things necessary to become saved (namely, believing the word of God, believing that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, repenting of (or changing away from) a sinful life, and being baptized into Christ for the remission of sins, we have an additional requirement, that of being faithful unto death (Revelation 2:10).
“Once saved, always saved” is a dangerous doctrine: The Christian who does fall away (upon seeing his sinful life) may conclude that he was never saved and become doubtful of the power of God; another may live a sinful life, and become lost, while believing that God is unmindful of the sins being committed. Either way can result in eternal death for the sinner’s soul, and it would be such a useless death, for (as we have seen), the doctrine of “once saved, always saved” is wrong. The Christian who sins must confess those sins to God, who will forgive them.
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Col 3:17)
This verse encapsulates the essence of living a life fully devoted to Christ. It means more than just offering lip service or superficial honor to God; it demands genuine obedience to His commands in every aspect of our lives. To fully understand this, let us explore scriptural examples where individuals desired to honor God but failed to keep His commandments, thus illustrating the true meaning of doing all in the name of the Lord.
Nadab & Abihu:
A Cautionary Tale. Leviticus 10:1-2 provides a stark example of what happens when individuals seek to honor God without adhering to His explicit instructions. Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, offered “strange fire before the Lord, which he commanded them not.” Despite their likely intentions to honor God, their offering was contrary to His command, and as a result, fire came out from the Lord and consumed them. This incident underscores the critical importance of obedience. Honoring God is not just about good intentions; it requires strict adherence to His directives.
Saul’s Amalekite Error.
Another poignant example is King Saul’s disobedience in 1 Samuel 15. God commanded Saul to utterly destroy the Amalekites and all their possessions. Instead, Saul spared King Agag and kept the best of the livestock, justifying his actions by claiming that the animals were preserved for sacrifice to the Lord (1Samuel 15:15). However, Saul’s partial obedience was deemed rebellion. Samuel rebuked him, stating, “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams” (1Samuel 15:22). Saul’s failure highlights that honoring God involves complete obedience to His commands, not selective adherence.
Well Meaning Uzzah.
In 2 Samuel 6, we read about Uzzah, who, in a well-meaning effort to honor God, reached out to steady the Ark of the Covenant when the oxen stumbled. Despite his intentions, he violated God’s command that no one should touch the Ark (Numbers 4:15). As a result, Uzzah was struck dead by God (2Samuel 6:7). This account demonstrates that good intentions are not enough when they lead to disobedience. Honoring God requires respecting and following His specific instructions even under extreme circumstance.
The Errors of the Pharisees.
The Pharisees in the New Testament provide a further illustration of misplaced honor. They meticulously followed traditions and outward rituals, believing they were honoring God. However, Jesus criticized them for neglecting the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). Their focus on external observance rather than heartfelt obedience and adherence to God’s true commands showed that they were not truly honoring God in their actions.
Jesus Himself addressed the importance of true worship in Matthew 15:8-9, quoting Isaiah: “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” Here, Jesus condemns those who appear to honor God outwardly but fail to adhere to His commands, substituting human traditions for divine instructions. True worship, according to Jesus, is rooted in obedience to God’s word.
Applying Colossians 3:17 Today.
For believers today, Colossians 3:17 is a call to full obedience. It challenges us to ensure that every word and deed aligns with God’s will as revealed in Scripture. It is not enough to perform acts of worship or service with good intentions if those acts are not grounded in obedience to God’s commands.
For instance, when it comes to worship practices, evangelism, or daily living, our actions must be rooted in biblical directives. Doing everything in the name of the Lord means we act under His authority and guidance, ensuring our lives reflect His teachings and commands.
Colossians 3:17 reminds us that honoring God involves more than mere intention or lip service. It requires a heart and life fully committed to obeying His will. True honor to God is found in faithful obedience to His word. Let us strive to do all in the name of the Lord, giving thanks to God and living in full submission to His divine will.
Agape,
Spencer
This is part 4 of a series of lessons on the Duties of Saints, pt1
“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:36-37).
The question of the soul’s worth is one that transcends time and culture, touching the very essence of human existence. Jesus Himself addressed this profound query in Mark 8:34-38 and Matthew 16:24-26, challenging us to consider the eternal value of our souls. Let us explore four pivotal aspects that underscore the immeasurable worth of a soul.
The Soul has great potential.
As living souls, we have much greater potential than all others of God’s creation. Technology, Arts, and Mercy are unique to humans. More than these, we have the potential to become like Christ. “So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body” (1Cor 15:42-44). When we obey the gospel, we look forward to eternal life with our Savior and to see Him as He is, (cf. Rev 22:4).
The Soul Lives Forever
In Matthew 10:28, Jesus admonishes, “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” This declaration underscores the eternal nature of the soul, distinguishing it from our temporal physical bodies. The body may perish, but the soul endures beyond the grave, facing either eternal life or eternal punishment as stated in Matthew 25:46: “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.”
The everlasting nature of the soul is a solemn reminder of its infinite value. Our earthly concerns often distract us from this reality, yet Jesus calls us to prioritize our spiritual well-being. The choices we make in this life have eternal consequences, emphasizing the need for a life aligned with God’s will.
The Soul is Unequal to Creation.
Jesus highlighted the incomparable worth of a soul by pointing to God’s providence over creation. In Matthew 6:26-30, He illustrates His care for the birds and the flowers, reminding us that we are of far greater value: “Are ye not much better than they?” Jesus also said that “the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (Matt 10:30). These passages underscore the unique and cherished place humanity holds in God’s creation.
“I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). This divine craftsmanship reflects the soul’s worth, a masterpiece of God’s creative power. Unlike the rest of creation, the human soul bears a unique value.
The Soul Originates from God.
The soul’s worth is further magnified by its divine origin. Acts 17:29 declares, “Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.” We are not merely physical beings but spiritual offspring of God, created in His image.
Genesis 1:26-27 records God’s decision to create humanity in His likeness, endowing us with attributes that reflect His nature: “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” The Preacher reminds us that at death, “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it” (Ecc 12:7). The soul’s divine origin and destiny underscore its unparalleled worth, calling us to live in a manner that honors our Creator.
The Soul is Worth the Sacrifice of Christ for Its Salvation.
The ultimate measure of the soul’s worth is found in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. John 3:16, perhaps the most well-known verse in the Bible, proclaims, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This profound act of love underscores the soul’s value, worthy of the highest price (cf. Rom 5:8-10).
2Peter 3:9 emphasizes God’s desire for our salvation, stating, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” The sacrificial death of Christ on the cross is the ultimate testament to the worth of our souls, offering us redemption and eternal life.
In contemplating the worth of a soul, we must recognize its eternal nature, its unparalleled value in creation, its divine origin, and the supreme sacrifice made for its salvation. As we reflect on these truths, let us heed Jesus’ call in Mark 8:34-38 and Matthew 16:24-26 to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. For in doing so, we affirm the immeasurable worth of our souls and align our lives with God’s eternal purpose.
Agape, Spencer
This article is from a series of sermons on the Gospel of Mark. Click here for the list of available articles on the Gospel of Mark.
The letter to the Colossians, penned by the Apostle Paul, serves as a profound guide for Christian living. In Colossians 3:1-4:6, Paul outlines the duties of saints, offering a roadmap for believers to follow. These duties can be encapsulated in six main directives: Seek things above, Abolish sin, Implement virtues, Act in the Name of the Lord, Treat your family well, and Serve with steadfastness.
Seek Things Above (Colossians 3:1-4) Paul begins by urging believers to set their minds on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. This heavenly focus requires a shift from earthly desires to a pursuit of spiritual growth and eternal truths. As Christians, our lives are hidden with Christ in God, and our ultimate hope is in His return and our future glory with Him. This perspective not only shapes our priorities but also transforms our daily actions, aligning them with God’s eternal purposes.
Abolish Sin (Colossians 3:5-9) The next step is to mortify, or put to death, sinful behaviors. Paul specifically mentions immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed. These vices are part of the old self, which believers are to shed. Additionally, anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk must be eradicated from our lives. By abolishing these sins, we break free from their destructive power and align ourselves with God’s holiness (cf 1Pet 1:16).
Implement Virtues (Colossians 3:10-14) Having discarded the old self, Paul instructs us to put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its Creator. This new self is characterized by virtues such as compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Forgiveness and love are paramount, with love binding all these virtues together in perfect harmony. These qualities reflect the character of Christ and foster a spirit of unity and peace within the church.
Act in the Name of the Lord (Colossians 3:15-17) In every action, whether in word or deed, believers are to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. This command underscores the importance of living a life that seeks the authority of Christ in all circumstances. The peace of Christ should rule in our hearts, and the word of Christ should dwell richly among us, teaching and admonishing one another with wisdom. Our lives become a model of God’s grace and truth when we consistently act in His name.
Treat Your Family Well (Colossians 3:18-21) Paul then addresses family relationships, emphasizing the importance of treating each other well. Wives are called to submit to their husbands as is fitting in the Lord, and husbands are instructed to love their wives and not be harsh with them. Children are to obey their parents in everything, as this pleases the Lord, while fathers are cautioned not to provoke their children, lest they become discouraged. These instructions promote faithfulness to God and love within the home, reflecting God’s design to lead them to heaven.
Serve with Steadfastness (Colossians 3:22-4:6) Finally, Paul speaks to servants and masters, urging them to serve and lead with integrity and devotion. Servants are to obey their earthly masters with sincerity of heart, as if serving the Lord, while masters are to treat their servants justly and fairly, knowing they too have a Master in heaven. This principle extends to all areas of life, encouraging believers to serve wholeheartedly, remain steadfast in prayer, and conduct themselves wisely towards outsiders, making the most of every opportunity.
Conclusion The duties outlined in Colossians 3:1-4:6 provide a comprehensive framework for Christian living. By seeking things above, abolishing sin, implementing virtues, acting in the name of the Lord, treating our families well, and serving with steadfastness, we fulfill our calling as saints. These principles guide us to live lives that are pleasing to God, edifying to the church, and impactful to the world around us. May we, as followers of Christ, diligently pursue these duties, growing in faith and reflecting the glory of our Savior in all we do.
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1).
This statement is a foundational truth that establishes God’s existence and His unparalleled power. As Creator, God brought everything into being out of nothing, speaking life and order into the void. The intricate design of the universe, from the vast galaxies to the smallest particles, testifies to His wisdom and omnipotence. This truth is said also of Jesus, “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him” (Col 1:16). But some do not recognize the Creator, “Who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the LORD…” (Exo 5:2_
Everything that exists owes its existence to Him. This includes not only the physical universe but also the moral and spiritual dimensions of life. Since He is the source of all life, He possesses an inherent authority over His creation.
GOD is the OWNER of all things.
Because God is the Creator, He is also the Owner of all that He has made. Psalm 24:1-2 proclaims, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters.” Ownership implies a deep and comprehensive authority. Just as an artist has rights over their masterpiece, God has the ultimate right and claim over His creation.
God’s ownership extends to every aspect of our lives. Our talents, resources, and even our very breath belong to Him. This perspective shifts our focus from self-centered living to a life that honors and glorifies Him. But some would not honor Him, “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful” (Rom 1:21a).
GOD is the DEFINER of Righteousness, Justice, & Salvation.
Flowing from this truth that God is Creator and Owner, He possesses the sole right to define and decide what is right, just, and necessary for salvation. This divine prerogative is evident throughout Scripture. In Isaiah 45:9, the prophet declares, “Woe to those who quarrel with their Maker… Does the clay say to the potter, ‘What are you making?’” This rhetorical question highlights the absurdity of creation questioning its Creator.
God’s authority encompasses defining moral and ethical standards. In a world rife with moral relativism, God’s Word stands as the absolute standard. His laws and commandments, revealed through Scripture, are not arbitrary rules but reflections of His holy and righteous character.
Moreover, God’s authority extends to the realm of salvation. Throughout the Bible, He has clearly delineated the path to reconciliation with Him. The New Testament emphasizes that salvation is through Jesus Christ alone. In John 14:6, Jesus asserts, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This exclusivity underscores God’s right to determine the means by which humanity can be saved. But some say that salvation can be found another way, “And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked” (Acts 17:32). For some, the gospel is foolishness, (1Cor 1:18).
Understanding God as the ultimate authority challenges us to submit to His will and to obey the gospel (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). We trust His wisdom, even when it contradicts our limited understanding or societal norms.
“To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.” (Titus 1:4)
a True son in the faith
The New Testament offers us many exemplary figures whose lives embody the teachings and values of Christ. One such figure is Titus, a close companion of the Apostle Paul, who stands as a shining example of what it means to be a true child of God. As we strive to live out our faith, examining the life of Titus can provide us with valuable insights and inspiration.
“whether any inquire about Titus, he is my partner and my fellow-worker to you-ward”
In a world where actions speak louder than words, the life of Titus provides clear evidence of a true follower of Christ. Paul’s confidence in Titus is evident in 2 Corinthians 8:23, where he refers to Titus as “my partner and fellowhelper concerning you.” This statement alone speaks volumes about the character and dedication of Titus. He was not just a believer in name but one whose actions and commitment were evident to all who knew him.
Christians today, must continue to ensure that our lives provide similar evidence of our faith. Are we known as partners and workers for the benefit of the gospel? Do our actions consistently reflect our commitment to Christ?
Trusted with the work of the Lord
Titus was entrusted with significant responsibilities within the early church. Paul sent him to various challenging assignments, including dealing with difficult issues in the church at Corinth, and “ordain elders in every city” in Crete. Such trust from Paul indicates Titus’s reliability and dedication to the work of the Lord.
Trust is built over time through consistent and faithful actions. We must also be trustworthy stewards of God. “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1Cor 4:2). Our reliability in carrying out God’s work is a testament to our faith and commitment.
Unwavering Faith
Titus demonstrated unwavering faithfulness in his service to the Lord. He faced numerous challenges and opposition but remained steadfast. “But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised” (Gal 2:1-3). Unwavering faithfulness means holding fast to the word of God, even when it is difficult. It means standing firm in our faith amid a world that often promotes contrary values. Just as Titus remained faithful despite opposition, we too must be resolute in our commitment to Christ, trusting that our perseverance is pleasing to God.
Sincere Servant
One of the most admirable qualities of Titus was his sincerity in service. Paul speaks of Titus’s genuine care and concern for the well-being of the believers. “But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you” (2Cor 8:16). He genuinely cared for the church.
Sincere service is rooted in love and genuine concern for others. This means serving without seeking personal gain or recognition, serving out of a heartfelt desire to please God, to help and uplift others. Sincere service is a powerful demonstration of God’s love at work within us (cf. 1John 4:7-8).
The example of Titus provides a powerful blueprint for how we should live as true children of God. Our faith should be evident in our actions, as we build trust through our reliability and dedication to God’s work. We must remain unwavering in our faith, standing firm against opposition.
“Here are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.” (1Kings 12:28)
Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel, initiated a series of significant changes that altered the course of worship for his people. His actions were driven by political motives rather than spiritual fidelity, leading to the establishment of a false system of worship that had long-lasting ramifications.
Replacing the Place, Object, and Priests of Worship
His primary objective was to prevent his subjects from traveling to Jerusalem, in the southern kingdom of Judah, for worship. He feared that such pilgrimages would foster loyalty to the house of David and threaten his own reign. To counter this, Jeroboam replaced the central place of worship and also substituted the object of worship with idols. He also appointed non-Levitical priests to serve, undermining the divinely ordained priesthood.
The Enduring Error of Jeroboam
Jeroboam’s innovations did not end with his reign but extended into the next generations. His establishment of idolatrous practices became a stumbling block for the northern kingdom of Israel. Kings who followed Jeroboam perpetuated these errors, leading the people further away from true worship. The legacy of Jeroboam’s apostasy was so significant that it became a standard by which the sins of Israel’s kings were measured (1Kings 16:26).
The Idolatrous Practices of Ahab and Jezebel
The reign of Ahab and his queen, Jezebel, marked a further decline in the spiritual state of Israel. Jezebel introduced the worship of Baal and Asherah into Israel, practices that were abominable to the Lord. Ahab provoked the Lord more than all the kings of Israel before him (1Kings 16:31-33).
The Lord’s disapproval on Mount Carmel
The prophet Elijah emerged as a powerful voice against the rampant idolatry. In one of the most dramatic confrontations recorded in Scripture, Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. He called upon the Lord to demonstrate His sovereignty, and God responded with fire from heaven, consuming Elijah’s sacrifice (1Kings 18:36-39). This miraculous event underscored the Lord’s disapproval of Israel’s idolatry and called the people back to genuine worship.
Prophetic Admonishment and Call for Repentance
Despite Elijah’s victory, the prophets continuously admonished Israel to repent. The persistent call for repentance echoed throughout the ministries of subsequent prophets, yet the people remained obstinate. Their refusal to abandon false worship led to their downfall (see Hos 8:4-6; Amos 4:4-5).
The Consequences of Continued Apostasy
Israel’s continued apostasy ultimately resulted in their captivity. In 722 BC, the Assyrians conquered the northern kingdom, scattering the ten tribes and bringing an end to the Northern Kingdom. The seeds of their destruction were sown by Jeroboam’s initial departure from true worship.
The Persistence of Errors in Judah
In the southern kingdom of Judah, despite periodic reforms, such as those under King Josiah, errors persisted. Josiah’s reforms were extensive, yet they could not completely eradicate the entrenched practices of idolatry.
Nehemiah’s Acknowledgment of Persistent Disobedience
Centuries later, Nehemiah reflected on Israel’s history of disobedience and idolatry. In his prayer, he acknowledged the persistent sinfulness that had plagued the nation, attributing their suffering to their unfaithfulness (Nehemiah 9:26-37). Nehemiah’s reflection underscores the long-lasting impact of Jeroboam’s initial errors, demonstrating that false worship and disobedience to God’s commands lead to severe consequences.
Conclusion
The establishment of false worship by Jeroboam in 1Kings 12:25-33 had long-lasting effects on the northern kingdom of Israel. This sin was perpetuated by subsequent kings and contributed to the spiritual decline of Israel. Prophets repeatedly condemned these practices and called for repentance, but the people’s persistence in idolatry ultimately led to their downfall and exile. The enduring influence of Jeroboam’s sin is a stark reminder of the consequences of deviating from God’s commands.
Agape, Spencer
“Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” (Mark 7:7)
“Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things that were heard, lest haply we drift away from them. For if the word spoken through angels proved stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; how shall we escape, if we neglect so great a salvation?” (Heb 2:1-3a ASV)
In the swiftly changing currents of life, it is all too easy to drift away from the secure anchor of hope, “which we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and stedfast and entering into that which is within the veil” (Heb 6:19).
Let us explore five guiding principles from the book of Hebrews that can help us avoid spiritual drift and ensure our steadfastness in the faith.
DILIGENCE.
The first one is found in Hebrews 6:11, “And we desire that each one of you may show the same diligence unto the fulness of hope even to the end.”
Think of diligence as the steady hand guiding the helm of a ship through treacherous waters. It is not enough to start well; we must persist, with our eyes fixed on the horizon of God’s promises.
Hebrews 4:11 exhorts us, “Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.” The necessity of constant effort to avoid spiritual shipwreck is a recurring theme (Hebrews 10:22; 12:1). Are we laboring earnestly, or merely drifting along?
READ & STUDY.
Reading and studying the Bible is the second way we will be able to remain on course, avoiding drift. The writer reminds us, “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword” (Heb 4:12). To avoid drift we must become skilled in the word. Hebrews 5:12-6:8 reveals the peril of spiritual immaturity and the dire consequences of neglecting the deeper teachings of Christ. Is our Bible a well-worn map or an unused artifact?
IMITATE THE FAITHFUL.
Another aid in avoiding drift is imitation which calls us to follow the examples of those who have walked the path of faith before us. Hebrews 6:12 instructs us to be “followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” We should emulate the faithful who have demonstrated unwavering trust in God. Consider the heroes of faith outlined in Hebrews 11. Their lives serve as beacons, illuminating the way for us to follow. By imitating their faith and perseverance, we reinforce our commitment to Christ. Whose shipping lane are we following today? (1Cor 11:1; 3John 11)
FEAR GOD.
A healthy reverence for God is the fourth in our efforts to maintain our spiritual course. Hebrews 4:1 warns, “Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.” Godly fear keeps us vigilant. It reminds us of the gravity of our salvation and the importance of living in a manner worthy of our calling. Does our reverence for God inspire vigilance or apathy?
TAKE HEED.
Finally, we ought to take heed. Taking heed requires self-awareness and caution. Hebrews 3:12 cautions, “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.” The vigilance of the watchman who stands in the crow’s nest of the ship is akin to the spiritual alertness we must maintain to remain on course. By taking heed, we guard against the drift caused by doubt and sin. Are we watchful or wandering?
Let us heed the wisdom of Hebrews and apply these principles diligently. Through our earnest efforts we anchor our souls firmly in Christ, avoiding the perilous drift that leads away from so great a salvation.
Borger church of Christ @ Franklin & Juniper 