Tag love

Counting the Cost of Love

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Counting the Cost in Love and Relationships: A Biblical Perspective

Love is one of the most profound and beautiful gifts given by God. However, the Bible warns against rushing into love, commitment, or covenant relationships without counting the cost and understanding the lifelong responsibility and sacrifice they require. This principle is seen in Song of Solomon 2:7, where the bride cautions against awakening love before its proper time. While this verse speaks of romantic love, its wisdom applies to marriage, relationships, and most importantly, our commitment to God.

The Weight of Love and Commitment

In a culture that often glorifies love based on emotions, attraction, and fleeting feelings, God’s design for love is rooted in commitment, responsibility, and endurance.

1. Counting the Cost in Marriage

Marriage is not just an emotional connection; it is a lifelong covenant before God (Malachi 2:14-16). Jesus affirmed this in Matthew 19:6, saying, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”

Before entering into marriage, one must consider:

  • Spiritual Readiness – Am I prepared to love and lead (if a husband) or submit and support (if a wife) as Scripture commands? (Ephesians 5:22-33)
  • Shared Faith and Values – Are we both walking in obedience to God? (2 Corinthians 6:14)
  • Endurance Through Trials – Am I ready to stay committed in sickness, hardships, and challenges? (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5)
  • Godly Counsel – Have I sought wisdom from Scripture and godly advisors? (Proverbs 11:14)

When love is awakened too soon- without spiritual maturity, wisdom, and a readiness for covenant responsibility – it often leads to heartache. Love should not be rushed, but prepared for with patience and discernment.

2. Counting the Cost in Discipleship

Jesus used the same principle of counting the cost when teaching about discipleship:

“For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?” (Luke 14:28)

Just as marriage requires a lifelong commitment, following Christ demands full devotion and endurance. Many begin their walk with Christ without understanding the depth of obedience and sacrifice required. True discipleship means:

  • Putting Christ First – Above family, possessions, and personal desires (Luke 14:26).
  • Carrying the Cross – Willingness to suffer for Christ’s sake (Luke 14:27).
  • Persevering in Faithfulness – Remaining steadfast even when trials arise (Revelation 2:10).

A relationship with Christ is not based on emotions alone, but on a deliberate choice to obey and follow Him daily (John 14:15).

3. Counting the Cost in Obedience to the Gospel

The greatest love story is God’s love for mankind, demonstrated through Jesus Christ:

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

Christ’s love was not merely emotional- it was a sacrificial, obedient love that led Him to give His life so that we could be saved. Because of His love, we are called to respond in obedience to the gospel:

  • Hearing the Word – Faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17).
  • Believing in Christ – Trusting in Jesus as the Son of God (John 8:24).
  • Repenting of Sin – Turning away from sin and toward God (Acts 17:30).
  • Confessing Jesus as Lord – Acknowledging Him before others (Romans 10:9-10).
  • Being Baptized into Christ – For the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; Mark 16:16).
  • Living Faithfully – Continuing in obedience and holiness (Revelation 2:10).

Many desire the blessings of Christ’s love without counting the cost of obedience. Yet Jesus said:

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21)

True love for Christ is not just professed – it is demonstrated through action (John 14:15). Just as one should not enter marriage lightly, one should not enter into a commitment with God without full surrender to His will.

Final Application: The Greatest Love and Commitment

Love, whether in marriage or in faith, requires more than feeling – it requires obedience, sacrifice, and perseverance. Song of Solomon 2:7 reminds us not to rush into commitments without proper preparation.

  • In earthly love, we must count the cost before making a lifetime vow.
  • In discipleship, we must understand that following Christ is a lifelong commitment.
  • In salvation, we must obey the gospel fully, not just emotionally, but with full surrender to God’s commands.

The greatest love story is God’s invitation for us to be united with Him through Christ. Will you count the cost and commit fully to obedience to the gospel?

Agape

Spencer

Duties of Saints, pt4. SERVE

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Living the Christian Life:

In Colossians 3:1-4:6, Paul encourages Christians to live in a way that reflects their new identity in Christ. He challenges us to seek things above, focusing on heavenly things while living responsibly here on earth. The principles laid out by Paul guide our daily actions as individuals and members of one another.

These verses remind us that living as Christians involves things we can do, you and I, to embody these teachings.

1) Submit. Submission is a key theme in the Christian life, and it touches various aspects of our relationships and responsibilities. Here are several areas where Paul tells us to SUBMIT To:

a) Spouses (Colossians 3:18-19; Ephesians 5:22; 1 Peter 3:1-7)

The first place where submission begins is in the home. Wives to submit to their husbands, while husbands are to love their wives and not be harsh with them. This mutual submission creates a loving and harmonious household, reflecting Christ’s relationship with the church (Ephesians 5:22-33). If we’re married, you and I are to build marriages that mirror this sacred love and respect.

b) Unity with One Another (Ephesians 5:21; 4:1-6)

Submission doesn’t stop in the home—it extends to the church. There is mutual submission among believers out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21). Unity requires humility, patience, and bearing with one another in love (Ephesians 4:2). In a world where division often reigns, you and I can stand out as peacemakers, fostering unity and love in our relationships.

c) Children (Ephesians 6:1-2; Colossians 3:20; Matthew 15:4; Mark 7:10)

Children are instructed to obey their parents, honoring them as God has commanded (Ephesians 6:1-2; Colossians 3:20). Parents, on the other hand, should not provoke their children but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. As parents, grandparents, or caregivers, you and I have a responsibility to raise the next generation with wisdom, love, and guidance according to God’s word.

d) Masters (Ephesians 6:5; 1 Timothy 6:1; Titus 2:9; Colossians 3:22; 1 Peter 2:18)

In the workplace, Christians are to submit to their employers, working wholeheartedly as if serving the Lord (Colossians 3:22). This principle applies whether you are an employee or in a position of leadership. You and I are to treat those we work with or for with integrity and respect, always reflecting Christ in our actions.

e) In the Church (1 Peter 5:5; Hebrews 13:7, 17)

Within the church, submission to spiritual leaders is essential for maintaining order and spiritual growth. We are to respect and follow those who watch over our souls, submitting to their leadership as they guide us in our walk with Christ (Hebrews 13:7, 17). You and I can contribute to the health of the church by being humble, teachable, and respectful.

f) Territory (Romans 13:1-7)

Submission also extends to governing authorities. Paul reminds us that all authority is established by God, and as Christians, we are to be law-abiding citizens (Romans 13:1-7). Whether we agree with every decision or not, you and I are to respect authority, as long as it doesn’t conflict with God’s commands, knowing that our ultimate allegiance is to Christ.

2) Earn for Our Needs (Ephesians 4:28; 6:5; Colossians 3:22)

Work is a gift from God, and earning an honest living is part of our responsibilities as saints. Paul encourages believers to work hard, not just for themselves but so they can help those in need (Ephesians 4:28). You and I are to be diligent and faithful in our work, providing for our families and contributing to the well-being of others.

3) Relieve the Afflicted (1 Timothy 5:10; 1 Peter 4:9)

Hospitality and care for the afflicted are essential aspects of Christian love. Peter exhorts us to show hospitality without grumbling (1 Peter 4:9). Whether through financial support, emotional encouragement, or practical assistance, you and I can bring comfort to those who are suffering, offering a tangible expression of Christ’s love.

4) Visit the Widows and Orphans in Their Need (James 1:27)

True religion, according to James, is marked by care for the most vulnerable: widows and orphans. Visiting and helping them in their distress is a way to practice our faith in action (James 1:27). You and I can look for opportunities to serve those who are often overlooked, offering them hope and support in their times of need.

5) Edify the Saints (1 Timothy 1:4; Ephesians 4:12, 16, 29; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Romans 14:19, 15:2)

Finally, Christians are to build one another up. Whether through words of encouragement, teaching, or acts of service, our goal is to strengthen the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:12). You and I can help fellow believers grow in their faith and love for God.

Conclusion

In summary, Paul’s teaching in Colossians 3:1–4:6 provides a clear path for how you and I can live as Christians. By submitting in various relationships, working diligently, caring for the afflicted, and edifying the church, we embody the character of Christ and reflect His love to the world. These are practical actions we can take every day to live out our faith and bring glory to God.

Agape,

spencer

This is part 4 of a series of lessons on the Duties of Saints, pt1

Here is part 2 on the Duties of Saints.

Plea for Pure Christianity

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“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.” (Colossians 3:17).

(by Jere E. Frost, via “According To The Pattern”, Medina, TN, 04/01/1990)

WE BELIEVE the Bible to be the inspired word of God, a perfect and sufficient guide (2 Timothy 3:16, 17). It does not incidentally contain some things which we teach — it is the alpha and omega of our faith and practice, and we dare not go beyond it (2 John 9).

WE COME to you with no denominational plan seeking your favor, but only in the name of Christ, desiring to help you find the truth, anxious that you obey all of God’s commandments. The obedient have a right to the tree of life and may enter in through the gates into the city (Revelation 22:14). But those who merely cry, “Lord, Lord,” shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 7:21).

WE SUBMIT to the matchless authority of Christ, heeding the faultless message that He and his inspired servants taught (Hebrews 2:3). His word produces faith, and faith in Him as the Son of God is the foundation of hope (Hebrews 11:1; John 8:24). Every person must repent, repentance being required of all and death being held forth as the wage of refusal (Acts 17:30; Luke 13:3). Confession of faith in Christ is unto salvation, and upon such a confession one may be baptized (Romans 10:10; Acts 8:37). Baptism was commanded by Christ Himself (Mark 16:16), puts one into Christ (Galatians 3:27) where all spiritual blessings abound (Ephesians 1:3), and is for the remission of our sins and the salvation of our souls (Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21). Who dares refuse it? Faithfulness unto life’s end is promised a rich heavenly reward (Revelation 2:10).

WE PRAY for unity among all professed believers, for Christ so prayed (John 17:20-23). Paul besought the Corinthians to be “of the same mind” and to “speak the same things.” (1 Corinthians 1:10). Since human wisdom is the cause of (not the cure for) division, we must discard and abandon it in order to be true to any prayer for unity. A perfect and God-given platform for genuine unity is set forth in Ephesians 4:3-6. This is the basis for spiritual harmony and lasting peace with God. Consider: One God (unity in worship), one Lord, Jesus Christ (unity in authority), one Spirit (unity in life), one faith (unity in doctrine), one body, the church (unity in organization), one baptism (unity in practice), and one hope (unity in desire and expectation).

WE REFUSE to sectarianize ourselves by wearing man-made religious names; they are not only unauthorized, but actually foment division. We are to be Christians, nothing more and nothing less, being completely satisfied and humbly grateful to be honored with the privilege of wearing Christ’s name (1 Peter 4:16). God has placed His name above every name, and the disciples wore it (Philippians 2:9; Acts 11:26). The body (church) of Christ also wears His name, preferring none other, and thus the New Testament speaks of “the churches of Christ” (Romans 16:16).

WE ENDEAVOR to speak where the Bible speaks, and to be silent where it is silent. Christians have no creed but Christ, are to uphold no name but the divine, and have no plea but the gospel. We should mutually seek to establish and maintain unity in essentials, liberty in opinions, and love in all things.

WE INVITE you, most sincerely, to come and study the Bible with us – pure Christianity is wonderful! Embrace it! Be just a Christian!

Agape

John 3:16, the greatest verse

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“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.”

The Greatest Being

The verse begins with “FOR GOD.” The verse begins with the greatest being in existence. In Genesis 1:1, we read, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” God is the Creator, the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. John 1:1-3 tells us, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.” Job 38-41 presents a majestic depiction of God’s power and wisdom. Our faith rests upon the foundation of this greatest being, who is sovereign over all creation.

The Greatest Thing

Next, we see the greatest thing: “SO LOVED.” God is love. In 1Corinthians 13:13, we learn that “the greatest of these is love.” 1John 4:8 declares, “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” God’s love is unparalleled and incomprehensible. It is a love that is willing to sacrifice, a love that seeks the well-being of others. It is the greatest thing because it defines the actions of the greatest being.

The Greatest Number

“THE WORLD.” This phrase encompasses the greatest number: the entire world. God’s love is not limited to a select few but extends to every person on this earth. 2Peter 3:9 states, “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.” 1Timothy 2:4-6 reinforces this by saying, “Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” 1John 2:2 confirms that “And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” The greatest number shows the expanse of God’s love. God is not a respecter of persons (Rom 2:11).

The Greatest Gift

“THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON.” In this we see the greatest gift. Ephesians 2:8 reminds us that “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” Hebrews 2:9 tells us, “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.” 2Corinthians 9:15 exclaims, “Thanks be unto God for his indescribable gift!” The greatest gift (grace) is God’s own Son, given for the redemption of mankind.

The Greatest Faith

“THAT WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH IN HIM.” This phrase highlights the greatest faith. Jesus declares in John 8:24, “I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.” Hebrews 3:18-19 warns of the consequences of unbelief as seen through disobedience, while Hebrews 11:6 teaches that “without faith it is impossible to please God.” The greatest faith is an active belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the Savior of the world (James 2:14-26).

The Greatest Loss

“SHOULD NOT PERISH.” The greatest loss is the eternal separation from God. While any can be saved, the bible tells us that not all will obey the Gospel (Matt 7:24-29; 2Thess 1:8-9). Matthew 25:46 warns of “everlasting punishment,” and John 5:29 speaks of those who will “resurrection of damnation.” The story of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31 vividly portrays the torment of those who perish. 2Corinthians 5:10 reminds us that “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” The greatest loss is the eternal consequence of rejecting God’s gift of salvation.

The Greatest Difference

“BUT.” While all may be saved, some won’t obey the gospel. “And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him” (Heb 5:9). Some will hear, but not do; “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” (Matt 7:24-27). Many may confess Jesus as Lord and Savior, but not do what He says, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say” (Luke 6:46)?

The Greatest Blessing

“HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE.” Finally, we come to the greatest blessing. 1Thessalonians 4:13-18 describes the hope of the resurrection and the promise of eternal life with Christ. Everlasting life is the ultimate blessing, the fulfillment of God’s promise to those who believe.

John 3:16 is a verse that reveals to us the greatest being, the greatest thing, the greatest number, the greatest gift, the greatest faith, the greatest loss, and the greatest blessing. Let us hold fast to this truth, share it with others, and walk in the light of God’s incredible love and grace.

Agape, Spencer

Do MORALS Matter? Not according to the WORLD.

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“For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you.” (1Peter 4:3,4).

This passage highlights the contrast between the behaviors of Christians and those of the secular world.

It describes a past life indulged in excesses and immoral activities such as lust, drunkenness, revelry, and idolatry.

Upon turning to a Christian way of life, believers abstain from these practices, leading to a stark difference in conduct.

This transformation often confounds non-believers, who find it strange that Christians no longer join in their excessive and riotous behaviors. As a result, Christians might face criticism or slander for their newfound restraint and moral discipline.

In our secular society, there is a growing trend to sideline morality, with the world often asserting that ethical standards are subjective and unimportant. The Bible warns against this destructive philosophy.

The idea that wrong is relative is exemplified by the biblical account of Pharaoh’s defiance in Exodus 5:2: “And Pharaoh said, Who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the LORD, neither will I let Israel go.” Pharaoh’s stance reflects a broader modern sentiment that moral obligations are negotiable based on personal belief systems or the lack thereof. This relativism undermines the concept of an absolute moral authority.

The pursuit of personal gain often overrides moral considerations. In Luke 12:13-21, Jesus tells the parable of the rich fool, who hoards wealth without regard for others or his spiritual well-being. This story highlights how the quest for material success can eclipse ethical responsibilities, leading individuals to prioritize self-interest over faithfulness to God.

Doing what is “right in one’s own eyes” epitomizes the relativistic approach to morality. Judges 21:25 states, “In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” This verse illustrates the chaos and moral decay that arise when subjective judgments replace universal ethical standards.

Contemporary society often masks moral deviations under the guise of love. This rationalization can be seen in the acceptance of various forms of relationships, such as living together, polyamory, and other more controversial issues. By framing these practices as expressions of love, societal norms shift, challenging biblical moral frameworks.

The belief that death is the end and therefore morality is inconsequential is a profound reflection of nihilistic thought. If life has no ultimate purpose beyond physical existence, ethical considerations may seem futile. This outlook fosters a disregard for moral behavior, as the finality of death negates the perceived need for a moral compass.

The world’s dismissal of morality poses significant contrast to sound ethical standards. This is why we must be on guard against such flawed reasoning.

Agape,

Spencer

The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus

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“For he oft refreshed me“

“The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain,” (2Tim 1:16).  

Who inspires or impresses you? Take a serious moment to think about it.

Is it because they’re successful? Is it because they’re famous? Is it because they’re big shots?

After you think about that, who do you suppose inspires or impresses them? Are they impressed by more successful people, or more famous celebrities? Bigger big shots?

One more question… Who inspires or impresses true big shots? Paul is an Apostle, but he was humble and was able to see the labors of others.

Onesiphorus impressed Paul.

Impressed may not be the right word. He was Grateful, Glad, Invigorated, Renewed, Refreshed. Did Paul release an audible sigh of relief upon being found by him? The scripture is full of lesser known & unknown names of mighty heroes of faith.

Paul was in a Roman prison, (2Tim 1:8). It was about the time that Nero was blaming Christians for the burning of Rome (64AD). This is Paul’s last writing of the New Testament with the purpose to encourage the young evangelist Timothy, (1:6, 2:1, 3:14-15).

Paul was ready to die, and it looked like it was going to happen this time. “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand” (2Tim 4:6). It was no sad moment for him, because he had “fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing” (2Tim 4:7,8).

Even though he had been forsaken by many, he still encouraged Timothy to come to him, for there was still work to be done. “Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me. The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments” (2Tim 4:9,13).

In this letter we learn about ONESIPHORUS. He was a man of…

UNPARALLELED SUPPORT: “for he oft Refreshed me.” (2Tim 1:16a)

UNABASHED FRIEND: “was not ashamed of my chain.” (2Tim 1:16b)

UNSTOPPABLE EFFORT: “when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.” (2Tim 1:17)

UNUSUAL SERVICE: “in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.” (2Tim 1:18)

UNSURPASSED REWARD: “He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward” (Mat 10:40-42).

The scripture is full of lesser known & unknown names of mighty heroes of faith. God doesn’t waste ink, these examples are there for a reason. “Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample” (Phil 3:17).

 Agape,

Spencer

This article is based on a sermon presented at the Franklin & Juniper st church of Christ in Borger, Texas. We invite you to visit one of our assemblies to learn more about Christ.

Rejoice Always, Phil 4:4

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There is a direct command in scripture that is often overlooked by even the most zealous Saint. “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” (Phil 4:4).

It is a discriminating command. In matters of the Lord of what does an alien sinner have to rejoice? All spiritual blessings are “in Christ” (Eph 1:3), and only those that have obeyed the Gospel are in the Lord (Gal 3:26-27). Those that have obeyed the Gospel are the only ones that have reason to rejoice (Acts 8:37).

The command is discriminating in that it also excludes rejoicing in the flesh (Phil 3:3,7). It excludes rejoicing in the wisdom of the world (1Cor 1:20-21). It also excludes rejoicing in one’s own works (Titus 3:5; Is 64:6). We are to work God’s righteousness (Acts 10:34-35; Rom 10:1-3).

By the words of some one is led to wonder if Christians are aware of this command to rejoice.

Let us see about what it means to rejoice always in the Lord.

“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.”

“ALWAYS” tells us it is a perpetual command without regard to external conditions. The Apostle Paul wrote this by inspiration while imprisoned in Rome for his faith. This epistle has been called the epistle of joy, for it contains the words “joy,” “rejoice,” or “rejoicing” some sixteen times.

The command is without regard to Adversity or Prosperity. “Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me” (Phil 2:17-18). Paul is able to rejoice in adversity because it was in service to Christ. “But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God” (Phil 4:18).

The command is without regard to being Loved or Hated. “The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice” (Phil 1:16-18). Paul is able to rejoice despite the haters because Christ was being preached. “And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved” (2Cor 12:15).

The command is without regard to Weariness or Strength. “I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Phil 4:12-13). Paul’s life in the Lord is marked by great adversity (2Cor 11:22-29), but it was from his pen the Holy Spirit wrote, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Gal 6:9).

The command is without regard to Arrest or Among Friends. “But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear” (Phil 1:12-14). Paul could rejoice in his arrest and detainment because of the increased boldness of others to speak the gospel. Peter and John could rejoice for being beaten for the name of Christ. “And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name” (Acts 5:41).

The command is without regard even for Your very life. “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.” (Phil 1:21-24). The life that one lives in the Lord prepares him for the appointment of death (Heb 9:27). “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them” (Rev 14:13). There is comfort in the death of faithful saints (1Thess 4:13-18). For them “to die is gain.”

The command is without regard to Sickness or Health. Paul could rejoice in the highs or lows of his physical life because of the grace of Christ. “Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong” (2Cor 12:9-10). There was rejoicing for Epaphroditus despite his sickness because he didn’t regard his life to supply those things that were lacking from the church at Philippi. “I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful” (Phil 2:28; cf, 25-30).

Rejoicing in the Lord always brings about many gratifying results. It is the means by which hope can be seen in the midst of adversity (cf. 1Pet 3:14-15). Rejoicing can put to death the PLAGUES of the mind. Rejoicing and negativity cannot coexist nor be done at the same time.

Rejoicing in the Lord always is the means by which our light can shine in this dark world. Our rejoicing in the Lord becomes a beacon of attraction to the lost and our religion will radiate a wholesome influence upon the lives of those around us. 

Rejoicing in the Lord always can do us no harm, but rather only bring about good, and in many ways will preserve our health and effectiveness.

Rejoicing in the Lord always is easy when we remember that our names are written in the heaven as we obey the Gospel of Christ. “And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life” (Phil 4:3; Acts 2:38-41; Heb 12:23).

Agape,

Spencer

Why did you Doubt? pt4

The Preacher 1 Comment

The previous articles looked at doubt from Disbelief, Obstacles, Untruths, and now we look at doubt that comes from strife & divisive behavior.

Casting doubt is the next on our list of reasons why we doubt. There are some outside of the church that cast doubt, but there are also some inside the church.

The church is wonderful. Jesus said this about the church, “I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matt 16:18b). He built it, and it’s indestructible, but that doesn’t mean some won’t try.

For the most part, folks aren’t necessarily trying to wreck the church, but we can be casting doubt upon it through certain attitudes and actions. This leads to some leaving the church.

People do not like conflict. When we fail to resolve issues in kind, loving and truthful ways it leads to disappointment and division. Some leave to another congregation. Others leave the church for a denomination.

To ward off doubt, we need to identify our negative behaviors without casting more doubt!

5 things we do to cast doubt upon others in the church.

The first negative behavior that casts doubt on others is BACKBITING. “A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends” (Prov 16:28). In Romans, backbiting is in the list of the unrighteous (Rom 1:30. It’s among the list of thing Paul hoped to find missing when he visited the church at Corinth (2Cor 12:20). Backbiting is defaming speech to attack the good name or reputation of a person by uttering anything false or injurious. This can cast doubt on the faith of some by tearing down those who teach, aid, or example for others. This kind of doubt leads to trust issues and divisions.

The next way we could cause doubt is through RIVALRIES. The church at Corinth had this problem. “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men” (1Cor 3:3)? The first chapter shows the root of this rivalry was about who baptized who. In chapter six there was rivalry caused by doing wrong to one another and they were taking their grievances before unbelievers (6:1-6). This causes doubt about the church inside and outside the church. “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” (James 3:16). This sort of doubt causing gives occasion for the enemies of God to blaspheme.

EVIL Speaking is another area when we might cast doubt. I recall a friend telling me about when he was a kid riding home with his parents from worship. They began to speak about something a brother in Christ had done when his father stopped the conversation. His father told him that he didn’t want to talk poorly about a brother in front of the kids. Perhaps the brother would repent, but if they had poisoned the mind of the children about this brother, they may harbor ill feelings toward him into adulthood. “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby” (1Pet 2:1-2). “A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren” (Prov 6:12-14; 19). This kind of doubt leads to division between brethren and ultimately a weaker congregation.

The next attitude is ANGER toward others in the church. “But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.” (Col 3:8, 21; Eph 4:31, 26). Animosity is in opposition to loving kindness. “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering. (Col 3:12). When people come together there may times when we disappoint each other, but we must not allow this to develop into anger and cause division and doubt about our brethren or doubt about the church. “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love” (1John 4:7-8).

Lastly, there is doubt cast on another when someone lays claim to special KNOWLEDGE that others lack. Paul warned Timothy about these people. “But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes” (2Tim 2:23). “He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings” (1Tim 6:4). When people engage in doubtful disputations (Rom 14:2) it may cause a weaker brother to stumble. Paul also wrote about KNOWLEDGE that a strong brother has that a weaker brother does not have. In these cases, the stronger brother is to forebear so as not to cause stumbling in the weaker.

“But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak. For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol’s temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols; And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died” (1Cor 8:9-11)?

Casting doubt about brethren casts doubt about the church for the church is the brethren. There will be disagreements, disappointments, and differences in understanding. However, these can be overcome through Love for God, Love for His word and Love for one another.

Agape,

Spencer

This is part 4 of a series on Overcoming Doubt.

1John 3:14-15 How do we KNOW?

The Preacher 1 Comment

HOW DO WE KNOW IF WE’VE PASSED FROM DEATH INTO LIFE?

KEEP HIS COMMANDS. 2:3-5, 24; 1:5-10.

NO Love of the World. 1John 2:15-17.

OUGHT TO LOVE AS HE LOVED.
3:16 Lay down our lives for the Brethren.
4:11 Love the Brethren.

WALK as He walked. 1John 2:6.

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Here’s a link to all the published studies from 1 John.

The Franklin and Juniper church of Christ did a study of the book of 1John in the summer and fall of 2023. If you live in the Borger area, We invite you to join us at 9:30am each Sunday Morning for similar Bible studies.