Podcasts about prison letters

trust destructive ninth prison letters

Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2023 28:24

Ninth in T.K. Anderson's series "Freedom: Living Above Your Circumstance: Wisdom From Paul's Prison Letters"

Who Can I Trust In A Deceptive World?

trust eighth deceptive prison letters

Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2023 28:18

Eighth in T.K. Anderson's series "Freedom: Living Above Your Circumstance: Wisdom From Paul's Prison Letters"

Who Can I Trust In A Skeptical World?

trust seventh skeptical prison letters skeptical world

Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2023 28:17

Seventh in T.K. Anderson's series "Freedom: Living Above Your Circumstance: Wisdom From Paul's Prison Letters"

Episode 7: Prison Letters & Hybristophilia

The Re-engineered You

Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2023

Has someone ever addressed a letter to you by accident? Todd experienced this when he opened a mysterious letter and found himself reading a heartfelt plea from a prisoner, asking his lady to forgive his long silence, and to take him back when he gets released. This letter spawned our topic today, about prison letters, forbidden love, and the disorder known as Hybristophilia.

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Your Passport To Heaven

passports sixth prison letters

Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2023 28:03

Sixth in T.K. Anderson's series "Freedom: Living Above Your Circumstance: Wisdom From Paul's Prison Letters"

Rejoicing In Humility

humility rejoicing prison letters

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2023 28:29

Fifth in T.K. Anderson's series "Freedom: Living Above Your Circumstance: Wisdom From Paul's Prison Letters"

Rejoicing In Hardship

rejoicing hardship prison letters

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2023 28:07

Fourth in T.K. Anderson's series "Freedom: Living Above Your Circumstance: Wisdom From Paul's Prison Letters"

Living In Power

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2023 28:29

Third in T.K. Anderson's series "Freedom: Living Above Your Circumstance: Wisdom From Paul's Prison Letters"

Living In Unity

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2023 28:03

Second in T.K. Anderson's series "Freedom: Living Above Your Circumstance: Wisdom From Paul's Prison Letters"

unity prison letters

Living In Grace

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2023 28:29

First in T.K. Anderson's series "Freedom: Living Above Your Circumstance: Wisdom From Paul's Prison Letters"

Mo Got More Prison Letters

The Morning Bullpen

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2023 5:22

Mo got more letters from prison!

Prison letters

AboveTheNorm

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2023 3:30

#AboveTheNorm

St. Aidan's Anglican Church, Kansas City - weekly talks

Reading Prison Letters

The Brian Lehrer Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2022 23:58

Having written for the New York Times Magazine about the exoneration of a prisoner who wrote her a letter about his case, staff writer Emily Bazelon, co-host of Slate's "Political Gabfest" podcast, Truman Capote fellow for creative writing and law at Yale Law School and author of Charged: The New Movement to Transform American Prosecution and End Mass Incarceration (Random House, 2019), received many more letters from others wishing to have their cases reexamined. She talks about the launch of the "Prison Letters Project" to read them all and make the information available, as well as a new newsletter.

What Is True Of Him Is True Of Us - Colossians 3.1 - 14 Fr. Michael Flowers 08.07.22

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2022 32:31

Throughout the letter to the Colossians, Paul is stating the most radical thing that could happen to a human being. He challenges our modern, materialistic, scientific conditioning with the claims of Christ and his rescue plan for the cosmos. Just a few statements to provide context. 1:13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:13-14). 1:16 For by him [Christ] all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. (1:16-20). What could read like an epic fantasy, through faith becomes the power of God unto salvation. The Gospel of Jesus Christ addresses our deepest needs and longings and speaks to the disorder of creation and our passions, the problem of evil in the world, and the mystery of origins. And Paul is saying to the church at Colossae and to us this morning that what is true of Christ IS true of us. HOW IS THIS SO? If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Fellow risen ones, last week we looked back in 2:11-12 to understand Paul's bold statement, since you have been raised with Christ… What resurrection is he referring to? 2:11 In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, 12 having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. What is true of him is true of us. “You may not feel like it. Learning to believe what doesn't at the moment feel true is an essential part of being a Christian… This is what the life of faith is all about.” N.T. Wright, Paul, for Everyone, the Prison Letters, p. 175.

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Philippians: The Power Of Humility

Bridge Church Clarksville

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2022 33:22

Continuing on in the Prison Letters series, Chad takes us through the book of Philippians, a letter from the apostle Paul written to the church in Philippi. In this sermon, we learn of disunity and infighting within the church, and how Paul's way of helping guide them was by confronting their arrogance and pride, teaching them that humility and thinking of others first is how God's people should interact with one another.

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Summer of Encouragement Series Part 1: The Prison Letters Overview - PDF

The Westside Church

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2022

The Prison Letters Overview |Sermon by Kene Izuchukwu | Summer of Encouragement Series

prison letters john 10:10 encouragement series

Summer of Encouragement Series Part 1: The Prison Letters Overview - Audio

The Westside Church

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2022 26:31

The Prison Letters Overview |Sermon by Kene Izuchukwu | Summer of Encouragement Series

prison letters john 10:10 encouragement series

Prison Letters: W5 - 5.22.22 - John Garippa

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2022 29:09

Prison Letters: W5 - 5.22.22 - John Garippa by Downtown Harbor Church

Prison Letters: W4 - 5.15.22 - John Garippa

Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2022 27:25

Prison Letters: W4 - 5.15.22 - John Garippa by Downtown Harbor Church

Prison Letters: W3 - 5.8.22 - John Garippa

Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2022 27:24

Prison Letters: W3 - 5.8.22 - John Garippa by Downtown Harbor Church

Worthy People Freedom Radio

Prison Letters

Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2022 55:48

Launching a brand-new format with an additional host joining the program as well as now 36 prisons in Texas can hear this program! Celebrate with us!

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Prison Letters: Week 2 - 5.1.22 - John Garippa

Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2022 30:47

Prison Letters: Week 2 - 5.1.22 - John Garippa by Downtown Harbor Church

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#37 NBA Playoff Picks, Brian Kelly Hates the Irish, and Tiger King Prison Letters (with Eric Stephens)

The Evil Mark Show

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2022 140:43

Mark is joined by Eric Stephens from the podcast File Under: Entertainment to discuss sports. We are pumped for the NBA Playoffs, we ain't Play-In! Bad News, America's Sweetheart Team, Deshaun Watson Saga Continues, Brian Kelly Hates the Irish, WestBRICK Throws Coach Under the Bus, Clickbait Headlines, and NBA Playoff Preview. Tiger King Prison Letters & More! Today's episode was brought to you by The Shib Army #SHIB #NBAPlayoffs #ND #WestBRICK

What Does Fellowship in the Harvest Look Like? | Colossians 4:7-18

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2022 42:05

Series: Colossians: Supreme!Title: “ What does fellowship in the harvest look like?”Scripture: Colossians 4:7-18 (main); 1:3-14-20; 2:9-10; 3:1-4(Commentary helps listed at the end)Last week's Bottom line: We devote ourselves to prayer by being watchful in, grateful for, and helpful to the mission God has called us to.Bottom line: Fullness in Christ leads to fellowship with God's people in the harvest where we're meant to be.Opening story:Whenever I have gone to a new country on a mission trip, meeting the believers there who are active in the harvest is like meeting family. There's a hard-to-explain bond with them that I believe is the fellowship which is a fruit of the fullness of Christ in us.Context revisited:Paul's under house arrest—chained to a Praetorian guard 24/7.1,000 miles away, Epaphras, founding pastor of Church of Colossae and disciple of Paul, is burdened for his church due to false teachers infiltrating with heretical teachings.His growing church is under attack from sinister, heretical movement of lies that say Christ could not be creator nor God in the flesh.Between secret passwords and ascetic disciplines rooted in platonic philosophy, the gnostics teachings were robbing the Colossians of their joy. Epaphras has do to something.He travels to Rome to find Paul.Paul's heart aligns with E's immediately. He begins praying and then starts dictating a letter to them. Colossians is the result.Paul's argument for full-hearted faith:He celebrates the miracle of Colossae. (1:3-8)He prays for them. (1:9-14)He presents the heart of his full-hearted argument. (1:15-18)Colossians 1:19-20Colossians 2:9-10Colossians 3:1-4Christ is supreme is 4 ways:He's first in rank and honor. (15) Visually and personally displayed God to humanity.He's supreme as Creator. (16a)Einstein estimated that there are 10 octillian stars in the universe.1,000 thousands = one million1,000 millions = one billion…1,000 septillions = one octillion…10 octillian starsStars he created with a word ex nihlio Stars he namedHe's supreme as sustainer of the universe he created. (17) He is holding all things together.He's the goal of creation. (16b) “for him” or “toward him”Transition: In a world that seems doomed and hopeless to change, we can be part of true and lasting change as we devote ourselves to God and his mission through prayer.“We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.”‭‭1 John‬ ‭1:3‬ ‭NIV‬‬https://1john.bible/1-john-1-3Crosses racial and religious barriers:3 Jews and 3 Gentiles working togetherDifferent languages, national pride, cultures, traditions = still unified in ChristTranscends grievancesproduces wholeheartednessTychicus (8) came with Paul from Ephesus and to Jerusalem; faithful servant and roadie. He likely came to the Lord under Paul's missionary work in Ephesus. Paul sent him to Colossae toDeliver the letter to the ColossiansGive an updateEncourage them with 1 & 2Help Onesimus get backHe was a Gentile. He would have been around during the riots in Ephesus most likely.Onesimus (9) was Philemon's runaway slave transformed by the gospel and found Paul in Rome. The book of Philemon describes this story. He's a Gentile who would travel back with Tychicus.(John) Mark, (10) another Jew, the cousin of Barnabus is the same Mark that started the first missionary journey with Paul and Barnabus. He greatly disappointed Paul when he bailed on the expedition early-on. For this reason, Paul didn't want him to join them on their second missionary journey. Barnabus disagreed and they eventually split up as a result. Here we see the Paul has warmed back up to Mark 12 years later. Wrote gospel of Mark. (Peter's account)Aristarchus (10) was a fellow prisoner and Jew who'd been with Paul in Ephesus when the riots happened. He also traveled with Paul to Jerusalem to deliver the special offering to the poor there. He would have seen Paul caught up in the mob there and traveled with him after his arrest to Caesaria and later Rome where they were when Paul wrote Colossians. Seen during Ephesians riot (Acts 19:29); singled out; stuck by PaulAll three Jews were a comfort to Paul in his imprisonment surrounded by Gentiles.Jesus who is called Justus (11) (his Roman name) means the Lord saves. Justus means one who obeys the law. He's also a Jew.Epaphras (12-13) was a Gentile from Colossae and maybe the founding pastor. He's the one who traveled 1,000 miles to see Paul about how false teachers were infiltrating the church there and undermining what was becoming a beautiful local church network. (Including Laodicea and Hieropolis.Epaphras prayer had 5 characteristics:He prayed constantly “always” (12)He prayed fervently “agonizingly” (12)He prayed personally “for you” (12)He prayed definitely (specifically)He prayed sacrificially (13) “great zeal” “much distress”And traveling 1,000 miles to see Paul gave him plenty of time to pray.“Praying that costs me nothing accomplishes nothing.” -John H JowettLuke, (14) the doctor and historian so faithful to Paul over the years. He wrote Luke and Acts. Only Gentile writer that we know of in the Bible. Joined Paul at Troy's on missionary journeyDemas (14) is mentioned 3 times in scripture by Paul: 1) He's a “fellow worker” in Philemon 24; 2) He's just here with Luke; and 3) He's deserted Paul in 2 Tim 4:10. Gentile who enjoyed the fellowship of this team but in the end deserted.“For Demas, because he loved the world, has deserted me and has gone” 2 Tim 4:10“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”‭‭1 John‬ ‭2:15-17‬ ‭NIV‬‬https://bible.com/bible/111/1jn.2.15-17.NIVConclusion/ApplicationsBottom line: Fullness in Christ leads to fellowship with God's people in the harvest where we're meant to be.Complete the ministry God gave you.Embrace the fullness of Christ in your life. Believe it's there and live as if you believe it's there. (Like Clark Kent believing he's really Superman underneath that business suit.Remember…Paul's chains—he's suffering but he knows he's far from home.Your chains—you may be suffering but your homecoming is not far either.Pray———————————————————————————————————————————————————————-MAIN COMMENTARY HELP:Exalting Jesus in Colossians by Scott PacePreaching the Word: Philippians, Colossians and Philemon commentary by R. Kent HughesESV Global Study BibleBible in One Year by Nicky GumbelBible Knowledge CommentaryThe Outline Bible, WilmingtonPaul for Everyone, The Prison Letters, NT Wright's commentary on Philippians and ColossiansGospel Transformation BibleNIV Study BibleThe Bible Exposition Commentary, Warren Wiersbe

How to Devote Yourself to Prayer | Colossians 1:15-20

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2022 45:47

Series: Colossians: Supreme!Title: “How To Devote Yourself to Prayer”Scripture: Colossians 1:15-20; 4:2-6 (main); Matt 6:8-13; 7:24-27(Commentary helps listed at the end)Last week's Bottom line: When we gladly submit to God's design for our work life/career/vocation, we will thrive in the fullness of life.Bottom line: We devote ourselves to prayer by being watchful in, grateful for, and helpful to the mission God has called us to.Review Col 1:15-20Opening story:‘Prayer is the slender nerve that moves the muscle of omnipotence,' -Spurgeon"Prayer is the way we can escape the gravitational pull of the flesh and enter GOD's orbit. It's the way we escape the atmosphere and enter into HIS space. It's the way we over come human limitations and enter into the extra-dimensional realm where all things are possible." Author unknownMark 9:23 “'If you can'?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”Bible in One Year 2021 With Nicky Gumbel: Day 235 • DevotionalThe Gracious Hand of GodThings happen to us. So much of life is simply the set of circumstances we find ourselves in.For example, our parents, our genetic design, the weather, much of our education and our government are all things that we experience as ‘happening to us'. In Greek grammar, these things are expressed in what we call the ‘passive voice'.However, we also make things happen. When I initiate an action and do something, this is expressed in the ‘active voice'.But Greek grammar also has a third voice – the ‘middle voice'. This is neither wholly active nor wholly passive. When I use the middle voice, I am participating in the results of an action.Christian prayer is spoken in the middle voice. It cannot be in the active voice because it is not an action I control, as in the ritualistic pagan prayers where the gods do our bidding.Prayer is not in the passive voice either, in which I'm at the mercy of the will of gods and goddesses.In Christian prayer, as Eugene Peterson puts it, ‘I enter into an action begun by another, my creating and saving Lord, and find myself participating in the results of his [gracious] action.'In one sense, the whole of the Christian life is prayer. We welcome God's gracious hand in our lives, and we participate in what he is doing in the world. God involves you in his plans. Of course, he could do it all on his own, but he chooses to involve you. He gives you freedom, yet he remains in control. -Nicky GumbelThe Power of PrayerArchbishop Justin Welby and Pete Greig (founder of 24-7 Prayer) have launched an initiative calling hundreds of thousands of Christians, of many churches and denominations to a great wave of prayer for the evangelisation of the nations during the week before Pentecost Sunday. The week culminates in beacon events in packed cathedrals and churches around the world over the Pentecost weekend. Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, asked people to pray for three things: ‘That all Christians find new life in Jesus Christ… That all those you meet… might see something of Jesus… For the church to overflow with the reality of the presence of Jesus.'Pete Grieg has described it as ‘a groundswell; a movement from the grassroots up'. He said he had been very moved to hear of one boy who'd prayed for five friends, three of whom had since become Christians!Prayer is spiritual nutrition. Just as the body needs physical food, so the soul needs spiritual food. Prayer changes us. However, the Bible goes much further than this. Prayer is powerful. It is, as Charles Haddon Spurgeon put it, ‘the slender nerve that moves the muscles of omnipotence.' Prayer has the power to change circumstances, other people and even the course of history.Bible in One Year 2021 With Nicky Gumbel: Day 176 • DevotionalOf course, the Lord's Prayers are very instructive.Matt 6:9-13 is the Lord's answer to his disciples' question, “How do you pray?”John 17 is a lengthy example of Jesus praying on the eve of the cross.Context:Epaphras has visited Paul in Rome (who's in prison for sharing the gospel) to ask for help in dealing with the false teachers in the church of Colossae. Paul writes this letter to this church and sends it back with Epaphras.Transition: In a world that seems doomed and hopeless to change, we can be part of true and lasting change as we devote ourselves to God and his mission through prayer.My OutlineI. What? “Devote yourselves to prayer.” (4:2) How? By…“Being watchful”Watch yourself InwardlyOutwardlyWatch around the corner (locally)Watch around the world (globally)“Being thankful”To God.Pray with others.Ex. Prayer Team 6 (online and in-person)Say 3 things you're thankful for each day (Ann Voskamp, 1,000 Gifts book)To People.Being MissionalPraying for Open DoorsFor the message of the mystery of ChristFor clarity of the message, despite the chainsNote: Doesn't pray for his cell door to be openedPraying for wisdomFor the way to act towards outsidersFor gracious, salty conversationFor wisdom in those conversationsApplicationsBe watchful: inwardly and outwardly; pray with someone else daily (prayer, 8 am) even weekly; journal your prayersBe thankful: say aloud three things you're thankful for today every day; do this as family around the table ideallyBe missional: interceding: pray for others; pray for kingdom expansion (Open doors)Be an answerBe in conversationThis mindset of the great commandment and the great commission are seen in the Lord's supper where Christ calls us to look back, look up, look inside and look ahead. 1 Cor 11:23-26“For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.”‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭11:23-26‬ ‭NIV‬‬ https://bible.com/bible/111/1co.11.23-26.NIVThis transitions us towards the Lord's Supper where we remember why we do all of this—because of what he did for us at the cross.ConclusionI heard about a preacher who preached the same sermon week after week after week. When finally asked by as people why he said I'll preach a new sermon when you all get this one. This point is clear: until we become doers of the word will be on a path of destruction as only hearers of the word.Matt 7:24-27 parable of how to build your family to thrive in a world of chaotic evil. This is Jesus' summary and fitting conclusion of application to his “sermon on the mount” which is essentially his kingdom manifesto. This is also appropriate for how to thrive in our vocation/work/career.Back to Jesus' parable about the 2 houses and the 2 foundations:“The assumption in Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders is that our homes necessarily have to endure a barrage of torrential storms.”“The assurance of his parable is that those who build their homes according to God's blueprint can withstand life's onslaughts.”In other words:Building on the world's philosophies will lead to family and societal collapse.Building on the Lord's blueprint will lead to stability, security and peace despite the devastating storms around us.Bottom line: When we gladly submit to God's design for our work life/career/vocation, we will thrive in the fullness of life.PrayLord's Supper, 1 Corinthians 11:17-32OtherKent HughesV. Servants/Slaves/Employees (3:22-25)—Not advocating for slavery.Staying silent on this institution for the simple reason that there's a battle to be fought first that lays the foundation for victory later achieved.“Through the example of Christ, the apostles understood that the great rest need for social and cultural change was a spiritual transformation through the power of the gospel.” -Pace, p. 110VI. Masters/Bosses/Employers (4:1)—His purchase of our freedom/forgiveness establish his ownership of us.1 Cor 6:19-20; Romans 6:17-18Christ is our ultimate Lord and master, King and authority over all of us. He created us and redeems us!Christ modeled this by being equal to the Father and yet submitted to his command to come and die for us. Should we do any less?“Paul's instruction for masters and servants mirror his emphasis for all members of the household: ‘Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people.'” (3:23)“This verse (3:25) summarizes and reiterates his general directive for all believers in v. 17” reminding us:WHAT we do matters “whatever you do”HOW we do it matters “do it from the heart” andWHY we do it matters “as something done for the Lord”What's your foundation: Rock or Sand?Sand—Worldview of entitlement, blame, and selfishness.Rock—Worldview of selfless, sacrificial love for all people surrendering al land gladly submitting to proper authorities starting with God at home.Hearing the word AND doing the word lead to growth in Christlike being and doing (character and competency) = FruitfulnessCross-referencesEphesians 5:21-6:9Matthew 7:24-27OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS:———————————————————————————————————————————————————————-MAIN COMMENTARY HELP:Exalting Jesus in Colossians by Scott PacePreaching the Word: Philippians, Colossians and Philemon commentary by R. Kent HughesESV Global Study BibleBible in One Year by Nicky GumbelBible Knowledge CommentaryThe Outline Bible, WilmingtonPaul for Everyone, The Prison Letters, NT Wright's commentary on Philippians and ColossiansGospel Transformation BibleNIV Study BibleThe Bible Exposition Commentary, Warren Wiersbe

How to Thrive at Work | Colossians 3:22-4:1

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2022 50:32

Series: Colossians: Supreme!Title: “How To Thrive at Work”Scripture: Colossians 3:22-4:1; 2 Cor 5:10; Galatians 3:28; Gen 1:28; 2:15; Matt 7:24-27; Ephesians 6:1-9(Commentary helps listed at the end)Last week's Bottom line: When we gladly submit to God's design as the blueprint of our family, we (with our spouse) will build our home/family to thrive even in chaotically evil times.Bottom line: When we gladly submit to God's design for our work life/career/vocation, we will thrive in the fullness of life.Opening story:Matt 7:24-27 parable of how to build your family to thrive in a world of chaotic evil. This is Jesus' summary and fitting conclusion of application to his “sermon on the mount” which is essentially his kingdom manifesto. This is also appropriate for how to thrive in our vocation/work/career.Context:It is estimated that there were 60,000,000 slaves in the Roman Empire. That's about 50% of the population.Work was considered beneath the dignity of the slave-owning free Roman male.Practically everything was done by slaves—even doctoring and teaching.Though some exceptions, back to Aristotle slaves were classified as things; living tools.Varro classified farm implements into 3 classes:The articulate (slaves)The inarticulateThe muteIf you buy a farm, it was said to toss out the old slaves to die, because they're broken tools.Gauis, the Roman lawyer, said, “…universally accepted that the master possesses the power of life and death over a slave.”If a slave ran away, he was branded on the forehead with the letter “F” for fugitive. Sometimes put to death with no trial.This created a national melancholy over millions.Into this rang out the gospel raising the tensions—and the hope.Galatians 3:28, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are one in Christ Jesus.”Paul's advice/instruction was “ultimately revolutionary” though not immediately.for in time it led to the collapse of slavery as an institution.How was it revolutionary?It led to systemic change eventually.It brought “fullness of Christ” to slaves immediately.It was botha personal/domestic issue for it affected the family.today it's more a professional issue as the principles relate to our work as employers/employees.Work is so important in our culture today that it often defines people. It shouldn't but it does. “Hey, my name is. What do you do?”Transition: In a world where what we do becomes our dominate identity, we must cling to God's original definition and design for work if we are going to thrive in these chaotically evil times.Paul's outline shows 2 sides of relationships in relation to the male leader outside the home.In order of priority they are:We've already seen 1 & 2.Wives/husbands (marriage)Children/fathers (family; parentingSlaves/masters (work/culture)My Outline: (based on Kent Hughes commentary heavily)“Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.”‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:22-25‬ ‭NIV‬‬ https://bible.com/bible/111/col.3.22-25.NIVA powerful example of someone who lived out verses 22-25 is Joseph in Genesis starting in ch. 37 when he's sold into slavery by his brothers.I. A Full Life (Thrive) for servants/slaves/employees (3:22-25)—Should diligently work for their master/boss/employer.Who's side are you on, Paul? This command of submission and obedience is tough!Obey master/employerIn everythingNot as a people pleaser butWith sincerity of heartWhether boss present or notAs unto the LordFearing the Lord—Mother Teresa in Calcutta, “Taking Matthew 25 seriously, she believed that when she and her Ssiters of Charity were cleansing sores and touching the ill for Christ, they were doing it to Christ.”Don't over romanticizeMost of us are doing less than noble work; “nothing” jobs pushing paper, moving dirt, etc.This transformed the Roman empireChristian slaves brought higher prices because of this work ethicPagan slave served his master bound by fear vs. Christian slave served his master better because he feared God.Because God will reward you with an inheritance ofEither goodOr badNo partialityBased on performanceSecond judgment“All believers, though under the ultimate forgiveness of Christ, will have their works judged.” 2 Cor 5:10Paul's teaching regarding he work of slaves (employees) in the Colossian Church is found in 22-25.How should this impact our work ethic?Don't assume that if you live up to the Biblical standard that all will go well with you on the job. At times you'll be…Treated poorlyPassed over for promotions and raisesMisunderstoodWrongly accusedTaken advantage ofFired for no good reasonDon't use this to justify overworking or workaholism. Capitalism/Free enterprise is easily perverted to the worship of work or self-promotion.We should be the best workers out there. Instead, we are sometimes the opposite.2 seminary students observed to spend lots of time standing around talking about God to each otherOne student came out of the restroom after 20 minutes and said to his friend, “I just read 3 chapters of John in the john.”We should have the bestAttitudeDependability/reliabilityIntegrity/trustworthinessWe should see and value the intrinsic nobility and gift of work given to us by God. Before the Fall and sin…God called Adam “to work (the Garden) and take care of it.” (Gen 2:15)God called Adam and Even to “be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it; rule…” (Gen 1:28)II. A Full Life (Thrive) for masters/employers/bosses/owners (4:1)—Should justly provide for their slaves/servants/employees.“Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.”‭‭Colossians‬ ‭4:1‬ ‭NIV‬‬ https://colossians.bible/colossians-4-1Command is for masters of slaves (employers/bosses/owners today as well)Provide—slaves own little to nothing.Your provision should be just and fair. Employers, you will answer to God for how you treat your employees.These words would have sounded strange to non-Christians—slaves and masters alike—because slaves effectively had no rights.This might have been more difficult to carry out for the masters than for the slaves.If he treats his slaves “right and fair”, fellow slave owners were likely to ostracize them hurting their finances, social standing and more. Guiding reality for both master and slave: Both have the same Lord. (4:1)Reason: because you have a master too and he commands this. Fullness in life will elude you to the extent that you ignore this command.God wants us to receive fullness in our domestic and professional lives. Fullness from God follows in the wake of glad submission and glad obedience to the Lord.This fullness should overflow into our world as faithful fruitfulness to the great commission to love God and love people by making disciples who make disciples of Jesus Christ.Transition: The risen Lord Jesus Christ calls us to follow his design for domestic and vocational living. This is the foundation of rock the wise man built his house on in Matthew 7. When we do this, it leads us to the full life—a life of thriving in the midst of chaotic evil like we have in today's world.This leads us to live lives that demand a gospel explanation. In other words, people will see how you live and want to know why and how you live that way.This is the mission: To explain the life we live that can only be explained by the gospel. This is why gospel fluency is essential for every Christian to master. This is why we're heading towards Matthew starting at Easter. This is why we major on the New Testament in our teaching and preaching.This mindset of the great commandment and the great commission are seen in the Lord's supper where Christ calls us to look back, look up, look inside and look ahead. 1 Cor 11:23-26“For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.”‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭11:23-26‬ ‭NIV‬‬ https://bible.com/bible/111/1co.11.23-26.NIVThis transitions us towards the Lord's Supper where we remember why we do all of this—because of what he did for us at the cross.ConclusionBack to Jesus' parable about the 2 houses and the 2 foundations:“The assumption in Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders is that our homes necessarily have to endure a barrage of torrential storms.”“The assurance of his parable is that those who build their homes according to God's blueprint can withstand life's onslaughts.”In other words:Building on the world's philosophies will lead to family and societal collapse.Building on the Lord's blueprint will lead to stability, security and peace despite the devastating storms around us.Bottom line: When we gladly submit to God's design for our work life/career/vocation, we will thrive in the fullness of life.PrayLord's Supper, 1 Corinthians 11:17-32OtherKent HughesV. Servants/Slaves/Employees (3:22-25)—Not advocating for slavery.Staying silent on this institution for the simple reason that there's a battle to be fought first that lays the foundation for victory later achieved.“Through the example of Christ, the apostles understood that the great rest need for social and cultural change was a spiritual transformation through the power of the gospel.” -Pace, p. 110VI. Masters/Bosses/Employers (4:1)—His purchase of our freedom/forgiveness establish his ownership of us.1 Cor 6:19-20; Romans 6:17-18Christ is our ultimate Lord and master, King and authority over all of us. He created us and redeems us!Christ modeled this by being equal to the Father and yet submitted to his command to come and die for us. Should we do any less?“Paul's instruction for masters and servants mirror his emphasis for all members of the household: ‘Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people.'” (3:23)“This verse (3:25) summarizes and reiterates his general directive for all believers in v. 17” reminding us:WHAT we do matters “whatever you do”HOW we do it matters “do it from the heart” andWHY we do it matters “as something done for the Lord”What's your foundation: Rock or Sand?Sand—Worldview of entitlement, blame, and selfishness.Rock—Worldview of selfless, sacrificial love for all people surrendering al land gladly submitting to proper authorities starting with God at home.Hearing the word AND doing the word lead to growth in Christlike being and doing (character and competency) = FruitfulnessCross-referencesEphesians 5:21-6:9Matthew 7:24-27OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS:———————————————————————————————————————————————————————-MAIN COMMENTARY HELP:Exalting Jesus in Colossians by Scott PacePreaching the Word: Philippians, Colossians and Philemon commentary by R. Kent HughesESV Global Study BibleBible in One Year by Nicky GumbelBible Knowledge CommentaryThe Outline Bible, WilmingtonPaul for Everyone, The Prison Letters, NT Wright's commentary on Philippians and ColossiansGospel Transformation BibleNIV Study BibleThe Bible Exposition Commentary, Warren Wiersbe

How to Build Your Family to Thrive During Chaotic Times | Colossians 3:18-25

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2022 46:22

Series: Colossians: Supreme!Title: “How To Build Your Family to Thrive During Chaotic Times”Scripture: Colossians 3:18-25, Ephesians 5:21-6:9, Matthew 7:24-27; 1 Cor 6:19-20; Romans 6:17-18(Commentary helps listed at the end)Last week's Bottom line: We exchange the gross life for the good life when we embrace God's peace and God's word as God's people…with thanksgiving.Bottom line: When we gladly submit to God's design as the blueprint of our family, we (with our spouse) will build our home/family to thrive even in chaotically evil times.Opening story: Matt 7:24-27 parable of how to build your family to thrive in a world of chaotic evil. This is Jesus' summary and fitting conclusion of application to his “sermon on the mount” which is essentially his kingdom manifesto.He ends this with how to build a family that will thrive in chaotically evil times. Boy do we need to hear this!Foundation = Rock = Jesus Christ = Living wordSand = any other foundation material i.e. the worldly philosophiesHouse = Family (Home):Place of rest (in every way)Place of refuge from the world (relationally+)Place or base of operations (missionally)Rain, floods, winds = storms of life (from all directions)Hear only = foolish living = devastationHear + Obey = wise living = stability, security, peaceGenesis 2-3 show how God created a good world and how humanity wrecked it by our sinful and rebellious disobedience.Domestic code of Paul's day included gender confusion, domestic role confusion, and the evil slave/master dynamic.At the same time, God says that all people, tribes, languages, ethnicities and nations are equally precious and valuable in his eyes. He send his son Jesus Christ to die for the sins of all people. That's what we mean when we talk about the cross.Transition: In a world and at a time when the world is trying to redefine the family, we must cling to God's original definition and design if our families are going to thrive in these chaotically evil times.Paul's outline shows 3 pairs of relationships in relation to the male leader in the home.In order of priority they are:Wives/husbands (marriage)Children/fathers (family; parenting)Slaves/masters (work/culture)Ultimately, God is our authority. All submission to people is submission to God when done correctly.My Outline: (based on Outline Bible)I. Wives (3:18)—Should respectfully lift up their husbands.God said it's “not good for man to be alone” Gen 2:18Marriage - one flesh Matt 19:1-6, Eph 5:31Submit ≠ obey like children or slaves are to obey; it's in context of mutual submission per Eph 5:21Submission is a voluntary offering of self to another in willing support motivated by glad submission to Christ who died for youSubmission is notAbusiveTyrannicalDomineeringArrogantControllingII. Husbands (3:19)—Should sacrificially love their wives.As Christ loved the church and gave himself for her (Eph 5:25)SacrificiallySelflesslyResponsible for her emotional, physical and spiritual needs (ultimately met by Christ)Out of his love for ChristUndeserved, yet freely givenAside: “Marriage is a covenantal union that can be defined this way:A sacred and exclusive unionPerformed by GodThat spiritually joins the husband and the wife with the bonds of Sacrificial love and Unconditional devotions,Reflects the relationship of Christ and his church, andIs ceremoniously celebrated andPhysically consummatedBefore the Lord.III. Children (3:20)—Should humbly listen (obey, honor) to the parents; to hear is to obey.Eph 6:1-4 First command with a promiseExod 20:12Out of submission to ChristIV. Fathers (Parents) (3:21)—Should faithfully lead their children.Parallels submission to their Heavenly Father and teaches this, even as submission to both parents is appropriate and implied here.Home - where children's hearts are cultivated to love God and submit to his authority.Parents should:Disciple their childrenDiscipline their childrenNot discourage their childrenV. Servants/Slaves/Employees (3:22-25)—Should diligently work for their master/boss/employer.Not advocating for slavery.Staying silent on this institution for the simple reason that there's a battle to be fought first that lays the foundation for victory later achieved.“Through the example of Christ, the apostles understood that the great rest need for social and cultural change was a spiritual transformation through the power of the gospel.” -Pace, p. 110VI. Masters/Bosses/Employers (4:1)—Should justly provide for their slaves/servants/employees.His purchase of our freedom/forgiveness establish his ownership of us.1 Cor 6:19-20; Romans 6:17-18Christ is our ultimate Lord and master, King and authority over all of us. He created us and redeems us!Christ modeled this by being equal to the Father and yet submitted to his command to come and die for us. Should we do any less?“Paul's instruction for masters and servants mirror his emphasis for all members of the household: ‘Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people.'” (3:23)“This verse (3:25) summarizes and reiterates his general directive for all believers in v. 17” reminding us:WHAT we do matters “whatever you do”HOW we do it matters “do it from the heart” andWHY we do it matters “as something done for the Lord”This transitions us towards the Lord's Supper where we remember why we do all of this—because of what he did for us at the cross.ConclusionBack to Jesus' parable about the 2 houses and the 2 foundations:“The assumption in Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders is that our homes necessarily have to endure a barrage of torrential storms.”“The assurance of his parable is that those who build their homes according to God's blueprint can withstand life's onslaughts.”In other words:Building on the world's philosophies will lead to family collapse.Building on the Lord's blueprint will lead to stability, security and peace despite the devastating storms around us.Bottom line: When we gladly submit to God's design as the blueprint of our family, we (with our spouse) will build our home/family to thrive even in chaotically evil times.PrayLord's Supper, 1 Corinthians 11:17-32OtherMy notesPaul is giving his plan for building the church by building families. It's built around the shared leadership of the parents who are equal in value while complementary in their roles.Leadership is built around male leadership (1 Cor 5 & 11). There are 2 considerations here:Male headship was clearly a cultural issue. Men ran the world in nearly every domain and therefore called the shots in most homes and arenas. Our culture has changed much of that for the better as women are more empowered than ever before. This is good for women, girls, the family and the culture.Male headship is clearly a theological issue. Men are called to be the head of the home by God. While this goes against the grain in western culture in particular, the NT points to the creation account and the fall of humanity as the main reason for this. Eve was deceived, the apostle Paul wrote in 1 Timothy. She and Adam are both accountable for their rebellion but Paul points to Eve—not Adam—as the one deceived implying that Adam, unlike Eve, knew exactly what he was doing and yet did it anyway. In short, Eve was deceived. Adam intentionally rebelled. That said, and because Adam was created first, God appears to have ordered his family design around male headship.We see this here in this passage as Paul talks marriage and parenting.Aside: I can see how this might not sit well with women today. After all, I often feel like Anita is a much better spouse and parent than I'll ever be. But God isn't' making this call based on our abilities. He's basing this decision on his original design which has been distorted and corrupted by sin at the Fall. So he's letting it play out as he tends to do with sin. Sin has consequences. Genesis 3 explains that one of those consequences is that husbands and wives will have a contentious relationship in marriage and parenting. But it doesn't have to be that way.It is not inevitable.But it is out starting point.By God's grace, we can and should learn how to grow in our maturity as we learn together how to love unconditionally as fellow sinners saved by grace.Other notesI. “Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting to the Lord.” 3:18Ephesians adds, “For the husband (not just good ones) is the head of the church his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.”This is not saying wives are to be a doormat.This is not saying wives are to be treated poorly.This is not saying wives are to be less than God made them to be.Women are equal to men in value and worth in God's eyes.Women are skilled with many abilities just like men are. Often their skills exceed those of men.Wives are complementary in their roles to men, however. God did not give husbands and wives the exact same roles.Men lead the family ultimately as they follow the Lord.Women give birth.Wives are to help their husbands succeed in leading the family well.Husbands need their wives for the family to be healthy.Women are free to do just about anything her husband can do. The Bible only rules out shepherding a church or group of men.Women are born sinners just like men are.II. Paul turns from wives to husbands to place the full weight of the accountability and leadership on husbands when he calls them to “love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” (3:19)There is a lot more in Ephesians 5 to go with this. Mostly, it's love your wife as Christ loved the church and gave his life for her. He's willing to die for her even if she's been unfaithful to him. To me, this is the answer to the man who wants to leave his wife who's been unfaithful to him. Did Christ leave you when you were unfaithful to him? I didn't think so.This is the kind of love we're talking about—unconditional, sacrificial love. One for life. As long as we both shall live.If you have regrets about past marriage decisions, I hurt for you. Living with these regrets is no way to live. If you wish you had it to do over, confess your sin—your part of the pain. Own your part of the broken relationship. Repent of your sin nad then believe that God is faithful and just to forgive you of your sins and will cleanse you of all unrighteousness.This relationship's health impacts parenting big time. If you're struggling with your kids misbehaving, one common reason is because they feel insecure because they sense the disunity and lack of love between their parents. They may not see it consciously but they sense it. They know things aren't good. This causes them anxiety which manifests as misbehavior or worse. They feel insecure.Remember, Paul is giving us God's plan for building a healthy family, church, culture and world by reminding us this flows from our identity in Christ. When we follow Christ, we love and respect like Christ.When we follow Christ's blueprint for the family we…Gladly submit to one another as unto ChristLove one another as Christ loved us through the crossAre self-controlled bearing spiritual fruit with our spouse and kidsTeach and discipline our kids to respect, obey and honor authority starting with God and parents (1st commandment with a promise)Lead humbly and respectfully our co-workers and subordinatesWe do all of this with sincerity of heart and reverence for ChristWe do it looking forward to our inheritanceWe do it per Matt 7:24-27–because its wisdom; not foolishnessThis sandwiched between 2 sections on how to move from the gross life to the good life.Setting our hearts and minds on things abovePutting off sin and selfPutting on the new self being renewed daily through ScriptureHoly SpiritChurch familyRemembering who we are in ChristGod's chosen peopleHolyDearly lovedBehaviors befitting of our Lord and SaviorWhat's your foundation: Rock or Sand?Sand—Worldview of entitlement, blame, and selfishness.Rock—Worldview of selfless, sacrificial love for all people surrendering al land gladly submitting to proper authorities starting with God at home.Hearing the word AND doing the word.Cross-referencesEphesians 5:21-6:9Matthew 7:24-27OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS:———————————————————————————————————————————————————————-MAIN COMMENTARY HELP:Exalting Jesus in Colossians by Scott PacePreaching the Word: Philippians, Colossians and Philemon commentary by R. Kent HughesESV Global Study BibleBible in One Year by Nicky GumbelBible Knowledge CommentaryThe Outline Bible, WilmingtonPaul for Everyone, The Prison Letters, NT Wright's commentary on Philippians and ColossiansGospel Transformation BibleNIV Study BibleThe Bible Exposition Commentary, Warren Wiersbe

How To Exchange the Gross Life for the Good Life | Part 2 | Colossians 3:15-17

Coral Hill Baptist Church

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2022 40:49

Series: Colossians: Supreme!Title: “How To Exchange the Gross Life for the Good Life” part 2Scripture: Colossians 3:15-17(Commentary helps listed at the end)Last week's Bottom line: We exchange the gross life for the good life when we take off our nasty, selfish, fleshly, worldly ways and replace them with our gloriously good and Godly ways. Our motive is from a healthy understanding of who we are in Christ: “God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved.”This week's Bottom line: We exchange the gross life for the good life when we embrace God's peace and God's word as God's people…with thanksgiving.Apron (represents the good life where we love and serve others)You're wearing it alreadyIt's covering you like armorIt's a symbol of who we are and what we're to be doing (serving God by serving others)It catches some of the mess allowing you to press on in the midst of messing ministryOpening story: War in UkraineWe have another war in Europe. This time Russia attacking Ukraine. We pray for the people of Ukraine. It's hard for us to relate to what's happening there. We've never experienced an invasion on US soil like this. 9/11 and Pearl Harbor are the closest things.I suspect if this war rages on it will affect us too. If it spreads it will really impact us. How will we respond as a nation remains to be seen.But how will we respond as individuals? As the Church?I suspect we'll be tempted to respond with fear, anger, rage, slander, filthy language, etc. The gross life.I would suggest we embrace the good life instead. How?Exchange the gross life for the good life (nasty bib for humble apron) by doing the following each day:My Outline:I. Embrace the peace of God with gratitude. (3:15)“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:15‬ ‭NIV‬‬A. “Let the peace of Christ…”“Let” - if you're in Christ, you already have this gift of profound, lasting, inner peace.“Peace” - not like the world thinks of peace. More. John 14:27, Phil 4:7“of Christ” - He is the source of this profound peace through his blood. Col 1:20 “by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.”B. “rule in your hearts…”C. “since as members of one body you were called to peace.”D. “And be thankful.”Embrace the peace that surpasses all understanding and that will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. And do so with thanksgiving even as Paul says in Phil 4.II. Embrace the word of Christ with gratitude. (3:16)“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:16‬ ‭NIV‬‬A. “Let the message of Christ…”“Let” - again, this is already with and in you. The gospel is a message that transforms. (Illustration: Transformer movie and toy)“The message of Christ” - this is more than a particular sermon or the ABCs of the gospel. This is the comprehensive message of the good news that we're sinners apart from Christ and that our only hope of salvation is through his sacrificial death on the cross can we find mercy and forgiveness. He took our place!“dwell among you…” - dwell = live; we immerse ourselves in this message; gospel fluency is like language fluency or music fluency. When you can communicate or make music spontaneously without any helps or sheet music, you are truly free to express yourself beautifully. The main problem in the church today is that we don't do this well, if at all. We see the gospel as a fire insurance policy instead of a way to live.“richly” - as in abundantly; fully from a God who has no limits. He owns it all and can create more from nothing whenever it is needed. And he's your father!“as you teach and admonish…” what we're we do with and for each other whenever we gather. This is assumed by Paul that you're gathering regularly with each other in places where conversation can and does happen. Conversation about more than sports or the weather.“one another…” and the others with you are first brothers and sisters in Christ. But hopefully there are others not there yet all around to see the power of this unity and love in action.“with all wisdom…” - this wisdom comes from God. Our wisdom is inferior in quality (worldly vs godly) and in quantity (limited vs infinite).“through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit…” speaks to the purpose and diversity of song lyrics and styles. God is infinitely creative. We should embrace all forms and styles of music knowing that music is powerful and should be used wisely and often. It's purpose is not simply musical or for pleasure, although that is worthy enough. It is also didactic. It is for teaching and warning. It is a tool to nurture gospel fluency. Illustration: children's choirs. Psalms are likely THE Psalms of the Hebrew bible. Hymns are formal Christian songs and could include choruses. Spiritual songs could be simple Christian songs written in advance or even spontaneous and original. The point is the variety is to be embraced and to be edifying in the process. “One another” indicates this is primarily used in corporate worship because it blesses others through it's beauty and content.“singing to God…” our primary audience“with gratitude in your hearts.” Don't miss this. It's not just punctuation. Paul means to underline all of these verses with this attitude of gratitude.Embrace the peace of God and the word of Christ with gratitude. And…III. Embrace your identity in Christ with gratitude. (3:17)“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:17‬ ‭NIV‬‬A. “Whatever you do…” is comprehensive in nature.“Whatever you do” where you live, work, learn and play covers your whole life.“whether in word or deed” is comprehensive in that it includes your words and actions.B. “do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus,” Do it in his name as you identify with him as his family. The son of the Father and the brother of the Lord Jesus. Either way you are royalty and have been rescued to rescue; saved to save; delivered to deliver; discipled to disciple.C. “giving thanks to God the Father through him.” More of the trinity on display here. Remember, one God who expresses himself as three beings. The underlying theme here continues to be gratitude for who God is and for what he's done in us.Do it how?“Do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus (wholeheartedly), and“Giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Gratefully)ConclusionImagine if I came into your house for supper at your invitation. And imagine that you told me to make myself at home. Now imagine that after you walked into the kitchen to finish up preparations I started moving around the furniture in your den. Now you come back in and I've moved the easy chair in front of and up close to the TV. I've also moved over the nice end table right beside said easy chair so I had a place to set my drink. And I'm reclined scrolling through the channels…making myself at home.After all, I move the furniture around at my house whenever I want. (OK, and when Anita isn't home)Would you have expected that? No. You didn't really mean it! It was just an expression or idiom meaning to make myself comfortable WITHIN REASON!I wonder if we don't do this with God.God calls us to surrender our lives to him trusting him as His people no matter what's happening. To exchange lies for truth. To exchange distress, uncertainty and loss with his peace.We sing, “I surrender all” but we don't really mean it, do we? I mean I surrender all WITHIN REASON!What if God really meant for us to truly exchange our gross ways of living in our own strength and wisdom for a better way—his way. What if he was calling us to truly embrace his word, his peace, and his identity? And to be grateful and glad to do it?!My hope today is that you'll hear (maybe for the first time) how you can exchange this gross life of sin and self, stress and fear, for the good life full of truth, peace and gratitude that moves you to worship your Creator as a grateful recipient of his gracious care as his creature. Made new by the blood of Christ. Will you entertain the notion that there are profound reasons to exchange the gross life for the good life?When we remember our identity as followers of Jesus Christ, we readily embrace God's word and God's peace, and we do that with gratitude.Imagine what it would be like if everyone did this.Imagine if we all embraced the word of God that includes the commands love your neighbor as you love yourself.Imagine if we all embraced the peace of God that transcends all understanding.Imagine if we all embraced our identity in Christ that we carry his name and therefore are called to live like we are Christ-followers.Imagine if we did all of this with thanksgiving all the time.What a different world this would be.This is what God calls us to. To display his grace and truth in word and deed. No matter where we are or what we're doing. We never stop showing and telling the love of God.Bottom line: We exchange the gross life for the good life when we embrace God's peace and God's word as God's people.May we find ourselves doing this by grace through faith with thanksgiving.PrayLord's Supper, 1 Corinthians 11:17-32OtherGood summary of 3:1-10“Verses 1-10 set forth what has been described as the indicative and the imperative (standing and state) of the Christian. The indicative statements describe the believer's position in Christ: He is dead (3); he has been raised with Christ (1); he is with Christ in heaven (3); he has ‘taken off the old self' (9); and he has ‘put on the new self' (10). The imperative statements indicate what the believer is to do as a result: He is to set his heart (or mind) on things above (1-2); he is to put to death practices that belong to his earthly nature (5); and he is to rid himself of practices that characterized his unregenerate self (8). In summary, he is called upon to become in daily experience what he is positionally in Christ.” NIV Study Bible, p. 1816When we see as God sees we'll respond as we should respond. Worship is seeing God for who he is and responding in faith about who we are. This impacts what we live for and how we live.NIV Study Bible says:“Hymns” are songs that praise God for who he is.“Spiritual Songs” are songs that thank God for what he's done.“Psalms” are the OT Hebrew Scriptures that do both of these things.We should sing songs toPraise God for who he is,Thank God for what he's done,“Teach and admonish one another with all wisdom…with gratitude in your hearts to God.”In sum, the songs we teach and sing should adore and honor God for who he is, what he's done and for teaching us how to follow Christ and lead others to do the same.FF Bruce indicates these 3 categories could be:Psalms = Psalms in OTHymns = might be Christian canticles (some of which are reproduced, in whole or in part, in the NT text) ex. Phil 2:6-11Spiritual songs = might be unpremeditated words sung ‘in the Spirit,' voicing holy aspirations. FF Bruce, p 159Too rigid a distinction here does not serve us well. Rather, we should realize that music is a powerful and beautiful tool to be used to frame and facilitate the words of Christ deep and wide in us as we share it with others.OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS:———————————————————————————————————————————————————————-MAIN COMMENTARY HELP:Exalting Jesus in Colossians by Scott PacePreaching the Word: Philippians, Colossians and Philemon commentary by R. Kent HughesESV Global Study BibleBible in One Year by Nicky GumbelBible Knowledge CommentaryThe Outline Bible, WilmingtonPaul for Everyone, The Prison Letters, NT Wright's commentary on Philippians and ColossiansGospel Transformation BibleNIV Study BibleThe Bible Exposition Commentary, Warren Wiersbe

To Whom It May Concern: Philemon 1:1-25

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2022 46:58

A Sermon Series in the Prison Letters of Paul

concerns philemon sermon series may concern prison letters

How to Exchange the Gross Life for the Good Life

walk pastor david prison letters times square church

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2022 47:05

Series: Colossians: Supreme!Title: “How to Exchange the Gross Life for the Good Life”Scripture: Colossians 3:5-14(Commentary helps listed at the end)Last week's Bottom line: We keep good things from becoming God things when we set our hearts and minds on things above.This week's Bottom line: We exchange the gross life for the good life when we take off our nasty, selfish, fleshly, worldly ways and replace them with our gloriously good and Godly ways. Our motive is from a healthy understanding of who we are in Christ: “God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved.”Opening story:Our new grandson visits us about once a week for the day. I'm getting new material from him all the time.:-)This week I was reminded of the grossness that is the bib.Tension: “Too often, we're more concerned with feeding our desires more than ministering to those in need. Instead, we must take off our spiritual bibs and put on spiritual aprons that reflect the compassionate heart of our Savior by loving others and willingly sacrificing on their behalf.” -Scott PaceHe's a little over a year old now and learning to feed himself. But he needs a bib. The bib doesn't do a lot but it does reduce the damage done by the amount of food and drink that misses his mouth and lands on his belly. What's even more gross are those marsupial bibs that have the pouch in front to catch all the food trying to run for it's life.Paul uses a clothing metaphor to help us picture the contrast between the way of the world and way of Christ.We're created in God's image but are still wearing the grossness that is our old, nasty, selfish passions, practices and pride. We need to be wearing spiritual bibs. Our actions can just be plain gross in God's eyes (and each other's).We know that we should shed the bib and exchange it for the apron—a symbol of spiritual humility to willing and sacrificially serve God by serving others.It's not a coincidence that the pre-runners to the Deacon were men serving tables for the widows in their local church. (See Acts 6)From gross spiritual bib of sexual immorality, greed, and rage, to the good spiritual apron of godly love: humble, sacrificial acts of service to God on behalf of others.Outline: (based on Pace and Hughes outlines)I. Taking off (putting to death) the gross life (the bib): The Challenge (5-9a)A. Put to death our sinful passions. (5-7)B. Put off our sinful practices. (8-10)C. Put down our sinful pride. (11)II. Taking off the gross life: The rationale (9b-11)III. Putting on the good life (the apron) (12a)A. Why? Because we're God's chosen peopleB. What are God's chosen people like?HolyDearly lovedIV. Wearing the apron. (12b-13)A. So we clothe ourselves withCompassionKindnessHumilityGentlenessB. Along withPatience (long-suffering)…bear with one anotherForgive as the Lord has forgiven you (cf. Matthew 6:15 “But if you do not forgive others their sins, your FAther will not forgive your sins.”)V. The ultimate apparel. (14)A. Love is the ultimate apparel. Why?B. It binds it all together into perfect unity.ConclusionBottom line: We exchange the gross life for the good life when we take off our nasty, selfish, fleshly, worldly ways and replace them with our gloriously good and Godly ways. Our motive is from a healthy understanding of who we are in Christ: “God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved.”Choose to exchange.Choose to believe.Walk as God's chosen person, holy and dearly loved.PrayLord's Supper, 1 Corinthians 11:17-32OtherPace Outline:OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS:Our girls would sometimes watch the TV show The Suite Life of Zack and Codie. This has nothing to do with today's message. But it comes from the “sweet” connection to something called the good life—something we all likely are drawn to. But what is the good life?What is the meaning of the good life?Webster' s dictionary defines the good life1 US : the kind of life that people with a lot of money are able to have.Philosophy = love of wisdom. So let's see how some philosophers define “the good life.”How does Socrates define the good life?Socrates definition of the good life is being able to fulfill the “inner life” by inquiring and expanding the mind to the greatest extent possible. ... Socrates proposed his idea of the good life in his encounter with Crito which was written by Plato.Kant believes that the highest good for a human being is the conjunction of happiness and complete virtue and how it is possible for an individual to attain these two things at the same time. ...What is the key to a good life?“Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence,” he said. Epicurus observed that the key to a good life is avoiding pain, abstaining from unnecessary desires and beinggrateful for what you have in life.How does Plato define the good life?Like most other ancient philosophers, Plato maintains…happiness or well-being is the highest aim of moral thought and conduct, and the virtues are the requisite skills and dispositions needed to attain it.What is a good life to Aristotle?Aristotle argues that what separates human beings from the other animals is the human reason. So the good life is one in which a person cultivates and exercises their rational facultiesby, for instance, engaging in scientific inquiry, philosophical discussion, artistic creation, or legislation.———————————————————————————————————————————————————————-MAIN COMMENTARY HELP:Exalting Jesus in Colossians by Scott PacePreaching the Word: Philippians, Colossians and Philemon commentary by R. Kent HughesESV Global Study BibleBible in One Year by Nicky GumbelBible Knowledge CommentaryThe Outline Bible, WilmingtonPaul for Everyone, The Prison Letters, NT Wright's commentary on Philippians and ColossiansGospel Transformation BibleNIV Study BibleThe Bible Exposition Commentary, Warren Wiersbe

Pastor David Ham discuss his latest series Prison Letters on Walk in Faith with Craig Syracusa

Walk In Faith

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2022 23:08

In this episode of Walk in Faith, we visited the set of a new series Prison Letters, and spoke with Pastor David Ham from Times Square Church to discuss his latest series and how to reach this generation.

How to Keep Good Things from Becoming God Things | Colossians 3:1-4