Memory is a wonderful thing. Man is able to remember the things which he deems to be important. For instance, a man, if he values his life, will remember the date of his anniversary. Sometimes, try as we might, things get forgotten. For instance, this author is horrible with names. While he hates to admit such a thing, it is true. After he mentioned this in a sermon, a sister in Christ spoke to him after services concerning a trick to remember someone’s name. She told him to take that person’s name and an item nearby. He would remember the item when he sees that person and remember the name. To this day this author cannot remember her name but he remembers that she was wearing a blue blouse. Memory is a funny thing.

It is not a bad thing to be reminded of things one already knows. “This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance” (2 Peter 3:1). The problem is that some seem to forget more than they remember. One may be reminded of a congregation in the Bible who seemed to have an issue with forgetting. There are three instances in which the congregation at Ephesus was told to remember. Paul, while speaking to the elders of the congregation, said, “Therefore, watch, and remember…” (Acts 20:31). Christ told the congregation, “Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen…” (Rev. 2:5). The most notable is found in Ephesians 2:11. It is here that Paul tells the congregation, “Wherefore remember…”. It seems that the congregation was in the process of becoming what is read in Revelation. Paul is trying to encourage them to remember certain things throughout the whole chapter in the hopes of stopping the process which has begun. This verse serves as the backdrop to one of this preacher’s favorite chapters of the Bible. Why is this chapter a favorite of his? It reminds him of three very important facts. These facts are things every Christian should try to remember. Why? Discouragement can come in a number of ways. These discouragements will bombard the Christian and cause a loss of focus. When that focus is lost there are a number of things which the Christian can easily forget. When the act of forgetting occurs, it becomes easy for the Christian to fall away. What three things should we remember?

It is not a bad thing to be reminded of what one was in time past. Paul would sometimes recall the fact that he was once a harsh persecutor of the church but did not allow that to hold him back from the work of the church (Phil. 3:2, 13-14). In this chapter, Paul reminds the congregation of their former condition.

Dead in Sins (2:1)
“And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins” (Eph. 2:1). Paul refers to the fact that the past sins of these Gentiles had put them in a state of spiritual death! What does it mean for a person to be dead spiritually? James wrote that death occurs when the soul is separated from the body (James 2:26). Keeping that in mind, there must be some sort of separation to occur for one to become dead spiritually. What kind of separation will cause such a state? Paul indicates that it is separation from God as at one time these Ephesians were “without God” (v. 12, cf. Is. 59:1-2). These Gentiles were at one time in a state of separation from the One True God due to the sins they had committed.

A List of the Gentile Condition (2:11-12).
“Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world” (Eph. 2:11-12). If only the time could be taken to cover the entire scope of these two verses. Paul delves deeper into the spiritual condition of these individuals before obeying the gospel of Christ. They did not know Christ, much less His gospel, and as such could not obey Him to receive His blessings. They were foreigners who were not privy to the blessings of Israel and to the Abrahamic Promise. They were also without any hope. One may think of an individual who is told that he has a terminal illness and think of one with no physical hope. How much more painful is it to be without spiritual hope? As their spiritual location was “in the world” they were separated from God!

Paul points out three central beings that played an important in the salvation of man. It would do well to remember the part which all played.

God’s Part (2:4, 5, 8)
God played an important role in the salvation of man. In this chapter, one would read of two great things God showed to mankind (Eph. 2:4). God has shown a great amount of mercy to His creation. Even though mankind has committed sin, He is compassionate to our needs. In this mercy, His grace has been shown to mankind (Eph. 2:5, cf v. 8). Grace is unmerited favor. Man was not so good that God decided to save him. It was through the mercy and grace of God that a Savior was sent into the world.

Christ’s Part (2:7)
This mercy and grace was shown through Christ (Eph. 2:7). It was important that His blood be shed in order for this to occur (2:13). It is important to note that one must come in contact with the blood of Christ in order for the blessings of Christ to occur. All spiritual blessings are found in Christ Jesus, which includes the forgiveness of sins (Eph 1:3, 7). Therefore, it is important that one come in contact with the blood of Christ in order to be privy to these blessings (Gal. 3:27). That means there is another who plays a role in man’s salvation.

Man’s Part (2:8).
Paul told these Christians “For by grace ye are saved through faith…” (Eph. 2:8). Faith is man’s part in salvation and we are not talking about faith only (Jam. 2:24).  One could study the Ephesians and note that they played an active role in their salvation. One should note that these: Heard and Believed (Eph. 1:13), Repented (Acts 20:21), Confessed (Acts 19:18), and were Baptized (Acts 19:1-5; Eph. 4:5).

Many would say that the idea of man having to do something to be saved negates God’s grace. This is not true. If I were to offer a $50 dollar bill to anyone in the audience stating that to get it one would need to walk to me to get it, would that negate the fact that I am freely giving away $50 dollars despite tacking on a requirement to receive it? No, therefore, God stating a man must obey His commands before He can be saved does not negate the gift of grace.

Made Alive in Christ (2:5)
When a man is still in his sins he is dead but when he obeys the gospel of Christ he is quickened or made alive (Eph. 2:5; Romans 6:3-6). That one is buried with Christ in baptism and the old man of sin is crucified. When that old man was put to death, the Christians in Ephesus were now living a life different from that which they lived in time past.

Made to Be Part of the One Body (Eph. 2:14-18; 1:22-23)
Christ played the role of the ultimate peacemaker (Matt. 5:9). He did this by taking two warring factions and united them together in one body. There was a literal wall which stood between the Jews and Gentiles. There was a partition in the temple court which divided the two. This wall bore an inscription which forbad Gentiles from going further. There was also a spiritual wall between the two. Christ tore down that wall with His death on the cross. He took two groups and made them to be part of one body (Eph. 1:22-23; Rom. 16:16).

There is so much more which could be said about this chapter and many verses which we were forced to skip. Why is this chapter one of my favorites? Think of a cleaning product on television. They usually show the before product. A shirt which was once pure bright but now covered in grass, dirt, and a host of other stains. This cleaning product is applied to the shirt and it is washed. The commercial then shows a before and after shot. While at one time the shirt was deeply stained, the cleaning solution was applied to it and it is now white as it once was.

Paul reminds the Ephesians (and us) of that same truth. Christians were at one time deeply stained in sin and in a terrible condition. When the decision was made to obey the gospel of Christ, we came in contact with the cleansing solution of Christ’s blood. How did it affect them? They were cleansed of their sins and in a glorious condition as members of the body of Christ. It is important that all Christians remember these great truths. This is why this chapter is one of this preacher’s favorite passages.

While all scripture is given by the “inspiration of God,” and all scripture is “profitable” for every Christian today (2 Tim. 3:16-17), one scripture in particular will help keep all those desiring to follow Christ in the proper frame of mind. Paul exhorts the church at Philippi to “let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 2:5). The Bible gives no suggestions on Christian living, and each Christian should be mindful that we will be held accountable by the very words spoken by God (John 12:48). The command to have the “mind of Christ” is an expectation of God. Here are some aspects in our Christian walk that we need to remember in having the mind of Christ:

In some of the most difficult times in the life of Jesus Christ the Bible records that He was in prayer.

Christ prayed before big decisions. Christ prayed before big decisions. Christ prayed before making one of the most important choices of His ministry on earth, choosing the twelve to go out and begin the teaching of the entire world! (Luke 6:12-16). If Jesus found comfort in speaking with His Father before making large and impacting decisions in His life, then those following Christ should also. Decisions in our life that will have impact and effect our paths of our lives or those around us should be carefully considered and taken to our Father in prayer. 

Christ thanked His Father in prayer. Specifically, it is never mentioned  that Christ thanked His Father for the circumstances in His life, but It is safe to draw inference that He in fact did thank God for every situation that he encountered. Paul, in speaking to the Thessalonians, reminded them “in everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thes. 5:18). We should be in prayer to God, giving thanks to Him for the good times, and also for the bad times. While we may not enjoy our bad times, God reminds us that they are working for us a “far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Cor. 4:17).

Christ prayed for those who were followers. The true “Lord’s Prayer” as recorded in John 17 pens the words of Christ as He prayed for “all those who believe on Me through their words” (John 17:20). Christ prayed for His disciples, those who are today named Christians (Acts 11:36). The church is God’s place for those who are saved, added by God (Acts 2:47), and the church of Jesus is the only institution God has ever given as a method of salvation (Acts 4:12, Acts 2:47). We should spend time, having the mind of Christ, in carrying out the mission of Christ to “go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mark 16:15).    

Christ always prayed for the will of God to be done. At times our circumstances are not as we wish. Christ had the same issues. Just moments before going to the cross, Christ prayed to His Father in Heaven that His (the Father’s) will be done. (Luke 22:42). Christ prayed that the will of God be done even though it was not the most comfortable or convenient situation for Him. The church today would do well to pray for the will of the Father to always be done, even when it is not easy or convenient for us. 

While I consider myself good at some things, math would not be one of them. I do understand some basic concepts in math, and as poor as my skills may be, I understand the concept of “many and few”. Jesus spoke concerning two “gates”: there is a wide gate that leads to destruction and many will find it, and there is a narrow way that Jesus says leads to eternal life and few will find it. The common denominator is that there is a gate, and between the many and few all will find one or the other. The simple fact is that most people will not enter in to the narrow gate. Those are not words I said, but words that Jesus said. It is not because God does not love them; God loves the world (John 3:16) and provided a way in Jesus for the world to be saved. Jesus said that He is “the way the truth and the life” and the only way to get to the Father (John 14:1-3). Jesus recorded that His mission on earth is to “seek and save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10), and Jesus was clear that the harvest (the lost) is plentiful while the laborers (those to teach them the gospel) are few (Matt. 9:37). God has given a great responsibility to preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15), and it is through the foolishness of preaching that those who believe are saved (1 Cor. 1:21) after their faithful obedience to the Gospel (Romans 1:16), the power of God itself. If I am going to have the mind of Christ, I am going to do all I can to save those who are lost through my teaching in example and in word the Gospel of Christ Jesus.

It is my prayer and hope that we all take heed to one of the simplest to understand and most powerful verses in the New Testament, to simply “have the mind of Christ” in all we do.

  Caleb had labored for God all of his life and now was 85 years old.  Yet his age did not stop him from continuing to labor for the Lord.  Caleb was working just as hard for the Lord at 85 as he was at 40.  Unfortunately some Christians do not think like Caleb.  I have heard many “older” Christians make statements like “I taught class when I was younger but now that I’m in my 50’s (or 60’s) it’s time for someone else to do it;”  “I’m retiring from door knocking and teaching, I’ve done my time, let someone younger do it.”  What if Caleb had this attitude?  “I’m old Joshua, give me something easy and let someone younger have that mountain.”  Folks, there is no “retiring” when it comes to Christianity.  If one says that he/she is retiring from doing the things that all Christians ought to do, then he/she is saying that he/she is no longer going to be a faithful Christian.  “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life,” Revelation 2:10.  There are many admonitions in the Bible for the “older” Christians to teach the younger.  The Apostle Paul through inspiration wrote “The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;  That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed,” Titus 2:3-5.  Caleb never let age stop him from doing the Lord’s work and it should never stop any of us from continuing to be faithful Christians.

  In Numbers 13, twelve men were sent to spy out the land of Canaan for forty days.  When the twelve returned, they reported their findings to Moses.  “And they went and came to Moses, and to Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of Israel, unto the wilderness of Paran, to Kadesh; and brought back word unto them, and unto all the congregation, and shewed them the fruit of the land. And they told him, and said, We came unto the land whither thou sentest us, and surely it floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it. Nevertheless the people be strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there. The Amalekites dwell in the land of the south: and the Hittites, and the Jebusites, and the Amorites, dwell in the mountains: and the Canaanites dwell by the sea, and by the coast of Jordan,” Numbers 13:26-29.  Caleb did not agree with the assessment given by 10 of the spies.  Caleb remembered God’s faithful promise to give them the land of Canaan (Exodus 13:11) and knew that God would not falter on His promise.  Caleb responded, “And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it,” Numbers 13:30.  The other 10 spies again told the people that the inhabitants of the land were too strong, which caused the people to murmur against Moses, Aaron and God (Numbers 13:31-14:2).  Caleb did not give into “peep pressure.”  He along with Joshua stayed the faithful course.  “And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes: And they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land. If the LORD delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey. Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the LORD is with us: fear them not,” Numbers 14:6-9.  Sadly too many today do not have the courage of Caleb.  Too often many of the Lord’s congregations are being led away into denominationalism because of the lack of courageous leaders like Caleb.  Sadly, almost monthly, one can hear or read about a congregation of the Lord’s church being drawn away by addition of the musical instrument.  “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord,” Ephesians 5:19.  Many congregations have adopted the idea of reaching across to the denominations and joining hands with them in fellowship, and even in pulpit swapping.  “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them,” Ephesians 5:11.  It is past time for the leaders of individual congregations to step up and have the courage of Caleb and wholly follow the Lord, even when others do not.

  How does one live the Christian life? It is something that some think just happens, however like anything else that is worth doing it takes work, planning and adherence. God’s word gives us many examples to follow with Christ being the supreme example. Of this Peter wrote, “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:” (1 Peter 2:21-23). Looking at Christ’s life it is readily seen how He conducted Himself as He dealt with man and various aspects of human life and how Christians should live their lives. 

  The Apostle Paul wrote to the brethren at Colosse about how a Christian should live. In chapter three of the epistle Paul wrote, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1). This statement causes the child of God to look within himself to determine if he is a true follower of Christ. Soul searching that is needed to make sure why one obeyed the gospel, and if he is living faithfully.  From time to time there are those who respond to the invitation of Christ who have responded before but have come to realize that they really did not have the proper understanding of what was happening when they were obeyed the first time. Some fail to change their lives, and therefore never repent of the sinful lifestyle they had been living. The true convert realizes that he must turn aside from the world and seek out heaven. This seeking requires determination and dedication to live as Christ lived. It goes beyond a “surface “Christianity; it goes deep into understanding the love and mercy God has shown to them. 

  Paul continues his admonitions on Christian living by talking about where a person’s affections should be placed.  “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2), this is more difficult than some think.  It would seem that if one is determined to follow Christ, then it would be easy to only have affections for spiritual and upright things. God, in His wisdom, knows His creation and has given many warnings against falling into Satan’s snare of thinking this will just happen. Jesus taught that man ought to “seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; (Matthew 6:33); that man ought not “Lay up for yourselves treasures upon earth“(Matt.6:19). The apostle John wrote, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever” (1 John 2:15-17). Paul’s advice points the child of God in the direction of heaven. Love for God and His Word, and of the hope of heaven must be on the mind of a true follower constantly. With a mindset on heaven, when Satan throws his darts the individual can see the way of escape from temptation (1 Cor. 10:13). Paul had to watch himself lest he become a castaway (1 Corinthians 9:27). Just knowing that this great Apostle had to watch himself,  lest he would fall, is ample evidence that setting ones affections on things above will be difficult at times.  

  Why should the Christian seek to do these things? Paul goes right back to Christ. “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3). Christians must always be cognizant of this fact. At one time he lived only for self and for sin. Now all that has changed, and having died to self and to the world, a person’s allegiance is with Christ who gave Himself for man.  The old man of sin no longer lives.  His life is now “hid with Christ in God”. Often it is said that a preacher should “hide behind the cross” as he proclaims God’s word, which is true. Yet every Christian should be hiding behind God and His Son as they live their lives, much like a young child will cling to a mother’s coattail when he is afraid or injured. God is there for Christians. Peter wrote, “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:6, 7). Those outside of Christ will never know the peace and comfort of knowing there is a God who knows of the person’s pain and anguish and who is waiting to help.

  Assurance is given to the Christian, whose life is centered on God that the crown of victory awaits. “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory” (Colossians 3:4), Christ is the Christians reason for living. As Paul told those on Mars Hill, “For in him we live, and move, and have our being; … For we are also his offspring” (Acts 17:28).  Living for Christ each day seems trying to some, but those who desire to go to heaven know that it is worth giving up the “pleasure of sin for a season” (Hebrews 11:25). The promise of eternal life in heaven is the goal of every Christian.  Paul once referred to it as the “crown of righteousness” stating it was not only for him but for “unto all them also that love his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8).

  Sin takes on many forms and the apostle gives examples of such. “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;” (Colossians 3:5-9).The sins mentioned were sins the Colossae Christians had been guilty of committing before they became Christians. The apostle bringing these to their attention serves to show Christians today that sins engaged in before one becomes a Christian must be “put to death”.  If this does not happen the sins will raise their wicked heads and be snares for those trying to live for God. One item in the list of sins that troubles many is covetousness. It is hard to see covetousness, for many times it is a “secret” sin that seldom comes out in the open. Secret or not, it must be conquered. Anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth, and lying many times are habitual in the lives of people. It takes a person being constantly on guard to break such habits, but it can and must be done. Those who fail to change their habits, and continue to engage in these sins, fail in trying to do as Paul has advised. That is why one must look within himself to make sure he is what he desires to be, and is not deceiving himself. James said, “Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves” (James 1:21-22). Again, the importance of “putting to death” these sins cannot be over- emphasized. Only when it is done will a Christian be able to live for God, and even then he must be on guard, less he fall.

  The old man of sin has to be left behind and the new man goes forward following God. “seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” (3:9b-10). The new man is renewed in knowledge, knowledge of himself and of God. God’s word gives man truth and man is able to look into himself and see if he is what he needs to be. This comes only from “seeking those things above”. 

  One can only imagine the tragedy it would be for one to live a luxurious life, and leave God in the backseat. The majority of the people in the world live a life seeking for nothing less than fame, fortune, and position. People live life as if they are promised tomorrow (James 4:13-15). Furthermore, what a devastation it would be for one to live life trying to get all the fame and fortune they can, and then later come to find out they have a deadly disease (cancer, AIDS, etc.), and the doctor tells them they have maybe six months to live. Moreover, can you imagine for that one to be on their death bed with “no hope” after their death. You see, one does not have to live a life like this. A life “without hope” after their earthly death. We can have “hope” now and after our earthly death! Let us look together at how one can have a life with “hope.”

  Paul wrote to the church of Christ in Rome,

  Notice Paul, by inspiration (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 1 Corinthians 14:37) is very specific in the above passage as for whom “all things work together for good.”First, he mentions “all things work together for good” to those who LOVE GOD. Jesus proclaimed to the Jews who were wanting to hold on to their traditions, “Hear, O Israel, the LORD our God, the LORD is one. And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. This is the first commandment” (Mark 12:29-30). One MUST love God with their entire being before they can receive any of the promises of God through Jesus Christ. One MUST deny all that he has, and even himself before he can even attempt to follow after Christ (Luke 14:25-33). Jesus told his disciples, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). According to this passage “Loving God” involves doing ANYTHING and EVERTHING Jesus tells us to do, even if we have to change. If we love God we will not ask questions, we will not just give “eye service,” but we will do the will of God whole-heartedly (Eph. 6:6). Do you truly love God?

  Not only MUST one “Love God,” but one MUST be part of “the called” according to the passage of this study. Well, the question arises: Who are “the called?” A Bible student MUST turn to the pages of Holy Writ, and nothing else for the answers to every question they might have (2 Pet. 1:3; 1 Pet. 4:11; 1 Pet. 3:15). So, who are “the called” according to Paul? The same Apostle wrote, “To which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle” (2 Thess. 2:14-15).Paul proclaimed by inspiration that we, are “called by the gospel.” If one is going to be called by the gospel, they MUST know what “the gospel” is(Rom.1:16-17). Furthermore, for one to know what the gospel is, they MUST hear it, or have heard it before (Rom. 10:14-17). Also, they MUST believe that which they have heard (John 3:16; John 8:24; Heb. 11:6). For one to be part of “the called” they MUST also repent of their past sins, which means they are willing to change “their will” for “God's Will” (Luke 13:3-5; Acts 2:38; 1 Cor. 6:9-11; Rom. 12:1-2). The Bible teaches that for one to be a part of “the called” they must also be willing to confess that Jesus Christ is the son of God (Matt. 10:32-33; Rom. 10:10; 1 Tim. 6:12; Acts 8:37). Moreover, if one wants to be part of “the called” upon their confession they MUST be baptized (immersed) into Jesus Christ (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; Acts 8:12; Acts 8:36-39; Acts 22:16; Rom. 6:3-4; 1 Cor. 12:13; Gal. 3:26-27; Col. 2:12; 1 Pet. 3:21). Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost that for one to be “added” to the Lord's church one MUST repent and be baptized (Acts 2:38;41;47). Once one is baptized the Lord adds them to His church, and they become a “Christian,” nothing more and nothing less (Acts 11:26). Also, upon one's baptism one is raised to “walk in newness of life” (Rom. 6:4), they become “a new creature” (2 Cor. 5:17), and their old life is remembered no more (1 Cor. 6:9-11). There are many teachings in the religious world on how to be saved, or on how to be “a part of the called.” My friends the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ teaches one thing and one thing only. Let us all study and read for ourselves so we can know these things (2 Tim. 2:15; Eph. 3:4). Furthermore, if we have not done these things, let us evaluate ourselves and be added to“the called” so Heaven can be our home. Let us search the Scriptures daily (Acts 17:11) lest we be deceived by false teachings and/or false teachers (1 John 4:1; Gal. 1:6-10; 2 Tim. 4:2-4). And finally, let us be faithful until death, and never give up, or give in to the devil (1 Pet. 5:8), until our last breath here on earth.


  So, the ultimate question one should ask is, “Do all things work together for good for me?”

  William Randolph Hearst, a newspaper publisher, was one of the richest men in America in the early 1900s. Because of his riches, he was able to have some very expensive hobbies, including traveling the world. During his travels, a new hobby was introduced to him: collecting coveted works of art. When he saw pieces of art that caught his eye, he would send one of his “agents” after it. One morning, Hearst composed a comprehensive list of the paintings, sculptures, and other pieces he wanted most and sent out his chief agent to find them. Although it usually took several weeks of searching, his agent returned in just a few days. “Did you find what I was looking for?” Hearst asked in surprise. “Yes,” the agent replied. “I found everything you wanted. But what I found may surprise you.”

  Some would say that the greatest challenge facing the church today is the challenge of keeping the darkness of the world from infiltrating into our hearts, to keep the command given in Matthew 5:16:

  How can we avoid being swallowed by the darkness and, instead, cut through the darkness as the lights? How can we keep our lights shining brightly and make them even brighter? The answer to these questions lies a simple, yet profound verse; my personal favorite passage, 1 Thessalonians 1:3: 

  The books of first and second Thessalonians are written to the congregation in Thessalonica. Thessalonica was a seafaring town, and because of this, it attracted a plethora of trade, which attracted many immigrants. Each of these immigrants from various nations brought with them their own unique gods, which resulted in “much conflict” for the congregation (1 Thess. 2:2). Each one of these gods tried to infiltrate the congregation there because of how they “sounded out” (1 Thess. 1:8). If we make noise in our communities, if we attempt to fulfill the Great Commission, there will be “much conflict,” and the world will attack the church. How can we seal the church from the attacks of the world, how can we shine ever brighter? 

  In chapter five of this epistle to the Thessalonians, an inspired Paul commands them to “pray without ceasing.” He mentions how he remembered them before God, presumably in prayer. Although this is just my opinion, I feel that this is mentioned to let them know that there were people out there who cared about them and wanted them to defeat the world. When the world is pressing in on the you or your congregation, just ask for prayers. After all, “...The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working” (James 5:16). 

  Drew Carey pretty adequately described the typical person’s perspective of their job: “Oh, you hate your job? ... There’s a support group for that, it’s called EVERYONE.” Work, or ἔργον, in verse three means to toil, to work as if it were a job. As Drew Carey so bluntly put it, “normal” people hate their job. So why does God ask us to do something that we are expected to hate? To show our faith. When we work, when we toil, we are showing our faith in God. We’re doing something that “normal” people wouldn’t do, and by that our light is cutting through the dense darkness of the devil and showing the world what it means to be a Christian. 

  I can’t put it any more truthfully than Michael Whitworth put it in his guide to the Thessalonians entitled Living and Longing for the Lord. He said, “Faith works, but love goes the extra mile.” Labor, or κόπος, literally means to work all day until you’re exhausted and in pain, but you keep going because of love. No matter how strong your faith is, because the work of faith is a job, it’s going to want to quit at some point. However, love is something that will propel you to keep working even when faith might want to quit. Back in the first century A.D., when a Roman soldier passed through a captive town, he could legally force a captive man to carry his bag for a mile outside the town. You can just see the man carrying the bag and, at the end of the mile (which he would be counting every step of), dumping the bag on the ground, giving the soldier a dark look, and then walking defiantly back to town. In Matthew 5:41, Jesus said, “And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.” Instead of throwing the bag down at one mile, Jesus commanded them to walk twice as much. You can just see the Roman soldier expecting the bag to be ungraciously thrown to the ground at exactly one mile, but ... the man keeps going. At a mile and a half, I can see the Roman soldier saying to the man, “Man, it’s... been a mile. You can go back now,” and the man just shaking his head. Then as they hit the two mile mark, I can see the man handing the bag kindly over to a bewildered soldier who asks, “Why have you done this for me?” Then the man replies, “Because I love my Lord and Savior Jesus, Jesus loves you, therefore I love you.” What a powerful message that would send, a powerful message applicable to our own lives! Truly, “Faith works, but love goes the extra mile.” 

  As Stephenie Meyer famously wrote in Twilight, “I like the night. Without the dark, we’d never see the stars.” In the darkness that is this world, there’s one light that shines through it all. In a way, us “smaller lights” are like insects at night, constantly flying at this light, desiring to be closer to it. However, unlike the lightbulb which remains shut against the insects, this light welcomes us the closer we get to it. You see, this light is Jesus, and James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” That is our only hope. In a world over­flooded with darkness, Jesus says “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). The apostle Peter once said, “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). This is one of the very same men who were “rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name [of Jesus]” immediately after being severely beaten. This just further shows how we must have the attitude of, “Without the dark, we’d never see the stars.”

  When William Randolph Hearst sent out his chief agent to find his five most coveted works of art from around the world, the one thing he expected least was what happened next. You see, within a few days the agent was back and, Hearst, in surprise, asked, “Did you find what I was looking for?” The agent replied, “Yes, I found everything you wanted.” He paused for a second and then said, “But what I found may surprise you.” Brushing this off, Hearst said, “Well, where did you find them?” “Well sir, I actually found them in your warehouse. You already owned them all.”

  When Hearst flew his chief agent around the world in search of the coveted works of art, the one thing he expected least is for them to be in his warehouse. Sometimes we’re like that. We search high and far for the hidden virtue, the one thing that will make our lights shine so much brighter when, in reality, we already have it. We try so hard to change our batteries when we already have the desire to pray, a faith of works, a love that labors, and a hope defeats the darkness of this world. All we have to do is search our spiritual inside for these things and “work them out,” continually make them stronger and brighter. If we do that, then what we find, what we do, how much brighter our light becomes - even without changing the batteries–may just surprise us. 

  I hated reading when I was in school, especially assigned reading. It wasn’t until I got older that I realized what books truly were not assignments to be graded, but a journey to be taken. Those who are avid readers will agree with the statement I’m about to make. There’s nothing quite like the experience of a good book that you pick up only to realize that you can’t possibly put it down until every word has been consumed and every corner of the literary world has been explored. Books have a tendency to engross us, holding us captive and hanging on every word. The Bible, a collection of 66 books, is no different. In its pages we find drama, narrative romance, action, and even comedy. I’ve been tasked with writing about my favorite verse within this library of variety. Due to the nature of Scripture and the fact that my favorite verse fluctuates depending on what I’m studying I’ve decided to write on one of my favorite passages (going to take two verses instead of one) in the Old Testament:

Here are three reasons why this is my favorite passage in the Old Testament.

  Can you imagine staring down the king of nation that very easily conquered yours while the heat from an oven large enough to cook multiple people at a time engulfs you with its warm embrace and saying “do you worst, God has my back”? This is precisely what these three men did. Standing before the ruler of Babylon with the threat of a fiery tomb hanging over their head they remain confident and unshaken because they serve the Almighty God. If any leader, CEO or politician turns against us we can remain confident knowing we serve the greatest Ruler of them all. 

  Fire is important. It provides warmth in the winter time, allow us to cook, and provides light for us in dark places. Those who have gotten too close to campfire know that fire can also cause a great deal of pain in just a matter of seconds. One spark can cause a wildfire that devastates an entire forest. The fiery eruption has the potential to shift and destroy entire landmasses. Even with all this power, God is still greater. Later in this account Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego are tossed into the furnace (3:21) only to be pulled out unscathed as the people, astonished, realize that the “fire had no power” over the bodies of those men (3:27). When we think of all the wars and battles being fought across the globe, it’s nice to know that my God is greater and more powerful than any “super power” this world can boast.

  The greatest part about this entire verse is what is said in verse eighteen. After confidently proclaiming that God has the power to rescue them from this horrible death they tell Nebuchadnezzar that they’ll praise God even if He doesn’t want to save them. Sometimes God saves people from death, and sometimes He saves them through death. It’s tempting sometimes to think of how good we have it here and long to remain on earth as long as we can. For these three men their attitude was “if it’s our time to go, it’s our time to go and we’ll praise God all the while!” When I feel afraid I remember the courage shown in these verses and resolve to better be like these men.
  I love this passage because it reveals what happens when God is really present in your life. These men stood at God’s side and this made them courageous, confident and ever mindful of His unmatched power. When you and I stand by God like this by devoting ourselves to prayer, studying His word, and living it out daily the same will result in us. These verses remind us that with God we are undefeatable. Through life or death the Christian wins when he or she remains at the side of God.  

Photo Credit: www.christylynnabram.com

  It is incredibly difficult for me to label a certain piece of scripture as my “favorite”. I enjoy so many passages that I can never make up my mind on which one I like better, but there is one story in the gospel of John that has always held a special place in my heart as one of my all-time favorites. This particular story comes from John 21:1-17. It is the story of Jesus having a heart to heart with Peter to remind him of the fact that Peter still belongs in the family of God, even after all that he did. Before we begin though, we should probably do a little backstory investigation of Peter up to this point. 

  Peter’s story begins while he just finished a long and unsuccessful night of fishing in Luke 5:1-10. Here we find Peter on the seashore, and he is cleaning his nets. I’m sure he is tired, and weary, and maybe not in the best of moods since he had a poor night of fishing. Now Jesus comes onto the scene where he is teaching a crowd of people that are with him, and He asks Peter to set out a little to teach from the boat. Peter obliges, and as soon as Jesus finishes teaching, He turns to Peter and tells him to set out for a catch. Peter gives Jesus a discourse as to his fishing misfortunes, but complies anyway. To Peter’s surprise, he lets down his net, and ends up with a net breaking catch. After Peter is done telling Jesus to leave the presence of his sinful self, Jesus simply tells Peter, and those who were with Peter through all of this not to fear, but rather follow Him, and be fishers of men.

  We pick up a much later in Peter’s story now in John 13:36- 14:6. Jesus had just washed the disciple’s feet at the last supper before His betrayal, and now He tells them that where He is about to go, they cannot follow. Peter boldly says that he would follow Jesus anywhere, even if it meant dying. Jesus turns to Peter, and asks him if he really would lay down his life for Him, and Jesus then tells Peter that the rooster will not crow until Peter had denied Him three times. What is amazing in this gospel story is that there is no break in dialogue between chapters 13 and 14, which means that even though Peter is troubled by this news, and is vehemently denying that he would deny Jesus, Jesus keeps speaking, and in John 14:1-3, Jesus addresses them all, but specifically directed towards Peter He says,

We all know what happens next, Jesus is arrested in the garden, Peter attacks poor Malchus and severs his ear, Jesus rebukes Peter for his violence and is taken away, and then Peter ends up denying Christ three times just like Jesus said. Peter was so sorrowful and guilty that he went bitterly weeping for his treachery (John 18:1-11; 25-27; Matthew 26:47-56; 69-75). 

  After Jesus had been crucified and had risen from the dead, we find Peter and some other apostles who decided to go fishing in our main story from John 21:1-17. Peter, I’m sure, wanted to go fishing because that was a source of comfort for him which he was likely seeking since he was still feeling bad about denying Jesus. He had known fishing his whole life. That was his career before Jesus had called him back in Luke 5:1-10, and so it stands to reason that he should go back to what he knew. So they go fishing all night, and they catch nothing. 

  Jesus comes back onto the scene, standing on the seashore, and calls out to them in John 21:4-5. They can’t tell who it is yet, so they don’t have any idea who He was. Now Jesus calls out to them. He didn’t call out in a mocking voice. He didn’t call out in a scornful voice. He could have easily just blasted Peter right then for denying Him, but instead he calls out to them tenderly, and calls them “Children”. He calls out with the most endearing title, and asks them knowingly, “You don’t have any fish, do you?” 

  They answered, “No”.  

  Of course they wouldn’t have any fish right? It’s no surprise that they didn’t catch any fish because Peter, Andrew, James, and John were already called out of that life in Luke 5:1-10, Jesus had already broken Peter’s nets, and started to sink his boat with His good blessing. He not only broke Peter’s nets, but He broke Peter by breaking down the old and less fulfilling lifestyle that Peter had been living, and called him to something better, and now Peter is going back to that less fulfilling lifestyle that provides nothing but disappointment, and Jesus knew this when He asked them if they caught anything. Of course he wouldn’t find any success or satisfaction in returning to the same life that Jesus called him out of.

  Jesus then told them to try casting their nets on the other side of the boat, and I’m sure they’re all probably thinking to themselves, “Oh, that sounds familiar.” Flashback to what happened in Luke 5:1-10. This is almost identical to what He had already done back in Luke. They knew this after they had let down their nets and actually caught some fish, and John said to Peter, “It’s the Lord.” Peter, having recognized this, got dressed since he was not wearing his nicer outer garment from laboring all night, and he couldn’t contain himself, so he dove into the water and swam to shore, because inasmuch as he felt sorry for himself and what he had done, he still couldn’t wait to see Jesus. 

  After the rest of the apostles came to shore with the catch of fish, they saw that Jesus already had a fire going, and was already cooking fish for breakfast. He invites them to come, and eat breakfast together, and they all gather around Him to eat, and it’s nothing but awkward silence because nobody asks if it is Jesus, for they all already knew who it was. Then Jesus feeds them. He gives them nourishment, and satisfies their hunger. He is doing a little bit more here though. He is also taking care of some spiritual nourishment as well. 

  After they finish eating, Jesus addresses Peter three times, asking him if he love Him. After the third time, Peter knew what Jesus was doing, and he was feeling that guilt again. He became a little frustrated and said, “You know everything, Lord; You know that I love You.” Jesus had made his point abundantly clear after each time that He asked whether Peter loved Him too, because He followed up with the statements, “Tend My lambs”, “Shepherd My sheep”, and “Tend My sheep”. He was communicating to Peter, after nourishing him physically and tending to him spiritually, that it was time for Peter to step up and nourish, feed, and tend to Jesus’ flock. He is reminding Peter that he was called to be bigger, and better than this life that he had returned to. He is reminding Peter of the fact that he has forgiveness as a member of God’s family if he would simply seek it with repentance, and that he shouldn’t let his heart be troubled as He already told him in John 14:1-3. Peter finally understands, and is finally free from his guilt to be with Jesus again. 

  I love this story because it reminds me of the love of Christ, and His willingness to forgive those who are willing to repent. Jesus calls us out of the world to follow and obey Him, and He calls us to a life that is more fulfilling than we can provide for ourselves.  How often we fall, and feel as if there is no hope for us when Jesus is saying, 

  Maybe we need to have some breakfast with Jesus, and learn to take on His yoke like Peter did. Thank you for reading, and know that Jesus loves you, and so do I. 

     Jesus has been rightly described by many as the master teacher.  Any good educator will recognize that, for one to be a master teacher, one must become a master in various styles of teaching.  Jesus used various styles to teach the good news which He came to bring.  Likely, Jesus’ most memorable style of teaching was His use of parables.  The word parable comes from the Greek parabolhv (parav- beside, bavllw- to cast/throw).  Jesus, in essence, cast spiritual teachings beside earthly examples.  
     The parable of the Pearl of Great Price is one of the “kingdom parables” which describes some aspect of the coming kingdom which was prophesied of old (Isaiah 2:2, 3; Daniel 2:44, 45), and its coming was preached by John the Baptizer (Matthew 3:2) and Jesus (Matthew 4:17, 10:7).  The preaching of the coming kingdom was fulfilled in the establishment of the church (Matthew 16:17-19; Acts 2:47), making the kingdom and the church equivalent to one another. The parable of the Pearl of Great Price only encompasses two verses (Matthew 13:45-46), but contains a great deal of meaning which is applicable to all of mankind today.

     The only way for this parable to have its intended meaning is for there to be recognition of the lasting, intrinsic value of pearls.  Pearls are held in high esteem today as heirlooms and are generally worn by those considered in the upper echelon of society. They were not an item of limited value for a limited time, nor where they a passing fad.  Lightfoot writes briefly about the value of pearls through the eyes of the ancients.
     The Pearl in ancient times was a gem of great delight.  Pearls had a high value in terms of dollars and cents.  It is reported that Cleopatra had two precious pearls, worth $400,000 apiece.  Beyond their money value, pearls were desired in themselves.  They held a fascination for the Oriental mind.  Simply to look at a pearl, to hold it, to turn it through the fingers, was considered a source of great satisfaction.  Pearl merchants looked far and wide for new pearls (Lessons from the Parables, 41).

     Much care must be taken by the Bible student to recognize that parables have one main point, or one central theme.  Many try to break down each particular detail and apply some meaning to it, yet every detail of a parable does not necessarily have a spiritual application.  Though several lessons may be learned, the key idea must be sought out first.  The central theme of the parable of the Pearl of Great Price is the great value of the kingdom of God. 

     There is value in the kingdom. - There was an intrinsic value within the pearl which the merchant sought.  One today must recognize the value of the kingdom/church, and if he does, he will be much more likely to seek it.  God gave up His son for the church (Jn. 3:16).  Jesus left heaven and took on the form of man, so He could die for the church (Philippians 2:5-8).  Christ blood was required to purchase the church (Acts 20:28).  Christ gave Himself for the church (Ephesians 5:25).  There is value in the church because it is the totality of the saved (Acts 2:47; Ephesians 5:25). 
     Denominations and religious groups outside of the church which belongs to Christ might seem to have value, but in the end, they fall short of that which is most important, obedience which leads to salvation (Hebrews 5:9).  Many have wasted great amounts of money for fool’s gold and fake pearls, just as many have put all of their spiritual hopes in a religion from which they will gain no spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3).  We must seek after the true church of Christ, just as the merchant sought after the true costly pearl.
     There is value in seeking for the kingdom. - The merchant took it upon himself to search diligently for the precious pearl.  There is no doubt that a merchant on such a search would find pearls of varying degrees, but there was only one pearl which could satisfy his desire.  He would continue searching until he found that one precious pearl.
     While it is possible for one who is not seeking the kingdom to find it (Matthew 13:34), it is much more likely for one to find the kingdom who has sought after it diligently.  Jesus taught the importance of seeking the kingdom of God and the righteousness of God (Matthew 6:33).  All of the worries of life can be overcome by recognizing the blessings of placing the kingdom of God first.  
     Many aver that man cannot seek God, but that it is only God who can seek us.  Lockyer states as much in his book, All of the Parables of the Bible (200-201).  Using that idea, many twist this parable to fit their Calvinistic bias.  While it is true that God sought us first (Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:19), mankind is commanded to seek God (Matthew 7:7; Hebrews 11:6).  If one does not seek God, he could never be saved by God, nor could he ever be pleasing to God.
     There is value in sacrificing for the kingdom. - When the merchant found the precious pearl, he gave up all he had to obtain it.  He must have seen enough worth within that pearl to be willing to sacrifice all that he had.  The church is an organization of great value, and one should be willing to give up anything to be a part of it (Matthew 16:26).  The apostle Paul is a great example of sacrificing for the kingdom.  Although he excelled in the Jewish religion far beyond many of his own age (Galatians 1:14), he counted all he gave up as nothing so he could gainhis own age (Galatians 1:14), he counted all he gave up as nothing so he could gain Christ (Ephesians 3:8) .Jesus teaches about some of the things one may have to give up to follow Him.  Those who would come after Him must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him (Luke 9:23).  One must give up His life for Christ (Luke 9:24; Galatians 2:20).  Some might have to give up family (Matthew 10:37).  One must be willing to lay himself on the figurative altar as a living sacrifice to follow Him (Romans 12:2).  Although great sacrifice is necessary to be a follower of Christ, no price would be too much to pay to be able to take part in the riches of Christ.
     There is value in securing a place in the kingdom. - The reason the merchant was willing to give all that he had was because that was what was necessary to secure the precious pearl.  It is incumbent upon us to do whatever is necessary to secure a place in the kingdom.  If one recognizes the great value of the kingdom of God, no price would be too great to gain and maintain a place within it.
     Jesus taught that one must be born of water and the Spirit to enter into the kingdom (John 3:3-5).  That was the message which Peter preached to the Pentecostians (Acts 2:38, 41, 47).  Having believed that Jesus was the Son of God, those present on Pentecost asked what was necessary for them to be back in a right relationship with God.  Peter explained to them that it was necessary for them to repent and be baptized.  Peter explained that continued spiritual growth was necessary to have an abundant entrance into the everlasting kingdom (2 Peter 1:5-11).  Jesus, through the pen of John, explained to the church at Smyrna that continued faithfulness was necessary to maintain their saved state (Revelation 2:10).  May we be diligent to recognize the value of the kingdom, sacrifice for the kingdom, and do whatever is necessary to secure a place in the kingdom.