Patterns of Christianity — 1 Corinthians 1-3

Posted on January 16, 2012 by parklinscomb

In today’s reading Paul continues to try to work with the divisions of the church in Corinth. He’ll continue dealing with the “denominational” division of the groups who wanted to follow Paul, Apollos, and Peter. He also addresses two moral issues that threatened to split the church — sexual sin and law suits! The principles that he uses to straighten things out are important for church leaders to still know and practice.

Learn not to exceed what is written — 1 Cor. 4:6

One of the doctrinal things that some of the Corinthians appear to have gotten wrong, is the timing of our glorification. Somehow, they had gotten the impression that they were already in a glorified state — perhaps because of the miracles that some of them were performing (speaking in tongues, healing the sick, prophesying, etc.). It had puffed up their pride and caused them to scorn the apostle Paul, who had brought them the Gospel, and look down on their other Christian brothers and sisters. Paul sets out to correct this here and later, too; but here he reminds them to not exceed what is written in Scripture.

This principle applies in many, many other situations in matters of Christian faith. One of the biggest problems among those who claim Christianity is exceeding, going beyond, what is written in Scripture. Like these first century brothers in error, men still sometimes think that they’re wise enough OK things that God has not OK’ed and forbid things that God has not forbidden (see Matthew 18:18). This principle is part of the idea of following the pattern (Romans 6:17) — you don’t cut too much off and you don’t add anything more to it. Christianity really can be just fine, perfectly inspiring and fulfilling exactly as is in the Bible; it can give us the salvation that we need, the hope that we long for, and the way to live that we must have — no human tinkering needed.

Just as I teach everywhere in every church — 1 Cor. 4:17

Here is more evidence of that pattern that Paul was hoping they were adhere to. Contrary to what some would say, Paul’s letters weren’t intended to be uniquely occasional. He certainly applied commands and principles to circumstances that the various churches faced, but they were standard commands and principles that he taught everywhere in every church. They applied to Rome, Corinth, and Ephesus in the 1st century as well as to New York City, Los Angeles, and Mexico City in the 21st century.

Withdrawal of fellowship — 1 Cor. 5

It certainly isn’t something that any sincere disciple would hope to happen, but sometimes circumstances do arise in which someone in the church needs to be withdrawn from. When someone in the church is sinning publicly and unrepentantly the Lord demands that fellowship be withdrawn from him. Legitimate reasons include matters of morality (as in this case in 1 Cor. 5), division (Romans 16:17ff), doctrine (Galatians 1:8,9), and leading an unruly life (2 Thess. 3:6). It should be done for two important reasons: 1) the offender needs to understand the seriousness of what he has done (that it has put him out of fellowship with God and His church) and 2) the church itself needs to be protected from a sinful example and implied consent from the leadership regarding such behavior. It is always a tremendously difficult — even heart-rending — thing for  the leadership and the church to do, if the fellowship and love are what they are supposed to be. But Christianity calls upon us to do the difficult things.

Lawsuits? — 1 Cor. 6:1-11

The Roman world was almost as law-suit happy as we are. The problem in the Corinthian church was that some were even bring their brethren to court. Such a state of affairs was shameful and brought reproach on the church from the world. Paul rebukes bringing a brother to secular court, and offers a couple of interesting but very seldom used solutions for problems among Christians. One was put together a Christian court and let their decision be final. A second solution was to just choose to be wronged and forget all about your law suits, knowing that God would make things right in the end.

Sexual immorality — 1 Cor. 6:12ff

Sexual morality was a serious problem in the first century world. The philosophers had taught and encouraged every other virtue, but the only generally recognized sexual sin was adultery — for women. Consequently, soliciting prostitutes and engaging in homosexuality were widely practiced by even married men. Enough so that reining in such sexual desires constituted a real challenge and the reason why Paul needed to deal very sternly with the brother in chapter 5 and the rest of the congregation. Such sin, Paul said, was unlike other sins which were outside the body; it effected the body itself, which was indwelt by the Holy Spirit. This principle still applies to us today, especially in a time when the lines of sexual morality is once again blurred in the world around us. Which also tells us that we probably need to teach and preach more specific lines about sexual immorality.

See you tomorrow, Lord willing.

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A divided church — 1 Corinthians 1-3

Posted on January 14, 2012 by parklinscomb

We ended yesterday’s blog with an strong warning from Paul to the Roman church about the sin of division. Paul certainly had good reason to worry about division in the church at Rome, but his concern was probably heightened from his experiences in the Corinthian church — he was writing Romans from Corinth, you’ll recall.

Temple of Aphrodite in Corinth

The church in Corinth was dear to Paul. He had spent more time in Corinth than anywhere else he had done mission work, with the exception of Ephesus; because the Lord had specifically told him that He had many people in Corinth (i.e., there were a number of folks who were open to the Gospel of Christ). As you read through both 1 and 2 Corinthians we discover that Paul wrote not two but a total of 4 letters to Corinth to attempt to straighten out their troubles — and they had some serious troubles that might have cause lesser evangelists to throw up their hands in frustration (“These immoral Gentiles are simply beyond redemption!”). But Paul kept working with them, opening his heart to them, though some in the church appear to have held Paul in contempt. A study of the Corinthian letters, therefore, is a great study in fixing problems in churches of all ages — a study of which I’ll only be able to touch the hem of the garment in this blog.

Corinth was located on a very narrow stretch of land, only about 4 miles wide, connecting northern Greece with southern Greece. This strategic location made Corinth an important seaport, since merchants could several eliminate days of travel, sailing around southern Greece to destination ports in either Italy or Asia. Like all busy seaports it was a nexus of cultures, nationalities, ideas, and religions.

A Corinthian sphinx. Sphinx was an Egyptian figure, this Corinthian sphinx shows how cosmopolitan Corinth was

This made it a perfect spot for Christianity to be planted and spread around the Mediterranean basin. But like all busy seaports it was also prosperous and had a reputation for moral corruption, and this provided Paul with plenty of challenges. The first one we’ll see today is division and the wisdom of men. Let’s dive in to the text…

Agree! — 1 Cor. 1:10

A careful reading of the letter to the Corinthians reveals that the church was divided in three ways: economically (the rich and the poor), ethnically (Jew and Greek), and affininity (Paul, Apollos, and Cephas/Peter). Paul’s command was that they unite and agree. I point this out for emphasis, because even today some would consider Christian unity an impossibility. Listen, God has never commanded or expected the impossible of His people, and when we are told that to be God’s we must unite, then we need to swallow whatever pride, whatever jealousy, whatever enmity, whatever opinions, whatever tastes, and whatever preferences we might have and UNITE under God’s directions and patterns.

Foolishness of the message preached — 1 Cor. 1:21

This statement comes in the midst of a larger point that Paul makes about worldly wisdom and godly wisdom, and it makes a great contribution to argument that worldly wisdom will get you nowhere. But I wanted to emphasize this thought for a moment to encourage sharing of the Good News. While it is true that the world may indeed hold the Gospel in contempt, thinking it old-fashioned or too restrictive or even foolish; it really is the only hope of eternal life. Remember, Paul said, Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” So, let the world mock and scorn us for telling people what the really need to know, and preach anyway. And don’t think that your contribution to the sharing of the Gospel might be too insignificant; in the slightly larger context of this verse Paul reminds us that God has chosen the foolish things, the weak things, the base things, and the despised things to do His best work (vv.26-29). If you think what you can contribute to the spread of the Gospel is insignificant, you may be the very person that the Lord is looking to use in great ways. Think about that!

A natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God — 1 Cor. 2:14

The world operates off of what it can see, hear, observe, touch, etc. It sees no farther than this world. The spiritual man, on the other hand, sees beyond this world — not that he’s especially talented, but that God has revealed what is beyond the seen. It is no wonder that they world thought that preaching Jesus on the cross was foolish, because ALL they saw was a dead man on a piece of wood. When the rulers of this world (those that condemned Jesus) looked at Jesus, all they saw was a carpenter, who bled like every other man and who should be eliminated because He was “stirring up trouble”. What they failed to see was what was beyond their physical sight. This is a call for us all to see the unseen. Later, in 2 Corinthians, Paul tells us how he was able to continue on in ministry as beaten and persecuted as he was, 2 Corinthians 4:18 “while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” If you’re sharing the Gospel with others, here’s the real challenge, isn’t it: getting them to see the spiritual realities as reveal by the only true and living God.

The first denominations — 1 Cor. 3:3-9

Denominationalism is considered to be an acceptable state of affairs in Christendom. Indeed, in a world that values inclusion more than what is right, it is considered the only way that Christendom can have any sort of union. But here in chapter 3 we see the first denominations emerging — and the inspiredapostle Paul isn’t happy. This should tell us something about what we’ve accepted as the norm and as necessary: it is neither necessary nor should it be the norm.

A Corinthian mold, pattern. Romans 6:17 “But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were committed,”

This was the starting place of the Restoration Plea in America — and not just America. This clear truth about the unity of the church has occurred around the world — any place that has Bibles to read and denominations to confuse things. Return to the Bible; follow God’s patterns; be Christians only.

Destroy the Temple of God? — 1 Cor. 3:16,17

Paul, in an attempt to underscore how serious the sin of division was (apparently the Corinthians didn’t see it as a big problem), compares division of the church to an attempt to destroy the Temple of God — which is what the church is. Now, Paul is later going to tell us that division is sometimes necessary, when people are teaching false doctrine, but it is like amputation to save the whole body from death. The church in Corinth was dividing over opinions, economic divides, social lines, ethnic boundaries, and other foolishness (worldly wisdom). But lest we begin clucking our tongues in scorn, let’s take a look at the modern things that people still want to divide over. It still amounts to destruction of the Temple of God. This is no minor matter. This is a big deal. Would you really want to face judgment on the last day as the destroyer of the Temple of God?

See you tomorrow, Lord willing

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An obedience of faith — Romans 15-16

Posted on January 13, 2012 by parklinscomb

With the chapters 15 and 16 Paul wraps up his letter. He will put finishing touches on his extended command about accepting one another, his proposed mission plans (which he hopes the Roman church will help him with), an extensive list of people to greet, a warning against divisive brethren, final greetings from his fellow workers, and a blessing to them all.

Accept one another’s opinions, not sins — Romans 15:1-13 (esp. v.7)

Paul’s lesson to the Romans about accepting one another, despite our differing opinions about some things, flows over into the first part of chapter 15 (poor divisions by those who “chaptered and versed” the Bible, they weren’t inspired), and it is here that he makes the very strong points that 1) we must not seek to merely please ourselves, 2) we must instead work at unity, 3) realize that with all of our idiosyncrasies and quirks Jesus accepts us, and 4) unity must be forged even between Jew and Gentile. The unity between Jew and Gentile was a major part of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, and in Ephesians Paul puts this stress on the need to work at unity this way: Ephesians 4:2-6 “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.”

But this, it must be emphasized, is not a command to unite despite sin. Quite to the contrary, the inspired Paul and other apostles ordered and required the church to separate themselves from those who were unrepentantly doing evil (e.g., Romans 16:17ff; 1 Corinthians 5; 2 Thessalonians 3:6,14,15; 2 John 10; and others). This is important in modern times, when acceptance and tolerance are the virtues above all others — even moral virtues. I’ll not go into great detail here, but sadly sometimes people religious people will confuse the difference between opinion and sin — the Pharisees confused the difference between their traditions and God’s commands; and this is why we must study the Scriptures to get to know the real differences.

For his good — Romans 15:2

Here is a great teaching about love. Christian love is not just doing what others would like you to do — what they’d like you to do might be sinful or might enable them in a dysfunctional way or might be letting them sinfully manipulate things! We need to please our neighbors for their good, to their edification.

Written in earlier times — Romans 15:4

Paul is saying this as a sort of a parenthetical reminder regarding a quotation from Psalm 69:9 — that these early Christians needed to know what we call the Old Testament (the New Testament was still being written). Some of the Gentiles might have argued that now that the church had prophets and those with miraculous spiritual knowledge (see 1 Cor. 12:8-11) these Jewish texts were less important. Modern Christians make a very similar argument today: we have the New Testament, why study the OT? The answer is, Romans 15:4 “For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” Yes, OT study is important.

Glorify God with one voice — Romans 15:5,6

The church is a motley crew. We’ve gotten beyond the Jew-Gentile thing these days; but the church will always be composed of men and women, the rich and poor, the young and old, the educated and uneducated, and every other difference of humanity you can think of. There are people in our congregation I would probably never have know, I would never have traveled in their circles ordinarily, but we are brothers and sisters in Christ. And because of Christ we now are more than an association, more than friends, more than a club, we are family; and not just family, forever family! And every Sunday we glorify God with one voice. Such a thing can’t be done in the world; only in the Lord.

Turn away from divisive folks — Romans 16:17-20

When we think of sins that could be committed, we often list hate, murder, lying, adultery, witchcraft, materialism, stealing, etc. Seldom will you see someone list division, and yet here it is in Romans 16, a command to withdraw from those who cause division — whether by false teaching, by spreading dissatisfaction, by gossiping, or any of the other myriad ways people divide one against another. It is a typical characteristic of the world and it is wrong in the church. The church is about healing, forgiving, uniting, and loving one another

Erastus — Romans 16:23

In Corinth a first century paving stone advertising the person who had paid for the street paving (a common expectation of those who desired political office) was found with the name Erastus.

The first century paving stone with Erastus' name inscribed in Latin as the paver of this street.

It is widely thought that this is the same Erastus mentioned here in Scripture who was city treasurer. The Bible does know what it’s talking about.

Obedience of faith — Romans 16:26 / 15:18

Too often theologians and preachers will do violence to the Scripture by divorcing obedience from faith. But what God has joined together here and in many other passages (e.g., James 2:14ff) let no man put asunder. Obedience is always the proper response to saving faith, and James challenges us by saying, James 2:18 “…show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.”

See you tomorrow, Lord willing

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Transformed Living — Romans 12-14

Posted on January 12, 2012 by parklinscomb

Most of Paul’s letters address doctrinal matters first, followed by a “so what?” section that is very practical in nature. Chapter 12, where our reading begins today, is the point in Romans at which Paul begins to address the practical application of the things he had been talking about in the first 11 chapters. In fact, Paul begins by saying, “I urge you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God…” In other words, in view of all the grace God has given to both Jews and Greeks, in view of Christ’s love that was willing to die for His sinful enemies, in view of God’s great and wise choices, in view of the fact that both Jew and Gentile are now part of the new Israel, and in view of His inseparable love and glorious hope here is how we should live.

Some of the practical things we’ll read could have been written to any church, but other things Paul writes to the Romans are clearly intended to address problems that were especially keen in the church in Rome. Let’s dive in…

Transformation — Romans 12:1,2

Discipleship to Jesus isn’t like self-improvement. In the ancient world there were philosophers to encourage people to improve their lives in certain way. Today we have shelves and shelves of books at Barnes and Noble in the self-help section. But Christianity isn’t betterment, it is about transformation; it’s not just making a better you, it’s about becoming different from who you used to be. The word “transformed” is the same Greek word used when Jesus is being transfigured on the mountain before the eyes of Peter, James, and John — when (Matthew 17:2) “…His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light.” You see, the resurrection of our bodies at the end of time (1 Cor. 15) isn’t the only time when we’ll be changed into something more glorious, our task as disciples is to start that change now. No doubt this is why Jesus (John 5:25) talked about a first resurrection and why baptism is understood (Romans 6:1-6) as a resurrection. So, let’s stop being satisfied with a self-improvement mentality — and transform!

Use your gifts with oomph! — Romans 12:4ff

As we read through the letters of the New Testament, we’ll find the church is often compared to a body and individual Christians compared to body members or organs. Each organ or member is important; without the proper functioning of each the body either gets sick, is crippled, or dies. Paul repeats that viewpoint here, but with a little tweak; he urges us to use our talents or gifts with zeal and oomph! There is a substantial difference — part of transformation — between using our talents on occasion with ordinary effort and using our talents for the Lord generously and with extraordinary effort: giving with liberality, leading with diligence, showing mercy with cheerfulness! Because after all, sacrifices that are pleasing to the Lord are always the best that we have, right?

Dealing with enemies — Romans 1217ff

This teaching is important in every generation and situation, but it was especially important in a circumstance full of Christian persecution, like Rome. Christianity was not a legal religion in Rome at this time, which made it “open season” on them. Enemies took advantage of this illegal status, and Christianity had plenty of them (especially in the synagogues). The natural response to the deeds of an enemy is to seek revenge, but Paul reminded them that this was not transformed living and he gives suggestions for a “transformed” response:

  • Bless those who persecute you — Pray for them and do something for them that benefits their lives
  • Never pay back evil for evil — Doing unto others as they have done unto you is not the golden rule
  • Respect what is right in the sight of all men — Be careful that your response (in deed, word, or attitude) is not seen by the world as an insult.
  • As far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men — There are some people who do not want to be at peace with you, but do everything that you can do to be at peace.
  • Heap burning coals on your enemy’s head — The cumulative effect of doing many good things to an enemy is often a positive result. Sometimes it’s from guilt, but sometimes the good deeds prove that you do not have evil intentions toward them.
  • Overcome evil with good — This is what God Himself does.

The Christian and the government — Romans 13:1ff

It’s easy to imagine what the average Christian living in Rome (or the Roman empire) might have thought of the government: “I pay my taxes and pledge my loyalty, and I get kicked in the teeth with persecution in return, just because of my faith in Jesus. Who needs them? Let’s revolt!” But Paul teaches a different thing — be a good citizen. And Paul’s inspired command is part of what ultimately caused Christianity to overcome the empire. The persecution of a harmless people, who are good citizens, do good things for the community, hold to solid morality, and are a good influence generally just doesn’t make sense.

Learn to get along — Romans 14:1

And now, you Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians — get along! The eating of meats and celebration of holidays appear to be the frontline issues between the two groups (as they often were in other congregations of the Lord’s church around the empire). Transformed living doesn’t criticize, doesn’t judge, doesn’t divide, and doesn’t live unconcerned about how his actions will effect others. Criticism, judgment, division, and lack of love toward another’s soul is CONformed living; but God’s mercy calls us to TRANSformed living. Are you living transformed or conformed in your congregation?

See you tomorrow, Lord willing.

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The Question of Choseness — Romans 9-11

Posted on January 11, 2012 by parklinscomb

Of all the questions that Paul answered in debate with Jewish Christians, the issue he addresses in Romans 9-11 was the most sensitive to both Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians: Is Israel no longer chosen or is it even rejected? This was very likely a oft-asked question by synagogue-Jews and Jewish Christians as Paul preached the Good News, especially about the inclusion of the rest of the world in salvation. And it was not a simple answer. Because this is a text that is often the source of questions, I’ll depart from my usual method of “cherry picking” passages to comment on, and will instead attempt to trace out the thread of Paul’s inspired answer. I have no illusions, and you shouldn’t either, about the fullness of the answer of my post on this passage — there are books on this subject — but hopefully it will provide a primer for an understanding of this great passage in Romans.

I could wish myself accursed — Romans 9:3

One thing that shouldn’t be ignored in Paul’s answer is his great compassion and understanding for the feelings of his fellow Jews, who doubtlessly had unbelieving relatives (probably like Paul himself) and was wondering about their destiny. Twice Paul expresses his concern and here at this point goes so far as to say that he might consider giving his own salvation for them, if it were possible. Paul’s loyalty to his fellow Jews should never be questioned, then or now. We claim loyalty to family, but then, unlike Paul, we sometimes fail to tell or try to persuade them about the most important thing they could know, Jesus. Let us be unashamed and unafraid to share the Gospel. They might not accept it, but then it will be their choice, not ours.

They are not all Israel who are descended from Israel — Romans 9:6

Paul begins the argument by reminding the Jews of some little noticed history of Israel, that not everyone who came from Abraham was part of Israel. Abraham, after Sarah died, had a second family; they were blessed by God, but they were not the children of promise (Gen. 25:1-11). And children of promise is a big point here; God made choices about who would receive the blessings of the promises made to Abraham: Isaac (not the sons of Keturah) and later Jacob (not Esau). Where Paul is going with this line of reasoning is that the definition of Israel (the chosen people) is always defined by God’s choice. Already he has stated: Romans 2:28, 29 “For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh. But he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that which is of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter; and his praise is not from men, but from God.”

That’s not fair? — Romans 9:14

Suddenly now, Israel was calling God’s choices unfair. Paul answers, “Really?” The truth is that God, in His sovereign power and authority, chooses whomever He wishes, and has been doing so since the beginning of time. His sovereign choices aren’t arbitrary, however;  He has His reasons, though He owes no man an explanation or a chance to sway His choice. Far from being unfair, His choices are fair in two ways: 1) since He is God, it is completely fair that He makes the choices, and 2) since God is completely just by nature and not arbitrary in anything He does, we can trust that even if we don’t understand his choices, what He decides will be truly fair.

God sets the rules about choseness — Romans 9:20

To return to an illustration I used yesterday, in which I’m the coach of a basketball team setting the criteria for who will be on the team, God also sets the criteria of who will be chosen. Paul’s argument runs that the potter obviously has complete free will in what he chooses to do with His clay. Israel to this point had been fortunate enough for God work with them (honorable use, vessels of mercy), while the Gentile world had only been able to grope for God (common use, vessels of wrath). And if God decided to no longer call Israel His people, He certainly had that sovereign right without being accountable to man. But God’s choices haven’t been without sound reasons. Some of racial Israel was being “unchosen” because of their unbelief (9:30—10:4).

It’s not that hard — Romans 10: 6-10

Here Paul uses a parallel to Deuteronomy 30:12, Moses’ appeal to Israel for obedience to a perfect Law given to Israel “on a silver platter”. Paul simply updates Moses’ appeal to apply it to Christianity’s faith. “Dear fellow Jewish-Christian, who are worried about your unbelieving brethren,” Paul seems to be saying, “God didn’t make ‘being chosen’ difficult. Whoever will call on the name of the Lord (through faith, confession, and all that they imply) will be saved.” God’s choice (on the basis of faith in His Son) hasn’t been arbitrary or unfair. On the contrary, His choice has made possible what the Law could not, truly save both Jew and Gentile from condemnation.

All you need is a preacher — Romans 10:14ff

So believe! And it is here that Paul seems to turn to a little of a commercial, obliquely promoting his own mission plans (15:22-24) by pointing out that this faith is distributed by the efforts of preachers, although there have been those who have not believed. Here we find, however, another important step in being saved (one not often spoken of) you have to hear — even more, you must listen. Faith comes from hearing and hearing by the word of Christ (v.17). Are you listening?

Prophecies of a choseness turnover — Romans 10:18-21

Some Jews might try to explain the failure away, by blaming the preaching of the Gospel — surely they just haven’t heard yet. But the failure of many of racial Israel to turn to Christ wasn’t a failure of the preachers of the Gospel (though there was still work to be done). Many Jews remained unbelieving in spite of the widespread preaching of the Gospel. “Well, perhaps,” a second response might run, “they just didn’t understand.” Paul’s essential response was that if the Gentiles understood (and they were coming into the Kingdom in droves), surely Israel should’ve understood even more.

Has God turned their back on them? — Romans 11:1-10

Paul says that the answer is no. In the same way that remnants of Israel (e.g., the Israel of Elijah’s day) have always remained faithful and part of the chosen, so also with their present situation. Faithfulness is not now defined by works of the Law, but rather by God’s new “choice of grace”. The rest, sadly, are being hardened. This idea of hardening is not accomplished by God forcefully “blinding” someone to the truth or arbitrarily overwhelming someone’s will. Hardening is something that God allows, sometimes with help (e.g., Pharaoh or Ahab in 1 Kings 22), but it is always a self-inflicted wound originating from a heart of rebellion. In this case, many of Israel willed not to know, which profoundly deepened their problem. I’m reminded in such cases of 2 Thessalonians 2:11 “For this reason God will send upon them a deluding influence so that they will believe what is false.”

Gentiles beware! — Romans 11:11-24

Paul has been saying all these things as it were in the hearing of the Gentiles, who may have been expected to be cheering about this point — perhaps even gloating at racial Israel. Now the Jews were the ones who were Ephesians 2:12 “…separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.” But don’t forget, Paul goes on to say, you grafted olive branches could get excised from the olive tree as easily as the natural branches were — you could lose the salvation that you’ve gained merely by living disobediently, unfaithfully, and unfruitfully. Moreover, those Jews who have been excluded at this point could become “chosen” once again by faith in Jesus. Pride went before a fall for Israel, it could go before a Gentile fall, too!

God plans to work it all out — Romans 11:25-36

But in all of this, Paul thinks that he may see a great plan.

  • Romans 11:14, 15 “if somehow I might move to jealousy my fellow countrymen and save some of them. For if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?”
  • Romans 11:25, 26 “For I do not want you, brethren, to be uninformed of this mystery–so that you will not be wise in your own estimation–that a partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, “THE DELIVERER WILL COME FROM ZION, HE WILL REMOVE UNGODLINESS FROM JACOB.””
  • Romans 11:30-32 “For just as you once were disobedient to God, but now have been shown mercy because of their disobedience, so these also now have been disobedient, that because of the mercy shown to you they also may now be shown mercy. For God has shut up all in disobedience so that He may show mercy to all.”

Perhaps all this is happening to save as many as possible, of the Jew first and also of the Greek.

No wonder then that Paul ends with the praise: Romans 11:33-36 “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways! For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, OR WHO BECAME HIS COUNSELOR? Or WHO HAS FIRST GIVEN TO HIM THAT IT MIGHT BE PAID BACK TO HIM AGAIN? For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.”

See you tomorrow, Lord willing.

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Finishing the argument — Romans 7 and 8

Posted on January 10, 2012 by parklinscomb

It’s easy to see in our reading today that the explanations that Paul is using (to clarify the role of the Law of Moses, the change in covenant, and the rightful place of the Gentiles in the church) had been honed to a razor’s edge. Paul had been actively engaged, of course, in many discussions and debates in the synagogues that Paul had evangelized over the years and the churches full of concerned Jewish Christians. Paul knew the common questions, objections, and even accusations that came up. In today’s two chapters, Paul finishes answering questions and objections to the Gospel truth that salvation and righteousness is not found in the Law but through faith in Jesus. Tomorrow, Paul will address a different set of issues that were also on the mind of Jewish Christians of his day.

But for now, let’s highlight a few (and believe me, when I say that the tonnage of passages that could be commented on in these two chapters is mind-boggling — so “few” is really true in these chapters) of the important and inspired teachings or Paul on the question of the role of the Law of Moses in today’s reading…

The Parallel of a Marriage Covenant and the New Covenant — Romans 7:1-6

What a great illustration Paul uses here! People understand the marriage covenant well, and how it is supposed to be a “til death do you part” kind of arrangement. The Jews of Paul’s day were probably objecting to the change of covenant idea using as an illustration themselves that covenants are unbreakable until death! But what they had not thought of was the death that every Christian spiritually experiences in baptism (one more reason to be baptized, by the way) — as in Romans 6:4,5. One’s death in Christ legitimately dissolves the covenant with the Mosaic Law, just like a physical death legitimately dissolves the marriage covenant. In other words, “death did part us” from the Law of Moses.

Sin Takes Advantage of the Law — Romans 7:7-24

“But why would we want a ‘divorce’ from the Law of Moses. Isn’t the Law good?” The short answer, Paul seems to be saying, is both yes and no. Of course, the Law is good; it is the perfect standard of right and wrong, of purity and holiness and light. The problem is that sin uses the Law against our flesh; when the Law tells us not to covet, our flesh tends to say something like: “Don’t covet. Oh, that looks like it could be fun. Are you sure you don’t want to try it?” And then we covet. We all know how it works, and that’s the reason that it doesn’t really help us. Instead it only 1) points out what we shouldn’t do and 2) condemns us when we do it. Paul certainly had it right, when he tells us that sin was shown to be really evil by using what is good to effect more sin. So, the Law is still good; it was simply perfection in the hands of the imperfect.

The War Between the Flesh and the Spirit — Romans 7:14-24

So, because of the Law’s inadvertent backfire effect of actually causing more sin, we have this conflict that wars within us all — knowing what we should do, desiring in the inner man to do the right thing, but being pulled strongly by the flesh in the other direction. This is the common human condition, just in case you wondered if there was something wrong with you. The text here is just a little confusing, but on the other hand, its confusion is the perfect form to express the confusing “schizophrenia” of human existence, especially as we attempt to live the Christian life — Romans 7:15 “For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate.” And the Law of Moses is powerless to help us in this matter. What can we do?

No Condemnation — Romans 8:1

In Paul’s great argument against the Law of Moses, he has pointed out the uselessness of the Law of Moses in actually helping our common sin problem. So what can we do? “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus!” In Paul’s appeal to the Jewish Christians of Rome, he has effectively shut the door on the Law of Moses — given our imperfection, it is doesn’t help us wretched situation. The only door left open is “the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus,” which has set us free from the law of sin and death. No longer, in this new system, do we have to satisfy the Law of Moses (which we cannot do). Instead, we walk in the Spirit and enjoy the forgiveness and promises of God.

Real Spirituality — Romans 8:9ff

I often talk with folks who have the popular definition of “spiritual” and “spirituality”. In the world’s definition, one who is “spiritual” is someone who seeks some sort of transcendent or ecstatic feeling produced by any sort of religious ritual — from paganism to Pentecostalism. But Paul defines spirituality for us in a much more practical way:

“For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.” (Romans 8:5-9, NASB)

But what is spirituality according to the Bible? It is “walking by the Spirit”, more specifically, it is living a life that obeys the Spirit and produces the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22.23).

Predestination? — Romans 8:28-30

There is some confusion that sometimes arises out of this passage about whether or not our lives are scripted, that the whole play has been written, and we are simply living it out — predestination. But the whole Bible teaching of election and predestination is actually not about an individual’s future, but rather a group’s future. Notice how the third person plural is being used throughout the passage: (Romans 8:28-30) “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.”

If I were called by the local high school to become their new basketball coach (fat chance), I could notify the student body that on a certain day there would be tryouts. In these tryouts, I would be looking for students who could run up and down the court in a certain amount of time, who could make 9 out of 10 lay-ups, who could sink 8 out of 10 free-throws, was at least 5’8” and could vertical leap — say 24 inches. I could, likewise, tell the students that everyone who measured up to these criteria — whoever they might turn out to be — would make the team and that everyone who made the team would go on all the road trips and receive a jacket at the end of the season. What have I done? I’ve given a general “call” about the basketball team. I’ve also set the criteria for those who will be chosen to be on the team. I have also predestined everyone on the team to go on all the road trips and get a jacket at the end of the year. This is exactly what the Lord has done. Those who will be His chosen will be those who have believed in and followed His Son Jesus Christ. These chosen folks — whoever they are, by their own choices — are predestined to conform to Jesus’ image now and to go to Heaven later. This distinction and definition will be especially important to remember as we begin to ready and study Romans 9-11, when Paul starts talking about God’s choices.

In the meantime, are you part of God’s chosen people. He has set up the criteria; have you met it?

See you tomorrow, Lord willing.

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Justification available to all — Romans 4-6

Posted on January 9, 2012 by parklinscomb

First of all, I need to apologize for the lateness of this posting. Sundays are full of a great many things for preachers, and, of course, yesterday was a Sunday. The busyness of the day kept and distracted me from posting as I had intended to. Confession aside, Romans 4-6 is such a great section full of so many great teachings that it tempts me write too much — so I’ll work at being brief.

A righteousness from God

Before diving into chapters 4-6, we probably need to make an observation about an important thread running through Paul’s thoughts in the early chapters of this book/letter. It has been suggested that reasons Paul writes this letter are multiple. At the end of this letter he is clearly priming the church there for support of his missionary aspirations to come to Rome and then to Spain. But another reason (the reason for chapters 1-11) could be the return of many Christian Jews to Rome (after being expelled from Rome by the Edict of Claudius about AD 49 — see also Acts 18:2) to find a church that now had a distinct Gentile “flavor” to it.

To prevent a Jew-Gentile division, Paul writes a number of things 1) to theologically answer the Law arguments that the Jews were likely to be offering, in order to Judaize the Roman church, and 2) to reign in the pride of the Gentiles. Both issues threatened the unity of the church. Therefore, Paul writes (Romans 1:16, 17) “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”” After making an airtight case for the sinful state and deserved condemnation of both Jews and Gentiles, Paul then offers the Good News in Romans 3:21, 22 — “But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction” (my emphases, of course).

With this important thread in mind — the righteousness of God on the basis of faith rather than the Law of Moses — Paul continues building his case in chapters 4-8, although we’ll only cover 4-6 today.

A righteousness based on faith not the Law of Moses — Romans 4

The Judaizing of the church was a movement that Paul fought all of his ministry. Paul, being a Jew himself, and apparently seeing no problem with even engaging in Jewish rituals as a Christian on occasion, nevertheless knew and strongly argued almost everywhere he went that Mosaic Law was not a requirement anymore and especially not for Gentiles. To make his point Paul delves into thought about Abraham’s justification, specifically because Abraham was, of course, the man who first received the command about covenant of circumcision. He does this, because circumcision was the first and most important point of impact in collision between Jewish-Christianity and Gentile-Christianity — shouldn’t the Gentiles be circumcised, in order to enter into the covenant with God? Paul’s argument here is that even in Abraham’s case righteousness from God on the basis of his faith (a now familiar phrase) was credited to Abraham BEFORE circumcision. This proves that righteousness from God on the basis of faith is obtainable without circumcision. He goes further and notes that Abraham obtained the promises God gave without complying with the Law of Moses, which didn’t come for another 400-500 years. His point, again, was that obtaining the promises was not dependent on complying with the Law of Moses (read Sabbath keeping, dietary restrictions, etc.), but on the basis of faith.

This important teaching, by the way, is not a “pass” on obedience to the Lord, as some took it then (see chapter 6) and some still take it today. Rather this is an argument against an insistence on keeping the Mosaic Law. God still expects his people to be obedient to Him; in fact, saving faith — far from eliminating deeds of obedience — must by definition include them (see James 2:14ff). And when they fail, they can find forgiveness.

But God… — Romans 5:6-11

Here is one of my favorite passages. It describes so well the depth of trouble we all were in and the depth of love Christ had for us to save us. I’m especially moved by verses 7 and 8 — “For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (emphases mine). By human standards, we (as enemies of God) were not worth dying for; by human standards, we were only fit for destruction and deserved erasure. “But God…” Those are sweet words, and, by the way, an interesting study, if you want to look that phrase up in a concordance. The phrase changes the impossible to the possible; it turns nature on its head; it supplies the missing ingredient for wonderful and even miraculous things; it sweeps away the ordinary and changes the paradigm; it opens up the doors of grace; it gives courage and purpose; and brightens the darkest night to the brilliance of the sun by giving hope when there was none.

The power of one — Romans 5:12-19

What an interesting comparison of the power of “the Adams” (yes, that’s plural). The first Adam brought death to the whole world. The second Adam brought life to everyone who would believe. It leads me to think of the quote by Edward Hale, “I am only one, but I am one. I can’t do everything, but I can do something. The something I ought to do, I can do. And by the grace of God, I will.” You just never know what you can do until you try — no, I mean really try. Sadly, we often start off on a path that could “change the world”, but like Peter we start with faith and then look at the wind and the waves and lose our faith (see Matthew 14.28).

Your own death, burial, and resurrection — Romans 6:1-7

The answer that some Jewish Christians had to Paul’s argument about forgiveness on the basis of faith was that it would promote sin — “Are we to continue in sin that grace may increase?” Paul answers this deftly by simply pointing to their own baptism.

A third century baptistry: notice the pit to the right, there's another to the left you can't see. Altogether they form a cross, symbolic of being baptized into Christ's death

Every Christian of the first many centuries was baptized into Christ, and Paul reasons with these Jewish Christians that their baptism was a death (of themselves), burial (with Christ), and resurrection to “walk in newness of life” (live a different, righteous, obedient life). You’ve been baptized into Christ for forgiveness, haven’t you? Acts 2:38. And if you have, you are living that new life, aren’t you?

That form of teaching — Romans 6:17

Becoming a Christian is not a “do your own thing” event. Paul makes mention here of a form of teaching, a pattern or mold, to which they had become obedient in becoming Christians. The Greek word is “tupos” and it was the common word for a pattern, mold, or form.

A Corinthian mold into which plaster was poured to make the same image over and over again.

The point of such patterns, molds, or forms is always that the result look the same (see the picture of a mold in Corinth). The New Testament pattern of teaching for becoming a Christian is faith in Jesus Christ (John 3:16), repentance (Acts 2:38), confession (Romans 10:9,10), and baptism (Acts 2:38). I list only one verse per item here, but there are many more for each that help us understand that these things were the pattern that every Christian followed. If we want to be forgiven like the folks we read of in the Bible, if we want to have the same hope as the folks we read of in the Bible, if we want to go to Heaven like the folks we read of in the Bible, then we need to become Christians like the folks we read of in the Bible — and follow the other patterns, too, for the church, morality, teachings, worship, and discipleship. Follow the form.

See you tomorrow, Lord willing.

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To the Romans — Romans 1-3

Posted on January 7, 2012 by parklinscomb

Today we begin in our reading the great book of Romans. It is the first of Paul’s letters to churches in the New Testament, although it was actually not his first letter; 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Corinthians, and probably Galatians came before Romans. These letters turned out to be an important part of Paul’s ministry;  they were a part of Paul’s continuing ministry to churches that he had planted or helped in his missionary activity. Through letters, Paul could continue to teach young Christians facing moral, doctrinal, and persecution tests and trials. And, of course, Christianity down through the centuries has benefited enormously through these inspired letters, which continue to teach and extend Paul’s service to the Lord’s church long after his death.

This letter (book) it turns out, was written from Corinth (see Romans 15:26 and 16:1,2) just prior to leaving for Jerusalem (where Paul was consequently arrested, as we read just a couple of days ago in Acts). It is heavy with doctrine (chapters 1-11), but also full of practical application (chapters 12-16), and Paul carried this pattern of doctrine followed by application is most of the rest of his letters. This system of doctrine before application reflects the truth that actions come out of beliefs — and beliefs come from teachings. This is a distinction that we too often lose in modern times, and this aversion to doctrine that our age seems to suffer from is the very reason why immorality, apathy, and worldliness are so prevalent today. Paul knew this and we’d do well to follow his lead on this in our own service to the church.

Romans is considered Paul’s opus magnum, probably the New Testament’s clearest teachings on man’s need for salvation and God’s great plan for redeeming man. So with this brief introduction out of the way comment on a few things found in the first three chapters of Paul’s inspired letter to the church at Rome.

Not ashamed — Romans 1:16

Even in the first century people were tempted to be embarrassed about the Gospel. Jesus was, after all, crucified as a criminal. So “helpless” that He couldn’t save Himself from the death of the cross! “And you’re telling me that He’s the Son of God!? Don’t make me laugh!” Our embarrassment these days comes from not wanting to be considered a kook, from not wanting to be different, from believing in any thing but science. But Paul refused to be ashamed, because he knew that the Gospel is the only way, the only way, that men can be saved — the power of God unto salvation. Maybe that’s the difference between us and Paul; maybe we’re not convinced that without Jesus we’re damned. Our all-inclusive world scorns the idea that there might be only one way, but Jesus taught this truth over and over again. If we say we believe that He is the Son of God, we need to put on our big-boy pants and believe Him and act accordingly, despite what the world might say. Are you ashamed?

They are without excuse — Romans 1:20

I’ve heard people in the midst of sin justify their actions and boastfully saying that in regard to what sinful thing they just did, they’d just have to deal with God about it. What they mean to say is that they think that they can talk God out of appropriate judgment. They believe that their situation is different or that they’ve got a unique excuse, or they’ve run up against something that God didn’t anticipate, when He commanded some things. Paul makes it plain that none of us will be successfully excusing ourselves. Jesus’ teachings mentioned a number judgment scenes; in some of them those who were condemned offered excuses. None were accepted. Are you living in disobedience to God’s word and hoping that you’ll be able to offer an excuse for it? Please rethink that one.

The kindness of God leads to repentance — Romans 2:4

Have you ever thought about God’s blessings as being one of His ways to try to bring us back? We get the punishment side of things — and complain about it, when it happens. But when God blesses — well, I just deserved that, because I’m such a good guy. Later in Romans 12 we’ll read advice from Paul about how to deal with enemies: Romans 12:20 ““BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.”” The idea is to do so much good for someone who’s done you evil that you change his heart (through guilt or good example or something else). Have you ever thought that God might try some of His own advice? Imagine, blessings from the God we’ve offended. Don’t we all have a little something to clean up in our lives to thank the God who has been so good to us?

A stumbling block for blasphemy — Romans 2:23,24

This passage applies not just to the Jews of Paul’s day who had brought reproach on God and His word, it happens today, too. I can’t help but wonder sometimes at the things that Christians put on Facebook, for example. Not only are they telling on themselves to fellow Christians (a real discouragement, thanks for that) but a cause for people who are not Christians, but know these people, to think “hypocrite” and “not for me” and blaspheme the name of Christ.

Just and Justifier — Romans 3:26

What a wonder God has performed in our salvation. God is both just and merciful at the same time. His justice calls for punishing all sin with death (what He’s promised for all sin). But the merciful side of Him doesn’t want to see anyone die! How does He manage this? Well, the mercy of God has a name — Jesus. On the cross Jesus deals with the justice of God, paying for all our sins, and we are dealt with not as our sins deserve, but with mercy! Praise God!

See you tomorrow, Lord willing.

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Off to Rome — Acts 25-28

Posted on January 6, 2012 by parklinscomb

Today’s reading is a little lengthy, due to the details of Paul’s defenses and the shipwreck report. The story is exciting, though you’ll be able to use a map to figure a few things out

I wish — Acts 26:29

After all the imprisonments, after all the persecution, after all the trials and temptations Paul still considered Christianity the very best of all possibly situations to be in. Sometimes people avoid discipleship to Jesus because there’s too much to give up, it “kills all your fun”, you can’t just do whatever you want to do, you gotta go to church, etc. But Paul — and other devoted Christians — would beg to differ, greatly! Sometimes we hesitate to share the Gospel, because “it is so hard”. Hogwash! Living in the world is so much harder! And its eternity is really, really bad! Jesus brings abundant life! I can’t think of any better way for anyone to live: forgiven, guided, loved, cared for, blessed, and with a solid hope against death! Come on! You gotta hate someone to keep that from them!

I believe God that it will turn out exactly as I have been told — Acts 27:25

Do you believe that what God has said will turn out just that way? That He’ll provide for you? That He’ll hear you prayers? That He’ll really forgive ALL your sins? That death is not the end? That “all these things will be added to you” (Matt. 6:33)? That stepping out on faith will not let you down? That sin will kill you? That disobedience will keep you from Heaven?

Still preaching after all these years — Acts 28:31

You’d think Paul would have worn out by now. Why not just retire, Paul? Aren’t you in enough trouble already? Why not just wait until after the trial to start up again? But instead, he was “welcoming all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness, unhindered.” Would you? Do you?

See you tomorrow, Lord willing.

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Set for the defense of the Gospel — Acts 22-24

Posted on January 5, 2012 by parklinscomb

Before Paul was converted, when God was commanding Ananias to go tell Saul of Tarsus what he must do to be saved, the Lord had told Ananias, Acts 9:15 “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel.” Paul had brought the Gospel to lots of places, almost always at personal peril; now, he was on the path to fulfill the Lord’s word about bearing His name before kings, ultimately Caesar — a purpose that Paul understood: Philippians 1:16 “the latter do it out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel.” The three chapters of our reading today record three separate such defenses.

A gutsy defense — Acts 22

Paul had been falsely accused of bringing a Gentile into the court of Israel, an offense that could really get you killed legally. Separating the court of the Gentiles from the court of the women and of Israel was a low wall with a number of stone signs warning: “No foreigner is to go beyond the balustrade and the plaza of the Temple zone. Whoever is caught doing so will have himself to blame for his death which will follow.” And the Jews meant it; after grabbing Paul, they began to beat him. It was only because of the Romans’ intervention that Paul appears to have even survived. I don’t know about you, but if I’d just been arrested under this charge, I’d have been tempted to simply but loudly deny having done such a thing (as, in fact, he had not). But Paul was a man with a mission to defend the Gospel. He tells the story of his conversion and specifically his special mission from God, “Go! For I will send you far away to the Gentiles.” This sent the mob into a frenzy!

Recently I was in a conversation with a good brother in Christ, who told me that it was his aspiration to have everyone like him, because (in his view) this was the mark of a good Christian. I had to disagree, not because I think being disagreeable is Christ-like; but the truth is that Jesus warned how His message would divide sometimes even the closest of family relations. This is not God’s desire, of course, but it is a fact of life — telling the truth even with the most kindly and noble and loving spirit will still cause some not to like us. Paul knew this, expected this, but knew that these men needed to know it: Romans 10:14, 15 “How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher? How will they preach unless they are sent? Just as it is written, “HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS!”” It was a gutsy defense. What would you have said?

A resurrection defense — Acts 23

After the Roman commander discovered that Paul was a Roman citizen, he decided that he needed to get to the bottom of why Paul had been accused, so he called the Sanhedrin to assemble so that Paul could defend himself. But after being struck in the mouth without just cause, Paul perceived that this was going to be a kangaroo court and showed himself again “shrewd as a serpent and as innocent as a dove.” “I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees, I am on trial for the hope and resurrection of the dead!” he exclaimed, which caused an uproarious debate among the members of the Sanhedrin. So seeing that Paul was again in danger from the heated and almost riotous exchange between the Pharisees and Sadducees that followed, the Roman commander pulled Paul out of the fray and put him in protective custody.

The next day 40 zealous plotters pledged to not eat until they had killed Paul. Providentially, Paul’s nephew overheard the plot and its details and reported it to Paul, who then passed the info along to the commander. The Roman commander’s main job was the protection of Rome’s interests and citizens and clearly Paul was a hot potato in need of more protection that he could muster; so he transferred him, heavily guarded, by night to Caesarea to await the priests’ arrival from Jerusalem to make formal accusations.

I make mention of these just to once again point out the wisdom that Paul chose to exercise in difficult situations. It is possible to use our wits and God’s providence to escape the evil designs of the enemy. In Paul’s case, he thought that there might be those in the Temple crowd that might listen to God’s message; but knew that the same Sanhedrin who had condemned Jesus, who had ordered Paul struck in the mouth, and with whom he had personally plotted to eradicate Christianity would not listen. He treated them in different ways. In one case he preached the good news, but in the other he used an issue he knew they’d argue about to escape their condemnation. “Shrewd as a serpent and as innocent as a dove.”

A scary defense — Acts 24

The priests did come and make their accusation, but the governor opted to wait for the commander’s testimony before coming to any decision. So in waiting for Lysias, the Roman commander in Jerusalem, to testify, Paul was given a little bit of freedom and a great opportunity to come discuss faith in Jesus. Sadly, however, when Paul began talking about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment it shook Felix, the governor, enough to interrupt Paul’s teaching and tell him, “Go away for the present, and when I find time I will summon you.” As far as we know, Felix never found that time and never became a Christian.

Felix’s reaction is not uncommon. There are scary things about the Gospel. Righteousness, not just moral living, but all the good deeds that we need to be actively engaged in, can be scary, when we compare our real lives with God’s expectations — it’s easy to think that we’re good until we look at what we should be doing. Self-control, is as easy to talk about as the latest new year resolution, but as difficult as January 3. And the more luxury we allow ourselves, the softer self-control often becomes and the harder exercising it is. And then judgment — the worst of all considerations, because knowing about how far short we have fallen in righteousness and self-control, the last thing we want to consider is to actually answer to God about it. Especially to a pagan governor, this was scary stuff. To a worldly friend it is still scary stuff.
But I’ve got a theory. I don’t think that Felix let Paul really talk all that long. I have long maintained that for the Good News to really be good, you have to tell the bad news first. The bad news is that we are sinners and lost — on our ways to Hell. The good news is that we don’t have to suffer such a fate, because of Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross. Make sure you tell the bad news, but be sure to emphasize the good news, too.

See you tomorrow, Lord willing.

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