Daily Devotion Day 31

 “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ." To "cheat you" is to rob you. People will use all types of philosophy (worldly wisdom) to try and deceive you. If we stay true to Jesus' terms of discipleship He set forth in Matthew 16: 24, we will not allow anyone to cheat us. Jesus said, "Deny yourself, and take up your cross, and follow Me." There are many church traditions that can side track you. A good test is that a church is in error if it teaches that you are saved by Jesus plus __________. Anything in that blank, baptism, church membership, etc. is not Biblical. We are saved by grace through faith, period. You bring nothing to the table but your sin. Thank God, He brings grace!

Daily Devotion Day 30

 “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him And established in the faith." To "walk" refers to your daily conduct. We are to "walk" recognizing Jesus' Lordship over our lives. It is not enough to believe in God. James 2:19 says that the demons believe in God. Yet, they are not saved. Mark 5:7 tells us that demons called Jesus "the Most High Son of God," yet, they were not saved. Being saved means one has taken Jesus as Lord over their lives. This does not mean you are perfect, far from it. In fact, it means you understand your shortcomings that you are utterly dependent on Jesus Christ to save you. As we lean on Him, we will become established in the faith. We will walk better.

Lesson Nine of the Quarter: A Prisoner's Prayer

 Today's lesson comes from Philippians 1: 3-18. The start of the Philippian church can be read in Acts 16. Paul also visited this church on his third missionary journey. The believers in Philippi had sent offerings to Paul on at least two occasions prior to the writing of this letter. As a prisoner in Rome, he now receives a third offering brought to him by Epaphroditus. Part of Paul's purpose in writing this letter was to express his gratitude for their kindness. 

The church included Lydia (the lady that had been a fortune teller) and the jailor and his family that got saved. They met in Lydia's home. This book was written about 60A.D. It is interesting to note that while Paul wrote the letter while imprisoned, he made little reference to his suffering. The book is filled with themes of joy and rejoicing.

The first section is: "Fellow Believers." (vv. 3-8) In this portion, Paul writes about the virtues of the Philippian church and the close relationship he had with them. Paul was very thankful for this church. Here are some reasons:

1. Verse 5 for their fellowship;

2. Verse 6 for their consistency in their Christian walk; and

3. Verse 7 for their oneness with him both in the defense of the gospel but in their spreading the gospel. 

Paul had a genuine love for the Philippian church. He was confident that what God had started in them, He would complete. They shared his desire to defend the gospel (keep error out) and confirm the gospel by proclaiming the good news of salvation. In verse 8, Paul states that he longed after the church in the "bowels" of Jesus Christ. The word "bowels" means heart. He loved the people with the same love that Christ had.

The summary points of this section are:

1. The fruit of the Spirit is not dependent on outward circumstances.

2. What God starts, He will finish.

3. We should love others in the church with the same love Christ has for them.

The second section is: "Paul's Prayer." (vv. 9-11) From Paul's prayer, we can see what he wants to be accomplished in their lives:

1. That their love would grow for God (v. 9);

2. That their love would be guided by intelligent reason and not emotion (v. 9);

3. That they would be discriminating in their choices and values (v. 10)

4. That they would be sincere (pure) and without offense (v. 10); and

5. That they would "filled with the fruits of righteousness." Christ is the vine and we are the branches. As He gives us spiritual life, we should manifest that life to others. Fruit is seen. 

We are to live "unto the glory and praise of God." (v. 11)

The summary points of this section are:

1. We need to pray daily that the love of believers would increase.

2. Our love should not be guided by emotion.

3. We should bear spiritual fruit for others.

The third section is: "The Gospel Proclaimed." (vv. 12-18) In this section, Paul puts their mind at ease in regard to himself and to the spread of the gospel. The Philippians were concerned about Paul's condition and the spread of the gospel in Rome. How could the gospel go forth if Paul was in prison? The lesson to be learned is that God can turn a negative into a positive. Despite the imprisonment, the gospel was being preached.

Not only was God using Paul to preach the gospel, but Paul's example was having an effect on the other believers in Rome.  Many were "waxing confident," because God had sustained Paul and kept him from death. Fellow believers were being inspired by Paul's heroism.

Not everyone who professed Christianity appreciated the apostle Paul. Since Paul was in prison, they felt it was an ideal time to enlarge their following by being more evangelistic. Though they were proclaiming the gospel out "of contention" and "not sincerely," the cause of Christ was being advanced. Paul referenced that they thought they could "add affliction" to him, he had a larger vision and purpose than personal gain. 

Though some were preaching Christ for the wrong reasons, others were preaching out "of good will" and "of love." This group appreciated Paul and understood his stand "for the defense of the gospel." Paul would not tolerate false doctrine. He stood for the truth. Since the gospel was being proclaimed, Paul rejoiced in that God's purpose was being accomplished.

The summary points of this section are: 

1. The main point is to preach the gospel and further the cause of Christ, regardless of your individual sufferings.

2. Suffering for the gospel does not mean that you have done something wrong.

3. God's purpose is to have his believers be ambassadors for Him and preach the truth.

The Golden Text is: "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you." (Phil. 1:3) Thanksgiving with joy is a theme that runs through all of Paul's writings. This is very prominent in the book of Philippians. Even in prison, Paul directed his thoughts toward others. We should always give thanks for God, regardless of our circumstances.

Next week, "As Sons of God." (Phil. 2: 3-16)

Daily Devotion Day 29

 “Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words." There are numerous deceptive voices in the world. Many of them will try and lead you away from the simplicity of Christ's message. Paul warns you not to be deceived. I warn you not to be deceived. The gospel message is fivefold to me: Christ crucified, Christ buried, Christ resurrected, Christ exalted, and Christ coming again. Notwithstanding all my degrees, the many books on theology I have read, my experiences in the ministry, my travels for the Lord, I have come back to these five points. Stay close to them and you will not be deceived.

Daily Devotion Day 28

 “And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight." To be "holy" here is positional. You have received God's imputed righteousness. That means when the Father looks at you, He doesn't see your sin, instead, He sees Christ's perfect holiness. If you have ever been to a house of mirrors, you will notice some mirrors make you look thin and others make you look fat. So that what you see is different from what you really look like. Through the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, even though you aren't perfect, God the Father sees you as perfect.

Daily Devotional Day 27

 “For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him...having made peace through the blood of His cross." The word "reconcile" means "to change" or "exchange." It refers to a change in the relationship between the sinner and God. Have you ever had a disagreement with someone you cared about? During the period of estrangement, you just didn't feel right. Then, after you made up, there was an euphoric sigh of relief. Everything had been repaired. The most important relationship you can have in this life is your relationship with God. The good news is that through the blood of Jesus Christ, you have been reconciled! And, that is good, no, great news!

Daily Devotion Day 26

 “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love...." We have been "delivered" which means rescued by God from Satan's kingdom. I made a statement once which shocked my wife. I said, "every non believer has Satan as his or her father." If a believer wants to marry a nonbeliever, they will have Satan as their father-in-law. We have been delivered not by our works or goodness, but solely through the blood of the Lord  Jesus Christ. The gospel is the good news. What is the good news? I have summarized the gospel with these five points: Christ crucified, Christ buried, Christ resurrected, Christ exalted to heaven and Christ coming again. It is good to be rescued! 

Daily Devotion Day 25

 “Giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light." Living a lifestyle of thankfulness will enable you to enjoy what you have, help others the best you can, and enable you to set a good example for your children and grandchildren. We are to especially give thanks to the Father. Why?  Because He has "qualified" you which means that God has empowered you and authorized you to receive an inheritance. Every believer will receive his or her portion of this divine inheritance. What is the inheritance? It is "in the light." The "light" is a synonym for God's kingdom. You will have a portion of the Kingdom! Now, that is a reason to give thanks!

Daily Devotion Day 24

 “Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness...." "Strengthened" is to have spiritual power. This power is the mark of every Christian who submits to God's Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit. It is not reserved for some special class, but is for all that will discipline their minds by studying the Bible and living by it. When we have this strengthening, we can be joyful as we live a lifestyle of being patient and longsuffering toward others. As you go about today, look for opportunities to be patient and kind toward others. It will make a difference in their lives.

Eighth Lesson of the Quarter: Put Off Put On

 Today's lesson comes from Colossians 3: 1-9; 12-17. Paul is instructing the new Christians in regard to those things which should not be in their lives, and those things which should be a part of their lives. Some things are "put off" when a person is saved. Others, are "put off" in sanctification. Some things are "put on" in salvation in a crisis experience while others are developed on an individual basis as one grows in grace. Paul will give specific advice to the Colossians that is as relevant to us today as as it was when he originally wrote this epistle. 

The first section is: "Risen With Christ." (vv. 1-4) The believers at Colosse had been "risen with Christ." The language is in the aorist tense which means a specific act as opposed to an ongoing action. The believers had been risen. It was a completed act. As a result, Paul says to "set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth." A new life begets a new appetite.  A Christian should be more concerned with things of the Kingdom as opposed to things of the world. 

It is a choice to set your "affections on things above." Satan and his demons will do everything they can to sidetrack you and get your mind off Christ. The battle begins in the mind. If we focus our affections on Christ, we will have taken a big step in resisting temptation. Paul gives three reasons for why the Christian should "seek...things...above." They are:

1. They were dead (not physically, but to the things of the world) and the things of the world did not control them any longer;

2. Their life was "hid with Christ in God” (they knew Christ was the focal point of life); and

3. A glorious future awaited them when Christ appeared.

The summary points of this section are:

1. Believers are risen with Christ and have made spiritually alive.

2. Believers should set their affections on heavenly things not the world.

3. A glorious future awaits the Christian when Christ appears. 

The second section is: "Old Life Put Off." (vv. 5-9) Verse 5 says we are to "mortify" our members. Paul was saying that we are put to death the carnal nature which is manifested in its various traits. Prior to being saved, the carnal nature controlled your life. After conversion, the carnal nature is no longer in control, but it exists. In entire sanctification, the carnal nature is eliminated.  Paul lists three types of sins. One, are the sins associated with the lusts of the flesh. The second is the sins of the spirit. The third is sins of the tongue.

The sins associated with the lusts of the flesh are:

1. Fornication (illicit sexual relations);

2. Uncleanness (impurity of lustful, wasteful or extravagant living);

3. Inordinate affections (depraved passions, twisted desires); and

4. Evil concupiscence (wrong desires, cravings). 

Paul includes covetousness which he declares to be idolatry. 

The sins of the spirit are:

1. Anger (settled hatred);

2. Wrath (boiling up);

3. Malice (ill will, desire to injure);

Sins of the tongue include:

1. Blasphemy (slander, injurious speech);

2. Filthy communication (low and obscene speech); and

3. Lying (attempting to deceive by falsehood).  

The believer is to put these sins off. The action is to be instantaneous and complete. We do this by making a total abandonment to God and faith in the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ. God responds by sending the Holy Ghost in purifying power and purges the carnal nature. 

The summary points f this section are:

1. Believers are to put to death their carnal traits.

2. There are sins of the flesh, spirit, and tongue, but they can be put off.

3. Only the Holy Ghost can purge the carnal traits from the believer.

The third section is: "New Life Put On." (vv. 12-14) When the Holy Ghost comes in sanctifying power, that life will manifest the fruit of the Spirit by "putting on" the following:

1. Bowels of mercy (a heart of compassion);

2. Kindness (doing good to others);

3. Humbleness of mind (esteeming others better than themselves);

4. Meekness (quietly submitting to the will of God); and

5. Long-suffering (patiently bears personal injuries and ill usage). 

As "the elect of God, holy and beloved," we are to be "forgiving one another, and forgiving one another." In addition, we are to "above all these things put on charity (love). Divine love in the heart is essential. These are the things we are to "put on."

The summary points of this section are: 

1. We are to "put on" mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, and long-suffering.

2. We are to most of all "put on" love.

3. We are to forebear the present and forget the past.

The fourth section is: "New Life Manifest." (vv. 15-17) As a result of what has been "put off" and "put on," your new life will manifest in the following ways:

1. The peace of God will rule in your heart. The word "rule" means to umpire of preside. The peace of God will serve as an umpire to your soul.

2. The Word of God will dwell in you providing you spiritual wisdom. Reading, hearing, and meditating on the Word will cause your soul to prosper.

Paul references (verse 16) singing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Much of today's music which is called Christian has little or no value. The church should sing the sacred songs of the past that have good theology as it has done so for years. Music has always played an important part of worship and we need to be mindful to keep true to the Scriptures and not compromise on this issue.

3. Whatever we do, we should do it in the name of the Lord Jesus. Our entire lives are to be a testimony of what God can do in the human heart.

The summary points of this section are:

1. God's peace should umpire you.

2. To be wise, read and study God's Word.

3. Do all for the glory of God.

The Golden Text is: "And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." (Col. 3:10) God is the artist and wants to make a copy of Himself and takes man as the copy. He will renew man day by day conforming him more and more into His image.  While we will never be perfect, He wants us to resemble Him and will renew us in knowledge since it is He who created us.

Next week: "A Prisoner's Prayer." (Philippians 1: 3-18)

Daily Devotional Day 23

 “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God. This is a key to New Testament living that we should live our lives in a way consistent with our identification with the Lord who saves us. Spiritual fruit (love, joy, peace, longsuffering, etc.) is a product of living a righteous life. This is a moment by moment decision in how we live. Let us live each day as if it was our last. As we do so, we will have many good days ahead because we will guard how we speak to each other, listen to each other, and care for each other.

Daily Devotion Day 22

 “For this cause we also, since we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding." Paul prayed that the readers of his letter would have spiritual understanding. This is not some voice in the head, seeing a cardinal on your mailbox, or other silliness. This is a deep and thorough knowledge of the will of God that is finally and completely revealed in the Holy Bible. Every year for many years now, I have read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. My business knowledge, intuition, personnel matters at the office, all come from reading God's Word. I have many degrees but they are meaningless compared to the knowledge that comes from reading the Bible. And that is how I pray for you! The Bible way.

Daily Devotion Day 21

 “For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of truth of the gospel...." The believers' hope is inseparable from his faith. As I get older, I think about heaven more and more. It is my hope. Sometimes I think about what it will be like to spend forever with my family. It makes me smile. I'm so thankful for the gospel. "Gospel" means "good news" and in classical Greek it expressed the good news of a victory over the enemy. I'm rejoicing over the gospel or good news that my Lord Jesus Christ defeated Satan, sin and death. Because of Christ, I have hope.

Daily Devotional Day 20

 “But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Notice the verse doesn' say some, it says "all." Now this is not a license to be lazy. John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist Church in which I was raised, would say after he finished praying, he would get off his knees and try to make happen what he just asked God to do. Pray as if it was all on God and work as if it is all on you. You both give 100%, it's not 50/50. However, in the end, we have confidence that even if our best efforts are not great, God will still meet our needs. That is a comfort that has guided me for years.

Daily Devotion Day 19

 “Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate (share) with my affliction (troubles)." The Apostle Paul is complementing the Philippian church because they had helped him in his time of need. The principle is one we can apply at least weekly in our lives. Find someone who has some trouble and try to help them. However, don't take credit for yourself. Instead, let them know that you are an ambassador of the Lord Jesus Christ and that you wanted to share in their burdens. Don't make a law of this to feel guilty if you don't do it. It will be sufficient if you are at least looking for an opportunity to share another's troubles.

Daily Devotion Day 18

 “I can do all things through Christ which strengthenth me." Notice the words, "I can." There is a saying not in the Bible but people say it all the time, "God helps those who help themselves. Christ will give us strength to be successful, but we must be active. I heard a story of a young boy watching a boxing match with his minister father. As the boxer was getting into the ring, he made a sign of the cross like a lot of athletes do. The boy asked his father, "will that help him?" The father answered, "it will if he can punch." Remember the formula: you give 100% God gives 100%. That is a winning equation!

Seventh Lesson of the Quarter: Established in the Faith

 Today's lesson comes from Colossians 2: 6-19.  Last week we learned that the Colossian church had a problem with heretical Gnostic teaching. However, they also faced the dangers of some Jewish teachers that wanted the Gentile converts to conform to Old Testament rituals and ceremonies. Paul writes this portion of Scripture to advise the converts that to revert back to ceremonial washings, abstinence from certain foods, and observance of feast days was a step backward spiritually. The greatest fulfillment is in the Lord Jesus Christ.

As we begin this lesson, it is good to ask ourselves some questions:

1. What is the foundation of our faith?

2. Is it your works, your theology, or Christ?

3. Do you realize that correct doctrine leads to correct living?

Paul's advice will be clear and direct. He wanted the readers to realize that all their spiritual needs could be met only in the Lord Jesus Christ.

The first section is: "Walk in Christ" (vv. 6,7). Paul will highlight the aspects of a true Christian life. The Gentile believers started by having faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and appropriating His atoning work as the sacrifice for their sins. They had begun in faith and Paul instructs them, "So walk ye in him." 

When you walk in Him, your spiritual life can be described as follows:

1. rooted;

2. built up;

3. stablished; and

4. abounding.

These terms describe a past action ("rooted") of following the truth of the Lord Jesus Christ, growing ("built up") and increasing in Christlikeness and being unshakeable ("stablished") and confirmed in the faith ("abounding"). 

The summary points of this section are:

1. You start by faith and continue in faith.

2. New Christians must be guarded and nurtured.

3. The desired goal is that the Christian's life would be fruitful and filled with thanksgiving to God.

The second section is: "Complete in Christ" (vv. 8-12). The second and third sections convey the thoughts of the adequacy of Christ, and the benefits of relying solely on Him. In verse 8, Paul warns the reader to not let any man "spoil" him. The word "spoil" means to be carried off as prey, or to be captured. Paul specifically mentions "the tradition of men." This refers to teachings that are devoid of the truth, nothing but high-sounding nonsense. In contrast to the false teaching, Paul presents the fullness which is to be found in Christ. Verse 9 tells us that in Christ dwells "all the fullness of the Godhead bodily."  Verse 10 states that we are "complete in Him." We owe allegiance to no one else but Christ. He is the ultimate authority.  Verse 11 states that the believers had received a spiritual circumcision, not one made by the hands of men. 

Some of the people that were trying to lead the believers astray had Jewish backgrounds. It seems that in the church there is a tendency to create a works based faith. I'm saved because I speak with tongues, been baptized, don't drink, smoke or hang with those that do. Our salvation is based on faith, not works. That is the gospel message. We have been spiritually raised from the dead through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

The summary points of this section are:

1. Be aware of those that would lead you astray from the simplicity found in Jesus Christ.

2. You are complete in Jesus Christ.

3. Seek circumcision of the heart not the flesh.

The third section is: Quickened With Christ" (vv. 13-15). All those outside of Christ are "dead in sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh." This speaks to the actual sins committed as well as the sinful nature (uncircumcision of your flesh) you were born with. However, the Lord Jesus Christ "hath He quickened" which means He made us alive. Only God can take that which is dead and make alive. He does this by sending His grace into our hearts. As a result, He has "forgiven you all trespasses." Not some of your sins have been forgiven, but they all have been forgiven. In verse 14, we learn that there was a record against us ("handwriting of ordinances that was against us"). he Lord Jesus Christ took our guilt and blotted out our offenses. He canceled our debt! It was nailed to the cross! In verse 15, the Lord Jesus Christ has openly defeated Satan and his demons. He publicly triumphed over them when He rose from the dead. Satan's power has been broken over us. When we make a public profession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, we continue that public procession on behalf of our Lord.

The summary points of this section are:

1. Before we were saved, we were dead in trespasses and sin. 

2. The Lord Jesus Christ nailed our offenses and carnal nature to the cross on our behalf.

3. When we testify to God's saving grace in our lives, we continue Christ's public triumph over Satan.

The fourth section is: "Let No Man" (vv. 16-19). This last section contains warnings: first, against Jewish rituals and second, against religious intellectualism. In verse 16, Paul warns about people judging you based on your diet (being required to eat only "kosher,") or observing holidays or new moon festivals. These things in the Old Testament were shadows of things to come. However, now Jesus Christ has come so we don't need the shadows any more. The new moon observation was a monthly event that had its own rituals and sacrifices. Note that the Sabbath observation was different because it was given prior to the giving of the Mosaic Law. We don't need symbolic relationships when we have a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.

In verse 18, Paul warns against:

1. false humility;

2. angel worship;

3. invented revelations; and

4. human perception instead of the Word of God.

There are many so called "teachers" today that create out of their own mind doctrines and beliefs that are not from the Word of God. They have a dream, or the typical "God told me." This is referred to as a Psychological Certainty model for truth. Once someone invokes the God told me, there is no more debate on the subject. In their mind, God has given some special revelation to them. They will try to entrap you in their error. God does not give special revelation today. He has finished speaking when the canon was closed with the Book of Revelation. Don't allow yourself to be ensnared.

The summary points of this section are:

1. Don't worship symbols when the things the symbols pointed to has arrived (the Lord Jesus Christ).

2. Follow the Word off God not the inventions of man. 

3. Beware of people who claim to be "super spiritual" and who try to force you to follow them.

The Golden Text is: "And ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power" (Col. 2: 10). All the fulness of the Godhead is found in the Lord Jesus Christ. Those who are in Christ partake of His fullness. Union with Christ is sufficient for He is sufficient.

Next week: "Put Off--Put On." (Colossians 3: 1-17)

Daily Devotion Day 17

 “I know both how to be abased (made low), and I know how to abound (have abundance)." If you think back over your lives, you may remember times when you didn't have as much as you have now. Yet, that time of being abased made you stronger. It made you tougher. Now in the times of abundance you can really appreciate the blessings you have. Whether it is a nice house, car, horse, or whatever else you have been blessed with, remember you are the same person you were when you had little. The Bible says, "pride goes before the fall." Enjoy where you are, be content, and remember that it is the Lord God that gives you the power to earn wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18). Stay humble.

Daily Devotion Day 16

 “Not that I speak in respect of want (poverty): for I have learned, in whatsoever state (condition) I am, therewith to be content." The word "content" means sufficient, strong enough, and independent of external circumstances. To be content means that you are "good" where you are at. It doesn't mean that you won't try to improve, it just means that it is good sometimes just to stop and look around you. There is an old hymn I like, "Showers of Blessings." Your life isn't perfect, but when you look around you will see the "showers." Enjoy the rain.

Daily Devotion Day 15

 “And the God of peace be with you." Consider the source of this advice. Paul wrote the book of Philippians during his first Roman imprisonment. Being a prisoner in Roman confinement was not a picnic. Yet, Paul seeks to encourage his readers to be joyful despite their circumstances. No matter what challenges you face today, follow Paul's advice and be joyful. God will give you peace as you walk with Him.

Daily Devotion Day 14

 “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely...dwell on these things." If we follow this simple advice it will improve the quality of life. Before the days of the Internet, you had to program a computer. There were no downloads. Whatever you put in, that is what you got. Think about what you put in your mind with television shows, movies, or even sporting events. When we put things in our mind that don't meet the test of honorable, pure, or lovely, we will reap ungodly thoughts and emotions. Follow Paul's advice for a week and see the difference in your life. That is living a Biblical lifestyle.

Daily Devotion Day 13

 “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Think of your heart as your emotions and desires and your minds as your intellect. As we focus on the Word of God, we will have peace. That peace will guide and protect you. If you start to be upset or angry over a situation, stop and ask yourself, "Am I being guided by God's peace?" If you aren't, stop and recalibrate. Trust in God's Word and peace will begin to flow.

Daily Devotion Day 12

 "Don't worry about anything but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." We are still in a pandemic. Inflation is here. The border crisis is a mess. What used to be right is now wrong and vica versa. What world will your children and grandchildren grow up in? There is so much to worry about. Let me ask you, what good does it do to worry? Paul tells us to pray with thanksgiving. God is still in charge no matter what things look like. We pray to God knowing that He will be the ultimate resource for our children. That's how I can face today and tomorrow.

Sixth Lesson of the Quarter: Reconciled Through Christ

 Today's lesson is from Colossians 1: 9-22. Most likely, Paul had never visited the city of Colosse. However, he was very concerned about what he had heard about the church there. Word had come to him that false teachers had infiltrated the church. Among the errors was Gnosticism. Some of the teachings of Gnosticism included:

1. The teaching that the world was not created by God, but by a lesser being.

2. Angels were to be worshipped.

3. Christ did not have a human body.

4. Some had extreme ascetic practices while others were given over to gratification.

The book of Colossians is divided into five parts:

1. Introduction (1:1-14);

2. Doctrine--The Christ (1:15-2:3);

3. Exhortation--The Church (2:4-3:4);

4. Practical--The Christian (3:5-4:6); and

5. Conclusion (4: 7-18).

Paul was concerned about the church at Colosse and wrote to expose the spiritual errors.

The first section is: Paul's Prayer (vv. 9-11). The Gnostics taught that there were three classes of people in the church:

1. The spiritual elite that had special knowledge from God.

2. A lesser order that possessed only faith.

3. A third group that were servants of the other two groups.

Paul's prayer had three parts that addressed these errors. First, Paul prayed that the entire church would be "filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding." There would be no special classes of knowledge. Second, Paul prayed that the people would "worthy of the Lord...." Paul desired that people's conduct would be in harmony with their profession. Right knowledge should bring right conduct. Right works would increase right knowledge. Third, Paul prayed that the people would be "strengthened with all might." The verb in this phrase is in the present tense which means a continuous and progressive filling. The Christian life is not be lived in our own power, but there must be a reliance on the Holy Spirit. 

The summary points of this section are:

1. There are no spiritual elites with special knowledge in the church.

2. The Christian's conduct should match his profession. 

3. We need to be continually filled with the Holy Spirit.

Before we move to the next section, this is an appropriate place to point out some errors found in many churches. People will claim a special word from the Lord because of what they claim God spoke to them. This is not true. God has finished speaking except as found in the Word of God. If you want to hear from God, read His Word. If you want God to spoke out loud, read His Word out loud!

The second section is: Paul's Thanksgiving (12-14). Paul's prayer included thanksgiving. He was thankful for the following:

1. The Father had made them worthy and qualified for the inheritance of the saints.

2. God had called them "out of darkness into His marvelous light."

3. God had "translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son."

Paul now praises God for the above and he gives thanks for "redemption through His blood."  It should be noted that the word "meek" which means fit, worthy or qualified is in the aorist tense. This means it is an instantaneous act, a present reality, and not a progressive work. The shedding of Christ's blood provided "forgiveness of sins," and we have been freed from guilt because of Calvary.

The summary points of this section are:

1. We are made worthy by His grace and not our works.

2. Christians should not walk in darkness and claim to be saved.

3. We should include thanksgiving in our prayers.

The third section is: Christ, the Creator (vv. 15-17). The Gnostics taught that the world was created by a lesser being. Paul will tackle this error head on. He declares that Jesus Christ is "the image of the invisible God." This means that the being and perfections of God are fully seen in Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is God incarnate and not a lesser created being. Further, Christ is the "firstborn of every creator." This means that He existed prior to creation. The creation act was not the result of a duty being delegated to Christ. It was done in and of Himself. Jesus was not taking orders from a superior God. 

The word "created" is used twice in verse 16. The first time it is used in the aorist tense meaning a definite historical, finished act. The second time, it is in the perfect tense, signifying the resulting state. Christ is the Creator of all things that were created. They were created "by Him" and "for Him." The universe owes its existence to Christ.

Christ "is before all things." Jesus was not part of creation, He is before creation. "By Him all things consist." If it was not for Jesus Christ, things would disintegrate. The point is that Jesus Christ created the world and He continues to hold it together.

The summary points of this section are:

1. Jesus Christ is fully God.

2. Jesus Christ is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe.

3. It is error to believe that Jesus is a lesser God.

The The fourth section is: Christ, the Reconciler (vv. 18-22). Christ is the head of the church. The church is the organism on earth to carry out His will. He is "firstborn from the dead," which means He was the first one to rise who would die no more (Lazarus was raised from the dead but he subsequently died). He has "the preeminence." Jesus is in first place and there is no other worthy of that position.

The "fulness" dwells in Christ which means that the totality of divine attributes rests in Him. It is through Christ that God "made peace" between Himself and sinful mankind. To reconcile means to eliminate the enmity between, or to bring together. That is exactly what the Lord Jesus Christ did for those He saves. 

Prior to their conversion, the people of Colosse were "alienated and enemies" of God. To be alienated meant one was estranged, separated in affections, and mind. They were at war with God. As a result of the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ, God reached out to those at war with Him. Paul asserts the humanity of Christ which was denied by the Gnostics. Jesus had a physical body which died. The purpose of that death was "to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight." God desires a holy people that hate sin. And, through the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ, God will have His holy church.

The summary points of this section are:

1. All the fulness of divine attributes reside in the Lord Jesus Christ.

2. Prior to conversion, all are at war with God.

3. God will have a holy people through the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Golden Text is: "And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence." (Col. 1:18) Christ is supreme and Sovereign over the church. This is because He paid for the church by His sacrifice. He is the Source and the beginning of life, being Firstborn from the dead. What a wonderful Savior we serve. We should thank Him everyday for what He has done for us and the church.

Next week: "Established in the Faith." (Colossians 2: 6-19)

Daily Devotions Day 11

 “They are focused on earthly things, but our citizenship is in heaven...." It is a mistake to focus too much on things that will pass away. The Apostle John warns of "the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and the pride of life." Now we are to work and make money. Money is not the issue, it is the love of money that gets you in trouble. We should remember that we have dual citizenship. Yes, we are Americans. However, we have a present citizenship in heaven. When the earthly things create a problem, it comforts me to think about my heavenly citizenship.

Daily Devotions Day 10

“Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead." I have a saying I repeat a lot. I heard it from NFL great Ray Lewis: "Never trip on something in your rear view mirror." This is a good paraphrase of what Paul the Apostle wrote. As we go through life, don't let memories from the past negatively impact your present and prevent you from reaching your future goals. Sometimes a bad memory can be a good thing. Focus on now.

Daily Devotions Day 9

“Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on...." No one is perfect. We need to give ourselves and others a break. In Christ we have perfection because of Him, but not because of our efforts. While we are not perfect, we press on. That means we approach each day trying to be the best Christian we can be. Read your Bible, pray to God, love your family, and do good to others as best as you can. Living the Christian life takes effort. It can be a battle, but we have a Wonderful Commander-In-Chief!

Daily Devotions Day 8

"Rejoice in the Lord." Here we see Paul is issuing another command. We are to "rejoice." What does that look like? It means that as we go about our day we are to rejoice exceedingly, be well, thrive and be glad. This does not depend on our circumstances or difficulties. It can be accomplished by trusting in the Providence of God. There are no maverick molecules operating independent of Him. All is under His control. When we trust Him, we can rejoice.

Daily Devotions Day 7

“Do all things without grumbling or disputing.” A lifestyle of praise and thanksgiving is the best way to live and love. It can be challenge sometimes and may require effort. Just like a yard left alone will become dilapidated and an eye sore, we as humans will default to grumbling and complaining. Paul tells us to “do” which is in the imperative tense which means it is a command. We are commanded not to grumble or complain. Good advice.

Daily Devotions Day 6

“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." We are saved by grace through faith. We don't earn our salvation, but we do demonstrate our salvation by obeying God's Word, loving others, and being faithful to our Lord Jesus Christ. Never confuse the role of good works. We are representatives of God and we should act like it. But salvation is still a free gift.