Posted by: missionventureministries | November 15, 2023

JESUS GAVE A NEW COMMANDMENT TO LOVE ONE ANOTHER – John 13:34-35

John 13 vs 34-35

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34-35) 

Jesus said to His followers, “I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, that you also love one another” (v. 34). The disciples may have thought that was impossible, and yet the commandment itself contains the answer to how we can, in fact, obey it. 

Before anyone can love as Jesus does, they must first receive His love. Only then are they able to emulate it to those around and point them to the One who cares more deeply and abundantly than they could ever imagine. 

The Lord empowers us to be “imitators of God, as beloved children.” Only then are we able to “walk in love, just as Christ also loved us” (Ephesians 5:1-2). And when we do, we carry out something grand and glorious, and are blessed as a result. 

There are three capacities of love in this context: 

  1. Vertical love for the Lord,
  2. Horizontal love for each other, and
  3. Love for one another demonstrating love for the Lord. 

Loving other people as ourselves was NOT a new command (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 5:43-48). The “new” element here, however, is to love “as I have loved you.” Jesus’ standard for loving is His own loving sacrifice for others. 

This phrase goes beyond the Leviticus 19:18 command to love others. The “new” element of the commandment is that the disciples were to love each other just as Jesus loved them. Jesus loved them by dying on the cross. The emphasis here is on a new mode of loving. The kind of love that Jesus requires of His followers raises love to an entirely different level. It is the example that Jesus set for His disciples and the distinguishing mark of being a Christian. 

Self-sacrificing love is the new norm for believers and the hallmark of genuine Christianity. Love for Christians does not imply we are to love those that have not accepted Christ less. 

The idea of “love” is randomly used today and is not the biblical love Jesus is referring to. Biblical love is not sharing common interests; instead it is both the willingness and the execution of sacrificial love for others. It has to do with what is best for another person. 

Believers’ love for each other is a testimony both to fellow believers and to the world. Loving one another invites a test of validity of genuine Christian living. 

As Jesus embodied the Father’s love, so His disciples are to embody His love. The single identifying mark of being a Christian is to love others. Our identity as Christians is not how much we know or how we serve but our love for others. 

In 1 John, John brings out that believers should sacrifice self-interest for others, it is a love of action and personal cost. The reason being that those who hate others or have malice toward fellow Christians undermine what Christianity is all about. 

The key standard for living out Christian belief, and the means by which believers are to distinguish themselves from non-believers, is expressed in this verse. As Paul expresses in 1 Corinthians chapter 13, nothing is commendable unless it is done out of love (1 Corinthians 13:1–3). Love must be pursued truthfully and with good judgment (Ephesians 4:15; John 7:24; 1 John 3:18), but it cannot be set aside under any circumstances. 

Growing in love requires lifelong effort, but our aim should be to love others even as Jesus loves us. Consequently, our love for one another ought to reflect the mutual love between the Father and the Son, as well as the love that Jesus has for us, “having loved His own who were in the world, he loved them to the end” (John 13:1). 

Let us always pray and ask that the Father help us to be imitators of this kind of love (John 3:16). 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | November 8, 2023

GOD WANTS ALL MEN TO BE SAVED – 1 Timothy 2:1-6

1 Timothy 2 vs 1-6

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave Himself as a ransom for all people.” (1 Timothy 2:1-6) 

In prior verses, Paul has charged Timothy to defend sound teachings and to avoid the errors of those who teach without actual knowledge. This section begins a direct focus on church-related issues. 

Paul’s first order of business is prayer and they need to be offered for “all.” Verse one encourages believers to be in prayer “for all people.”  Paul emphasizes “all” again in both verse 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth and in verse 6, who gave Himself as a ransom for all people.” 

The apostle’s words reflect the teachings of Jesus (John 3:16). In Romans 10:9–11, Paul states that, “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in Him will never be put to shame.” 

God, who detests sin and will one day judge sinful individuals, does not desire to punish anyone. His desire is for “all people to be saved,” and He has done all that is necessary to bring this about, by paying sin’s awful penalty of death. While not all will avail themselves of this opportunity, choosing instead to continue in their sin, our prayers somehow are used by God to bring some “to the knowledge of the truth.” 

The truth needed to understand salvation is that: “There is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all people” (vv. 5-6). 

In order to be saved, we must embrace the fact that there is only “one God” who alone holds the key to eternity, and that there is only one way by which we can reach God, “the man Christ Jesus.” 

We, in our natural state, are at war with God, estranged from Him, and separated by the presence of sin in our lives. Jesus Christ, acting as our mediator, our peacemaker, our advocate, being both fully God (i.e., “one God”) and fully man (i.e., “the man”) bridges the gap between the Father and all men. As Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me” (John 14:6). 

How has He bridged the gap? He “gave himself a ransom for all” (v. 6). The Bible teaches that “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23) but that “Christ died for our sins” (1 Corinthians 15:3). 

Since He willingly “gave Himself” as a punishment for our sins, we can stand before God the Father in Christ’s sinlessness. 

Remember that salvation is available to all. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believes” (Romans 1:16). 

NONE are excluded from the possibility of salvation—except those who refuse to believe what God has provided through the substitutionary death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ (1 John 2:2). Therefore, “There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | November 1, 2023

YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW – Galatians 6:7-10

Galatians 6 vs 7-10

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return. The one who sows to please his flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; but the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest, if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith (Galatians 6:7-10). 

Paul is giving the Galatians and us some wonderful advice, since he was a man that knew and understood all about trials, tribulations, persecutions, and sufferings even when he was serving, evangelizing, healing, teaching, and loving God’s people. He didn’t give up on doing good because he knew that the eternal reward would be worth it for all the things he had to suffer in this life. 

He modeled Christ “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1), who was perfect. Jesus didn’t deserve any of the things that He suffered for; however, He loves us so much that He did, so that we could live in eternity with Him. He also wants to reward us based on how we use our gifts for good (Matthew 25:14-30). 

The Bible tells us that, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him” (James 1:12). 

We have great examples of those who went before us that suffered for Christ’s sake. They didn’t give up, and they held to the faith that all things will work out for good for those that love God (Romans 8:23). Therefore, we should not give up in doing good deeds, since our main goal is to please our heavenly Father and to one day hear these awesome words, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!” (Matthew 25:23). 

We need to realize that what we are today is the result of what we have been thinking and how we have been acting. Those who act wisely and obey the word of God will continue to have wisdom to make prudent and wise decisions. Those who spend everything they have giving no attention to the consequences of their decisions will have little or nothing to show for in the future. 

The Lord gives principles in Scripture to serve as warnings and as encouragement. His Word states, “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap” (Galatians 6:7). This is the law of life. 

The fact that we reap what we sow is good news for those who sow good habits, but a frightening thought for those currently are involved in ungodly activities such as promiscuity, drug and alcohol abuse, living off of others or climbing the ladder of success while mistreatment others and neglecting their family for the gain of riches. We cannot sow disobedience to God and expect to reap His blessing, therefore let us not deceive ourselves since in due time we will reap the harvest of what we have sown. 

The Bible also says for us to remember that: “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). 

This can work either positively or negatively in your life. If you’re planting seeds of kindness, people will be kind to you. If you forgive others, they will be forgiving of you. If you’re generous, people will show generosity to you. But if you are angry all the time, people will respond in anger since the law of reproduction says that you reap what you sow and the principle of multiplication says that you also always reap more than you sow. 

Therefore, instead of acting unwise it is best to respond in a Christ like manner, meaning to be kind. We choose to bless them and pray for them as Jesus told us: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). Why? Because that’s what we want to receive! 

When you put one kernel of corn in the ground, you don’t get one kernel of corn back. You get a cornstalk with multiple ears on it and hundreds of kernels on each of those ears. This is the exponential power that God has established in the universe. You always get more out of it than you put into it. 

Proverbs 11:24 says, “One person gives freely, yet gains more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor.” 

In the Old Testament God said to Moses, “I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live” (Deuteronomy 30:19). 

Life is full of choices and Proverbs tells us to, “Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil” (Proverbs 4:26-27).  We need to think about our choices and what the consequences of them are at all times since they can lead to damnation, or to eternal life. 

When we read Genesis 25:29-34 we see another consequence of giving little thought to what God’s principles teach us. Esau returned from hunting and requested some of the stew his brother made. Seizing upon the opportunity, Jacob agreed in exchange for his twin’s birthright. 

In Old Testament times, the firstborn enjoyed special privileges, which included authority over younger siblings, a double share of the inheritance, and being the spiritual leader of the family. Yet Esau, deciding that food was more of a necessity, traded his birthright for dinner. He later grieved when he realized what was lost, but at that point, it was too late. 

Like Esau, we all face critical choices. And though God forgives, the consequences remain. So we must learn how to choose wisely. First, to be able to determine our best options, we should wait until we’re physically, emotionally, and spiritually stable. Second, it’s often important to delay gratification. Though our human desires feel overwhelming at times, we should prayerfully wait for God’s timing asking for wisdom and discernment so that we can make godly decisions during critical moments and at all times. 

If we don’t rely on God, our sin nature takes hold of our decisions and become the driving force in our life. So unless we guard our heart (Proverbs 4:23), we can easily be lured to pursue things with no lasting worth. 

The other danger is to fail to consider the consequences. Eve didn’t consider what might happen if she ate the forbidden fruit; she only focused on the short-term benefit (Genesis 3:1-19). Nor did Samson think about repercussions from interactions with Delilah (Judges 16:16-23). 

Just these few examples show us how easy it is to make a rash decision because the immediate return seems good while the Lord’s wisdom is not being pondered on. 

The Lord wants us to pause and pray about the possible outcomes of our actions and decisions since we have the proverbial saying that haste makes waste as Proverbs 19:2 tells us, “Desire without knowledge is not good—how much more will hasty feet miss the way!” 

So whatever decisions are you facing, prayerfully consider what is driving you, and before making any choices, think about the potential outcome of your actions. 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | October 25, 2023

HOW OFTEN SHOULD WE FORGIVE? – Matthew 18:21-22

Matthew 18 vs 21-22

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 18:21-22) 

Forgiving a person is sometimes easier said than done, especially when it’s someone close to us. It’s often said the closer the relationship, the deeper the wound. 

So, how can we respond when we are rejected by loved ones, since even Christians can hold grudges and have a spirit of un-forgiveness? 

First we need to understand that forgiving does not come easily, but with God’s help all things are possible (Mark 10:27), and once we chose to forgive, we feel like the weight of the world has been lifted off us.  

Second, as Christians we need to understand that forgiveness is a mandate for believers; it is non-negotiable – because, if we want forgiveness, we must also forgive. “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins” (Matthew 6:14-15) 

It is important to comprehend that un-forgiveness does more harm to us, than it does to the one we are not forgiving. It leads to mental anguish, depression, even physical health problems. Forgiveness brings the opposite, it refreshes, brings peace, and good health. If you want peace, you must forgive since peace and un-forgiveness do not mix.  

When we choose forgiveness, we are being Christ like, “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). Similarly, Colossians 3:13 says, “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” The key in both passages is that we are to forgive others as God has forgiven us. So, why do we forgive? Because we have been forgiven! 

In most relationships, we will at some point experience disagreement and division, whether on a minor or major scale. At times this might result from misguided expectations and a lack of boundaries. But one thing is for sure, if we are going to build good, lasting friendships, we have to be forgiving. 

In Matthew 18:21-35, Peter asks how often he has to forgive his brother. By suggesting seven times, Peter assumes he’s being generous. But when we turn that question around, how often should our brother forgive us? Or more importantly, how often should God forgive us? 

Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times” (Matthew 18:22). Refusing to forgive a person demonstrates resentment, bitterness, and anger, none of which are the traits of a growing Christian. Biblically, forgiveness is not just something that the offended person offers; it requires the offender to receive it, bringing reconciliation to the relationship. 

When we humanly reflect on this it feels burdensome, when we are the one that has to ask for forgiveness. But if we are the one being forgiven, it feels a lot like mercy which is also referred to as compassion. 

We need to understand that despite the rifts that occur in relationships, there is still the possibility of forgiveness, change, and even renewal. Remember that it’s not always important to determine who requests forgiveness and who extends it since forgiveness is a deliberate act of love, mercy, and grace. Forgiveness is a decision to not hold something against another person, despite what he or she has done to you. 

Remember that God promises that, when we come to Him confessing our sin and asking for forgiveness, He freely grants it for the sake of Christ, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). 

Likewise, the forgiveness we extend to others should know no limits. “If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them” (Luke 17:3–4). 

If you need help with forgiving those who have rejected you, let’s pray together. 

Father, I come before You. I have been holding anger and un-forgiveness in my heart towards _____________.  I release them to You. I do not want to carry this burden any longer. Free me from the bondage of un-forgiveness. I give my past to You. I give my wounds, tears, abuse, abandonment, rejection, and the person/ people who hurt me to You. I pray that if they have not found Jesus Christ yet, that they will. I pray they will find forgiveness from their sins thru You, just as You forgave me. Thank You for being a God of restoration and the healer of emotional wounds. In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

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WISE QUOTES: 

“Forgiveness is a sign that the person who has wronged you means more to you than the wrong they have dealt.”  — Ben Greenhalgh 

“Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hatred. It is a power that breaks the chains of bitterness and the shackles of selfishness.” — Corrie ten Boom 

“To err is human; to forgive, divine.” — Alexander Pope 

“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.” — Lewis B. Smedes 

“For every minute you are angry you lose sixty seconds of happiness.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | October 18, 2023

THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD RELATIONSHIPS – James 1:5

James 1 vs 5

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5) 

As long as we live in this fallen world, there is always some type of trouble, but the key to a good relationship is to lean on God and seek wisdom from Him, we cannot rely on ourselves but on Him alone. He alone provides the right wisdom to get us out of trouble. 

Relationships can be one of the most vital and rewarding areas of our lives, yet we often find ourselves at odds with each other due to our differences. We need to understand that we don’t need to agree on every issue to enjoy meaningful relations with one another. 

For instance conversations about different perspectives can be very enlightening, even energizing. But it’s easy to react in a self-centered, quick-tempered, critical, or easily offended way when there’s a disagreement. 

Too often we defend our views rather than listen and try to understand another’s way of thinking. 

If we allow anger or resentment to creep in, we are in danger of destroying a relationship for the sake of winning an argument. When we act like this, we’re letting our flesh control us instead of walking in the Spirit, and the relationship suffers. 

The Lord gives us a new, righteous nature at the moment of salvation, but we still live in fallen human bodies and therefore, we will always have an internal battle with the flesh. Consequently, as we look at the way we respond to others, what’s more apparent, the fruit of the Spirit or the deeds of the flesh? The contrast between the two is seen in Galatians 5:19-23. 

The deeds of the flesh include hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissensions, and factions; whereas, “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” 

Much has been written and said about how to have good relationships, but until we deal with the issues in our own hearts, root problems will remain. 

So what does God say it takes to live in peace with one another? 

Romans 14:19 tells us to “pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.” Paul clarifies how to do this in Ephesians 4:1-3: “Walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, being diligent to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” 

First, to develop and maintain great relationships we need a pure heart. Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (Matthew 5:8). This describes our position in Christ, but it’s also something we can pursue in a practical way by dealing with sin quickly and living daily in a way that honors the Lord. Our relationships cannot be right if we are harboring sin in our heart and living in rebellion. 

Second, a spirit of love must be active and evident in our life. “Since you have purified your souls in obedience to the truth for a sincere love of the brothers and sisters, fervently love one another from the heart” (1 Peter 1:22). This is easy when people are lovable, but Jesus tells us to also love those who mistreat us (Luke 6:27-28). That’s only possible as the Holy Spirit enables us to look beyond their hurtful actions to see their pain and the need for the Savior. Then God’s love can flow through us. 

Third, we need patience which is one of the Christian graces mentioned in Colossians 3:12, “As those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” The conflicts, disagreements, and misunderstandings that accompany strained relationships may not change, but our attitude can be transformed as these virtues take root in our life. 

Fourth, we must have a forgiving spirit. “Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:32). Anger, bitterness, resentment, and grudges destroy relationships. Forgiveness sets us free from these sins so we no longer desire revenge. 

We may not be able to restore every strained relationship, but “if possible, so far as it depends on us,” we are to live at peace with others (Romans 12:18). 

God knows there are some people who will refuse to be reconciled no matter what we do. But by forgiving them, we’ll have God’s peace in our heart. 

Therefore, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | October 11, 2023

A PASTOR IS A GIFT FROM GOD – Ephesians 4:11-13

Ephesians 4 vs 11-13

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip His people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-13) 

When Christ ascended to heaven, He gave gifts to the Church and one of those five gifts was the position of a pastor. 

Pastors have unique work to do since their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do God’s work and build up the church, the body of Christ so that we will be mature in the Lord (Ephesians 4:12-15). They have the task of keeping the Church unified and grounded in the truth. 

They are self-sacrificial since an unduly large portion of their time is spent ministering to others, since a pastor’s calling that doesn’t end with the close of the Sunday service. 

Pastors are also shepherds, not only do shepherds tend to the flock, but they also protect the flock from danger. They lead and guide us as best they are able even though we don’t always make it easy for them. Let’s be mindful that they’re only doing what God has called them to do! “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction” (2 Timothy 4:2). 

“He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it” (Titus 1:9). 

A true pastor is chosen and called by God; otherwise, he is just like you and me. He has a family, and good and bad days, just as we do. He is not perfect, and neither are his children. Pastors are people, and that means they are capable of messing up, just as we are. Too often, neither they nor their children receive the same degree of grace we may extend to other believers. When a pastor fails, even in the smallest matter, he may come under some very harsh judgment. But it’s always easy to judge someone else’s sin, when it isn’t ours that has been exposed. We need to remember that there is only one perfect Shepherd, and His name is Jesus. 

Pastors and their families are often the biggest victims of gossip and slander among the congregation. Their integrity and motives may be unfairly questioned, and they are vulnerable to all manner of accusation. Their personal lives, how they live or spend their money may be wrongly the subject of discussion and criticism. Their words may be twisted and used against them. They are too easily being told how they should be “leading the church” and this by some of the very same people who refuse to offer them any help. People are quicker to pass judgment on a pastor than they are to pray for him. Pastors and their families are unfairly held to higher standards than everyone else; sometimes they are put on a pedestal, which can only set them up to fail. 

Pastors like us need people who will cover them and their families with prayers. They need trusted friends, too, with whom they can be vulnerable, and who will help keep them accountable. 

The apostle Paul asked the churches to pray for him and other leaders. He requested prayers that he and they might keep a clear conscience and remain honorable in all things (Hebrews 13:18). Even if we’re unsure what to pray for regarding our pastors and other leaders, we can never go wrong by praying Scripture. 

True pastors are among the most self-sacrificial and hardest-working people, but at times they receive the least honor from those they serve. We see their smiles during Sunday service, and we assume all is well, but we don’t truly know the battles they face. We don’t see the family problems, the wounds of betrayal, the sleepless nights, or the tears shed over the congregation. So, let’s let our pastors know that they are loved and appreciated, and that their labor of love is not in vain. They may feel unappreciated at times, but few of us would ever even know that. Even before the day is over, our pastors are already preparing their next sermon, church service, outreach, conference, or anything else our God has asked of them. 

Let’s bless our pastors, in any way our God leads us to. Our blessings on them may be monetary, or it may involve sharing a meal, or giving them a card expressing our appreciation. 

Pastors rarely ask their congregations for much, if anything. And yet, I’m sure of this one thing, our prayers for them will always be desired and appreciated. 

If we want to see our churches prosper, let’s pray for our pastor. And if we want to see our pastors protected, blessed, and continuing to fulfill their callings, let’s pray for them. Let’s do this even if they never know we’re doing it. I assure you that prayers can be felt and answers will become evident when they come to pass. 

Our Father, thank You for the gift of pastors, bless them; grant them every success in the ministry to which You have called them. Protect them, heal their wounds, renew their strength, give them wisdom and discernment in every area of their life and protect their homes and families. Amen.   

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Posted by: missionventureministries | October 4, 2023

AS CHILDREN OF GOD WE ARE CALLED TO WALK IN HOLINESS – 1 Peter 1:15-16

1 Peter 1 vs 15-16

But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15-16) 

SO WHAT IS HOLINESS ACCORDING TO THE BIBLE? 

Holiness is simply ‘separation unto God.’ It involves walking with God and allowing Him total access to all areas of our lives. It is daily yielding to the promptings of the Holy Spirit so that our attitudes, behaviors, and responses line up with the living Word of God. 

The word translated “holiness” in the New Testament means to be “set apart.” In the Old Testament, holiness was generally connected with God’s perfection. 

HOW CAN WE BE SET APART? 

All people have sinned (Romans 3:23) and are imperfect. Our only option to be set apart is through the salvation offered through Jesus Christ (John 3:16; Romans 10:9; Ephesians 2:8-9). When we believe in Jesus as Lord, He cleanses us from sin and makes us holy (1 John 1:7). 

First Peter 2:9 speaks of this new position as well: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” God calls us holy even though we still commit sins during this life. 

In addition to being “made” holy, we are called to live holy lives. First Peter 1:15 teaches, “As he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.” The previous verse adds, “As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance” (v. 14). We are commanded to avoid the ways we practiced before becoming a Christian and live according to God’s ways. We can only do this by living by the power of God’s Spirit, following the principles found in His Word. 

As we seek to follow God’s will each day, we can increasingly become holy as we become more like Christ. Our goal should be to say like Paul, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). 

Regardless of the progress we make to become more holy in this life, we will never be perfect. We will still sin at times, as Paul wrote in Romans 7:18-19, “For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing.” It will only be in heaven that all sin will be removed from our lives and we are made perfect. 

When we are saved, we are made holy and we are called to obey God and grow in holy living each day. Though we will never be perfect in this life, God can and will work in our lives to help us better live for Him. After this life, we can anticipate a perfect, eternal existence with God in which we no longer sin and are made perfectly holy, living in the presence of God forever. 

WHAT ARE THE MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT HOLINESS? 

Holiness is frequently viewed as a huge unattainable feat. It is perceived as an attribute that describes God and Jesus, but not us. After all, “we are only humans.” But regardless of how we may feel, the believers in the New Testament were often referred to as holy, which means that holiness should be a central part of our lives today.

HOW CAN WE OBTAIN THE HOLINESS GOD EXPECTS OF US? 

Holiness involves purity in our thoughts, words, and deeds, this includes having a pure heart and meditating on the Word of God instead of allowing dark negative thoughts to overcome us. Speaking God’s words of faith into all situations instead of allowing our tongue to stir our life in the wrong direction; instead we should act like Jesus would when confronted with different circumstances. 

Holiness is putting God first and obeying Him even when we do not feel like it by casting off the flesh with all its deceitful desires and imitating God. 

ARE WE COMMANDED TO LIVE HOLY LIVES? 

YES – God has commanded us to be holy as the Word teaches us: “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). 

WHAT IS THE OUTCOME OF BEING OBEDIENT? 

As we obey God’s command, our fellowship with Him is strengthened, resulting in a deeper walk with Him as He manifests Himself to us more and more. But we need to rely on Him daily because our holiness comes from Him and not from our own strength. 

First and foremost, you are made positionally holy at the new birth by God because He has made you the righteousness of God in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21). Then, as a result of your position in Christ, you are enabled to walk in holiness through the grace of God by the power of the Holy Spirit who lives and dwells in you. 

Holiness is imputed to us by God because of Jesus Christ. Then, we are to respond by walking in holiness through the help of God. 

Therefore, as believers, we are both declared holy by God – positionally – and also called to live a lifestyle of holiness, which reflects our relationship with God. 

WHERE TO I FIND SCRIPTURE THAT INSTRUCT THESES COMMANDMENDS FROM GOD? 

“And although you were previously alienated and hostile in attitude, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His body of flesh through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach” (Colossians 1:21-22). 

“Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, 9 who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was granted to us in Christ Jesus from all eternity”  (2 Timothy 1:8-9). 

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him” (Ephesians 1:3-4). 

IN CONCLUSION 

Scriptures point out that God did it because of His own purpose and grace not based on our works or anything we may have done. 

God has made the believer in Christ Jesus holy and has given them the ability to walk in holiness. However, it will not manifest in anyone’s life until the person make a concrete decision to obey God and walk with Him in light of what He has already done for us. 

“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so must you do also” (Colossians 3:12-13). 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | September 27, 2023

BE AWARE THAT GOD CREATED MAN IN HIS OWN IMAGE – Genesis 1:26-27

Genesis 1 vs 26-27

Then God said, “Let Us make mankind in Our image, according to Our likeness . . .” So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. (Genesis 1:26-27) 

Morally, humanity was created in righteousness and perfect innocence, a reflection of God’s holiness. And God saw all He had made and called it “very good” (Genesis 1:31). 

After the fall however, when sin entered the world, we find these words: “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness.” (James 3:9) 

This is a very sober condemnation of the misuse of our God-given privilege of speech and how He had created us in the beginning to be holy as He is holy, and seems almost an accompanying reference to the image of God in man. Therefore, our speech should be consistently glorifying to God. We shouldn’t use one vocabulary or one tone of speaking at church or when around believers and a different one at home or on the job. 

This verse (3:9) also tells us that even though the image of God in man has been severely marred by sin, it is still there! That is, man is eternal the same way as God is eternal, and we will all continue to exist forever, either in the presence of God, or away from His presence. 

Another implication is that the word “image” includes the meaning of a physical resemblance. While God in His full essence is omnipresent and therefore invisible to human eyes, it is still true that, when God became man, He took on an actual physical body. Furthermore, our Lord Jesus, God the Son, still is “that same Jesus” and therefore still in that body. They were looking intently up into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven” (Acts 1:10-11). And, “Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2). 

Since Jesus’ incarnation and His work of salvation were planned by the triune God “before the foundation of the world” (1 Peter 1:20), man was apparently created in the image of that body that Christ had planned to take on when He would eventually become man. 

That being the case, our bodies are even more sacred than otherwise we might have assumed, and it is indeed a serious matter to misuse the tongue or any other member of the body, which is made after the similitude of Christ. 

The good news is that when God redeems an individual, He begins to restore the original image of God, creating a “new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24). 

We need to remember that redemption is only available by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior, from the sin that separates us from God (Ephesians 2:8-9). Through Christ, we are made new creations in the likeness of God (2 Corinthians 5:17). Amen! 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | September 20, 2023

BE AWARE OF WORLDLY LUSTS – 1 John 2:16

1 John 2 vs 16

“For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” (1 John 2:16) 

This well-known passage identifies three fountainheads of ungodly power that will, if unchecked and unguarded, ensnare a believer into a sinful lifestyle. 

Sinful lust is an overpowering desire for that which God has forbidden. First John 2:15–16 mentions three types of lust that lead us into greater sin. 

First are desires, or lusts, of “the flesh,” referring to what the body desires. This generally means anything craved excessively or inappropriately, from food to sexual impurity. In this context, it’s not about normal or necessary physical desires. 

Sensual power, lust of the flesh, is a body-oriented and emotion-driven reaction to fleshly appetites that can never please God (Romans 8:8) and is in constant warfare with the Spirit of God (Galatians 5:17). The Bible tells us to “flee” these “youthful lusts” (2 Timothy 2:22) that are a “corruption” (2 Peter 1:4), because we are a “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14) by God. 

Although this impacts men more than women, this kind of “lust” will “conceive” sin instead of merely reacting to it, therefore, when tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. (James 1:13-15). 

Second are desires of “the eyes,” again a general term. In this case, it not only refers to those things we literally see, but those we imagine or put our “mental” eyes on. 

Visual power or lust of the eyes, is an intellect-oriented and imagination-driven stimulation of wishful thinking that will take control of behavior, since the eye is the lamp of the body (Matthew 6:22-23), if not carefully pared down (Job 31:1; 2 Peter 2:14). 

Third is the “pride of life,” meaning sinful desires which bring attention to self. This also refers to our habit of bragging about ourselves. Jesus called boastful pride a sin (Mark 7:22), and as He endured similar temptations from the Devil (Matthew 4:1–11) He did not fail. 

Pride of life is a self-oriented and ego-driven desire for dominance that has no ethic or limiting factor other than the praise of men, and not from God (John 12:43). Such pride, dominated by the “natural mind” (1 Corinthians 2:14) and a “deceitful” heart (Jeremiah 17:9), spirals into a self-love that twists and distorts human behavior into a litany of ungodliness that loves pleasure rather than God (2 Timothy 3:1-5). 

Giving in to these “worldly” powers may grant us pleasures for “a season” (Hebrews 11:25), but will surely make us an “enemy of God” (James 4:4). 

These desires and pride are not given to us by God; they are temptations from the godless world. This is why a person marked by love for the world (1 John 2:15) does not have the love of God in him. 

Christians must not allow themselves to become affected by the attitudes and behavior of the unbelievers around them. The ordinary people of the world belong to the age of darkness and make their decisions according to what they want for themselves, whether concerning possessions, activities, achievements, or status. Christians belong to the new age of light, the eternal kingdom where God’s values rule and His will is done. They must make their decision according to the standards of God and not the standards of the present ungodly world (15-17). 

May our Lord Jesus grant that we stay armed against such “wiles” (Ephesians 6:11), covered and protected with the “whole armor of God” (Ephesians 6:13-17). 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | September 13, 2023

GOD’S TIMING IS PERFECT – Psalm 103:19

Psalm 103 vs 9

We may not see the big picture of our life, but God does. Because, “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all” (Psalm 103:19). 

Does it feel sometimes as though our life is a mess of scattered puzzle pieces? Each situation seems to be an isolated event with no connection to what happened previously or what could occur in the future. Some pieces are beautiful moments of joy and blessing, but others are dark and painful. Perhaps you wonder why God allows these events or why He doesn’t intervene and relieve your suffering. 

We can’t see what the picture will be once the puzzle is assembled, but God knows exactly how to fit everything together. When our situations look hopeless, this is our comfort: that a holy, perfect, all-knowing God is sovereign over everything in our life (Psalm 103:19). Nothing is random or meaningless when we belong to Him. 

The story of Joseph is a great example of God’s omnipotent hand working in and through every situation (Genesis chapters 37, 39 thru 50). And by reading it, we learn four essential truths about the Lord and His sovereignty. 

God is always with us. Joseph was hated by his 10 older brothers because he was the favorite son. When an opportunity arose to get rid of him, they sold him to a caravan of traders and told their father he’d been killed by a wild animal. This dramatic turn of events could easily have caused Joseph to feel forgotten by God. But throughout his various trials, one thing was constant, “the Lord was with Joseph” (Genesis 39:2, Genesis 39:21). 

Like him, we never walk through any situation alone. At the moment of our salvation, the Holy Spirit comes to live within us and seals us as God’s children (Ephesians 1:13). He’s with us in every circumstance whether we feel His presence or not. This is a truth we can count on because the Lord always keeps His word. 

God is sovereign over everything in our life. Nothing is random or meaningless when we belong to Him.

God has a purpose for everything. Joseph was only 17 when his ordeal began and it didn’t end until he was 30. That’s 13 years of unexplained hardship and suffering, but the Lord knew exactly what was required to prepare Joseph for his future role as governor of Egypt, a position that made him second in authority to Pharaoh. 

What seemed like random and unfair events were the very things the Lord orchestrated to achieve His purpose. He used a father’s favoritism and brothers’ hatred to move Joseph from Canaan to Egypt. As a slave and prisoner, Joseph learned the skills required to wisely rule over a prosperous and powerful nation. God used Pharaoh’s dream and its interpretation not only to rescue His servant from prison but also to provide enough food to preserve a nation and save Joseph’s family from starvation. 

Although the events you experience may not be as dramatic as these, the principle is the same. The Lord has a divine objective for everything that happens in your life. He’s promised to cause all things to work together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). You may not see a reason for what He’s doing in your life right now, but you can know this: His purpose is superior to any challenge you face. 

God’s perspective is eternal and omniscient. When Joseph looked back at all the difficult events of his life, he assured his brothers of the Lord’s sovereign hand at work, even in their mistreatment of him. When he told them “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Genesis 50:20).  However, in the beginning Joseph couldn’t see that God’s eternal purpose being worked out. 

In due course the hope for all humanity was tied up in these events because Jesus Christ was a descendant of that little group of Hebrews who were transplanted to Egypt and sustained by Joseph. 

You may not see a reason for what God is doing in your life right now, but you can know this; His purpose is superior to any challenge you face. 

God is working awesome things of eternal value in our lives, but we can’t always understand, because our perspective is limited. The apostle Paul tells us that “momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17). When the troubles of this life weigh us down, we need to shift our focus from the temporal to the eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18). 

God’s timing is perfect. Perhaps the most difficult part of Joseph’s troubles was their duration. At one point, after correctly interpreting the cupbearer’s dream, Joseph saw a glimmer of hope and asked to be remembered to Pharaoh. But after two long years, he was still a prisoner. 

Why did God delay Joseph’s release just when he’d begun to hope again? Haven’t we wondered about that at one time or another? It looked as if the Lord was about to intervene, but then nothing happened. It’s easier to bear pain if we know the end is near, but when trials seem endless, we must rely on the wisdom of God’s timing. He knows exactly what He wants to achieve in our life and how long it will take. 

Instead of wrangling with the Lord over which pieces should be in the puzzle, let’s learn to accept that He alone knows how all the events of our life fit together. We can trust Him to choose the right pieces and place each one exactly where it needs to be, according to His good purpose. 

Remember that God is still in control – no matter how overwhelming or impossible the challenges may seem. Place your trust fully in Him and you will have confidence and peace during every storm you face. 

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SOURCE: Excerpts adapted from the sermon “Walking through Dark Valleys” by Pastor Charles F. Stanley

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