We all know that this world is a vain world we live in. Does anyone disagree? The Bible actually describes it beautifully.
Romans 1:17 - 32 For the gospel reveals how God puts people right with himself: it is through faith from beginning to end. As the scripture says, “The person who is put right with God through faith shall live.” God’s anger is revealed from heaven against all the sin and evil of the people whose evil ways prevent the truth from being known. God punishes them, because what can be known about God is plain to them, for God himself made it plain. Ever since God created the world, his invisible qualities, both his eternal power and his divine nature, have been clearly seen; they are perceived in the things that God has made. So those people have no excuse at all! They know God, but they do not give him the honor that belongs to him, nor do they thank him. Instead, their thoughts have become complete nonsense, and their empty minds are filled with darkness. They say they are wise, but they are fools; instead of worshiping the immortal God, they worship images made to look like mortals or birds or animals or reptiles. And so God has given those people over to do the filthy things their hearts desire, and they do shameful things with each other. They exchange the truth about God for a lie; they worship and serve what God has created instead of the Creator himself, who is to be praised forever! Amen. Because they do this, God has given them over to shameful passions. Even the women pervert the natural use of their sex by unnatural acts. In the same way the men give up natural sexual relations with women and burn with passion for each other. Men do shameful things with each other, and as a result they bring upon themselves the punishment they deserve for their wrongdoing. Because those people refuse to keep in mind the true knowledge about God, he has given them over to corrupted minds, so that they do the things that they should not do. They are filled with all kinds of wickedness, evil, greed, and vice; they are full of jealousy, murder, fighting, deceit, and malice. They gossip and speak evil of one another; they are hateful to God, insolent, proud, and boastful; they think of more ways to do evil; they disobey their parents; they have no conscience; they do not keep their promises, and they show no kindness or pity for others. They know that God’s law says that people who live in this way deserve death. Yet, not only do they continue to do these very things, but they even approve of others who do them.
So what is vanity?
In many religions, including Christianity, vanity is considered a form of self-idolatry, in which one rejects God for the sake of one’s own image. Some people might say that the magazine, Vanity, showcases the various vanities of people — their obsessions over beauty, appearance, clothing, having the best job, making the most money, knowing the “right people”.
The Christian answer lies in what God asks us to consider important – must we consider our beauty, appearance, clothing, having the best job, making the most money, knowing the “right people” to be important according to the Bible?
When Jesus told the parable of the seed sown on different ground in his own words he said: Mark 4:18 - 20 And others are the ones sown among thorns. They are those who hear the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.Think of Matthew 6:33, “Instead, be concerned above everything else with the Kingdom of God and with what he requires of you, and he will provide you with all these other things that you need.” Take note though of no promise of what we think we need, but rather what we really need.
And Matthew 6:19-21 “Do not store up riches for yourselves here on earth, where moths and rust destroy, and robbers break in and steal. Instead, store up riches for yourselves in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and robbers cannot break in and steal. For your heart will always be where your riches are.Then even stronger: 1 John 2:15 - 17 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world–the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions–is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
And Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.So why do people, Christians have these obsessions over beauty, appearance, clothing, having the best job, making the most money, knowing the “right people” and other vanities? A whole bunch of answers could come out of this – to find acceptance, to fit in, because it seems normal, it’s all a person knows, it’s what gives a person value, it’s how we value ourselves, etc, etc.
Remember we are all vain, it’s a human problem.
But perhaps vanity becomes an issue because we place value on the obsession and we don’t know our value in God.
I found this very cool and free thing online, read this verse:
Matthew 16:26 What will it benefit a man if he gains the whole world yet loses his life? Or what will a man give in exchange for his life?
Now read it, Matthew 16:26 What will it benefit Lynda if she gains the whole world yet loses her life? Or what will Lynda give in exchange for her life?
Take a look at this and then put your own name in by clicking here.
John 1:12 Lynda is God’s daughter.
But Lynda received Him, and to Lynda He gave the right to become God’s daughter, because Lynda believes in His name.
John 15:5 Lynda is a part of the true vine, and a channel of Christ’s life.
I am the vine. Lynda is a branch. If Lynda remains in Me, and I in her, she will bear much fruit, for apart from Me, Lynda can do nothing.
John 15:15 Lynda is a friend of Christ.
No longer do I call Lynda a servant, for a servant doesn’t know what her lord does. But I have called Lynda a friend, for everything that I heard from My Father, I have made known to Lynda.
Rom. 8:17 Lynda is a joint heir with Christ, she shares Christ’s inheritance with Him.
And if a daughter, then an heir; an heir of God, and a joint-heir with Christ; if indeed Lynda suffers with Him, that Lynda may also be glorified with Him.
I Cor. 3:9 Lynda is God’s co-worker.
For Lynda is one of God’s fellow workers. Lynda is God’s field, God’s building.
Etc etc etc…try it yourself with your own name clicking here now - it’s free. Read all the verses in fact print them out for yorself so you can always have a copy of your personal identity in Christ with you.
So to end…you don’t have to put your value in anything or achievement or ability or obsession or appearance because YOU have an identity that is valuable and unique and excellent in God.
Tuesday, 21 April 2009
Friday, 17 April 2009
Why Have Bible Study?
Why do you think any person should meet with other people for Bible study?
If you ask people you will get lots of different answers and all right the answers are right. You all came up with the following: “Bible study is important to grow, to bond, to support one another, to understand each other, to understand the Bible and to fellowship with each other.”
For the body does not consist of one limb or organ but of many. If the foot should say, Because I am not the hand, I do not belong to the body, would it be therefore not [a part] of the body? If the ear should say, Because I am not the eye, I do not belong to the body, would it be therefore not [a part] of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where [would be the sense of] hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where [would be the sense of] smell? But as it is, God has placed and arranged the limbs and organs in the body, each [particular one] of them, just as He wished and saw fit and with the best adaptation. But if [the whole] were all a single organ, where would the body be? And now there are [certainly] many limbs and organs, but a single body. And the eye is not able to say to the hand, I have no need of you, nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. But instead, there is [absolute] necessity for the parts of the body that are considered the more weak. And those [parts] of the body which we consider rather ignoble are [the very parts] which we invest with additional honor, and our unseemly parts and those unsuitable for exposure are treated with seemliness (modesty and decorum), Which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so adjusted (mingled, harmonized, and subtly proportioned the parts of) the whole body, giving the greater honor and richer endowment to the inferior parts which lack [apparent importance], So that there should be no division or discord or lack of adaptation [of the parts of the body to each other], but the members all alike should have a mutual interest in and care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the parts [share] the suffering; if one member is honored, all the members [share in] the enjoyment of it. Now you [collectively] are Christ’s body and [individually] you are members of it, each part severally and distinct [each with his own place and function]. 1 Corinthians 12:14-27
So we are all in this together. We all have different roles in the body, but we are all important parts of the body, with important functions.
You all chose one of the following:
Acceptance and love ___________ _________
Building you up ________ ____________
Help ____________________
Advice ____________________
Encouragement _____ _______________
Rebuke _____ _______________
Friendliness and cheerfulness ____________________
Personal testimony ____________________
Forgiveness _____ _______________
Holding you accountable ____________________
Changes in your life ____________________
You can think of even more reasons than the one’s listed here, excellent - go for it…
Why Have Bible Study?
Rick Warren once said, “The entire Bible is the story of God building a family.”
A Bible study isn’t only for studying the Bible, it isn’t only for what you can learn or not learn…a Bible study is a small group who belong to the family of believers and need to build that family.
Paul, Timothy’s spiritual father, taught him this truth - we are ALL sinners on an equal playing field with each other and God is trying to build us ALL into His family:
As part of God’s family what can we each bring to a small group Bible study?
Over 81 times, the phrase “one another” or “each other” is used in the New Testament. If you want to know how you can help your family of God, follow the “one anothers” of the Bible. . .
Someone needs your acceptance and love
Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. Romans 15:7
Isn’t this a beautiful verse? I tell you why I think it’s so beautiful. . . because I need it. I’m an imperfect person, and if you are looking for a perfect person, I’ll let you down! If you’re looking for a perfect church, you’re never going to find it.
Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way. Romans 14:13
Guess what? We’re all imperfect people. We need to learn to accept that. Judging each other’s imperfections isn’t going to HELP anything. We will always have our differences. Someone will always rub you the wrong way. And at one time or another, we all do the wrong things. This verse points this out.
Someone once said, “Love us like we are, and help us walk the road toward being what we need to be.”
As the serenity prayer says, “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” The prayer goes on to say, “Taking, as Jesus did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it.”
In this world having patience and love for differences and mistakes is part of living in this world.
Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, accepting one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a complaint against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so also you must [forgive]. Above all, [put on] love—the perfect bond of unity. And let the peace of the Messiah, to which you were also called in one body, control your hearts. Colossians 3:12-15
For you have been called to live in freedom – not freedom to satisfy your sinful nature, but freedom to serve one another in love. Galatians 5:13
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:34-35
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Romans 12:16
Someone needs you to build them up
Everyone wants to be understood. We have never lived each other’s life, but we want very badly for someone to understand our unique journey and encourage us on our journey.
Many places in the Bible talk about building each other up:
So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another. Romans 14:19
Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:1-5
All of us need to be built up, encouraged and strengthened sometimes.
Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ… each person will have to carry his own load. Galatians 6:1 and Galatians 6:5
Galatians 6 talks about two kinds of burdens in a persons life. It sounds like a contradiction, but there is no contradiction here because two different words are used in Galatians 6:2 and 6:5. The word in 6:2 is used for a more heavy crushing load, whereas the word for burden in 6:5 is used for a light load.
We are each to help with the crushing loads on others.
Someone needs your help
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:10
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:8-10
Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:9
When we serve one another, we put their interests before our own. Jesus showed us how when he washed the feet of the disciples.
Alone, there are many things we cannot do. Together, there is nothing we cannot make it through. That’s the way the family of believers really works well – by no one standing alone. Reaching out to each other in ways that serve them.
Perhaps someone’s problem is something you have faced before and you can share what you learned. Perhaps they need help during the week. Perhaps you can pray for them and then keep praying for them and encouraging them throughout the week.
Someone needs your advice
We’ve all heard that two heads are better than one. Some people have been given the gift of perceiving or wisdom and have a special ability to give wise, sound, Bible-based advice.
Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another. Colossians 3:16
Notice that the Bible tells us how to develop this ability to give good advice: “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you” …you need to know the Word before you can share it in advice.
Someone needs your encouragement
Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. 1 Peter 3:8One of the problems in the world today is that there isn’t really anyone to talk to about problems – that’s why psychologists have jobs. People pay people to listen to their struggles. Greg Slayton, the CEO of ClickAction.com says, “The sense of isolation is a curse. It is the curse of 10,000 acquaintances. You find no one to talk to when things go really bad.”
Life gets busy. Life is hard. But if you have a Bible study group - a family of believers, they can help and give encouragement when we feel as if we can’t make it in our Christian journey!
Hebrews 10:24-25, which says, “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
This is a true saying, and everyone should believe it: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners–and I was the worst of them all. But that is why God had mercy on me, so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:15-16
It’s entirely possible that someone needs to hear you remind them that we are on our way to heaven, and we can’t stop now. There probably is someone being tempted that you need to encourage to keep on. There is most likely someone that is discouraged that you need to lift up.
Someone needs your rebuke
It is not an easy thing to do this. . . but sometimes, someone needs to hear in a loving, caring fashion that they need to turn from an area of sin in their lives or an action that is hurting others.
Telling the truth is a little bit like applying antiseptic to a cut. The Bible says, “The truth will set you free.” But sometimes, it has to sting a little bit first.
So put away all falsehood and ‘tell your neighbor the truth’ because we belong to each other. Ephesians 4:25
But too often, we’re scared to tell the truth. We think love means pretending that problems aren’t there, and never confronting. Like so many other times in the Bible, there are two truths that are in tension. “Accept one another” and “Tell the truth”…here’s the solution. If we truly are going to love and accept one another, there are times where we’ll have to say something to someone because we love them so much we can’t stand by and watch them hurt themselves.
This principle of rebuke is not just for something you don’t like. It’s for something harmful to the other person. If they are sinning in an area, they may need to hear PRIVATELY that you’re concerned (or even better with Reinette so she can help). Deliver the truth in a loving way – and though it may sting at first, it will be the right thing to do.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load. Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galations 5:22-6:10
Someone needs your friendliness and cheerfulness
Greet each other in Christian love. 1 Corinthians 16:20
Someone you talk to may have had a rotten week. They may need to know someone cares. Someone needs to know that you are glad they’re here. Friendliness could mean the difference between a person becoming a Christ-follower or not!Speak to one another with the words of psalms, hymns, and sacred songs; sing hymns and psalms to the Lord with praise in your hearts. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, always give thanks for everything to God the Father. Submit yourselves to one another because of your reverence for Christ. Ephesians 5:19-21
Someone needs to hear your personal testimony
Remind yourself of what God has done for you in the past and then share it when the chance comes or when the Holy Spirit asks you too.
Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you stood your ground in a great contest in the face of suffering. So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised … we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved. Hebrews 10: 32, 35-39
(To Israel) You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me. I, even I, am the LORD, and apart from me there is no savior. I have revealed and saved and proclaimed— I, and not some foreign god among you. You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “that I am God. Isaiah 43:10-12
(To the apostles) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8
It is like a ripple in a pond. We have an influence. What we tell people or ask people or show people has an influence. I believe that Bible studies are not lead by one person. Every single person in a Bible study has an experience to share that influences every other person in a Bible study. God doesn’t want us to be something ultra remarkable – He wants us to be a witness to what He has done for us and how He has touched us. Often all that means is to tell people what Christ means to you and share your own experience.
Someone needs your forgiveness
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. Colossians 3:12-13
Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Ephesians 5:21
If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector. Matthew 18:15
Forgiveness is the testing ground of love. What if someone’s blown it? What if they’ve let us down?
If you’re like me, then there are times where you don’t need justice. You need mercy.
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32
Someone needs you to hold them accountable
Keep each other accountable in your spiritual growth. If you knew there were others keeping up with what’s going on in your life you would be more conscientious about how you live as a believer.
One of the primary reasons that Alcoholics Anonymous is so successful in helping people is because it utilises the small group approach. Bill Wilson, one of the founders of AA, and his friends found out that when they met regularly to talk about their weaknesses, downfalls, and near-downfalls, that it gave them a sense of strength to overcome their temptation to drink. And this idea originally came from…the Bible!
See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.
Hebrews 3:12-13
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:10
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Every person in a Bible study is a sinful person, some might be growing, some might be in a dip, some might be on a high, some might be struggling – but every single one is sinful. Meeting together as Christians to study God’s word together creates a place to grow, and share, and witness and learn for every single person. But more than that it creates a circle of people who want God in and satan out. And this stand once a week of wanting God in and satan out is a powerful commitment to trying to remain on the right path.
Someone needs to see your life change as the Holy Spirit changes you
The whole world needs to see your changed life, not just your Bible study group.
Our journey as the Holy Spirit changes us is a huge witness to the world because the world wants to see men and women who are set free from anxiety, from insecurity, from sexual immorality and impurity, from idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, and envy; drunkenness, etc. and who have peace, who have joy, who have love now. All the things that Galatians 5 talks about.
But the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
humility, and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23
“Shine…make them wonder what you’ve got.”
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16
A love that can’t be stopped. A love that will not stop encouraging, lifting, forgiving…
By this all men will know that you are my disciples (or family), if you love one another. John 13:35
If you ask people you will get lots of different answers and all right the answers are right. You all came up with the following: “Bible study is important to grow, to bond, to support one another, to understand each other, to understand the Bible and to fellowship with each other.”
For the body does not consist of one limb or organ but of many. If the foot should say, Because I am not the hand, I do not belong to the body, would it be therefore not [a part] of the body? If the ear should say, Because I am not the eye, I do not belong to the body, would it be therefore not [a part] of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where [would be the sense of] hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where [would be the sense of] smell? But as it is, God has placed and arranged the limbs and organs in the body, each [particular one] of them, just as He wished and saw fit and with the best adaptation. But if [the whole] were all a single organ, where would the body be? And now there are [certainly] many limbs and organs, but a single body. And the eye is not able to say to the hand, I have no need of you, nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. But instead, there is [absolute] necessity for the parts of the body that are considered the more weak. And those [parts] of the body which we consider rather ignoble are [the very parts] which we invest with additional honor, and our unseemly parts and those unsuitable for exposure are treated with seemliness (modesty and decorum), Which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so adjusted (mingled, harmonized, and subtly proportioned the parts of) the whole body, giving the greater honor and richer endowment to the inferior parts which lack [apparent importance], So that there should be no division or discord or lack of adaptation [of the parts of the body to each other], but the members all alike should have a mutual interest in and care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the parts [share] the suffering; if one member is honored, all the members [share in] the enjoyment of it. Now you [collectively] are Christ’s body and [individually] you are members of it, each part severally and distinct [each with his own place and function]. 1 Corinthians 12:14-27
So we are all in this together. We all have different roles in the body, but we are all important parts of the body, with important functions.
You all chose one of the following:
Acceptance and love ___________ _________
Building you up ________ ____________
Help ____________________
Advice ____________________
Encouragement _____ _______________
Rebuke _____ _______________
Friendliness and cheerfulness ____________________
Personal testimony ____________________
Forgiveness _____ _______________
Holding you accountable ____________________
Changes in your life ____________________
You can think of even more reasons than the one’s listed here, excellent - go for it…
Why Have Bible Study?
Rick Warren once said, “The entire Bible is the story of God building a family.”
A Bible study isn’t only for studying the Bible, it isn’t only for what you can learn or not learn…a Bible study is a small group who belong to the family of believers and need to build that family.
Paul, Timothy’s spiritual father, taught him this truth - we are ALL sinners on an equal playing field with each other and God is trying to build us ALL into His family:
As part of God’s family what can we each bring to a small group Bible study?
Over 81 times, the phrase “one another” or “each other” is used in the New Testament. If you want to know how you can help your family of God, follow the “one anothers” of the Bible. . .
Someone needs your acceptance and love
Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. Romans 15:7
Isn’t this a beautiful verse? I tell you why I think it’s so beautiful. . . because I need it. I’m an imperfect person, and if you are looking for a perfect person, I’ll let you down! If you’re looking for a perfect church, you’re never going to find it.
Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way. Romans 14:13
Guess what? We’re all imperfect people. We need to learn to accept that. Judging each other’s imperfections isn’t going to HELP anything. We will always have our differences. Someone will always rub you the wrong way. And at one time or another, we all do the wrong things. This verse points this out.
Someone once said, “Love us like we are, and help us walk the road toward being what we need to be.”
As the serenity prayer says, “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” The prayer goes on to say, “Taking, as Jesus did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it.”
In this world having patience and love for differences and mistakes is part of living in this world.
Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, accepting one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a complaint against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so also you must [forgive]. Above all, [put on] love—the perfect bond of unity. And let the peace of the Messiah, to which you were also called in one body, control your hearts. Colossians 3:12-15
For you have been called to live in freedom – not freedom to satisfy your sinful nature, but freedom to serve one another in love. Galatians 5:13
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:34-35
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Romans 12:16
Someone needs you to build them up
Everyone wants to be understood. We have never lived each other’s life, but we want very badly for someone to understand our unique journey and encourage us on our journey.
Many places in the Bible talk about building each other up:
So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another. Romans 14:19
Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:1-5
All of us need to be built up, encouraged and strengthened sometimes.
Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ… each person will have to carry his own load. Galatians 6:1 and Galatians 6:5
Galatians 6 talks about two kinds of burdens in a persons life. It sounds like a contradiction, but there is no contradiction here because two different words are used in Galatians 6:2 and 6:5. The word in 6:2 is used for a more heavy crushing load, whereas the word for burden in 6:5 is used for a light load.
We are each to help with the crushing loads on others.
Someone needs your help
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:10
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:8-10
Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:9
When we serve one another, we put their interests before our own. Jesus showed us how when he washed the feet of the disciples.
Alone, there are many things we cannot do. Together, there is nothing we cannot make it through. That’s the way the family of believers really works well – by no one standing alone. Reaching out to each other in ways that serve them.
Perhaps someone’s problem is something you have faced before and you can share what you learned. Perhaps they need help during the week. Perhaps you can pray for them and then keep praying for them and encouraging them throughout the week.
Someone needs your advice
We’ve all heard that two heads are better than one. Some people have been given the gift of perceiving or wisdom and have a special ability to give wise, sound, Bible-based advice.
Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another. Colossians 3:16
Notice that the Bible tells us how to develop this ability to give good advice: “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you” …you need to know the Word before you can share it in advice.
Someone needs your encouragement
Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. 1 Peter 3:8One of the problems in the world today is that there isn’t really anyone to talk to about problems – that’s why psychologists have jobs. People pay people to listen to their struggles. Greg Slayton, the CEO of ClickAction.com says, “The sense of isolation is a curse. It is the curse of 10,000 acquaintances. You find no one to talk to when things go really bad.”
Life gets busy. Life is hard. But if you have a Bible study group - a family of believers, they can help and give encouragement when we feel as if we can’t make it in our Christian journey!
Hebrews 10:24-25, which says, “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
This is a true saying, and everyone should believe it: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners–and I was the worst of them all. But that is why God had mercy on me, so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:15-16
It’s entirely possible that someone needs to hear you remind them that we are on our way to heaven, and we can’t stop now. There probably is someone being tempted that you need to encourage to keep on. There is most likely someone that is discouraged that you need to lift up.
Someone needs your rebuke
It is not an easy thing to do this. . . but sometimes, someone needs to hear in a loving, caring fashion that they need to turn from an area of sin in their lives or an action that is hurting others.
Telling the truth is a little bit like applying antiseptic to a cut. The Bible says, “The truth will set you free.” But sometimes, it has to sting a little bit first.
So put away all falsehood and ‘tell your neighbor the truth’ because we belong to each other. Ephesians 4:25
But too often, we’re scared to tell the truth. We think love means pretending that problems aren’t there, and never confronting. Like so many other times in the Bible, there are two truths that are in tension. “Accept one another” and “Tell the truth”…here’s the solution. If we truly are going to love and accept one another, there are times where we’ll have to say something to someone because we love them so much we can’t stand by and watch them hurt themselves.
This principle of rebuke is not just for something you don’t like. It’s for something harmful to the other person. If they are sinning in an area, they may need to hear PRIVATELY that you’re concerned (or even better with Reinette so she can help). Deliver the truth in a loving way – and though it may sting at first, it will be the right thing to do.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load. Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galations 5:22-6:10
Someone needs your friendliness and cheerfulness
Greet each other in Christian love. 1 Corinthians 16:20
Someone you talk to may have had a rotten week. They may need to know someone cares. Someone needs to know that you are glad they’re here. Friendliness could mean the difference between a person becoming a Christ-follower or not!Speak to one another with the words of psalms, hymns, and sacred songs; sing hymns and psalms to the Lord with praise in your hearts. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, always give thanks for everything to God the Father. Submit yourselves to one another because of your reverence for Christ. Ephesians 5:19-21
Someone needs to hear your personal testimony
Remind yourself of what God has done for you in the past and then share it when the chance comes or when the Holy Spirit asks you too.
Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you stood your ground in a great contest in the face of suffering. So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised … we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved. Hebrews 10: 32, 35-39
(To Israel) You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me. I, even I, am the LORD, and apart from me there is no savior. I have revealed and saved and proclaimed— I, and not some foreign god among you. You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “that I am God. Isaiah 43:10-12
(To the apostles) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8
It is like a ripple in a pond. We have an influence. What we tell people or ask people or show people has an influence. I believe that Bible studies are not lead by one person. Every single person in a Bible study has an experience to share that influences every other person in a Bible study. God doesn’t want us to be something ultra remarkable – He wants us to be a witness to what He has done for us and how He has touched us. Often all that means is to tell people what Christ means to you and share your own experience.
Someone needs your forgiveness
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. Colossians 3:12-13
Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Ephesians 5:21
If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector. Matthew 18:15
Forgiveness is the testing ground of love. What if someone’s blown it? What if they’ve let us down?
If you’re like me, then there are times where you don’t need justice. You need mercy.
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32
Someone needs you to hold them accountable
Keep each other accountable in your spiritual growth. If you knew there were others keeping up with what’s going on in your life you would be more conscientious about how you live as a believer.
One of the primary reasons that Alcoholics Anonymous is so successful in helping people is because it utilises the small group approach. Bill Wilson, one of the founders of AA, and his friends found out that when they met regularly to talk about their weaknesses, downfalls, and near-downfalls, that it gave them a sense of strength to overcome their temptation to drink. And this idea originally came from…the Bible!
See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.
Hebrews 3:12-13
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:10
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Every person in a Bible study is a sinful person, some might be growing, some might be in a dip, some might be on a high, some might be struggling – but every single one is sinful. Meeting together as Christians to study God’s word together creates a place to grow, and share, and witness and learn for every single person. But more than that it creates a circle of people who want God in and satan out. And this stand once a week of wanting God in and satan out is a powerful commitment to trying to remain on the right path.
Someone needs to see your life change as the Holy Spirit changes you
The whole world needs to see your changed life, not just your Bible study group.
Our journey as the Holy Spirit changes us is a huge witness to the world because the world wants to see men and women who are set free from anxiety, from insecurity, from sexual immorality and impurity, from idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, and envy; drunkenness, etc. and who have peace, who have joy, who have love now. All the things that Galatians 5 talks about.
But the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
humility, and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23
“Shine…make them wonder what you’ve got.”
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16
A love that can’t be stopped. A love that will not stop encouraging, lifting, forgiving…
By this all men will know that you are my disciples (or family), if you love one another. John 13:35
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