For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things.”  (Philippians 3:18,19)

The Lords cause was no different in the days of the early church as it is today. It had its elements of false teachers who posed a threat to the security of the saints. Paul wishes for the church at Philippi to know the true character of these individuals.

The object of every false teacher is some kind of personal gain. Thus, they worship their belly rather than God. These “holy hucksters” will pedal their goods to gratify their fleshly appetites. Those who follow them will go down the same path of seeking satisfaction in carnal pleasures that will never satisfy.

Instead of blushing, they are proud of their shameful activity. They turn liberty into license and proudly promote their sensual and carnal ambitions. Self-righteousness, libertine disobedience, and false security are fruits of their doctrine.

The reason for this path is because they focus on earthly things. They promote the philosophy of living for the present - worldly honor, riches, and power. Their ultimate happiness is what they get out of this life, rather than heaven.

Paul is saddened by the destiny of these false teachers. They and their followers are headed toward destruction. When fools mock at sin, true disciples weep because God's word is not exalted, and eternal souls are lost.

These same warnings are needed today. We need to carefully measure the spirit of the churches to the spirit of Christ. To truly convert the world we must be truly converted to him.

By George Slover

"Jesus said to him, “ I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6)

Before the Lord’s death, resurrection, and ascension to heaven, he prepared his apostles for their mission after his departure. This would have been a startling revelation, for most likely they did not envision the events about to take place. Thomas voiced his concern: “Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?”.(John 14:5) Jesus’ answer is revealed in the well known text above. Jesus states he is the way. In fact, he is the only way!

Christ is the only way to a knowledge of God. In the same setting he told Philip, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father”. (John 14:9) By his earthly life and ministry, he not only points to the disposition of the father, but displayed the very power of deity. God became flesh and dwelt among men.

Christ is the only way to favor with God. God is infinitely righteous. He is totally incapable of evil and repulsed by our sin and rebellion. The blood of Christ is the only path to reconciliation with God. (Romans 5:8-11)

Christ is the only way to fellowship with God. The unregenerate are called “children of wrath (Ephesians 2:3), but through Christ one is adopted into God's family to become his child. (Galatians 3:26,27)

Christ is the only way to the Father's presence. Jesus was about to leave them to go to the Father. Through Christ alone, one day God's people will be able to enjoy the Father’s eternal presence. Jesus is showing the way home.

Contrary to the “many roads” ploy of Satan, Jesus says, “I am the way”. Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”  (Acts 4:12)

By George Slover
 

Tychicus, a beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts.”  (Colossians 4:7,8)

Paul concludes his letter to the Colossians by noting the one who will deliver the letter to them. Just as was his custom, he also includes greetings to various friends and helpers.

These personal references help to authenticate the genuineness and authority of the letter. At the same time we also learn of the characteristics and the special relationships Paul sustained with those who serve the Lord with him.

Tychicus first appears in Acts 20:4. He was of the province of Asia, of which Ephesus was capital. He apparently accompanied Paul on his voyage to Jerusalem in A.D. 58. He is most of all noted as a beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord.

A disciple’s primary strength and consolation comes through Christ. Being attached to him provides energy to persevere in our walk with God. However, an important avenue through which Christ provides such energy is through the fellowship of other disciples.

To accomplish his purpose, God calls each disciple to find their niche in ministry. Men and women from various walks of life and social rank are united by common calling to serve each other. With this in mind each disciple must recognize their individual talent. With loyalty and humility they must zealously work for the mutual edification of their fellows.

Tychicus was what every disciple should be - a blessing by reason of his fidelity and servant’s heart.  The world is full of those who need the consolation of Christ. Dear reader where do you stand?     

By George Slover 

 

Walk prudently when you go to the house of God; and draw near to hear rather than to give the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they do evil. Do not be rash with your mouth, and let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven, and you on earth; therefore let your words be few.”(Ecclesiastes 5:1-2)

Whenever men convene to worship, whether in a local church assembly, the privacy of a home, or on a majestic hillside, it is neither the surroundings nor the social rank of the worshipers that lend to the sanctity of the activity. It is the presence of God. Thus, the worshipers must exercise care in how they approach him.

God is to be approached submissively. There must be a willingness to listen and to obey.  (1 Samuel 15:22). God is not impressed with our "productions" and our "performances". He covets an inward devotion of spirit. When the worship is directed toward meeting our carnal needs, it is designated the sacrifice of fools. We must approach God with a desire to turn away from evil, and to focus on the righteousness of God.

God is to be approached sincerely. Our prayers must be calm and deliberate. They must not be filled with vain and empty repetitions. (Matthew 6:7) Solomon states that brevity can be a safeguard against such. It is good to weigh heavily the words of songs and prayers to make sure such are truly directed toward God.

God is to be approached reverently. There is a distinct difference between the position of God and the position of man. We must recognize that God is in heaven. He is unapproachable in rank. He sees every action and knows every thought of our heart. He is keenly aware of every need. Man is feeble and totally dependent on him.

When you come to the place of worship is it for entertainment or edification? Do you come to give graciously to God or to receive? Do you focus on heavenly things or earthly things? Does the worship change you and cause you to reflect on your life, or do you worship to show to the world how are righteous you are? Let us pause between each prayer and each song, and resolve to give the glory to God!

By George Slover

Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.”  (2 Thessalonians 3:5) 

As he comes to his final words of encouragement for the church at Thessalonica, the apostle records the above. He wishes to encourage these disciples with attitudes to help them to face the reality of persecution.

Though God promises to direct our hearts, it is still good to pray for God to assist us. The heart is the center of one's faith, it is the seed of feelings and actions. It must be led by God and not by self.

First, he prays they will be led into the love of God. I take this to mean the love we have for God. This love is the fulfillment of the law. This is to be the motive behind all spiritual activity. The Thessalonians already have love. Paul wants it to increase. Such love will keep us from being distracted by harmful paths that may tempt us, especially in times of duress.

The patience of Christ seems to refer to Christ’s patience. The patience of Christ would help enable the Thessalonians to endure the persecution. Christ serves as a model for such endurance.  Consider the path of the Savior who left the previous glory of heaven and came to earth. He tolerated the lashes of cruel torture and humiliation with all of his power. He resisted retaliation and even asked for the forgiveness of his torturers. With marvelous resolve endured it all.

A contemplation of his unparalleled suffering and endurance can serve as an encouragement to his followers.  “For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls” (Hebrews 12:3).  "When treated harshly by evil men, let us persevere, as Christ did."

These two attitudes will help to ensure a successful sojourn in this life. These two- a great love for God, and the patience of Christ will keep us and help us to reach the heavenly home.

George Slover