Jim Gallagher

I Thessalonians 1:1
“Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy . . .”

Serving Jesus is a team sport. If we are going to be effective, we must establish godly relationships with others who want to follow and serve Christ. Their lives, and commitment to Christ, will serve to propel us forward, just as ours does the same for them. In my earliest years of following Christ, a particular song was sung for almost every altar call, or response time, after a message. One line went, “I have decided to follow Jesus, though none go with me still I will follow, no turning back.” I remember clearly, grappling with the idea that if everyone of my friends walked away from the Lord, I would remain following Him. I believe we all must come to the point where we decide we will live for Christ, regardless of what others do. At the same time, I also realized, I needed help if I would succeed in this venture. I began to look for others who were committed to Christ, others whose example I could follow, and whose life would propel me to serve Christ more. Even the Apostle Paul understood this. We find when he ventured out to serve the Lord, he did not do it alone.

“Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy . . .”

We know a lot about Paul and Timothy. Much of the Book of Acts tells Paul’s story, and many of the New Testament books were written by him. Timothy was an early traveling companion of Paul, who later became a pastor, and was the recipient of two of Paul’s letters. Silvanus (also called Silas) is a little more obscure character in Scripture; although with a little digging, we can learn much from his life. We are first introduced to him in Acts 15, where he accompanies Paul and others, delivering a letter written by the Apostles to the gentile believers, outside the borders of Israel. He is called a prophet, and described as a man who, “risked his life for the name of Christ” (Acts 15:26). After delivering the letter, Silas joined Paul and Barnabas in the ministry at the church in Antioch. It was there Silas saw a remarkable difference in the atmosphere of the church. While Jerusalem was constantly doing battle with legalists who wanted to add regulations to relationship with Christ, Antioch was marked by the grace of God. The atmosphere of the ministry was one that allowed Jesus to get a hold of people’s lives and transform them, by the Spirit, and through the Word. Having seen this, Silvanus decided not to return to Jerusalem, but to join Paul in his ministry endeavors.

“But Paul chose Silas . . .” Acts 15:40

Not long after joining the ministry team in Antioch, Silas was asked to join Paul, as he ventured out on his second missionary journey. They would visit the churches he had started on his first trip, and take the Gospel to farther unreached areas. From this point, Silas became a vital part of the mission work of the early church. While their travel was filled with wild experiences and great adventure, Silas is perhaps most well know for what happened in Philippi. It was there, he and Paul were arrested and imprisoned. Rather than complaining about the trial and how unfair it was for a child of God to suffer, they took the solitude as an opportunity to worship. Acts 16 records how, in the middle of the night, bearing the wounds of being beaten, and wearing the chains of incarceration, Paul and Silas began to worship. Of all the musicians who have ever been recorded, I wish we had a CD of those songs. Two men, facing great suffering, and perhaps even execution, lifting up their voices and celebrating the Lord.

It is exciting to read the stories of men who risked their lives for Christ. Their time has passed, and the mantle must be passed on to another generation. Will you pick it up? Will you be willing to commit yourself to Christ, and surround yourself with others who will propel you forward, as you follow and serve Jesus?

Pastor Jim

Questions for 1Thessalonians 1

1. The letter opens with a greeting from Paul, Silas, and Timothy. In chapter 17 of the book of Acts they were accused of “turning the world upside down.” It was meant as a negative attack but it was really a compliment and a tribute to the work the Lord was doing in them and upon the world. When people look at your walk do they see a life that’s making an impact on this world? 
2. The address of this letter says, “To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” These are great things to say about a church; moreover these are great things to say about a Christian. Be encouraged and strive to be godly. You will never regret anything you gave up for the Lord Jesus Christ.
3. Notice in verse 1 Paul’s typical salutation, “Grace and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Lord Jesus Christ is not first, middle, and last name. Jesus is His name, Lord is His title, and Christ (which means Messiah) was His mission. He came to save His people from their sins. The title Lord implies relationship and an obedient servant hood on our part. Is the Lord Jesus just Jesus to you or is He the Lord of your life? 
4. In verse 2 prayer was so much at the core of what Paul was doing. His conversations with God were ongoing. In our lives and especially during the course of the average day, people will come to mind. Do you make mention of other people and by the same token do you pray for them when they come to mind? 
5. In verse 3 Paul remembers without ceasing their work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. This famous trio is also mentioned in 1st Corinthians 13. Whatever we do vocationally or voluntarily should be done heartily unto the Lord as a work of faith. The love for the Lord should be an expression of our faith. A labor of love expresses itself in what we do. You love the people you’re serving. Love is an action. It’s a choice. It’s a verb. Patience of hope Biblically means “confidence that it’s going to happen and I’m sure of it.” You’re patient for what you know is going to be. These people were confident that according to the gospel Paul preached to them- the Lord Jesus was going to come again. He would return. In the areas of faith, hope, and love, where do you need encouragement? Don’t hesitate to reach out to the pastoral staff. Proverbs 11:14
6. According to verse 4 Paul says “Knowing beloved brethren, your election by God.” In other words, they were chosen by God. How did they know they were chosen? They accepted the Lord Jesus as their Savior. Have you been chosen by God? All you have to do is say yes to the Lord Jesus, confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead and you will be saved. That’s it!
7. In verse 6 the Thessalonians became followers of Paul, Silas, Timothy, and the Lord. Notice that they received the word in much affliction with joy of the Holy Spirit. In other words, there is going to be trouble, pain, trials and tribulations in our life. In the middle of all that, we can have joy of the Holy Spirit; the perspective of heaven to come. Turn in your Bibles to Habakkuk 3:17-19. Praise the lord!
8. In verse 9 Paul is talking about the Thessalonians’ witness because they turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God. The living and true God implies that everything else is dead and false. Have you put your faith in the one true and living God, the Lord Jesus Christ? 
9. In verse 10, is your life characterized by the verb “waiting”? Are you living your life knowing that the Lord’s return is approaching? It goes on to say, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come- not that He will, but that He has. If you’re a Christian, you’ve put your faith in the Son of God – You are saved from God’s wrath and judgment. Praise the Lord. 

Old Testament:
Isaiah 23- Don’t Go Back
Isaiah 24- Priority Seating

Colossians 4:17
“And say to Archippus, ‘Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.’”

Paul closes out his letter to the Colossians by referring to the ministries of a number of believers. Luke, Mark and Barnabas are very well-known, while others, like Tychicus and Epaphras, are a little less familiar to some of us. In each case, Paul is referring to them in a positive light, and speaking of the effectiveness of their ministries. Tychicus was the faithful traveler who delivered this letter, and others, to its recipients. Aristarchus, Mark, and Justus are mentioned as fellow prisoners and fellow workers for the Kingdom, while Epaphras is called a bondservant, and described as one who labors fervently for the salvation of others. Tucked away in this list of giants, men who had a significant impact upon this world for God’s Kingdom, is reference to a man named Archippus. While we know very little about him, (he is mentioned only here and in Philemon), we do find him the subject of an important exhortation.

“And say to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.”

While we are not given great detail, we can surmise from what Paul writes, that Archippus had been called and equipped by God for a certain ministry and he was neglecting to fulfill it. It may have been during a Bible study, that Archippus was first stirred with the sense that God might want to use him. He may have contacted the leadership of his church and received prayer and instruction on the matter. However he received the call of God, it is quite apparent he was not doing that which God had called him. Paul’s exhortation might be paraphrased as “Archippus, get busy.”

I think his story is an all too common one. I believe, many of us have sensed the call of God on our lives as it relates to serving the Lord in our homes, churches and community, only to be discouraged by our own weaknesses or by the greatness of the task. Some have taken the initial steps to fulfill the call of God, only to be disheartened, and find themselves on the sidelines, watching. Paul’s exhortation to us is “take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.” Get busy and get to work! While there may be a long list of excuses justifying why we are not currently serving the Lord, these are all trumped by the fact that God has called you, and He will always equip those whom He calls. If you do not sense that you are equipped, it may be because you are not doing what He asks. There was no reason for Peter to be buoyant until his feet touched the water. (Matthew 14:25-30)

It is encouraging to note, there is one further reference to Archippus in Scripture. He is mentioned in Paul’s letter to Philemon, where he is called a fellow soldier. It seems he took the exhortation seriously. He got busy doing what God had called him to do, the kingdom was furthered, and he was honored. If you are not sure what God has called you to do, simply sit before Him and make yourself available. Jesus said we should pray for more laborers for the harvest is awaiting.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Colossians 4 
1. In verse 1, how does God tell us that Christian managers, bosses, and employers ought to treat their employees and staff? Why should they treat them that way? 

2. In verses 2-4 Paul exhorts the Colossians to a diligent, thankful prayer life, and asks them to pray for him as well. What does he ask them to pray for? Read Ephesians 6:18-20 for a similar prayer. According to these two passages, how should the word of God be communicated? Pray for all those at Calvary Chapel who teach the Word of God, that they would communicate it in these ways. 

3. In verses 5-6, how does Paul tells us to conduct our relationships with unbelievers? What elements should direct our conversations with them? 

4. Tychicus and Onesimus are mentioned as two people who Paul has entrusted with some ministry responsibility. What characteristics do they share, and why are these critical to being a servant of God? 
a. For further study, Tychicus is mentioned in Acts 20, Ephesians 6, 2 Timothy 4, and Titus 3 as well as this chapter. 
b. Onesimus is the runaway slave whom Paul led to Christ in jail. His story in found in the book of Philemon. He was a criminal whose crime was punishable by death before God stepped in saved him and transformed his life. What does it say about God that He can use a life that was headed for destruction? 

5. Paul mentions three Jewish friends who stayed with him in prison. No particular ministry is listed of them except this: they were a comfort to Paul. Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-4. Who might God want to use you to minister His comfort to? 

6. In verses 12-13, Paul tells the Colossians about Epaphras, one who loves, prays for, and sends his greeting to the Colossian church. Epaphras stands as an example of the type of prayer life that Paul is exhorting them to back in verse 2. How do you feel when you find out that someone has been praying for you? The greatest thing that we can do for someone is to be praying for them, and sometimes it is the only thing we can do. Take time to pray for people in your life…no matter where they are! 

7. There are a number of other people whose names are mentioned in the rest of the chapter. As you read about them consider that we are not all the same and can be at very different points in our walks with the Lord, with different callings, and different ministries. Do any of the following people’s lives minister to you? 
a. Luke – the same author of the gospel of Luke, and a longtime ministry partner of Paul’s. He was a doctor! 
b. Demas – a man who at one time served the Lord heartily, but later falls away. 
c. Nymphas – a man who opened up his home for Christians to meet there. 
d. Archippus – a man who had been appointed to ministry, and needed exhortation and encouragement to stay the course. 

Old Testament:
Isaiah 21- Good New From The Bad News
Isaiah 22- One Nation Under God

Colossians 3:1
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.”

Sin is a killer. It is guilty of taking the spiritual life from all of us. God warned Adam that if he disobeyed the command of God and partook of what was forbidden, he would die. While many years transpired before his physical death, the moment Adam sinned, he experienced spiritual death, or separation from God. Since we are sons and daughters of Adam, we have all joined him in his sin and its consequences. The remedy for that condition is faith in Christ. The moment we put our trust in the work of Christ on the cross, our sins are forgiven, and we who were dead in sin, come alive to God. Jesus called that being “born again.” Paul calls it being raised with Christ. Since this is such a miraculous event, it should have tremendous impact on the way we live our lives. Paul goes on to give a series of exhortations, all predicated on the fact that, we who were dead have been made alive.

“Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:2

While it is necessary to be earthly minded in the sense of meeting our responsibilities, caring for the needs of others, and impacting our world for the kingdom of heaven, it is completely unnecessary for us to be carnally minded. No more, should our thoughts be filled with the pursuits of the flesh. Instead, we should set our minds to think of ways to live righteously and love others.

“Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth . . . ” Colossians 3:5

Paul is echoing the words of Jesus when He said, “if your eye causes you to sin pluck it out” Sometimes, we must take radical action against those traits that lead us to sin. If we are having a problem with one particular sin, we must take radical action to ensure we make it more and more difficult to fail.

“But now you yourselves are to put off all these . . .” Colossians 3:8

Paul lists the things that were part of our lives before coming to Christ; things we must eradicate from our lives now. While those things might have been acceptable before you came to Christ, they have no part in your life now.

“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on…” Colossians 3:12

Paul never reduced Christianity to what we don’t do. To him, meeting Christ meant a total transformation of our life. Old habits and actions would be replaced with new ones. After all, we are new creations in Christ, the old has passed away and all things have become new. The way I look at God, and the way I treat others, should be transformed since coming to Christ.

“Wives… Husbands… Children… Bondservants…”

A transformed life results in transformed relationships. Many of us grew up with poor relationship examples. Perhaps your parents divorced, or you had a particularly cruel father or distant mother. Often, those examples impact the way we treat our spouse and children. Without even knowing it, we are following the patterns set for us. The remedy for that is to look at each relationship in light of Christ. Paul gives us fresh insight into how a husband and wife are to relate to one another, how parents and children should treat each other, and what we should be doing at work. Our Christianity should radically affect the life we live.

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, . . ” Colossians 3:23

Before coming to Christ, my life was consumed with pleasing me. Now that I have been born again, my desires should be to please God, above all things. Paul exhorts us to look at life through the lens of pleasing God. Whatever we are doing, we should do it as unto the Lord.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Colossians 3 
This chapter begins with an “if, then” statement: if you have been raised with Christ, then. The rest of the chapter fulfills the then, and tells us how we live should live in response to all that God has done for us. Much of what He has done is not visible, and is yet to be revealed. 

1. In verses 1-4 list some things that these verses teach us about Jesus. 
2. What does Paul tell us to do in verse 2? What earthly things do you personally need to get your eyes off of, and what heavenly things do you need to set your heart upon? 
3. Verse 3 tells us that we died with Christ. But then in verse 5 we are told to put to death the parts of us that are embracing sin and living in opposition to God. We begin a relationship with God when we identify ourselves with Christ, but we also need to daily cooperate with His Spirit’s work in our lives. Read Luke 9:2. Make a list of the things in verses 5-8 that we are to no longer take part in now that we are Christ’s. 
4. Read verses 9-11. The lifestyle that Paul is saying to put off is called the “old man”. The new way that Paul calls us to live is called the new man. What things do verse 10 and 11 teach us about the new man? 
5. In verses 12-17, we find some of what the new man’s life should look like: 
   a. Make a list of all we’re called to do in these verses. 
   
   b. Read verse 13. Why must we forgive others? 
   
   c. Note verse 14. What is the most important thing for us to put on? 
6. Verses 18-25 deal with the ideas of submitting to the authorities that God has placed over us, and of righteously leading those God has put under our authority. Are there any of these instructions that are particularly relevant to your life? 
7. Read verses 17 and 23. These verses are “catch-all” verses that apply to our whole lives. Take some time and ask God to help you to obey these verses.

Old Testament:
Isaiah 19- The Whole World
Isaiah 20- Giving It Your All

Colossians 2:3
“. . . in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”

Knowledge is a word which speaks of information. We increase in our knowledge of God as we read the Word of God and walk with Him daily. However, wisdom is another thing all together. We might define it as “the proper application of knowledge,” or more simply as, “knowing what to do.” How many times have you faced decisions in life where you were not sure what to do, because you have not been that way before? Wisdom is acquired by experience, by careful observation of the experience of others, or by receiving it from heaven.

Notice, Paul writes “All wisdom is hidden in Christ.” We can find great comfort in knowing, while we might not know what we are doing, Christ has been that way before and can provide direction through the fog of life. Notice also, Paul says this wisdom is hidden in Christ. It is not something hidden from us, so we cannot have it, but something hidden so we will seek after it. The primary purpose of salvation is to know God, and wisdom is hidden in Him so we will seek Christ more. The question is, how do we access the wisdom that is hidden in Christ?

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

The first step is to pray. We are exhorted to understand, that through prayer, we can cast all burdens at the feet of Jesus. Sometimes, the greatest burden can be facing situations for which we have no answers. Parenting can certainly be like that. As the children grow, we are constantly walking down roads we have never traveled before. We want desperately to make decisions that will positively impact our children for the kingdom of heaven, and ensure they have a bright and successful future. The problem is, we often do not have a clue as to what we are doing. It is encouraging to know, “in Him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom”. The secret to receiving His wisdom through prayer, is to be willing to do things His way. Sometimes, we do not seek the mind of God, because we have already determined we do not want to do what He says.

Deuteronomy 4:6
“Therefore be careful to observe them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes, and say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.”

Prayer is where we ask questions, and the Word of God is where we find answers. Sometimes, we will pray for things, then spend our time thinking up a solution, without considering what God has written to us in His Word. Israel was told, if they followed the teaching of the Word of God, it would lead to wisdom, and the people around them would be shocked at how smart they were. You see, doing what God says, even when it might not make sense, will always lead to the wisest roads. Other people, when the fruit of those decisions come to light, will be shocked at how smart you seem, all because you chose to do things God’s way.

If you are in need of wisdom because you are on a road you have never traveled before, or perhaps you went the wrong way in the past, the key is to lay your life out before the Lord in prayer. Then sit before His Word, and allow Him to write your road map for you. Using a concordance can be helpful to look up the subjects you are facing, and is a great way to learn to think and act Biblically.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Colossians 2

1. Paul says in verse 1 that he has a great “conflict” for the Christians. This word means to contest or to struggle for, and carries the idea of striving in athletic competition. List the things that Paul struggling to see happen in these Christians lives in verse 2? How do you think he is struggling for them if he is not with them? Is there anyone that you strive for? 
2. In verse 3 it tells us that all knowledge and wisdom is found where? 
3. Read verses 4-7. Paul wants to see people established and solid so that they are not deceived and taken advantage of by false teachers. In verses 5-7 look at some of the ways that a person is established. List these out. 
4. Look at verse 8. What are some of the ways that we can be tricked or deceived? In verse 9-10 what/who is the antidote to being deceived? Is there anything lacking in Him? 
5. Verses 11-12 speak about how we died to the old life and that in Christ we are raised to a new life. Does your old life differ from your life now that you are a Christian? In verse 12, how do we access this new life? 
6. Read verses 13-15. Re-state in your own words all of the things that Jesus accomplished at the cross. 
7. In verses 16-23, Paul speaks of religious activity and rules (observing certain days, eating certain foods), and how all of those old testament observances were simply a shadow of Christ, but that He is the real thing. Shadows have no weight or mass, but they are a clue about the nearness of something this is real and does have substance. In other words, religious dos and don’ts are not what Christianity is really all about; Jesus is what it’s about! 
   a. Paul warns about a certain kind of false teacher in verses 18-19. Note the false teaching and religious practices in verse 18, but especially note verse 19, which is what keeps a person on the right track. 
   b. In verses 20-23, we see how there is a certain natural appeal to obeying religious rules, but note verse 23. What does following these rules do about the problem of our flesh (our self-serving nature)? Contrast this with how Jesus deals with the flesh in verses 11-14. 

Old Testament:
Isaiah 17- Syria
Isaiah 18- Unstable

Colossians 1:15
“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.”

The heart of man cries out for God. From the small child, to the individual who has faced a devastating loss, or grueling pain, their hearts cry out to know God. In an attempt to answer the heart’s cry, men create God in their own image. Some have invented a vast, complicated religious system, while others have checked out. They have decided, with all the different religions, no one can know for sure. To this Paul has a simple answer,

“He is the image of the invisible God, . . .”

While we cannot see God with the natural eye, we do not have to live our lives as though He is hidden from us. In order to answer the cry of the heart, God sent His Son, so we would forever know who God is, and what He is like. There is no need to use our imaginations or experiences in an attempt to create a God who fits our liking. We just need to open the pages of the Bible and see for ourselves who God is. As we watch Jesus walk the streets of Israel, encountering people in their real life situations, we learn how God feels about us, and what He desires to do in our lives. We see Him reaching out to the hurting, with a hand of compassion, and we learn that He cares about our needs, concerns and pain. We watch as He interacts with sinners, and we find, in all our sin, He still loves us. He desires to forgive our sins and bring us to Himself. We know He spent time, daily, with those who chose to follow Him, revealing the secrets of eternity to them. We learn, as we walk with Him daily, He will speak to us. He even takes common men, whose lives would have gone unnoticed by the world, and uses them to make a mark on the world. Their service will outlast their lives, and they will store up treasures in heaven that will last forever.

Jesus is the image of the invisible God. We no longer have to guess who God is, or what He is like. We just need to know Jesus. Instead of listening to all the voices screaming out of confusion, attempting to explain a God they have never seen, let’s go to the pages of the Bible and meet Jesus face-to-face. What an amazing God we have, that He would take on the form of man to reveal Himself to us.

Why not pray right now and ask God to reveal Himself to you?

Pastor Jim

Questions for Colossians 1 
1. Faith, hope, and love are mentioned in verses 4 and 5. These are three foundations of the Christian faith. Who was their faith in? Who was their love for? What was their hope? 

2. In verse 9-12, Paul prays for the Colossians. List the things that he prays for them. If you have ever had a difficult time praying for anyone, this is a great model for us to follow as we seek to pray for God to work in people’s lives. 

3. Consider verses 13-14. What things does this verse say Jesus did for us? 

4. Read verses 15-17. Now read Genesis 1. What do these verses teach us about Jesus’ role in the creation of the universe? 

5. In verses 15-20, we read that in everything, Jesus should have the preeminence, that He should be first priority. Make a list of each time the word “all” is used in these verses and what it is describing each time. What does this tell us about Jesus’ rightful place in His creation and in our lives? 

6. In verses 20-23, we read that Jesus reconciled us to God even though we were once enemies in our mind toward Him. Outwardly, we may seem very different, but inwardly, we are very much the same: we are rebels, and want to do things our way, not God’s. Before Jesus, this was the rule, but now He remakes us from the inside out. How has God changed you since you received His Son into your life? 

7. When the bible speaks of a mystery, it speaks of a thing once hidden, but now revealed. The great mystery of the Scripture is the great salvation we have in Jesus. One of the amazing things about this salvation that distinguishes it from all other religion is that the creator of the universe, Jesus, comes to live in our hearts and to work inside of us. Take time to consider and think upon this. Thank God that He lives and works in us, not that we have to work it all out ourselves! 

8. In verse 28, notice that the main theme of Paul’s preaching is not a “what”, but a “who”: “Him we preach.” As you seek to be used by God to reach others, do you keep Jesus central? Politics, economics, world religion, current events, or any number of other things threatens to take the focus off of Him. Ask God to help you to continually bring things back to Jesus with others. 

Old Testament:
Isaiah 15- Wrong Number
Isaiah 16- Count Down

Philippians 4:17
“Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.”

As this letter comes to a close, Paul is careful to thank the Philippian church for their generosity. On numerous occasions they had sent aid to Paul, enabling him to continue in the ministry. Although he was not their pastor, they placed a high value on the activities he was undertaking for the kingdom, and sent financial support, as he took the Gospel around the world. Because of the sensitivity of the subject of giving, Paul is careful to sandwich it between two very important ministry principles.

 Philippians 4:11
“Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content . . .”

Paul was not looking at ministry as a way to make a living, or live a comfortable life. He saw the ministry for what it actually was, the call of God to bring the message of salvation to a dying world. As a result, he learned to be content in whatever condition he found himself. At times, Paul saw large numbers come to Christ and was able to focus his time and energies exclusively on ministry, since the church provided for his physical needs. Other times, whether by need or principle, Paul chose to work with his hands to provide for his needs, so as not to be a burden to others. In doing this, he learned he could be content with the call of God when things were comfortable, or when they were difficult.

Philippians 4:19
“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

Often, when we hear preachers talk about giving, they make it sound as though the driving force behind ministry is money. They seem to imply, if you don’t give, the work of God will not continue. In a subtle way, they are saying God needs your cash because He cannot finance His own endeavors. Paul did not see it that way. He believed God would always supply what was needed for what He calls us to do.

Philippians 4:17
“Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.”

Paul’s reason for discussing giving was not to manipulate the people into giving more, or to help finance a vision that he was developing. Instead, he was actually concerned for their personal growth. Knowing God would always provide for His own needs, Paul saw giving for what it truly is, an opportunity to trust the Lord, and grow in Christ. The same is true whether we are giving of our time, talents, or treasure. When we come to the place where we are willing to say “I am going to take however little or much I have, and give it to the Lord” It is then, that we are investing in things that are eternal. As a result, we begin to experience growth that we have never had before. Whether it is money, or serving in one capacity or another, do not look at giving to your local church as a burden, but as an opportunity to grow. As you step forward in faith, trusting yourself and all you have into the hands of Jesus, you will find that you begin to bear fruit in your life like never before. Serving Jesus with all you are, and all you have, is the fast track to growing in Christ and storing treasures in the life to come.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Philippians 4

1. The chapter starts with Paul’s encouragement to be of the same mind (united), to rejoice and to be in prayer. Do we allow differences to steal our joy? Have we neglected our prayer time because there is no joy?
2. What is the requirement for rejoicing in the Lord?
3. Should we be anxious for anything? Why?
4. When should we pray about things? Are there things we do not need to pray about?
5. When you hear about a situation or think of a friend or neighbor, what comes to your mind? It is time for us to rethink how we think! Read verses 8-9 and start changing how you think! Romans 12:2 will help.
6. No matter what our circumstances, we need to heed Paul’s advice and be content. What are your challenges today? Can you take the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:1-5)? You can do it! Read verse 13. Read John 15:5.

Old Testament:
Isaiah 13- Shaky
Isaiah 14- Pride Before A Fall

Philippians 3:2
“Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation!”

Warning signs are all around us, cautioning us to beware of potential hazards. These signs warn the floor is slippery, the curve, sharp, the beam is low, or the dog is mean. As I sit here writing, my teacup reads, “Careful, the beverage you are about to enjoy is extremely hot.” Which seems obvious to me, since I did not order an iced drink. On the beaches in our community, there are signs warning of what to do in case of a tsunami; although we have never been hit by a tsunami, and experts tell us that the likelihood of such an event happening is almost zero. Because these warnings are so commonplace, we can become desensitized to them, and miss the ones that really matter.

Paul’s warnings are not to be taken lightly, as he tells us to be on guard against dogs, evil workers and the mutilation. He is using a common writing technique, where repetition is used for emphasis. He is not saying there are dogs, evil people, and mutilators to be aware of, but describing a certain group of people, using all three terms. He warned the Philippians to beware of those who would cause them to take their attention off of Jesus, and focus on works, as the measurement of their relationship with Jesus. Writing to the Corinthians, he put it like this,

2 Corinthians 11:3
“But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.”

When you came to Christ, you began a relationship with Him based upon His infinite love for you. You responded to that love by crying out to Him as Savior and Lord, and you began to follow Him. By reading your Bible, you learned of Him and were blessed by Him. You loved to be around others who loved Him like you did. Worship was amazing, as you expressed, in song, your gratitude and praise. People asked, “What happened to you? Why you were so different? Why you were not doing the things you used to do? Why you seemed so happy, even though circumstances might be quite difficult?” You were in love with Jesus, and enjoying the simplicity of Christ. But then, ever so subtly, you began to be lured away from the joy of salvation and simplicity of following Christ. Your relationship with Him began to be treated like a series of responsibilities; devotions, church attendance, service. Even sharing your faith, began to be treated like duty, rather than an expression of relationship.

If that has happened to you, allow me to use the words of Christ to the church in Ephesus, as a means of encouragement,

Revelation 2:5
“Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works”

It is time to go back to those first works; that time when you simply loved Jesus and wanted to please Him. When you read the Bible, not to check off the reading card, but because you wanted to hear Him speak to your heart, and guide your life. When you told others about Jesus, and bragged about how He spoke to you every time you attend church. How He wants to do in others, what He is doing in you.

Be careful not to be drawn away from simply being in love with Jesus, and enjoying the relationship you have because of the Cross.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Philippians 3

1. Sometimes we can pride ourselves in great accomplishments of our personal life or our career. Even in our spiritual life, pride can creep in and take a foot hold. Paul tells us to “have no confidence in the flesh.” He goes on to tell us that if anyone can be prideful about their personal life or career, it is him. Have you let pride sneak in to any area of your life?
2. In verse 7, Paul brings a godly perspective. What have you considered gain that the Lord has shown you to count as loss?
3. Verse 12 we get some encouraging advice. Press On! Dwell on verses 12-14. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you concerning these verses.
4. Finally, we read that Heaven is our home, have you made Heaven your home? Remember chapter 1:6, compare it with verse 21. God is working! He is wanting to work in your life today! Are you going to allow Him too?

Old Testament:
Isaiah 11- Peace
Isaiah 12- The Well Of Salvation

Philippians 2:17-18
“Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me.”

Prior to the death and resurrection of Christ, the prescribed manner of worship of God included an elaborate system of sacrifices. Every morning, every evening, and on prescribed dates throughout the year, animals were offered as burnt offerings to provide atonement for the sins of the people. Each of the sacrifices pointed in one way or another to Christ. As the Son of God, His death provided more than all the offerings could ever do. Peter wrote,

“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit, . . . ” 1 Peter 3:18

It is not difficult to see a portrait of Christ in the Passover lamb, the scapegoat, or the sin offerings, but what of this drink offering? Did you notice, Paul does not refer to Christ, but to himself as this offering? The drink offering, described in Numbers 15, was designed to accompany the various offerings. If a person brought a free will offering to the Lord, to express thanks to God for who He is, and all He has done, they were to include a jug of wine as a drink offering. This offering did not provide atonement, but accompanied the offering, making the aroma that much sweeter, as it was laid upon the altar. Paul saw his role in the life of others like that. He realized, each individual must present themselves as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to the Lord, but he would spend his life helping to make the sacrifice of others sweeter.

As we follow his story throughout the New Testament, we see he exemplifies what it means to love your neighbor as yourself. His whole life was about living for Christ, as an example to others. He spent his time, effort, and energies ensuring the Gospel was declared, and the Christian was well equipped to live for Christ. He risked his comforts and even his life, to bring the message of salvation to those who had never heard.

How do you suppose our impact upon the world would change if we saw ourselves as a drink offering, being poured out on the sacrifice of others? What kind of influence could we have for the kingdom of God, if we looked at ourselves as being in the lives of others, to help them come to Christ, and grow in Him? Writing to the Corinthians, Paul said, “I will very gladly spend and be spent for your souls.” 2 Corinthians 12:15

Let’s determine to live like that, impacting all around us for heaven’s sake.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Philippians 2

1. Verse 3, “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition of conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself” What can you do with this verse in your life today?
2. Verse 4, “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Can you find an opportunity to apply this verse as well?
3. This one needs to go on the refrigerator! Verse 14 “DO all things without complaining or arguing.”  Read John 13:35, Galatians 5:13, 1 Peter 3:8 and 1 John 3:11

Old Testament:
Isaiah 9- When He Comes
Isaiah 10- Improved

Philippians 1:12-14
“But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.”

As Paul is writing this letter to the church in Philippi, he is chained to a soldier and sitting in a Roman prison. He was incarcerated, not for making foolish decisions, choosing the wrong path, or getting in with the wrong crowd. His imprisonment was due to a rising hostility in the Roman world towards the message of the cross. We might say, Paul was facing difficulties outside of his control. Life is like that. Even when we decide to live pleasing to the Lord, we still face hardship, difficulty and opposition. It interests me what Paul has to say about the results of his hardship.

“The things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, . . . ”

In the midst of the storm he was facing, Paul realized that while it was creating hardship for him, it was also creating opportunity for others to come to Christ, or grow in Christ. He wrote of how the palace guard had come to know that his chains were in Christ. Rather than whining in prison about how unfair life was, Paul used his circumstances as a chance to tell others about the forgiveness of sins found in Jesus. While it is always easier to speak of Jesus when we are experiencing the blessings of life, the message has an added impact when it is shared through the backdrop of suffering. What a thrilling experience it must have been for those guards, to meet a man who was in prison and was actually innocent. Instead of hearing him complain, and play the blame game, they listened intently as he shared about the love of Christ, and the way of salvation. In Chapter 4, he mentions that the gospel message even reached into Caesar’s household, and many were won to Christ.

“. . .most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.”

In addition to the spreading of the Gospel, Paul’s attitude during difficulty, also had a great affect on believers. Those who were once timid and reserved, regarding their faith, found a new sense of boldness to share. A revival broke out in Philippi as one man mustered the courage to share with another about the unsearchable riches of Christ. The most effective evangelism is not through giant rallies, but through one person sharing the love of Christ with another. Evangelism has its greatest rewards when you and I will speak the Word, without fear, to our neighbors, friends, family and co-workers. As we muster the courage to invite them to church, or strike up a conversation with them about the Cross, we demonstrate our genuine interest in them.

Paul saw his circumstances as a backdrop, in which the message of the Cross would have an even greater impact upon those around him. How about you? What is your attitude in the midst of the things you are currently facing? Do you see them as the chains of Christ and use them as an opportunity to share the Gospel with others? There is a world in need of hearing the message of Christ, and we are His mouthpiece. Pray that Jesus would open new doors for you to share His love with others. Who knows what kind of revival might break out, as other believers are stirred to boldness, as a result of your step of faith.

Questions for Philippians 1

1. Paul states in verse 3 that when he remembers or thinks about his friends in Philippi and when he does, he prays for them. Who has God laid on your heart to pray for today?
2. He prays with all joy and confidence. What is he confident in?
3. Sometimes we often think of the bad things or the trouble that people are in. Is there a way that you can change your prayer life when you lift people up in prayer? Verse 6
4. How about verse 9-10, when is the last time you prayed for your church, family or friends making this request?
5. Verse 20 Paul states that “with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death”. We can ask any of our friends, co-workers or family if our lives magnify the Lord, would we accept the answer we hear?
6. Paul is longing to go home to be with Jesus, but he says in verse 24 that remaining is more needful for you. Do we look at our lives as to what we can get or accomplish or do we look within understanding that “others” need us?

Pastor Jim
Old Testament:
Isaiah 7- Great Promises
Isaiah 8- We’re Watching

Ephesians 6:14-18
“Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints”

In Chapter 5, Paul compared our relationship with Jesus as a walk. Now he compares it to a battleground. We are told we have an enemy, the devil, who plans strategies against us. His goal is to get us to fall into sin, or to live so self-consumed, we have little or no positive effect upon others for the kingdom. As we watch him at work in the pages of God’s Word, we see his method is to use fear and discouragement, as well as to tempt us with the pleasures of the world. Here, Paul explains how we can be prepared for the daily battle we face. His description is of a soldier girded for war. Each element of his armor is designed to deal with a different attack.

The belt of truth refers to the Word of God. Having sound knowledge of Biblical doctrines will keep you from being misled by the subtle schemes of the enemy. Daily reading, and weekly Bible Study, will help prepare you for these attacks. The breastplate protects the heart from mortal wounds. Notice, our breastplate is the righteousness we receive when we trust in Christ for salvation. Daily failures can discourage the believer from moving forward. Those are the times when we look at the cross, remember our sins were paid in full, and His righteousness was given in exchange for simple trust. Since the Christian life is a journey, shoes are important, and we wear Gospel shoes. Everywhere we go, we should seek to take the light of the Gospel of the glory of Jesus with us. When we go on the offensive, we are less likely to be tripped up by the simple things.

Next, Paul mentions a weapon that is, in his own words, more important than all the rest. He states, “above all take the shield of faith.” Faith is critical to our journey and the battle. Faith has become a very mystical word, hard to define. It simply means to trust. If we are going to withstand the enemy’s attacks, we must put our confidence in the promises and warnings of God’s Word. Too often, we ignore the warnings of the Word, thinking somehow we are the exception to the rule. The shield of faith is activated when we choose to trust the Word of God over emotion, circumstances, and the voice of others.

As the breastplate protects the heart, the helmet was designed to protect the head. Head injuries can be mortal or can simply knock us out of the fight for a while. The mind is the battlefield where the enemy discharges his greatest attacks in the night hours, after an argument, before a decision, or in the midst of temptation. The mind becomes a battlefield where war is waged against us. The secret to victory is the helmet of salvation. When we remember what we have been saved from, what we have been saved to, and how God wants to use us in the salvation of others, our minds become filled with the very things which will help us withstand the attack.

Finally, Paul speaks of an offensive weapon. He tells us we have been equipped with a sword, but not just any sword. This is the Sword of the Spirit, defined as the Word of God. Since I have no military training, I am pleased to read that it is the Spirit’s sword. When we open our mouth and begin to share the promises of the Word with others, the Holy Spirit takes those words and uses them like a sword to impact the heart. How often have you heard the Word of God spoken and been convicted, encouraged, empowered or directed? The Holy Spirit will do the same through you, as He has done in you.

Gird up guys, it is time for battle!

Questions for Ephesians 6

1. Paul gives very practical words for us. As children, are we obeying our parents? As parents, are we provoking our children? Or bringing them up in the ways of God?
2. Verse 5-9 although we are not bondservants or masters, these principles can be applied in all areas of life. Are you being a Godly employee or boss? Are you doing the things as “bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart?” (a servant gets payment for services, a bondservant depends on the Master for everything!
3. We need to know that there is a Devil out there, and he is attacking us. How are you equipping yourself for that? Are you taking on the full armor of God?
4. List the areas of armor you are strong in, and then list your weak areas. Pray and ask the Lord to fill the gaps (with His Spirit-Zechariah 4:6), to strengthen you (with His gifting-I Corinthians 13:13). Now……are you producing fruit (Ephesians 5:22)?

Pastor Jim
Old Testament:
Isaiah 5- Expanding 
Isaiah 6- Then He Said Go