Bible Thoughts

October 6, 2002

The people of Thessalonica whom Paul addresses, when they heard the gospel of Christ, responded by obeying the commands of the Lord. Paul identified them as "beloved of God." He commented on their labors in the Lord and the strength of their faith. Paul stated they were an "example to all of the believers in Macedonia and Achaia." The actions of these good people pleased God as they put their trust in the Creator of all mankind. Paul stated, in the following verses:

"For they themselves report about us what kind of a reception we had with you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve a living and true God, and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, that is Jesus, who delivers us from the wrath to come"(I Thessalonians 1:9-10).

It is not easy for one to give up past teachings and practices, but it is right! The Thessalonians were given the opportunity through the gospel of Christ to learn the truth that would make them acceptable to God. They responded to the message of truth and obeyed the commands of the Lord. The Thessalonians are the kind of people that we seek out: men and women who want the truth and will accept the truth when it is presented to them.

The Thessalonians "turned to God" from idols. They were ready and willing to serve the Creator of all mankind. Idolatry had been a way of life for them and for many in that day. An idol is nothing more than the work of some man. It has no life, it has no blessings, it has no power--it is merely stone or wood. Idols, however, are not limited to those made of earthly materials, but can be found in the hearts of many in various forms. One's occupation could become an idol--if it comes between the individual and his responsibility to God. One's family can be an idol, as well--when placed before one's responsibility to God. A sport that one likes can also become an idol if one's dedication to such interferes with one's responsibility to God. In fact, anything that is elevated between man and God is an idol. The idolatries of a man's heart can be found in many pursuits, ideas, or ambitions. It is up to the individual disciple to put aside anything that keeps one from loyal service to God. The apostle said, "Wherefore, my beloved, flee from Idolatry"(I Corinthians 10:14).

Classic idolatry was the problem with the heathen of Paul's day. Not only in Corinth, but in most places, there were figures, statutes, and other works of stone and wood throughout the world. However, idolatry is not limited to carving some god(?) from earthly materials. Idolatry can exist within a person's heart. Whatever interferes with the service one is to give to Jehovah can become the very idol that keeps one from being acceptable to the Lord. Wealth, fame, honor, prestige, hobbies, secular interests, ad infinitum, can become the stumbling block that carries one away from the Lord and His way.

Jesus said, "But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you"(Matthew 6:33). When the Christian follows the principle taught in this passage, idolatry will never be a problem. Let us always put the Lord and His way before all else. Such will insure that idolatry will not interfere with our faith and our allegiance to the living God who made each one of us.

"Put to death therefore your members which are upon the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry"(Colossians 3:5).

1. The Lord will be present; can you think of better company?

2. You will enjoy the fellowship of other disciples.

3. You will increase your knowledge of the scriptures.

4. You will set an example to others: your family, your brethren,

your friends, and your neighbors.

5. You will be singing praises to God with those of like faith.

6. You can pray with those who love the Lord.

7. You will become stronger in the Lord.

8. You will be supporting the work of the local congregation.

9. You will follow the example of the early disciples who assembled

at times other than the first day.

10. You will experience the joy of serving the Lord in the company

of those of like faith.

"All the dust of the earth became gnats through all the land of Egypt"(Exodus 8:17).

Have you ever noticed how irritating it is to have gnats bothering you while in the yard or garden? This writer takes measures to keep them away from him(sometimes they work; sometimes not). They can be one of the most annoying pests that God allows to exist.

The Egyptians were refusing to let the Lord's people leave Egypt. Plagues were being used by Jehovah in order to persuade Pharaoh to let the people go. The magicians tried all of their "secret arts" to try to get rid of the gnats. However, the annoying little bugs would not go away causing them to conclude, "This is the finger of God"(Exodus 8:19).

The invasion of gnats would be minor in comparison with the final plague. The Lord would gain their full attention in the deaths of the first-born in each family(the plague also affected the cattle). Yet, the plague of gnats were part of the Lord's plan to bring about the deliverance of the Hebrews.

There are gnats in the lives of disciples that can so irritate one that it makes one's spiritual life unprofitable. An unkind word said by another, an unrighteous thought expressed, a word spoken in anger, a look of displeasure, an expectation not fulfilled, a promise broken, and a host of other situations that cause one to be uncomfortable. It is difficult indeed to ignore such, but it can be done. A kind word spoken to the critic, sharing a worthwhile experience, suppressing the anger with proper speech, a look of kindness and understanding, a promise fulfilled, and many other positive approaches can soften the gnats that aggravate the disciple of Christ.

If a man can have several wives(as advocated by Mormon teaching), why cannot one woman have several husbands?(Of course, all at one time--not one at a time!)

The Lord's church is not a hobby. She is a spiritual institution that Christ built and is a way of life. If I treat the kingdom as I do a hobby, I have missed the whole meaning of being a Christian.