Bible Thoughts

January 11, 2004

Man was not designed to be a servant of sin. When God placed the first couple in the garden, they were placed in a paradise built by God. So long as they were righteous, that is--did good and acted right, God permitted them to enjoy that grand place. Even though warned not to disobey God, they partook of the forbidden fruit and lost their home in paradise. From that moment, men have weakened under temptation and rejected the righteousness of God through sin. Paul encouraged the saints in Rome to avoid the unrighteousness(or, iniquity) that existed in their world, and to be loyal to the creator of all mankind by presenting themselves as instruments of righteousness(good).

Ignorance has been used as an excuse for many things and for not doing many things. Paul is pointing out that the Hebrews, who had the law but did not follow it, because of their lack of faith were, by that action, refusing to be subject to the "righteousness of God." Certainly, in a world that is filled with opportunities for people to be acquainted with the book of God(the Bible), ignorance of God's righteousness cannot be a valid excuse. It was no excuse then; it is no excuse today. Yet, there are multitudes who seek to establish their own righteousness by establishing human churches, writing human creeds, and ignoring what is plainly taught in the scriptures. Why was it wrong for them andright for us? Obviously--you know the answer to that question. Establish your righteousness by God's word, not the commands of men.

This question by James has an implied answer. A faith without works is unprofitable in God’s sight. Such a faith has no saving quality about it because it lacks a basic element. That element is the willingness to carry out the commands of God. There has never been a time when God approved of “faith without works.” Noah, Abraham, and all the worthies of the Old Testament had working faiths. The apostles and early Christians had faith that works. There is no way under heaven that one can be saved who professes faith but does not act on that faith by obeying what God commands. Any faith that is acceptable to God is the result of conforming to the instructions in the New Testament. Do not be deceived by those who advocate “faith only” as the way to salvation. Such contradicts the plain message of James.

Ignorance has been used as an excuse for many things and for not doing many things. Paul is pointing out that the Hebrews, who had the law but did not follow it, because of their lack of faith were, by that action, refusing to be subject to the "righteousness of God." Certainly, in a world that is filled with opportunities for people to be acquainted with the book of God(the Bible), ignorance of God's righteousness cannot be a valid excuse. It was no excuse then; it is no excuse today. Yet, there are multitudes who seek to establish their own righteousness by establishing human churches, writing human creeds, and ignoring what is plainly taught in the scriptures. Why was it wrong for them and right for us? Obviously--you know the answer to that question. Establish your righteousness by God's word, not the commands of men.

Every Hebrew dreamed of the coming Messiah and the new kingdom that he would rule over. The problem: they looked for a material kingdom with a physical head that would restore the Jewish nation. None of the prophets taught or spoke of such a kingdom; the kingdom of which they wrote is a spiritual kingdom, over which the Son of God would rule. Philip recognized that Jesus was that prophet who would bring the blessings of God upon all who would listen to, as well as obey, this Messiah. Such a discovery. Far more precious than silver or gold. Men may search for happiness in many different ways. True happiness comes as did this discovery of Philip: in the faith we have in Jesus Christ.

Tychicus was a unique individual. He had won the heart of the apostle. Paul described him as beloved and faithful. Paul also knew that he would reliably report "all things" to the brethren. A man of trust; a reliable person. He is further identified as one who would "comfort their hearts." Tychicus would be a blessing to the Ephesians. He had been dear to Paul; now his strength of character and his devotion would be an encouragement to the Ephesians. How well, my friend, are you trusted in your daily affairs? In the reports you give to others? Learn a lesson from Tychicus: build up trust by being faithful in what you say and do.

Paul is giving Mark an excellent compliment. He is "useful." The apostle recognized him as one who would be profitable in spreading the word of God. The principle of usefulness is not confined, however, to those who would help out in spiritual work. Usefulness is a quality for all walks of life. If you hire out to a person, be useful. If you are part of a family, be useful. If you become part of some organization, be useful. Think also in terms of others: you want them to be useful when you are involved with them at work, at home, or any other place. If all of us did what we could to be useful in every area in which we live and/or function, what a better world this would be. Above all, we need to be useful in the service of Jesus Christ. In truth, that is the only kind of disciple that pleases Jehovah. To be useful, one must be faithful.