Why are only 7 churches addressed by Christ when there were more than 7 churches in Asia Minor?
Numbers are symbolic in Revelation.
As Dr. Campbell explains: Seven, rooted in the creation account, is the number of God and completion…If the seven churches are representative of the universal church, as the numerical symbolism indicates, then the contents of both the letters and the visions are also applicable to the church throughout the ages.”
Therefore, what Christ commends in these 7 churches will also be found in the universal church today, and what He has against them will also be found in us.
This makes Revelation so relevant to us. The 7 churches are us.
Consider the first church we will study this week: Ephesus. They are commended for sound doctrine and not tolerating false doctrine. But they are rebuked for not loving as they did at first. Jesus warns them: “If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand…” What does this mean? I asked Dr. Campbell this question and this was our dialogue (his response is in red.)
Would you say that removing a lampstand means Christ will leave that church? They may continue meeting, but the Holy Spirit will be gone? There will be no true spiritual life?
Yes exactly – to me, this is a description of most liberal churches today. They are religious institutions, not churches in the Biblical sense. What we have to watch is that legalism, as one example, or hypocrisy or hidden sin does not come in and endanger our lampstand even when our doctrine is still correct – this was the danger facing the Ephesians. When love is no longer apparent in the fellowship, the fellowship is in serious danger of dying.
One of the false doctrines the Church at Ephesus would not tolerate was the doctrine of the Nicolaitans which involved sexual immorality. Christ commended them for this for He hated that false doctrine as well, seeing how it destroyed people He loved.
It is vital to hold to sound doctrine. How we need to do this today as well — including in the area of God’s plan for sex. But when we do that, we certainly need to combine it with love, and with humility about our own sin, or we will just be seen as judgmental finger-pointers.
Eberhard Arnold lived during the time of Hitler and saw how he was perverting Christian doctrine, and Eberhard said:
How terribly relevant this is for us today. How challenging it is for us to hold to the true doctrine of God’s plan for sex, yet do so with compassion and LOVE! So this week, just to show you how relevant each message to the churches is to us, I will address this.
There are those who believe the LGBT agenda is a “watershed issue” for the church. Here is a one-page excerpt from a recent discussion on the podcast The World and Everything In It. (Please read!) Transcript of Discussion on Why the LGBT Discussion Could Become Watershed Issue on Christian Doctrine Their main point, which certainly could apply to the whole area of Christian obedience, is “Are we going to let God decide what is best for us, or are we the captains of our fates and the masters of our souls?” For those who want to hear the whole discussion, (under 10 minutes) here is the link:
https://worldandeverything.org/2021/04/culture-friday-the-schism-in-womens-studies/
For many of you, this is extremely relevant. Someone you love has same-sex attraction, or someone you know seems repulsed by Christianity because they think Christians hate those who have same-sex attraction. I have a ten-year-old granddaughter who came home from her public school and told her mom: “Did you know there are seven different ways I can be?” And this week I’ve been in Nebraska with my youngest, and they are endeavoring to bring a program to the public schools where they begin in kindergarten showing children “different kinds of families” and after each picture, the children are to parrot together:
“And that’s okay!”
We must not be deceived, this is a spiritual battle as well with the forces of darkness, who twist the truth, portraying those who hold to Scripture as haters. The following clip is from the movie “Prom,” typical of what the media is telling the world about us, and I see the father of lies behind it.
One of Satan’s common tricks is to quote Scripture with a twist, as he did with Eve, and again with Jesus in the desert. For example, in this clip, the Christians (who are all portrayed as hateful) are told, “You can’t cherry-pick the Bible.” There is truth in that, yet, oh, how he misapplies it. People in the world do this all the time, but it is important to see our real enemy beneath their words. Satan wants us to be our own god, and I believe he wants to destroy the family. We are in a battle and we must fight with truth and love.
In this clip, you’ll see how he twists scripture, but the worst is the way he twists the words of Jesus in the chorus. See if you can discern that lie, for that is the lie being repeated in the world. “Love Wins” was the title of Rob Bell’s book that twisted the gospel. We must combine love and truth. We’ll talk about how to do that this week — together!
Please listen to this. (Under 4 minutes)
Here also is the link to Keven DeYoung’s sermon, which is a great optional resource for you this week.
Dr. Campbell continues to be so helpful. Last week a couple of you questioned his reasoning that the tribulation is occurring during the whole church age, which was different than you believed. I wrote him and his responses are in red if you are interested in that — here’s the link: Campbell on Tribulation
Word Document to Print off Questions:
3 The Churches are Us
Sunday: Getting Started
- What stands out to you from the above and why? From the 4 minute video?
- What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?”
Monday: The Pattern
3. In the opening paragraph of Chapter 2 of Mystery Explained, Dr. Campbell explains the pattern that we see as Christ addresses each of these seven churches. Outline the typical pattern.
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? How is this also true for us?
5. Now, read Revelation 2:1-7 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? (Rev. 2:1a)
B. How is Jesus described? (Rev. 2:1b)
C. For what are they commended? (Rev 2:2-3)
D. For what are they rebuked? (Rev. 2:4)
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? (Rev. 2:5a)
F. Find both the warning and the promise. (Rev. 2:5b-7)
Tuesday: The Church with Truth But Not Love
6. Read the following and describe what you know about the church at Ephesus:
A. Acts 19:23-28
B. Acts 20:25-36
7. Read the section about the Church at Ephesus in Mystery Explained and answer:
A. In the first paragraph, how can we see that somehow heaven and earth are connected?
B. In the second paragraph, how do we see that these letters to the churches go beyond pastoral letters?
C. In the third paragraph, how does Dr. Campbell summarize Christ’s message to this church?
D. In the fourth paragraph, which begins with “the rebuke continues” we learn about the symbolic nature of the lampstand. What does it represent?
E. In the fifth paragraph, what do you learn about the practice of the pagan culture of Ephesus?
F. Read the rest of the section on Ephesus and share anything that stands out to you.
8. Dr. Campbell writes: “The church, when functioning properly, is always counter-cultural, for which a price, from loss of popularity to loss of income to loss of life, will often be paid.” How do you see this happening to individuals today who are standing, in love, against the lies of the LGBT agenda? How might you have to pay this price if you do likewise?
Wednesday: Kevin DeYoung Sermon
I realize I might be overwhelming some of you, so you may skip this, but I’m hoping many of you will listen and share your notes, for it is so well done. You can listen while you multi-task. But if you can’t, here are a few highlights that spoke to me personally:
Listen most carefully to the church where the praise is like you, for probably the rebuke will fit at well.
The Ephesians’ careful eye for doctrine became a careful eye for finding fault in one another. Fighting got in their blood! They were just shining their light at each other and seeing problems, instead of shining their light to the world.
As in Pilgrim’s Progress, Mr Valiant for Truth must meet up with Mr. Great-Heart.
9. Listen to the Kevin DeYoung Sermon above and share what stands out to you.
10. Pastor DeYoung pointed out the Remember, Repent, and Return turns out nicely in English. How could you apply this to your walk with Christ? Possibly to your marriage?
11. What warning in Revelation 2:5 does Jesus give to the church at Ephesus?
Because I don’t want you to miss this, here is a quote from Dr. Campbell:
…if they do not remember and repent, their lampstand will be removed. The church which had been used so powerfully to bring light into darkness might be cast into darkness itself. Israel had also been a lampstand (Zech. 4:2, 11) but when the Israelites turned their back on God’s commission to be a light to the nations (Isa. 42:6-7; 49:6) their lampstand was removed and they were replaced by the church. (Rev. 1:6)…The church is called to be a witness, in the way Jesus talked of the lamp which was to be put on a lampstand. (Mk. 4:21, Lk. 8:16)
Thursday: Begin with Love
If we begin with love, as Jesus did, we are much more likely to be heard. With nearly every church He begins with a commendation.
Before this Covid pandemic, I was a guest in a home where the parents had one child who identified himself as bi-sexual and was living with another man. The parents have not compromised on their biblical view, but they also have been showing love. They invited this son to bring his roommate home for Thanksgiving. When the two young men left, the roommate told the son: “Don’t you ever tell me your parents are bigots again. I’ve never felt so loved in my whole life.”
12. What are some ways that you could show love to the world in which you live with both deeds and words? Be prayerful first, asking God to show you — for He may call you to show love to someone in particular and in a particular way. What does He impress on your heart?
Friday: Speaking The Truth in Love
13. When a non-Christian, or even a professing Christian disagrees with a biblical truth, and brings it up to you, what are some scriptural principles you should apply? What do you learn from James 1:19-20?
14. Tim Keller says that when you disagree with someone, you must show them how you have heard them by repeating back to them the argument they have made. This could be doctrinal such as “A good God wouldn’t send anyone to hell.” Or behavioral. “It’s smart to live together before marriage.” It is only after they know they have been heard that they might listen to your rebuttal. Have you done this? If so, tell us briefly about it.
I think the main thing we need to gently express concerning behavioral disagreements, is that God’s boundaries, while they may seem heartless, are full of wisdom and love, for He is our Maker, and knows the best way for us to thrive. With sex, when used as our Maker intended, acts like a pure stream, cleansing and refreshing. Used as unintended, it becomes like a flood that destroys and kills. My absolute favorite author on this subject of homosexuality practice is Wesley Hill. You can find his books and talks on the internet. But in Washed and Waiting, he tells of how C. S. Lewis was the one who opened his eyes to the lie of the enemy:
Many might say that for me as a gay Christian to abstain from homosexual sex means that I’m choosing to prudishly, pitiably shelter myself from the only life worth living. Lewis turns the tables on this kind of objection, audaciously claiming that, no, in fact, it’s the sexually active homosexual person who misses out.
There’s more in this book that is of great value, but this is always the lie of the enemy. You are missing out if you don’t eat of the fruit of the tree! He still whispers it to me — you won’t be happy unless you give in. But he is such a liar.
Here is one idea — but the Spirit will lead differently with each situation. How about preparing to share an area where you were deceived, and how you went on that destructive path and it brought pain?? But then how God released you. That helps overcome the offensive belief that we think we are better than others.
I will often tell people how I thought making side-ways comments (instead of speaking the truth in love to someone who was upsetting me) was a good idea. But I was so wrong, for all I had to show for it was broken relationships. God has delivered me and healed my relationships.
15. Your turn:
A. How might you be vulnerable about a sin God delivered you from? What lie did you believe? How did He rescue you? Be brief.
B. How might you gently share how God’s boundaries often seem heartless but are just the opposite?
16. Challenge question: How might a young mother explain God’s plan for sex to ten-year-old that would include why we should allow God to define our gender instead of deciding for ourselves?
Saturday:
17. What’s your take-a-way this week and why?
134 comments
9. Listen to the Kevin DeYoung sermon above and share what stands out to you.
The problems in these seven churches are the problems in today’s churches. The strengths can be found in today’s churches, and the warnings are relevant to us today, too.
Churches have not changed that much in 2000 years – it’s still a body of people following Christ as their head, and human nature has not changed, nor has Jesus.
Listen most carefully, not to the churches where their weaknesses are your strengths, but where their strengths are your strengths. You will likely then find your weaknesses.
The Ephesian church was theologically rock-solid, having the apostle Paul, Timothy, and John in their rich heritage. DeYoung says, in fact, the church at Ephesus was commended for two things: they were intolerant and full of hatred. Intolerant to false teaching, and they hated immorality. Jesus commends them for this.
Being tolerant of everything and hating nothing is a serious deviation, and so dangerous, because it does not accurately reflect what God is like.
DeYoung explained that some think that when Jesus rebukes the church for not having love, it means that they lost their love for God. But in the OT, lack of love for God indicated spiritual idolatry or adultery. (Jeremiah 2) But this still does not describe the Ephesians. They had stopped “doing” something they used to do. They needed to repent and “do”. DeYoung said “they loved God, but they did not love their neighbors anymore.” They had keen minds, busy hands, but shriveled hearts. (Reference 1 Corinthians 13 – “if I have not love…”)
Their precise eye for finding theological error had become a precise eye for finding fault in one another.
Jesus is “walking among them” to see if they’re shining their light. Doctrinally sound churches can be quick to judge and be unforgiving, always looking for error. Fighting “gets in their blood”.
Self check: Am I arguing a point to be right, or am I arguing a point out of love?
The church at Ephesus’ lack of love manifested itself in two kinds of sin: lack of life-giving fellowship and lack of life-giving witness. The church had turned inward, “navel-gazing”, and had no vision for outside of their own walls. An insular church will wither away. The warning for today: Give the gospel away or lose it.
Remedy for being buried in dead orthodoxy – Repent, Remember, Return.
Do you like thoughts and ideas more than people? Do you like talking and thinking about spiritual things – when’s the last time you shared your faith? Do you have a burden for the lost, for the poor? Your gifts may be in thinking and teaching, but you also need a great heart.
John was the apostle of love, and he was also the “son of thunder”. Yet at the end of his life, his sermons all had this theme: Love one another.
10. Pastor DeYoung pointed out the Remember, Repent and Return turns out nicely in English. How could you apply this to your walk with Christ? Possibly to your marriage?
Repent from judgmental lovelessness and lackluster witness.
I do need to repent for the way I so often am judging and being critical of another, even if only in my thoughts. For finding it so easy to love those who act and behave the way I expect or feel comfortable with, and withholding affection for those who I see as different, irritating, or annoying.
Remember what sweet fellowship with other believers was like, and remember what sharing your faith was like.
Well, lately I have been rather sour and critical about fellowship with other believers. I also am not very good at sharing my faith. I’ve found in the past, I have to be careful about crossing the line with family members who will react negatively if I come off as being too “preachy” or “pushing God on them”. I sometimes find I can talk about my faith in the context of something in my own life – an experience, or recognizing a weakness in myself.
Return – go do the things you used to do. Love, share your life, serve.
To me, this speaks of beginning again, which means to be willing to open up, again. Opening up always means the possibility of being hurt or disappointed. It is a risk. But be willing to try again, to make the better choices, to forgive, to give others a second chance, to give myself a second chance.
Marriage can involve all these things. Remember that we are on the same team. Repent and ask for forgiveness when I have wronged my husband. Return – open up again to the possibility of love.
11. What warning in Revelation 2:5 does Jesus give to the church at Ephesus?
Jesus warns this church that if they do not repent, He is coming and will remove their lampstand from among the churches. The church will, essentially, die.
Susan–I like what you said here “I sometimes find I can talk about my faith in the context of something in my own life – an experience, or recognizing a weakness in myself.”
I have always felt insecure about “evangelizing” but reading what you’ve said here I realize I’m really comfortable with that. I do find myself easily sharing about my faith in the context of my own life or experiences, or as you said in admitting my own weakness and sharing His forgiveness and covering.
Susan and Lizzy — I think is huge that Susan articulated and Lizzy seized.
Susan, I too, love love this: “I sometimes find I can talk about my faith in the context of something in my own life – an experience, or recognizing a weakness in myself.”
13. What do you learn from James 1:19-20?
Have listening be your first reaction. Second, consider carefully before you speak. And try not to let anger surface, because the anger of people doesn’t help bring righteousness.
14. A. How might you be vulnerable about a sin God delivered you from? What lie did you believe? Briefly, how did He rescue you?
Probably admitting it before others in a context where either it or something like it is being discussed. The lie I believed was that I had no choice, no control. He supernaturally removed a spirit of anger from me through intercessory prayer. Not that I’ve never lost my temper since, but I no longer have a continual base of seething anger waiting for an outlet. And He has taught me to just let things go.
B. How can you share how God’s boundaries seem heartless but are just the opposite.
In the past, I’ve described how you can see a fence as keeping you from something you want, or you can see a fence as keeping something that would harm you away from you. God’s boundaries are fences. Not to deprive us, but to guard us from hurt.
15. How can a mother explain God’s plan for sex to a ten year old, including the need to have God define gender.
When God created everything, He chose to make male and female. Those are the only two choices, and He determined what each person would be by the special directions the body uses to make a baby, called DNA. His plan was for a man and a woman to come together in marriage, and have children. He made it this way as a picture of how He wants to have a very special relationship with us. He said that married people should not be sharing a bed with an adult other than the one they are married to, in the same way that He doesn’t want us running to another god besides Him. A lot of people today don’t believe this. Sometimes because they’ve never been taught about God, and sometimes because they have been told things that are not true. Can you believe everything the TV says? Just as the people behind TV have a goal or reason for the things they try to tell you, the people who say we can choose our gender are doing the same thing. We need to make sure we get our truth from the Bible and not from anywhere else.
Great testimony: He supernaturally removed a spirit of anger from me through intercessory prayer.
I think I mixed up my numbering.
The only thing really missing, I hope, is a response to the statement, ‘you won’t be happy unless you give in.’ Sure have heard and felt variations on this my whole life! As I’ve gotten older, I don’t agree that I’ll be happy, but I still fall for not wanting to be miserable trying to fend off the temptation. If only you could say no once and be done with it!
Wednesday: Kevin DeYoung Sermon
9. Listen to the Kevin DeYoung Sermon above and share what stands out to you. – here are my notes…
*Seven symbolizes what the past churches have gone through and what present day churches need to be aware of.
*We need to study the word to find the weaknesses that churches go through.
*The church is a body of people following Jesus and we all share the same nature.
*Not everyone will have ears to hear.
*All the letters follow the same pattern but all seven churches are different.
*They all have to figure out how to overcome a hostile world against Christians.
*We need to listen to all the churches and especially the one that has the same strengths as us.
*The people in Ephesus were hard workers and could pick out those whose were not believers. They were rock solid. They were intolerant of false teachings.
*Even though they had many strengths they had one big problem and that was threatening their good strengths and it was that they lost their first love, they loved God but stopped loving each other in the church.
*Without their love of the body their strengths were worthless.
*Churches can be quick to judge and slow to love.
*We need a bigger purpose to expand on the outside and not just stay comfy inside together.
*We need to give the Gospel away or we are going to lose it.
*We need to repent, remember and return.
*We need to ask ourselves the question, are you bearing any fruit?
Wednesday: Kevin DeYoung Sermon
10. Pastor DeYoung pointed out the Remember, Repent, and Return turns out nicely in English. How could you apply this to your walk with Christ? Possibly to your marriage? – I really liked this reminder. I need to search my heart and mind and remember how Christ forgave me, how he loves me unconditionally and repent of everything that is not of God. Any negatives comments, any hatred I may feel I need to bring to the front and name it for what they are and ask God to forgive me and then I need to ask him to help me return to the loving child he created me to be. I can’t just love God, I need to love those he created which may not be the same as me and thank goodness for that. This can apply to both my walk with the Lord and with my marriage.
11. What warning in Revelation 2:5 does Jesus give to the church at Ephesus? – he told them to look at what they are doing and how far they have fallen away and turn from their sinful ways and get back to what they had first done. And if they don’t their lamp stand will be removed.
Good, Julie: This can apply to both my walk with the Lord and with my marriage.
Wednesday
10. Pastor DeYoung pointed out the Remember, Repent, and Return turns out nicely in English. How could you apply this to your walk with Christ? Possibly to your marriage?
Remembering what the Lord did for me, His sacrificial love and who He is, brings me to my knees, asking Him to search my heart, name my sins, ask for forgiveness, repent and return to Him. I know that when my relationship isn’t right with the Lord, it affects all other relationships, be it my marriage, family, friends, people in the church and how I look at unbelievers.
11. What warning in Revelation 2:5 does Jesus give to the church at Ephesus?
If you don’t repent, I will come and remove your lamp stand from its place among the churches.
Friday
13. When a non-Christian, or even a professing Christian disagrees with a biblical truth, and brings it up to you, what are some scriptural principles you should apply? What do you learn from James 1:19-20?
Pray (“that you may speak with clarity.” Col. 4:4), be quick to hear (“conduct yourself with wisdom…making the most of the opportunity.” Col 4:5), slow to speak (“Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned as it were with salt, so you may know how to respond to each person.” Col. 4:6), and slow to anger so it will right in Gods eyes. I find that asking questions may clear up a lot of the disagreement and that’s where prayer and being “quick to hear” is so important. It also makes the person realize that you just don’t want to argue but genuinely want to know where they’re coming from. And of course tone speaks volumes.
So good from Sharon:
I find that asking questions may clear up a lot of the disagreement and that’s where prayer and being “quick to hear” is so important. It also makes the person realize that you just don’t want to argue but genuinely want to know where they’re coming from. And of course tone speaks volumes.
Friday
15. Your turn:
A. How might you be vulnerable about a sin God delivered you from? What lie did you believe? How did He rescue you? Be brief.
I know y’all love me and won’t judge. When we returned from Africa I was in the 9th grade. I wore clothes that my mother made and was laughed at and made fun of. I bought the lie that if I dressed according to the world that I would be popular, get boys and friends. I lived a promiscuous life all through high school thinking I was happy because I got the worlds approval. It wasn’t til after I got married did I realize what an ugly lie I had believed and lived and God did rescue me, but not without consequences.
B. How might you gently share how God’s boundaries often seem heartless but are just the opposite?
Using the above experience I shared, I would say that I lived that way because after all, God wants us to be happy. I thought it made me miserable not fitting in and would justify that that’s not what God would want. But in reality, it was the decision I made that made me miserable, being disobedient to God. He puts boundaries on us because of His great love for us…He wants and knows what is best. There is much more I would share from my experience to verify that.
16. Challenge question: How might a young mother explain God’s plan for sex to ten-year-old that would include why we should allow God to define our gender instead of deciding for ourselves?
I never had to worry about the “gender” situation with my kids. I would say that God created a man and a woman in His image. In His image means, He makes no mistakes in what He creates us to be. Gods plan was for a man to be married to a woman…a man should leave his father and cling to his wife.
Such a common trap for young girls! You are dear to share. The story of homemade clothes is so understandable for a young girl.
Sharon, so true of a principle of lies that I have believed in also: “thinking I was happy because I got the world’s approval“. As a people pleaser, I often have to remind myself that God is the only One I need to please.
9. Listen to the Kevin DeYoung Sermon above and share what stands out to you.
Kevin DeYoung’s message was really good! I wondered about one part though, that made me feel awkward inside. It was when he said that the church in Ephesus was good at being intolerant of false teaching and hateful toward immorality. The Ephesians were rock solid in their faith. Jesus approved of this. He says that loving indiscriminately is not acceptable. He gives scripture reference too, “…you hate what I hate.” I guess I have always thought that Jesus was love, even when people do wrong things. I do think you can love someone and not agree with their actions which might be immoral. Is this what he means?
They were existent but not shining the light of Jesus to the world. We must give the gospel away or we will lose it.
10. Pastor DeYoung pointed out the Remember, Repent, and Return turns out nicely in English. How could you apply this to your walk with Christ? Possibly to your marriage?
Remember what sweet fellowship with other believers was like and what sharing your faith was like
Repent from judgmental lovelessness or lackluster witness.
Return to your first love; love each other well. Love those who are different from you. Go to the world and shine it in the world.
Bear witness to a dark world. Some will hear.
11. What warning in Revelation 2:5 does Jesus give to the church at Ephesus?
To repent or lose your lamp stand.
Hi Laura —
What I saw in the passage was that Jesus said, “You hate the practice of the Nicolatians, which I also hate.” That’s different than hating them. But perhaps deYoung brought out something different?
Laura — this article might help:
https://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/gods-love-and-gods-hatred/
That article did help me understand, Dee. Thank you!
12. What are some ways that you could show love to the world in which you live with both deeds and words? Be prayerful first, asking God to show you — for He may call you to show love to someone in particular and in a particular way. What does He impress on your heart?
To love those who do not agree with me or those who are different than me.
This week, I have gotten a chance to work with one student who comes across as proud, and who oftentimes is not discreet with what she says. My natural tendencies towards her have been often to correct her which I excused as my way of helping her learn social manners.
This week’s blog has shown me that my attitude needs adjusting. So instead of making corrective remarks, I tried to focus on the good and right things she did. I had a good day with her.
Friday: Speaking The Truth in Love
13. When a non-Christian, or even a professing Christian disagrees with a biblical truth, and brings it up to you, what are some scriptural principles you should apply? What do you learn from James 1:19-20?
“Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and to become angry because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
I think being in the moment with that person is very important. Really paying attention to what they are saying. Repeating what they have said to make sure you understood them. I teach this last principle with my students in dealing with patients living with dementia. We need to validate first before orienting them to what we believe is the reality or the truth.
Philippians 2 is a good chapter to use as a scriptural principle:
v. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, rather in humility value others above yourselves; not looking at your interests but each of you to the interest of others.
Vs. 5-8 Consider the example of Jesus
v. 14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing
I have returned to this plenary speech of intellectual hospitality by Dr. Diana Dryer periodically. Dee, I think you shared this with us a while back, I am not sure. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7GTtZEW9Kk “C.S. Lewis at Table with Dante and Zeus: Pushing (Against) the Limits of Intellectual Hospitality”.
Oh Bing — good lesson. I made that error when we adopted Beth — she needed so much help socially but Steve chose the wiser way of love — she’d already been beaten down enough!
I have done that, too with both my daughter and my husband and… and!! Oh, my! I am seeing a pattern. “Steve chose the wiser way of love…” I still need a lot of growing up in this area. Am glad it is not too late for me.
Bing, I love what you shared about your student. I have been influenced by this week’s lesson as well. I have been really looking at my interactions with my co-workers both physically and in my thought life. It has been eye opening to see that while I am making strides toward being courteous and professional with them, internally I am dismissive and thinking of them as incompetent or lazy. I truly have been working on keeping my thought life captive and speaking the truth to myself not only about them, but about myself as well. I don’t want my lamp to be removed. In the end it is about Jesus and not about me anyway.
” …internally I am dismissive and thinking of them as incompetent or lazy. ” You articulated what I often think of others. Lord, forgive me for being so self-righteous so many times. Let me be transformed by the renewing of my mind… then we will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
I’m impressed at how tender you are Dawn. I do think “lamps removed” is for churches and not individuals.
14. Tim Keller says that when you disagree with someone, you must show them how you have heard them by repeating back to them the argument they have made. This could be doctrinal such as “A good God wouldn’t send anyone to hell.” Or behavioral. “It’s smart to live together before marriage.” It is only after they know they have been heard that they might listen to your rebuttal. Have you done this? If so, tell us briefly about it.
Yesterday, a Japanese friend of mine who I have not seen for 2 years came by to visit. She and I met many years ago while she and her husband were living here due to his work at a Kawasaki plant. We had occasionally met to read the Bible but I wasn’t sure then if she really understood the gospel.
2 years ago, they came by for a really quick visit.
And now she is back and is reaching out again.
I believe that God is wooing her and her husband to Himself. Although Nobuko does not openly disagree with me, I can sense that she is searching and not satisfied with her life. She asked about religion yesterday where she finally told me that she is a Buddhist primarily because that is what her parents were.
Because of the language barrier, I felt I need to use as simple English as is possible. She was very attentive. I tried to draw her out and she freely shared.
Unfortunately, our visit was cut short as her husband came to pick her up to see another friend.
Please pray that Nobuko will read the Bibles that I gave her. They were the NT The Message and Holman Christian Bible.
That’s exciting, Bing. Will pray!
12. What are some ways that you could show love to the world in which you live with both deeds and words? Be prayerful first, asking God to show you — for He may call you to show love to someone in particular and in a particular way. What does He impress on your heart?
I live in a world in my workplace that is becoming super secular with teachers who are purporting their personal views onto the children to get them thinking about things in the world that they otherwise wouldn’t care about due to their age. I’m talking about children as young as 5 years old. Some of the admin is also buying into it. The issues are the ones being taught in our society today as well (transgender, everyone/thing is racist, etc.). It is easy to get mad at them for projecting their views on to such innocent minds. I have tried to remain the same (in words and actions) with one particular young (25) colleague through it all. I am trying to model professionalism to her, and continue to be caring in words. It is difficult at times. I am mad about how our country is being lied to and led down a dangerous path, and that is something that remains deep inside of me even though I am “okay” on the outside. I also feel the need to stand up for the more traditional views of our community. It is a hard balance. That would be my prayer; to know the right way to handle the situation. What do I say? What do I do? This colleague knows how I feel and I hope, sees that I am still treating her with respect.
Prayers for wisdom for you, Laura!
10. Your turn:
A. How might you be vulnerable about a sin God delivered you from? What lie did you believe? How did He rescue you? Be brief.
I have placed my sense of significance in who I am and what I do. I want to be the best mom, wife, teacher, friend, Christian. This translated to people-pleasing, overwork, and a critical spirit towards those who do not do what I think they should do.
God has rescued me through His Word and through godly Christians including you women in this blog.
I am still a work in progress but am not driven to perform anymore. His Spirit convicts me when I am tempted to go back to my natural tendencies. And my relationships with my loved ones, friends, and students have improved a lot!
B. How might you gently share how God’s boundaries often seem heartless but are just the opposite?
. God wants us to depend on Him because without Him, we cannot do anything. We are given purpose without burnout, true joy while honoring the One who loves us.
11. Challenge question: How might a young mother explain God’s plan for sex to ten-year-old that would include why we should allow God to define our gender instead of deciding for ourselves?
Even in talking with our daughter about her friends who are practicing homosexuals, we have clearly told her that God’s design for gender is either male or female.
It is a topic that is often avoided in our family. But I do pray that God will open doors for us to continue talking about this with our daughter with love, sensitivity, and truth. One of her very good male friends from high school is married to another man.
Saturday:
12. What’s your take-a-way this week and why?
I just read a few comments from my FB friends who I believe are Christians and for some reason, the topic of rapture came up. The news about Israel has been at the forefront, too.
I have confirmed in my heart that God has the final say even if I have a differing conviction about the interpretation of Revelation. I want to believe what is clear-the blessing that comes to the reading of the book, He will be faithful to the end to those who overcome, there will be judgment for those who do not believe. And that I need to do NOW what is asked of me and take it to heart.
All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Philippians 3:15
Bing — I think our view on Revelation, whatever it is, shouldn’t cause great division. All the views believe we should be ready and all revere Christ. I get that from Keith Mathison, whom I’ve quoted before here. He calls himself an “eclectic” though he prefers the preterist view. This isn’t a black and white issue like gay marriage is. Those are my thoughts.
Yes,Dee. Be ready and revere Christ. Truly this is the bottom line. I reread my comments and realized my words may have been confusing or vague. Judgment for those who don’t believe in Christ atoning sacrifice is what I meant. Not judgment for those who do not believe as I do. Ugh-language is still a challenge for me at times. I think in my language and write it as such and realize later I contradicted myself.
13. When a non-Christian, or even a professing Christian disagrees with a biblical truth, and brings it up to you, what are some scriptural principles you should apply? What do you learn from James 1:19-20?
This is harrrddd….scripture says to love each other, so, if someone brings up a biblical truth that they disagree with (homosexuality is not acceptable behavior) I could say that Jesus died for everyone and loves everyone. He also says that we are to love each other. So, even though we disagree about the intent of the scripture, we can still love each other.
James 1:19-20 says we should listen more than speak, and not get angry with each other. Anger does not produce the righteousness of God.
14. Tim Keller says that when you disagree with someone, you must show them how you have heard them by repeating back to them the argument they have made. This could be doctrinal such as “A good God wouldn’t send anyone to hell.” Or behavioral. “It’s smart to live together before marriage.” It is only after they know they have been heard that they might listen to your rebuttal. Have you done this? If so, tell us briefly about it.
My son and I had an argument last fall about a very sensitive topic. He basically said that if I didn’t agree with him on the subject that we would no longer have a relationship. I repeated the statement to him because I was so disgusted that he would say that to me! I told him I didn’t think that would be an authentic relationship, if I couldn’t have my own input. I know this isn’t about Christianity, however I really haven’t had the experience you suggest.
15. Your turn:
A. How might you be vulnerable about a sin God delivered you from? What lie did you believe? How did He rescue you? Be brief.
I believed I could control every aspect of my children’s lives. I thought I was the one who could provide everything they needed. He broke that cycle by giving me a different perspective through a younger friend and a Christian podcast (Nancy Demoss Woglemuth). I gave in and gave it to Him and was saved!
B. How might you gently share how God’s boundaries often seem heartless but are just the opposite?
God sees the entire picture that we cannot see. When it seems like the Earthly happenings are cruel, it could be that beauty comes out of those ashes.
16. Challenge question: How might a young mother explain God’s plan for sex to ten-year-old that would include why we should allow God to define our gender instead of deciding for ourselves?
First of all, I need to disagree with you in that, that conversation shouldn’t be had with a 10 year old in my opinion. If it’s being taught at school then run away very fast! It’s why my husband and I are going to home school the grandkids.
However, if I had to talk about it, I would say…..”Men and women were meant to be together. They are a team, each has ways to help the other and it is God’s beautiful plan. Babies are born because men and women come together in love. This means we carry on the human race which is God’s creation. If we decide we would rather be a girl than a boy, then the plan is messed up and the beauty can’t be carried out. The ultimate goal in a sexual relationship is to love each other well, and show that love through our child. It is a way to show how Jesus loves us to the world. Babies/children really are blessings, as you are my blessing.”
I think that’s a great explanation, Laura. And as far as having the conversation with a ten year old, if they have been homeschooled or in a Christian school and not been with kids in the public school, then I too would wait. You know your child, if if he initiates the conversation, then you will be ready!
Laura, I really like your answer here in your last paragraph….very well said.
12. What are some ways you could show love to the world in which you live with both deeds and words? Be prayerful first, asking God to show you – for He may call you to show love to someone in particular and in a particular way. What does He impress on your heart?
Impressed on my heart: “You do not love anyone well when you are insecure in My love for you.” And, I struggle with insecurity in this way. I long to be freed from this insecurity, too. I also often struggle with relational idolatry, and, as Henri Nouwen wrote in his book about the prodigal son, he found himself running around, asking the question, “Do you love me? Do you love me?” I know that many times, even my loving actions towards others are partly motivated by a desire/need to be loved by them, my actions done in the hopes of “securing” that love. So while I do like to demonstrate love to those in my life with actions, such as surprising them with flowers, or inviting them over for a meal, or spending time with them, I recognize a need in me, sometimes large, sometimes small, of wanting to feel secure in the relationship. So this could also go along with not speaking up in truth and love because of the fear of rejection, of loss of the relationship, or smoothing things over when the boat really does need to be rocked a bit.
13. When a non-Christian, or even a professing Christian, disagrees with a biblical truth, and brings it up to you, what are some scriptural principles you should apply? What do you learn from James 1:19-20?
I need to listen, listen, listen. Be quick to listen, and slow to speak. That means to respond, not to react. And it’s okay if I say, tell me more, I will think about this, we will talk again later about this. It is also helpful to remember that God loves this person so much, even if they don’t agree with me!
14. Tim Keller says that when you disagree with someone, you must show them how you have heard them by repeating back to them the argument they have made. This could be doctrinal such as “A good God would not send anyone to hell”, or behavioral, “It’s smart to live together before marriage.” It is only after they know they have been heard that they might listen to your rebuttal. Have you done this? If so, tell us briefly about it.
I can’t think of a specific example here, only that I do need to do a better job of listening. Sometimes when my daughter and I are talking about something, I want to jump in, and she’ll say “Mom – I’m still talking.” The mom in me wants to jump in right away with my opinion and/or advice.
15. Your turn:
A. How might you be vulnerable about a sin God delivered you from? What lie did you believe? How did He rescue you?
There was a time in my marriage that I was so unhappy and dissatisfied, that I believed fantasizing about other men, real or imagined, would help me escape my feelings of disappointment and the lack of feeling loved and cherished. It was not so much about sexual fantasy, but the experience of falling in love, of being loved and being the center of someone’s attention. I was not looking to God to meet my needs. After going into a time of depression and even anguish, God gently made me see the lie I was believing, and that I was engaging in spiritual adultery. I can’t say that I never struggled with this problem again, but the difference is that now I am awake to how dangerous this can be, and I can make a choice to turn from those thoughts. Before, I freely engaged in those thoughts, because secular culture says that sort of thing is harmless.
B. How might you gently share how God’s boundaries often seem heartless but are just the opposite?
I think it would be important to speak about the character of God, who He is, what His heart is like. It might be useless telling someone that God only wants the best for them if they have no idea of what He is like. For example, you wouldn’t think a parent cruel to prevent their child from running into the street, or crossing the street alone before a certain age. You would think a parent who didn’t care irresponsible and negligent.
16. Challenge Question: How might a young mother explain God’s plan for sex to a ten year old that would include why we should allow God to define our gender instead of deciding for ourselves?
I am not sure….I had to talk about sex with my children, even my boys, because my husband didn’t want to go there with them….I can’t say it was easy. I used some Christian resources (books). Looking back, I could’ve done a much better job, but at the time, I did the best I could. No one ever talked to me about such things when I was growing up. The gender issue wasn’t a thing when my kids were young. Maybe explain to them how God had planned who they would be, even before they were born, and so designed their body to be as a boy or a girl? And though confusion may enter in with things they hear around them, always lead them back to God’s truth? I hate to think that a ten year old has to deal with this stuff – childhood innocence lost.
17. What’s your take-away this week and why?
I think it is the reflection of my own heart that I saw in this first letter to the Ephesian church in Revelation. My heart can be “shriveled”, too. I can do things for people without a true sense of love, and I can enjoy learning, reading spiritual books, gaining new information and insights and revelations, and lack love for others. I can be a “navel-gazer” – too caught up in my own thoughts and problems to look outward.