Stewardship Lesson 5 Matthew 25:14-30

Stewardship

Lesson 5

Matthew 25:14-30

Introduction

Last week we turned to consider the stewardship of our lives. The rich fool (as the parable is known) built-up treasures for himself on earth, but no treasures in heaven. So, when his life was required of him, his possessions were of no good. 2 Peter helps us to understand the growth that we must have as Christians so that we might be good stewards of our lives for that day when we must give account of our lives. Tonight, we will continue to consider the stewardship of our lives.

I. What is a talent?

a) A talent is a type of money. This is supported both by the whole context of the story, and by the master’s response in v. 27 where he tells the lazy servant he should have deposited the money where the master could have gained interest. NIV translates this as bags of gold; this implies a large sum of money. It is called a talent because a talent (talanta in Greek) was a type of Roman weight of a large value.

b) It is incorrect to associate the Roman talent with our English word today. How often have we heard someone say that God gives each person a certain talent; this is an incorrect interpretation of the parable. Whether it be singing or playing the piano (or some other ability), these are human abilities. Human abilities should not be confused with gifts which God gives by grace. The similarities of the word talanta (the Greek and the English) often leads to an unfortunate misinterpretation of this parable.

c) The focus on the meaning of a talent draws attention away from the meaning of the parable. This is a parable about accountable stewardship. As we will see as we continue with this lesson, when the master returns, each slave is called to give an account of what he has done with what has been given. Being accountable is stewardship: what have you done with that which you have been given?

II. What is the danger of being lazy?

a) All 3 slaves are given talents, each according to their ability (v. 15); in this, the master took into consideration what each was capable of and did not give to one more than he was capable of handling. When the master returns, he wishes to settle accounts with each slave (v. 19). To settle accounts is to answer for what each has done with that which they were given (the phrase “settled accounts” also helps us to understand that talents were monetary).

b) While the first 2 slaves each doubled what they had been given, the third slave, acting out of fear, buried his talent in the ground; “…I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours (v. 25).” For this, the master calls him both wicked and lazy (v. 26).

c) While the slave thought he was acting in a safe manner, the master said if he had just deposited the money in the bank, he would have at least drawn interest (v. 27). The master expected a return and because he did not receive one, the master responded harshly. The slave was called wicked and lazy; he was lazy because he had done nothing with what was given to him. The slave had what was his taken from him, and he was thrown into outer darkness (vs. 28-30).

III. What does this parable teach us about the stewardship of our lives?

a) The first thing we should understand about this parable is that it is a parable of Christ’s return. The hint to this is in v. 13 where we are told to be alert/awoke because we won’t know the day or the hour. Also notice this is a parable about a master who goes away; and when he returns, he calls his slaves to give an account of their stewardship. The master going on a long journey then returning signifies the return of Christ. Finally, this parable is the second of three in this chapter, all about Christ’s return.

b) Talents in this parable signify not money, but our lives; what will we do with them? Not everyone has the same ability, but what is rewarded is faithfulness. The first 2 slaves took what they had and were faithful with it, producing a return (harvest) for the master. The third slave buried his talent; this is equated with hiding your light under a basket (5:15 – notice the relationship between hiding his light and being thrown into darkness). Being faithful in our lives – to the best of our ability – is what is expected in our lives; and faithfulness is richly rewarded (vs. 21, 23). However, unfaithfulness – being wicked and lazy – will be punished severely. One will be thrown into darkness where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth (v. 30).

c) We often say that we want to hear God say, “Well done….” To hear God say that, we will have to be good stewards of your lives now; we will have to be faithful in living for God. If we are not good stewards (not even wicked, just not good stewards), we will be cast into outer darkness.

Next Week: New Pastor

Stewardship Lesson 4 Luke 12:13-21; 2 Peter 1:1-11

Stewardship

Lesson 4

Luke 12:13-21; 2 Peter 1:1-11

Introduction

Last week we examined the stewardship of Joseph. A slave in Egypt, he rose to be 2nd only to Pharaoh. His stewardship over the resources of Egypt during the years of abundance not only blessed the Egyptians and enriched Pharaoh, but he also became a blessing to the other nations of the region, and even to his own family.

Tonight, I want to talk about the stewardship of our own lives.

I.          Why is the man called a fool?

a)     I have said several times previously that during this time, wealth was considered a sign of God’s blessing and favor; so, wealth is not an issue in this parable. The concern of this parable is what one does with their wealth. Here is a man who is so self-absorbed with his crops/possessions that he tears down his barns to build bigger barns. the point of this story of Joseph with Potiphar’s wife. Joseph has integrity; he is honest, he is truthful; and he shows himself to have integrity both in Potiphar’s house and with Potiphar’s wife.

b)     Jesus calls the man a fool because his obsession with his crops/possessions caused him to place value in the wrong things. V. 20 says, “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’” Value should have been placed upon his life, recognizing that this world – and the things of this world – are not an end unto themselves. The man is foolish because he didn’t realize that he should have lived this life in preparation for the next life.

c)     The man being called a fool should raise the question for us: What should he have done with his possessions? The story in Luke 18:18-25 suggest that the man could have given his possessions to the poor. “Sell all that you own and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven… (18:22).” Another thing that could have been done, The New Interpreters Bible Commentary says this: “Abundance requires that one prepare for the famine that will surely follow. Here, the model of Joseph’s wise response to the seven years of bountiful harvests resonates in the background.”[1]

II.         How can we show ourselves to be good stewards over our lives?

a)     There are many scriptures I could have chosen here, top among them is Galatians 5:22-25; but I chose 2 Peter because it’s less familiar to us. The man was called a fool because he didn’t live his life in preparation for the next; understanding the growth in 2 Peter will help us to do that properly.

b)     1:3 tells us that God has given us everything needed for godliness. Let no one ever say that we cannot live a godly life. God has provided for us, but it is up to us to grow into godliness. To do so, Peter tells us how we should grow in vs. 5-7.

•   ·       We begin with our faith. Faith here is more than just our belief in God, but it is our trust and reliance upon God. This type of faith surrenders our life to God daily.

• ·       To our faith we must add excellence (NRSV; goodness, NIV; virtue, KJV). What is meant here by virtue is leading a moral life.

• ·       To excellence we add knowledge. By knowledge, Peter means wisdom and discernment.

• ·       To knowledge we must add self-control. This concerns our desires; developing self-control means learning how not to give in to our desires and to temptations.

• ·       To self-control we add endurance; patience in KJV. Here, the word means to have courage and endurance in the face of trials and suffering.

• ·       To endurance we must add godliness. Godliness means to manifest or to live these principles in your life.

• ·       To godliness we must add brotherly affection/love. To love to those who also love you.

• ·       To brotherly affection we must add love. Once we can love those who already love us, we must now love those who don’t, even our enemies.

c)     Just as giving to the poor will give us treasure in heaven, adding these things in our lives will assure entry into the eternal kingdom (v.11).

III.       What does it mean to be rich toward God?

a)     We will take our clue as to the meaning of being rich toward God from the verse we quoted earlier: Luke 18:22, “Sell all that you own and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven….” Doing those things which will build treasure in heaven is being rich towards God.

b)     So, the 1st thing that we can do is to sell what we have and give the money to the poor. Depending on what the possessions are (say for instance, crops) we can give them to the poor directly. The Bible Commentary says that like Joseph, the man should have stored the abundance for the lean years to come. Joseph sold to the people who were in need, but Jesus’ story suggests that we should give to the poor. In either case, being rich toward God means that we use wealth not to further enrich ourselves, but to aid those who are in need. From the belief that wealth is a blessing from God, God blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others. In so doing, we will have treasure in heaven. If we say that we’re not wealthy, that does not absolve us. Whatever it is that we have, we are expected to use it in the help and relief of others.

c)     Being rich towards God is exhibited in how we give, either to others, or in our offering(s) to God. Right now, we’re discussing giving to others; a discussion on offerings is yet to come.

Next Week: Matthew 25:14-30

Questions for the week:

1.         What is a talent?

2.         What is the danger of being lazy?

3.         What does this parable teach us about the stewardship of our lives?

[1] Vol. IX, p. 255.

BIBLE STUDY SERIES: STEWARDSHIP 3

Stewardship

Lesson 3

Genesis 39-41

Introduction

Last week we saw that the parable in Luke actually had 3 masters: God, Christ, and the man in the story; but being a parable, the man in the story often functions as an illustration to either God or Christ. In this parable, the master being away is an illustration to Christ being away and his return. What will he find when he returns? Will we beat the other slaves and get drunk, or will we be found working?

I.          Why is the story of Potiphar important?

a)     One of the characteristics of a good steward that we identified is integrity. Well, that’s actually the point of this story of Joseph with Potiphar’s wife. Joseph has integrity; he is honest, he is truthful; and he shows himself to have integrity both in Potiphar’s house and with Potiphar’s wife.

b)     When Joseph was sold by his brothers into slavery, he was sold to the captain of the Egyptian guard (39:1-2). Joseph proved his integrity such that Potiphar placed Joseph over all his household, and Potiphar’s house was blessed because of Joseph (vs. 4-6).

c)     Potiphar’s wife found him attractive and made advances towards Joseph, but he refused her (vs. 7-12). Joseph’s integrity got him thrown in prison (v. 20); however, what the story is trying to tell us is that if Joseph can show himself with integrity in this situation, he will have integrity even in higher positions.

II.         Was Joseph rich?

III.       What did Joseph own?

IV.       How does Joseph participate in Pharaoh’s house?

a)     Participate is a term often used in philosophy/theology which means to share in or have access to. To say that one participates in something is to say that they share in something that is the property of another. As we just said, Joseph was not rich, neither did he own anything, yet he participated in Pharaoh’s household.

b)     After interpreting Pharaoh’s dream and being shown to be wise and full of God’s spirit (41:38-39), Joseph is placed over Pharaoh’s house (v. 40), and all the other servants of the house will obey Joseph. Joseph is also given charge over all the land of Egypt (v. 41). Of course, Joseph both lives in Pharaoh’s house, and on Pharaoh’s land. Not only does he have charge over it, but all that is in the house and the land Joseph may make use of. This is what it means to participate.

 c)     Joseph wore Pharaoh’s signet ring (signifying Pharaoh’s authority), Pharaoh’s fine garments and wore Pharaoh’s goal chain. Joseph even rode in Pharaoh’s chariot (vs.41-43). What I am emphasizing here is that Joseph had access to and benefited from all of these things, but none of them belonged to him. He was able to participate in all of this because he had proven himself to be wise before Pharaoh.

V.        How does Joseph’s stewardship bless others?

a)     In the years of abundance, Joseph managed the production/harvest such that he was able to meet the needs of the Egyptians, as well as to store sufficient supplies for the lean years to come (vs. 48-49).

b)     When the lean years came, extreme hunger spread throughout Egypt and people cried out to Pharaoh; Pharaoh told everyone to go to Joseph. Joseph opened the storehouses “and sold to the Egyptians (v. 56). The Egyptians were blessed in having food; but Pharaoh was enriched because the people were now buying what they would have normally grown for themselves.

c)     Notice in v. 57 that the famine was severe throughout the world; so people from every nation came to Egypt and to Joseph, and they were able to buy food from him. Again, the people were blessed because they had food; but Pharaoh was enriched because the people bought from Joseph.

d)     In 46:28-34, all of Joseph’s family (father, brothers, and all their wives and children), 70 persons in all, moved to Egypt to escape the famine. Joseph prepared land for them in Goshen where they could live. In so doing, Joseph now blesses his family so that they could survive the famine and live comfortably. However, the land that the family will live on is Pharaoh’s land; so now, not just Joseph but the whole family is participating in Pharaoh’s house.

Next Week: Luke 12:13-21; 2 Peter 1:1-11

Questions for the week (10/18):

1.         Why is the man called a fool?

2.         How can we show ourselves to be good stewards over our lives?

3.         What does it mean to be rich toward God?

BIBLE STUDY SERIES: STEWARDSHIP 2

Stewardship

Lesson 2

Luke 12:42-48

Introduction

Last week we studied the meaning of the word stewardship and identified some of the characteristics of a steward. Some of the characteristics we came up with are responsible, integrity, (having) foresight, godly, knowledgeable, and faithful. After identifying these characteristics, we then sought to find these characteristics exhibited in Luke’s story.

I. Who is the master in this parable?

a) Well, there are actually three (3) masters in this parable. The 1st master is God. God is both master and owner of the house (household). All things belong to God (Ps. 24:1); nothing belongs to us. Because God is owner and Lord over all, we are just managers, stewards of all that God has created and given.

b) The 2nd master is Christ. He is the “firstborn” of all creation (Col. 1:15); and in him, the “firstborn” of the family of God (Rom. 8:29). Because he is the son of the father, all things were given to him. And as son of the father, he is ruler over all things.

c) The 3rd master is the man portrayed in this parable; he is the symbol of both God and Christ. In him is embodied the ownership that belongs to God and the authority over the household. He is the one who hires slaves and gives them charge over the affairs of the estate until his return. When he returns, he exercises authority over the whole household.

II. Why is the master away?

a) In the story, no particular reason is given for why the master is away. It was very common during that time for a master not to live within his house, which is why he needed a wise steward to handle the affairs. Today we would call the person an absentee owner/landlord, but in that day, it would be odd for the master to be present.

b) Because we said that the master is an illustration of Christ, this is also a parable about his being away, and how we as stewards will act/live in his absence? Will we misuse what he has given and beat the other slaves, or will we be “good stewards” and manage what he has given well?

c) Because it was not unusual for the master to be away, he really would return at a time when the slaves did not expect. This too is an illustration of Christ. Though this comes from a different parable, we will not know “the day, nor the hour.” “Blessed is that slave whom his master will find at work when he arrives (v. 43).”

III. What is the responsibility of the steward while the master is away?

a) His primary responsibility is to manage the household well. V. 42, “to give them their allowance of food at the proper time….” This means that the manager is to make sure that the household is functioning properly; everything is properly cared for, and that the affairs of the household are kept in order until the master returns (this includes keeping proper receipts, paying debts, keeping proper supplies, and that the estate remains profitable).

b) He is to be found working when the master returns. He is not to become unruly in the master’s absence (v. 45) but to be found fulfilling the calling that was given to him by his master. “That slave whose master finds him working when he comes will be rewarded. I tell you the truth: He will put him in charge of all his possessions (vs. 43-44 CSB).”

c) Remember, this parable is also an illustration of Christ’s return. We don’t know when Christ will return, but whenever that will be, we should be found working; being good stewards of all that we are in charge of. If we are a “bad steward” as in v. 45, when he does return, he will truly cut us into pieces (v. 46).

Background: Genesis 37:5-9

Next Week: Genesis 39-41

Questions for the week:

1. Why is the story of Potiphar important?

2. Was Joseph rich?

3. What did Joseph own?

4. How does Joseph participate in Pharaoh’s house?

5. How does Joseph’s stewardship bless others?

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BIBLE STUDY SERIES: STEWARDSHIP

Stewardship

Lesson 1

Luke 12:42-48

Introduction

Today we will begin a six-week study on Stewardship (this will take us to Conference and then you’ll get a “New Pastor” who can do something different). I will admit that in my final weeks, my intention is to change your mind concerning what stewardship is. I want us to re-define and re-think what stewardship is so that we can be better stewards for God.

I. What is a steward?

a) The word translated here as manager is οἰκονόμος (oy-ko-no-mos). Our modern translations (NRSV, NIV, CSB) all translate the word as manager, the KJV translates it as steward. This is where we get the word from, and the word stewardship. As we will see, the 2 words are essentially the same.

b) οἰκονόμος means, “a kind of chief slave who superintended the household and even the whole property of his master.” It can also mean, “one who is in charge of separate branches of a household.” To put a slave in charge of a household would not have been unusual at that time. Slaves were commonly used to manage property, which was very different than the chattel slavery which was enforced in this country.

c) By the definition given, you can see how this can easily be translated as either steward, or manager. As we have commonly thought of the word steward, the definition fits our conception of the word; but the word manager also fits the definition of the word. So, while modern translations (as stated above) use the word manager, steward is also an appropriate translation. Because our study concerns stewardship (what it is to be a steward) our study will use both words interchangeably.

II. What are the traits or characteristics of a steward?

a) What characteristics must a person have in order to be a good steward? I want you to list 5 characteristics of what you believe to be a good steward:

1) ________________________________________

2) ________________________________________

3) ________________________________________

4) ________________________________________

5) ________________________________________

b) Titus 1:7

Stewardship

Lesson 1

c) Now that we have identified these 5 characteristics, let’s re-read the story in Luke to see if we can find these same characteristics?

III. How then do we define stewardship?

a) Here’s the dictionary definition of stewardship: “Administration, supervision, or management (as) by a steward. Here we can see the correlation between manager and steward; but this definition doesn’t fully give us the biblical meaning of the term.

b) This is the Bible dictionary definition of a steward: “An official who controls the affairs of a large household, overseeing the service at the master’s table, directing the household servants, and controlling the household expenses on behalf of the master.”

c) From the above we will say that stewardship is: the proper management of the affairs and property of our master. We will begin with this definition and re-define this as we continue through this study.

Next Week: Luke 12:42-48

Questions for the week:

1. Who is the master in this parable?

2. Why is the master away?

3. What is the responsibility of the steward while the master is away?

Philippians Lesson 2 (10/13/2021)

Philippians

Lesson 2

Phil. 2:1-30

Introduction:

Paul considered the Philippians his partners in ministry because they had received him well when he first visited the city in Acts 16; and since that time, they continued to support him and pray for him. Paul wrote to the church to update them on his condition. He was awaiting trial, but the gospel was being preached among the guards and throughout the city. Paul also encourages the church to live lives worthy of the gospel. They do this by being of one mind and one spirit.

I. What is Paul’s Christology?

a) Christology is a term that generally means, the study of Christ. However, beyond just the study it references ones understanding of who Christ is (his person) and the work that Christ did. For our purposes today, Paul’s Christology is found in 2:5-11; often referred to in Latin as the Carmen Christi (Hymn of Christ). “Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death-- even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

b) Paul has an exalted or high Christology; meaning that in v. 6, Christ was in the beginning equal with God, but in v 7, emptied himself. Emptied is an important word here because it means that he gave up (emptied) everything that made him equal with God; everything that made him exalted. He emptied himself (and I should say here that his emptying was voluntary; he was not forced or compelled to do so) and reading from the NRSV, it says that he took the form of a slave. This references his becoming human (like us), but the word slave signifies how low he became from being exalted. He humbled himself to the point of being a slave (the lowest status of a person in Paul’s society). This is who Paul see’s Christ to be (his person).

c) Christ humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death on the cross (v. 8). This is his work; death in order to bring salvation. Because of his obedience he is highly exalted again and given a name which is above every name (v. 9).

II. How should we live?

a) Notice the section on Christology begins in v. 5 where Paul says, “Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus.” The mind of Jesus is exhibited both in his person and in his work. In this, Paul advises us….

b) “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others (vs. 3-4).” Christ exhibited this in the way that he both emptied himself and humbled himself.

c) “Do all things without murmuring and arguing, so that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine like stars in the world (vs. 14-15).” In humbling himself, Christ voluntarily emptied himself; he didn’t murmurer or argue. Our possessing the qualities of vs. 3-4, and 14 are important to our witness of Christ. We are to present ourselves as “blameless and innocent, children of God…;” who live in the midst of a “crooked and perverse generation…” If we are able to do this, then we will “shine like stars in the world.”

III. Who is Epaphroditus?

a) In v. 25, Paul says that he is sending Epaphroditus to them; “…my brother, coworker, and fellow soldier, as well as your messenger and minister to my need.” Epaphroditus was part of the Philippian church. It doesn’t say, but Paul must have met him in Acts 16, and Epaphroditus became Paul’s “brother, coworker and fellow soldier.” His name is only mentioned in Philippians, so this shows his connection to the church.

b) As we previously said, Paul was under house arrest, but Epaphroditus had visited Paul, showing that he was free to move about the grounds and to have visitors. “…as your messenger and minister to my need” suggests that the church had sent him to Paul. Their sending Epaphroditus is one of the ways that the church had partnered with Paul (1:7).

c) Epaphroditus was gravely ill – either in traveling to Paul or while he visited with Paul – and the church had learned of his condition (vs. 26-27). He had recovered from his illness and Paul was sending him back to the church so that they could rejoice in his recovery (v. 28). He had “risked his life (v. 30)” in fulfilling the service that the church had sent him to Paul to perform.

Next Week: Phil. 3:1-21

Questions for the week:

1. Who are the dogs?

2. How should we know Christ?

3. What should be our goal?

Philippians Lesson 1 (10/6/2021)

Philippians

Lesson 1

Phil. 1:1-30

Introduction:

Philippi was a city in the province of Macedonia (now, NE Greece). Philippi was a strategic city in the Roman empire because it sat along the main road that traveled from east to west. This makes Philippi an important city in which to establish a Church. Acts 16 tells the story of Paul’s first visit to the city, and the story of Paul and Silas being jailed. It is believed that this letter was written from Rome. In 1:7 Paul speaks of his imprisonment but he was under house arrest. While having guards stationed at the residence, Paul was free to move about the grounds and to receive guests (as we will see). I’ll have more about his circumstance in a moment. Paul writes to the church to a) update them on himself; b) to encourage them in the faith; c) to warn them about the Judaizers; d) to tell them about Epaphroditus; e) to correct divisions in the church; and f) to thank them for their support and to rejoice with him in his circumstance.

I. What is Paul’s partnership with the Philippians?

a) “I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing (some translations will say partnership) in the gospel from the first day until now (Phil. 1:3-5).” Paul traveled to Philippi on his 1st Missionary Journey (Act. 16) and the members of the church received him well and throughout his ministry, they gave him support (we’ll speak specifically about this later). So, in many ways, they were partners with Paul; they shared in his deliverance of the gospel.

b) Not only have they shared in Paul’s ministry, they are currently sharing in his imprisonment (v. 7). As I said, Paul is really under house arrest which isn’t nearly as harsh as imprisonment sounds. Notice in v. 7 Paul says, “It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because you hold me in your heart, for all of you share in God's grace with me, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel.” This is one of the reasons that it is believed that this letter was written in Rome because Paul speaks of his defense. In Acts 25, Paul is brought first before Festus and then Agrippa; but as a Roman citizen, he has a right to appeal any verdict to Caesar and he is sent to Rome. So, scholars believe that the defense Paul speaks about is in Acts 25 and he is now in Rome awaiting trial.

c) Even here in Rome, the Philippians have ministered to him (I won’t say much more here because we will talk about this later). That they have ministered to him even while being imprisoned shows their partnership with Paul in the gospel and he is thankful to them for this partnership.

II. How is the gospel proclaimed?

a) In speaking of his imprisonment, Paul says that this has actually helped to spread the gospel among his guards (vs. 12-13). The guards and others around him recognize that he is not being imprisoned because of a crime but solely because of Christ.

b) Knowing that Paul is imprisoned because of his faith, other believers have been emboldened to proclaim Christ throughout the city without fear (v. 14). This has produced a rivalry in the city: some proclaim Christ out of jealousy of Paul, others by envy. Some proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition with the intention of causing Paul more suffering; others out of love (see vs. 14-17).

c) “What does it matter? Just this, that Christ is proclaimed in every way, whether out of false motives or true; and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice (v. 18).” Paul believes that the motivation doesn’t matter as long as Christ is proclaimed, and the Philippian church is sharing in this, both because of the assistance they have given him, and in their prayers.

d) Paul believes that this will aid him in his upcoming trial (v. 19); but in either case, “It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that by my speaking with all boldness, Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death (v. 20).”

III. How should we live?

a) In v. 27, Paul says, “live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ…” In Paul’s time, living worthy would include being a good citizen of the city. A good citizen would live responsibly and would fulfill one’s duties to the city. And while one is an earthly citizen, the gospel calls one to be a citizen of the heavenly city. To be a good citizen here means to live according to Christ and Christ’s commands. In fact, being a good citizen of the heavenly city would also produce a good citizen in the earthly city.

b) Paul goes on to encourage the Philippians to unite together and be of one mind and one spirit; and to work together for the sake of the gospel (v. 27). He tells them not to be frightened by their opponents because their opposition will be a sign of destruction for them; but a sign of deliverance to the Philippians because this is from God (v. 28).

Next Week: Phil. 2:1-30

Questions for the week:

1. What is Paul’s Christology?

2. How should we live?

3. Who is Epaphroditus?

The Church - Lesson 9 (9/16/2020)

Colossians

Introduction

We have taken an extended break so we should review what we did previously: Jesus called the Church into existence in Matt. 16, but the Church was formed on the day of Pentecost when, after Peter’s sermon, 3,000 were baptized (Acts 2). Eph. 4:12 tells us that the purpose of the Church is for the training of its members to do the work of ministry and to build up the body of Christ. The body of Christ is the collective of all who believe and have given themselves to Christ. It is in our life with Christ, by the training of the Church, that we are called to grow into the full knowledge of Christ, becoming fully mature (Eph. 4:13). Now, the work of the ministry is three-fold: 1) to serve and not be served; 2) to preach good news to the poor (this includes the work of justice in the community); and 3) to seek and to save those who are lost. This is the work that Jesus did, and it is the work he now calls us to do. However, it is the responsibility of the Church to train its members to do this work. For example, here at Mt. Olive, this is the work of the C.E.D. and the Missionary Society. The Church consists of leaders, who according to Acts 6, have the primary responsibility to serve the congregation. By leaders serving the needs of the congregation, this frees the ministry to focus on prayer, and the ministry of the word (Acts 6:4). While the Church consists of leaders, it also consists of members; and it is to the responsibility of members that we turn our attention to tonight. To do that, we will be looking at the book of Colossians. Primarily, 1:9-10 which says: For this reason, since the day we heard it, we have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God's will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God.

What Paul speaks of in Colossians is not necessarily the leaders of the church, but of the ministry of the church itself. It is in this that we can look and examine to understand how we as a church – each member – should be. However, to fully explain what Paul is saying in these verses, we will look more broadly at the whole book of Colossians.

 I.    How are we filled with spiritual understanding?

a)      First, the admonition of Paul is to devote ourselves to prayer (4:2). The source and means of our growth and maturity in Christ is our prayer and devotional life. The more time that we spend with God, the closer that we will grow to God and the more time that God will have to conform our lives in God’s likeness.

b)      Paul directs us to who Christ is in 1:15-20. We are to become “grounded,” steadfast (as Paul says in v. 23) in the knowledge of this because our faith and our hope is contained in this knowledge of Christ. And the more that we are assured in this, the more we will be filled with spiritual understanding.

c)      Speaking of those both in Colossae and in Laodicea, Paul says: “I want their hearts to be encouraged and united in love, so that they may have all the riches of assured understanding and have the knowledge of God's mystery, that is, Christ himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (2:2-3).” Christ is the mystery of God, but that mystery has been revealed to us. The more that we are grounded in the knowledge of him (1:15-20), not only is more of the mystery of who he is revealed to us, but the more we will be filled and grow in spiritual understanding.

 II.        How do we walk worthy of the Lord?

a)      Now, one could say that we are never worthy of the Lord, but by grace we are both saved and called to lead a new life. This new life begins with both a rejection of, and a turning from our old life. In 3:3, Paul reminds us that we have died (the old life that we had) and that we are now hidden with Christ in God. Therefore, we must put away all the things we once did (3:5-9).

b)      This new life also means that we are to seek the things of God in our lives. “So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth (3:1-2).” We have died both to our old lives and to the desires of this world. The things of this earth (money, lust, material things, greed, etc.) and the desires for them are no longer a temptation for us because we are dead to these things. Because we have died to these things, we can set our minds to the things of God and towards living a godly life. As we put off or put to death the things of this world in 3:5-9, we are to put on (clothe) the things that are of God (vs. 12-15).

c)      The word “walk” means far more than just a means of transportation, putting one foot in front of another. It references how one lives their life daily. How you live and what you do each day is your walk. When you lived your life by and according to the world and the “ruler of this world (Satan – Jn. 12:31),” your walk reflected that. However, now that we are raised in Christ, our walk should reflect that as well. Putting on the things of God as listed in vs. 12-15 will cause our walk to reflect our new life in Christ. And, we should always keep in mind this: “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him (v. 17).” If whatever we do is done in the name of the Lord Jesus (it is a contradiction to commit a sin in the name of the Lord), then our walk will be worthy of the Lord.

d)      To “walk” in this way – that in both word and deed we do all in the name of the Lord – will also increase our growth in knowledge and spiritual understanding (1:9). We can never grow in the Lord as long as our hearts and minds are set on the things of this world. To truly grow and mature in God, we must die to this world and set our minds on things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.

III.       How do we grow in the knowledge of God?

a)      Again, Paul tells us to devote ourselves to prayer (4:2). Everything begins with prayer and our devotional life with God. Without this, nothing else spiritually can take place in our lives.

b)      Paul is concerned that the Colossians would not be deceived either by false teachings or false teachers. “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the universe, and not according to Christ (2:8).” Notice that Paul says that they are to be “rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught (v. 7).” They had been taught the mystery of Christ and Paul wants to warn them not to be dissuaded from that teaching. Of course, no teaching – no matter how true or effective – is helpful to us if we do not avail ourselves to it. For the Colossians to have been grounded in the knowledge of the mystery of Christ, they had to avail themselves to the teachings of Paul and others. Now, having been taught, Paul warns them not to be dissuaded or turned away from that teaching.

c)      This knowledge – to know – is also an assurance. It comes from our growth in our prayer and devotional life. It comes from our “walk” each day and as we “put on” the things of God. And, it comes from being grounded not just in the mystery of Christ, but in what we have been taught of him. In all of this, we know, and have this assurance. This knowledge itself grows each day as we continue to practice these disciplines (prayer, walking/living, and grounding ourselves in teaching). The more we do these things each day, the more we grow in the knowledge of God.

Next Week: Ephesians 4:12-14; Colossians

Questions for the week:

1.         How are the Colossians doing the work of the ministry?

2.         How are the Colossians building the body of Christ?

3.         How are the Colossians growing into maturity in Christ?

Bible Study with Rev. Dr. Reginald Broadnax - The Church (Lesson 1) 3/11/2020

Matthew 16:13-19   

Introduction

Tonight, we will begin a study of the Church. God called the Church into existence and God had a purpose for doing so; as members of the Church, we should know what that purpose is; and, we should be aligned with that purpose in all that we do. Only by understanding what God’s purpose for the Church is can we properly
align ourselves and to govern ourselves according to God’s purpose. Therefore, we will engage this study of the Church to learn what the Bible teaches concerning the Church, it’s ministry, and how it is to function. Tonight, we will begin in Matthew 16:13-19.

I.              How is the Church called into existence?

a)    When Jesus and the disciples had entered Caesarea Philippi, he as his disciples who do people believe he is (v. 13)? After naming several prophets, Simon said, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God (v. 16).” Jesus responds to Simon by first, changing his name to Peter (meaning, rock) and saying, “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church (v. 18).” 

b)   This is the announcement of the Church. Jesus announces that the Church will come into being; but this will be done at a future time (notice that Jesus says, “I will build my church…”). We will see next week when the Church actually does come into existence; however, it is clear tonight who the Church belongs to and who is its head (“I will build my church…”).

c)    The Church is built upon the rock of Peter. Peter is the rock – the symbol of that which is solid, dependable, unable to be moved (a large rock at this point) and able to withstand opposing forces. Peter is the symbol of this; but understand also that this rock sits upon a foundation. Peter is not the foundation of the Church; that foundation is Jesus. Jesus is both the foundation of the Church, and to whom the Church belongs.

d)   Peter is, however, the one upon whom the Church will be built. The problem with this is that if you know anything about Peter, he is the most unstable and unlikely person to build the church upon (let’s remember, shortly after Jesus makes this announcement, Peter denies Jesus 3 times); yet, there is something significant about the Church being built upon Peter. The Church is built upon Peter, but Peter rests on a solid foundation. As long as Peter and the Church rests upon the foundation of Jesus, the Church will always be on a solid foundation. When we focus on the person, and not the foundation, we will always lose sight of where the true source of the Church’s strength and authority lies.

II.      What authority does the Church have in Heaven?

a)     Given to the Church are the keys of the kingdom of heaven. By having the keys, the Church as access to all that is in heaven. All of the authority, all of the power, all of the resources of heaven are given to the Church. Therefore, the Church possesses the very authority and the power of God.

b)   “…whatever you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will have been loosed in heaven (v. 19).” This authority is given to Peter, having possession of the keys of the kingdom. Binding and loosing are in reference to permitting or allowing. Whatever Peter permits or allows shall be done in heaven. However, this authority is given to Peter in accordance with the will of God. Therefore, the rock being on the foundation of Jesus, Peter must always be in accordance with the will of God when using this authority.

c)    This authority given to Peter is also given to us, the Church today; therefore, like Peter, we must remain on the solid foundation and be in accordance with the will of God in order to use our authority. This authority is given to us, not for our purposes, but that we might have the authority and power to fulfill God’s purpose for the Church.

III.     What can come against the Church?

a)     “…and the gates of Hades will not overpower it (v. 18).” Hades/Hell is not just the place of evil and death, but here is symbolic of those forces which would come against the Church to destroy it. Peter is given the key of the kingdom which also gives him access to the power of the kingdom. Having this, nothing can come against the Church to destroy it.

b)   That which was given to Peter has now been given to us. We have the keys to the kingdom and access to the power of God. Therefore, nothing can come against or destroy the Church. The Church will exist until that time when “heaven and earth will pass away.” Until that time, nothing will be able to destroy the Church.

Next Week:  Acts 2

Questions for the week:

1.       How does the Church come into being?
2.       What must we do to become a part of the Church?

3.       What caused the Church to grow?

Bible Study: 2/12/20 Church Growth: The Biblical Model - Rev. Jackie Allen

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February 12, 2020

Bible Study Theme: Discipleship and Church Growth

 Topic of Discussion: Church Growth: The Biblical Model

 Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 1, 3:12-4:12

 Church Growth- effective evangelism not methodology for increasing membership (Gary McIntosh, “Biblical Church Growth”)

• There aren’t actual scriptures that tell us about church growth. On the contrary, one can formulate a positive argument using scriptures to show how God’s intention was/is to grow the church.

• Christ Himself said He will “build His church"(Matt. 16:18)

• (Matt. 18:18-20) the main focus here is to make disciples 1st then teaching and baptizing them. Christ being with us indicates that He is fulfilling His purpose through us

• The Book of Acts 2:41-42; the day of Pentecost and 3000 added. Acts 4:4 when John and Peter preached the Gospel and 5000 added. 5:14 The language changes to the “multitudes" meaning many as a sign of growth. 16:5 many other churches are being developed under the Christian faith: Rome, Damascus and Caesarea, etc. 21:20 The language used is “myriads” which means thousands of people.

I Thessalonians Model

1. Praying for a Growing Church (3:12-13)

   -Paul prayed for love and holiness

   -love because he understands that God is the source of all; through Him (Jesus) gave us an example and empowers us to do the same (John 3:16 and John 15:13

   -holiness (sanctification) Romans 12:2, 2 Cor.3:18

   -Only comes with spiritual maturity; the more centered you become the easier it is to say NO=self control/ discipline

   -only when the desire to please God becomes our main focus of the Christian life that growth will take place

   -it’s not enough to just believe but believe and Show others

2. Motive/Motivation for a Growing Church (4:1)

   -Paul urges them to understand the need to live a life unto God

   -One should strive to live better lives to God (v8). Even the people of Thessalonica didn’t always uphold their beliefs but “stood firm" in upholding the right life

   - A sign to a Growing Christian is not becoming perfect but having the desire to grow more

3. Instructions for a Growing Church (4:2-12)

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Topic of Discussion: Discipleship and Church Growth: Jesus’ Model - Bible Study - Rev. Jackie Allen

Bible Study

February 5, 2020

*We defined the meaning of discipline and disciple. Discipline is the practice of training people to obey rules or a code of conduct. A disciple is one who follows those rules from a particular leader.

*We talked about the benefits/consequences of having certain disciplines and how it relates to the Church/ NO PAIN NO GAIN!!!

Food

Work

Exercising

*The Christian race uses the same disciplines to elevate your faith in order to center ourselves on God.

*We learned how to identify spiritual growth

-Discipline creates a habit>routines>daily living

-enables you to withstand temptations

-makes it more difficult to be offended

 Topic of Discussion: Discipleship and Church Growth: Jesus’ Model

  The Church (Matt. 4:12)

1. What was God’s method of discipleship? How was the Church formed?

2. What was His purpose?

1.  Stop

Matt. 10:38, 16:24 and Luke 9:23

*What did God mean by taking up your cross?

*Roman law made criminals carry their on crosses as a sign of submission to       the law and an outward showing to the people of the land

       2. Drop/show up

        3. Roll

 As a Disciple, we have to spread the news. As Christians, we are to tell other people about Jesus

 John 1:35-42

The governor of Michigan said” to listen to what they say but to also watch what they do"

Christianity is not for people who think they're good; it is for people who know they've failed and want help.

Bible Study - January 22, 2020 "Discipleship & Church Growth" - Rev. Jacqueline Allen

Bible Study

January 22, 2020

Topic of Discussion: Discipleship and Church Growth

Discipline- the practice of training people to obey rules or a code of conduct

                 -to punish, guide, instruct, reproof, reprove

  Disciple- a follower or student of a teacher, leader, or philosopher; follower, believer, devotee, apostle

Pastor has started this new year focused on church growth but before we can grow we have to grow. How many know it starts with us first?

If we don’t do anything then nothing will be done

What is the significance of Discipline? What are the consequences?

1. @ work

2. Food

3. @ home

4. Exercising

5. As a Christian

Did you know you are in Christian Training 3:16? You are no longer yours but God's. You no longer live unto yourself but unto God. (“if you abide in me then I will abide in you..”)

 A great amount of training is needed for athletic activities and as the athletes we must train for a Christian life in God. Training takes your time, your commitment, your practicing, your patience and your energy

 “NO PAIN NO GAIN”!

 2 Tim. 2:5

 1Cor. 9:24-27 – we have to remain focused on God and His purpose in our lives

 Phillip 3:8-14- remember that God promises an eternal home at the race's end

1 Tim, 4:7-12- as we repeat exercises to tone our physical bodies, we must steadily repeat spiritual exercises to be spiritually fit. In doing so will draw others to Christ.

Identifying Spiritual Discipline

1. Discipline creates habits> routines> fulfilled life

2. Discipline establishes inner strength and character

3. Discipline enables you to withstand temptations

4. Discipline makes it more difficult to be offended

 Home Reflections

 Identify one area of your Christian walk you need better training in and name some steps to help reach that goal.

Topic of Discussion: God’s Love and His Gifts (James 1:17)

Advent

1.     The season of anticipation, expectation,

hope and celebration of the past, the present and future “comings” of Christ into the world.

2.     As the church of believers, we come celebrating the babe born in Bethlehem year after year in our hearts and embodying the greatest gift of all; EMMANUEL-God with us

Gifts

What are they? What purpose do they hold?

*Gifts are an outward showing of an inward expression

*A form of appreciation, love, honor, adoration and gratitude given to someone or something

God’s Gifts (“can’t beat God’s giving no matter how you try”)

The gift of His Word (Bible)- remember God would not write His Word on tablets but on every heart so that you may know Him for yourself

A.  The Word tells us of God- The I Am that I Am

B.  The Word tells of Jesus Christ- it (The Bible) tells who He is (Mark 1:11), it tells of His purpose (Matt. 20:28, Mark 2:17, Luke 19:10, John 1:17)

C.  The Word guides us- Psalm 119:105

Does a lamp illuminate a large space? rather it lights a portion of the way a step at a time. The Bible (God) works in the same manner only giving us light day by day; “Morning by morning new mercies I see"

D.  The Word comforts- Rom.8:18,28, Psalm 27:1,

I can do all things through Christ,

don’t worry about what you will eat

The Gift of Differentially

A.  All can obtain spiritual gifts, but each gift is different according to God and your purpose in Him

B.  Spiritually we are not robots, nor do we have the same functions

Rom.12:4

1Cor. 12:27-31

Psalm 139:14

The Gift of Reconciliation

1.   What is reconciliation? – the re-establishing of a relationship; to restore harmony people

Rom. 5:11

2 Cor. 5:14-20

Eph. 2:11-16

Col.1:21-23

Reflections

1.   What are your gifts? How can you be a better steward of your gifts?

2.   Though we cannot repay God for His Gifts in what why can we show our love back to Him this Advent and Christmas Season?