Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 21

Paul's Exhortation to the Church @ Thessalonica for Purity/Chastity Part 2

1 Thessalonians 4:4-6 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour; Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified. KJV

Paul continues in his exhortation to these believers in Thessalonica for sexual purity among them and in their congregation by declaring, "That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;" (1 Thessalonians 4:4) (KJV). It has been debated over the centuries exactly what the Apostle meant in this verse when he uses the English word 'vessel', first lets remind ourselves of what the little English phrase 'should know' means, for we just defined this phrase in our last study/commentary and it is translated by the Greek word eido which is a primary verb that means simply to know, to perceive, or to understand. Next in this verse, Paul uses the little English phrase 'how to possess' (speaking of course of the vessel) and this phrase is translated by one Greek word ktaomai which is a primary verb that means to get, that is, acquire (by any means; own): - obtain, possess, provide, purchase. Here is where much of the controversy, contention, and contesting over the meaning of the English word 'vessel' has come about. It is clear to me that the Apostle Paul has a two fold meaning in mind for this English word 'vessel' which is translated by the Greek word skeuos which is defined in Greek meaning figuratively [specifically a wife as contributing to the usefulness of the husband].

Women back in the day that Paul wrote this letter did not question or argue over what was meant by the use of this word, but in later generations of the Church disputes arose over the idea that God the Father would label the woman as a possession of her husband or that she was 'owned' by him. Paul is speaking to the entire Church @ Thessalonica and surely everyone in the Church at the time of the writing of this letter were not all married, therefore, with this fact accepted, we see then that Paul is primarily or for the most part speaking of the possessing of one's 'vessel' as the Christian husband's wife (we will explain further when we get to verse 6), but having said that surely not everyone in the Church was married, then we are certain that Paul speaks also of 'vessel' as being that of the man's body single or married (2 Corinthians 4:7) that should not be defiled by having sex within his own blood family (incest) or fornicating with another single woman or married woman (which would be adultery). Paul wanted to exhort everyone in the Church married or single to possess or handle their 'vessel' with the idea of controlling the use of their body by not having sex with anyone that was not their wife (for the men) or their husband (for the women).

To support, substantiate, and strengthen the argument that Paul's primary definition of the word 'vessel' being that of the wife, we only have to go the Scripture where the Apostle Peter likewise refers to 'vessel' as that being the wife as we see with these words he wrote, "In the same way you married men should live considerately with [your wives], with an intelligent recognition [of the marriage relation], honoring the woman as [physically] the weaker vessel, but [realizing that you] are joint heirs of the grace (God's unmerited favor) of life, in order that your prayers may not be hindered {and} cut off. [Otherwise you cannot pray effectively.]" (1 Peter 3:7) (Amplified Bible). Paul had implored the Corinthian believers to also abstain from fornication, for before their conversion to our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ in Corinth fornication was widely accepted as spiritual worship to their idol gods in their temple where many women prostitutes were there for the sexual service to the men entering the temple, therefore, Paul in answering their question of whether or not they could continue such practices 'in Christ' wrote to them these words of warning, "Do you not see {and} know that your bodies are members (bodily parts) of Christ (the Messiah)? Am I therefore to take the parts of Christ and make [them] parts of a prostitute? Never! Never! Or do you not know {and} realize that when a man joins himself to a prostitute, he becomes one body with her? The two, it is written, shall become one flesh. But the person who is united to the Lord becomes one spirit with Him. Shun immorality {and} all sexual looseness [flee from impurity in thought, word, or deed]. Any other sin which a man commits is one outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is the temple (the very sanctuary) of the Holy Spirit Who lives within you, Whom you have received [as a Gift] from God? You are not your own, You were bought with a price [purchased with a preciousness and paid for, made His own]. So then, honor God {and} bring glory to Him in your body." (1 Corithians 6:15-20) (Amplified Bible).

Marriage was according to the Apostle Paul God's desire for man's procreation, but also for man and woman's pleasure in sex, which is the only sexual relationship that is completely and wholly and fully blessed by God the Father as the Apostle Paul wrote in the Book of Hebrews with these words, "Let marriage be held in honor (esteemed worthy, precious, of great price, and especially dear) in all things. And thus let the marriage bed be undefiled (kept undishonored); for God will judge {and} punish the unchaste [all guilty of sexual vice] and adulterous." (Hebrews 13:4) (Amplified Bible). The Apostle Paul next warns them of continuing or carrying on as they were before their reception of the Gospel of Grace, for grace was for them and for us not a license into the furtherance of fornicating with many women, but grace was for them and is for us the power of God from God the Father through our Lord Jesus Christ as enacted by the Holy Spirit to enable us to abstain from fornication, thus showing that the One True God has truly placed His seal upon them and upon us today as Paul wrote to them and speaks to us today with these words, "Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:" (1 Thessalonians 4:5) (KJV). The English word 'concupiscence' is translated by the Greek word epithumia meaning a longing (especially for what is forbidden): - desire, lust (after). In other words, Paul exhorts them to walk or live along a different path or street than the unbeliever (Gentile is used here by Paul) who justify fornication as a normal way of life and of living, seeing no wrong in it at all.

Even human reasoning declares to man that when he seduces his friends girl friend into having sex with him, he hurts his friend (not physically of course), but emotionally and spiritually, that damages him in a way that cannot be appeased as the Proverb declares to us with these words, "But whoever commits adultery with a woman lacks heart {and} understanding (moral principle and prudence); he who does it is destroying his own life. Wounds and disgrace will he get, and his reproach will not be wiped away. For jealousy makes [the wronged] man furious; therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance [upon the detected one]. He will not consider any ransom [offered to buy him off from demanding full punishment]; neither will he be satisfied, though you offer him many gifts {and} bribes." (Proverbs 6:32-35) (Amplified Bible). Now Paul gets to the heart of why the abstinence from fornication is so critical for these Thessalonian believers and we believers 'in Christ' today and of every generation and era and that is as he declares here, "That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified." (1 Thessalonians 4:6) (KJV). The English word 'defraud' is translated by the Greek word pleonekteo which means to be covetous, that is, (by implication) to over reach: The English word 'matter' is translated by the Greek word pragma meaning a deed; by implication an affair; by extension an object (material): Therefore, in other words, we see that Paul warns them of the harm done to another brother in Christ when the desire to please the appetite of the flesh overrules the desire to 'love thy neighbor or brother as thyself' and that is to covet, desire, and long for your brothers wife to have sex with her seeing her as merely a sexual object in fornication to please your sexual appetite but causing your brother harm. This is exactly what the King of Israel (David) did with Bathsheba as recorded with these words, "One evening David arose from his couch and was walking on the roof of the king's house, when from there he saw a woman bathing; and she was very lovely to behold. David sent and inquired about the woman. One said, Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite? And David sent messengers and took her. And she came in to him, and he lay with her--for she was purified from her uncleanness. Then she returned to her house. And the woman became pregnant and sent and told David, I am with child." (2 Samuel 11:2-5) (Amplified Bible).

David (the King of Israel) defrauded his brother Uriah the Hittite by coveting his wife and fornicating with her and getting her pregnant. David even graduated on to the sin of murder, as he had Uriah killed in battle in order that he might cover up his own sin of adultery. The little English phrase 'the avenger' is translated by one Greek word ekdikos only used one other time in the New Testament meaning carrying justice out, that is, a punisher: In other words, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.' (Romans 12:19) is what Paul means by the use of this Greek word for all who do defraud their brother 'in Christ' by fornicating with his wife just as even the King of Israel discovered was true as documented for us by these words, "Why have you despised the commandment of the Lord, doing evil in His sight? You have slain Uriah the Hittite with the sword and have taken his wife to be your wife. You have murdered him with the sword of the Ammonites. Now, therefore, the sword shall never depart from your house, because [you have not only despised My command, but] you have despised Me and have taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your wife. Thus says the Lord, Behold, I will raise up evil against you out of your own house; and I will take your wives before your eyes and give them to your neighbor, and he shall lie with your wives in the sight of this sun. For you did it secretly, but I will do this thing before all Israel and before the sun. And David said to Nathan, I have sinned against the Lord. And Nathan said to David, The Lord also has put away your sin; you shall not die. Nevertheless, because by this deed you have utterly scorned the Lord {and} given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme, the child that is born to you shall surely die. Then Nathan departed to his house. And the Lord struck the child that Uriah's widow bore to David, and he was very sick. David therefore besought God for the child; and David fasted and went in and lay all night [repeatedly] on the floor. His older house servants arose [in the night] and went to him to raise him up from the floor, but he would not, nor did he eat food with them. And on the seventh day the child died." (2 Samuel 11:9-18) (Amplified Bible). 'There is no partially or favoritism with God' (Romans 2:11).

"No one must come in between husband and wife to defraud either of the lawful love which each should receive from the other. The home has been rescued and exalted by Christ, and the Christian Church must still be its custodian, not only inculcating the ideal, but revealing the sufficient power for its defense." F. B. Meyer

"But what does Paul mean by 'his own vessel'? It can only mean his own body or his own wife. Objections are raised against either view, but perhaps he means that the man shall acquire his own wife 'in sanctification and honour,' words that elevate the wife and make it plain that Paul demands sexual purity on the part of men (married as well as unmarried). There is no double standard here. When the husband comes to the marriage bed, he should come as a chaste man to a chaste wife." Robertson's Word Pictures

If you do not know the Lord Jesus Christ and His amazing healing power, pray this from your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ (you speaking directly to Him), Dear Lord Jesus, I confess to You that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe You shed Your Blood and died for my sins. I believe that You rose from the dead proving that You alone are God. I repent of my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I ask You Dear Lord Jesus to come into my heart and take control of my life. I want You to be my Lord, Savior, and my God. Amen...

Sincerely in Christ,

Clifford D. Tate, Sr.
Author of “Silent Assassins of the Soul - Are you Broken by Pornography and Masturbation? You can be Restored by the Lord Jesus Christ and brought into Deliverance, Freedom, and Victory! A Guide for Men and Women in the Enemy’s Crosshairs” e-book available now @ Amazon Kindle, @ Apple I Bookstore for IPod, Barnes and Noble for Nook, Reader Store for Sony Reade, Kobo, Copia, Gardners, Baker and Taylor, and eBookPie…












Saturday, August 26, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 20

Paul's Exhortation to the Church @ Thessalonica for Purity/Chastity Part 1

1 Thessalonians 4:1-3 Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more. For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: KJV

Immediately following this first formal prayer for these new believers in the city of Thessalonica, Paul urges them to walk or live in a manner that is pleasing to our Father in Heaven as he declares so with these words, "Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more." (1 Thessalonians 4:1) (KJV). The first word Paul uses in beginning this new sentence following his heartfelt prayer to God the Father for them is the English word 'Furthermore' which is a more fancy way of saying, now then, having had such concern for your faith (in my absence that I sent Timothy to you), but having my concerns relieved, remedied, and removed upon Timothy's return to me with his report of your steadfastness 'in Christ', live in a manner of life that will please God the Father and not grieve or sorrow Him, for this is the very purpose of my prayer to Him on your behalf.

The English word 'beseech' Paul uses here also to express his want for them is translated by the Greek word erotao meaning to request earnestly: - ask, desire, intreat, pray. The English word 'exhort' means basically the same thing as 'beseech'. Paul uses the little English word 'by' that is the Greek word en it is a primary preposition denoting (fixed) position (in place, time or state), and (by implication) instrumentality. The preposition 'by' refers to the Lord Jesus. Therefore, in other words, Paul is declaring to these Thessalonian believers and we believers today and of every generation and era, that his earnest request, desire, intreaty, and prayer for them was not by his authority, but that of the Governing authority of our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ. Paul had (even in his short time physically in their presence) taught them the ways of God the Father and of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is what Paul means here by the use of the little English phrase 'ye have received' which is translated by one Greek word paralambano which means to receive near, that is, associate with oneself (in any familiar or intimate act or relation); by analogy to assume an office; figuratively to learn: - receive, take (unto, with).

In other words, these Thessalonian believers were taught the truth of the One True and Only God Jesus Christ our Lord and they did not need to be confused about what would be pleasing to Him and what would not be. The English word 'please' used here by Paul on what they/we should desire to be to God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ is translated by the Greek word aresko meaning (through the idea of exciting emotion); to be agreeable (or by implication to seek to be so): - please. In other words, it should be the desire of these believers in Thessalonica and we believers today to agree with what God declares with our words and our actions, for everything short of this is mere pretence on really knowing and loving Him or presumption, that is, taking His grace for granted and turning it into a license to sin (not grieving over our sin) as if this will be pleasing to Him. Note: "God sets no bounds to the communications of His grace and Spirit to them that are faithful. And as there are no bounds to the graces, so there should be none to the exercise of those graces. No man can ever feel that he loves God too much, or that he loves man too much for God’s sake." (Adam Clarke).

Paul is not expressing his opinion or his views to these believers in Thessalonica, but he declares to them what our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ had made known to him as he affirms here with these words, "For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 4:2) (KJV). The little English phrase 'ye know' is translated by one Greek word eido a primary verb; used only in certain past tenses, properly to see (literally or figuratively); by implication (in the perfect only) to know: - be aware, behold, consider, have knowledge, perceive, see, be sure, or understand. The English word 'commandments' is translated by the Greek word paraggelia meaning a mandate: - charge, command. In other words, these believers in Thessalonica could not declare their ignorance or lack of knowledge of what was pleasing to God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ and what was not, for Paul himself made it known to them, even in the short time he spent with them face to face and is now reaffirming what he taught them in his letter. Note: "The verb to command or charge is frequent, and is often used in Class of military orders." (Vincent's Word Studies).

It is often difficult for each one of us to know what the 'will of God' is for us concerning certain issues that are not directly addressed in the Word of God such as what job we should seek out or what city should we reside in or what woman should we date and marry, but here we find the Apostle Paul clearly spelling out for everyone that has ears to hear what our Lord Jesus Christ will is for us concerning sexual relationship as Paul declares to these Thessalonian believers and we believers today and of every generation and era with these words, "For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:" (1 Thessalonians 4:3) (KJV). The little English phrase 'the will' Paul uses here denoting, distinguishing, and declaring what God desires is translated by the Greek word thelema meaning a determination (properly the thing), that is, (actively) choice (specifically purpose, decree; abstractly volition) or (passively) inclination: - desire, pleasure, will. The English word 'sanctification' is translated by the Greek word hagiasmos meaning properly purification, that is, (the state) purity; concretely (by Hebraism) a purifier: - holiness, sanctification. The English word 'abstain' is translated by the Greek word apechomai meaning to hold oneself off, that is, refrain: - abstain. The English word 'fornication' is translated by the Greek word porneia meaning harlotry (including adultery and incest); figuratively idolatry: - fornication.

Therefore, we see in other words, Paul informing these believers in Thessalonica and we believers today and those of every generation and era, that God the Father's purpose for us and His desire for us is that we be sanctified/purified and refrain from sexual relationships such as incest and adultery that are outside of His boundary line of holy matrimony between one man and one woman. Early on in the conversion of non-Jews to Christ, that is, Gentiles who knew nothing of the Jewish Temple worship or Mosaic Laws, the first Apostles got together and received from our Lord Jesus that the Gentiles were not to become Jews and observe the ritual Laws of Moses, but they were to abstain from certain things (fornication being on the list) as recorded for us by Dr. Luke with these words, "Therefore it is my opinion that we should not put obstacles in the way of {and} annoy {and} disturb those of the Gentiles who turn to God, But we should send word to them in writing to abstain from {and} avoid anything that has been polluted by being offered to idols, and all sexual impurity, and [eating meat of animals] that have been strangled, and [tasting of] blood." (Acts 15:19-20) (Amplified Bible).

"So Paul makes a sharp and pointed stand here for the Christian idea of sanctification as being 'the will of God' (apposition) and as further explained by the epexegetic infinitive 'that ye abstain from fornication' Pagan religion did not demand sexual purity of its devotees, the gods and goddesses being grossly immoral. Priestesses were in the temples for the service of the men who came." Robertson's Word Pictures

"Those who most excel others fall short of perfection. The very best of us should forget those things which are behind, and reach forth unto those things which are before. It is not enough that we abide in the faith of the Gospel, but we must abound in the work of faith. We must not only persevere to the end, but we should grow better, and walk more evenly and closely with God. The arguments with which the Apostle enforces his exhortation. They had been informed of their duty. They knew their Master's will, and could not plead ignorance as an excuse. Now as faith, so knowledge, is dead without practice. They had received of those who had converted them to Christianity, or been taught of them, how they ought to walk. Observe, The design of the Gospel is to teach men not only what they should believe, but also how they ought to live; not so much to fill men's minds with notions as to regulate their temper and behaviour. The Apostle taught them how to walk, not how to talk. To talk well without living well will never bring us to heaven: for the character of those who are in Christ Jesus is this: They walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." Matthew Henry

If you do not know the Lord Jesus Christ and His amazing healing power, pray this from your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ (you speaking directly to Him), Dear Lord Jesus, I confess to You that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe You shed Your Blood and died for my sins. I believe that You rose from the dead proving that You alone are God. I repent of my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I ask You Dear Lord Jesus to come into my heart and take control of my life. I want You to be my Lord, Savior, and my God. Amen...

Sincerely in Christ,

Clifford D. Tate, Sr.
Author of “Silent Assassins of the Soul - Are you Broken by Pornography and Masturbation? You can be Restored by the Lord Jesus Christ and brought into Deliverance, Freedom, and Victory! A Guide for Men and Women in the Enemy’s Crosshairs” e-book available now @ Amazon Kindle, @ Apple I Bookstore for IPod, Barnes and Noble for Nook, Reader Store for Sony Reade, Kobo, Copia, Gardners, Baker and Taylor, and eBookPie…







Wednesday, August 23, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 19

Paul's 1st Written Prayer for the Church @ Thessalonica

1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 Now God Himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you. And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: To the end He may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints. KJV

When we last left the Apostle Paul, he informed these new believers in Thessalonica how much he went before the Throne of God the Father in praying that He would open up a way for him to get back to them face to face. Now in the closing of this Chapter of Paul's first letter to these believers, we find Paul's first written prayer for the Church founded in this city of Thessalonica upon Paul, Silas, and Timothy preaching the Gospel of Christ there as he begins with these words, "Now God Himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you." (1 Thessalonians 3:11) (KJV). These first words of Paul's formal documented prayer for the saints in Thessalonica is simply just what he declared he did 'night and day' on their behalf. Paul prays first to God and declares Him as 'our' Father, that is, 'our' meaning these new believers in Thessalonica, himself and all the men and women with him as well as all of us that are alive today and are trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ (and nothing else or no one else) for our salvation, for it is just as Paul declared to the believers in Rome with these words, "For [the Spirit which] you have now received [is] not a spirit of slavery to put you once more in bondage to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption [the Spirit producing sonship] in [the bliss of] which we cry, Abba (Father)! Father! The Spirit Himself [thus] testifies together with our own spirit, [assuring us] that we are children of God." (Romans 8:15-16) (Amplified Bible).

It is not by coincidence or happenstance that Paul at the same time mentions our Lord, Master, and Savior, Jesus Christ, for in so doing we have here another documentation for all doubters and skeptics to hear that Christ Jesus or Jesus Christ is on the same level as God the Father, even being equal to God just as the Apostle John has already documented for us with these words spoken by our Lord Jesus Christ and about Him by the Jews, "For this reason the Jews began to persecute (annoy, torment) Jesus {and sought to kill Him,} because He was doing these things on the Sabbath. But Jesus answered them, 'My Father has worked [even] until now, [He has never ceased working; He is still working] and I, too, must be at [divine] work.' This made the Jews more determined than ever to kill Him [to do away with Him]; because He not only was breaking (weakening, violating) the Sabbath, but He actually was speaking of God as being [in a special sense] His own Father, making Himself equal [putting Himself on a level] with God." (John 5:16-18) (Amplified Bible). The Apostle Paul uses here the English word 'direct' signifying the desire he had for God the Father and God the Son (Jesus Christ) to do for him and this English word is translated by the Greek word kateuthuno meaning to straighten fully, that is, (figuratively) direct: - guide. In other words, Paul (having been hindered by Satan) knew that God could squash, suppress, and stomp the actions of the devil that kept him from these brothers and sisters of his face to face removing all and every obstacle in his path. Note: "Almost all the Chapters in both Epistles to the Thessalonians are sealed, each with its own prayer [Bengel]. Paul does not think the prosperous issue of a journey an unfit subject for prayer [Edmunds]. His prayer, though the answer was deferred, in about five years afterwards was fulfilled in his return to Macedonia." (JFB Commentary).

Paul now focuses his prayer to God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ for these Thessalonian believers that He would make their faith and love for one another even stronger than it now was as Paul says with these words, "And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:" (1 Thessalonians 3:12) (KJV). The Apostle Paul knew very much personally of what he here prays for these believers in Thessalonica, seeing that he was vehemently, violently, and viciously persecuting Christian men and women everywhere before he was overwhelmed by the 'love of God' that flowed into his heart or inner man when he met our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ on the Damascus Road, for it was this same Apostle Paul that wrote these words describing the fruit of the Spirit as such with love being the first in the cluster, "But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]." (Galatians 5:22-23) (Amplified Bible). Human laws are made for the men and women filled with hatred, anger, bitterness, etc, but the fruit that God the Holy Spirit can produce in any believer or follower of Jesus Christ does not seek out other human beings to hurt them or steal from them or to kill them, but only to live peacable with them seeking only their good and not bad for them or to them. Therefore, we find here that Paul prays that the believers love for one another would increase and to abound. This English word 'abound' is not one that we today use that much, but it is translated by the Greek word perisseuo meaning to be in excess, to superabound (in quantity or quality), to be abundant or plentiful; exist in large quantities. In other words, the more they had fervant love for one another, the less burdensome, baffling, and bitter would the many forms of persecution they received or encountered would seem to them as the Proverb declares, "Hatred stirs up contentions, but love covers all transgressions." (Proverbs 10:12) (Amplified Bible).

Paul again concludes his prayer exactly where he began it and where he always began and ended his prayers for every believer in our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ, and that is for their steadfastness, strengthening, and stamina in the faith as he just uses a little different language when he prays, "To the end He may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints." (1 Thessalonians 3:13) (KJV). The phrase that begins this last portion of Paul's prayer 'To the end he may stablish' is translated by one Greek word sterizo meaning to set fast, that is, (literally) to turn resolutely in a certain direction, or (figuratively) to confirm: - fix, establish, stedfastly set, strengthen. There is never any unclearness in the desires of the Apostle for the saints that now belong to our Lord Jesus Christ, here is no different, Paul is praying that their faithfulness to our Lord Jesus Christ be made strong (not by themselves), but by our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, for this is the theme or unifying idea and desire of the heart of this great Apostle to Christ Jesus our Lord, that He would continue to work in the inner man and inner woman by God the Holy Spirit increasing and strengthening their faith, love, and hope in Himself as Paul said with these words writing to the Philippian Church, "And I am convinced {and} sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] {and} perfecting {and} bringing it to full completion in you." (Phillippians 1:6) (Amplified Bible). Paul uses here another English word that we rarely use today in his prayer for these believers and we believers today and of all time, and that is, 'unblameable' and this English word is translated by the Greek word amemptos which means irreproachable: - blameless, faultless, unblamable. In other words, it is the Grace of God and the God of Grace that makes us able to appraoch Him in repentance and faith and that will present each and every true believer in Christ Jesus our Lord as our only hope, only forgiveness of sins, only way to heaven, and our only salvation for our souls just as Paul said with these words to the Ephesian believers, "That He might present the Church to Himself in glorious splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such things [that she might be holy and faultless]." (Ephesians 5:27) (Amplified Bible) and likewise as he declared to the believers in Colosse with these words, "And although you at one time were estranged {and} alienated from Him and were of hostile attitude of mind in your wicked activities, Yet now has [Christ, the Messiah] reconciled [you to God] in the Body of His Flesh through death, in order to present you holy and faultless and irreproachable in His [the Father's] presence." (Colossians 1:21-22) (Amplified Bible) and finally as the Apostle Jude exalted our Lord Jesus with these words at the end of his short epistle, "Now to Him Who is able to keep you without stumbling {or} slipping {or} falling, and to present [you] unblemished (blameless and faultless) before the presence of His glory in triumphant joy {and} exultation [with unspeakable, ecstatic delight]--To the one only God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory (splendor), majesty, might {and} dominion, and power {and} authority, before all time and now and forever (unto all the ages of eternity). Amen (so be it)." (Jude 1:24-25) (Amplified Bible).

"In these words we have the earnest prayer of the Apostle. He desired to be instrumental in the further benefit of the Thessalonians; and the only way to be so while at a distance was by prayer for them, together with his writing or sending to them. He desired that their faith might be perfected, which he could not be the proper cause or author of; for he pretended not to dominion over their faith, nor to have the donation of it, and he therefore concludes with prayer for them. Observe, I. Whom he prays to, namely, God and Christ. Prayer is a part of religious worship, and all religious worship is due unto God only. Prayer is here made to God, even the Father and our Father; and also to Christ, even our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore Jesus Christ our Lord is God, even as God our Father is God. Prayer is to be offered to God as our Father. So Christ taught His disciples to pray; and so the Spirit of adoption prompts them to pray, to cry, Abba Father. Prayer is not only to be offered in the name of Christ, but offered up to Christ Himself, as our Lord and our Saviour." Matthew Henry

"It was no secret what meant the most to the Apostle Paul and high on his list was the steadfastness of all believers in Jesus Christ. Paul did not care about the size of their Church or the design of the building or home they assembled together to worship Christ Jesus our Lord, for these things were of no importance or relevance to this great Apostle of Christ. Paul only cared for faithfulness to Christ by everyone that named His name as we recall these words he spoke firmly, fiercely, and fervently to the believers in Corinth who were all declaring themselves to be endowed with great spiritual gifts, but Paul was not impressed and said so to them with these words, 'Some of you have become conceited {and} arrogant {and} pretentious, counting on my not coming to you. But I will come to you [and] shortly, if the Lord is willing, and then I will perceive {and} understand not what the talk of these puffed up {and} arrogant spirits amount to, but their force (the moral power and excellence of soul they really possess). For the kingdom of God consists of {and} is based on not talk but power (moral power and excellence of soul). Now which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod of correction, or with love and in a spirit of gentleness?' (1 Corinthians 4:18-21) (Amplified Bible)." Clifford D. Tate, Sr.

If you do not know the Lord Jesus Christ and His amazing healing power, pray this from your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ (you speaking directly to Him), Dear Lord Jesus, I confess to You that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe You shed Your Blood and died for my sins. I believe that You rose from the dead proving that You alone are God. I repent of my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I ask You Dear Lord Jesus to come into my heart and take control of my life. I want You to be my Lord, Savior, and my God. Amen...

Sincerely in Christ,

Clifford D. Tate, Sr.
Author of “Silent Assassins of the Soul - Are you Broken by Pornography and Masturbation? You can be Restored by the Lord Jesus Christ and brought into Deliverance, Freedom, and Victory! A Guide for Men and Women in the Enemy’s Crosshairs” e-book available now @ Amazon Kindle, @ Apple I Bookstore for IPod, Barnes and Noble for Nook, Reader Store for Sony Reade, Kobo, Copia, Gardners, Baker and Taylor, and eBookPie…

















Saturday, August 19, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 18

Paul Receives News from Timothy about the Thessalonians Part 2

1 Thessalonians 3:8-10 For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord. For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith? KJV

As we saw documented in the last study/commentary, we were given a vivid word picture by this great Apostle of what his inner man was going through as he awaited the return of brother Timothy to him with the news of what was happening in the Thessalonian Church, as he (Paul), the one who wrote these words, "Be anxious for nothing" (Philippians 4:6), yet it does not take a Doctorate in Theology to discern from his words here that he was somewhat upset, unquieted, and uneasy in his inner man over what had become of these believers in Thessalonica, seeing they were perhaps the one Church that he spent the list amount of time with after their conversion to Christ. Perhaps this also fueled his reasoning and desire to spend as much time in his next stop the city of Corinth after many there turned from idols to our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ as we find again documented for us by Dr. Luke with these words, "And one night the Lord said to Paul in a vision, 'Have no fear, but speak and do not keep silent; For I am with you, and no man shall assault you to harm you, for I have many people in this city.' So he settled down among them for a year and six months, teaching the Word of God [concerning the attainment through Christ of eternal salvation in the kingdom of God]." (Acts 18:9-11) (Amplified Bible).

Having said all of this, we now find Paul eased and lighten from the self imposed burdened he felt over not being able to get back to them face to face as he says so with these words, "For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord." (1 Thessalonians 3:8) (KJV). Paul's use of the little English phrase 'stand fast' is the reason for his once anxiety over them and now his comfort over them seeing that they are doing just what this phrase means as it is translated by one Greek word steko which means to be stationary, that is, (figuratively) to persevere: - stand (fast). In other words, Paul (who trusted brother Timothy completely) learned from Timothy's report to him that these new believers are persevering, persisting, and even powerfully continuing in their faith 'in Christ' individually and collectively as a Church Body despite all of the intense persecution aimed at them and at other believers (like the Apostle Paul) in other places apart from Thessalonica, they have not moved away from the Gospel of Christ, the Gospel of Grace in order to make the persecution stop. This is why Paul says that 'now we live', meaning we are energized, aroused, or raised up to a higher level of excitement in our ministry work, for we now know that the Gospel has taken root and is growing within your body of new believers, that is, that they are still steadfastly maintaining a close walk with God.

Paul goes on to express to them in more detailed language what their steadfastness has meant to him and the other believers with him with these words, "For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;" (1 Thessalonians 3:9) (KJV). It was never enough for Paul to just preach the Gospel everywhere he went, but it was Paul's most urgent desire to see God the Holy Spirit convert sinners to Christ upon hearing the 'good news' and then to see the new believers persevere in the face of the devil's onslaughts and attacks that Paul (having experienced many himself) knew were sure to follow every believer in Jesus Christ during his time and during every time until our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ returns to gather up His saints in the Rapture (as Paul taught these very Thessalonian believers all about). Paul uses the English word 'joy' speaking of himself and those with him of their emotions, excitement, and enthusiasm over the rock solid firmness of their faith in Christ and this word is translated by the Greek word chara meaning cheerfulness, that is, calm delight: - gladness. Then Paul immediately uses the little English phrase 'we joy' which is translated by one Greek word chairo which is a primary verb meaning to be full of “cheer”, that is, calmly happy or well off. In other words, the news of the Thessalonian believers brought back to Paul by brother Timothy prompted the producing of 'joy' within Paul by the Holy Spirit and he joyed, that is, was full of cheer replacing the doubt, dread, and discomfort he felt over not knowing how they were handling the persecution against them for their faith in Jesus Christ.

Finally, Paul informs them once again how much he placed them in his prayers to God the Father with very sharp and strong language as he says so with these words, "Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?" (1 Thessalonians 3:10) (KJV). Although the Apostle had received a good report back from brother Timothy, this did not totally satisfy him, for he knew they would even be better of if he himself could get back to them to impart from our Lord Jesus Christ some spiritual gift to them just as he had said to the Roman believers with these words, "I keep pleading that somehow by God's will I may now at last prosper {and} come to you. For I am yearning to see you, that I may impart {and} share with you some spiritual gift to strengthen {and} establish you; That is, that we may be mutually strengthened {and} encouraged {and} comforted by each other's faith, both yours and mine." (Romans 1:10-12) (Amplified Bible).

Paul uses the English word 'exceedingly' to describe the vigor, vitality, and virosity of his prayers to God the Father to open up a way for him to get back to Thessalonica and this English word is translated by the Greek word perissos meaning by implication excessive; violently; with preeminence: - more abundantly, or vehemently. In other words, Paul could not and would not except his being forced out of that city being there such a short time, so he bombarded the Throne of God the Father with constant prayer that he might get back there. Paul wanted, as he puts it to them in order that he 'might perfect that which is lacking in your faith' and the little English phrase 'might perfect' is translated by one Greek word katartizo meaning to complete thoroughly, that is, repair (literally or figuratively) or adjust: - fit, frame, mend, restore. In other words, Paul wanted to be their face to face with them to answer their questions concerning faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and continue teaching them all that our Lord Jesus had and was imparting to him that they might be complete, consistent, and constant. Paul was not declaring their faith to be flawed, but he knew that every new believer needs to be instructed in the Word of God in order to be able to walk in the truth and wage the spiritual warfare.

"That I might have the opportunity of giving you the fullest instructions in the doctrine of Christ, that ye might have every thing in the most ample detail; so that the great outlines of truth which you already know may be filled up, that ye may be perfectly fitted to every good word and work." Adam Clarke

"He was full of joy, and full of praise and thanksgiving. When we are most cheerful we should be most thankful. What we rejoice in we should give thanks for. This is to rejoice before our God, to spiritualize our joy. Paul speaks as if he could not tell how to express his thankfulness to God, or his joy and rejoicing for their sakes. But he was careful God should not lose the glory of the comfort he received in the welfare of his friends. His heart was enlarged with love to them and with thanksgiving to God. He was willing to express the one and the other as well as he could. As to thankfulness to God, this especially is very imperfect in the present state; but, when we come to heaven, we shall do this work better than now we can." Matthew Henry

If you do not know the Lord Jesus Christ and His amazing healing power, pray this from your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ (you speaking directly to Him), Dear Lord Jesus, I confess to You that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe You shed Your Blood and died for my sins. I believe that You rose from the dead proving that You alone are God. I repent of my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I ask You Dear Lord Jesus to come into my heart and take control of my life. I want You to be my Lord, Savior, and my God. Amen...

Sincerely in Christ,

Clifford D. Tate, Sr.
Author of “Silent Assassins of the Soul - Are you Broken by Pornography and Masturbation? You can be Restored by the Lord Jesus Christ and brought into Deliverance, Freedom, and Victory! A Guide for Men and Women in the Enemy’s Crosshairs” e-book available now @ Amazon Kindle, @ Apple I Bookstore for IPod, Barnes and Noble for Nook, Reader Store for Sony Reade, Kobo, Copia, Gardners, Baker and Taylor, and eBookPie…



















Wednesday, August 16, 2017

A Response to Charlottesville: According to:

The Jesus (The Way, The Truth, The Life)

First, let me say that I am not speaking here as one who has arrived and has gained or attained any form of sinless perfection, for this is not possible while we continue on the earth, not for any person or even any Christian, that is, follower of Jesus Christ as perhaps the greatest Christian that ever lived said so concerning even himself with these words, "Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) {and} make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me {and} made me His own. I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured {and} made it my own [yet]; but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the [supreme and heavenly] prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward." (Philippians 3:12-14) (Amplified Bible).

Therefore, having this as my background and introduction, let me begin by saying that those groups (White Supremacist, Neo-Nazis, KKK, etc.) that marched to keep a Civil War Statue or Monument up have every right to do so, but those who marched with the idea, interest, and intention to incite violence against people whom they believe to be inferior to themselves can never do so under the banner of the King of King and Lord of Lords Jesus Christ for He and His Word declares this, "Well then, are we [Jews] superior {and} better off than they? No, not at all. We have already charged that all men, both Jews and Greeks (Gentiles), are under sin [held down by and subject to its power and control]. As it is written, None is righteous, just {and} truthful {and} upright {and} conscientious, no, not one. No one understands [no one intelligently discerns {or} comprehends]; no one seeks out God. All have turned aside; together they have gone wrong {and} have become unprofitable {and} worthless; no one does right, not even one!" (Romans 3:9-12) (Amplified Bible).

This truth from 'The Jesus' debunks every notion that there is or has ever been one race of human beings any where on the earth that is superior to another. The author of this teaching is none other than the devil himself, for he is a liar from the beginning and the father of lies. The devil is the one who has in every generation deceived men into thinking this foolishness. 'The Jesus' (The Way, The Truth, the Life) says this to any man or woman who comes to Him in repentance and faith, "Whoever says he is in the Light and [yet] hates his brother [Christian, born-again child of God his Father] is in darkness even until now. Whoever loves his brother [believer] abides (lives) in the Light, and in It {or} in him there is no occasion for stumbling {or} cause for error {or} sin. But he who hates (detests, despises) his brother [in Christ] is in darkness and walking (living) in the dark; he is straying {and} does not perceive {or} know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes." (1 John 2:9-11) (Amplified Bible).

Therefore, to hold up the banner of 'The Jesus', that person or persons can't help but love what and whom 'The Jesus' loves and this is why 'The Jesus' says this concerning anyone who does not love the people who have been born again by Him and are a part of His Mystical Body the Church, "We know that we have passed over out of death into Life by the fact that we love the brethren (our fellow Christians). He who does not love abides (remains, is held and kept continually) in [spiritual] death. Anyone who hates (abominates, detests) his brother [in Christ] is [at heart] a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding (persevering) within him." (1 John 3:14-15) (Amplified Bible). In other words, according to these words from 'The Jesus', there is no way someone washed in His Blood and born again of His Spirit can hate those who are of like precious faith (2 Peter 1:1), therefore, the White Supremacist and KKK that hold up banners declaring they represent God are delusional, diluted, and deceived having never truly encountered, esteemed, or entered into a personal relationship with 'The Jesus' (The Way, The Truth, The Life).

Now let me say something concerning some of the responses I have read or heard on the news about what happened in Charlottesville: First, many people have harshly criticized Donald Trump for his lack of condemnation of the KKK etc. and rightfully so, but we must remember that the KKK began with some Church people wearing those hoods in the White Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, Lutheran, Presbyterian, etc., so let us not think that today we can and will eradicate this generational curse with a statement of condemnation from a White President, for this is what it is, you see no matter how much people call America a Christian Nation, it is not. I am going to go out on a limb and say that America was never a Christian Nation, but was formed by some men and women who were Christian people.

The idea that a newly formed Nation, who formed said Nation to escape the Tyranny and Totalitarianism they found so suppressive in their home Nation would go out upon the ocean travelling thousands of miles to another Continent to capture other people (who did not speak their language) and enslave them killing and brutalizing many of them, raping their women repeatedly, and forcing this people into back breaking labor to build their Nation's Historic sights that still stand today i.e. the White House, the Capitol, the Washington Monument, etc. is a Christian Nation is absurd and if this story were told to another life form from another planet or galaxy would be laughable. Therefore, let us see the events in Charlottesville for exactly what they are, a Nation founded on lies still smoldering with the same cancer that it was founded upon and only the Second Coming of the 'The Jesus' (The Way, the Truth, The Life) will ever change it. The End...

If you do not know the Lord Jesus Christ and His amazing healing power, pray this from your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ (you speaking directly to Him), Dear Lord Jesus, I confess to You that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe You shed Your Blood and died for my sins. I believe that You rose from the dead proving that You alone are God. I repent of my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I ask You Dear Lord Jesus to come into my heart and take control of my life. I want You to be my Lord, Savior, and my God. Amen...

Sincerely in Christ,

Clifford D. Tate, Sr.
Author of “Silent Assassins of the Soul - Are you Broken by Pornography and Masturbation? You can be Restored by the Lord Jesus Christ and brought into Deliverance, Freedom, and Victory! A Guide for Men and Women in the Enemy’s Crosshairs” e-book available now @ Amazon Kindle, @ Apple I Bookstore for IPod, Barnes and Noble for Nook, Reader Store for Sony Reade, Kobo, Copia, Gardners, Baker and Taylor, and eBookPie…


Saturday, August 12, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 17

Paul Receives News from Timothy about the Thessalonians Part 1

1 Thessalonians 3:6-7 But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you: Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: KJV

Paul had only one desire when he sent Timothy back to Thessalonica and that was to know the spiritual state and condition of the new believers in Christ in that Church. Timothy returned from his mission and brought Paul the news of the truth as he saw and witnessed it for himself. Upon Timothy's returned, many Bible Scholars (of who I am not one, but I am a lover of the Word of God) believe that after Timothy was reunited with the Apostle Paul that he (Paul) then sits down to write this first letter to the Church in Thessalonica. This makes perfect sense seeing that Paul includes here (in the letter) Timothy's report on the Church there as he declares with these words, "But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:" (1 Thessalonians 3:6) (KJV). Paul had to be patient and wait for Timothy to return before he went and wrote something to these new believers that could have discouraged them instead of encouraging them. The little English phrase 'brought us good tidings' is translated by one Greek word euaggelizo which means simply to bring, declare, or announce good news.

In other words, it was what Paul had longed for since their seperation from one another, that is, he being snatched away from the new Church there well before his wanting to leave because of the intense and violent physical persecution that occured there (Acts 17:5-10). Paul was hurried away by the other brethren in order that what happened to him in Lystra (where he was stoned to death) (Acts 14:19) would not occur there in Thessalonica. The other brethren wanted to protect Paul by getting him as far away from the persecution there as possible, however, Paul had still much to impart to the new believers there and sought a way he could return, but as he stated earlier in this same letter, Satan hindered him as he said with these words, "But since we were bereft of you, brethren, for a little while in person, [of course] not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great longing to see you face to face, Because it was our will to come to you. [I mean that] I, Paul, again and again [wanted to come], but Satan hindered {and} impeded us." (1 Thessalonians 2:17-18) (Amplified Bible).

It was the condition of their faith that concerned Paul and now he had received news that their faith in Christ and love for Christ and one another had withstood all of the devil's violent assaults upon it and this news was to Paul exactly as the Proverb says, "Like cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far [home] country." (Proverbs 25:25) (Amplified Bible). Surely, Paul had often times imagined, supposed, thought, and even truly believed that this would be the news to him from brother Timothy, but after what he had witnessed in Galatia, he still had that fear or concern that they might have been moved away from the Gospel and the truth by the persecution, but instead his souls thirst was quenched by Tiomthy's report. But not only had Timothy reported of their steadfastness in the faith, but he also told the Apostle Paul of how much the believers there longed for him to return to them and Paul uses the little English phrase 'desiring greatly' to describe their longing and this little phrase is translated by one Greek word epipotheo meaning (to yearn); to dote upon, that is, intensely crave possession of, to earnestly desire, to greatly long after.

In other words, the persecution was far from causing these new Thessalonian believers to turn away from Paul, but it made them feel even closer to Paul and they wanted to be in the physical presence of Paul that they might learn more and more from Paul about our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ and how they might suffer patiently to bring glory to God as Paul had done on numerous occassions. In other words, the devils plots, ploys, and plans to use fear to turn these new believers in Thessalonica against the Apostle Paul blew up in his face as they often do because as Paul declared to the believers in Corinth concerning forgiving one another also applies concerning our being loyal to one another and in so doing we will be safe and protected so long as Paul said we remain unbendable, unfaltering, and unshakable in our doing what these words of Paul declare is our ability in Christ to do and that is, "To keep Satan from getting the advantage over us; for we are not ignorant of his wiles {and} intentions." (2 Corinthians 2:11) (Amplified Bible).

Paul's own soul (as we stated above) was put at ease by the good report brought to him from Thessalonica by Timothy and so he expresses his feelings concerning their steadfastness in Christ with these words speaking of what it meant to know this for him, "Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:" (1 Thessalonians 3:7) (KJV). Nothing aided the Apostle Paul more than knowing (with certainty) that those whom he preached the Gospel of Christ to, continued in the faith, in love, and in the truth of the Word of God. This brought great peace to the inner man of the Apostle Paul, for we must remember how concerned he always was over the Churches (even more than his own safety and physical well being) as he said himself with these words, "And besides those things that are without, there is the daily [inescapable pressure] of my care {and} anxiety for all the Churches!" (2 Corinthians 11:28) (Amplified Bible). This man was truly a lover of God the Father's children, his brethren, that he could not rest without knowing their spiritual condition and in so knowing that of these Thessalonian believers, that is, their faith being firm and rock solid 'in Christ' he was comforted in all of his suffering and hurting because of the many attacks from Jews and Gentiles for his speaking the truth in love.

"Paul knew that as long as believers stood their spiritual ground against the devil and his onslaughts, they would be taken care of by our Lord Jesus Christ and when he learned that the new believers in Thessalonica (whom he spent the least amount of time with face to face) were standing strong in their faith 'in Christ', then his hardships and trouble (for the sake of the Gospel) seemed to be but a light thing compared to knowing these believers were safe eternally." Clifford D. Tate, Sr.

"We have already seen that he and Silas stayed behind at Thessalonica, when Paul was obliged to leave it; for the persecution seems to have been principally directed against him. When Paul came to Athens, he sent pressingly to him and Silas to come to him with all speed to that city. We are not informed that they did come, but it is most likely that they did, and that Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to comfort and build up these new converts. After Paul had sent away Timothy, it is likely he went himself straight to Corinth, and there Timothy soon after met him, with the good news of the steadiness of the Thessalonian Church." Adam Clarke

If you do not know the Lord Jesus Christ and His amazing healing power, pray this from your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ (you speaking directly to Him), Dear Lord Jesus, I confess to You that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe You shed Your Blood and died for my sins. I believe that You rose from the dead proving that You alone are God. I repent of my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I ask You Dear Lord Jesus to come into my heart and take control of my life. I want You to be my Lord, Savior, and my God. Amen...

Sincerely in Christ,

Clifford D. Tate, Sr.
Author of “Silent Assassins of the Soul - Are you Broken by Pornography and Masturbation? You can be Restored by the Lord Jesus Christ and brought into Deliverance, Freedom, and Victory! A Guide for Men and Women in the Enemy’s Crosshairs” e-book available now @ Amazon Kindle, @ Apple I Bookstore for IPod, Barnes and Noble for Nook, Reader Store for Sony Reade, Kobo, Copia, Gardners, Baker and Taylor, and eBookPie…


















Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 16

Paul Sends Timothy to Establish & Strengthen them in their Faith Part 3

1 Thessalonians 3:4-5 For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know. For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain. KJV

Many over the years have questioned how could Paul have imparted so much of the Christian Doctrine and Teaching to the newly converted people in the city of Thessalonica, seeing that he was forced out of said city after only 3 weeks to 1 month (Acts 17:2) & (Acts 17:10), but it is not reasonable, responsible, or right for any one of us during any era of the Church to question the Word of God and that is exactly what Paul's letters to theses believers in Thessalonica is the Word of God, therefore, he says this to them reminding them of what he had taught them on the subject of persecution, "For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know." (1 Thessalonians 3:4) (KJV). It is our responsibility to here the Word of God and not question it, but believe it as it is written. Paul, however, (unlike many of us today, myself included) like all of the Apostles was not one to waist time, instead he went about trying to redeem all the time that was given to him by our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ in order that men and women would be saved and built up in the faith just as he declared with these words to the believers in Corinth, "Have you been supposing [all this time] that we have been defending ourselves {and} apologizing to you? [It is] in the sight {and} the [very] presence of God [and as one] in Christ (the Messiah) that we have been speaking, dearly beloved, and all in order to build you up [spiritually]." (2 Corinthians 12:19) (Amplified Bible) and also as he declared to the believers in the region of Galatia with these words, "So then, as occasion {and} opportunity open up to us, let us do good [morally] to all people [not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith [those who belong to God's family with you, the believers]." (Galatians 6:10) (Amplified Bible).

Paul uses the little English phrase 'we told you before' which is translated by one Greek word prolego meaning to say beforehand, that is, predict, forewarn: - foretell, tell before. Paul perhaps presented this to the people, even as he was presenting to them the Gospel of Grace in order that they would not be under some false illusions that they would have ease or health, wealth, and prosperity upon coming to faith in Jesus Christ, for Paul certainly knew from first hand experience that this was not so as our Lord Jesus showed to him along his sojourn and pilgrimage (Acts 9:16), so Paul likewise made this (most likely) one of his first teachings to these new converts in Thessalonica. As we know (from Dr. Luke documentation Acts 17:1-10), this is exactly what happened as soon as Paul, Silas, and Timothy presented the Gospel there and God the Holy Spirit converted the souls of many sinners there. This persecution continued for the believers in Thessalonica and this is why Paul could no longer wait, but he needed to know how they were doing physically, but more importantly spiritually, had they stood their ground 'in Christ'? or had the devil had success in bringing so much of the spirit or demon of fear to them, that they had turned away from faith in Christ, these questions were ever present in  the mind of this great Apostle, so he declares to them in this stage of his first letter these words, "For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain." (1 Thessalonians 3:5) (KJV). It was the sure fact and reality that Paul knew that the devil would use wicked men and women to persecute these new believers in Thessalonica that he sent Timothy to them (even though he needed Timothy with him). Paul could no longer endure the not knowing their state or condition, so he makes the sacrifice and sends Timothy to them that he might know where they stood in their relationship to Christ Jesus our Lord.

Paul uses the little English phrase 'to know' which is translated by one Greek word ginosko which is a prolonged form of a primary verb; meaning to “know” (absolutely), in a great variety of applications and with many implications be aware of, feel, have knowledge, perceive, be resolved, be sure, understand. Paul wanted his mind to be put to rest for his restlessness over their condition by having a report brought back to him one way or another. Paul perhaps being mindful of the troubles that were brought to the Galatian believers wanted to stop (if possibly) the same things happening in Thessalonica, as we are reminded of what took place in Galatia by these words of Paul written to them, "O you poor {and} silly {and} thoughtless {and} unreflecting {and} senseless Galatians! Who has fascinated {or} bewitched {or} cast a spell over you, unto whom--right before your very eyes--Jesus Christ (the Messiah) was openly {and} graphically set forth {and} portrayed as crucified? Let me ask you this one question: Did you receive the [Holy] Spirit as the result of obeying the Law {and} doing its works, or was it by hearing [the message of the Gospel] and believing [it]? [Was it from observing a law of rituals or from a message of faith?] Are you so foolish {and} so senseless {and} so silly? Having begun [your new life spiritually] with the [Holy] Spirit, are you now reaching perfection [by dependence] on the flesh? Have you suffered so many things {and} experienced so much all for nothing (to no purpose)--if it really is to no purpose {and} in vain?" (Galatians 3:1-4) (Amplified Bible), so with this experience with the Galatians fresh in his mind Timothy is sent to do just that.

The truth is who our Lord Jesus Christ is (John 14:6) and the lie is who the devil is (John 8:44), so Paul wanted to know if the tempter (the devil) had through the spirit or demon of fear influenced them to turn away from the truth of the Gospel and of the Word of God in order to stop the persecution as some in Galatia had been tempted to do as Paul wrote to them with these words of concern, "You were running the race nobly. Who has interfered in (hindered and stopped you from) your heeding {and} following the Truth? This [evil] persuasion is not from Him Who called you [Who invited you to freedom in Christ]. A little leaven (a slight inclination to error, or a few false teachers) leavens the whole lump [it perverts the whole conception of faith or misleads the whole Church]. [For my part] I have confidence [toward you] in the Lord that you will take no contrary view of the matter {but} will come to think with me. But he who is unsettling you, whoever he is, will have to bear the penalty. But, brethren, if I still preach circumcision [as some accuse me of doing, as necessary to salvation], why am I still suffering persecution? In that case the Cross has ceased to be a stumbling block {and} is made meaningless (done away)." (Galatians 5:7-11) (Amplified Bible). When Paul says 'our labor be in vain', he is not saying that his preaching the true Gospel of Christ or the Gospel of Grace was empty, but on the contrary, what he means is that his concern was that some of their professions of faith 'in Christ' was in vain or empty, meaning that some may have pretended regeneration and new birth by God the Holy Spirit because some family or friends had truly been born again and they did not want to feel left out.

"Greek, 'that we are about (we are sure) to suffer according to the appointment of God (1Thessalonians 3:3). 'Even (exactly) as it both came to pass and ye know'; ye know both that it came to pass, and that we foretold it. The correspondence of the event to the prediction powerfully confirms faith: 'Forewarned, forearmed' [Edmunds]. The repetition of 'ye know,' so frequently, is designed as an argument, that being forewarned of coming affliction, they should be less readily 'moved' by it." JFB Commentary

"In persecution, people are tempted to apostatize from God, in order to avoid suffering. In afflictions of other kinds, Satan often tempts the sufferer to murmur and complain; to charge God with harshness, partiality, and severity, and to give vent to expressions that will show that religion has none of its boasted power to support the soul in the day of trial; compare Job 1:9-11. In all times of affliction, as well as in prosperity, we may be sure that 'the Tempter' is not far off, and should be on our guard against his wiles. And our labour be in vain - By your being turned from the faith." Albert Barnes

"And our labour be in vain: in preaching the Gospel among them; not with respect to God, to whom the Word never returns void and empty; nor with regard to the Apostles, whose judgment was with the Lord, and their work with their God, who will of His own grace reward them; but with respect to the Thessalonians, to whom, should Satan gain his point, it would be of no use and service, for which the concern was. The Ethiopic version reads, 'and your labour be in vain': in receiving the Apostles, embracing and professing the Gospel, and suffering for it; see Galatians 3:4 but the common reading is best, and agrees with what the Apostle elsewhere says, Galatians 4:11." Dr. John Gill

If you do not know the Lord Jesus Christ and His amazing healing power, pray this from your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ (you speaking directly to Him), Dear Lord Jesus, I confess to You that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe You shed Your Blood and died for my sins. I believe that You rose from the dead proving that You alone are God. I repent of my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I ask You Dear Lord Jesus to come into my heart and take control of my life. I want You to be my Lord, Savior, and my God. Amen...

Sincerely in Christ,

Clifford D. Tate, Sr.
Author of “Silent Assassins of the Soul - Are you Broken by Pornography and Masturbation? You can be Restored by the Lord Jesus Christ and brought into Deliverance, Freedom, and Victory! A Guide for Men and Women in the Enemy’s Crosshairs” e-book available now @ Amazon Kindle, @ Apple I Bookstore for IPod, Barnes and Noble for Nook, Reader Store for Sony Reade, Kobo, Copia, Gardners, Baker and Taylor, and eBookPie…




Saturday, August 5, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 15

Paul Sends Timothy to Establish & Strengthen them in their Faith Part 2

1 Thessalonians 3:3 That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto. KJV

Paul now continues on in his letter reminding them of one of the main reasons Brother Timothy was indeed sent back to them (at the sacrifice of Paul's comfort) and it was for the comfort and consolation of them the new Thessalonian believers. Paul knew how fierce the devil would continue being in trying every method to instill fear into the hearts of the new believers in Thessalonica, for he had already shown himself to them at the very beginning of Paul, Silas, and Timothy arriving into the city to preach the Gospel of Christ as we already documented in the last two studies/commentaries (Acts 17:1-9), therefore, Timothy's task is to set their minds at ease concerning this opposition against them as Paul first says here with these words, "That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto." (1 Thessalonians 3:3) (KJV). This message was not knew to these believers in Thessalonica, because Paul had imparted, informed, and instructed them of this very fact concerning their faith in our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ and the response they would receive from many who are still outside of faith in Christ.

Paul wants Timothy there in order to encourage, exhort, and exalt them into such strong and abiding enduring faith that they not allow anyone to move them away from their belief in our Lord Jesus Christ. Paul uses here a little English phrase 'should be moved' to describe his feelings in this regard and this little English phrase is translated by one Greek word saino meaning to shake (figuratively disturb): - move. Paul uses the English word 'afflictions' to declare what method the devil is trying to use to move them away from Christ and this English word is translated by the Greek word thlipsis meaning pressure (literally or figuratively): - afflicted, anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation, trouble. In other words, the Apostle Paul has sent Timothy to them to keep them from allowing the devil (through his two legged devils coming against them with physical afflictions and persecutions that would make them afraid to stand for our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ.

Timothy was to instruct them on how to respond to said opposition exactly as Paul had instructed the Roman believers to do with these words, "Repay no one evil for evil, but take thought for what is honest {and} proper {and} noble [aiming to be above reproach] in the sight of everyone. If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for [God's] wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is Mine, I will repay (requite), says the Lord. But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals upon his head. Do not let yourself be overcome by evil, but overcome (master) evil with good." (Romans 12:17-21) (Amplified Bible). Paul now reminds them that it is the 'will of God' for them/us to encounter such opposition to the Gospel of Christ with the use of the little English phrase 'we are appointed' which is translated by one Greek word keimai and this word is the middle voice of a primary verb meaning to lie outstretched (literally or figuratively): - be (appointed, laid up, made, set), lay, lie.

In other words, since they/we are now part of the Body of Christ, then we can expect the devil (who hates Christ) to come against those of us who are His with the physical expression of that hatred for Him through the use of human instruments in applying the pressure, punishment, and persecution against and upon the object of his hatred, even as Paul declared to the believers in Philippi when he said to them, "For you have been granted [the privilege] for Christ's sake not only to believe in (adhere to, rely on, and trust in) Him, but also to suffer in His behalf." (Philippians 1:29) (Amplified Bible) and also because this is exactly how our Lord Jesus Himself was treated as He (Christ) reminded us with these words, "If the world hates you, know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you belonged to the world, the world would treat you with affection {and} would love you as its own. But because you are not of the world [no longer one with it], but I have chosen (selected) you out of the world, the world hates (detests) you. Remember that I told you, A servant is not greater than his master [is not superior to him]. If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word {and} obeyed My teachings, they will also keep {and} obey yours. But they will do all this to you [inflict all this suffering on you] because of [your bearing] My name {and} on My account, for they do not know {or} understand the One Who sent Me." (John 15:18-21) (Amplified Bible).

"The Greek is literally said of dogs wagging the tail in fawning on one. Therefore Tittmann explains it, 'That no man should, amidst his calamities, be allured by the flattering hope of a more pleasant life to abandon his duty.' So Elsner and Bengel, 'cajoled out of his faith.' In afflictions, relatives and opponents combine with the ease-loving heart itself in flatteries, which it needs strong faith to overcome. We always candidly told you so. None but a religion from God would have held out such a trying prospect to those who should embrace it, and yet succeed in winning converts." JFB Commentary

"The Apostles were so far from flattering people with an expectation of worldly prosperity in religion that, on the contrary, they told them plainly they must count upon trouble in the flesh. And herein they followed the example of their great Master, the Author or our faith. Besides, it might prove a confirmation of their faith, when they perceived that it only happened to them as was predicted before. To know their faith, that so he might inform the Apostles whether they remained stedfast under all their sufferings, whether their faith failed or not, because, if their faith did not fail, they would be able to stand their ground against the tempter and all his temptations: their faith would be a shield, to defend them against all the fiery darts of the wicked, Ephesians 6:16." Matthew Henry

"We are quickly approaching the arrival of 'Fall' and with its arrival comes Football Season. In the game of Football, the object of the game is to stop your opponent from reaching the goal line to score a touchdown, well just like in this game, we Christians have an opponent (the devil) and he will constantly, continuously, and consistently oppose every Christian who lifts up the Name of Jesus Christ and the Word of God, therefore, we just like every offense in football must navigate through the defence in order to reach the end zone just as the Apostle Paul declared to the Christian converts in the cities of Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch with these words concerning our perseverance, 'When they had preached the good news (Gospel) to that town and made disciples of many of the people, they went back to Lystra and Iconium and Antioch, Establishing {and} strengthening the souls {and} the hearts of the disciples, urging {and} warning {and} encouraging them to stand firm in the faith, and [telling them] that it is through many hardships {and} tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.' (Acts 14:21-22) (Amplified Bible)." Clifford D. Tate, Sr.

If you do not know the Lord Jesus Christ and His amazing healing power, pray this from your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ (you speaking directly to Him), Dear Lord Jesus, I confess to You that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe You shed Your Blood and died for my sins. I believe that You rose from the dead proving that You alone are God. I repent of my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I ask You Dear Lord Jesus to come into my heart and take control of my life. I want You to be my Lord, Savior, and my God. Amen...

Sincerely in Christ,

Clifford D. Tate, Sr.
Author of “Silent Assassins of the Soul - Are you Broken by Pornography and Masturbation? You can be Restored by the Lord Jesus Christ and brought into Deliverance, Freedom, and Victory! A Guide for Men and Women in the Enemy’s Crosshairs” e-book available now @ Amazon Kindle, @ Apple I Bookstore for IPod, Barnes and Noble for Nook, Reader Store for Sony Reade, Kobo, Copia, Gardners, Baker and Taylor, and eBookPie…









Wednesday, August 2, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 14

Paul Sends Timothy to Establish & Strengthen them in their Faith

1 Thessalonians 3:1-2 Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone; And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the Gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith: KJV

Seeing then what Paul has just said to them in the last two verses of how they are the cause of his joy now and in heaven, Paul goes on to declare to them why he sent Timothy to them when he did as he says here, "Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;" (1 Thessalonians 3:1) (KJV). Paul needed to know what was happening with these new believers in Thessalonica, so he sacrificed his own comfort and care by sending Timothy to them and remaining alone in Athens, Greece. Paul was among people with very sharp minds of philosophy that were not bent to spiritual things at all, for these people worshipped every type of man-made fabricated 'god' imaginable, so it would have been very beneficial for Paul to have Timothy stay with him to share in the presenting our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ to these people as the True and Only God who made all things by His Own Hand and Power.

We recall that Dr. Luke documented for us how Paul was sent away from Thessalonica into Berea upon the attack against them because of the conversion of many in Thessalonica, but the Jews followed them into Berea so Paul was sent off again and at this time seperated from Silas and Timothy, "But when the Jews of Thessalonica learned that the Word of God [concerning the attainment through Christ of eternal salvation in the kingdom of God] was also preached by Paul at Beroea, they came there too, disturbing {and} inciting the masses. At once the brethren sent Paul off on his way to the sea, but Silas and Timothy remained behind. Those who escorted Paul brought him as far as Athens; and receiving instructions for Silas and Timothy that they should come to him as soon as possible, they departed." (Acts 17:13-15) (Amplified Bible). Of course it was never Paul's intentions or desrie to be seperated from Silas and Timothy at this time, but circumstances dictated otherwise.

Paul was not concerned that much for Silas and Timothy because they were now well grounded in the faith and in the Word of God, but the new converts in Thessalonica were not so being still at this time 'babes in Christ', so this prompts Paul's inner desire or yearning to know their physical and more important spiritual condition. Paul uses the English word 'forbear' to express this deep desire he had to know what was their status and this word is translated by the Greek word stego meaning (figuratively) to cover with silence (endure patiently): to suffer, that is, to hold out as to anything, to bear with, to endure. In other words, such time had elasped or passed by that caused Paul to act because he could no longer take the not knowing, so it is likely that he got word back to Timothy in Berea to go back to Thessalonica. Paul was perhaps still urged to stay away from that city because of what happened there with the Jews at the beginning of his ministry there, so instead he sent the less reconizable Timothy back to check on the new converts in Thessalonica.

It was on account of Paul's dear and devout love for the souls of these new believers that he wanted to know of their spiritual condition as he had already declared to them with these words in the previous Chapter, "But since we were bereft of you, brethren, for a little while in person, [of course] not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great longing to see you face to face, Because it was our will to come to you. [I mean that] I, Paul, again and again [wanted to come], but Satan hindered {and} impeded us." (1 Thessalonians 2:17-18) (Amplified Bible). Paul was bursting as if his desire and emotions were as a water tight containter about to burst through being overfilled with water, so was Paul's anxiety or angst over these believers. Paul sends Timothy to them because of his great trust in and faith in Timothy to edify them or build them up in their faith, even as he Paul would do, so he says to them after he could take it any no longer, "And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the Gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:" (1 Thessalonians 3:2) (KJV).

Paul declares to them three (3) things that make Timothy (despite his youth) as Paul wrote later to Timothy instructing him with these words concerning his youth, "Let no one despise {or} think less of you because of your youth, but be an example (pattern) for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity. Till I come, devote yourself to [public and private] reading, to exhortation (preaching and personal appeals), and to teaching {and} instilling doctrine." (1 Timothy 4:12-13) (Amplified Bible) that make Timothy the capable representative of the Apostle Paul before these new believers in Thessalonica. First, Timothy was their brother, that is, their spiritual brother in the Body of Jesus Christ. Secondly, Timothy was a minister of God, that is, specifically a Christian teacher and pastor (technically a deacon: - deacon, minister, servant appointed as such surely by the Apostle Paul. Thirdly, Timothy was a fellowlabourer in the Gospel of Christ, that is, Timothy (like the Apostle Paul) was declaring the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ to all sinners everywhere.

Therefore, Paul being confident in Timothy sent him to them in order 'to establish' them in their faith in Christ. The little English phrase here 'to establish' is translated by one Greek word sterizo meaning to set fast, that is, (literally) to turn resolutely in a certain direction, or (figuratively) to confirm: - fix, establish, stedfastly set, strengthen. Timothy also was 'to comfort' them and this little English phrase is translated by one Greek word parakaleo meaning to call near, that is, invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation): In other words, it was Timothy's job to make sure that these new believers in Thessalonica were well grounded and rooted in the Word of God and all that it reveals and declares about our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ and what are all of our spiritual blessings in Him as well as our responsibilities to Him now that we are a part of His Body the Church.

"The Apostle Paul had extreme confidence in Timothy irregardless of his young age in comparison to others, and that was because he showed himself to be faithful to Christ and to Paul when others like Hymenaeus and Alexander blasphemed the Word of God (1 Timothy 1:20) and Demas forsook Paul (2 Timothy 4:10), but Timothy was always there and ready for what ever assignment Paul had for him to take on." Clifford D. Tate, Sr.

"It appears from the statement here that Timothy had joined him there, but such was his solicitude for the Church at Thessalonica, that he very soon after sent him there, and chose to remain himself alone at Athens. Why he did not himself return to Thessalonica, is not stated. It is evidently implied here that it was a great personal inconvenience for him thus to part with Timothy, and to remain alone at Athens, and that he evinced the strong love which he had for the Church at Thessalonica by being willing to submit to it. What that inconvenience consisted in, he has not stated, but it is not difficult to understand, (1) he was among total strangers, and, when Timothy was gone, without an acquaintance or friend. (2) the aid of Timothy was needed in order to prosecute the work which he contemplated. He had requested that Timothy should join him as soon as possible when he left Berea Acts 17:15, and he evidently felt it desirable that in preaching the Gospel in that city he should have all the assistance he could obtain. Yet he was willing to forego those comforts and advantages in order to promote the edification of the Church at Thessalonica." Dr. John Gill.

If you do not know the Lord Jesus Christ and His amazing healing power, pray this from your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ (you speaking directly to Him), Dear Lord Jesus, I confess to You that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe You shed Your Blood and died for my sins. I believe that You rose from the dead proving that You alone are God. I repent of my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I ask You Dear Lord Jesus to come into my heart and take control of my life. I want You to be my Lord, Savior, and my God. Amen...

Sincerely in Christ,

Clifford D. Tate, Sr.
Author of “Silent Assassins of the Soul - Are you Broken by Pornography and Masturbation? You can be Restored by the Lord Jesus Christ and brought into Deliverance, Freedom, and Victory! A Guide for Men and Women in the Enemy’s Crosshairs” e-book available now @ Amazon Kindle, @ Apple I Bookstore for IPod, Barnes and Noble for Nook, Reader Store for Sony Reade, Kobo, Copia, Gardners, Baker and Taylor, and eBookPie…