Saturday, October 28, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 38

Paul Exhorts them to Prophesy, Test Everything, Stay away from Evil

1 Thessalonians 5:20-22 Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. KJV

Paul comes to the end of these specific, special, and spontaneous exhortations to the believers in the Church @ Thessalonica and in so doing he closes them out with these final four with the first being, "Despise not prophesyings." (1 Thessalonians 5:20) (KJV). This English word 'prophesyings' is translated by the Greek word propheteia meaning prediction (scriptural or other): here also by anology an inspired speaker, that is, a person inspired and invigorated by God the Holy Spirit to proclaim the Word of God in all its mystery, majesty, and might. The Apostle Paul wanted to instill within the inner man and inner woman of every believer the necessity of being fed the truths from the Word of God to the very soul of the believer, for just as prayer to our Heavenly Father is the very breathe of the believer, the prophesying, proclamation, and preaching of the Word of God to the soul of the believer is his or her very spiritual food and nourishment. The Apostle Paul delt with this difficulty of many believers desiring the more showy or flashy spiritual gift of speaking in tongues as he did with the Church @ Corinth when he wrote these words to them concerning his view of the best of the gifts, "Now I wish that you might all speak in [unknown] tongues, but more especially [I want you] to prophesy (to be inspired to preach and interpret the divine will and purpose). He who prophesies [who is inspired to preach and teach] is greater (more useful and more important) than he who speaks in [unknown] tongues, unless he should interpret [what he says], so that the church may be edified {and} receive good [from it]." (1 Corinthians 14:5) (Amplified Bible). Paul found the gift of tongues to be useless to the body of believers unless an interprter was present to interpret what was spoken, but the person gifted by our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ to prophesy, that is, preach and or teach the Divine truths from the Word of God was more useful to the entire body of believers in the Church.

Paul was not the one to receive and believe everyone who came to him or to one of the Churches of our Lord Jesus Christ saying that they were from God, for he spent much of his time refuting to the Churches that many that came to them in the name of Jesus Christ were not really sent by our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ, but they were actually wolves in sheeps clothing, that is, false prophets and false apostles as he declared to the Corinthian Church with these words, "But what I do, I will continue to do, [for I am determined to maintain this independence] in order to cut off the claim of those who would like [to find an occasion and incentive] to claim that in their boasted [mission] they work on the same terms that we do. For such men are false apostles [spurious, counterfeits], deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles (special messengers) of Christ (the Messiah). And it is no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light; So it is not surprising if his servants also masquerade as ministers of righteousness. [But] their end will correspond with their deeds." (2 Corinthians 11:12-15) (Amplified Bible), therefore, he now tells these believers in Thessalonica to, "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." (1 Thessalonians 5:21) (KJV). The English word 'prove' is translated by the Greek word dokimazo meaning to test (literally or figuratively); by implication to approve: - allow, discern, examine, try. In other words, they/we were/are to test the men that came/come to them/us in the name of Jesus Christ, for some are not of Christ as the Apostle John proclaimed when he wrote these words, "They went out from our number, but they did not [really] belong to us; for if they had been of us, they would have remained with us. But [they withdrew] that it might be plain that they all are not of us." (1 John 2:19) (Amplified Bible).

The little English phrase 'hold fast' is translated by one Greek word katecho meaning to keep in memory or to retain. The little English phrase 'that which is good' is translated by one Greek word kalos meaning properly beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), that is, valuable or virtuous; honest, meet, well, worthy. In other words, Paul is exhortiung them/us here to retain in our memory all the things that make up our Lord Jesus Christ and should be a part of our lives in private and in public and that are things that are honorable and true and good just as this same Apostle Paul exhorted the Philippian Church to do when he wrote these words to them, "For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence {and} is honorable {and} seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely {and} lovable, whatever is kind {and} winsome {and} gracious, if there is any virtue {and} excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on {and} weigh {and} take account of these things [fix your minds on them]." (Philippians 4:8) (Amplified Bible). Lastly, since he has just exhorted them to do that which is good to and for themselves and for others, he now warns them against the very opposite of good with these words, "Abstain from all appearance of evil." (1 Thessalonians 5:22) (KJV). The English word 'abstain' is translated by a big Greek word apechomai but it pretty much means what we know from our English Dictionary, that is, to hold oneself off, that is, refrain: - abstain. The English word 'appearance' is translated by the Greek word eidos meaning a view, that is, form (literally or figuratively): The little English phrase 'of evil' is translated by one Greek word poneros meaning  hurtful, that is, evil (properly in effect or influence; figuratively calamitous; also (passively) ill, that is, diseased; but especially (morally) culpable, that is, derelict, vicious, facinorous or extremely wicked; mischief, malice, or bad, evil, grievous, harm, lewd, malicious. In other words, Paul is exhorting them to refrain from doing things, going places, that would be hurtful to themselves/ourselves and to others in the Church of God or outside of the Church or that would involve malice to others or doing vicious and extremely wicked things (morally) and that would hurt others intentionally (that is not in self-defence).

"We are ambassadors, that is, representatives for our Lord Jesus Christ here on the earth during our sojourn to our Heavenly home, therefore, we must practice that which is honoring to Him and refrain ourselves from that which dishonors Him and brings reproach to His Glorious Name. We also are to test the spirits that are out in this world claiming to be from our Lord Jesus Christ and we can only do that by the Word of God, for the spirits that are not from Christ, but from the enemy the devil will not want to here the truth from the Word of God, but will want that which suits their itching ears just as Paul warned brother Timothy with these words, 'For the time is coming when [people] will not tolerate (endure) sound {and} wholesome instruction, but, having ears itching [for something pleasing and gratifying], they will gather to themselves one teacher after another to a considerable number, chosen to satisfy their own liking {and} to foster the errors they hold, And will turn aside from hearing the truth and wander off into myths {and} man-made fictions.' (2 Timothy 4:3-4) (Amplified Bible)." Clifford D. Tate, Sr.

"Subject everything submitted to you to be believed to the proper test. The word here used (dokimazete), is one that is properly applicable to metals, referring to the art of the assayer, by which the true nature and value of the metal is tested. This trial was usually made by fire. The meaning here is, that they were carefully to examine everything proposed for their belief. They were not to receive it on trust; to take it on assertion; to believe it because it was urged with vehemence, zeal, or plausibility. In the various opinions and doctrines which were submitted to them for adoption, they were to apply the appropriate tests from reason and the Word of God, and what they found to be true they were to embrace; what was false they were to reject. Christianity does not require people to disregard their reason, or to be credulous. It does not expect them to believe anything because others say it is so. It does not make it a duty to receive as undoubted truth all that synods and councils have decreed; or all that is advanced by the ministers of religion. It is, more than any other form of religion, the friend of free inquiry, and would lead people everywhere to understand the reason of the opinions which they entertain. Albert Barnes

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, October 25, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 37

Paul Exhorts them to Give Thanks & Draw from the Holy Spirit

1 Thessalonians 5:18-19 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. KJV

Immediately following the exhortation to pray always and at all times and for all things, the great Apostle Paul urges these new believers in the city of Thessalonica to give thanks, for thankfulness is the joint connection with prayer to our Heavenly Father as Paul says it with these words, "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (1 Thessalonians 5:18) (KJV). Paul declares to them and to us today that 'thanks' should be given to God the Father for 'every thing' and here also is where I personally have had much wrestling going on within my inner man to understand how and why my Heavenly Father would want me to give thanks for my baby brother being murdered in prison or why I lost both my parents to death within 5 shorts months of one another, or why I was blackballed out of my career of Civil Engineering because I sued the United States Department of the Interior for racial discrimination in 1993 and then for reprisal the following year, for these things are not worthy of my thanks in prayer as I see now through this glass 'darkly', and this English word 'darkly' (from 1 Corinthians 13:12) is translated by the Greek word ainigma meaning abstractly obscureness or  the state of being indistinct or indefinite for lack of adequate illumination.

The English word 'thanks' is translated by the Greek word eucharisteo meaning to be grateful, that is, (actually) to express gratitude (towards). In other words, because these believers in the Church @ Thessalonica and we believers today have whole heartedly put their/our faith and trust in our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ, then we must trust and know that He will work all things together for our good because we love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28), therefore, we must understand that we see things that happen to us and to those we love that are horrible only through our limited vision not able to see the whole picture as our Lord Jesus does because He lives in Eternity seeing everything at the same time past, present, and future, while we can see only our past and present.

The little English phrase 'is the will' is translated by one Greek word thelema meaning a determination (properly the thing), that is, (actively) choice (specifically purpose, decree; abstractly volition) or (passively) inclination: - desire, pleasure, will. In other words, it is our Heavenly Father's desire, decree, and determination for us to have this attitude, aptitude, and ability to thank Him for all things and circumstances and situations we find in our lives at all times during our sojourn and pilgrimage away from our home in Heaven here on the earth, just as King David said with these words concerning this issue, "I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My life makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble {and} afflicted hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought (inquired of) the Lord {and} required Him [of necessity and on the authority of His Word], and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears." (Psalm 34:1-4) (Amplified Bible), for if we cannot believe and trust that the One who made the Heavens and the Earth and all the Universes and all things visible and invisible cannot bring us home safely, then we have stopped depending on Him and are now depending on ourselves.

Paul exhorts them to, "Quench not the Spirit." (1 Thessalonians 5:19) (KJV). The English word 'quench' is translated by the Greek word sbennumi it is a prolonged form of an apparently primary verb; meaning to extinguish (literally or figuratively): - go out, quench. In other words, God the Holy Spirit is the inspirer, instigater, and invigorater of prayer and thanks giving to God the Father and when we quench Him by grieving Him with our sin and indifference, then we put out the flame of prayer, its frequency, its power, and its effectiveness at the Throne of our Heavenly Father. Note: "Wherever it is, it burns; it flames in holy love, in joy, prayer, thanksgiving. O quench it not, damp it not in yourself or others, either by neglecting to do good, or by doing evil!" (John Wesley).

"Do not throw cold water on those who, under extraordinary inspiration of the Spirit, stand up to speak with tongues, or reveal mysteries, or pray in the congregation. The enthusiastic exhibitions of some (perhaps as to the nearness of Christ’s coming, exaggerating Paul’s statement, 2 Thessalonians 2:2, By spirit), led others (probably the presiding ministers, who had not always been treated with due respect by enthusiastic novices, 1 Thessalonians 5:12), from dread of enthusiasm, to discourage the free utterances of those really inspired, in the Church assembly. On the other hand, the caution (1 Thessalonians 5:21) was needed, not to receive 'all' pretended revelations as divine, without 'proving' them." JFB Commentary

"We can always find something to be thankful for, and there may be reasons why we ought to be thankful for even those dispensations which appear dark and frowning. Chrysostom, once the archbishop of Constantinople, and then driven into exile, persecuted, and despised, died far away form all the splendors of the capital, and all the comforts and honors which he had enjoyed, uttering his favorite motto - δόξα τῷ Θεῷ πάντων ἕνεκεν  doxa tō Theō pantōn heneken - 'glory to God for all things.' Bibliotheca Sacra, 1:700. So we may praise God for everything that happens to us under His government. A man owes a debt of obligation to Him for anything which will recall him from his wanderings, and which will prepare him for heaven. Are there any dealings of God toward people which do not contemplate such an end? Is a man ever made to drink the cup of affliction when no drop of mercy is intermingled? Is he ever visited with calamity which does not in some way contemplate his own temporal or eternal good! Could we see all, we should see that we are never placed in circumstances in which there is not much for which we should thank God. And when, in His dealings, a cloud seems to cover His face, let us remember the good things without number which we have received, and especially remember that we are in the world of redeeming love, and we shall find enough for which to be thankful." Albert Barnes

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, October 21, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 36

Paul Exhorts them to Rejoice and Pray

1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. KJV

After warning these believers in Thessalonica to refrain from paying back wicked men and women the evil which they have committed against them/us, Paul now turns to more pleasant exhortations for theses believers and we believers today, first being to, "Rejoice evermore." (KJV). Immediately when we are forgiven eternally of our sin when we are 'born again' we are filled with the awesome, amazing, and awe-inspiring love/agape of God poured (as it were a pitcher of water poured into a container) into our souls or our inner man and inner woman by God the Holy Spirit as declared by this same Apostle with these words to the Roman believers, "Such hope never disappoints {or} deludes {or} shames us, for God's love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us." (Romans 5:5) (Amplified Bible). Likewise immediately upon receiving this love/agape of God into our souls, we then respond with joy that cannot and will not be contained within us just as the Apostle Peter declared with these words, "Without having seen Him, you love Him; though you do not [even] now see Him, you believe in Him and exult {and} thrill with inexpressible and glorious (triumphant, heavenly) joy." (1 Peter 1:8) (Amplified Bible).

The English word 'Rejoice' is translated by the Greek word chairo which is a primary verb meaning to be full of cheer, that is, calmly happy or well off. In other words, it is our privilege and our exclusive right and ours alone on the earth  to be cheerful and at all times calmly happy (no matter our outward conditions or circumstances) because we know and are assured that our sins (past, present, and future sins) are washed away by the Mighty Stream of the Blood of the Lamb just as the Apostle Peter said with these words, "You must know (recognize) that you were redeemed (ransomed) from the useless (fruitless) way of living inherited by tradition from [your] forefathers, not with corruptible things [such as] silver and gold, But [you were purchased] with the precious Blood of Christ (the Messiah), like that of a [sacrificial] lamb without blemish or spot." (1 Peter 1:18-19) (Amplified Bible) and also as prescribed by the Apostle John with these words, "Then, addressing me, one of the elders [of the heavenly Sanhedrin] said, Who are these [people] clothed in the long white robes? And from where have they come? I replied, Sir, you know. And he said to me, These are they who have come out of the great tribulation (persecution), and have washed their robes and made them white in the Blood of the Lamb." (Revelation 7:13-14) (Amplified Bible).

The Apostle now exhorts the believers in Thessalonica to prayer as he says it with these words, "Pray without ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5:17) (KJV). Pray simply means to talk to God the Father confessing sin, supplicating, that is, asking for forgiveness of sins and for provisions for this life and for protection from the evil one and evil men and women and for the same for your loved ones humbly, but at the same time earnestly and sincerely with strong feeling and desire. The little English phrase 'without ceasing' is translated by one Greek word adialeiptos meaning uninterruptedly, that is, without omission (on an appropriate occasion): - without ceasing. In other words, prayer is our lifeline to our Father in Heaven and just as the human body (on the earth) requires breathing oxygen to live, then we require communication, connection, and correspondence with God the Father in order that we function (spiritually) as we should during our sojourn and pilgrimage here on the earth away from our Heavenly home.

We should pray everywhere (1 Timothy 2:8), praying with the spirit and with the understanding (1 Corinthians 14:14-15) and with the help or aid of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:26), and praying in confidence believing our petitions are heard and will be answered by our Father in Heaven (Mark 11:24) just as King David did always such as he declares with these words, "As for me, I will call upon God, and the Lord will save me. Evening and morning and at noon will I utter my prayer and moan {and} sigh, and He will hear my voice. He has redeemed my life in peace from the battle that was against me [so that none came near me], for they were many who strove with me. God will hear and humble them, even He Who abides of old--Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!--because in them there has been no change [of heart], and they do not fear, revere, {and} worship God." (Psalm 55:16-19) (Amplified Bible).

"Ye are dependent on God for every good; without Him ye can do nothing; feel that dependence at all times, and ye will always be in the spirit of prayer; and those who feel this spirit will, as frequently as possible, be found in the exercise of prayer." Adam Clarke

"Joy (that comes from our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ) is not dependent on our earthly things accumulated in this life or our bank account quantity or our praise from other human beings or our social status in the community and world at large or even from our family and friends, but it comes from that rock solid assurance that our sins are forgiven forever and that we have a place reserved and prepared for us by Christ Jesus our Lord Himself and that He will return and receive us unto Himself forever to be with our Lord Jesus Christ and nothing the enemy of our souls does here on the earth to harass, hurt, or harm us will change these facts. (John 10:28) Amen!" Clifford D. Tate, Sr.

"But have we ever realised what this commandment necessarily reveals to us, as to what real prayer is? For if we are told to do a thing uninterruptedly, it must be something that can run unbroken through all the varieties of our legitimate duties and necessary occupations and absorptions with the things seen and temporal. Is that your notion of prayer? Or do you fancy that it simply means dropping down on your knees, and asking God to give you some things that you very much want? Petition is an element in prayer, and that it shall be crystallised into words is necessary sometimes; but there are prayers that never get themselves uttered, and I suppose that the deepest and truest communion with God is voiceless and wordless. 'Things which it was not possible for a man to utter,' was Paul’s description of what he saw and felt, when he was most completely absorbed in, and saturated with, the Divine Glory. The more we understand what prayer is, the less we shall feel that it depends upon utterance. For the essence of it is to have heart and mind filled with the consciousness of God's presence, and to have the habit of referring everything to Him, in the moment when we are doing it, or when it meets us. That, as I take it, is prayer." Alexander MacLaren

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, October 18, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 35

Paul Exhorts them not to Return Evil for Evil

1 Thessalonians 5:15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. KJV

To be quite honest, I for a long time struggled with this exhortation from the Apostle Paul to these believers in the city of Thessalonica, for I initially thought it meant that as a Christian we were not even allowed to defend ourselves or our families from attack that would kill us or cause us great bodily harm, but after much prayer and listening to and reading the understanding from men of God whom I think much of and highly respect, this is not what Paul means here at all when he exhorts these believers with these words, "See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men." (KJV). At the very beginning of this verse, the Apostle Paul uses this English word 'see' and it is translated here by the Greek word horao meaning here not to gaze upon or to look upon someone or something, but it means here (by implication) to discern clearly (physically or mentally). The English word 'render' here is translated by the Greek word apodidomi which simply means to pay back or reward or return. In other words, they/we are to distinguish and recognize what has been done to them/us and not to pay back the same thing in kind.

Note: "Again as I have said before, this in no way means that Christians are forbidden by God the Father and our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ from defending ourselves or our families from attack that would hurt us or kill us. But many will say to me what about Matthew 5:39, my response to this is that the entire 'Sermon on the Mount' is not for the Church now in this dispensation, but these words spoken by our Lord Jesus Christ is for the 1000 year Millennial Reign and my Scriptural proof comes from the words of our Lord Jesus Himself when He said this to the Apostles as they journeyed on to Jerusalem before He was arrested and murdered, 'And He said to them, When I sent you out with no purse or [provision] bag or sandals, did you lack anything? They answered, Nothing! Then He said to them, But now let him who has a purse take it, and also [his provision] bag; and let him who has no sword sell his mantle and buy a sword. For I tell you that this Scripture must yet be fulfilled in Me: And He was counted {and} classed among the wicked (the outlaws, the criminals); for what is written about Me has its fulfillment [has reached its end and is finally settled]. And they said, Look, Lord! Here are two swords. And He said to them, It is enough.' (Luke 22:35-38) (Amplified Bible)."

The English word 'evil' Paul uses here is translated by the Greek word kakos and means that which is injurious, harmful, or hurtful to another person. The 'evil' Paul refers to here does not always come in the form of bodily attack, but it can be administered by gossip, slander, or any other ways of verbally injuring a person. It can also be intimidation, stalking, or threatning a person. In other words, perpetrating 'evil' to other people is not or should not be the desire of these Thessalonian believers nor we believers today or of any generation or era, for again 'Love, that is God's Love (agape) does no harm to a neighbor' (Romans 13:10). It is those who hate God, hate Christ, whose 'god' is the god of this world (the devil) who seek their reward in the riches, resources, and real estate of this decaying, desolate, and dying world who will do what ever 'evil' it takes to get to the top and to enjoy all that this world has to offer. But not the Christian, for we know that our reward is in Heaven with Christ Jesus our Lord and where He is and that it is His entire Universe and all that is contained in it that will be one day ours to enjoy for all eternity, therefore, the Apostle Paul tells these Thessalonian Christians to 'follow' 'that which is good' and the English word 'follow' is translated by the Greek word dioko a primary verb meaning to pursue and the little English phrase 'that which is good' is translated by one Greek word agathos meaning properly beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good, that is, valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and which is properly intrinsic): - better, fair, honest, meet, well, worthy. This is to be practiced always in the Church, but also in the world outside of the Church by the believer in Jesus Christ.

"This law is positive, and is universally binding. The moment we feel ourselves acting from a desire to 'return evil for evil,' that moment we are acting wrong. It may be right to defend our lives and the lives of our friends; to seek the protection of the law for our persons, reputation, or property, against those who would wrong us; to repel the assaults of calumniators and slanderers, but in no case should the motive be to do them wrong for the evil which they have done us." Albert Barnes

"This we must look to, and be very careful about, that is, we must by all means forbear to avenge ourselves. If others do us an injury, this will not justify us in returning it, in doing the same, or the like, or any other injury to them. It becomes us to forgive, as those that are, and that hope to be, forgiven of God. Ever to follow that which is good. In general, we must study to do what is our duty, and pleasing to God, in all circumstances, whether men do us good turns or ill turns; whatever men do to us, we must do good to others. We must always endeavour to be beneficent and instrumental to promote the welfare of others, both among ourselves (in the first place to those that are of the household o faith), and then, as we have opportunity, unto all men, Galatians 6:10." 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…













Saturday, October 14, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 34

Paul Exhorts them to Look out for One Another

1 Thessalonians 5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. KJV

The Apostle Paul continues in his expressed specific exhortations to these believers in Thessalonica with the following, "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men." (1 Thessalonians 5:14) (KJV). The English word 'warn' is translated by the same Greek word we uncovered in the very last study/commentary for the then English word 'admonish' noutheteo meaning to put in mind, that is, (by implication) to caution or reprove gently: - admonish, warn. The English word 'unruly' is translated by the Greek word ataktos and is used this one time only in the entire New Testament meaning unarranged, that is, (by implication) insubordinate (religiously) or unwilling to submit to authority: - unruly. In other words, after Paul has just reminded them to esteem or think highly of those leaders appointed by our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ in His Church, he now goes further to encourage, exhort, and even embolden them to caution or warn strongly those in the Church @ Thessalonica who are unwilling to submit to the authority Christ has placed over them.

Note: "During time of war when armies are pitted against one another engaging in fights to the death, there is no time for disorder, disunity, and disloyalty, for such acts by individual or groups of soldiers could cost many casualties during the battle, likewise in the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ, there is no time for these things also because spiritually we have an enemy in the spiritual warfare (the devil and his demons) that require our fighting in unity and not disunity just as Paul declared to the Philippian Church, 'Only be sure as citizens so to conduct yourselves [that] your manner of life [will be] worthy of the good news (the Gospel) of Christ, so that whether I [do] come and see you or am absent, I may hear this of you: that you are standing firm in united spirit {and} purpose, striving side by side {and} contending with a single mind for the faith of the glad tidings (the Gospel). And do not [for a moment] be frightened {or} intimidated in anything by your opponents {and} adversaries, for such [constancy and fearlessness] will be a clear sign (proof and seal) to them of [their impending] destruction, but [a sure token and evidence] of your deliverance {and} salvation, and that from God. 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. So you are engaged in the same conflict which you saw me [wage] and which you now hear to be mine [still].' (Philippians 1:27-30) (KJV)."

The English word 'feebleminded' is translated by the Greek word oligopsuchos (used this one time only in the entire New Testament) meaning little spirited, that is, faint hearted: - feebleminded. In other words, the Apostle Paul recognizes that there will be some in this Church and every Church who will exhibit little to no spiritual courage in fighting spiritual warfare with the devil and his principalities, therefore, Paul exhorts the spiritually mature and strong to comfort and console such believers reminding them of the great and mighty Power of the One True God our God Jesus Christ just as the Prophet Elisha prayed for the eyes of his servant to be opened spiritually to see as recorded for us in 2 Kings with these words, "So [the Syrian king] sent there horses, chariots, and a great army. They came by night and surrounded the city. When the servant of the man of God rose early and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was around the city. Elisha's servant said to him, Alas, my master! What shall we do? [Elisha] answered, Fear not; for those with us are more than those with them. Then Elisha prayed, Lord, I pray You, open his eyes that he may see. And the Lord opened the young man's eyes, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha." (2 Kings 6:14-17) (Amplified Bible).

The English word 'support' Paul uses here is translated by the Greek word antechomai meaning to hold up and care for. The English word 'weak' Paul uses here is translated by the Greek word asthenes meaning strengthless (in various applications, literally, or figuratively and morally): - more feeble, impotent, sick, without strength, weak (-er, -ness, thing). In other words, Paul wants the spiritually mature and strong in the Church @ Thessalonica to hold up and take care of the spiritual babes and spiritually weak saints in the Church at all times and especially during the raging spiritual warfare with our enemy the devil just as the Apostle Paul declared in two different letters, first to the Galatian Church he said this, "Brethren, If any person is overtaken in misconduct {or} sin of any sort, you who are spiritual [who are responsive to and controlled by the Spirit] should set him right {and} restore {and} reinstate him, without any sense of superiority {and} with all gentleness, keeping an attentive eye on yourself, lest you should be tempted also. Bear (endure, carry) one another's burdens {and} troublesome moral faults, and in this way fulfill {and} observe perfectly the law of Christ (the Messiah) {and} complete what is lacking [in your obedience to it]." (Galatians 6:1-2) (Amplified Bible).

Secondly to the Hebrew Christians with these words, "But be ever mindful of the days gone by in which, after you were first spiritually enlightened, you endured a great {and} painful struggle, Sometimes being yourselves a gazingstock, publicly exposed to insults {and} abuse and distress, and sometimes claiming fellowship {and} making common cause with others who were so treated." (Hebrews 10:32-33) (Amplified Bible). The little English phrase 'be patient' is translated by one Greek word makrothumeo meaning to be long spirited, that is, (objectively) forbearing or (subjectively) patient: - bear (suffer) long, be longsuffering, have (long) patience, be patient, patiently endure. In other words, Paul exhorts them to put up with the harrassment and abuses that will come to them/us from people while we pilgrim and sojourn here on the earth. Note: "In no way is our Lord Jesus Christ (through the Apostle Paul here) telling us to allow men to hurt us or even kill us and we not defend ourselves, this exhortation concerns those things that do not threaten your physical safety or that of your families."

"The dispirited; the disheartened; the downcast. To do this is also the duty of each Church member. There are almost always those who are in this condition, and it is not easy to appreciate the value of a kind word to one in that state. Christians are assailed by temptation; in making efforts to do good they are opposed and become disheartened; in their contests with their spiritual foes they are almost overcome; they walk through shades of spiritual night, and find no comfort. In such circumstances, how consoling is the voice of a friend! How comforting is it to feel that they are not alone! How supporting to be addressed by one who has had the same conflicts, and has triumphed! Every Christian - especially every one who has been long in the service of his Master - has a fund of experience which is the property of the Church, and which may be of incalculable value to those who are struggling now amidst many embarrassments along the Christian way. He who has that experience should help a weak and sinking brother; he should make his own experience of the efficacy of religion in his trials and conflicts, the means of sustaining others in their struggles. There is no one who would not reach out his hand to save a child borne down rapid stream; yet how often do experienced and strong men in the Christian faith pass by those who are struggling in the 'deep waters, where the proud waves have come over their souls!'" Albert Barnes

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, October 11, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 33

Paul Exhorts them to Esteem their Faithful Pastor's Highly

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. KJV

Paul, having finished his re-education of these believers in Thessalonica on the events of the 2nd Coming of our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ, now turns immediately into declaring to them and to us today of many different kinds of exhortations that should be taking place among them and their congregation beginning with, "And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;" (1 Thessalonians 5:12) (KJV). The English word 'beseech' is translated by the Greek word erotao which means by implication to request, to ask, or to desire of one. The English word 'know' Paul uses here is translated by the Greek word eido which is a primary verb meaning to be aware of or to be sure of or to recognize. The little English phrase 'them which labour' is translated by one Greek word kopiao which means those who work hard at preaching the Gospel of Christ and teaching the Word of God to them. In other words, Paul's first exhortation or incitement to these new believers in Thessalonica is that they would recognize and esteem highly those whom our Lord Jesus Christ has charged with the task of being a steward of the Word of God and of getting out said Word in the world. Therefore, gossiping or gabbing or badmouthing the Pastor in the Church at Thessalonica was to be thought of as doing so to the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. For they are placed by Christ Jesus our Lord 'over' them and this little English word is translated by the Greek word proistemi which means to stand before, that is, (in rank) to preside, or (by implication) to practise: - maintain, be over, rule. The English word 'admonish' is translated by the Greek word noutheteo meaning to put in mind, that is, (by implication) to caution or reprove gently: - admonish, warn.

In other words, there must be order in the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ, therefore, it is He (Christ) who appoints some as Pastors and Teachers just as Paul declared to the Ephesian believers with these words, "He Who descended is the [very] same as He Who also has ascended high above all the heavens, that He [His presence] might fill all things (the whole universe, from the lowest to the highest). And His gifts were [varied; He Himself appointed and gave men to us] some to be apostles (special messengers), some prophets (inspired preachers and expounders), some evangelists (preachers of the Gospel, traveling missionaries), some pastors (shepherds of His flock) and teachers. His intention was the perfecting {and} the full equipping of the saints (His consecrated people), [that they should do] the work of ministering toward building up Christ's body (the Church), [That it might develop] until we all attain oneness in the faith and in the comprehension of the [full and accurate] knowledge of the Son of God, that [we might arrive] at really mature manhood (the completeness of personality which is nothing less than the standard height of Christ's own perfection), the measure of the stature of the fullness of the Christ {and} the completeness found in Him." (Ephesians 4:10-13) (Amplified Bible).

These men of God have been appointed by Christ to have authority over these believers in the Church @ Thessalonica in order that there would be order in the congregation during every aspect of its existence here on the earth in every public gathering of the saints just as Paul instructed the Corinthian Church, "What then, brethren, is [the right course]? When you meet together, each one has a hymn, a teaching, a disclosure of special knowledge {or} information, an utterance in a [strange] tongue, or an interpretation of it. [But] let everything be constructive {and} edifying {and} for the good of all. If some speak in a [strange] tongue, let the number be limited to two or at the most three, and each one [taking his] turn, and let one interpret {and} explain [what is said]. But if there is no one to do the interpreting, let each of them keep still in Church and talk to himself and to God. So let two or three prophets speak [those inspired to preach or teach], while the rest pay attention {and} weigh {and} discern what is said. But if an inspired revelation comes to another who is sitting by, then let the first one be silent. For in this way you can give testimony [prophesying and thus interpreting the divine will and purpose] one by one, so that all may be instructed and all may be stimulated {and} encouraged; For the spirits of the prophets (the speakers in tongues) are under the speaker's control [and subject to being silenced as may be necessary], For He [Who is the source of their prophesying] is not a God of confusion {and} disorder but of peace {and} order. As [is the practice] in all the Churches of the saints (God's people)" (1 Corinthians 14:26-33) (Amplified Bible).

Paul now declares to them how these men are to be looked upon by the entire congregation of the Church @ Thessalonica by saying, "And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves." (1 Thessalonians 5:13) (KJV). The little English phrase 'to esteem' is translated by one Greek word hegeomai meaning figuratively to deem, that is, consider: - to think much of having an attitude of admiration. The little English phrase 'very highly' is translated by one Greek word perissos meaning (in the sense of beyond); superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by implication excessive; preeminence: - exceeding abundantly above, more abundantly, exceedingly, very highly, beyond measure, more. In other words, because they have been appointed to such labor by our Lord Jesus Christ, then they are to be thought of as Christ repesentative here on the earth in the Church, His messenger of truth which is His Word or His under Sheperd (1 Peter 5:1-4) and as they are obeying Christ in their leadership of His Church, so should these Thessalonian believers and we believers today and of every generation and era obey them just as the Apostle Paul wrote in Hebrews with these words, "Obey your spiritual leaders and submit to them [continually recognizing their authority over you], for they are constantly keeping watch over your souls {and} guarding your spiritual welfare, as men who will have to render an account [of their trust]. [Do your part to] let them do this with gladness and not with sighing {and} groaning, for that would not be profitable to you [either]." (Hebrews 13:17) (Amplified Bible).

The little English phrase 'And be at peace' is translated by one Greek word eireneuo meaning to be (act) peaceful: - be at (have, live in) peace, live peaceably. In other words, the life in the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ should be one of quietness of soul among fellow believers, not chaos, turmoil, fighting, backbiting, and all other sinful things that would hurt one another, this is the same way Paul closed his final letter to the Church @ Corinth when he said, "Finally, brethren, farewell (rejoice)! Be strengthened (perfected, completed, made what you ought to be); be encouraged {and} consoled {and} comforted; be of the same [agreeable] mind one with another; live in peace, and [then] the God of love [Who is the Source of affection, goodwill, love, and benevolence toward men] and the Author {and} Promoter of peace will be with you." (2 Corinthians 13:11) (Amplified Bible) and let us always and at all times remember these words of the Apostle Paul to the believers in Rome, "Love does no wrong to one's neighbor [it never hurts anybody]. Therefore love meets all the requirements {and} is the fulfilling of the Law." (Romans 13:10) (Amplified Bible).

"Get acquainted with them and esteem the leaders. The idlers in Thessalonica had evidently refused to follow their leaders in Church activities. We need wise leadership today, but still more wise following. An army of captains and colonels never won a battle." Robertson's Word Pictures

"They are called labourers, and should not be loiterers. They must labour with their people, to instruct, comfort, and edify them. Ministers are to rule their people also, so the word is rendered. They must rule, not with rigour, but with love. They must not exercise dominion as temporal lords; but rule as spiritual guides, by setting a good example to the flock. They are over the people in the Lord, to distinguish them from civil magistrates, and to denote also that they are but ministers under Christ, appointed by Him, and must rule the people by Christ's laws, and not by laws of their own. This may also intimate the end of their office and all their labour; namely, the service and honour of the Lord. They must also admonish the people, and that not only publicly, but privately, as there may be occasion. They must instruct them to do well, and should reprove when they do ill. It is their duty not only to give good counsel, but also to give admonition, to give warning to the flock of the dangers they are liable to, and reprove for negligence or what else may be amiss." 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…











Saturday, October 7, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 32

Paul Reminds them How Christ 2nd Coming will Occur Part 5

1 Thessalonia 5:9-11 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. KJV

As the Apostle Paul closes out his discourse to these new believers in our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ concerning the difference of them as believers to the people in this world who have resisted Christ and His Gospel of Grace or all together rejected Him, he reminds them of the one certain and final contrast between them/us and those resisters and rejectors by saying, "For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 5:9) (KJV). Any person who states the fact, the reality, and the truth that there is a coming judgment not only to the earth at our Lord Jesus Christ 2nd Coming for man's sin, but that every single human being born into this world as a sinner will be judged by the same Lord Jesus Christ at the very moment of their physical death. There is a certain time fixed for each person to have their appointment face to face with Jesus Christ who is God and He is the Judge of all mankind as even He declared with these words, "Even the Father judges no one, for He has given all judgment (the last judgment and the whole business of judging) entirely into the hands of the Son, So that all men may give honor (reverence, homage) to the Son just as they give honor to the Father. [In fact] whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, Who has sent Him. I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, the person whose ears are open to My words [who listens to My message] and believes {and} trusts in {and} clings to {and} relies on Him Who sent Me has (possesses now) eternal life. And he does not come into judgment [does not incur sentence of judgment, will not come under condemnation], but he has already passed over out of death into life. Believe Me when I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, the time is coming and is here now when the dead (spiritually dead as we all are born such) shall hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear it shall live. For even as the Father has life in Himself {and} is self-existent, so He has given to the Son to have life in Himself {and} be self-existent. And He has given Him authority {and} granted Him power to execute (exercise, practice) judgment because He is a Son of man [very man]." (John 5:22-27) (Amplified Bible).

As for these Thessalonian believers and we believers today and of every generation and era, we have not been appointed for God's Wrath, but we have 'obtained' salvation by the sacrifice of our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ who took our sin upon Himself and God the Father's Wrath for our sins was taken and placed on Him. The little English word 'obtain' Paul uses here expressing how these Thessalonian sinners became believers in Jesus Christ is translated by the Greek word peripoiesis meaning acquisition (the act or the thing); by extension preservation: - obtaining, saving. In other words, the Gospel is the calling to all humanity to flee from the wrath to come to the Cross of Jesus Christ for preservation and saving being protected from the danger of God's wrath against sin. Note: "The fact of God’s 'appointment' of His grace 'through Jesus Christ' (Ephesians 1:5), takes away the notion of our being able to 'acquire' salvation of ourselves. Christ 'acquired (so the Greek for 'purchased') the Church (and its salvation) with His own blood' (Acts 20:28); each member is said to be appointed by God to the 'acquiring of salvation.' In the primary sense, God does the work; in the secondary sense, man does it." (JFB Commentary) Christ Jesus is the sacrifice and perfect substitute for our sin before the Throne of God the Father and it is His Blood that covers and hides our sin from the Father's view as He sees His Perfect and Holy Son Jesus Christ when He looks upon me His adopted son and all of His other adopted sons and daughters including these new believers in the city of Thessalonica as Paul declares to them and to us with these words, "Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him." (1 Thessalonians 5:10) (KJV).

Christ death was an atoning sacrifice which simply means to make up for, compensate or make reparation for our wrongdoing or causing offence before God the Father's eyes as declared by these words of the Prophet Habakkuk, "You are of purer eyes than to behold evil and can not look [inactively] upon injustice." (Habakkuk 1:13) (Amplified Bible), so instead of seeing our sins that we from time to time commit in word, thought, or deed, He sees the atoning Blood of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ that covers and hides all my sin from my Heavenly Father's sight or view (Hallelujah follows this truth)! With such a wonderful truth as this, Paul now encourages and exhorts these Thessalonian believers to continue more and more doing this, "Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do." (1 Thessalonians 5:11) (KJV). The English word 'comfort' is translated by the Greek word parakaleo meaning to call near, that is, invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation): The English word 'edify' is translated by the Greek word oikodomeo meaning to confirm or affirm and embolden or give encouragement to one another building one another up in their faith in Jesus Christ. In other words, because these Thessalonian believers and we believers today and of every generation and era are not appointed for God the Father's wrath on human sin, but we have obtained salvation or deliverance from God the Father's wrath on sin through the sacrifice and atonement made by our Lord Jesus Christ on Calvary and now our sins are covered by His Blood, these Thessalonian believers and we believers today and at all times should only build one another up in our most holy faith as we await and look for the [fulfillment, the realization of our] blessed hope, even the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed One). Amen!

"Our salvation therefore is owing to, and our hopes of it are grounded on, Christ's atonement as well as God's appointment: and, as we should think on God's gracious design and purpose, so also on Christ's death and sufferings, for this end, that whether we wake or sleep (whether we live or die, for death is but a sleep to believers, as the Apostles had before intimated) we should live together with Christ live in union and in glory with Him forever. And, as it is the salvation that Christians hope for to be forever with the Lord, so one foundation of their hope is their union with Him. And if they are united with Christ, and live in Him, and live to Him, here, the sleep of death will be no prejudice to the spiritual life, much less to the life of glory hereafter. On the contrary, Christ died for us, that, living and dying, we might be His; that we might live to Him while we are here, and live with Him when we go hence." 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, October 4, 2017

Paul's Exhortations to the Thessalonian Church Volume 31

Paul Reminds them How Christ 2nd Coming will Occur Part 4

1 Thessalonians 5:6-8 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. KJV

Paul now draws a conclusion based on the fact, the reality that these believers in Thessalonica and we believers today and of every generation and era are not any longer in darkness (Colossians 1:13-14), then they/we should not 'sleep', as he declares with these words, "Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober." (1 Thessalonians 5:6) (KJV). That is, spiritually sleep or be unaware or unalert to the constant threat or source of danger they/we are under from our enemy the devil, but instead they/we must be aware just as the Apostle Peter informed us to be with these words, "Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant {and} cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon {and} devour. Withstand him; be firm in faith [against his onset--rooted, established, strong, immovable, and determined], knowing that the same (identical) sufferings are appointed to your brotherhood (the whole body of Christians) throughout the world." (1 Peter 5:8-9) (Amplified Bible).

The little English phrase 'let us watch' is translated by one Greek word gregoreuo meaning to keep awake, that is, watch (literally or figuratively): - be vigilant, wake, (be) watch (-ful). The English word 'sober' is translated by the Greek word nepho meaning (figuratively) be discreet: - be sober, watch. In other words, just like the individual person or the business corporation watches carefully and attentively looking out for danger or dangerous people or groups of people intent on stealing their hard earned property and resources, so must these Thessalonian believers and we believers today be more watchful spiritually of the devils wiles or trickery intent on deceiving us into ruin spiritually, not that he can cause us to lose our salvation in our Lord, Master, and Savior Jesus Christ, but he can steal away the joy of our salvation and cause us to cry out like King David did with these words when he wrote, "Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and uphold me with a willing spirit." (Psalm 51:12) (Amplified Bible).

Therefore, Paul warns them/us again that our responsibility is to watch and not be blinded or blindsided like those who are not even looking for the 2nd Coming of Christ nor do they even believe it will ever occur, for these people are as Paul describes to them/us with these words, "For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night." (1 Thessalonians 5:7) (KJV). In other words, those who are not true believers (they that sleep) live their lives as if there will never be a coming judgement to the earth of human sin and human sinners, some are atheist, some are agnostic, but most are just neglectful, negligent, and nonchalant going about there lives just as others before them have done not realizing that they are all ready under God's Judgement from the moment of conception and birth into this sinful world because of inheriting sin from their father Adam the first man who sinned and passed down sin to all men (as we declared in the previous study/commentary Romans 5:12).

The Apostle Paul wants to wake up these believers spiritually that they might fully understand what the spiritually sleep do not understand and guard themeselves/ourselves accordingly, so he now says, "But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation." (1 Thessalonians 5:8) (KJV). The English word 'breastplate' used here by the Apostle Paul is translated by the Greek word thorax meaning the chest, that is, (by implication) a corslet: - breastplate. The Apostle Paul during one of his imprisonments was chained to a Roman soldier for 2 years and he had much time to observe these different soldiers who would guard him as they put on their armor and this 'breastplate' was a solid piece of metal that covered up or protected their torso guarding all the vital organs from harm. Therefore, in the spiritual realm, for us our 'breastplate' is not of metal but that of our faith in Jesus Christ as our only Savior from sin and that of His love (agape) for us, to us, and in us from Him that protects us from the fiery spiritual darts of the wicked one the devil that are constantly shot at us all day each and every day.

The little English phrase 'for an helmet' is translated by one Greek word perikephalaia meaning encirclement of the head, that is, a helmet: - helmet. The second most vital area of the human body that needs to be guarded or protected from attack is the head and likewise in the spiritual realm the mind/soul must be protected from attack and harm by our hope or Greek translation elpis, that is, confident expectation 'of salvation' Greek translation soteria, that is, rescue and safety or deliverence fron sin, darkness, and the devil, just as the Psalmist King David wrote with these words, "The Lord is my Rock, my Fortress, and my Deliverer; my God, my keen {and} firm Strength in Whom I will trust {and} take refuge, my Shield, and the Horn of my salvation, my High Tower." (Psalm 18:2) (Amplified Bible).

"We are not only called to Work, but we are called also to fight; and that we may not be surprised, we must watch; and that we may be in a condition to defend ourselves, we must be sober; and that we may be enabled to conquer, we must be armed: and what the breastplate and helmet are to a soldier’s heart and head, such are faith, love, and hope to us. Faith enables us to endure, as seeing him who is invisible; love excites us to diligence and activity, and makes us bear our troubles and difficulties pleasantly; hope helps us to anticipate the great end, the glory that shall be revealed, and which we know we shall in due time obtain, if we faint not." Adam Clarke

"The breastplate, like some of the ancient hauberks, made of steel and gold, is framed and forged out of faith and love blended together, and faith and love are more closely identified in fact than faith and hope, or than love and hope. For faith and love have the same object—and are all but contemporaneous. Wherever a man lays hold of Jesus Christ by faith, there cannot but spring up in his heart love to Christ; and there is no love without faith. So that we may almost say that faith and love are but the two throws of the shuttle, the one in the one direction and the other in the other; whereas hope comes somewhat later in a somewhat remoter connection with faith, and has a somewhat different object from these other two. Therefore it is here slightly separated from its sister graces." Alexander MacLaren

"Vigilance is the process of paying close and continuous attention and it does not come to us naturally, but it must be cultivated by way of prayer, reading and studying the Word of God and faithfulness to Christ Jesus our Lord, for it was our Lord Jesus who knew this would be a difficulty for us in this world so he warned us to get us to be persistent and to persevere despite all things as He said with these words, 'But take heed to yourselves {and} be on your guard, lest your hearts be overburdened {and} depressed (weighed down) with the giddiness {and} headache {and} nausea of self-indulgence, drunkenness, and worldly worries {and} cares pertaining to [the business of] this life, and [lest] that day come upon you suddenly like a trap {or} a noose' (Luke 21:34) (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…