His Word Today

¹³ As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good. ¹⁴ If anyone does not obey what we say in this letter, take note of that person, and have nothing to do with him, that he may be ashamed. ¹⁵ Do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.” (2 Thessalonians 3:13–15 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul, Silas and Timothy brought their second letter to the Thessalonian believers in Christ to a conclusion. Their final comments were not a seemingly disjointed collection of random thoughts. Rather, today’s text directly related to the immediately preceding context of chapter 3:6-12.  

Paul and his companions began with the statement, “As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.” In contrast to those who preferred to be idle and not work, Paul encouraged the faithful brothers in Christ to not grow weary in their work for Christ. To grow weary (ἐγκακήσητε; enkakesete) means to be discouraged, to lose heart, and to give up. Sometimes, much like Asaph in Psalm 73, believers may become disillusioned in their walk of faith in the Lord.

Paul said to not grow weary. He also emphasized believers are not to be discouraged in doing good (καλοποιοῦντες; kalopoiountes). This referred to doing what was right and holy before the Lord and other people. This is the ultimate work and labor God calls believers to perform.

“The hard-working believers were tired of having to support the lazy. They were ready to stop all help to those in need, giving up all charity. Paul reminded them the truly needy still required help and the Thessalonians must not be negligent toward them,” explains Dr. John MacArthur.  

John Calvin states, “Paul admonishes us, that, although there are many that are undeserving, while others abuse our liberality, we must not on this account leave off helping those that need our aid. Here we have a statement worthy of being observed — that however ingratitude, moroseness, pride, arrogance, and other unseemly dispositions on the part of the poor, may have a tendency to annoy us, or to dispirit us, from a feeling of weariness, we must strive, nevertheless, never to leave off aiming at doing good.”

Paul continued by writing, “If anyone does not obey what we say in this letter, take note of that person, and have nothing to do with him, that he may be ashamed.” Paul commanded the church to presently, personally and obediently take note (σημειοῦσθε; semeiousthe) or pay attention to those who were idle and were unwilling to work, even though they were able.

The apostle also stated the church was to no longer associate (συναναμίγνυσθαι; synanamignysthai) and be in the company of such idle individuals. This appears to be overly harsh but absolutely necessary. The reason for this instruction was so the idlers would become ashamed (ἐντραπῇ; entrape) or embarrassed by their behavior.

Often, well-meaning believers seek to assist the idle. They take pity upon them and endeavor to assist them however they can. The idle are more than willing to accept such assistance, and to continue to expect, and be entitled, to it. Consequently, when the idle do not receive what they expect from the church, or para-church ministry, they usually become angry and leave the church, only to find another church of well-meaning believers wherein the process repeats itself.  The Scriptures command believers to break this cycle of perpetuating irresponsibility towards the idle.

Paul cautioned the believing community by writing, “Do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.” The believer’ attitude in such situations is critical.

“Paul is telling us that we are to love excommunicated people, not hate them. The goal of church discipline is to “gain” an errant believer (Matt. 18:15), so restoration must be our goal. The hearts of unrepentant people are not softened by our hating them but by our continuing to reach out in love insofar as it is reasonable and we are able. We are not to interact with excommunicated people in a way that makes them think we view them as believers, but that does not mean we cease to love them,” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.

John Calvin comments, “As to those that the Church marks out by the severity of its censure, Paul admonishes that they should not be utterly cast away, as if they were cut off from all hope of salvation; but endeavors must be used, that they may be brought back to a sound mind.”

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. May the Lord also provide wisdom in such circumstances. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!

¹⁰ For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. ¹¹ For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies. ¹² Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10–12 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul, along with his companions Silas and Timothy, gave the Thessalonian believers in Christ stern commands regarding the importance and responsibility of working. Having a fervent expectation of the Lord’s return (I Thess. 4:13-18; 5: 1-11; 2 Thess. 2:1-12) was no excuse for members of the church to be idle while waiting for the Lord Jesus Christ’s appearance.

Until Christ comes, or we die and go to be with Him, we are to work and serve the Lord; as we can and when we can. Paul emphasized this moral ethic with a succinct statement: “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.”

“Paul does not reveal anything that we do not already know deep down (2 Thess. 3:10). Aesop’s fables and the testimony of many other non-Christian writings bear witness to humanity’s awareness that those who will not work deserve to go hungry. But note again that we are talking about a willful refusal to work, not an inability to work. Scripture is clear that the church must support those who have lawful reasons why they cannot work—widows, orphans, and the severely disabled (Luke 14:12–14; James 1:26–27). To such people, as well as the unemployed who are diligently searching for a job, we must show charity,” states Dr. R. C. Sproul.

I recall a member of the church I pastored who became ill with cancer. She was a single mother of a young child at the time. While in treatment, she was unable to work. Therefore, the church financially supported her and provided for her and her family’s basic needs. When she completed treatments, was cured of cancer, and physically able to return to work, she refused. She wanted to remain unemployed and for the church to continue to meet her financial needs. The church leadership refused her request. Not surprisingly, she and her child left the church.

Shortly thereafter, I received a phone call from a pastor in a neighboring community. The woman and her child began attending the church he pastored and wanted that church to pay her bills. I shared with him our recent experience with this family. He appreciated my candor and thanked me for giving him insight into the situation.

While the reasons for idleness may differ, Scripture is clear. Irresponsible behavior regarding work and employment is no reason for anyone to expect the church to financially support them.

Additionally, Paul faced the situation that those who were busy being idle, were also being busybodies (περιεργαζομένους; periergazomenous). This refers to one who is a present, and actively personal gossip and meddler into other people’s lives (I Tim. 5:11-15).  While not busy working, they are busy meddling.

“It is easy to picture these persons—there were some, not many—laying down their tools, running from one “brother” to another with fantastic stories about Christ’s immediate Return—the “day” had already arrived!—making extravagant claims for the truthfulness of their thrilling tales, returning home without the day’s wages to buy food, then attempting to sponge on others or even on “the benevolence-fund” of the church, and meddling in the affairs of the authorities,” explains Dr. William Hendriksen.^[1]

Paul’s, Silas’ and Timothy’s directive regarding this situation was clear. “Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.”

“The substance of the command and admonition is that by “calmly working for a living” these irregulars shall “eat their own bread.” Instead of gadding about feverishly, running in circles and agitating, spreading excitement and alarm on every side, these people must work calmly (literally “with calmness”). This last expression immediately recalls 1 Thess. 4:11 (“be ambitious to live calmly”); See also 1 Tim. 2:2. If they will obey this commandment and heed this admonition, they will not only be doing themselves a favor, and this both spiritually and materially, but also others. No longer will they be annoying other people. They will be “eating their own bread,” providing their own sustenance,” concludes Dr. Hendriksen..^[2]

There are times when it is appropriate for the church to financially assist an individual and family in need. However, this is never to be done when an individual is able to work but refuses to work. The believing community must never perpetuate irresponsibility and sin.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!

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^[1] William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of I-II Thessalonians, vol. 3, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 203.

^[2] Ibid.

^8 .… nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you. ⁹ It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate.” (2 Thessalonians 3:8–9 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul continued his discourse against Christian idleness, laziness and irresponsibility. In 2 Thessalonians 3:7, Paul cited himself, Silas and Timothy as examples of hard work. In today’s text, he provided a specific illustration.

Paul reminded the Thessalonians how neither he, not his two companions, asked for a meal without paying for it. The three missionaries did not have an entitlement mentality. Unfortunately, some people in ministry expect other believers to not only provide for their needs, but also their wants. No matter how outlandish or extravagant the request, a new private plane for example, the church is expected to not question any such demands. The logical argument is these individuals are doing the Lord’s work and the church should pay for it.

Contrast the entitlement attitude of some in the ministry with Paul’s description of how he, Silas and Timothy worked night and day. This was so they would not be a financial burden to the church. It was not because the church shouldn’t pay them for being in full-time ministry (I Cor. 9:3-7; I Tim. 5:17-18), but rather the three men did not want to impose upon anyone in the church. Rather, they wanted to be examples to imitate.

“Christian theologians often look to the creation account to determine God’s will for humanity. What He commanded before the fall of man remains in force for all people and gives us a basic picture of what human society should look like when it is functioning properly. Among other things, the story of creation in Genesis 1–2 tells us that our Creator made us male and female in His image in order to work. Human beings were created to have dominion over the earth, to work and tend the garden of Eden and extend it around the globe (1:26–28; 2:15). Though difficulties have been introduced into our labor by the fall into sin (3:16–19), lawful work is inherently good, a purpose-granting gift from God whereby we may image Him by working just as He works (see John 5:17),” explains one commentator.

“Christians who are not kept from work by illness or disability and yet refuse to engage in lawful work are saying that the creation ordinance of labor is not the good gift of the Lord. Their actions call into question the benevolence of God in commanding us to work, and they upset the natural order of things. Importantly, one does not even need to know the Scriptures to understand that it is wrong for able-bodied people to live lives of idleness, for creation itself testifies that we should support ourselves through our labor.”

Colossians 3:23–24 (ESV) says, “²³ Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, ²⁴ knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”

“Christians are to be kind and compassionate, helping those who are truly in need. At the same time, the church is no place of charity for the idle. We must seek to wisely assist those who cannot support themselves, especially fellow church members, but we cannot be enablers of those who can work but do not want to do so. As we give of our time and money to help others, let us seek to do so wisely, helping only those who are truly in need,” states Dr. R. C. Sproul.  

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!

⁶ Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. ⁷ For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you,” (2 Thessalonians 3:6-7 (ESV)

My father was blue collar worker throughout his life. He labored in factories and was a truck driver. He worked a physically demanding job and rarely missed a day of work.

When he was home, he tirelessly toiled around the house making sure the grass was cut, the shrubs were trimmed, the flowers were neatly arranged and the vegetable garden was weeded. I assumed the task of weeding the garden along with mowing and trimming the lawn, and as I got older. He also periodically painted, inside and outside, the house he and my mom purchased when I was a newborn. His car, either a Ford or Mercury, was always washed and clean. In other words, my dad was not a lazy man.

Unconsciously, I embraced these values. When I began working at a restaurant at the age of sixteen, I worked the way my dad worked; hard. I didn’t know any other way. When my co-workers commented about why I worked like I did, I told them its how my dad taught me how to work. It became the ethic I valued throughout my career and pastoral ministry. It was what I shared about my dad when I delivered the eulogy at his funeral.

Puritan Richard Baxter once said, “as never sure to preach again, and as a dying man to dying men.” Living daily in light of eternity gave the Puritans a deep appreciation for living every moment on earth to the fullest for God. “Promise not long life to yourselves,” Baxter advised, “but live as those that are always uncertain of another day.”

For the Puritans, to “redeem the time” (as Baxter put it) meant to order one’s daily life in accordance with godly principles and for maximum effectiveness. One of the Puritans’ favorite epithets was well-ordered,” explains one church historian.

“Their opponents nicknamed them the disciplinarians. The Puritans aspired to be worldly saints—Christians with earth as their sphere of activity and with heaven as their ultimate hope. Baxter exhorted his readers, “Write upon the doors of thy shop and chamber, … This is the time on which my endless life dependeth.” This approach to life resulted in three vintage Puritan traits: the ideal of the God—centered life, the doctrine of calling or vocation, and the conviction that all of life is God’s.”

The Apostle Paul commanded the Thessalonian believers to stay away from an idle brother. “Paul said, “that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness.”

Idleness (ἀτάκτως; ataktos) means to be disorderly, irresponsible and lazy. It refers to anyone, especially a so-called believer in Christ, who refuses to work. It becomes a present, active lifestyle. There are times when an individual cannot work, or does not have the opportunity to work. However, the Christian is never to refuse to work when they can work.

Paul used himself, Silas and Timothy as examples of being hard workers. He encouraged the church to imitate their labor.

“The command which follows is given “in the name of”—that is, on the basis of the authority of and in accordance with the teaching (revelation) of—the Lord Jesus Christ (see on 1 Thess. 1:1). He alone is the Anointed Lord and Savior of the Church, and in that capacity has the right to issue commands,” explains Dr. William Hendriksen.

“The command has to do with individual cases of “disorderly conduct.” The expression “every brother” would seem to indicate that the instances were rather isolated: here one and there one. The congregation as a whole was sound in faith and practice. The “disorderly conduct” probably consisted of such things as:

a. loafing, in view of the conviction that Christ would return any day now;

b. spreading all manner of exciting gossip about Christ’s imminent return (cf. 2:2);

c. asking to be supported by the church (see verse 12: “they eat their own bread,” which implies that this was what they did not want to do); and

d. meddlesomeness, perhaps interfering with the business that properly belonged to the officers (see verse 11: “busybodies”).^[1]

“Much of Paul’s instruction regarding idleness in 2 Thessalonians overlaps with 1 Thessalonians 4:11–12 and 5:14, but some new points are made. Paul exhorts us to “keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness” (2 Thess. 3:6). Obviously, the Apostle does not mean that we cease fellowship with a professing Christian the first time he evidences laziness; rather, the church must discipline the able-bodied who persistently refuse to work even when they can find employment. Paul also points to his own work as a tentmaker as he did in 1 Thessalonians 2:9 (see Acts 18:1–3), but he adds that his labor is an example that must be imitated (2 Thess. 3:9). If Christ’s Apostles worked diligently in lawful employment, surely we must do the same if we are able”, states Dr. R. C. Sproul.

There are many legitimate reasons why people cannot work. It may be because of illness, disability, or other circumstances beyond their control. Perhaps it is because they cannot find employment even though they are trying. However, for the able-bodied who refuse to support themselves even when they can find work, these are they who are not living according to Christ’s command. Let us resolve to not a part of this people group. See Deuteronomy 24:14-15; Proverbs 18:9; 19:15; 26:13-16; 3 John 1:3-5.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!

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^[1] William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of I-II Thessalonians, vol. 3, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 199.

Our study from Scripture concerns the subject of holiness. This week, the focus begins to center on I Peter 1:13-16 and God’s call for His children to be holy as He is holy.

¹³ Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. ¹⁴ As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, ¹⁵ but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, ¹⁶ since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:13–16 (ESV)

The word “therefore” (διό; dio) means “for this reason.” It is a conclusion. Peter drew a deduction from what he has previously written in 1:1-12.

First, Peter instructed Christians are to acknowledge their identity in Christ. “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, ² according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you.” (1 Peter 1:1–2 (ESV)

Second, believers must remember their conversion in Christ. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴ to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, ⁵ who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Peter 1:3–5 (ESV)

Third, Christians must understand their present life in Christ. ⁶ In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, ⁷ so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:6–7 (ESV)

Finally, believers are to be confident in their hope in Christ. “⁸ Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, ⁹ obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” (1 Peter 1:8–9 (ESV)

In light of these four observations, Peter expressed the practical application for holiness to be the focus in our walk with Christ and our identity in Christ.  He stressed the importance of the believer’s mindset.

“Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded.” Preparing (ἀναζωσάμενοι; anazonnymi) is an aorist, middle, plural participle. It means to literally “gird up.” When first century warriors went into battle, they would hike up their loose robes or tunics above their knees and secure them with a belt. This prevented them from tripping when running or other activities. See Luke 12:35; 15:20. This action prepared the warrior for battle or work. Likewise, the believer is to prepare or “gird up” their minds (ὀσφύας; osphyas). This is metaphorically translated loins or waist.

What is the purpose for this mindset. It is for action (διανοίας; dianoias). It means to have a purposeful thought process to see God work and to be responsive to the Lord with immediate obedience (Ex. 12:11; Job 38:1-3; 40:1-7; Jer. 1:17).  

“Such spiritual alertness is appropriate to life in a New Covenant age characterized by God’s powerful working in people’s hearts,” explains Dr. Wayne Grudem.

Accompanying this thought, is the phrase “being sober-minded” (νήφοντες; nephontes). This is a present, active, plural participle. It refers to self-control, sobriety, and circumspection. It means to not be mentally intoxicated but rather to be mentally alert. We must not let our minds, or thinking, wander.

God calls us to be sober-minded. This means to be self-controlled and restrained in our behavior. We are called to not have irrational thoughts, but rather minds guided by the Spirit of God through the Word of God. This is so God will help us to progress in the grace relationship He has established with us, which ultimately will be fulfilled and completed when Jesus Christ returns to earth in His power and glory.

“Peter uses the same word in I Peter 4:7 and 5:8 to encourage spiritual alertness for prayer and for resisting the devil. He knows how easily Christians can lose their spiritual concentration through ‘mental intoxication’ with the things of the world (Mark 4:19; Col. 2:1-3; I John 2:15-17). We today might well consider the dangers presented by such inherently good things as career, possessions, recreation, reputation, friendships, scholarship or authority,” comments Dr. Grudem.

What is the ultimate purpose in having such a mindset? Peter answered the question in the remaining portion of 1:13. It is so believers will “set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

To set your hope (ἐλπίσατε; elpisate) is an aorist, active, plural and imperative verb. It means to be supremely confident in the Lord and His precious promises. Believers are to set their confidence fully (τελείως; teleios) or completely on the grace (χάριν; charin) or unmerited favor of God. This favor will be climatically brought (φερομένην; pheromenen) to believers at the revelation (ἀποκαλύψει; apokalypsei) or manifestation of the Lord Jesus Christ.

In light of all Peter has stated the believer is and possesses in Christ, while even in the midst of suffering, he called believers to prepare their minds for action. Peter used three words which essentially have the same meaning. Believers are to get their minds ready for action. In other words, we are to understand what Peter said into our thinking. We are to prepare ourselves for learning.

God wants His children to understand and apply what He has revealed to them in His Word. Following Christ is not about fun, games and frivolity. The Christian life is about living for the glory of God and being holy in everything we do. This was a serious concern for the Apostle Peter and should be for all believers in Christ. Each day we have the opportunity to prepare ourselves for action in progressing in the covenant relationship we have with God in Christ. This means to become more holy today than we were yesterday and to be more holy tomorrow than we are today. We are to take this seriously because holiness is serious business with God. Press on, beloved.

Soli deo Gloria!

“May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 (ESV)

The following is an excerpt from Pastor Charles H. Spurgeon. Spurgeon preached this text on June 17, 1888 at the Metropolitan Tabernacle. He entitled his message The Love of God and the Patience of Christ.

The second part of the prayer upon which we shall have to dwell is, “The Lord direct your hearts into the patience of Christ.” Now, beloved, I have another great sea before me, and who am I that I should act as your convoy over this main ocean? Here I am lost. I cannot take my bearings. I am a lone speck upon the infinite. I will imitate the wise apostle, and pray, “The Lord direct your hearts into the patience of Christ.

What a patience that was which Jesus exhibited for us in our redemption! To come from heaven to earth, to dwell in poverty and neglect, and find no room even in the inn! Admire the patience of Bethlehem. To hold His tongue for thirty years—who shall estimate the wonderful patience of Nazareth and the carpenter’s shop! When He spoke, to be despised and rejected of men, what patience for Him whom Cherubim obey!

Oh, the patience of the Christ to be tempted of the devil! One can hardly tell what patience Christ must have had to let the devil come within ten thousand miles of him, for He was able to keep him far down in the abyss below His feet. There is not much in a patience which cannot help itself, but you well know that all the while Christ could have conquered all foes, chased away all suffering, and kept off all temptation, but for our sakes, as Captain of our salvation, that He might be made perfect through suffering,  

His patience had its perfect work, right on to Gethsemane. Do you need that I tell you this? Golgotha, with all its woes, its “lama Sabacthani,” its abysmal griefs, do I need remind you of the patience of Christ for us when the Lord laid on Him the iniquity of us all? Patient as a lamb, He opened not His mouth but stood in omnipotence of patience, all-sufficient to endure.

You have heard of the patience of Job, but you have need to enter into the patience of Jesus. Oh, the patience within Christ Himself! God never seems so like a God as when He divinely rules Himself. I can understand His shaking earth and heaven with His word, but that He should possess His own soul in patience is far more incomprehensible. Marvel that omnipotent love should restrain omnipotence itself.

In the life and death of our Lord Jesus we see almighty patience. He was very sensitive— very sensitive of sin, very sensitive of unkindness, and yet with all that sensitiveness He showed no petulance, but bore Himself in all the calm grandeur of Godhead. He was not quick to resent an ill, but He was patient to the uttermost. As I have said before, there went with His sensitiveness the power at any time to avenge Himself and deliver Himself, but He would not use it.

Legions of angels would have been glad to come to His rescue, but He bowed alone in the garden, and gave Himself up to the betrayer without a word. And all the while He was most tender and graciously considerate of everybody but Himself. He spoke burning words sometimes; His mouth could be like the red lips of a volcano as He poured out the burning lava of denunciation upon “scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites.” But the resentment was never aroused by any injury done to Himself. When He looked that way it was always gentleness; He cried, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Oh, the wondrous patience of heaven’s own Christ!

Now, beloved, what is wanted is that we be directed into this patience of Christ. The choicest saints in different ages of the world have studied most the passion of our Lord, and although nowadays we hear from the wise men that it is sensuous to talk about the cross and the five wounds, and so forth, for my part I feel that no contemplation ever does me so much real benefit as that which brings me very near my bleeding Lord. The cross for me! The cross for me!

Here is doctrine humbling, softening, melting, elevating, sanctifying. Here is truth that is of heaven, and yet comes down to earth; love that lifts me away from earth even to the seventh heaven. Have you ever read the words of holy Bernard, when his soul was all on fire with love of that dear name of which he so sweetly sang—

“Jesus the very thought of You,  With sweetness fills my breast”?

Why, Bernard is poet, philosopher, and divine, and yet a child in love.

Have you studied Rutherford’s letters and the wondrous things which he says about his own dear Lord? For an hour at glory’s gate commend me to heavenly Master Rutherford. Have you never held fellowship with George Herbert, that saintly songster? Hear him as he cries—

“How sweetly does my Master sound! My Master!                           As ambergris leaves a rich scent                                                                                   Unto the taster,                                                                                                                    So do these words a sweet content,                                                                               An oriental fragrance, my Master!”

O friends, I can wish you no greater blessing than to be directed into these two things—the love of God, and the patience of your Savior. Enter both at the same time. You cannot divide them; why should you? The love of God shines best in the patience of the Savior, and what is the patience of Christ but the love of the Father? “What God has joined together, let no man put asunder.” May the Lord lead us into both of them at this hour, and continue upon us the heavenly process all the rest of our lives, in all experiences of sorrow and of rapture, and in all moods and growths of our spirit!

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!

“May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 (ESV)

The following is an excerpt from Pastor Charles H. Spurgeon. Spurgeon preached this text on June 17, 1888 at the Metropolitan Tabernacle. He entitled his message The Love of God and the Patience of Christ.

“Having turned the text over many times, I thought that we might be able to gather up a considerable amount of its real meaning if we thought of it thus; first, here are two precious things for us to enter into—the love of God and the patience of Christ, and, secondly, here are two eminent virtues to be acquired by us; the love of God, that is, love to God, and the patience of Christ—the patient waiting for Christ”.

“To begin, then, here are TWO PRECIOUS THINGS FOR US TO ENTER INTO. We cannot enter into them except as the Lord directs our hearts. There is a straight entrance into them, but we do not readily find it. It needs the Holy Spirit to direct our feet along the narrow way which leads to this great blessedness.”

“The first precious thing which we are to enter is the love of God. Beloved, we know the love of God in various ways. Many know it by having heard of it, even as a blind man may thus know the charms of an Alpine landscape. Poor knowledge this! Others of us have tasted of the love of God, have talked about the love of God, have prayed, and have sung concerning the love of God. All very well, but Paul meant a dove of a brighter feather. To be directed into the love of God is quite another thing from all that we can be told of it.”

“A fair garden is before us. We look over the wall, and are even allowed to stand at the door, while one hands out to us baskets of golden apples. This is very delightful. Who would not be glad to come so near as this to the garden of heavenly delights? Yet it is something more to be shown the door, to have the latch lifted, to see the gateway opened, and to be gently directed into the Paradise Sermon #2028 The Love of God and the Patience of Christ Volume 34 Tell someone how much you love Jesus Christ. 3 3 of God. This is what is wanted—that we may be directed into the love of God. Oh, that we may feel something of it while we meditate upon it!”

“This love we ought to know, and if the Lord will lead us into it, we shall know, that it is omnipresent. I mean by this, that whatever condition we may be in, the Lord is still active in love towards us. An omnipresent God means omnipresent love, and omnipotence goes hand-in-hand with omnipresence. The Lord will show Himself strong on the behalf of them that trust Him. His love, which never fails, is attended by a power that faints not, nor is weary. Oh, may the Lord lead you into such love as this! May the Holy Spirit lead you into the innermost secret of this joy of joys, this bliss unspeakable!”

“I would also wish that you may be directed into the love of God as to its entire agreement with His justice, His holiness, His spotless purity. I firmly believe that God loves sinners, but I am equally sure that He hates sin. I do believe that He delights in mercy, but I am equally clear that He never dishonors His justice, nor frustrates the sternest threat of His law. It is our joy that a holy God loves us, and does not find it needful to stain His holiness to save the unclean. We are loved by one so just, so righteous, that He could not pardon us without atonement.”

“I have thus spoken a little upon a vast theme. I fear it will seem to you mere surface-work, and yet I pray that it may lead you to deep knowledge of divine things, so that you may apprehend God’s love as yours, and then may feel the power, the unction, the savor, which come out of His love, making all your heart as sweet and aromatic as a chamber in which a box of precious ointment has been broken. Oh, that Sermon #2028 The Love of God and the Patience of Christ Volume 34 Tell someone how much you love Jesus Christ. 5 5 you might be led into the innermost secret of the Lord’s love till it shall saturate you, influence you, take possession of you, and carry you right away! The Lord direct you into the love of God.”

More to come. May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!

“May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul, along with Silas and Timothy, were many things and were involved in many tasks. They were missionaries, evangelists, church planters, and apologists for the Gospel. They were also pastors. They fed, led, and protected the various churches the Lord established through their efforts. The trio did not consider believers in Christ, or the unconverted, as a means to the end of ministerial self-glorification or pawns for self-promotion.

They embodied the spirit of Micah 6:8: “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”  

They also fulfilled the pastoral characteristics found in I Peter 5:1-3: “ So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: ² shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; ³ not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.”

Therefore, it should be no surprise the Holy Spirit would direct Paul to write today’s text. Therein is the key word: direct. Direct (κατευθύναι; kateuthyno) is an aorist, active, optative verb. This is an action to occur at a particular and decisive moment in the future. It is a wish. Paul wanted the Lord to guide, lead and literally make straight the Thessalonian believer’s hearts. It was another prayer by a shepherd for the sheep.  

The noun hearts (καρδίας; kardias) καρδίας) refers to an individual’s inner self. It is their mind, emotions and will. In other words, their soul. Paul wished the Lord would guide the believer’s soul toward a two-fold destination. These were not worldly objectives, such as the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes or the pride of life (I John 2:15-17). Rather, they were the goals of love and steadfastness.

The phrase the love of God (ἀγάπην θεοῦ; agapen theou) is the self-sacrificial concern sourced in the will and which is sourced and possessed from God the Father alone. The phrase steadfastness of Christ (ὑπομονὴν Χριστοῦ) refers to the endurance sourced and possessed by God the Son; the Lord Jesus Christ alone.

Paul wished the Thessalonians would be captivated and guided by God the Father’s love, and the steadfastness of Jesus Christ, for them. The apostle did not want these believers to lose the awe and wonder of God’s love and endurance on their behalf. It is an awe and wonder Paul, among others, never lost.

“But although the missionaries have full confidence in the readers, they realize, nevertheless, that it is only with the help of the Lord that men will be disposed to keep the commandments. Hence, the pendulum swings back once more from the human to the divine,” states Dr. William Hendriksen.^[1]

“When the love which God has for the Thessalonians and which he is constantly showing to them becomes the motivating force in their lives and when the endurance exercised by Christ in the midst of a hostile world becomes their example, then they will do and will continue to do whatever God through his servants demands of them.” ^[2]

“Both “of God” and “of Christ” are to be considered subjective genitives. Not “their love for God” but “God’s love for them” is what is meant. That is regular Pauline usage (see Rom. 5:5, 8; 8:39; 2 Cor. 13:14; cf. Eph. 2:4). This is “the love of God which has been shed abroad in our hearts.” It is “his own love toward us.” It is “the love of God in Christ from which nothing shall be able to separate us.” It is “his great love with which he loved us,” concludes Dr. Hendriksen.^[3]

Are you so captivated and directed by the love of God the Father and the endurance and faithfulness of the Lord Jesus Christ? May this be our goal to never lose the glory, awe and wonder of our great heavenly Father and our wonderful Savior Jesus. May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!

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^[1] William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of I-II Thessalonians, vol. 3, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 197.

^[2] Ibid

^[3] Ibid

“And we have confidence in the Lord about you, that you are doing and will do the things that we command.” (2 Thessalonians 3:4 (ESV)

The secular worldview elevates self-confidence to the superlative. Without a faith in the One, True and the Lord Jesus Christ, self-confidence is all it has. As one popular recording artist once said, “To love yourself is the greatest love of all.” Consider the following, random quotations.

“It is confidence in our bodies, minds and spirits that allows us to keep looking for new adventures.” – Oprah Winfrey

“Self-confidence is the best outfit: Rock it, Own it.” – Anonymous

“Confidence is most beautiful thing you can possess.” – Sabrina Carpenter

“I was always looking outside myself for strength and confidence but it comes from within. It is there all the time.” – Anna Freud

According to Webster’s Dictionary, confidence is “a feeling or consciousness of one’s powers or of reliance on one’s circumstances.” It is “faith or belief that one will act in a right, proper, or effective way.”

The Scriptures portray an individual’s confidence to be centered in the Lord. “Confidence, in a biblical context, refers to a firm trust or belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something. It is often associated with faith and assurance, particularly in God and His promises. Confidence is not merely self-assurance but is deeply rooted in the character and faithfulness of God,” explains one commentator.

In the Old Testament, confidence is frequently linked to trust in God rather than in human strength or wisdom. Proverbs 3:26 states, “For the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught.”  Likewise, Psalm 118:8-9 says, “It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.”

In the New Testament, confidence is often associated with faith in Jesus Christ and one’s assurance of salvation. Hebrews 10:35-36 says, “So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward. You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.”

The Apostle Paul frequently spoke of confidence in Christ. Philippians 1:6 says, “being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” This confidence is not self-centered but is grounded on the faithfulness of God.

In today’s text, Paul, Silas and Timothy expressed confidence (πεποίθαμεν; pepoithomen).  This refers to their continual and active persuasion and conviction, in the Lord Jesus Christ, about the persevering faith of the Thessalonian believers. The missionary trio was confidence these believers would do, presently and in the future, the will of God.

“Apart from “the Lord” (that is, Jesus Christ; see 1 Thess. 1:1) confidence in the readers and in their future conduct would have lacked a firm basis. One never knows what mere men are going to do. But by virtue of union with the Lord (for that is the meaning of “in the Lord”) the confidence which Paul has is well-founded, for the Lord perfects that which he has begun (cf. Gal. 5:10; Phil. 1:6). By means of obedience to the commandments (cf. 1 Thess. 4:11)—those issued before and also those which Paul is about to issue (in verses 6–15)—spiritual strengthening and protection is and will be attained. The readers are doing and are going to do what they are told to do,” explains Dr. William Hendriksen..^[1]

Verse 4 does not begin a new section. It is very closely related to the preceding verse, as we have shown. It also prepares for the things that immediately follow. It shows delicate, admirable tact. The commandment will not sound nearly as harsh when those who issue it (principally Paul, but also Silas and Timothy) are kind enough to preface it by saying, “We have confidence … that what we command, you are doing and will continue to do.” Verse 4 is therefore a window through which we can look into the wise, kind, and considerate soul of Paul.^[2]

Where is your confidence? Is it in yourself or some self-help motivational speaker? For the believer in Christ, our confidence must be rooted and grounded in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!

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^[1] William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of I-II Thessalonians, vol. 3, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 196–197.

^[2] Ibid.

^” But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” (2 Thessalonians 3:3 (ESV)

In contrast to the faithlessness of the unconverted (2 Thess. 3:2), The One, True Lord of heaven and earth is faithful. Faithfulness is one of God’s most familiar attributes. As previously noted, it is a predominant attribute of God throughout the Old and New Testaments. Faithfulness is God being trustworthy, dependable, committed and honorable, or worthy of worship.

It is because the LORD is faithful, believers in Christ can be confident of His consistent presence and purpose. Additionally, in the latter portion of today’s text there are two precious promises the Apostle Paul communicated to the Thessalonian church. On the basis of His faithfulness, God will not only establish believers but He will also guard them from the evil one.

To establish (στηρίξει; sterixei) is a future, active, indicative verb. It means to strengthen and make firm or steadfast. This is an activity the LORD promises to actively do regardless of what the future holds. This is because God faithfully sovereign over the future. 

To guard (φυλάξει; phylazei) means to watch over and observe. However, beyond just watching an observing believers the LORD actively protects His children. The Psalms poetically describe the LORD’s protection.

Psalm 3 (ESV) – “¹ O Lord, how many are my foes! Many are rising against me; ² many are saying of my soul, “There is no salvation for him in God.” Selah ³ But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head. ⁴ I cried aloud to the Lord, and he answered me from his holy hill. Selah ⁵ I lay down and slept; I woke again, for the Lord sustained me. ⁶ I will not be afraid of many thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around. ⁷ Arise, O Lord! Save me, O my God! For you strike all my enemies on the cheek; you break the teeth of the wicked. ⁸ Salvation belongs to the Lord; your blessing be on your people! Selah

Psalm 27:1 (ESV) – “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”

Psalm 121 (ESV) – “¹ I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? ² My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. ³ He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. ⁴ Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. ⁵ The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand. ⁶ The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. ⁷ The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. ⁸ The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.”

God’s faithful strength and protection for believers is because of the evil one (πονηροῦ; ponerou). This refers to one who is worthless, wicked, and criminal. This is a title for the Devil.

“Standing firm in the truth would give the Thessalonians a solid basis from which they could pray for the success of the gospel and the deliverance of Paul and his co-laborers from those who did not have faith in the gospel (3:1–2). But as we see in today’s passage, the failure of some to have faith in Christ should not discourage us. The faithlessness of men and women by no means negates the faithfulness of God to His promises and to His people. Paul makes this clear in today’s passage when he reminds us that the Lord will establish us and guard us against the evil one (v. 3),” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.

“Yes, we should pray to be delivered from the evil one (see Matt. 6:13), but we should never think that it is not God’s will to give us such deliverance. The Lord, in fact, delights to rescue us from Satan and his minions. We who trust in Christ alone will all experience ultimate deliverance from the devil, for we will live forever in a renewed creation while our enemy and his followers will suffer forever in the lake of fire (Rev. 20–21). Satan can have no lasting victory over the people of God.”

“One of the most precious truths about the Lord is that even if others are unfaithful, He is always faithful to us. We never need to doubt that He is working out His good purposes for us, and we must cling to this truth especially when we cannot understand what He is doing. In fact, we do not need to understand what He is doing; we need only to know that He is always perfectly faithful,” concludes Dr. Sproul.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. Great is His faithfulness. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!