Christianity gives a second chance. And that’s what sets it apart from other religions. Because life is complicated and we don’t always get things right the first time. So God gives us a spiritual do over through a walk of faith.
Christianity gives a second chance to change your life
If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and follow me.
If you’re headed in the wrong direction and need a course correction, Christianity offers a second chance to turn your life around.
But first you have to recognize the real problem. What the Bible calls sin. Essentially, sin is separation from God. Represented by the natural inclination to follow selfish desires and disobey God’s moral laws. However, Jesus Christ is the remedy when we willingly choose to follow him.
Jesus described it in a conversation with a religious leader named Nicodemus.
Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God. (ESV. John 3:3)
Sound confusing? Nicodemus was certainly confused. Because Jesus was talking about a spiritual rebirth. And that takes place when we confess Jesus as Savior and follow him as Lord.
It doesn’t mean we are suddenly perfect and never sin again. Or the earthly consequences of sin goes away. But it does mean that in God’s eyes, our sin is wiped clean.
Christianity gives a second chance to change your mind
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (ESV, Romans 12:2)
Sin trashes our minds. Fills it with fear, anxiety, loneliness, mental disorders, traumatic memories, and more. Because our adversary, Satan, wants to keep us mentally oppressed. But God renews our minds.
Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand (ESV, Matthew 4:17)
The change begins when we repent. Hold on, it’s not the stereotypical, red faced pastor screaming condemnation and judgement.
The Greek word is mĕtanŏĕō, which means to think differently or reconsider. It’s an act of our will to consciously move in a new direction. The point is, God does not control or manipulate our decisions. We have to want His second chance offer. But He heals the demons in our minds when we turn it over to Him.
Christianity gives a second chance to change your heart
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the Lord search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds. (ESV, Jeremiah 17:9-10)
Well meaning people say we are basically good. And encourage us to follow our hearts. However, Scripture says our hearts are full of sin. And following it leads to eternal death. But through Jesus our hearts are changed when we seek his forgiveness of sin.
That’s when God goes to work.
And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. (ESV, Ezekiel 36:26-27)
The change is not always immediate. But it is dramatic as your character radically transforms into a new person. One with a new perspective, purpose, and sense of hope in a walk of faith.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV, 2 Corinthians 5:17)
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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Three steps to a purpose driven faith. Feeling aimless? Here are three steps in a meaningful direction towards a purpose driven faith.
Three steps to a purpose driven faith. Center your mind on God
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (ESV, Lamentations 3:22-23)
We process thousands of thoughts a day. Problems to solve, tasks to do, ideas to cogitate. And positively directing the flow of this massive, mental herd is challenging due to all the bum steers.
Why? Because the mind is where sinful thoughts begin. But centering our minds on God helps push them out. And the best way to begin is by beginning your day WITH God. Reading his Word and conversing with him through prayer.
Think of it as a reset. An opportunity to lean on God’s mercies and faithfulness. Confess yesterday’s sins and pursue today’s righteousness. To spiritually connect with your heavenly Father and commit your day for His glory.
Although you don’t have to stop there. Throughout the day…
Capture your thoughts
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ. (ESV, 2 Corinthians 10:5)
A serious battle for our minds rages all day long. And Paul uses a military analogy to reinforce the importance of guarding them. Because if Satan controls them, then he controls our actions. Therefore, we must remain alert and diligent.
Redirect your thoughts
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (ESV, Philippians 4:8)
Minds that wander too long among unhealthy daydreams and fantasies beg for trouble. And trying to NOT think about them only assures that we will. So redirect them. Play Christian music. Listen to a Christian podcast. And keep Bible verses on note cards and read them during the day. The point is, be active, not passive on mind management.
Three steps to a purpose driven faith. Love your neighbor
You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself. (ESV, Luke 12:27)
The Greek word for “love” in this verse is agape. It represents God’s unconditional love that He desires from us in return. God wants first place in our lives. And second to that is love for others.
However, Agape love is much different than the romantic, sexually driven idea of love that dominates today’s culture. And is best represented by the Greek word eros, from which comes the word erotic. It emphasizes feelings with a focus on satisfying personal desires.
Agape is an expression of love more than feelings and is demonstrated in practical, action oriented ways. Because rather than inward, it looks outwards on the needs of others. Even our enemies. Jesus illustrated it in his parable of the Good Samaritan. And why is the story so powerful? Because the story hero was a Samaritan–an ethnic group member Jesus’ Jewish audience despised.
Three steps to a purpose driven faith. Serve others.
If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. (ESV, John 13:14-15)
The scene takes place during the Passover meal Jesus ate with his disciples. Commonly called the last supper. Because the next day Jesus was crucified on a Roman cross. And his last act as spiritual leader and Lord was to wash the feet of each disciple.
The God of the universe with legions of angels at his command, humbled himself to wash the dirty, smelly feet of his creation. And a simple instruction that we should follow his example. Sounds simple. Looks easy. But it’s the hardest thing you’ll ever do.
Because putting others first goes against our self-centered, human nature. It means tabling your entitlements. Accepting the seat of lower status. Not just swallowing your pride, but savoring the taste as you chew it.
By contributing to human flourishing you participate in an eternal reality you probably never considered. That while God could easily accomplish this himself, he chooses, instead, to do so through us. Therefore, your own troubles grow less pressing. A sense of gratitude increases. And a profound truth creates a new perspective. Because you are aligned with God’s eternal purpose. And there is no greater purpose than that.
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance of authentic relationships in the church, making disciples, and ministry engagement of church members.
A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance of authentic relationships in the church
V.15 Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.
As Paul concludes his theological teaching he turns his attention to another important matter. Fostering authentic relationships. Because he asks the Colossians to greet the brothers at Laodicea and the house church that meets in the home of Nympha.
Start up churches in first century Christianity often met in homes. Especially since congregations were usually small. But hosting regular meetings in a home is no small thing. Then or now, because it takes much preparation. Perhaps specifically mentioning Nympha in his greeting was a way to affirm her.
Regardless, it reminds us that Christianity is a journey of faith with other believers. And those relationships must be intentionally nurtured and maintained.
A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance in making disciples
V.16 And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea.
Paul’s apostolic teaching was considered authoritative by the early Christians. And his letters were passed around and read among the churches. But rather than let a ministry position inflate his ego, he recognized his own sin, unworthiness, and God’s grace to him. Look at Romans 7:15-20, 1 Timothy 1:15, and 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 for examples.
Nevertheless, Paul recognized his teaching as authoritative because he instructs the Colossians to swap letters with the Laodiceans. Did he know his writing was inspired by the Holy Spirit? It’s unclear if he knew, but we know because 1 Timothy 3:16-17 confirms it.
What happened to the letter to Laodicea? Some scholars speculate it was today’s book of Ephesians and others say the original letter was lost. Regardless, we know our Bible today is God’s complete word and we need not worry about anything missing.
A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance of ministry engagement of church members
V.17 And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.”
We get more background information about Archippus in Paul’s letter to Philemon where he calls him a “fellow soldier.” Philemon hosted a house church and Archippus was part of it. And some scholars suggest, possibly his son. The title “fellow soldier” indicates a ministerial role. Perhaps as a pastor, but more likely a lay leader.
And notice the ministry was “received in the Lord.” In other words, God calls lay leaders into ministry too. Because pastors can’t possibly carry out church ministry by themselves. Of course, that doesn’t mean every church volunteer position requires a special calling. Often, the only qualification is a willing spirit and obedient heart. But when God calls we should respond with obedience.
On a practical note, pastors often prayerfully seek God’s guidance for filling various church leadership roles. And from pastoral experience I can tell you He often brings certain people to mind. So if a staff member approaches you about a particular ministry opportunity in your church, don’t immediately turn it down. It might be God’s way of calling you.
V.18 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.
In the midst of Paul’s concern for the Colossians he asked for their thoughts and prayers on his behalf. He was still in prison, uncertain of the future, and needed prayer support. A good reminder that while pastors often pray faithfully FOR their congregation, they still need prayers from FROM their congregation too.
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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A study of Colossians 4:12-14 affirms the importance of prayer, maturity and assurance in following God’s will, and loyal ministry workers.
A study of Colossians 4:12-14 affirms the importance of prayer
V.12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers…
Paul affirms Epaphras twice in this letter for his dedication to ministry. In 1:7 and again in V.12. Epaphras came to faith under Paul’s influence, then started the Colossian church and ministered in a pastoral role. He visited Paul in prison to express his concern about the false teaching that was negatively impacting the Colossians, and it prompted Paul’s letter to the church.
The Greek word for “struggling” is agōnizŏmai, which means to struggle, labor fervently, contend with an adversary. In other words, Epaphras was emotionally and spiritually invested in the Colossian church. And his prayers reflected the heart of a loving pastor fiercely battling spiritual forces on behalf of his flock.
A study of Colossians 4:12-14 affirms the importance of maturity and assurance in following God’s will.
That you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God.
The Greek word for “mature” is tĕlĕiŏs, which means complete in mental and moral character. Not perfection, as in no sin. But it describes a disciple of Jesus who is growing and maturing in faith. The Greek word for “fully assured” is plērŏphŏrĕō, which means to carry out fully, completely assure, entirely accomplish, most surely believe, and make full proof of.
There’s a progression of thought in the word order–mature, fully assured, and will of God. As you grow in faith as a Christ-follower, you increase in knowledge and trust in God. This in turn, produces a greater sense of assurance in your understanding of God’s will.
However, in western Christianity, we tend to over emphasize God’s unknown will for each believer and ask: What is God’s will for my life? Although here, Paul may be speaking corporately. What was God’s will for the Colossian church?
Certainly, he had in mind the false teaching that was threatening the church. God’s will did not include false teaching in the church about Jesus Christ. But even considering God’s will for a church is limited. Instead, we should first ask, “What is God’s will for the world?”
A study of Colossians 4:12-14 affirms the importance of loyal ministry workers.
V.13 For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas.
The Greek word for “worked” is pŏnŏs, which means to toil, hard labor, and anguish. In other words, Epaphras physically exerted himself to the point of perhaps, painful soreness. Because ministry has a physical component to it too. Programs are planned and organized. Curriculum material prepared. Facilities cleaned and set-up. And it all takes work. Although for Epaphras, it was obviously a labor of love. In addition, Laodicea and Hierapolis were neighboring cities that apparently, also had Christian churches. And Epaphras ministered there as well.
Paul mentions Luke with a tone of affection as the “beloved physician.” And again in Philemon 24 and in 2 Timothy 4:11 as Paul’s only companion. In Acts 27, it appears Luke traveled with Paul on his sea voyage to Rome and likely on other trips as well. We also know Luke was a Gentile who also authored the New Testament books of Luke and Acts.
Paul mentions Demas one more time in 2 Timothy 4:10 as a deserter in the middle of a missionary journey, “because he loved this world.” Indeed, a sad legacy to leave in scripture.
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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Four ways God reveals himself to humanity. If God exists, how does he reveal himself to us? Here are four ways the Bible identifies.
Four ways God reveals himself to humanity. God reveals himself through scripture.
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (ESV, 2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Humans wrote the Bible. But God’s Spirit supernaturally inspired each author to write exactly what He wants us to know. Its absolute truth addresses all matters of life. And it describes how to live in a manner that glorifies God.
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (ESV, Hebrews 4:12)
In addition, scripture is more than ink on paper. God’s words are alive and active. And meant for you to read, meditate on, and saturate into your heart and mind. So, when you engage them in your thoughts and actions, they manifest a life of holiness and righteousness. Not perfectly, but in one that honors God.
Four ways God reveals himself to humanity. God reveals himself through creation
For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. (ESV, Romans 1:19-20)
God’s fingerprints mark all of creation. However, belief is a choice. And you can deny his existence and instead, believe in evolution. But you’ll miss the beauty, majesty, and splendor of an Almighty God. And the sense of wonder his creation inspires. A pageantry beyond our comprehension. And a masterpiece of intelligent design. Or, if you prefer, dumb luck.
But that choice is a life characterized by pride, dominated by sin, and without hope.
Four ways God reveals himself to humanity. God reveals himself through His church
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. (ESV, 1 Corinthians 12:12-13)
Is the church an organization or a building? Neither. It is the body of Christ. A congregation of Christ-followers indwelled and unified by God’s Spirit. And a melting pot of race, culture, language, socioeconomic, and political differences with one thing in common–the desire to love and follow Jesus Christ.
The church gathers to worship, fellowship, and support one another. And when it ministers in Jesus’ name, the church displays God’s love through his people.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. (ESV, Galatians 5:22)
The fruit of the Spirit is visible evidence of God’s presence in the lives of His people. Broken due to sin. But as believers imitate Jesus and honor God through righteous living, it reflects, in a small way, the righteousness of God.
Four ways God reveals himself to humanity. God reveals himself through Jesus Christ
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (ESV 1:1)
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (ESV, John 1:14)
For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily. (ESV, Colossians 2:9)
Who is Jesus Christ? Scripture provides a clear answer. He is the Son of God. Fully human and fully divine. He lived a perfect life. Taught God’s truth. Performed miracles. Died on a cross for our sins, and rose from the grave three days later. And those who believe in and follow him by faith are granted eternal life.
Jesus Christ is God’s complete revelation of himself to humanity. And if you miss this one, probably, nothing else will convince you. But when you recognize Jesus as God, confess him as Lord, and follow him, your life is changed forever.
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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A study of Colossians 4:10-11 reveals the importance of second chances, willing ministry workers, and Christian support.
A study of Colossians 4:10-11 reveals the importance of second chances
V.10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him and Jesus who is called Justus.
Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, appears in Acts 19:29 with Paul in Ephesus, and in Acts 20:4 and 27:2 as one of Paul’s travelling companions. Here Paul calls him a fellow-prisoner indicating he’s also confined with Paul.
The Greek word for “welcome” is dĕchŏmai, which means to accept and receive. But why did Paul ask the Colossians to accept and receive Mark? Perhaps because Mark had abandoned Paul and Barnabas on a previous missionary journey, which earned him a black mark with Paul. And Paul had possibly told others about Mark’s unreliability in ministry. But apparently, Mark had redeemed himself so Paul let the Colossians know Mark was back in his good graces.
Redeeming a Christian brother or sister
Mark was Barnabas’ cousin who caused a rift between Paul and Barnabas recorded in Acts 15:36-41. Barnabas wanted to take Mark on another missionary journey, but Paul objected since Mark abandoned them on the last one. The two men disagreed so they split and went separate ways. Paul took Silas and Mark accompanied Barnabas.
You’d expect Paul to show Mark a little more grace. Especially considering how much he wrote on the subject.
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. (ESV, Galatians 6:1)
Granted. The context in Galatians is about restoring a Christian brother that sinned. But the truth is we all sin, make mistakes, and disappoint others. But we serve a God of second chances. And that’s the whole idea behind Grace. Barnabas seemed to get this. Of course, Mark was also family and that probably helped. Although we don’t know how, somewhere along the way Mark proved himself and Paul’s faith in him as a ministry worker was restored.
A study of Colossians 4:10-11 reveals the importance of willing ministry workers
V.11 These are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God…
“Men of circumcision” is a literal translation of the Greek word pĕritŏmē. It is another way of calling them Jews, which is how the NIV and other Bible versions translate it.
“Fellow workers” is the Greek word sunĕrgŏs, which means a co-laborer, companion in labor, and workfellow. In other words, Paul affirms the positive work ethic of his fellow workers. They rolled up their sleeves and assisted him in his ministry effort.
Today, it’s commonly said that twenty percent of a church congregation does eighty percent of the work and gives eighty percent of the money. The others occupy pew space. And Jesus appears to support the idea when he said, “the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” (ESV, Matthew 9:37)
The church, however, should function like a beehive of ministry where everyone participates. Paul describes it as one body with many parts in 1 Corinthians 12:12-14. We all have gifts and abilities to invest in God’s Kingdom and for His glory. And we experience the highest sense of purpose and fulfillment when we do.
A study of Colossians 4:10-11 reveals the importance of Christian support
And they have been a comfort to me.
“Comfort” is the Greek word parēgŏria, which means consolation, comfort, and an address alongside. The point is discipleship is a lifestyle of serving alongside others for the Kingdom of God. Not just when and where it’s convenient. But sacrificially.
But Jesus also said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” (ESV, Matthew 16:24)
So, discipleship goes beyond donating money, inspirational social media posts, and encouraging words to the pastoral staff. It is a personal and sacrificial investment of time and energy. And working together in ministry as a body of believers.
And sometimes coming alongside another has very little to do with your gifts, abilities, or profound words. But simply the power of your presence. Because your presence as a Christ-follower includes the comforting presence of God’s Spirit.
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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