Saints according to the Bible are not what you think. The hymn, “When The Saints Go Marching In” brings to mind a parade of morally superior people. But the Bible book of Ephesians describes saints another way. Here’s how.
Saints According To The Bible Are Described As Different
From the start, Paul calls his audience “saints.” The Greek word used is hagios which means “to be set apart.”
And Paul uses hagios again in v.4, although this time it’s translated “holy.”
We usually associate saints and holiness with moral virtue in today’s culture. But Paul means something else.
What is it?
Saints According To The Bible Are Described By A Relationship
The Bible consistently discusses what it means to have a relationship with God. In Ephesians 1:5-10, Paul compares it to a family and adoption as sons and daughters of God. The relationship is formed through Jesus Christ who redeems us through his blood.
It’s a radical idea taught only in the Bible. Sainthood is not a superior level of morality or accumulation of good works. But the demonstration of God’s goodness accomplished through Jesus Christ.
And that relationship with Jesus fills saints with the fullness of God.
Saints According To The Bible Are Described As Grace Recipients
Paul elaborates in Ephesians 2:8-10 to clear any confusion. Sainthood is a result of God’s grace. Not something you or I earn or deserve.
But a gift God offers to all who will receive it.
Also described as God’s children, it involves a personal relationship with Jesus for those who respond in faith.
Saints According To The Bible Are Described As Sinners
Most of us admit that no one is perfect. Everyone makes mistakes. However, sin is not a popular word in today’s culture. You often hear people apologize for a mistake. But rarely for sin.
And yet, that is exactly what saints do. Admit they are sinners. Confess their sins to Jesus and seek his forgiveness.
It requires humility. And recognition that sin is more serious than a mistake.
Because mistakes are accidental. Something you didn’t intend. But sin is often intentional and can be quite evil. Paul says we’re all guilty of it. But God forgives you when you ask for it and receive Jesus. That’s when you become a saint.
Saints Strive To Imitate Jesus
Paul goes on to discuss saintly conduct. Which he says should imitate Jesus. But wait. Didn’t we just say you don’t earn or deserve it? Why the sudden interest in moral behavior?”
Simple. To express your gratitude for God’s grace and love for Jesus who sacrificed his life for you.
A life that imitates Jesus is set apart from the culture. Not perfectly, of course, because you still sin.
But perhaps in the view of others, a little more Christ-like. Which is what you joyfully pursue, to the glory of God.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and freelance copywriter. He publishes humorous Christian drama, books and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.
If the Easter story is real then it has an important meaning. One that extends from life on earth into eternity. It is this hope that millions of followers of Jesus live for. Many have died for. And why if the Easter story about a resurrected Savior is real, it should get your attention. Here are three meanings for you to consider.
If The Easter story is real it means God is pursuing you
The Easter story presents a radical idea. One you won’t find in any other religion or spiritual philosophy. That an Almighty God created you and loves you so deeply he came to earth in human form to tell you. Even more, demonstrated that love through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Other world religions and spiritual philosophies require you to pursue or placate a god. Unravel a spiritual mystery, or by your own effort, acquire some form of Godhood. Only in Christianity does God reveal himself, pursue you and declares it in his Word.
So if it’s real, then maybe you should stop running from, or ignoring God. And turn to meet him.
If the Easter story is real it means God has a plan for you
There’s a serious reason God is pursuing you and not waiting for you to reach him. Because you can’t. Scripture says it’s our sin that separates us from God. And only God can solve the problem.
That’s why Jesus came. To sacrifice himself and set us free from sin. It’s God’s eternal plan for you. To experience his freedom, forgiveness and to follow Jesus in a spiritual life of meaning and significance.
But it’s something you must want. Ask for. And receive from Jesus, the resurrected savior.
And when you do he leads you on a new path. Not always easy or pain free. But purposeful, joyful and totally worth it.
If the Easter story is real it means God has a future for you
But it’s not automatic. You must respond to God. Ask for a relationship with Jesus, and follow him. And the journey he leads you on is everlasting. In fact, one of the last things Jesus told his disciples on earth is that he was going ahead to prepare for them.
Because if Jesus was raised from the dead and appeared on earth in a resurrected body, then you can trust his promise that he will resurrect you too.
Easter was the fulfillment of Jesus’ mission. His crowning achievement. And while much of the world has mixed opinions, emotions, and beliefs about the Easter story, followers of Jesus are celebrating.
And why we proclaim with excitement on Easter Sunday: HE HAS RISEN INDEED!
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and freelance copywriter. He publishes humorous Christian drama, books and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.
Biblical righteousness is often misunderstood. Because the negative picture for many people is actually self-righteousness. Someone Jesus regularly condemned. So let’s look at how scripture describes Biblical righteousness.
Biblical righteousness is based on a relationship with God
Both the Old and New Testament called a number of people righteous or just. Who conducted themselves with personal integrity and in a morally ethical manner.
But there was a source they drew from. A standard for their behavior. And that was God and his word. They desired to imitate the perfect righteousness of God. And live in obedience to his law.
You find this expressed in the New Testament Greek word Díkaios, commonly translated righteous or just. Its meaning includes the concept of virtue, but also faithfulness to God’s law.
In other words, Biblical righteousness is not an independent attribute you inherently possess. It is pursuing a right relationship with God by following his commands.
Biblical righteousness is credited to us by Jesus Christ
Swipe now and pay later. That’s how a credit card works. And Biblical righteousness works the same way. Except you and I don’t pay. Jesus did by sacrificing his life. And his life of perfect righteousness is credited to our account when we accept and follow him. Even though we aren’t perfect. Can’t achieve perfection. But should strive for it anyway.
Although, to fully understand Biblical righteousness, you need to understand the opposite concept of unrighteousness. What the Bible calls sin.
We’re all guilty of sin. It separates us from God. And makes living in a right relationship to him challenging. Also why Jesus was the only one perfectly righteous.
Biblical righteousness is less about outward appearance and more about the heart
Virtue signaling is not new. Even in Jesus’ day, people made righteousness a public spectacle. And Jesus called them out on it. Ironically, they were who Jesus most often condemned. And the ones who confessed their sinfulness he regularly praised.
There are two distinguishing components to Biblical righteousness throughout the Bible.
It focuses on pleasing God
It does not draw attention to itself
That’s why the prophet Hosea declares God’s desire for mercy rather than sacrifice. And the apostle Paul describes a race finished in heaven. Jesus also encourages his followers to practice spiritual disciplines in private.
Because God is not impressed by outward appearances. He clearly sees into and measures the condition of our hearts. And is what he cares about the most.
Righteousness is connected to faith
Biblically righteous people look forward to perfect righteousness. Ultimately awarded in heaven. But till then pursued by faith.
Faith is what connects belief and discipleship. And moves you beyond passive acceptance to applying the truth of scripture in daily life.
It’s faith driven by hope. But with confidence and assurance. That your belief is true and worth your commitment.
The book of Hebrews lists several Biblical characters with this kind of faith. And James, the half-brother of Jesus takes it further. He calls faith without actions dead.
So you see? Although Biblical righteousness is an simple choice to make. It’s a hard, narrow path to travel.
Involving belief and faith. Accepting and following Jesus. And walking in a right relationship with God.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and freelance copywriter. He publishes humorous Christian drama, books and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.
A consensus leading to moral truth has formed in America over the war in Ukraine. A unifying agreement that the war is evil. But reaching that consensus demands a moral truth. Here’s why.
A consensus leading to moral truth demands objective reality
A consensus leading to moral truth has formed in America over the war in Ukraine. A unifying agreement that the war is evil. But reaching that consensus demands a moral truth. Here’s why.
You can’t reach a consensus if truth is a moving target. And something subjective that we individually decide for ourselves. Because if that’s the case, then Putin gets his subjective opinion too. And how can we condemn him if he is pursuing his truth?
Therefore, truth demands an objective reality that everyone recognizes and agrees to.
This is where the Bible speaks with authority in a way that is consistent and explains how the world actually works. It clearly defines good and evil. Right and wrong. Justice and injustice.
Ironically, even Putin quoted scripture to rationalize his invasion. Although it was taken completely out of context.
The point is, you can’t move in and out of subjective and objective moral truth to suit an agenda. Because you’ll never find moral consistency. Certainly never reach a moral consensus.
And you’ll always struggle to explain what is hardwired in each of us. The existence of an objective, moral truth that defines right and wrong.
A consensus leading to moral truth demands absolutes
Moral truth must not only be objective, it must be absolute. A fixed, unwavering standard.
This again is where scripture provides a stable foundation. Beginning with the Ten Commandments that provide moral absolutes. But then include further scriptural teachings that tell us how to manage human relationships and live in harmony with one another.
Absolutes create boundaries. So you know when someone has invaded another’s territory. Both physically and morally.
Seems pretty obvious doesn’t it? Russia and Ukraine both have borders that should be mutually respected. And the Russian invasion into Ukraine demonstrates the stark reality of what happens when one does and the other doesn’t.
The same is true with moral boundaries. When you eliminate the ones you don’t like or erratically move them to suit your pleasure, it leads to chaos and moral confusion. Although you may not like or agree with certain absolutes, they are necessary for ordered society. When everyone decides what is right in their own eyes, it creates anarchy. And we’ve tasted a little of that too.
A consensus leading to moral truth demands a truth giver
An evolving truth doesn’t work. By it’s very definition, it keeps evolving into something else. And if you and I are both evolving, and are at different points in our evolution, it’s impossible to put a stake in the ground on truth. Let alone for millions of other evolving people.
And who gets to define this truth? You? Me? Most likely, whoever holds the power. And if we are all, admittedly, imperfect humans, how will there ever be equal law, justice and fairness?
Again, scripture provides an answer. There is an absolute God, who provides absolute truth, and an absolute moral law.
God is unchangeable. So too, is his truth and law.
All of which Putin clearly violated by invading Ukraine. And the whole world agrees. Although we struggle to explain why because we’ve discarded absolutes and lack an adequate workaround answer.
But we know it when we see it. Putin’s invasion is morally wrong. And he is an evil actor. Which is why there is a consensus. And perhaps an unspoken, but at least in this case, a majority agreement on moral truth.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and freelance copywriter. He publishes humorous Christian drama, books and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.
To maintain professional balance requires diligence and intentionality on your part. Here are four principles to help you stay focused on what is important both professionally and personally.
To maintain professional balancebe thankful for the unexpected blessings
The journey of life often includes unexpected turns. These may bring unanticipated blessings. Sometimes in life we think we know what the future holds and then we are surprised. Think children. Your future athlete becomes a musician. Think team member hires. The placeholder in sales turns out to be a gifted networker and influencer. Think lessons from pandemics. Work from home was terrible until you adapted and now you find you have options you had never considered.
To maintain professional balance, say it again even when you think you’ve been clear
When you are communicating with a subordinate or with a team member who is insecure, they will not hear your message the first time – no matter how clear you are. A subordinate is often reading the power relationships within the room and not giving full attention to your words – you’re Charlie Brown’s teacher.
A team member who is insecure is busy interpreting what your words mean for her and will miss the plain meaning of your message. Say it again. And, sometimes, again. You’ve thought about your message. It is clear to you. The words on paper may be unambiguous, but to those who are concerned with who is delivering the message or how the message impacts them, one time will never be enough.
To maintain professional balance,strategic transparency is sufficient
No one who has experienced healthy relationships wants full transparency. This is true in any context – government, marriage, business, friendship. Sure, there are people who say they want full transparency; they demand transparency. If you knew everything the government was doing do you think you would be happier or sleep better at night? Exactly how would that knowledge improve your life?
If you knew every thought that passed through your spouse’s mind, how could that possibly deepen your relationship? If your boss shared every plan for the future, would that make you want to go to work tomorrow? Be glad you don’t know what your friends are saying as they drive away from the party you just hosted. Let’s be strategically transparent and admit that complete access to the minds of others would not enhance community.
Remember things are not the goal
There are numerous studies on the relationship between money and happiness. The gist, as I understand them, is that there is a strong correlation between an increase in money and happiness, but that at some point, further increases in money do not result in significant increases in happiness. This makes sense. Once you are able to pay the bills and don’t feel daily financial vulnerability, you are able to enjoy life without having to make significantly more than you do today.
Money and things provide the context in which we enjoy life. Relationships and experiences are the life we enjoy. Pay your bills. Then invest in living among those you love and sharing your good fortune with others. Remember the words of Jesus, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Be thankful for the happy surprises. Share important messages more than once. Don’t share everything you think. Make sure that money is your servant and not your master. These principles will enhance your relationships and life will be sweeter.
About Julian Consulting
Dr. Stephen Julian is President of Julian Consulting, a firm specializing in team health, effective communication, and leadership development. He has worked with leaders and their teams for nearly 30 years in a variety of settings – including Africa, South and Central America.
Likeable people are the ones you want to be around. And while virtually everyone wants to be liked, it seems many people never consider what makes you likeable.
Our digital interconnectedness keeps growing, along with our anxiety, depression, and loneliness. So, how do you form meaningful and lasting relationships?
Let’s start by making sure we are likeable and then help those we influence do the same. Here are nine helpful behaviors to either practice or avoid. Several of them are from my friend, Dick, a retired executive who said I could share them.
Likeable people are committed listeners
“Reloaders” stop talking long enough to let you speak, but don’t be fooled. They aren’t listening to you. Instead, they are reloading, waiting for your next breath so they can talk again. A big attraction to my wife, Judy, is that she is a great listener. She hears what I say and seeks to understand what I mean.
Likeable people ask genuine questions
Questions are undervalued. You can pump someone for factual information and ask open-ended to draw people out. It relates to listening because as you are share ideas you frame up your next question. In other words, you listen and engage in conversation rather than speak to state your views or correct another person’s views.
Likeable people follow the norm of reciprocity
Conversation is naturally give and take. And we tend to engage with others who match our contributions. I ask about your work. You ask about mine. I share about my family. You share about yours. But over time, deeper and more trusted relationships require less norm of reciprocity in each exchange. Contributions should even out over time, but one conversation may be dominated by a person without the other feeling the relationship is out of balance.
Likeable people are self-deprecating to a point
Confidence is attractive. Arrogance is off-putting. Recognition that you are less than perfect and can laugh at your shortcomings is attractive, but press this too far and people begin to find your apparent insecurity unsettling.
Likeable people are able to laugh
A sense of humor is important, but consider how it pairs with that of others. You love Dumb and Dumber; she loves Annie Hall – these are not the same. Even how you laugh may be important. My boisterous laugh has startled babies and led them to cry. Consider your audience and the setting and know when to rein it in and let it out.
Likeable people draw others out so they have the opportunity to fit in
Some people are quiet. While I know Introverts have many thoughts they don’t need to express, I don’t understand this experientially. When in a group, look to draw out those who are quieter by watching for their reactions – evidence they may want to contribute – or by asking a safe, opening question on the topic you’re discussing. But don’t press. Some people are entirely comfortable listening and not looking for the spotlight.
Likeable people don’t overstay their welcome
Benjamin Franklin is credited with the quip: “Guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days.” When you are first establishing a relationship, start with small doses rather than trying to discuss everything of interest in a single sitting. Know your audience. Be culturally on time and leave before you must be asked. Better to leave the other person wanting more than hoping to avoid you in the future.
Likeable people avoid controversy
Until you know someone, stick to safer topics that draw people together. Even among close friends, there are often conversational paths better left unpursued. In a world that says it values complete transparency, just know that sane people don’t (see last month’s newsletter for more on this topic). The goal is to build relationships not to drive away all but those who entirely agree with you. In my case, I would not even be able to talk with myself since I often don’t agree with everything I say.
Alikeable person doesn’t gossip
Gossip erodes trust. It misrepresents the behaviors, views, and ideas of others. It uses people as objects for our enjoyment. Gossip may be juicy, but the fruit you consume is rotten. Want to be liked? Be likeable. Want to build a work culture people enjoy? Encourage team members to be likeable. Some may need reminders of these nine behaviors to employ or avoid.
About Julian Consulting
Dr. Stephen Julian is President of Julian Consulting, a firm specializing in team health, effective communication, and leadership development. He has worked with leaders and their teams for nearly 30 years in a variety of settings – including Africa, South and Central America.
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