From Gary... The Work that remains

One GREAT TOOL CHEST!!!

http://twistedsifter.com/2013/07/ho-studley-tool-chest/

(Click on the link above or enter the address into your browser)

The Scriptures say...

1 Corinthians 3:12-15 NASB
(12)  Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw,
(13)  each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work.
(14)  If any man's work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward.
(15)  If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

If you have  a few extra moments, please view the video- you will be glad you did!!!  And the Scripture that came to my mind was the Corinthian passage above.  Today would be a good time to reflect upon what you "leave behind" as the work people will remember you for doing.  I hope and pray that it will be worthwhile!!!  And if your work should just happen to involve matters of an eternal nature- HOW BLESSED YOU WILL BE FOR ETERNITY!!!!

From Mark Copeland... Our Duties To Each Other (1 Peter 3:8-12)

                      "THE FIRST EPISTLE OF PETER"

                   Our Duties To Each Other (3:8-12)

INTRODUCTION

1. So far in his epistle, Peter has defined the Christian's duties in 
   various relationships...
   a. Our duty in relation to those of the world - 1Pe 2:11-12
   b. Our duty in relation to governmental authorities - 1Pe 2:13-17
   c. Our duty in a servant-master relationship - 1Pe 2:18-25
   d. Our duty in wife-husband relationships - 1Pe 3:1-7

2. Beginning now in verse 8 of the third chapter, Peter defines our
   duty to each other as brethren in Christ...

[Peter will provide motivation to fulfill our duties to one another in 
verses 10-12, but let's first consider what these duties are...]

I. OUR DUTIES TO EACH OTHER (8-9)

   A. TO "BE OF ONE MIND" (NASV, "harmonious")...
      1. That is, to be united in the same purpose, the same goal
      2. Jesus prayed for this kind of unity in Jn 17:20-21
      3. A church that demonstrated this "oneness of mind" is that of 
         Jerusalem - Ac 4:32
      4. How can we have this "oneness of mind"?
         a. It is attainable only to the extent that we all submit to 
            the will of God
         b. Therefore, we all need to make God's Will our will, His 
            Purpose our purpose
         c. Even as Christ did while on earth - cf. Jn 5:30

   B. TO HAVE "COMPASSION FOR ONE ANOTHER" (NASV, "sympathetic")...
      1. This means to have pity, a feeling of distress toward the ills
         of others
      2. It is that disposition which is moved by the problems of 
         others (like sickness, hardships, etc.)
      3. This is the attitude manifested by Jesus...
         a. During His earthly ministry - Mt 9:35-36
         b. During His heavenly ministry - He 4:15
      4. Such compassion can only come from a tender, loving heart, 
         which may be why Peter goes on to say that we need...

   C. TO "LOVE AS BROTHERS"...
      1. Literally, this means to be "brother lovers"
      2. This attribute is essential, if we are to...
         a. Grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ - 2Pe 1:
            7-8
         b. Convince the world that we are truly disciples of Jesus - 
            Jn 13:35
      3. Are you a "brother lover"?  If not...
         a. You are not a lover of God, either! - 1Jn 4:20
         b. You do not even know God! - 1Jn 4:7-8
      4. Here is one way to know if you are a "brother lover"...
         a. Ask yourself this question:  "Do I even know my brother?"
         b. If you don't, how can you honestly say that you are a 
            "brother lover"?
      
   D. TO "BE TENDERHEARTED" (NASV, "kindhearted")...
      1. It is this kind of heart that is compassionate, capable of 
         loving our brethren
      2. The opposite would be "cold-hearted", where we are insensitive
         to the needs and feelings of others
      3. Even if we start out as "cold-hearted", in Christ Jesus we can
         and must undergo a transformation, in which we develop a 
         "tender heart" - cf. Ep 4:22-24, 31-32; Col 3:8-10,12
      4. Have you considered what kind of heart you have?

   E. TO "BE COURTEOUS" (NASV, "humble in spirit")...
      1. Literally, to be "friendly of mind, kind"
         a. Such courtesy would imply a humility of spirit
         b. For an arrogant or proud spirit does not bother to be 
            courteous
      2. Christians are to imitate their Lord and Savior, and not think
         so highly of themselves that they cannot be kind and courteous
         to others - cf. Php 2:3-5

   F. TO "RETURN BLESSING FOR EVIL"...
      1. When someone (e.g., a brother) does us evil, we are to respond
         with a blessing!
      2. While this may go against "human nature", Peter gives two 
         reasons why we are to react in this way:
         a. We are called to follow the example of Christ - cf. 1Pe 3:9 with 1Pe 2:21-23
         b. That we might receive a blessing from God - cf. Lk 6:35

[These are six duties that we have one toward another.  They are part 
of what constitutes the Christ-like character that we are to develop as
His disciples.

Being saved, then, is not the end of God's plan for us; He would have 
us become like His Son (cf. Ro 8:29).  To motivate us in fulfilling 
these duties, Peter quotes from the 34th Psalm...]

II. MOTIVATION TO FULFILL THESE DUTIES (10-12)

   A. THAT WE MIGHT "LOVE LIFE AND SEE GOOD DAYS"...
      1. Everyone wishes to enjoy life as they experience it from day 
         to day...
         a. But too often, many make their own lives miserable by their
            own self-seeking, self-destructive attitudes
         b. Constantly complaining, contentious, retaliating to evil 
            with evil, they only aggravate the situation
      2. But David in his psalm gives the secret to loving life and 
         seeing good days:
         a. Refrain the tongue from evil, and lips from speaking guile 
            - 1Pe 3:10
            1) I.e., don't engage in slander, backbiting, complaining, 
               lying, murmuring, and grumbling
            2) It doesn't solve difficulties, but only makes them worse
         b. Do good, seek peace and pursue it - 1Pe 3:11
            1) I.e., do the very kind of things mentioned by Peter in 
               1Pe 3:8-9
            2) Only then will your life be pleasant, for the qualities 
               described by Peter...
               a) Make the best out of difficult situations
               b) Make good situations even better!

   B. SO THE LORD WILL BE OPEN TO US - 1Pe 3:12
      1. Only by doing the will of God (as found in 1Pe 3:8-9) can we
         ensure that...
         a. His gracious eyes will watch over us
         b. His ears will be open to our prayers
      2. On the other hand, the Lord's face is against those who do 
         evil, and will not hear their prayers
      3. Indeed, consider the list of abominations found in Pr 6:16-19
         and notice how many are the direct opposite of how we are to 
         be...
         a. We are to be courteous (humble) - but the Lord hates a 
            proud look!
         b. We are to be compassionate - but abusing the innocent is an
            abomination to the Lord!
         c. We are to be tender-hearted - but the Lord hates a cold 
            heart that thinks evil of others!
         d. We are to return good for evil - but those who respond 
            quickly with evil, the Lord abhors!
         e. We are to be of one mind - but if we sow discord by 
            murmuring and complaining, we are abominable in God's 
            sight!

CONCLUSION

1. So if we want the Lord to watch over us, if we want Him to heed our 
   prayers, let us be sure to fulfill our duties to each other as 
   brethren as outlined by Peter in verses 8-9

2. In so doing, we will enjoy life to its fullest, and see many good 
   days during our pilgrimage here on earth!

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Preparing For Persecution (1 Peter 3:13-18)

                      "THE FIRST EPISTLE OF PETER"

                  Preparing For Persecution (3:13-18)

INTRODUCTION

1. Having described the proper conduct of Christians in various
   relationships, Peter now turns more specifically to the subject of
   suffering

2. That the first recipients of this epistle were experiencing or would
   experience persecution is evident from 1:6; 4:12-19; 5:8-10

3. Now, under normal circumstances, what Peter writes in verse 13 is
   the rule...

   "And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what
   is good?"

4. But there are times when Satan will make every effort to bring harm
   to those who try to follow the will of God (remember Job?) - cf.
   1Pe 5:8-9; Re 12:17

5. How, then, should Christians prepare themselves so that they might
   be victorious in overcoming whatever persecution might come their
   way?

[In verses 14-18, we can glean at least five points in "Preparing For
Persecution"...]

I. REMEMBER, YOU ARE BLESSED IF YOU SUFFER FOR CHRIST (3:14,17)

   A. THIS TRUTH IS STRESSED TWICE BY PETER IN THIS EPISTLE...
      1. In our text - 1Pe 3:14
      2. Even more definitively in 1Pe 4:14
         a. Where he adds that the "Spirit of glory and of God rests
            upon you"
         b. Those who suffer for the cause of Christ are fortunate, for
            God is with them

   B. THIS REINFORCES WHAT CHRIST TAUGHT...
      1. That those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake are
         blessed - Mt 5:10-12
      2. In this passage, two reasons are given for such blessedness:
         a. Your reward will be great in heaven
         b. You are in the company of God's prophets of old

   C. CERTAINLY YOU ARE BETTER OFF SUFFERING FOR CHRIST, THAN SUFFERING
      FOR EVIL...
      1. As Peter writes in 1Pe 3:17
      2. Suffering for evil is what WILL happen if we are not willing
         to stand up for Christ
      3. And suffering for Christ is only temporary, but the suffering
         for evil is eternal!

II. SANCTIFY THE LORD IN YOUR HEARTS (3:14-15)

   A. WHAT DOES IS MEAN TO "SANCTIFY THE LORD GOD IN YOUR HEARTS"?
      1. The word "sanctify" means "to set apart"
      2. Thus it means to set the Lord up on the throne of your heart,
         to make Him the Lord and Ruler of your life
         a. Ruling over your own desires
         b. His Will taking precedent over your own will and that of
            others
      3. The NU-Text suggests that it is Christ under consideration

   B. THIS IS THE KEY TO FACING PERSECUTION WITHOUT FEAR OR WITHOUT
      BEING TROUBLED...
      1. For unless we sanctify the Lord in our hearts, we will be
         afraid of what man might do, or be troubled by what he
         threatens
      2. But when we make Christ and God Lord, we will not fear what
         man might do - cf. He 13:5-6

III. ALWAYS BE READY TO GIVE A DEFENSE FOR THE REASON FOR YOUR HOPE
   (3:15)

   A. OBSERVE CAREFULLY WHAT PETER IS NOT SAYING...
      1. He is NOT saying that we need to be ready to give an answer
         for EVERY question on religious matters that someone might ask
      2. As some have used this verse as a proof-text
      3. While we should certainly strive to be able to explain why we
         do what we do in matters of religion, that is not the point
         Peter is making here

   B. INSTEAD, PETER IS SAYING...
      1. To always be ready to give a reason why you have the HOPE you
         do
         a. I.e., to explain the basis of your hope (your strong desire
            and expectation)
         b. This implies that our desire and confidence for the future
            is so strong that it is observable by others
         c. Even in the midst of persecution, we are demonstrating joy
            over the hope we have - cf. 1Pe 1:6,8
      2. To do so in the proper spirit
         a. In the spirit of MEEKNESS
            1) This pertains to our attitude toward men
            2) We should be humble, not arrogant or angry
         b. In the spirit of FEAR
            1) This pertains to our attitude toward God
            2) It should be reverent, not flippant

IV. KEEP YOUR CONSCIENCE CLEAN (3:16)

   A. A REASON TO KEEP YOUR CONSCIENCE CLEAN...
      1. As given by Peter in our text
      2. That this together with your good conduct will likely to cause
         your enemies to be ashamed for mistreating you
      3. If not ashamed in this life, they will certainly be ashamed on
         the day of judgment!

   B. ANOTHER REASON FOR A CLEAN CONSCIENCE...
      1. A guilty conscience will not enable one to face the threat of
         death without fear and trembling
         a. For before we can stand before men without fear...
         b. We need to be able to stand before God without fear
      2. That is impossible without a clear conscience! - cf. 1Jn 3:21

V. REMEMBER THE EXAMPLE OF CHRIST (3:18)

   A. HE SUFFERED FOR OUR SAKES...
      1. That He might bring us to God - 1Pe 3:18; cf. also 2:20-25
      2. So we see that suffering for good can sometimes accomplish
         much good in the long run

   B. WE HAVE BEEN CALLED TO FOLLOW HIS EXAMPLE...
      1. As Peter already indicated in 1Pe 2:21
      2. And which he does again in 1Pe 4:1

CONCLUSION

1. More will be said later in this epistle on the subject of how to
   deal with persecution

2. But in this text, we find five good ways to prepare ourselves...

3. By applying these five principles to our lives...
   a. We will be more useful to the Lord, ready for whatever may come
   b. Even if we are not faced with the prospects of physical
      persecutions in our lifetime, it will help in times of social or
      verbal persecution

In this lesson, we noticed the value of having a good conscience; in
1Pe 3:21, Peter speaks of that which he calls "the answer of of good
conscience toward God" (i.e., baptism).  Have you considered what else
he says about it in that passage...?

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Peter's Perplexing Passage (3:18-20)

                      "THE FIRST EPISTLE OF PETER"

                  Peter's Perplexing Passage (3:18-20)

INTRODUCTION

1. In 2Pe 3:15-16, Peter mentions that Paul wrote some things that
   were hard to understand

2. The same could be said about some of Peter's own writings,
   especially the passage in 1Pe 3:18-20

3. Considered by some to be one of the most difficult passages in the
   Bible, various and sometimes fanciful interpretations have been
   given

4. In a lesson designed to inform rather than exhort...
   a. We shall examine several of the interpretations that have been
      offered
   b. And suggest which one seems to be the right one (to me, at least)

[We shall examine five interpretations, in the chronological sequence
in which they have been offered...]

I. THE VIEW OF CLEMENT OF ALEXANDRIA (200 A.D.)

   A. BASIC ELEMENTS...
      1. That Christ went to Hades in His spirit between His death and
         His resurrection
      2. That He proclaimed the message of salvation to the souls of
         sinners imprisoned there since the flood

   B. MAJOR DIFFICULTIES...
      1. This view would suggest that for some reason these souls were
         given a "second chance"
      2. Whereas the Bible consistently teaches against such an idea...
         a. "it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the
            judgment" - He 9:27
         b. Peter himself later wrote that the wicked souls before the
            flood were being "reserved... under punishment for the day
            of judgment" - 2Pe 2:4-5,9
      3. Why would people before the flood be given a second chance
         when those after the flood are not?

II. THE VIEW OF AUGUSTINE (400 A.D.)

   A. BASIC ELEMENTS...
      1. That the "pre-existent" Christ in His spirit proclaimed
         salvation through Noah to the people who lived before the
         flood
         a. We know that Noah was "a preacher of righteousness" in his
            day - 2Pe 2:5
         b. We know that the Spirit of Christ was at work in O.T.
            prophets - 1Pe 1:10-11
      2. This view is held by many brethren today

   B. MAJOR DIFFICULTIES...
      1. The wording of Peter would more naturally suggest that he is
         speaking of...
         a. The Christ who was "put to death in the flesh but made
            alive by the Spirit"
         b. I.e., the "crucified & resurrected" Christ, not the
            "pre-incarnate" Christ
      2. Also, the wording would more naturally suggest the preaching
         occurred...
         a. To the spirits "in prison", not before they were imprisoned
         b. When they "formerly were disobedient", not during their
            disobedience

[Augustine's view dominated the theological scene for centuries, but
then other views were presented...]

III. THE VIEW OF CARDINAL BELLARMINE (1600 A.D.)

   A. BASIC ELEMENTS...
      1. That in His spirit Christ went to release the souls of the
         RIGHTEOUS who repented before the flood and had been kept in
         "LIMBO"
      2. In Catholic theology, "limbo" is the place between heaven and
         hell, where the souls of the O.T. saints were kept

   B. MAJOR DIFFICULTIES...
      1. The Bible is silent about a place such as "limbo"
      2. The "spirits" under discussion by Peter were "disobedient" in
         "the days of Noah"...
         a. According to Ge 6:5-13; 7:1, only Noah and his family
            were righteous
         b. If others had repented, would they not also have been on
            the ark?
      3. I.e., there were no righteous before the flood save Noah and
         his family!

IV. THE VIEW OF FRIEDRICH SPITTA (1900 A.D.)

   A. BASIC ELEMENTS...
      1. After His death and BEFORE His resurrection, Christ preached
         to "fallen angels", also known as "sons of God", who during
         Noah's time had married "daughters of men"
      2. This view is based upon a particular interpretation of
         Ge 6:1-4...
         a. Job 1:6; 2:1 is offered as evidence that angels are
            sometimes referred to as "sons of God"
         b. Jude 6, also, is offered as referring to "fallen angels"
            in the days of Noah
            1) Because it sounds very similar to references in a book
               called I Enoch
            2) Which expounds in detail the idea that the "sons of God"
               in Ge 6 were "fallen angels"
            3) And Jude seems to quote directly from this book in Ju
               14,15
         c. Josephus, a Jewish historian born in 37 A.D., took a
            similar view of Ge 6
      3. This view is held by many Protestant scholars

   B. MAJOR DIFFICULTIES...
      1. In responding to the Sadducees, Jesus taught that angels of
         God do not marry - Mt 22:30
      2. Of course, Jesus may have been referring to angels who "keep
         their proper domain", and do not leave "their own habitation"
         a. If righteous angels could temporarily take on human form to
            deliver God's message (as in the case described in Ge 18:
            1-8; 19:1-3) where they ate food...
         b. It might have been possible for "fallen angels" to take on
            human form and cohabitate as some believe Ge 6 suggests
      3. But it just as feasible to understand Ge 6 differently...
         a. That the "sons of God" were the descendants of Seth (i.e.,
            godly people), and the "daughters of men" were descendants
            of Cain (ungodly people)
         b. This view stays clear of speculation which can easily take
            on mythological proportions!

[We come to a fifth interpretation, one that I think has much to
commend for it...]

V. THE VIEW OF SOME CONTEMPORARY COMMENTATORS (PRESENT)

   A. BASIC ELEMENTS...
      1. That the resurrected Christ, WHEN HE ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN,
         proclaimed to imprisoned spirits his victory over death
      2. That the exalted Christ passed through the realm where the
         fallen angels are kept and proclaimed His triumph over them
         (Ep 6:12; Col 2:15 is offered as support for this view)
      3. This interpretation has met favorable response in both
         Protestant and Roman Catholic circles
      4. More importantly, this view is in beautiful harmony with
         Peter's wording and context...

   B. MAJOR DISTINCTIONS...
      1. The preaching was made by Jesus Himself (not through Noah)
      2. The preaching was made by Jesus AFTER "being put to death in
         the flesh" (not in His pre-incarnate form)
      3. The preaching was made by Jesus AFTER He was "made alive by
         the Spirit" (i.e., after His resurrection, not during the
         three day period between death and resurrection)
      4. The preaching was made to "THE SPIRITS"
         a. Not to "the spirits of men" (which is how the souls or
            spirits of men are commonly referred to, notice He 12:23;
            Re 6:9; 20:4)
         b. But rather to "angelic spirits"
      5. The preaching was made to them "IN PRISON" (that there are
         angels so bound is clearly taught in 2Pe 2 and Jude)
      6. The preaching was made to them who were "FORMERLY DISOBEDIENT
         ...IN THE DAYS OF NOAH"
         a. This view does not require that the rebellious angels were
            the "sons of God" in Ge 6
         b. But simply were somehow disobedient at that time (as some
            were later during Christ's time)
      7. The preaching was a proclamation of victory over death, not an
         offer of a second chance to a select few!

CONCLUSION

1. As suggested, this last view is not only in harmony with the very
   words and grammatical constructions used by Peter, but it is harmony
   with the CONTEXT...
   a. Peter had been teaching us to be willing to suffer, if necessary,
      for doing good - 1Pe 3:17
   b. He appeals to the example of Christ - 1Pe 3:18a
   c. Who despite His suffering and death, was made alive, proclaimed
      victory to those spirits who had not been willing to submit to
      God in Noah's day, ascending to the right hand of God, over all
      angels and authorities! - 1Pe 3:18b-20, note especially v. 22
   d. In view of Jesus' triumph over suffering, we should be willing to
      do the same! - 1Pe 4:1

2. Admittedly, this passage is difficult, so one needs to be careful
   and not dogmatic in one's treatment of it

3. I hope that by presenting this survey of the various views it may
   serve helpful in drawing your own conclusions about "Peter's
   Perplexing Passage"

But one thing Peter mentions in this passage that is not perplexing is
his reference to baptism, and it's necessity for salvation (1Pe 3:
21)...

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... The Antitype In Which God Saves Us (1 Peter 3:21-22)

                      "THE FIRST EPISTLE OF PETER"

              The Antitype In Which God Saves Us (3:21-22)

INTRODUCTION

1. In the midst of a section in which he is discussing Christ's 
   suffering and why we need to prepare for suffering, Peter has some 
   revealing comments on the subject of baptism - 1Pe 3:21-22
   a. First, he refers to baptism as an "antitype" ("the like figure", 
      KJV)
   b. Then he makes the striking comment that baptism "saves us"
   c. He describes baptism as "the answer of a good conscience"
   d. But he also says that baptism saves us "through the resurrection 
      of Jesus Christ"

2. Any one of these four points is likely to perplex those who read 
   this passage...
   a. Some may wonder what an "antitype" is
   b. Others may take issue with the idea that baptism has anything to 
      do with salvation
   c. Many question what is meant by the phrase, "the answer of a good 
      conscience"
   d. And how does the resurrection of Christ have anything to do with 
      salvation, when it was His death that provided the forgiveness of
      sins?

[In this lesson, I hope to share some thoughts which may help us 
appreciate more fully how baptism is indeed "The Antitype In Which God 
Saves Us".

Beginning with...]

I. BAPTISM AS AN "ANTITYPE"

   A. DEFINING "ANTITYPE"...
      1. The Greek word is antitupon {an-teet'-oo-pon}, which means "a 
         thing formed after some pattern; that which corresponds to a 
         type"
      2. So you have two things that some how relate or correspond to 
         each other; one is a type, the other is the antitype
      
   B. HOW BAPTISM IS AN ANTITYPE...
      1. In our text, the waters of the flood are the "type", and the 
         waters of baptism are the "antitype" - 1Pe 3:20-21
      2. In his commentary, Barnes says...
         a. "The meaning here is, that baptism corresponded to, or had 
            a resemblance to, the  water by which Noah was saved; or 
            that there was a use of water in the one case which
            corresponded in some respects to the water that was used in
            the other; to wit, in effecting salvation." (Commentary on
            1st Peter)
         b. "The apostle does not say that it corresponded in all 
            respects; in respect, e.g., to quantity, or to the manner 
            of the application, or to the efficacy; but there is a 
            sense in which water performs an important part in our 
            salvation, as it did in his." (ibid.)

[An important part in our salvation?  Baptism?  This may sound foreign 
to many people today, but the Bible and many Bible scholars over the 
history of the church have stressed this very point...]

II. BAPTISM AND SALVATION

   A. THE BIBLICAL WITNESS...
      1. There are several statements of Jesus that emphasize the 
         necessity of baptism for salvation - Mt 28:18-20; Mk 16:
         15-16; Jn 3:3-5
      2. The record of apostolic preaching as found in the Book of Acts
         continue this thought - Ac 2:38; 22:16
      3. In his epistles, Paul often wrote of the purpose of baptism, 
         and the role it played in salvation - Ro 6:3-6; Ga 3:26-27; 
         Col 2:11-13; Tit 3:4-5
      4. And in our text, we have Peter's own words, which coincide 
         with what he preached on that first Pentecost following the 
         resurrection of Christ - 1Pe 3:21; cf. Ac 2:38

   B. THE TESTIMONY OF SOME BIBLE SCHOLARS...
      1. Augustine (A.D. 354-430)
         a. Referring to the efficacy of baptism, he wrote that "the 
            salvation of man is effected in baptism"; also, that a 
            person "is baptized for the express purpose of being with 
            Christ."  (as quoted by Jack W. Cottrell in Baptism And The
            Remission of Sins, College Press, 1990, p. 30)
         b. In regards to the necessity of baptism, he refers to the 
            "apostolic tradition, by which the Churches of Christ 
            maintain it to be an inherent principle, that without 
            baptism...it is impossible for any man to attain to 
            salvation and everlasting life." (ibid., p. 30)
      2. Thomas Aquinas (A.D. 1225-1274)
         a. "...Men are bound to that without which they cannot obtain 
            salvation.  Now it is manifest that no one can obtain 
            salvation but through Christ..."
         b. "But for this end is baptism conferred on a man, that being
            regenerated thereby, he may be incorporated in Christ."
         c. "Consequently it is manifest that all are bound to be 
            baptized: and that without Baptism there is no salvation 
            for men." (ibid., p. 31)
      3. Martin Luther
         a. In answer to the question, "What gifts or benefits does 
            Baptism bestow?", Luther replied in his Small Catechism, 
            "It effects forgiveness of sins."
         b. He also wrote concerning the sinner:  "Through Baptism he 
            is bathed in the blood of Christ and is cleansed from 
            sins."
         c. Again, he wrote:  "To put it most simply, the power, 
            effect, benefit, fruit, and purpose of Baptism is to save."
         d. In response to those who would call this a kind of 
            works-salvation, he said "Yes, it is true that our works 
            are of no use for salvation.  Baptism, however, is not our
            work but God's." (ibid., p. 32-34)

[Indeed, until the "reformed theology" of Ulrich Zwingli and John 
Calvin came along, the general consensus of religious scholars was in 
harmony with the Bible:  that baptism does indeed save us!

But how can that be?  The answer can be seen when we consider...

III. BAPTISM AND THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST

   A. SALVATION IN BAPTISM IS NOT FOUND IN THE "WATER"...
      1. As Peter makes clear when he says "not the removal of the 
         filth of the flesh"
      2. For indeed it is only through the blood of Jesus Christ we can
         be saved - Ro 5:8
      
   B. SALVATION IN BAPTISM IS POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF THE RESURRECTION OF 
      CHRIST...
      1. If He had not been raised, we would still be in our sins - cf.
         1Co 15:17
      2. But because Jesus was raised from the dead, we who are united
         together in the likeness of His death (i.e., baptism) can 
         share in the power of His resurrection as we also rise to walk
         in newness of life - cf. Ro 6:3-5; Col 2:12-13
      3. In other words, it is the same power of God that raised Jesus 
         from the dead which saves us in baptism so we can be "made
         alive" - cf. Ep 1:19-20; 2:4-6

[By God's saving grace and resurrecting power, then, baptism can indeed
save us!  Not because of any cleansing power in the water, but because 
of what God is doing at that moment.

But notice finally, what is said about...]

IV. BAPTISM AND THE APPEAL FOR A GOOD CONSCIENCE

   A. "THE ANSWER OF A GOOD CONSCIENCE" (NKJV)
      1. This is a difficult phrase, but I believe it most likely means
         "an appeal to God for a clear conscience"
      2. This understanding is supported by the following translations:
         a. "...the craving for a conscience right with God" 
            (Goodspeed)
         b. "...the prayer for a clean conscience before God" (Moffat)
         c. "...the request unto God for a good conscience" (Rotherham)
         d. "...an appeal to God for a clear conscience" (RSV)
         e. "...an appeal to God for a good conscience" (NASV)

   B. THIS COINCIDES WITH THE PURPOSE OF BAPTISM...
      1. Baptism was "for the remission of sins", to have one's sins 
         "washed away" (by the blood of Christ, of course) - cf. Ac 2:38; 22:16
      2. Therefore, people in N.T. times who realized they were sinners
         were anxious to be baptized as soon as possible - cf. Ac 8:
         35-38
      3. To have a good conscience before God (indeed, to a have our 
         conscience "purged" by the blood of Christ - cf. He 9:14),
         one is baptized so their sins can be washed away and they can 
         rise to a new life through the same power of God that raised 
         Jesus from the dead!

CONCLUSION

1. It is a tragedy that so many people today downplay the importance of
   baptism

2. But if we will only allow the Bible to say what it does about
   baptism, we will see that it is indeed "The Antitype In Which God
   Saves Us"!

3. And like Martin Luther, we will view baptism as "excellent,
   glorious, and exalted," as "a most precious thing," as "an infinite,
   divine treasure." (ibid., p. 34)

Verse 21 of our text describes that Christ has now gone into heaven
and that all things have been made subject to Him.  Have you subjected
to His authority by obeying His command to be baptized? - cf. Mt 28:
18-20

Have you made that appeal for a good conscience before God?

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... The Militant Christian (1 Peter 4:1-6)

                      "THE FIRST EPISTLE OF PETER"

                     The Militant Christian (4:1-6)

INTRODUCTION

1. It is quite common today to pick up the newspaper and read about the
   violent actions of those referred to as "militant fundamentalists"
   a. Sometimes the phrase has reference to extremists of the Islamic
      faith, engaged in what they call "Jihad" (holy war, or struggle)
   b. But there also times when it is applied to professing Christians,
      who resort to physical violence in support of their cause (e.g.,
      the radical pro-life movement)

2. As true followers of the "Prince of Peace"...
   a. We must remember that the Kingdom is spiritual, and therefore not
      expanded through carnal means - cf. Jn 18:36
   b. We should keep in mind the words of our Savior:  "...for all who
      take the sword will perish by the sword." - Mt 26:52

3. But this is not to say we do not have a true struggle, nor weapons
   with which to fight...
   a. We are engaged in a spiritual struggle, both without and within
      - Ep 6:12; 1Pe 2:12
   b. We have in our arsenal weapons that are "mighty in God" - 2 Co
      10:3-5
   c. Indeed, as we enter the fourth chapter of 1st Peter, we see that
      Christians are to "arm" themselves in their service to the Lord
      - 1Pe 4:1

4. So in one sense, there is such a thing as "The Militant Christian";
   but it is important that we properly understand in what sense we are
   to be militant in our service to the Lord

[Using 1Pe 4:1-6 as our text, I would first point out that "The
Militant Christian" is to be...]

I. ARMED WITH THE MIND OF CHRIST (1)

   A. WHICH IS A MIND WILLING TO SUFFER...
      1. This is the attitude Peter wants us to have
      2. Which was the attitude of Christ Himself - cf. 1Pe 2:21-23;
         3:18

   B. TWO REASONS WE SHOULD BE WILLING TO SUFFER...
      1. "since Christ suffered for us"
         a. He died for us, that we might live for righteousness - 1 Pe 2:24
         b. Is it asking too much that we might be willing to endure
            hardship for His sake?
      2. "he who suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin"
         a. One who endures hardship for Christ is not likely to allow
            sin to have dominance in his or her life
         b. "One who has embraced the mind of Christ, and whose life is
            so influenced by him that he suffers persecution is not in
            danger of succumbing to the weaker temptations of the
            flesh.  To such an individual these allurements lose their
            appeal.  Martyrs, in the hour of persecution and death, do
            not toy with temptation or surrender to the seductions of
            the world!" - Guy N. Woods

[Armed with the mind of Christ, which includes a willingness to suffer
for doing good, "The Militant Christian" is also to be... ]

II. MILITANT IN HIS STRUGGLE AGAINST SIN (2-3)

   A. HERE IS WHERE THE MAJOR BATTLE IS TO BE FOUGHT...
      1. A battle between one's soul and fleshly lusts - cf. 1Pe 2:12
      2. Unless we first win the battle for our own soul, we are not
         likely to be of much help in winning the souls of others!
         a. Therefore we need to remove the plank out of our own eye
            first - cf. Mt 7:3-5
         b. Only by first being "spiritual" ourselves are we prepared
            to help others - cf. Ga 6:1
      3. Many immature Christians begin fighting a "spiritual warfare"
         with others too soon, and lose the "spiritual warfare" within
         themselves in the process!

   B. MOTIVATION FOR THIS STRUGGLE AGAINST SIN...
      1. We have wasted enough of our lifetime doing what is called
         "the will of the Gentiles"
         a. Briefly summarized in verse 3
         b. What Paul calls the "works of the flesh" in Ga 5:19-21
      2. Now it is time to live out the rest of our life for "the will
         of God"
         a. Briefly summarized in verses 7-11
         b. Which will be considered more carefully in the next lesson

[As we think of ourselves "standing strong for the faith" and "fighting
the good fight", let's not forget that the battle begins within
ourselves.

Unless the Christian is first militant in "crucifying the flesh" and
"putting to death the deeds of the body", he or she is not likely to
have the "spiritual fortitude" necessary to prevent killing one's self
in the "battle for truth" (cf. 2Ti 2:24-26).

When "The Militant Christian" is living out the rest of his or her life
for the will of God, we need to be prepared for the fact that we
will...]

III. LIKELY BE MALIGNED (4)

   A. OUR FORMER COMPANIONS WILL THINK US "STRANGE"...
      1. Because we no longer join with them in their sin
      2. Unable to persuade us from our new course, they may resort to
         "speaking evil of you"
      3. Some young Christians are troubled by this "peer pressure"

   B. BUT WHEN MALIGNED...
      1. We have reason to rejoice - cf. Mt 5:11-12; 1Pe 4:13-14
      2. Our response is to be one of love and honorable conduct - cf.
         Mt 5:44; 1Pe 2:12
      3. Who knows?  Perhaps our conduct will lead one day to their
         glorifying God!

[Yes, "The Militant Christian" is likely to be thought of by others as
a "fanatic", but I believe that deep down even those who malign us the
most have respect for our convictions when held with the proper spirit
on our part.

Finally, taking a clue from the comments of Peter in verses 5-6, let
me suggest that "The Militant Christian" is one who is...]

IV. WILLING TO LET GOD BE THE JUDGE (5-6)

   A. VERSE 6 IS ANOTHER ONE OF "PETER'S PERPLEXING PASSAGES"...
      1. Especially the phrase "the gospel was also preached to those
         who are dead"
      2. Some think Peter is referring back to his comments in 1Pe 3:
         18-20...
         a. If so, then the "spirits in prison" would be human spirits,
            not angelic spirits (as I suggested in my earlier lesson)
         b. If so, then the preaching of the gospel was:
            1) Not an offer of salvation (i.e., a second chance)
            2) But a proclamation of what Christ has done, explaining
               how Christ has redeemed the O.T. faithful, and why
               others remain condemned
            3) Note that they were still "judged according to men in
               the flesh" (how they lived in the flesh), though they
               now "live according to God in the spirit"
      3. Others believe Peter is simply referring to the preaching of
         the gospel...
         a. To people when they were alive
         b. But who are now among the dead

   B. EITHER WAY, AS "MILITANT CHRISTIANS"...
      1. We must remember who is the Judge...
         a. God is the judge of those who are "outside" - 1Co 5:12-13
         b. They will have to "give an account to Him who is ready to
            judge..." - 1Pe 4:5
      2. We must therefore be willing to let God be the judge...
         a. I.e., leave vengeance to God - cf. Ro 12:19
         b. God will apply the "justice" when necessary, we are called
            upon to offer His "mercy" until then...
            1) Through the preaching of the gospel
            2) Through living lives of kindness and mercy - cf. Ro 12:
               20-21

CONCLUSION

1. There is a place, then, for "militancy" in the life of the
   Christian!

2. But it is to be found in the way we "arm" ourselves with the mind of
   Christ...
   a. "Fighting" the spiritual warfare that wages within
   b. "Militant" in our efforts to live the godly life, do going and
      showing mercy

Are you "fighting the good fight of faith"?  Are you even in the Lord's
army...?

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Living In The End Times (1 Peter 4:7-11)

                      "THE FIRST EPISTLE OF PETER"

                    Living In The End Times (4:7-11)

INTRODUCTION

1. In 1Pe 4:2, Peter wrote concerning the Christian that...

   "...he should no longer live the rest of his time in the flesh for
   the lusts of men, but for the will of God."

2. As an impetus to live out one's time in the flesh for the will of 
   God, one should remember that we are living in the "end times" - 
   cf. 1Pe 4:7a ("But the end of all things is at hand;")

3. It might be that Peter actually had reference in this text to the 
   destruction of Jerusalem
   a. Which was the end of the temple, the Levitical priesthood, and of
      the Jewish economy
   b. As MacKnight points out in his commentary:  "This epistle being 
      written A.D.67, about a year after the war with the Romans began,
      which ended in the destruction of Jerusalem and of the Jewish 
      state, Peter, who had heard his Master's prophecy concerning 
      these events, and concerning the signs of their approach, had 
      good reason to say, that they had approached."

4. But whether Peter has in mind the destruction of Jerusalem, or the 
   Lord's second coming, we can still say "the end of all things is at 
   hand"...
   a. For even if the Lord Himself does not return for another two 
      thousand years, the time is not long when we who are alive today 
      will be "in the flesh" no more
   b. With every passing day, "our salvation is nearer than when we 
      first believed", and the "end" draws ever closer

5. How then should we live out the rest of our time, living as we do in
   the "end times"?

[Verses 7-11 provide guidance to "Living In The End Times" and we
notice right away that it should involve...]

I. PRAYER THAT IS SERIOUS AND ALERT (7)

   A. PETER STRESSES SERIOUSNESS THROUGHOUT HIS EPISTLE...
      1. The word here is sophroneo {so-fron-eh'-o}, which means...
         a. To be in one's right mind
         b. To exercise self control
            1) to put a moderate estimate upon one's self, think of 
               one's self soberly
            2) to curb one's passions
      2. Words closely related to this are found in 1Pe 1:13; 5:8
         (the word "sober")

   B. THIS QUALITY IS NEEDED ESPECIALLY IN OUR PRAYERS...
      1. Otherwise we cannot pray as we ought - cf. Ep 6:18
      2. That is, with praying that is "watchful" - cf. Lk 21:34-36

[Serious, watchful praying is necessary, therefore, or we might not be
ready for that which will come.  As we continue in our text, we see 
that "Living In The End Times" also calls for a...]

II. LOVE THAT IS FERVENT & FORGIVING (8)

   A. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME PETER COMMANDS "FERVENT LOVE"...
      1. The first time was in 1Pe 1:22
      2. Where we defined "fervent" as "constant" or "earnest"
      3. Here Peter tells us to make such "fervent love" the number one
         priority ("above all things have fervent love...")
         a. This is reminiscent of Paul's words in Col 3:14
         b. And perhaps a reflection of Jesus' words in Mt 22:36-40

   B. THE NEED FOR SUCH "FERVENT LOVE" IS SEEN IN ITS POWER TO 
      FORGIVE...
      1. "for love will cover a multitude of sins"
      2. This appears to be a reference to Pr 10:12 ("love covers 
         all sins")
      3. To "cover sin" does not mean to ignore it, but as used by 
         James it suggests "fervent love" does what is necessary to 
         restore and forgive the sinner - cf. Jm 5:19-20

[As the "time of the end" draws near, and the Day of Judgment looms 
closer, how important it is that we have the kind of love for one 
another which will encourage us all to get rid of sin in our lives!

As a further expression of "fervent love for one another", "Living In 
The End Times" will also involve...]

III. HOSPITALITY THAT IS GRACIOUS (9)

   A. THIS IS AN UNUSUAL USE OF THE WORD "HOSPITALITY"...
      1. For the word is philoxenos {fil-ox'-en-os}
         a. It literally means "love of strangers" and is normally used
            in reference to kindness to those we don't know
         b. But here Peter applies it to our love towards brethren
      2. But if we are to show kindness to those we don't know, how 
         much more towards those who are "of the household of faith", 
         our own brethren! - cf. Ga 6:10

   B. THE NEED FOR HOSPITALITY...
      1. There is always a need, as our love for one another is a sign 
         of true discipleship - cf. Jn 13:34-35
      2. But there may be a special need as "the end draws near"
         a. Several passages suggest that persecution of the saints 
            will increase before Christ returns (so I understand Re 20:
            7-9)
         b. In any period of persecution, when some Christians lose all
            they have, other Christians need to be ready to provide for
            their needs - cf. Mt 25:35-40

   C. FOR IT TO BE TRUE HOSPITALITY, IT MUST BE "WITHOUT GRUMBLING"...
      1. If one shows kindness with a begrudging spirit, can it be said
         they truly have a love of strangers (or brethren)?
      2. Only by placing a higher premium on our brethren than we do on
         our possessions can we show hospitality without grumbling

[Finally, in keeping with our Lord's charge to "Do business till I 
come" (Lk 19:13), "Living In The End Times" requires that we 
offer...]

IV. SERVICE THAT GLORIFIES GOD (10-11)

   A. EACH PERSON CAN PERFORM A VALUABLE SERVICE...
      1. By the grace of God, which is "manifold"  (multi-faceted), 
         there are various ways one can serve God
      2. And each of us are to be "good stewards" (accountable 
         servants) of whatever gifts or abilities we may have
      3. Even as Paul wrote to the brethren at Rome in Ro 12:3-8

   B. WITH TWO EXAMPLES, PETER ILLUSTRATES THE KIND OF SERVICE THAT
      GLORIFIES GOD...
      1. Those that speak
         a. They should speak "as the oracles of God"
         b. Understanding that they are speaking for God:
            1) They should speak only that which God Himself has 
               revealed
            2) With "sound speech that cannot be condemned" - cf. Tit 2:
               7-8
      2. Those that minister (serve)
         a. With the ability or strength supplied by God Himself!
         b. Certainly not with slothfulness - cf. Ro 12:11

CONCLUSION

1. "Living In The End Times", then, is living with the recognition
   that to God (and Jesus Christ) "belong the glory and dominion 
   forever and ever"

2. With that recognition, we will be careful to develop:
   a. Prayer that is serious and alert
   b. Love that is fervent and forgiving
   c. Hospitality that is gracious
   d. Service that glorifies God

How are you living now that "the end of all things is at hand"?  Are
you glorifying God through Jesus Christ?

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Persevering Through Persecution (1 Peter 4:12-19)

                      "THE FIRST EPISTLE OF PETER"

               Persevering Through Persecution (4:12-19)

INTRODUCTION

1. We have observed in our study of 1st Peter that the original
   recipients of this epistle were undergoing "various trials" - 1 Pe 1:6

2. In an earlier lesson, "Preparing For Persecution" (1Pe 3:13-18),
   we saw where Peter gave instructions on how they (and we) should
   prepare themselves for hard times

3. Now in 4:12-19, Peter continues to discuss persecution, but with a
   slightly different slant

4. The slant is that he now mentions things that relate to "Persevering
   Through Persecution", not just preparing for it

[While we might not ever endure "physical" persecution, it is unlikely
that we will escape occasional "verbal" or "social" persecution.

Therefore, what Peter has to say can be of great benefit to help us
persevere in such circumstances.  For example, we should...]

I. EXPECT PERSECUTION (12)

   A. IT IS NOT UNUSUAL...
      1. A point Peter stresses twice in this verse
         a. "do not think it strange"
         b. "as though some strange thing happened to you"
      2. It is something other Christians were experiencing at that
         time as well - 1Pe 5:9
      3. Jesus warned His disciples of hard times to come - Jn 15:18-21
      4. Why does God allow such things to happen?  Read on...

   B. "FIERY TRIALS" SERVE TO TRY ONE'S FAITH...
      1. Just as gold is tested by fire, so our faith is tested by
         persecution - cf. 1Pe 1:6-7
      2. This is why God allows the devil to bring such persecution
         (remember Job?)
      3. But just as God blessed Job after his trials, so He will bless
         us! - cf. 1Pe 5:10

[As someone has said, "First comes the cross, then comes the crown."
So don't be surprised if you find yourself facing ridicule, ostracism,
even physical persecution for the cause of Christ. (cf. Ac 14:22; 2 Ti
3:12).  Should it come, what then...?]

II. REJOICE IN PERSECUTION (13-14)

   A. THE CALL TO REJOICE IS NOTHING NEW...
      1. Jesus taught it in His sermon on the mount - Mt 5:11-12
      2. Paul found reason to "glory in tribulations" - Ro 5:3-5
      3. And James taught that trials ought to be an occasion for joy
         - Jm 1:2-4

   B. WHY REJOICE IN PERSECUTION?
      1. As explained by Jesus...
         a. "for great is your reward in heaven"
         b. "for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you"
      2. As explained by Paul...
         a. "tribulation produces perseverance"
         b. Which in turn produces "character, and character, hope"
      3. As explained by James...
         a. "the testing of your faith produces patience"
         b. And patience can help one be "perfect and complete, lacking
            nothing"

   C. PETER OFFERS THREE REASONS TO REJOICE IN PERSECUTION...
      1. It means glory in the future...
         a. "when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with
            exceeding joy"
         b. This will occur at His second coming - cf. 2Th 1:10-12
      2. It means blessing in the present...
         a. "blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests
            upon you"
         b. A reference to the Holy Spirit, and possibly alluding to
            that blessing...
            1) Described by Jesus in Lk 12:11-12; 21:12-15
            2) Exemplified in the case of Stephen - Ac 7:54-60
         c. Such a blessing might have limited application to the
            special circumstances of the first century, but God's grace
            will still provide whatever we need to endure trials - cf.
            1Co 10:13
      3. It means Christ is glorified...
         a. "on your part He is glorified"
         b. When we endure persecution through the strength Jesus gives
            us, we make manifest the "life" (power) of Jesus - cf. 2 Co 4:7-11
         c. And so by our conduct we can bring glory to Christ (God)
            - cf. 1Pe 2:12

[We have every reason, then, to rejoice in times of persecution.  But
for us to make the most of such situations, we need not only to
"rejoice", but also to "reflect".  I.e., use the time to...]

III. EXAMINE YOUR LIFE (15-18)

   A. IF WE MUST SUFFER, MAKE IT WORTHWHILE...
      1. Make sure it is not for reasons listed by Peter...
         a. E.g., as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer
         b. Or for doing what often brings unnecessary suffering to the
            church:  "as a busybody in other people's matters"
      2. Make sure it is because we are Christians...
         a. In which have an opportunity to glorify God
         b. In which we can demonstrate the grace He gives us to endure
            it

   B. CONSIDER THE CONSEQUENCES OF NOT REMAINING FAITHFUL...
      1. God allows persecution of the righteous because it serves as
         one way to judge "the house of God" (i.e., God's family, the
         church) - 1Pe 4:17
      2. As Paul wrote, it is "evidence of the righteous judgment of
         God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for
         which you also suffer" - 2Th 1:4-5
      3. If God is willing to so "judge" His own faithful children,
         what about those who are disobedient?  As Peter asks:
         a. "What will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel
            of God?"
         b. "Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?"
      4. Paul provides the answer, in 2Th 1:6-9...
         a. Those God will "repay with tribulation"
         b. Jesus will come "in flaming fire taking vengeance on those
            who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the
            gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ"
         c. Yes, they "shall be punished with everlasting destruction"

[In view of the coming Judgment of God, of which the persecution of the
saved is only a precursor, use times of persecution to reflect and make
sure of our standing before God.

Finally, you can be successful in "Persevering Through Persecution" if
you will...]

IV. COMMIT YOURSELF TO GOD (19)

   A. "HOW" TO COMMIT YOURSELF TO GOD...
      1. By doing good, no matter the circumstances
         a. Whatever evil is done to you, respond by doing good - cf.
            Lk 6:27-28
         b. Remember the example of Jesus (Lk 23:34) and Stephen (Ac 7:59-60)
      2. Don't let persecution be an excuse for misconduct

   B. "WHY" TO COMMIT YOURSELF TO GOD...
      1. Because God is a "faithful Creator"
      2. As "Creator", He has the power to do what is right in the end
      3. As "faithful" (trustworthy), He can be trusted to do what is
         right in the end

CONCLUSION

1. Certainly we should hope and pray that we never have to endure the
   sort of persecution experienced by the early Christians

2. But if we do, will we be prepared?  We can be, if we take to heart
   the words of the apostle Peter as found in his epistle!

As for being prepared, have you yet "obeyed" the gospel?

Some may think it odd that the gospel is to be "obeyed", and not just
"believed"; but both Peter and Paul warn of the end of those "who do
not obey the gospel" (1Pe 4:19; 2Th 1:8).

How does one obey the gospel? - cf. Mk 16:15-16

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Gary... Bible Reading October 10

Bible Reading   

October 10

The World English Bible

Oct. 10

Proverbs 1-4

Pro 1:1 The proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel:

Pro 1:2 to know wisdom and instruction; to discern the words of understanding;

Pro 1:3 to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity;

Pro 1:4 to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young man:

Pro 1:5 that the wise man may hear, and increase in learning; that the man of understanding may attain to sound counsel:

Pro 1:6 to understand a proverb, and parables, the words and riddles of the wise.

Pro 1:7 The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge; but the foolish despise wisdom and instruction.

Pro 1:8 My son, listen to your father's instruction, and don't forsake your mother's teaching:

Pro 1:9 for they will be a garland to grace your head, and chains around your neck.

Pro 1:10 My son, if sinners entice you, don't consent.

Pro 1:11 If they say, "Come with us, Let's lay in wait for blood; let's lurk secretly for the innocent without cause;

Pro 1:12 let's swallow them up alive like Sheol, and whole, like those who go down into the pit.

Pro 1:13 We'll find all valuable wealth. We'll fill our houses with spoil.

Pro 1:14 You shall cast your lot among us. We'll all have one purse."

Pro 1:15 My son, don't walk in the way with them. Keep your foot from their path,

Pro 1:16 for their feet run to evil. They hurry to shed blood.

Pro 1:17 For in vain is the net spread in the sight of any bird:

Pro 1:18 but these lay wait for their own blood. They lurk secretly for their own lives.

Pro 1:19 So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain. It takes away the life of its owners.

Pro 1:20 Wisdom calls aloud in the street. She utters her voice in the public squares.

Pro 1:21 She calls at the head of noisy places. At the entrance of the city gates, she utters her words:

Pro 1:22 "How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? How long will mockers delight themselves in mockery, and fools hate knowledge?

Pro 1:23 Turn at my reproof. Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you. I will make known my words to you.

Pro 1:24 Because I have called, and you have refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no one has paid attention;

Pro 1:25 but you have ignored all my counsel, and wanted none of my reproof;

Pro 1:26 I also will laugh at your disaster. I will mock when calamity overtakes you;

Pro 1:27 when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when your disaster comes on like a whirlwind; when distress and anguish come on you.

Pro 1:28 Then will they call on me, but I will not answer. They will seek me diligently, but they will not find me;

Pro 1:29 because they hated knowledge, and didn't choose the fear of Yahweh.

Pro 1:30 They wanted none of my counsel. They despised all my reproof.

Pro 1:31 Therefore they will eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own schemes.

Pro 1:32 For the backsliding of the simple will kill them. The careless ease of fools will destroy them.

Pro 1:33 But whoever listens to me will dwell securely, and will be at ease, without fear of harm."

Pro 2:1 My son, if you will receive my words, and store up my commandments within you;

Pro 2:2 So as to turn your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding;

Pro 2:3 Yes, if you call out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding;

Pro 2:4 If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures:

Pro 2:5 then you will understand the fear of Yahweh, and find the knowledge of God.

Pro 2:6 For Yahweh gives wisdom. Out of his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.

Pro 2:7 He lays up sound wisdom for the upright. He is a shield to those who walk in integrity;

Pro 2:8 that he may guard the paths of justice, and preserve the way of his saints.

Pro 2:9 Then you will understand righteousness and justice, equity and every good path.

Pro 2:10 For wisdom will enter into your heart. Knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

Pro 2:11 Discretion will watch over you. Understanding will keep you,

Pro 2:12 to deliver you from the way of evil, from the men who speak perverse things;

Pro 2:13 who forsake the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness;

Pro 2:14 who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the perverseness of evil;

Pro 2:15 who are crooked in their ways, and wayward in their paths:

Pro 2:16 To deliver you from the strange woman, even from the foreigner who flatters with her words;

Pro 2:17 who forsakes the friend of her youth, and forgets the covenant of her God:

Pro 2:18 for her house leads down to death, her paths to the dead.

Pro 2:19 None who go to her return again, neither do they attain to the paths of life:

Pro 2:20 that you may walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous.

Pro 2:21 For the upright will dwell in the land. The perfect will remain in it.

Pro 2:22 But the wicked will be cut off from the land. The treacherous will be rooted out of it.

Pro 3:1 My son, don't forget my teaching; but let your heart keep my commandments:

Pro 3:2 for length of days, and years of life, and peace, will they add to you.

Pro 3:3 Don't let kindness and truth forsake you. Bind them around your neck. Write them on the tablet of your heart.

Pro 3:4 So you will find favor, and good understanding in the sight of God and man.

Pro 3:5 Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don't lean on your own understanding.

Pro 3:6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

Pro 3:7 Don't be wise in your own eyes. Fear Yahweh, and depart from evil.

Pro 3:8 It will be health to your body, and nourishment to your bones.

Pro 3:9 Honor Yahweh with your substance, with the first fruits of all your increase:

Pro 3:10 so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.

Pro 3:11 My son, don't despise Yahweh's discipline, neither be weary of his reproof:

Pro 3:12 for whom Yahweh loves, he reproves; even as a father reproves the son in whom he delights.

Pro 3:13 Happy is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gets understanding.

Pro 3:14 For her good profit is better than getting silver, and her return is better than fine gold.

Pro 3:15 She is more precious than rubies. None of the things you can desire are to be compared to her.

Pro 3:16 Length of days is in her right hand. In her left hand are riches and honor.

Pro 3:17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness. All her paths are peace.

Pro 3:18 She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her. Happy is everyone who retains her.

Pro 3:19 By wisdom Yahweh founded the earth. By understanding, he established the heavens.

Pro 3:20 By his knowledge, the depths were broken up, and the skies drop down the dew.

Pro 3:21 My son, let them not depart from your eyes. Keep sound wisdom and discretion:

Pro 3:22 so they will be life to your soul, and grace for your neck.

Pro 3:23 Then you shall walk in your way securely. Your foot won't stumble.

Pro 3:24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid. Yes, you will lie down, and your sleep will be sweet.

Pro 3:25 Don't be afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it comes:

Pro 3:26 for Yahweh will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being taken.

Pro 3:27 Don't withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do it.

Pro 3:28 Don't say to your neighbor, "Go, and come again; tomorrow I will give it to you," when you have it by you.

Pro 3:29 Don't devise evil against your neighbor, seeing he dwells securely by you.

Pro 3:30 Don't strive with a man without cause, if he has done you no harm.

Pro 3:31 Don't envy the man of violence. Choose none of his ways.

Pro 3:32 For the perverse is an abomination to Yahweh, but his friendship is with the upright.

Pro 3:33 Yahweh's curse is in the house of the wicked, but he blesses the habitation of the righteous.

Pro 3:34 Surely he mocks the mockers, but he gives grace to the humble.

Pro 3:35 The wise will inherit glory, but shame will be the promotion of fools.

Pro 4:1 Listen, sons, to a father's instruction. Pay attention and know understanding;

Pro 4:2 for I give you sound learning. Don't forsake my law.

Pro 4:3 For I was a son to my father, tender and an only child in the sight of my mother.

Pro 4:4 He taught me, and said to me: "Let your heart retain my words. Keep my commandments, and live.

Pro 4:5 Get wisdom. Get understanding. Don't forget, neither swerve from the words of my mouth.

Pro 4:6 Don't forsake her, and she will preserve you. Love her, and she will keep you.

Pro 4:7 Wisdom is supreme. Get wisdom. Yes, though it costs all your possessions, get understanding.

Pro 4:8 Esteem her, and she will exalt you. She will bring you to honor, when you embrace her.

Pro 4:9 She will give to your head a garland of grace. She will deliver a crown of splendor to you."

Pro 4:10 Listen, my son, and receive my sayings. The years of your life will be many.

Pro 4:11 I have taught you in the way of wisdom. I have led you in straight paths.

Pro 4:12 When you go, your steps will not be hampered. When you run, you will not stumble.

Pro 4:13 Take firm hold of instruction. Don't let her go. Keep her, for she is your life.

Pro 4:14 Don't enter into the path of the wicked. Don't walk in the way of evil men.

Pro 4:15 Avoid it, and don't pass by it. Turn from it, and pass on.

Pro 4:16 For they don't sleep, unless they do evil. Their sleep is taken away, unless they make someone fall.

Pro 4:17 For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.

Pro 4:18 But the path of the righteous is like the dawning light, that shines more and more until the perfect day.

Pro 4:19 The way of the wicked is like darkness. They don't know what they stumble over.

Pro 4:20 My son, attend to my words. Turn your ear to my sayings.

Pro 4:21 Let them not depart from your eyes. Keep them in the midst of your heart.

Pro 4:22 For they are life to those who find them, and health to their whole body.

Pro 4:23 Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it is the wellspring of life.

Pro 4:24 Put away from yourself a perverse mouth. Put corrupt lips far from you.

Pro 4:25 Let your eyes look straight ahead. Fix your gaze directly before you.

Pro 4:26 Make the path of your feet level. Let all of your ways be established.

Pro 4:27 Don't turn to the right hand nor to the left. Remove your foot from evil.

Oct. 10

Ephesians 1

Eph 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, to the saints who are at Ephesus, and the faithful in Christ Jesus:

Eph 1:2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Eph 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ;

Eph 1:4 even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and without blemish before him in love;

Eph 1:5 having predestined us for adoption as children through Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his desire,

Eph 1:6 to the praise of the glory of his grace, by which he freely bestowed favor on us in the Beloved,

Eph 1:7 in whom we have our redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace,

Eph 1:8 which he made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence,

Eph 1:9 making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he purposed in him

Eph 1:10 to an administration of the fullness of the times, to sum up all things in Christ, the things in the heavens, and the things on the earth, in him;

Eph 1:11 in whom also we were assigned an inheritance, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who works all things after the counsel of his will;

Eph 1:12 to the end that we should be to the praise of his glory, we who had before hoped in Christ:

Eph 1:13 in whom you also, having heard the word of the truth, the Good News of your salvation,--in whom, having also believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,

Eph 1:14 who is a pledge of our inheritance, to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of his glory.

Eph 1:15 For this cause I also, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which is among you, and the love which you have toward all the saints,

Eph 1:16 don't cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers,

Eph 1:17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him;

Eph 1:18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope of his calling, and what are the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

Eph 1:19 and what is the exceeding greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to that working of the strength of his might

Eph 1:20 which he worked in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and made him to sit at his right hand in the heavenly places,

Eph 1:21 far above all rule, and authority, and power, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age, but also in that which is to come.

Eph 1:22 He put all things in subjection under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things for the assembly,

Eph 1:23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.