Daniel 12:4b tells us that in the end times knowledge will increase and certainly it has by tremendous amount in our internet age. But our knowledge of things in this world can make us proud (1 Cor 8:1) or insensitive to the feelings of others. In the context of this verse, it talks about believers having the right knowledge of God but not displaying the virtue of God, which is love. Indeed, knowledge puffs up but love edifies.
The Bible tells us that the LORD gives wisdom and from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding (Pr 2:6). The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom (Pr 1:7; 9:10). Who then is the wise and knowledgable person in this world of expanding knowledge? The Bible is clear in this regard. The wise person always include God in his/her thinking, preparing oneself not only for the here and now but also for the world to come.
We tend to equate wisdom with a high IQ or the ability to solve complex problems. Seldom do we equate it with humility, faith in God and service to mankind. The Bible's perspective is different. One who has neglected to cultivate and develop the mind of God is never called wise. To be wise then is to acknowledge God and trust Him (Pr 3:5-7). We can be wise in our own eyes, but then that would not win the favour of God. The paths that we travel along would not be straight but crooked.
The root of the Hebrew word translated "wise" occurs more than 100 times in the Book of Proverbs, usually referring to human beings and their behaviour. Four other related words, "understanding", "intelligence", "discernment" and "knowledge" bring to almost 200 the number of references to wisdom or its equivalent. Solomon, the wisest man on earth, had this to say in the final days of his life on earth, "My son, be warned: the writing of many books is endless, and excessive devotion to books is wearying to the body. The conlusion, when all has been heard is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person." (Eccl 12:12-13).
Indeed, there're many books being produced each day either online or in the printed form. The reading of good books can inspire and motivate us into positive action. And I've read quite a substantial number to date. The converse is also true, that is, the reading of unwholesome things can cause us to behave in an unrighteous way. Paul, writing to Timothy, exhorted him to give attention to the public reading of Scripture (1 Tim 4:13). Above all else, the Word of God is able to convict us of sin, righteousness and judgment (Jn 16:8); drawing us close to God and being able to equip us for every good work (2 Tim 3:16-17).
In a world where truths, lies and half-truths are inter-mingled together in the world wide web, it's important to have as an anchor for our souls the eternal standard of God's Truth in our hearts to discern between good and evil (Heb 5:14). We have to pray daily for God to give us the mind of Christ - a mind of humility and love in our daily interaction with others as well as to shun every appearance of evil (Phil 2:5; 1 Th 5:22). So keep reading books to improve your knowledge and skills but also read the Bible daily for spiritual nourishment and guidance. In so doing, you would be wise in God's eyes.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Friday, September 24, 2010
1 Timothy
This book is like a leadership training manual, very much like the book of Titus. Paul began by telling Timothy, his son in faith, the noble aspiration one has if he aspires to the office of an overseer (3:1). Having a desire to be a leader is one thing, having the qualities of a leader is another. Paul envisaged the leadership structure of the church to be male (2:11-12). He went on to list some of the qualities required in being an elder/leader:
1. Blameless (v2,7): not one where people can point an accusing finger at but having a good testimony
2. Husband of one wife (v2): practising monogamy
3. Well-disciplined (v2-3): temperate, sober-minded and of good behaviour/gentle, not violent/quarrelsome
4. Hospitable (v2): a people's person, caring for their needs
5. Able to teach (v2): probably the truths and principles found in the Word
6. Well-controlled (v3): not addicted to wine or liquor
7. Not envious (v3): not greedy for money nor covetous
8. Manage own house well (v4): children are in submission or obedient
9. Not a newbie (v5): would still be subjected to a lot of temptations
A slightly shorter but somehow similar list is given for deacons to be (v8-13). The key idea Paul told Timothy was to put candidates to a test first before giving them a leadership position. From the qualities listed above, it seems that God wants us to be blameless in body, soul and spirit.
In body, we have to learn how to control ourselves and not be easily enticed by various lusts. In our soul, we have to imbibed the Word of God in order to be able to teach and we are not to allow the devil to throw his fiery darts at us. In spirit, we have to be strong in faith in order to extinguish the enemies' fire power. Prayer is featured quite prominently where Timothy was instructed to pray for all men especially those in authority (ch 2). The Scriptures is emphasized in 2 Timothy 3. Together, prayer and the Word make for a mighty combination that prepare and equip every believer for every good work (2 Tim 3:1-17).
It is good for Timothy to have a mentor in Paul. Likewise, for new believers, it is good that they be mentored by someone more senior in spiritual age. The relationship should not just be an impartation of knowledge but also of life's lessons learnt. When we do that, the multiplier effect kicks in (2 Tim 2:2) and the lives we touch could very well touch many other lives in return.
1. Blameless (v2,7): not one where people can point an accusing finger at but having a good testimony
2. Husband of one wife (v2): practising monogamy
3. Well-disciplined (v2-3): temperate, sober-minded and of good behaviour/gentle, not violent/quarrelsome
4. Hospitable (v2): a people's person, caring for their needs
5. Able to teach (v2): probably the truths and principles found in the Word
6. Well-controlled (v3): not addicted to wine or liquor
7. Not envious (v3): not greedy for money nor covetous
8. Manage own house well (v4): children are in submission or obedient
9. Not a newbie (v5): would still be subjected to a lot of temptations
A slightly shorter but somehow similar list is given for deacons to be (v8-13). The key idea Paul told Timothy was to put candidates to a test first before giving them a leadership position. From the qualities listed above, it seems that God wants us to be blameless in body, soul and spirit.
In body, we have to learn how to control ourselves and not be easily enticed by various lusts. In our soul, we have to imbibed the Word of God in order to be able to teach and we are not to allow the devil to throw his fiery darts at us. In spirit, we have to be strong in faith in order to extinguish the enemies' fire power. Prayer is featured quite prominently where Timothy was instructed to pray for all men especially those in authority (ch 2). The Scriptures is emphasized in 2 Timothy 3. Together, prayer and the Word make for a mighty combination that prepare and equip every believer for every good work (2 Tim 3:1-17).
It is good for Timothy to have a mentor in Paul. Likewise, for new believers, it is good that they be mentored by someone more senior in spiritual age. The relationship should not just be an impartation of knowledge but also of life's lessons learnt. When we do that, the multiplier effect kicks in (2 Tim 2:2) and the lives we touch could very well touch many other lives in return.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Ministering to people
God has commissioned us to not only preach the gospel but also to heal the sick and cast out demons (Mark 16:15-18). In doing so, we proclaim the full gospel, ministering to body, soul and spirit. Paul writing to the Thessalonians mentioned, "Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Th 5:23 NKJV). Because man is a tripartite being, God has made it possible through the death of Christ on the cross to redeem us in our body, soul and spirit.
"Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed." (Is 53:4-5 NKJV). At the cross, Jesus took away our sins, sicknesses and sorrows; bringing about healing to our spirit, body and soul respectively. Notice that the healing God promised is a present reality - we are healed.
Until we recognise that we have transgressed against God through our thoughts and acts of iniquity (evil intentions), we will not acknowledge Jesus Christ as our Saviour. The malady of sin has infected human kind since the day of Adam and Eve but many are still blind to it. In fact, Jesus said that it is not the healthy who need a physician but those who are sick (Mt 9:12). In making this comparison, Jesus is saying that the self-righteous don't see a need for Him because they have no sin-sickness to confess. That's why He said that He has come not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance (Mt 9:13).
In the natural scheme of things, when one is sick, he or she would choose to get well by whatever means possible. Most would go and consult a doctor to remedy the situation. Jesus is saying that He's the Great Physician of our spirits. He offers forgiveness and cleansing through His precious blood bringing us peace with God (1 Jn 1:7,9). More than that, He also extends healing to our physical bodies and emotions. We can experience divine health in the here and now through the grace and mercy of God. And there are many testimonies that can vouch for the goodness of the Lord in this respect. But know also that if God does not heal us now, He has already purchased wholeness for us when we cross the veil into heaven. This body of sin will be exchanged for a glorious body (1 Cor 15:51-53).
When we minister to people then, it's important that we touch their body, soul and spirit. Sometimes, we touch their body first before we can touch their soul/spirit. At other times, God opens their heart to receive Christ first before they are being ministered to in the body. In praying for people, I would usually pray the promises of God as found in His Word. The Word of God is the Truth of God and it is helpful to speak it out. In so doing, we speak life to the person concerned and because the Word of God is able to edify us. When medical science tells us that there's no hope, God's Word or Truth offers a different perspective. And because God is our Creator, He is able to break through into the natural realm to offer us the wholeness that we seek. However, we have to confess to Him what we desire in our heart (Mk 10:51). Those who choose to not to get well will remain in that condition till they die.
Another important thing to have when we minister to people is faith. We may not have the gifts of healing but we do know that God honours faith (Heb 11:6). James says that it's the prayer of faith that would make the sick well (Jas 5:14-15). Notice that for certain sicknesses, it is connected with sins in our lives. However, God would forgive as well. When I pray for people, I recognise that it is God who would answer my prayers not on any basis of merit of my own but rather through the merits of Jesus Christ. I also thank God for faithful intercessors who uphold me in their prayers on a consistent basis. It is their prayers that have enabled me to stand and minister. All glory to Jesus Christ!
"Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed." (Is 53:4-5 NKJV). At the cross, Jesus took away our sins, sicknesses and sorrows; bringing about healing to our spirit, body and soul respectively. Notice that the healing God promised is a present reality - we are healed.
Until we recognise that we have transgressed against God through our thoughts and acts of iniquity (evil intentions), we will not acknowledge Jesus Christ as our Saviour. The malady of sin has infected human kind since the day of Adam and Eve but many are still blind to it. In fact, Jesus said that it is not the healthy who need a physician but those who are sick (Mt 9:12). In making this comparison, Jesus is saying that the self-righteous don't see a need for Him because they have no sin-sickness to confess. That's why He said that He has come not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance (Mt 9:13).
In the natural scheme of things, when one is sick, he or she would choose to get well by whatever means possible. Most would go and consult a doctor to remedy the situation. Jesus is saying that He's the Great Physician of our spirits. He offers forgiveness and cleansing through His precious blood bringing us peace with God (1 Jn 1:7,9). More than that, He also extends healing to our physical bodies and emotions. We can experience divine health in the here and now through the grace and mercy of God. And there are many testimonies that can vouch for the goodness of the Lord in this respect. But know also that if God does not heal us now, He has already purchased wholeness for us when we cross the veil into heaven. This body of sin will be exchanged for a glorious body (1 Cor 15:51-53).
When we minister to people then, it's important that we touch their body, soul and spirit. Sometimes, we touch their body first before we can touch their soul/spirit. At other times, God opens their heart to receive Christ first before they are being ministered to in the body. In praying for people, I would usually pray the promises of God as found in His Word. The Word of God is the Truth of God and it is helpful to speak it out. In so doing, we speak life to the person concerned and because the Word of God is able to edify us. When medical science tells us that there's no hope, God's Word or Truth offers a different perspective. And because God is our Creator, He is able to break through into the natural realm to offer us the wholeness that we seek. However, we have to confess to Him what we desire in our heart (Mk 10:51). Those who choose to not to get well will remain in that condition till they die.
Another important thing to have when we minister to people is faith. We may not have the gifts of healing but we do know that God honours faith (Heb 11:6). James says that it's the prayer of faith that would make the sick well (Jas 5:14-15). Notice that for certain sicknesses, it is connected with sins in our lives. However, God would forgive as well. When I pray for people, I recognise that it is God who would answer my prayers not on any basis of merit of my own but rather through the merits of Jesus Christ. I also thank God for faithful intercessors who uphold me in their prayers on a consistent basis. It is their prayers that have enabled me to stand and minister. All glory to Jesus Christ!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Psalm 100
This is a thank you psalm written probably after the temple in Jerusalem was rebuilt, after being destroyed by the Babylonians. It encourages all humanity (v1) to know and celebrate the goodness of the LORD by examining our attitudes we bring before the LORD. Firstly, we are exhorted to shout joyfully to the LORD; this means to make a joyful loud noise to the One who saves and delivers. There is no need to be ashamed to declare what the good LORD has done for you and me.
Secondly, we demonstrate our love for Him through worship and service (v2). This we do so through joyful singing - note that it's a hilarious time of connecting with our God and not simply going through the motions of singing. Our service to Him must also be marked by gladness and not be seen as a choreful duty. Thirdly, as we move from joyful celebration to contemplative worship, we're reminded of the fact that the God whom we worship is our Creator and Shepherd. We are but creatures of the earth (finite), the sheep of His pasture (cared for by Him).
People in the OT time would bring an animal sacrifice together with a meal as part of thanksgiving offering to the LORD (Lev 7:11-12). Hence the exhortation to enter the gates of the temple with thanksgiving and into the courts with praise (v4). As believers under the new covenant, the thanksgiving and praise sacrifices we bring before the LORD is the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name (Heb 13:15). Thank God for the blessings you have received each week and praise Him for His lovingkindness and faithfulness throughout all generations (v5). Indeed, our God is good all the time, even though things may not seem to be the way you want it to be.
Today marks the 9th anniversary of 9/11. It is a day of great loss and grief; a day where the atrocities of evil are made manifest. We pray for the families who are still affected by this great tragedy and at the same time pray that the works of terrorism would not prosper. And as the psalmist would say, "That the man who is of the earth may cause terror no more." (Ps 10:18b).
Secondly, we demonstrate our love for Him through worship and service (v2). This we do so through joyful singing - note that it's a hilarious time of connecting with our God and not simply going through the motions of singing. Our service to Him must also be marked by gladness and not be seen as a choreful duty. Thirdly, as we move from joyful celebration to contemplative worship, we're reminded of the fact that the God whom we worship is our Creator and Shepherd. We are but creatures of the earth (finite), the sheep of His pasture (cared for by Him).
People in the OT time would bring an animal sacrifice together with a meal as part of thanksgiving offering to the LORD (Lev 7:11-12). Hence the exhortation to enter the gates of the temple with thanksgiving and into the courts with praise (v4). As believers under the new covenant, the thanksgiving and praise sacrifices we bring before the LORD is the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name (Heb 13:15). Thank God for the blessings you have received each week and praise Him for His lovingkindness and faithfulness throughout all generations (v5). Indeed, our God is good all the time, even though things may not seem to be the way you want it to be.
Today marks the 9th anniversary of 9/11. It is a day of great loss and grief; a day where the atrocities of evil are made manifest. We pray for the families who are still affected by this great tragedy and at the same time pray that the works of terrorism would not prosper. And as the psalmist would say, "That the man who is of the earth may cause terror no more." (Ps 10:18b).
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Our Great Teacher
Today we commemorate Teachers’ Day; a day set aside to show appreciation to those who have taught us and imparted more than knowledge to our lives. I remember one of my secondary school Mathematics teachers who motivated and encouraged me to excel in the subjects, both E Maths and A Maths. Not only that, he also entrusted me to be the monitor which I was not willing to take on. At that point in time, I was in a class that was notorious for being noisy and rowdy. Knowing myself, I wasn’t one who could keep ill-disciplined folks under control. However, my form teacher, who happened to be my Maths teacher, encouraged me along the way in the responsibility I had to undertake. That’s the power of a teacher: to lead, care and inspire his/her charges in the way they should go. Because of my teacher’s influence, I majored in Mathematics at a local university, and faring not too badly.
Now being a teacher myself and a teacher at heart, I have also tried to impart not just knowledge but important skill sets and values to my students. The influence that I have on their lives can only be seen and felt much later. It is heartening to note that ex-students do remember their teachers and some still do keep in touch even though they have left college many years ago. I met an ex-student on the MRT train while on my way to the Teachers’ Day Reception at the Istana just a few hours back. He has just started teaching Economics in another school and among other things we talked about Maths. The knowledge gained in his JC years were put to good use when he gave guidance to his current students. Another colleague of mine who attended the Reception as well also mentioned about an ex-student who kept in touch with her even when she’s overseas studying. Such is the power of a teacher’s influence! However, the influence can also be felt negatively by students if a teacher does not wield his/her authority in a fair and judicious way.
All of us grow up with significant others in our lives, whether parents, relatives or guardians whom we are close to. They are our teachers when we’re young and definitely, they wield an influence in our lives whether for good or bad. Likewise, when we grow up, we become parents, aunts, uncles or grand-relatives to young lives in our circle of influence. Let’s endeavour to make a positive influence over their lives by not only instructing but role-modelling good behaviours. Speaking of role-modelling, there’s a great teacher mentioned in the Bible who exemplified the way of humility for His disciples to follow. I am, of course, referring to the Lord Jesus Christ. He was called a rabbi (Jewish teacher) by His disciples (Mk 9:5; Mt 26:25). After washing His disciples’ feet, Jesus spoke to them thus, “If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (Jn 13:14 NASB).
The greatness of our teacher is seen in His perfect example of humility. As the Son of God, He chose to humble himself by taking the form of man to die for us at the cross of Calvary (Phil 2:5-8). Are we able to role-model for our children, grandchildren, students, nephews and nieces the important virtue of humility in a world that seeks to constantly put pride and ego on the pedestal? May God continue to teach and instruct us in the way that we should go especially in relation to our role as people of influence (Ps 32:8). Remember that the Holy Spirit residing in the believers, is also our teacher, who would bring to our remembrance the words of Jesus (Jn 14:26). Indeed, the Godhead is seen as a trinity of instructors, guiding our souls towards godliness and Christ-likeness.
To all teachers and those who are teachers at heart: Blessed Teachers’ Day!
Now being a teacher myself and a teacher at heart, I have also tried to impart not just knowledge but important skill sets and values to my students. The influence that I have on their lives can only be seen and felt much later. It is heartening to note that ex-students do remember their teachers and some still do keep in touch even though they have left college many years ago. I met an ex-student on the MRT train while on my way to the Teachers’ Day Reception at the Istana just a few hours back. He has just started teaching Economics in another school and among other things we talked about Maths. The knowledge gained in his JC years were put to good use when he gave guidance to his current students. Another colleague of mine who attended the Reception as well also mentioned about an ex-student who kept in touch with her even when she’s overseas studying. Such is the power of a teacher’s influence! However, the influence can also be felt negatively by students if a teacher does not wield his/her authority in a fair and judicious way.
All of us grow up with significant others in our lives, whether parents, relatives or guardians whom we are close to. They are our teachers when we’re young and definitely, they wield an influence in our lives whether for good or bad. Likewise, when we grow up, we become parents, aunts, uncles or grand-relatives to young lives in our circle of influence. Let’s endeavour to make a positive influence over their lives by not only instructing but role-modelling good behaviours. Speaking of role-modelling, there’s a great teacher mentioned in the Bible who exemplified the way of humility for His disciples to follow. I am, of course, referring to the Lord Jesus Christ. He was called a rabbi (Jewish teacher) by His disciples (Mk 9:5; Mt 26:25). After washing His disciples’ feet, Jesus spoke to them thus, “If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (Jn 13:14 NASB).
The greatness of our teacher is seen in His perfect example of humility. As the Son of God, He chose to humble himself by taking the form of man to die for us at the cross of Calvary (Phil 2:5-8). Are we able to role-model for our children, grandchildren, students, nephews and nieces the important virtue of humility in a world that seeks to constantly put pride and ego on the pedestal? May God continue to teach and instruct us in the way that we should go especially in relation to our role as people of influence (Ps 32:8). Remember that the Holy Spirit residing in the believers, is also our teacher, who would bring to our remembrance the words of Jesus (Jn 14:26). Indeed, the Godhead is seen as a trinity of instructors, guiding our souls towards godliness and Christ-likeness.
To all teachers and those who are teachers at heart: Blessed Teachers’ Day!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
