Should Christians Change with the Times?

Should the church change to accommodate for the new generation of Christians?

How would you describe the new generation of Christians? The old?

What do you mean by change? Change the message? Change the Scriptures? Change the church faith and practice? Change the ordinances of the church?

What makes these new Christians different so they would need to be accommodated?

Aren’t Christians the same throughout time? In other words, aren’t they called to trust Christ for forgiveness of sins (Acts 16:31); called to live holy lives (1 Peter 1:15)? Aren’t Christians supposed to be an influence on the world?

We are commanded to be the salt of the world to influence the world and point people to Christ. That infers not changing or we would lose our savor (Matthew 5:13).

Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). And His message is the same. So, what message would Christians be sending if they changed?

In what way could the church accommodate a new generation?

Isn’t the older generation supposed to raise the younger in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4)? Isn’t the older generation supposed to teach the younger generation the things of God (Deuteronomy 6:7)? So, the new generation would be influenced by the previous generation.

Perhaps these questions might develop deeper thought and discussion on this subject.

Authored by Ptr. Jerry Smith, Quora answer, edited for Theology In Use blog.

Why Do So Many People Leave Seminaries With Less Faith in the Bible?

I think many people start off believing what is written in the Bible. However, they mistakenly believe also that if they study in a seminary they will become deeper rooted in the Bible and Christianity. Sadly, often the opposite is true.

In seminaries and Bible colleges they are taught by professors who often correct the Bible and teach them from various Bible versions. The word of God becomes diluted and polluted with humanism, modern psychology, and naturalism. One of the first things attacked is that God did not really mean six days, and it degrades from there. 

This happens repeatedly for 2, 4, 6, or 8 years until they leave the seminary quoting authors instead of the Bible. By the time they graduate, they have received a lot of information but have missed the deeper things of God—through faith we understand (Hebrews 11:1–3). 

Often their faith has been so undermined that when they assume positions in churches they proliferate the same teachings to their congregations (Acts 10:28–31). The members believe these teachings because, hey, the teacher came from a seminary. 

The church has fallen into the trap that to understand the Bible, one must leave the church and attend a seminary. The teachings of seminary professors cannot be monitored by the church. The church member is now under the teaching of a professor instead of a pastor-teacher. 

But the Lord has ordained the church as the means for education of His people. He did not ordain sending people from the church to learn theology elsewhere. Christians are supposed to learn their theology from the local body (Acts 2:42, Ephesians 4:11–15). Here the pastor-teacher is supposed to protect the flock from false doctrine (Ephesians 4:14). 

Sometimes learning takes years of sitting under church teaching. But in our weakness as humans, especially humans in modern western culture, we seek shortcuts to what is supposed to take time and maturation (cf. 2 Peter 3:18). This is one of the concepts behind the term “elder,” in the Bible, and the idea behind a bishop not being a new convert (1 Timothy 3:6).

Some people reading this may agree that they learned some of the best lessons sitting under a God-fearing preacher who practiced Bible exposition in his messages. And I suppose there will be others who think they learned the most in Bible school.

But to answer the question more succinctly: People come out of seminaries with less faith then when they went in because we have failed to heed God's word. 

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By Jerry F. Smith

Image source: unsplash.com

The Church and Truth

Background

Paul left Timothy in charge of the church at Ephesus while he likely went on to Macedonia. From Macedonia Paul writes Timothy this letter (epistle) to instruct Timothy on how he should lead and manage the church at Ephesus. Part of that instruction describes the New Testament church (1 Timothy 3:15): 

...the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 

Paul explains to Timothy what the church represents (God) and the church's role in this world as the pillar (support) and ground (foundation) of the truth. And that highest truth is found in 1 Timothy 3:16... 

...without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. 

Faith Lesson 

When referring to someone who is a pillar such as in Galatians 2:9 (James, Peter, and John), in the New Testament sense, it means someone well rooted and grounded in the truth and strong in the faith (William Burkitt NT Commentary on 1 Timothy 3:15). 

When the church is referred to as the pillar and ground of the truth it means the church should be holding fast the truth (as well as proclaiming it). And, the highest truth is Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 3:11) which is found in the word of truth (John 17:17), written by God who cannot lie (Titus 1:2). 

The truth in every believer is the light that shines in this dark, evil world. If it is dim or if it is hidden, people will not be able to to distinguish truth from lies. 

The church should be a refuge that opposes heresy, false teaching, untruths, false doctrine, false signs (Matthew 13:22, 24:24), and anything else contrary to the truth. People should feel safe in the church—safe from lies and deceit. 

The truth does not compromise—it cannot. Truth is truth and will always prevail over falsity. Even 99% truth is not truth. The truth must be kept pure for there are many false truths (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10) that lead people away from THE truth (John 14:6). 

Holding the truth does not mean simply knowing right doctrine, but living it as well. What more untruth can there be than when a church holds to the truth but its members fail to live it and exemplify it; fail to bear fruit from it? 

Sadly, some churches do well in proclaiming the truth but fall short of holding to it. 

Sadly, some churches do well in holding the truth but fail in proclaiming it. 

Sadly, some churches do well in proclaiming and holding the truth, but fail to live it. 

Sadly, some churches do none of these. 

Reflection 

Why is it important (for individuals and churches) to be the pillar and ground of the truth? 

In what ways can Christians deviate from the truth? 

How/Why do you think Christians get away from the truth? 

In what ways to churches get away from the truth? 

How do we maintain the integrity of the truth? 

What should our response be when we encounter false truth? 

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By Jerry Smith

Feature image: https://www.istockphoto.com/portfolio/PhotographerOlympus

Is Acts 1:8 A Command or Forthtelling?

Basing their actions on Matthew 28:19–20, many Christians and churches today are busy making disciples. While that may be implied from the passage, it doesn't say "make disciples" in the King James Bible. Jesus told the disciples to go, teach, baptize, and teach again.

Matthew 28:19–20

The idea conveyed here is to first be busy about the Father's business (go). Then tell people about God our Creator, our fallen condition, and about Jesus Christ—the Gospel (teach).

When someone has responded to the Gospel in saving faith, they're to be baptized (baptize). After a person is baptized, that brother or sister is to be built up in the faith (teaching them).

A person who has met the Savior will be ready to tell others about Christ. They'll witness to others about their personal encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Andrew is an example of this in John 1:40–42. Though his faith was not yet mature, he instinctively wanted to bring his brother, Peter, to see Jesus Christ.

Acts 1:8

Shortly before His ascension, Jesus told the disciples:

... ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:8).

Eager Christians often see this as a second command to go and make disciples. But is that really what the Lord was saying here?

What did Jesus Say in Acts 1:8?

In Matthew, Jesus said, go. It was an imperative statement; an order that His disciples proceed forth and teach others the Gospel.

In Acts however, there's no imperative. There's only a declarative statement: "ye shall be witnesses." When examining the language of "shall be," the Greek word, esomai, we can see that it can mean, shall come to pass, but it is not an imperative statement.

The word witness comes from the Greek word, martus, a legal term that infers testifying in court (e.g. giving his testimony) or non-legal term for retelling a personal encounter (e.g. sharing his experience).

John bore witness about what he'd heard, seen, and touched during his experience with Jesus Christ (1 John 1:1–3). He declared Christ with the readers of 1 John.

Peter wrote similar words when he expressed his eye-witness account of what he'd seen and heard during his time with Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:6).

Paul witnessed of his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 22:6–9 and 26:12–15).

Command or Forthtelling?

The words Jesus spoke in Acts 1:8 have often been interpreted as a command to witness to the uttermost part of the earth, but that is not what we see here.

It appears that the Lord was forthtelling and foretelling—telling the disciples what would come to pass: they shall be witnesses (i.e. the word of God for the present: forthtelling), and as witnesses, they would flow from where they were then, to the uttermost part of the earth (i.e. the future: foretelling).

Do we have it backwards?

As Christians, we may have it all wrong. Could it be that we place more importance on Matthew 28:19–20 than Acts 1:8? From what we read in Scripture, it appears Acts 1:8 is the foundation for Matthew 28:19–20.

Perhaps one reason some people dislike Christians, or perhaps many unbelievers reject God and His Son Jesus Christ is that for so long, Christians have been overbearing and failing to demonstrate Christlike attitudes and behaviors—failing to live the Christian life which we speak of.

Could it be that we haven't nurtured our own relationships with the Lord and haven't shown simple sincerity in our witness to others? Don't people look for sincerity from an evangelist?

But if you look at how the Lord conducted Himself, he wasn't overbearing and He absolutely exhibited righteousness. He walked and talked the Gospel. He shared His relationship with the Father, and now He asks believers to share our relationship with Him, with others—ye shall be my witnesses.

Be ready to answer.

Peter wrote to persecuted Christians that they were to be ready:

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear (1 Peter 3:15).

Why were they to be ready to answer? Because as they lived their Christian lives before those who may have despised them, they'd draw some to them who would ask about their steadfast faith and continued good behavior (cf. 1 Peter 3:8–14).

These verses in 1 Peter 3 are not a mandate to debate unbelievers, but a command to be ready to answer questions about our real and living faith (cf. James 2:18).

In Revelation 2:4, the Lord rebuked the Church of Ephesus because they had lost their first love.

In John 17:3, the Lord, praying to the Father, spoke of knowing the Father and the Son as eternal life.

The Lord is interested in relationships.

Clearly, the Lord is interested in relationships with His people. He is referred to as our heavenly Father (e.g. Luke 11:2) and in an intimate way as Abba Father (e.g. Galatians 4:6). Believers are called sons (e.g. Romans 8:14) and that God deals with us as sons (Hebrews 12:7). He said to His people Israel that He walks among them and would be their God, and they His people (Leviticus 26:12, Deuteronomy 23:14).

Christians today are so caught up in making disciples that they neglect their relationships with the Lord (Revelation 2:4). Focus on ministry and soul-winning take the priority over fellowship, prayer, and personal times spent with the Lord.

God's word teaches us that . . .

We're to let our light shine that others may see it and glorify God (Matthew 5:16). What light do unbelievers see in us? It starts at home, then neighbors, then work, then branches out to the world (i.e. Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the earth).

We're to live peaceful lives (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12, Romans 12:18, Hebrews 12:14). How peaceful are our lives? Are we the rowdy ones on the block? Does our church make the most noise on Sundays? Are the soul-winners aggressive?

We're not to let evil be spoken of about us—nothing evil to say of us (Titus 2:8, 1 Peter 3:9,16; 2 Corinthians 8:21, 1 Thessalonians 5:15). How well do we fall into this description? What is our testimony to the world? 

We're to love God first (Matthew 22:37, Luke 10:27). Do unbelievers see the love we have for God? Not a touchy-feely love, but a love that seeks to follow God.

Do people see these things in our lives, do they see only Bible-thumpers, hear harsh words, and get gospel tracts shoved in their faces?

Do they hear the believer's testimony of what Jesus Christ has done for him or only mechanical Bible quotes?

Do people see genuine Christianity and want to know more about it? Before the Lord renewed me in the faith, I wanted to be a Christian because I could see there was something pure and good in them. Do others say that about us?

Soul-winning in Church?

These days, preachers and churches feel obligation to preach the Gospel in church services. But is that what we're supposed to be doing in church?

According to Ephesians 4 (4:11–15) and 1 Corinthians 14 (14:3–5,12,26) that's not what we're supposed to be doing. Believers are to be taught doctrine and God is to be praised in His church. If unsaved people come in, they'll see this and know that they're different, and as Paul says, will fall down and glorify God (1 Corinthians 14:24–25).

What were the early disciples doing when they were gathered?

They were . . .

- Continuing daily with one accord.
- Breaking bread from house to house.
- Enjoying fellowship.
- Praising God.
- Having favor with God and man (Acts 2:45–47).

And the result was . . . the Lord added to them such as would be saved (Acts 2:47).
 

Final Thoughts

There must be something different about Christians. People are drawn to the light and will ask about it. We should be using words of grace seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:6)—no need to quote chapter and verse. We can just have speech sprinkled with the word of God.

In the end, there should be a balance between Matthew 28:19–20 (teaching) and Acts 1:8 (witnessing).

To know more about reviving your relationship with Jesus Christ or beginning one, purchase your copy of Where Is the Beauty That We May Desire Him: A Devotional on Isaiah 53 (e-book) on Google Books, Amazon Kindle, or paperback. Your purchases help keep this ministry going.
 
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Written by Jerry Smith
Image source: www.LumoProject.com on FreeBibleimages.org

Why Do Christians Make Graven Images of Jesus?

If no graven image of God is to be made for worship, then why do Christians make images of Jesus?

Why do they do it when God is not worshipped by objects made by human hands (Acts 17:24–25)? Neither is God worshipped by things in nature (cf. Romans 1:21–23).

Perhaps a few reasons:

1. They are failing to READ the word of God.
2. They are failing to HEED the word of God.
3. They are failing to BELIEVE the word of God.

There may be other reasons, but these three, I think get to the core of it.

Whatever the reason may be, it is a fair question. Lord willing, more people would ask this question. The answers are in the Bible. That is why God says, “study to show thyself approved unto God” (2 Timothy 2:15) so that we need not be “ashamed.”

The Bible says we are to worship God “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:23–24) That means:

(1) Being born again (spirit) by saving faith in Jesus Christ (who died on the cross to pay for our sins and rose again); and

(2) In accordance with the word of God (truth).

These two points are where many, many people stray (Isaiah 53:6).

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Written by Jerry Smith (based on his original answer to a question on Quora).
Image source: Paul Zoetemeijer on Unsplash

How Not to Be Deceived

Paul wrote to Christians, "Let no man deceive you" (2 Thessalonians 2:3, Ephesians 5:6) God's will is that believers are not deceived by false teachers or false doctrine that would lead them into wrong paths, unfruitful lives, or shame when all is said and done (2 Corinthians 5:10). 

But He didn't just leave it there. In His love, God gave us instructions how to prevent such deception. He tells us not to be deceived then tells us how not to be deceived. 

1. Test Everything 

God tells us to prove everything and hold fast to that which is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). There are two activities at play in this passage that give us a result: 

(1) We are to prove everything; that is, we are supposed to put everything we encounter to the test. 

(2) We are to hold fast to that which is good; if we are supposed to test everything, we must have a baseline. That baseline is the word of God. 

If we are intimately familiar with the Bible, we will immediately notice false teaching. Christians are to be narrow-minded when it comes to the fundamentals of the faith. 

The result: 

(3) If we examine everything through the eyes of the word of God, we will be able to spot false teaching. 

2. Scrutinize Teachers and What They Teach 

We are commanded not to believe everyone who calls themselves a Bible teacher (1 John 4:1). Furthermore, we are commanded to examine everyone who claims to be a Bible teacher so we will know if they are really from God. 

That means we do not simply sit in a pew and listen to someone teaching the Bible on a Sunday morning. We are to be active listeners—checking the verses, checking the speaker's words, and checking the doctrine in them. We are not supposed to just sit and believe everything that is being taught—open your Bible and check! 

The Bereans were an excellent example of this (Acts 17:11). Even though they had the famous Paul the Apostle standing in front of them teaching them, they took the time to search the Scriptures to see if the things Paul taught them were in-line with what was written in the Scriptures—to see if the things Paul said were so. 

3. Know the Word of God

How do we know what to scrutinize teachers about? 

How do we know what right doctrine is? 

God directs us to do what many of us seem to have an aversion to . . . study (2 Timothy 2:15)! 

We are commanded to study for three reasons: 

1. So we will enjoy God's approval. 
2. So we do not need to be ashamed. 
3. So we will correctly handle the word of God. 

Why would God command us to study? The answer is clear: 

• He loves us. 
• He cares about our welfare. 
• He does not want to see us suffer. 
• He does not want us to be ashamed. 

Parting Thoughts 

These days, in our social media, fake news environment, it seems people believe almost everything they hear. But the Lord commands us to search the Scriptures and study the word so we will not be ashamed. 

Paul wrote, let no man deceive you... and God shows us how not to be deceived. It's all there in the word if we look for it. 

So, how not to be deceived? Be rooted and grounded in the word of God, and you will be able to spot false teachers and false teaching a mile away! 

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By Jerry Smith

Feature image source: nicole-honeywill-703542-unsplash 

Open Bible image source: kelly-sikkema-275193-unsplash 

Open Bible listening image source: Photo by Hannah Busing on Unsplash 

Open Bible highlighting image source: rod-long-425679-unsplash 

Pastor, Be Nice!

Pastor, consider who you berate for being too tired to attend all church services; for those members choosing to rest instead of attend every function; for those not being able to be fully involved in ministry, or for not being able to attend every time the doors of the church building are open. 

You Forget

You forget your blessings—your vocation is one totally devoted to the ministry—to spiritual matters. 

You have the blessing of being cared for while leading the church, but others do not have such a blessing. They do not receive payment or privilege for exercising themselves in the things of the Lord. So they must work in their own vocations to provide for their families and or their own personal needs. 

They have graduations to go to, family gatherings, holidays with family members, business meetings, school activities, classes to attend, and any number of other activities weighing on them. 

Of course they would like to be in church. What Spirit-filled believer wouldn't? 

Of course they need to be in church, but they are unable to. 

Are they putting mammon before church meetings? That's what thoughtful biblical counseling may reveal. 

Be Gentle

Your forget that your role is to feed the flock of God under your charge (John 21:17, 1 Peter 5:2); feed them with the word of God (Jeremiah 3:15), not attack them. 

And in case you have forgotten, you are to be gentle with the flock (Isaiah 40:11) in fulfilling your role as the Lord's under-shepherd, not overbearing, hard, or selfish (Ezekiel 34:1-6) . 

The members of your church are out in the world 24-7, working, living, breathing, moving, and enduring while you remain within the confines of the sanctuary, where you are able to spend time focusing on spiritual matters. 

Be reminded that members sometimes struggle to be in church on Sundays or on Wednesday evenings because they are simply exhausted. 

You might want to try and show compassion (Mark 6:34)—which is part of being a shepherd—instead of judgment and disdain for weaker brethren because God will bring you under greater condemnation (James 3:1). 

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Written by Jerry Smith

Feature image source: istockphoto.com lisafx

Nice preacher image source: istockphoto.com FatCamera

Why Teach in Church

Paul wrote Timothy, and one of the points he raised in the first chapter was the proper motivation for teaching:

Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm (1 Timothy 1:5-7, KJV).

Teachers in church teach because they love the brethren and want to edify them. If that isn't our motive for teaching, then even though we think we understand the Bible, we really do not.

Questions teachers should ask themselves: 

• Why am I teaching in church? 
• Am I trying to show that I have knowledge? 
• Am I trying to show that I'm smart?
• Am I seeking to impress others?
• Am I teaching because I want to have a ministry?

If your answers do not reflect Christian love for the brethren, Paul says, you have the wrong idea, what you teach is just vanity, and you have no clue what you are saying or why you have been given an opportunity to teach. 

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Feature image source: https://www.istockphoto.com/portfolio/nazarethman?assettype=image&sort=best

How can going to church, praying, and helping others help fight depression?

Depression is looking inward at yourself. A person spends their time thinking about how bad things are for themselves. This persists to a point where they are pretty much consumed with their problem(s). Depression can isolate a person from the world and draw them into feelings of despair and hopelessness.

However, God did not create us to be alone but to live with others. So depression is a condition that contradicts God’s best for us. To help fight depression, God has given Christians these activities.

(1) When we look outside of ourselves by way of prayer to God, we naturally move from inward to outward. Praying is an opportunity to share your burden with God. The God of the Bible is the Creator of the universe (Genesis 1:1, Exodus 20:11) who not only cares for us (1 Peter 5:7), but with whom nothing is impossible (Genesis 18:14, Jeremiah 32:27, Luke 18:27). 

(2) When Christians go to church, they are surrounded by fellow believers who also struggle with similar problems. This is why we are called to fellowship with one another (1 John 1:3, Philippians 3:10). Fellowship implies a bond between people. The bond between believers is not only in and through Christ, but a bond of fellowship of sufferings in Christ (John 16:33, 1 Peter 4:12–13). 

When we are together in church, others can encourage us in our hardships (Philippians 2:3-4, 1 Thessalonians 5:11). It is also in church where we can hear the word of God taught and preached which may be used of God to build up our faith, encourage us, strengthen us, refresh us, and or give us the grace to continue on. So God tells us not to forsake church (Hebrews 10:25). 

(3) Finally, when we minister to (serve or help) others, we are naturally looking outside of ourselves at the needs of others. When we look at the needs of others, we are no longer thinking about ourselves. In fact the Lord tells us that when we do good to others we are doing good to ourselves (Proverbs 11:17). 

If you feel however, that your depression has you thinking about harming yourself or others, and you are a Christian, please communicate immediately with your pastor, church clergy, or biblical counselor. If the urge is overwhelmingly strong, contact an emergency hotline for assistance.

Written by Jerry Smith

Feature image source: nik-shuliahin-251237-unsplash

What Does the Bible Say About Women Being Pastors?

The Lord tells us in His word how He wants His church governed. Yet there are those who question or outright defy God's will for HIS church. And it is His church, bought with His blood (Acts 20:28). 

As such, He has the right to give instructions about what He wants for the body of Christ (1 Timothy 3:5, 1 Corinthians 14:37). Unfortunately, there are some who wish to impose their opinions, preferences, or political correctness onto the church by rejecting the word of God.

One of the most hotly rejected New Testament mandates is the subject of women not being permitted to be pastors, ministers, or other spiritual leaders of the church. 

Before going into an outline of the biblical bases for women not being permitted to lead churches, the following represent a few of the arguments proponents use for it and brief responses. 

Some people argue from Old Testament examples.

They forget that those were Old Testament examples. They were also exceptions to the norm. But the New Testament has no such traditions. 

Some people focus on the New Testament example of Aquila and Priscilla.

People like to talk about Aquila and Priscilla instructing Apollos (Acts 18:26). However, they forget that it was done privately and Aquila (a man) was also a part of it. 

In addition, there were no female apostles. They were men (e.g. Acts 1:21-23). No apostle was a woman.

Some argue about the culture of the New Testament times. 

Those who reject the word of God say these commands were cultural and that it is different now. However, they forget that these commands were given to the church. 

The commands to the church are extra-cultural. Paul did not qualify his remarks as being cultural. When people say that, they are attempting to twist word of God to suit their personal preferences. 

So is the word of God simply relative for all of us, can we attribute everything we do not like about the New Testament to "the culture of that day"? Can we just pick and choose what we will accept? If so, we make the word of God of no effect.

The word of God clearly states and clarifies with argument that women are subordinate to the authority of the man in the church (1 Timothy 2:11), that women are not to usurp authority of men in the church (1 Timothy 2:12), and that a man is to be a pastor (or bishop; 1 Timothy 3:1-2), i.e. lead the church. Those who teach otherwise are in disagreement with God's plainly revealed will for His church.

Outline

The following is an outline that provides scriptural bases for restricting women from the role of pastors or other spiritual leader of the Christian church. 

The assumption is that one would take the time to read the passages as they are written, clearly and plainly, and consider the point raised. The outline is based on Paul's own arguments for this restriction as written in the epistles. 

The conclusions tie it all together. If one approaches the word of God without preconceived notions, letting the word of God speak for itself, the points are valid as the will of God for the governance of His church. 

The Facts

1. Man and woman made equal in humanity (Genesis 1:26-27, Galatians 3:28).

2. Man and woman were made equal in humanity but not in order (Genesis 2:7; 1 Corinthians 11:8-9, 1 Timothy 2:13).

3. Man was given headship over the woman.

A. God gave the command to Adam (Genesis 2:16-17).

B. Woman made from Adam’s rib (Genesis 2:21-22).

C. Woman was made a help meet for man (Genesis 2:18,20). 

D. Woman was made for the man (1 Corinthians 11:9). 

E. Adam called her woman (i.e. Adam named her, Genesis 2:23; cf. Genesis 2:19).

F. God called for Adam in the Garden not Eve (Genesis 3:9).

G. God held Adam responsible for Eve’s action (Genesis 3:17, Romans 5:12).

i. However, Eve was held personally accountable (Genesis 3:16).

ii. Nevertheless, Adam failed to lead Eve in this matter.

a. A consequence of the fall: man would rule over the woman (cf. rule over, exercise lordship over, exercise authority over, Mark 10:42; Genesis 3:16; these appear to be more decrees or judgments, than curses.) That is, there would be conflict in the now fallen union (Ryrie 1994). But the fallen union can be restored in Christ by observing Ephesians 5:22, 25; cf. Mark 10:43-45).

H. In Christ, the man is the head of the wife (Ephesians 5:23).

4. The woman was deceived, not the man (Genesis 3:1-4, 1 Timothy 2:14).

5. The woman is called the weaker vessel (1 Peter 3:7).

A. Eve was beguiled by the serpent (2 Corinthians 11:3).

B. Why did the serpent go to the woman and not the man (Genesis 3:1-5)?

C. Carried away by teachings (i.e. changeable minds, prone to accept new teaching, swayed by impulses [Ryrie 1994], 2 Timothy 3:6-7).

The Church

1. Women in the church (prescriptive not descriptive, cf. 1 Corinthians 14:37).

A. Commanded to be silent (i.e. hold their peace, 1 Corinthians 14:34; i.e. be still and quiet, 1 Timothy 2:11-12).

i. A possible reference to prophesying or questioning (i.e. challenging) male speakers in 1 Corinthians 14:34, but it is clear in 1 Timothy 2:11-12 that women are to be silent in the church. Paul would not contradict himself.

B. Women are not permitted to speak (i.e. preach, rant, prolonged discourse; 1 Corinthians 14:34).

C. Women are not to teach men (1 Timothy 2:12).

i. Supported by order (Adam first, 1 Timothy 2:13; Ryrie 1994).

ii. Supported by transgression (Eve deceived, 1 Timothy 2:14; Ryrie 1994).

D. Women are not to usurp authority over a man (i.e. take authority from man, 1 Timothy 2:12).

i. Eve usurped Adam’s headship in Genesis 3:6 when she made the choice to eat the fruit instead of yielding to Adam’s authority and bringing it to his attention.

ii. Commanded to yield (submit) to the authority of her husband (1 Peter 3:1; See also: Ephesians 5:22,24; Colossians 3:18, 1 Corinthians 11:8-9, Genesis 2:18).

a. Implies disobedient, less mature, or even unsaved husbands (cf. 1 Peter 3:1).

b. By implication the minister of the word (cf. not to question the teacher, 1 Corinthians 14:34-35).

c. Should also be understood in the context of being obedient and submissive to pastors (cf. Hebrews 13:17, 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, 1 Timothy 5:17)

d. Men should practice Ephesians 5:1-21 and 25-33 to avoid ruling over their wives (Genesis 3:16) and ease the burden for the woman.

F. Women may teach younger women (Titus 2:3-5).

i. May include male children up to a certain age (puberty).

ii. May teach men outside of the church (in the presence of her husband, cf. Acts 18:26).

G. Women are commanded to focus on the home and developing one another (Titus 2:3-5, cf. Proverbs 31:27).

Conclusions

1. Men should be encouraged to lead (in the church and at home).

2. Men should be given opportunities to lead (in the church and at home).

3. Men should be trained to lead in all areas (in the church and at home).

4. Men should govern their wives to maintain order in the church (1 Corinthians 14:40).

5. Women in the church are not to teach men, question (publicly challenge) teachers; nor given authority over men.

6. Women ought to encourage the man in his leadership role (cf. Ephesians 5:33).

7. Women should yield opportunities for the man to lead (cf. Ephesians 5:22).

8. Women should learn to submit to the leadership of their own husbands to maintain order in the church (1 Corinthians 14:40).

9. Women are to focus on the home and on developing one another.

Final Thoughts

Women are not second-class citizens in the kingdom of God. To the contrary, God says there is neither male nor female in Christ (Galatians 3:28). But that does not negate the order of creation nor His mandate for the governance of His church. 

Women can counsel others from the Bible, they can teach the Bible, and even speak to men about the truth of God's word, but these things are to be done in the proper context (i.e. informal settings, in homes, in social gatherings, in designated women's or children's classes within the church). 

However, the Bible is clear: when the church gathers, women are not to lead. They are to yield to the will of God, yield to the authority of the man, and humbly encourage men to be the leaders God made them to be. That means they must remain silent at times. 

Written by Jerry Smith

Image source: Photo by Diane Helentjaris on Unsplash

How You Can Share Your Christian Faith with More Confidence

Humanly speaking, a person can gain confidence through observation and repetition.

One excellent way to build confidence sharing your faith is by partnering with a more experienced Christian. Many churches today have tract distribution ministries, knocking on doors, street preaching, home Bible studies, and other similar activities. You could ask a more experienced believer to allow you to join him in one or more of these activities and mentor you. 

In time, you will gain confidence because you have observed how this person manages different circumstances. Soon, you can try being the lead on such occasions and your mentor can give you feedback.

One day, you will be able to share your faith with more confidence, whether in a group or privately with family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, or even strangers. You will have been trained to share the Gospel through observation and repetition.

Spiritually speaking, a Christian can gain boldness in sharing his faith through a personal relationship with Christ, prayer, filling with the Holy Spirit, and love for his neighbors.

1. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ

In Acts 1:8, the Lord told the disciples that they would be His witnesses throughout the world. One can only be a witness when they have witnessed something. 

If someone has never been saved himself, he cannot share with others his personal testimony. Paul shared his personal encounter with Christ on at least two occasions (Acts 22:3–15 and Acts 26:12–18). 

A believer who has had a personal encounter with Jesus Christ will naturally be a witness and want to tell others (e.g. John 1:40–42, John 4:28–30). 

However, as time goes by, the fire tends to dwindle and we lose our first love (Revelation 2:4), which is why we must continually nurture our relationship with Christ (cf. 2 Peter 3:18). 

2. Prayer

Paul asked that others pray for his boldness so he could make known the Gospel (Ephesians 6:19). The disciples in Acts 4:29–30 prayed for boldness to speak the word of God. 

Prayer for boldness along with open doors (Colossians 4:3) is an important element of sharing the Christian faith. 

3. Filled with the Holy Spirit

In Acts 1:8, the Lord told the disciples that they would receive power after the Holy Spirit came upon them and they would be His witnesses. On the Day of Pentecost, Peter and the other disciples fulfilled that statement when the Holy Spirit descended upon them and they spoke with great power (Acts 2). 

In another instance, the answer to the disciples’ prayer in Acts 4:29 was that they were filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:31) and spoke the word of God with great boldness. 

To gain more boldness to speak, seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit. 

4. Love for neighbors

The Lord tells us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves (e.g. Mark 12:31, Galatians 5:14, James 2:8). Sharing the Gospel with someone is an act of love. When you love your neighbor more than yourself, you will speak without fear of what you look like or sound like because the message is urgent. It is a life and death message.

When someone is trapped in a burning house, you do not consider your shyness—you tell him plainly how he can escape the fire. In Acts 19:8, Paul spoke boldly in the synagogues because he had a message to share with his fellow Jews whom he longed for to be saved (cf. Romans 9:3), not because he enjoyed the rejection. 

When we think of ourselves and our shyness, we are exhibiting self-centeredness, but when we look outward at the needs of others, we are no longer thinking of ourselves. You will realize that you have an urgent message people need to hear, and as the Lord opens doors, you will be ready to share it. Paul spoke plainly (2 Corinthians 3:12) because people needed to hear the message.

Conclusion

Humanly speaking, confidence can be developed through observation and repetition—putting yourself repeatedly in faith-sharing situations. 

Spiritually speaking, boldness to witness to others comes from a (close) personal walk with Jesus Christ, prayer, being filled with the Spirit, and loving your neighbors.

[END]

Written by Jerry Smith

Image source: https://www.istockphoto.com/portfolio/ryanjlane

Do Pastors Need Charisma or Public Speaking Skills to Preach?

Does a preacher needs charisma or public speaking techniques to deliver a message from the word? 

The answer is no on both counts.

In the list of qualifications for a pastor, no requirement is given to be charismatic or a skilled orator. But we do read that he should be disposed to teaching (1 Timothy 3:2). We also read how Peter gave a powerful message from the scriptures after the Holy Spirit came upon him on the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2, and three thousand souls listened and believed (Acts 2:41), with no mention of his skill, only that he preached the word. 

Paul prayed for boldness to speak the word in Ephesians 6:19 not charisma, not a good joke, not public speaking skills. In fact, Paul spoke with frankness (2 Corinthians 3:12) and spoke only what the Lord would have him speak (i.e. the word of God); not with man’s wisdom, but with God’s (1 Corinthians 2:4,13). Another example comes from Acts 4:31 where the disciples received boldness to speak the word after praying and being filled with the Holy Spirit.

Jokes or anecdotes can lighten things up, get the attention of the congregation, and may enhance learning. The Lord seems to have used humor at times in His messages (cf. Matthew 7:5); Paul evinces humor in 1 Corinthians 12:21 for example, and we read a humorous account in Acts 20:9–12. However, there do not appear to be cases where believers actively sought charisma or public speaking skills—they sought boldness to speak the word.

Can a preacher use charisma and utilize public speaking skills when the word of God is at the heart of the message? 

The answer is yes, but he should not rely on or prioritize them above the word of God.

In terms of relying on our own skills, the Bible reminds us that how people respond to a message is in God’s hands: i.e. it is God who gives understanding (Proverbs 2:6); God who shines light into our minds (2 Corinthians 4:6); it is not by the physical but by the Spirit of God that we build (Zechariah 4:6); God’s ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8); that the flesh profits nothing (John 6:63); that we should not put our confidence in man (Psalm 118:9); that the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God (1 Corinthians 3:19), and the philosophy of this world is ineffective in the spiritual world (Colossians 2:8). We can learn from these verses that even the most charismatic individuals or the greatest of speakers have no effect without God.

In terms of having the word of God as the core of any message, the Bible reminds us that believers are born of the word of God (1 Peter 1:23, James 1:18); Christian faith is built up from the word of God (Romans 10:17), and Christ called the word of God truth (John 17:17). Therefore, any message given in church should be on what the Lord has to say.

Humanly speaking, being pleasant and sounding appealing could not hurt because people have limited attention spans (e.g. Acts 20:9–12). Being affable and speaking clearly just seem practical when speaking to an audience. For them, it would be difficult to sit and listen to someone who was unpleasant or unclear. And Paul told Timothy to make full proof of his ministry in 2 Timothy 4:5.

For those reasons, a pastor should be concerned with how to present his message. If the Lord reveals to a pastor that his personality could use some development or that his speaking skills could use some polish, why should he not prayerfully ask God to help him improve or pursue a course in homiletics? However, we must remember that any response to the message is in God’s hands.

Conclusion

A pastor, or anyone who preaches the Gospel or teaches the word is not required to be charismatic or a polished public speaker. We do not readily see examples where believers prayed for or actively sought such things in order to connect with their audiences.

In the end, some will believe, and some will not (Acts 17:32–34, Acts 28:24), not because of charisma or speaking talent, but because it is God’s work. Therefore, a pastor does not need to rely on his charisma or skills, but he can develop them as God reveals the need, while keeping focus on the word of God in his messages.

Written by Jerry Smith

Image source: YouTube screenshot video found on sanderson1611 page

God Demands Just Leaders

God demands that leaders remove violence and theft; to judge between evil and good, to execute justice, to ensure that fairness prevails: 

Thus saith the Lord GOD; Let it suffice you, O princes of Israel: remove violence and spoil, and execute judgment and justice, take away your exactions from my people, saith the Lord GOD. [10] Ye shall have just balances, and a just ephah, and a just bath (Ezekiel 45:9-10).

Since we are all made in the image of God, it is natural that we seek the same. This is why the heart cries out to leadership regarding injustices. 

Whether in the workplace, in politics, in organizations, in the church, in the family, or other, members seek justice. They cry out for it. 

When leaders fail to execute judgment and justice the morale of an entire group of people is damaged. When will leaders understand this? 

Sadly, increasingly more common are leaders who do not hear, do not care to hear, and or fail to execute righteousness on behalf of the people they lead.

Remember this however, that if you are a leader, you were appointed by God to be a terror to evil works (Romans 13:1-6), meaning that you are supposed to make right judgments and implement right solutions that favor righteousness. 

If you are not, you bear the sword in vain and are failing to do what God has appointed you to do. You will have to answer to God for that. 

Therefore, please examine yourselves because one day there may be much blood on your hands when you stand before Him.

By Jerry Smith 

Feature image: https://www.freeimages.com/photographer/hbrinkman-61434

Is It Wrong for a Mega Church Pastor to Be a Multi-Millionaire?

To be a millionaire of itself is not wrong. If the pastor of a church makes wise investments with his own money, he can enjoy it and use it wisely—it is a gift from God (Ecclesiastes 5:19).

Bible-Based Questions

However, if he is paid millions from what the church provides in a salary, the question may be how it got to that level. 

A church should be looking out for their pastor, but is paying a pastor millions necessary for his lifestyle? 

What does it look like to people outside the church (cf. Colossians 4:5)? 

Is it a good testimony, paying a pastor so much (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:22)? 

Does it create an enticement for those who are not Christians to enter the ministry (i.e. hirelings, cf. John 10:12-13)? 

A pastor should also be considering those points. It is also worth asking how or why a pastor would allow his pay to be well beyond what is necessary for a comfortable life. 

Could not that money be used to further the kingdom of God elsewhere?

A Pastor's Office Is Not for Money 

Peter tells us not to take the office of pastor for the money (1 Peter 5:1–3) but to feed the sheep and be an example to them. Paying a pastor millions would be a strong temptation to take the position for the wrong reason (cf. Romans 16:18). 

Conclusion

It is not for me or anyone to condemn this pastor or the church, but we are called to question practices in matters of the Christian faith (i.e. judge; cf. John 7:24, 1 Corinthians 6:2, 5 and 10:15, Luke 12:57, 1 John 4:1). 

By Jerry Smith

Feature image: Photo by Dmitry Moraine on Unsplash

Is Being a Preacher a Career or a Calling?

If by preacher, you mean pastor… 

Paul wrote Timothy about something similar (1 Timothy 3:1):

This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.

Paul was saying that if a male member of the church wanted to be a pastor, it is a good ministry that he wants.

However, Paul also wrote (Ephesians 4:1):

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called.

The word vocation here means calling, which indicates that Christians are called into a vocation (a career-ministry) where they can minister to all people from their jobs (this ministry of vocation is for all believers).

The two verses show us that pastors are called, but they will likely have the sincere desire for the role of pastor so they can minister to the sheep (as opposed to simply the position, power, or pay; cf. 1 Peter 5:1–3).

Regarding preachers, any believer can be a preacher (a herald of the Gospel, Romans 10:14):

How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

By Jerry Smith

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Feature image source (preacher at sunrise): https://www.istockphoto.com/portfolio/juanestey