Bible Study

September 11, 2025 (CSB)

1 Thessalonians 2:4 – 10  (CSB)

“9-11”

“For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with full assurance. You know how we lived among you for your benefit, 6 and you yourselves became imitators of us and of the Lord when, in spite of severe persecution, you welcomed the message with joy from the Holy Spirit. 7 As a result, you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 For the word of the Lord rang out from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place that your faith in God has gone out. Therefore, we don’t need to say anything, 9 for they themselves report what kind of reception we had from you: how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.”

I am reminded today (and many days) of the senseless tragedy that occurred on our soil twenty-four years ago. What have we learned since that day? From the shooting yesterday of Patriot Charlie Kirk it seems very little. What does the power of the Gospel have to do with these events?

The Gospel is the source of teaching us right from wrong beginning with the ten commandments found in Exodus. The law shows us our sin; Jesus shows us the path of salvation and freedom from that sin. We find our forgiveness through the power of the Holy Spirit and prayer for God’s leadership.

Just yesterday there was a call from a member of the House of Representatives for prayer for the family of Charlie Kirk, you saw the yelling of many the word “No” by members of one party. What has happened to our nation that we cannot unite in prayer over the loss of life as we did on 9-11-2001?

Paul said it well “you welcomed the message with joy from the Holy Spirit.” Even though there are those who do not welcome the message there are many today that find comfort and peace in that message. We will face tragedy and setbacks before Jesus returns, we will face persecution as we did yesterday, but we must learn to live in the power of the Holy Spirit if we are to ever get beyond the hatred that is rampant in the world today.

Let me encourage all of to pray.

God Bless.

Bible Study

September 19, 2025 (CSB)

1 Thessalonians 2:1 – 4  (CSB)

“Jesus the Heart Doctor”

“For you yourselves know, brothers and sisters, that our visit with you was not without result. 2 On the contrary, after we had previously suffered and were treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, we were emboldened by our God to speak the gospel of God to you in spite of great opposition. 3 For our exhortation didn’t come from error or impurity or an intent to deceive. 4 Instead, just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please people, but rather God, who examines our hearts.”

I like the positive approach Paul took in writing this letter. In verse one he says, “Our visit was not without result.” The ESV says, “was not in vain.” The Message age says, “no waste of time.” Ministry is never a waste of time.

In Philippi Paul and Silas were brutalized before they went to Thessalonica. They were physically beaten (Acts 16:22 -3), arrogantly treated with false accusations, (Acts 16:20 -21), jailed (Acts 16:24) and illegally punished in spite of their Roman citizenship (Acts 16:37).  While in Thessalonica they were accused of civil treason (Acts 17:7).

Paul speaks of a life lived in purity. He say he did not come from error or impurity. Impurity would imply a life pure of sexual wickedness. His manor of life was pure; he was not deceptive in his teaching. Paul may have been teaching about false doctrine that came into the church to discredit what Paul had taught. He was on a divine appointment for God.

He had approval, integrity, and devotion to the message of the cross and of the saving work of Jesus. Our mission in 2025 should be nothing less than example Paul gave us.

God Bless.

Bible Study

September 9, 2025 (CSB)

1 Thessalonians 1:9 -10 (CSB)

“What is Turning?

“For they themselves report what kind of reception we had from you: how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.”

The scriptures teach us that turning is repentance. Paul calls it turning in our scripture for today. I remember while attending church at Cornerstone in Ohio that Pastor Jeff used a simple illustration of what turning meant. He walked across the front of the church made a one-hundred and eighty degree turn and said that is it – you turn around from where you are going to where you need to go.

Paul found the Thessalonians involved in idol worship. Now we may say I do not worship idols but is there something in your life that keeps you from a total commitment to God? We do not like to admit there could be something that hinders us. We all should examine our lives to ascertain if there is anything interfering.

The Thessalonians abandoned their idol worship and turned to the one true God. He admonished them to “wait.” Paul wrote of this over and over in this Epistle. Some scholars refer to it as the current distress that we face but it seems as though Paul is speaking of the eternal wrath that will be encountered by those rejecting Jesus.

Eternal punishment will come to those who say “No” to Jesus’ offer of salvation. They either cannot give up what they are doing (idol worship can be anything) or cannot come to grips with saying “I repent” I am willing (with Good’s help) to turn from where I was headed to where I want to go. A decision can change eternity. Make the decision today to turn around and walk across the front of the church in different direction. If you have questions please send me a message so we can talk.

God Bless.

Bible Study

September 8, 2025

1 Thessalonians 1:4 – 7 (CSB)

“A Message For All Generations”

“For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with full assurance. You know how we lived among you for your benefit, 6 and you yourselves became imitators of us and of the Lord when, in spite of severe persecution, you welcomed the message with joy from the Holy Spirit. 7 As a result, you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.”

“He has chosen you” is a phrase Paul used to describe the church. It has also been referred to as the “elect.” In salvation the initiating will is God’s not mans. If we look to verse nine we see a clear meaning to what Paul is saying. Human will participates as a response to God’s call “when you welcomed the message” of redemption. This response came as a result of faith in the Word and repentance acting on the Word. There are those who believe in the “elect” as only certain ones God has called or will call, but salvation is open to anyone who answers the call of the Holy Spirit.

Paul in verse five refers to the gospel as “our gospel” because it was written for him as well as all of us who are sinners. Interesting also that he referred to it as the “message with joy from the Holy Spirit” he knew it was not his message but a divine message from God the creator.

We often think people do not look at how we live our lives but our lives are an open book to others. We may not think they watch but they do looking for a crack in your faith or looking for the what you stand for is consistent with what you say.

Concluding a look at verse seven for today is that idea of being an example for all people. Paul commended the people for being an example of who Christ is in their lives. A good lesson for mankind of 2025 to set an example for others to follow as we grow into the image of Christ Jesus,

God Bless.

Bible Study

September 5, 2025 (CSB)

1 Thessalonians 1:1 – 3 (CSB)

“Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy: To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.  Grace to you and peace. 2 We always thank God for all of you, making mention of you constantly in our prayers. 3 We recall, in the presence of our God and Father, your work produced by faith, your labor motivated by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Having concluded the book of Colossians lets delve into 1 Thessalonians. Paul again is the author of the book and he is writing it to the church in Thessalonica around 50 – 51 AD.

His purpose in writing this book was to remind believers what he had previously taught them and reinforce those things they already knew.

There are three primary themes in this writing:

(1). Faith And the Gospel explained and personalized,

(2). Living to please God, and

(3). Hopeful preparation for the day of the Lord.

In the first point he is speaking of the Gospel as a power as the Lord’s message. He commends the believers faith and the outworking of it in love and hope. His second point is a reminder as God’s holy people we are set apart people, called to a particular way. And finally we must be prepared for the day when Christ returns in His full glory both unexpectedly and surprising.

Silvanus was a friend of Paul and Timothy was his most notable disciple. He went on Paul’s first two missionary journeys and remained with him during his first Roman imprisonment.

Pau frequently prayed for the churches he ministered to and in always keeping them before the Lord Jesus Christ. He often spoke of their hope, faith and love a good reminder that we should be mindful of other believers.

God Bless.

September 4, 2025

Colossians 4:7 – 18 CSB)

“Tychicus, our dearly loved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. 8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know how we are and so that he may encourage your hearts. 9 He is coming with Onesimus, a faithful and dearly loved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here. 10 Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, sends you greetings, as does Mark, Barnabas’s cousin (concerning whom you have received instructions: if he comes to you, welcome him), 11 and so does Jesus who is called Justus. These alone of the circumcised are my coworkers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. He is always wrestling for you in his prayers, so that you can stand mature and fully assured in everything God wills. 13 For I testify about him that he works hard for you, for those in Laodicea, and for those in Hierapolis. 14 Luke, the dearly loved physician, and Demas send you greetings. 15 Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters in Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her home. 16 After this letter has been read at your gathering, have it read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea. 17 And tell Archippus, “Pay attention to the ministry you have received in the Lord, so that you can accomplish it.” 18 I, Paul, am writing this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.”

Paul concludes his letter by naming those who have helped him. It is good to be thankful to those whom God has put in our path to help an encourage us.

Tychius – means “fortunate.” He was a one of Paul’s converts and delivered the letter to the Colossians, Ephesians, and Philemon.

Onesimus – a runaway slave who was the basis for the letter to Philemon.

Aristachus – a companion of aul’s on his journey to Jerusalem and his voyage to Rome.

Jeus who is called Justus -n one of the Roamn Jews who believed in Paul’s message.

Epaphras – Founder of the Colossian church.

Luke – Paul’s personal physician and close friend.

Demus – a man who demonstrated significant commitment to the Lord.

Nympha – one who opened her house for the church to meet.

Archippus – most likely the son of Philemon.

People are important in our lives we all have them who have supported us, encouraged us, mentored us, and befriended us. Never forget those who have been instrumental in your life and thank them by being specific in what you say.

God Bless.

September 3, 2025

Colossians 4:6 CSB)

“Let Your Words Be Graceful”

“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer each person.” (CSB)

“Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.” (Message)

“Let your conversation be gracious and attractive[a] so that you will have the right response for everyone.” (NLT)

I have referenced three versions of our verse for the day. All three versions uses the word “gracious.” He meaning here – speak what is spiritual, wholesome, fitting, kind, sensitive, gentle, truthful, loving, and thoughtful “seasoned with salt.”

What is the purpose of salt? “It serves two purposes: one to add flavor and secondly to prevent corruption. Our speech should act not only as a blessing to others, but as a purifying influence within the decaying society of the world.” (John MacArthur).

There is an old saying that I would venture to say many of us have heard – “There are two ways to skin a cat.” (I do not know any ways to skin a cat). I believe deep down in the depths of my heart that al we speak must be spoken in love. There are multiple ways to say things but all things must be said in love. Our words should be words of encouragement, of opportunity to help others grow spiritually.

Sounds good but what is the application? Here are thoughts to consider.

• Compliment people – no matter who the person is there is something good you can find in them. Point out something that is good about them, maybe something they have done to help another person. They are there look for them.
• Be an encourager. If they are facing a difficult decision encourage them to move forward, try something new, “step deeper into the water”, challenge them with a new opportunity.
• Say a word of “thanks.” Let them know their efforts are appreciated even in the simple things, even in the things we expect them to do. I remember my mother seeing my grade card and if I got a “B” she was happy but nudged me to get an “A” next time. I felt like I wanted to do better just for her. You can always find something to thank someone for.

Do  not avoid letting them know you understand and support their feelings. They have a right to their feelings let them know you are there for them and together you can find a solution.

God Bless.

September 2, 2025

Colossians 4:1 -5 CSB)

“Lifestyles”

“Masters, deal with your slaves justly and fairly, since you know that you too have a Master in heaven. 2 Devote yourselves to prayer; stay alert in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us that God may open a door to us for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains, 4 so that I may make it known as I should. 5 Act wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the time.”

Paul begins by reminding the church that anyone who had a slave should treat them justly. Many people in Biblical had slaves who served them. New Testaments, but generally involved a position of not the form of slavery seen in American history. In the Old Testament Hebrew servitude was often a form of a person bound by contract to work for a set period, mostly the poor, with rights to freedom after six years or release in the Year of Jubilee, along with protections against severe abuse. Sometime you might want to do a study on the year of jubilee and what it brought to those of the day. New Testament slaves were to serve their masters sincerely, with masters called to treat them with respect, while understanding that God is the ultimate Master, and there is no favoritism in heaven.

He then goes into a message about prayer and the reference here is to be “courageously persistent” prayer in your prayer life. He uses the term ‘say alert” here and most likely he meant to be specific in our prayers asking for what is needed in a specific words not generalities. It was not the idea of staying awake to pray but be intentional in your need.

When we pray often times God opens a door for us to minister to one another. A lady in church this past Sunday shared about praying for someone. I have often mentioned to people that prayers do not need to be long so I asked her how long her prayer was and she said, “maybe a minute.” The “door” becomes an opportunity.

He concludes our study today with these words “”Act wisely” toward others. How do we win people to a changed lifestyle when we act unwisely, say the wrong thing, go to wrong places? We are called to be evangelistic which includes our lifestyle. We must live the Gospel.

God Bless.