James 1:1

Preamble
The James mentioned here is the brother of the Lord Jesus Christ. And thus is to be distinguished from James the brother of John whom the Lord commissioned as one of the original twelve Apostles (Matt 4:21-22; Matt 10:2-4). This James then was one of the four sons Mary had naturally with Joseph, after the Lord Jesus Christ had been born, being the eldest of these (Matt 13:55; Mark 6:3). Thus with Jesus being brought into the world by the Holy Spirit overshadowing Marry, God did not keep Marry and Joseph from later having their own children by natural means (Matt 1:25; 12:47; 13:55-56; Mark 6:3; Luke 2:7). Now when the Lord Jesus began His earthly ministry, though Jesus was held in a certain reverence by Mary and her children (John 2:5) they were initially slow to warm up to the notion of Jesus as being the Christ of God (Matt 12:46-50; Mark 3:31-35; Luke 8:19-21; John 7:5) even though this had been foretold Marry. But with Jesus' Crucifixion death, then resurrection from the dead, and finally His ascension, their faith in Jesus as Lord became firmly established (Acts 1:12-14; 1 Cor. 15:7). Now the Apostle James, whom the Lord commissioned as one of the original twelve is preeminent in early church until his own martyrdom at the hands of Herod Agrippa I, the grandson of Herod the Great, who initially tried to kill Jesus when he was still an infant (see Matt. 2:1-18; Acts 12:1-4). And so with his passing, James, the half brother of Jesus, becomes a more prominent Apostle in the early church in Jerusalem (Gal 1:19). With James' ministry almost exclusively focused on the oversight of the brethren there, with an especially deep concern for the poor brethren amongst them (Gal 2:9). Now James greatest theological contribution while leading there clearly comes through his endorsement of the Jerusalem decree, which endorsed Gentile salvation and faith practice by God's grace (see Acts 15, vs. 12-21). Though it must be said he himself made room for the Jews to practice their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ according to Law and custom (Acts 21:17-25). And so with the debate about Gentiles not being under the Law settled. James has no quarrel with the Apostle Paul as too how justification for us all comes (Acts 13:38-39). Just as the Apostle Peter then stated: "But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved in the same manner as they." Acts 15:11 Rather his unique contribution to N.T. theology unfolds with his declaring that true faith (like the Apostle Paul also held, see Titus 2:3, 14) must always be accompanied with good works that testify to it (James 2:26). Something that is clearly seen in the N.T. in Hebrews chapter eleven for example, where Old Testament figures are commended to us for their faith which caused them to do the will of God, and or suffer for the promise of Jesus' Names sake, through whom salvation comes to all who believe in Him (Heb. 11:13).
Finally, before we begin, apparently the Epistle of James after the first generations of believers had passed away, fell into somewhat obscurity and was not "rediscovered" or largely recognized until the 3rd century A.D. when the collection and canonization of the Modern Bible was begun and completed. It's apparent neglect may be attributed to its Jewish "underpinnings", i.e. it's address to the "twelve tribes" may have unintentionally alienated it from later generations of Gentile believers, who by then made up most of the professing church. (though such an address never excluded Gentile believers, as TDNTA states in their article on Diaspora). Or it may have been that since James' ministry was primarily focused on Jews at Jerusalem, it never received the wide circulation amongst Gentile believers that the Apostle Paul and Peter's epistles did. Whatever the cause for its brief neglect, its inclusion in the Scriptural cannon is a blessing to us all now. Being a clearly a Spirit Inspired work. James' Epistle is both a preachers sermon on sound faith living, as well as an inspiration for everyone who is likewise seeking to live out their faith in this world. Being packed with practical knowledge and insights by Holy Spirit Inspiration on just how to do that. No one who wants to grow in their faith should ever neglect it's sound wisdom and instruction given for us all.

 

Commentary
Vs. 1 James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad: Greetings.

Though James was an apostle, and a leader in the church at Jerusalem, here in his only epistle, he addresses himself only as a bondservant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. James' example of humility is one that clearly began with the Lord Jesus Christ Himself (consider Mark 10:42-45; Philippians 2:7-11). And thus this attitude of humility permeated the early churches leadership, being embraced by the Apostles' Paul, Peter, and Jude, James' younger brother as well (consider Rom. 1:1; Gal. 1:10; Titus 1;1 2 Peter 1:1; Jude 1). It is no surprise then that we as followers of Jesus Christ are commanded too also pursue this sort of humility in our own lives as well (Col 3:12; Titus 3:2; 1 Peter 5:5). That James' addresses his epistle to the "twelve tribes" which are scattered abroad, if taken literally this would be a reference to the twelve tribes of Israel named after Jacob's sons which make up the Nation of Israel. That James says they were scattered aboard (Gr. diaspora, Str 1290) is indicating that these were believers who were currently dispersed from their homeland (consider John 7:35; and possibly 1 Peter 1). Yet as alluded too earlier the TDNTA gives a different perspective on this stating in their article on the use of Diaspora in the N.T. that:  "In Jms. 1:1 and 1 Pet. 1:1 a question arises whether the authors have in mind Christian Jews, in which case the sense is literal, or Gentile Christians, or Christians in general, in which case it is probably figurative. In Jms. 1:1 the “twelve tribes” are most likely Christians, who are now the people of God with the heavenly Jerusalem as their true home, so that at present they, too, are dispersed among the nations. If this is the reference, the recipients are simply Christians, both Jews and Gentiles." [1]

Whatever view one takes, what encompasses us all is that we as believers In the Lord Jesus Christ are all pilgrims and strangers on this earth, regardless of our ethnicity, or backgrounds, or where we dwell, or the generation in which we came to believe in Him (consider 1 Peter 2:11-12). Thus James' opening address to "the twelve tribes of the dispersion" can very readily be applied to each and every one us as Christians, for we all like the generations who had faith in God before us, are also aliens and strangers in this world (consider John 15:18; 17:14; 1 John 3:13; Heb 11:13). Finally, like the word diaspora which is translated "scattered aboard" here, the word (chaírein from chairo, Str. 5463) rendered greetings here, also appears only three times in the N.T. (Acts 15:23; 23:26; James 1:1), with each of its occurrences being used in an official capacity or as a formalized greeting, with chairo as a greeting "implying a wish for joy or happiness on the part of the person greeted (see LN 33.22). Though there are other nuisances associated with it. It's root is often that of "joy" or "rejoice", and here is clearly being used to extend "well wishes" to all the brethren of which we can include ourselves in.

---

Scripture Citations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

Additional Resources Consulted

TDNTA:

[1] Kittel, G., Friedrich, G., & Bromiley, G. W. (1985). Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: W.B. Eerdmans.

LN:

Louw, Johannes P., and Eugene Albert Nida. Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains. New York: United Bible Societies, 1996.

Joshua 8:30-35

30 Now Joshua built an altar to the Lord God of Israel in Mount Ebal, 31as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded the children of Israel, as it is written in the Book of the Law of Moses: “an altar of whole stones over which no man has wielded an iron tool.” And they offered on it burnt offerings to the Lord, and sacrificed peace offerings. 32 And there, in the presence of the children of Israel, he wrote on the stones a copy of the law of Moses, which he had written. 33 Then all Israel, with their elders and officers and judges, stood on either side of the ark before the priests, the Levites, who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord, the stranger as well as he who was born among them. Half of them were in front of Mount Gerizim and half of them in front of Mount Ebal, as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded before, that they should bless the people of Israel. 34 And afterward he read all the words of the law, the blessings and the cursings, according to all that is written in the Book of the Law. 35 There was not a word of all that Moses had commanded which Joshua did not read before all the assembly of Israel, with the women, the little ones, and the strangers who were living among them.

Devotional
Joshua in obeying the commandment of the Lord now builds an altar on stones which no man has wielded any iron tool too. And as Moses wrote a copy of the Law on stones, so here Joshua in the presence of the children of Israel does the same in fulfillment of the Word of God (vs. 32). This is the precursor act before the six tribes stand on mount Gerizim too pronounce the blessings in the Law; while six tribes would also stand on Mount Ebal too pronounce its curses for disobeying the Law (Deut. 11:26-32; vs. 29; 27:1-7). And having done so Joshua now reads the entire Law before the whole assembly of the Lord, (now this important). Not a word does he omit as the Law is read before all Israel; before the women, before the children and even before the strangers dwelling amongst them. Everything within God's Word is read. Therefore when we preach or read from the Scriptures there is nothing that should not be read before the whole congregation, and or those who are visiting amongst us. No allowances then should be made to make the Scriptures "politically correct" for anyone or any group. "For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 13 And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account." Heb 4:12-13 Therefore we must always and continually resist every thought, notion, or word which would say, maybe that's not an appropriate time for that passage. God's Word is Holy and as long as it is used appropriately it is always just and right and sound too expound any part of it, at anytime, to anyone. Therefore we must never consciously pass over any passage or part within in it. For we are as Christ's witnesses and servants charged to fill the earth with the knowledge of God's Word as the waters cover the sea (Hab 2:13-14). So that both His salvation and God's righteous decrees might be made known too all (Isaiah 26:9). And so let us all who believe in the Living Word, the Lord Jesus Christ, and thus His Holy Word be faithful in doing just that.

Scripture Citations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

Numbers 8:13-19

¹³ “And you shall stand the Levites before Aaron and his sons, and then offer them like a wave offering to the Lord. ¹⁴ Thus you shall separate the Levites from among the children of Israel, and the Levites shall be Mine. ¹⁵ After that the Levites shall go in to service the tabernacle of meeting. So you shall cleanse them and offer them like a wave offering. ¹⁶ For they are wholly given to Me from among the children of Israel; I have taken them for Myself instead of all who open the womb, the firstborn of all the children of Israel. ¹⁷ For all the firstborn among the children of Israel are Mine, both man and beast; on the day that I struck all the firstborn in the land of Egypt I sanctified them to Myself. ¹⁸ I have taken the Levites instead of all the firstborn of the children of Israel. ¹⁹ And I have given the Levites as a gift to Aaron and his sons from among the children of Israel, to do the work for the children of Israel in the tabernacle of meeting, and to make atonement for the children of Israel, that there be no plague among the children of Israel when the children of Israel come near the sanctuary.”
  
Devotional
On the day God struck all the firstborn in Egypt He consecrated to Himself all the firstborn in Israel. And with the Law being given and the priesthood through Aaron established, God now consecrated to Himself all the Levites instead of the firstborn in Israel, of both man and beast. The reason for this is so that they, the Levites, could serve God throughout their generations in place of the Israelites in the Tabernacle duties. As well so that God could give them as a gift to Aaron and his son’s, the priests, so that they might serve them and be with them in the ministry work for Israel (Num. 18:1-7). Now these are interesting things and one can go into a lot of detail about them. Instead I want us to focus on just one verse and one specific thought from that verse. In verse nineteen God says to Moses in consecrating the Levites to Himself “And I have given the Levites as a gift to Aaron and his sons from among the children of Israel, to do the work for the children of Israel in the tabernacle of meeting, and to make atonement for the children of Israel…” Therefore please consider that God gives us gifts: His salvation is a gift, His love is a gift, our lives are a gift. Not only to be enjoyed and lived out in peaceful union with Himself but also with others as well. That is essentially what a church body is. People separated to the Lord God because of their personal faith in and commitment to Jesus Christ, living our lives out in love and peace amongst each other, and hopefully with others as well. Now within this Body of Believers God by His Spirit has given each and every member gifts. These are Supernatural endowments given by the Holy Spirit; according to His own will; to each and every believer by which we are to serve each other in love (1 Cor. 12:4-11; Gal. 5:13). Now these gifts are unique. And each gift, just like each person, makes a unique contribution to whole. Therefore no particular gift or person can be thought to be insignificant or unnecessary, for all are necessary for the proper functioning of the body as a whole (1 Cor. 12:14-27). For God Himself has placed each one of us in the Body of Christ just as He pleased (1 Cor. 12:18). And thus for the church to function well it must not be dependent on one particular gift or gifted person, but on the whole Body of believers from the "least" to the "greatest", exercising their Spirit given gifts in love and in accord with God’s designs for us all. Which means all things are done for the edification of church (1 Cor. 14:12, 26, 33). Therefore even those members who seem weaker are necessary. And those members who are less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor, since those who are honored have no need. And thus there should be no schism amongst our members. But all the members should have and demonstrate a mutual care and concern for each other (1 Cor. 12:22-25). Therefore if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it, or if one member is honored all the members rejoice with it; for we are the Body of Christ and members individually (1 Cor. 12:26-27). Now there is a hierarchy of Spirit gifts that make up for church leadership (1 Cor. 12:28-31), yet as chapter twelve closes chapter thirteen begins with love being exhorted as the greatest gift and greatest exercise of Spirit gifts and talents, not hierarchal authority. Therefore returning to where I started I want you to know that you are gift given by God. Your life has a purpose and meaning that can only be found and fulfilled In Christ. For you are a gift too God Himself created to know Him and love Him and be loved by Him. Second through Jesus Christ you are a gift to the Lord Himself and the church. Set in place there by God Himself to honor His Son and build up the church in love with whatever Spirit gifts and calling God has placed in you. Third you are gift to your family. Maybe you’re a father or mother, child or grandparent, aunt, uncle, niece or nephew etc. Whatever role or roles you currently occupy in your life you are a gift from God there. I don’t know anyone in any circumstance of life that cannot be a gift to others if they rightly see themselves as that, given by God to help and encourage others. Fourth you’re a gift from God to your community. The many volunteers who serve their communities in innumerable ways are indeed gifts from God to us all. Equally in your workplace how you do your work there and treat those around you can very much be a gift from God. And as Christians we should be. Same with what you do in your leisure time, you can be a gift not only to your family, but also to the extended contacts and influences that come through family ties as well. Fifth you’re a gift from God to humanity. Every human being is an image bearer of God (Gen. 1:27). And thus you and I, no matter what our circumstance of life, have an inherent and immeasurable value and dignity placed on us and within us by God Himself (If you doubt this consider Jesus' warning about not disparaging another human being, Matt. 5:22). For we are all exceedingly valued by God as Jesus Himself said of His purpose for coming forth from God to save us from our sins which have separated us from God (John 3:16). Therefore within us all, we all have the capacity to not only relate to God, but also our fellow persons. People who say we cannot adequately relate to someone from a different walk of life, or life experience or culture, are copping out. All people, whatever the culture or background understand common human experiences, like love or tragedy, joy and laughter, sadness and despair etc. We’ve all experienced it, or have the capacities within us to do so. And thus we have the capacity to enter into another’s joy or suffering and be a blessing there, as well as by letting people into our own lives experiences. For we are all given by God as a gift to all our human brethren, equipped with natural abilities and personality traits that make us unique and special regardless of our physical beings. And thus immensely valuable in whom we are as God’s creation, and what we can do and contribute and even potentially contribute to the service of God, as well as the well being of others. I’m always amazed and humbled by what God does through children. Little gifts of great curiosity and endless energy with a desire to serve and be involved if only given a chance. I remember when volunteering at a local food bank seeing elementary school age children arrive by bus load and these with great zeal and joy would sort through the large wooden crates of potatoes donated from the various producers in the area, removing the spoilage from the usable ones. It seemed in no time flat they’d have a bin licked and be moving onto the next one. Parents I know you love your children. But do you know how much they want to be involved with you? Next time when you go shopping, or are doing something around the home, or in the yard, ask your children to be a part of whatever you’re doing. You’ll build some really strong bonds and be not only a blessing to them, but just maybe blessed by them. Now being a blessing begins by first receiving a blessing from God the Father. That is where it all begins. Not by trying harder in your own strength and resolve, but by admitting defeat. For it is there that God meets us, the broken, the poor in spirit, as Jesus said, and makes us recipients of the Kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:3). If you have never come to see your need for the Savior and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior, maybe today is the day. By a simple prayer of faith placing all of your hope on Jesus Christ the Lord crucified to pay for all our sins and risen from the dead so that He can impart new and everlasting life within you, the moment you believe in Him by His Holy Spirit, you can. For it’s not what you have done or have not done that makes you acceptable to God the Father, it’s whether or not you believe in Christ Jesus the Lord His Son (John 3:16-21). That is the sole basis and requirement for being restored to God and brought to Spirit life, eternal life. If you would like to begin that relationship with God the Father through Jesus Christ His Son and be blessed by Him simply pray in faith something like this: Dear Lord Jesus I know that You were sent from God to not only save humanity from our sins and the judgment to come but to bless humanity with Your Person, Presence and Power dwelling inside us. For it is only by You that we experience God’s love and life in all its fullness. And thus we become Your agents of spreading the same. Therefore I now invite You into my heart and life to be both my Lord and Savior; first for salvation; and then as You work in and through my life as a blessing to others as well.

Scripture Citations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

 

Genesis 1:4

"And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness."

Devotional
Meditating on a verse, even a brief verse, can yield some rewarding understanding about God and how He relates to us. Notice first that God, in the beginning, divided (or separated) the light from the darkness. For as the Scripture declares: "God is light and in Him is no darkness at all" (1 John 1:5). And so this principal of God separating that which is good (i.e. light) from that which is not (i.e. darkness) is a principal that runs throughout the Scriptures. Especially as this relates to us His people, who being sanctified by His Person, are now light in the Lord (consider Exodus 19:5; 33:16; Lev 20:26; Matt 13:47-50; 1 Thess 5:23-24). And so when God calls us to Himself through the Lord Jesus Christ, He does so with the intention of not only delivering us out of darkness (Matt 4:16), but also releasing us from the powers of darkness (Acts 26:18; Col 1:19-20), so that He might bring us into His glorious light (1 Peter 2:9), and we might live as His people of light (Phil 2:14-16). Though this is not isolation from the world and its problems, it is separation from the sins within it (John 17:15-19; 1 Cor 5:9-13, vs. 10). And so God, in delivering us from the darkness, does not want us now as His children to continue having fellowship with darkness (2 Cor 6:14-7:1; Eph 5:8; 1 John 1:6).

For though we live in a world deceived by, and held captive too darkness. We are not of the night, nor of the darkness, who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Rather we are children of light (1 Thess 5:5). Therefore as children of light, rather then having fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, we are too expose them (Eph 5:11). For that is how sin and Satan's works are thwarted. By exposure to God's light from His Word which penetrates the deepest recesses of the human soul and mind (Heb 4:12). For the powers of darkness and their deceptions in people's lives, and in this world, only operate unencumbered until they are illuminated, then disarmed, by the truth of God's Word.
For truly God's plan for humanity is not just the salvation of all who will believe, but also to fill the world with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the seas (Hab. 2:13-14).

And so every believers battle in this world is not with the people in this world (John 3:16). Though we who are chosen by Christ will be hated and persecuted by those people of this world, just as they hated and persecuted Jesus (John 15:19-25). Therefore though unregenerate people often become agents of Satan's agenda in this world, they are not the "enemy", per say (Titus 3:3-7). Rather it is the worlds "values" being rooted and grounded in "the lust of the flesh", the "lust of the eyes", "the boastful pride of life", that are (1 John 2:15-17). And so in contrast to those failing and fading things that end in death (Rom 6:23), every believer is to put them away, so that the true light and glory of God in Christ can shine clearly through us all who believe in Jesus (Matt 5:16).

As well a believers warfare is not with the lawful authorities and institutions that are given by God to govern the affairs of mankind (Rom 13:1-7). As if governments are the enemy". Therefore we must always remember that lawful authorities are first and foremost to be obeyed (2 Peter 2:13-17). Lobbied yes, when necessary changed by vote yes, and hopefully held accountable by believer and non-believer alike. As we both have this privilege and responsibility from God. That said, let us always remember that the churches' business is not political, (as if regeneration of the individual or this world will come through politics) rather it's spiritual. And so each and every believer, as well as every congregation, will have to work out their own strategic balance as too how much time, resources, and energies they are going to commit to invoking societal change through the political process, or even humanitarian efforts. For though some change can come through the political process, (and or through our efforts to bring relief to the poor from their poverty and or the ever present and seemingly changing social aliments that plague this broken world) ultimately the heart and soul of the individual is not changed (and thus society) until the individuals heart is regenerated. And that is what we, as God's people are about. Living and declaring the soul saving, life transforming power, that is Jesus Christ's Person who comes to live in us all who believe in Him. And thus we are too illuminate Him to a lost and perishing world, that the salvation and glory of God is freely available to all who repent and believe in Him. For when received by faith, the Lord Jesus Christ changes everything. Both in individuals, as well as in nations. And that is our primary focus and agenda. To preach the Good News, that God in Christ saves souls from eternal damnation and transforms persons, lives, and nations here and now. For our King Jesus and the Kingdom of heaven, must be lived out and preached by us all who have received Him as Lord and Savior, here and now. So that His Holy Spirit life, power and love can be both seen, as well as imparted into as many as will believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, Crucified for their sins remission, and Risen from the dead for our justification, here and now. And so our message and agenda is not a political one, as if attaining worldly power transforms anyone into Christ-likeness, and thus restores the image of God in them. Rather it is Spiritual. Therefore as ambassadors of Jesus Christ we must not become entangled in the affairs of this life (2 Tim 2:4) so as too lose sight of our calling and focus for Jesus Christ in this world. And thus neither alignment with, nor war against, the political entities of this world, whose agendas are only political, whereas ours are Kingdom centered, valued and focused. And so we work, we lobby, we vote, we pray for all those in leadership, as well as for change (2 Tim 2:1-6). But we do not align the Lord Jesus Christ's work with that of governments, or the political entities within them.

Finally, our warfare is not with human creativity, as if expressions of music, dance, art etc., in all their various forms, styles, and formats are the enemy. Since every form of music, dance and art is essentially morally neutral until they are made to express something that is not. Yet sadly more and more what is being expressed through them, is just giving more and more evidence to the degenerating nature of this world. And so it is always good, right and sound to be a sound voice of reason against those things in this world that are morally degenerating, and or degrading of humanity and human dignity, and thus ultimately degrade or deny God (2 Cor 10:4-5). Nonetheless human expressions of creativity through the innumerable mediums, formats, and styles in of themselves again, are not the enemy. Rather our warfare begins first within our own sinful hearts and minds (Jer 17:9; Mark 7:20-23; Rom 12:2), and then extends outward to the powers of darkness, who have seized this world, and are working their agendas through it, and the people they have taken captive within it (2 Tim 2:24-26). And so that is the battle the every believer faces in this world. Not with art, science or technology. Rather we are to be resisting and rejecting the degenerating morals and godlessness that is in this world, and thus the growing darkness within it. "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." Eph 6:12 And so we the body of Christ and the people of God within, must hold fast to His Word, and the moral and spiritual truths within God's Word, so as to disarm Satan's lies and be true Gospel messengers and light bearers in this very dark and at times dangerous world (Isaiah 8:20). Declaring Jesus Christ's Person crucified unto death, and risen from the dead, for everyone who believes in Him sins and transgressions, so that whoever calls on the Name of the Lord shall be saved (Rom 10:9-10, 13).

For that is absolutely fundamental and critical. That the Dayspring of God, that is Jesus Christ's Person, be made known to all, so that all might have a chance to repent and believe in Him. For when anyone does they will have remission of all their sins and new and everlasting life the moment they believe in Him! For the Lord Jesus Christ said: “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:12 Therefore if you have not yet made that critical decision to receive what Jesus has done for you to save you from your sins, and bring you into a personal and everlasting relationship with God the Father through Himself I urge you to do so now (John 14:6). By a simple prayer of faith in Jesus' Person He will come into you ,and change you, just as He has said: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." Rev 3:20

Therefore if you believe and would like to receive the Lord Jesus simply pray something like this: Dear Lord Jesus I know that I am a sinner and have sinned against You. Yet I know that you were crucified for me so that You could both pay for my sins as well as restore me back to God. Therefore I now invite You into my heart and life to be my Lord and Savior. In Your Name Lord Jesus I pray this, amen.

Scripture Citations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

Proverbs 25:28

         "Whoever has no rule over his own spirit
          Is like a city broken down, without walls."

Devotional
A person without self control is utterly defenseless, whether from wordily temptations, or their own fleshly lusts. That is what this proverb is warning against. Living without self control is an open invitation to have have every form of evil come against one and prevail over them. That is why God gives us as His children self control as a fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives (Gal 5:22-23); so that we neither act or speak rashly when we are led by Him. For the old fleshly nature will always be full of all manner of rashness and folly. But our new nature in Christ Jesus compels us to something far greater and far more liberating than living thoughtlessly and recklessly which only leads to a persons own bondage and misery. And so if your gospel preacher does not preach self-control as a manner of life and wisdom, and that from God, then he isn't preaching the Gospel of Christ (Acts 24:25; 1 Tim 2:15; 2 Tim 3:2-5; 2 Peter 1:5-8).

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982.

Colossians 4:7–15

⁷ Tychicus, a beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. ⁸ I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts, ⁹ with Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will make known to you all things which are happening here. ¹⁰ Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, with Mark the cousin of Barnabas (about whom you received instructions: if he comes to you, welcome him), ¹¹ and Jesus who is called Justus. These are my only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are of the circumcision; they have proved to be a comfort to me. ¹² Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. ¹³ For I bear him witness that he has a great zeal for you, and those who are in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis. ¹⁴ Luke the beloved physician and Demas greet you. ¹⁵ Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas and the church that is in his house.  


Commentary
Vs.7-9 Tychicus was as a disciple from the Province of Asia. By all accounts he was a faithful friend and trusted co-worker in the Gospel with the Apostle Paul. Mentioned five times in the N.T. by name (Acts 20:4; Eph. 6:21; Col 4:7; 2 Tim 4:12; Titus 3:12). Tychicus bears a rather unique distinction in the N.T. being twice commended by the Apostle Paul to the churches in both Ephesus and Colossae as "a beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord" (see Eph. 6:21-22; Col 4:7-8). Tychicus origins with Paul though began rather humbly when he along with several other believers from Asia went ahead of the Apostle Paul to Troas to rendezvous with Paul there, while Paul was on his third missionary journey heading from Macedonia to Jerusalem (see Acts 20:1-6, vs. 4). It seems then Tychicus became a trusted friend and close compatriot of Paul's, as the Apostle Paul would later entrust him with delivering his letters (and news of his well-being) to the churches in both Ephesus and Colossae to encourage them there. It is in this very critical capacity that Tychicus primarily served as a "minister" (gr. diakonos) to the churches, as well as the Apostle Paul, by serving as his "envoy" to them, and they to Paul, through Tychicus, who delivered Paul's letters to the churches, as well as conveyed news about the brethren with Paul to them, and they to Paul, while Paul was imprisoned. Later Paul would send Tychicus to Titus in Crete (Titus 3:12) and once again to Ephesus before Paul's execution in Rome (2 Tim 4:12). And so Tychicus was a man who knowingly associated himself with Paul in some of the Apostle Paul's darkest hours, including at times sharing in Paul's imprisonment, persecutions and or hardships with him. That said Tychicus having received a charge from Paul to deliver his lifeline to the churches (i.e. his letters) would then have to tactfully make his way across the Roman empire to avoid conflict with both those Jews and Roman officials who were then growing in their hostility, or were actively hostile to the Gospel of Christ. And so along with Tychicus whom Paul is sending to encourage them, (which says much about Tychicus) is also dispatched a disciple named Onesimus, a man whom Paul begot to Christ while in his chains in Rome; a former runaway slave of Philemon a wealthy believer from Colossae (Philemon 10). Yet now Onesimus is one whom the Apostle Paul also calls a faithful and beloved brother (vs. 9). And so along with Tychicus, Onesimus is sent to the brethren in Colossae to make known to them there all things that are happening in Rome, with Paul and all the brethren with him there. Some of whom were personally known to the disciples in Colossae. It's incredible then to see both the intimacy of fellowship, as well as the diversity of people that early on came into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, whose lives being transformed by Him, would all in some way or another become active members in forwarding His churches (and each others) well being. And so these two men are sent by Paul (as his beloved brethren) to bring news and encouragement to the beloved churches in Colossae.

Vs. 10-15 Excluding Barnabas who is mentioned to indicate whom Mark is too the brethren at Colossae (i.e. the cousin of Barnabas), seven brethren are here mentioned: Aristarchus and Mark (vs. 10); Jesus who is called Justus (vs. 11); Epaphras (vs. 12-13); Luke and Demas (vs. 14);  Nymphas (vs. 15). Only Aristarchus, Mark and Jesus who is called Justus are referred to by Paul as being
"my only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are of the circumcision"...; meaning they were of Jewish origins, Paul then goes on to say of them that "...they have proved to be a comfort to me" (vs. 11).
Now Aristarchus is the first mentioned by the Apostle Paul, being referred to as his fellow prisoner, who also extended his well-wishes and greetings to the brethren in Colossae. Aristarchus name means "best ruler" which may be indicative of his having held a civil leadership position? Or it may be indicating a position that he held in the church? That said, Aristarchus was a Macedonian from Thessalonica, who along with Tychicus and Secundus; also from Thessalonica, along with Gaius of Derbe and Sopatar, also Macedonians (Acts 19:29; 20:4), traveled with the Apostle Paul on his third missionary journey to Jerusalem (Acts 20:4-6). Which may have included their bringing relief sent from the brethren in Macedonia and Achaia for the poor among the brethren in Jerusalem at that time (Acts 19:21; Rom 15:25-26). Now Aristarchus is first mentioned in the N.T. along with Gaius (a fellow Macedonian) as being seized by a mob of rioters during the uproar in Ephesus over the Ephesians pagan deity Diana (see Acts 19:23-20:6). It seems then from that point on, Aristarchus having suffered for his faith in Jesus never looked back. Instead he followed the Apostle Paul and Luke onto Rome (Acts 27:2) and shared in the Apostle's imprisonment (along with several others) there. Next mentioned is Mark the cousin of Barnabas, also referred to as John Mark, he is the author of the Gospel of Mark which he received verbally from the Apostle Peter, whom Peter affectionately calls his son (1 Peter 5:13). Mark's beginnings in the faith were with the early church which often met in his mother Mary's house in Jerusalem. It was during this time when the Apostle Peter was imprisoned that constant prayers being made for him, that Peter with the assistance of an angel found himself  miraculously released, and so the first place Peter sought out was Mary's home and the brethren assembled there (Acts 12:5-19). It was shortly after this that Mark having accompanied the Apostle's Paul and Barnabas on a relief mission to the churches in Antioch (Acts 12:25). From there Mark accompanied the Apostle's Paul and Barnabas (who being commissioned by the Holy Spirit through the church leadership) then headed out on their first missionary journey, with Mark serving as their assistant (Mark 13:1-5). Now it was at Perga that Mark (for an undisclosed reason) turned back from the journey and returned to Jerusalem (Acts 13:13). And so when Paul and Barnabas were preparing to set out on their second missionary journey that the Apostle Paul was adamant that Mark should not accompany them, while Barnabas was equally adamant that Mark should. Now the rift over Mark became so severe that both men eventually departed from each other, with the Apostle Paul being commanded by the church to the grace of God, taking Silas with himself, and thus traveling through Syria and Cilicia strengthened the churches there, while Barnabas took Mark his cousin and headed to Cyprus his homeland (Acts 15:36-41; 4:36). Now Mark is not mentioned again in the N.T. until the Apostle Paul does so here in this epistle where he asks the Colossians to receive Mark (about whom he gave them instructions about) favorably, calling Mark along with Justus who is also called Jesus one of his fellow workers for the Kingdom of God , who are of the circumcision, i.e. that is Jews, saying that they have proved a comfort to me (vs. 10-11). Now we are not told what the instructions for Mark were. But it seems that Paul; like Peter before him has taken Mark "under his wing", and so unlike before, where Mark served as an assistant to Paul and Barnabas here and in the Apostle Paul's epistle to Philemon, Mark is described by Paul as a fellow worker in the Gospel (Philemon 24); though not as endearing as the Apostle Peters calling Mark my son (see 1 Peter 5:13), Paul's saying as much indicates not only a restoration of their relationship, but also growth by both of them in it. The Apostle Paul's last mention of Mark is in 2 Tim 4:11 where he requests Mark's presence, saying "he useful for me in ministry". The third man mentioned is Jesus who is called Justus. Nothing is known of this particular believer except that he was Jewish and that he sent his well wishes through Tychicus to the brethren at Colossae. Which brings us to Epaphras, (a shortened form of Epaphroditus*) Epaphras was a disciple of Christ from Colossae (vs. 12) who first preached the Gospel to the people of Colossae and likely helped to establish the church community there (Col 1:7), as well as getting them grounded in faith and love (Col 1:5). Epaphras is also noted for his ministering to the neighboring churches of Laodicea and Hierapolis (4:13). And so the Apostle Paul rightly calls Epaphras his dear fellow-servant (Col 1:7). A reference used by Paul of only Epaphras and later in this epistle Tychicus (Col 4:7) . But Epaphras alone bears the designation dear (agapetos) fellow servant. Which means the Apostle Paul considered Epaphras not only a fellow servant, but a dearly beloved brother. Something which Epaphras exemplifies towards the Apostle Paul by also sharing with him in Paul's Roman imprisonment (Philemon 23). And so it is that the Apostle Paul in his closing address to the Colossians makes mention of Epaphras as himself, as a bondservant of Christ, who greets his brethren back home. Who as the Apostle Paul says of Epaphras here in verse twelve is one who always labors fervently for you all in his prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. Thus Epaphras was a man who was zealous for his brethren and their spiritual growth (vs. 13). The finial greetings in verse 14-15 come from Luke whom the Apostle Paul here calls the beloved physician (vs. 15; Luke is the author of the Gospel that bears his name as well as the Book of Acts). As well Luke was arguably the most faithful to the Apostle Paul and the Gospel ministry through him, while Demas though also mentioned in vs. 15 as sending along his greetings here and in Philemon 24 would later go on to abandon the Apostle "loving this present world" as the Apostle Paul would later say of him, and so there we find in contrast to Demas, Luke again mentioned as remaining faithful with the Apostle Paul in the ministry of the Gospel through thick and thin as it were  (see 2 Timothy 4:10-11).  Finally the Apostle Paul say for the brethren in Colossae to greet their brethren who are in Laodicea as well as Nymphas (mentioned only here in the N.T.) and the church that is in his house. For even then it seems brethren were susceptible to dubious thoughts about this church community or that.

 

Additional Resources Consulted
Criswell, W. A., Paige Patterson, E. Ray Clendenen, Daniel L. Akin, Mallory Chamberlin, Dorothy Kelley Patterson, and Jack Pogue, eds. Believer’s Study Bible. electronic ed. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991.

Walvoord, John F., and Roy B. Zuck, Dallas Theological Seminary. The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985.

Youngblood, Ronald F., F. F. Bruce, and R. K. Harrison, Thomas Nelson Publishers, eds. Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, Inc., 1995.

*Myers, Allen C. The Eerdmans Bible Dictionary. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1987.

Louw, Johannes P., and Eugene Albert Nida. Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains. New York: United Bible Societies, 1996.

Strong, James. Enhanced Strong’s Lexicon. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2001.


Word Studies
1:7 Dear: STR 27; GK 28; TDNT 1.21; TDNTA 5; LN 25.45; 58.53 (Matt 3:17; 12:18) 67x
*Epaphras=Epaphroditus. Not the same Epaphroditus mentioned in (Phil. 2:25; 4:18), Eerdmans Bible Dictionary, pages 99-104
 

 

Colossians 4:2–6

² Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; ³ meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, ⁴ that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. ⁵ Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. ⁶ Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.

Devotional
The Apostle Paul in this section gives us a series of brief exhortations, beginning with exhorting us to continue earnestly (i.e. ) in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving. The Apostles exhortation here is not unique to the believers there (see Rom 12:12; 1 Thess. 5:17). Indeed in the early church prayer was not just a passing formality, it was a way of life for believers (Acts 1:14; 2:42; 6:4 etc.). Just as it was in the Old Testament times when the Temple was the customary place of prayer. In fact it was because of the degradation of God's house; of turning what was once a place of prayer into a "den of thieves" where merchants could peddle their merchandise to those seeking God, which brought about the severe ire of the Lord Jesus Christ when He visited the Temple (Matt 21:12-17; John  2:13-17). Now in regards to our being earnest (or continuing on "steadfastly in prayer", ESV) the Lord Jesus Christ gave us a parable in the Gospel to do just that (see Luke 18:1-8, also consider Luke 11:5-10). For to draw near too God in prayer is not only too know God better. It is to experience His Person, Presence and Power working in and through our lives, as well as the lives of others. And that is why the Apostle Paul requested their prayers, because no man or women, no matter how mighty in the Spirit and faith is an island unto themselves. We all need each other, and this is so evident when we are actively seeking to share the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Cor 1:8-11). Indeed at the end of the Apostle Paul's exhortation on putting on the whole armor of God he reiterates the importance of our prayers for each other (Eph. 6:18-20). And that is one reason why we pray, to ask God to do through His power and might what we ourselves, both individually and collectively cannot (consider 2 Chr. 20:12-30). And so here the Apostle Paul had a specific prayer request and that was that God would open a door for them, that is that God would create opportunities for Paul and his co-workers in the Gospel to be able to speak the mystery of Christ, for which he was at that time in chains (i.e. imprisoned).
Now in regards to God "opening a door for them", the Apostle Paul may indeed be drawing an analogy to what happened to him and Silas while imprisoned in Philippi (please read Acts 16:16-34 to understand). Where both a literal door was opened to them, yes, but more importantly a door to the hearts of those there was opened wide to them to speak the mystery of Christ. So that through their own unjust imprisonment God not only moved the inmates hearts to heed them, but also brought about the salvation of the prison keeper and his whole household! And so Paul, though at times chained for the Gospel, new from first hand experience the Gospels' power to transcend any circumstance of life we find ourselves in (consider 2 Tim. 2:8-9). For the word of God is never "chained", nor obstructed, nor hindered, nor thwarted, by anyone, or anything. As the prophetic Word declares: ¹³ Behold, is it not of the Lord of hosts That the peoples labor to feed the fire, And nations weary themselves in vain? ¹⁴ For the earth will be filled With the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, As the waters cover the sea. Habakkuk 2:13–14 (also consider Psalm 2; Isaiah 11:9). And so wherever you are at, in whatever circumstance of life you are at, the Word of God, the mystery of Christ, God's Glorious Gospel, is not chained from either empowering you do what God has called you to do, or being manifested and multiplied through you (consider Rom 1:16-17). For God's Mighty Power to save is always manifested and magnified through our very lives when we align ourselves with God's agenda, which is the proclamation of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to one and to all. That is my prayer for you, and I pray will be your prayer for me, that we may all share the Gospel, the mystery of Christ, with one and with all as God opens the doors and creates the opportunities for us all to do so. And so in accord with this grand and glorious vision for the redemption of those hear and believe. The Apostle Paul gives us a couple of concluding exhortations on how we can actually help forward that end. First by saying that we are to walk in wisdom towards those who are outside, redeeming the time (vs. 5). To walk in wisdom towards those who are outside (of the house of faith) is to walk prudently towards them, to be neither complacent about the moral and spiritual dangers that we all face as Jesus' disciples (Matt 10:16). But more readily I believe Paul is addressing our conduct in this world, that as God's elect people redeemed by Jesus Christ, through His precious blood, by the grace of God, who though zealously sold out for Him, must choose to live tactfully within this fallen and degenerate world, and thus as much as depends on us peaceably towards all, while we are still living within it. That we are to redeem the time, means that we are to spend wisely the time given to us by God and make the most of every opportunity presented to us. For the right time or place for sharing the gospel is any place or anytime God is moving someone's heart to receive it! Finally the Apostle exhorts us all too "let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one" vs. 6  For it is our speech towards each other that will either unite us in heart, mind and purpose, or will divide us into our own isolated cliques and such as people seek refuge from abusive speech and abusive people. And so knowing the grace of Lord and Savior towards us all let us likewise be people of grace whose speech is "seasoned with salt" that is whose speech is "well seasoned" and thus adds quality of life to the hearers, both inside and outside of the house of faith (also see Eph. 4:29, 5:4).

 
Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

Additional Resources Consulted
Vincent, Marvin Richardson. Word Studies in the New Testament. New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1887.





 

Colossians 3:18-4:1

 3:18 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. ¹⁹ Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them. ²⁰ Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. ²¹ Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged. ²² Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. ²³ And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, ²⁴ knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. ²⁵ But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality.
4:1 Masters, give your bondservants what is just and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.


Preamble
The Apostle Paul having concluded his Holy Spirit given exhortations on the Godly character that we as the elect of God are to both pursue and exemplify. Now gives us some instructions regarding the Christian home. And given the world wide cultural "climate" (call it cultural climate change) that is increasingly renouncing God's everlasting moral decrees for marriage and human sexuality within it.
It bequeaths us who believe in God, and want to obey Him through His Son the Lord Jesus Christ, not too likewise be led astray with the error of the wicked (see 2 Peter 3:17-18). And so we have set before us here some timeless and dare I say all inclusive (or cultural-less) exhortations (like the previous ones on Christian character) of just what a Godly home/family should look like.

Commentary
Vs. 18-19 "Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. ¹⁹ Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them."

In God's Divine plan for human relationships and families, He has ordained that wives are to be subject to their own husbands (see Eph. 5:22-24; 1 Peter 3:1, 5; Titus 2:5). And so their submission there in many ways is a reflection of their submission to the Lord Jesus Christ (consider 1 Cor 11:3). That said, God requires that husbands as the heads of the home, be loving towards their wives. That is what God requires of the husband, too meet the wives need for emotional affection and connection. Which maybe something he will have to learn, just as she may have to learn to let go of the reigns and let her husband rule the home. Nonetheless when God's designs for the family are embraced the results are a well balanced and loving home. Where each fulfills their God given purpose, through their God given designs for them. Therefore to reiterate wives are to submit to their own husbands, for nothing undermines the husbands authority more in the eyes of their children than a contentious and a argumentive wife who will not submit to her husband. Similarly nothing undermines a wives desire to be subject to her husband if the husband only seeks to "lord" authority over her. For in commanding the wife to be submit to her husband the Apostle does not deny the husbands responsibility to do this with her well being in mind. Similarly a husband should not dismiss his wife's counsel simply because she is to submit to him. She may indeed be wiser or more discerning in certain areas of life than he, and thus a wise man always receives wise counsel from his wife, because she can help strengthen him in those weaker areas of his life (consider Prov. 1:5). Though the flip side of this is where weak-willed husbands allow themselves to "led around by nose" by their wives (as if they were their mothers) and thus they do not exercise the leadership in the family that God has called them to be. Which is not exercising their own "manhood" through the role of family leader, rather a Godly leader is to be both gentle and firm when he needs to be, as well he must, when he has weighed the facts impartially, be decisive in his decisions. For nothing creates more confusion and insecurity in a family, or an organization for that matter, than an indecisive leader.
That a husband is not to be bitter towards his wife is usually a result of a breakdown in their own relationship, this is especially true if he feels continually undermined by his wife, that is she as a pattern of life shows him little or no respect, especially in the presence of their children. Though there are other causes for a husbands bitterness, (which after the birth of children may even be that she has started to look for an intimate emotional connection with her children, rather than with him). Nonetheless the husband as the head of the home must do what he can to address these or any other issues in their marriage, by being honest about his feelings with her, (as she should be with him) and not act like a sulking child, but rather always seek grounds for renewing their love.

Vs. 20-21 ²⁰ Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. ²¹ Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.

Just as the Lord Jesus Christ was subject to His own earthly parents (in accord with God His Father's will, Luke 2:51), so all children should be taught to obey their own parents as well (see Eph. 6:1-4). For this is well pleasing to the Lord. When children learn this Divine principal that runs throughout all creation, in the home first. Of our obeying all God ordained authority, whether in the home, or in the church, or in the world. And so whether this is our subjection to God the Father through the Lord Jesus Christ, by keeping His commandments. Or obeying lawful authorities as sent by God (Rom 13:1; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:13-14), or our obeying God's designs for marital relationships and the family, and thus here children obeying their own parents. We only submit ourselves to Jesus Christ's Lordship in our lives as much as we let God's designs for human relationships with Himself, each other, and governments, govern us. For Jesus Christ was obedient to His own Father's Will even to the point of death on a cross. And so God has highly exalted Him and given Him the Name above all Names (Phil. 2:8-11; 1 Peter 3:22). Therefore we too must be subject to God's designs for us, if we expect too be exalted with Christ. Now Jesus' obedience to the Father will culminate at the end of ages when Jesus having had all things made subject to Himself, will in turn be subject to God the Father (1 Cor 15:28). And so regardless of our current place in this life the Divine Will and order is to be respected and obeyed by us all who believe in Him. Now in regards to young people submitting to their elders, and we all submitting to one another, and thus being clothed with humility as is fitting for us all, please see Eph. 5:21; 1 Peter 5:5.
Now in commanding the children to obey to their parents, especially their fathers, (and thus not run to mom to have her take sides with them against one of his decisions for them) the Apostle Paul exhorts the fathers of their responsibility in all of this by saying: "Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged."  In the Apostles parallel exhortations in Eph. 6:1-4 all believing fathers are to bring up their children in the training and admonition of the Lord. Thus a father is to have a critical role in the children's development in all of life's matters. And so here as part of the father's responsibility in the children's personal development, the Apostle commands the father's not to provoke their children, lest they become discouraged. Now the verb translated provoke here means: to cause someone to feel resentment—‘to make resentful, to make someone bitter.’ ‘do not cause your children to become resentful’ LN. 88.168  Given that children have a great affection and natural adoration for their fathers (see Prov. 17:6), it seems wise that a father not destroy this in them.
Thus the father must be sensitive to his children's need for affirmation from him (as well he must help them grow in their independence from him, as they move from childhood to teenagers and finally move into their own adulthood). And so he must always seek too encourage them in every good thing throughout their lives, and not belittle them, or slight them, at any point in their lives when they try something on their own and fail. For trying and at times failing is a part of life, and is a part of growing up in this life. And so whether seemingly an insignificant "failure" or not. A Father should never provoke his child (or any child) by ridiculing them. Which often only leads to childhood and later more serious adolescence rebellion. None of which helps a child grow up in the training and admonition of the Lord. Same with laying all kinds of unnecessary and or hypocritical legalistic demands on children, and thus stifling their God given creativity, as well as His designs for them to become their own persons, with their own unique likes and dislikes. All which can very easily fit within the safe and secure confines of His commandments and decrees, which bless and benefit us all. Therefore fathers do not provoke your children by being a hard-case! Which is only a false means by which men try to hide their own insecurities and weaknesses. Instead be honest with your children about your own weaknesses and limitations, for ultimately it is not you, (and your strengths and abilities) it is Christ working through you by which you become a Godly father to them. And so be a father who is willing to share in their joys and sorrows, their successes and failures, throughout their lives. And thus be a father they can look too for guidance and counsel throughout their lives, because they know you will listen to them, as well as dialogue maturely with them about anything that may be of a concern to them. And when its time and it's appropriate to do so show them that you are strong enough in the Lord to admit to your own failures and weakness, because Godly fathers are not infallible, nor are they "supermen" , they are though real men who love and desire the very best for their children.

Vs. 22 "Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God."

In Biblical times slaves and or bondservants was a reality, and often times a necessity, as people instead of going into deep poverty and despair would sell themselves in someone's servitude. Though within the nation of Israel God's commandment was to first try to assist those in need, and failing that then they could sell themselves into their brethren's servitude. Of course God had laws governing ones treatment while so indebted, as well as He provided for their redemption if one of their relatives could financially redeem them. As well He commanded their release from their servitude after seven years, and or in the year of Jubilee (see Lev. 25:35-55; Deut. 15:7-18 etc.). That said, in the early and growing church, Christians were increasingly from the Gentiles, and within the Roman Empire (which ruled all nations and peoples at that time) slavery was a way of life (see www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk "Slavery in the Roman Empire" for details about Roman Slavery). And so as the Gospel spread from Jerusalem to the surrounding nations and peoples many of these people who heard the Good News were themselves slaves or bondservants at the time of their salvation. And having been set free from their sins many wondered if this also meant that they were immediately released from their earthly responsibilities and or indebtedness or bondservice. Some even began to teach others that they had no more responsibility to submit to their earthly masters since Jesus Christ was now their Master, which of course was only erroneous and self-serving on their part (see 1 Tim 6:1-2; Titus 2:9-10). And so throughout the Apostle Paul's letters, he frequently calls himself, or refers to himself and or his co-workers as bondservants of Christ and of all believers (see 2 Cor 4:5; Gal. 1:10; Phil. 1:1; Col. 4:12; Titus 1:1). Something that may have begun with the Apostles who were before him (see James 1:1; 2 Peter 1:1; Jude 1:1). Since from of old God's prophets and saints have always been referred to by Him as His servants (Rev 1:1; 11:18 etc. Note: the same word used for slaves is frequently translated servants and or bondservants in the N.T.). Now the Apostle Paul never opposed the liberation of anyone from their earthly bondservice. Indeed if one could be made free then all the better, especially if it helped in the Gospel's furtherance (1 Cor 7:21-23). But if not then a bondservant having been freed by Christ, and having been brought to everlasting life, by the Holy Spirit just as all believers are, was no longer to be considered just as "bondservants" of man, but instead as beloved and equal brethren (see 1 Cor. 12:13; Gal. 3:28) and bondservants of God, with all believers everywhere (1 Peter 2:15). Therefore bondservants were not too revolt against their earthly masters, which would've brought swift destruction to them and great upheaval to the early church (see 1 Peter 2 :18-25). Instead as the Apostle Paul commands here they were to "obey in all things their masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God." And so from this brief exhortation we garner the principal of both our own bond service to Jesus Christ in all things, but also of our dutifully doing our duties in whatever capacities of life we are called to serve God and Jesus Christ in. And so whether this is in the home, or the work place, or anywhere else, a Christians work ethic is in many ways a reflection of their worship and obedience towards God.

Vs. 23 ²³ And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, ²⁴ knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. ²⁵ But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality.

The Apostle Paul's exhortation here is to faithful and dutiful service (consider Prov 18:9). That is what we are to be as disciples of Jesus Christ, in whatever capacities of life we find ourselves serving others, or gainfully employed in. For there is no menial service or servants of God. Consider if you will, that the Lord Jesus Christ took up a towel long before He took up His throne (see John 13:3-17; Mark 10:42-45). Indeed in the prophetic Scriptures in Isaiah Jesus is referred to as simply "My Servant" (Isaiah 52:13-53:12). Therefore seeing that the Lord has given both the example as well as the commanded His blessing on us if we follow Him in doing likewise; that is serving others as He has served us (John 13:17); whatever one does is to be done (and will be rewarded as being done) as unto the Lord and not mere men (vs. 23). For ultimately we who believe in Jesus Christ are serving the Lord Jesus Christ in whatever capacities of life we serve others. And thus it is from the Lord Jesus Christ that we will receive the inheritance (vs. 24). And so whether in home, or the workplace, or in the church, or in Christian ministry somewhere, one is serving the Lord Christ. Notice also that no one is "greater" than another if they are serving in a more "important" duty. For all service that is done heartily as and unto the Lord will from the Lord receive the inheritance. And thus we all will be repaid according to the service that we rendered. Similarly those who do wrong (in whatever capacities they served) will likewise be repaid for the wrong they have done, for there is no partiality.

4:1 "Masters, give your bondservants what is just and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven." 

Though 4:1 begins a new chapter it is actually linked to what the Apostle Paul commanded in 3:22 and so it is included here. If you recall the Apostle said that bondservants are to obey their earthly masters in all things, not with eyesservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart fearing God.
And so having commanded that an honest work ethic be exemplified by us all who serve others, in the fear of God. Here likewise commands that Master's give their bondservants what is just and fair, knowing that they too have a Master in heaven to whom they are likewise accountable too. And so we have Scripturally before us a outstanding precedent for our modern employee/employer relationships. Which if actually followed would do so much more too enhance these, as well strengthen our economies were such just and fair practices to take root. Instead we often find one vying for a more advantageous position at the cost other, and thus nobody actually "wins" in the end. Nonetheless in the Kingdom of heaven's economy whether an employer or an employee we are mutually responsible to the Lord and to each other, (and thus not just serving our own interests). And so hopefully the principals set forth here will guide both our conduct as well as our attitudes towards each other into greater Christian love and community. Amen

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

Word Studies
Bondservants: STR 1401 (also see 1400); GK 1528/1529; TDNT 2.261; TDNTA 182; LN 37.3 (125x)
Provoke: STR 2042; GK 2241; LN 88.168; 90.55; (Col 3:21) 1x