Matthew- An Introduction

 Matthew is the first account of the New testament, although it was written later than Mark; 90% of the material in Mark can be found in Matthew. It is as if Matthew is a "second edition" of Mark. The authorship is anonymous and may have been mistakenly identified to be from Mark the tax collector as the church leader Papias mentioned in his writings that "the tax collector was collecting and gathering sayings of Jesus." We know that Matthew was a devout  and educated Jewish- Christian and knew Jewish heritage and scripture better than the authors of the other Gospels. Theologians believe the text was written in Antioch probably in the late 70s to early 80s  or even in the 90s AD. There are several passages about the destruction of the Jerusalem temple (which occurred in 70 AD). The idea of Antioch comes from the fact that many of the "Matthew only" stories involve Peter who lived most of his life in Antioch.

Matthew's Gospel is often called the teacher's Gospel as it focuses primarily on the teaching ministry of Jesus. There is a heavy emphasis on understanding Scripture and then teaching it to others. Others call Matthew's Gospel the accountant's Gospel, because Matthew pay very close attention to details. In Matthew, numbers seems to be important. Many of his stories are repeated twice (or have the number two in them)- possibly to represent the duality nature of Christ; many stories have three parts or three characters- possibly for the trinity; Matthew has seven parables of the the kingdom of heave (seven is a sacred number);; he tells of twelve prophecies that were fulfilled (twelve disciples). There are a few others- let's watch for them!

Jesus exhibits less human frailty in Matthew than in Mark or Luke. The disciples show more potential for growth in Matthew while in contrast, the religious leaders of Israel come off looking worse in Matthew than the other Gospels. Matthew makes many references to the Hebrew prophets and the words "to fulfill the prophecies written by the prophets" is used often. The thought that Matthew is placed first in the Gospel sequence along with the number of Hebrew prophecies is to "convince" Jews to convert to Christianity. If you are going to read a new anthology of stories- start with the first one (Matthew).

There are several interesting points made in Matthew and we will discuss them as they come up.

I hope you enjoy this account of Jesus' life.

Jude

 Good morning all! Welcome back. I hope you had a great weekend. It was a fun and busy weekend here. Joseph continues to keep us busy! He loves being outside, so we do what we can while out there! He really loves spending time with our dog, Finn. They play together all the time!

This morning we read Jude, then the next several weeks is in the Gospel Matthew.

I have never read Jude, so this is all new for me. It is only the one chapter. It is the last book in the Christian Bible before Revelation. Not much is known about Jude. He is the brother of "James the Just", a well-known member of the church. James is a brother of Jesus, so this would make Jude also Jesus' brother. There is some surrounding controversy though (for both James and Jude) as many theologians want to keep Mary a virgin, so there was no way Jesus could have had siblings!

It is the shortest book in the Bible (25 verses) and its inclusion in the Bible has been disputed, primarily because of length and the unknown identity of the author. 

The letter was written likely between 70 and 90 AD as an encyclical letter (i.e. not for one particular person or church, but to be spread throughout the congregations). The primary focus is the punishment of evil people. The composition in the original Greek show that the author was very well educated and very fluent in Greek- unusual for the time period.

As I mentioned, this is my first experience with Jude- so I am interested to see what he has to say!

Jude begins his letter with a brief introduction.The name "Jude" is translated to Judas, but most English translators of the Greek texts use Jude to avoid confusion with Judas Iscariot. Jude, along with Jesus' other siblings, probably didn't believe that Jesus was the Messiah until his resurrection. I wonder what it was like living as a brother or sister to Jesus?! Although Jude was a brother to Christ, he refer.s to himself as servant- an interesting word use. Jude is specifically writing to Christians, people called by God. I like his closing statement, "Mercy, peace, and love be yours richly." (Some translations say multiplied). The three weren't enough to have in "regular doses", Jude wishes them to be multiplied in the lives of Christians.

The beginning of the actual letter makes it look like Jude didn't want to write this letter. He was going to talk about salvation, but something else came up that needed to be addressed. The letter is more like a sermon, preaching about practices and doctrine that puts the theology of Chris in jeopardy. I have had a few sermons like that...saying something that wasn't popular and wondering how the congregation would take it. My nerves are usually quite hyped up before I preach anyway, but then when I knew I was going to talk about something unpopular, I was really super nervous! I know how Jude is feeling! That's the leading of the Holy Spirit!

Jude's talking point for this letter is protection of the faith (v 3). Something must be going on that is drawing people away from Christ, and Jude feels it is necessary to remind people of the struggle and the fight that must happen to keep faith strong. You can sense the passion and love Jude has for this gift of faith. 

Jude points out that some people have "secretly entered" the group (v 4); some translations say "crept in unnoticed." That's the dangerous part the people trying to disrupt the church are unnoticed. Chuck Spurgeon, well known theologian, wrote about this line saying, "Satan knows that one devil inside the church can do more damage than thousands of devils standing outside her." I am sure we all have examples of these people that creep in and try to tear apart something from the inside- the church isn't the only place this happens! Their judgement will be certain, and the truth will win eventually, but we must be vigilant and aware of these evil do-ers. They knew grace and mercy, but they used that idea as a way to be lewd and corrupt.

Jude then lists some reminders for the people:

• God delivered the Hebrews from Egypt (v 5)- followed by punishment for the non-believers. God provided escape from their captives, food (manna) and water through their journey, safety crossing the Red Sea, they heard God's voice at Mount Sinai...but even after all that, they fell back to their old ways and went with unbelief.
• The angels who did not keep their place (v 6)- some controversy here as to exactly what Jude means. There are two cases of angels sinning (Isaiah 14:12-14 and Revelation 12:4). There is also mention of the "sons of God) in Genesis 6:1-2. When Jude mentions "left their proper home" it is usually a reference to infidelity in marriage (sexual sin). Because these angels did not keep their proper place , they are kept in darkness in chains.Freedom comes from obedience.
• Sodom and Gomorrah (v 7) are the two cities that represent all of the sexual sins. We know what happened to those cities!

Jude connects "these people" that are infiltrating the church with the examples he gave just prior. he point he is making is that hey will be punished as the evil ones were. They are impure, they reject God's authority (translation- they want to be in authority) and speak against the angels (some translation say dignitaries- likely meaning the apostles). They seem to be just bad people that want to ruin and destroy the church. Jude brings up the example of Michael the archangel who wouldn't even judge the devil (another of God's angels) guilty. Even Michael, with the power to do that, said it was God who judges. Jude's reference to "the body of Moses" is quite obscure and there are several different ideas about what he was talking about. The most common thought is that the devil wanted Moses's body to be used as an idol for worship so that the Israel people would be led astray. Others believe that the devil wanted Moses' body so that he could desecrate it in front of the people of Israel. The point being that the devil was against God- just like "these people" but even Michael wouldn't judge him guilty. 

"But these people..." are just like the devil- trying to usurp God's authority, reject God, and talk evil. They have a natural intelligence (reference to dumb animals- animals know how to survive, they can be intellectually smart) but are lacking a spiritual intelligence (as the beasts).

More examples of how corrupt "these certain men" are

• They are like Cain- lack of faith in God, Cain ultimately murdered Abel. Cain represents the sins of Israel
• Balaam- (Numbers 22-25, 31)- God suggested that Balaam not follow a certain contingency of King Balak, but they offered riches and women, so Balaam went with them. Balaam represents greed in the Hebrew scriptures.
• Korah- (Numbers 16) resented the authority and power God gave Moses and Aaron- Korah was swallowed up by the earth and his followers were also destroyed. Korah represents the rejection of God's authority.  

Jude continues his description of "these certain people". As you read the various descriptions of these people, are you reminded of people in your life that have these characteristics?

The writings of Enoch (v 14) were not canonized, yet they are important texts for the Hebrew people. It is common belief that Enoch's writings were preserved by Noah and were read up until the time of Christ- however there were some false testimonies of Christ, and so they were not canonized! The point here is that Enoch warned of "these certain people" so we shouldn't be surprised that they will try to destroy the church. 

We are reminded in the closing statements (v 20) that we are different from these certain people.  We are in support of God and Christ. We promote love and peace and grace and recognize the mercy of God. Jude tells us to keep an inward focus (vv 20-21) and to not attack or go after these people- that's what they want. They want to show a downfall with the Christian religion. If we stayed focused on our spirituality and our faith then we are doing what God desires of us. God will take care of them- as God has done for the last several hundreds of thousands of years!

We are to also be cognizant and aware of people on the edge of faith and show them compassion and love (vv 22- 23). An outward view of things shows that we are not totally wrapped up in ourselves. 

The closing lines (vv 24-25) are a beautiful doxology to God. These lines are reminders of God's care for us, God's presence in our lives, and our destiny. The last 23 lines of this letter looked like gloom and doom and the cruelty and hate of the world, but in these closing lines, Jude reminds us of the power and grace of God and that salvation is available to all who follow Christ. If we stay connected to God, we cannot fall or falter. I may use these lines as a benediction for this coming week's message!

Jude is a book full of warning, but it closes with a supreme confidence in God. As we look at our world and the hate and fear and war and turmoil we face, may we also remember these closing words of Jude.

We begin Matthew tomorrow. This Gospel will take us about 6 weeks. I will hopefully post an introduction to Matthew later today (and also respond to your comments from the last few days!).

Enjoy the beautiful day we are being blessed with.

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Philemon

 Good morning. What a beautiful day yesterday! There couldn't have been a nicer day! I hope you all had time to enjoy the weather and be happy! 

Today's brief letter is to Philemon, a leader of the Colossian church. The letter is written by Paul while he is in prison and also co-authored by Timothy. The date is between 57-62AD, so Paul is either in Caesarea Maritime (earlier date) or Rome (later date).  Since Timothy is with Paul, it is likely the more earlier time frame. The letter is about reconciliation and forgiveness. It is written on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave that has converted to Christianity.

In the introduction, Paul writes he is a prisoner of Jesus. Paul never considered himself a prisoner of Rome, but of Christ. It was his love for Christ that put him in prison. An interesting way to look at it! When Paul mentions Philemon- he leaves out that he is looked at as an apostle, but rather a friend. In many of Paul's letters, he addresses himself (Paul) as an apostle.  We can gather there is some type of intimate relationship between Paul and Philemon, rather than "apostle" to student relationship. Thoughts are that Apphia was Philemon's wife and Archippus was their son. This letter is very personal- addressed to just this family rather than an entire church. Roman law had the woman/wife be the "supervisor" of the slaves, so she certainly needed to be included in this latter from Paul- although Philemon would make the final determinations. We know that Philemon had a church that met on his house. The Jews had synagogues, but Christians had no other property  than their homes for worship services, so many net in personal homes even up to the 3rd century. Many of the churches in the United States began in peoples' homes too, so this is not unusual. How often do we "do church" in a home setting now?

Paul's beginning words are about prayer for Philemon and that his teachings of faith would be effective (v 6). We know from this that Philemon had some role on faith formation of the people in the church. It seems as though Paul's prayers for Philemon are not extensive as he "mentions" Philemon in his prayers (v 4). He commends Philemon on the work he has done on behalf of others and the love that he has shown to those in the faith (v 7).

Paul now gets to the point of the letter (vv 8-11). With the authority Paul has, he could command that Philemon follow his request, but instead Paul asks nicely in the name of love. There is a big difference here! A love appeal is more effective than an outright command. Are you more receptive to a "love appeal" or an outright "command"? Paul uses his wisdom here (v 9) saying he is an old man in prison, trying to stir up emotions from Philemon. Do we do that- attempt to stir peoples' emotions before asking for something big?

Onesimus was a slave to Philemon; he escaped to Rome (v 10) and converted to Christianity ("my child").  According to ancient Greek and Roman law, an escaped slave could be granted sanctuary at an altar (even one in a family home) and the owner of the altar would then have to plead the case for the escaped slave with the master. If the slave didn't go back, the slave would be sold at auction and the money returned to the owner.  Paul is in that position now of bargaining for Onesimus' life.

Interesting side note, the name Onesimus means profitable (v 11). Paul says that now Onesimus is a Christian he has worth and is valuable. Christ takes the invaluable and "worthless" and makes them valuable! In Christ, useless becomes useful. Do we view people that way, or are we still swayed by their skin color, orientation, ethnicity, style of dress?

Paul seems to have convinced Onesimus to go back to Philemon, but is asking Philemon for grace and mercy. According to Roman law, a runaway slave could be crucified. Under Roman law, the life of a slave was at the control of their master and they could do essentially what they wanted. There was a report that a slave had a tray full of crystal goblets; one dropped and broke. The owner immediately threw the slave into a pond full of lampreys and watched and laughed as the slave was eaten alive by the fish! If they weren't killed, the would often be branded on their forehead with the letter "F" (fugitive).

Clearly, Paul wanted Onesimus to stay in Rome with him, and he asks that of Philemon (v 13). Paul could attempt to have Philemon let Onesimus stay, but it was ultimately Philemon's decision. If Paul forced Philemon to make a decision, then it would't really be a "good deed" (v 14). 

Paul acknowledges that Onesimus ran away, but uses the words "separated from your for a short time..." (v 15). It softens the offense! Philemon was deprived of a valuable asset, but possibly the "purpose" of Onesimus running away was the conversion to Christianity! God wanted Philemon to see the purpose too. Paul also softens the escape by calling Onesimus Philemon's brother (rather than slave) as he attempts to abolish the barrier between slave and free. When we see people different from us- do we see them as brother and sister or do we see them as black, olive, Muslim, gay, dirty, homeless, or otherwise? If a person is a stranger, it is easier to make them a slave- but how can my brother or sister be a slave?

Paul stands strong next to Onesimus (vv 17-19). He knows that Onesimus is guilty and deserves punishment, but he also knows that he is a friend and brother in Christ. If you punish my brother, then you must also punish me. That is what Christ does for us all the time, stands next to us as brother when we face God.

I love the closing words, "Refresh my heart in Christ..." (v 20). Sometimes we get so downtrodden and buried deep with emotions, pain, suffering, hate, fear, that we need a refresher or reminder that God is present and active. I think that is what Paul is asking Philemon here...remind me again that God is alive! Do we need those reminders of God's presence?

Paul let's Philemon know that he'd like to come for a visit, showing us the close nature of Paul's relationship with Philemon (also an indication that Paul is not in Roman prison, because he never left the prison in Rome until his execution).

Paul closes with a list of names of people that are either in prison with Paul or are visiting Paul and have a close relationship with Philemon (vv 23-24),making the letter even more personal for Philemon. Remember- Demas is the same person that Paul mentions in 2 Timothy 4:10 who left Paul for "love of the world"

Paul never called for an end to the systemic slavery, yet the principles in the letter do destroy slavery. The greatest social changes happen when we change one heart at at time. This one letter was used quite extensively in the fight against slavery in the 1860s. 

There is no Biblical record of the resolution to this issue, however there are some historical accounts that Onesimus did become a bishop of Ephesus (as named by Ignatius of Antioch). From slave to brother to bishop. All things are possible with God!

There are lots of things we can learn form this letter. Paul's plea for Philemon to treat Onesimus with love is the underlying message that many people need to hear!

Have a great weekend and enjoy the beauty we are blessed with! I am attending Chenango Valley's Senior Prom tonight ans am excited to see some of my kids and friends. 

Don't forget- LM Yard sale is tomorrow (Saturday) from 9AM until 2PM.

Monday we read Jude. I have never read that personal letter!

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Titus 3

 Good morning. I had good intentions of doing this early, but someone decided to get up at 6AM! Yesterday's excitement was walking the dogs! That kid!! My plan is to respond to your comments today from the last two days! I hope you all had a good day yesterday and are planning on having a good one today!

This final chapter of Titus is directed at all the citizens of Crete and how they should be living in community and doing good.

The first comment that Paul makes is for the people to yield to government and authority. Given the unruly behavior of the Cretans, this wasn't an easy job or task! If you remember- when Paul said something similar to Timothy (in Ephesus), he used the words pray for the leaders; in contrast to the advice for the Cretans to obey the rulers! Big difference in word usage! Paul continues this and extends the ideas of doing and being good to all people. We have said this before- we (the whole country) needs to hear these words! Were the Cretans really unlike the people of today?

Paul then contrasts their (our) former life with the life they (we) now have in Christ (vv 4-5). I have said this before...I look back at my previous life and see some things I am ashamed of. God has made some changes in me (and still has more to do!) We should all be reminded that the life we have now is richer sand fuller because of God's grace. Paul emphasizes (v 5) that it wasn't because of the goodness we did that God looked at when God offered grace- it is the thing that God does. If God offered grace and mercy only to those that did good or based on their work I am afraid many of us would fall short! Paul uses the words "through the washing" (v 6) which is likely a reference to baptism and the regeneration that baptism gives us- a regeneration to new life. Baptism was both a Judaic and Christian sacrament (and many of the pagan religions had some sort of ritual cleansing). Through that baptism and the idea of God's mercy- we are made right with God and then w are able to have hope that there is life after we die here in earth (v 7).

Paul then emphasizes the truth of this message (v 8) and Titus (and we) are to make sure people know the truth behind the message of grace and mercy and hope. Can we do that? Do we do that?

As we have heard Paul several times remind us- stay away from gossip, busybodies, "foolish" people, and those that like to argue for the sake of arguing (v 9). We have enough to keep us busy if we focus on the important things in life rather than the idle chatter and "busy-ness" that we can get side-tracked by! 

As Paul closes this letter (as he did for Timothy), he begins to list names of people. One of the important things for us in these lists is not necessarily what these people did, but that Paul was a "regular" person with friends and people in his life that were important to him. It is believed that Artemus or Tychius would take Titus'place in Crete and that Titus would go some other place. Paul mentions the city of Nicopolis ("city of victory"). There are several cities named Nicopolis, but it is believed to be the city of Epirus. This city was built by Augustus in memory the battle of Actium. It was on a peninsula, to the west of the bay of Actium. It is probably Paul's last winter alive and this city is like a nice warm winter retreat to Florida. The additional names of Apollos and Zenas show that the gospel is moving rapidly and may people are getting involved in the spread of the good news! Are people as excited to spread the Gospel message in contemporary times?

As I said before, these instructions are not new to us. We have heard them before, but they were new to Titus and the people of Crete. To them, this was the first time hearing Paul's words of advice and godly living. This is a very short piece of text and it would be good if more people read it...maybe a brief sermon series is in order!!

Tomorrow we read Paul's letter to Philemon regarding his slave Onesimus. One brief letter packed with grace and acceptance of second class citizens!

Have a great day!

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Titus 2

 Good morning! Hope you all had a good day yesterday. Our big task for the day was to move feed back to the barn! The rain in the afternoon was quite wicked, but it hopefully will cool things down some!

The chapter for today is short and says much of what we have talked about in other letters from Paul...how to live together and be good people. Maybe more people should be reading these letters and getting advice?!

Adam Clarke (1762-1832), British Methodist Theologian says this about Titus 2, “Few portions of the New Testament excel this chapter. It may well form the creed, system of ethics, and text book of every Christian preacher. Does any man inquire what is the duty of a Gospel minister? Send him to the second chapter of the Epistle to Titus for a complete answer.” 

Paul begins this chapter, as he did a few times with Timothy and to some of the churches, "But you..." separating and contrasting Titus to the words he previously used. You are different, you are selected, you are better than that.

Looking at the list of teachings for older men, I am surprised that these things are not what we learn from experience. But, I guess people do need o be taught about self-control, seriousness, strength in faith, love and patience. I guess as we age, we are hardened, and patience definitely becomes less! I wonder how Titus felt trying to teach the old men how to do these things?

In similar respect, he is to teach the older women more "maternal" qualities. The life of a woman was very different from the life of a man 2000 years ago. They had different expectations and so the teachings were somewhat different. I wonder why women are not to be "enslaved to too much wine..." (v 3) and it wasn't mentioned for the men?! I like the next comment about the older women teaching the younger women (v 5). The comment Paul is using is about love, but it is important for young people to have older mentors. It is interesting that there was no comment about men teaching the younger men. It seems like too many of our young people don't have these good adult role models.  What is the church's responsibility in this? Do we have one?

Paul begins v 6 with , "In the same way..." meaning that young men are to know the same thing as young women, plus the additional aspects he outlines in vv 7-8. Titus is to not only be a good teacher, but a role model (v 7) or an example of good living. When thinking of people in your life (pastors and others), do they "talk the talk and walk the walk"? That's essentially what Paul is saying here....if you're going to preach it you need to live it! I have said a few times that the church is fill of hypocrites as we say one thing and do the opposite! Thoughts?

Paul gets into some tricky thoughts next. The Christian world threw the ancient world when slaves converted to Christianity and were worshiping and studying along side their masters and the masters of other slaves. Paul says that even though they are equals in the eyes of the Lord, they should still obey their masters (but not necessarily other people). In the same respect- they are to be good and faithful- as were all people expected. I don't think Paul necessarily agreed with slavery, he  was just commenting about how this whole arrangement can work for the benefit of all. 

Grace brings salvation (v 11). For everyone. That's the whole sum of the Gospel story! The grace that we are given is an underlying theme to our entire life and that grace helps us/ makes us/ guides us to do the right things for all people. The grace that we are offered changes us to be holy people with a good and wholesome inner core. Thoughts?

Christ willing paid the ransom (v 14); we were bought and brought out of slavery with the fee of the life of Christ.Because of that- we are and should be doing good. Do we? Always?

Paul closes this chapter with words of encouragement. You can see some connection with Titus, but I feel there is less that with Timothy. The words seem more generic and less "forceful" but still he has some good words.

We finish tomorrow with a continuation of living right and good. 

Have a great rest of the day!

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Titus 1, and a brief introduction

 Good morning. I hope all is well with you and you are all enjoying the beautiful- yet hot- days that we are having. Summer is here! Our excitement yesterday was Joseph riding in grandpa's "tractor"; he loves it!

Let's see what today brings!

This morning we start a brief letter (likely) written by Paul to Titus. There is much controversy to the authorship of this letter, but many agree that it is at least written during the time of Paul and if not by him, then by one of his disciples. The date is approximately the same as 1 Timothy (early 50s AD). Titus was a Gentile Christian, possibly from Antioch, brought to Jerusalem by Paul and Barnabas. Titus is currently in Crete when he receives this letter, carried to him by Zenas and Apollos (we will see them in chapter 3). In the early to mid 50s, Paul sent him to Corinth, taking the Corinthians letter with him. Titus was instrumental in the reconciliation between Paul and the Corinthian church. Not much else is known about Titus or his life! I only have a few lines highlighted in my Bible in this letter- so it is mostly new material for me!

Paul opens the  letter in typical style: author's name first, some brief greetings, and then to whom the letter is addressed. The first title Paul mentions about himself is "servant"; the original Greek, he uses the word doulos meaning the lowest of lowest class slaves- but then adds in it is for God. Interesting way to describe yourself! Would you describe yourself as that? Paul tells that he is here to help understand both faith and truth. Faith alone isn't good enough for Paul- he desires people to know truth. Is there a difference between truth and faith?

We don't know too much about Titus. He is mentioned very briefly in Acts and a few times in 2 Corinthians. Based on this introduction (v 4), we get a sense that Titus, like Timothy, was well known and loved by Paul. Titus' mission was to select elders in Crete. After a successful evangelic mission there, Paul had many young Christians that needed guidance and mentors. Paul selected Titus to stay there and search for those elders. He was to help build churches and establish Christianity. The job was tough because the people of Crete were well known throughout the word as a wild and crazy bunch of people that lied as often as possible and were very lazy. Titus was the man to do that. This shows us a look inside Titus and his strength and faith- to be able to control these people  was a great task, so he must have had strength (more than Timothy since Timothy wasn't selected!). The primary tasks was assigning an elder (bishop, authoritative church leader) in every city. There were many cities in Crete- so a big task! Paul gives Titus lots of authority in doing this (rather than assigning a committee).

Paul then goes through a list of qualifications (vv 6-8) for these elders. We have seen something similar in a few other letters from Paul. Titus is looking for good, wholesome, upstanding, faithful men to serve the church. Do we have similar qualifications for church leaders? Are those qualifications being met in the leaders you know? These elder have the awesome task of guiding the faith of their fellow Cretans. I don't know if I fit all the qualifications for being a church leader, but I do feel the awesomeness of leading a group of people in faith (at least I hope I am doing that). It is such a privilege to guide and mold and develop people as they walk closer to Christ. 

Surprise! We come back to Paul's feelings and thoughts about circumcision (vv 10-11)! Paul warns of the people (like we have seen in other letters) that spread false rumors, that are the gossip mongers, of the cities. They have nothing to do but stir up trouble. He is especially concerned about the Jewish Christians that continue to "require" circumcision and obedience to Mosaic laws. For these Jews, the cross of Jesus wasn't enough; the knowledge and acceptance of Hebrew laws and ancestry must also happen. It seems, in several of the things we have read, that the pagan Christians were very willing and able to "forget" their gods and rules of living when they converted to Christianity, but the Jewish Christians struggled with giving up their prior laws. Are there things from our "prior life" That we desire to hang on to?

Paul comments that one of their own (v 12) describes the Cretans people in non-flattering terms! When Paul says that the person is a prophet, I don't think he means a prophet selected by God. Based in this writing, it seems as though there are some character flaws in the Cretans! Even with these issues and flaws, Paul pushes Titus to work in Crete. He could have very easily said "Let's forget about these people." but Paul didn't. What lesson is there for us in this? Are any people too unworthy of hearing of God's love and grace? Paul's order to Titus- tell them when they are wrong and guide them to the stories of faith (kind of what we heard Paul say to Timothy in 2 Timothy 4). Is it easy to guide people in stories of the faith?

Paul ends this chapter with the comment that one reason the Jewish Christians struggle with non-Jewish Christians is that nothing can be pure because of the laws that were set up by Moses, ET AL. The legalism of the Judaic person makes it difficult to find purity in the "new" Christian philosophy. V 16 really hit me hard, "They say they are Christians, but they don't act like one." (my translation, not Biblical). Know any people like that? He ends with some very harsh words against these people- harsh but he means it. They are not doing any good trying to promote Christianity by what they are doing! What does that say about us? Are we in there anyplace? Tough words to end on, but hear them!

I hope you were impacted by these first words from Paul. Some were tough to hear, and some we have read many times!

Enjoy the day!

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

2 Timothy 4

 Good afternoon. So much for a schedule!! Anyway, great weekend. Morgan and Bobbi-Jo came home for the weekend. It was nice to have the entire family together! Saturday I officiated a wedding of one of our young people and had so much fun! Sunday was worship at LM followed later by worship at Good Shepherd Endwell- my first time there. There were 8 residents that came. I used the same scripture from worship at LM and gave a brief message of accepting all people and doing what we can to break down walls and barriers. After my short message we had a great chat about life and how respect and acceptance has changed over their life time. I t was great to talk with them! I hope you all had as great a weekend!

This is our last chapter in Timothy and this final chapter contains some of my favorite pieces of scripture. Paul gives some very sentimental and heartfelt words to Timothy and we will sense his anxiety of his upcoming execution. 

Paul "commands" Timothy (some translations say "I charger you...") - very strong words and then adds in this command is made in the presence of God and Christ- wow! As Paul sits in his cold, dark, wet prison cell- he is still cognizant of God and the power of God! What power in the next statement- to preach the Good News! Paul's following words- be ready at all times- got me wondering...are we ready at all times to preach the Good News? Are we able to preach the good news at a moments notice? Are we able to tell people what we are all about? Are we ready to tell people what they need to know? Many people think that the pastor is the one to "preach" the Good News- but is it just their job? How do you feel about "preaching" The Word? At the wedding reception this past weekend, one of the people that attended the wedding came up to me. She asked, "Do you have a minuet?" Sure, I said, as I was trying to compose a wedding prayer in my head, also while thinking- oh no- what did I say that she didn't like! Her question was about the rainbow stole I wear around my cincture (the rope like belt I wear around my waist when I wear a robe; as a local licensed pastor, I am not allowed to wear a stole around my neck that is reserved for ordained clergy- don't even get me started on that!) and the rainbow colored material I have draping the table (altar). I mentioned that it was in support of LGBTQ+ and equality and acceptance for all. This question resulted in a 45 minute talk/discussion of texts and thoughts. Be ready at all times to preach the Good News!

Paul warns Timothy that there will be a time when people won't want to listen to the Good News- and will find something they want to hear (vv 3-4). I sometimes wonder of we are at that time now. People will stick with people that say what they want to hear and will fight with you if you disagree! There is no room for discussion, there is no room for conversation- I am right and you are wrong! Are there people that you know that follow "false teachers" that Paul talks about? How can we know those false teachers? The Bible is often used to "prove" both sides of an argument (look at slavery- the Bible "justified" slavery!). Anyone can find Scripture that supports almost any "cause" so how do we know what is right and what is wrong?

Paul brings in the words, "But you..." (v 5) putting Timothy in opposition to those that are looking for "false teachers". Timothy looks for the truth while "those people" look for fables and tales. Paul encourages Timothy to keep going and stay strong. In some translations, Paul calls Timothy an "evangelist" (mine says "do the work of telling the Good News"). Do you ever get tired or work down from being good? Teaching the Good News? Ministering? Do you think Timothy was getting tired? What about Paul- did he get tired of it and need to be reminded to keep doing the good work?

The next set of verses (vv 6-8) I really love. I found them and used them when I officiated my dad's funeral (12 years ago).  Paul knows his life is close to ending; he knows that he will no longer be able  to spread the Gospel message.  Some translations say "poured out as a drink offering" which goes back to Genesis 35; the pouring out of wine was an acceptable sacrifice for some ceremonies; there is also a Roman idea here too- at the end the evening meal a small cup of wine was poured out to please the gods. Paul is saying, essentially, it is done and I am ready for the day to draw to a close- God I am your sacrifice. Paul is realizing that his "race" is almost over and that he will win that race. Paul often symbolizes Christianity as an athletic competition. The winners of those competitions received a crown of laurel- a symbol of their victory. Paul is ready to receive his crown. The victor's crown (stepahnos) is symbolic that you followed the rules and did your best- you won! Although the word stephanos has been around quite a while- remember the name of the first Christian martyr- Stephen! That same crown of  righteousness is available to us also!

Paul was lonely- he was human- he was locked in a prison and knew life was coming to an end. He beckons Timothy to come to visit (v 9). Could you imagine being locked in death row- few visitors, with some of the friends abandoning you? Demas (v 10) was mentioned before as a faithful worker, but has left because he "loved this world" (i.e. he loved the world more than God). The pain that Paul must feel when a "good" worker leaves! Do you have people that were committed to God/church, but left because they "loved the world"? The others Paul mentioned leave for other reasons, but seem to still be faithful. Luke is the only one left (v 11). If you remember, Paul's first imprisonment in Rome he had many visitors (Acts 28:30+). Paul is truly alone- and probably afraid. An interesting note- Paul calls for Mark- a sign of reconciliation. They left each other (Acts 15:36+) with some disagreement. Paul asks Timothy to go to Troas to get his cloak- probably a result of an arrest. Soldiers were allowed to take any "extra" garments (i.e. not clothing but extra "luggage") from prisoners. He also asks for his books and "Parchments". Even on death row- Paul was looking to read and study (what an inspiration to me when I have a 16 month old running around the house!). The parchments may have been parts of the Hebrew Bible. Paul then warns about Alexander; he seems like a government informer or something like that because of the "harm" he did to Paul. He may have been a "spy" for the Romans to befriend Paul and other Christians and then throw them to the lions!

The next verse (v 16) almost makes me cry. Paul's message- don't ever give up! And don't hold grudges! Paul knew that God was with him and that same God is with us! Even in his final days- Paul is thinking of his friends: Priscilia and Aquila, Onesiphorus' family and others. Can you imagine that- about to die- and thinking of others! Paul's final words (v 22) reflect his love for God and Christ and that it be given to Timothy.

I really loved this last chapter. Such emotion and feelings for Timothy. You can really feel Paul's anxiety= yet calmness. May we all know that!

Tomorrow we begin Titus- another personal letter from Paul- primarily with instructions about being a bishop/elder in the church.

Have a great rest if the day! Thanks fro your hard work and commitment!

Peace+
Pastor Paul