Beyond The Four Spiritual Laws

Webers_Home · Dec 14, 2017

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258) Col 4:16 . . After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also
read in the church of the Laodiceans; and that you in turn read the letter
from Laodicea.

That directive has little application today except to point out that the epistles
are meant to be studied in every Christian church; not just special Christian
churches.

259) Col 4:17 . . And say to Archippus: Take heed to the ministry which you
have received in The Lord, that you may fulfill it.

Archippus was a person of interest in the church at Colossae that met
together in Philemon's home. (Phil 1:1-3)

Paul's directive targeted a specific person of interest, but it can just as
easily apply to any believer in a "calling" (cf. Rom 12:6-8)

260) 1Thess 4:1-2 . . Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in
The Lord Jesus, that, as you received from us instruction as to how you
ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk), that you may
excel still more. For you know what commandments we gave you by the
authority of The Lord Jesus.

The tally of Christ's commandments at this point is 260. I assume my
believing audience is already complying with them, and that's good. But to
"excel" in them, requires constant use: like mastering violin, knitting,
surgery, fly fishing, or shooting trap and skeet. They say practice makes
perfect; and I'm inclined to agree because the more something is practiced,
the more it becomes a habit instead of an effort.

For safety reasons, X-ray welding certifications typically expire in six
months-- and some in only three depending upon the parameters --if the
welder doesn't work with the certified process during that time. The
certifying agency assumes welders lose their touch if they don't keep at it.

Keeping up the good work is all the same as flossing your teeth every night
because a lack of practice will lead one into bad habits. Even Derek Jeter
would've soon lost his edge had he taken too long a break from playing
baseball.

● 1Tim 4:8-9 . . Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is
much more important, for it promises a reward in both this life and the next.
This is true, and everyone should accept it.

The reward promised in this life is the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:19-25) which
is broken down into love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

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Webers_Home · Dec 16, 2017

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261) 1Thess 4:3-5 . . It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you
should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his
own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the
heathen, who do not know God;

Some folk, not quite understanding the nature of the Spirit birth about which
John wrote in John 1:12-13 and about which Christ spoke in John 3:3-8,
have been led to believe that born-again Christians are supposed to be free
of their libido and their romantic impulses. Well, obviously not, or why else
would it be God's will to control them?

There's a downside to sleeping around; not only a spiritual downside but a
practical downside too. The below is from a study done by two psychology
researchers from the university of Denver after studying 418 people who
participated in a Relationship Development Study.

"The more sexual partners one sleeps with prior to marriage, the less quality
of life they can expect to have in marriage. This also goes for people who
shack up prior to marriage; even among those whose only sexual partner
has been the person they eventually marry. People who have been through
a divorce, or who had shacked up with someone before meeting their
current spouse, were also less likely to have a high-quality marriage."

262) 1Thess 4:6 . . and that in this matter no one should wrong his brother
or take advantage of him.

"this matter" refers to adultery.

● Heb 13:4 . . Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept
pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.

Christians commit adultery with Christians? Haw! Does that even need to be
answered? Of course they do; and it goes on all the time, even among
church officers; who by all rights should be setting the example for the rank
and file.

My wife was once friends with the wife of a counselor in a very big church in
San Diego. She confided with my wife (on the QT of course) that it was
amazing the number of church officers and their wives who were messing
around. She couldn't reveal their names of course due to privacy
considerations.

263) 1Thess 4:6-8 . . God has called us to be holy, not to live impure lives.
Anyone who refuses to live by these rules is not disobeying human rules but
is rejecting God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.

God's rules are the edicts of a monarch; and He expects compliance. But
because people hear His rules as hear-say rather than straight from the
horse's mouth, they quite naturally tend to be scofflaws.

NOTE: Why "gives" the Spirit instead of gave? Well; although Christ's
believing followers are all equally endowed with the Spirit (1Cor 6:19, Eph
1:13) it's benefits are doled.

Jesus depicted the Spirit as a source of living water.

"On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud
voice: If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes
in me, as the Scripture has said: streams of living water will flow from within
him. By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later
to receive." (John 7:37-39)

When believers go rogue and live in accordance with their base nature
instead of complying with Christ's commandments; the water is withheld.
Consequently they dry up and become like yard debris. (John 15:1-10, Rom
8:5-13)

264) 1Thess 4:11a . . Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your
own business

● Pro 26:17 . . Like one who seizes a dog by the ears is a passer-by who
meddles in a quarrel not his own.

In other words: DON'T get in the middle of disagreements that don't concern
you. People resent that. You'll just end up taking sides and that is a really
unwise thing to do because you'll make unnecessary enemies like that. Even
someone who was once your very best friend can become alienated from
you if you take a side against them in a matter that's none of your business.

265) 1Thess 4:11b-12 . . and to work with your own hands, just as we
instructed you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders; and
so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

In times of economic stress, such as the one the USA is experiencing these
days due to the 2008 Wall Street collapse, downsizing, wage reductions,
corporations expatriating for tax advantages and/or outsourcing and moving
their manufacturing offshore to take advantage of cheap labor and skimpy
government controls; a pretty large percentage of America's employable
Christians are out of work not because they are lazy free-loaders; but
because their opportunities for full time work with decent wages and benefits
are steadily declining.

So tread lightly when services like SNAP, TANF, Unemployment Benefits, etc
come up in conversations. Innocent people's feeling might get hurt if you
become too critical of those kinds of social services. And don't ever assume
that you are immune to poverty. It can happen to anyone; even overnight
and then you'll be looking around for assistance; maybe even from the very
agencies that you at one time thought were below you.

266) 1Thess 4:18 . .Therefore encourage each other with these words.

Below are the words to which Paul referred

● 1Thess 4:13-11 . . Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about
those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope.
We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will
bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to The
Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the
coming of The Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.

. . . For The Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud
command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God,
and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are
left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet The Lord in
the air. And so we will be with The Lord forever.

None of our circumstances are permanent; none, because Christ's followers
are on their way to something better; and bumps in the road are not the end
of the road; they're just inconveniences.

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Webers_Home · Dec 18, 2017

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267) 1Thess 5:5-6 . . We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled.

Is it possible for a Christian to be asleep at the wheel? Yes, absolutely or why else would Paul encourage his friends to remain wide-awake and bushy-tailed?

● Mark 4:18-19 . . Others are like seed sown among thorns: they hear the word; but are distracted by the cares of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth; and longings for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful.

Well, the lesson is obvious. Christians ought not to be distracted by worldly pursuits to such an extent that the day about which The Lord spoke comes as a big disappointment. No; they ought to be glad to see it rather than be all broken up about it because like it nor not; Christians take no more out with them than the lost when they leave this sphere. So try not to get too attached.

● 1Tim 6:7 . . For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

268) 1Thess 5:8 . . Since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.

The hope of salvation isn't a wishing hope, nor is it a hope-for-the-best hope, nor a cross-your-fingers hope. The koiné Greek word is elpis (el-pece') which means to anticipate with pleasure and confident expectation.

Anticipation is way different than wishful thinking. When a daddy loads up the car with wife and kids for a day at Six Flags, his family is no longer wishing he'd take them there. No, they're in the car and on the way. They no longer wish, but are now looking forward to having a day of great fun, food, and excitement. That's elpis hope.

269) 1Thess 5:11 . . Therefore encourage one another, and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Building believers up is just the opposite of tearing them down. Those in Galatia were busy doing just that.

● Gal 5:15 . . But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another!

270) 1Thess 5:12-13a . . Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in The Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.

Real men respect real men. When church officers are mice; then 1Thess 5:12-13a becomes a challenge for real men to obey; but regardless; comply they must.

● Heb 13:17 . . Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

I would say that if the officers in your church are just too impossible for you to respect then it's time to abandon ship. Don't mutiny though because mutiny is just as much a sin as heresy. The rank and file aren't called to reform church officers; but to cooperate with them. If they can't cooperate with them; then I sincerely believe the rank and file should leave and find a church where they can because The Lord isn't pleased with grudging compliance; but rather with whole-hearted compliance.

271) 1Thess 5:13b . . Live in peace with each other.

The category of peace Paul is talking about is social; viz: harmony in personal relations. The Hippies and the peace-nics failed to achieve peace primarily because they couldn't be civil among themselves unless they were high on mood-altering drugs.

Peace can be defined as: calm, pacific, tranquil, at rest, quiet, and free of trouble and strife.

A lack of peace is characterized by war, quarrelling, vendettas, hostility, grudging, fault finding, nit picking, chafing, competition, rivalry, cold shouldering, factions, taking sides, cliques, disorder, antagonism, fighting, conflict, struggles, et al.

One of the keynotes of Messiah's kingdom is peace. (Isa 9:6-7)

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Webers_Home · Dec 19, 2017

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272) 1Thess 5:14a . . And we urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly

The koiné Greek word for "unruly" is ataktos (at-ak'-toce) which means:
irregular; viz: out of order; disorderly. Unruly people are like kindergartners;
but that's to be expected from their age group: little kids are disruptive,
they're boisterous, they go off-subject and say whatever they want right out
of the blue. They provoke and antagonize each other, they don't listen, they
talk out of turn, they're impulsive, they can't stay in their seats, and they
meddle and can't mind their own business.

When I see four supposedly adult women on television like "The View"
throwing hissy fits and walking off the set, and/or talking out of turn; and
spontaneously interrupting each other in mid sentence-- sometimes all four
speaking at once --I have to wonder. And so-called presidential debates
where two supposedly mature adults, competing for the power to run the
country, are hurling accusations and recriminations, assassinating each
other's character, and calling each other names; I get disgusted. God forbid
that Christ's followers act like that either in church or out in the world.

273) 1Thess 5:14b . . comfort the discouraged

A discouraged person is someone who's given up all expectation that a
situation will improve or change; viz: despairing.

In order to obey that directive, it's necessary to become personal with the
people with whom you attend church. Too many Christians are like little
islands of humanity in church. They warm a pew on Sunday morning and
then get up and leave without bothering to spend even one minute mingling.
They don't attend Sunday school because in Sunday school you meet
people-- you associate with them; you get to know them, and they get to
know you.

As disagreeable as that might be for private types of Christians, Sunday
school is the best place in church to go for sympathy, for encouragement,
and for support. Unfortunately, not many Christians can deal with negativity;
and tend to distance themselves from people down in the dumps.

A Word To The Wise: Never, ever try to comfort someone by saying it could
be worse. All you've accomplished when you say that is reveal that you are a
sympathy-challenged clod who can think of nothing better to say.

Here's another:

Some years ago my favorite Guinea Pig died and I was depressed and blue
by its passing because we were very attached. One of the men at work said:
Well, you know death is the normal round of life. If you guessed that man
was a thoughtless moron, you got it right; he was always saying the wrong
thing.

Canadian folk singer Gordon Lightfoot released an emotional song back in
1975 that speaks volumes about sympathy. Its lyrics are very touching.
Here's a few that I feel especially appropriate.

Rainy day people always seem to know when it's time to call.
Rainy day people don't talk, they just listen till they've heard it all.
Rainy day lovers don't lie when they tell 'ya they've been down like you.
Rainy day people don't mind if you're cryin' a tear or two.

NOTE: In Dr. Laura Schlessinger's book "Ten Stupid Things That Men Do To
Mess Up Their Lives" she lists men's propensity to fix things. In other words:
instead of simply lending a sympathetic ear to people's problems, some men
tend to see people with problems as "broken" and in need of repair; and
then of course they take the initiative to begin offering unsolicited remedies.
No; the idea is to console the discouraged rather than talk them out of their
low state of mind.

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Webers_Home · Dec 20, 2017

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274) 1Thess 5:14c . . support the weak

That could probably be stretched to mean any number of things; but I
should think it includes care for your church's aged and/or infirm; viz;
people on crutches, people getting around in wheel chairs, people who can
no longer drive a car, people lacking enough health to even leave their
residences and go shopping on their own, people stuck in assisted living:
that sort of thing.

275) 1Thess 5:14d . . Be patient with all men.

Most of us are selective with our patience. But The Lord mandates patience
with "all" men, not just favorites. This relates to the directive that
commands believers to value others as better than themselves. (Phil 2:2-3)

276) 1Thess 5:15 . . See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but
ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.

Christian conduct isn't a temporary uniform kept in the closet just for
Sunday mornings like the rather odd patrons who wear costumes at Star
Trek conventions. No, Christian conduct is every-day wear: in the home, on
the job, at school, at the beach, at the mall, at the park, at the beach, in
restaurants, in amusement centers, at the zoo, at the circus, et al; in other
words: ever-followed; not just at church on Sunday morning.

277) 1Thess 5:16 . . Rejoice evermore.

"evermore" doesn't mean some of the time, nor most of the time; but
rather, it means all the time.

278) 1Thess 5:17 . . pray continually

The koiné Greek word for "continually" is adialeiptos (ad-ee-al-ipe'-toce)
which means: uninterruptedly; viz: without omission. Webster's defines
omission as: 1) something neglected or left undone, and 2) apathy toward,
or neglect of, duty.

Believers who pray seldom, or not at all, are like a young man in the military
who never writes home until his parents complain about his silence. I wrote
home so infrequently when I was in the US Army back in the 1960's that my
dad finally threatened to contact my company commander about it. (I
thought that rather out of character for my dad since he never really cared
anything about what I was doing all the years when I lived at home.)

You know, I have to admit, that even if I had a red phone installed in my
home with a direct connection to God's desk, it would gather cobwebs from
lack of use. I sometimes suspect that's one of the reasons trouble comes our
way. It's to provoke some of us to call home.

It's not that I don't like God; it's just that all my life I've been conditioned to
feel peripheral, and important to no one. My natural siblings are just the
opposite. They have always perceived themselves at the center of the
universe-- essential to its existence --while I have always perceived myself
as not even belonging in the universe; let alone being at its center and/or
having anything to do with its existence.

One evening, while attending a single's group at church back in the 1970's,
the leader of the group went around the room asking each of us to name
something special about ourselves. I could not think of a single thing; while
another in the room said everything about themselves was special. They
weren't being vain; they were being honest. That fortunate person had a
very good self image and a healthy appreciation for their own worth.

It's very difficult for Christians like myself to believe that Christ's Father has
any real interest in us. We have always believed ourselves ostracized,
unnecessary, marginal, unwanted, and unimportant-- but we're used to it so
it's no big deal.

But feelings of unimportance are a handicap: not just in life, but in the
spiritual realm too. It is just about nigh unbearable for believers like myself
to comply with 1Thess 5:17 since we simply cannot believe ourselves missed
by anyone; especially Christ's Father who we believe in our hearts must
certainly prefer the company of people far more interesting than ourselves.
But that command applies to everybody whether we think God cares or not.
All must comply; no exceptions.

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Webers_Home · Dec 22, 2017

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279) 1Thess 5:18 . . Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will
for you in Christ Jesus.

The koiné Greek word for "give thanks" is eucharisteo (yoo-khar-is-teh'-o)
which means to be grateful. This goes much deeper than just common
courtesy. Appreciation is an attitude; which Webster's defines as: to value or
admire highly.

They say every cloud has a silver lining. Whether that's so or not matters
little as one should never let disagreeable circumstances make them bitter
and resentful towards the Bible's God; for example:

● Job 1:20-22 . .Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head, and
he fell to the ground and worshiped. And he said: Naked I came from my
mother's womb, and naked I shall return there. Yhvh gave and Yhvh has
taken away. Blessed be the name of Yhvh. Through all this Job did not sin
nor did he condemn God.

● Hab 3:17-18 . . Although the fig tree fails to blossom, neither shall fruit be
in the vines; the labor of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no
food; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in
the stalls: yet I will rejoice in Yhvh, I will joy in the God of my salvation.

Regardless of what the unbelieving world may say, think, or feel about the
Bible's God, the one thing He's done for me that I will always sincerely
appreciate is donate His one and only son towards rescuing my soul from a
terrible future.

● John 3:16-17 . . For God so cared for the world that He sacrificed His only
Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal
life. For God didn't send His son into the world to condemn it, but to rescue
it.

280) 1Thess 5:19 . . Quench not the Spirit.

The koiné Greek word for "quench" is sbennumi (sben'-noo-mee) which
means: to extinguish.

When we put out the lights nowadays, we do it with a mechanical device like
a switch or a circuit breaker because they're electric. But in those days, all
illumination was produced by fire, e.g. oil, pitch, wood, and/or candles. I
think it goes without saying that when a believer has managed to extinguish
the Spirit; they're walking in the dark; which throws them out of sync with
God.

● 1John 1:6 . . If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in
the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth

Fellowship has nothing to do with heaven and/or hell. Fellowship is related to
the nature of a believer's association with the paterfamilias of the family of
God. For example, a rebellious teen-ager may not be getting along with its
parents, but the mom and dad are still that teen-ager's parents regardless,
The nature of the family's association may be temporarily dysfunctional but
no amount of bad behavior can undo the family as kin-- ever.

281) 1Thess 5:20 . . Do not despise prophecies.

The koiné Greek word for "prophecies" is propheteia (prof-ay-ti'-ah) which
basically refers to predicting the future; for example: Matt 25:31-46, 1Cor
15:51-52, 1Thess 4:13-17, 2Pet 3:10, Rev 16:18-20, Rev 20:11-15, and
Rev 21:1.

Webster's defines "despise" as (1) to look down on with contempt, loathing,
or aversion, (2) to regard as negligible, worthless, or distasteful, and (3) to
regard as unworthy of one's notice or consideration.

Beware mocking prophecy; the practice is not only disobedient, but it's also
risky; should a prophecy comes to pass, you'll be forced to eat your words.

282) 1Thess 5:20-22 . . Evaluate everything carefully; hold fast to that
which is good; abstain from every form of evil.

I often see Christians parrot "By their fruits you shall know them". But they
seem unaware that fruit inspectors require specialized training before they're
qualified to distinguish between the good fruit from the bad fruit. Worldly
Christians especially are in no condition to discern between good and bad
because they've quenched the Spirit and walk in the dark. To a worldly
Christian that which is good is bad, and that which is bad is good.
Subsequently, they do just the opposite of Paul's directive: they abstain
from good rather than bad; and then wonder why the paterfamilias of the
family of God is a stranger.

283) 1Thess 5:25 . . Brethren, pray for us.

The pronoun "us" refers to Paul and his associates; but could just as easily
apply to anyone who represents Christ; e.g. evangelists, missionaries,
pastors, deacons, Sunday school teachers, and elders.

284) 1Thess 5:26 . . Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss.

Kissing was a common form of greeting in the old world, and still is in some
places today. Kissing is risky though because it can easily turn from holy
kissing into sensual kissing. I'd say let your own culture be your guide in this
area. The kiss itself isn't really mandatory anyway, it's the greeting that
counts; and believers are to greet all the brethren, not just their favorites.
Don't be a snob.

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Webers_Home · Dec 24, 2017

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285) 1Thess 5:27 . . I adjure you by The Lord to have this letter read to all
the brethren.

None of the epistles are "eyes only" for church officers. The whole
congregation is supposed to have access to them, and expected to know
what's in them. How else are they to evaluate everything carefully, and hold
fast to that which is good, and abstain from every form of evil if they aren't
given access to the epistles?

The word "adjure" has a variety of meanings; they all pretty much relate to
putting someone under a solemn obligation; viz: Bible reading isn't optional;
it's required because it's the only way for Christ's followers to know how to
conduct themselves in Christ-approved ways when associating with the others.

● 1Tim 3:14-15 . . I am writing these things to you now-- even though I
hope to be with you soon --so that if I can't come for a while, you will know
how people must conduct themselves in the household of God.

286) 2Ths 2:1-2 . . Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our
Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, that ye be not
soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by
letter as from us, that the day of Christ is at hand.

"our gathering together unto him" probably refers to 1Thess 4:14-17.

The "day of Christ" can be defined as all that terrible stuff that's to take
place in the book of Revelation, which Isa 13:9 describes as "cruel". Paul is
saying that Christ's followers need not be nervous about it because they are
slated to be spared all of that.

● 1Thes 1:10 . .Wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the
dead, that is Jesus, who delivers us from the wrath to come.

● 1Thes 5:9-10 . . For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining
salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we
are awake or asleep, we may live together with Him

287) 2Ths 2:3-4 . . Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall
not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be
revealed, the son of perdition; who opposes and exalts himself above all that
is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sits in the temple of
God, presenting himself that he is God.

One of the salient features of the day of Christ is that there will be a one
world religion. All currently known forms of religion will be banned upon
penalty of death. That means Christianity in all its Protestant and Catholic
forms and denominations will be illegal; as well as Islam, Mormonism,
Baha'i, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Scientology, et al, and even atheism
and agnosticism-- everybody will be required to worship that man of sin; the
son of perdition.

The koiné Greek word for "falling away" is apostasia (ap-os-tas-ee'-ah)
which means: defection from truth; viz: apostasy. This is not the same as
heresy. An heretic stays with a church and undermines its unity by subtly
introducing unapproved doctrines; while an apostate doesn't stay, but
instead totally renounces a church and walks away; sort of like a Baptist
switching over to Mormonism; and vice/versa.

In the future; people will apostatize to save their skins and here's why:

● Rev 13:11-15 . . And I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and
he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke as a dragon. And he exercises
all the authority of the first beast in his presence. And he makes the earth
and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose fatal wound was
healed. And he performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down
out of heaven to the earth in the presence of men.

. . . And he deceives those who dwell on the earth because of the signs
which it was given him to perform in the presence of the beast, telling those
who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who had the wound
of the sword and has come to life. And there was given to him to give breath
to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast might even speak and
cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.

In my opinion, the man to fear is not the first beast, but the second because
of his miraculous powers. Anyway since nobody on earth at present has
fulfilled any of those predictions, then it's a safe bet that the day of Christ
isn't in progress yet so don't worry about it. In point of fact, believers are
commanded to abstain from worrying about it.

288) 2Ths 2:15 . . So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions
which you were taught, whether by word of mouth or by letter from us.

The "traditions" to which Paul refers are in two categories: (1) word of
mouth, and (2) in writing. Seeing as how Paul and his contemporaries are no
longer available for personal appearances, then the only reliable traditions in
existence are the ones they left us in writing; viz: their letters; i.e. the
epistles written by Paul, Peter, John, James, and Jude.

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Webers_Home · Dec 26, 2017

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289) 2Ths 3:6-10 . . In the name of The Lord Jesus Christ, we command
you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live
according to the teaching you received from us. For you yourselves know
how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with
you, nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it.

. . . On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that
we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not
have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you
to follow. For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "If a man
will not work, he shall not eat."

People unemployed due to circumstances beyond their control are exempt
from that directive. It specifically targets what we here in the USA call a
bum: which Webster's defines as someone who sponges off others not
because they can't find work; but because they have an aversion to work;
viz: they avoid work as if it were an inconvenient imposition on their leisure
time.

290) 2Ths 3:11-13 . .We hear that some among you are idle. They are not
busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in The Lord
Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. And as for you,
brothers, never tire of doing what is right.

Some might not think that holding down a job qualifies as worship but it
certainly does. Working for a living is categorized as "doing what is right".

● John 4:23-24 . . Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true
worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of
worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship
in spirit and in truth.

291) 2Ths 3:14-15 . . If anyone does not obey our commands in this letter,
take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may
feel ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a
brother.

Back then when churches were small cells meeting in private homes rather
than auditoriums seating hundreds of people, it was easy to keep an eye on
Christ's followers and hold their feet to the fire. Nowadays, forget it. Church
sizes are such that management hasn't a clue what's going on in the lives of
their membership roles. As a result, modern churches are permeated with
conduct unbecoming.

Mandatory consequences were usually for the purpose of discipline; viz:
child rearing. So when officers ostracize one of Christ's followers, the
congregation should keep in mind that the errant follower is one of their
own: a sibling around the table in God's home. So wayward followers
shouldn't be permanently culled from the herd as if they're the devil in
disguise. They aren't devils; no, they're just naughty kids that deserve
grounding, so to speak. (cf. 2Cor 2:6-11)

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Webers_Home · Dec 28, 2017

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292) 1Tim 1:3-5 . . As I urged you when I went into Macedonia-- remain i
Ephesus that you may charge some that they teach no other doctrine, nor
give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which cause disputes rather
than godly edification which is in faith.

The epistles of Timothy and Titus are sometimes called the pastoral epistles
because Paul's instructions target mainly church managers rather than
congregations.

The "no other doctrine" is the information he mentioned in another letter.

● 2Ths 2:15 . . So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions
which you were taught, whether by word of mouth or by letter from us.

It was one of The Lord's last wishes that his church be unified.

● John 17:11 . . And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the
world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those
whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.

The sphere of Christianity today isn't unified; and actually, hasn't been since
the first century. Even while the apostles were still alive, even in their own
day, professing Christians were already breaking away and starting apostate
movements (e.g. Gal 1:6-9, 1Tim 1:3-4, 2Tim 2:15-18, 1John 2:18-19, Jud
1:17-19). And churches were infested with counterfeit believers (2Cor
11:13, 2Cor 11:26, Gal 2:4, 2Pet 2:1, 1John 4:1). It's just amazing how
soon that happened.

Somewhere within Christianity's world of chaos is Christ's unified church.
One denomination says it's theirs, while another says it's theirs. Christianity
truly is a world of confusion because not every church's managers are
standing firm and holding to the traditions taught in the New Testament
letters.

293) 1Tim 2:1-2 . . First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers,
petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all
who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all
godliness and dignity.

I really don't think that passage is speaking of the common understanding of
what we call intercession, rather that prayer be made in people's stead, i.e.
do their praying for them by means of proxy prayer.

Not all men, nor all kings, nor all in authority are people of prayer. In point
of fact, I'd guess that most people never pray; not even on special
occasions; and even so, there's a pretty good number of people throughout
the world praying to the wrong deity. Well; it's possible, I don't know how,
for Christians to be the voice of the world's prayer-challenged folk.

Proxy prayer is unusual but not all that far fetched. For example Rom 8:26
27 where the Spirit is shown praying in the saints' stead simply because
when it comes to prayer; they're clumsy amateurs; even the best of them.

Proxy prayer is hinted in the covenant that Yhvh's people agreed upon with
God in the form of the morning and evening sacrifices (Ex 29:38-42, cf. Job
1:5). Those sacrifices are offered without the people's consent just as Christ
offered himself on the cross without the world's consent. But sans the cross
and/or sans the morning and evening sacrifices, people would have very
little association with God; if any.

/

Webers_Home · Dec 29, 2017

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294) 1Tim 2:8-9 . . I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting
up holy hands, without wrath and evil thoughts.

Lifting up one's hands is the posture of an anxious beggar seeking charity
and compassion. Holy hands are hands dedicated to serving Christ faithfully,
loyally, and effectively. Other kinds of hands should be kept at one's side till
such a time as they qualify as holy.

The koiné Greek word for "wrath" is orge (or-gay') which means: hot desire.
Orge is sometimes translated anger, indignation, and vengeance. The idea is
that a believer should never pray out of spite and/or use prayer as a tool to
hurt somebody's feelings. That is the ugliest abuse of the privilege of prayer
that I can possibly imagine. In my opinion, people who pray out of spite are
no different than slanderers, witches, sorcerers and voodoo priests.
Especially annoying are people who can't keep a civil tongue in their heads,
and then have the nerve to say "you're in our prayers"

295) 1Tim 2:9-10 . . In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in
modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or
gold, or pearls, or costly array; but (which becomes women professing piety)
with good works.

The Greek word for "sobriety" is sophrosune (so-fros-oo'-nay) which
means soundness of mind; viz: sane, composed, and self controlled. A
woman in the throes of hysteria, passionate rage, door-slamming, or a hissy
fit doesn't fit the definition.

Some folk, obsessed with asceticism, use that verse to prove it's wrong for
women to use cosmetics and dress themselves in current fashions. But the
passage doesn't forbid that. What it forbids is a woman putting a higher
priority on her appearance than her character.

The old adage "You can't judge a book by its cover" applies here as well as
in literature. I've met women with tattoos, studs in their tongues,
multicolored hair, fishnet stockings, outrageous earrings, tight-fitting concert
tee shirts, low-slung hip huggers, and black lipstick that were really peaches
while I've met dignified, neatly dressed women with horrible personalities.
They say a rose in any language is still a rose; yeah, well, a pig, no matter
how it's dressed, is still a pig whether in belly shirts and flip-flops or haute
couture.

● Prv 11:22 . . An attractive woman who lacks discretion is like a gold ring in
a pig's snout. (cf. 1Pet 3:1-6)

The koiné Greek word for "shamefacedness" is aidos (ahee-doce') which
means: bashfulness; which is just the opposite of insolence, impudence, and
brazenness. Bashful people have a hard time looking people in the eye
because they are so shy, non-confrontational, timid, self conscious, and non
assertive. What we're looking at here relates to one of The Lord's beatitudes.

● Matt 5:3 . . Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of
heaven.

That's a very comforting beatitude because it confirms that there will be no
difficult people permitted in the kingdom of heaven.

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Webers_Home · Dec 31, 2017

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296) 1Tim 2:11 . . Let a woman quietly receive instruction with entire
submissiveness.

The koiné Greek word for "submissiveness" is hupotage (hoop-ot-ag-ay')
which basically refers to subordination.

Hupotgage appears in a number of applications. In Matt 22:12 the word
means tongue tied. In Mark 4:39 it means calm down. In 1Tim 5:18 it infers
suppression. In 1Tim 2:15 it means to negate, i.e. render invalid and/or
unworthy of consideration.

During my 74 years on this planet; I've encountered quite a few women that
enjoy debating with men; and especially pointing out men's faults and/or
proving men wrong. I don't know why they're like that, I guess it's just a
female thing. But Christ doesn't allow it.

If 1Tim 2:11 is telling me anything at all it's that Christ doesn't want to see
Christian women debating, quarrelling, or arguing with men in church; and
that includes Sunday school discussions. In point of fact, according to 1Cor
14:35, women aren't even allowed to raise their hands and ask a question.

Gender equality is a big issue out in the world; but God forbid it should
become an issue in church because the personal feelings and/or opinions of
Christ's believing followers are trumped by a final opinion higher than any on
Earth.

297) 1Tim 2:12-15 . . I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority
over a man, but to remain quiet.

In the "my" church of Matt 16:18, males are the gender designated to
captain the ships; not the females. I pity a church supervised by female
managers and pastors. Why? Because it tells me that Christ is not active in
that church providing it with the tools the congregation needs in order to
grow in strength and maturity as per Eph 4:11-16.

Speaking of Satan; the apostle Paul remarked "We are not unaware of his
schemes" (2Cor 2:11). Well; the Devil's oldest scheme in the book was to
lead a woman astray so that she in turn would lead a man astray. Need I
say more?

298) 1Tim 2:15 . . Women shall be preserved through the bearing of
children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.

In other words, it isn't necessary for women to be pastors, deacons, and/or
adult Sunday school teachers in order to serve Christ faithfully, loyally, and
effectively. Homemaking is just as high a calling as any in church.

Can a female church manager or a pastor; continue in faith, love, and
sanctity with self-restraint? In point of fact, it is a non sequitur to say a
female church manager or pastor continues in faith. If she did, she would be
neither a church manager nor a pastor. This is precisely why God rejected
Cain's offering. It was a perfectly good offering, and no doubt Cain had
brought God the very same thing in the past, but God rejected it that time
because that's the one time that Cain failed to offer it in faith. (Gen 4:7, Heb
11:4)

299) 1Tim 3:2a . . An overseer, then, must be above reproach

The koiné Greek word for "overseer" is episkopos (ep-is'-kop-os) which
means: a superintendent; viz: church officers.

Pastors of modern churches aren't really pastors in the true Biblical sense;
they're actually managers. A true pastor is essentially a shepherd; which is
totally different (and somewhat rare too). In point of fact, pastors no longer
supervise churches at all: boards run churches, and pastors are merely
employees; viz: hirelings.

To tell the truth, I'm afraid of today's career pastors; I don't trust them, and
do my best to avoid them because I don't feel safe in their presence; which
is very abnormal. If there's anybody on God's green earth that The Lord's
sheep should be able to trust, it's their local shepherd, but far too many
church managers today regard congregations as numbers and/or threats to
their security.

Why must officers be above reproach? Because the work they do is a "good"
work (1Tim 3:1) but much good can be ruined by even a little wickedness.

● Ecc 10:1 . . Dead insects will cause even a bottle of perfume to stink! Yes,
an ounce of foolishness can outweigh a pound of wisdom and honor.

Before the wonders of modern chemistry, perfumes were made (and many
still are) from animal and vegetable sources. Those, being 100% organic in a
time when chemical preservatives didn't exists, could spoil if the perfumer
wasn't careful to keep his product protected from exposure to temperature,
insects, dirt, moisture, and other contaminants. All the skills and patience
and knowledge exercised in the making of expensive ointments could be
completely annulled by simply forgetting to put the cap (or the cork;
whatever) back on a jar.

Anyway, Ecc 10:1 certainly rings true in this day and age as the Roman
Catholic Church's credibility steadily diminishes because of its ongoing
pedophilia scandals and the hierarchy's deplorable cover-ups.

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Webers_Home · Jan 1, 2018

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300) 1Tim 3:2b . . the husband of one wife

That directive is a bit ambiguous. Some feel it says an officer can have only
one wife at a time; viz: not a polygamist; while others feel it says he can be
married only once in his lifetime; viz: not a widower or a divorced man.

I tend to think it means one wife at a time. If so; then this passage, and
Titus 1:5-6 have the distinction of being the only places in the entire Bible
prohibiting polygamy.

However; the rule is very narrow. It specifically regulates the private life of a
church's big shots, so it would be wrong to use those passages to justify
forcing monogamy upon the rank and file. But, if polygamy conflicts with
the laws of one's State of residence, then of course the State has the final
say in that regard. (cf. Rom 13:1-5)

301) 1Tim 3:2c . . temperate

This kind of temperance relates to a personality that's self controlled,
sensible, disciplined, levelheaded, avoiding extremes of behavior or
expression: observing reasonable limits.

302) 1Tim 3:2d . . prudent

The koiné word for "prudent" is sophron (so'-frone) which means: having a
sound mind; viz: rational, reasonable, and sensible as opposed to emotional
and reactive.

303) 1Tim 3:2e . . respectable

The koiné Greek word for "respectable" is kosmios (kos'-mee-os) which
means: orderly, viz: decorous.

Webster's defines decorous as marked by propriety; viz: correct; and
exhibiting good taste in conduct, language, or appearance. A decorous
person is-- among other things --neat, tidy, well-mannered, well-groomed,
and polite. They bathe often too.

304) 1Tim 3:2f . . hospitable

The koiné word for "hospitable" is philoxenos (fil-ox'-en-os) which means:
fond of guests. In other words, church officers shouldn't be a hermit types,
or a friendless loners who prefers solitude. Not that there's anything wrong
with hermits and loners; it's just that church officers are supposed to be
shepherds, which requires them to associate with the sheep entrusted to
their care. A man who doesn't mingle easily and comfortably really should
consider another line of work.

305) 1Tim 3:2g . . apt to teach

"apt to teach" is from the Greek word didaktikos (did-ak-tik-os') which
means: instructive ("didactic")

That word is tricky. It's sometimes translated "able to teach". That's okay I
guess, but i suspect didaktikos actually refers to role models, i.e. people
whose manner of life exemplifies Christianity.

306) 1Tim 3:3a . . not addicted to wine

Church officers aren't forbidden alcohol; just too much alcohol.

● 1Tim 5:23 . . No longer drink water exclusively, but use a little wine for
the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.

A "little" wine can lead to a lot for someone with a predilection to over
imbibe. For people like that, it's best to avoid wine altogether rather than
risk becoming a candidate for AA.

For church officers with health issues, I'd suggest confiding in a doctor
because there are much better treatments available in our day than there
were in Timothy's.

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Webers_Home · Jan 3, 2018

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307) 1Tim 3:3b . . not pugnacious

Webster's defines pugnacious as: militant, defensive, warlike, combative,
confrontational, pushy, assertive, scrappy, and belligerent. Some men are
natural-born bullies and others are ready to "take it outside" at every
challenge. You sure don't want one of them running your church. God forbid!

308) 1Tim 3:3c . . gentle, non contentious

A good church officer isn't what might be called shrinking; but rather, he's
an affable, courageous man who selects his conflicts carefully. For some
people, every disagreement is an act of war: they're assertive, demanding,
reactive, defensive, and confrontational not just some of the time; but all
the time. A gentle man is not so quick to draw his guns at the slightest
provocation. However, though shepherds walk softly so as not to frighten
the sheep; at the same time; they carry a big stick.

309) 1Tim 3:3d . . free from the love of money.

L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology, started out as an author of pulp
fiction novels for a penny per word. One day he came to the conclusion that
the real money was in religion, especially if it had a non-profit tax
exemption. Well; today, the net worth of just the top three of Scientology's
upwards of thirty entities-- Scientology International, the Flag Service
Organization, and the Church Of Spiritual Technology --is in the
neighborhood of 1.5 billion dollars. The personal net worth of David
Miscavige, Scientology's current head, is rumored to be somewhere around
50 million. It's very curious how a supposedly non-profit church, and it's
head, amassed such fortunes.

Back in 1988-99, a tel-evangelist named James Orsen Bakker was sentenced
to 45 years in Federal prison (later reduced to 8) for embezzling millions of
dollars from his own ministry and using some of the money to construct an
extravagant mansion-- complete with gold plumbing --for he and wife
Tammy, and a luxurious kennel for their pet dog.

I would highly recommend that a prospective church officer's background be
checked before proceeding with the interview process. Is his credit good?
Does he have gambling debts? Does he prefer gourmet foods and
restaurants? Does he wear Armani suits, hand-made shoes, a Cartier wrist
watch, and drive a Lexus? What's his current home worth? What part of
town does he live in? . . because, unfortunately, there are men out there
seeking careers in the business of religion, and are very good at finding
ways to get their fingers in a church's treasury-- and not a few are looking
for lucrative wage and benefit packages instead of an opportunity to serve
Christ faithfully, loyally, and effectively; and to look out for his best interests
instead of their own.

310) 1Tim 3:4-5 . . He must manage his own family well, and see that his
children obey him with proper respect. (If anyone does not know how to
manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?)

There's respect, and then there's "proper" respect which has to be nurtured
because a father cannot get proper respect by force. Tyranny doesn't earn
respect; it earns fear, suspicion, mistrust, and dread. Instilling fear into the
hearts of one's children is sure to backfire some day when they're older.

Back in Ephesians, we pointed out that children are discouraged by fathers
that abuse their human rights. Well, abusive pastors are just as bad.
Despots and dictators are certain to discourage their congregations just as
surely as abusive fathers break their children's spirit.

Managing a home falls into the category of stewardship; which is a power
very easily abused if one isn't careful. I would say that Joseph was a good
steward because he didn't use his power for personal gain, but rather for the
protection of the Egyptians under whom Pharaoh put his control. But not all
stewards are like Joseph.

Take for example Bhumibol Adulyadej, the late king of Thailand. His personal
wealth at the time of his death was estimated to be 30 billion dollars. I really
have to question the integrity of a steward who goes to his grave with 30
billion dollars the meanwhile that poverty levels in his country are rising.

311) 1Tim 3:6 . . He must not be a novice, or he may become conceited and
fall under the same judgment as the Devil.

Conceited people are usually infected with a superiority complex; which can
be roughly defined as a sort of master-race mentality.

If an inexperienced Christian is advanced too soon in church, they could
easily become so proud of themselves that they regard their position as an
achievement instead of a sacred trust. When someone is promoted to a
position in church they ought not celebrate as if they won valedictorian in
their senior graduating class; no; they really ought to be scared because
God will hold them to a higher standard than the rank and file.

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Webers_Home · Jan 4, 2018

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312) 1Tim 3:7 . . He must also have a good reputation with outsiders

Paul lists that qualification as a must, as opposed to merely a good idea.

You know; that's all a church needs is to install a new officer only to find out
later he's the classic neighbor from Hell.

The new guy might be a one-eyed Jack in church, but the kids on his street,
and the people whose property adjoins his, the post man, the convenience
store, the gas station, the super market, the department store, the drive-up
at McDonald's, the trick-or-treaters, the bank, the paperboy, etc, have all
seen the other side of his face. It had better match the one he's shown you
or your church's overall influence in the community will be in the tank; and
you will have a man in a key spot whom Christ does not approve, and with
whom he does not care to associate.

313) 1Tim 3:8-9 . . Deacons likewise must be men of dignity; etc, etc.

"dignity" is from the Greek word semnos (sem-nos') which means venerable,
i.e. deserving honor and respect, especially by reason of age; viz: esteemed.

The koiné Greek word for "deacons" is diakonos (dee-ak'-on-os) which
means: an attendant, i.e. (genitive case) a waiter (at table or in other
menial duties).

Deacons aren't necessarily clergy. In point of fact, many are laymen because
theirs is a support role rather than a shepherd's role. And "deacon" isn't a
career track, rather, deacons are typically uncompensated volunteers.

It would be very difficult, if not impossible, for a church's officers to run the
operation all by themselves without a ready pool of reliable grunts; viz: ones
who do routine, unglamorous tasks.

314) 1Tim 3:10 . . And let these also first be tested; then let them serve as
deacons if they are beyond reproach.

The vetting process must of necessity include interviewing people who've
had experience with a candidate; for example:

"Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a
complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows
were being neglected in the daily distribution.

. . . And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said: It is
not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables.
Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute,
full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we
will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word." (Acts 6:1-4)

The men considered for deacons in that passage were not only above
average spiritually, but also "of good repute". In other words: men being
considered for deacons really ought to be required to provide some
character references.

315) 1Tim 3:11 . . In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of
respect; not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.

Though an applicant for deacon may himself be a pious man, he's to be
disqualified if his wife's piety isn't on a par with his own.

I think that may be based upon Gen 2:18; where it's stated that a wife's
purpose is a supporting role rather than a starring role. An impious wife is
probably not going to be very enthusiastic about her pious husband's
devotion to the care and function of a church.

316) 1Tim 3:12-13 . . Let deacons be husbands of only one wife, and good
managers of their children and their own households.

Qualifications for deacons are very similar to those for the officers they
support. (cf. 1Tim 3:2, 1Tim 3:4-6)

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Webers_Home · Jan 5, 2018

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317) 1Tim 4:7a . . Have nothing to do with the worldly fantasies of withered
old women.

Paul isn't speaking of action comics and/or pulp novels that can be
purchased at venders like Barnes & Noble and Borders; but rather, of the
religious traditions that the seniors of every generation customarily pass
down to the young; thus perpetuating non Christian beliefs and practices.

The USA's indigenous cultural traditions would be a good example of this.
When a Native American becomes a Christian, the Bible's God expects them
to disown portions of their spiritual heritage, and let them go; not entirely of
course; but certain elements like contacting the spirits of one's deceased
ancestors would have to be scrubbed for sure.

This is a very sensitive issue and one where non-native Christians,
unschooled in Indigenous culture, seriously need to tread lightly. The White
Man's early attempts to completely wipe out everything Native American was
a terrible mistake that today's non-native Christians have got to be extra
careful not to repeat.

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Webers_Home · Jan 6, 2018

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318) 1Tim 4:7b-8 . .Train yourself to be pious. For physical training is of
some value, but piety has value for all things, holding promise for both the
present life and the life to come.

Physical training like baseball practice makes a player like Derek Jeter a whiz
at short stop. While his mind is deciding what best to do with the ball, his
body's reflexes automatically carry out its decision without Derek having to
think about it. That comes from conditioning. But Jeter's baseball ability is
only good for when he's playing baseball, not for everything he does in life;
while piety moderates everything, including one's conduct on the playing
field.

319) 1Tim 4:11 . . Command and teach these things.

I believe Paul was referring to everything he wrote in his letter; not just the
last few verses.

320) 1Tim 4:12 . . Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in
speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those
who believe.

It's commonly assumed that Paul's instructions were in reference to
Timothy's age; but I think it had more to do with his looks.

Some men age well; for instance the actor Rob Lowe. As of today, he's 53
years old; but honestly doesn't look it. He's one of those lucky guys who
seem to be forever 21.

I think Timothy was like that. He just didn't look old enough to take the reins
of a church, let alone an entire diocese. In other words: Timothy didn't look
the part so he was going to have to really mean business if he was to win
people's respect.

321) 1Tim 4:14 . . Focus upon the public reading of scripture, and to
preaching and teaching.

Public reading was necessary because of the scarcity of Bibles in those days.
All were hand-written; none were mass-produced like now. But even with
the ease of access to Bibles nowadays, the danger lies in Christians
becoming self-taught if church officers neglect to preach and teach. (cf. Eph
4:11-16)

Scripture in those days would have been pretty much limited to the Old
Testament since the New Testament's canon had not yet been compiled. The
Old Testament is very important because it is impossible for believers to
obtain a full understanding of The Lord's mission and purpose without a
comprehensive knowledge of the Old Testament.

"And he said unto them, These are the words which I spoke unto you, while
I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the
law of Moses, and in the Prophets, and in the Psalms, concerning me. Then
opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures."
(Luke 24:44-45)

"The holy scriptures are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith
which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness: that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly furnished
unto all good works." (2Tim 3:15-17)

"For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction,
that through perseverance and the encouragement of the scriptures we
might have hope." ( Rom 15:4)

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Webers_Home · Jan 7, 2018

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322) 1Tim 4:15-16 . . Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to
them, so that everyone may see your progress.

Goods and services are often advertised by means of comparisons; i.e.
before and after, e.g. weight loss programs, age resisting cosmetics,
hormone replacements, house paints, etc. Well; Christianity is reputed to be
not only a life-changing religion, but also a person-changing religion. Of all
the people in church, its officers really ought to be living exhibits of the
before-and-after results of their own religion; viz: the congregation really
ought to be seeing improvements in their personality, their civility, their
integrity, and their piety because if Christianity doesn't work to improve its
officers, then I believe the rank and file have a justifiable right to expect it
won't work for them either.

323) 1Tim 5:1a . . When speaking to an older man, appeal to him
respectfully as though he were your own father.

There's probably nothing more humiliating to a parent than to be treated like
dirt by their children-- except maybe to be treated like dirt by a spouse.

Americans have the right to a trial by a jury of their peers. Well, a child is
not a parent's peer; he's not even the parent's equal let alone his peer.
Parents are not children's peers; no, parents are their betters, not their
equals. It's a thoughtless, wicked, insolent dunce who treats their parents
with no more respect than one of their college beer buddies.

I was in a Sunday school class one morning where a young fellow
substituted for the regular teacher. After practically every sentence during
his lecture, the fellow would pause, tighten his lips, turn down the corners of
his mouth, squint his eyes into narrow slits, and look around the room with a
judgmental attitude, and better than half that room was older than he was. I
don't know about the rest of the group, but as a man easily twice his age; I
deeply resented those looks.

324) 1Tim 5:1b . .Speak to the younger men as you would to your own kin.

In this case, the "kin" would be sort of like a man's younger siblings; viz: his
kid brothers. Young boys look up to their big brothers; who by all rights
should be setting the example as role models that a growing boy can be
proud of. Big brothers ought to be available too, and not treat their younger
siblings as excess baggage and/or un-cool nerds and morons who are
beneath their dignity to be seen with.

/

Webers_Home · Jan 9, 2018

-
322) 1Tim 4:15-16 . . Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to
them, so that everyone may see your progress.

A pastor can progress in only one of two directions. If he goes downwards,
as the Laodicean pastor of Rev 4:14-20; that's not progress, that's regress;
which Webster's defines as: movement backward to a previous, and
especially worse, or more primitive, state or condition. This doesn't mean
that a church's facility needs paint and its weeds sprayed with Roundup.
We're talking about a pastor's personal spiritual condition. He may be the
head honcho of an illustrious, impressive, big-city church campus, and still
be in a condition of regression because it's not the outside of a church that
testifies to a pastor's true spiritual condition, but rather, his own insides; for
example:

● Matt 23:27-28 . . You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on
the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and all kinds of
impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous
but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.

The koiné Greek word for "hypocrisy" is hupokrisis (hoop-ok'-ree-sis) which
means acting under a feigned part. Hypocrisy is a lucrative profession for
people employed in movies, sit-coms, and soaps. But that's okay because
it's all above board. We know they're just playing roles and they're not
trying to get by with anything; but a pastor is not supposed to be an actor;
he's supposed to be a man of integrity: which roughly means for somebody
to be the same on the inside as they are on the outside.

/

Webers_Home · Jan 11, 2018

-
323) 1Tim 5:1a . . When speaking to an older man, appeal to him
respectfully as though he were your own father.

There's probably nothing more humiliating to a parent than to be treated like
dirt by their children-- except maybe to be treated like dirt by a spouse.

Americans have the right to a trial by a jury of their peers. Well, a child is
not a parent's peer; he's not even the parent's equal let alone his peer.
Parents are not children's peers; no, parents are their betters, not their
equals. It's a thoughtless, wicked, insolent dunce who treats their parents
with no more respect than one of their college beer buddies.

I was in a Sunday school class one morning where a young fellow
substituted for the regular teacher. After practically every sentence during
his lecture, the fellow would pause, tighten his lips, turn down the corners of
his mouth, squint his eyes into narrow slits, and look around the room with a
judgmental attitude, and better than half that room was older than he was. I
don't know about the rest of the group, but as a man easily twice his age; I
deeply resented those looks.

324) 1Tim 5:1b . .Speak to the younger men as you would to your own
kin.

In this case, the "kin" would be sort of like a man's younger siblings; viz: his
kid brothers. Young boys look up to their big brothers; who by all rights
should be setting the example as role models that a growing boy can be
proud of. Big brothers ought to be available too, and not treat their younger
siblings as excess baggage and/or un-cool nerds and morons who are
beneath their dignity to be seen with.

/

Webers_Home · Jan 14, 2018

-
325) 1Tim 5:2 . . Speak to the older women as mothers, and the younger
women as sisters, in all purity.

The koiné Greek word for "purity" is hagneia (hag-ni'-ah) which means:
cleanliness; viz: chastity

Webster's defines "chastity" as: abstention from unlawful sexual intercourse
and/or purity in conduct and intention

Church officers are in an advantageous position for meeting women; thus
opportunities for trysts, assaults, and abuse abound.

Speaking to older women as mothers means doing so in compliance with the
fourth of the Ten Commandments.

"Honor your mother" (Ex 20:12)

Honoring one's mother means giving her the respect that her age and her
maternal position deserve. It means watching your language, and it means
keeping a civil tongue in your head. It means speaking to her as a grown-up
instead of a child. It means treating her as superior and you as subordinate.
It means deferring to her wishes instead of demanding your own.

326) 1Tim 5:3-4 . . Give proper recognition to those widows who are really
in need. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, her kin should learn
first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and
so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.

A widow in real need would be one who is unable to work and has no one of
her own to look out after her. Here in modern America that situation isn't
nearly as serious as it is in third world countries where there are no
government assistance programs for senior citizens. So you can see that in
those circumstances a widow's church may be the only thing between her
and grinding poverty.

A widow's Christian offspring have a sacred obligation to provide for their
aging ancestors.

● 1Tim 5:8 . .Those who won't care for their own kin, especially those living
in the same household, have disregarded what we believe. Such people are
worse than infidels.

327) 1Tim 5:5-7 . .The widow who is really in need, and left all alone, puts
her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for
help. But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives. Give
the people these instructions, too, so that no one may be open to blame.

The New Testament Greek word for "pleasure" means voluptuous; which
Webster's defines as luxury and/or sensual gratification.

People who live only for the best that life has to offer generally regard
religion as a ball and chain holding them back from living their lives to the
fullest. Well; not everyone has access to either the means or the
wherewithal to live life to the fullest. For some, life offers no options other
than a tin shack, a dirt floor, and a bowl of white rice; if that.

Paul says to decline widows for whom basic necessities aren't an issue,
rather, whose goal is to satisfy their appetite for the best that life has to
offer. As it's said that one cannot serve God and money, well neither can
one serve God and one's inherent cravings. True, you can't stop yourself
from having cravings for the best that life has to offer; but you can choose
whether to let them be the dominant force in your life.

● Mark 4:18-19 . . Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word;
but the concerns of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for
other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful.

328) 1Tim 5:9-10 . . No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she
is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her
good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the
feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of
good deeds.

There are unprincipled individuals out there who love nothing better than
taking advantage of a church's good nature, and its desire to be helpful.
Following Paul's directive is a good way to avoid being victimized by one of
them. (cf. Ruth 2:11)

/

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