HIERARCHY OF HOLINESS ROSS SMITH
INTRODUCTION
Linda spoke recently on “FRUITFULNESS” and this opened up a can of worms as far as study is concerned, for the convolution of bearing fruit and the development of love is a continuing theme throughout the word of God. As you read this study keep in mind that the ultimate goal is for us to evidence God’s love, a characteristic or life style that we have yet to grasp the real meaning of, but in studying the road map of the Word we will reach the destination, and find that it exceeds our wildest expectations.
The continuing push of the spirit over many months now has been for our development, that is, our ability to disassociate ourselves from things that would interfere, to excel in the ability to draw near to God, and to produce a result which will be glorifying to God, salvation to the masses, and satisfaction to the ministers.
For this to occur there has to arise that determination to divest ourselves of “every weight that so easily beset us”. (Hebrews 12:1).
The route is clearly defined, the process spelled out with simplicity, and the application a simple acceptance of the fact that God’s purpose for us far excels any ambition or program we may have imagined. But it requires “energy” for fulfillment.
Whilst we may have evolved in our minds the manner in which we would serve the Lord, often our concepts are distorted so that in fact we are expecting the Lord to serve us. If our prayer life consists of “Lord do this, do that, bless this one, heal that one”, then this clearly identifies that our arrangements are back to front. It is “Let your requests be made known”
There is one very clear page in Father’s Atlas which succinctly describes the route in incontrovertible terms, and establishes precise “mileage pegs” by which He can gauge how determined we are to succeed.
It is a well-known fact that I have some ambivalence in the matter of exercise, my lifting of weights is restricted to a loaded fork, my excursions are enhanced by the use of a Ford Territory, and my gymnastics are confined to the agility of my mind in solving crosswords.
Because this study probably will contain a lot of tangents that are all worth following, I would remind you of the word SELAH, which is generally accepted to mean “pause and calmly think about that”. This word should come to us each time we are tempted to engage in debate or conflict with someone, we should just “STOP AND THINK!!!”
So I would encourage you to often “SELAH” as you study these notes because the Bible adjures us not only to study, but also to THINK and HEAR,
Mark 4:24 And He said to them, Be careful what you are hearing. The measure [of thought and study] you give [to the truth you hear] will be the measure [of virtue and knowledge] (Further explained in 2nd Peter 1) that comes back to you–and more [besides] will be given to you who hear.
This will become more obvious when we get further down in the study, as you study, then think, then listen.
THIS STUDY IS FRAMED AROUND 2ND PETER 1:2-11
One thing as we commence this study, you will find that there are EIGHT (8) components to the manner in which we are to grow in our spiritual dimension, AND AS WE HAVE PREVIOUSLY DISCOVERED, THE NUMBER 8 REFERS TO “FATNESS” and so we again stimulated to grow fat spiritually.
PART A
Two very important verses occur before we explore what and how the “Fruitfulness” of our lives develops.
2 Peter 1:2 – 3 May GRACE (God’s favor) and PEACE (which is perfect well-being, all necessary good, all spiritual prosperity, and freedom from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts) be multiplied to you in [the full, personal, precise, and correct] knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).
Two terms are used her that we MUST grasp and understand, AND APPLY, if we are going to achieve God’s purpose for our lives. They are GRACE and PEACE.
Do we really understand GRACE? We understand that it is “GOD’S UNMERITED FAVOUR” but look at how Peter spells it out, (1) What it consists of (2) tells what it achieves, and (3) how to appropriate it.
- God’s favour
- It includes peace (all necessary good, spiritual prosperity, freedom from fears, agitating passions that disturb, poor behavior) or moral conflict
- Knowledge of God
As if that were not enough to get us excited, Peter then goes on to enlarge the matter by describing (1) Where it comes from, (2) What it is good for (3) how to appropriate it.
- His divine power
- Everything we require
- Knowledge of God
Romans 1:5 It is through Him that WE HAVE RECEIVED GRACE (God’s unmerited favor) and [our] apostleship to promote obedience to the faith and make disciples for His name’s sake among all the nations.
The “WE” includes us, and includes our ministries
Strong’s Concordance gives added clarity from the Greek, as follows:-
GRACE “The merciful kindness by which God, exerting His holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection and kindles them to the exercise of all Christian virtues” (SELAH … 2nd Peter 1 )
ALSO “That which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm, loveliness, grace of speech”.
2 Peter 1-5 says “His precious and exceedingly great promises”. This is indeed GRACE and as yet I don’t think we appreciate how “Precious and Great and Exceeding” that is and In this case includes “freedom from fear and agitating passions and escape from moral decay”.
How do you identify a person who has accepted “His Precious and great exceeding promises”? Firstly by their FRUIT and secondly by their APPLICATION
Romans 5:2 Through Him also WE HAVE [OUR] ACCESS (entrance, introduction) by faith into this grace (state of God’s favor) in which we [firmly and safely] stand. And let us rejoice and exult in our hope of experiencing and enjoying the glory of God.
Then verse 5 comes into sharp focus, and as we proceed we will see how GRACE and FAITH and EXERCISE or ADDING come into play.
GRACE and PEACE are mentioned some 18 times in the New Testament, so it is of some great consequence, and it is interesting that they go together. That should be the case with us, we have appropriated God’s GRACE for our salvation but have we appropriated God’s PEACE for our lives.
PEACE IS OFTEN DIFFICULT BUT ALWAYS DESIRABLE!!!
Just a quick stock take of the attributes of Grace listed above will enable us to determine if our concepts of grace match our profession of grace.
It is also interesting to note that in the books of Timothy and Titus that an additional component is added to the benediction, as follows: –
1 Timothy 1:2 To Timothy, my true son in the faith: Grace (spiritual blessing and favor), MERCY, and [heart] peace [be yours] from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
The GRACE we have received is by the favour of God,
The MERCY springs from that Grace and is pardoning, purifying and supporting. Mercy is an extension of Grace
The PEACE is the consequence of this manifest MERCY with peace of conscience, Peace with God, internal happiness, quietness and assurance
GRACE refers to the sins of man whist MERCY refers to their misery.
The application of this benediction would seem to be directed more to MINISTERS (of every kind) rather than widely to the church. It would seem that Ministers need more GRACE than other men to discharge their duty faithfully and MERCY to pardon what is amiss in them.
James 4:6 But He gives us more and more grace (power of the Holy Spirit, to meet this evil tendency and all others fully). That is why He says, God sets Himself against the proud and haughty, but gives grace [continually] to the lowly (those who are humble enough to receive it).
Proverbs 3:34 Though He scoffs at the scoffers and scorns the scorners, yet He gives His undeserved favor (Grace) to the low [in rank], the humble, and the afflicted.
HIS PRECIOUS AND EXCEEDINGLY GREAT PROMISES
2 Peter 1:4 By means of these He has bestowed on us His precious and exceedingly great promises, (“for this good reason” …. Comments mine) so that through them you may escape [by flight] from the moral decay (rottenness and corruption) that is in the world BECAUSE OF COVETOUSNESS (LUST AND GREED), and become sharers (partakers) of the divine nature.
Salvation is the result of Heaven’s GRACE. This beautiful truth should never be minimized, at the same time, it must not be perverted. Unfortunately, all too often those with only a superficial concept of “grace” have hijacked the term and foisted upon it a sense alien to scriptural teaching. The fact that we are “UNDER GRACE” is distorted to excuse the inexcusable.
2 Peter 1:3 clearly defines that we have been provided with everything that is necessary to attain to the excellence of the true representation of our profession and uses terms to describe the characteristics of Jesus Christ which are to be replicated in us, and as evidence of the GRACE of God.
GRACE is given to us to both enjoy and appreciate, is not just a ticket to heaven, or an insurance policy for our destination, but a “commodity” of enormous intrinsic value, backed up by a guarantor of unlimited resources and unparalleled interest in our application/exercise/employing every effort, in demonstrating the enormity of our inheritance by our closely following His plan. Grace has been manifest to us …… Now it has to be evidenced through us.
For this to occur Peter repeats in verse two and again in verse three, “the full personal, precise and correct knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ our Lord”, or “the full personal knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).” Keep this little word handy for use later in this study.
Verse 2 affords us GRACE and PEACE (multiplied) and it comes by “the full personal precise and correct knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord”
Verse 3 then affords us another avalanche of blessings, we have “ALL THINGS that (are requisite and suited) TO LIFE ANG GODLINESS, and how do we get those “things”? “through the full personal knowledge of Him Who called us”
In both cases it involves THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD. This relationship is vital for us and sought after by Him.
Daniel 11:32 And such as violate the covenant he shall pervert and seduce with flatteries, BUT THE PEOPLE WHO KNOW THEIR GOD shall prove themselves strong and shall stand firm and do exploits [for God].
This is not just knowing ABOUT God, it is KNOWING HIS GRACE, out of which will emanate the evidence, that perpetual state of PEACE that Peter referred to in 2 Peter 1:2, which forms that conjunction of LIFE AND GODLINESS
Colossians 2:2 – 3 [For my concern is] that their hearts may be braced (comforted, cheered, and encouraged) as they are knit together in love, that they may come to have all the abounding wealth and blessings of assured conviction of understanding, and that they may become progressively more intimately acquainted with and may know more definitely and accurately and thoroughly that mystic secret of God, [which is] Christ (the Anointed One). In Him all the TREASURES of [divine] wisdom (comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God) and [all the RICHES of spiritual] knowledge and enlightenment are stored up and lie hidden. (also refer to the study “Formality and Intimacy”)
We must never underestimate both the RICHES of the knowledge of God and the TREASURY of understanding that will elevate us into that dimension of spiritual intimacy that we will become a true reflection of the Lord.
If we fast forward at the moment to 1st Peter 1:6 we see that one of the “additives” we need is “knowledge”, but significantly verse 8 identifies “knowledge” as a “quality”, so now our study and meditation comes into much sharper focus, for “knowledge” is a QUALITY, TREASURE AND RICHES.
Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for Lack of knowledge; (This is the opposite of Daniel 11:32) because you [the priestly nation] have rejected knowledge, I will also reject you that you shall be no priest to Me; seeing you have forgotten the law of your God, I will also forget your children.
This peace does not come from medication or absolution. It originates as part of the harvest of righteousness and again Peter goes on to describe how pervasive this quality can be.
2 Peter 3:14 So, beloved, since you are expecting these things, be eager to be found by Him [at His coming] without spot or blemish AND AT PEACE [in serene confidence, free from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts].
“Free from spot or blemish is the result of GRACE
PEACE IS THE BEDMATE OF GRACE
But he also adds other vital components “GRACE AND PEACE IN ABUNDANCE,” both of which issue out of the knowledge of God.
Isaiah 32:17 And the effect (the doing) of righteousness will be peace (a fruit) [internal and external], and the result (the result of “doing”) of righteousness will be quietness and confident trust forever. (a state or condition)
Here we have a “Cause and Effect and Result”, GRACE forms the basis or is the CAUSE, and the EFFECT is to develop in us that right standing with God which then produces a RESULT, which is PEACE
RIGHTEOUSNESS IS THE EVIDENCE OF GRACE
How intimately are RIGHTEOUSNESS and PEACE related to each other, and if we extrapolate, our “right standing with God”, or righteousness, it will enable us to live in a perpetual state of peace. Now emerges another startling piece of information.
James 3:18 And a HARVEST of righteousness is grown from THE SEED OF PEACE planted by PEACEMAKERS. (ISV)
Conversely if we sow in contention we will reap contention, the exact opposite of what Father intends.
2 Peter 3:14 So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, MAKE EVERY EFFORT ( You will notice as we proceed how we are instructed to “exercise” or “make every effort) to have the Lord find you at PEACE and without spot or fault. (Or living righteously ….. comments mine)
How do we obtain God’s peace?
Romans 5:1 THEREFORE, SINCE we are justified (acquitted, declared righteous, and given a right standing with God) through faith, (that’s GRACE … comments mine) let us [grasp the fact that we] have [the peace of reconciliation to hold and to enjoy] peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One). (PEACE is the attending phenomena that God gives with GRACE …. Comments mine)
It is worthwhile remembering here that not only do we have “THE PEACE OF RECONCILLIATION” but we also have the “MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION”
2 Corinthians 5:18 But all things are from God, Who through Jesus Christ reconciled us to Himself [received us into favor, brought us into harmony with Himself] and gave to us THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION [that by word and deed we might aim to bring others into harmony with Him].
The sinful mind is hostile to God, but the “saved” mind, the mind captured and controlled by the Holy Spirit, reflects the very life and peace of God’s Spirit, albeit imperfectly, as in:-
Romans 8:6 Now the mind of the flesh [which is sense and reason without the Holy Spirit] is death [death that comprises all the miseries arising from sin, both here and hereafter]. But the mind of the [Holy] Spirit is life and [soul] peace [both now and forever].
Paul proceeds to dilate the reach of PEACE to reach not only that which we feel inwardly, but also “all times and in all ways”.
2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace (the peace of His kingdom) at all times and in all ways [under all circumstances and conditions, whatever comes]. The Lord [be] with you all.
The peace of the “Lord of Peace” is perfect. “Give you peace always.” That points to perpetual, unbroken duration in time, and through all changing circumstances, which might threaten a less stable tranquility.
Christ’s peace is perpetual and multiform, unbroken, and presenting itself in all the aspects in which tranquility is possible for a human spirit.
We are responsible for firstly accepting the PEACE from Father, then evidencing that PEACE on a universal basis.
Romans 12:18 If possible, AS FAR AS IT DEPENDS ON YOU, live at peace with everyone.
We must not only PRODUCE peace, we must also PRESERVE peace.
Hebrews 12:11 For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous and painful; but afterwards it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it [a harvest of fruit which consists in righteousness–in conformity to God’s will in purpose, thought, and action, resulting in right living and right standing with God].
Hebrews 12:14 STRIVE to live in peace with everybody and pursue that consecration and holiness without which no one will [ever] see the Lord.
PEACE AND HOLINESS go together, peace with God, peace in our own mind and conscience, peace amongst ourselves, peace with all men. OTHERWISE WE WILL NOT SEE THE LORD!!!!!!
A statement of great consequence that caught my eye in 2 Peter 1:2 in particular is “freedom from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts”.
To paraphrase this statement would be “to have a peaceful mind and appropriate behavior”. It is such a significant aspect of successful living that Peter has repeated this truth in his first book: –
1 Peter 3:11 Let him turn away from wickedness and shun it, and let him do right. Let him search for PEACE (HARMONY; UNDISTURBEDNESS FROM FEARS, AGITATING PASSIONS, AND MORAL CONFLICTS) and seek it eagerly. [Do not merely desire peaceful relations with God, with your fellowmen, and with yourself, but pursue, go after them!]
This is the “DOING” as in ISAIAH 32:17 … see previous page
We must not be smug about having received GRACE, for with GRACE we have also been given God’s PEACE, which included “Freedom from fears and AGITATING PASSIONS ….. and moral conflicts”
What you may ask is the initiator for these “agitating passions” or “fits of pique”? (anger, resentment, indignation)
1 John 2:15 – 16 Do not love or cherish the world or the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world–the lust of the flesh [craving for sensual gratification] and the lust of the eyes [greedy longings of the mind] and the pride of life [assurance in one’s own resources or in the stability of earthly things]–these do not come from the Father but are from the world [itself]. (I would categorise these things as “Moral Conflicts” …… comments mine)
I’m not suggesting that we should not be passionate, but because of the chance of causing agitation in others, “Godly passions” will not accommodate NATURAL agitations, Father will see to that. We should have “peace that passes understanding,” because we have peace “not as the world gives”, but we should be very passionate about our pursuit of GRACE and PEACE.
This lack of “peace” is contrary to God’s intention for us. Secondly however, our behavior may cause “agitating passions” in other folk. So what we do, or want, or practice, or talk about, needs to be adjusted so that others do not become agitated.
AGITATING PASSIONS or AGITATING BEHAVIOR is a two-way street. We may personally encounter agitating passions when we are either unable to have what we want, do what we want, achieve what we want. These sensations constitute “greed” or “covetousness”, sometimes called “fits of pique” and are described in verse four of 2 Peter 1
Psalm 85:10 Mercy and loving-kindness and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.
The basis for “Agitating Passions” is well described in:-
James 4:2-3 You are jealous and covet [what others have] and your desires go unfulfilled; [so] you become murderers. [To hate is to murder as far as your hearts are concerned.] You burn with envy and anger and are not able to obtain [the gratification, the contentment, and the happiness that you seek], so you fight and war. You do not have, because you do not ask. [Or] you do ask [God for them] and yet fail to receive, because you ask with wrong purpose and evil, selfish motives. Your intention is [when you get what you desire] to spend it in sensual pleasures.
Because Linda’s study majored on the aspect of “FRUITFULNESS”, it would seem convenient to make some observations in relation to FRUIT. Natural fruit comes in many varieties, all with their particular “qualities”, and without exception contain seeds. This is true even of bananas even though they may not be obvious. Likewise with the fruit of the spirit with its many “qualities” also contains seed.
The seed is the reproductive part of the fruit, but the seed does not produce more fruit, IT PRODUCES TREES, which when adequately cultivated can produce further fruit.
Proverbs 11:30 The fruit of the [uncompromisingly] RIGHTEOUS IS A TREE OF LIFE, and he who is wise captures human lives [for God, as a fisher of men–he gathers and receives them for eternity
More “TREES” are not the result of programs, but the result of fruit which has fallen to the ground, the soil of which can be good bad or indifferent, but the soil is not our responsibility, just the sowing of the seed from our fruit. But we have to produce FRUIT before we can sow seed.
Hebrews 6:7 – 8 For the soil which has drunk the rain that repeatedly falls upon it and produces VEGETATION (or trees ….. comments mine) useful to those for whose benefit it is cultivated partakes of a blessing from God. But if [that same soil] persistently bears thorns and thistles, it is considered worthless and near to being cursed, whose end is to be burned.
This verse is confirmation that the “seed of peace” produces “VEGETATION”, it does not say it produces fruit, that comes as a result of the tree maturing, the fruit falling into good soil, the seed then germinating.
Isaiah 61:3 to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them a garland for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; THAT THEY MAY BE CALLED TREES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, the planting of Jehovah, (The Prince of Peace ….. comments mine) that he may be glorified.
Matthew 5:9 Blessed (enjoying enviable happiness, spiritually prosperous–with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the makers and maintainers of peace, (read “SEED” …. Comments mine) for they shall be called the sons of God!
Let us reflect on the process described in James 3:18: –
- Harvest of RIGHTEOUSNESS
- Grown from seed of PEACE
- Planted by PEACEMAKERS
Matthew explains the incredible qualities of the person who not only evidences the fruit of the spirit but is a producer and repository for the fertile part, the reproductive part, THE SEED. Our fruitfulness is mandatory, likewise our “seediness” or evidence, and production of PEACE.
It is important to note that SUCCESS does not exist in NUMBERS, but NUMBERS exist in SUCCESS. So we may need to have our spiritual meters recalibrated. For example BHP has a very large number of shareholders, but this only after they produced “fruit” from ore and coal. This fruit in the form of shares and dividends does not contain any seed, and so cannot be reproduced in the shareholder, this “fruit” is generally squandered.
Some fruits are more “seedy” than others, for example, bananas don’t have significant seed visually, however the Pomegranate, Passionfruit and Pawpaw all have very obvious seed content. Which one of these should we be?
PART B
In the following Part B of 2 Peter 1:4 there is a term used where the application of this characteristic has been severely compromised, or maybe even ignored.
2 Peter 1:5 FOR THIS VERY REASON, ADDING YOUR DILIGENCE [to the divine promises], employ every effort……… here it comes again!!! (SELAH)
That term is DILIGENCE and without this particular trait the individual becomes complacent, slack, lazy, unproductive, unattractive and as a consequence, a reproach on the Name of Jesus.
Before we proceed with this study I would invite you to review your concept and understanding of the term DILIGENCE in the space below.
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As we look at the word DILIGENCE as a word study, HEBREWS is very succinct in adding depth to this terminology: –
Hebrews 6:11 – 12 But we do [strongly and earnestly] desire for each of you to show the same DILIGENCE AND SINCERITY [all the way through] in realizing and enjoying the full assurance and DEVELOPMENT of [your] hope until the end, In order that you may not grow disinterested and become [spiritual] sluggards, but imitators, behaving as do those who through FAITH (by their leaning of the entire personality on God in Christ in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness) and by practice of patient endurance (hold this idea until we get to “ADDING” …. Comments mine) and waiting are [now] inheriting the promises. (Recall 2 Peter 1-4 which spells out “precious and exceedingly great promises…. And Hebrews says it is “an inheritance”))
HEBREWS joins DILIGENCE and SINCERITY and they are so coalesced as to be inseparable, and then employs another term, DEVELOPMENT which is an outcome or a result or a consequence of DILIGENCE.
Before we proceed let us clarify the true meaning of DILIGENCE
DEFINITION FROM WIKIPEDIA….. “DILIGENCE”, in Christianity, is the effort to do one’s part, while keeping faith and reliance in God. In other words, diligence and faith are two sides of a mystery. One doesn’t know how, despite one’s effort, it all works out. But diligence when combined with faith assures spiritual success. Diligence as one of seven virtues describe as thoroughness, completeness and persistence of an action, particularly in matters of faith. (WOW!!)
Strong’s Concordance – G4710 – From G4692; “speed”, that is, (by implication) despatch, eagerness, earnestness: – business, (earnest) care (-fulness), diligence forwardness, haste.
From FREE DICTIONARY —– conscientiousness in paying proper attention to a task; giving the degree of care required in a given situation, the trait of being painstaking and careful.
DUE DILIGENCE, a term used in the material world, is the necessary amount of diligence/application/research required in a professional activity to avoid being negligent. This commonly arises in major acquisitions where the legal principle of caveat emptor (let the buyer beware) requires the purchaser to make a diligent survey of the property or service.
Here is a provocative thought: – DILIGENCE IS REQUIRED BEFORE DEVELOPMENT CAN OCCUR
DILIGENCE ALSO REQUIRES APPLICATION, THERE HAS TO BE A GOAL, AND IN OUR CASE THE GOAL IS TO FULFILL GOD’S PLAN FOR OUR LIFE.
DILIGENCE is not just an attitude but REQUIRES an attitude, it is also ENERGY. 2 Peter 1 provides the premise for this energy to be expended and enumerates the consequential benefits.
2 Peter 1:3 – 4 For His divine power has bestowed upon us ALL THINGS that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (VIRTUE). By means of these He has bestowed on us His precious and exceedingly great promises, so that through them you may escape [by flight] from the moral decay (rottenness and corruption) that is in the world because of covetousness (lust and greed), and become sharers (partakers) of the divine nature. (THAT IS, THEY BECOME THE REIPIENTS OF GRACE AND PEACE……. comments mine)
We will come back to these two verses to explore the term VIRTUE as used here as it provides explanation and clarity to the process of our development.
No matter what other people think say or do, the only object of our DILIGENCE is to “The Divine Promises”, all of which are encompassed in Grace and PEACE. It is because we have these divine promises spelled out in the word, that enables the next steps to occur, that is the “exercise”.
DILIGENCE is further described in: –
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal (read “DILIGENCE” … comments mine) of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] (read “DEVELOPS VIRTUE”….. comments mine) what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].
I like the extension the Amplified Version adds to this verse “perfect in His sight FOR YOU”. Each of us is so unique that Father has prepared a particular walk, ministry, location, test, reward etc etc, especially for each individual.
The application of DILIGENCE has a transforming effect, producing new ideals and new attitudes, which will clearly identify the route we are to follow and the fruits (proof) that we are walking in Fathers ideals for our life.
DILIGENCE is not adorned ceremonies – – – nor flaunted with piety – – – but observed in TOTALITY.
DILIGENT PRACTICE SHOULD ACTIVELY AFFECT PERFORMANCE
Proverbs 4:23 Keep and guard your heart with all VIGILANCE (read, “diligence” ) and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life. (Or “Performance”)
KJV reads, “out of it are the issues of life”, or “The Fruit”.
Proverbs 12:24 The hand of THE DILIGENT will rule, but the slothful will be put to forced labor. (What a great alternative!!)
Proverbs 13:4 The appetite of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, (Or “all day long the slothful does nothing, but wish” … comments mine (but the appetite of THE DILIGENT is abundantly supplied.
TO MAKE PROGRESS REQUIRES DILIGENCE
Now that we have some understanding of the importance of DILIGENCE let me identify some synonyms to further clarify its importance.
- Meticulousness )
- Assiduousness )
- Scrupulousness )
- Conscientiousness )
- Carefulness ) HOW DO YOU SCORE?
- Thoughtfulness )
- Attentiveness )
- Persistence )
- Industriousness )
The following two verses then become clearer as we embrace both the definitions and synonyms for DILIGENCE.
Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
Psalm 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. (This requires “DILIGENCE”)
If we jump ahead a little we will see in 2 Peter 1:5 a term we have yet come to understand, that is “EMPLOY EVERY EFFORT” (SELAH)
Work is where we (hopefully) learn DILIGENCE, and it is interesting that DILIGENCE relates to DIET.
2 Thessalonians 3:10 For while we were yet with you, we gave you this rule and charge: If anyone will not work, neither let him eat.
So how much we like to eat should somehow be aligned with how much we love to work, how diligent we are at the tasks we are employed in. It does not mean we love our work, but we have learned to love work, OR, BE DILIGENT. It is the ethic that is important, and with the proper ethic comes the proper effort.
Now is a good time for us to review and revise our concept and understanding of the term DILIGENCE so now in your own words describe both the meaning and the importance of DILIGENCE.
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PART C
We now have a new dimension to comprehend, and as our understanding of the character of DILIGENCE, Peter has introduced a challenging concept.
“ADDING” ….. a sense of expansion, such as “add to your family” or “add another bedroom” or “add to your waistline”. There is an enlargement inferred, and in this case “required”. There can be no component of indolence in DILIGENCE. But “ADDING” to the divine promises requires that we first understand what these divine promises are and then how to apply diligence.
Doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting a different result, is FOLLY.
2 Peter 1:5 – 7 For this very reason, ADDING your DILIGENCE [to the divine promises], EMPLOY EVERY EFFORT in :-
So we see where we are to ADD … to the divine promises. “(He) has bestowed upon us ALL THINGS that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness,” so then we have no excuse not to “ADD”
There are however something’s we cannot “ADD”. The old adage, “the things you can change worry about, the things you can’t change don’t worry about”
Matthew 6:27 And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure (cubit) to his stature or to the span of his life?
Remember we needed to hold the thought of HEBREWS 6:11-12, as follows:-
Hebrews 6:11 But we do [strongly and earnestly] desire for each of you to show the same DILIGENCE AND SINCERITY [all the way through] in realizing and enjoying the full assurance and DEVELOPMENT of [your] hope until the end, In order that you may not grow disinterested and become [spiritual] sluggards, but imitators, behaving as do those who through faith (by their leaning of the entire personality on God in Christ in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness) and by PRACTICE of patient endurance and waiting are [now] inheriting the promises.
No matter what other people think, say or do, the only object of our diligence is to ADD IT TO THE DIVINE PROMISES. It is because we have these divine promises spelled out in the Word, that enables the next step to occur, that is “EXERCISE”.
So Peter comes to our rescue so that we do not have to look far for what these “PRECIOUS AND EXCEEDING GREAT PROMISES” comprise.
- We escape from the moral decay
- And become sharers (partakers) of the diving nature, or as ISV puts it, “Participate in the divine nature”.
The first occurred when we accepted Jesus Christ into our lives and experienced the enormity of sins forgiven and adoption as a result of GRACE
The second occurs as we ADD and EXERCISE, AND EMPLOY EVERY EFFORT. (See 2 Peter 1:5)
Pause just for a moment and consider how much time we fritter away each day, time that we could involve the Lord in even while we are discharging our responsibilities, for in our work, play, rest etc. etc, we need to have a consciousness of God so that “Every Effort” is preserved by our DILIGENCE….. that meditating day and night (SELAH)
PART D EXERCISE
Before we proceed with our exploration of those obligations we have incurred as a result of being afforded God’s GRACE and PEACE, it is probably appropriate to refresh our minds as to the all encompassing term “EXERCISE”.
We can exercise in many different ways, our mind, our prerogatives, our options, our body. Movement is involved in exercise but not only physical, but is also spiritual.
1 Timothy 4:8 For bodily exercise profiteth little: but (“the exercise of”…… comments mine) godliness is PROFITABLE UNTO ALL THINGS, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
2 Peter 1:5 – 7 introduces a whole new dimension to exercise, because here Peter is referring to “qualities”.
Verse 8 begins with “For as THESE QUALITIES ARE YOURS and increasingly abound in you, they will keep [you] from being idle or unfruitful unto the [full personal] knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One.”)
So God has given us the “qualities”, sometimes they lie dormant, but they can increasingly abound as we exercise.
In the athletic sense people employ “Personal Trainers”, and it is interesting to observe the spiritual parallel. At the risk of being repetitive we are all familiar with the injunction of Scripture which prescribes that “one has a Psalm, one has a hymn, one has a spiritual song”. Why are these depositions given us, quite simply for the building up of the body, we become “personal trainers” in a spiritual sense.
Ephesians 4:16 For because of Him the whole body (the church, in all its various parts), closely joined and firmly knit together by the joints and ligaments with which it is supplied, when each part [with power adapted to its need] is working properly [in all its functions], grows to full maturity, BUILDING ITSELF UP IN LOVE.
Ephesians 4:7-8 Yet GRACE (God’s unmerited favor) was given to each of us individually [not indiscriminately, but in different ways] in proportion to the measure of Christ’s [rich and bounteous] gift. (note the emphasis here …. “in proportion decided by Christ Himself, not our perceived ability …. Comments mine)
1 Peter 4:10 As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), (employ it exercise it, add to it, employ every effort ….. comments mine) employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God’s many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favor].
So our excuses to avoid exercise are dealt a deft blow, because Paul has instructed the Ephesians church to engage in “A BODY BUILDING PROGRAM”. Before we proceed it is useful just to list the “qualities” we are encouraged to “add and develop”, as follows:-
- Faith
- Virtue
- Knowledge
- Self control
- Steadfastness
- Godliness
- Brotherly affection
- Christian love (See 2 Peter 1:5-8)
PART E. THE NECESSITY AND PROCESS OF EXERCISE
Today there is a great emphasis placed on physical fitness, not that you would notice should you take time to observe some of the trolleys that emerge from Woolworths, however the proliferation of gymnasiums and the plethora of advertisements offering membership continue to flourish “ad nauseam”.
Obviously, exercise is a necessary part of our daily life, and the old saying “use it or lose it” certainly has some credibility. The different types of exercises are designed to match your age, size, gender, preference, lycra style etc so that no one has any excuse that the personal trainer finds valid.
Similarly in the spiritual realm there is a great need for EXERCISE, but here we find that a large proportion of Christians are “couch potatoes”. This is why we must concentrate our attention to regular bible study, both as individuals and equally, or more importantly to bible study group.
Some people find it difficult to study for themselves and as a consequence they have to be taken gently through the initial “exercises” until they develop adequate spiritual fitness to be able to exercise themselves.
The concentration however, for us as Gods people, is to concentrate our efforts to progress to spiritual fitness, whist not neglecting our physical frame, and we revert to scripture for support.
1 Timothy 4:8 For physical training is of some value (useful for a little), but godliness (spiritual training) is useful and of value in everything and in every way, for it holds promise for the present life and also for the life which is to come.
Paul was quick to remind Timothy of his responsibilities in spiritual fitness and he uses different terms but with the same intention.
2 Timothy 1:6 That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination].
Every exercise has unique and particular emphasis to develop that part of the body requiring “BUILDING UP”, and the list below will assist us in recognizing the process.
2 Peter 1:5-7 For this very reason,
adding your diligence [to the divine promises],
employ every effort in
- exercising your faith to develop virtue (excellence, resolution, Christian energy), and in
- exercising virtue develop knowledge (intelligence), And in
- exercising knowledge develop self-control, and in
- exercising self-control develop steadfastness (patience, endurance), and in
- exercising steadfastness develop godliness (piety),
- And in
- exercising godliness develop brotherly affection, and in
- exercising brotherly affection develop Christian love.
My specific exercise program for …………………………………….
Insert the relevant name here
- FIRSTLY COMES THE EXERCISING OF OUR FAITH
“EXERCISING your FAITH to develop VIRTUE (excellence, resolution, Christian energy)”. (2nd Peter 1:8}
Firstly, note that there is no “adding” here only exercising. We have already begun the adding process previously by being “DILIGENT”, but we can feel challenged because of what we conceive as our “little faith”, “weak faith”, “much faith” as all are laid out in scripture. Our faith may be imperfect, but only because we have not employed it in a proper fashion, but none is lacking in faith, just lacking in exercise.
Romans 12:3 For by the grace (unmerited favor of God) given to me I warn everyone among you not to estimate and think of himself more highly than he ought [not to have an exaggerated opinion of his own importance], but to rate his ability with sober judgment, each according to the degree of faith apportioned by God to him. (See, we have been afforded this “quality” and in Godly proportion, and He supplies “not according to our need but according to His riches in Glory)
Luke 17:5-6 The apostles said to the Lord, Increase our faith (that trust and confidence that spring from our belief in God). And the Lord answered, If you had faith (trust and confidence in God) even [so small] like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, Be pulled up by the roots, and be planted in the sea, and it would obey you.
Do I sense some degree of rebuke here, Jesus was saying to the Apostles “I’ve already given you faith, big enough faith to produce miracles, so don’t ask for more faith, just use what you have got, START EXERCISING IT!!!
1 Corinthians 13:13 And so faith, hope, love abide [faith–conviction and belief respecting man’s relation to God and divine things; hope–joyful and confident expectation of eternal salvation; love–true affection for God and man, growing out of God’s love for and in us], these three; but the greatest of these is love.
1 Timothy 1:19 Holding fast to FAITH (that leaning of the entire human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence)
MY CONCEPT OF FAITH ……. “The revelation of the Divine mind apprehended by a mortal spirit with such conviction as to overturn the reason of that mortal mind, and the evidence of the visual, also the persuasion of the majority so that the establishment of proper priority is not a matter of decision but a matter of fact.”
When we embark on this route of seeking HOLINESS I expect that we will be given ample opportunity to EXERCISE OUR FAITH and embark upon a journey of DEVELOPMENT
DEVELOPMENT only comes out of EXERCISE whether it be physical, mental, emotional, and above all SPIRITUAL. So the first “quality we have to “DEVELOP” though exercise is VIRTUE.
Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him. For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out].
It is of consequence that our understanding of RIGHTEOUSNESS contains the elements that Noah was able to embrace in:-
Hebrews 11:7, “(He) became an heir and possessor of righteousness (that relation of being right into WHICH GOD PUTS the person who has faith)”.
- NEXT WE HAVE TO EXERCISE THAT VIRTUE
There are numerous synonyms for VIRTUE and so we can at least extract a couple for our “exercise program” from this list.
SYNONYMS … Goodness, virtuousness, righteousness, morality , ethicalness, uprightness, upstandingness, integrity, dignity ,rectitude , honesty, honorableness, honorability, honour , incorruptibility, probity , propriety, decency ,respectability ,nobility , nobility of soul/spirit, nobleness, worthiness, worth, good , trustworthiness, meritoriousness, irreproachableness, blamelessness, purity, pureness, lack of corruption, merit;
VIRTUE = behaviour showing high moral standards.
Personal virtues are characteristics valued as promoting collective and individual greatness. The opposite of virtue is vice, which aids in defining some of our characteristics which may not qualify as virtuous.
Peter describes VIRTUE in 2 Peter 1:5 as “EXCELLENCE, RESOLVE, CHRISTIAN ENERGY” whilst MATTHEW describes it in more measurable terms as, “having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity”.
It is our duty to desire, and aim at, and press towards perfection in grace and holiness, and consequently WE MUST STUDY to conform ourselves to the example of our heavenly Father using His example of perfection.
Mark 4:24 And He said to them, Be careful what you are hearing. The measure [of thought and study] you give [to the truth you hear] will be the measure [of virtue and knowledge] that comes back to you–and more [besides] will be given to you who hear.
Matthew 5:48 You, therefore, must be perfect [growing into complete maturity of godliness in mind and character, having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity], as your heavenly Father is perfect.
RIGHTEOUSNESS AND VIRTUE ARE SYNOYMOUS!!!
It is the exercise of this “Quality” of VIRTUE that brings us into greater awareness both of the character and nature of God, that understanding of “How God thinks” which when we grasp it, enables us to “Act like God acts”.
- AS WE EXERCISE VIRTUE WE “DEVELOP” KNOWLEDGE (Intelligence)
This introduces us to the debate as to what we understand, for the Pharisees had great understanding of the law but zero understanding of the character and nature of the true Christ. Even when confronted by the Apostles they still refused to accept that there was truth outside the law as they understood it.
This is still true today, there is much “exposing” of the Word of God, but very little “explaining”. The New Testament description of real preaching is “THE GIFT OF PROPHESY” which does not relate to a FORETELLING ability but a FORTHTELLING ability. It is a characteristic that every Christian should be developing so that we can “Always be ready to give a logical defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope that is in you.”
The God given skill of unraveling the spiritual intricacy of the Bible to make it digestible to the hearers comes out of the exercise of VIRTUE DEVELOPING KNOWLEDGE. Do we for one moment think that Father would entrust us with that sovereign impartation of divine knowledge if we did not exhibit some propensity to engage in the exercise of VIRTUE.
Luke 24:27 Then beginning with Moses and [throughout] all the Prophets, He (Jesus) went on explaining and interpreting to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning and referring to Himself.
Acts 17:10-11 Now the brethren at once sent Paul and Silas away by night to Beroea; and when they arrived, they entered the synagogue of the Jews. Now these [Jews] were better disposed and more noble than those in Thessalonica, for they were entirely ready and accepted and welcomed the message [concerning the attainment through Christ of eternal salvation in the kingdom of God] with inclination of mind and eagerness, SEARCHING AND EXAMINING THE SCRIPTURES DAILY TO SEE IF THESE THINGS WERE SO.
This becomes increasingly important as spurious religions, sects, cults, various occult procedures become popular, as men seek for entertainment rather than engagement, where the principles of the Word become too onerous for society at large, where long standing principles affecting marriage and sexual relations hatched in hell receive endorsement.
Ephesians 4:11-14 And His gifts were [varied; He Himself appointed and gave men to us] some to be apostles (special messengers), some prophets (inspired preachers and expounders), some evangelists (preachers of the Gospel, traveling missionaries), some pastors (shepherds of His flock) and teachers. His intention was the perfecting and the full equipping of the saints (His consecrated people), [that they should do] the work of ministering toward building up Christ’s body (the church), [That it might develop] until we all attain oneness in the faith and in THE COMPREHENSION OF THE [FULL AND ACCURATE] KNOWLEDGE OF THE SON OF GOD, that [we might arrive] at really mature manhood (the completeness of personality which is nothing less than the standard height of Christ’s own perfection), (Recall this referred to VIRTUE … comments mine) the measure of the stature of the fullness of the Christ and the completeness found in Him. So then, we may no longer be children, tossed [like ships] to and fro between chance gusts of teaching and wavering with every changing wind of doctrine, [the prey of] THE CUNNING AND CLEVERNESS OF UNSCRUPULOUS MEN, [GAMBLERS ENGAGED] IN EVERY SHIFTING FORM OF TRICKERY IN INVENTING ERRORS TO MISLEAD.
Remember in verses 2 and 3 of 2 Peter 1 there was a sentence used ”the full, personal, precise and correct KNOWLEDGE OF GOD and of Jesus our Lord”. See again how this fits so precisely. As we proceed the process intensifies, for the application or EXERCISE of Knowledge will develop self control
- THE EXERCISE OF KNOWLEDGE DEVELOPS SELF CONTROL
How relevant is that to today’s society? There is currently before our Parliaments and in some instances already legislated to severely penalize those who engage in assault and thuggery when drunk or simply out of control. Each week there are instances of people being either seriously injured or even killed with one punch, children refusing to attend school or even taking their own life due to bullying, courts issuing AVO’s where the spouse or now more regularly, the ”partner” are subjected to abuse, drivers raging or using mobile phones. There is a graphic dearth of SELF CONTROL.
2 Timothy 3:3 [They will be] without natural [human] affection (callous and inhuman), relentless (admitting of no truce or appeasement); [they will be] slanderers (false accusers, troublemakers), intemperate and loose in morals and conduct, uncontrolled and fierce, haters of good. (AMP)
2 Timothy 3:3 (ISV) without natural affection, implacable, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, no lovers of good,
SELF CONTROL starts with a very simple exercise, one where we have ultimate choice, where we frequently make the wrong choice and for the compendium of reasons set out in 2 Timothy 3, but we have a remedy.
James 3:2 For we all often stumble and fall and offend in many things. AND IF ANYONE DOES NOT OFFEND IN SPEECH [never says the wrong things], he is a fully developed character and a perfect man, ABLE TO CONTROL HIS WHOLE BODY AND TO CURB HIS ENTIRE NATURE.
As God’s servants there is also instruction as to how we behave but it also includes a liberal dose of self control:-
Titus 1:8 Instead, he must be hospitable to strangers, must appreciate what is good, and be sensible, honest, moral, and SELF-CONTROLLED.
We talk about “self control” but what does it really mean?
People with self-control master their moods. They do not let their moods master them. Most of what gets done in the world is accomplished by people who do the right thing even when they don’t feel like it:
Proverbs 25:28 Like a city with breached walls is a man without self-control.
PEOPLE WITH SELF-CONTROL WATCH THEIR WORDS. They put their minds in gear before opening their mouths, like James 3:2 proposed.
Proverbs 13:3 (TEV) A careless talker destroys himself.”
PEOPLE WITH SELF-CONTROL RESTRAIN THEIR REACTIONS. How much can you take before you lose your cool?
Proverbs 19:11 Good sense makes a man restrain his anger, and it is his glory to overlook a transgression or an offense.
PEOPLE WITH SELF-CONTROL STICK TO THEIR SCHEDULE. If you don’t determine how you will spend your time, then others will decide for you:
Ephesians 5:15 Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people),
PEOPLE WITH SELF-CONTROL MANAGE THEIR MONEY. They learn to live on less than what they make and they invest the difference. The value of a budget is that it tells your money where you want it to go rather than wondering where it went!
Proverbs 21:20 There are precious treasures and oil in the dwelling of the wise, but a self-confident and foolish man swallows it up and wastes it.
PEOPLE WITH SELF-CONTROL MAINTAIN THEIR HEALTH. That way they can accomplish more and enjoy their achievements
1 Thessalonians 4:4 That each one of you should know how to possess (control, manage) his own body in consecration (purity, separated from things profane) and honor,
In what areas do we need to develop for self-control? The disciplines we establish today will determine our success tomorrow. But it takes more than just willpower for lasting self-control. It takes a power greater than just ourselves:-
2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and DISCIPLINE AND SELF-CONTROL.
- THE EXERCISING OF SELF-CONTROL [DEVELOP] STEADFASTNESS (PATIENCE, ENDURANCE)
We can often hide the fact that we are engaging in some form of behavior that constitutes lack of self control, we have long practiced the art so that we can appear to be handling things, however the test comes when we are called upon to DEVELOP STEADFASTNESS, PATIENCE AND ENDURANCE.
These three qualities only become evident under pressure, and the prerequisite obviously is SELF CONTROL.
2 Thessalonians 1:4 And this is a cause of our mentioning you with pride among the churches (assemblies) of God for your STEADFASTNESS (your unflinching endurance and patience) and your firm faith in the midst of all the persecutions and crushing distresses and afflictions under which you are holding up.
James 1:3-4 Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith (this takes us back to the beginning where we had to exercise our faith, and this stage now evidences the “proving”) bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. But let ENDURANCE AND STEADFASTNESS AND PATIENCE have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be [people] perfectly and fully DEVELOPED (the same term employed in 2 Peter 1 over several activities) [with no defects], lacking in nothing.
What is it that a parent looks for in a child, IT IS DEVELOPMENT. If there is slow or no development there is a quick trip to the Doctor or Pediatrician to determine if there is some reason, why is it that my child who is now ? years old still cannot????
The same principle applies spiritually, if there is an obvious deficiency then we need to revert to the Great Physician and have that child of God attended to. But shamefully, we tend to ignore the “Under developed” person, they are sometimes too demanding, too remote, too busy, or even in some very senior Christians, too stupid!!!! Our SELF CONTROL comes in to play here as we evidence the “steadfastness, endurance and patience” that is the daily lot of some parents with poorly developing children.
The time is coming where our true profession of faith will come under scrutiny as lawlessness and godlessness continue to erode the Christian principles our nation was built upon. Only those who have EXERCISED SELF CONTROL will have any chance of maintaining their STEADFASTNESS in the face of such interrogation and possibly retribution for their adherence to “the faith”. Many will fall away, many will deny the Christ, some will go on to victory.
Luke 21:19 By your steadfastness and patient endurance you shall win the true life of your souls.
It is not a task that we can do by sheer will power, the preceding processes have to be applied, and with DILIGENCE, but then as we exercise our self control we can expect the addition of the Grace of God to evidence the “qualities” the Word demands.
Romans 15:5 Now may the God Who gives the power of patient endurance (steadfastness) and Who supplies encouragement, grant you to live in such mutual harmony and such full sympathy with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, (Peter gets to this at the end of his list of “qualities”)
It is interesting to see how Romans expresses this thought now, for Peter has declared the way to develop STEADFASTNESS, PATIENCE AND ENDURANCE but Father is looking on to see how we are doing, and to revert to a recent study, He gives “THE ENABLEMENT”. What a comforting thought, for whilst I am “working out and exercising” in the development of these “qualities” Father says He will, as a means of encouragement, assist me to reach the goal.
The man who has reached this acme of SELF CONTROL will then be easily recognised by his calm demeanour while the storm rages around him. This will be particularly true when that mutual harmony, that supernatural sympathy is radiated from a spirit that is at peace with God and so can be at peace with man, despite the circumstance.
There will be no occasion in this man to look for retribution, there will be no resentment at wrongs done to him, he will not object to the taunts and torments of his provocateurs, he will not seek a way of escape other than that which the Lord would provide, and the effect of this SELF CONTROLLED man who now has DEVELOPED STEADFASTNESS, PATIENCE and ENDURANCE will be to further enrage his tormentors as they cannot disturb his reliance on his God.
The word describes PATIENCE in several ways: –
- patience (an even temper, forbearance)
- patience (perseverance and forbearance)
- patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper].
Now, to exercise Christian patience in a right manner, we must let it work. It is not a stupid, but an active thing. Stoical apathy and Christian patience are very different for in the first instance men become, in some measure, insensible of their afflictions, but by the other they become triumphant in and over them. We must take care, in times of trial, that patience and not passion is the quality at work in us;
I have only one cause for complaint here, and that is that when we set out to evidence PATIENCE then we frequently meet with people or circumstances to test how we are doing. And the sense of failure is not to condemn me, but to spur me to greater exercise so that I succeed next time. The encounter is identified in scripture as TRIBULATION
Romans 5:3 Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce PATIENT AND UNSWERVING ENDURANCE.
It is in the process of undergoing these trials that we have to exercise SELF CONTROL and when someone is yanking our chain or rattling our cage the reaction is not always as required, but often, and unfortunately, predictable.
Hebrews 10:36 For you have need of steadfast patience and endurance, so that you may perform and fully accomplish the will of God, and thus receive and carry away [and enjoy to the full] what is promised.
Maybe Paul should have inserted here “IF YOU NEED PATIENCE AND ENDURANCE, THEN YOU HAD BEST PRACTICE YOUR SELF CONTROL
- THE EXERCISING OF STEADFASTNESS DEVELOPS GODLINESS (PIETY)
The original design Father put in place was that recorded in Genesis:-
Genesis 1:27 So God created man in His own image, IN THE IMAGE AND LIKENESS OF GOD He created him; male and female He created them.
James 3:9 With it (that unruly member, our tongue … comments mine) we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse men WHO WERE MADE IN GOD’S LIKENESS!
So we had a good start but in the intervening period we have deteriorated thanks to the events of the Garden of Eden. But we cannot lay it all at Adam’s feet, we have made a fair contribution to the state or condition we now find ourselves in.
But all is not lost, by the exercising of that pesky “quality” of STEADFASTNESS we can develop that “quality” of GODLINESS. This is going to be a confronting experience for those we would then encounter, for Godliness cannot be concealed. It is evidenced in our behaviour, in our communication, in our relationships, in our ministry, in our patience and endurance, in the peace we radiate, so that we are so different to the world at large that Father will be pleased to commune with us. But GODLINESS cannot be limited to those outward displays of inward piety.
A true man of God has qualities of inner piety – the characteristics of a spiritually mature person. This is not a phony façade put on to please or impress people. The source of this godliness is the Word of God. The godly person has not only learned doctrine academically, but he has also seen that word applied to his life in edification over a period of years.
Indications that you are maturing in GODLINESS include:
- accepting God’s pruning in order to have increased fruitfulness;
- demonstrating the patience to live by His timetable;
- investing yourself professionally and personally for the benefit of others;
- and being content, even when circumstances are less than optimal.
- In addition, long periods of worry will diminish, but when fear does arise, you will rest in God’s sufficiency.
The term GODLINESS is also translated PIETY and both of these terms are not easily understood as they have been “adjusted” down through the years to fit in with religious concepts. But there are a number of synonyms that will help us to better understand what
PIETY…… veneration or reverence of the Supreme Being, and love of his character; loving obedience to the will of God, and earnest devotion to his service, duty; dutifulness; filial reverence and devotion; affectionate reverence and service shown toward others.
Commentators, both religious and secular have difficulty in clarifying the characteristic of “GODLINESS” and in most cases revert back to a simile of “HOLINESS”. Now while holiness is certainly a hallmark of Godliness it does not constitute “GODLINESS” as this is a far more extensive and exalted.
The best some commentators can suggest is “CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO GODLINESS”, which will lead us to recognise how puerile is the comprehension and the appreciation of the magnificence of our Lord.
GODLINESS or GODLIKENESS means that the whole spectrum of God’s nature is to be developed in us, His panoply of abilities, of knowing, of caring, of intervening, but most of all, HIS LOVING. While there is either faction or fracture this constitutes a contamination of love, for love “covers a multitude of sins”, another facet of Godliness and therefore factions cannot be retained in a vessel seeking to be Godlike.
One of the alarming aspects of people assuming GODLINESS is that they are replete with so many objectionable character traits, yet will claim to embrace the concepts yet deny the evidence.
2 Timothy 3:5 For [although] they hold a form of piety (read “GODLINESS) (true religion), they deny and reject and are strangers to the power of it [their conduct belies the genuineness of their profession]. Avoid [all] such people [turn away from them].
KJV says, “Form of Godliness”, but the worst part is that we must sever contact with those who qualify as having only “a form”.
John 5:30 I am able to do nothing from Myself [independently, of My own accord–but only as I am taught by God and as I get His orders]. Even as I hear, I judge [I decide as I am bidden to decide. As the voice comes to Me, so I give a decision], and My judgment is right (just, righteous), because I do not seek or consult My own will [I have no desire to do what is pleasing to Myself,
HOLINESS IS THE ROUTE TO GODLINESS
It is of no coincidence that the exhortation of Peter confirms in 1 Timothy 4:8 the fact that GODLINESS and TRAINING go together. The “exercising of all the virtues or qualities that Peter has enumerated are again summed up in this one verse.
1 Timothy 4:8 “but GODLINESS (SPIRITUAL TRAINING) (or to use Peter’s term, “Exercise”…… comments mine) is useful and of value in everything and in every way”
7.EXERCISING – GODLINESS [DEVELOP] BROTHERLY AFFECTION,
Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary: Re BROTHERLY AFFECTION
“Of or pertaining to brothers; such as is natural for brothers; becoming to brothers; kind; affectionate; as, brotherly love. Like a brother; affectionately; kindly.”
Those who have brothers will find that this description often does not fully describe the sensation of having one so close as the flesh and blood of a brother. It also exists, but probably not to the same manner, where one has a sister, and in this case the love is enhanced by a sense of obligation for “protection”.
The prevalence for “brotherly affection” only occurs 3 times in the New Testament but carries with it a significant onus or responsibility, and without it we can never obtain the goal Father has for us.
1 Peter 1:22 Since by your obedience to the Truth through the [Holy] Spirit you have purified your hearts for the SINCERE AFFECTION OF THE BRETHREN, [see that you] love one another fervently from a pure heart.
There are two kinds of love expressed here, and we need to be aware of the connections and implications. “Brotherly love” is “Philadelphia” whereas “Love one another is “Agape”, a much more strenuous and demonstrated love.
There are 7 Greek words for love and they are all slightly different, and just for information sake they are listed here briefly but with clearer definition below.
- Agape love is love without any payment in return. This refers to love in the purest sense of the word.
- Philos refers to the love of a friendship.
- Eunoia is love out of kindness, while
- Eros is a sexual love.
- Hetairos is a brotherhood type of love and
- Aphrodisios refers to the goddess of love.
- Storgy is the love a mother has for her kids, or in more general terms, the love one has for their dependents.
Only two of these words really have relevance, and are directly involved in this study
- PHILEO: This Greek word for love signifies, “…spontaneous natural affection, with more feeling than reason” Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance defines phileo as, “to be a friend to…fond of an individual or object; having affection for (as denoting attachment); a matter of sentiment or feeling”.
- AGAPE: This Greek word for love is by far the one that appears most frequently in the New Testament. It is, “…generally assumed to mean moral goodwill which proceeds from esteem, principle, or duty, rather than attraction or charm… [it] means to love the undeserving, despite disappointment and rejection…Though agape has more to do with moral principle than with inclination or liking, it never means the cold religious kindness shown from duty alone, as scriptural examples abundantly prove”
How much is wrapped up in that single verse in 1 Peter 1:22, firstly the outcome from our intense study of the Word so that we have both the restraining influence where digression is possible and secondly the encouragement that attends that determination to succeed in God.
Then Peter specifies that with the aid of the Holy Spirit we have purified hearts and can then experience the same confidence that the Psalmist expressed in:-
Psalm 119:11 Your word have I laid up in my heart, that I might not sin against You.
SINCERE AFFECTION is something to be cherished. In so many areas today we see the superficial veneer of affection held together by the glue of respectability, not because of any real heartfelt Godlike emotion.
Brotherly love in the biblical sense is an extension of the natural affection associated with near kin, toward the greater community of fellow believers, that goes beyond the mere duty to “love thy neighbour as thyself”, and shows itself as “unfeigned love” from a “pure heart”, that extends an unconditional hand of friendship that loves when not loved back, that gives without getting, and that ever looks for what is best in others.
Now Peter says we can tie things together, we have purified our hearts, therefore we can love “FERVENTLY” from that pure heart.
Paul expands the idea when he wrote to the Romans, and it is noteworthy how both Peter and Paul adopt the same language, but Paul explains it a little more succinctly, as we see.
Romans 12:10 Love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], GIVING PRECEDENCE AND SHOWING HONOR TO ONE ANOTHER.
Paul makes another “assumption” in 1 Thessalonians 4:9, a lesson some people have obviously skipped in their spiritual education, for we see on every hand the dissention that attends what is called “The Church” at large, and it is only as He builds “His Church” that we will fully understand that “love for all Christians”
1 Thessalonians 4:9 But concerning brotherly love [FOR ALL OTHER CHRISTIANS], you have no need to have anyone write you, for you yourselves have BEEN [PERSONALLY] TAUGHT BY GOD TO LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
Hebrews 13:1 Let LOVE for your fellow believers continue and be a fixed practice with you [never let it fail].
This is the same “Philadelphia” love as above.
- IN EXERCISING BROTHERLY AFFECTION [DEVELOP] CHRISTIAN LOVE.
1 Corinthians 13:13 And so faith, hope, love abide [faith–conviction and belief respecting man’s relation to God and divine things; hope–joyful and confident expectation of eternal salvation; love–true affection for God and man, growing out of God’s love for and in us], these three; but THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. (AGAPE)
This chapter 13 of 1 Corinthians sets a challenge for us of enormous proportions, for it reaches from mere communications conducted either in intelligible or unintelligible form right though the whole spectrum of human experience and relations, demands and provision, from the moving of mountains down to the incredible durability of this form of love, “IT NEVER FAILS” Verse 10 prescribes that all the features and futures that we hope for, and develop faith for, will at that time disappear, but love will endure.
Love is of God’s nature—faith and hope are only of God’s creation and appointment. God loves, but God neither believes nor hopes, He has no need of either, but adjures us to take on His nature “For God is Love”
1 John 4:8 He who does not love has not become acquainted with God [does not and never did know Him], FOR GOD IS LOVE.
What a sobering thought, if we are unable to express love in the manner described in 1 Corinthians 13 then there is the suggestion that we may have a false concept of our relationship to God, because of our poor relationship with man.
It is regrettably a repeat that the word “LOVE”, like other similar terms, has been hijacked by the world, motivated by the enemy, so that the purity and sanctity and sacred intention has now been relegated to the pursuit of self satisfaction in whatever form a person desires. The ultimate end of this self-indulgence is well documented.
Jesus greatly expanded the scope and importance of love, saying love of God and love of fellowman are the most important of all the commandments. The apostle Paul said Christian love was the greatest and most essential of all the spiritual gifts.
Throughout the New Testament, we are encouraged and commanded to live in peace with all God’s people and commit ourselves to genuine love and caring for others. Those are the ways we can put our faith into practice in everyday life.
Faith, hope, love – are the sum of perfection on earth; love alone is the sum of perfection in heaven.
A paraphrase of 1 Corinthians 13 may assist us in the application of this principle as it makes a lot more sense in many instances.
1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-8 IN PARAPHRASE
I will be tolerant…… giving you generous respect
I will be patient with you
I will be kind to you
I will not be envious of you, your achievements, what you have
I will not become jealous
I will not boast of, or exhibit, an exaggerated opinion of my own importance or ability
I will not be conceited or proud or act arrogantly
I will not be rude or act unmannerly towards you
I will not act unbecomingly
I will not insist on my own rights or insist on my own ways, for I will not be selfish
I will not be touchy, fretful or upset
I will not resent anything you do or say
I will take no account and pay no attention to anything you do against me
I will not support you or condone or hold with you in any unrighteous or unjust speaking or doing, but I will rejoice and encourage you when you choose the truth and live uprightly
I will overlook and forgive and cover with silence any and everyone of your shortcomings
I will have faith and believe in you
I will pray, hope for, expect and anticipate the very best for you in all circumstances
I will not waiver in my support for you
I will not let you down….. you can count on me
EXERCISE RESULT
PLEASE NOTE, THAT FROM “FAITH” TO “LOVE” TAKES EIGHT STEPS, THE BIBLICAL NUMBER FOR “FATNESS
FAITH TO VIRTUE
VIRTUE TO KNOWLEDGE
KNOWLEDGE TO SELF CONTROL
SELF CONTROL TO STEADFASTNESS
STEADFASTNESS TO GODLINESS
GODLINESS TO BROTHERLY AFFECTION
BROTHERLY AFFECTION TO LOVE.
Ross Smith 