GOD DEALS IN PRINCIPLES ROSS SMITH
ALL REFERENCES ARE FROM AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED.
To know God’s ways refers to knowing the “PRINCIPLES” by which God works and does things. Often a matter of “PRINCIPLE” is cocooned in an example, and we cannot see past the example to the wider influence. But we have been promised that if we receive the provision Jesus made at Calvary then we would enjoy the privileges of the new birth, and will find that God’s” “PRINCIPLES” apply to our situation, Paul spelt it out,
Galatians 6:15(B) -16 A new creation [the result of a new birth and a new nature in Christ Jesus, the Messiah]. Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule [who discipline themselves and regulate their lives by this PRINCIPLE], even upon the [true] Israel of God!
It would seem that much of Christendom today, is ruled by POLICY, not PRINCIPLE. The search for church leaders today is not for a spiritual shepherd, not for a pastor, although often that term is utilised, but the church looks for a MANAGER. The qualifications sought are not those of a man of humility and dedication to the Word of God and with a shepherd’s heart, but preferably with an MBA or PhD. Or you can go “online” and in a couple of weeks, you will have your qualification, for just $50.00 and no sweat!!!
Degrees are either “earned” or “honorary”. Earned degrees are those for which you must complete a course of study. Honorary degrees are awarded for something you do with your life that distinguishes you or for making a donation of time or money to the institution that awards the degree. We request an offering of $50 for the Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree
PRINCIPLES have been assiduously avoided in the flood of politics. Nowhere has this been better demonstrated as the church’s capitulation to the gay marriage question, and the ensuing fallout which can only continue to escalate. It is recognised as the SECULARISATION OF THE POLITIES, the shrewd or crafty management of public affairs which again, Paul was aware of way back in antiquity when he wrote,
Hebrews 3:13 But instead WARN (ADMONISH, URGE, AND ENCOURAGE) ONE ANOTHER every day, as long as it is called Today, that none of you may be hardened [into SETTLED REBELLION] (1 Samuel 15:23) by the deceitfulness of sin [by the fraudulence, the stratagem, the trickery which the delusive glamor of his sin may play on him. (Read “SECULARISATION” … comments mine)
“SECULARISATION” is defined as “The activity of changing something (art or education or society or morality etc.) so it is no longer under the control or influence of religion.”
2 Thessalonians 2:7 For the mystery of lawlessness (that hidden principle of rebellion against constituted authority) is already at work in the world, [but it is] restrained only until he who restrains is taken out of the way.
LAWLESSNESS IN LONDON
There is an example of a “PRINCIPLE” in 2 Corinthians 8:11, referring to the habit of almsgiving. But the important aspect, the universal principle of this example, is the demand to “FINISH AND COMPLETE” the task we face.
It does not, or is not restricted to almsgiving but establishes a fact, a principle for everything we are involved in.
2 Corinthians 8:10 [It is then] my counsel and my opinion in this matter that I give [you when I say]: IT IS PROFITABLE AND FITTING FOR YOU [NOW TO COMPLETE THE ENTERPRISE] which more than a year ago you not only began, but were the first to wish to do anything [about contributions for the relief of the saints at Jerusalem].
Joshua 11:15 As the Lord had commanded Moses His servant, so Moses commanded Joshua, and so Joshua did; HE LEFT NOTHING UNDONE of all that the Lord commanded Moses.
There is a quirky example in Deuteronomy 22:8 – the need to put a railing, or parapet around a flat roof. This is, in fact, a social law or PRINCIPLE REGARDING SAFETY, whereas biblical principles are fundamentals or truths. We are not left in any doubt as to the all-pervading nature of God’s principles, as they affect every avenue of life, and provide safety.
Proverbs 3:6 – “IN ALL YOUR WAYS acknowledge Him” – – – this is a FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE.
When God works, He does so within specific laws and defined principles, for example, “If you don’t work, you don’t eat”. (2 Thessalonians 3:10)
PRINCIPLE AND PRODUCT
A “PRINCIPLE” must be supported by its “PRODUCT” or a result. An advertisement doesn’t always guarantee the product’s quality or availability, and likewise, many principles are espoused but often not backed up by performance.
We frequently claim that we have conducted our business or our plans “carefully and prayerfully”, but the end result or outcome does not confirm the principle. Therefore, either the principle was wrong, or our implementation was wrong, can you guess which applies?
The dictionary defines a “PRINCIPLE” as “a fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behaviour, or for a chain of reasoning.”
But maybe we meant “IN PRINCIPLE” which is an entirely different situation. If you agree with or believe something “IN PRINCIPLE”, you agree with the idea in general although you might not support it in reality, or in every situation.
And so, the Christian ethic subscribed to by myriads across the world, is not based or supported by the end result or expected “PRODUCT” and therefore we must conclude that many Christians only agree “IN PRINCIPLE”, or when it suits them, and not “ON PRINCIPLE”, hence the proliferation of “SECULARISM”.
THAT’S NOT HOW FATHER WORKS OR WANTS US TO WORK
Let me give an example. A well-known supermarket often advertises great deals, good products, recognised brand names, but frequently cannot supply the goods. There obviously was a limited supply and consequently, this results in disappointment for many interested parties. The lack of product can be attributed to legitimate or contrived excuses, but the underlying intention of the advertisement should be to create good faith in the company and its products. Although the advertised product may be very good, if there is no opportunity to prove the product, THE PRINCIPLE IS IN VAIN. They had the right attitude, but they lacked the performance, does that sound familiar?
But see how reliable God’s work is and how authoritative, His principle of speaking was always supported by the product.
Psalm 33:9 For HE SPOKE, and IT WAS DONE; He commanded, and it stood fast.
Psalm 105:34 HE SPOKE, and the LOCUSTS CAME, and the GRASSHOPPERS, and that without number,
The Apostle Paul knew the importance of “PRINCIPLE” and he implemented it with great fervour, he was a pioneer of faith and relied on the work of the Holy Spirit to confirm the PRINCIPLE by which he spoke.
Romans 15:21 But [instead I WOULD ACT ON THE PRINCIPLE] as it is written, They shall see who have never been told of Him, and they shall understand who have never heard [of Him].
This is one of the most significant and fundamental principles of God, and whilst there was opportunity for those who had come under the sound of the gospel to repent, what about those who had never been exposed to this sort of teaching.
Well, the Apostles mission was to teach these people within his reach, but there is an even greater principle at work here, for God has made provision that no one should miss out because they had not heard the gospel preached, those remote or isolated.
It would, however, infer that those who have been taught would carry much greater accountability, but those who were not so privileged were not excluded, and were still accountable, under the DIVINE PRINCIPLE which God initiated.
Romans 1:18-20 For God’s [holy] wrath and indignation are revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who in their wickedness repress and hinder the truth and make it inoperative. For that which is known about God is evident to them and made plain in their inner consciousness, because God [Himself] has shown it to them. For ever since the creation of the world His invisible nature and attributes, that is, His eternal power and divinity, have been made intelligible and clearly discernible in and through the things that have been made (His handiworks). So [men] are without excuse [altogether without any defence or justification],
God, Himself can be Known by “Revelation”, and His Ways can be Known by “Submission”, but His principles are “WRITTEN”, not just on paper or papyrus, BUT ON THE TABLE OF MEN’S HEARTS. The principles inscribed there can be either adhered to as our conscience sounds the alarm, or we can suppress and cauterise the principle because it interferes with our comfort zone. GOD’S PRINCIPLES ARE GOD’S KEYS
I am sure some are already wanting out because it sounds too hard but let me just list some of the basic “PRINCIPLES” by which God works, and then as we succeed in these, we will become more adept at other and maybe higher principles. Both James (James 4:10) and Peter 1 Peter 5:6) specify that this is fundamental to our elevation.
- LOVE The first and foremost principle
- OBEDIENCE The principle of promoting progress/promotion
- HUMILITY Another most significant principle God uses, He looks for it in those who would qualify for a promotion,
LOVE This is the first and foremost principle that Father has established, He stated that there remained three things, “Faith, Hope and Love” but concluded that the last one was the most important. “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 Corinthians 13:13(B)
In the Bible, there is the aspect of love for persons who are not attractive or virtuous or productive. In this case, love is not a delight in what a person is, but a deeply felt commitment to helping him be what he ought to be. Love also is the defining characteristic of disciples, the means by which they are identified.
John 13:35 By this shall all [men] know that you are My disciples, IF you love one another [if you keep on showing love among yourselves].
Our first responsibility, however, is spelt put by that eminent biblical physician, Dr Luke. He was suitably qualified to understand the health benefits of a total commitment to the principles of God and he recorded it in indisputable terms, and not only demanded the expression of our love from using all our faculties, but then compounded the matter by including our neighbour.
Luke 10:27 And he replied, YOU MUST LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and your neighbour as yourself.
In Colossians 4:14, St. Paul writes: “Luke the beloved physician and Demas greet you”, indicates that his “day job” (as opposed to his apostolic efforts) was as a medical practitioner. Recognition of his profession would generate a general consensus that what he says was worth not only acknowledging but energetically applying.
Luke himself evidenced what he wrote, his medical skills, like Paul’s tentmaking, may have contributed to his livelihood; but his principal occupation was the advancement of the Christian mission.
OBEDIENCE
“Obedience” is the unquestioning concurrence with the one to whom we ascribe respect, honour, loyalty. We generally obey our bosses because they pay us, and we generally obey the road rules else we are penalised. But our obedience to God, our “prompt obedience” originates from a far greater purpose and consequence. Obedience is the practical acceptance of the authority and will of God, “regardless of our outward conditions.” (See Matthew 5)
1 Corinthians 8:3 But if one loves God truly [with affectionate reverence, Prompt Obedience, and grateful recognition of His blessing], he is known by God [recognized as worthy of His intimacy and love, and HE IS OWNED BY HIM].
We frequently assert that we have faith, but faith is evidenced in obedience, else it may be just presumption. It is important to remember that our obedience to God is not solely a matter of duty, we obey Him because we love Him (John 14:23). And this reciprocation is identified in 1 John 4:19 We love Him, because He first loved us.
Philip laid out the requirements very clearly to the Ethiopian eunuch explaining that there was more to it than just acknowledging the sovereignty of God, a trap many fall into today because the church has not promoted or explained what development is required after salvation. The confession of “faith” has to be supported by the action of “obedience”.
Acts 8:37 And Philip said, If you believe with all your heart [if you have a conviction, full of joyful trust, that Jesus is the Messiah and accept Him as the Author of your salvation in the kingdom of God, GIVING HIM YOUR OBEDIENCE, then] you may. And he replied, I do believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
Romans 6:16 tells us that “obedience which leads to righteousness (right doing and right standing with God”, making it such a critical aspect of our walk with the Lord. Obedience doesn’t come naturally to most people, and we see that manifest in children, it arises out of training or teaching, and the object of that teaching has to “LEARN”. Jesus set the example.
Hebrews 5:8 Although He was a Son, He learned [active, special] obedience through what He suffered
It falls into a similar category as “WISDOM”, that Wisdom that is from above, (James 3:17) incorporating eight different characteristics which require our constant and strict attention to both accrue the trait and then evidence the trait. One important identifier is that the persons eligible, have to be SONS, the result of Jesus sacrifice and the consequence of our acceptance and application.
Proverbs 5:1 MY SON, be attentive to my WISDOM [godly Wisdom LEARNED BY ACTUAL AND COSTLY EXPERIENCE], and incline your ear to my understanding [of what is becoming and prudent for you],
As mentioned, the responsibility of the church is to educate people in the responsibilities of “faith” grounded in obedience, not just offer the free ride that so many have come to expect and often demand, and to alert us to the fact that the “learning experience” can and will often be onerous. Paul recognised that this was one of the prime requirements of his extensive ministry and gifting, and he left the Romans in no doubt that he was intending to implement his apostleship unwaveringly.
Romans 1:5 It is through Him that we have received grace (God’s unmerited favour) and [our] apostleship to PROMOTE OBEDIENCE TO THE FAITH and make disciples for His name’s sake among all the nations,
We also demonstrate “OBEDIENCE” when we unquestioningly accept that every circumstance we face on a daily basis is under the watchful providence of God. This also comprises a steep learning curve as we have never really recognised God in every event of our day. Some will want to cavil with this truth, but the Word of God is precise and persistent in the demand for us to readily, consciously and obediently bow to His arrangements so that we “try to LEARN [in your experience] what is pleasing to the Lord”. (Ephesians 5:10)
The only similarity between obedience and disobedience is that they reflect the type of lifestyle we have. If we have sincerely committed our lives to God, then we are going to obey Him, we are going to trust Him and leave all the consequences to Him. In times of disobedience, we lean to our own desires or preferences for direction. We vacillate back and forth between what we want to do and what we know is right. According to James 4:17, that constitutes sin.
HUMILITY
HUMILITY IS THE FERTILE SOIL OF RIGHTEOUS CHARACTER.
HUMILITY is one of the most very basic “PRINCIPLES” of God, it suggests total freedom from threats, either real or perceived. Even Old Testament advice is appropriate here.
Job 22:23 If you RETURN to the Almighty (this next part is the confronting part … comments mine) [and SUBMIT AND HUMBLE YOURSELF before Him], you will be built up; if you put away unrighteousness far from your tents,
PRIDE IS CONCERNED WITH WHO IS RIGHT, HUMILITY IS CONCERNED WITH WHAT IS RIGHT
1 Peter 5:6 Therefore humble YOURSELVES [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you,
“Humility is the displacement of self by the enthronement of God.”(A. Murray)
Micah 6:8 HE HAS SHOWED YOU, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, and to love kindness and mercy, and TO HUMBLE YOURSELF AND WALK HUMBLY WITH YOUR GOD?
This verse leaves us in no doubt that we have been alerted to the principles that God requires of us, “HE HAS SHOWED YOU”, but we fail to see or learn the lesson. Surely, we should be able to see by the very creation around us that God’s principles control the whole universe, why then can I be so impudent and arrogant as to think I am of any consequence. “HUMILITY” is one hard lesson in a world that is intensely competitive. But the only competition of any consequence is the race we are running to reach our eternal destiny.
I am not running against any other person, but I am sure racing the clock, for I squander so many chances and opportunities to develop my “HUMILITY” by failing to recognise God at work in every area, and my ego or pride or preferences overrule the goad of conscience in an attempt to garrison my self-esteem, which is nothing but a fantasy.
“One cannot be humble and aware of oneself at the same time.”
(Madeleine L’Engle)
It seems that down through the ages man men have recognised to virtue and necessity of “HUMILITY” and so I wonder why it is that we are so slow in embracing a fundamental “PRINCIPLE” that has Father’s endorsement and demand.
“The humble person is open to being corrected, whereas the arrogant is clearly closed to it. Proud people are supremely confident in their own opinions and insights. No one can admonish them successfully: not a peer, not a local superior, not even the pope himself. They know – and that is the end of the matter. Filled as they are with their own views, the arrogant lack the capacity to see another view. (Fr. Thomas Dubay)
Ross Smith 