hanks

Q2. (1 TIMOTHY 3:6, 10; TITUS 1:6-9) Why should leaders be observed carefully and tested before placing them in office? What should you be looking for during this period? Leaders should be observed for some time and perhaps even given some minor responsibilities in the local church. As they prove themselves to be trustworthy and faithful, then they can be advanced to greater responsibilities. What should be obvious is that they are spiritually mature; well-grounded in the faith; with a knowledge of the Word; and a solid Christian lifestyle – a true disciple of our Lord. His personal character must be above reproach. If married, the husband of one wife, and faithful to her. He must be of sober-minded, that is not frivolous; self-disciplined; respectable; hospitable, a lover of strangers; faithful, trustworthy, and dependable; a devout believer, hating all evil; upright and just in all his dealings with others; and not a recent convert.

Q1. (1 TIMOTHY 3:2-12; TITUS 1:6) What kind of leader do you believe Paul is indicating for us with the phrase "husband of one wife"? Why is a leader's family an important indicator of leadership potential or problems? This must be a leader of unquestioned morality – above reproach. If married, he must be entirely true and faithful to his one and only wife. The leader must also have no immoral relationships with other women. They must be spiritually mature, and I feel that the fruit of the Spirit should be reflected in what they believe and how they live. He must love our Lord Jesus with a passion. How well a person runs his own home can be a good indicator of his ability as a leader of a church. Any defect of Christian character often shows up in how he rules his children. If a leader cannot manage his own family, how will he be able to manage a congregation that is much more diversified and much larger? It is obvious that if a man is unfit to rule in the smaller sphere, he would be clearly disqualified for the larger.

Q5. (1 Timothy 2:11-15) How should Paul's instructions about women teaching and leading in the church be applied in the twenty-first century? How do you support your view? We know from Scripture that a fundamental principle of God’s dealings with mankind is that man has been given authority over the woman. This in no way suggests that she is inferior in any way. It determines the different roles each has to play; as determined by God. There were also unique conditions in the early church at Ephesus at that time. There were false teachers from within the church as well as from the outside. There was in-fighting, and women usurping authority which also resulted in fighting. The women at that time were suppressed and mostly illiterate; the church had to deal with paganism; unholy leaders; and godless living patterns; among other things. It is with this in mind that Paul gave instructions as to the role of women in the church. Perhaps all or some of the above conditions do not apply to most of our churches today. We must remember that all the promises, commands, and blessings of the New Testament apply equally to women and men. We must also consider that the Holy Spirit has gifted some woman with exceptional gifts for teaching and leadership - it is not for us to deny them utilising these gifts. I think it all boils done to Paul not wanting the Ephesian women to teach because of the lack of knowledge and/or experience. This made them vulnerable to false teachings (2 Tim 3:6). He also mentioned women flaunting themselves by wearing unsuitable clothing (1 Tim 2:9).

Q4. (1 TIMOTHY 2:9-10) How did women dressing in fancy clothes threaten to compromise the church's witness in Ephesus? How do we apply the principle of Paul's directive in twenty-first century churches without instituting a new legalism? In the church at that time there were women who were very poor and even slaves. They could not afford lavish and expensive dress styles. Those who dressed excessively would have caused divisions in the church. I think this could also apply in our churches today - expensive dress styles could be the cause of unnecessary jealousies and divisions. A proper dress code for all is a mark of respect for our Lord. I imagine extremes must be carefully avoided and we should all dress according to norms of decency. So, I don’t think it is necessary to go overboard and insist on instituting strict dress codes. Women should dress modestly and discreetly, not drawing attention to themselves. Our external garments are not that important; we should rather radiate the fruit of the Spirit. Of course, it is good to take care of oneself and look one's best, but still, what is more important is inner beauty (Prov 31:30).

Q3. (1 TIMOTHY 2:8) What problem among the men of the congregation is Paul referring to in this verse? What is so serious about worshipping with the opposite of love in your heart? Paul is not referring to our body positioning while praying, but to our attitude with which we pray. God hates a purely outward religion, one which has no substance, and is only a front of righteousness while living in sin (2 Tim 3:5). Outwardly they seem religious, but inwardly they are living a lie, masquerading under the name of Christianity. The hearts of the believers were full of anger and hatred brought about by the infighting that the false teachers had caused. We will find that we cannot pray in peace while we have any anger or animosity towards others in our hearts. We need to be at peace with all, and to have confessed our sins before praying. If not, God will not hear our prayers. These broken relationships hinder our relationship with God. Any problems we have with another person should be resolved ASAP; if not we are hypocrites who claim to love God while we hate others. Our relationship with God is reflected in our attitude towards others (1 John 4:20).

Q2. (1 TIMOTHY 2:5-6) In the context of the salvation of all, why do you think Paul emphasizes the roles of Mediator and Ransom? In what way did Christ fulfil both these roles? Paul was given the task of announcing the gospel to the Gentiles – to the whole world. And the fact that God desires all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth, coupled with the fact that we are separated from our God by sin, and need a Saviour, was the reason Paul urges that we pray for all people. The Good News had to be told – there is only one way to be saved, and this was by the one God who is God of all. For this to happen there had to be a mediator who would act as a middleman between a holy God and sinful man. There was also a price to be paid, a ransom, to release us from the slavery to sin. Christ is the only one who can fulfil both these rolls. Jesus is the only mediator that exists between both God and man. This is because He is both God and man and represents both sides equally. Way back, Job wished for a mediator between him and God, “If only there were someone to arbitrate between us, to lay His hand upon us both” (Job 9:33). But God also demands justice - a ransom has to be paid. For all those who put their faith in Jesus, the work of our Lord Jesus on Calvary's cross was the ransom God would accept. His substitutionary death was sufficient to save all sinners. The penalty was paid. Of course, this does not mean that all will be saved, since our will is also involved. Only those who repent and put their faith in Jesus as Savour are saved.

Q1. (1 TIMOTHY 2:1-4) Why does Paul emphasize salvation of all mankind in this letter? What does this suggest about the practice of evangelism in the Ephesus church? God’s desire is for all men to be saved (Eze 33:11; John 3:16; 2 Pet 3:9). In order for this to happen they must hear the Word of truth. They must hear about the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. They must understand that He is the way, the truth, and the life; and that no one comes to salvation except through Him (John 14:6). They must read or hear the true gospel. But this was not happening here in Ephesus because the false teachers were preaching Jewish legalism, myths, and genealogies – underemphasizing Christ and faith. The gospel must go out to the Gentiles, to the whole world. Paul therefore urged them to pray for all men, without distinction of rank, race, or nationality; so that they may be saved and may come to the full knowledge of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. Prayer is important to effective evangelism. Unless God works in peoples' hearts to make the proclamation of the gospel effective, there will be no genuine saving response. Jesus said, "No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him" (John 6:44).

Q4. (1 TIMOTHY 1:18-19) Why does Paul need to remind Timothy about the prophecies spoken over him? In practical terms, what does "fight the good fight" really mean? Why does Paul tell Timothy to "hold on to faith and a good conscience"? What temptation is Paul trying to counter in his protégé? Timothy was singled out by prophecies spoken that he would serve our Lord Jesus. Paul needed to encourage the young Timothy that he had to rebuke the false teachers in his church, and that if he should ever be tempted to lose heart or become discouraged in the work of the Lord, he should remember these prophesies and thus be inspired and stimulated to ‘fight the good fight.’ This was more of a command given to Timothy. We see Timothy as a high-ranking officer, who has received his ‘orders’ and is to fight against evil, especially the perversion of the gospel. We know that nothing happens contrary to the eternal decree of God; that Timothy is engaged in a fight which is not merely his own but the Lord’s; and that his courage and faithfulness will certainly be rewarded. Paul now mentions the manner in which this fight was to be carried out; by holding on to faith and a good conscience. Timothy is cautioned to hold onto his faith, and he must keep clinging to the truth of the gospel. By living and teaching in accordance with the truth, remaining firm and steadfast among all the opposition - Timothy will be obeying the voice of conscience. Paul is warning Timothy about being tempted to give up. No matter how hard the task given to Timothy, he is encouraged to continue faithfully in his ministry.

Q3. (1 TIMOTHY 1:17) What do we learn about God from this doxology? What do we learn about praise? Have you ever tried speaking out a doxology in your personal prayer or praise time? What effect does a doxology have on the speaker? We learn about God’s attributes. That God is eternal, having no beginning or end. He knows all things past, present and future. He is incorruptible or imperishable. He is also invisible; will never be seen by our eyes, yet God still shows Himself to us through visible, created things. Such a God is the ‘only’ God, who is unique, incomparable, glorious and lovable. He alone is worthy of praise. He alone is worthy of all honour and glory forever and ever. The twenty-four elders in heaven feel this reverence and joy, for they fall down before God’s throne and cast their crowns before Him singing, ‘You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honour and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created’ (Rev 4:11). We praise Him for His perfections: His moral character that are manifested in His words and deeds; His holiness; His love and mercy; His truthfulness; His faithfulness; His goodness; His patience; and His justice. We are also careful to note what pleases Him, what offends Him, what awakens His wrath, and what affords Him satisfaction and joy. Yes, only recently after reading this suggestion of including a doxology in my prayers. Great idea! It is a very humbling experience reading a doxology. It is beyond comprehension that such an almighty God would even care for me - his creature. An ungrateful, and totally depraved sinner. Even sacrificing His one and only Son for my sins. The more I am conscious of my own unworthiness; the more I am aware of His grace; the more my gratitude swells in praise for Him. God shows me the magnitude of His love, His mercy, and His grace which He has blessed me with as my Heavenly Father. We delight in God and draw near to Him. We can only stand in awe and be grateful for who He is.

Q2. (1 TIMOTHY 1:12-14) Why does Paul comment on his own life after a paragraph on the law (1:8-11)? Why does he share this with Timothy and the church that will read the letter? How might sharing this help get the church back on centre? Paul uses his own life as an extreme example of the grace and mercy of Christ made available to all sinners, of which he was the worst (1:15). Telling them that his own conversion was not through him keeping the law, but that it was by the grace of God (1:14), and that the law is not the way of salvation, but rather a means of conviction of sin. Paul mentioned the false teachers who were seeking to impose the law on the believers in Ephesus. Stating that the law is good to expose the sins of unbelievers, and bring them to God, but it is not a means to salvation. The law could never have shown such grace. Rather, its inflexibility would have condemned sinners and Saul himself to death. Not only did Paul escape the punishment he deserved, but he also received abundant kindness which he did not deserve. Where his sin had abounded, God’s grace abounded much more (Rom 5:20). He gives thanks to Jesus for His enabling grace, emphasising that it was not what Saul of Tarsus did for the Lord but what the Lord did for him. Also, he was most grateful that the Lord Jesus not only saved him but counted him faithful enough to appoint him to be of service to the Lord (1:12). Here is a lesson for the church; many insist that enthusiasm, earnestness, and the search for greater understanding are the important things with God. But warns that sound doctrine is more important; it will thoroughly equip us for all good works, and it is the good news of God’s victory over sin and death. We read in 2 Tin 3:16-17, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” We may overthink a Scripture passage and become convinced that we have found a new meaning. Be careful about that is how cults and false religions have come into being. Today we find nearly every sound doctrine is under attack, and the enemies are often able to gain a foothold in our churches.

Q1. (1 TIMOTHY 1:3-7) What were some of the results of false doctrine in the church at Ephesus? How does doctrinal controversy hurt the spirit of a church? How does it prevent growth? How does it keep the church from its mission? There is a harmony that exists between sound doctrines, and any error in one will spread and result in the distortion of the others. Although these false doctrines were nothing severe like denying our Lord Jesus Christ, but more subtle like adhering to the ritual laws, and to Jewish myths and genealogies. Mixing Judaism and Christianity - law and grace. When Paul left the Ephesian elders for the last time, he told them that after his departure wolves in sheep’s clothing would come into the church. He knew that if neglected it would only get worse, and has to be nipped in the bud, otherwise it can spread like gangrene throughout the church. There was also their involvement in speculative controversies that resulted in the attention being taken away from the true faith. Time that could have been spent in the study of the Word was wasted. Not being Bible doctrine, there is no way of settling them decisively; the result of this teaching was envy, strife, dissension, slander, malicious talk, evil suspicions, and constant bickering … (1 Tim 6:4-5). This meaningless talk is a distraction from the main message of salvation in Jesus Christ. All which will hurt the spirit of the church and prevents its growth. We know from Acts 20:20 that these false teachers were from the church itself, probably the elders. They wanted leadership roles for their own satisfaction, not realizing that to be a servant of God requires humility. Seeking prestige, they tried to force a false, legalistic heresy upon the congregation. Churches that are not receiving constant systematic teaching of God’s Word become very vulnerable to all kinds of trouble, whereas constant encounter with the Word of God will result in growth in the lives of the church and its disciples. Sound doctrine will strengthen our devotion to our Heavenly Father; strengthen our faith in Jesus Christ; and result in the increase of our love for one another. A church can stand anything from outside, but when it is attacked from the inside; we have a very dangerous situation.

Q60. (Matthew 13:51-52) What is the "old" that the householder brings out of his treasure box? What is the "new." In what way must we disciples be "cross-trained" as scribes of the Kingdom? Out of his treasure box the householder brings out old truth of the Old Testament which points the way to Jesus, the Messiah. The new are the parables Jesus taught His disciples, and once we understand His teachings, we are obliged to share this knowledge with others. Being cross-trained in both the OT as well as the NT we have a vast storehouse of knowledge and it is up to us the impart this glorious truth. Having learnt the truths of His Kingdom, as a disciple we are to freely distribute this treasure entrusted to us. We are able to use the old familiar facts and doctrines to illustrate the truths of the Kingdom. In the same way as we ourselves grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, our Saviour, so we help others to grow spiritually as well. As we know, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). And, “the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

Q59. (Matthew 5:13-14) Why is a sharp and tasty witness so important? What is a bland witness to Jesus? How do we stay "salty"? Why are people tempted to hide their "light" or witness? What does Jesus say about that? As we witness for our Lord it is important to have a positive influence in the world, replacing good for evil; love for hatred; happiness for sorrow; peace for war. We do this by aggressively living out the love and message of God. When we lose this desire, we become ineffective as a witness for Jesus. We stay salty by reading/studying His Word; by getting rid of our sinful desires; and anything that interferes with our divinely-appointed mission. The light of a true disciple who practises and lives the Word, cannot be hidden. They will reflect the light of Jesus. I feel that if someone has to ask us if we are a Christian, then we need to do a reality check! – are we a true disciple? The world is so hostile to us disciples that some would rather hide their light than face this aggression. But Jesus tells us to share His teachings with others. By doing this we shine our light and we do our good deeds to the glory of our Heavenly Father.

Q58. (Matthew 9:37-38; John 4:35-38) Where in your region does the harvest seem most ripe, that is, where people are most receptive to the gospel? Do you see yourself mainly as a Sower or a reaper? Why is there such a shortage of reapers? Would you be willing to be a reaper, if Jesus helps you? In my country we have an over 40% unemployment rate among the youth. Some will be without hope, and I think here we will find a ripe harvest. I also feel that if they are told about Jesus many will give their lives to Him. Much prayer is needed. I see myself more of a gardener who waters and then perhaps a reaper. The reapers are few – as Jesus said the workers are few (Mat 9:37). They know they will face much opposition and aggression. Only our Good Shepherd can protect them. With Jesus’ help, I would be willing.

Q57. (Matthew 9:36) Why is Jesus' heartbroken over lost sheep? Who are the lost sheep of your community? Of the mission fields that you know about? What is your attitude toward them? Jesus must be heartbroken when He looks down upon the multitude who are lost - without a shepherd, who are stressed, and helpless. His heart of compassion goes out to them. All who have not repented and put their faith in our Lord Jesus are the lost in my community, and the world. I live in Africa and I know there is much work to be done here. Although I hear in Europe the churches are battling to survive. I truly feel it is time for our Lord Jesus to come. Come Lord Jesus, come!

Q56. (Matthew 9:13; Hosea 6:6) What does Jesus mean when He tells His disciples, "I desire mercy, not sacrifice"? What attitude did the Pharisees have towards sinners? What attitude did Jesus have toward sinners? What attitude do you have toward sinners? What is the role of a spiritual doctor? Jesus was saying that our heart attitude toward God must come first, and then only can we properly obey and observe religious regulations and rituals. The self-righteous Pharisees would not associate with sinners, putting up a front of obeying the law, such as fasting twice a week - doing so-called good deeds. But in actual fact their hearts were hard, cold, and merciless. They were hypocrites, being very quick to point out the sins of others. Jesus came into the world to save sinners (1 Tim 1:15). Since we are all sinners, completely lost, and cannot save ourself, the only way to spend eternity in heaven is through the substitutionary work of our Lord Jesus on the cross. I feel sorry for all those whose souls are in disarray. When a leading pastor mentions that only 60% of his congregation are truly born again, that is a worrying statistic. Just think what it means to mass of people at large – 90%+ or even more are lost? Who refuse our Lord’s free gift of salvation, and will spend eternity in hell. Only sinners who admit their guilt and their need of help require a spiritual doctor. They need the healing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, the Great Physician. For Christ is the mercy promised - the one all-sufficient sacrifice.

Q55. (Luke 10:30-37) Why does Jesus contrast a Jewish priest and Levite with a hated Samaritan? According to the parable, how do you think Jesus would define "neighbour," that is, someone we have a responsibility toward? How much does compassion move you to go out of your way and comfort zone to care for those in need? In this parable the Samaritan is the person least likely to act correctly. Both the Jewish priest and Levite knew the law which stated they were to love their neighbour as themselves (Lev 19:18); meaning that out of love and mercy they were to meet the needs of the victim. But this did not happen. It was the hated Samaritan who came to the rescue; who showed love and mercy. In contrast, both the Jewish priest and Levite showed that the law did not give them the power to obey. This parable must have crushed the lawyer’s self-righteousness and pride. Our neighbour is anyone of any race, creed, or social background who is in need. The ultimate Neighbour was Jesus, whose compassion contrasted with the Jewish religious leaders who had no compassion on those who would die in their sin. He has blessed me abundantly and as His disciple, I should emulate Him by loving my neighbour, having mercy, and showing compassion as needed. God has brought to my attention the self-centred selfish life I live, and that I need to start putting other people’s needs before my own. In this passage He has taught me that I should be a neighbour to anyone I meet who has a need that I can satisfy.

Q54. (Matthew 25:14-30; Luke 19:12-27) Why did Jesus give His disciples the Parables of the Talents and Minas? How are you using the "talents" Jesus has given you? What causes people to "bury" the talents they once used for the Lord? If it is not salvation itself, what is the reward for faithfulness? Why does God expect more of greatly gifted people? To teach us, as His disciples, that we must use the resources He has given us according to our abilities. Our time, gifts, talents, and money are to be used wisely until He returns. Being an 85 yo, my talents are not so much in demand as before. I must admit I have in the past used them, perhaps not as wisely as I could have, or to the best of my ability. People stop using or developing their talents by becoming lazy or even too busy with self, the **** of the flesh, and the world. There is no more love for our Lord. The rewards for faithfulness will most probably depend on the talents we have been given and our use of these talents. I should imagine that those who know scripture will be under greater responsibility to obey it. This is not salvation itself, which has already been occurred through the blood of Christ. I think the principle is that the greater the gift, the greater the responsibility.

Q53. (John 13:4-17) In what way is Jesus washing the disciples' feet a parable? Why did this act of washing their feet feel so shocking to the disciples? In what sense is this a parable of cleansing? In what way is it a rebuke of pride and competition? In what way is it a parable of humble service? In what areas of your life do you need to implement its teaching? It fits the description of a parable, contrasting known practical situations with spiritual truths. In this case the washing of feet with humble service. This was totally unexpected and shocking at the same time. Jesus, God in the flesh, humbling Himself, doing the work that the lowliest servant would normally do. This is a parable of cleansing in that this was a picture of spiritual cleansing. Not cleansing from the penalty of sin, which occurs only once through the blood of Christ, but cleansing from the pollution of the world. On earth we are exposed to all sorts of evil and we need the cleansing power of the Word. As we read, study, listen, and discuss His Word we are cleansed from the surrounding evil influences. Our Lord Jesus has given us a lesson. We as His disciples should never let pride get in the way of us serving those whom we may look down upon. This parable highlights inner humility, and not to follow the example of Jesus is to exalt oneself above Him and to live in pride. Remembering that no servant is greater than his master (John 12:26). This is a parable of humble service in that we are to serve God by going into the world serving each other. Willing to serve any way that glorifies God, we also serve by bringing the message of salvation to the world. Jesus washing the feet of Judas, who would betray Him, makes me think that I need to change my thinking about all the evil that is occurring in my country. The 70+ murders daily, the 130+ rapes daily. No law and order and all the plundering of state resources that is going on. I need to pray for these perpetrators that there might be a change of heart (pray for your enemies?).

Q52. (Luke 11:5-10; 18:1-8) What is the similarity between Jesus' Parables of the Friend at Midnight and the Unjust Judge? What does this persistence look like in your life? What will persistence in prayer do to develop you as a disciple? The similarity of these two parables is the lesson of persevering and never giving up. Approaching our Lord in prayer boldly even shamelessly bold, fully believing that He will answer. I believe we have to keep on asking; to keep on seeking; and to keep on knocking. God always gives us what we ask or He gives us something better. A ‘no’ answer means that He knows what is better for us. Two verses again, come to mind: “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us - whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of Him” (1 John 5:14-15). Living in close fellowship and obedience to Jesus Christ, and our reading and study of His Word will help us to live according to His will, and consequently it is highly likely we will ask according to His will. As I persist in prayer I grow spiritually, drawing closer to my Heavenly Father; my faith and trust increases – I live by faith; and it keeps my prayer continually before Him, believing He will answer.

Q51. (Matthew 7:9-11; Luke 11:11-13) Why did Jesus give His disciples the Parable of Asking a Father for Bread? What misconception was He seeking to correct? Jesus wants us to know that our earthly fathers would not on purpose give us bad gifts; even though they have sinful natures. In other words, no good father will give his children a cynical or harmful gift. How much better will our perfect heavenly Father treat His children. On becoming a true disciple, on being born again, He gives us the perfect gift, the one we need most – the Holy Spirit. We have these misconceptions that He is a selfish, strict, or miserly God, who demands that we come begging and cringing before Him. Instead, He is our loving Father, who understands, who cares, and who answers our prayers. This reminds me of two great verses: This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us - whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of Him (1 John 5:14-15).

Q50. (Matthew 6:25-34) How does the Parable of the Birds and the Lilies teach us not to worry? What does Jesus teach about worrying about the future? Rather than worrying, what does Jesus instruct His disciples to do? What does obeying verse 33 look like in your life? Jesus teaches us not to worry about the needs that God promises to supply. We only have to look at the birds of the air, and the lilies of the field to see how He provides for them; and we being made in His image, how much more will He care for us. By worrying we question His love, His wisdom, and His power to care for us - to provide for our needs. Worrying about the future is time wasted, rather plan for the future by seeking His kingdom, and His righteousness. We are to put God first in every area of our life; we are to obey, to serve, to worship, and to love Him. Being careful not to let any worries affect our relationship with our Lord. I’m nearly 86, past sell-bye date; I surrender all to Him. I trust Him. Humbly at His feet I bow.

Q49. (Luke 16:13) What are the very subtle ways that we can begin to serve Money rather than God? How can we detect these temptations in our hearts? Why did Jesus tell His disciples the Parable of the Two Masters? We have to make a choice, the one we choose will have priority in our live. Either we put God first and reject the rule of money, that is love the one and hate the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. 1 Tim 6:9-10 teaches us a lot about the many griefs and destruction that can occur when we choose money. There is no sin in being wealthy, but the desire to be rich leads us into temptation, and all sorts of trouble. This desire becomes a trap which we cannot easily escape. Besides when is enough, enough? Greed takes over. The result can be total destruction and the total ruin of happiness, of virtue, of reputation, and of the soul. There is trouble in the getting of it. There is anxiety in the keeping of it. There are temptations in the use of it. There is guilt in the abuse of it. There is sorrow in the losing of it. There is perplexity in the disposing of it (JC Ryle). The warning signs are there when we find ourselves often thinking of money. Often counting it, to see if our wealth has grown; thinking of schemes to make more and more. We have to be careful for these thoughts and temptations can lead to our love for money, and the control it has on others. We think of the promises of having it – power, happiness, pleasures, and more. We find it harder and harder to give some towards God’s kingdom. Spiritual things are neglected; there’s no love in our heart, no love for others, only love for self. Ultimately, becoming self-centred, tight fisted, money-obsessed, lonely, unhappy, obsessed with money, without any compassion for those in need - a miserable person. Jesus warned His disciples that they must be careful when it comes to money matters, for it can easily take His place in their lives. Stating that no one can serve two masters. It is impossible to live for God and for money at the same time. One will inevitably take precedence in their loyalty and obedience. So, it is with God and mammon.

Q48. (Luke 12:16-21) Is being wealthy a sin for a Christian? What was the rich man's actual sin or sinful attitude? How do you sometimes see greed in the people in your neighbourhood or social circle? Christians aren't immune. In what ways might greed influence a Christian's behaviours and values? Being wealthy is not a sin, but it can be used for God’s purposes or for selfish means. There are many examples of wealthy people who were used by God in mighty ways. I think of Abraham, Jacob, Solomon, Matthew, and Joseph of Arimathea who were all people of great means. It is the deceitfulness of riches that we are to be aware of. It can cause us to wander away from our Lord, plunging us into ruin and destruction. The rich man obtains riches only for himself. He never thinks of the good he can do for God’s kingdom with all the extra wealth, but where can he hoard it. Jesus described him as a fool – not because he was rich, but because he lived without any awareness of and preparation for eternity. I saw greed in two of my friends. It’s not for me to criticise either one, for I know how easy it is to fall into this trap. Both have since passed on, so I feel free to mention them. My one friend was brought up in a very poor family, and by means of study loans he managed to graduate as a medical doctor. After a few years in practice, he started accumulating all sorts of things, as if in a frenzy. He had 10 cars, woodwork machines, cameras, suits – everything in excess. He bought a farm and built a shed on it, and would go to auctions and buy just about anything he could get his hands on. All to be stored in a huge barn he had built on the farm. It was not that he would ever use the items bought. It was just to have it. Then my other friend, he had his own construction company. He retired extremely wealthy and was living on a 28-acre property. He had more money than he could ever use. After about a year of retirement he decided to build an extra 14 new homes on his property as this would generate several extra millions. I must mention that he was most generous in supporting several missionaries as well as our church. Greed is a strong/selfish desire for more and more and still more. Besides material wealth there can be an excessive/greedy longing for power, for honour, for prestige, for position. I would imagine it could apply to anything that a person wants in excess of their needs. In both Eph 5:5 and Col 3:5, Paul calls greed idolatry because it places earthly possessions and passions ahead of God in the person’s life. I think in our materialistic world today this sin of greed/covetousness is the one we all are most prone to. Greed was Satan’s sin – he coveted something better, rebelled and was cast out of heaven with a third of the angels. Adam and Eve were not satisfied with the things which God gave them in Eden. They wanted more, and the result was that their sin brought death and damnation into the world. Greed is a sin which, ever since the fall, has brought ruin and destruction, misery and unhappiness to so many.

Q47. (Luke 16:1-13) In what way is the dishonest steward supposed to be a positive example to disciples? How does one "lay up treasures in heaven"? Why is the quality of our work of very small things so important to God? What is He waiting to see in us? What happens to people in the church who are promoted beyond their spiritual growth? The point Jesus is making is that we can learn a valuable lesson from this unfaithful steward, who is wiser than many “sons of light,” in that he saw what was coming, and he used what had been entrusted to him while he could to prepare for the future. Meaning that ungodly, unregenerate people show more wisdom in providing for their future in this world than true disciples show in laying up treasures in heaven. A faithful steward (disciple) must use their Master’s (God’s) money shrewdly to provide true riches for eternity. God’s ways are higher than our ways (Isa 55:9), especially when it comes to money matters. Perhaps we need to change our attitude toward money. We need to follow God’s way to true riches rather than the world’s way to deceptive wealth and ultimate, eternal poverty. To secure our eternal future we should be using our money helping others, winning souls for our Lord Jesus. Jesus tells us that we need to use our worldly possessions to “gain friends for yourselves” (16:9). Meaning that the people we have helped will be in heaven to welcome us there. They will be our heavenly reward. Everything we spend helping others is immediately banked in heaven waiting for us to arrive to collect the rewards we have earned. The steward had only temporary rewards and a temporary home, but ours is eternal. We are to be shrewd stewards of our wealth, now while here on earth, before it is taken away from us when we die. God knows that we are faithful in our stewardship of the small things here on earth, then we will be faithful in handling the important things, the spiritual treasures of heaven. God waits for us to realise that we are His stewards, and to act accordingly. Knowing that the wealth of the world is His means that there is a greater responsibility on us to manage His wealth with honesty, with truth, with wisdom, with integrity, with pure motives, with an attitude of worship to God, and with service to the body of Christ. Bringing glory to our Heavenly Father. To sum up, nothing that we possess on earth is our own, it is entrusted to us for temporary use (1 Chron 29:14), and we shall be rewarded by real and eternal possessions (1 Peter 1:4). People who are promoted beyond their spiritual growth will find it difficult to live according to the Lord’s standards. They will put their trust in wealth. Using it to justify themselves before others, even buying themselves positions of honour in the church. There is no love in their hearts, no love for others, only love for self. Their hearts are filled with pride and hypocrisy which God hates. Whereas, we as true disciples do not have to impress others with how spiritual we are – it should be visible to all. We live openly in the sight of God, seeking always to please Him. It is all about submitting ourselves to His authority and not to following a bunch of outward standards.