Jude, The Power of Contention
“Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 1:3).
Jude (or Judas) was a more obscure yet respected member in the leadership of the early church who took pen to write in his senior years. Most commentaries agree that he most likely was a younger brother of Jesus. He wrote with authority and appealed to the reader to “contend earnestly for the faith.” He did not claim apostolic authority but wrote with historical knowledge and an assumed tone that the readers would receive his message.
The Gospels mentioned the blood relatives of Jesus and name four of his brothers, “James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas” (Matthew 13:55; Mark 6:3). It was initially difficult for these half-brothers of Jesus to accept their older sibling as the Christ (John 7:5). Apparently, it was only after being witnesses of Jesus’ death and resurrection that they came to believe in Him. They are numbered among those who gathered and waited in the upper room in Jerusalem (Acts 1:14). James, the next oldest brother of Jesus, eventually became an influential leader of the church in Jerusalem (Acts 15:13). The other siblings appear to have become involved in missionary work promoting the message of Christ (1 Corinthians 9:5). From this context Jude could write authoritatively concerning the teaching of the apostles and identify himself only as “a bondservant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James” without further explanation.
Jude saw the drifting away from apostolic teaching by some in the early church as the fulfillment of prophecy. He spoke out strongly against the spirit of the age and warned against the consequences of apostasy. One of the marks of a discipleship leader is the passion with which one will defend his faith. Any deviation from the principles of discipleship is a threat to the continuance of the movement.
Contention is often viewed as a negative attribute in a leader. However, when one contends for righteousness, disputes with those who would destroy the principles of one’s foundation, and challenges any who seek to overthrow spiritual leadership, this is an admirable quality. There needs to be strong advocates for Christian values, assertive apologists for the Christian faith, and men and women who will boldly argue in defense of Biblical truth.
Jude warned against those who “deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ” (vs.4), and admonished the believers to “remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ” (vs.17). Contending for the right things bring about a promised blessing. We are defending the one “who is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy” (vs.24).
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Leadership through Discipleship #24
Apollos, The Power of Apologetics
"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;" (1 Peter 3:15).
Apollos rose from obscurity to become a noted disciple and a strong defender of the faith in Jesus Christ. He was a Jew born in Alexandria, Egypt, who was trained by the best scholars of his day. In the introduction to this disciple in the book of Acts (18:24-28), he is recognized as an eloquent speaker who was “mighty in the Scriptures.” Apparently he had an unusual grasp of the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings—the sacred text of the Jews. However, his knowledge concluded with the ministry of John the Baptist. It was Aquila and Priscilla who took him aside and explained to him “the way of God more accurately,” bringing him to an understanding of Jesus as the fulfillment of many of the Scripture’s prophecies.
It is amazing that a man with the knowledge of Apollos was humble enough to listen to two passionate people who shared their faith in Jesus. From the text it appears that he was a ready listener and immediately embraced the teaching of Christ. In a short time it is said, “He vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ” (Acts 18:28). Apparently he shortly became an apologist for the Christian faith. He applied his rhetorical talents and his vast understanding of Scripture to make a defense to his new found faith.
It is apparent that Apollos continued to grow in his discipleship and his leadership. He emerged as an influential leader in the church at Corinth. In several references in Paul’s letter to this church, he speaks of Apollos, Cephas (Peter), and himself. He wrote, “Each of you says, ‘I am of Paul,’ or ‘I am of Apollos,’ or ‘I am of Cephas,’ or ‘I am of Christ’” (1 Corinthians 1:12). Paul condemned the factions that emerged in the church, each declaring their allegiance to one of these mentors, saying “Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase” (1 Corinthians 3:5-6).
Apollos gave us an example of one who was always “ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.” He refuted false doctrine and boldly preached Jesus Christ, as the fulfillment of Scripture.
The example to us today is expressed in Paul’s instruction to Timothy, “Hold on to the pattern of wholesome teaching you learned from me—a pattern shaped by the faith and love that you have in Christ Jesus. Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to you” (2 Timothy 1:13-14 NLT).
"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;" (1 Peter 3:15).
Apollos rose from obscurity to become a noted disciple and a strong defender of the faith in Jesus Christ. He was a Jew born in Alexandria, Egypt, who was trained by the best scholars of his day. In the introduction to this disciple in the book of Acts (18:24-28), he is recognized as an eloquent speaker who was “mighty in the Scriptures.” Apparently he had an unusual grasp of the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings—the sacred text of the Jews. However, his knowledge concluded with the ministry of John the Baptist. It was Aquila and Priscilla who took him aside and explained to him “the way of God more accurately,” bringing him to an understanding of Jesus as the fulfillment of many of the Scripture’s prophecies.
It is amazing that a man with the knowledge of Apollos was humble enough to listen to two passionate people who shared their faith in Jesus. From the text it appears that he was a ready listener and immediately embraced the teaching of Christ. In a short time it is said, “He vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ” (Acts 18:28). Apparently he shortly became an apologist for the Christian faith. He applied his rhetorical talents and his vast understanding of Scripture to make a defense to his new found faith.
It is apparent that Apollos continued to grow in his discipleship and his leadership. He emerged as an influential leader in the church at Corinth. In several references in Paul’s letter to this church, he speaks of Apollos, Cephas (Peter), and himself. He wrote, “Each of you says, ‘I am of Paul,’ or ‘I am of Apollos,’ or ‘I am of Cephas,’ or ‘I am of Christ’” (1 Corinthians 1:12). Paul condemned the factions that emerged in the church, each declaring their allegiance to one of these mentors, saying “Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase” (1 Corinthians 3:5-6).
Apollos gave us an example of one who was always “ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.” He refuted false doctrine and boldly preached Jesus Christ, as the fulfillment of Scripture.
The example to us today is expressed in Paul’s instruction to Timothy, “Hold on to the pattern of wholesome teaching you learned from me—a pattern shaped by the faith and love that you have in Christ Jesus. Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to you” (2 Timothy 1:13-14 NLT).
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Men Able to Teach
The Ministry of Men
“And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).
Paul sought for men who were able to teach others. One of the qualifications of a bishop was that he must be able to teach (1 Timothy 3:2). Also a servant of the Lord must be able to teach (2 Timothy 2:24). Paul stressed these qualities to the young man Timothy under his mentorship and insisted that he, in turn, become a mentor to others who will become teachers.
Young men are often enamored by the uniform of the fireman, the police, or the military. Some aspire to become an astronaut, a ball player, or a doctor. While any role may be a worthy pursuit and a God honoring vocation, the calling to teach is an opportunity to transmit truth and prepare leadership for future generations. Of all desirable vocations the role of a teacher may not rank highly in contemporary culture. However, the position of the teacher and the calling to teach was paramount in the gospels and the writings of the Apostle Paul.
Jesus was the model teacher and effectively instructed all those who would hear His words. It is noteworthy that Jesus spent the majority of His time teaching twelve men. His world-wide vision began with the training of these few men who would in turn teach others who would continue the process of discipleship until the entire world was evangelized. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,” Jesus said (Matthew 28:19).
Paul poured himself into the lives of young men like Titus and Timothy, which received his letters of instruction. He mentored his traveling companions: Silas, Luke, Demas, John Mark and others. He lived according to the pattern of his instruction:
“But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:14-17).
Remember, what you have learned, “commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” Men should learn and teach others!
“And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).
Paul sought for men who were able to teach others. One of the qualifications of a bishop was that he must be able to teach (1 Timothy 3:2). Also a servant of the Lord must be able to teach (2 Timothy 2:24). Paul stressed these qualities to the young man Timothy under his mentorship and insisted that he, in turn, become a mentor to others who will become teachers.
Young men are often enamored by the uniform of the fireman, the police, or the military. Some aspire to become an astronaut, a ball player, or a doctor. While any role may be a worthy pursuit and a God honoring vocation, the calling to teach is an opportunity to transmit truth and prepare leadership for future generations. Of all desirable vocations the role of a teacher may not rank highly in contemporary culture. However, the position of the teacher and the calling to teach was paramount in the gospels and the writings of the Apostle Paul.
Jesus was the model teacher and effectively instructed all those who would hear His words. It is noteworthy that Jesus spent the majority of His time teaching twelve men. His world-wide vision began with the training of these few men who would in turn teach others who would continue the process of discipleship until the entire world was evangelized. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,” Jesus said (Matthew 28:19).
Paul poured himself into the lives of young men like Titus and Timothy, which received his letters of instruction. He mentored his traveling companions: Silas, Luke, Demas, John Mark and others. He lived according to the pattern of his instruction:
“But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:14-17).
Remember, what you have learned, “commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” Men should learn and teach others!
Friday, July 4, 2008
Youth Ministry without Scorn
The Ministry of Men
“Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).
Being young has never been an obstacle to being used. God sees the heart’s desire and responds to the passion of faith at any age. Replete in Scripture are examples of daring and brave individuals who believed in God and were used to fulfill His purposes while yet in their youth.
Moses made some decisions as a young man that set a course for life while being nurtured by his Hebrew mother. He chose rather “to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin” (Hebrews 11:25).
David was a ruddy-faced youth when he was chosen and anointed to be the next king of Israel. A man after God’s heart, he grew with a passion to fulfill God’s purpose, whether it was facing the giant on the field, defeating Philistines, or worshiping God before the hosts of Israel.
Daniel was a teen leaving for Babylon as a captive. Ripped from the security of home and family he was displaced for life. He would never return to his homeland but he remained a faithful man of integrity throughout his lifetime.
We don’t know the ages of the disciples but they seemed to be younger men. Some still worked in their father’s business when they received their call. Even Jesus started at only 30 years of age calling these men to follow him.
The promise of Pentecost was for all ages. The prophet Joel was quoted to have said “Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams” (Acts 2:17). God’s promises are not exclusive of the young.
Paul encouraged the young man Timothy, to fulfill his purpose and calling. He said, “Let no one despise your youth!” Even as a youth he was instructed to “be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” There is a role in ministry for every believer. Even young men can be an example in leadership to others in the kingdom of God! Just do it!
“Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).
Being young has never been an obstacle to being used. God sees the heart’s desire and responds to the passion of faith at any age. Replete in Scripture are examples of daring and brave individuals who believed in God and were used to fulfill His purposes while yet in their youth.
Moses made some decisions as a young man that set a course for life while being nurtured by his Hebrew mother. He chose rather “to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin” (Hebrews 11:25).
David was a ruddy-faced youth when he was chosen and anointed to be the next king of Israel. A man after God’s heart, he grew with a passion to fulfill God’s purpose, whether it was facing the giant on the field, defeating Philistines, or worshiping God before the hosts of Israel.
Daniel was a teen leaving for Babylon as a captive. Ripped from the security of home and family he was displaced for life. He would never return to his homeland but he remained a faithful man of integrity throughout his lifetime.
We don’t know the ages of the disciples but they seemed to be younger men. Some still worked in their father’s business when they received their call. Even Jesus started at only 30 years of age calling these men to follow him.
The promise of Pentecost was for all ages. The prophet Joel was quoted to have said “Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams” (Acts 2:17). God’s promises are not exclusive of the young.
Paul encouraged the young man Timothy, to fulfill his purpose and calling. He said, “Let no one despise your youth!” Even as a youth he was instructed to “be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” There is a role in ministry for every believer. Even young men can be an example in leadership to others in the kingdom of God! Just do it!
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