well we should mention that doubt they will pray for a good son tan
I don't remember if it was this or another forum, but there was a 'Christian' advocating for nudity on beaches or wherever. Something for everyone.
The Teachings of Paul (TOP)
- Thread starter GWH
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I don't remember if it was this or another forum, but there was a 'Christian' advocating for nudity on beaches or wherever. Something for everyone.
oh I dont know, to be honest, if you want a private beach that's always an option, but the beach is a good place for lots of good funI don't remember if it was this or another forum, but there was a 'Christian' advocating for nudity on beaches or wherever. Something for everyone.
I Go nearly every day to the beach for my daily workout, I met my wife at the beach
well we should mention that doubt they will pray for a good son tan
Just don't call them sons of a beach!
Getting back on track:
TOP #237: Until Christ returns believers should keep on learning Scriptural doctrine. [1Tim. 4:13-16] Although this command was given to Timothy in terms of what to do until Paul’s arrival, surely it applies to all Christians awaiting the Second Coming. It includes having both right belief (cf. v.1-6) and good behavior (v.12). Paul taught about the importance of learning GW in TOP #157, 202 & 255. Regarding laying on hands, see TOP #245.
>>>TOP #157: Christ gave various gifts regarding teaching God’s Word so that God’s people would grow spiritually and become mature. [Eph. 4:7-15, cf. TOP #202 &255] Although salvation is by faith, becoming spiritually mature is by good works or continuing to cooperate with the loving Spirit of God (cf. Eph. 2:10).
>>>TOP #202: Repentance or conversion should be followed by learning more of God’s Word (LGW) in order to avoid being deceived by false arguments or doctrine. [Col. 2:4-8, cf. TOP #255 & 256]. This truth, called discipleship or sanctification, is akin to TOP #155 & 157. The part of GW that is necessary to believe for salvation is the Gospel (which may be called the kerygma or preaching), and the additional learning that needs to occur for spiritual maturation is the “all truth” in JN 16:13 and the “all things/everything” in MT 28:20 (which may be called the didache or teaching).
>>>TOP #255: By learning Scripture Christians may be wise regarding correct doctrine, rebuking and righteousness, becoming equipped for doing good works. [2Tim. 3:14-17&4:5] This a significant nuance or elaboration of TOP #157 & 202. Paul applies it by charging Timothy with preaching God’s Word, correcting false doctrine, rebuking sin and encouraging persevering faith.
>>>TOP #245: Carefully vet folks before affirming their ministry by laying on hands. [1Tim. 5:22] Paul wanted to avoid guilt by association. Jesus laid hands on people when healing them (Luke 4:40), and the apostles imparted the Holy Spirit by laying on hands (Acts 8:18), but Paul said Timothy received power to love and witness for Christ when he laid hands on him (1Tim. 4:14, 2Tim. 1:6-8).
TOP #237: Until Christ returns believers should keep on learning Scriptural doctrine. [1Tim. 4:13-16] Although this command was given to Timothy in terms of what to do until Paul’s arrival, surely it applies to all Christians awaiting the Second Coming. It includes having both right belief (cf. v.1-6) and good behavior (v.12). Paul taught about the importance of learning GW in TOP #157, 202 & 255. Regarding laying on hands, see TOP #245.
>>>TOP #157: Christ gave various gifts regarding teaching God’s Word so that God’s people would grow spiritually and become mature. [Eph. 4:7-15, cf. TOP #202 &255] Although salvation is by faith, becoming spiritually mature is by good works or continuing to cooperate with the loving Spirit of God (cf. Eph. 2:10).
>>>TOP #202: Repentance or conversion should be followed by learning more of God’s Word (LGW) in order to avoid being deceived by false arguments or doctrine. [Col. 2:4-8, cf. TOP #255 & 256]. This truth, called discipleship or sanctification, is akin to TOP #155 & 157. The part of GW that is necessary to believe for salvation is the Gospel (which may be called the kerygma or preaching), and the additional learning that needs to occur for spiritual maturation is the “all truth” in JN 16:13 and the “all things/everything” in MT 28:20 (which may be called the didache or teaching).
>>>TOP #255: By learning Scripture Christians may be wise regarding correct doctrine, rebuking and righteousness, becoming equipped for doing good works. [2Tim. 3:14-17&4:5] This a significant nuance or elaboration of TOP #157 & 202. Paul applies it by charging Timothy with preaching God’s Word, correcting false doctrine, rebuking sin and encouraging persevering faith.
>>>TOP #245: Carefully vet folks before affirming their ministry by laying on hands. [1Tim. 5:22] Paul wanted to avoid guilt by association. Jesus laid hands on people when healing them (Luke 4:40), and the apostles imparted the Holy Spirit by laying on hands (Acts 8:18), but Paul said Timothy received power to love and witness for Christ when he laid hands on him (1Tim. 4:14, 2Tim. 1:6-8).
TOP #238: Christians should view themselves as members of one spiritual family. [1Tim. 5:1-2] This family is the body of Christ (Col. 3:18).
Sinners become members of God's family when His HS baptizes them upon their acceptance of Jesus as Christ the Lord (Acts 16:31, 1Cor. 12:13, Rom. 5:5).
The family consists of all kinds of people who may be compared to the parts of a physical body (1Cor. 12:14-20). God views every part as equally honorable, and so should we (1Cor. 12:21-26). Although the members may have various abilities, they all should manifest divine love (1Cor. 12:27-31 & 13:1-13). Indeed, the reason God commissions some members to be ministers is to equip believers for works of service (2Tim. 3:16-17), so that the family will grow in number and spiritual maturity until all attain unity in the faith (Eph. 4:11-13).
Sinners become members of God's family when His HS baptizes them upon their acceptance of Jesus as Christ the Lord (Acts 16:31, 1Cor. 12:13, Rom. 5:5).
The family consists of all kinds of people who may be compared to the parts of a physical body (1Cor. 12:14-20). God views every part as equally honorable, and so should we (1Cor. 12:21-26). Although the members may have various abilities, they all should manifest divine love (1Cor. 12:27-31 & 13:1-13). Indeed, the reason God commissions some members to be ministers is to equip believers for works of service (2Tim. 3:16-17), so that the family will grow in number and spiritual maturity until all attain unity in the faith (Eph. 4:11-13).
The only place Paul mentioned the birth of Jesus is in Gal. 4:4-5, "When the time had fully come, God sent his Son,
born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons".
Paul referred only tangentially to Christmas in Phil. 2:7-8, "(CJ) taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness, and being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself" (cf. Heb. 2:14, 4:15, 5:5-10).
born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons".
Paul referred only tangentially to Christmas in Phil. 2:7-8, "(CJ) taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness, and being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself" (cf. Heb. 2:14, 4:15, 5:5-10).
TOP #239: Christians who are poor through no fault of their own should be supported by their families. [1Tim. 5:3-4&8] Paul said that those who do not help members of their families have denied the faith, apparently because it contradicts the compassion of Christ.
This is yet another teaching emphasizing that faith without loving fruit is false (TOP #87, 138, 208, etc.), or dead (per Jam. 2:17). That this does not apply to those who are not really poor or are poor because of laziness (TOP #226) is indicated by the phrase “really in need”.
>>>TOP #226: He who will not work shall not eat. [2Thes. 3:6-15] In this passage Paul elaborates on the warning against idleness he gave in 1Thes. 5:14 (TOP #216) and against stealing in Eph. 4:28 (TOP #163). In practical political terms, this teaching supports workfare.
>>>TOP #216: Warn those who are idle. [1Thes. 5:14] This is elaborated in Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians.
TOP #240: Poor Christian widows (and others, presumably) should be helped by the church only if they meet certain criteria. [1Tim. 5:5-6&9-10] These criteria include: Having no family to help, not spending on pleasure, not being young or healthy enough to earn income, and having a reputation for good deeds.
This is yet another teaching emphasizing that faith without loving fruit is false (TOP #87, 138, 208, etc.), or dead (per Jam. 2:17). That this does not apply to those who are not really poor or are poor because of laziness (TOP #226) is indicated by the phrase “really in need”.
>>>TOP #226: He who will not work shall not eat. [2Thes. 3:6-15] In this passage Paul elaborates on the warning against idleness he gave in 1Thes. 5:14 (TOP #216) and against stealing in Eph. 4:28 (TOP #163). In practical political terms, this teaching supports workfare.
>>>TOP #216: Warn those who are idle. [1Thes. 5:14] This is elaborated in Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians.
TOP #240: Poor Christian widows (and others, presumably) should be helped by the church only if they meet certain criteria. [1Tim. 5:5-6&9-10] These criteria include: Having no family to help, not spending on pleasure, not being young or healthy enough to earn income, and having a reputation for good deeds.
TOP #241: A younger (child-bearing aged) poor Christian widow should remarry and help older widows in her family. [1Tim. 5:11-16] We can assume that such teachings by Paul may be inspired opinions in the same vein as those in 1Cor. 7:25, and that this passage regarding widows is a sort of parallel to–or extension of–that regarding virgins.
>>>TOP #90: Marriage is the right relationship for sexual intimacy. [1Cor. 7:1-5, 25-28 & 36-39] Jesus taught this truth in Matt. 19:4-6.
>>>TOP #94: Circumcision is not a moral commandment. [1Cor. 7:18-19] Paul indicates that some of his teachings are based on the TOJ, while others are his own trustworthy opinion (v.25&40).
>>>TOP #95: This earthly existence is short and passing away, so unmarried believers are freer from concerns that might prevent undivided devotion to ministry for the Lord in the time remaining. [1Cor. 7:29-40] However, marriage and remarriage are not necessarily sinful. Paul did not address the question about whether a second marriage is permissible when reconciliation with the estranged spouse does not occur.
>>>TOP #257: Teach older and younger men and women sound doctrine. [Tit. 2:1-8] For older men this doctrine includes temperance, respectability and self-control that are listed for church leaders in TOP #233, plus faith, love and endurance that are listed as fruit of the Spirit in TOP #138. For older women the doctrine includes reverence (cf. #173), not slandering (cf. #165), sobriety (synonymous with self-control) and training younger women.
Doctrine the younger women should be taught include love for husbands and children (cf. #173), self-control, purity (cf. Matt. 5:8, 2Cor. 11:2), industry at home, kindness (#138 & 166) and submission to husbands (TOP #232). The younger men should be taught including by example: self-control, doing good (#141), integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech (#164).
>>>TOP #232: Women should dress modestly and speak discreetly. [1Tim. 2:9-15, Tit. 2:4-5] The devil is in the details of this teaching. Should women wear a shroud and muzzle? Should men not dress modestly, and are all men better teachers than all women? Does
the story of Adam and Eve teach dictatorship rather than partnership? It would seem that Paul’s concern at this point is akin to that in 1Cor. 9-11 (TOP #96,102&103), which was that freedom in Christ not become a license to sin or to offend societal sensibilities, which at that time viewed the role of married women to be that of mother.
>>>TOP #90: Marriage is the right relationship for sexual intimacy. [1Cor. 7:1-5, 25-28 & 36-39] Jesus taught this truth in Matt. 19:4-6.
>>>TOP #94: Circumcision is not a moral commandment. [1Cor. 7:18-19] Paul indicates that some of his teachings are based on the TOJ, while others are his own trustworthy opinion (v.25&40).
>>>TOP #95: This earthly existence is short and passing away, so unmarried believers are freer from concerns that might prevent undivided devotion to ministry for the Lord in the time remaining. [1Cor. 7:29-40] However, marriage and remarriage are not necessarily sinful. Paul did not address the question about whether a second marriage is permissible when reconciliation with the estranged spouse does not occur.
>>>TOP #257: Teach older and younger men and women sound doctrine. [Tit. 2:1-8] For older men this doctrine includes temperance, respectability and self-control that are listed for church leaders in TOP #233, plus faith, love and endurance that are listed as fruit of the Spirit in TOP #138. For older women the doctrine includes reverence (cf. #173), not slandering (cf. #165), sobriety (synonymous with self-control) and training younger women.
Doctrine the younger women should be taught include love for husbands and children (cf. #173), self-control, purity (cf. Matt. 5:8, 2Cor. 11:2), industry at home, kindness (#138 & 166) and submission to husbands (TOP #232). The younger men should be taught including by example: self-control, doing good (#141), integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech (#164).
>>>TOP #232: Women should dress modestly and speak discreetly. [1Tim. 2:9-15, Tit. 2:4-5] The devil is in the details of this teaching. Should women wear a shroud and muzzle? Should men not dress modestly, and are all men better teachers than all women? Does
the story of Adam and Eve teach dictatorship rather than partnership? It would seem that Paul’s concern at this point is akin to that in 1Cor. 9-11 (TOP #96,102&103), which was that freedom in Christ not become a license to sin or to offend societal sensibilities, which at that time viewed the role of married women to be that of mother.
TOP #242: Church leaders including preacher-teachers deserve material support. [1Tim. 5:17-18] Paul cites Deut. 25:4 in this regard (cf. Luke 10:7). This is akin to TOP #97 regarding supporting apostles.
>>>TOP #97: Apostles of Christ have the right to be supported by those to whom they minister God’s Word. [1Cor. 9:1-18] However, Paul did not exercise this right (v.15) in order to avoid accusation of profiting from preaching (v.18). This means churches should support their pastor/preacher (v.14, cf. TOP #242). Paul discerned this teaching of the Lord with regard to hospitality (in Matt. 10:10-15) also to be implied by the teaching of Moses not to muzzle an ox while it is treading out grain (v.9).
>>>TOJ #58: Evangelists/truth-teachers should be supported. [Matt. 10:9-11//Luke 9:3-5] Those who benefit from the Gospel ministry should contribute to it. This teaching was echoed by Paul (in 1Cor. 9:14 & 1Tim. 5:18). {Luke 10:4-7} The support envisioned by Jesus included meals and rooms in private homes, perhaps because public inns (Luke 2:7) were not available. (See TOJ #56.)
>>>TOJ #56: Realize the need for truth-teachers. [Matt. 9:38//Luke 10:2] The work is teaching GW, especially the Gospel/GRFS, so truth-seekers may learn how to be saved or “harvested”. (See Eph. 4:11-16; TOJ #58). Most of the instructions Jesus gave to the twelve disciples before sending them to preach (in Matt. 10) seem applicable only to their specific mission, such as going only to the Jews (v.5-6) and relying solely on hospitality (v.9-13). However, there are a few principles that surely are appropriate also for those seeking to obey Christ’s Great Commission in modern times (TOJ #164).
>>>TOP #97: Apostles of Christ have the right to be supported by those to whom they minister God’s Word. [1Cor. 9:1-18] However, Paul did not exercise this right (v.15) in order to avoid accusation of profiting from preaching (v.18). This means churches should support their pastor/preacher (v.14, cf. TOP #242). Paul discerned this teaching of the Lord with regard to hospitality (in Matt. 10:10-15) also to be implied by the teaching of Moses not to muzzle an ox while it is treading out grain (v.9).
>>>TOJ #58: Evangelists/truth-teachers should be supported. [Matt. 10:9-11//Luke 9:3-5] Those who benefit from the Gospel ministry should contribute to it. This teaching was echoed by Paul (in 1Cor. 9:14 & 1Tim. 5:18). {Luke 10:4-7} The support envisioned by Jesus included meals and rooms in private homes, perhaps because public inns (Luke 2:7) were not available. (See TOJ #56.)
>>>TOJ #56: Realize the need for truth-teachers. [Matt. 9:38//Luke 10:2] The work is teaching GW, especially the Gospel/GRFS, so truth-seekers may learn how to be saved or “harvested”. (See Eph. 4:11-16; TOJ #58). Most of the instructions Jesus gave to the twelve disciples before sending them to preach (in Matt. 10) seem applicable only to their specific mission, such as going only to the Jews (v.5-6) and relying solely on hospitality (v.9-13). However, there are a few principles that surely are appropriate also for those seeking to obey Christ’s Great Commission in modern times (TOJ #164).
TOP #243: Accusations against church leaders must be supported by at least two witnesses. [1Tim. 5:19] This teaching is included in TOJ #100, both of which are based on Deut. 19:15.
>>>TOJ #100: Communicate! [Matt. 18:15-17a] Or in the words of Paul, speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15). This TOJ is closely related to the next one. Communication is the method for converting Sinners (Rom. 10:14) and for maturing saved sinners (Heb. 5:11-6:1). Note the four steps for resolving disagreements: talk privately, include a neutral third party to facilitate the discussion, enlist mature church representatives to act in lieu of a court, and then excommunicate the person who is acting like a pagan (TOJ #102).
TOP #244: Church leaders who are found guilty of a serious accusation should be rebuked publicly as a warning to others. [1Tim. 5:20] Paul and Jesus also commanded excommunication (TOP #85, TOJ #102).
>>>TOP #85: A community of believers should not associate with immoral people who claim to be Christians. [1Cor. 5:1-13, Tit. 3:9-11] Sins cited include sexual immorality, greed, idolatry, slander, drunkenness and swindling (cf. TOP #13) in the first passage and arguing, quarreling and divisiveness in the second. Such excommunication is an appropriate of approved form of judging.
>>>TOJ #102: Excommunicate fruitless “Christians”. [Matt. 18:17-18] Although saints are not perfect, someone who typically exhibits sinful fruit (Gal. 5:19-21) apparently is not a genuine Believer (TOJ #48 & #148). The reference to binding and loosing {also in Matt. 16:19 & 18:18-20} is problematic, because it can be applied incorrectly, as it was most notably by the Roman popes against Martin Luther and the Protestants.
Jesus does seem to say {also in John 20:23} that, IF Believers represent God’s will on earth rightly, then their disfellowship reflects the ultimate status of the excommunicant. (See TOJ #65, #123 & #152.) However, this is a big “IF”, so the danger of committing the sin of judgmentalism should lead us to adopt the view that disfellowship does not mean Christians cease all interaction with a sinning or carnal person (1Cor. 3:1-3), but rather that they change the nature of the relationship from fellowshipping to witnessing and reproving. Paul once advocated this doctrine (in 1Cor. 5:1-13).
>>>TOJ #100: Communicate! [Matt. 18:15-17a] Or in the words of Paul, speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15). This TOJ is closely related to the next one. Communication is the method for converting Sinners (Rom. 10:14) and for maturing saved sinners (Heb. 5:11-6:1). Note the four steps for resolving disagreements: talk privately, include a neutral third party to facilitate the discussion, enlist mature church representatives to act in lieu of a court, and then excommunicate the person who is acting like a pagan (TOJ #102).
TOP #244: Church leaders who are found guilty of a serious accusation should be rebuked publicly as a warning to others. [1Tim. 5:20] Paul and Jesus also commanded excommunication (TOP #85, TOJ #102).
>>>TOP #85: A community of believers should not associate with immoral people who claim to be Christians. [1Cor. 5:1-13, Tit. 3:9-11] Sins cited include sexual immorality, greed, idolatry, slander, drunkenness and swindling (cf. TOP #13) in the first passage and arguing, quarreling and divisiveness in the second. Such excommunication is an appropriate of approved form of judging.
>>>TOJ #102: Excommunicate fruitless “Christians”. [Matt. 18:17-18] Although saints are not perfect, someone who typically exhibits sinful fruit (Gal. 5:19-21) apparently is not a genuine Believer (TOJ #48 & #148). The reference to binding and loosing {also in Matt. 16:19 & 18:18-20} is problematic, because it can be applied incorrectly, as it was most notably by the Roman popes against Martin Luther and the Protestants.
Jesus does seem to say {also in John 20:23} that, IF Believers represent God’s will on earth rightly, then their disfellowship reflects the ultimate status of the excommunicant. (See TOJ #65, #123 & #152.) However, this is a big “IF”, so the danger of committing the sin of judgmentalism should lead us to adopt the view that disfellowship does not mean Christians cease all interaction with a sinning or carnal person (1Cor. 3:1-3), but rather that they change the nature of the relationship from fellowshipping to witnessing and reproving. Paul once advocated this doctrine (in 1Cor. 5:1-13).
TOP #245: Carefully vet folks before affirming their ministry by laying on hands. [1Tim. 5:22] Paul wanted to avoid guilt by association. Jesus laid hands on people when healing them (Luke 4:40), and the apostles signified the reception of the Holy Spirit by laying on hands (Acts 8:18), but Paul said Timothy received power to love and witness for Christ when he laid hands on him (1Tim. 4:14, 2Tim. 1:6-8).
The practice of laying on hands has continued in Christian churches to the present. However, it is not commanded and thus should not be considered as mandatory (pun intended: from Latin mandare from manus hand + -dere to put :^).
The practice of laying on hands has continued in Christian churches to the present. However, it is not commanded and thus should not be considered as mandatory (pun intended: from Latin mandare from manus hand + -dere to put :^).
TOP #246: Christians may imbibe alcohol for medicinal purposes (and in moderation). [1Tim. 5:23] Moderation was indicated in TOP #170.
>>> TOP #170: Do not get drunk on wine (alcoholic spirits), but instead be filled with the Holy Spirit. [Eph. 5:18] This command certainly would apply to any other type of drug or medicine.
The most obvious question these TOP beg is how this might apply to the issue of legalizing marijuana in today's society. Should we do so with some age restrictions as we have done with alcoholic beverages? What about other drugs/chemicals?
>>> TOP #170: Do not get drunk on wine (alcoholic spirits), but instead be filled with the Holy Spirit. [Eph. 5:18] This command certainly would apply to any other type of drug or medicine.
The most obvious question these TOP beg is how this might apply to the issue of legalizing marijuana in today's society. Should we do so with some age restrictions as we have done with alcoholic beverages? What about other drugs/chemicals?
It's not just for medicinal purposes.
Psalm 104:14–15
[14] You cause the grass to grow for the livestock
and plants for man to cultivate,
that he may bring forth food from the earth
[15] and wine to gladden the heart of man,
oil to make his face shine
and bread to strengthen man’s heart. (ESV)
TOP #247: Christians should be content with the blessing of bare necessities for life, because the love of money causes all kinds of evil. [1Tim. 6:5-10, 2Tim. 3:2] Those who preach godliness in order to make money are corrupt and stray from faith in Christ (cf. 1Tim. 6:21 & TOJ #38&40). All kinds of evil are listed in 2Tim. 3:2-4.
>>> TOJ #38: Store your treasures in heaven. [Matt. 6:19-21//Luke 9:58] The point of this teaching is not so much the location but the definition of treasure {Luke 12:32-34}. Spiritual truths and moral virtues are more valuable than material possessions (Eph. 1:18, 2:7, 3:9&16, Col. 1:27, 2:2-3; TOJ #118).
>>>TOP #254: In the last days people will reject God and be lovers of themselves (I-dolaters). [2Tim. 3:1-9] Symptoms of this terrible time include: love of money, pride, abusiveness, disrespect for parents, ingratitude, lack of love, forgiveness and self-control, slander and love of pleasure rather than of good. Such idolatry and its symptoms is related to TOP #10-15, 21, 101, etc.
>>>TOP #10: Although God’s creation reveals His power and love, godless people suppress truth and exchange it for the lie of idolatry. [Rom. 1:18-25, cf. #3] This is what Adam and Eve did. Paul says men are without excuse, both because God’s eternal power and moral nature (love) are manifested by creation (Rom. 1:20, cf. Job 12:7-9). Apparently, creation combined with conscience or moral sense (Rom. 2:14-16) that manifests a moral Authority TOP #23)–and combined with OT law for the Jew (TOP #22)–serves as a provisional or proto-gospel (Col. 1:23, Rom. 10:13-18, Gal. 3:8), which is the revelational basis for divine salvation and judgment (TOP #24-26 & 281).
>>>TOP #13: Wickedness or evil includes the sins of greed, murder, strife, deceit and malice. [Rom. 1:29] Jesus condemned the hatred of the Pharisees as akin to murder and lying in John 8:44. and Paul said greed is a root of many sins in 1Tim. 6:10 (cf. 2Tim. 3:2).
>>>TOP #14: Sins of God-haters or atheists also include gossip, slander, insolence, arrogance, and pride. [Rom. 1:30] Many OT passages identify pride as a root of many sins that precedes destruction (Pro. 16:18).
>>>TOP #15: Additional sins include disobedience of parents and being senseless, faithless, heartless and ruthless. [Rom. 1:30b-31] Honoring one’s parents is one of the Ten Commandments (Exo. 20:12).
>>> TOJ #38: Store your treasures in heaven. [Matt. 6:19-21//Luke 9:58] The point of this teaching is not so much the location but the definition of treasure {Luke 12:32-34}. Spiritual truths and moral virtues are more valuable than material possessions (Eph. 1:18, 2:7, 3:9&16, Col. 1:27, 2:2-3; TOJ #118).
>>>TOP #254: In the last days people will reject God and be lovers of themselves (I-dolaters). [2Tim. 3:1-9] Symptoms of this terrible time include: love of money, pride, abusiveness, disrespect for parents, ingratitude, lack of love, forgiveness and self-control, slander and love of pleasure rather than of good. Such idolatry and its symptoms is related to TOP #10-15, 21, 101, etc.
>>>TOP #10: Although God’s creation reveals His power and love, godless people suppress truth and exchange it for the lie of idolatry. [Rom. 1:18-25, cf. #3] This is what Adam and Eve did. Paul says men are without excuse, both because God’s eternal power and moral nature (love) are manifested by creation (Rom. 1:20, cf. Job 12:7-9). Apparently, creation combined with conscience or moral sense (Rom. 2:14-16) that manifests a moral Authority TOP #23)–and combined with OT law for the Jew (TOP #22)–serves as a provisional or proto-gospel (Col. 1:23, Rom. 10:13-18, Gal. 3:8), which is the revelational basis for divine salvation and judgment (TOP #24-26 & 281).
>>>TOP #13: Wickedness or evil includes the sins of greed, murder, strife, deceit and malice. [Rom. 1:29] Jesus condemned the hatred of the Pharisees as akin to murder and lying in John 8:44. and Paul said greed is a root of many sins in 1Tim. 6:10 (cf. 2Tim. 3:2).
>>>TOP #14: Sins of God-haters or atheists also include gossip, slander, insolence, arrogance, and pride. [Rom. 1:30] Many OT passages identify pride as a root of many sins that precedes destruction (Pro. 16:18).
>>>TOP #15: Additional sins include disobedience of parents and being senseless, faithless, heartless and ruthless. [Rom. 1:30b-31] Honoring one’s parents is one of the Ten Commandments (Exo. 20:12).
TOP #248: Christians should fight the good fight of faith by pursuing godliness. [1Tim. 6:11-12, 2Tim. 2:3-7] Godliness connotes righteousness, love, gentleness and persevering faith. By means of saving faith that produces godly fruit, souls cooperate with their calling to eternal life. This “fight” is called being a good soldier in the second passage, where it is also compared to athletic training and working as a farmer.
>>>TOP #255: By learning Scripture Christians may be wise regarding correct doctrine, rebuking and righteousness, becoming equipped for doing good works. [2Tim. 3:14-17&4:5] This a significant nuance or elaboration of TOP #157 & 202. Paul applies it by charging Timothy with preaching God’s Word, correcting false doctrine, rebuking sin and encouraging persevering faith.
>>>TOP #57: Love one another, hate what is evil and cling to what is good. [Rom. 12:9-10] 1Thes. 5:21 says to test everything, hold on to the good, and avoid every evil.
>>>TOP #158: Spiritual maturity is manifested by speaking the truth in love. [Eph. 4:14-16] This is contrasted with the sinful lifestyles of many Gentiles (4:17&19).
>>>TOP #138: The fruit of the Spirit is love in various manifestations. [Gal. 5:22-23] This teaching elaborates #135. The varieties of love include such qualities as joy TOP #189), peace (#64), patience (#155), kindness (#166), goodness (#187&188), faithfulness (#9&15), gentleness (#192) and self-control (Tit. 2:2-12 = TOP #214), which seems to mean sobriety. Paul pointed out that there are no laws against these attributes.
>>>TOP #200: God’s salvation is conditional upon persevering faith in the Gospel. [Col. 1: 22-23, 2Tim. 2:11-13] These verses are part of the doctrine of perseverance implied by the kerygma, because it is necessary in order to achieve TOP such as #191 & #195 (cf. TOP #182 & 211).
>>>TOP #255: By learning Scripture Christians may be wise regarding correct doctrine, rebuking and righteousness, becoming equipped for doing good works. [2Tim. 3:14-17&4:5] This a significant nuance or elaboration of TOP #157 & 202. Paul applies it by charging Timothy with preaching God’s Word, correcting false doctrine, rebuking sin and encouraging persevering faith.
>>>TOP #57: Love one another, hate what is evil and cling to what is good. [Rom. 12:9-10] 1Thes. 5:21 says to test everything, hold on to the good, and avoid every evil.
>>>TOP #158: Spiritual maturity is manifested by speaking the truth in love. [Eph. 4:14-16] This is contrasted with the sinful lifestyles of many Gentiles (4:17&19).
>>>TOP #138: The fruit of the Spirit is love in various manifestations. [Gal. 5:22-23] This teaching elaborates #135. The varieties of love include such qualities as joy TOP #189), peace (#64), patience (#155), kindness (#166), goodness (#187&188), faithfulness (#9&15), gentleness (#192) and self-control (Tit. 2:2-12 = TOP #214), which seems to mean sobriety. Paul pointed out that there are no laws against these attributes.
>>>TOP #200: God’s salvation is conditional upon persevering faith in the Gospel. [Col. 1: 22-23, 2Tim. 2:11-13] These verses are part of the doctrine of perseverance implied by the kerygma, because it is necessary in order to achieve TOP such as #191 & #195 (cf. TOP #182 & 211).
TOP #249: Christians who are rich should be rich in good deeds by generously sharing their wealth. [1Tim. 6:17-19] By doing this they lay up treasure in heaven (TOJ #38).
>>>TOJ #38: Store your treasures in heaven. [Matt. 6:19-21//Luke 9:58] The point of this teaching is not so much the location but the definition of treasure {Luke 12:32-34}. Spiritual truths and moral virtues are more valuable than material possessions (Eph. 1:18, 2:7, 3:9&16, Col. 1:27, 2:2-3; TOJ #118).
>>>EPH 1:18-19a, “I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.”
This reverence to the “eyes of the heart” must mean the enlightening of the mind, so that they may not remain in the darkened or ignorant of the hope of salvation or resurrection to heaven which Jesus has promised. Jesus said he came to call sinners (Matt. 9:13), that many are invited but few are chosen (Matt. 22:14), and that few find the narrow gate (Matt. 7:14). In Eph. 4:1 Paul will exhort those who are called to be worthy of it. Again the blessing of heaven is called a rich inheritance and also power.
>>>EPH 2:7-10, “In order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
The purpose of God’s POS is that in the present (NT) age God might reveal “the incomparable riches” of eternal life in heaven, experienced as kindness because of the atonement of CJ. Such salvation or heaven is a gift received via faith. All we have is gifted by God per 1Cor. 4:7, and so salvation is not earned; faith is not meritorious. The reason for God’s creation of a holy humanity is so they will reflect His love to all manifested by good works, which are the fruit of the HS (Gal. 5:22-23) and a way of life in which we should walk.
>>>EPH 3:7-9, “I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all God’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.”
This reiterates v. 2. The reference to “the working of his power” is vague, but it might refer to the “Damascus Road” (cf. the comment regarding Eph. 1:1). Regarding “the unsearchable riches of Christ”, see the comment on Eph. 1:1&10. Riches will be mentioned again in Eph. 3:16 (cf. Col. 1:27, Rom. 9:23 & 11:33). “Everyone” must include the Jews, and “administration” must include revelation and explanation of the mystery (cf. Eph. 1:9-10 & 2:11-22).
>>>EPH 3:14-17a, “For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.”
Paul prays for the Ephesians not to be discouraged, apparently continuing the line of thought that began in v.1, and kneeling indicates humility (cf. Phil. 2:10, Rom. 14:11). The exact meaning of this regarding the “name” is unclear. Paul referred to the riches of Christ in Eph. 3:8, 2:4 & 7 and 1:18. God’s power was cited in Eph. 3:7 & 1:19, where it referred to raising Christ from the dead. The Spirit was mentioned in Eph. 3:5, 2:18 & 22 and 1:13. Christ’s indwelling is indicated in Rev. 3:20.
>>>TOJ #118: Materialism is anathema. [Matt. 19:23-24//Mark 10:23-25//Luke 18:24-25] It is the sin of greed that Paul equated with idolatry (Col. 3:5, Eph. 5:5), which is antithetical to satisfying GRS (1Cor. 6:10). Jesus {in Luke 12:16-21} told the Parable of the Rich Young Fool to illustrate this truth. (Also see TOJ #41, 50, & 85.) Beware of the false “profit motive”!
>>>TOJ #38: Store your treasures in heaven. [Matt. 6:19-21//Luke 9:58] The point of this teaching is not so much the location but the definition of treasure {Luke 12:32-34}. Spiritual truths and moral virtues are more valuable than material possessions (Eph. 1:18, 2:7, 3:9&16, Col. 1:27, 2:2-3; TOJ #118).
>>>EPH 1:18-19a, “I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.”
This reverence to the “eyes of the heart” must mean the enlightening of the mind, so that they may not remain in the darkened or ignorant of the hope of salvation or resurrection to heaven which Jesus has promised. Jesus said he came to call sinners (Matt. 9:13), that many are invited but few are chosen (Matt. 22:14), and that few find the narrow gate (Matt. 7:14). In Eph. 4:1 Paul will exhort those who are called to be worthy of it. Again the blessing of heaven is called a rich inheritance and also power.
>>>EPH 2:7-10, “In order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
The purpose of God’s POS is that in the present (NT) age God might reveal “the incomparable riches” of eternal life in heaven, experienced as kindness because of the atonement of CJ. Such salvation or heaven is a gift received via faith. All we have is gifted by God per 1Cor. 4:7, and so salvation is not earned; faith is not meritorious. The reason for God’s creation of a holy humanity is so they will reflect His love to all manifested by good works, which are the fruit of the HS (Gal. 5:22-23) and a way of life in which we should walk.
>>>EPH 3:7-9, “I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all God’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.”
This reiterates v. 2. The reference to “the working of his power” is vague, but it might refer to the “Damascus Road” (cf. the comment regarding Eph. 1:1). Regarding “the unsearchable riches of Christ”, see the comment on Eph. 1:1&10. Riches will be mentioned again in Eph. 3:16 (cf. Col. 1:27, Rom. 9:23 & 11:33). “Everyone” must include the Jews, and “administration” must include revelation and explanation of the mystery (cf. Eph. 1:9-10 & 2:11-22).
>>>EPH 3:14-17a, “For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.”
Paul prays for the Ephesians not to be discouraged, apparently continuing the line of thought that began in v.1, and kneeling indicates humility (cf. Phil. 2:10, Rom. 14:11). The exact meaning of this regarding the “name” is unclear. Paul referred to the riches of Christ in Eph. 3:8, 2:4 & 7 and 1:18. God’s power was cited in Eph. 3:7 & 1:19, where it referred to raising Christ from the dead. The Spirit was mentioned in Eph. 3:5, 2:18 & 22 and 1:13. Christ’s indwelling is indicated in Rev. 3:20.
>>>TOJ #118: Materialism is anathema. [Matt. 19:23-24//Mark 10:23-25//Luke 18:24-25] It is the sin of greed that Paul equated with idolatry (Col. 3:5, Eph. 5:5), which is antithetical to satisfying GRS (1Cor. 6:10). Jesus {in Luke 12:16-21} told the Parable of the Rich Young Fool to illustrate this truth. (Also see TOJ #41, 50, & 85.) Beware of the false “profit motive”!
Paul concluded his first epistle to Timothy by saying simply “Grace be with you”, and he began his second epistle with the same format used for the letters to the churches: from himself, to the recipient, wishes for grace and peace, and prayer of thanks to God for the recipient’s faith.
Paul noted that such faith was in Timothy’s grandmother and mother, who presumably witnessed to Timothy before Paul met him and enlisted his help with the Gospel ministry—for which Paul encouraged Tim not to be ashamed but to be willing to suffer. What Paul said next surely applies to all Christians and so it is the next teaching.
TOP #250: From the beginning God planned to grace souls with salvation to heaven who believed in the Gospel that Jesus is Christ. [2Tim. 1:8-10] The Gospel (John 3:16) is explained in Rom. 3:21-5:1. That the Gospel was God's POS from the beginning is reminiscent of Eph. 1:1-11/TOP #142.
>>>TOP #142: Because of His love God chose believers in Christ from before the creation to be adopted as His children through faith in Jesus Christ, in whom believers have redemption or forgiveness of sins because of his death. [Eph. 1:3-8, 2Tim. 1:10-12] This plan of salvation (POS) is called being “chosen” or “predestined” (v.4-5&11). It sounds as though the entire universe was created solely in order to carry out God’s POS. This mention of predestination to holiness is a significant restatement of TOP #41.
>>>TOP #41: According to His purpose or plan of salvation (POS), Paul says that those who love God were foreknown and “predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son”. [Rom. 8:28-30] This is akin to what Paul said in Ephesians 1:4-14, that before creating the world God chose or predestined those sinners “in Christ” to be blameless sons and receive the Holy Spirit. Paul indicated in 1Tim. 2:3-4 (TOP #231) that God calls everyone or wants all to be saved, but not everyone cooperates with His POS.
>>>TOP #231: God wants everyone to be saved or believe the true faith that there is one God and one mediator, who is the man, Christ Jesus. [1Tim. 2:3-7, cf. Ezek. 33:11] This is perhaps the most foundational passage in the TOP. All interpretation of Scripture should conform with this manifold teaching: 1. God loves everyone including His enemies including Satan (cf. Matt. 5:44&48), 2. Thus God prevents no one from choosing to believe the truth as revealed and be saved or elect (Matt. 23:37, Acts 28:26-27), 3. The full truth is the gospel that Christ paid the ransom for sin and thus belief in him as Messiah is the Way to heaven (John 14:6).
Paul noted that such faith was in Timothy’s grandmother and mother, who presumably witnessed to Timothy before Paul met him and enlisted his help with the Gospel ministry—for which Paul encouraged Tim not to be ashamed but to be willing to suffer. What Paul said next surely applies to all Christians and so it is the next teaching.
TOP #250: From the beginning God planned to grace souls with salvation to heaven who believed in the Gospel that Jesus is Christ. [2Tim. 1:8-10] The Gospel (John 3:16) is explained in Rom. 3:21-5:1. That the Gospel was God's POS from the beginning is reminiscent of Eph. 1:1-11/TOP #142.
>>>TOP #142: Because of His love God chose believers in Christ from before the creation to be adopted as His children through faith in Jesus Christ, in whom believers have redemption or forgiveness of sins because of his death. [Eph. 1:3-8, 2Tim. 1:10-12] This plan of salvation (POS) is called being “chosen” or “predestined” (v.4-5&11). It sounds as though the entire universe was created solely in order to carry out God’s POS. This mention of predestination to holiness is a significant restatement of TOP #41.
>>>TOP #41: According to His purpose or plan of salvation (POS), Paul says that those who love God were foreknown and “predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son”. [Rom. 8:28-30] This is akin to what Paul said in Ephesians 1:4-14, that before creating the world God chose or predestined those sinners “in Christ” to be blameless sons and receive the Holy Spirit. Paul indicated in 1Tim. 2:3-4 (TOP #231) that God calls everyone or wants all to be saved, but not everyone cooperates with His POS.
>>>TOP #231: God wants everyone to be saved or believe the true faith that there is one God and one mediator, who is the man, Christ Jesus. [1Tim. 2:3-7, cf. Ezek. 33:11] This is perhaps the most foundational passage in the TOP. All interpretation of Scripture should conform with this manifold teaching: 1. God loves everyone including His enemies including Satan (cf. Matt. 5:44&48), 2. Thus God prevents no one from choosing to believe the truth as revealed and be saved or elect (Matt. 23:37, Acts 28:26-27), 3. The full truth is the gospel that Christ paid the ransom for sin and thus belief in him as Messiah is the Way to heaven (John 14:6).
TOP #251: Souls who know Jesus should not be ashamed of Christian faith but rather should cooperate with the HS in guarding the Gospel, because they may be convinced that God is able to resurrect souls on that day. [2Tim. 1:10-14] "Ashamed" is associated with suffering the humiliation of being imprisoned because of witnessing for Christ (v. 8), which is the next TOP (cf. Rom. 1:16). "That day" must refer to the day of Judgment (2Cor. 5:10, Heb. 9:27, cf. TOJ #62).
TOP #252: Christians should be willing to suffer persecution because of witnessing for Christ. [2Tim. 2:8-13, 1:8, 3:12] Suffering is akin to the struggling mentioned in TOP #201. It is mitigated or compensated by the joy of salvation (TOP #28, cf. TOJ #62).
>>>TOJ #62: Fear rejection by God. [Matt. 10:28-33//Luke 12:4-9] Seek to please God rather than to be popular with unbelievers. {John 5:41&44} Jesus will be ashamed of those who are ashamed of Him {Mark 8:38//Luke 9:26}. This TOJ (the “flip side” of #49) involves the paradox that those who fear (love) God need not fear (the wrath of) God (Rom. 8:1). {Luke 9:26} Jesus exemplified this courage and wisdom when He was persecuted and crucified {Mark 10:35-36}.
>>>TOJ #49: God elects to save all who elect Jesus, whether Jew or Gentile. [Matt. 8:11-12] Electing Jesus means accepting or believing in Him as Messiah/Christ/Son of Man/Son of God/God the Son/Lord. (See TOJ #131.) {John 3:16b&18, 8:24, 11:25-26, 16:27, 17:6} Paul indicated this election or choice by the phrase “in Christ” (Eph. 1:3-13). Of course, this statement of GRFS assumes a soul has the opportunity to hear the NT gospel. Much of humanity in history has only had access to what is revealed by creation and conscience.
TOP #252: Christians should be willing to suffer persecution because of witnessing for Christ. [2Tim. 2:8-13, 1:8, 3:12] Suffering is akin to the struggling mentioned in TOP #201. It is mitigated or compensated by the joy of salvation (TOP #28, cf. TOJ #62).
>>>TOJ #62: Fear rejection by God. [Matt. 10:28-33//Luke 12:4-9] Seek to please God rather than to be popular with unbelievers. {John 5:41&44} Jesus will be ashamed of those who are ashamed of Him {Mark 8:38//Luke 9:26}. This TOJ (the “flip side” of #49) involves the paradox that those who fear (love) God need not fear (the wrath of) God (Rom. 8:1). {Luke 9:26} Jesus exemplified this courage and wisdom when He was persecuted and crucified {Mark 10:35-36}.
>>>TOJ #49: God elects to save all who elect Jesus, whether Jew or Gentile. [Matt. 8:11-12] Electing Jesus means accepting or believing in Him as Messiah/Christ/Son of Man/Son of God/God the Son/Lord. (See TOJ #131.) {John 3:16b&18, 8:24, 11:25-26, 16:27, 17:6} Paul indicated this election or choice by the phrase “in Christ” (Eph. 1:3-13). Of course, this statement of GRFS assumes a soul has the opportunity to hear the NT gospel. Much of humanity in history has only had access to what is revealed by creation and conscience.