Category Archives: New Testament

John 3:16

Bible General, Church Bulletin, Jesus, John,

John 3:16 is the best known Bible verse. Even most atheists know the verse. It’s posted on signs at sporting events, it appears on bumper stickers, is emblazoned on t-shirts and is often quoted from the pulpit. This Golden Text of the Bible is known and quoted by people even if they do not know any other Bible passage. It is special.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

The verse comes as part of Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus. Jesus has just said that he must be lifted up before men (John 3:14, 15) signifying his coming death (John 12:32, 33). The verse (3:16) explains why he is to die; he dies because, or for the reason, that he loves us. Break the verse into pieces and a greater lesson is taught.

God

God is the source of love and he alone reached out to man in his sins. 1 John 4:8, 16 declare that God is love. It is not simply that God gives love but God is love. It is a necessary part of his component. He cannot be God apart from love. All that we know about true love comes from God. As the source of love he is also the source of salvation. It was while we were sinners that God sought us (Romans 5:8), not while we were good and loving people ourselves.

Loved

The love that God shows is active. It is a decision of goodness and commitment that the Father directs toward his creation. Today, we think of love as a warm feeling of affection toward someone. But true Biblical love is so much more than a feeling. It is a decision to care for another. God’s love is active in that he gave us what we did not have, but needed, at great cost to himself (Romans 5:6, 10).

World

Building on the thought of Romans 5:8, it was a love directed toward all men, the world. His love was not directed at people who were lovable, but toward rebellious, anger-driven people (Colossians 1:21). Some believe that Jesus only came and died for certain ones, but the text says otherwise. He died for the world and that includes all men, everywhere and from all times.

Gave

Jesus was a gift, He was an unearned gift that none of us deserved or could even pay for. Apart from Jesus there is no salvation of any kind. The death of Jesus justified God’s actions through history in restraining condemnation until Jesus’ blood was shed. His death also justified sinners who desired and sought salvation but could not find it on their own (Romans 3:21-26). Jesus was a gift.

Only Son

Translators have struggled with the Greek word, ????????. It is usually translated “only begotten” or simply, “only son.” For our purposes here, we understand that the gift given was unique. There was none, nor will there ever be, like Jesus. He is one-of-a-kind. We begin to understand the uniqueness of the gift in Genesis 22:2 ff when God told Abraham to offer his only son as a sacrifice. Still the true nature of Jesus is almost beyond understanding.

Believes in Him

Apart from belief in Jesus there is no hope. Belief, the mental assent of his existence and unique nature, is the starting point. One would never obey if they did not believe. Since obedience is required (John 3:36, Acts 5:29, 32; 2 Corinthians 10:5; 2 Thessalonians 1:8) belief must come first.

Everlasting Life

Eternal life in the presence of God is the end gift of Jesus. It is Jesus who, at this moment, is preparing our home (John 14:1-4). We can live forever in his presence and apart from anything that is destructive or hurtful (Revelation 21:1-4; 22-27).

There is good reason John 3:16 is so beloved. In it we see the majesty of God and his goodness directed toward us. The only question is this: What will you do with this wonderful message?

 

The Struggle

Church Bulletin, Daily living, Jesus, Romans, Salvation, ,

Almost everything in life is a process. Our physical growth is a process occurring over decades. Education is a process spanning years and years. In the same way, spiritual development is a process. It takes time to purge the bad habits and develop new, godly habits. Sometimes we become impatient with ourselves and with others when progress doesn’t come fast enough. We want to be perfect now. We expect perfection in others as soon as they become a Christian.

But it doesn’t work that way.

A hurry up approach to Christian growth is often deadly. Rushing the process almost never works.

Sins Are Forgiven but Habits Remain

The Bible teaches that our sins are paid for at baptism (Acts 2:38). All our sins are washed away (Acts 22:16; 1 Corinthians 6:11). It is the blood of Jesus that removes the sin (1 John 1:7). The beautiful gospel message is that every sin can be forgiven. No matter how terrible or embarrassing, all sin can be washed away.

But just because the sin vanishes it doesn’t mean that our bad habits disappear as quickly. Indeed we all struggle. Consider the man who has lived most of his life without Jesus. His language is filthy and his words harsh. Would you imagine that it will take time to change his language?

The Lord envisions the struggle and provides for our needs. Notice 1 John 1:7:

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”

This wonderful passage envisions someone who is in fellowship with Jesus but who still sins! But that sin is constantly being forgiven by the blood of Jesus! As the bad habits are fading, the Lord is still providing cleansing if we are walking in the light or in fellowship with Jesus.

Evil is Always Near

I have been intrigued lately with Romans 7:15- Romans 8:11. Paul declares himself a wretched man because he cannot escape his own sinfulness. He tries, but fails to live perfectly. He realizes that sin is never far from him and even lies close by when he is striving to do good (Romans 7:21).

Do we not suffer in the same way? Have you ever noticed that no matter how hard you try, sin still seems near? Sin arises from within us and from within our own desires (James 1:13-15) so it is never far away.

The very struggle that Paul faced we face. It is the same struggle that new Christians face and it takes time to overcome.

There is Hope

Go back to the Romans passage. After wrestling with his own sin a defects he suddenly declares “There is therefore now no condemnation for those that are in Christ Jesus!” (Romans 8:1). How can that be? How can it be that in spite of bad habits, sin and lurking evil there is no condemnation? It is because we are no longer of the flesh but of the spirit. We walk in Christ and live in him. Our desire is for Christ and our goal is to walk daily worthy of our calling in him (Ephesians 4:1; Colossians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:12).

Rejoice in your salvation and seek each day be transformed more and more into the image of Christ (Romans 12:2).

There is Also Danger

This salvation found in Christ must never be used as an excuse for sin. We must never deliberately sin while counting on the blood of Jesus to save us anyway (1 Peter 2:16).

Remember, the blood of Jesus washes us while we walk in the light. When we step out of the light and live in a worldly, fleshly way, we have no sacrifice on which to depend (1 John 1:6; Hebrews 6:4-6).

As the Christian grows and develops the blood of Jesus will keep right on cleansing him. It may be that the type of sin changes but sin is never far away. Yet, for the one striving to love his Lord and to be obedient to him, there is no condemnation.

Walk in inexpressible joy and never venture from the light!

 

Vine, Branches and Denominations

Church Bulletin, Doctrine, John, ,

Grape_vinesDuring his final days on earth, Jesus declared, “I am the vine, you are the branches” (John 15:5). What does he mean? Some take this verse as an endorsement of denominationalism. They say that Jesus was describing himself as the vine and the various religious denominations as branches from him. If that is true then there must be nothing wrong with dozens of such denominations in every city in the world. But the wise Bible student will inquire deeper and try better to understand what Jesus is saying.

The Immediate Context

We have said often that Scripture must be understood in the context in which it is spoken. One must never pluck a verse from its surroundings and make it say something the Holy Spirit never intended. I fear such has happened with John 15:1-11.

The immediate context shows Jesus was talking about individuals, not churches. The language he uses is specific. In verse 5, the word translated “you” is originally in the second person, plural. Such words refer to people, individuals, to whom the speaker was addressing at the moment. He is addressing a group of people and telling that group that they are the branches. “You” is a pronoun which refers back to the apostles gathered with him for the Last Meal in the Upper Room (John 13:1 ff). Branches are individuals. Branches are people who must remain in Christ for their strength and sustenance. There is no survival outside of Christ for it is his body that is saved (Ephesians 5:23).

We should also note what is missing from the immediate context. There is no mention of a church, no mention of a denomination and no mention at all of any assembly or grouping. To find support for the idea of denominations here one must craft the idea out of a fertile imagination. The immediate context does not support denominationalism.

The Remote Context

Every Bible verse must harmonize with every other verse in Scripture. God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:43). But the Bible argues against division and, thus, against denominationalism. If that is true we have even more evidence against the interpretation of John 15:1 ff as supporting denominations.

Two chapters later Jesus prays for unity among his believers. Jesus prayed, “that they may all be one, just as you father are in me, and I in you…” (John 15:21). His apostle, Paul urged Christians to “maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). He reminded them that there was only “one body” (Ephesians 4:4). He rebuked the Corinthians for incipient denominationalism that was forming in their congregation (1 Corinthians 1:10-17). He reminded them that the many members of the church are in a single body, Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12). This passages harmonizes perfectly with Jesus’ own vine and branches analogy of a single vine (Christ) with many branches (members).  To the Colossians Paul called for “perfect harmony” in “one body” (Colossians 3:13-15).

Given that we Christians are all part of “one body” (Ephesians 5:30), and given that the body is composed of many individuals members, and further given that “perfect harmony” is to exist within that body, can we truly claim that denominationalism is a good thing? Or is it truer to say that denominationalism is wrong, even sinful? Isn’t it true that denominationalism shatters unity and is a horrid expression of the will of Satan and not of God?

Denominational teachings are all over the map. There is no unity within broader Christendom.  Individual denominations teach doctrines that are so opposed to one another that both cannot be correct. Denominationalism is a scourge to be fought and destroyed.

The only answer is a return to God’s Word alone. Let us throw away creeds, statements of faith, confessions, books of discipline, church councils, synods and any device which separates us. We all claim to love and trust the Bible. Let us prove it.

Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.

My Fault? Can’t Be!

Daily living, James, Jesus, Sin, , ,

Financial CrisisThe human condition is frail, weak, wicked, broken. There is no denying that mankind suffers from almost every malady that can be imagined. We’re a sad lot. At some level I suppose there is comfort in knowing that we aren’t that much different from everyone else. In other words, I guess there is comfort in knowing that I’m not the only leper in the colony.

But why am I like this? Why do I suffer and struggle with temptation, sin and condemnation? Is it my fault? Or is there blame to be laid elsewhere? I think we can answer that question by turning to Scripture. James gives no room to the idea that anyone is at fault other than ourselves.

Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.  Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.  Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.  Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of his creatures. (James 1:13-18)

What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?  You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask.  You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.  You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. (James 4:1-4)

In the first passage, James argues that temptation arises not from God but from within each of us. We each have desires or passions which are always working to break into the open. When we fail to control those passions sin emerges and brings eternal death. God is not to be blamed for our lack of control. He continues by noting that “every good gift and every perfect gift comes from God.” The evil is within because of own desires but goodness is from God. He created us to be the best (the first fruits) of all creation.

In the passage from chapter 4 he frankly notes why we struggle. Our passions are the cause. Our desire to bow to our own desires and passions and the desire to feed those passions is the reason for our angst. The inescapable conclusion is that all of the blame lays within me. It is my fault and I cannot blame anyone else.

A man may argue that since God created man, he must have created man with the frailties that drive us to sin. I disagree.

The Bible is clear that God created man (Genesis 1:26). But it is also clear that God created man in a very different state or condition that he is now in. When God had created man he declared that man, and all of creation, was “very good.” (Genesis 1:31). There was no sin in the creation.

God created the very best creation possible. Most would agree that the inclusion of choice in creation was necessary of God was to give us the very best possible world. Otherwise we would simply be a race of automatons who could neither receive nor freely give love. Inherent in that concept is the certainty that man would choose wrongly and, as a result, sin. It is also clear that that sin would require a price be paid. The son of the Creator would come and die for the sins of the creation (Ephesians 1:4; Acts 2:23).

But it must be clear that choice is not sin. God is not responsible in any sense for our failings. Our God is holy and just. He is not the cause of our weaknesses. Could he have made us differently? Sure. But in doing so we would not be human. We would be machines and could not freely give to him the glory, praise and love he so richly deserves.

Our sins are our own fault.

But I’m different! I’m not like you or anyone else for that matter! That’s probably true. Given the myriad traits and characteristics of each person coupled with the unique upbringing and environments in which we are raised it is perfectly reasonable to assert that every person is unique. But should such individuality be used to somehow assign less fault to the individual? No!

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.  (1 Corinthians 10:13)

While we are unique we are precisely alike in that we all suffer from sin. While the names of my sin are probably different from yours, they still separate me from my Creator, Jehovah God (Isaiah 59:2).

The promise remains for all, namely, “temptation he will also provide the way of escape.”  So when we surrender to temptation we do so against the promise. There is always a way of escape – always! It may be hard to see. It may be more costly than we want but it is there and it will always work.

It would be comforting to lay the blame for sin somewhere else – anywhere else – than in our own hearts. But at the end of the day, we are responsible.

The wonderful news is that even in our sin, God loved us and gave us Jesus. We need not be lost nor languish in our sin. Jesus saves!

Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.

The Sermon of Sermons

Jesus, Matthew

Longman MountJesus was beginning to preach and teach. He went to a nearby mountainside and his disciples began to flock after him. Rumors swirled around Jesus. Although he had not said so, many thought him to be the promised deliverer. At the very least, Jesus was a new and fresh Rabbi come to reach his followers. They were eager to hear his message.

The Sermon on the Mount in chapters 5 – 7 of Matthew is the longest sermon recorded in Scripture. It is one of several sermons of Jesus but it is probably the best known. It is a message for the masses. It is an ethical lesson which carries the disciples to a higher plain of conduct. It is a transition from the physical, earthy Law of Moses to a law of the heart.

Jesus begins by reminding his disciples that here are blessings even in struggle. He speaks of the poor in spirit, those who grieve, those who are meek and those who seek righteousness. He speaks to the merciful, the pure, the peacemakers and even those persecuted for their faith. In all of these struggles, there are blessings ahead (Matthew 5:1-11). It is a beautiful reminder for today. The struggles we face are only temporary; they are only here for a few years and then the blessings come. The Jews struggled under a system led by uncaring and selfish priests. Theirs was a law that cared most about the things you did and less about why you did them. These people needed to know something better was coming.

These hearers are the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13) and a light (Matthew 5:14). What they do will impact others. This is the same message for today. You and I are also salt and light in our culture. While it may seem that men are moving farther and farther from God, and they are, you and I are tasked with calling them back. Remember, it takes very little salt to flavor a meal and very little light in a dark room to illuminate stumbling blocks.

The Sermon on the Mount is made up of several short lessons all combined into a wonderful discourse. Jesus speaks of anger, lust, divorce, anxiety, enemies and serving the poor. But notice a phrase that recurs several times: “You have heard it said…but I say… Jesus is not simply repeating things said by Moses or the prophets. He is speaking new truths. At the very end of the sermon Matthew will record that Jesus spoke “as one having authority” (Matthew 7:29). What the people did not understand at the time was that Jesus was gently moving them from Sinai to Calvary.

One cannot but be impressed at the loving message of Jesus. It was no longer acceptable to carry a grudge and be angry. Nor what it acceptable to ignore someone who was angry towards you. Make it right and find peace (Matthew 5:21-25). Jesus rejects hypocritical judgments in Matthew 7:1-5 and lays forth the beautiful Golden Rule of Matthew 7:12.

As he brings the sermon to an end he reminds people that their conduct (fruit) will follow them. Some today talk about “bad karma.”  Jesus said that you will be known by the fruit of your lives. A good man is known by the fruit he leaves behind. Finally, Jesus speaks of coming judgment. About 40 years later Jesus would bring devastating judgment upon Israel. In years ahead, he will bring judgment on the world. Because we have been warned, Jesus call upon us to act wisely and be prepared.

What would the world be like if we applied the teachings of the Sermon today? What of the Golden Rule was the core of our behavior? If we simply accepted the promises of the Beatitudes and applied the teachings from the Mountain we would all be better people. I am thankful for what Jesus said. How about you?

Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.

1 Thessalonians at FHU

1 Thessalonians, Eschatology, , ,

main-adm1 and 2 Thessalonians are the featured books being studied this week at Freed-Hardeman University during the annual Bible Lectureship. Some years ago the lectureship committee decided to work their way through the entire Bible, taking one or two books at a time, until the entire Bible had been systematically studied faces have come and gone from the committee but the goal continues. The theme this year is the “The Patience of Hope: First and Last Things in Thessalonians.”

First Thessalonians was one of the very first New Testament books written. Some think it may have been the first. It is a joyful book in many respects and begins with warm greetings and remembrances from Paul. The apostle preached the Gospel in Thessalonica during his second missionary journey.

Accompanied by Timothy, Silas and probably Luke, Paul preached over three Sabbath days reasoning that Jesus was the Christ (Acts 17:1-4). Opposition from some Jews caused a riot and the brethren in Thessalonica sent the team away (Acts 17:5-10). Paul came next to Berea where he found “more noble” Jews willing to hear and obey the truth of the Scriptures. It is a curiosity that there is no extant copy of any letter to the Bereans but two exist for the Thessalonians. Paul may have felt a greater need to encourage the brethren in Thessalonica because of the hostilities they were likely experiencing.

In any case, Paul begins by telling the brethren that he is “constantly” mentioning them in prayer. He remembers their “work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope” and his thankful to God for their faithfulness. He tells them that their faithfulness is spoken of throughout the world. (1 Thessalonians 1:3-10).

As one might expect, Paul deeply desired to see the brethren again. Travel was difficult and the Holy Spirit had other plans for Paul. But the apostle was still able to send Timothy from Athens to check on the church. He was pleased with the report Timothy brought.

It seems that the key doctrinal issue regarded the return of the Lord. Paul sought to correct misunderstandings and erroneous teachings. Some held that those who died would miss the return of the Lord. Of course such was not the case and Paul it plain that all would take part in the Lord’s return (1 Thessalonians 4:13 ff.

It is from this passage that we are given a wonderful encouragement used at so many funerals:

“But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. “

The idea of having hope where none exists for others is one of the grand attributes of walking in the light of God’s word.

Paul next affirms the truth concerning the actual coming of Jesus. False teaching had been planted and the apostle uses this opportunity to make plain what the Holy Spirit had revealed. Contrary to common end times teaching today, Paul asserts the sudden coming of Christ.  While Christians would not know the precise day or hour of the Lord’s return (c.f. Matthew 24:36), they could live expectantly and prepared. Such is the same for brethren today who ought to look forward to the Lord’s return and their glorification with him.

Paul concludes his letter with a series of brief encouragements to peace and righteousness. His love and confidence in these brethren is well founded and he looks forward to hearing more about their labors.

I wonder what would be the nature of a letter sent by an inspired apostle, to your congregation. Let us strive to be more Thessalonian in our lives!

Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.

The Holy Spirit and Inspiration

2 Timothy, Holy Spirit,

Scripture declares it is inspired.

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17, ESV)

Here, in the English Standard Version (ESV), translators have chosen to interpret the word “inspired,” which is found in older translations, as “breathed out.” This is an appropriate decision as it better reflects the meaning of the word inspired. Today, inspiration is commonly credited for exemplary works of art or for stunning landscapes. Originally however, to be inspired meant to be given divine truth for transmission to mankind. In other words, the Bible writers were to record the words breathed out by God.

We offer the following human definition of Biblical inspiration which might help:

“Biblical inspiration is the transmission of truth from God, to man, through man and for man.”

The words of the Bible are not like the words of any other literature. They are the very thoughts of God as revealed to mankind. Inasmuch as the words of God are truth (John 17:17) we should seek them for the benefit they bring. We should also handle carefully the truth (2 Timothy 2:15) like we would a sharp weapon (Hebrews 4:12, Revelation 1:16, Revelation 2:12).

Inspiration provides for man the only truth needed for his eternal existence. It is complete (Jude 3) and allows a man to become complete before God. The words of the Bible are verified through great signs and wonders performed by God’s approved messengers. Since there are no true miracles occurring today, there is no confirmation of any supposed new or fresh word from God. We now have the truth and it is able to make us complete and to prepare us for every good work.

The Holy Spirit is integral in the work of inspiration. Peter defends the truthfulness of the apostolic message and the inspired word given through the work of the Holy Spirit.

“And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, 20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” (2 Peter 1:19-21)

Here, the unique nature of prophecy, which is a part of Scripture, is affirmed as being beyond mortal abilities. Instead the source of that inspiration is the Holy Spirit. This comports well with Jesus own promise to the apostles to send the Spirit who would then “guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13). Make note that the passage speaks of “all the truth,” not some of it or a portion of it, but all the truth.

The Divine Workman has provided us every scintilla of truth needed for our eternal journey. There is nothing more. Let us give glory to the Spirit who has supplied our need so richly.

Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.

Who are Jannes and Jambres?

2 Timothy, Doctrine, Exodus,

Jannes JambresJannes and Jambres appear only once, by name, in the Bible at 2 Timothy 3:8. While our knowledge is limited there some things that can be known and more importantly, some things that we should learn from them.

Jewish tradition taught that Jannes and Jambres were Pharaoh’s two magicians who stood against Moses in Exodus 7:11 ff. Moses was sent to demand the release of the Hebrews from Egyptian servitude. At the first meeting with Pharaoh Moses demonstrated his own bona fides by casting down his staff which became a snake. Two magicians countered with a trick that appeared equal to what Moses had done. But to the astonishment of all, Moses snake devoured the two belonging to the magicians. Tradition asserts that these two magicians were Jannes and Jambres.

While there is an extensive and often bizarre tradition about these two, there are some things that we can know for certain and most importantly, some things that we can learn from them.

Jannes and Jambres Are Examples of False Teachers

This portion of Scripture, at 2 Timothy 3:1-9, discusses the failing away that occurs in the last days. Paul has previously spoken of this heretical time in 1 Timothy 4:1. Paul talks of the same failing away in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-12. In both cases false teaching will occur. While Paul looks for the coming of the “man of sin” in his Thessalonian letter, he is more general in the letter to Timothy. But false teaching is in the forefront.

Jannes and Jambres are caricatures of the people detailed in the second Timothy letter.

“For men shall be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, haughty, railers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, implacable, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, no lovers of good, traitors, headstrong, puffed up, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God; holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power thereof. From these also turn away” (2 Timothy 3:2-5).

As with all false teachers, these people love themselves more than God, appear righteous but deny the power and glory of the Lord.

Jannes and Jambres Failed Like All False Teachers

Jannes and Jambres gave the appearance of being godly. They opposed Moses and his message of truth. One ancient legion even calls them sons of Baal. They tried to demonstrate their other-worldly power through tricks but ultimately failed (Exodus 8:18-19).

False teachers today sweep millions, even billions, into the fold of deception and trickery. Yet, like these two, they will fail. Sadly, they will take untold souls into a Devil’s hell. Like Simon, their riches will perish with them apart from true repentance.

As Christians, we have the once for all revealed word of God (Jude 3) which sustains and supports all our needs (2 Corinthians 9:8). Through constant examination of the Scriptures (Acts 17:11) we can know the truth (John 8:32) and be prepared to discern truth from fable. As John wrote, let us test the spirits to see if they are from God (1 John 4:1).

 Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.

Who is Simon Magus?

Acts, Doctrine, Holy Spirit, ,

Simon Magus was a magician working among the people of Samaria. We meet Simon in Acts 8 as one of the converts to Jesus through the preaching of Stephan. We usually speak of Simon the sorcerer or Simon the magician. “Magus” means magician and is commonly added to his name to differentiate him from others named Simon.In any case, there are some important lessons from Simon’s brief New Testament appearance.

Simon Magus Background

We know nothing Biblically about his background except that he lived in Samaria. He was obviously an accomplished trickster who profited from his works of magic or sorcery. He claimed notoriety because of his power and was thought to draw his power from God. Simon made no attempt to prevent their accolades and enjoyed his position of prestige among the people (Acts 8:9-11).

Simon was in Samaria when Philip began preaching Jesus there. Samaria was one of the places the new Christians fled after the persecution began in Jerusalem. The crowds in Samaria listened carefully to the preaching of Philip, took note of the confirming miracles and responded in great numbers.

Philip was one of the deacons appointed in Acts 6 and was full of the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:3, 5). As part of his commission the apostles in Jerusalem “laid their hands on them” (Acts 6:6) and empowered him with the ability to work miracles. This ability confirmed to the people, including Simon, that Philip’s words were true and from God. The people responded to the “great miracles” (Acts 8:13) and many became believers in Jesus Christ including Simon.

Simon Magus Rebuked

There is nothing in the Bible to question Simon’s initial conversion. Nor is there any indication as to how long it took before the apostles came from Jerusalem. But once the apostles arrived, Simon’s heart fell back into his old ways.

The apostles came from Jerusalem in order to impart the miraculous gifts of the Spirit to the people in Samaria. The reader will observe that Philip, already in Samaria and preaching, could himself perform miracles (Acts 8:5-8, 13). Recall that the apostles had already laid hands on Philip (Acts 6:6). The presence of the apostles in Samaria was to lay hands on the people there who were Christians but did not have the ability to perform miracles.

Simon’s old ways returned. He calculated that if he could buy the ability to lay hands on people and give them the miraculous gift of the Holy Spirit he could profit greatly. Notice what the inspired text says,

“Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit” (Acts 8:18-19, emphasis mine).

Simon was sternly rebuked by Peter, confessed his weakness and asked Peter and John to pray for him and seek the Lord’s forgiveness. Simon then fades into the crowds of believers and we never hear from him again.((There are non-Biblical legends that persist about Simon and charge him with being the leader of a pagan syncretic group known as the Simonians. However the Bible make no such mention.))

Simon Magus and Miracles

The story of Simon teaches an important lesson regarding miracles. The only people who could perform miracles were the apostles and those to whom the apostles gave that power. No one else could pass along that power. The implications are important.

John was the final apostle to die, likely near the end of the 1st century or around 100 AD. When he died, the ability to pass along miracle-working abilities died with him. Therefore, there was no source left for the power. Those who claim the ability today to perform miracles find themselves in Simon’s camp and not that of the apostles.

We understand, and the apostles and inspired writers confirm, miracles were never intended to be a permanent party of the Christian life (1 Corinthians 13:8-13). Miracles confirmed the new word and new teachings being proclaimed of the risen savior. Once confirmed, the miracles were no longer needed.

Simon certainly teaches us of the need to completely change our lives and root out any vestige of sin. But it also teaches plainly that the ability to perform miracles was linked to living apostles. Let us not be fooled by supposed healers and miracle workers today.

 

Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.

True Miracles

Acts, Doctrine, John

To hear some people tell it, miracles are everywhere today. Any strange event, any unexpected healing and even an odd shaped cloud or spectacular sunset is called a miracle.

I beg to differ.

God works in our lives in amazing ways. But let us understand that any modern day miracle must be judged against the standard of the Bible. Does a supposed miracle today compare equally with a miracle in New Testament times? I doubt it. Let’s consider what the Bible reveals about miracles and then apply that knowledge to our present world.

True Miracles Require Pre-Miraculous Confirmation

 

Witnesses must confirm a need for a miracle. It seems obvious but often we simply accept the reality of some private miracle without question. Miracles are not secretive. They are obvious.

Jesus probably gives the best example of a pre-miracle confirmation when he travels to Bethany to raise Lazarus from the dead. The report is in John 11:1-44. For our discussion, there are two important verses in the story.

So, when he heard that Lazarus was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was. (vs. 6)

and

Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, “Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for he has been dead four days” (vs. 39).

Jesus confirms the death of Lazarus by delaying his departure for Bethany. Martha further confirms the death of Lazarus by telling us that he had been dead four days and warning that the stench of decay would already have been present. Together, these two passages, plus the public nature of his death and burial (vs. 19), confirms that Lazarus was, in fact dead.

Luke gives another example in Acts 3:1-10

And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple. (vs.2)

Here, Luke tells us two important facts about the man before Peter heals him. He has been lame since birth and he was seen at the gate of the Temple daily. There was no question that this man was lame and in need of a miracle.

Anyone who claims a miracle today must provide unquestioned proof a miracle is needed. Making such a claim after the fact and without confirmation is not acceptable.

True Miracles Require Post-Miracle Confirmation

 

Witnesses must confirm that an actual miracle has occurred. The two cases above confirm that an actual miracle occurred.

Jesus raised Lazarus in public and people present witnessed the resurrected Lazarus.

So they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me.  I knew that you always hear me, but I said this on account of the people standing around, that they may believe that you sent me.”  When he had said these things, he cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out.”  The man who had died came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go” Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what he did, believed in him” (John 11:41-45).

The claim is buttressed by the chief priests and Pharisees who said,

What are we to do? For this man performs many signs.  If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation” (vs. 47-48).

There was no question that Lazarus was raised from the dead.

Confirmation of Peter’s miracle is just as strong.

And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong.  And leaping up he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God.  And all the people saw him walking and praising God, and recognized him as the one who sat at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, asking for alms. (Acts 3:7-10)

Like Jesus before, the confirmation of the miracle is supported by the words of the Sanhedrin Council,

But seeing the man who was healed standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition (Acts 4:14),

and,

What shall we do with these men? For that a notable sign has been performed through them is evident to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. (vs. 16)

The great miracle of Jesus’ own resurrection is confirmed by Paul in a similar way in 1 Corinthians 15:

and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me (1 Corinthians 15:5-8).

One who claims a miracle must be able to confirm that miracle.

True Miracles Cannot Be Explained

 

Many astonishing things happen in our world every day. Cherubic little babies are born hourly. Lofty clouds form themselves into clearly defined shapes. People walk away from horrid automobile crashes with barely a scratch. Terribly ill patients recover from frightful illnesses. All of these things happen constantly. I and most Christians see God in these things. But it is also true that the secular man, the skeptic, the atheist, sees science at work and quickly explains the events as the normal, predictable outcome of biology, meteorology, physics and medicine.

What sets the true, Biblical miracle apart from these daily happenings is its unexplainable nature.

In John 11:44 there was no reasonable explanation for Lazarus resurrection. It could not be explained (John 11:47-48). Skeptics today cannot assault the miracle. They are only left with futile attacks on the text itself.

In Acts 3:7, that miracle was also unexplainable (Acts 4:16). Today, some medical doctors specialize in helping people walk again. But no surgeon, no therapist, has ever been able to suddenly heal a lifelong disabled man by words only. No one can explain the miracle.

Like so many words, “miracle” is thrown around so easily. When we use the word, let us speak like the Bible. To do otherwise cheapens the true miracles of the Bible.

God works in our world today. He is alive and cares for his people. But there is no evidence that he sets aside his natural laws. Instead he works through them to bring good to those who love him.

Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.