Acts 18: When Others Reject The Gospel

Finding Peace When Others Reject the Gospel

Have you ever tried to share your faith with someone who just wasn't interested? Perhaps you've experienced the heartbreak of watching a loved one reject the message of Jesus despite your best efforts. This painful situation raises an important question: When should we continue sharing, and when should we walk away?

When Sharing the Gospel Becomes Difficult

In Acts 18, we find the Apostle Paul facing this exact dilemma. After arriving in Corinth and working as a tentmaker with Aquila and Priscilla, Paul began devoting himself fully to preaching when Silas and Timothy arrived from Macedonia.

"When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah. But when they opposed Paul, they became abusive. He shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, 'Your blood be on your own heads. I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.'" (Acts 18:5-6)

This moment represents a turning point. Paul had been faithfully sharing the gospel with his fellow Jews, using Scripture to show how Jesus fulfilled the prophecies about the Messiah. He pointed to approximately 300 different Old Testament passages that pointed to Jesus, including:

1. Jesus being a descendant of King David (2 Samuel)

2. Coming from the tribe of Judah (Genesis)

3. Arriving before the second destruction of the temple (Daniel)

4. His suffering, death, and resurrection (Isaiah)

Despite this evidence, many rejected his message and became hostile toward him.

Why Do We Keep Trying When People Reject the Gospel?

What drives us to continue sharing our faith even when faced with rejection? For Paul, there were several motivations:

1. A Sense of Responsibility

In Ezekiel 33:8-9, God says:

"When I say to the wicked, 'You wicked person, you will surely die,' and you do not speak to dissuade them from their ways, that wicked person will die for their sin, but I will hold you accountable for their blood. But if you do warn the wicked person to turn from their ways and they do not do so, they will die for their sin, though you yourself will be saved."

Paul felt this responsibility deeply. He knew the truth about salvation through Jesus and couldn't bear the thought of people perishing without hearing it.

2. Love for His People

Romans 10:1 reveals Paul's heart: "Brothers and sisters, my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved."

Like Jesus who wept over Jerusalem (Matthew 23:37), Paul had a deep love for his fellow Jews. This love drove him to continue sharing despite the risk of rejection and even physical harm.

When Is It Time to Walk Away?

Looking at Paul's pattern throughout Acts, we find that his decision to move on wasn't based on a specific timeframe but on the condition of people's hearts.

In Acts 19:8-9, we see this pattern clearly: "Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them."

The turning point came when people:

1. Became obstinate in their hearts

2. Refused to believe

3. Publicly maligned the gospel

When hearts hardened to this degree, Paul would redirect his efforts toward those who were more receptive.

The Wisdom of Protecting What Is Sacred

Jesus taught in Matthew 7:6, "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces."

This isn't about labeling people as animals but about protecting what is precious. Just as you wouldn't give something valuable to someone who doesn't recognize its worth, there comes a point when continuing to share the gospel with someone who consistently rejects and disrespects it becomes unwise.

The gospel is precious—it's the most beautiful message we have to share. When someone repeatedly treats it with contempt, it may be time to direct our efforts elsewhere.

What Happens When We Redirect Our Efforts?

Interestingly, whenever Paul redirected his efforts, revival followed:

"Then Paul left the synagogue and went next door to the house of Titius Justus, a worshiper of God. Crispus, the synagogue leader, and his entire household believed in the Lord; and many of the Corinthians who heard Paul believed and were baptized." (Acts 18:7-8)

By focusing on those whose hearts were open, Paul saw tremendous fruit. In Ephesus, his redirection led to a two-year ministry where "all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord" (Acts 19:10).

How Should We Approach Those Who Reject the Gospel?

1. Never give up hope - We continue to believe God can do anything, including softening the hardest heart.

2. Don't push them away - Maintain loving relationships even when they reject your message.

3. Don't judge them - Remember Jesus' warning about judging others.

4. Don't become "the ugly Christian" - Treat people with respect and love, even when they disagree.

5. Recognize you're not their savior - Only Jesus can save them; you're just the messenger.

6. Trust God's timing - Everyone's journey to faith is different.

Life Application

This week, I challenge you to:

1. Evaluate your approach: Are you continuing to push the gospel on someone who has clearly shown they're not receptive? Consider whether it might be time to step back while maintaining a loving relationship.

2. Look for open doors: Who in your life might be more receptive to hearing about Jesus? Instead of focusing all your energy on those who reject your message, redirect some effort toward those who might be waiting for someone to share with them.

3. Pray for wisdom: Ask God to show you when to speak and when to be silent, when to persist and when to redirect.

4. Trust God with your loved ones: If you have family members who reject the gospel, release the burden of being their savior. Continue to love them, pray for them, and trust that Jesus is still knocking on their door.

Ask yourself:

1. Am I treating the gospel as something precious when I share it?

2. Have I been trying to be someone's savior instead of trusting God with their salvation?

3. Who in my life might be more receptive to hearing about Jesus that I've been overlooking

4. How can I maintain loving relationships with those who reject my message?

Remember, we never give up on people because we never stop believing that God can do anything. But sometimes, the most loving thing we can do is to respect their choice while continuing to pray that God will work in their hearts in His perfect timing.

2nd Thessalonians 3: True Peace in a Chaotic World

Finding True Peace in a Chaotic World: Lessons from 2 Thessalonians

Have you ever experienced a moment of perfect peace? Perhaps you were on vacation, lying in a hammock, or simply waking up one morning feeling that all was right with the world. These moments can be precious but fleeting. What if there was a way to experience peace that transcends circumstances—a peace that remains even when life gets difficult?

What is Biblical Peace?

In 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18, the Apostle Paul concludes his letter with these powerful words:

"Now may the Lord of Peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand, which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters. This is how I write. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all."

This wasn't just a casual sign-off. Paul was writing to a church experiencing persecution and confusion. They were hurting and needed reassurance. His prayer for them reveals something profound about peace it's not just the absence of trouble but something deeper and more lasting.

Why Does Paul Keep Mentioning "Grace and Peace"?

If you've read Paul's letters, you've likely noticed how frequently he mentions "grace and peace." This pairing appears at the beginning or end (sometimes both) of nearly all his letters. Peter and John use similar greetings in their writings as well.

When something appears repeatedly in Scripture, it signals importance. But why these two concepts specifically?

The Ancient Blessing Behind Paul's Words

To understand Paul's emphasis on peace, we need to look at his Jewish upbringing. Throughout his childhood and into adulthood, Paul would have regularly heard the priestly blessing from Numbers 6:22-26:

"The Lord bless you and keep you;

The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;

The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace."

This blessing was spoken over the Israelites at religious festivals, during sacrifices, and at significant life moments. It was deeply embedded in Jewish culture and continues to be used in Jewish services today.

The blessing contains three mentions of God's name (Jehovah/Yahweh), emphasizing that only God can truly provide blessing, grace, and peace. This repetition communicates an essential truth: these gifts come exclusively from God, not from other sources.

What Does Biblical Peace Really Mean?

In our American culture, we often think of peace as a feeling—the absence of anxiety or conflict. But the Hebrew concept of peace (shalom) is much richer. It's not primarily about emotions but about wholeness, completeness, and fulfillment.

When God gives peace, He's not just calming our emotions temporarily; He's making us whole. He's addressing our deepest need—to be right with Him. This peace is part of our identity in Christ, not just a fleeting emotional state.

The Difference Between Old Testament and New Testament Peace

Under the Old Testament law, the blessing of peace was conditional. Deuteronomy 11:26-28 makes this clear:

"See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse—the blessing if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today; the curse if you disobey the commands of the Lord your God and turn from the way that I command you today by following other gods, which you have not known."

The peace offered through the law could be lost through disobedience. But through Christ, something revolutionary happened. Romans 5:1 tells us:

"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."

Through faith in Jesus, we receive a peace that isn't dependent on our perfect obedience. It's secured by Christ's perfect sacrifice. This is why Paul calls Jesus "the Lord of Peace"—because only through Him can we find true, lasting peace with God.

What Steals Our Peace?

If this peace is available to us, why do we struggle to experience it? Several things can rob us of peace:

1. Unresolved sin - Sin creates distance between us and God. Bringing our sin to the cross is the only way to find peace.

2. Worldly distractions - Pursuing wealth, power, or pleasure as substitutes for peace only leaves us emptier.

3. Self-reliance - The message that "you can handle anything on your own" isolates us from God and others.

4. Worry and fear - Anxiety steals peace, but prayer restores it (Philippians 4:4-7).

5. Counterfeit community - Social media and superficial connections can't replace authentic relationships in Christ.

How Do We Find True Peace?

True peace begins with peace with God through Jesus Christ. When we understand that the greatest problem in our lives—our separation from God—has been solved through Christ's death and resurrection, we can experience peace regardless of our circumstances.

This doesn't mean we'll never face difficulties or emotional turmoil. But it does mean we have an anchor for our souls—a relationship with the Lord of Peace himself who promises to be with us always.

Life Application

This week, I challenge you to pursue true peace by:

1. Identifying your peace stealers - What specific things distract you from experiencing God's peace? Is it unresolved sin, worldly distractions, self-reliance, worry, or counterfeit community?

2. Surrendering them to Jesus - Take these peace stealers to the cross. Confess them, release them, and receive God's grace.

3. Remembering your identity - Peace isn't primarily a feeling; it's knowing who you are in Christ—complete, forgiven, and loved.

4. Practicing God's presence - Set aside time each day to be still before God, remembering that He is with you and for you.

Ask yourself:

1. Where am I seeking peace apart from Christ?

2. What worries am I holding onto instead of surrendering to God?

3. How might my life look different if I truly believed that the Lord of Peace wants to give me peace at all times and in every way?

Remember, peace isn't the absence of trouble—it's the presence of Christ in the midst of whatever you face. May the Lord of Peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

2 Thessalonians 3: A Difficult But Healthy Boundry

When Church Discipline Becomes Necessary: Protecting the Fellowship of Believers

The church is meant to be a place of joy, peace, and love—a community where people can experience the transformative power of Christ. But what happens when someone within that community becomes disruptive or refuses to turn from harmful behaviors? While it's uncomfortable to discuss, the Bible provides clear guidance on how to handle these situations.

What Does the Bible Say About Church Discipline?

In 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15, Paul gives specific instructions: "Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them in order that they may feel ashamed. Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer."

This passage isn't about shaming people and walking away. It's about creating temporary distance with a purpose—helping the person recognize their behavior and return to healthy fellowship.

Who Is Paul Talking About?

Earlier in 2 Thessalonians 3:6, Paul clarifies: "In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching you receive from us."

He further explains in verse 11: "We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies."

Paul is addressing believers who are:

1. Deliberately disruptive

2. Rebellious against authority

3. Making mountains out of molehills

4. Constantly getting into others' business

What's the Purpose of Church Discipline?

The goal isn't punishment—it's restoration. When someone experiences separation from the fellowship of believers, they often begin to miss what makes church special: the community, encouragement, and support.

Think of it like a young man returning from a wonderful week at Christian camp. At camp, he experienced joy, peace, and encouragement. Going back to environments where people tear each other down made him realize how special the Christian community was.

Church discipline works on this principle. When someone is temporarily separated from fellowship, they may realize what they're missing and choose to return.

How Should We Approach Someone in Sin?

Jesus gave us a clear process in Matthew 18:15-17:

1. Go to them privately first: "If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you."

2. If they won't listen, bring one or two others: "Take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'"

3. If they still refuse, involve church leadership: "Tell it to the church."

4. As a last resort, treat them differently: "If they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector."

What's the Right Attitude When Confronting Sin?

Galatians 6:1-5 provides important guidance:

"Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

This passage teaches us to:

1. Restore gently, not harshly

2. Be careful not to fall into sin ourselves

3. Help carry burdens, but recognize each person must ultimately take responsibility

Why Is This So Important for Church Health?

Think of it like gravity. It's always easier to pull someone down than to lift someone up. When we allow disruptive or sinful behavior to continue unchecked in our church community, it can gradually pull others down too.

Consider the story of "Glenn"—a once-encouraging, positive church member who began associating with someone negative and critical. Over time, Glenn's own attitude soured. He stopped being the welcoming, encouraging presence he once was. By the time he passed away, many felt they had "lost Glenn" years before his actual death.

Had the church practiced proper discipline earlier, perhaps Glenn could have been restored to his former self, and the church could have avoided losing several families due to the negativity that spread.

Life Application

This week, consider these challenging questions:

1. Is there someone in your life who needs to be gently confronted about behavior that's harmful to themselves or the church community?

2. Conversely, is there an area in your own life where you need correction? Would you receive it humbly if someone approached you?

3. How can you help create a church atmosphere that feels like "heaven on earth"—a place of such joy, peace, and love that visitors say, "If this is what heaven will be like, I can't wait"?

Remember, church discipline isn't about judgment or superiority—it's about protecting the beautiful fellowship of believers that makes church a place where people can experience Christ's love. Sometimes the most loving thing we can do is to draw boundaries that protect both the individual and the community.

The goal is always restoration. As Paul reminds us, even when we must distance ourselves from someone, we should "not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer."

2nd Thessalonians 3: Work as Worship

Finding Purpose in Our Daily Work:

Have you ever had that Sunday night feeling where you're dreading Monday morning? That sinking sensation when you realize the weekend is over and you have to face another week of work that feels more like punishment than purpose? We might think that’s just part of being an adult - that work is something we endure rather than embrace.

But in 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, we discovered something that reframes how we think about work, responsibility, and what it means to live faithfully in the everyday moments of life.

Learning from an example

On Father’s day, we reflect on the fact that some of the most powerful teaching doesn't happen through perfect presentations or flawless theology. It happens through modeling - through actually living out what we claim to believe so others can see it in action.

That's exactly what Paul was doing with the Thessalonian church. He didn't just lecture them about work ethic; he pointed to his own life and said, "Look at how I lived when I was with you. Learn from my example."

Last week, we were reminded to pray for our leaders (you’ve been praying, right?). This week, Paul flips the script: while ministry leaders need prayer, you have work to do too. Not just jobs — but God-honoring, community-building, sometimes exhausting work, just as he modeled for us.

When Good Intentions Go Wrong

The situation in Thessalonica wasn't about lazy people avoiding responsibility. It was far more complex. Some believers had become convinced that Jesus was returning so soon that there was no point in working anymore. They quit their jobs, stopped paying bills, and went door-to-door telling everyone else to do the same - all while expecting the church to support them financially.

Paul uses a military term - ataktoi - to describe these people. Picture soldiers marching in formation, and then imagine one soldier who refuses to keep step, breaks rank, and won't follow orders. These weren't just idle; they were actively disrupting the entire community.

This hits close to home for anyone who's been part of a team where one person's lack of contribution forces everyone else to pick up the slack. Eventually, motivation tanks, resentment builds, and the whole system breaks down.

Rediscovering Work as Worship

Here's where Paul takes us back to the beginning - literally. Work isn't a result of the fall or a necessary evil we endure. Genesis 2:15 tells us that even in paradise, before sin entered the world, God put Adam in the garden "to work it and take care of it."

Work was part of perfection. We were created in God's image, and since God himself is described as a worker ("My Father is always at his work to this very day" - John 5:17), our labor becomes a way of reflecting his character to the world.

The wisdom literature reinforces this beautifully. Proverbs points us to the ant who "has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest." The ant works because that's what ants do - it's part of their design, their purpose.

The Grace Behind the Grind

After all this talk about faithful work, Paul reminds us of something crucial from Ephesians: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."

We don't work to earn God's favor. We work because we've already received it. We are God's "workmanship" - his masterpiece, his artwork, his intentional creation. And part of the design he's written into our lives is meaningful work that reflects his image.

Living the Example

Our work matters not just for this life, but for eternity. We're not just putting in time until we die or Jesus comes back - we're participating in God's ongoing work in the world. Are we modeling that hard work is blessing, or a burden? Are we examples for others that work is an opportunity for us to worship? It’s often hard to maintain this mindset, which is exactly why Paul encourages us “Never tire of doing what is good”

Life Application

This week challenge yourself to examine your relationship with work:

1) Reframe your Monday morning. Instead of dreading the start of the work week, see it as an opportunity to reflect God's character through faithful labor.

2) Consider your example. Whether you're in an office, at home with children, serving in ministry, or anywhere else - others are watching how you approach your responsibilities. What are they learning?

3) Find the eternal in the ordinary. Every honest day's labor, every act of service, every faithful choice to do the right thing when no one is watching - it all matters. It's all part of God's bigger story of redemption and restoration.

4) Remember whose you are. You're not working to earn God's love; you're working because you've already received it. You are his masterpiece, created for good works that he prepared in advance for you to do.

Your work - whatever it is - matters to God. And that makes all the difference in how we approach our Monday mornings.

2nd Thessalonians 2: The Enemies Lie

Standing Firm Against Deception: Recognizing the Enemy's Lies

In a world filled with deception, how can we stand firm in our faith? The enemy is constantly working to pull us away from Christ with the same old lie he's been using since the Garden of Eden. Understanding this deception is crucial for every believer who wants to remain steadfast in their faith.

What is the greatest deception we face as Christians?

Paul warns in 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 about "the coming of the lawless one" who "will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders that serve the lie." This isn't just any lie—it's "the lie" that Satan has been telling since the beginning.

The enemy's deception is powerful. Jesus Himself warned in Matthew 24:24 that "false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect." This should give us pause. The deception will be so convincing that even devoted followers of Christ could potentially be led astray.

What is "the lie" that Satan tells?

When we examine Scripture, we see a consistent pattern in Satan's deception. From the Garden of Eden to Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, the enemy's core lie remains the same:

You can get what you want without God.

In Genesis, Satan told Eve she could gain wisdom without following God's instructions. To Jesus, he offered kingship without the cross. The lie always suggests there's a shortcut to what we desire—a way to achieve it without submitting to God's way.

This lie manifests in our lives when we think:

1. "I can find happiness my own way"

2. "I don't need to follow God's design for relationships"

3. "I can create my own purpose and meaning"

4. "I can achieve financial security through my own means"

How does God respond to those who believe the lie?

In 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12, Paul writes something troubling: "For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness."

This doesn't mean God actively deceives people. Rather, as Romans 1:28 explains, God "gives them over" to their chosen path. Like the father of the prodigal son who allowed his son to leave with his inheritance, God sometimes lets people experience the full consequences of rejecting Him.

God doesn't force Himself on anyone. He respects our free will, even when we use it to walk away from Him. But the door to return is always open through Jesus Christ, who is "pleased to give life to all who seek him" (John 5:21).

How can we stand firm against deception?

Paul gives clear instructions in 2 Thessalonians 2:13-15 on how to stand firm:

1. Remember you are loved by God - You are "loved by the Lord" and "chosen" by Him

2. Believe in the truth - The gospel is the truth that saves us

3. Hold fast to sound teaching - Cling to what you've been taught from God's Word

Those who are truly founded on Christ don't need new revelations or miraculous signs to validate their faith. They've already found everything they need in Jesus. When someone claims to have discovered a new truth or a different path, believers who are firmly rooted in Christ recognize that nothing needs to be added to what they already have in Him.

Why is Jesus the answer to every deception?

Jesus is "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). When we make Him the center of our lives, everything else comes into focus:

1. Want better relationships? Jesus teaches us how to love unconditionally.

2. Worried about your future? Jesus shows us how to prioritize and trust God.

3. Seeking purpose? Jesus gives our lives eternal significance.

Whatever you're looking for in life, start with Christ, and everything will come into proper perspective. The enemy will always try to convince you that you can find what you want apart from God, but it's the same old lie from the same old liar.

Life Application

The storms of life will come to everyone. We're either currently in a storm or preparing for the next one. How we live between storms determines how we'll stand when they arrive.

This week, examine your life for areas where you might be believing "the lie" that you can get what you want without following God's way:

1. What do you want most in life right now? Is it happiness, good relationships, financial stability, or purpose?

2. How are you trying to achieve it? Are you following God's instructions or looking for shortcuts?

3. Where do you turn for answers? When facing difficult questions, do you look to God's Word first, or do you seek worldly wisdom?

4. Are you delighting in things that don't honor God? Even "small" compromises can open the door to deception.

Make Jesus your firm foundation by spending time in His Word daily, surrounding yourself with believers who will speak truth into your life, and bringing your sin into the light through confession and accountability.

Remember: Everything you could possibly want, dream for, or imagine has already been given to you if you're in Christ Jesus. Stand firm on this truth, and no deception will be able to shake you.

2nd Thessalonians 2: The Man of Lawlessness

The Perfect Hope: Understanding the End Times and the Man of Lawlessnes

In times of difficulty and pain, believers have one perfect hope that can never be taken away - Jesus is coming back. This hope changes everything about how we handle life's challenges, relationships, and our future pursuits.

Why Are We Fascinated with End Times?

When we talk about the end times (or "apocalyptic eschatology" as scholars call it), there are two main reasons we're drawn to this topic:

1. The future bothers us - we don't like not having control or knowledge of what's coming

2. We enjoy puzzles - we like making sense of the world around us

The Bible gives us puzzle pieces about the end times scattered throughout Scripture - in Daniel, Ezekiel, Jesus' teachings, Paul's letters, and of course, Revelation. But we must be careful how we approach these passages.

What Does Paul Say About the End Times?

In 2 Thessalonians 2, Paul addresses a church that was being persecuted and had become confused. Some were claiming that "the day of the Lord" had already come, leaving the believers feeling abandoned and hopeless.

Paul writes to correct this misunderstanding, saying:

"Don't let anyone deceive you in any way. For that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed for destruction. He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God's temple, proclaiming himself as God."

Paul goes on to describe how this "lawless one" will perform signs and wonders through Satan's power to deceive those who are perishing.

Who Is the Man of Lawlessness?

There are several theories about who this "man of lawlessness" might be:

Theory 1: Roman Emperors

Some scholars believe Paul was warning about Roman emperors who would soon persecute Christians. Emperors like Domitian (AD 81-96) and Decian (AD 250) forced people to worship them as gods, killing those who refused. These emperors set themselves up as divine and required sacrifices in their name.

Theory 2: The Antichrist

The most popular theory is that the man of lawlessness refers to the Antichrist - the final enemy who will appear before Christ's return. However, it's interesting to note that the word "Antichrist" never appears in Revelation. In 1 John 2:18, John writes that "many antichrists have come," suggesting this isn't just one future figure.

Theory 3: Satan Himself

Some interpretations of the Greek text suggest Paul might be referring to Satan himself as the man of lawlessness.

What Matters Most About End Times Prophecy?

While these theories are interesting, there's one piece of the puzzle that matters far more than identifying the man of lawlessness - your own relationship with Jesus Christ.

Perhaps God intentionally didn't give us all the puzzle pieces so that we would keep looking toward the end with anticipation, desire, and hope. When we think we've "solved" the end times puzzle, we risk becoming complacent.

Jesus warned that He would come "like a thief in the night" when people are saying "peace and safety." The point isn't to figure out exactly who every prophetic figure is, but to live with readiness for Christ's return.

Life Application

How should we respond to these teachings about the end times?

1. Stay vigilant - Don't be caught sleeping or unprepared when Christ returns

2. Share your faith - Don't wait for some political figure to emerge before telling others about Jesus

3. Deal with sin now - Don't put off addressing sin in your life thinking you have plenty of time

4. Live with urgency - What would it look like if you lived each day as if it were your last?

Questions to Consider:

1. If Jesus returned tomorrow, would you be ready? Would your loved ones?

2. Are you allowing the hope of Christ's return to change how you live today?

3. What "puzzle pieces" about the future are you trying to control instead of trusting God with

4. How can you maintain a sense of urgency about sharing your faith without becoming anxious?

The end times aren't meant to confuse or divide us, but to encourage us to continue faithfully in Christ and challenge us out of spiritual idleness. Keep your eyes on the skies - Jesus could return at any moment!

2nd Thessalonians: 1: 5-12

Understanding God's Justice and the Coming Fire

When we think about Jesus, we often picture the gentle shepherd, the sacrificial lamb, or the one who welcomes the weary and heavy-laden. But there's another aspect of Jesus that can be challenging to reconcile - the Jesus who will return "in blazing fire with his powerful angels" as described in 2 Thessalonians.

This image of Jesus returning with fire can be uncomfortable, even a stumbling block for some. But understanding this aspect of God's character is essential to grasping the fullness of who He is and what He has called us to do.

What does it mean that God is just?

Paul begins his encouragement to the suffering Thessalonian church with three powerful words: "God is just." This statement forms the foundation for everything that follows.

Justice is an essential attribute of God's character. Without justice, His grace wouldn't make sense. We long for justice in our world - for wrongs to be made right and for evil to be held accountable. As Colossians 3:25 reminds us, "Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, for there is no favoritism."

But God's justice isn't only about punishment. It also includes reward: "Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only me, but also to those who have longed for his appearance" (2 Timothy 4:8).

Why is God the only one worthy to judge?

We must humbly acknowledge our limitations when it comes to judgment:

1. We have limited perspective and experience

2. Our judgment is broken by sin

3. Our memories are imperfect and self-serving

4. We cannot see the motives of others' hearts

Only God can see the complete picture. As 1 Corinthians 4:5 says, "He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart."

God exists outside of time - He sees our lives completely, knowing not just our actions but our thoughts and motives. There is no one more qualified to judge fairly than our Father in heaven.

What does the "blazing fire" of Jesus' return represent?

When Paul describes Jesus returning "in blazing fire," he's drawing on imagery from the Old Testament. In Deuteronomy 4:24, God is described as "a consuming fire, a jealous God."

This fire represents several things:

1. God's jealousy for His people - He desires relationship with us and wants to protect us from false idols that cannot satisfy

2. The consuming of wickedness - Isaiah 9:18 describes how "wickedness burns like a fire" that consumes and destroys

3. The final end of sin and death - Just as firefighters sometimes use controlled burns to stop a wildfire, Jesus will use His fire to finally end all sin and destruction

The fire isn't primarily about God's anger toward people but about His determination to end the destruction that sin has brought into the world.

What happens to those who reject God?

Those who reject God's offer of salvation through Jesus will ultimately get what they've chosen - separation from God. As Paul writes, they "will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord."

This isn't God being vindictive. Rather, it's the natural consequence of rejecting relationship with Him. If someone doesn't want God as their king in this life, being forced to follow Him in eternity wouldn't be heaven for them - it would be hell.

The most terrifying aspect of hell isn't that God throws "matches" in, but that He removes His protective presence, allowing sin to fully consume those who have embraced it. As Isaiah describes, "people will be fuel for the fire... they will not spare one another."

Why did Paul share this difficult message?

Paul didn't write about Jesus' fiery return to scare people into following God. He wrote to:

1. Encourage the suffering church - assuring them that God sees their pain and will bring justice

2. Remind believers of the urgency of their mission - knowing Jesus will return should motivate us to share His love

3. Challenge Christians to live worthy of their calling - doing good deeds that glorify Christ

In 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12, Paul prays that God would "make you worthy of his calling" and "bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith... so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you."

Life Application

The reality of Jesus' return should transform how we live today. Here are some questions to consider:

1. Who is on your heart? If Jesus returned today, who would you be concerned about? Who in your life needs to experience God's grace through you?

2. How are you showing God's character to others? Are you demonstrating both His justice and His grace in how you treat people?

3. What "fires" are you starting? Even small sins like gossip, lying, or selfishness can cause destruction. Are you allowing Jesus to take these matches out of your hands?

4. Are you living worthy of God's calling? Are you doing good deeds that point others to Christ?

This week, be intentional about showing God's love to someone who needs to see it. You don't need to preach "fire and brimstone" - simply demonstrate kindness, peace, gentleness, and love. Let them see Christ in you.

Remember, we have been given time - don't waste it. Seek and save the lost, knowing that one day Jesus will return to make all things right.

What's The Forcast? 1st Thessalonians 5:1-11

Living in Light of Christ's Return: Understanding the Spiritual Forecast

Just as weather forecasts guide our daily plans, spiritual forecasts should direct our lives as Christians. The Apostle Paul provided the Thessalonians with a clear spiritual forecast to guide both their individual lives and the church community.

What is the Ultimate Spiritual Forecast?

The fundamental truth is clear: Jesus will return. While no one knows the exact time, this return will be sudden and unexpected, like a thief in the night. For believers, this will be a day of great excitement, but for those who haven't accepted Christ, it will be a day of dread.

How Should Christians Live While Waiting?

Paul outlines several key characteristics of those who live in anticipation of Christ's return:

Children of Light

- We belong to the day, not darkness

- We should be spiritually awake and alert

- We must maintain clear-mindedness and self-control

Spiritual Armor

- Wear the breastplate of faith and love

- Put on the helmet of salvation

- Stay protected against doubt and worldly influences

What Does it Mean to Live Expectantly?

Living expectantly means:

1. Maintaining eternal values

2. Staying spiritually alert

3. Building up fellow believers

4. Reaching out to those who don't know Christ

How Can We Make a Difference?

The most effective way to impact our world is through Jesus' method: one person at a time. This means:

1. Identifying one person who needs Christ

2. Building meaningful relationships

3. Sharing the hope of salvation

4. Staying committed to bringing others into God's light

Life Application

This week's challenge: Identify one specific person in your life who needs to know Christ. Commit to reaching out to them and sharing God's love in a meaningful way.

Ask yourself:

1. Who is the one person God is placing on my heart to reach?

2. Am I living as a child of light in ways that reflect Christ to others?

3. How can I better prepare myself for Christ's return while helping others do the same?

Remember, we were created for an eternal relationship with God. Just as a guitar needs proper tuning to create beautiful music, our lives need proper spiritual alignment to fulfill our divine purpose. Let's live each day expecting Christ's return while helping others prepare for that glorious day.

You Asked For It: How Can God Be Loving When Bad Things Happen?

Introduction:

With a new year comes a new series! For the next few weeks, we’ll be in a series called “You asked for it” where we tackle some tough questions submitted by you all. At Hope Summit, we don’t shy away from the tough questions. Your mess is welcome here, and we feel it’s part of our mission to wade through the mess with you. So this week we dive right it. How can God be loving when bad things happen? When facing severe injustice or suffering, many people struggle with reconciling God's love with their painful circumstances. This week we look at how four biblical figures dealt with injustice while maintaining their faith.

Four Biblical Examples of Facing Injustice

David's Experience

Despite being anointed as future king, David faced persecution from King Saul and had to flee for his life. In Psalm 13, he cried out asking how long God would forget him, yet ultimately declared his trust in God's unfailing love. In 1st Samuel 24, we read about a time when David had the opportunity to kill King Saul, who had relentlessly been pursuing David, seeking to take his own life. Despite this opportunity we could have hardly faulted him for taking, we see he instead chose to trust in God, his goodness, and his timing. Even if he didn’t feel it at the moment, he understood God’s love involved a bigger picture he couldn’t fully comprehend. 

Habakkuk's Story

As a prophet facing rejection and persecution, Habakkuk questioned God about injustice. In chapter 1, he cries out: "How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, 'Violence!' but you do not save? Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrongdoing? Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, and conflict abounds.” Like Habakkuk, we can take our raw questions to God. He’s not afraid of what you have to say. But what’s important is that Habakkuk maintained dialogue with God even while questioning Him. God responded by teaching him to live by faith and trust in His perfect timing.

Elijah's Trial

After a great victory against the prophets of Baal, Elijah had to run for his life from Queen Jezebel. Even strong believers can face seasons of doubt and even depression. God often meets us in our weakness. In Elijah’s despair, God spoke to him not through dramatic displays but through a whisper, providing him with rest and a gentle restoration. 

Paul's Persecution

Despite faithfully planting churches, Paul faced severe persecution including being stoned and left for dead. Despite facing beatings, imprisonment, and constant opposition, Paul maintained an eternal perspective. In 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 he writes that "our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." He maintained his faith and taught about God's perfect righteousness.

Understanding God's Perfect Love

God's love is perfect and complete, extending to both the righteous and unrighteous. This can be hard for us to understand since human love is inherently biased and imperfect. God allows both sun and rain to fall on everyone equally, demonstrating His perfect justice and love.

Why Does God Allow Suffering?

The difficult truth is that we live in a broken world where no one is truly righteous except Jesus Christ. The book of Job addresses the issues of why God allows suffering. In fact, that's one of the key points of the book - when Job demands answers from God about his suffering, God responds not with a philosophical explanation but with questions about His sovereignty and wisdom. God allows suffering while walking alongside us through it, using these circumstances to demonstrate His power, sovereignty and wisdom, through our faith, trust, and perseverance in him.

Life Application

Consider these questions:

1. What injustice or pain are you currently facing?

2. How can you trust God's perfect love even when circumstances are difficult?

3. Where do you see opportunities to be God's hands and feet in responding to suffering?

This week's challenge: Instead of praying for God to remove difficulties, ask Him to strengthen you through them and use you to demonstrate His love to others who are suffering. Look for practical ways to show up and serve in places where people question God's goodness. God's love is perfect and His plan is perfect, even when we don't understand it. Our role is to trust Him and be His representatives of love in a broken world. Remember, one of the ways that we can let people know God really is loving is by showing up and representing him, even in the really tough stuff of life.

Presents or Presence: Week 3 - God Given Gifts

Discovering Your Unique Gifts in God's Presence!

Today, we dive into the profound topic of understanding our unique gifts and how they are fully realized in the presence of God. The message is not just about recognizing the talents and abilities that make us special, but also about understanding the deeper purpose behind these gifts. Let's explore how our gifts are meant to be enjoyed and used in God's presence, leading us to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

What Makes You Unique?Understanding Your Gifts

Have you ever wondered what makes you unique? What sets you apart from everyone else? These questions are crucial because they can determine much about your life, including your career path, relationships, and self-worth. God has promised to give us good gifts, making us special and unique. But it's essential to recognize that these gifts are not just for our benefit; they are meant to be used in His presence.

The Story of Jeff and the Drums

Pastor Jeff shared a personal story about discovering his gift for drumming. Initially, he wanted to play the saxophone but found it challenging. However, when he tried the snare drum, something clicked. This moment of realization was like a divine revelation, showing him that his gift was meant to be enjoyed and used in God's presence. This story serves as a reminder that our gifts are often discovered through trial and error, and they are best realized when we seek God's presence.

God's Masterful Creation: Psalm 139:13-16

David beautifully describes how God created us with intentionality and purpose in Psalm 139:13-16. He portrays God as an artist who carefully knits us together in our mother's womb. This imagery reminds us that we are not mistakes; we are masterpieces created by a loving God. When you look at yourself, do you see this kind of artistry on display? Do you believe that you are fearfully and wonderfully made? In Ephesians 2:10 Paul says that we are God’s workmanship, some versions saying “Masterpiece” and we were created with a purpose in mind. 

Reconciling Self-Worth with God's Creation

How you view yourself often reflects how you view your Creator. If you struggle with self-worth, it's essential to reconcile your identity with God's intentional creation. Recognize that your strengths, quirks, and even weaknesses are part of God's design. Embrace the fact that you are unique and special because God made you that way.

The Purpose of Our Gifts: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 that the Spirit gives different gifts to each of us for the common good. These gifts are meant to bless the church and help it fulfill its mission. Whether it's cooking, teaching, or any other talent, your gift has a purpose in God's kingdom. The key is to use these gifts in His presence, allowing them to be fully realized and effective.

Living Out Your Gifting

Our church recently witnessed this during the Damascus Way Christmas party. Volunteers used their unique gifts to serve and bless others, creating a beautiful example of living out their gifting in God's presence. When you use your gifts for God's glory, you find fulfillment and joy that goes beyond personal satisfaction. God gifted each of us differently! If you’re not sure what your gifts might be, a great way to figure it out is to try serving in different areas and seeing which area seems more naturally. If you’d love to know more about your area’s of giftedness, we’d love to connect with you. 

The Greatest Gift: Love: 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 that our gifts are meaningless without love. Our primary purpose is to love and be loved by God. This love is the foundation of our identity and the ultimate reason for our creation. When we use our gifts in love, we fulfill our true purpose and experience the fullness of God's presence.

Embracing God's Love

God's love is the greatest gift we can receive and give. As we embrace this love, we find our true selves and our ultimate purpose. Jesus exemplified this love by coming to earth, living among us, and sacrificing Himself for our sins. By following His example, we can fully realize our gifts and live out our purpose in God's presence.

Life Application

This week, take time to reflect on your unique gifts and how you can use them in God's presence. Consider the following questions:

1. What are the gifts and talents that make you unique?

2. How can you use these gifts to bless others and glorify God?

3. Are you seeking God's presence in your daily life and using your gifts in His presence?

Challenge for the Week

Identify one way you can use your gifts to serve others this week. Whether it's volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply being a source of encouragement, use your gifts in love and in God's presence. As you do, you'll find greater fulfillment and purpose in your life.

Conclusion

Understanding and using our unique gifts in God's presence leads to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. By recognizing that our gifts are meant to be enjoyed and used in His presence, we can fully realize their potential. Embrace the love of God, seek His presence, and use your gifts to bless others. In doing so, you'll discover the true joy and purpose that God has for you.