"For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; (2 Corinthians 5:14)

The life of the apostle Paul was wholly given to the important ministry of reconciliation.  (II Corinthians 5:18)  Man’s eternal destiny was foremost in his mind.  The wonderful possibilities offered by Jesus prompted Paul to zealous work.  Paul’s example should inspire us to that same ministry.

Paul was motivated by the terrifying prospect of judgment (II Corinthians 5:10) and by the love of Christ. (II Corinthians 5:14)  It was the later, the love Christ has, that constrained Paul.  “Constrained” means to be totally controlled.  We must also be brought under the power of Christ’s love.

Perhaps it was the objects of Christ’s love that so motivated Paul.  Jesus’ love is so comprehensive that it reaches his friends (John 15:13), his enemies (Romans 5:8-10), and even to all mankind (John 3:16).  Jesus even loved a scoundrel like Paul who had wanted to destroy the influence of Christ!  Remarkably, he loves me too!

The love of Christ must wholly influence our lives.  The very next verse says, “He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.” (2 Corinthians 5:15)  Knowing that I am the object of his sacrificial love must inspire me to refrain from self-indulgence.  His love must sway me to honor Him with a blameless life, by imitating His character, by submitting to His will, and by seeking to extend the borders of His kingdom.

The power of Jesus’ love will be seen in the life of every faithful disciple of Jesus.  It was seen in Paul, Peter, Stephen, and other early saints who encountered the persecution and bravely persevered.  It was manifested by holy lives of those who were touched.

There is no more noble purpose for man than to live for the One who died for him, and rose again.  No greater prize given than the eternal home He promises.

George Slover

"The God of Israel said, The Rock of Israel spoke to me: 'He who rules over men must be just, Ruling in the fear of God." (2 Samuel 23:3)

The common scandal of many of our politicians has caused me to reflect upon the character of those who rule our nation.  Leaders from all of the political parties lead dissolute lives.  All of them promise a utopia that will never be attained in this world, because none of them reflect the character of the one mentioned in the text.

David’s words gloriously depict the character of the model king.  The king who rules justly is as refreshing as the risen sun.  He is like the warmth of the sun after the rain that produces the tender vegetation.  Have you ever known a ruler like that?  Some of them may be a little better than others, but they all disappoint you.

The model ruler is named by two characteristics: justice and the fear of God.  The fear of God is the foundation of his character.  His constant concern is doing the will of God.  His rule would be eminently just.  This is a welcome thought in a world full of injustices.  You may find him in the nation, the home, or the church.  He will perform only what is good for his followers.

If we could find such a ruler, his benefit would be as revitalizing as the sun after the rain!  By the sun the darkness of ignorance and oppression is dispelled.  The light of truth and holiness abounds.  Its fruit is like a lush tender grass that springs up from the earth.  Where can we find such a ruler?

There will never be such a leader in this world, though some may make a feeble attempt.  However, the rules of Christ prescribe only what is right toward God and man.  Were they obeyed, all wrong-doing and injustice would cease.  Jesus is the True One, He is the Just One, and he gives light to those who are in darkness.  He wants to rule your life.  This Jesus can be your King and Savior.

By George Slover

 

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10)

There are some who have the wonderful talent of writing poetry.  The words just seem to flow  easily  from the heart to the pen.  The poet can paint a wonderful portrait in words.  They can stir such emotion as loneliness, strength, excellence, perseverance, sorrow, anger, or admiration.  Did you know that God is a poet?  His product is written on tablets of the human heart. 
(II Corinthians 3:2,3)  

In the above passage the word “workmanship” is translated from the Greek word poieema.  It is obviously the word we transliterate “poetry”.  Paul says God’s people are his poetry.  Anyone who walks by the works God has appointed in Christ manifests a life written by that hand of God!

The meter of this poem is guided by such themes as love, (Ephesians 5:2) and light (Ephesians 5:8).  Each verse and line should include traits of honesty (Ephesians 4:25), hard work (Ephesians 4:28), purity (Ephesians 4:29; 5:4), and kindness (Ephesians 4:32).

Christianity is not a way of doing special things.  It is a special way of doing everything.  The Lord puts significance into the simplicity of life.  We are His workmanship.  We are His poetry.

By George Slover

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:2)

There are two states that Paul wishes to impress upon the saints- one is likeness to the world, the other is likeness to God.  Paul admonishes a transformation from the first state to the second, and also tells us how to get there.

The first state is likeness to the world.  Paul’s command to the Roman’s:  “Do not be fashioned after the world”.  This would present a challenge to these saints, for it was believed the whole world revolved around Rome.  What does this mean to us?  It suggests that modern Christians must not imitate the world in actions or values.

The second state is likeness to God.  The goal is to live a life that reflects the “good’ (morally right), acceptable (well-pleasing to God), and perfect (needs no amendments) will of God.  This new state is an entirely new way of viewing things.  It will affect your whole life.  It will influence the decisions you make on the job, in your family, and in your recreation.  In this state your focus will no longer be on personal enjoyment, but on pleasing God.

The later state is obtained by being transformed.  This transformation takes place through a renewing of the mind.  It is unreasonable to think that a new Christian can throw off all of the bad habits in one effort like casting off a garment.  Old habits and values are not easily broken.  New ones will be obtained only by prayer, meditation of God’s word, coupled with practice and discipline.

Christianity is a gospel of renewal.  It involves crucifying the old man and yielding to the new.  What a gospel it is!  It invites one to adjure the old sinful self and seek after a new course – to become a new creation in Christ.  In this state there is so much promise both now and eternally.

By George Slover

"according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. (Philippians 1:20)

According to an AFP story, released April 16,2009, Britain’s most popular funeral song is Frank Sinatra’s “My Way”.  Other popular choices included Australian rocker,  AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell” or Queen’s “Another One Bites the Dust”.  A funeral company in London polled 30,000 respondents.  According to Lindsey Sheasby, whose company commissioned the survey, “pop songs now account for more than half of the music chosen for funerals”.

There is a sharp contrast between the obvious cynical, depressing view that many have about death and the wonderful attitude stated in the above passage.  This brave prisoner is speaking of the positive effects of his plight: the opportunities to share the gospel.  He sees the good in the apparent evil.

The secret of the apostle’s remarkable attitude is a spirit of complete consecration to Jesus.  His expectation is that with boldness Christ will be magnified.  Christ is the focus of all his hopes and dreams, therefore none of his thoughts are earthly or selfish.  Christ is the object of all his activities.  Instead of doing it “my way”, Paul was determined to do it Christ’s way!

Paul magnified Christ in the way he lived.  Paul said, For to me, to live is Christ.   (Philippians 1:21)  His Christ magnifying life was fully devoted to serving others.  (Philippians 1:22)  It was exemplified by bold living.  Having full confidence in the promises of God, he could speak boldly, thus drawing the hearts of men to Jesus.  A Christ magnifying life will stand up for Jesus seeking to establish his peaceful rule in the lives of others.

Paul also magnified Christ in the way he died.  Paul viewed death as gain.  This is not the assertion of a cynic who has outlived the enjoyment of life.  There is nothing in his words to cause us to conclude he has soured on life.  Paul’s destiny is to be with Christ which is far better!

We can share in Paul’s marvelous outlook by magnifying Jesus in our lives.  Paul shows us how to really live and how to peacefully die.  We must claim Christ’s rule of peace for ourselves.

By George Slover