1 Peter 4:14

Verse of the Day Devotion:  1 Peter 4:14 

“If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” – 1 Peter 4:14

One of the most difficult things to endure in life today is shame and humiliation.  Think about a time in your life when someone embarrassed you in front of others.  I can remember several times as a child when I was mocked or insulted for various reasons in the presence of others my age.  When experiencing this, we want to go away and hide in order to fight the shame laid upon us.  However, exposure to shame was a peculiarly harsh experience in a world where ‘losing face’ was taken much more seriously than in todays western culture.  In Old Testament times those who stood by their faith in Yahweh (God) experienced this disgrace.  David wrote in the sixty-ninth psalm the following. “Because for Your sake I have borne reproach; Dishonor has covered my face. I have become estranged from my brothers And an alien to my mother’s sons. For zeal for Your house has consumed me, And the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me. When I wept in my soul with fasting, It became my reproach. When I made sackcloth my clothing, I became a byword to them. Those who sit in the gate talk about me, And I am the song of the drunkards.” Psalm 69:7-12.  It is unknown as to the why this occurred, but his adversaries were filled with reproach for him and they strove to dishonor him.

What Peter is laying out here is the idea that if we are reviled because of our Christianity and our love and service to Christ, then we should not be embarrassed, but we should realize that we are blessed because the Spirit of God and His glory rests on us.  For as the Spirit of God rested upon Christ, so does it rest upon those followers who are persecuted.  It is not surprising that we as His followers should have to endure suffering and humiliation in the same way because of our allegiance to Him.  There are many people who find the idea of God a silly and stupid belief.  Many scientists believe saying this universe has a beginning and it was through an eternal God who created it and filled it with all that exists is foolish and idealistic.

Peter uses this same thought in an earlier verse.  “But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.” 1 Peter 3:14-16. He again states that those who suffer for the sake of Christ shall be blessed.  We should not shy away from the truth, but speak it in good conscience, being completely truthful about the gospel as declared in His word.  We should never be ashamed of it but should declare it with all confidence. 

Jesus also addressed this in His Sermon on the Mount.  “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:11-12.  He also refers to those insulted in the name of Christ as blessed.  However, He goes further by stating if we are reproached; called evil and contemptuous names; and ridiculed because we are Christians, we will have a great reward awaiting us in heaven.  The more someone suffers for Christ, the greater their reward.

Therefore, if we are shamed because of our relationship with Christ our Messiah, we should not back down and become quiet but should stand and proudly declare Jesus with no hesitation or humiliation. He is the creator of all there is and came here to die for our sins so we can be reconciled with the Father.  This truth is nothing to be ashamed of.  On the contrary, it is because of Him that we, as Christians, are God’s children and will live with Him for all eternity, giving Him the worship, praise and honor He more than deserves.  But those who are ashamed are given a powerful warning from Jesus.  “For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” Mark 8:38.  So, stand proud as a child of God in this defiled world.  He gave His life for us, should we not be willing to give everything including our lives for Him?

William Funkhouser MDiv, ThD, Founder and President of True Devotion Ministries. 

2 Peter 3:3

Verse of the Day Devotion:  2 Peter 3:3 

“Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts,” – 2 Peter 3:3

Peter here, through the leading of the Holy Spirit, is declaring things that will occur in the last days.  Looking at our focus verse, in the last days mockers and scoffers will come.   Who will they mock?  Those who believe that Jesus will come back.  They will say, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.” 2 Peter 3:4.  There basic argument is that Christians have been talking about this event for over two thousand years and He has not come so far.  So, why should they believe that it will ever happen. 

We see the message of mockers and scoffers presented in many forms.  You see it in books that attempt to convince many to ignore Christianity, especially regarding Christ’s return.  We also see it in our schools, colleges and universities which are becoming more deeply atheistic in their beliefs, teachings and ideologies.  Professors and teachers pushing an anti-religion mentality that many times ridicules anyone who believes otherwise.  I remember taking a class called ‘Christian Beliefs’ at a North Carolina college.  It turned out that the instructor was a heavily liberal Christian who was an assistant Pastor at a heavily liberal church.  I had missed the first night of class.  On the second night I arrived and the first thing he said was, ‘So, now that we have shown that the creation story is a myth, we will proceed …’.  I immediately raised my hand and said ‘Excuse Me.’  One person in the class shouted out ‘All right’.  Most of the class said nothing and appeared not to question it at all.  And throughout the semester, he brought up many similar thoughts that showed his unbelief, several of them in mocking fashion.

This prophecy Is not limited to Peter.  We see it with Jude as well.  “But you, beloved, ought to remember the words that were spoken beforehand by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ, that they were saying to you, “In the last time there will be mockers, following after their own ungodly lusts.” Jude 1:18. Now, when you look at this as well as our focus verse, we see something in common; the idea of following after their lusts.  This is actually what is happening and why many scoff at the idea of Christ returning, and Christianity as well.  This is the true source of antichristian beliefs.  The Gospel of Jesus is pure and holy and requires a holy heart and a holy life.  The enemy, Satan, has convinced many that there is no reason to give up what they desire to believe that cannot possibly be true.  He has convinced them that Christianity is a lie and there is no reason to give up what they enjoy simply to follow a myth. 

We see more and more a mocking and scoffing of Christianity.  And it is interesting that this is evidence of the truth of the gospel.  Most other religions are accepted and even followed by many who attempt to downplay and ridicule Christians.  The enemy will allow people to believe anything as long as it does not include the real truth of Christ.  And Satan will attack true Christians by mocking and ridiculing them, especially in the presence of others.  It is important that we do not be concerned with how people see or ridicule us.  We know the truth.  We understand that Christ came to earth to die for us to pay the price of redemption and will come back to take His people to our future eternal life.  What difference does it make how man views us?  Sadly, if they do not repent and accept Christ, when He returns, they will see the truth and believe, however at that time they will find it is too late.  And because of this, we should share the truth no matter how they respond.  It can be difficult, but we are a light in the darkness and thus it is our calling.  Be strong and tell the truth.  Remember what Peter said.  “We must obey God rather than men.” Acts 5:29b.

William Funkhouser MDiv, ThD, Founder and President of True Devotion Ministries. 

Acts 10:34

Verse of the Day Devotion:  Acts 10:34 

“Opening his mouth, Peter said: I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality.” – Acts 10:34

This devotion is about an event that changed Peter’s life. He has a vision from God that helped hi understand his calling more clearly.  Peter became hungry and desired to eat, but while preparations were being made, he falls into a trance.  “and he saw the sky opened up, and an object like a great sheet coming down, lowered by four corners to the ground, and there were in it all kinds of four-footed animals and crawling creatures of the earth and birds of the air. A voice came to him, Get up, Peter, kill and eat!  But Peter said, “By no means, Lord, for I have never eaten anything unholy and unclean.” Acts 10:11-14.  God gives him a vision of a large sheet descending from heaven upon which there all kinds of unclean creature.  He is then told to “Get up, Peter, kill and eat!” Acts 10:13b. 

Peter, probably thinking that God may be testing him, answers.  “But Peter said, By no means, Lord, for I have never eaten anything unholy and unclean.”  Acts 10:14.  And then, “Again a voice came to him a second time, “What God has cleansed, no longer consider unholy.” Acts 10:15.  In total, this happened three times, and after the third time the sheet ascends back into the sky. 

This was very confusing to Peter, and while he was contemplating, men sent by Cornelius arrive at the gate.  The Spirit speaks again to him.  “While Peter was reflecting on the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. But get up, go downstairs and accompany them without misgivings, for I have sent them Myself.” Acts 10:20.  So Peter goes down to the men and tells them he is the one they are looking for.  And then asks them the reason for their coming to him? “They said, “Cornelius, a centurion, a righteous and God-fearing man well-spoken of by the entire nation of the Jews, was divinely directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and hear a message from you.” Acts 10:22.   He then left the next day to go to Cornelius’ home.

When Peter arrives at his home, Cornelius bows before Peter and then take him to his home where many were assembled with Cornelius.  Then Peter says, “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a man who is a Jew to associate with a foreigner or to visit him; and yet God has shown me that I should not call any man unholy or unclean. That is why I came without even raising any objection when I was sent for. So I ask for what reason you have sent for me.” Acts 28-29.  Cornelius then answers him.  “Four days ago to this hour, I was praying in my house during the ninth hour; and behold, a man stood before me in shining garments, and he said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. Therefore, send to Joppa and invite Simon, who is also called Peter, to come to you; he is staying at the house of Simon the tanner by the sea.”  Acts 10:30-32.  He then tells Peter that immediately after seeing this vision, he sent for him as he was told. 

Then we come to our focus verse.  “Opening his mouth, Peter said: “I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality,” Acts 10:34.  He then follows with, ”but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right is welcome to Him. “Acts 10:35. Peter learned from this event that God shows no partiality to Jews, that in fact, all are welcome to go to God if they fear Him and do what is right. 

This is a very important lesson we also need to understand.  There are many in this world who have yet to hear the message that God loves them and desires them to come to Him and be saved.  Jesus told His disciples just prior to His ascension the following as recorded in the gospel of Mark.  “And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Mark 16:15.  There are many people that we see who have not been given the message of Christ, or they have questions or struggle to believe.  We must be willing to share the truth with anyone God leads us to.  This is our purpose and what God has called us to.  And no matter who they are, we should be willing to shine the light we have inside us so that anyone can see and share the truth of Christ to all.  Whether they are rich, poor or even homeless.  God is sending us out to share the gospel with everyone, for all need to hear it. Use wisdom, but do not shy away from anyone who needs to hear it.  We must understand what Peter learned and take it to heart.  “I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality,”  Acts 10:34.  And we should not show partiality either.  Everyone needs to hear and accept the good news, and He has sent us out to make it happen. 

William Funkhouser MDiv, ThD, Founder and President of True Devotion Ministries. 

Luke 16:13

Verse of the Day Devotion:  Luke 16:13 

“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.” – Luke 16:13 

First, I want to clarify the meaning of the word ‘Hate’ in this context.  The meaning here is not necessarily to detest and/or despise, but to ‘love less’.  As an example, you have a choice between two cars that you can buy.  There is one car you absolutely love, while the other you love as well, but not as much.  Thus, you love the second car less than the first car.  And stating as our focus verse says, the first car you love and second care you hate.

Now, let us look at this verse.  We cannot serve two masters. This is fairly clear.  I have been in a situation where I had two people over me at the same time.  I was a computer programmer responsible for much of the financial systems in the company.  There was a time when one wanted me to focus on one problem, whereas the other wanted me to ignore that issue and focus on what he wanted.  I had to make a decision as to which one I would serve at that moment, for I could not serve both because they required different duties.  Now, I was able to make a decision based on which caused the greatest problems to those who used the programs.  As stated, I could not do both because one wanted ‘A’ to be done, while the other wanted ‘B’. 

Now, Jesus gives the reason why no one can serve two masters.  For we will love one master more than the other.  Putting this part of the verse into perspective, the master we love the most will be the master we focus on and serve.  Therefore, whatever we love the most is truly our master.  So, this leads to the basic question here.  Who do we serve?  If God requires us to do one thing, and our own desires requires us to do another, who will be our master? 

The Greek word translated wealth here is the word ‘mammon’.  It is interesting that Jesus uses this word, but it makes very clear what He intended.  Mammon was the name given to an idol worshipped as the god of riches.  The Jews used this word to denote wealth, and it is not known if any Jews ever formerly worshipped the actual idol Mammon.  What He is essentially saying is ‘you cannot serve the true God, and at the same time be supremely engaged in obtaining the riches of this world.‘  And unfortunately, many in this world look to obtain things over and above serving the true God.  They are more interested in storing up treasures here on earth.  Earlier in this chapter we read, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21. 

Putting these ideas together, No one can serve two masters, but that which he loves more will be the one he serves.  For if our goal is to gain much wealth in this world, then we do not desire to gain it in the next.  And which one will a man store up? It is where his heart is, it is what he loves and desire over the other.  It is always a good idea to examine our hearts to see what it is that drives us, what we desire over and above anything else.  Which is more important to us.  Our lives here and what we can store away or our future life and what we can store away there?  So, which do we love the most?  This answer makes clear which master we will serve.  For as our focus verse says, ‘we will be devoted to one and despise the other.  You cannot serve God and wealth” Luke 16:13b.

William Funkhouser MDiv, ThD, Founder and President of True Devotion Ministries. 

Hebrews 11:3

Verse of the Day Devotion:  Hebrews 11:3 

“By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible.” – Hebrews 11:3

In this world there are two different views of the universe.  One is that the universe has been here forever with no beginning, and the other is that the  universe has a beginning.   Logically, both of these statements cannot be true.  And as we look at the reality of existence, we will see that what the Bible states is far more plausible than what man has come up with.

Stephen Hawking, the most famous theoretical physicist in the world, said the following regarding the universe.  “So long as the universe had a beginning, we could suppose it had a creator. But if the universe is really completely self-contained, having no boundary or edge, it would have neither beginning nor end it would simply be. What place, then, for a creator?”  From here, we can see he believed that because the universe was eternal, both past and future, and that the universe has no boundaries, hence filling infinite space, there is no need for a God.  In his words, what place is there for a creator?

Today, science puts forth the idea that there is no need for a creator because modern science can explain everything.  Again, Stephen Hawking put it this way.  “Before we understand science, it is natural to believe that God created the universe. But now science offers a more convincing explanation. What I meant by ‘we would know the mind of God’ is, we would know everything that God would know, if there were a God, which there is not. I’m an atheist.”  This is a prevailing view of modern man, that God does not exist, and they strive to find evidence to prove this point.  However, there are several truths that show this view is improbable. 

First, The universe is running down, and something that is running down must have started at some point.  For is the universe is eternal, it would have already lost all energy.  The second law of thermodynamics states that the universe is running out of usable energy.  No matter how long it would take, a fixed amount of energy that is being depleted would eventually use up all energy, with the result being a dead universe.  And the universe is expanding.  How can something continually expand without at some point having a  beginning from which to expand fron? 

However, the Bible makes it clear that the universe is not eternal, that it does have a beginning.  In fact, the very first verse in the scriptures bring out.  “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis 1:1.  And as you read through chapter one of Genesis, we see that He also created everything in this universe.  Paul wrote to the Church of Colossae the following.  “For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him.” Colossians 1:16.  And John said in Revelation, “Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created.” Revelation 4:11. 

So, looking at the above, it actually makes complete sense that the universe had a beginning.  This then brings up the question, how did it come into existence.  Again, we have two choices.  The first is that it just came into existence, out of nothing, without the action of anyone or anything.  Or secondly, a supreme and eternal being brought it into existence.  And by faith, understanding that what exists could not have come into existence but for an eternal and intelligent being, God created everything just as stated in His word.  And it must be truth, for God spoke to John which he wrote in his gospel; “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.” John 17:17.  If anything came into existence, it had to be by an eternal being with infinite power to do anything He pleases.  And  I can see no other way for what is to exist.   

William Funkhouser MDiv, ThD, Founder and President of True Devotion Ministries. 

Romans 5:8

Verse of the Day Devotion:  Romans 5:8 

“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8

Paul is speaking here in this verse about the love of God that goes beyond anyone else’s love.  And this is a love that He has manifest to us.  He fully demonstrated His deep love for us.  And He has absolutely confirmed this love as well.  And how did He show us this love? It is stated in our focus verse.  “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8. 

In an earlier verse, he includes an additional word that clarifies the why.  “For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.” Romans 5:6.  So, when we put these ideas together we see this, while we were still sinners and helpless to do anything to redeem ourselves, Christ died for all these  ungodly sinners, of which this group we were also affiliated with.  From the very beginning when Eve and Adam disobeyed God and ate the fruit, and even before because He knows the end from the beginning, He loved us enough to address our dilemma. This shows the infinite love God has for us. 

This brings up another question.  Would anyone else die for another?  He answers this in the following verse.  “For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die.” Romans 5:7.  This verse shows that the love God has for us is matchless and unparalleled.  When Paul uses the words ‘righteous’ and ‘good’, he does not mean a truly gracious and holy man that is made righteous by the obedience of Christ.  This righteousness and goodness is what he and others deem righteous and good outside of how God deems it, through Christ’s sacrifice.  Those who being outwardly moral and righteous before men who keeps to the letter of the law and what man deems and imagines as good, such as the Pharisees in Paul’s time period where goodness is determined by outward behavior.  In other words, most men who do not have a relationship with God  does not truly have a sacrificial love that helps others, even if it means their own death.  

 However, this shows the infinite love that God has for us.  For while we were still in sin and doing wrong, and while we had no means to make it right with God, and even before we knew about our situation, God sent His only begotten Son to die for us so our sins can be forgiven.  Even when we have denounced Him and refused to obey Him.  This is true love and this is the love He has for us.  If it were not for this love that God has for us, we would ultimately die in our sins and be eternally separated from God into a horrendous place.

 And finally, the kind of love God has for us is the kind we are to have for others.  “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35.  We are to love our brothers and sisters in Christ AND those who are not yet Christians.  He loved all men and gave access to all men through Christ.  “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.  For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” John 3:16-17.  We should care enough for the lost that we will do anything we can to introduce them to Christ, and we should love our fellow Christians enough to help them in any need.  Christ loved us enough to give His life for us. Do we love each other in the same way?

William Funkhouser MDiv, ThD, Founder and President of True Devotion Ministries. 

Acts 12:12

Verse of the Day Devotion:  Acts 12:12 

“And when he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who was also called Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying.” – Acts 12:12 

Peter had been arrested by Herod Agrippa 1 in Jerusalem.  James, the brother of John had recently been killed by Agrippa and because he saw how the Jews applauded this action, he decided to arrest Peter and do the same.  However, because they were entering the time of Passover he kept him in prison, planning to kill him after Passover was completed.

Then, on the night that Herod was going to bring Peter out to kill Him, God intervenes on his behalf and rescues him.  And he does it in a supernatural way. “On the very night when Herod was about to bring him forward, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and guards in front of the door were watching over the prison. And behold, an angel of the Lord suddenly appeared and a light shone in the cell; and he struck Peter’s side and woke him up, saying, “Get up quickly.” And his chains fell off his hands. And the angel said to him, “Gird yourself and put on your sandals.” And he did so. And he *said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me. And he went out and continued to follow, and he did not know that what was being done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. When they had passed the first and second guard, they came to the iron gate that leads into the city, which opened for them by itself; and they went out and went along one street, and immediately the angel departed from him. When Peter came to himself, he said, “Now I know for sure that the Lord has sent forth His angel and rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.” Acts 12:6-11.

This is an incredible outcome of Peter’s arrest.  He was in prison with four guards at all time watching him, two on either side of him, two others outside the door.  Apparently, he did not expect this because when he was walking out, he questioned the reality of this situation.  He was free and no one was following him, attempting to bring him back.  However, note our focus verse.  “And when he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who was also called Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying.” Acts 12:12.  In the last part of this verse we read, ‘where many were gathered together and were praying.’

This is an important fact in the whole story.  The Christians were in Mary’s house praying to God asking for His intervention, no doubt regarding Peter’s release.  They believed this could be the end of Peter’s ministry.  They thought Peter was destined to die just as James had because they we unable to rescue him.  However, just as Jesus told the disciples regarding the incident of the rich you ruler, “And looking at them Jesus said to them, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26. 

As Christians, one of the things we need to do on a regular basis is pray for each other.  We may not be arrested awaiting execution because of our Christian beliefs as Peter was, but we all are going through difficulties we want God to intervene in.  It may be family quarrels, needs we need met, or simply peace during hard times.  We may not have an answer, however God does and He can bring us through any situation that come our way.  Paul said in his letter to the Church at Rome that we are to be devoted in prayer  (Romans 12:12).  This should be our heart, whether we are alone or with a group of brothers and sisters, we need to be in prayer for each other.  Again, we may not know there is a need, however, we all need God to help us.  So, take time each day to lift each other up in prayer.  We may be amazed at what He will do for us and our fellow Christians. 

William Funkhouser MDiv, ThD, Founder and President of True Devotion Ministries. 

Romans 2:3

Verse of the Day Devotion:  Romans 2:3 

“But do you suppose this, O man, when you pass judgment on those who practice such things and do the same yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God?” – Romans 2:3

What Paul is addressing is the idea of hypocrisy.  The main thought here is that some people believe they can get away with, or in the language of the above verse, escape the judgement of God regarding things they believe are worthy of judgement in others.  Now, this is clarified from what is denoted in chapter one.  “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them.” Romans 1:18-19.  This verse speaks of all humanity being given the knowledge of God, however not all are accepting and acting upon this knowledge.  Chapter two is referring to those who acknowledge acceptance and belief in God, be they Jew or Gentile. 

Paul starts chapter two showing their self-righteousness.  “Therefore you have no excuse, every one of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.” Romans 2:1.   He speaks of judging actions they do in a negative way that they themselves do.  The problem here is that they judge the actions of another as wrong, however, because they considered themselves ‘righteous’ they believe this addresses the issue and are not to be judged.  Paul is saying that what is considered righteous and unrighteous is not based on anything  but how God sees it and has nothing to do with how we see it.  This is made very clear by the last part of this verse, “for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.” Romans 2:1b. 

Paul then continues with the following.  “And we know that the judgment of God rightly falls upon those who practice such things.” Romans 2:2.  Now, having accused the self-righteous person of doing the same things as another, Paul now affirms as a general principle the fact and fairness of God’s judgement of such practices.  We know that God’s judgement is according to truth.  He is affirming that God’s judgement against sin is completely just for it is based on what actually happened.  However, those who acted as such believed that their relationship with God should be a part of what is sin and what is not.  This was a huge issue with the Jews of this time period.  Paul here was not denying this relationship; however it does not shield them from the consequences of their sins.

Now we come to our focus verse.  “But do you suppose this, O man, when you pass judgment on those who practice such things and do the same yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God?” Romans 2:3  Paul is asking this very important question.  ‘Just because you have a special relationship with God, does that make it OK for you to do things you judge as wrong for someone else?’  Do they really believe they will not be judged by God for these wrongdoings?  Paul then answers this further down.  “There will be tribulation and distress for every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek, but glory and honor and peace to everyone who does good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For there is no partiality with God.”  Romans 2:9-11.   Paul is simply saying that God will judge all people and their actions in the same way, whether they have a relationship with God or not, for He is not partial in any way.  As He judges one, He judges all.

We need to be careful we do not fall into this error ourselves.  If we judge something as sin in another, then we must see it as  sin in ourselves.  There is nothing that is OK for one to do but is acceptable for another. This is the idea of Paul’s message here.  We will all be judged according to how God judges based on how He sees each action, not according to who did it.  So be careful not to pass judgement on another.  In chapter 14 he says the following, “Now accept the one who is weak in faith, but not for the purpose of passing judgment on his opinions. One person has faith that he may eat all things, but he who is weak eats vegetables only.  The one who eats is not to regard with contempt the one who does not eat, and the one who does not eat is not to judge the one who eats, for God has accepted him. Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.” Romans 14:1-4. 

William Funkhouser MDiv, ThD, Founder and President of True Devotion Ministries. 

John 13:35

Verse of the Day Devotion:  John 13:35 

“By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” – John 13:35

Just as God is revealed to mankind by what He does, so are we as His people.  This is the idea of our focus verse,  “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35.  Look at what God did for us.  He sent His only begotten Son to die a horrible death so that we can be forgiven.  We could not have been redeemed in any other way.  Paul puts it this way.  “But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:22-23.  And the death referred to here is what is called the ‘second death’.  “But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” Revelation 21:8.  Since we could never pay the penalty for our sins since it is impossible for us to  be perfect.  “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans:3:23. 

So, we see how God manifested His love for us.  And it is only because He first loved us that we can ourselves love.  “We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19.  In other words, the only reason we can truly love is because He gave His love to us.  Another way to say this is found in I. Howard Marshall’s commentary on this verse where he says, “But the main instrument which God uses to bring us back to a true relationship of love is not fear of His judgement but the fact of His love.  Our love for God is based on God’s prior love for us and is thus the response of gratitude.  The more we realize how much God loved us, the more we realize our obligation to love Him in return.”  Then, looking at the next two verses we read the result of our loving God.  “If someone says, I love God, and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen.  And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” 1 John 4:20-21.  The sense here is that no man, whoever they are or whatever they do, can have any true love of God if he does not love his brethren.  By brethren, I believe John is speaking of fellow Christians along with all others who are yet to give their lives to Christ.  And he completes this thought with the following truth, that if we love God, we should love everyone else.

So, back to our focus verse, when we love one another fervently with a pure heart, then it shall fully appear that we are truly His disciples, especially  if it leads to death.  “This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13.  The greatest love we can have is the same type of love Christ had for us; having the willingness to give our life for another, just as Christ did for all mankind of all time periods both future and past. Our lives are the most valuable thing we have, and therefore shows the deepest and truest form of love.  This is the type that Christ exhibited to His disciples, that we would be willing to and actually did do the same.  Not that we will,  but that we would if called for.  If this is the type of love we exhibit, then people will see us and the reality of our love.  And many times, this may be what strengthens the faith of our fellow Christians and opens the hearts of those who currently do not believe.  Tertullian, a Christian theologian and apologist in the second century, who taught primarily to gentiles, shows this by stating what some of those who heard him said, “See, said they, how they love one another, and are ready to lay down their lives for each other.”  This is just one example of how many Christians have been seen in the same way.  Let us focus on how  we can show the world this kind of love to God and our fellow man.

William Funkhouser MDiv, ThD, Founder and President of True Devotion Ministries. 

2 Corinthians 5:20

Verse of the Day Devotion:  2 Corinthians 5:20 

“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” – 2 Corinthians 5:20

Why are we still here now that we are saved?  The answer to this question is to do the work He has called us to.  “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.”  Ephesians 2:10.  We are not just to get saved, and then patiently wait for His return and do nothing for Him here.  On the contrary, Paul says to the church in Ephesus that we are God’s workmanship, not our own or based on what we have done.  He has saved us so that we can show forth the virtues of Him who called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light.  We are to be a light to the world.  “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16.

If we are the light of the world, then we are to shine this light before men so they can see who we really are and the good work and deeds we do.  It is important that we live the life of a Christian if we declare before people we are a Christian.  If we declare we are a Christian but do not act like it by living the life of one who has given themselves to Christ before everyone, then it will be as one who hides their light under a basket.  In other words, if someone sees you and you are not living as a Christian, they will not believe your declaration, or will have a false view of what this Christian life is all about.

Now, back to our focus verse.  “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20.  As Christians, our purpose is to shine our light into the darkness, presenting the gospel to all.  Notice the wording here, ‘as though God were making an appeal through us ‘.  Essentially, an ambassador is a well-respected official whose role is to be a representative of one nation and their leadership  to another nation and their people.  Sent to a foreign land, the ambassador’s role is to reflect the official position of the sovereign body that gave him authority.  Paul, speaking of his own ambassadorial role wrote, “For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not in cleverness of speech, so that the cross of Christ would not be made void.” 1 Corinthians 1:17.  Paul is saying that Christ sent him to deliver a message to the lost, that being the gospel, not necessarily to baptize people.  Preaching the gospel was his primary purpose.  He did baptize a few, but again, his focus was to preach the gospel.  

Now, just as Paul was sent by Christ to preach the gospel, he is not the only one.  We also are called as ambassadors of Christ.  “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ,” 2 Corinthians 5:20a.  Our job is to spread the message of the gospel to as many as we can.  We are to tell the lost what God did through Christ, that being the salvation of us all, but we are also to live it out in our own lives before others, at all times, so they can see the reality of what we preach.  By so seeing this, they will be more inclined to listen to what we say which could lead to their acceptance of Christ.  We must be prepared for any opportunity to preach the gospel, and ready to answer questions we may be asked by those who do not know Christ, regarding our eternal hope.  “But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.” 1 Peter 3:14-16.  This is our calling in Christ, not just to become a Christian, or just profess our faith, but also to help all we can to become a follower of Christ as well.

William Funkhouser MDiv, ThD, Founder and President of True Devotion Ministries.