We Need a Cure

A Short Easter Message by Pastor Daniel Kriss for the Alexandra Standard Newspaper (8/4/20)
At the time of writing this, there are 5635 positive cases of Coronavirus in Australia, and tragically, 34 people have died. The world as we know it has changed, and this Easter will be remembered for many years to come.
 
With so much uncertainty in the world, I believe it is best to remind you of a changeless truth that transcends our current situation, namely, the fact that Jesus came into the world to rescue us from a more serious virus than Covid-19, the universal disease of sin.
 
Unlike the Coronavirus, sin has a 100% strike rate and every person tests positive to this soul-threatening malady. The Bible tells us that “all have sinned” (Romans 3:23) and are guilty of breaking God’s law. The good news, however, is that there is a cure. Presently, doctors and medical teams all over the world are working on vaccines and antidotes to combat Covid-19, and I am sure they will have success soon. When it comes to the universal problem of sin, the Bible tells us that the cure has already been provided in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
 
No doubt you are familiar with the “Easter Story,” but do you know the reason why there was a bloodied man crucified on a cross? The answer is to save you from your sin. Because God is holy and He cannot allow sin to enter into His presence, He sent His perfect Son, Jesus, to die on the cross as a substitute for all who would believe on Him. His death and subsequent resurrection opened the way for sinful man to come to God, be cleansed, and given eternal life. This gift of forgiveness must be received by faith, it cannot be worked for.
 
My prayer is that at this most unusual time in our history, you might come to know the real meaning of Easter!
 
PASTOR DANIEL KRISS


A Biblical Response to the Coronavirus (SARS COVID-2; COVID-19)

BRIEF SUMMARY OF COVID-19

The first reports of this new strain of Coronavirus were made in December 2019, and emerged in China, specifically in Wuhan province. The virus has been referred to as SARS Covid-2, and the disease as COVID-19. The observed symptoms are fever, cough, muscle aches, headache, vomiting, and diarrhoea. These symptoms are similar to those of a flu, particularly similar to influenza.[1]

The rate of transmission and the lack of a medically endorsed vaccine has been the cause of widespread panic. Many people are hiding in their homes and basements, having amassed great amounts of food, toilet paper, and other groceries in the fear of an apocalypse. Doomsday media outlets are not helping bring sanity and hope but instead are promoting panic and alarm. Travel bans, global financial crises, and country quarantines are all adding fuel to the fear-filled fire.

How should the Christian respond to all of this?

A NEW OPPORTUNITY TO DEPEND ON GOD

While we remain on alert against viruses and disease, worrying won’t change our circumstances or lower our chance of infection. It won’t help us fight off illness or move us to action. Worrying about COVID-19 (or anything else) will only increase trouble. Rather than worrying and being anxious, Jesus calls us to respond with prayer and faith in him (Matthew 6:33–34; Philippians 4:6). We need not worry ultimately because we know the One who has defeated sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:55–57).

Remind yourself continually: it takes the same amount of energy to worry as to pray. One leads to peace, the other to panic. [2]

Remember the Truth About God

  1. God is still on the throne (sovereignty): Job 42:2; Isaiah 46:9-10. R.C. Sproul used to say, “there cannot be a single maverick molecule anywhere in the universe that is outside of God’s sovereignty.”
  2. God saved us from fear and anxiety: 2 Timothy 1:7; John 14:27
  3. God promises peace: Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 4:6-7
  4. God numbered our days long before COVID-19 was on the scene: Psalm 139:16
  5. God is the Great Healer: Psalm 103:3 (this is descriptive, not prescriptive).
  6. God has a plan for His children: Romans 8:28
 

A NEW OPPORTUNITY TO REACH OUT

In times of crisis, the world needs help and hope. We can provide both. As Christians, we are to reach out to people in need and help them in both practical and spiritual ways. Hebrews 13:16 says, “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” We must not be so concerned for our own welfare that we will not minister to others (Philippians 2:3). Hiding in basements, stockpiling food and supplies, and distancing ourselves from others is not how believers should behave.

It is at times like these that our light shines brightest because it stands in stark contrast with wide-eyed fear, darkness, anxiety, and death. The world should see in us divine strength (Ephesians 6:10), a hope that comes from above (1 Peter 3:15), and a willingness to serve others even in the face of danger (Acts 15:26).

This is a good time for Christians to demonstrate sanity, peace, and hope, recognizing that our lives do not depend on the entry of a micro-organism into our bodies. Instead, it depends on the God who determines the beginning and the end of our history on earth.[3]

As you look for opportunities to minister to the sick or fearful, speak about the greater global epidemic – sin. Let the COVID-19 situation be a catalyst to speak about spiritual matters. The greatest need any individual has is not a cure for the Coronavirus, but salvation from their sin through Jesus Christ.

May God grant us the boldness and opportunities to move beyond merely ministering to physical maladies, but to also address the far weightier spiritual and eternal realities.

Ideas for Practical Outreach

  • Talk openly with people about their fears and anxieties. Offer to pray for them (right there on the spot)
  • Be generous and meet the needs of others e.g. a roll of toilet paper, a little hand sanitiser, paper towel, etc.
  • Write cards to people who you know are experiencing fear and remind them that you are available to listen to their concerns.
  • Write a note to the medical practitioners, paramedics, and nurses in your area expressing thanks to them for their efforts on the front line of this epidemic. Perhaps you could commend them for their years of study, service, and willingness to put themselves in danger for the wellbeing of their community.
  • If you are actively involved in a church, encourage people to bring to the church building items that promote hygiene which can then be dispensed to members of the community as the need arises.

WISDOM AND GENTLENESS

As Christians, we must not be reckless, but we also must not be paralysed by fear. It is essential we take the necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our families, but not to the disregard of others.

In Matthew 10:16, Jesus sent out His disciples into a volatile Roman world where they would be as “sheep in the midst of wolves”. He commanded them to be “wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” These unusual similes contained two important truths which are applicable to the COVID-19 situation today: (1) be wise, shrewd, and cunning (positively) as you interact with society and particularly in times of persecution and affliction; (2) be harmless, innocent, and gentle as you relate to people.

In other words, exercise wisdom and gentleness as is befitting the child of God.

BEING SENSITIVE TO OTHERS

As this epidemic continues, be socially sensitive. It may not be the best idea to “greet one another with a holy kiss” (2 Corinthians 13:12). Sensitivity, empathy, and understanding are all character qualities of the Christian and must be extended in all we do.

In this regard, we must be careful not to judge others. Through fear, many may feel the need to wear masks, avoid shaking hands, and even act uncharitably. In grace, we must demonstrate the love of Christ to them, even if they are fellow-Christians who are weaker in their faith (Romans 14:1-11).

For church goers, if you are sick or are showing any type of flu-like symptoms, in the interest of public safety, hygiene, and perceptions, and because we love one another, please stay home.

PRACTICALITIES FOR OUR CHURCH (MCCBC)

MCCBC leadership is monitoring the COVID-19 situation in our state and when or if the Government Health Authorities mandate a limit on public gatherings, we intend to comply.

At this time, there is no indication that we will need to cancel any church events. However, as COVID-19 is a new virus and there is no approved vaccine as yet, we are actively taking reasonable precautions as it spreads.

While we do not want to be alarmists, we do want to be proactive and prepared where we can be. If you are sick or are showing any type of flu-like symptoms, please stay home.

We hope to be able to livestream our services so that those who are unwell can still be part of the worship from their homes. We encourage you to follow the health practices listed by the Health Authorities to keep everyone safe.

Specific Practicalities

  1. Hand sanitiser stations throughout the building.
  2. Air purifiers on order (Country Tech).
  3. Cleaning of air conditioner filters.
  4. Antibacterial wipes/sprays for surfaces.
  5. Limiting physical contact at individual’s discretion.
 

A REMINDER THAT JESUS IS COMING AGAIN

In Luke 21:10-11 and Matthew 24:8, we are reminded that world-wide pestilence and disease epidemics point to the return of Christ. Of course, we do not know the day or hour (Matthew 24:36), but as these events become more extreme and in closer succession, we are reminded that they are the “beginning of the birth pains.”

The imminent return of Christ should bring great joy and excitement to the heart of the believer, even in the midst of global panic. May the extreme nature of the COVID-19 cause our minds and eyes to look heaven-ward, from where we “await a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 3:20).

HELPFUL ARTICLE LINKS

https://answersingenesis.org/human-body/coronavirus-biblical-practical/

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/christians-anxious-coronavirus/

https://banneroftruth.org/us/resources/articles/2020/a-christian-response-to-the-corona-virus/

HELPFUL SERMONS/PREACHING

http://www.hillsbiblechurch.org/sermons/biblical-perspective-on-covid-19/

 

 

 

[1] Taken from https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/what-we-know-coronavirus/

[2] Taken from https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/christians-anxious-coronavirus/

[3] https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/what-we-know-coronavirus/

 



The Ministry of Reconciliation

TEXT: 2 Corinthians 5:10-20 |  VIDEO LINK

Those not acquainted with biblical theology suppose that there is a contradiction between God’s sovereign election of sinners to salvation, and the essential ministry of evangelism.

As you know, I am absolutely convinced that God in His infinite wisdom ordained/chose/elected some of His image-bearers to salvation. This is not unfair or unjust because “God is in the heavens; [and] he does all that he pleases” (Psalm 115:3).

Because this doctrine is incredibly humbling, it is repudiated by those that are proud and do not want to relinquish control of their so-called “free will.”

On the flip side, believing that God is sovereign, and that all who He has chosen will eventually enter into His fold, must not be permitted to bring about laziness, disobedience and carelessness.

As with all doctrines, when the pendulum swings too far in any direction, there will always be a misinterpretation of God’s revealed truth.

When it comes to evangelism, there are basically three schools of thought:
 
1. ARMINIANISM (Extreme #1)
It is my responsibility to save souls. This leads to guilt, creative methods, emotional invitations etc.
 
2. HYPER-CALVINISM (Extreme #2)

God will rescue His elect with or without me. This leads to laziness, disobedience, and carelessness

3. EVANGELISTIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GOD (Biblical Balance)The believer sounds the outward call and God issues the inward call (2 Corinthians 5:20; 6:1) 
 

I believe that the Bible clearly teaches that it is God who regenerates the sinner, but that He has entrusted to us the message that has the power to bring about the new birth. In this sense, we are in a very real partnership with God which began the moment that we first trusted in Him.

We are never held responsible for the sinner’s decision, but we are commanded to preach the gospel. We are not to lose sleep over our failures in eloquence or articulation of the message, but we should be concerned with being faithful to this ministry of reconciliation.

We have talked a lot about different church ministries that are being launched today as part of our Vision Sunday. However, it is important to know that there is a ministry that EVERY believer is appointed to the moment they are saved – it is the Ministry of Reconciliation.

This is to be our primary occupation. We are to pursue souls; chase after the lost; use our resources, gifts, and time in this precious endeavour; We are to be faithful, fervent, and frequent in our evangelistic efforts.

Our Theme for 2020 is “The Ministry of Reconciliation” and being “Ambassadors for Christ”, and these are the subjects I wish to broach today. Join me as I preach a message entitled: The Ministry of Reconciliation. Read more…



The Most Important Truth

The Jeweller’s Black Velvet.

Before I proposed to my wife, I visited many jewellers in pursuit of the perfect ring. I learned about base metals, brilliant cuts, and cluster settings. By the time I had finished my rounds, it was evident that the choices were infinite, and the prices varied greatly. 
 
One aspect of my shopping experience  that I had never witnessed before was the jeweller’s use of  dark fabric as the backdrop for an item. Whenever I selected a ring to look at more closely,  a rectangular piece of black velvet was spread carefully over the glass counter, and the  selected  item was placed upon it. This was fascinating to me because it seemed as though the diamond   ring had a new level of brilliance against the dark backdrop. 
 
This metaphor is particularly helpful when considering Christianity. Everybody in the world is in the market for something: a bigger house, a nicer car, a better education, a successful career, and so on. We are all “shopping” for happiness and lasting satisfaction.  At different stages in our life we meander through the “religious section” of the store, and to be honest, most of us are disappointed with what we find.  The jewels in this showcase look like relics, and do not work with the rest of our ensemble. Many are distasteful or just don’t fit.  Some are marketed as incredibly valuable but are found to be cheap imitations with many flaws. Christianity, however, is unique in one important way: its eternal value can only be seen and understood when viewed upon the dark velvet of our unworthiness.  Let me explain. 
 
Every religion assumes and asserts one unchanging  notion: man is essentially good  and can therefore achieve the standard required  to enter into heaven through effort and perseverance. This takes many forms. For some, it is regular attendance to the church, partaking of the sacraments, being confirmed, and obeying God’s laws.   Others pin their hopes on philanthropic  gestures, charity, and reaching out to fellow man.  A large portion of people believe that one day the cosmic scales will bear witness to the fact that they  generally lived a good life, and because their morality outweighed their evil, they will be considered worthy to enter a pleasant afterlife.
 
Whilst all these notions seem agreeable, and even help to uphold the moral fabric of society, none can offer any permanent hope because they are all based upon the foundational flaw that man is essentially good. This is where the jeweller’s black velvet provides some help. 
 
God’s Word teaches us that all of mankind is corrupt from birth.   We did not begin well and turn bad like the proverbial apple in the barrel, we were born bad.  Our mind, our hearts, and our bodies all bear the marks of sin and  depravity.  The Bible says,“all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).  
 
As humans, we tend to make comparisons among ourselves. We say, “well I’m not as bad as so-and-so, I’ve never killed or raped anyone. I’m sure God will accept me.”  There is  one serious problem with this concept- God’s standard for entrance into heaven is perfection.
 
If you have ever dabbled in archery you will know that the small red circle in the middle of the target is called the “bull’s eye”. That is what you are aiming for. In God’s economy, only a person whose life hits the moral bull’s eye is worthy of an entrance into His presence and kingdom. If you miss this mark, you have missed everything, and all of us have. This truth is clearly taught in the Bible: “For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it” (James 2:10).   We are guilty. We are law-breakers. We deserve the full weight of God’s justice which is eternal death. This is the black velvet background. This is our sinfulness and unworthiness, but don’t stop reading! 
 
The Jeweller’s Glorious Piece.
In our little metaphor, we now stand at the counter with the black velvet laid out before us, and if that is all there is, we are in serious trouble! Thankfully, there is a glorious piece about to be presented.
 
The God who created every jewel  throughout the world now unveils  to you a treasure of matchless  worth.   The ring is laid upon the dark backdrop, and it glitters and sparkles under the Jeweller’s light. Before you lies a flawless diamond in a setting of pure gold. The features are remarkable, and it’s facets innumerable.  
 
Having understood the blackness and darkness of our estate before God, let us now consider how we as sinners can be made right with God.  It is obvious by now that we are incapable of meeting God’s standard of perfection. In other words, for there to be any hope of attaining to God’s standard, there must be another way outside of us.   There is. His name is Jesus. Now, at this point it is important that any preconceived ideas about the man Jesus are laid aside  because much of what has been said and written is inaccurate, and does not present the truth as taught in the Bible. 
 
Firstly, and most importantly, Jesus is God’s Son. At the bidding of His Father, He took on human form and was born to Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem. He was no ordinary baby, within Him resided two distinct natures: the human and the divine. His human nature meant that he looked and acted like any human child. His divine nature meant that He was God in the flesh, having all the characteristics of divinity, which is why  He could perform great miracles during His time on earth. One essential truth to understand is that, whilst he was human in every way, he did not have a sin nature,  which qualified Him to be a substitute for those who were sinners by birth (you and me). 
 
The entire purpose of Jesus’ entrance into this world was to rescue sinners. The Bible says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10).  We are the lost that Jesus came to save. But how would He save us?  Having lived a perfect life, and having hit the “target of God’s perfection” in every way, Jesus died on the cross as the substitute for all those who would believe upon Him. The death of this entirely righteous man provided for us a means by which we might be set free from our guilt and the wrath of God that abided on us. (John 3:36). 
 
In other words, the good news is that we do not have to die in our sin. There is hope; there is help; there is a future for all who  believe that Jesus died in their place, and then rose again from the dead. His resurrection was to show His power over sin and death, and to give us the hope that when we die, we too will be raised to life just like Him. 
 
Back to the Jewellery metaphor. This message is the glorious ring.  The gold setting represents the infinite value of God’s Son and His eternal nature. The diamond represents His death:  Jesus, under immense pressure  and the burning heat of God’s justice, died in our place and this is how the “diamond of God’s grace” was formed for you. 
 
Now the Jeweller picks up the precious piece and holds it out to you. “I can’t afford to pay for this”, you say. With a loving smile, the  Goldsmith says, “you’re right, you can’t. This  item is not for sale because it has already been paid in full by Jesus. It is a gift. Will you take it? 
 
The Jeweller’s Offer.
A decision lies before you. Will you accept the ring or will you refuse God’s gift? The answer to this question will determine where you spend eternity. Choose carefully. 
 
Let me share with you what happened when I accepted God’s gift. As I stood there in this metaphorical jewellery store, my mind was at war. Should I accept this treasure? Is it real? What is required of me once I don this ring? These and many other questions entered my mind. However, something within convinced me that accepting this gift was the only way to be rid of my guilt. With a blend of fear and confidence, I reached forward and took hold of the ring. Immediately, a light dawned upon my soul, and  all the fear and guilt fled away. The Jeweller took my hand and gently placed the ring upon my finger and said, “This is the seal of my promise, He that has my Son has life. Now go and bring others to me that I might introduce them to my Son too. 
 
As I left the Jewellery store, I starred at the ring. I turned it over and noticed an inscription on the band. It said, “Property of the King.” I suddenly realised that I had not only received forgiveness for my sins by means of Jesus’ death and resurrection, but I also was now a member of the royal family. I am a child of the King and   heaven is my home! 
 
It is my prayer that this metaphor helps you to see your desperate need as sinner before God, and the incomparable worth of knowing Jesus.  If you would like to talk about this some more; if you need clarification of things said; if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me anytime.
 
With love from one unworthy sinner to another, 
 
Pastor Daniel Kriss


What Are You Known For?

Text: Philippians 4:5

Introduction

Today we come to a little command wedged between two very familiar portions. In Philippians 4:5 we read, “Let your reasonableness be known to everyone.” This little group of words carries a world of truth which is often overlooked because of its surrounding context.

This morning I would like to take the time to unpack this command and bring home some relevant application to our daily Christian lives.

Join me as I preach a message entitled: What are you known for?x

More to Scripture than Meets the Eye

The Cambridge Bible for Students has the following written in the margin about the word “reasonableness”: The word is full of interest and significance, and is very difficult of translation.

A world of truth is contained in the word “reasonableness” and due diligence must be given to this important command.

The fact that there is more to this verse than can be appreciated from a cursory read is in itself a challenge to dig more deeply into the Scriptures. To gain insight and rich blessing, the Christian cannot afford to simply read the Bible, he must be willing delve deeper through study and research.

There are worlds of truth available to the “Christian Miner” and such is the case with this verse.

New Testament Usage

The English word “reasonableness” is translated from the Greek word epieikēs (Epi-A-Case).

This Greek word appears on five occasions:

  • Philippians 4:5 “reasonableness” ESV
  • Titus 3:1-2 “to be gentle” ESV
  • James 3:17 “gentle” ESV
  • 1 Peter 2:18 “gentle” ESV
  • 1 Timothy 3:3 “gentle” ESV

By comparing its usage and the words chosen by the translators, we gain some insight into the meaning although in this case we are only given two different terms.

Translation Variances

Another great way of determining the meaning of a Greek word (without language skills) is to compare different translations – E.G. KJV, ESV, NASB, Living Translation, etc.

In comparing 33 different English Bibles, I found that this word his translated 8 different ways:

  1. Leniency,
  2. Forbearance,
  3. Gentle behaviour,
  4. Modesty,
  5. Reasonableness,
  6. Considerate,
  7. Gracious attitude,
  8. Humility.

     

This should give us some indication of the scope of meaning and its significance.

Lexical Meaning (definition)

My next task is to understand its lexical significance. In other words, I find out what this word means in a Greek lexicon (dictionary). This will help me to appreciate the term in its biblical, cultural, historical, and contemporary usage.

Despite there being a consistency in the ESV (four out of the five texts say “gentleness”), a Greek dictionary provides a much wider definition.

The word used for “reasonableness” in our text carries these fuller meanings:

  • to be appropriate,
  • mild,
  • gentle,
  • moderate,
  • patient,
  • fair,
  • equitable,
  • modest,
  • yielding,
  • lenient,
  • unassertive,
  • gracious in attitude,
  • humble, considerate,
  • without excess in passions,
  • restraining of tempers,
  • not exacting vengeance,
  • unbiased,
  • operating with contentment.

Perhaps now you see the enormity of this little word and its far-reaching applications.

To help us understand what is meant here, I have organised the wide scope of meaning into five simple categories which will be the outline of this message.

Just before we enter these five sub-categories, let me make a comment on the second part of this phrase – “be known to everyone”.

The idea here is not that you make an ostentatious display of this spiritual characteristic, but rather that others would see and know the reality of your “reasonableness”, and be inclined to worship God.

Now let’s consider these 5 distinct shades of meaning.

Gentleness under provocation

“Let your gentleness under provocation be known to everyone” (Philippians 4:5)

In this first instance, the meaning refers to our responses when under attack. This has many applications.

Similar to “meekness” which can be defined as “power under control”, here we see a “waving of our rights” whilst maintaining a kindly response.

One commentator wrote, “Yielding with respect to personal feeling and interest, though firm as a rock in respect of moral principle.”

It is to respond kindly when provoked, baited, or when someone tries to “push our buttons”.

It is in its essence the ability to obey the command of Christ in Luke 6:27-30:

“But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back.”

Paul wrote in Romans 12:17-21:

Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Application:

  1. Dealing kindly with that sibling or family member who riles you up.
  2. Gracious behaviour towards those who would mistreat you – “friends”, customers, work colleagues, etc.
  3. Not exacting your legal claims against one who has caused you pain.
  4. Responding lovingly to those whose arguments or issues with you are unreasonable.
  5. Responding gently to those who would manipulate you.
  6. Surrendering what you have the right to demand for the good of the other party.


Readiness to Forgive

“Let your readiness to forgive be known to everyone.” Philippians 4:5

This simply refers to a predisposition of forgiveness.

Forgiveness is not something you can simply “put on” at the time of conflict, it is practiced long before the friction arrives.

True forgiveness (no strings attached) is possible only through the Holy Spirit and is maintained by walking closely with the Lord.

Ever noticed how easy it is to hold a grudge when we are out of step with the Spirit?

If you would be ready to forgive those who injure you, it is essential that you live in close proximity to the ultimate forgiver.

Perhaps the most helpful verse on forgiving others is Ephesians 4:32 which says, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

In this verse we are commanded to forgive, and given the motive for forgiveness.

Application:

  1. No grudges.
  2. No withholding good from those who have injured us.
  3. No rejoicing in the downfall of others.
  4. No recounting sins of the past.
  5. No forcing people to “earn our favour” or forgiveness.
 

Sweetness of disposition

“Let your sweetness of disposition be known to everyone.” Philippians 4:5

This nuance speaks to a gracious attitude, unassertive interactions, a genuine kindness, and a gentleness to all.

This is evidenced in our kindly countenance, cheerful and encouraging speech, welcoming mannerisms and body language, careful and gracious responses.

There are some people in this life who have the incredible ability to disarm explosive situations. Their responses, behaviour, and submissive attitude render their enemies powerless.

This immediately brings 1 Peter 3:1-4 to my mind:

Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.

Now the danger is to make this truth exclusive to the women and wives in the room, but this is not to be the case.

Men, we are to have a sweetness of disposition too. This is not what the world teaches, but it is what the Scripture teaches. We need to be active in affection.

Application:

  1. Smile and laugh often. Practice this!
  2. Operate with gentleness, tenderness, graciousness.
  3. Watch carefully how we interact, what we are saying with out bodies (body language), the tone and manner of our speech.
  4. You don’t have to be noticed in the room. Anonymity in this regard is good.
  5. Don’t hide your personality, but guard yourself from anything that would rob you of a sweetness in disposition.

     

Governance over Passions

“Let your governance over your passions be known to everyone.” Philippians 4:5

The King James translation says, “Let your moderation be known unto all men.”

This particular shade of meaning speaks of a soberness of living, freedom from excesses, self- control, and a general balance throughout life.

The Bible has quite a bit to say about this category:

Proverbs 25:28 A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.

1 Corinthians 9:27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.

Titus 2:12 Training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,

1 Corinthians 6:12 “All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be enslaved by anything.

Proverbs 25:27 It is not good to eat much honey, nor is it glorious to seek one’s own glory.

God has created us with emotions, passions, and desires. These attributes are not evil, but they must be carefully watched because our tendency is towards sin and fulfilling the lusts of the flesh and eyes.

Even good practices can become sinful when they are out of balance. Reading your Bible is a wonderful practice, but reading it all day instead of working or helping your family is sin.

Application:

  1. Over-eating and gluttony.
  2. All form of addiction – coffees, computer games, fitness program, etc.
  3. An over-emphasis on what you wear or on how you look.
  4. Drunkenness.
  5. Use of money – over-spending, bad stewardship.


Modesty & Appropriateness

“Let your modesty and appropriateness be known to everyone.” Philippians 4:5

Modesty is often defined in terms of clothing or humility. Someone will say “she is dressed modestly” or “He is modest about his skills in tennis”. However, modesty in the biblical sense is much more than this.

I recommend reading an article by Meggie Cotonethal (guest contributor on Desiring God) called “Modesty Misunderstood: What Men and Women Need to Know”.

Let me quote some snippets.

Modesty must be one of the most abused words in the Christianese Dialect. The idea of modesty has been almost exclusively attached to women’s dress, narrowing in definition to mean “showing less skin and trying to prevent sexual arousal in those looking on.” It has veritably become a subculture in Christendom, spawning a cacophony of bestsellers, brands, seminars, and internet firestorms.”

Modesty is the offspring of humility. Humility is evaluating ourselves properly, with sober judgment (Romans 12:3). Modesty is behavior that flows out of remembering our true place of service, and does not conceitedly boast about the self, but boasts in God (Philippians 2:3–4; 2 Corinthians 10:17). Modesty, or the lack thereof, reveals where we’ve placed our identity. Rich women in the ancient world arrogantly declared their high status, their value, their identity with expensive finery.

We live in an identity-addicted society. We strive to put our tastes and acquisitions on display so that everyone knows who we are. We’re told to accentuate our best features, get what we want out of life, stand up for and express ourselves. Social media is often the megaphone we use to herald our personal identity and covertly brag about our smarts, body, sexuality, culture, politics, sports, relationships, family, insecurities, experiences, and possessions.

Real Christians love to fade into the background, serving the needs of others, asking Jesus to take center stage. We’ve been freed to have a truly modest, nondescript life and countenance, which will make the world wonder why we’re not fighting for our social status and incidental preferences. Perhaps we can be so liberated from human approval and praise that they begin to inquire, “Who are you?”

And we can respond, “I am not my own, for I was bought with a price. I belong to God” (1 Corinthians 6:19–20; Romans 14:8).

Modesty is not primarily about clothes, it is in essence, to put on Christ (Romans 13:14).

The question we need to ask ourselves is, am I seeking the attention of others or am I concerned that others would see Christ. Is what I am wearing appropriate to the occasion?

Immodesty is selfishness.

Example:

It would be sin to turn up to a western wedding in a pair of shorts and a tank-top. It is inappropriate and does not honour the occasion, the guests, the invitation. It makes you the focus point.

We are to fade into the background so that Christ might be seen.

Application:

  1. Does your wardrobe reflect a meek and quiet spirit?
  2. Does your jewellery box express humility?
  3. Are you seeking social status and centre stage by what you wear, possess, display?
  4. Am I more concerned with the accolades of men?
  5. Did I buy that car/home to be noticed by others?


^