Equipping the Saints
“...to equip the saints for the work
of ministry, for building up the body
of Christ,” (Ephesians 4:12)
April 2007
“Life Lessons From
New Testament Characters”
Gonzales Church Of Christ
The First Annual
Equipping The Saints
Lectureship
April 2007
James Eaves, Director
“Life Lessons From New
Testament Characters”
Hosted by the
Gonzales Church Of Christ
1225 S. Purpera Ave. — Gonzales, LA 70737
www.gonzalescofc.com
Preface
“And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the
saints for the work of ministry, for building up the
body of Christ,” (Eph 4:11-12)
Here the apostle Paul informs us that these offices were
given in order to build up the Lord’s church “that Christians
may have every possible advantage for becoming complete
in love, and knowledge, and order.” (Barnes). The purpose
of this lectureship and book is precisely the same. The need
to “equip the saints for the work of the ministry” is still just
as necessary today as it was then.
A Christian’s life at times can seem like a road on which it
is impossible to walk, but our God does more than simple
telling us to walk the road. He provides us with the equipment that we need to travel that road. One of the greatest of
these pieces of equipment being the Bible, which is full of
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”. I hope that
you will take advantage of the many hours of study that each
of these speakers has put into this book and devote many
hours of your own “to equip ‘yourself’ for the work of
ministry, for building up the body of Christ,”.
James Eaves
Dedication
“Honor widows that are widows indeed.”…..1Timothy 5:3
This book is dedicated to all of the widows and widowers
of the congregation of the Gonzales Church of Christ for
their inspiration, encouragement, strength, guidance and
enduring love to all of us.
We have shared many memories and tears with them as
we quietly and admirably observed their steadfastness for
the truth even in times of pain and sorrow.
We bestow this to all of them for their dedication & continual fortitude for the preaching and teaching of the truth
throughout their years of service to God and our blessed
Savior’s Church, and many more years to come until
Christ’s return.
Mrs. Willie Adkins
Mr. Bill Brewer
Mrs. Jean Crow
Mrs. Joanne DeShazo
Mr. Sam Moreland
Mrs. Elida Spears
Table of Contents
“The Herods, A Family of Continuing Iniquity”
Keith Mosher ……………………...………………9
“The Woman With the Issue of Blood”
Terrance Dindy ………………………..………….18
“Mary, Who Did What She Could”
Wayne Jones ………………………………..…….24
“The Governors: Pilate, Felix, and Festus”
Dan Cates ………………………………..………..29
“Stephen, the Man of Character, Conviction, Courage,
and Commendation”
John Hall ……………………………..…………..36
“Paul, an Apostle of Our Lord”
Mark Lance …………………………………..…..40
“John, the Man Who Introduced Jesus”
Jerry Martin ………………………..……………..45
“John, the Son of Thunder Rechanneled By the Lord”
Bobby Liddell ………………………….…………48
“Joseph of Arimathaea, a Great Giver”
Kirk Talley ………………………………….…….54
“Barnabas & Onesiphorus: Refreshing the Brethren”
Bill Brewer …………………………….………….62
“Ananias—Face Your Fears”
Josh Pierce ………………………...……………...66
“Timothy, the Young Evangelist”
Eddy Payne III ……………………………...….…70
Equipping the Saints
8
“The Herods, A Family of
Continuing Iniquity”
Keith Mosher
THE HERODS, A FAMILY OF CO:TI:UI:G I:IQUITY
Keith A. Mosher, Sr.
I:TRODUCTIO:
The home or family unit is basic to the structure of community.
Hanson informs that:
The role of kinship in shaping human society is foundational. This
is true whether one examines societies which are modern, western,
and technological or ancient, Mediterranean, and traditional.... Interpreting biblical texts, therefore, requires an understanding of
kinship structures....in the first century Roman world.1
The task of this essay is descriptively to analyze an early Mediterranean family known as the Herods.
I:FORMATIO:
The Bible informs the careful student about families in a umber of
ways. There are genealogies (e.g. Ezra 2, Matt. 1, and Luke 3); there
are legal sections (e.g., Lev. 18:6-18); there are narratives (e.g. Gen. 1250; Ruth, Esth.); there are wisdom sections dealing with family matters
(e.g. Prov.); and there is much information either directly or indirectly
in the New Testament. The Herodian family can be traced in the Gospel
accounts and Acts as well as in Jewish and Roman sources of the period—especially in Josephus.2 The information available extends from
about 100 B.C. to A.D. 120, that is from King Herod's grandfather,
Antipater, to King Herod's great-great-great grandson, Gaius Julius
Alexander Berenecianus.3
It is interesting to note that the Herods are a kind of bridge" from
the Jewish to the Roman world, not being a whole part of either
world. An in-depth study of this group gives much insight into relational aspects of family life in that ancient setting.
IDUMAEA: A:CESTRY
The rise of the Herodian dynasty to the throne of Hasmonean priest
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
9
-kings, begun by Antipater the Idumaean, and realized by his second
son, Herod the great, was closely connected with the ascendancy
of Roman power in Palestine.4
Who were these Idumaeans? They were descendants of Esau—
Edomites (Num. 20:16). The term, Edom, means "red," and is
equated with Esau (Gen. 36:8). Esau intermingled his seed line
with the Horites (Gen. 36:20), who were ruled by "dukes" or
"chiefs" (Gen. 36:29). Later, kings ruled Edom, and one of them refused to allow the Israelites to pass through his land as they exited
from Egypt (Num. 20:14-21:4). Yet God commanded Israel not to
hate an Edomite, never to go to war with one, and to allow the third
generation to enter the solemn assembly (Deut. 23:7f.). However, as
today, war between Israel and Edom did occur (I Sam. 14 and II
Sam. 8), and Joab is said to have "cut off every male in Edom" (I
Kings ll:15f.). Edom later rebelled against Israel's rule, as today, and Amaziah and Uzziah retook Elath (II Kings 3-14).
The Edomites eventually had to pay tribute to the Assyrian, TiglathPileser.5 Later, when Nebuchadnezzar invaded Palestine, the
Edomites moved into Seir south of Judah.6 Seir, around 300 B. C.,
fell to the Nabateans, and the country they occupied became
known by the Greek name Idumaea. 7
In 126 or 125 B. C., John Hyrcanus, a Maccabean (or Hasmonean)
Jew, conquered Idumaea and compelled the people to submit to
circumcision.8 The governor of Idumaea, Antipater (grandfather of
Herod as stated above), was given the procuratorship of Judaea,
Samaria, and Galilee when Julius Caesar conquered the Maccabees. 9 Caesar's military victory not only ended the singular identity of Idumaea but also paved the way for the ascendancy of the
notorious, nefarious Herod!
IMPERIAL TERROR
Josephus reports that Antipater "...sent his next son, Herod,
who was very young (twenty-five years of age), with equal authority
into Galilee."10 Herod's governorship began around 47 B. C., and he
became king of Judea in 37 B. C." Herod's success as a collector of
taxes for Rome had caused Cassius to promise him the throne in
Judea as soon as Cassius and Brutus could defeat Antony and Augustus. 12 During Cassius' struggles, Herod quelled a Judean revolt
(c.a. 43 B. C.) and another by Ptolemy and Antigonus (c.a. 42 B.
C.).13 However, Antony defeated Cassius that same year and
marched to Bithynia in Asia Minor where a number of Jewish leaders
complained that Herod had usurped power in Judea.14 The slick
Herod, according to Josephus, acquitted himself and even caused
some trouble for the Jews.15 In the fall of 41 B. C., Antony appointed
Equipping the Saints
10
the politically manipulative Herod as tetrarch in Judea, along with
Hyrcanus who ruled to the north.16
In 40 B. C., however, the Parthians invaded Syria, and a Parthinian
prince, Pacorus, joined with Antigonus, whom Herod had earlier
defeated. 17 Their efforts culminated in a siege of Jerusalem, but
Herod escaped with his family and troops ironically to Masada.18
The Parthians pillaged Jerusa-lem, made Antigonus "king," slew Hyrcanus, and allowed time for Herod to flee from Masada to Petra
(whose Arabian chief asked Herod to leave), from Petra to Egypt, and
from Egypt to Rome. 19 Antony welcomed Herod, heard his story,
and appointed him king in Judea.20 In 37 B. C., after quelling all guerrilla forces in Palestine, Herod moved to Jerusalem, married the
Hasmonean niece of Antigonus (!), and consoli-dated his kingdom.21
Bible students meet this Herod in the last year of his reign (Matt.
2:1). He had been through wars, political intrigue, and the machinations of power. According to Hanson, Herod had "married" ten women
for political reasons, loyality, solidarity, and status.22 These women
were mere commodities in the intrigue of the day, and their usage
of Herod is indicative of his somewhat Jewish, somewhat Roman,
somewhat Idumean heritage. As the Jews, Herod marriedwithin
the family, and as the Romans and Greeks, outside the family—to whoever was needed to further Herod's desires! Henson notes that:
"...Herodian exogamous (outside the clan, k.m.) marriages were based
primarily on political honor. The men who married into the family were
from suitably powerful and honorable families." 23 Any threat, then,
to Herod's personal power was a threat to "family" and personal prestige. The news Herod received from the Magi was alarming indeed!
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of
Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we
have seen his star in the east and are come to worship him. When
Herod had heard these things, he was troubled and all Jerusalem
with him (Matt. 2:1-3).
Note that the Bible teaches that Herod and "all Jerusalem" were
troubled. If there was to be another usurper, this would mean more war,
more intrigue, and a return to Herod's early years of constant turmoil.
The aging king scarcely desired more such events, for since 14 B.
C., he had been battling political intrigue even in his own family.24 Too,
Herod was seriously ill during the time of the Magi's visit and would not
recover.25 As his death approached, the vicious Herod ordered the imprisonment of Jewish leaders, who were to be executed at Herod's
death so that there would be a period of national mourning!26 Herod's
own sister, Salome, rescinded the order after Herod's death, and the
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
11
pompous, murdering, butcher of innocents was buried about one mile
from Jericho in 4 B. C.27 Keep in mind that Herod was typical of the
secular world into which Christ came and that Herod was not unlike
multitudes today who live for self and use all others around them to
further their petty causes.
I:CREDIBLE I:TRIGUE
,
Herod the Great had ten "wives" and at least eight sons. Armstong,
quoting Josephus, writes that Herod the Great,
Before his death...made three wills. In the first, made about B. C. 6 (sic),
Antipater was named to succeed to the throne, or in case of his death,
Herod (Philip) the son of Marianne ............................ In the second,
made after the treachery of Antipater had been discovered, Antipas
was named as heir....In the third, made shortly (two days, k.m.)
before his death, Archelaus was appointed to succeed to Judea and
Samaria, with the title of king; Antipas was given Peraea, with the
title of tetrarch, and Philip with a similar title, received Trachonitus,
Auranitus, and Batanaea.29
Antipater had secretly met with his uncle, Pheroias, intending to overthrow the sick Herod, but Herod's sister, Salome, informed.30 Antipater fled to Rome, but some poison that Antipater had prepared for
Herod was accidently drunk by Pheroias.31 Herod learned of the plot,
recalled Antipater from Rome, and according to Josephus, king Herod
"...sent some of his guards and slew Antipater."32
Archelaus (born c.a. 22 B. C.) ruled in Judea from 4 B. C.-A.
D. 6. 33 This ruler slew 3000 people during a passover and was a
brutish, tyrananical leader. 34 It is no wonder that the Bible records
that Joseph, who was told by God's angel to return to Israel from
Egypt, was unwilling to reenter Judea:
But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judea in the room of
his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding,
being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of
Galilee (Matt. 2:22).
Archelaus was so brutal that two ancient foes, the Jews and the
Samaritans, came together to complain to Augustus Caesar.
Also, Archelaus' own brothers, Antipas and Philip, brought charges
against him to Rome for political reasons.35 Augustus banished Archelaus to Gaul, and his territory was reduced to "...an imperial
province under the rule of prefects."36 Antipas (born c.a. 20 B.
C.), the son of Herod and a
Samaritan woman named Mathace), ruled from 4 B. C.- A. D.
Equipping the Saints
12
39.37 Since he was tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, he is mentioned often
in the New Testament (Matt. 14:1-6; Mark ^6:14-22; 8:15; Luke 3:1,
19, 8:3; 9:7,9; 13:31; 23:7-15; and Acts %27; 13:1). Antipas restored
order after the revolt against Archelaus and founded cities, including
Tiberius which became Antipas' capital in A. D. 25.38 More than all else
in history, Antipas is most remembered for his clash with John the
Baptist:
For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and
bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife:
for he had married her. For John had said unto Herod, It is not
lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife. Therefore Herodias had a
quarrel against him, and would have killed him, but she could not:
For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an
holy...And when a convenient day was come that Herod on his
birthday made a supper...the daughter of the said Herodias came
in, and danced, and pleased Herod...the king said unto the damsel,
ask of me whatsoever thou wilt and I will give it thee...She...asked,
saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of
John the Baptist (Mark 6:17-25).
Herodias was not only Antipas' brother's wife she was also the
daughter of Antipas' brother Aristobulus!39 Antipas, of Idumaean ancestry and of forced circumcision, nevertheless claimed Jewish ties (for
political reasons). The Mosaic law forbade marrying a living brother's
wife (Lev. 18:16; 20:21) Roman law and Greek law allowed divorce
initiated by wife or husband for any reason.40 What law was John the
Baptizer citing when he told Antipas: "It is not lawful for thee to have
her?" The secular law of the time approved of Antipas' marriage.
Yet John insisted that Antipas was amenable to God's law! (Some
try to negate the force of this by insisting that Antipas' illegal activity
in John's eyes was the incestuous relationship with a niece. But note
that Herodias' father, Aristobulous, was the son of Herod and Mariamne, while Antipas was the son of Herod and Malthace, and according to Henson, the Mediterranean family dissolved marriages and remarried for honor and better alliances.^ In other words, iti was neither illegal nor unusual for families, especially royal families, to marry
whomever in that world and that such divorce was merely a "breech
of honor."42 Henson adds:
Herodias divorced one uncle, Herod Philip #1, in order to marry a
second, Herod Antipas...The effects of this transaction were farreaching, for kinship and politics. Antipas had stayed at the
house of Philip and Herodias on his way to Rome and during that
visit proposed marriage to Herodias...If this was against the
wishes of Philip (Josephus does not say), it was a double-breech of
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
13
honor: intruding on the relationship of a husband and wife, and
betraying a brother. Herodias accepted Antipas' offer with the
stipulation that Antipas divorce his wife, the daughter of Aretas...It is clear that Herodias significantly enhanced her status
by changing husbands.43
Antipas was the Herod who thought Jesus was the resurrection of
John the Baptist, no doubt because of a guilty conscience (Luke 9:7-9;
Mark 6:14-16)! He also is the one of whom Jesus said, "Go tell that
fox" (Luke 13:31-33), and he is the Herod who, because of vulgar curiosity, tried Jesus on the eve of the crucifixion (Luke 23:6-12). Aretas
defeated Antipas to avenge Aretas' daughter, and later Antipas
was exiled to France.44
Philip the tetrarch (born c.a. 21 B. C., the son of Herod the Great
and Cleopatra of Jerusalem) ruled from 4 B. C.-A. D. 34.45 This
Herod rebuilt Pareas and renamed it Caesarea Philippi (Matt. 16:13). He
also rebuilt and enlarged Bethsaida (Mark 8:22-26). He was well liked
and was the husband of Salome, daughter of Herodias, according to
Josephus.46 A confusion arises here for Bible students who wonder
about the "Philip married to Herodias (Mark 6:17). Sieffert notes another Herod Philip, son of Herod the Great by a second Mariamne of
Jerusalem who was left out of the will and who was the first husband of
Herodias. 47 Herodias was true to the social structure of her day,
for she certainly gained honor and reputation by marrying Antipas
whom she followed into exile in France.48 After Philip the tetrarch died
in A. D. 34, Tiberias annexed his territory to Syria.49 Caligula, however,
gave that territory to Agrippa I, brother of Herodias. 50 Perhaps
Herodias' visit to Rome on her way to France had borne If fruit."
I:VITI:G DISASTER
Herod Agrippa I (born c.a. 10 B. C.) was the son of Aristobulus
and the grandson of Mariamne I and Herod the Great.51 He ruled
from A. D. 37-44 and spent most of his reign placating the Jews, which
invited a disastrous visit from God (Acts 12)! His home was in Rome
(where his mother took him at age six) until A. D. 37 and the reign of
Caligula.52 Agrippa I married Cypros who bore Agrippa II, Drusus,
Bernice, Mariamne, and Drusilla." Bible students will readily recognize
Agrippa II and Bernice (Acts 25,26) and Drusilla, wife of Felix (Acts
24:24).
Agrippa I became a protege of the heir apparent to the Roman throne,
Caligula.54 Agrippa's loyalty was rewarded by an appointment to succeed Philip the tetrarch, and when Caligula was assassinated,
Agrippa gave valuable aid to Claudius and was further rewarded by
the addition of Judea and Samaria to his rule (c.a. A. D. 41).55 He ruled
Equipping the Saints
14
only three more years, but curried favor from the Jews by scrupulous
observance of the ceremonial laws while at the same time patronizing
Greek games and culture.56 His persecution of Christians can be viewed
as further desire politically to placate the Jews (Acts 12:1-3), and it
led to God's wrath. The statements in Acts 12 about Agrippa I show
strong disapproval of the state's persecution of the church for any reason.
IMPUDE:CE O: THE THRO:E
Agrippa II (born A. D. 27) came to power in A. D. 50 and ruled until A.
D. 100." He was only seventeen when his father died, and Claudius was
persuaded to wait before appointing one so young to rule in Palestine.
Agrippa II's uncle, Chalcis, was interim ruler from A. D. 44-50.58 Nero
extended Agrippa II's power and territory around A. D. 55, at
which time Agrippa II enlarged his capital city, Caesarea Philippi,
and renamed it Neroneas.59 It is thought that Agrippa II lived with his
sister Bernice as his wife.60
An interesting sidelight for Bible students is that Agrippas I and II
had been given control of the vestments of the high priest and could
appoint high priests to the office.61 The Romans would thus consult the Herods on religious matters, and this jftay explain why Festus
asked Agrippa II to hear Paul (Acts 25-26). As Agrippa listened to the beloved apostle reason of Paul's calling by Christ to preach to the Gentiles
and of the crucifixion ,of Christ (Acts 26:1-23), Paul noted Agrippa's
knowledge of the Jewish law and prophets (Acts 26:26). Paul asks the king
if he believed the prophets—a kind of invitation (Acts 26:27). Agrippa
responded with impudence and implied that Paul's sermon was too short
to "make him a Christian" (Acts 26:28).
The incestuous, politically motivated Agrippa II, as his father, was defiant in the face of truth and of God. He returned to Rome for a visit,
where Bernice resumed her former life as a mistress to Titus and
Agrippa II faded out of history.62 The line of the Herods can be traced to
just a few more years, but the pitiable, immoral, incredible Herodian
dynasty ended with Agrippa II.
I:CIDE:TALS
To study the Herodian dynasty of 100 B. C. to A. D. 120 is to investigate
a family that would put to shame even the degradation of the modern
television soap opera. Their attitudes toward family and each other as
pawns in a game of gaining reputation and "honor" are strong lessons for
men today. If, as Henson indicates, the family unit is foundational, then a
study of the Herods brings a microcosmic view of the rise and fall of
the society into which John and Jesus announced loudly and clearly, "It
is not lawful for thee to have her" and if you do "you commit adul-
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
15
tery" (Mark 6 and Matt. 19). Why would God take the time to report a
seemingly trivial event between Herod Antipas, Herod Philip, and Herodias
if a larger message were not intended? Will mankind ever learn that
without a rigid alliance between one man and the one woman for life,
society itself falls? God said He hated divorce (Mai. 2:16). Why? Because
its effects reach beyond the individual household to the very core of community. "It is not lawful for thee to have her" is a universal cry from the
mind of God to every male and female bent on divorce. Who .will heed
it?(Cf. Matt. 19:4-6).
Further, to study the Herods is to discover a constant thread of
"like father, like son," and as the Bible states it, "As is the mother, so
is her daughter" (Ezek. 16:44). Archelaus proved as bad as Herod,
and brothers practiced intrigue as did fathers; out of this came very
little good for society. Where are the fathers today who will bring up
their children under God (Eph. 6:4)? Or, as the Herods, shall the sons
of men defy God, rot away with worms, and fade away in dust?
Study :otes
Equipping the Saints
16
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
17
“The Woman With
the Issue of Blood”
Terrance Dindy
(Luke 8:40-48)
I: APPRECIATIO:
The Holy Spirit of truth, working through the inspired pen of the wise
man Solomon, affirmed the fact that within the cycle of life, “The thing
that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that
which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the
sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9). Unfortunately, this truth finds its application, not
only within the natural realm and in regards to pleasant occurrences, but
also within the spiritual realm and in regards to undesirable situations.
Our generation has been stricken with a resurgence of the plagues of religious apostasy that have characterized and spiritually destroyed so many
before us. Many, formally able to lay legitimate claim to the endearing
term, “people of God,” have fallen into the ranks of those desirous to be
“like all the nations” a.k.a. denominations.
In these perilous times, a congregation such as the Gonzales church of
Christ, with her God-fearing elders, Christ-like evangelist, and members
unwilling to exchange the truth of God for the lies of men, is doing her
part in providing the proverbial breath of fresh air needed to resuscitate
those suffocating in the depths of spiritual deviance.
I:TRODUCTIO:
The theme: “Life Lessons From %ew Testament Characters” is appropriate indeed, considering the fact that God, according to His divine power,
“hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness,
through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue,” (2
Peter 1:3) and accounts of action, both approved and unapproved is one
of His effectual methods of doing so. The word of God is replete with
examples of excellency to be evaluated and emulated, as well models of
maliciousness to be analyzed and avoided.
The divine account of the woman with the twelve year issue of blood
(Matthew 9:20-22, Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:40-48) definitely serves in the
capacity of the former. Though nameless in each of the three gospel accounts that bear record of her personal encounter with Jesus the Christ,
Equipping the Saints
18
this woman stands as an epitome of human need met through faith in a
God who is “a strong Tower,” “a Shelter,” and “the Rock that is higher
than I.”
The Lord declared to Paul, upon the apostle’s three petitions to have his
thorn in the flesh removed, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my
strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). With certainty, this same truth is revealed in the life of the woman with the perpetual hemorrhage as her “thorn in the flesh” is removed by the power
and compassion of our Lord confirming the reality of His Deity before
skeptical humanity.
Through this woman’s example, the greatest of life’s lessons may be
clearly learned -- “%either is there salvation in any other: for there is
none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be
saved” (Acts 4:12).
CO:TEXT OF THE E:COU:TER
Leading up to the Messiah’s engagement with the infirmed woman, He
had traveled from Capernaum (west of the Galilean Sea) to Gadarenes
(east of the sea), healed a demoniac called Legion, and returned to Galilee. Upon his return, the Lord is approached by a synagogue ruler named
Jairus, who solicits Him to come to his home and heal his dying adolescent daughter. Complying with the petition, Jesus goes with Jairus, and
on this journey encounters the nameless paragon of prudence whom the
Spirit identifies simply as “a woman having an issue of blood twelve
years” (Luke 8:43).
In seeking to learn the life-lesson the Spirit of truth endeavors to teach
the diligent student of the Scriptures, no less than three points must be
considered concerning this woman’s circumstance -- the first to which all
of humanity can relate, the second to which most can relate, and the third
to which, sadly, few can relate.
The text (Luke 8:43-48) reads:
“And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all
her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any, came behind
Him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue
of blood staunched. And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied,
Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee
and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. And
when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before Him, she declared unto him before all the people for
what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately.
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
19
And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made
thee whole; go in peace.”
A GRAVE ISSUE; A DIRE PREDICAME:T; A HOPELESS
SITUATIO:
A. Immediate Context
“And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years…came behind
Him…”
Much conjecture has been offered as to the specifics of our subject’s condition. Curious minds have often wondered and frequently speculated
concerning that which could have been the precise nature of the ailment
that impaled this hopeless victim. Drawing from the similarity of the terminology used, this woman’s hemorrhage is usually equated by Bible
students to that under consideration in the fifteenth chapter of Leviticus.
A gender-specific “issue” of blood is considered in the latter half of Leviticus 15 (viz. vs. 18-33), and no doubt had to do with the female menstrual cycle, and irregular extensions of it (Lev. 15:25). Under such conditions, a woman was considered unclean and prohibited from contact
with anyone (including her husband) for the duration of the hemorrhage,
lest those contacted be considered unclean as well (Lev. 15:19). Perhaps
this irregular “issue” of Leviticus 15 was the dire condition in which the
woman found herself. Perhaps an hemorrhage of some other sort was the
alienating culprit. Any conjecture is just that -- conjecture.
Moreover, when the spiritual parallel that needs to be drawn is drawn,
one will find that the details of the problem aren’t as significant as the
problem itself. It matters not whether the hemorrhage of our subject was
a menstrual malady, internal bleeding, a diabetic condition, or some other
type of uncontrollable bleeding. None of these were ideal conditions for
her to be in, but rather, a dire hindrance to her comfort, peace, and ability
to procure the contact that is an inherent necessity of human life.
B. Sin: The Spiritual Parallel
Just as the details of her infirmity were of little consequence to this societal reprobate stricken from physical associations with humanity due to
the infirmity, so are the details of the spiritual plights of people in general
stricken from the presence of God due to sin.
Man’s grave issue, spiritually speaking, is sin. When man commits sin,
and we all do (Romans 3:23), we render ourselves pitifully separated
from God. The prophet Isaiah revealed a sobering truth to the inhabitants
of Israel in his day, “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it
cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid
His face from you, that He will not hear” (Isaiah 59:1). Whether our sins
Equipping the Saints
20
are as “red as crimson” (Isaiah 1:18) or barely pink, whether they be
“little” and “white” or “enormous” and “black,” whether they be seemingly “infinite” or relatively “minute,” they all produce one detrimental
consequence: separation between us and God -- a consequence that remains unaltered until properly remedied.
A SEARCH FOR A CURE
A. Diligent and Sacrificial Seeking
“A woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her
living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any.”
The second point to consider in gleaning the precious fruit of life’s lessons learned from the woman having an issue of blood twelve years is
one (unlike the previous point) that only some can relate to.
While “all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God,” (Romans
3:23 - emp. TFBD) and thus stand in desperate need of salvation, only a
fraction of humanity will acquire enough spiritual gumption to seek it.
The woman having the issue of blood twelve years is to be commended
for the effort she put forth to rectify her awful situation. Volumes are
spoken of the one who recognizes a problem within, and will make the
sacrifices necessary to correct that problem. Her sacrifices made to redress her physical enigma entailed the exasperation of valuable time
(twelve years) and money (all her living) invested in seemingly valid
sources (physicians) -- but to no avail.
B. Valiant but Vain Seeking
A young boy three years of age, in efforts to imitate his father’s carpentry, resolves to nail together two pieces of the scrap wood his father has
discarded. Determination in his eyes, the little one holds a nail head
down atop his pair of two-by-four pieces. With an amazing amount of
precision, the boy strikes the nail, again and again, yet failing to accomplish his objective. Unable to realize why his nail won’t penetrate the
wood like Daddy’s, he cries out in bitter frustration.
Without doubt, one can conclude that the infirmed woman of Matthew,
Mark, and Luke’s gospel accounts conducted her twelve year search for a
cure with an immeasurable amount of sincerity, and an unparalleled
amount of drive, yet at the conclusion of twelve years of probing inadequate sources, her disease remained.
Such is the dilemma of many seeking a solution to the spiritual affliction
of sin. Man, of his own resources, have for centuries sought diligently,
sacrificed greatly, and expended much in efforts to remedy sin. Many
have done so with unquestionable sincerity, yet inevitable futility when
searching amid the storehouses of human wisdom, philosophy, money,
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
21
merit, mere morality, secular education, and synthetic religion.
The apostle Paul’s sole concern in life was the salvation of those whom
he had the privilege of coming into contact with. As such, he affirmed in
the first of his inspired letters to the church of Christ in Corinth, “…
brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of
wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not
to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified” (1
Corinthians 2:1-2).
Like Paul, the woman having the issue of blood, upon acquisition of faith
(which comes by hearing the word of God - Romans 10:17), realized that
the proper source of salvation was none other than Jesus Christ.
THE A:SWER FOU:D
A. Recognition of the Problem
“And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all
her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any, came behind
Him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue
of blood stanched.”
In order for solutions to be found, men must recognize problems. For our
subject of the Scriptures, an incurable issue of blood was her problem.
She had no choice but to concede to the fact that the problem existed, as
it was physical in nature.
Sin, however, is a problem of which tangible evidence is not always associated, thus men, many times fail to give credence to the reality of its
existence. Those interested in the truth of the matter, however, will hear
the gospel, search the Scriptures, and be assured that, “…every man is
tempted when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when
lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished,
bringeth forth death” (James 1:14-15).
B. Realization of the Answer
Once the problem of sin is recognized, the fact that salvation lies in
Christ alone must be realized. Our Lord affirmed, “I am the way, the
truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John
14:6). In addressing the saints in Rome, the apostle Paul pours forth the
heart of the Spirit on the pages of Holy Writ, declaring, “Brethren, my
heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
For I bear them record that they have a zeal for God, but not according
to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going
about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for
righteousness to every one that believeth” (Romans 10:1-4). The Jews
Equipping the Saints
22
desired salvation, but as the apostle’s prayer implies, did not possess it -the reason being, they failed to realize that salvation lies in the Christ of
God.
Like the majority of the Israelite people (but unlike the woman having
the issue of blood twelve years), the masses of humanity today never
come to realize that Jesus Christ alone holds the keys to salvation.
CO:CLUSIO:
Our nameless, yet nonetheless memorable example under consideration
is not to be faulted for seeking to tap into the sources of her day to find a
cure for her illness. No doubt physicians she sought were those who
claimed to possess the remedy that she so desperately sought after. However, hearing of Jesus (Mark 5:27), and finally coming to a knowledge of
the truth, any rejection of Him would have constituted senselessness.
Thanks be to God that the woman with the issue of blood developed the
necessary faith to be made whole (Mark 5:27; Romans 10:17), responded
accordingly, receiving the blessing of life, and through her example
speaks to those of today who find themselves entangled in sin, the spiritual parallel to her physical infirmity.
STUDY QUESTIO:S:
1.
What truth regarding the Lord, evident in his response to the apostle
Paul in 1 Corinthians 12:9 also is evident in His encounter with the
women having an issue of blood twelve years?
2.
What great life lesson, also taught in Acts 4:12, can be learned from
this encounter?
3.
To which point concerning the woman’s account can all of humanity
relate? To which only some relate? To which can very few relate?
4.
What introduces itself to all men at some point, and may be seen as
the spiritual equivalent of the woman’s physical infirmity?
5.
And admirable aspect of the woman’s character is cited by Mark and
Luke in their introductions of her. What is it?
6.
Are sincerity and determination of humanity the only factors necessary to man’s salvation? If not, why?
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
23
“Mary, Who Did
What She Could”
Wayne Jones
Aren’t we thankful that we serve a God who does not expect us
to do the impossible? He does not require of us such tasks that would
make obedience undoable! Could you imagine the burden of Christianity
if we were expected to do things that we could not? Could you imagine
the number who would crumble under the pressure (and we might be in
that number) of being held to an impossible standard? Surely, if such
were the case many would become “weary while doing good” (Gal. 6:9)
long before they were able to hear those words “Well done, good and
faithful servant” (Matt. 25:23).
Do not misunderstand, however, that we serve a demanding
God. Regarding the subject of baptism, Christ said these words: “Do not
marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again’” (John 3:7; emphasis
mine throughout, WJ). When dealing with the subject of worship, Jesus
revealed that “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship
in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). Generally speaking about responsibility,
Jesus make it clear that “to whom much is given, from him much will be
required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask
the more” (Luke 12:48). Truly, we serve a demanding God.
However, there is at least one section of Scripture that reveals
God only requires us to do what we can (Mark 14:3-9). Contained in the
framework of this text is the story of Mary humbly anointing the head of
Jesus with a very costly ointment. Her efforts received mixed reactions
from those around her. Some obviously did not understand the magnitude of her sacrifice. Others apparently did not understand the unique
treasure that had in knowing Jesus face to face and being able to serve
Him personally. Despite the confusion surrounding this event, the lessons we can learn some two thousand years later ring loud and clear. For
the remainder the space allowed, we will consider three important truths
from this one event.
When we do what we can…
God Is Pleased With Our Work
It is possible to please the Lord. The wise man of old penned
these informative words, “When a man's ways please the Lord, he makes
Equipping the Saints
24
even his enemies to be at peace with him.” (Prov. 16:7). Paul encouraged the brethren at Thessalonica to abound more and more because they
had received Divine instructions on who they “ought to walk and to
please God” (1 Thess. 4:1). Through Paul’s pen, the Spirit made known
that “no one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this
life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier” (2 Tim. 2:4).
In the case of Mary, the good work she did was enough for Jesus to compliment and defend her actions.
It is interesting that this was one of the three recorded occasions
wherein we read of expensive gifts being given to Christ (Matt. 2:11;
John 19:39). In Matthew 2:11 we read of the wise men bringing gifts the
young Christ. In John 19:39 we have record of Nicodemus providing a
costly gift that Jesus might receive a proper burial. On each of these occasions, the gifts given were practical in nature; but Mary’s was motivated purely out of love.
It also should be noted that her gift was a huge sacrifice. Some
have even suggested that Mary may have even withheld this fragrance at
the death of her brother Lazarus so that she might save it for Jesus! Even
if such was not the case, the cost of this ointment would have been indication of her sacrificial love (verse 5; Matt. 20:2). Likewise, the sacrificial nature of our deeds will please the Lord today: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1). “And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave
themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God” (2 Cor. 8:5).
:ext, I Will Influence Others
It is possible for servant of God to be a positive and powerful
influence for good all over the world. Paul commended the brethren in
Rome because of their influence: “First, I thank my God through Jesus
Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole
world” (Rom. 1:8). Those living Godly lives in Philippi had “become
blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a
crooked and perverse generation” and because of that they shone “as
lights in the world” (Phil. 2:15). Even this one act of kindness would
serve as the foundation of Mary’s influence. Listen the Messiah’s assessment of this situation: “Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is
preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told
as a memorial to her” (Mark 14:9). Dear reader, do you know what that
means? Mary would be a spoken illustration to crowds of unbelievers so
that they might be motivated to know the Christ of Calvary and be obedient to His will!
Think of the lesser known characters in the Bible and the great
lessons we learn from their stories (i.e., the widow who gave her last two
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
25
mites; the young lad whom Andrew brought to Christ with the loaves and
fish; the nameless leper who returned to thank Christ for their healing).
Truly, when the Gospel is preached to the entire world their stories are
told and their influence spreads.
We, too, can be an influence if we will just do what we can! We
can send a card or giving a call to one who is sick. We can fix a meal for
someone who is hurting. We all can give a tract to someone who is
searching. As Christians, we can offer a prayer for someone who has
fallen away. We can be a living example of New Testament Christianity.
Sermons We Can See
I’d rather see a sermon than to hear one any day.
I’d rather one would walk with me than merely show the way.
The eye’s the better pupil, more willing that the ear.
Fine counsel is confusing but example is always clear.
The best of all the preachers are the men who live their creed.
For to see the good in action is what everybody needs.
If you let me watch you do it I can see just how it’s done.
I can see your hands in action but your tongue too fast my run.
And the sermons you deliver may be very wise and true
But I’d rather get my lesson from observing what you do.
For I may misunderstand you and the high advice you give.
But there is no misunderstanding how you act and live.
- author unknown
Others Will Probably Criticize
Consider again, the text “...And they criticized her
sharply.” (Mark 14:5). Another translation renders this word “criticized”
to read “scolded.” The leader of this rebuke is revealed in John’s account: “But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, who would
betray Him, said, ‘Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred
denarii and given to the poor?’” (John 12:4-5). Yet, others were apparently influenced and joined in: “But when His disciples saw it, they were
indignant, saying, ‘Why this waste?’” (Matt. 26:8)
There will come a time that when we do what we can that we
will be “sharply criticized.”
Equipping the Saints
26
In fact, we should expect it. Jesus delivered a peculiar warning, but its
truth is obvious: “Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for so did
their fathers to the false prophets.” (Luke 6:26)
Let us remember that while other might join in, there is also an original
source for our criticism. The Revelation points out that Satan is that
source: “Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, ‘Now salvation,
and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ
have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our
God day and night, has been cast down.’” (Rev. 12:10).
Judas’ motive was clearly revealed in Word, but the motivation
for our modern-day critics may vary. Some will criticize because they
are jealous of the attention our good deeds may garner. Some may criticize because they feel guilty that they are not more active in doing good
deeds. Some may criticize because they have a personal grudge against
us. Consequently, if such is the case, nothing we do will be approved of
in their eyes. Some will criticize because they do not know any better
and are ignorant of the situation. Regardless of the “why,” we can rest
assured that when we do what we ought that criticism, and sometimes
“sharp” criticism, will come our way. But remember, “so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matt. 5:12).
Conclusion
There are many “major” events that take place before and after
the one we have considered together. Jesus had already triumphantly
entered the city of Jerusalem. The Passover supper is about the observed.
The betrayer is soon to be identified. Jesus’ prayer in the garden will
soon be uttered. Even the single most important event in history is
merely hours from taking place – the death of Christ on Calvary’s cross.
Yet, the Spirit sees fit to stop and give us detailed insight into
this act of generosity, love, humility and devotion. Praise be to God for
this woman who simple did “what she could.”
Questions
1.
What two areas of our service to God were cited to prove that
God demands us to do some things?
2.
List Bible characters who were present at the even under consideration.
3.
In what city and in whose house did these events take place?
4.
Which part of Jesus’ body did Mary anoint with this oil?
5.
What other two examples of Christ receiving expensive gifts do
we have in the New Testament?
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
27
6.
List two Bible passages that prove we can be pleasing to God
besides our text in Mark 14.
7.
List two Bible passages that describe the power of a Christian’s
influence.
8.
Name at least three other “minor” Bible characters whose influence lives on in their stories.
9.
Who what the leader of Mary’s verbal criticism? Which Bible
writer reveals this to us?
10. List some reasons why we might be criticized for doing good
deeds?
Equipping the Saints
28
“The Governors: Pilate,
Felix, and Festus”
Dan Cates
I:TRODUCTIO:
It is a great honor to be able to be a part of the 2007 lectureship
here at Gonzales. I have admired James Eaves for several years and appreciate the opportunity to be associated with him again in this effort. I
am excited about the theme for this year's lectureship, Life Lessons from
%ew Testament Characters, and am grateful for the opportunity to study
three occasionally overlooked New Testament characters. These three
men are known very well outside of religious circles--in fact they were
each mentioned by contemporaneous writers. These three men were of a
class of men--hand picked by emperors--who, as procurators, exerted
influence and power in Judea for around fifty-seven years. Their mandate ranged from collecting taxes to keeping order, but their actions at
times went beyond the bounds of humaneness into cruelty. These three
men were significant ones in the Biblical accounts of the lives of Jesus
and Paul; however, while they are Biblical characters, these three men,
unlike others studied this weekend, are not ones whom Christians, or any
who wish to be such, should emulate! Please join with me as we study
Pontius Pilate, Antonius Felix, Porcius Festus, and to a far lesser extent
each of the other procurators--the Roman governors of Judea.
THE OFFICE OF GOVER:OR
Apart from some of the prophesies of the Old Testament, the
Bible does not reveal any great details regarding the coming of Rome in
to power prior to the events recorded in the Old Testament. By the second century B.C., Rome had already established herself as a power able
to contend with the Hellenistic (Greek) governments which in that day
ruled the Holy Land and its surroundings. They had conquered their native Italy, neighbor Sicily, and western rival Spain. By the middle of that
century, Macedonia and Greece to the east and Carthage in North Africa
also had fallen to the Romans. In the early part of the first century B.C.,
Rome threatened Judea. In 64 B.C. her neighbor Syria fell, and she followed in 63 B.C. as the Roman general, Pompey, wrestled control from
her. Within a quarter of a century, an aspiring Idumaean was in the right
place at the right time with the right political connections to have control
turned over to him as king of Judea under the Roman Caesar. He was
Herod the Great, progenitor of the rulers of Judea for roughly the next
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
29
century. After his death, his kingdom was divided and given to his sons.
In A.D. 6, one of his sons, Archalaeus, was deposed, and in his place
were appointed procurators--the governors about which this study is concerned.
Having procurators over the kingdom would ensure that Rome
would have a loyal representative exerting her will over the captive Jews.
Among other responsibilities, these governors would keep the Roman
peace in the conquered land (Josephus, Wars, II. xiv. 1), would be Caesar's voice (Tiberius referred to one governor in this way, "Cuspius
Fadus, my procurator" [Josephus, Antiquities, XX. i. 2]) when they held
council, and would serve as the directors of financial operations and tax
collection. Also of interest to the Bible student are these two considerations: no Sanhedrin meeting could be convened without their approval
(Josephus, Antiquities, XX. ix. 1) and these governors had the power of
life and death when judgment was issued (Josephus, Wars, II. viii. 1).
Judea was not the only land that had such rulers; in fact, her
neighbor to the north, Syria, was also so ruled. In the early days of the
Jews' governors, they were required to report to the Syrian governor
(Fausset's Bible Dictionary, "Procurator"). For this reason, some will
call the early Judean procurators prefects or legates; however, "it is convenient to follow common usage and assume that this title [procuratorDFC] was current from the first" (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, "Procurator"). These governors ultimately were not so restricted
and would have such authority that any complaints about their rule had to
be brought before the Caesar himself. Such power, as can be imagined,
occasioned abuse of the office, and ultimately contributed to the Jews'
rebellion against Rome in A.D. 66 which hastened the destruction of Jerusalem (A.D. 70)--the fulfillment of Matthew 24:5-35.
PO:TIUS PILATE--WHO WASHED HIS HA:DS
The first governor given attention in Scripture was Pontius Pilate. Tiberius appointed him governor in A.D. 26 and he remained in that
position until atrocities committed by him among Samaritans required
that he appear before Tiberius Caesar at the order of the Syrian Vitellius-so often in that age timing was everything, and such was the case with
Pilate, for before he could reach Rome, Tiberius died (Josephus, Antiquities, XVIII. iv. 1,2). Pilate's reign ended in A.D. 36. A very clouded set
of traditions concern themselves with his final years which apparently
culminated in his suicide (ISBE, "Pilate, Pontius"). Perhaps the most
notable action of Pilate, aside from his treatment of Jesus, involves his
setting up "Caesar effigies" in Jerusalem (Josephus, Antiquities, XVIII.
iii. 1). Due to public sentiment and the threat of punishment from Rome,
Pilate ultimately had the images moved to Caesarea--which had been
built by Herod the Great and named for Tiberius' grandfather Augustus.
Equipping the Saints
30
The character of Pilate as seen in Scripture harmonizes well
with this characterization of his attitude: "He was a man of a very inflexible disposition, and very merciless as well as very obstinate" (Philo,
"On the Embassy to Gaius," XXXVIII. 301). Jesus appearance before
Pilate is recorded in Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; and John 18,19, and
is alluded to in Acts 3:13; 4:27; 13:28 and I Timothy 6:13. Pilate is also
mentioned in Luke 3:1 (recording his governorship) and Luke 13:1
(alluding to atrocities committed among the Galileans). Regarding the
trial of Jesus, Pilate as governor had the power to release this Jesus
whom he deemed innocent (Matthew 27:24); he did not, however, have
the political backbone to do it; therefore, he washed his hands, "and when
he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified" (Matthew
27:26). While Pilate tried to wash his hands of the death of Jesus, neither
God nor man concedes his innocence. Consider the record of early historians. Speaking of the plight of Christians, Tacitus wrote, "Christus,
from whom the name had its origin, suffered the extreme penalty
[crucifixion-DFC] during the reign of Tiberius at the hands of one of our
procurators, Pontius Pilate" (The Annals, XV. 44). Josephus likewise
records Pilate's guilt:
Now there was about this time Jesus, a wise man, if it be lawful to call
him a man; for he was a doer of wonderful works . . . He was [the]
Christ. And when Pilate, at the suggestion of the principal men amongst
us [the Jews-DFC], had condemned him to the cross, those that loved
him at the first did not forsake him; for he appeared to them alive the
third day; as the divine prophets had foretold these and ten thousand
other wonderful things concerning him (Antiquities, XVIII.iii. 3).
A:TO:IUS FELIX--WHO AWAITED A CO:VE:IE:T SEASO:
Antonius Felix was appointed procurator by Claudius Caesar
around A.D. 52. While most of the procurators came from affluent families, Felix was a freedman (former slave) of whom Claudius had developed a fondness and to whom Claudius had already given "the command
of cohorts and of troops of horses" (Suetonius, The Lives of the Caesars,
Claudius. XXVIII). Josephus goes into some detail regarding the means
by which Felix conducted his affairs, telling of Felix' marriage to Drusilla, sister of Agrippa and wife of Azizus the king of Emesa-incidentally, that adulterous marriage produced a son who died in the
infamous eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in A.D. 79 (Antiquities, XX. vii. 1,2).
Josephus also tells of Felix' murder of the high priest, Jonathan
(Antiquities, XX. viii. 5). Felix served until around A.D. 60 when he was
replaced by Festus at the appointment of the reigning Caesar--Claudius
had died in A.D. 54. Like Pilate, Felix' reign was such that many went to
Rome to complain, "and he had certainly been brought to punishment,
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
31
unless Nero had yielded to the importunate solicitations of his brother
Pallas" (Antiquities, XX. viii. 9) who had been a treasurer under Claudius
(Suetonius, The Lives of the Caesars, Claudius. XXVIII).
The character of Felix as seen in Scripture likewise harmonizes
well with this characterization of his attitude: ". . . Felix, indulging in
every kind of barbarity and lust, exercised the power of a king in the
spirit of a slave" (Tacitus, The Histories, V. 9). Luke recorded that
Claudius Lysias, the chief captain who saved Paul from the Jews in the
temple (Acts 21:33-35), sent Paul to Felix--who governed as the other
procurators from Caesarea--to have a Roman hearing (Acts 23:23-30).
After the accusers (Acts 24:1-9) and Paul (Acts 24:10-21) had their say,
Felix determined to wait until the chief captain could testify to render a
verdict (Acts 24:22). In the meanwhile, Felix and Drusilla took opportunities to hear Paul speak "concerning the faith in Christ. And as he [Paul
-DFC] reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come,
Felix trembled [was terrified-ASV], and answered, Go thy way for this
time; when I have a convenient season, I will call thee" (Acts 24:24,25).
It can be assumed that no such convenient season availed itself, for Felix
had said this wishing for a bribe and left Paul bound when his successor,
Festus, came into office for he was "willing to shew the Jews a pleasure" (Acts 24:26,27).
PORCIUS FESTUS--WHO THOUGHT PAUL MAD
As has been mentioned, around A.D. 60 Felix was replaced with
Porcius Festus by Nero. Josephus records that Festus quelled a revolt
and in spite of his desire to disallow it, ultimately allowed a wall to be
erected which blocked the view from the Fortress Antonia into the temple
(Antiquities, XX. ix. 10,11)--incidentally, had this wall been constructed
earlier, Paul would not have been rescued by Claudius Lysias, and barring, the providence of God, would have died in the temple! It could be
said that Festus was atypical of the men who were procurators in Judea;
however, his reign was short-lived, for he died around A.D. 62.
Luke recorded that Festus frustrated an attempt on the life of
Paul after just days in office (Acts 25:1-4). A short while later in
Caesarea, a trial of Paul was held under him as well, with the accusers
and Paul speaking testifying, "But Festus, willing to do the Jews a favor
[he had just come into power-DFC], answered Paul, and said, Wilt thou
go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?" (Acts
25:7-9). To this Paul, a Roman citizen with associated rights, appealed
to Caesar (Acts 25:10-12). In the meanwhile, Agrippa II traveled to
Caesarea and was made aware by Felix of Paul's situation (Acts 25:1327). Agrippa II allowed Paul to speak to him, whereupon Paul recounted
his background and conversion (Acts 26:2-23). Festus could not forbear
to interrupt saying, "Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth
Equipping the Saints
32
make thee mad" (Acts 26:24). Festus was new in the area, but Agrippa II
was not; Paul knowing this and knowing Agrippa said he was speaking
not madness, "but speak forth the words of truth and soberness" (Acts
26:25-27). Agrippa was apparently moved, but not to conversion; he
ultimately commented to his host, "This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed to Caesar" (Acts 26:28-32). So ends the Bible narrative concerning Festus and the procurators.
THE REST--WHO RULED THEIR TERRITORY
Pilate, Felix, and Festus were but three in a line of governors
which stretched for the better part of the first century A.D. The first
three were appointed by Caesar Augustus (27 B.C. to A.D. 14). They
were Coponius (A.D. c6-9) under whom a massacre of Jews at the hands
of Samaritans occurred (Josephus, Antiquities, XVIII. ii. 2), Marcus Ambivius (A.D. c9-12), and Annius Rufus (A.D. c12-15). Under Tiberius
(A.D. 14-37) three more were appointed. They were Valerius Gratus
(A.D. 15-26) who so delved into Jewish politics that he appointed four
high priests (Josephus, Antiquities, XVIII. ii. 2)--which for nearly two
centuries had been as much a political as religious position, Pontius Pilate (A.D. 26-36), and Marullus (A.D. 36 or 38-41)--sources are a bit
confusing at this point with some including prior to Marullus a Marcellus
(A.D. 36-37/38) and others indicating these as being names or perhaps
forms of the same name for one man. In either case, there was a break
after Marullus during which Herod Agrippa I who had been banished by
Tiberius was restored by Caligula as king. In A.D. 44 procurators again
ruled on behalf of Rome, with Claudius appointing four. They were Cuspius Fadus (A.D. 44-c46) who was not afraid of meeting insurrection
with violence (Josephus, Antiquities, XX. i. 1; v. 1), Tiberius Alexander
(A.D. c46-48), Ventidius Cumanus (A.D. 48-c52) under whom Josephus
maintained the Jews' troubles [leading to the rebellion of A.D. 66 and
destruction of A.D. 70] began with the death of 10,000 Jews at the feast
of unleavened bread (Wars, II. xii. 1), and Antonius Felix (A.D. c52c60). Nero (A.D. 54-68) appointed the last three procurators. These
were Porcius Festus (A.D. c60-62), Lucceius Albinus (A.D. 62-64) under
whom "nobody durst speak their minds, but tyranny was generally tolerated" (Josephus, Wars, II. xiv. 1), and Gessius Florus (A.D. 64-66) who
made Albinus look good, doing ". . . his unjust actions to the harm of the
nation after a pompous manner; as though he had been sent as an executioner to punish condemned malefactors . . . where the case was really
pitiable, he was most barbarous" (Josephus, Wars, II. xiv. 2). So ended
the procurators and Roman peace in Judea.
LIFE LESSO:S FROM THE GOVER:ORS
From Pilate one learns that one cannot wash his hands of responsibility. Two thousand years after the fact, the Jews are still blamed
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
33
for killing Jesus (witness Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ), but so
is Pilate for turning the innocent Jesus over to the angry mob--and both
rightly! So none today can wash his hands of working out his own salvation in obedience (Philippians 2:12; Mark 16:16; Galatians 6:7-9).
From Felix one learns that there may not be a more convenient
season. When one passes an opportunity to respond to the Lord's invitation, he does so at the risk of his own soul. Paul wrote to the Corinthians, ". . . behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of
salvation" (II Corinthians 6:2); likewise, to the Hebrews he wrote, "But
exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be
hardened through the deceitfulness of sin" (Hebrews 3:13).
From Festus one learns that Christianity is true and reasonable.
The laws of nature demonstrate that God exists and that His Word is accurate (Hebrews 3:4). The principles of logic demonstrate that obedience
to God is reasonable (Isaiah 1:18).
From the rest one learns that the Christian must obey and pray
for his rulers no matter what type of men they might be. Paul wrote, "Let
every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but
of God: the powers that be are ordained of God" (Romans 13:1) and "I
exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions,
and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are
in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness
and honesty" (I Timothy 2:2) in a day when despots were the rule not the
exception. Man today, so long as the commands of man do not violate
God's Will (Acts 5:29), must respect the authority of his human government--no matter what it might be!
CO:CLUSIO:
In this study the Roman governors of Judea, especially Pilate,
Felix, and Festus, have been examined from both a secular and Biblical
perspective. That the Bible agrees with the historians is not a surprise,
but is reassuring to the Christian in an age when the historicity of Scripture is often attacked--albeit never defeated! May the Bible student not
emulate the examples of these men, but apply the life lessons from these
men to his own life.
SHORT A:SWER QUESTIO:S
1. How many Roman governors are mentioned in the Bible, and what are
their names?
2. In what year did Judea fall to Rome, and who was Rome's general?
3. What were three responsibilities of the governors?
4. What years did Pontius Pilate serve as governor?
5. What years did Antonius Felix serve as governor?
Equipping the Saints
34
6. What years did Porcius Festus serve as governor?
7. Which of the governors listened with Agrippa as Paul spoke of his
conversion?
8. Which of the Caesars did not release the innocent Jesus?
9. Which of the Caesars saw Paul after he was saved from Jews in the
temple, and who was the chief captain who sent Paul to him?
10. What lessons are learned from the governors?
QUESTIO:S FOR DISCUSSIO:
1. Why does one not read, aside from prophecy, about the kingdoms of
Greece and Rome until the time of Caesar Augustus?
2. Why would the Romans think it necessary to have governors in subordinate lands?
3. How could the men studied have become corrupted as governors?
4. What can we make of the agreement between the secular and Biblical
accounts of these governors lives?
5. Why would the setting up of "Caesar effigies" offend the Jews?
6. Why did Pilate send to crucifixion one who he know was innocent,
and why did he scourge him if he knew he was innocent?
7. How did Felix' morality contribute to his fear at hearing Paul reason
of righteousness? of temperance? or judgment to come?
8. Why did Festus think Paul was mad?
9. Why could the priesthood have become a political position as much as
a religious one in the centuries preceding the birth of Jesus, and what role
did this play in the days of Jesus?
10. What other lessons might be gleaned from the governors?
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
35
“Stephen, the Man of Character, Conviction,
Courage, and Commendation”
John Hall
Stephen: the Man of Character
Stephen’s name is derived from the Koine Greek word Stephanos, can be
translated as crown, prize, or reward. Stephen is first mentioned in the
sixth chapter of the book of Acts where he along with six other men,
from among the entire group of disciples, are selected by the church and
appointed by the apostles to attend to the daily needs of the Grecian widows (Acts 6:1-6). From the qualifications, set forth by the apostles, and
undoubtedly from the selection by the other disciples, we find that
Stephen was a man of high character. He was identified as being full of
the Holy Spirit and wisdom (Acts 6:3). From the mere fact that Stephen
was selected to perform such an awesome responsibility, it is safe to say
that he was considered to hold the unqualified confidence of the body of
disciples, considered to be trustworthy, of good conduct, responsible, and
one who possessed the integrity needed to perform all of his appointed
duties. The fact that Stephen, as far as it is recorded in the Scriptures, is
the first gospel preacher, who is not an apostle, to perform miracles (Acts
6:8), shows us that he was not merely content to limit his talents and energy to ensuring that his appointed duties were performed, but that he
was committed to doing all that he could to reach the lost with the gospel
of Christ, to relieve the misery of those who suffered physically, and to
bring glory and honor to God and to Jesus Christ.
Stephen’s exemplary character is further revealed first during his inquisition by the Sanhedrin who condemned, physically assaulted, and eventually murdered him and second as he stood and heard the lying testimony
from the false witnesses who testified that he had blasphemed against
Moses, God, the Temple, the Law, and against the customs of the Jews
(Acts 6:11-14). In the midst of lies against him, hatred towards him,
physical abuse, and a painful and cruel death by stoning, Stephen maintains the mind (attitude) of Christ (Phil. 2:1-9) by humbling himself unto
death for the cause of the truth of the gospel, and by not displaying anger
and wrath upon those whose only goal was to silence him and the truth
by stoning him to death (1 Peter 2:21-23). In his dying moments, with his
final breath, Stephen’s last words were to ask God not to hold his mur-
Equipping the Saints
36
derers sin against them (Acts 7:59). Stephen was a man of high Christian
character.
Stephen: the Man of Conviction
From the onset, we see Stephen as one who has the power of conviction,
as seen by the inability of the members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen to refute or stand up against his preaching (Acts 6:8-10). As Stephen
answered the charges against him, it must have been obvious to the members of the Sanhedrin (High Council) that Stephen was a man who was
firmly and strongly persuaded that what he believed, preached, and practiced was true according to God. During his discourse, Stephen did not
waiver or in any way indicate that what he proclaimed was less than the
truth or could not be validated by the Scriptures themselves. With full
power and conviction, Stephen preached a compelling message of the
gospel through the very same scriptures with which his hearers were so
familiar. He proclaimed to them that God’s blessings for the Jews and all
men rested on the faith of Abraham. He proclaimed how the rejection of
Joseph by his brothers and the rejection of Moses by the Israelites were
forecasts of how the Jews and even the men sitting on the High Council
would and actually did reject and eventually take part in the betrayal and
murder of Jesus of Nazareth – the Messiah of God.
Stephen reminds his hearers that the Tabernacle, in which God dwelt
among the Israelites, during their sojourn in the wilderness, was the
dwelling place that God chose to be erected and not the Temple, which
was built by Solomon. Stephen dispels the idea that the Temple is sacred
to God by explaining that God does not dwell in houses made by men,
but dwells in heaven (Acts 7:44-50). He informs his hearers that they,
like their forefathers, have not obeyed the very Law, which they hold in
such high veneration. In the final words of his discourse, with a stinging
rebuke and words of condemnation, Stephen convicts his hearers that
they like their fathers rejected and persecuted the prophets of God, resisted the Holy Spirit, and murdered the Messiah, and disobeyed the Law
which was put into effect by the angels. (Acts 7:51-53).
Stephen: the Man of Courage
As we imagine Stephen standing before the Sanhedrin – the body of men,
who composed the highest council of the Jewish Nation, especially in
matters which pertained to religious issues, it could have been a terrifying experience. These were the very men who condemned Jesus Christ
and judged him worthy of death (Mark 14:55-65); the very men who arrested, jailed, attempted to intimidate, threatened, and flogged the apos-
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
37
tles, Peter and John. These were the men who could strike fear into the
hearts of the average man. But Stephen was no average man – he was a
man of courage who was not afraid to stand up for his convictions; was
not afraid to stand up for God; was not afraid of men who could only
destroy his body; was not afraid to die for the gospel, but a man of courage who looked his accusers directly into their eyes and proclaimed the
truth, nothing but the truth, and the whole truth. He was not intimidated
by the number of men who opposed him; he was not intimidated by the
possible harm of the false testimony against him; he was not intimidated
by the ecclesiastical power of the Sanhedrin Council. Stephen did not beg
for his life. He did not deny Christ to spare his own life. He did not compromise the truth. He did not die a coward’s death, but the death of a true
and faith saint.
Stephen: the Man of Commendation
One of the most interesting parts of the scenes portrayed in the account of
Stephen’s trial, defense, and subsequent murder, is the epiphany of the
glory of God and Jesus Christ standing at the right hand of God (Acts
7:55-56). It would seem that, in this scene, Jesus is giving Stephen a
standing ovation for the righteous character, conviction, and courage
displayed a faithful Christian. In other passages of Scripture, Jesus is
referred as sitting on the right hand of God (Eph. 1:19-20; Col. 3:1; Heb.
1:13; 12:2-3); but in this instance, as if in respect, he stands up for
Stephen, as Stephen had stood up for him.
Conclusion
The story of Stephen is a reminder of how all of us who profess to be
faithful member of the body of Christ should live on a daily basis. We
should be men and women of the type of character which has a positive
influence on others around us and gives us a reputation for being honest,
trustworthy, responsible, and full of faith and integrity. We should the
character, which is driven by the zeal to spread the gospel to all men, as
much as it is in our power. The character which prompts us not only to
use our talents in the best possible way to be a true servant of God, but
also to look for other ways to develop ourselves spiritually and intellectually to serve in other capacities in the Lord’s church. We should be men
and women of conviction. We should firmly hold to the faith and the
teaching of the New Testament and be willing and able to defend the
truth at any and every opportunity and refute every doctrine and practice
that is contrary to the will and word of God (2 Cor. 10:4-6). We should
be men and women of courage and realize that we serve a God who is the
supreme ruler of the heavens and the earth; that our God out numbers all
Equipping the Saints
38
foes; never forsakes us; has given us the spirit of courage and not timidity; and supplies us with unlimited spiritual power to carry out his will
(Isaiah 40:28-41). We should be men and women of commendation that
we like the disciples of the early church had the praises of men because
of their steadfastness in the word, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and
their public show of love for one another (Acts 2:47). We should live in a
manner that will cause us to be commended for our character, conviction,
courage, and the glory and honor we bring to Christ and to God.
Thought Questions
1. In what way(s) can I improve my character as a Christian to have a
more positive influence on others around me?
2. In what way(s) can I develop myself and help my brothers and sisters develop spiritually and intellectually to do more than I or they are
doing for the cause of Christ and the church?
3. What do you think is the best way to respond to people who resist
the gospel and the truth revealed in the New Testament?
4. Stephen, like Jesus, went into synagogues, and preached the gospel.
In what way can the church as a whole be more involved in spreading the
gospel to those who are members of denominations?
In his dying breath, Stephen asked for forgiveness on behalf of those who
were murdering him. In what way can we use this example to teach others about the power of forgiveness?
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
39
“Paul, an Apostle
of Our Lord”
Mark Lance
The apostle Paul was a great soldier of the cross. But
when we first are introduced to him it is as Saul of Tarsus:
Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their
ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out
of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down
their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was
Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and
saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled
down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to
their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep
(Acts 7:57-60).
Yes, the one we know as the great apostle Paul was at
one time a persecutor of Christians. Acts chapter eight starts out
with These words, "And Saul was consenting unto his death". We
read further of the extend of Saul's efforts to stop the word of God:
And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter
against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,
And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they
were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem (Acts 9:1-2).
Saul went to great lengths to stop the work of the church.
You have to at least give him credit for following what he believed.
It is sad to see those that profess to believe in Jesus and not put
forth the effort to serve Him.
PAUL'S CONVERSION
One of the great points we can learn from this man, is that
his past life did not stop him
from serving God in the future. People often let their sins of the
past stop them from doing what they can in the future to be faith-
Equipping the Saints
40
fully serving the Lord. This is a terrible mistake, since every human
of the age of accountability (that has the mental capacity) has
sinned. We never want to make light of sin, but at the same we
must understand that all of us fall short of the glory of God, Romans 3 :23). A question we must ask ourselves is, I have sinned,
now what? Do we just give up? Or do we seek God's forgiveness
and continue to serve Him?
Notice as Saul was in the process of persecuting the
church that Jesus appears to him and confronts him with his sins:
And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:
And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto
him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said,
Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom
thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the
pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what
wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him,
Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what
thou must do (Acts 9:3-6).
We need to remember that Saul is a very religious man.
But we must notice that he is a religious man that needs to make
some changes. To his credit, when he was shown the truth he
obeyed the truth. It should be noted that Saul was not converted
on the road to Damascus, but when and only when he did what
the Lord commanded.
And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, Came
unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.
And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee,
that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One,
and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. For thou shalt
be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and
heard. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized,
and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord
(Acts 22:12-16).
Saul's conversion was not because of a miracle, nor a
direct operation of God upon his heart, but a man (Ananias) was
sent to him with the word of God. That is the same thing we see
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
41
taking place on the day of Pentecost when Peter and the other
apostles preached the word of God. People heard the word of
God, they believed the word of God, and they obeyed the word of
God. And with- out a doubt baptism was commanded of everyone
that wanted their sins washed away (Acts 2:38). We also see that
by being baptized is part of calling on the name of the Lord. Calling on the name of the Lord means to do those things for which
the Lord has given authority (Col. 3:17). We can not go beyond
what God has written, nor can we take away from what God has
written and be pleasing in His Sight (Rev. 22: 18-19). Every example of conversion in the book of Acts always included baptism.
PAUL'S PREACHING
Paul preached the entire will of God, not just part of it. He
knew it was the only thing that would save man's soul:
Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure
from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God (Acts 20:26¬27).
It is not enough just to preach. It is not enough just to
preach truth. We must be willing to preach all the truth. Certainly
those that preach error cause the Lord's church problems, however it is also wrong not to preach the entire gospel. Paul was a
faithful servant of God because he preached the entirety of God's
word. One of the main concerns of elders and preachers is to
make sure that the congregation is well equipped in the knowledge
of the Bible.
Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock,
over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers,
to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with
his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing
shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the
flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking
perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three
years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with
tears. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to
the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to
give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified (Acts 20:28-32).
Paul knew it was of the utmost importance to have the
Equipping the Saints
42
brethren well grounded in the
faith. When a congregation is sound in the eldership, sound in the
pulpit, and sound in the membership it is far more difficult for Satan and his forces to bring in false doctrine. But when the elders
are not spiritually minded, the preaching is not sound, and the
members are not well grounded Satan well take advantage of that
congregation. This is the very thing that has lead to so many problems in the body of Christ. The church in far to many places has
become an entertainment center, rather than a place of spiritual
well being for the teaching and edifying of the soul. It cost Paul to
preach the word of God;
of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one.
Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I
suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the
deep; in journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of
robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the
heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in
perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and
thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside
those things that are without, that which cometh upon me
daily, the care of all the churches (2 Cor. 11 :24-28).
We must speak the truth in love, but by all means it must
be the truth, for it is the power of God unto salvation (Rom. 1: 16).
PAUL'S COMPASSION AND ENCOURAGEMENT
When you read the writings of Paul in the book of Philippians you see the apostles close relationship with the brethren
there.
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always
in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,
For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until
now (Phil. 1 :3-5).
Preachers today should strive for this type of relationship
with the congregations they
labor with. As a preacher of the gospel one of the greatest blessings that we could ever enjoy are those close ties with have with
faithful brethren. What a wonderful blessing it is to be able to teach
someone the gospel, and then see them put their Lord on in baptism. No doubt there will be trying times, but I think it safe to say
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
43
the good times far out weigh the bad . What a pleasure to see
someone grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord.
I find it so amazing that the apostle Paul could write a letter of encouragement while in prison. And the reason he was in
prison to begin with was because he preached the gospel. Notice
how he encouraged the Philippians:
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let
your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at
hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer
and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be
made known unto God. And the peace of God, which pas
seth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds
through Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:4-7).
One of the most beautiful passages in all of the Bible is
found in the letter Paul wrote to
the church at Philippi:
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever
things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever
things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever
things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if
there be any praise, think on these things (Phil. 4:8).
STUDY QUESTIONS
1. Where are we first introduced to Paul?
2. What is Paul's relationship with God when we first read of him?
3.What changed Paul's life :trom a persecutor of Christians to becoming a Christian?
4. Can god use us in the future if we have sinned in the past?
5. How did the Lord let Paul know what He wanted him to do to be
saved?
6. Is all preaching gospel preaching?
7. What was Paul's message to the church at Philippi?
8. Does it cost anything to be a Christian?
9. When the gospel is preached will it be pleasing to everyone?
10. Paul wrote a letter of encouragement to the church at Philippi.
Where was he at when he wrote this letter?
Equipping the Saints
44
“John, the Man Who
Introduced Jesus”
Jerry Martin
The person who makes an introduction, and the way in which that introduction is made, have a profound effect on the reception given the person being introduced. We see that in every venue of life. Every public
speaker has had the twinge of apprehension while waiting to be introduced to their audience. The apprehension is generally not because of
fear of the audience but concern as to how they are going to be presented
to those waiting to hear them. Nowhere is the importance of the introducer and the introduction illustrated any better than in John 1:1-37, in John
the Baptist’s introduction of Jesus. The text demonstrates how important
it is for the person doing the introduction to know himself, the person he
is going to introduce, and the way in which to make the introduction.
FIRST, JOH: K:EW HIMSELF (John 1:19-23). “And this is the
record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to
ask him, Who art thou? And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed,
I am not the Christ. And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And
he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, %o. Then
said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them
that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? He said, I am the voice of one
crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the
prophet Esaias.” A group of priests and Levites representing the Pharisees came to John asking, “Who art thou?” John’s answer was immediate and clear, “I am not the Christ.” You see, John had aroused quite the
public stir with his powerful personal presence and preaching. He did
not capitalize on his own high public opinion, though he obviously could
have. His personal popularity was such that he could have promoted
himself when the opportunity presented itself (Matt. 3:1-7; Mark 1:4).
Or, John could have been vague in his answer and let someone else elevate his status beyond what was accurate and appropriate, but he did not.
Many would have believed he was the Christ. Some already thought he
might have been Elijah, in person (vs. 21). John, no doubt, had been told
and taught by his parents about the Heavenly revelation they had received before his birth that described his mission and the Elijahian spirit
in which it was to be carried out (Luke 1:5-17). Thus, he had a real clear
understanding of who he was as well what his job was.
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
45
The one who makes an introduction must prepare the way for the one he
is presenting. John is the visual of how that task is properly carried out.
“The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the
LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley
shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the
crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain” (Isa. 40:14). Nothing is more distracting or devastating than to have the person
making the introduction become the focus. Most of us have witnessed
and many of us have experienced introductions that became a platform
for the person doing the introducing to promote themselves rather than to
prepare the audience to hear the person they had assembled to hear
SECO:DLY, JOH: K:EW THE PERSO: HE WAS TO I:TRODUCE (John 1:24-34). “And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if
thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? John answered
them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you,
whom ye know not; He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me,
whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose. These things were done
in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. The next day
John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God,
which taketh away the sin of the world. This is he of whom I said, After
me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me.
And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. And John bare record, saying, I
saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon
him. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the
same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and
remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.
And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.” Those who
were sent by the Pharisees asked why he was baptizing if he was not the
Christ, Elijah, or that prophet which the scriptures described. John not
only knew himself but he knew who Christ was. The person making the
introduction needs to know the person that he is introducing so that he
can promote the speaker personally in the eyes of the audience which is
to hear his message. Jesus, the Word, the Light, the very Son of God,
was in their presence and they did not know Him. John calls for them to
intently focus on, and examine closely the “Lamb of God” whose blood
would be shed to remove the sin of the world. He gave the reasons to
listen to what the Messiah had to say (Mal. 3:10).
THIRDLY, JOH: K:EW WHAT TO DO AFTER THE I:TRODUCTIO: WAS MADE (John 1:35-37). “Again the next day after
Equipping the Saints
46
John stood, and two of his disciples;
And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!
And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.” Once
proper introduction is made, the one making the introduction should bow
from view. John demonstrates how to exist the spotlight so another can
get the proper attention. When Jesus arrived on the scene, John directed
all eyes to be fixed on the Lamb of God. Once John’s disciples are properly introduced to the Lord they unhesitatingly follow him. At a later
time, after a question had arisen about how many disciples John had and
compared them to those baptized by Jesus’ disciples, John’s summation
was, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:23-30).
CO:CLUSIO::
John had the divine charge, prophetic commission, and the personal
privilege to introduce the Messiah to the world for the very first time.
The way in which he accepted his charge and carried out his commission
demonstrated that he understood the importance of introducing the Lord
to mankind. May you and I realize that we have the opportunity each
day to introduce Jesus to our family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and
fellowmen. May we learn from John how to properly make such an important introduction. We must first know the Lord ourselves before we
can introduce Him to others. We should never allow ourselves to become the focus and distract from someone’s view of Christ. Our goal
should be for Jesus to ever increase in the lives of those we introduce to
Jesus and our importance continually decrease.
Review Questions
1.
What did John’s disciples do once he introduced them to Jesus
(John 1:37)?
2.
In John 3:30, what did John say he must do and what did he say
Jesus must do?
3.
Write out (from memory if possible) John 1:29.
4.
List three of the questions John was asked by the priests and
Levites in John 1:19-28 (include John’s answers).
5.
What two Old Testament prophets prophesied of one that would
“prepare the way” for the Lord (list the Bible references)?
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
47
“John, the Son of Thunder,
Rechanneled By the Lord”
Bobby Liddell
John, son of righteous parents Zebedee and Salome,
is the inspired penman of five of the twenty-seven books of
the New Testament: John, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, and Revelation (about one-fifth of the New Testament). What information God gives about John through His Word is significant though the Bible mentions John's name only a few
times, and his name is not found in the five books he penned,
save in Revelation where it occurs only five times. When
Jesus Christ ordained twelve to be with Him, preach, heal
sicknesses, and cast out devils (Mark 3:14-19), John was
among those chosen (Mat. 10:2; Luke 6:14; Acts 1:13), and
seems to be among the first chosen, and the youngest chosen.
Now known as the great "Apostle of Love," the Savior had
named him a "son of thunder," with his brother James. Mark's account of
the ordaining of the twelve apostles includes: "James the son of Zebedee,
and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which
is, The sons of thunder" (Mark 3:17). Strong defines Boanerges as: "sons
of commotion," and refers to two Chaldean words, from which Boanerges is a compound, which mean "sons of violent anger," or "sons of
rage."
John, on occasion, appears to be rash, vindictive, unloving and
self-centered. Note his attitude and actions as recorded in Luke 9:49-56,
when, in his fiery boldness, he forbad one doing good in Jesus' name
(indicating Jesus authorized the action) because "he followeth not
us" (that is, that one was not of their company [Mark 9:38-40]). Later,
when the Samaritan villagers did not receive Jesus, John, with his brother
James, sought permission from the Lord to command fire to come down
from heaven to consume them. In response, Jesus rebuked them sternly
(Luke 9:49-56). He and James, with their mother, desired preeminence
among the twelve for the two sons of Zebedee (Mat. 20:20-28; cf. Mark
10:35ff). What a contrast to the John of later years who wrote and
preached so much about love (fifty-two occasions of the word "love" in
various forms appear in 1-3 John); he would become known as the
Equipping the Saints
48
"Apostle of Love." He, in his humility, did not mention himself by name
in four of his five books. He went back to Samaria not to bring fire from
heaven upon them, but to pray for them and bring to them God's gift of
spiritual powers. How did such a change come?
WHAT TYPE OF MA: HAD JOH: BEE:?
Tradition says John was born in Bethsaida, a village located on
the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee. God's Word introduces John
as a Galilean fisherman: "And going on from thence, he saw other two
brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with
Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them" (Mat. 4:21;
cf. Mark 1:19).
John came from a family of some financial means and influence.
His family had hired servants (Mark 1:20). He was a businessman in
partnership with James and Simon (Luke 5:10). His mother, Salome, was
a woman of sufficient substance that she could, with other of the women
disciples, minister to the Lord (Mat. 27:55-56; cf. Luke 8:2-3). She was
with the women on their way to the tomb to anoint the body of Jesus with
sweet spices (Mark 16:l). John owned his own home; thus, he could receive Mary, mother of Jesus, and care for her as Jesus bade from the
cross (John 19:27). John (that "other" disciple in the book of John) knew
and was known by the high priest (John 18:15).
In view of these facts, one is the more impressed with what John
left when he left all to follow Christ. "And when they had brought their
ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him" (Luke 5:11). He not
only left his money-making business, but he, with his brother James, also
left father and family, and did so immediately: "And they immediately
left the ship and their father, and followed him" (Mat. 4:22).
John's success indicates he was a hard working and talented
fisherman. Successful fishing in that day, on the unpredictable Sea of
Galilee, required many manly characteristics, not the least of which were
skill, strength, patience, and persistence. Those slothful or easily discouraged did not continue long in this rigorous occupation. John, obviously,
was a man of discipline, determination and dependability who was not
easily swayed from his appointed task, nor was he easily discouraged. He
was not only accustomed to the difficulties of hard work, but also to the
uncertainties brought about by the sudden changes of weather on the Sea
of Galilee, and the unforeseeable results of a day's labor fishing. Honest,
hard toil and responsibility build character; thus, John was molded from
his youth.
The beloved apostle was not a university man. He had not the
advantages of formal education in the Jewish system as, for example,
Paul (Acts 22:3). When with Peter before the Jewish council in Jerusalem
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
49
(composed of rulers, elders, scribes, Annas the high priest, Caiaphas,
John, Alexander and the kindred of the high priest [Acts 4:5-6]), the
council noted Peter and John's lack of university level training. The two
apostles were called "unlearned and ignorant men" (Acts 4:13). This does
not mean John was dim witted, but he and Peter were fishermen and had
neither the opportunity nor the necessity to attend the colleges of the day
to receive a higher education. That, in itself, made the members of the
council marvel at the speech of the two, and resulted in their taking note
Peter and John had been with Jesus.
John was a man of quick response. No doubt, on the Sea of
Galilee, he had faced many times when situations demanded urgent response. A moment of hesitation might cost them their catch, their nets,
their boat, or even their lives. Apparently, John was accustomed to making decisions and acting quickly. Perhaps, from his earliest remembrance,
he recalled his father Zebedee's quick reaction to the trials in his very
challenging occupation. Thus, John, by nature, was a man of quick response that sometimes manifested itself in rashness and other times in
boldness.
WHAT TYPE OF MA: DID JOH: BECOME?
He became a disciple of Christ and man of great faith. Notice,
he immediately left his job and his family to follow Jesus (Mat. 4:22). He
formerly had followed John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus. Most
agree John was the one with Andrew (though unnamed) who heard John
the Immerser proclaim Christ as the "Lamb of God" (John 1:35-36).
"And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus" (John
1:37).
Now, he, when called by Jesus to leave his nets and become a
fisher of men, answered without hesitation. No doubt, his righteous parents had trained him well for the life that now lay before him. No indication is found of their trying to dissuade him, for they obviously rejoiced
with him that he now was a learner and follower of the Messiah. Would
that all parents made such ardent and adequate preparation that their children would readily follow the Master when called by Him through the
gospel (2 The. 2:14). Likewise, would that all parents would rejoice
when their children "left all" to serve the Savior.
John became the disciple whom Jesus loved; that is, for whom
Jesus had a special fondness. It may be that Salome, John's mother, was
the sister of Mary, Jesus' mother (John 19:25). If so, John and Jesus were
cousins. Notice what John says of Jesus' care for him in the gospel account that he, by inspiration, penned. At the Supper: "Now there was
leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus
loved" (John13:23). As Jesus hung on the cross: "When Jesus therefore
saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith
Equipping the Saints
50
unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!" (John 19:26). From the open
tomb: "Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other
disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away
the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid
him" (John 20:2). On the sea, after a night of catching no fish: "Therefore
that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when
Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him,
(for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea" (John 21:7). After
Jesus told Peter by what death he should glorify God: "Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also
leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth
thee?" (John 21:20).
He was a member of what some have termed the "Inner Circle,"
or "Inner Three," with Peter and James. Christ allowed only these three
to go with Him to His raising of Jairus' dead daughter (Mark 5:37; Luke
8:51). The same three were those present at the transfiguration (Mark
9:2; cf. Mat 17:l; Luke 9:28). Jesus called them to be nearer Him in the
final hours before His arrest which led to the cross: "Then cometh Jesus
with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples,
Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. And he took with him Peter and
the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very
heavy" (Mat. 26:36-37; cf. Mark 14:33).
John was often associated with Peter (with whom he was partner
in fishing). The Lord sent them to prepare the Passover (Luke 22:8).
They were together on the morning of the resurrection, and at the empty
tomb (John 20:4). Together, they went to the temple and healed the lame
man at the gate (Acts 3). As a result, the Jewish leaders took the two of
them, imprisoned them, interrogated them, threatened them, and commanded them not to "speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus" (Acts
4). Together, they stedfastly refused to stop speaking the truth about what
they had seen and heard (Acts 4:19-20). Peter and John, sent by the apostles, went together to Samaria to pray for and lay hands upon the Samaritans who had believed and had been baptized in order that the Samaritans
might receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14ff). Before they returned to Jerusalem, Peter and John, "preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans" (Acts 8:25). That their relationship continued is obvious from
Paul's statement to the Galatian Christians years later, when he refers to
Peter, James (not John's brother but the Lord's half-brother) and John as
"pillars" of the Jerusalem church (Gal. 2:9).
John became a disciple whom Jesus trusted. References previously cited prove this point, but no instance shows Jesus' confidence in
John better than His entrusting His mother to John's care. "Then saith he
to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
51
her unto his own home" (John 19:27). Why did our Lord not choose an
apostle, or disciple, other than John, the son of thunder? Obviously, He
trusted him whose life had changed so. Tradition says John faithfully
discharged his responsibility and stayed in Jerusalem caring for Mary
until her passing. From there, early uninspired writers, report John
moved to Ephesus, suffered exile on the isle of Patmos, where he received "The Revelation of Jesus Christ," and finally returned to Ephesus
where he died.
John became a fearless yet loving proclaimer of truth. No doubt,
to false teachers and unfaithful brethren John sounded as a "son of thunder" when he stedfastly and straightforwardly preached the gospel of
Christ. He never remained silent when truth had to be heard. He never
looked the other way when Satan's wiles manifested themselves in men's
lives and teachings. As an apostle, he was guided into "all truth," and "all
things" taught him by Jesus were brought to his remembrance (John
14:26; 15:26-27; 16:13). He, of all men, could speak the truth, and "speak
the truth in love" (Eph. 4:15), and did so. John was prepared for the opportunities presented him, and was faithful in his responsibilities. Thus,
God blessed him with the opportunity to glimpse Heaven, and pen for all
men to follow the last words of "the Lamb" in Revelation.
WHAT CAUSED THE CHA:GE?
The only answer can be this: Christ's presence and teaching
combined with John's loving obedience resulted in the positive rechanneling of John's energies. John's life changed because he had been with
Jesus (Acts 4:13). No one who has been with Jesus will ever be the same
again. He will either be the better, or he will be the worse for it. While
one may begin and then quit, one cannot continue to walk with Christ
without becoming Christlike. It seems John was the last apostle to die
and while all the others, according to Scripture in some cases, and tradition in others, suffered violent deaths in martyrdom, John died of natural
causes at a good old age, having served the Lord faithfully for seventy
years. That John had been with Christ showed so that the beauty of Jesus
became ever clearer in John's personality and in his preaching. In fact,
the change was such that some modern commentators cannot believe the
inspired writer of the Gospel of Love can be the same man once called
Boanerges.
John's life changed because he had learned a better way to use
his energies. John was a man of energy. He did not give up his strength
for weakness, his boldness for timidity, his quick response for procrastination and apathy, nor his conviction for compromise. Rather, the energetic and straightforward characteristics of John were rechanneled to the
service of God. He could truly say with Paul, "I am crucified with Christ:
nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I
Equipping the Saints
52
now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me,
and gave himself for me" (Gal. 2:20).
John's life changed because he had grown and matured through
the gaining of knowledge, wisdom, and experience in his walk with God.
Though other apostles suffered persecution and death for Christ's sake,
and his own beloved brother James was killed with the sword (Acts
12:2), John's determination did not waver. One of the Twelve, then one
of the "Inner Three," and finally the last one of the apostles living, John
rejected every error and resisted every false teacher while remaining consistent in preaching, "Love one another." Tradition says when he was
advanced in years, and no longer able to walk, brethren would carry him
into the assembly where he would repeat again and again, "Little children, love one another." No doubt, we may picture him with that thought
in his heart, if not on his lips, in his last moments of life on this earth.
All honest men look with regret to what they once were, but
only the faithful in Christ look to the present with rejoicing and to the
future with hope because of what they have become by allowing their
lives to be rechanneled by the matchless Master and loving Lord.
Study :otes
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
53
“Joseph of Arimathaea,
a Great Giver”
Kirk Talley
Introduction
Joseph of Arimathea was a secret disciple of Christ, whose unused grave was surrendered to Jesus. He was born at Arimathea, a city of
Judea (Luke 23:51). Many have thought it to be the same as Ramatha,
the birthplace of the prophet Samuel. He was a wealthy Israelite
(Matthew 27:57), a “good and ust man” (Luke 23:50), “who was himself
looking for the kingdom of God” (Mark 15:43). He is called by Mark
and Luke “a senator,” whereby is meant a member of the Sanhedrin, or
supreme council of the Jews. He was a disciple of Jesus, possibly ever
since Christ's first preaching in Judea (John 2:23), but he did not declare
himself as such “for fear of the Jew (John 19:38). On account of this
secret allegiance to Jesus, he did not consent to His condemnation by the
Sanhedrin (Luke 23:51), and was most likely absent fro the meeting
which sentenced Jesus to His death.
With such little information concerning Joseph (only 5 scriptures in the New Testament), one might wonder how it is that a description could be made claiming him to be a “Great Giver.” With time,
study, and willingness to learn we shall all come to this knowledge in this
lesson. I present to you – Joseph of Arimathea – A Great Giver!
He Gave Counsel to Many (Mark 15:43;
Luke 23:50)
Because so little is recorded concerning Joseph, one might question the title of this section saying, “How can we know he gave counsel
to many?” The answer is in the heritage of the Sanhedrin.
The Sanhedrin was an assembly of Jewish judges who constituted the supreme court and legislative body of ancient Israel. As such,
they were the only ones who could try the king, extend the boundaries of
Equipping the Saints
54
the Temple and Jerusalem, and were the ones to whom all questions of
law were finally put. Becoming a member of the Sanhedrin was not as
easy as being “born into the business.” The Sanhedrin, going back to the
Old Testament (Exodus 18:21; Numbers 11:16; Deuteronomy 1:13), was
a group of men who met many qualifications. They were, for national
issues, in number, 71 (Great Sanhedrin), and for issues of local obligation, 23 (Lesser Sanhedrin). Before becoming a member, one had to
have displayed great knowledge in the Law of Moses, wisdom, humility,
fear of God, indifference to financial gain, love of the truth, love of fellow man, and good report with local people. A member of the Sanhedrin
had to be especially knowledgeable in the Law. They likewise had to
have knowledge of other religions as well as teachings of idolatry and
various occult. Studies normally discouraged or forbidden were many
times required of the Sanhedrin for judgment purposes. In order to command the utmost respect, the Sanhedrin had to be of good appearance and
free of bodily defect. Therefore, a person who was blind, even in one
eye, could not have been a member of the counsel. Having this background (and based upon Mark 15:43), it is a fair assumption that Joseph
rendered great counsel to many.
Each of us can look back with our mind’s eye and see those
counselors of our younger years who enabled us to become who we are
today. Consider the example of Timothy recorded in 1 Timothy 1:5: he
exemplified greatness in spiritual wisdom, for which his mother and
grandmother were credited. There will always be that Bible class teacher,
that special elderly couple, or preacher who helped us get to where we
are today. The question I might raise to you is, “What are you doing to
bring Godly counsel to today’s generation?”
He Gave Goodness to the World (Luke
23:50,51)
As we will all agree, the Bible does not use words unnecessarily. Joseph is described in Luke 23:50,51, as being a “good man, and a
just.” The “good” here depicts his internal character, and the “just” of
this passage denotes his external conduct.
The adjectives “good” and “just”, when combined to describe a
person, would literally mean “one who is beneficial to others (good) and
equitable in character or act (just).” Being thusly described, we can easily see that Joseph was one who brought good to his common man. With
this in mind, we should consider our own goodness and justness.
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
55
The Bible speaks plainly of our association with those of the
world. We are to remain distant from those who are evil in their ways (1
Cor 15:33). We are to flee the lusts that often come with worldly friendships (2 Timothy 2:22). We are to remain pure though living in an impure world (James 1:27); and we are even to avoid the very appearance
of evil doings (1 Thessalonians 5:22). Having considered all this, let us
be reminded that, while we are to avoid the evil dealings of the world (2
Corinthians 6:17), we as God’s children are the light shines in this dark
world (Matthew 5:13-16). We are the salt, the city, and the candlestick
that gives light to all that are in the world. We are to be the good and just
men and women of this world. If we are waiting on those in the world to
guide people to God we need not hold our breath! Just as Joseph was
inwardly a good man and outwardly a just man, we too are to be this way
in life today. If you listen closely, you can almost hear the words being
sung, “Is thy heart right with God, washed in the crimson flood, cleansed
and made holy, humble and lowly, right in the sight of God.” Joseph
gave goodness to the world. Will you?
He Gave Service to God (John 19:38)
Through the ages a theological debate has continued regarding
whether or not Joseph was a coward or a faithful follower of Christ. On
the coward side, critics point out that Joseph, while being a disciple of
Jesus, was afraid to announce so publicly “because he feared the Jews.”
It appears to be just another case of a rich member of a ruling class who
is afraid to proclaim potentially socially unacceptable viewpoints for fear
of disturbing the status quo.
The alternate view of Joseph seems to have a stronger backing. While
Joseph may not have revealed his discipleship of Jesus during the earthly
ministry of the Savior, two acts would seem to strongly put him in the
category of “defender of the faith”: 1) Joseph appears to have been one of
(perhaps the sole) member of the Sanhedrin who had not consented to
their decision and action regarding the trial of Jesus, and 2) Joseph
bravely went to Pilate, boldly requesting the body of Jesus and buried the
body according to Jewish customs.
D.L. Moody stated:
“I consider this was one of the most sublime, grandest acts
that any man ever did. In that darkness and gloom – His
disciples having all forsaken Him; Judas having sold Him
for thirty pieces of silver; the chief apostle Peter having
denied Him with a curse, swearing that he never knew
Equipping the Saints
56
Him; the chief priests having found Him guilty of blasphemy; the council having condemned Him to death; and
when there was a hiss going up to heaven over Jerusalem –
Joseph went right against the current, right against the influence of all his friends, and begged the body of Jesus.”
The word “disciple” simply means “follower or pupil.” There
are many within the New Testament who followed Christ. Many multitudes followed Christ for physical and spiritual aid (Matthew 14:14;
15:32). Some followed Christ in order to trap Him in His teachings
(Matthew 22:18). Others followed Christ because they wanted to be like
Him and do His will (Matthew 4:18,19). While Joseph also followed
Christ, he imitated Peter when Peter followed from afar off (Matthew
26:58).
John 19:38 states that Joseph was a disciple incognito, that is, in
secret for fear of the Jews, fearing his being put out of the Sanhedrin.
But it was his weakness that he was so secretly, as he should
have confessed Christ before men. The fact that we do not
have any recorded sermons of Joseph or any imprisonment
because of his faith might cause us to label him weak-kneed
and jelly-spined in his faith. However, before we go too far
in placing harsh judgment upon this servant of God, let’s
remember one thing about service to God – it begins small
and grows.
Christ did not tell Matthew and the other followers
that He would instantly make them fishers of men but rather
that He would make them to become fishers of men ((Mark
1:17). Disciples should openly admit to following Christ, yet
Christ may have many that are his disciples sincerely,
though secretly; better secretly than not at all, especially if,
like Joseph, they grow stronger and stronger. Some in less
trials have been timorous, yet in greater have been very courageous; so Joseph here. Service to God may start with card
writing, then develop into casserole preparation, then ultimately blossom into conducting Bible studies with lost souls.
I cannot cast Joseph into the den of castaways because he
did not openly preach repentance or promise to built a temple unto God. I must understand that service to God has to
grow. It did with Joseph.
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
57
Joseph served God by not agreeing with the Sanhedrin concerning the evil they planned against Christ. Many of
my brethren today are not willing to take a stand in a closed
booth on election days. They are weak when it comes to rejecting a political party for the sake of Christ. They work
hard for clubs, organizations, politics, and their own families, but they won’t lift a finger for the Lord.
Joseph also served God by fulfilling Isaiah 53:9, “…
and with the rich in his death.” Joseph was the Moses of
Christ’s time. Just as Moses was raised up to bring fulfillment to God’s promise to deliver Israel into the promised
land (Exodus 3,4), Joseph was raised up educated, wealthy,
and willing to give Christ a new tomb to fulfill God’s word in
Isaiah 53.
Certainly before we pick the speck out of Joseph’s quiet service we need
to look at the beam that might be protruding from our own lack of service.
He Gave Reverence to the Family
(Matthew 27:58)
As we continue in our narrative of Joseph the Great Giver, we
find Joseph giving reverence to Christ’s family. As soon as Jesus was
dead, Joseph rushed to Pilate seeking permission to inter Christ’s body.
It is quite possible that when Christ’s condemnation was over – a condemnation in which Joseph had no part – he realized how cowardly he
had been and, stricken with shame and remorse, found courage and went
in to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. For whatever reason he did
it, the deed was kind and was a way to show his great reverence for this
financially poor family.
Oftentimes, under Roman rule, if the lifeless body of a criminal
was not claimed with a few hours of death it was cast out as refuse and
burned or placed in an unmarked tomb with other “unknowns.” Only a
few hours were given to claim the body due to the heat causing more
rapid decomposition. In some cases the government would charge a fee
to the family for the disposal of the body if the family could not afford a
proper burial. Just another way for the government to make a few dollars! As we know from Luke 2 and Leviticus 12:6,8, Joseph and Mary
Equipping the Saints
58
were poor. Had the government charged them for disposing of the body
or for desiring the body for proper burial, Mary could not have afforded
it. Here again we watch Joseph as he gives reverence to the family by
offering to cover any costs and by accepting the responsibility of caring
for Christ’s body.
Keep in mind that, at the point of Christ’s death, His mother had
been taken away by John to be kept from enduring the heartache of
Christ’s sufferings (John 19:27,28). Mary might have missed the opportunity to claim Christ’s body. She might have fallen victim to a government wanting to rid Jerusalem of this man’s remains. Joseph knew that
he could afford the cost of cloths, oils, and other preparations for Christ’s
body to be buried. Though Israelites had never practiced embalming, the
more affluent made greater preparations for burial. They wrapped the
body in long strips of linen and treated it with a mixture of ointments and
spices. When the attendants finished, the body looked somewhat like a
mummy. The entire embalming process would take up to seventy days,
therefore, many families chose rather to wrap the deceased in linen and
cover with spices. Because the day was ending and the Sabbath was approaching we find the three ladies coming to the tomb of Joseph with
ointments to finish what Joseph and Nicodemus had started (John
19:38,39).
When we have opportunities to do good when others cannot,
what do we do? When we can afford the finances, time, and efforts to
aid those less fortunate or otherwise incapable, where are we to be
found? As Joseph and Nicodemus were – there to accept the body of
Christ? Or, where Peter and others were – following so far away that we
can’t see the needs of others?
He Gave His Grave to Jesus (Matthew
27:59,60)
Joseph had a garden near Calvary where he had hewn a
smoothed and polished tomb in the side of the rock as his own last resting place. Here, aided by Nicodemus, he buried the linen-covered and
perfumed body of Jesus Christ.
When we attend funerals, we hear eulogies (praise) concerning
the deceased, and more times than not it is a praise that should have been
extended while the person was still living. The giving of the tomb of
Joseph for the proper burial of Jesus was the best eulogy of Christ Joseph
could have extended. Many Jewish families could not afford a family
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
59
tomb and certainly not a personal tomb. Joseph extended this luxury to
the greatest One to ever walk this earth.
In the giving of his tomb, Joseph: 1) fulfilled the scripture which
spoke of Christ making His grave with the rich, 2) gave the body of Jesus
a safe haven from robbers and politicians who would have tampered with
the evidence of Christ’s death, and 3) gave comfort to the family of
Christ that all would be well until they could say their proper farewell to
Christ.
Where is your grave? By this question I am not curious as to
where your physical body will rest when your life has gone from this
earth. I ask of your spiritual grave. Where is your spiritual grave? Will
you share Christ’s tomb spiritually? Will you partake of the sufferings of
Christ Jesus and share in the spiritual tomb He has prepared for me and
for you? A brief glance into Romans 6:3,4 makes it very clear that in
baptism we are buried with Christ and raised to walk in a new life.
Where is your tomb? As Joseph was willing to give his final resting
place to Christ, are you willing to give your life to Christ and meet Him
in the spiritual grave of baptism?
Conclusion
While there is little said in God’s Word concerning Joseph of
Arimathea we are not without lessons from his life. True Joseph has
never been the standard of Biblical giving in our thoughts and sermons
however, maybe from this point forward we will consider the great giver
he was. Maybe from this point forward we will consider more about
giving counsel to those in need, giving goodness to the world as lights of
the Gospel, giving service to God everyday we have on His earth, giving
reverence to the family of Christ by attending His memorial feast every
Lord’s day, and giving our grave to the Lord as we die with Him in baptism. Joseph of Arimathea – what a great giver!
Questions For Discussion
1. What makes Joseph such an obscure character in Biblical history?
2. What is the most relevant reason for having Joseph’s actions recorded in God’s Word for us today?
Equipping the Saints
60
3. What are some of the qualifications for becoming a member of the
Sanhedrin? What is the difference between the Greater and Lesser Sanhedrin?
4. What prophecy did Joseph fulfill in burying Christ in his tomb?
5. Who helped Joseph prepare Christ’s body?
6. What could have possibly happened to Christ’s body had Joseph not
asked for it?
7. What is so ironic about Nicodemus and Joseph working together to
bury Christ’s body?
With the points from the lesson, what changes can you make in your life
to be a Great Giver?
____________________________________
1.
2.
3.
http://www.aish.com/literacy/concepts/The_Jewish_Court_System.asp
Ibid.
http://www.sundayschoolcourses.com/joseph/joscont.htm
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
61
“Barnabas & Onesiphorus:
Refreshing the Brethren”
Bill Brewer
We are blessed that God has given us His Word to teach, guide
and motivate us as we live our lives. The Bible contains great doctrinal
and theological themes. God’s word also comes to us in songs, stories,
parables and histories. One of the major themes of the Bible is the way
that God works in the lives of ordinary people, as well as the historical
life of His chosen people Israel. The Bible is full of personal stories of
individuals who walked with God or resisted, even rejected Him. The
Bible tells of those who did good or evil, who offer us examples of courage and faith, or negative examples of behavior that we are to avoid.
Such a conclusion is justified through the biblical passages such as Romans 15:4, I Corinthians 10:1-12, etc.
When we become more familiar with these various Bible characters we begin to better understand God’s message to them. We also
begin to see ourselves reflected in their lives, struggles, failures and victories. John Waddey commented that as the lives of Bible characters are
studied, “…we learn the full meaning of our purpose and existence of
this side of eternity.” One of the lessons learned in a study of Bible characters is that God can use men and women in spite of their human weaknesses and failures. That should bring all of hope. For example, consider
the apostles. They were men who were imperfect, but were transformed
in to useful servants for God. Remember also Paul who was transformed
from persecutor to proclaimer, and from blasphemer to believer.
God explicitly tells us in His word what He expects of us.
Someone has said, “God said it, I believe it, that settles it!” One way that
God teaches us is through the lives of men and women whose lives are
reflected in the Bible. Some of these Bible characters are popular and
prominent. Some examples are Moses, Abraham, Paul and Peter.
Someone has recorded this timely advice for God’s people:
If you are impatient, sit down quietly and talk with Job.
If you are just a little strong-headed, go and see Moses.
If you are getting weak-kneed, take a good look at Elijah.
If there is no song in your heart, listen to David.
Equipping the Saints
62
If your faith is below par, read Paul.
If you are getting lazy, watch James.
If you are losing sight of the future, climb up the stairs of Revelation, and get a glimpse of the of the promised land.
There are many other Bible characters mentioned that are often
overlooked as making major contributions toward helping us understand
the practical aspects of God’s commands.
My lesson reflects upon two men who had a secondary role in
building up, encouraging and motivating others. In this lesson we will
reflect upon the biblical account of the lives of Barnabas and Onesiphorus. We will then draw applications as we accept the challenge of emulating their lives through ours.
Let us now consider Barnabas, a man of goodness and faith. Our
knowledge of this Barnabas is primarily confined to the book of Acts in
4:36,37; 9:26,27, 11:19-30; 12:25; 13:2 ff; 15:39; I Corinthians 9:6; and
Galatians 2:1-13. His name was Joseph, a Levite from the Island of Cyprus. Most agree that he was a wealthy man. The Scriptures affirm that
he was a generous man. (Acts 4:36,37). He was given the name Barnabas
by the apostles. The name Barnabas means “Son of Encouragement.”
The expression “son of) is a Semitism which is often used in a metaphorical sense to mean, “characterized by.” Thus, Barnabas was given
his name because of his ability to encourage others. His encouragement
to others motivated and enabled workers in the church such as Paul to go
forward with their Christian living and work for the Lord. He possessed
exceptional people skills which allowed him to see the potential in others. He would not let a tough exterior person or a shy, insecure personality keep him at arm’s length. Seeing a person’s potential and worth, he
was willing to invest his time and energy in their lives. His exceptional
people skills would help to explain one reason why he was sent to provide leadership for the new congregation in Antioch. His Cyprian birth
would also be an asset. Barnabas is described as “a good man, full of the
Holy Spirit and faith.” (Acts 11:23-24). These attributes propelled him to
teach people about Jesus. As a result, “…considerable numbers were
brought to the Lord.” (Acts 11:24).
Another trait we learn about Barnabas was his willingness to be a
reconciler. In Acts 9:26, 27 he threw caution aside, and interceded for
Paul with the Jerusalem church. The Greek actually implies that he took
Paul by the hand and led him in among the apostles to assert his believe
in the authenticity of Paul’s conversions, convictions and new character.
Though Barnabas was not a perfect man (Galatians 2:13), his life
and work made a tremendous contribution to the spread of the gospel and
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
63
in maturing brethren. He gave priority to people rather than possessions.
He extended fellowship to those who claimed to be Christians even when
others were unsure of their sincerity. He invested time and energy to
helping others, such as John Mark in overcoming their past flaws and
failures. We need more Christians today to be a Barnabas. We need
“sons (and daughters) of encouragement.”
Onesiphorus (On-uh-SIF-uh-ruhs) is our second Bible character
to reflect upon in this lesson. His name means “profit-bringer.” He was a
Christian who ministered to Paul during his imprisonment in Rome in
A.D. 65. What we know about him is recorded in 2 Timothy 1:15-18 and
4:19). Paul described Onesiphorus as one who “often refreshed me.”
Other translations render the words, “cheered me,” “revived my spirits,”
or “relieved me.” Onesiphorus had often been a source of encouragement
to Paul in Ephesus. Now he had come to Rome to do the same. Try to
imagine what it must have meant to Paul in prison to have a fellow Christian seek him out to provide fellowship and encouragement. Some suggest that Onesiphorus would have had to spend considerable effort in
order to locate Paul among the many prisons and prisoners in Rome. By
his diligent effort, and willingness to go into a prison, Onesiphorus
would one day enjoy the blessing promised by the Lord to those who
visited the sick and those in prison (Matthew 25:34-36. We need more
Christians that will take the time and put forth the diligent effort, as did
Onesiphorus, to encourage fellow Christians.
Though Barnabas and Onesiphorus are not as widely known, or
mentioned as other Bible characters, their contribution to the growth and
development of the early church must not be overlooked. Let us all capture their enthusiasm, and emulate their example to help the church today
and in the future of becoming all that God wants it to be.
page five
Questions to Consider:
1. How were the needs of the Christians in Jerusalem met (Acts 4:3235)?
2. Compare and contrast the contributions of Barnabas with that of
Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 4:36-5:11).
3. Describe the significance of the actions taken by Barnabas in Acts
9:26-33.
4. What impact, if any, does the mistake in judgment of Barnabas in
Galatians 2:13 have on the many positive things written about his ministry?
Equipping the Saints
64
5. Reflect upon your level of comfortableness in visiting a fellow
Christian in prison.
What excuses do Christians sometimes give for not being involved in
helping other Christians who are in need of encouragement and help?
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
65
“Ananias—
“Ananias—Face Your Fears”
Josh Pierce
I grew up with a good friend named Robert. I had three brothers
so we were typical boys. We spent a lot of time outside and in the woods.
Robert lived on 16th section land which is land zoned for use of schools.
On this land there was a lake. On the back side of this lake was a levy.
This levy was covered in large hard wood trees and pine trees. Jeremy
and Robert and I used to build rope swings on this levy! We started out
by hanging a simple rope on a limb where you had to take a running start
then swing out over the water and let go. After playing around on this
rope swing for a few weeks it got slow and we wanted higher and faster.
So we found a steal beam to hang in the top of two trees and hung the
rope from that. After playing on it for a couple of days we decided to go
bigger. We cleaned out an area behind the levy and nailed rungs to a tree.
Now we could climb up in a tree and really get some speed and height
out of our swing. Well that lasted the rest of that summer but the next
summer once again we found ourselves wanting bigger and better. The
next summer we decided to go all out. We built a large deck in the top of
some trees on the back side of the levy. The deck was a triangle that’s
larger side faced the lake at about a 45 degree angle. We hung a rope in
one of the trees that was directly over the levy about 30 feet off the
ground. Now the back side of this deck was about 20 to 30 feet high as
well. After that we placed a ladder on top of the deck that put you about
50 feet up. As you climbed up with the rope you would start to notice the
rope was going down from you. As you would swing out over this lake
and let go you were going to fall a good 30 feet or more before you hit
the water. This was a great rope swing. The rope swing of all rope
swings. We used to take several friends out occasionally and let them try
out our rope swing. The most fun time to do it was at night. On a good
night when the moon was bright you could actually see the lake but only
when it was about time to let go. It never failed that a couple of friends in
the group would get scared and out of their fear they could not let go of
the rope. Now when you are moving that fast on a rope and you don’t let
go to hit water the other end is usually much worse. You either hit a tree.
You might hit the deck or worse go off the back side of the levy. How
many of you have ever been so afraid of something that you just froze
up? You were so scared you could not finish the task at hand? Sometimes
Equipping the Saints
66
fear can hinder us from doing what is right. We cannot let fear get in the
way of spreading Gods word. Sometimes like it or not we are forced to
face our fears. Let’s look at someone God chose directly for a specific
task and see how he handles it.
Acts 9:1-19
Ananias is commanded by God to go and teach the infamous
Saul of Tarsus! 10-16 Saul is a known persecutor of Christians. Even as
far as putting them to death. He was 3 days without eating drinking or
seeing! So he is most likely in a bad mood. He is scared, week, hungry,
thirsty, and probably angry! Saul is a scary, scary man. Especially for a
Jew who has converted to Christianity. Saul thrives on the torment of
individuals just like Ananias! What is Ananias first response? He is
afraid. He is scared to death of this guy. Ananias Questions God: He says
I have heard of this man. Every Christian knows this man. They know
what he does. They know how he treats Christians. God? Are you sure
this is the man you want? He is crazy. He is a murder. He puts your people to death. How can he possibly be a man you want in your kingdom,
much less a man to do your work and spread your word?
How many of you trust me and are willing to place your hand in
this bag? I won’t tell you what is in the bag but I will say that it won’t
harm you. Some will some wont. Some of you trust me and have faith
that I will not lead you to harm! Some of you do not. Now some of you
are just afraid of the unknown. That is what won’t allow you to face your
fear. Ok. I will show you what is in the bag. It is a snake. It is a ball python. One of the least aggressive snakes there are. As you can see it is
very tame. It will not bite you. Now how many of you are willing to
reach in the bag? It won’t hurt you but you may still be too afraid to try
it. You see sometimes even when some see what they fear they still can
not face their fear. Our fear is what keeps us from spreading the Word of
God as Christians. We are afraid of what people will think. We are afraid
of how people will react. We are afraid of what people will say. We are
afraid of being rejected. So we don’t let go of the rope swing and we end
up hurting ourselves. How do we overcome these fears?
Faith is an antidote to fear! Seeking first the important things in
life will help you grow in faith! As you grow in faith, you will see that
God is able to accomplish far more than human beings know or can even
imagine. As Paul wrote: "Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly
abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that
works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen" (Ephesians 3:20–21). God wants us to be
close to Him; He wants us to share with Him our worries, fears, and con-
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
67
cerns. And He wants us to ask Him for help! Be bold. Ask God to help
you as He has promised, "exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask
or think." Mostly he wants us to take his word to those around us. Go
therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the
name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them
to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you
always, even to the end of the age." Amen. (Matthew 28:18-20) If we go
Jesus is with us always. I hate the idea of blind faith! Some would say
that faith is like standing on a table blind folded and falling into the arms
of your friends to save you. Our faith is not blind. We have it right here
before us in our Bible the words of God. If God be for us who can be
against us! Romans 8:31
How many of us are scared to death to evangelize our schools,
our friends, our coworkers, and even our families? Face Your Fears! Let
go and give your trust to God!
Study :otes
Equipping the Saints
68
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
69
“Timothy,
the Young Evangelist”
Eddy Payne III
I:TRODUCTIO:
I would like to express my appreciation to the elders and the
members of the Gonzales Church of Christ for allowing me to be a part
of the group of men who will write articles for their lectureship book and
to speak to their young people later this year. I think they have selected a
wonderful theme, “Life Lessons from New Testament Characters.” Although I was not assigned a specific topic under this theme, I have chosen the topic “Timothy: The Young Evangelist” to be an example to
encourage the youth and their parents.
I first chose Jesus to be the New Testament character to imitate.
I then remembered Jesus lived and died under the Old Testament and
decided to discuss another person, although he is the best example under
both Testaments (Galatians 4:4). My second choice was Timothy, a
young person who was not perfect and with whom we, being imperfect
also, may better identify.
I:TRODUCTIO: TO TIMOTHY
Timothy’s name may mean honoring God. He is first mentioned in Acts 16:1-3. From this passage, we may infer that he was an
inhabitant of Lystra (Acts 20:4). He was the offspring of a mixed couple,
an unnamed Greek father and a devout Jewish mother named Eunice
(Acts 16:1-3; II Timothy 1:5). Timothy was taught the Old Testament
scriptures from the days of his childhood (Deuteronomy 6:1-9; II Timothy 3:15). We have no record of Timothy’s Greek father teaching him
God’s word, but we have proof from the Scriptures of his grandmother,
Lois, and his mother, Eunice, teaching him (II Timothy 1:3; 3:14, 15).
The apostle Paul came along and aided Timothy’s grandmother
and mother in teaching him. He taught Timothy the New Testament gospel about Christ Jesus and His church. Paul spoke of Timothy’s grandmother and mother as first having sincere faith and he noticed the same
thing in Timothy (Romans 10:17; 15:4; Hebrews 11:1, 6; II Timothy
1:5).
The Scriptures do not give us a detailed account of when Timothy, his grandmother and his mother were converted to Christ and be-
Equipping the Saints
70
came members of the Church of Christ. The apostle Paul knew of their
conversions and spoke of them as faithful members of the Lord’s church
(Acts 16:1-3; II Timothy 1:1-5). Paul took Timothy as an active member
of his group in spreading the gospel to the Gentiles and to the Jews. Because Timothy’s father was Greek, his mother was Jewish and he was
uncircumcised, Timothy would have had problems spreading the gospel
among the Jews. In order to increase Timothy’s effectiveness as a
preacher among the Jews, Paul took and circumcised Timothy in order to
work with the Jews (Acts 16:1-3).
Young Timothy’s knowledge of the Old Testament and the New
Testament came also as a result of his applying himself to the teachings
he was receiving. His good character before becoming a Christian and as
a Christian came as a result of his obeying the word of God taught to
him. Timothy’s faithfully obeying God’s word enabled him to become a
young leader in the Lord’s church. He served in the Church of Christ as
a faithful Evangelist, Minister, Preacher and Teacher (II Timothy 4:1-5; I
Timothy 4:11-16). He was instructed by the apostle Paul on how to behave himself with the members of the church both young and old. Paul
taught him about the hardships he had to suffer as a faithful young leader
in the Lord’s church. Paul’s teachings to Timothy were by word of
mouth, letters and visible example. Young Timothy visited the prisons
and experienced some of the apostle Paul’s hardships in prison (II Timothy 4:6-22). According to the writer of Hebrews, a brother Timothy was
released from prison. This could have been our young Timothy
(Hebrews 13:3, 22-24).
TIMOTHY’S EXAMPLE TO US
Let us examine how young Timothy can be an example for us
and especially for the young people today. We begin with Timothy as a
child. Timothy came from a mixed home, having a Greek or Gentile
father and a Jewish mother. His parents came from two different nations
that did not get along with one another. We have similar family situations today with races. It was a problem then and is a problem for young
people today at times. Timothy did not let this situation cause him to be
unfair to anyone (II Timothy 1:5).
Not much is said about Timothy’s father in the Scriptures but
that he was Timothy’s father and he was a Greek or Gentile. His name is
not given. Nothing is said about his influence for bad or good in Timothy’s life (Acts 16:1-3). This sounds very familiar today for many young
people because they do not know who their fathers are and are not being
influenced by their fathers.
There is a striking contrast with what the Scriptures reveal about
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
71
Timothy’s parents. Although very little is mentioned about Timothy’s
father, much is revealed about his grandmother, Lois, and mother,
Eunice. Timothy’s grandmother and mother’s names and nations are
given (Acts 16:1-3; II Timothy 1:5). A greater contrast between Timothy’s parents is that his grandmother and mother had a good influence on
his life. His grandmother and mother both listened to what God told
Moses to teach their children from the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 6:19). They taught Timothy using Old Testament Scriptures and by their
examples. He was able to see them practicing what they were teaching
him. When they became Christians, they continued to teach Timothy by
their faithfulness (II Timothy 1:5; 3:14-17). We can have the same good
effect on our young people today if we imitate these women.
Although the Scriptures are silent on the influence of Timothy’s
biological father, God provided someone to help Timothy as a father.
The man God chose to help Timothy as a father was the apostle Paul
(Acts 9:15; I Timothy 1:1, 2; II Timothy 2:1, 2). The apostle Paul helped
Timothy physically and spiritually. Paul taught Timothy by word of
mouth, Scriptures and by example as they worked and traveled together.
This is a good example for us today of an older, faithful, godly Christian
helping a young person in the absence of their father. We need to read
the books of first and second Timothy.
CO:CLUSIO:
Finally, as we approach the close of this topic, “Timothy: The
Young Evangelist,” we need to take a look at the qualities of young
Timothy revealed to us in the Scriptures. Timothy’s split physical heritage, part Greek or Gentile from his father and part Jewish from his
mother, was not chosen by him ,like every person born in this world
(Acts 16:1-3; II Timothy 1:5). There is no doubt he had problems with
racism like children of today, but overcame those problems (II Timothy
1:5). Timothy as a child yielded to the godly teachings and trainings of
his grandmother and mother (Deuteronomy 6:1-9; II Timothy 1:5; 3:14,
15). Timothy as a young person obeyed the gospel allowing God to save
him by the blood of Jesus. He was willing to let the apostle Paul, an
older, faithful Christian, teach and train him as a father would. Timothy
allowed himself to become a faithful Evangelist, Minister, Preacher and
Teacher for the Lord. He was also willing to suffer hardships and imprisonment as a young faithful Christian for Christ (Hebrews 13:22-25).
This young man is not just a good example for the young people today,
but for older people as well. Let all of us try to imitate his faithful example as he learned and followed God’s Word.
Equipping the Saints
72
TIMOTHY: THE YOU:G EVA:GELIST
1.
Who was chosen to be an imperfect example for us from the New
Testament?
2.
What does the name “Timothy” possibly mean?
3.
What was the nationality of Timothy’s parents?
4.
Who was instrumental in teaching Timothy as a child?
5.
What apostle aided Timothy’s grandmother and mother in teaching
him?
6.
Do the scriptures give a detailed account of Timothy’s conversion?
7.
Do you think Timothy had problems being the offspring of parents
from two different nations? Why or why not?
8.
How could coming from parents of two different nations have affected Timothy’s life?
9.
How did Timothy apply himself when he became a faithful Christian?
10. What was the result of Timothy’s hard work in applying himself as a
Christian?
11. How is Timothy’s hard work and dedication as a faithful Christian
an example to us today?
“Life Lessons From New Testament Characters”
73
Gonzales Church Of Christ — 1225 S. Purpera Ave. — Gonzales, LA 70737