Something Greater

Paul writes about thrones created in heaven and earth , visible and invisible. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: (Colossians 1:16) The Greek word for thrones is "thronos", meaning a stately (royal) seat, implying power or ruler . But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: (Matthew 5:34) He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. (Luke 1:52) I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. (Revelation 2:13) "Thrones" could refer to heavenly or earthly kingdoms and power . Paul sought to encourage the Colossian

The word "submission" is not well-liked in our American culture. It brings pictures of slavery, weakness, stifled expression, and tyranny. Yet the Bible shows that submission to authority should be the norm for all Christians . How can we reconcile our negative picture of "door-mat" submission to God's perfect harmony in relating to one another? It is important to place the discussion of submission within the larger framework of the unity of all Christians: I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. (Ephesians 4:1-5) God has rescued us from c

Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness... (Titus 1:1) Paul calls himself a servant of God . Servantâ€, translates a Greek word meaning slave, whether literally or figuratively, involuntary or voluntary. It carries the sense of subjection and service. This Greek word comes from a root word meaning to tie or bind. It is closely related to a word meaning to beg. Putting all the meanings together, Paul was describing an intimate, all-consuming relationship with God , one which bound him to obedience and faithful service. It was a relationship based upon need: Paul was compelled to serve God as a poor, starving man is compelled to beg. Is this an unique experience? Did Paul expect his readers to emulate this all-consuming slave-relationship with God? Did Paul endorse slavery as an acceptable social practice? Does the Bibl

Resisting Fear "Did Paul cleverly deceive us"? That might have been the question that kept hounding the Thessalonians. The first chapter of Paul's letter to the Thessalonians was meant to encourage and praise their pursuit of God . But there is a hint of defensiveness in Paul's words. For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain: But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with with much contention. For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: Nor of men sought we glory, neither of yo

Get Naked For God My son was a gymnast when he was younger, and I came across a word in the Bible that comes directly from the sport of gymnastics. But more than just being an interesting word, it leads to what I think is the most important thing in life, and the key to enjoying life and feeling fulfilled. Read the following verse and focus on the words “train” and “training” : Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. (1 Timothy 4:7-8) “Train” and “training” are translated from a Greek word: gumnadzo. This is where we get our English word, “gymnast” and “gymnasium”. This Greek word literally means to get naked and practice . It comes from “gumnos”, which means nude . Why is this important? Think about why an athlete would strip down to practice . A dedicated, serious athlet