James 3:6-12 – Be a constant source of blessing

In these verses, we are still at the tongue and its mischief. So in verse 6, we see a very severe assessment of the evil destruction that may proceed from one’s speech. Here, we see four aspects of the intensity of the evil. Firstly, it is a fire, a very world of iniquity. It is a world filled with wrongs. Secondly, the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body. The word “defiles” simply means to corrupt. The evils that often come out of a mouth will contaminate the total person. Thirdly, the tongue sets on fire the course of our life. James gave the impact of an evil speech. It not only affects a person within but also without. It will defile a person on the inside and destroy his life on the outside. Fourthly, the tongue is set on fire by hell. The word “hell” is translated from the word “gehenna” in Greek. This is a reference to the valley of Ben-hinnom, just southwest of Jerusalem. This is the place where the pagans practiced child sacrifices (Jeremiah 32:35). It was the dumping ground for garbage, bodies of dead animals and criminals. The Lord used “gehenna” to represent the eternal, never-ending torment of hell (Matthew 25:41). James point is clear, the tongue is the devil’s tool whenever a person avails it to him for his destructive intent.

The preposition “for” connects verses 7 and 8 to what James had said previously, concerning the uncontrollable nature of the tongue. Here, James cited all categories of animals (land, flying, crawling and sea creatures) to demonstrate the untamable characteristics of the tongue. Generally, no matter how wild those creatures are, man has, to a major degree, been able to tame and domesticate them. However, man has not been able to restrain his own tongue. The destructive force of words is full of deadly poison. So from verses 9-12, James showed the inconsistency of the words that often pour forth from one’s mouth. He showed how duplicitous they could be and asserted that they were incongruent with the believers. He argued that even in the world of nature (verses 11-12), such duplicity are not even found. And for a believer to use the tongue in such a manner is a compromise on the conviction and confession. It is out of character with a Christian. He then progressed to show how inconsistent a person could be, in regards to the use of his tongue. On the one hand, he could use it to bless the Lord and Father. On the other hand, he would use the same tongue to curse men that have been made in God’s image. He was adamant that these ought not to be so. James asked two questions in verses 11-12, and made a statement to prove why these ought not to be so. Firstly, does a fountain send out, from its opening, both fresh and bitter water? The obvious answer is no. Secondly, can a fig tree produce olives or a vine produce figs? Again, the obvious answer is no. Thirdly, in the statement he said that neither can salt water yield fresh water.

The point of James is this: a good tree does not produce bad fruits and vice versa. Fresh water source will produce fresh water constantly. It does not produce fresh water one day and bitter water another. Only people who are consistent can be a constant blessing. And every one of us is expected to be a source of blessings consistently. We should not be a source of blessings at one time and then a source of curses at another. So what sort of a fountain would we rather be? Remember, consistency matters! It is the gauge of our reliability. 

James 3:1-5 – The tongue needs to be tamed

The tongue is a small piece of muscular tissue in the mouth but it has great potential for evil. The danger is not so much in the tongue per se but in its spiritual connection. It will either bring blessing or curses, good or evil. No wonder Jesus told us that it is not what goes in that defiles a man. It is what comes out of the man that defiles him. It is out of the abundance of the heart that a man speaks. Echoing the Lord’s sentiment, James picked up the topic here and dealt on the danger of the misuse of the tongue. 

In verse 1, James urged a person desiring to teach to give careful consideration to his desire. As glamorous as a teacher’s position may be, the responsibility is heavy. This role calls for a greater accountability. Unless the motive of a teacher is pure, what comes out of the mouth may soil the lives of his listeners. The words that come forth from a teacher could validate or invalidate a person. Speech is powerful influence in teaching. 

In verse 2, the word “stumble” means to sin or to offend. Here, James said that human tendency is to offend or sin in many ways. He rightly said that the hardest part for a person to control is his tongue, hence, his speech. Only a person who is spiritually mature can bridle or control his tongue. Therefore, speech is a great key to measure a person’s spirituality.

In proportion to a man’s body, the tongue of a person is comparatively very much smaller. It, however, has the capacity to direct the course that the person would take. Using two illustrations in verses 3-4, James proved his point. The horse is a huge mammal often weighing up to half a ton, but a little bit placed on the tongue will enable a jockey to determine where it should go. Similarly, a small rudder attached to the back of a huge ship can determine its course. In much the same way, the direction and course of one’s life can be determined by the activities of that little tongue in one’s mouth.   

James insisted that though the tongue may be small, it boasts of great evil.  Like a little spark that can create a fire that would set a forest ablaze, so also the tongue can construct a destructive condition in the instance of a moment. James’ whole purpose is to call us to bridle or control the tongue. Every one of us has to some extent, control and harness some aspect of our lives. There is no denial that taming of the tongue is the hardest to do. But hard as it may be, we must do all we can to tame it. With the help of God, let’s give it our best shot!  

James 3:1-2 – Right desires to be teachers

Here in the first two verses of chapter three, James dealt with people with the ambition to be teachers of the Word. While teaching could have great potential of motivating and influencing believers for good, it also has great potential to destroy lives. Different people could be driven by different reasons to teach. Some are driven by their love for Christ, but there is no denial that there are some who could be driven by their ego. In the presence of temptation to gratify one’s personal ego, people who want to teach should carefully weigh their intention. Hence, James’ instruction was not for many of them to become teachers. Especially those motivated to teach for the wrong reasons.

In two verses, James gave three specific reasons why not many should be teachers. Firstly in verse 1, we see that teachers have greater accountability. They are supposed to have more knowledge and hence, they would have greater responsibility and accountability for the way they conduct their lives.

Secondly, James said that we all stumble in many ways. Why did he say that? It is true that we, fallen human being, succumb to sin easily. When that happens, it would cause others to be stumbled in their relationship with God. Hence, a teacher needs to be more watchful over his personal life, so that he would not become a stumbling block. Unless a person is prepared to consider this area seriously, James said that he or she should rethink his or her desire to teach.

And finally, verse 2 implied that it is difficult to bridle one’s tongue, including the teacher. A controlled tongue reflects a person’s controlled life. This also invariably reveals the character of a person. However, people do lose control of it every now and then. Therefore, because of the difficulty to bridle one’s tongue, one should consider carefully his desire to teach. Due to the fact that teachers have great potential and power to influence others, only people with proper motivation should consider being teachers. 

James point is obvious. One wrong direction or indication from a teacher, a whole class of people could be sent down the wrong path. Can we understand now why a teacher will be judged with greater severity? Can we understand why James asked us to be more thoughtful before we choose to teach? For us who are teachers and for those who desire to be teachers, these two verses must be at the forefront of our thoughts! It will help us to conduct the way we live. Yes, it should!  

James 2:14-19 – Faith requires action

In verses 14-19, James’ primary concern was for the practice of living faith. Genuine faith should affect all areas of one’s Christian life: conscience, desire, practice, commitment, etc. And here, James wanted his readers to know the true characteristic of genuine faith. Here was where Martin Luther, the reformer, struggled with. Having been influenced by Paul’s Epistle to the Romans, he insisted that faith alone saves. While James appeared to be saying that only faith plus work would save, what Martin Luther could not see was the fact that Paul was looking at faith before salvation, whereas James was looking at faith after salvation.

In these verses, we will discover that James actually reconciled faith and work. He began by asking two rhetorical questions that required ‘no’ for an answer. In essence, he was saying two things about faith: firstly, he said that faith without works is useless; and secondly, faith without works cannot save.

In verses 15-17, James illustrated what true faith really is all about. One cannot help but to realize that he sought to connect each part of his writing with the other. His mind could very well be still on how the poor were being by-passed in the church. So using their plight, he illustrated what living faith would look like: attending to the needs of the less fortunate. He graphically described their needs. In the original, the words he used would mean one who is naked and destitute. Instead of physically meeting those needs, these needy ones were told to go in peace, and nothing was provided for to meet their dire conditions. James’ question was what good would that well wishes do?

In the same way, when faith is not demonstrated by action, it is dead. True faith is full of compassion and it generates actions in life. In verse 18, James asked a question of an imaginary objector. What is being portrayed is this: it is not alright to merely give mental assent without accompanying action. Faith and works are never separated and faith always bears fruits.

In verse 19 we see the implication: it is not enough just to know God theologically. Our belief must be backed by appropriate practices. The demons are very orthodox in their theology, and they know God and even shudder. But theirs were only mental assent but not genuine faith that results in adherence and obedience to God. James wanted them to know that faith is more than mental assent. True living faith causes one to put one’s hands on the plough and look forward and act, and serve with diligence. Remember, without faith work is pointless but without work, faith gets us nowhere. We need faith but it needs to show itself through works.

James 2:20-26 – The principle of faith and work

The manner in which James aggressively addressed his hearers in verse 20, suggests that there could be some resistance to what he was saying. He used the words foolish fellow to address some of his hearers, suggesting that they were shallow and not using their head. He asked them if they were willing to recognize that work had to accompany faith. To seal his argument, he then engaged them in two case studies on the experiences of two persons: Abraham and Rahab. 

In verses 21-23, James illustrated with the life of Abraham who demonstrated his faith in God through his actions. These three verses cover a long span of thirty over years of happenings in Abraham’s live. To understand James’ argument, we need to go back to the account in Genesis to have the backdrop. Isaac was promised to the patriarch after he had defeated the four kings narrated in Genesis 15. In that incidence, Abraham was discouraged because he did not have an heir up till then. He was telling God that perhaps his descendants could come through his servant, Eleazer. God did something that Abraham did not expect. He brought him out to look into the open sky and promised him that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars. That event led to the landmark promise found in Genesis 15:6 and quoted here in verse 23.

However, it was only about thirty years later that Isaac was born. And when he had come of age God told the patriarch to offer him up. Abraham could had easily argued with God that Isaac was His promised seed to him. Nonetheless, he obeyed God unquestioningly and took Isaac up to Mount Moriah to be offered. We are told in Hebrews 11:19 that Abraham believed that God would resurrect Isaac from the dead, even if he had offered him up to God. The point here is this: Abraham’s faith in God caused him to act in obedience to Him. It was his action that pleased God, Who then reckoned him righteous.

To further concretize his argument, James brought in Rahab. In contrast to Abraham, the father of faith, this was a harlot, as well as a foreigner and a female. To be exact, we are talking about a commoner. Her faith in Jehovah God was demonstrated in her deed. She placed her life on the line by shielding the spies sent by Joshua. It was her faith and work that justified her. So here, James rounded up with a very firm statement that faith without works would be like a dead decaying corpse.

Genuine faith means translating our belief into action even when it appears unlikely to happen in the natural. It is pressing on and trusting in God, even when it seems incredulous and impossible. Many a times, it even means holding on even when it is downright threatening and risky and hazardous. That’s the boundary of genuine faith!

James 2:8-13 - The perils of showing partiality

Having established the foolishness of showing partiality, James, in verses 8-13, proceeded to show the danger of being partial. Bear in mind that his desire was for the believers’ profession of faith and action to be consistent. The thrust of faith is basically not only in how one relates to God but also in how one relates to others.

The first danger of being partial is that one would break the royal law. The Ten Commandments show us two aspects that God requires of believers. The first four commandments deal with one’s relationship with God and the last six, one’s relationship with fellow men. In Luke 10:27, the Lord Himself summed up the Ten Commandments like this: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” Here, James referred to the second half of this commandment as the royal law. He called on the readers to live out the royal law. In showing favoritism, a believer would have broken the royal law and would have committed a sin, become a transgressor, and would offend God. In verses 10 and 11, James underscored the seamlessness of the laws. God expects equal reverence and honor to be shown to each of the laws. To break anyone would be as good as breaking the whole law. No matter where one had sinned, one would have offended God. The point James was stressing is this: The one who shows partiality is in danger of breaking the law.

Proceeding to verses 12 and 13, we see that showing partiality puts one liable to the judgment. The Bible tells us that there is a believers’ judgment e.g. 2 Corinthians 5:10. Here, James cautioned us that believers will be judged based on how they have lived out this royal law. Hence, James instructed the believers to live their lives as ones who would be judged by the law of liberty. At the believers’ judgment, those who had been merciless will not be shown mercy. To show favoritism would indicate a merciless spirit. The wonderful part of this judgment is this: those who had a merciful spirit will be able to stand before God and make it.   

It is foolhardy, therefore, to practice partiality. We must learn to view everyone the way God would see them. A key to a person’s well-being is often his or her feeling of acceptance. To make a person feel rejected when we show partiality is failing to keep the law of love – to love our neighbors as ourselves. We ought to help each one feel accepted in the family of God. It would certainly please the Lord!   

James 2:1-7 – Why Christians should be impartial

One of James’ key emphases in this letter is to show how true believers look like. The genuineness of a person’s faith could only come forth through testing of the faith. He had already shown how trials and temptation, when properly responded to, would bring forth maturity and stability in God. He even taught the believers how to handle them. In these verses we see him dealing with the need to be impartial. In these verses, he asserted that not showing favoritism is a test of authentic faith. He began by saying that every believer should be impartial. Why? For the God we worship is impartial. To show partiality is in direct opposite to the nature of God. Everyone, regardless of social status or material possession, stands level at the foot of the Cross. This is precisely James’ point.

He started out in verse 1 by stating a very direct command: Do not show favoritism! What is showing favoritism? It is to give partial, bias, favor and preferential treatment to a person based on what one sees from his outward appearance. Here, he brought up two persons attending the worship service as an illustration. One came to the meeting, well decorated with gold in rich apparels while the other one came shabbily dressed. The former was given special treatment while the latter was given a rough one. James plainly stated here that such preferential treatment based on outward look is not congruent to faith. It is like attaching to a poor person lesser value than his true worth. It is like saying that a rich man is morally more superior and more suited for the Kingdom of God. As a motivation for his hearers to be impartial, he appealed to their belief in the glorious Lord Jesus Christ. Verse 4 implies that to give preferential treatment to a person based on his wealth would make one a judge with evil intention. James’ inference is that such an act is tantamount to wickedness.

Quickly, James gave two reasons why believers should not show partiality. Firstly he said, showing partiality is spiritually irrational. A spiritual paradox is deployed to help clarify that thought. The materially poor are spiritually rich. Why? The last half of verse 5 implies that the poor are more receptive to spiritual truth. No wonder Jesus opened His ministry by preaching to the poor (Luke 4:18). And in Luke 6:20, Jesus said, “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the Kingdom of God.” They are in a more advantageous position in terms of spiritual wealth. When one is poor, he is in a better position to realize his spiritual need. James reminded his hearers that to such poor people God had promised His Kingdom. 

Then in verse 6, James showed that showing partiality to the poor is socially irrational. It is to dishonor the poor. Furthermore, he argued, was it not the rich that would often exploit the poor and drag them to court? The term “fair” in verse 7 is translated “noble” in the NIV. James showed here that it was the rich that had often blasphemed the noble name of the Lord through whom they were called. Remember, Jesus said, it’s easier for a camel to go through the eye of the needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God.

What should our attitude be in the light of this passage? We must value everyone equally. Rich, the not so rich Christians or the poor, everyone is priceless in the eye of the Lord. For them, He sent His only begotten Son to die and redeem them. Let’s value and validate everyone, rich or poor!

James 1:26-27 – Being genuine Christians

In these last two verses of the first chapter, James gave some clues on what a genuine Christian would look like. A pious person, he said, would not merely attend worship service, but would also have consideration for others in three aspects. So in two verses, the three aspects that would mark a person out to be a true believer of God were given.

Firstly, a genuine Christian has a bridled tongue. In verse 26, James said, if a so-called believer does not keep his tongue in check, such a person’s religion is worthless. It renders his religion of no avail. An unchecked tongue would violate the law of love. It would be prone to lying, slandering, malicious talk etc. For such a person, James even went so far as to say that he would be deceiving himself. In malicious talk, a person only betrays himself and shows that he is not in alignment with God. 

Secondly, a genuine Christian would also have a caring heart. In verse 27, James addressed God as Father. This immediately gives hint that James had a family image in mind. In a family, members would respect the father but also show honor and care for one another. What is pure and undefiled in God’s sight would be for members to have caring hearts that demonstrate themselves in acts of kindness. Here, we see that a caring heart would exhibit itself in social actions. Such a person would demonstrate care of the less fortunate - the orphans and the widows, not just in words but also in deeds.       

Thirdly, a genuine Christian would live a consecrated life. In verse 27, James also called for a lifestyle that is not influenced by the world. A true believer would not imitate the standards of the world. He seeks to live a life that is above reproach and blameless.

Let us seek to be genuine believers and be careful with our tongues, be caring towards the needy and be circumspect in our lifestyle. May God be glorified by our actions in life!

James 1:19-25 – Continuing in the Word of truth

In verses 19-25, the Word here exhorts us to continue in the Word of truth. In verse 18, we see a reference to the new birth as being brought about through the Word of truth. It would be natural for James now to be concerned in the believers’ progress. In this section, James’ intention was to show how believers should relate with the Word of truth and experience progress in spiritual life. From verses 18 to 25, different terms are used to refer to the Word of God. (1) In verse 18, it is called the Word of truth; (2) in verse 21, it is referred to as the Word implanted; (3) in verses 22-23, it is referred to merely as the Word; and (4) in verse 25, it is called the Perfect Law and the Law of Liberty.

We can see that there are only three concerns here. In verses 19-20, James’ first concern is for his hearers to hear the Word. Secondly, he was concerned for hearers to receive the Word (verse 21). And finally in verses 22-25, he was concerned for believers to obey the Word.

In verses 19-20, it is perfectly natural for James to put emphasis on the need to listen to God’s Word. For in verse 18, he had asserted that it is through that Word of truth that believers received their new birth. Now to progress and grow, they would then need to go back to that Word and listen to what it has to say to them. Hence, he called for them to be quick to hear the Word. Very quickly, he also pointed out to two areas in life that could prevent believers from hearing God’s Word. He said that an uncurbed speech and anger could sabotage one’s spiritual growth. These negative habits could render the believers incapable of hearing God’s Word readily. Both could be traced to the lack of self-control. In addition, he points out that excessive anger could prevent one from attaining the righteous standards of God.   

  

In verse 21, James urged the believers who have heard the Word to receive it. There are four stages involved in the reception of the Word into one’s life. Firstly, there is the stage of preparation. Using the language of gardening, James began by calling for the ground to be prepared. To do so, he commanded that all moral filth and wickedness must be removed from the soil of their soul. These things could determine the reception of the implanted Word. Secondly, there must be the adjustment of the attitude. Here, believers must cultivate the attitude of humility. Thirdly, there must be the acceptance of the Word implanted. And finally, to expect the outcome, that is the saving of the soul. 

     

The first two parts of the process, the listening and receiving are needful. However, the most important part of the process of accepting the Word is in the applying or obeying of the Word. In five verses, James’ thrust was a call to be a doer of the Word. People may come to the Word and listen to it, but only the person who acts upon what he has heard would be blessed. Using a common experience in life, James underscored the importance of acting on the Word. If a person hears the Word and does not obey what it prescribes, is a forgetful hearer. He is like a man who forgets how he looks like after going away from the mirror that has just reflected his image. James’ point was this: every believer who looks intently at the Word, pores and reflects over it and then responds accordingly, such a person would be blessed in what he does. The Word of God is seen here as the perfect law as well as the law of liberty. It is a law because it is meant to be obeyed. It is perfect because it perfectly expresses the nature of God. It is the law of liberty because it will free a person to live and express the way he ought to in Christ.   

The Word of God is full of godly seeds to grow a righteous plant. When rightly sown in our lives and carefully nurtured through obedience, we will see beautiful and godly characters cultivated to bring glory to His name.     

James 1:13-18 – Concerning temptations that we encounter

Having dealt with external trials, James turned his focus on internal temptations. Like it or not, everyone faces temptation. Both the terms “trials” and “temptations” are derived from the same root word. We can see it in this way: the purpose of trials is to bring the best out of a believer and help a person reach maturity. However, if instead of bringing the desired outcome, it produces flaws, then it has become a temptation instead. This would destroy that person. In these verses, James introduced to us not only the source of temptation but also the process and the result of temptation. In it, he also gives believers some perspective concerning God.

In verse 13, James began by stating strongly that God is never the source of temptation. He asserted that when facing a temptation, no believer should say God is the source of that temptation. Two reasons are given to support his assertion. Firstly, God cannot be tempted by evil. A righteous God has nothing that would make Him unrighteous. There is absolutely nothing in His holy righteous character that evil can appeal to. Evil can never influence Him. Secondly, God does not tempt anyone. In other words, God never dangles any bait before a believer till he or she is enticed to sin. In this verse, he pointed to the true source of temptation. He said it lies in man himself and it could be traced to the inner lustful desire within him. This is inherent in man’s nature since Adam’s fall.

In temptation an enticement would first come before a person to distract him or her. But here, James gave the process in reverse. In verse 14, he showed that a tempted person would first be distracted to stray from the right track before he could be lured into partaking in what appears desirous. Using the language of gestation and birth, James showed the process of temptation and its result. In the birth of a human baby, there must be conception and formation of a fetus in a woman’s womb before a baby could be born. In the area of temptation and sin, lust must first be consummated then sin, the fetus would be formed. When sin becomes full bloomed, it would result in death.

In the midst of their trials and temptations, believers might be deceived into thinking that God sent adversities into their lives. So James affectionately tells us believers, as his beloved brethren, that this is not true, and then gave us some perspectives of God. His intention is to call believers to rely and fully trust in the wonderful God. Firstly, he shows the generosity of God. He is good and the Giver of every good and perfect gift. Secondly, he appeals through the character of God. He is the Father of Light and darkness does not exist in Him. He also has a changeless nature and unlike shifting shadows, this God remains constant.

Furthermore, James said, in His purpose, God “brought us forth” meaning He initiated our new birth. The agent that brought this about is the Word of truth. Besides, God also makes believers His first fruits. In using the term “first fruits” to describe believers, James wants us to know that we are God’s very own and we belong to Him. This idea of the “first fruits” is an Old Testament concept. In the Old Testament, God said that all firstborn of His people, their cattle as well as the first produce of their vineyard, etc. had to be set apart for Him as they belonged to Him.

Beloved, we belong to God so we can really rely on Him in life’s toughest moments. Be assured that He will never fail or forsake us. So be strong and persevere with Him in trials or temptation.

James 1:5-8 – Concerning wisdom and trials

It seems unusual that James should abruptly jump from talking about trials to wisdom. He had to have his reasons. Notice in verse 4, James talked about “lacking nothing” and then almost immediately in verse 5 he gave the idea that a person could lack something. And that something is wisdom. Why? Earlier, he had implied that trials were allowed by God because of His intention to use those trials to work perfection in the believers’ lives. So he encouraged them to face their trials joyfully. But, he realized that some of his listeners might not share his sentiment. They were not able to see the usefulness of trials as he had told them. Hence, only God could clarify the issue for them. He then called on them to request God to grant them wisdom to be able to see the usefulness of trials.

What is this wisdom? It is often equated with cleverness or smartness. But the wisdom that James talked about here had nothing to do with being clever or smart. The wisdom he portrayed here must be seen in relation to enduring trials. This kind of wisdom enables one to see God’s clear purpose, to make correct decisions and to act appropriately in the midst of tough circumstances. It would help believers to chart their course in life so as to attain maturity and completeness. Such kind of wisdom could only come from God. Therefore, believers needing such wisdom should ask from Him.

We can see here that God is the source of such wisdom. The word “generously” not only demonstrates the manner God would give but also the fact that with Him, this wisdom is without limit. It also suggests that God is willing to give and that He would give liberally without any restraint. The terms “without reproach” tell us that God would never give such a request in a displeasing manner. He will not give and yet remonstrate with His displeasure.

But how should one approach God? It is important to know how a person approaches God, because the manner would indicate his or her desire to advance with God. Bear in mind that in James’ thinking, trials would lead one towards maturity when attended to with the appropriate responses. So in verses 6-8, he prescribed how a person should approach God for that wisdom to ensure maturity. Why? James knew that the manner with which one comes to God, would reflect one’s inner desire. It would reveal one’s commitment to see the way God sees things, as well as one’s willingness to accept God’s intention for life. To receive this wisdom meant that the person should ask God trustingly, for faith and doubt just cannot co-exist. A believer who asks doubtfully reflects his instability. He is no different from the waves of the sea that’s driven and tossed about. Interestingly James used the word “double-minded” to describe such a man. He said that he should not expect to receive what he had requested from God. In fact doubtful asking would result in two maladies for that unstable believer: (1) prayer that would be ineffective; (2) an insecure and unstable life.

We all need wisdom to handle life situations. And wisdom is not about being clever. It is about knowing how to please God and maintain godly relationship with others, while undergoing hard times. Wisdom is readily available with God, and for anyone lacking it, God is ever ready to give. But remember to come asking with faith, trusting that God will provide us with His wisdom. Generously!  

Hebrews 11:23-27 – Let’s learn faith from Moses

In verses 23-26, we see the first person whose faith in God helped him to endure hostility and persecution. The author started with Moses before going to some others because all their experiences were relevant to his readers. The readers would certainly be interested because they themselves were facing opposition from their own Jewish brethren.

Besides Abraham, Moses was the next to hold a prominent place in the hall of faith among the Hebrews. Since Moses held a central position in their lives, the author used him to illustrate faith in the midst of great opposition. Faith does not flinch from hostility. In fact it enables one to confront the circumstances fearlessly. Moses’ parents, Amram and Jochebed had faith in God. This enabled them to trust God and His will, over that of Pharaoh. Moses was not an ordinary child. And even though the Pharaoh had commanded all male Jewish children to be killed, Amram and Jochebed chose to trust God than to obey the king’s edict. They regarded God's will about the sanctity of life and held it of more importance, than to obey the state when national law contradicted God's will. Hence, God honored their faith.

Verses 24-26 show how much Moses trusted God. When it came to the crunch time for him to make a decision, Moses chose to be identified with God’s people rather than to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. This act shows us how he held on to the promises of God by faith. He chose to endure the suffering, hostility and ill treatment with God’s people. He refused to participate in the temporary pleasure offered him. Moses was looking at the future reward. Sin would give temporary pleasure but result in forfeiture of a better future.

In what way did Moses consider the reproach of Christ greater than the treasures of Egypt? In choosing to be identified with God’s people, Moses had actually participated in the reward that would come with Israel's promised Messiah. He had refused the temporary material wealth offered him, had he stayed in Egypt. Using him as an illustration, the author was calling for the Hebrew believers to emulate Moses. For Christ’s sake, they ought also to endure the suffering, the temporary disgrace, reproach, and loss. Why? So that they too could appropriate the reward that Christ, the promised Messiah, would give to His faithful believers. This underscores the point that believers should not live for what the world has promised but what God has promised.

In verse 27, Moses persisted in his faith in God and left Egypt without any fear of the wrath of the king. Exodus 2:15 tells us that Pharaoh actually tried to kill him. Moses went to Midian and lived there. In saying that “he endured, as seeing Him who is unseen” is not referring to the burning bush experience. The author seemed to be referring to the fact that Moses kept God in view continually. Verse 28 is an allusion to the account recorded in Exodus 12 concerning the Passover. In that incident, Moses and the Israelites kept the instruction of God and applied the blood of the Passover lamb on the doorposts and lintels of their houses. They acted in obedience to God. The provision of the blood of the lamb saved them from the destruction brought by the angel of death. They had avoided God's judgment by keeping faith with God. Similarly, believers must keep faith with God to avoid the judgment. 

James 1:1-4 – Concerning the trials we face

In the opening verse, James called himself a servant of God. This reflects his humility. Although he was the earthly brother of the Lord and was the president of the Jerusalem Council, yet he did not take advantage of his relationship and position. He would rather be identified as the Lord’s servant. James’ recipients were acknowledged as “the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad.…” With that phrase he was not only writing to Jewish believers but to all Christians. He was in fact taking a leaf from the history of Israel in their wandering. Like them, we are also God’s people scattered as foreigners all over the world.  Here we see a non-elaborate salutation. James simply greeted them and then plunged into the topic that was foremost on his mind – trials.

In verse 2, we see the facts about trials. The word “when” suggests that trials are part and parcel of life. James did not use the word “if” but “when”. In other words trials are inevitable in life.  In just two verses, James was able to give some facts and forms about trials. Although the word “trials” simply means hardship or affliction, here it is made interesting by the adjective that modifies it. The word “various” can be defined as “many-colored or variegated.” It tells us that trials can come to believers in different forms. Some are straight forward; others could be complex and intricate.

We also could see from these few verses the reason for trials. They are meant to prove the faith of believers. The genuineness of one’s trust in the Lord would never be known without the trials. Trials not only make a man but also reveal what a man is made up of. When a believer successfully endured the test, he would be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. The word “perfect” does not mean to be sinless but mature. Hence, James here also prescribed the right response when encountering trials.  

How should one respond to trials? We are told here that the right response to trials in life is to learn to be joyful over it. It is implied that God had allowed the trials. We know this to be true because He controls everything completely. Hence, trials would never come upon a believer’s life without God’s consent.

In a nutshell, we know that trials should be accepted with joyful attitude, because God uses them to mold and develop us, and also help to make us mature and complete people of God, lacking nothing in life.  Let’s allow God to bring the best out of us through the trials we encounter! 

The Letter of James, an overview

The letter of James is well known as the Epistle that the reformer, Martin Luther referred to as “…a letter of straw that’s fit for the fire.” Coming out of the Roman Catholic setup, Luther had an aversion for anything that appeared to suggest a work-salvation ethos. Having been challenged by the statement that “the just shall live by faith”, he felt that this letter and Paul’s letter to the Romans, contradicted the issue of faith. However, we know that he was grossly mistaken. Both Paul and James actually concurred in the matter of faith. They were only looking at the same subject from different angles. Paul’s approach was - how could one obtain genuine salvation.  James’ was concerned with - how could one recognize genuine salvation. The genre of James is that of an epistle but the contents look to be more like his sermon notes on Christian living. In it, believers both then and now, could glean many practical insights to live life in ways that would be pleasing to God.  

There are several James in the New Testament. The one that had written this letter was the brother of the Lord. In Matthew 13:55, we learn that the Lord had several brothers and James was one of them. He and his other brothers Joseph, Simon and Judas were probably the ones that left Jesus and walked with him no more in John 7:5. They could not accept the Lord’s authority before His Resurrection. However, from 1 Corinthian 15:7, we are told that the Risen Lord appeared to James. It surmised that he then renewed his commitment to the Lord. In Galatians 2:9, he appeared to have become one of the leaders in the Jewish-Christian Church at Jerusalem and even presided at the first Jerusalem Council (Acts 15:19-23). He then held a lead position and commanded respect from the early believers. Several terms in this letter had similarities with the expressions he used in Acts 15. Some examples are the words (1) “greetings” - Acts 15:23 and James 1:1 and (2) the term “brethren” - Acts 15:13, James 2:5, etc.

In James 1:1, he addressed the letter to “the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad …” This verse suggests that he was writing to Jewish believers outside of Jerusalem and dispersed throughout the Roman Empire. From the terms “brethren” and “beloved brethren” (James 1:2, 16), we conclude that they were fellow believers. Furthermore, James described them as holding to “the faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ …” (James 2:1). And in James 5:8, he told them to be patient in times of trials because of “the coming of the Lord is at hand”. There is no record of James, the Lord’s brother, ever leaving Jerusalem after assuming leadership in the Jewish Church. If he is the author, as we believed, then there is no doubt that the origin of this Epistle was Jerusalem. As the president of the Jewish Church, he had great influence over matters pertaining to Jewish Christians. Just like the temple of Jerusalem that was the hub of all Jewish activities, the Church of Jerusalem was the center where Jewish Christians turned to for their answers.

James’ letter suggests that the believers were facing some amount of hardship. The content tells us that there were splatters of animosities, losses, liability, as well as insults and interference with the way of life and religious services. There were also hints that the fervor of the converts had waxed cold and waned, and James wrote to rebuke them for their sinful lifestyle. In this letter, he was also calling them into the discipline of holy living. The letter is more practical rather than ethical in orientation. Doctrines were assumed. The main thrust was for believers to be obedient and take action. All ethical implications of the new faith had to be translated into practical realities, for believers to advance in the journey of holiness. James wrote also to correct faults and to instruct those whose faith had wavered. In this letter, we find James rebuking backsliders, instilling discipline and encouraging all believers to cultivate genuine godliness. Let’s be ready to be more than hearers of the Word of God only. Let’s also become genuine doers of His Word!

Jude 17-25 – Let’s set our hearts on being faithful to the end

Having shown the flaws and failures of the false teachers, Jude now turned to do something positive. He exhorted them to continue to live faithfully, although they had to encounter these false teachers. 

In verses 17-19, we are reminded to recall the warning of the Apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ. They had warned us of things that would happen near the return of the Lord. There would be mockers that would pander to their own ungodly lust. In referring to the last time, he would be referring to the end-time. These false teachers would cause division. They might claim to be spiritual but what they say and do would reveal their worldly mindedness because they would be devoid of the Spirit.

In verses 20-23, Jude encourages some positive exercises to adopt. The conjunction “But” in verse 20 provides the contrast, meaning unlike the false teachers, the believers ought to be different. Firstly, we believers should build up our holy faith. Secondly, we should continue to pray in the Holy Spirit. Thirdly, we should keep ourselves under the influence and sphere of God’s love. Fourthly, we should live in anticipation of the second return of the Lord Jesus Christ. Fifthly, we should be merciful and kindly, and assist struggling believers. Sixthly, we should help to rescue those who are being influenced by the false teachers and in danger of the judgment of fire. And to be compassionate toward those who are so entrenched in the false teachings, instead of condemning them. But as we show compassion towards them we must also be cautious not to be influenced by their errors. We should treat with scorn the garment influenced by the flesh. In using the term “garment”, Jude was referring to conducts that were affected by habits of the flesh.

Jude then concluded with a great doxology and prayer for the believers in verses 24-25. He assured us believers that God has the ability to help us to be faithful in the face of the threat of false teachings. The doxology in verse 24 is perhaps the most complete. It assures believers of their total security. This guarantee rests on God’s keeping ability and faithfulness. God will definitely keep the believers from stumbling and enable them to stand before Him joyfully, and having no justifiable ground for accusation. Finally, with a great exuberance, he extolled the glorious God.

Let us abandon ourselves to the only wise God our Savior, Jesus Christ. He has set the example for us to walk in His footsteps to bring honor and glory to God!

Jude 8-16 - Heresies - the errors and seriousness

Having illustrated with the three Old Testament examples in 5-7, Jude turned to focus on the errors of the false teachers as a warning to his readers. He sought to show where the false teachers were wrong. Verses 8-9 show their errors. It appears likely that the false teachers cited dreams and visions to substantiate their perverse activities, their lust, rebelliousness and irreverence. However, Jude pointed out that they were merely presumptions and not substantiated visions or dreams. They stood in stark contrast to Michael the Archangel, who refused to show any disrespect to another powerful angel. He refused to treat Satan flippantly or rudely in his dispute with him about where Moses was buried. Jude’s point was this: even though the devil was malicious and slanderous, yet Michael, the Archangel, would leave it to the Lord to deal with him, for he recognized that God alone could judge. Thus, he asked the Lord to condemn Satan for his slander.

How serious were their errors? We will find out in verses 10 -13. These false teachers reviled things that they did not even understand. What were the things that they did not understand? These were probably some of God’s revealed truths that they did not comprehend and so they chose to reject. What they truly understood was how to gratify their flesh. And like unreasoning animals, they would act impulsively and be destroyed by those acts. Verse 11 says that they have gone the way of Cain, which was the way of pride. Cain stubbornly wanted God to accept him on his terms. He wanted to work for his relationship with God and ended up with a murderous vengeful spirit. Not only that, for some money these false teachers also followed the footsteps of Balaam. Two things Balaam stood for: (1) covetous, he was willing to commit sin for a little reward; (2) a rebellious man, who led God’s people into sin. In this verse, Jude also mentioned Korah. Who is Korah? He was one of those who rebelled against God’s ordained leaders, Moses and Aaron. He was judged by God and perished in his rebellion.

In verses 12 and 13, we will see five more things to underscore the seriousness of their errors. Firstly, they were like hidden coral reefs. They could not be seen on the surface but would often rip apart the under surface of a ship. The word “hidden” suggests that they were not seen and unknowingly the church would be destroyed by them. They would participate in the fellowship feast of the church, not because they genuinely loved the people, but to prey on the innocent and gratify their own desire. Secondly, they were clouds without water. They promised rain but could not deliver because they had no water. Long in promise but short in deliverance. Because these clouds were waterless, they were easily driven by the wind. False teachers would be easily influenced by others since they have no firm convictions of their own. Thirdly, they were autumn trees without fruit, doubly dead and uprooted. Autumn was a time when trees would have no leaves and have much less fruit on the branches. In referring to them as trees in autumn, Jude probably believed that the return of the Lord Jesus was near. They had no fruit and were set for divine judgment. In the Old Testament, uprooted trees was a symbol of divine judgment (Jeremiah 1:10; Psalm 52:5). Fourthly, they were like waves of the sea, casting out their own shame like foam. Jude was referring to their unbridled sensuality. They left marks of their inordinate and uncontrolled immorality and impurity wherever they went. Fifthly, they were wandering stars whom the darkness had been reserved for. Like wandering stars in the sky that are off course, they led others astray. They were even like shooting stars that flashed across the darkness and then quickly vanished.    

In verses 14-16, Jude actually quoted loosely from one of the extra biblical writings, the Book of 1 Enoch and then applied it to their lives. Though the book was not considered a part of the canon, Jude was led to quote Enoch's prophecy recorded there. This prophecy concerns God’s judgment that will take place at Christ’s Second Coming, (2 Thessalonians 1:7-10). Here, we are told that God will judge all the ungodly for the ungodly deeds they had done. The ungodly will also be judged for all the ungodly words they had spoken against the Lord. In verse 16, Jude applied what he said to the false teachers who would do ungodly things and speak ungodly words. Their ungodly deeds would be their lustful activities. The ungodly words would be their grumbling, faultfinding, arrogant speeches and flattering tongues. All these they did just to gain personal advantage.

Let’s be careful who we are listening to. It’s better to exercise caution and please God than please man. We need to learn to be tough and disciplined so that we can cultivate God-pleasing habits in life.  

Jude 5-7 - Warning against falling away

Jude was so concerned for the church that he felt the urgency to warn the church to avoid two groups of people: (1) those who promoted licentiousness; and (2) those who renounced the faith. Jude first cited three Old Testament cases of those who fell away from God. Then went on to talk about the danger they were presently encountering.

In verse 5, to support what he was saying, he showed the mistake of those Israelites who came out of Egypt. So serious was the error of some of those Israelites that they were destroyed in the wilderness. Why? They failed to continue in their belief and doubted the power and promises of God. In verse 6, he went on to illustrate with the case of rebellious angels. They were placed in a privileged position prior to their fall. These angels were near to God and were serving Him. However, they abandoned the opportunity to serve God. Hence, they were kept in the bondage of darkness for the Judgment Day. Jude wanted the believers to know that just like the fallen angels, the apostates had also abandoned their position of great privilege and blessings. In so doing, they forfeited the opportunity to serve and glorify God. 

In verse 7, Jude referred to the examples of Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities surrounding them. In bringing up the examples of these wicked cities, Jude was showing the fact that God would judge those who practice immorality and sexual perversion. Jude was dealing with what was common practice in his days. Those false teachers evidently felt liberated to practice promiscuity. Just as God used the fire to burn up the wicked cities, God would use the same instrument to deal with those who were consumed in such activities. Only this time, the judgment would be for all eternity.

We must walk gingerly before our Lord. Christ had secured our salvation and we must not squander it through wanton unbelief and disobedience. We must not trample the privilege of the grace we are so freely given. These examples show us that we need to be responsible followers of Christ. And that’s what we must continue to

Jude 1-4 – Contesting for the faith

Jude or Judas, who was the earthly brother of Jesus, had written this letter (Matthew 13:55 and Mark 6:3). He was a Hellenistic Galilean Jew. Like his brother James, he did not believe in the Lord Jesus at one point (John 7:4-5). It was not until the Lord’s Resurrection that he became a fervent believer. In his writing are many allusions to the Old Testament. This has led many to conclude that this Epistle was primarily written to a Jewish audience. 

In this letter, Jude began introducing himself by identifying with Jesus Christ and James. He called himself a bond-servant of Jesus Christ and the brother of James. Although he was the earthly brother of the Lord Jesus, he chose not to highlight this fact. In so doing, he had chosen to emphasize his relationship with Jesus in the spiritual sense rather than physical.

Having established who he was, he then addressed his readers. He referred to them as “those who were called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ”. Jude intentionally addressed them that way. He must have known that once a person believed he or she would be called, loved and kept, and he or she would have full assurance in the faith. And this would help them through the time of apostasy.

Like most Epistles, he also wished God’s mercy, peace and love upon his readers. He then quickly went into discussing the purpose of his letter. Initially, he set out to write to encourage them about the faith that was once for all delivered to them. Jude was referring to the truth of God that was revealed in the Scriptures; that which the Apostles of Christ also taught. This was the faith that he and the readers had in common. However, while writing, he felt an overwhelming necessity to deal with a more urgent matter - the need to contend earnestly for the apostolic faith. Verse 4 tells us why. Apparently, false teachers had crept into the fellowship unnoticed and were present in the church. As far as Jude was concerned, these were already marked for destruction long beforehand for condemnation. They had to be exposed and opposed for two reasons. Firstly, they had turned the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ into licentiousness. Secondly, they also denied our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.

In the light of the two clear evidences of heretics, we must not only walk circumspectly but also discerningly. We must do our best to warn and admonish others who may be trapped by false teachings. Heretical teachers are usually eloquent and have the canning ability to concoct and spin stories that are totally out of the context of the Word. From all that we know, material possession is usually their primary focus. So let’s be careful in our journey of faith!   

Hebrews 13:20-25 – Benediction, doxology and an after thought

To appreciate the benediction, we must see it in the backdrop of what the Hebrew believers were going through. They were facing mounting tension and increasing hardship and conflicts. This letter was written at a time when they were facing the impending persecution of Emperor Nero. Hence, the benediction would bring special assurance and comfort to them. This benediction is built on the foundation of three thoughts. Firstly, it has to do with the God of peace, secondly, it is based on the eternal covenant; and thirdly, it has to do with the Resurrected Shepherd.

He is the God of peace. Peace is the intrinsic nature of God. The author here was not merely talking about tranquility or serenity. He was also referring to the Hebrew’s understanding of the word, “shalom”. This word carries with it a sense of completeness, wholeness, and soundness. When His peace is with and in a believer, there is no trouble that can take him under. Then, He is the promise-keeping God, the God of the eternal Covenant. This Covenant was made, sealed and ratified with the precious Blood of Jesus, the Son of God. This promise is eternal; is here to stay, and is changeless. And finally, He is the Resurrected Shepherd. Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:14), and also the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4) but here, He is presented not only as the Great Shepherd but also the Resurrected or Risen Shepherd. Hence, this Great and Resurrected Shepherd, in a position of power, is presently mediating on the believers’ behalf before God.

This Great Shepherd would now equip believers to do God’s will. The word “equip” is interesting. It means to prepare for use, or like a doctor setting a fractured bone right, or a fisherman mending his net. The writer wanted his readers to know that Jesus is able to fix all believers and make them perfect and complete in Him. Not only that, but He also enables believers to do the will of God. The reason He would do all these was to make the believers acceptable and pleasing in God’s sight. With that lofty benediction and exhortation, the author let out a doxological proclamation of praise to the Lord Jesus saying, “To whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” 

The writer was concerned for the Hebrew believers and he added a few personal remarks. In verse 22, he urged them to accept this word of exhortation and not to reject them. This word exhortation gives the impression that this is more a sermon than an epistle. It is quite obvious that this exhortation was put together while Timothy was still alive. The way he put it here tells us that he ministered closely with Timothy in the Lord’s work. Here, he mentioned that Timothy would be released from prison soon. He was writing this epistle or exhortation to the leaders of the local church and the saints. The message he sent them was needful for all to hear, hence, he included “and all the saints”. The phrase, “Those from Italy” seems to make reference to Christians who had departed from Italy instead of believers who were currently living there. This being the case, the writer must have written this sermon from somewhere other than Italy. In verse 25, the writer closed with a final benediction and a prayerful wish that God's Grace, His divine enablement would be with his readers. What a rich heritage for us believers! Let do justice to it by living a life well-pleasing to God!   

Hebrews 13:17-19 – Our duty to our spiritual leaders

From the believers’ obligation to their spiritual life, the writer now focused on their duties in relation to their leaders. Two things were expected of them: To obey their leaders and to pray for them.

In verse 17, the call was to obey the leaders. Obedience always goes hand in hand with submission. Hence, they were told not only to obey but also to submit to their authority. The reasons they should obey and submit were also given here in this verse. Firstly, the leaders had the responsibility to guard over their souls. This is a responsibility entrusted to them. Secondly, they would be giving an account of the lives of those under their care. Shepherds have greater accountability and they have to answer to God for the care given to the sheep. Thirdly, by being obedient and submissive, they made their leaders’ lives and ministries easier. The task of leadership and ministering to them would not be a chore but a delight. If the leaders were weighted down with burden, it would be unprofitable and a serious disadvantage to the church.

In verses 18-19, the author was calling for prayer to be offered for him. By adding the pronoun “we” he also included other leaders like himself. This also suggests that the Hebrew believers knew the writer. Although the leaders’ conscience was intact, they however, also needed prayers. Furthermore, their desire was to conduct themselves rightly and honorably in all things. In verse 19, he called on them to pray especially for him to be restored to them sooner. This implies the writer’s own persuasion about the power of prayers.

Leaders have great responsibility for the flock. Our submission to them and obedience to their instructions from the Word, would go to make their works more fulfilling and meaningful. Let us heed the Word of God in our duty towards our spiritual leaders!

Hebrews 13:7-16 – Be sure to cultivate our spiritual life

The next thing the author called on the Hebrew believers to take care of was their own spiritual life. First and foremost, he told them to remember those who had led them before, especially those who taught them the Word of God. Very probably some of them might have even passed on. The readers were exhorted to consider those leaders’ good examples and emulate their godly behavior and faith. Then he reminded them of the One, Who would forever be available to them: Jesus Christ. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. In other words, Jesus Christ never changes. He is the same and will remain the same. The writer acknowledged the need to emulate the lives of faithful leaders but most importantly, all must set their eyes on the unchanging Jesus Christ.

Verses 9-10 seem to suggest that some of the Hebrew believers were prideful. They were being carried away with “varied and strange teachings”. Some had probably subscribed to deviant teachings of some heretical positions. The author warned them not to succumb to those heresies and be ensnared, like those who believed in these unbeneficial lies. The word “foods” suggests that they could have believed that eating certain foods or abstaining from them would result in greater godliness. The author wanted them to know grace was what they needed to rely on. He told them that it was in accepting the grace God provided in Christ that one’s heart could be strengthened. The word “altar” in verse 10 is referring to Jesus Christ, Who is the believers’ peace offering to God. “Those who serve the tabernacle” would be referring to those who held on to the old sacrificial system. It meant that those who held on to the old sacrificial system could not partake of the spiritual sustenance and fellowship with God, since they were still bound by the old system. In verse 11, the author compared Jesus to the sin offering that was offered by the high priest on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:27). On the Day of Atonement two animals were sacrificed: a bull for Aaron’s family and a ram for the people. The blood of the animals was brought into the Holy of holies by the high priest to apply on the mercy seat. But the bodies of the animals were burned outside the camp. Jesus’ death outside Jerusalem fulfilled the ritual of the Day of Atonement where the bodies of sacrificed animals were taken outside the camp and burned. Like the blood of the sacrifice that was supposed to cleanse the people, so also the Lord Jesus’ own Blood would sanctify the believers. The author to the Hebrews then told them to do one thing: go to Jesus. So in verse 13, he called on them to go to Jesus outside the camp and willingly bear any disgrace being associated with Him. The impression here is that it is worth it all. Why? For in going to Jesus is to find that eternal city, the unshakable Kingdom of God. In comparison the city here on earth was only temporary in nature, and could not endure the impending shaking of God. In verses 15-16, the writer then said that coming to Jesus must result in two very positive responses in life: the offering of continual worship to God and the willingness to do good works.

Worship should be the highest priority of one’s life. Believers should continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God. It must be self-giving and be totally caught up in passionate love for Jesus. The fruit of our lips mean to express one’s love verbally. God loves to hear the believers’ praise and adoration to Him. Secondly, true worship would result in giving of oneself in sharing with others. It is like the actions of Mary and Martha put together (John 12). One worshipped the Lord Jesus with wholehearted devotion and the other worked and served Him with wholehearted commitment.       

Hebrews 13:4-6 - Be responsible for our own spiritual progress

Having done with talking about responsibility towards others, the author now turned to talk about duties a believer should undertake towards his own personal life. Like the previous three verses, here he also dealt with three things: marriage, money and material possession, and mental attitude.

Regarding marriage, he called on them to treat their marriages with honor. Here, the author wanted them to esteem marriage and to highly regard it. In essence he was saying, “Treat your marriage as precious”. On sexual relationship in marriage, he called for purity. The word “bed” is a euphemism for sexual intimacy. Sex in marriage must not be defiled. Why believers must honor marriage as well as exercise sexual fidelity? He said in the later half of verse 4 that God would judge all fornicators and adulterers.

After talking about marital fidelity, the author then turned to discuss the issue of money and material possession. Here, we see that when a person focused on his money and material wealth, he would find it difficult to endure hardship. Hence, the author warned the readers strongly against being covetous. To avoid being covetous they need to have a proper orientation concerning wealth. Why? It is because when a person places his trust in material wealth, it becomes an obstacle for him to trust the Lord completely. To overcome it, the author called on them to make sure that their love was not on their wealth so that it would not be their main focus in life. He gave them one very key strategy i.e. to focus on God. Why? Because true contentment could only be found in God, never in the things one possesses. Furthermore, God had promised to be with His people. He promised never to desert them. He would watch over them, especially when they encounter hardship.

In verse 6, the author quoted Psalm 118:6 to tell the believers to maintain an outlook that would allow them to trust God. They should know that God had promised to be with them and to see them through triumphantly. Basically, he was calling on them to strengthen their mental attitude and confidently trust God to enable them to live their lives without fear.

Hebrews 13:1-3 – Our obligation to fellow believers

In Hebrews 11 we learn much about faith, and in Hebrews 12, about hope. We now come to the issue of love. Here we are concerned not only with the theological aspect but also the practical ones. While faith and hope are God-ward oriented, this upcoming chapter deals with the virtue of love, which is man-ward oriented.  

Here in this last chapter of the book, the writer shows us how his message to the Hebrew believers can be applied at the horizontal level. His emphasis here is more about right duties rather than just right doctrines. Bear in mind that the believers to whom he wrote to were facing the temptation to return to their former faith. Looming before them was also the impending Roman persecution that eventually came upon the church. Like them, the church today is also like a ship in the midst of impending storm. We learn from them three important tips to stay afloat in the midst of storm. Here are a series of specific instructions to encourage and enable the believers to continue to worship and serve God.

In these three verses, we believers are reminded concerning what we as members of the redeemed community could do, relating to other members. In the light of God’s awesomeness described in Hebrews 12:29, there are three things to act upon. Firstly, believers ought to keep on loving one another and let brotherly love continues. In the presence of extreme stress, it would be hard to maintain flagging love. Hence, we need to keep up with brotherly love for each other to motivate us to do and act rightly. Secondly, believers are to practice hospitality. To encourage believers to do so, the author said that some had unknowingly entertained angels by being hospitable. Perhaps this has an inference to Genesis 19. In that account, Abraham entertained angels and in that process also entertained Jehovah. Thirdly, the author instructed believers to have regards for each other. Believers must build empathy and to project themselves in the lives of those in prison, and to feel how they feel. Believers are also reminded that each one also has a body and hence, could project themselves into the feeling of how their fellow members would feel. This would enable each one to empathize with the needy.

Simply put, these verses constitute a call for us to do three things – to love others in the fellowship, to practice hospitality, and to develop empathy for others. 

Hebrews 12:25-29 – The challenge to be devoted

There is a tendency to be lopsided in one’s view of God. There is no denial that to be balanced, believers must see God in His entirety. At Mount Sinai God was portrayed as the all-consuming fire. But at Mount Zion, He was the all-consuming love. These two aspects of God are like the twin peaks of a mountain. One cannot afford to play down one aspect over the other. Knowing Him as a consuming fire keeps the holy fear of the Lord in believers. And knowing Him as the consuming love keeps one delighting in Him. In these closing verses, the author turned from exposition to exhortation. This twin-peak revelation shows us what God is like. In the light of this revelation, the issue is how ought the believers to respond to Him? This was the concern of the author as this chapter closes.

Here, the author was calling for an appropriate response to God. God had spoken once at Mount Sinai on earth but in these verses the author was saying that He was warning them from Heaven. The contrast here is between the places God spoke from rather than the person. The warning had to do with the failure of God’s people to stay true to His Son.

In verses 26-27, the author first referred to the event at Mount Sinai when God shook the earth as He spoke in the giving of the Law. Then quoting from Haggai 2:6, the author talked about another shaking, this time it would be greater than what took place at Sinai. When that takes place everything will go into disintegration. The phrase “Yet once more” indicates it was something future. Here, the author was referring to an eschatological shaking. When that happens only what is eternal and of the Kingdom of God will remain. All else will go into disintegration and eradicated. 

On closer examination, we know that the author was essentially calling for two things. Firstly, he was calling for obedience to God and His Word. Why? For the Word of God is effectual and final. Hence, believers must obey the Word and not refuse it. Secondly, he was calling for responsible worship. In verses 28-29, the author said that believers are those who belong to the eternal Kingdom of God. In the light of this, even as we have embraced Jesus Christ as Lord, we must offer to Him acceptable worship with reverence and awe. For God is not only an all-consuming fire, because in Christ, He is also the all-consuming love.