Pentecost 7 (2)
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1 Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. 4 Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, 5 for each one should carry their own load. 6 Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor. 7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. 11 See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand! 12 Those who want to impress people by means of the flesh are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. 13 Not even those who are circumcised keep the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your circumcision in the flesh. 14 May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is the new creation. 16 Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule—to the Israel of God.
Today’s reading brings us to the conclusion of the book of Galatians. During the past month we have had readings from Galatians but no sermons. You may recall from the readings that the book of Galatians emphasizes the key teaching of the bible that we are saved by faith in Jesus and not by following religious rules and regulations. It was written in response to those who taught that in order to be saved you not only had to believe that Jesus is the Messiah but you also still had to observe certain religious customs like circumcision, Old Testament dietary laws, and observe Jewish Festivals. Christians seemed to have accepted the teaching of this letter because we no longer do these things for religious reasons and many Christians aren’t even sure when and how Jewish festivals like the Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Tabernacles, and Purim were observed. We do know who Jesus is and what he has done to save us and we believe that we are saved by faith an not by observing the deeds of the Law.
As St. Paul concludes this doctrinal letter, he gives a series of exhortations (commands) on how the Christian is to express their faith. We will briefly look at each of these and apply them to our own circumstances.
1 Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
God’s goal for our lives is that we do not sin.
(NIV)
3 Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him. 4 Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. 5 Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord.
1 My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. 2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.
And yet, in the chapter before this John reminds us that we all do sin. (NIV)
8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.
The issue here is: “How do we treat a fellow Christian who has sinned?” We are to seek to restore them gently. Jesus tells us that this begins in private with a goal of winning them over. As we are doing this, we must be on guard that we do not commit the same sins they have or fall into some other sin such as arrogance or self-righteousness. By working together we support each other (carry each other’s burdens).
3 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. 4 Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, 5 for each one should carry their own load.
The next verses death with self-worth and comparing ourselves to others. We seem to live in a world of comparisons.
Products.
Teams.
Schools.
People.
This is often encouraged by competition. Perhaps with the goal of improvement but sometimes with the result of arrogance or the opposite — feelings of worthlessness.
Instead of being satisfied with our own progress on a skill, talent, work ethic, or production and seeking ways to enjoy what we are doing, we compare those things or ourselves to others and either become prideful because we evaluate ourselves as being better or feel inadequate because we aren’t as successful or talented as others. St. Paul encourages us to evaluate what we are doing and instead of measuring ourselves against others, we are to just be concerned about what we are doing. Although St. Paul does not here tells us what standard we are to test ourselves against, we know elsewhere that we are to use the teachings of the Bible to properly evaluate how well we are doing.
Are we keeping God’s law?
Do we confess our sins when we fail and trust in Jesus for forgiveness?
Do we seek to grow in our sanctification? (NIV)
5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins. 10 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, 11 and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
6 Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.
St. Paul continues with a general principle that is still followed today. We are to support those who teach us God’s word. As a congregation, you are committed to providing your pastor with a salary, benefits, housing, etc. During the recent power outage it was encouraging for one of our members to offer his home for a shower and to provide a hot meal concerned that we would be doing without. Birthday greetings and well wishes are also greatly appreciated.
7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
This is also a general principle. The seed you plant will produce the produce that you expect. It is a proven fact that the type of foods we eat will have a profound impact on our short term and long term health. If we indulge in sinful fantasies and actions, we will become more corrupt. If we focus on the fruit of the spirit, we will be more productive Christians. This would remind us of the conclusion to previous chapter.
19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
We are encouraged to do good to others. Resources may prevent us from helping everyone so St. Paul does prioritize here. But he does not exclude anyone nor should we.
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
14 May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is the new creation. 16 Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule—to the Israel of God.
St. Paul concludes our text with a warning against boasting. Boasting is proclaiming to others just how good we are. It is our way of saying, “I’m Better than you.” The intention is often to elevate ourselves above others and to belittle who they are and what they have done.
It is also known as bragging. A review of famous quote on bragging shows that this is not a desirable trait.
You have to give yourself credit, not too much because that would be bragging.
Frank McCourt
Do you wish men to speak well of you? Then never speak well of yourself.
Blaise Pascal
Bragging is not an attractive trait, but let's be honest. A man who catches a big fish doesn't go home through an alley.
Ann Landers
Bragging is an ailment, Bragging is a blight; Bragging is an attribute Of a silly wight.
RALPH M. THOMSON
13 Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” 16 As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. 17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.
It seems that at one time St. Paul would boast about his accomplishments as a Pharisee. But he had come to believe that he worth was through Jesus Christ. For this reason he would proclaim Jesus and what he had done to save us instead of what he, Paul, had ever done.
This is a good model to follow. Giving credit to God for what we are allowed to accomplish rather than boast about ourselves.
Conclusion: Perhaps the people we know of who have the greatest reason to brag and boast about themselves are professional athletes. As entertainers who excel in their endeavors, they have many reasons for bragging. It is refreshing for us to hear well know successful athletes give glory to God for what they have done.
8. Kevin Durant – NBA Player for the Oklahoma City Thunder
15 POWERFUL QUOTES FROM CHRISTIAN SPORTS STARS
15 POWERFUL QUOTES FROM CHRISTIAN SPORTS STARS
Jul 19, 2014📷
It’s always uplifting to see talented and successful athletes give God the glory. There have been many Christian sports stars that allow God to use them to profess their faith to millions of people. Running has been in my blood since I was little and I have always loved playing and trying new sports. As a child, there were many athletes I aspired to be, but became disappointed after learning how many misused their fame and fortune. Thankfully, there were and still are many Christian athletes who boldly defend and profess their faith. For them, playing professionally is not for selfish reasons – it’s about God using their talents for His greater purpose.
Here are 15 powerful quotes from Christian sports stars.
15. Eric Liddell – Professional Runner from Scotland in the 1920’s and 1930’s and Olympic Gold Medalist
15. Eric Liddell – Professional Runner from Scotland in the 1920’s and 1930’s and Olympic Gold Medalist
“The secret of my success over the 400 metres is that I run the first 200 metres as hard as I can. Then, for the second 200 metres, with God’s help, I run harder.”
14. Case Keenum – NFL Quarterback for the Houston Texans
14. Case Keenum – NFL Quarterback for the Houston Texans
“God calls us to use our abilities to our greatest potential for His glory, and that includes whenever we step on the field,” Keenum said. “It’s not to beat the guy next to you; it’s to recognize it as an opportunity from God to reveal His glory.”
13. Morgan Shepherd – NASCAR Nationwide Series
13. Morgan Shepherd – NASCAR Nationwide Series
“I still have great passion and a love for the sport,” Shepherd said. “Undoubtedly the Lord wants me to be out here because I wouldn’t be out here and able to do it (otherwise). I don’t (physically) run out of gas. I can withstand the heat better than anybody out there. God has kept me tough.”
12. Mark Teixeira – MLB First Baseman for the New York Yankees
12. Mark Teixeira – MLB First Baseman for the New York Yankees
“Having a relationship with Christ makes me a better player,” Teixeira said. “It allows me to handle situations better. It allows me to treat people better and it allows me to have a better mental attitude towards baseball. I’m not going to kill myself when I don’t get a hit and that makes me better. Because when you put too much pressure on yourself, it’s harder to play.”
11. Bubba Watson – Golfer on the PGA Tour
11. Bubba Watson – Golfer on the PGA Tour
"Golf is just an avenue for Jesus to use me to reach as many people as I can."
10. Tim Tebow – Former NFL Quarterback for the Denver Broncos and New York Jets and Current ESPN College Football Analyst
10. Tim Tebow – Former NFL Quarterback for the Denver Broncos and New York Jets and Current ESPN College Football Analyst
"I have so many things to work on, and so many ways that I fail. But that's what grace is all about. And I constantly wake up every morning trying to get better, trying to improve, trying to walk closer to God."
9. Gabby Douglas – Professional Gymnast and 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist
9. Gabby Douglas – Professional Gymnast and 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist
"I give all the glory to God. It's kind of a win-win situation. The glory goes up to him, and the blessings fall down on me."
8. Kevin Durant – NBA Player for the Oklahoma City Thunder
8. Kevin Durant – NBA Player for the Oklahoma City Thunder
“I always kind of pinch myself and say that any day this can be gone,” Durant said. “In the Bible, (it says) the Lord exalts humility…I (remind myself that I) can always be better. I always work on what I have now. I’ve just got to be thankful to the Lord for the gifts He’s given me. My gift back to Him is to always be humble and to always try to work as hard as I can.”
7. Clayton Kershaw – MLB Player for the Los Angeles Dodgers
7. Clayton Kershaw – MLB Player for the Los Angeles Dodgers
“It’s for (God’s) glory,” he said. “He doesn’t want us to hide our talents. He wants us to put them in the spotlight and glorify Him. That’s a pretty cool thing.”
6. John Wooden, Former Basketball Coach and College Basketball Player
6. John Wooden, Former Basketball Coach and College Basketball Player
“Talent is God given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful.”
5. Mariano Rivera – Retired MLB Player of the New York Yankees
5. Mariano Rivera – Retired MLB Player of the New York Yankees
“Everything I have and everything I became is because of the strength of the Lord, and through him I have accomplished everything. Not because of my strength. Only by His love, his mercy, and his strength.”