Thoughts Worth Thinking

“Prove All Things …”

The inspired apostle Paul wrote to Thessalonica and said, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” (1 Thess. 5:21) While many place this passage in respect to “doctrinal challenges” that little word “all” does not permit such a limitation. “All things” is just that: all things! While any bible student will readily see the need to “try the spirits whether they be of God” (1 John 4:1), the careful student notes the need to prove him/herself, the work of God at their hands, the practice of worship, the beliefs (traditions) they have long held, etc. There is no immediate limit to the commandment of “proving ALL things.”

It is unfortunate that many accept much of their religious convictions/practices at face value. If someone of rather “distinctive reputation” proclaims a certain matter, few will question anything he says for fear of challenging his reputation. Paul demonstrates such a practice as errant (Gal. 2: 1 – 10). In fact, as proven as the speech of Paul himself was, the Bereans “searched the Scriptures daily, whether these things were so.” (Acts 17:11)

When the apostle states “all things,” the songs we sing! Colossians 3:16 explains we “teach and admonish one another in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs.” If these are not PROVEN as correct according to God’s Word, we obviously sing falsehoods! The enjoyment of the melody is not license to sing words that are contrary to the standard God set for our souls!

Add to this investigative listing of “all things,” our prayers. Are they worded to be heard of men, or spoken to the Father in Heaven? Matthew 6:1 – 8 speaks of such prayers and announces the reward. The same concern is uttered regarding the remarks made at the time of communion, and the time of preaching. Oft times, it appears we do not have our Lord in mind, but rather the seeking men’s praises (John 12:43; Romans 2:29). Notice again: “all” means ALL!

Move into the more personal area of our purported allegiance to God, Christ, the church and the Word of God we claim governs our souls. Can you PROVE your worship being in spirit and in truth (John 4:24)? Granted, such discernment is not left to the souls surrounding you; it is a personal evaluation that must concur with God’s assessment (2 Cor. 13:5). Yet, realize God knows your heart (Heb. 4:12- 13) and therefore the PROOF is noted within His eyes! He knows if our service is verbal or factual (comp. Matthew 15:8 – 9). Remember, it’s one thing to say we love Him, and quite another to prove it in word AND deed (Colossians 3:17).

For example, consider “giving as you have prospered.” (1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 9). Is your giving based on your “budget” on your PROSPERITY? Does your giving fluctuate according to your PROSPERITY or do you “keep back part of the price?” (comp. Acts 5:2) Understand, “proving all things” MEANS ALL THINGS!

Consider as well your understanding of TRUTH and RIGHTEOUSNESS, i.e., what you know about God’s Word itself! Many are convinced the Bible is nothing more than a collection of fantastic stories, with great moral lessons: no more valuable than the old McGuffey Readers, for that matter. But to the spiritually minded (Rom.8:6) the Word of Christ dwells in us richly in all wisdom (Col. 3:16). Can you prove it? Granted, we walk by faith and not by sight (2 Cor. 5:7). How strong is our faith? Have we permitted, accepted and met the challenges regarding the trial of our faith? (1 Pet. 1:7) Christians must be “set for the defense of the gospel” (Phil. 1:7; 17), yet in many cases, souls are at a loss to explain to questioners regarding why we believe what we believe (1 Pet. 3:15.) This is most certainly in keeping with the commandment, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”

Everything we say and everything we do must be proven right in God’s sight! That’s what “walking by faith” is all about. That’s the confirmation of Colossians 3:17. Will we fail from time to time? Yes, but it must not be willful failure! (Heb. 10:26). We have the obligation to “walk in the light as He (God) is in the light.” (1 John 1: 5 – 10) We are indeed the “light of the world, a city set on a hill whose light cannot be hid.” (Matt. 5:14) How bright is our light? It is TRUE light or artificial? God knows the difference – and so do we!

Most everyone can determine the difference between “genuine” and “pretended” behavior. Folks can determine if our love for God, Christ, the church, and the Bible is genuine or pretended. As Christians, we must not permit “holes” in our allegiance to these spiritual realities. The world loves the hypocrite: the hypocrite gives credence to the unbeliever and his/her life of carelessness. “Proving all things; holding fast that which is good,” sets the FAITHFUL apart from all others, in that we are “steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” (1 Cor.15:58) Let’s prove it!

Mike’s Musings ….

Super Fans?

Today (2/7/10) is “Super Bowl Sunday,” or so says the media. Big deal! Yet, this day is the most lucrative day in all of sports, and rivals all other events for its monetary gain. That’s why it is so widely promoted. What seems completely out of kilter is the fact that Indianapolis Schools have agreed to postpone the beginning of school for one hour in order to accommodate both personnel and students who will stay up late the watch the entirety of the game. But the worst: some “religious organizations” use this hype for increased attendance and/or entertainment altogether. Now I ask you, what of SPIRITUAL benefit is a football game – or any sport for that matter?

It is simply amazing to me that such an event as this captivates the excitement of millions. I wonder what it would take to create an equal fervor regarding faithful service to God? Granted, no faithful group will hire a “halftime entertainment” (with or without “wardrobe malfunction”) and certainly will not sell minutes for “best commercial attention” to their products (many to which Christians should express no interest whatsoever.)

In answer to such a quandary, let me suggest FAITHFUL EXAMPLE is the best avenue by which to increase interest in Christ and Him crucified. If Christians would speak of Christ and the church with as much love and genuine interest as many do regarding sports, then the world would see Matthew 6:33 and Colossians 1:17 means to us what it commands us to exemplify. Imagine the increased FAITHFUL attendance would exist if every Christian exemplified such excitement about serving our Lord. Imagine the impression it would leave on the community if they saw what zeal and dedication to Christ and His kingdom really means to the faithful! In other words, why can’t Christians be more than “super fans” of Christ and the church instead of items that having nothing to do with the saving of our souls?

Sadly, articles like this will do little good to persuade the alien from the ills of his way, simply because such articles usually do little to change the Christian from his/her apathetic way! But perhaps it will cause souls to think: if that is accomplished, WONDERFUL! When we sing, “What a gathering of the faithful that will be,” we should be singing in such a way that makes the noise at the super bowl seem as a soft bird’s chirp. Judgment Day is what faithful Christians desire – so they can go be with the Lord which is far better! I muse on the sad reality that still millions think more of a football game than they do of their souls and the eternity they say they desire!