Knocked Down But Not Knocked Out
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Knocked Down But Not Knocked Out
2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Knocked Down But Not Knocked Out
2 Corinthians 4:8-9
8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
Late night phone calls rarely bring good news.
Late night phone calls rarely bring good news.
I Remember Reading about a Preacher not long ago when the phone rang in the middle of the night, waking me from a deep sleep.
I Remember Reading about a Preacher not long ago when the phone rang in the middle of the night, waking me from a deep sleep.
Startled and groggy, he wondered who could be calling at such an hour.
Startled and groggy, he wondered who could be calling at such an hour.
It was a friend who lives in a distant state.
It was a friend who lives in a distant state.
“I’ve got some bad news he said”
“I’ve got some bad news he said”
He went on to tell him about a mutual friend who lives several thousand miles away.
He went on to tell him about a mutual friend who lives several thousand miles away.
He is a wonderful minister of the gospel, a great man, and a tremendous evangelist.
He is a wonderful minister of the gospel, a great man, and a tremendous evangelist.
“He had a massive heart attack an hour ago.
“He had a massive heart attack an hour ago.
They say the outlook isn’t good.”
They say the outlook isn’t good.”
I knew he had been going through a hard time, but I wasn’t prepared for this.
I knew he had been going through a hard time, but I wasn’t prepared for this.
The last time he saw him, he was upbeat, smiling, positive and future-focused.
The last time he saw him, he was upbeat, smiling, positive and future-focused.
Now he is in a hospital fighting for his life.
Now he is in a hospital fighting for his life.
It didn’t seem possible.
It didn’t seem possible.
The man who called said, “Son, the ways of the Lord are sometimes very strange.” Indeed they are.
The man who called said, “Son, the ways of the Lord are sometimes very strange.” Indeed they are.
When they prayed together, the man pleaded with the Lord to spare our friend.
When they prayed together, the man pleaded with the Lord to spare our friend.
Then he said, “But Lord, we know you do all things well. And we are trusting in you completely tonight.”
Then he said, “But Lord, we know you do all things well. And we are trusting in you completely tonight.”
After he hung up, it was hard to go back to bed. Both stayed up talking about it for a while.
After he hung up, it was hard to go back to bed. Both stayed up talking about it for a while.
That preachers friend is still alive but no one knows what to expect next.
That preachers friend is still alive but no one knows what to expect next.
That late-night phone call came to mind as He prepared His message from 2 Corinthians 4.
That late-night phone call came to mind as He prepared His message from 2 Corinthians 4.
Saying ,If I could talk to my friend, he would say, “I’m definitely just a clay pot, fragile and easily broken.”
Saying ,If I could talk to my friend, he would say, “I’m definitely just a clay pot, fragile and easily broken.”
He said I’ve been thinking lately about the fragility of life.
He said I’ve been thinking lately about the fragility of life.
Maybe it’s because of the flood that hit Nashville or the tornadoes that swept through this part of the country or maybe it’s because of the string of earthquakes in many places or maybe it’s because of a long list of friends battling various diseases.
Maybe it’s because of the flood that hit Nashville or the tornadoes that swept through this part of the country or maybe it’s because of the string of earthquakes in many places or maybe it’s because of a long list of friends battling various diseases.
Whatever the reason, it’s good to meditate on our own mortality from time to time. We all die sooner or later.
Whatever the reason, it’s good to meditate on our own mortality from time to time. We all die sooner or later.
When Pat Conroy wrote South of Broad, he included this sobering description of how death is woven into our existence from our earliest days:
When Pat Conroy wrote South of Broad, he included this sobering description of how death is woven into our existence from our earliest days:
The moment you are born your death is foretold by your newly minted cells as your mother holds you up,
The moment you are born your death is foretold by your newly minted cells as your mother holds you up,
then hands you to your father, who gently tickles the stomach where the cancer will one day form,
then hands you to your father, who gently tickles the stomach where the cancer will one day form,
studies the eyes where melanoma’s dark signature is already written along the optic nerve,
studies the eyes where melanoma’s dark signature is already written along the optic nerve,
touches the back where the liver will one day house the cirrhosis, feels the bloodstream that will sweeten itself into diabetes, admires the shape of the head where the brain will fall to the ax-handle of stroke, or listens to your heart, which,
touches the back where the liver will one day house the cirrhosis, feels the bloodstream that will sweeten itself into diabetes, admires the shape of the head where the brain will fall to the ax-handle of stroke, or listens to your heart, which,
exhausted by the fearful ways and humiliations and indecencies of life, will explode in your chest like a light going out in the world.
exhausted by the fearful ways and humiliations and indecencies of life, will explode in your chest like a light going out in the world.
Death lives in each one of us and begins its countdown on our birthdays and makes its rough entrance at the last hour and the perfect time (p. 10).
Death lives in each one of us and begins its countdown on our birthdays and makes its rough entrance at the last hour and the perfect time (p. 10).
In a deep sense, we are all born dying.
In a deep sense, we are all born dying.
We are born saying hello, and the rest of life is one long goodbye.
We are born saying hello, and the rest of life is one long goodbye.
That thought, reinforced by the late night phone call, leads to a deeper truth.
That thought, reinforced by the late night phone call, leads to a deeper truth.
The way we respond to the trials of life reveals a great deal about the strength of our Christian faith.
The way we respond to the trials of life reveals a great deal about the strength of our Christian faith.
If we deny our troubles, or if we give in to anger or bitterness, or if we blame others for our problems, we miss what God intends to teach us through what happens to us.
If we deny our troubles, or if we give in to anger or bitterness, or if we blame others for our problems, we miss what God intends to teach us through what happens to us.
It is a great advance spiritually to be able to say, “I believe God has allowed this difficulty for my good and his glory.”
It is a great advance spiritually to be able to say, “I believe God has allowed this difficulty for my good and his glory.”
We are all born dying.
We are all born dying.
In verses 8-9 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, Paul makes four statements that describe how Christians respond to the trials of life.
In verses 8-9 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, Paul makes four statements that describe how Christians respond to the trials of life.
8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
Another way of Putting it is’
Another way of Putting it is’
We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
These four statements describe the true condition of believers in the world.
These four statements describe the true condition of believers in the world.
1. They are always true, even though our experience of them varies.
1. They are always true, even though our experience of them varies.
2. We are not always pressured, but we often are.
2. We are not always pressured, but we often are.
3. We’re not always perplexed, but it happens more than we think.
3. We’re not always perplexed, but it happens more than we think.
4. We do not always face opposition, but sometimes we do.
4. We do not always face opposition, but sometimes we do.
And not every day are we struck down by the circumstances of life, but it does happen to all of us eventually.
And not every day are we struck down by the circumstances of life, but it does happen to all of us eventually.
No one is exempt from these things.
No one is exempt from these things.
1. Pressure will not defeat us.
1. Pressure will not defeat us.
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed” ( 2 Corinthians 4: 8 ).
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed” ( 2 Corinthians 4: 8 ).
8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
The word “pressed or Troubled ” was sometimes used for walking through a crowd where people surround you and literally press against you.
The word “pressed or Troubled ” was sometimes used for walking through a crowd where people surround you and literally press against you.
G2346 θλίβω thlibo (thliy'-ɓō) v.
G2346 θλίβω thlibo (thliy'-ɓō) v.
1. to compress.
1. to compress.
2. to squeeze.
2. to squeeze.
3. to press hard.
3. to press hard.
4. (passively) to be hard pressed.
4. (passively) to be hard pressed.
5. to pinch.
5. to pinch.
6. (figuratively) to press in against, to crush (in a crowd).
6. (figuratively) to press in against, to crush (in a crowd).
{literally or figuratively}
{literally or figuratively}
[akin to the base of G5147]
[akin to the base of G5147]
KJV: afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble
KJV: afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble
See also: G5147
See also: G5147
[?]
[?]
θλίβω (thlíbō | thlee'-bo)
θλίβω (thlíbō | thlee'-bo)
Derivation: akin to the base of G5147;
Derivation: akin to the base of G5147;
Strong's: to crowd (literally or figuratively)
Strong's: to crowd (literally or figuratively)
KJV: —afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble.
KJV: —afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble.
See: G5147
See: G5147
Cognate Group: G2346 (afflict), G2347 (afflicted)
Cognate Group: G2346 (afflict), G2347 (afflicted)
Variants: θλίβω
Variants: θλίβω
Hebrew Equivalents: אָיַב, חָלַץ, יְמִינִי, כֹתֶרֶת, לָצֹון, מָשַׁךְ, עָשַׁק, צוּף, צַר, צָרַר, רָעַץ, שָׁבַר
Hebrew Equivalents: אָיַב, חָלַץ, יְמִינִי, כֹתֶרֶת, לָצֹון, מָשַׁךְ, עָשַׁק, צוּף, צַר, צָרַר, רָעַץ, שָׁבַר
Other Resources: Thayer LSJ VGNT CWD GrLNT
Other Resources: Thayer LSJ VGNT CWD GrLNT
AV Occurrences (10 Instances, 9 Words)
AV Occurrences (10 Instances, 9 Words)
narrow (1)
narrow (1)
Matt 7:14
Matt 7:14
14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
they should throng (1)
they should throng (1)
Mark 3:9
Mark 3:9
9 And he spake to his disciples, that a small ship should wait on him because of the multitude, lest they should throng him.
we be afflicted (1)
we be afflicted (1)
2Cor 1:6
2Cor 1:6
6 And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.
we are troubled (1)
we are troubled (1)
2Cor 4:8
2Cor 4:8
8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
we were troubled (1)
we were troubled (1)
2Cor 7:5
2Cor 7:5
5 For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.
suffer tribulation (1)
suffer tribulation (1)
1Thes 3:4
1Thes 3:4
4 For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.
them that trouble (1)
them that trouble (1)
2Thes 1:6
2Thes 1:6
6 Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;
who are troubled (1)
who are troubled (1)
2Thes 1:7
2Thes 1:7
7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,
afflicted (2)
afflicted (2)
1Tim 5:10; Heb 11:37
1Tim 5:10; Heb 11:37
10 Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints’ feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.
37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;
Or we may think of grapes in a winepress.
Or we may think of grapes in a winepress.
The pressures of life may squeeze us but we are not utterly crushed.
The pressures of life may squeeze us but we are not utterly crushed.
Here are some ways this phrase has been translated or paraphrased:
Here are some ways this phrase has been translated or paraphrased:
We are not always pressured, but often we are.
We are not always pressured, but often we are.
“We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed” (NLT).
“We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed” (NLT).
“We catch it from every direction but we don’t let them squeeze the life out of us” (CP).
“We catch it from every direction but we don’t let them squeeze the life out of us” (CP).
“Hard-pressed on every side, we are never hemmed in” (NEB).
“Hard-pressed on every side, we are never hemmed in” (NEB).
2. Confusion will not discourage us.
2. Confusion will not discourage us.
We are “perplexed, but not in despair” (v. 2 Corinthians 4:8 ).
We are “perplexed, but not in despair” (v. 2 Corinthians 4:8 ).
ἀπορέω (aporéō | ap-or-eh'-o)
ἀπορέω (aporéō | ap-or-eh'-o)
Derivation: from a compound of G1 (as a negative particle) and the base of G4198;
Derivation: from a compound of G1 (as a negative particle) and the base of G4198;
Strong's: to have no way out, i.e. be at a loss (mentally)
Strong's: to have no way out, i.e. be at a loss (mentally)
KJV: — (stand in) doubt, be perplexed.
KJV: — (stand in) doubt, be perplexed.
See: G1
See: G1
See: G4198
See: G4198
Cognate Group: G4156 (strangled), G4846 (choke), G638 (choke), G4155 (choke)
Cognate Group: G4156 (strangled), G4846 (choke), G638 (choke), G4155 (choke)
Variants: ἀπορέω
Variants: ἀπορέω
Hebrew Equivalents: דַּוָּי, חָסֵר, מוּךְ, עָלַף, פָּרַר, צָרַר, שַׁכּוּל
Hebrew Equivalents: דַּוָּי, חָסֵר, מוּךְ, עָלַף, פָּרַר, צָרַר, שַׁכּוּל
Other Resources: Thayer LSJ VGNT CWD GrLNT
Other Resources: Thayer LSJ VGNT CWD GrLNT
AV Occurrences (4 Instances, 4 Words)
AV Occurrences (4 Instances, 4 Words)
doubting (1)
doubting (1)
G4729 στενοχωρέω stenochoreo (ste-no-chō-re'-ō) v.
G4729 στενοχωρέω stenochoreo (ste-no-chō-re'-ō) v.
1. to hem in closely.
1. to hem in closely.
2. (figuratively) cramp.
2. (figuratively) cramp.
[from a compound of G4728 and G5561]
[from a compound of G4728 and G5561]
KJV: distress, straiten
KJV: distress, straiten
Root(s): G4728, G5561
Root(s): G4728, G5561
See also: G4730
See also: G4730
[?]
[?]
John 13:22
John 13:22
22 Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.
doubted (1)
doubted (1)
Acts 25:20
Acts 25:20
20 And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters.
we are perplexed (1)
we are perplexed (1)
2Cor 4:8
2Cor 4:8
8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
i stand in doubt (1)
i stand in doubt (1)
Gal 4:20
Gal 4:20
20 I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you.
8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
Sometimes we just don’t know which way to go.
Sometimes we just don’t know which way to go.
ἐξαπορέομαι (exaporéomai | ex-ap-or-eh'-om-ahee)
ἐξαπορέομαι (exaporéomai | ex-ap-or-eh'-om-ahee)
Derivation: middle voice from G1537 and G639;
Derivation: middle voice from G1537 and G639;
Strong's: to be utterly at a loss, i.e. despond
Strong's: to be utterly at a loss, i.e. despond
KJV: —(in) despair.
KJV: —(in) despair.
See: G1537
See: G1537
See: G639
See: G639
Cognate Group: G539 (deceit), G1818 (beguile), G538 (deceive)
Cognate Group: G539 (deceit), G1818 (beguile), G538 (deceive)
Variants: ἐξαπορέομαι, ἐξαπορέω
Variants: ἐξαπορέομαι, ἐξαπορέω
Hebrew Equivalents: פּוּן
Hebrew Equivalents: פּוּן
Other Resources: Thayer LSJ VGNT CWD GrLNT
Other Resources: Thayer LSJ VGNT CWD GrLNT
AV Occurrences (2 Instances, 2 Words)
AV Occurrences (2 Instances, 2 Words)
despaired (1)
despaired (1)
2Cor 1:8
2Cor 1:8
8 For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life:
despair (1)
despair (1)
2Cor 4:8
2Cor 4:8
8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
Life has a way of throwing us a curve ball now and then.
Life has a way of throwing us a curve ball now and then.
Sometimes we face circumstances that are so confusing that we honestly don’t know what we need or what we want or what would be best.
Sometimes we face circumstances that are so confusing that we honestly don’t know what we need or what we want or what would be best.
There have been times when I have said, “Lord Jesus, if you were here, standing in front of me, and you said, ‘Ray, what do you want me to do for you?’
There have been times when I have said, “Lord Jesus, if you were here, standing in front of me, and you said, ‘Ray, what do you want me to do for you?’
I wouldn’t know what to say.” Paul himself said in Romans 8:26 that sometimes we don’t know how to pray.
I wouldn’t know what to say.” Paul himself said in Romans 8:26 that sometimes we don’t know how to pray.
26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
There are moments when the pressure is so great and we are so tired and worn out and life has become so confusing that we honestly don’t know what to say to the Lord.
There are moments when the pressure is so great and we are so tired and worn out and life has become so confusing that we honestly don’t know what to say to the Lord.
Fatigue wears us all down eventually.
Fatigue wears us all down eventually.
I have found in those moments that if all I can do is cry out, “O God, O Jesus.
I have found in those moments that if all I can do is cry out, “O God, O Jesus.
Have mercy, Lord, have mercy,” then that is enough.
Have mercy, Lord, have mercy,” then that is enough.
The Lord who knows all things can fill in the details.
The Lord who knows all things can fill in the details.
People sometimes ask for more information so they can “pray more intelligently.”
People sometimes ask for more information so they can “pray more intelligently.”
I’m all for that, but it’s not like the Lord needs more information from us or that better information will somehow make our prayers “better” with the Lord.
I’m all for that, but it’s not like the Lord needs more information from us or that better information will somehow make our prayers “better” with the Lord.
When we are confused, Jesus is not confused.
When we are confused, Jesus is not confused.
When we are confused, Jesus is not confused.
When we are confused, Jesus is not confused.
Sometimes we are puzzled and perplexed by life.
Sometimes we are puzzled and perplexed by life.
Sometimes we are bewildered and unsure.
That’s okay.
Sometimes we are bewildered and unsure.
That’s okay.
We are not driven to despair because life doesn’t depend on our knowledge of the big picture.
We are not driven to despair because life doesn’t depend on our knowledge of the big picture.
When we are at our wit’s end, God is just getting started.
When we are at our wit’s end, God is just getting started.
Often he does his best work when we have given up completely.
Often he does his best work when we have given up completely.
3. Opposition will not deter us.
3. Opposition will not deter us.
We are “persecuted, but not abandoned” (v. 2 Corinthians 4:9 ).
We are “persecuted, but not abandoned” (v. 2 Corinthians 4:9 ).
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
The Greek word translated “persecuted” means “to pursue,” as a hunter pursues his game.
διώκω (diṓkō | dee-o'-ko)
διώκω (diṓkō | dee-o'-ko)
Derivation: a prolonged (and causative) form of a primary verb δίω (to flee;
Derivation: a prolonged (and causative) form of a primary verb δίω (to flee;
Strong's: compare the base of G1169 and G1249); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute
Strong's: compare the base of G1169 and G1249); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute
KJV: —ensue, follow (after), given to, (suffer) persecute(-ion), press forward.
KJV: —ensue, follow (after), given to, (suffer) persecute(-ion), press forward.
See: G1169
See: G1169
See: G1249
See: G1249
Cognate Group: G1377 (ensue)
Cognate Group: G1377 (ensue)
Variants: διώκω
Variants: διώκω
Hebrew Equivalents: אָיַב, בָּרַח, דָּהַר, דָּחַף, הָלַךְ, חָרַד, נָדַף, נוּס, רָדָה, רָדַף, רוּץ, שָׁדַד, שָׁפַט
Hebrew Equivalents: אָיַב, בָּרַח, דָּהַר, דָּחַף, הָלַךְ, חָרַד, נָדַף, נוּס, רָדָה, רָדַף, רוּץ, שָׁדַד, שָׁפַט
Other Resources: Thayer LSJ VGNT CWD GrLNT
Other Resources: Thayer LSJ VGNT CWD GrLNT
AV Occurrences (49 Instances, 30 Words)
AV Occurrences (49 Instances, 30 Words)
are they which are persecuted (1)
are they which are persecuted (1)
Matt 5:10
Matt 5:10
10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
persecute (6)
persecute (6)
Matt 5:11; 5:44; 23:34; Luke 21:12; John 5:16; 15:20
Matt 5:11; 5:44; 23:34; Luke 21:12; John 5:16; 15:20
11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
34 Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city:
12 But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake.
16 And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.
20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
persecuted they (1)
persecuted they (1)
Matt 5:12
Matt 5:12
12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
they persecute (1)
they persecute (1)
Matt 10:23
Matt 10:23
23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.
follow (5)
follow (5)
Luke 17:23; 1Cor 14:1; 1Thes 5:15; 2Tim 2:22; Heb 12:14
Luke 17:23; 1Cor 14:1; 1Thes 5:15; 2Tim 2:22; Heb 12:14
23 And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after them, nor follow them.
1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
did (1)
did (1)
John 5:16
John 5:16
16 And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.
they have persecuted (1)
they have persecuted (1)
John 15:20
John 15:20
20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
they will (1)
they will (1)
John 15:20
John 15:20
20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
have (1)
have (1)
Acts 7:52
Acts 7:52
52 Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:
persecuted (4)
persecuted (4)
Acts 7:52; 22:4; 2Cor 4:9; Gal 4:29
Acts 7:52; 22:4; 2Cor 4:9; Gal 4:29
52 Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:
4 And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
29 But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.
persecutest thou (3)
persecutest thou (3)
Acts 9:4; 22:7; 26:14
Acts 9:4; 22:7; 26:14
4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
7 And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
14 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
persecutest (3)
persecutest (3)
Acts 9:5; 22:8; 26:15
Acts 9:5; 22:8; 26:15
5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
8 And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.
15 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.
i persecuted (3)
i persecuted (3)
Acts 26:11; 1Cor 15:9; Gal 1:13
Acts 26:11; 1Cor 15:9; Gal 1:13
11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.
9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
13 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:
followed (1)
followed (1)
Rom 9:30
Rom 9:30
30 What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.
which followed (1)
which followed (1)
Rom 9:31
Rom 9:31
31 But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.
given (1)
given (1)
Rom 12:13
Rom 12:13
13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
them which persecute (1)
them which persecute (1)
Rom 12:14
Rom 12:14
14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
let us (1)
let us (1)
Rom 14:19
Rom 14:19
19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
follow after (2)
follow after (2)
Rom 14:19; 1Tim 6:11
Rom 14:19; 1Tim 6:11
19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
being persecuted (1)
being persecuted (1)
1Cor 4:12
1Cor 4:12
12 And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:
he which persecuted (1)
he which persecuted (1)
Gal 1:23
Gal 1:23
23 But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed.
do i (1)
do i (1)
Gal 5:11
Gal 5:11
11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased.
suffer persecution (1)
suffer persecution (1)
Gal 5:11
Gal 5:11
11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased.
they should suffer persecution (1)
they should suffer persecution (1)
Gal 6:12
Gal 6:12
12 As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ.
persecuting (1)
persecuting (1)
Phil 3:6
Phil 3:6
6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.
i follow after (1)
i follow after (1)
Phil 3:12
Phil 3:12
12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
i press (1)
i press (1)
Phil 3:14
Phil 3:14
14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
shall suffer persecution (1)
shall suffer persecution (1)
2Tim 3:12
2Tim 3:12
12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
ensue (1)
ensue (1)
1Pet 3:11
1Pet 3:11
11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.
he persecuted (1)
he persecuted (1)
Rev 12:13
Rev 12:13
13 And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.
The word conjures up movie scenes where the hero knows he’s being followed wherever he goes, but he can’t quite see his enemies.
The word conjures up movie scenes where the hero knows he’s being followed wherever he goes, but he can’t quite see his enemies.
They’re out there, he knows they’re after him.
They’re out there, he knows they’re after him.
When will they strike next?
When will they strike next?
Paul knew about this from personal experience.
Paul knew about this from personal experience.
Everywhere he went his Jewish opponents followed him.
Everywhere he went his Jewish opponents followed him.
They stayed on his trail, attacking his character, maligning his preaching, mocking his message, and stirring up opposition inside and outside the church.
They stayed on his trail, attacking his character, maligning his preaching, mocking his message, and stirring up opposition inside and outside the church.
They never gave him a moment’s rest.
They never gave him a moment’s rest.
That’s why the NLT translates this as “We are hunted down.”
That’s why the NLT translates this as “We are hunted down.”
That’s how he felt, like an animal fleeing through the underbrush with the hounds hot on his trail.
That’s how he felt, like an animal fleeing through the underbrush with the hounds hot on his trail.
“The door of opportunity swings on the hinges of opposition.”</h6 class=”pullquote”>
“The door of opportunity swings on the hinges of opposition.”</h6 class=”pullquote”>
Bob Jones Sr. was fond of saying, “The door of opportunity swings on the hinge of opposition.”
Bob Jones Sr. was fond of saying, “The door of opportunity swings on the hinge of opposition.”
Opportunity.
Opportunity.
Opposition.
Opposition.
They do go together, don’t they? In 1 Corinthians 16:9
They do go together, don’t they? In 1 Corinthians 16:9
9 For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.
9 For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.
Paul describes his situation thusly: “A wide door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries” (ESV).
Paul describes his situation thusly: “A wide door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries” (ESV).
If you set out to do anything good in this world, someone is bound to oppose you.
If you set out to do anything good in this world, someone is bound to oppose you.
And if you decide to devote yourself to the cause of Christ, you can expect that some people close to you will not appreciate your decision.
And if you decide to devote yourself to the cause of Christ, you can expect that some people close to you will not appreciate your decision.
When writer Frederick Buechner was a young man, he attended a posh dinner party on Long Island where his hostess said to him, “I understand that you are planning to enter the ministry.
When writer Frederick Buechner was a young man, he attended a posh dinner party on Long Island where his hostess said to him, “I understand that you are planning to enter the ministry.
Is this your own idea, or were you poorly advised?”
Is this your own idea, or were you poorly advised?”
No doubt many sophisticated people feel the same way.
No doubt many sophisticated people feel the same way.
G1459 ἐγκαταλείπω egkataleipo (eng-ka-ta-lei'-pō) v.
G1459 ἐγκαταλείπω egkataleipo (eng-ka-ta-lei'-pō) v.
1. to leave behind in some place.
1. to leave behind in some place.
2. (in a good sense) let remain over.
2. (in a good sense) let remain over.
3. (in a bad sense) to desert.
3. (in a bad sense) to desert.
[from G1722 and G2641]
[from G1722 and G2641]
KJV: forsake, leave
KJV: forsake, leave
Root(s): G1722, G2641
Root(s): G1722, G2641
[?]
[?]
We are not abandoned by God.
We are not abandoned by God.
We are not deserted and left to stand alone.
We are never abandoned to our fate.
We are not deserted and left to stand alone.
We are never abandoned to our fate.
Recently a preacher had a chance to lead a men’s Bible study on the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:18-20, the famous “Great Commission” where Christ calls his followers to “go into all the world and make disciples.”
Recently a preacher had a chance to lead a men’s Bible study on the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:18-20, the famous “Great Commission” where Christ calls his followers to “go into all the world and make disciples.”
18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
he commented that our problem with that text is that it has been used so many times as a missionary text that we don’t hear the great power of Jesus’ words.
he commented that our problem with that text is that it has been used so many times as a missionary text that we don’t hear the great power of Jesus’ words.
We tend to focus on the command: “Go into all the world.”
We tend to focus on the command: “Go into all the world.”
But that command is bracketed by two powerful statements we often ignore:
But that command is bracketed by two powerful statements we often ignore:
“All authority has been given to me” (v. 18).
“All authority has been given to me” (v. 18).
“I am with you always” (v. 20).
“I am with you always” (v. 20).
It’s as if the neighborhood bully has challenged us to a fight, and we’re scared to death of what might happen to us.
It’s as if the neighborhood bully has challenged us to a fight, and we’re scared to death of what might happen to us.
Then up walks Paul Bunyan, 10 feet tall, arms like tree trunks, massive chest, with ruddy cheeks, a deep tan, a huge axe in his hands, and a smile on his face.
Then up walks Paul Bunyan, 10 feet tall, arms like tree trunks, massive chest, with ruddy cheeks, a deep tan, a huge axe in his hands, and a smile on his face.
Knowing our fear, he simply says, “Don’t worry about anything.
Knowing our fear, he simply says, “Don’t worry about anything.
I’m going with you.
I’m going with you.
If you need me, I’ll be there for you.”
If you need me, I’ll be there for you.”
How do you feel now?
How do you feel now?
Or imagine Donald Trump saying to you, “Don’t worry about your investments.
Or imagine Donald Trump saying to you, “Don’t worry about your investments.
I’ve got confidence in you.
I’ve got confidence in you.
Even if you mess up, I’ll bail you out.
Even if you mess up, I’ll bail you out.
I’ve got more money than you ever dreamed of.
I’ve got more money than you ever dreamed of.
And I like you so I’m backing you play.”
And I like you so I’m backing you play.”
That’s a financial term–backing your play.
That’s a financial term–backing your play.
It means that a rich person is standing behind you, protecting you from disaster.
It means that a rich person is standing behind you, protecting you from disaster.
“I’m backing your play.”
“I’m backing your play.”
How do you feel when Donald Trump says, “I’m backing your play”?
How do you feel when Donald Trump says, “I’m backing your play”?
Suddenly your fear vanishes.
Suddenly your fear vanishes.
Bring that back to the words of Jesus.
Bring that back to the words of Jesus.
“Go into all the world and make disciples.
“Go into all the world and make disciples.
But remember this.
But remember this.
You’re not going alone. I’m going with you.
You’re not going alone. I’m going with you.
I’m backing your play. I’m right beside you.
I’m backing your play. I’m right beside you.
You cannot fail because I am with you wherever you go.”
You cannot fail because I am with you wherever you go.”
We often look at the great challenge of reaching the world and think, “It’s impossible.”
We often look at the great challenge of reaching the world and think, “It’s impossible.”
I mean, look at your own street, your neighborhood, your classroom, your office, your store, your company, the people you see every day.
I mean, look at your own street, your neighborhood, your classroom, your office, your store, your company, the people you see every day.
Tough crowd.
Tough crowd.
How will you reach them?
How will you reach them?
By yourself and in your own power, you won’t.
By yourself and in your own power, you won’t.
It’s just not happening.
It’s just not happening.
But imagine the mighty Son of God saying, “Don’t worry.
But imagine the mighty Son of God saying, “Don’t worry.
I’m backing your play.
I’m backing your play.
When you speak for me, I’ll be right there with you.”
When you speak for me, I’ll be right there with you.”
That’s the vast promise of the Great Commission.
That’s the vast promise of the Great Commission.
It’s not about what we do.
It’s not about what we do.
It’s about what Jesus does.
It’s about what Jesus does.
We do the going and telling, but Jesus does everything else.
We do the going and telling, but Jesus does everything else.
We are never left alone.
We are never left alone.
Even when we are rejected, hated, mocked, ridiculed and vilified, the Lord Jesus is right there with us.
Even when we are rejected, hated, mocked, ridiculed and vilified, the Lord Jesus is right there with us.
As Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego found out when they were thrown into the fiery furnace (Daniel 3), the Lord Jesus himself went with them.
As Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego found out when they were thrown into the fiery furnace (Daniel 3), the Lord Jesus himself went with them.
1 Nebuchadnezzar the king made an image of gold, whose height was threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof six cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon.
2 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the governors, and the captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellers, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.
3 Then the princes, the governors, and captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellers, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, were gathered together unto the dedication of the image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up; and they stood before the image that Nebuchadnezzar had set up.
4 Then an herald cried aloud, To you it is commanded, O people, nations, and languages,
5 That at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up:
6 And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth shall the same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.
7 Therefore at that time, when all the people heard the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and all kinds of musick, all the people, the nations, and the languages, fell down and worshipped the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.
8 Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews.
9 They spake and said to the king Nebuchadnezzar, O king, live for ever.
10 Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, shall fall down and worship the golden image:
11 And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, that he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.
12 There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
13 Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. Then they brought these men before the king.
14 Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?
15 Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?
16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.
17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.
18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
19 Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.
20 And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.
21 Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
22 Therefore because the king’s commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego.
23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
24 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonied, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellers, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.
25 He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.
26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, came forth of the midst of the fire.
27 And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king’s counsellers, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.
28 Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God.
29 Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.
30 Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, in the province of Babylon.
4. Hard hits will not destroy us.
4. Hard hits will not destroy us.
We are “struck down, but not destroyed” (v. 2 Corinthians 4:9 ).
We are “struck down, but not destroyed” (v. 2 Corinthians 4:9 ).
G2598 καταβάλλω kataballo (ka-ta-ɓal'-lō) v.
G2598 καταβάλλω kataballo (ka-ta-ɓal'-lō) v.
to throw down.
to throw down.
[from G2596 and G906]
[from G2596 and G906]
KJV: cast down, lay
KJV: cast down, lay
Root(s): G2596, G906
Root(s): G2596, G906
[?]
[?]
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
J. B. Phillips offers us this memorable paraphrase:
“We may be knocked down, but we are never knocked out!”
If you live long enough, you’ll be hit with a “sucker punch” sooner or later.
The term “struck down” refers to the sudden emergency, the unforeseen incident, the late-night phone call, the crisis that seems to come out of nowhere, the catastrophe that overwhelms us, the earthquake of trouble that rocks our world.
Most of us feel like we can handle “moderate trouble.”
Most of us feel like we can handle “moderate trouble.”
We can handle a cranky boss or a sick child or a prickly neighbor.
We can handle a cranky boss or a sick child or a prickly neighbor.
We know what to do when we have a fender bender or when the electricity goes off.
We know what to do when we have a fender bender or when the electricity goes off.
We can scrimp for a few days when the money is tight, and we know when we’re sick enough that we need to see the doctor.
We can scrimp for a few days when the money is tight, and we know when we’re sick enough that we need to see the doctor.
Because we know that “into each life some rain must fall,” we know where to find the umbrella when we see the dark clouds gathering.
Because we know that “into each life some rain must fall,” we know where to find the umbrella when we see the dark clouds gathering.
But what will we do when the rain becomes a thunderstorm and the thunderstorm becomes a flood, like the “thousand-year flood” that struck Nashville last weekend?
But what will we do when the rain becomes a thunderstorm and the thunderstorm becomes a flood, like the “thousand-year flood” that struck Nashville last weekend?
What then?
What then?
As Mike Tyson famously remarked,
As Mike Tyson famously remarked,
“Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.”
“Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.”
If you live long enough, you’ll be punched in the mouth more than once.
If you live long enough, you’ll be punched in the mouth more than once.
Sometimes you’ll see the blow coming.
Sometimes you’ll see the blow coming.
More often it seems to come out of nowhere.
More often it seems to come out of nowhere.
What happens to others happens to us too.
What happens to others happens to us too.
It’s a big mistake to think that God promises to shield his children from the “slings and arrows of outrageous fortune.”
It’s a big mistake to think that God promises to shield his children from the “slings and arrows of outrageous fortune.”
What happens to others happens to us too.
What happens to others happens to us too.
We get sick, our children get sick, we get laid off, the recession takes away our savings, the chemo doesn’t always work, and sometimes we end up in divorce court.
We get sick, our children get sick, we get laid off, the recession takes away our savings, the chemo doesn’t always work, and sometimes we end up in divorce court.
What then?
What then?
More and more I am convinced that our best apologetic to the world is not some clever argument we make to prove that Jesus really rose from the dead.
More and more I am convinced that our best apologetic to the world is not some clever argument we make to prove that Jesus really rose from the dead.
Clever arguments can only take you so far.
Clever arguments can only take you so far.
Our friends will judge our Christianity mostly by how we respond when we take it on the chin.
Our friends will judge our Christianity mostly by how we respond when we take it on the chin.
Tim Keller says we need a theology of suffering if we’re going to reach this generation.
Tim Keller says we need a theology of suffering if we’re going to reach this generation.
If Christians are truly the light of the world, when is the light most likely to be seen?
If Christians are truly the light of the world, when is the light most likely to be seen?
In the bright sun of midday or in the darkness of the night?
In the bright sun of midday or in the darkness of the night?
The answer is obvious.
The answer is obvious.
And it’s not as if we have to choose.
And it’s not as if we have to choose.
We are the light of the world 24 hours a day.
We are the light of the world 24 hours a day.
But our testimony given in the midst of hardship and sorrow will resonate more loudly because it comes at midnight.
But our testimony given in the midst of hardship and sorrow will resonate more loudly because it comes at midnight.
Anyone can sing when the sun is shining.
Anyone can sing when the sun is shining.
If you can still sing at midnight, the world will hear you in a different way.
If you can still sing at midnight, the world will hear you in a different way.
G622 ἀπόλλυμι apollumi (a-pol'-lï-miy) v.
G622 ἀπόλλυμι apollumi (a-pol'-lï-miy) v.
1. to destroy fully.
1. to destroy fully.
2. (reflexively) to perish, or lose.
2. (reflexively) to perish, or lose.
{literally or figuratively}
{literally or figuratively}
[from G575 and the base of G3639]
[from G575 and the base of G3639]
KJV: destroy, die, lose, mar, perish
KJV: destroy, die, lose, mar, perish
Root(s): G575, G3639
Root(s): G575, G3639
[?]
[?]
Nitty-Gritty Realism
Nitty-Gritty Realism
I love the nitty-gritty realism of this passage.
I love the nitty-gritty realism of this passage.
Are we under pressure?
Are we under pressure?
Yes!
Yes!
Do we get confused sometimes?
Do we get confused sometimes?
Yes!
Yes!
Do we face harsh criticism?
Do we face harsh criticism?
Yes!
Yes!
Are we knocked down sometimes?
Are we knocked down sometimes?
Yes!
Yes!
That’s life, that’s reality, that’s the truth for every follower of Jesus.
That’s life, that’s reality, that’s the truth for every follower of Jesus.
If you thought anything different, you better go back to the recruiting office and have a chat with whoever signed you up because being a Christian doesn’t mean getting a free pass through life.
If you thought anything different, you better go back to the recruiting office and have a chat with whoever signed you up because being a Christian doesn’t mean getting a free pass through life.
Far from it.
Far from it.
Christ offers victory through trouble not victory apart from trouble.
Christ offers victory through trouble not victory apart from trouble.
I love how J. Philip Arthur summarizes the meaning of our text:
Taken together, these four images tell us that Paul was a hard-headed realist with no romantic illusions about his service for God.
I love how J. Philip Arthur summarizes the meaning of our text:
Taken together, these four images tell us that Paul was a hard-headed realist with no romantic illusions about his service for God.
Far from depicting himself as a spiritual superhero blazing a trail of success like a comet across the first-century sky,
Far from depicting himself as a spiritual superhero blazing a trail of success like a comet across the first-century sky,
Paul portrayed himself as a groggy fighter reeling from a succession of near-lethal blows, surprised to find himself still on his feet and sure that if he was still standing, it was only by the grace of God (cited by Michael Andrus, “Treasure in Clay Pots.”)
Paul portrayed himself as a groggy fighter reeling from a succession of near-lethal blows, surprised to find himself still on his feet and sure that if he was still standing, it was only by the grace of God (cited by Michael Andrus, “Treasure in Clay Pots.”)
What does this mean for us?
What does this mean for us?
We talk a lot today about the “victorious Christian life.”
We talk a lot today about the “victorious Christian life.”
I’m all for that as long you understand victory the same way Paul did.
I’m all for that as long you understand victory the same way Paul did.
Sometimes when I hear people talk about “victory,” it sounds like they want some sort of experience that will deliver them from the trials and struggles of life.
Sometimes when I hear people talk about “victory,” it sounds like they want some sort of experience that will deliver them from the trials and struggles of life.
They want to be lifted to a higher plane and a “higher life” that will preserve them from trouble.
They want to be lifted to a higher plane and a “higher life” that will preserve them from trouble.
It doesn’t work that way.
It doesn’t work that way.
Too many Christians want life to be like the “Pirates of the Caribbean” ride at Disney World.
Too many Christians want life to be like the “Pirates of the Caribbean” ride at Disney World.
You float along in a little boat where you see menacing pirates with their sharp swords.
You float along in a little boat where you see menacing pirates with their sharp swords.
And it seems like they are going to get you, but they never come close.
And it seems like they are going to get you, but they never come close.
So you have a “thrill ride” but you are never really in danger.
So you have a “thrill ride” but you are never really in danger.
Life isn’t like that.
Life isn’t like that.
Life is hard.
Life is hard.
We face danger around every corner.
We face danger around every corner.
Paul’s view of “victory” means, “Yes, I face trouble every day, and sometimes I despair of my own life.
Paul’s view of “victory” means, “Yes, I face trouble every day, and sometimes I despair of my own life.
I’m under pressure all the time.
I’m under pressure all the time.
I get confused.
I get confused.
People attack me.
People attack me.
Sometimes I get knocked down by life.
Sometimes I get knocked down by life.
But that’s when the power of Christ shows up to help me.
But that’s when the power of Christ shows up to help me.
If I have victory, it is victory through trouble not victory apart from trouble.”
If I have victory, it is victory through trouble not victory apart from trouble.”
That’s the message we need to hear today.
That’s the message we need to hear today.
This Isn’t a Cafeteria
This Isn’t a Cafeteria
We don’t get to choose our troubles.
We don’t get to choose our troubles.
It’s not as if we can say, “I’ll take some light tribulation but let’s hold off on the persecution, and if you don’t mind, I think I’ll skip the part about being knocked down.”
It’s not as if we can say, “I’ll take some light tribulation but let’s hold off on the persecution, and if you don’t mind, I think I’ll skip the part about being knocked down.”
But life isn’t a cafeteria where we can pick what happens to us. We take what God sends us.
But life isn’t a cafeteria where we can pick what happens to us. We take what God sends us.
But by God’s grace though we are knocked down, we are not knocked out.
But by God’s grace though we are knocked down, we are not knocked out.
Through many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come.
Through many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come.
‘Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
‘Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
And grace will lead me home.
So what can we expect as Christians who live in this world?
So what can we expect as Christians who live in this world?
Well, we can say with Jimmy Stewart, it’s a wonderful life.
Well, we can say with Jimmy Stewart, it’s a wonderful life.
But it’s not an easy life. If you follow Jesus, you will face suffering, trouble, distress and perplexity.
But it’s not an easy life. If you follow Jesus, you will face suffering, trouble, distress and perplexity.
Sometimes you will feel backed into a corner. Sometimes you may think God has forgotten you.
Sometimes you will feel backed into a corner. Sometimes you may think God has forgotten you.
But if you hang on, you will see God’s power at work, and though you are broken by life, out of your brokenness will come the fragrance of Christ himself.
But if you hang on, you will see God’s power at work, and though you are broken by life, out of your brokenness will come the fragrance of Christ himself.
Run to the cross!</h6 class=”pullquote”>
Run to the cross!</h6 class=”pullquote”>
You will smell beautiful!
You will smell beautiful!
And the Lord Jesus will be glorified by the way you respond to your trials. What about my friend who is hanging on to life?
And the Lord Jesus will be glorified by the way you respond to your trials. What about my friend who is hanging on to life?
At the moment he has been truly knocked down, but it is equally true that he is not knocked out.
At the moment he has been truly knocked down, but it is equally true that he is not knocked out.
He is clinging to Jesus even as he clings to life itself.
He is clinging to Jesus even as he clings to life itself.
As I pray for his complete recovery, I do not fear for my friend because long years ago, he placed his life in the hands of the Lord Jesus. And the Lord will take good care of him.
As I pray for his complete recovery, I do not fear for my friend because long years ago, he placed his life in the hands of the Lord Jesus. And the Lord will take good care of him.
The same is true for all who believe in Jesus.
The same is true for all who believe in Jesus.
Do you know him? Have you trusted him?
Do you know him? Have you trusted him?
He died on the cross and rose from the dead.
He died on the cross and rose from the dead.
Put your life in his hands and all will be well.
Put your life in his hands and all will be well.
Perhaps the Lord is using the hardships of life to draw you to him at this very moment. If so, then my advice is simple.
Perhaps the Lord is using the hardships of life to draw you to him at this very moment. If so, then my advice is simple.
Run to the cross!
Run to the cross and lay hold of Jesus Christ who loved you and gave himself for you.
Run to the cross!
Run to the cross and lay hold of Jesus Christ who loved you and gave himself for you.
Trust him completely as your Lord and Savior.
And for all who do know him, rest in this truth. Whether we live or whether we die, no matter what happens tomorrow or the day after tomorrow, we need not be afraid. You may live another 50 years or you may die in the next 24 hours.
Trust him completely as your Lord and Savior.
And for all who do know him, rest in this truth. Whether we live or whether we die, no matter what happens tomorrow or the day after tomorrow, we need not be afraid. You may live another 50 years or you may die in the next 24 hours.
In the ultimate sense it doesn’t matter for all things are in the Father’s hands. “No man need fear the years, for they bring him nearer, not to death, but to God” (William Barclay).
In the ultimate sense it doesn’t matter for all things are in the Father’s hands. “No man need fear the years, for they bring him nearer, not to death, but to God” (William Barclay).
If we know Jesus, we’re in great shape today, tomorrow and forever. Amen.
If we know Jesus, we’re in great shape today, tomorrow and forever. Amen.