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Have you ever being in situations where you were out of someone's favour?  Something you did or did not do, got you on their wrong side?  Once, my wife Lai Ling corrected my youngest child Deborah when she was about 2 years old.  My daughter pouted and refused to look at nor respond to her mother for a while. Lai Ling was out of favour with her.  Well, there is one person you definitely don’t want to get on the wrong side.  And that is God. In the book of Exodus from chapter 5 to 12 recorded how Moses told Pharaoh to set the Israelites free.  But Pharaoh and his officials harden their hearts and resisted God. They kept on resisting God until it reached the full wrath of God.  The Egyptians were ultimately judged by God who declared a death plague upon all their firstborn.  They were judged because of their obstinate and continual rebellion against God.  They were out of God's favour. On the other hand, the Israelites were given the Passover Lamb in chapter 12:1-13.  The Passover lamb was to be sacrificed and its sacrifice will bring salvation to the Israelites from the judgment of God.  The Passover Lamb of course typified to “the” Passover Lamb, Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice on the cross brings salvation to all who trust in Him.  For more in-depth explanations, refer to my blog articles on The Purpose of Passover Lamb (Parts 1 & 2) In the midst of this judgment, truths were revealed about the significance of our relationship with Christ and the favour of God.  From this passage of Exodus 12:21-30, we will discover here what it means to be outside of Christ and outside of faith. And why it leads to being outside of God's mercy. "OUT" OF CHRIST Exodus 12:21–23 (NIV) 21 Then Moses summoned all the elders of Israel and said to them, “Go at once and select the animals for your families and slaughter the Passover lamb. 22 Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. None of you shall go out of the door of your house until morning. 23 When the Lord goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down. The Israelites were to mark their houses with the Passover Lamb's blood. In a triune fashion and in an outline of the cross, the front door’s 3 lintel were to be marked with blood. And they had to remain in the house for the duration of the night.  They were safe as long as they remained under the covering of the Passover lamb's blood. Only those who were "in" their houses were protected from the destroyer, an angel of death. Those who are not "in" Christ will be out of God's mercy. Out of God's protection.  Out of God's favour. The instructions God gave provide a symbolic insight into a key spiritual truth.  Just as the Israelites found shelter in a house marked by blood, so too we find shelter in Christ who bears the marks of His shed blood.  As the Israelites in the houses were protected from God's judgment, so too believers who are "in" Christ are protected from God's coming judgment. Those who are not "in" Christ will be out of God's mercy. Out of God's protection.  Out of God's favour. To appreciate what it means to be out of Christ, we first need to understand what it means to be in Christ. What does it means to be "in" Christ? There are deep spiritual truths about being "in".  The Bible declares that "in" Adam all sin and all die. All humankind was a part of Adam.  For we were in Adam.  We were there with Adam when he chose to sin. Hence all die in Adam's sin. On the other hand, "in" Christ, all live. 1 Corinthians 15:22 (NIV) For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. The foundation to be "in" Christ is to trust in Christ, to have faith in Him. So what does it mean to be in Christ? The foundation to be "in" Christ is to trust in Christ, to have faith in Him. Romans 10:11 (NIV) As the Scripture says, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” Just as the Israelites had to trust God to protect them within their houses marked by the lamb's blood, so too we must trust in Christ to save us from our sins.  Further, being "in" Christ means more than just trusting Christ.  Ephesians 3:12 (NIV) In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. There is a tangible link between us and Christ through the Holy Spirit who now resides in us. There is a tangible link between us and Christ through the Holy Spirit who now resides in us.  God in us. Through that link we are spiritually included "in" Christ.  It is a state of being.  Let us imagine a baby joey inside the mother kangaroo's pouch.  The joey is trusting the mother enough to lie in the pouch for safety and nourishment. And the joey is also physically "in" the mother.  In the same way we are trusting Christ and in Christ. What is the significance of being "in" Christ? In Christ we receive eternal life. John 6:40 (NIV) For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” In Christ, we receive forgiveness, redemption, atonement, justification, sanctification, and finally glorification.  Ephesians 1:7 (NIV) In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace. All the benefits of salvation accrue to us. That is as long as we remain in Christ. Along with that, there are many other blessings we receive in Christ such as a new identity, a new power and authority.  Yet for all the above, we do not own as a personal right.  It is not ours, although we experience all its benefits.  We have it only because we are in Christ.  All the benefits of salvation accrue to us. That is as long as we remain in Christ. We cannot walk away from Christ and still claim the benefits of salvation.  The forgiveness of our sins is effective only as long as we remain in Christ.  Do you realize that to claim that God has forgiven you is technically incorrect?  God forgives you because you are in Christ! Have you ever realised that there is no forgiveness for those outside of Christ?  No matter how sorry they are?  God forgives you only because you are connected to Christ.  God forgives for Christ sake, not yours.  God forgives because of Christ's righteousness, not yours.  The only reason God forgives you, is because you are in Christ.  And God continues to forgive you, because you remain in Christ. Romans 8:1 (NIV) Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, Some Christians have failed to understand this carefully.  They think that they are fully forgiven, pardoned, justified, atoned. Past tense.  Done deal.  So I cannot lose that status no matter what I do.  They imagine that it is a certificate to do anything.  How many of us realise that in the court of law, we can be pardoned, forgiven, even justified.  Past tense.  Done deal.  Yet if we go out and commit another crime, we will be back in the same court and thrown into prison. In the same way, God would be just to condemn us when we sin again.  Yet because we remain "in" Christ, God always forgives us our sins when we repent.  Once we understand this principle, we understand why the Bible urges us in Colossians 2:6 (NIV) So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, Being in Christ is not a permanent once for all state.  It is an on-going state of being that requires your choice. Being in Christ is not a permanent once for all state.  It is an on-going state of being that requires your choice.  Consider a bomb shelter.  As long as you remain in the bomb shelter you are protected.  But if you choose to walk outside, the protection no longer is effective.  In Christ, we remain in God's favour.  Out of Christ, we are out of God's favour. In Christ we can go where we cannot, but Christ can.  In Christ, we gain blessings that we do not deserve, but Christ does. In Christ we can go where we cannot, but Christ can.  In Christ, we gain blessings that we do not deserve, but Christ does.  In Christ, we are called sons of God and given the standing of sons.  In Christ, we are given Kingdom authority.  The authority to cast out demons and establish the rule of God. The late Dr Paul Yonggi Cho shared from his experience as a young pastor where he was one day called to cast a demon out of a woman.  At that time, he had little experience casting out demons.  The woman was obviously possessed.  She snarled at him and mocked him when he tried to cast out the demon.  He tried everything he could to cast out the demon but to no avail.  This went on for several hours and Yonggi Cho was exhausted.  Then it dawned upon him that he had tried out of his own strength.  He had tried using formulas.  Yet he was fearful of the demon.  He had to trust in Christ and the authority that he had in Him.  With that revelation, he started to rebuke the demon with the authority that he knew was in Christ and in His Name.  The demon left quite quickly after that. In Christ, we walk in the blessings, power and authority of God. "OUT" OF FAITH Exodus 12:24–28 (NIV) 24 “Obey these instructions as a lasting ordinance for you and your descendants. 25 When you enter the land that the Lord will give you as he promised, observe this ceremony. 26 And when your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean to you?’ 27 then tell them, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when he struck down the Egyptians.’ ” Then the people bowed down and worshiped. 28 The Israelites did just what the Lord commanded Moses and Aaron. To remain in Christ, we have to maintain faith in Christ. By faith, the Israelites followed God's instructions and were protected from the destroyer. Unlike the Israelites, the Egyptians had no faith in God nor His commands.  They were "out" of faith.  To remain in Christ, we have to maintain faith in Christ. How are you keeping your faith in Christ?  How do you know whether you are continuing to have faith in Christ?  True faith in Christ is characterised by a number of elements such as: On-going relationship with Christ.  What sort of relationship do we have with God?  Are we talking to Him, listening to Him? Is there any desire to relate with God?  When there are people that you do not trust, you have no desire to relate to.  In my wedding, I had to invite relatives that were not on talking terms to each other.  There was zero relationship between them.  We had to make sure they were not on the same table. Dependence upon Christ.  Do we seek to lean on God for strength and encouragement?  Do we look for God’s grace to be fruitful?  As Jesus reminded us in John 15:4-5 (NIV) 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. Obedience to Christ. Obedience is an indicator of the quality of our faith in Christ.  Those whose faith is stronger will be more obedient to God's commands. Our obedient reflects that we are in Christ. John 15:10 (NIV) If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love. Our obedience reflects how much we love God.  How much desire do we have to obey God?  My wife and I chose to remain in Australia, rather than return to Malaysia out of obedience to God’s call to serve God in Australia. For we had previously determined to return to Malaysia to serve God there. I had also wanted to return in order to win my parents to Christ. Instead, we had to trust God for their salvation.  In God’s goodness, my parents came to Christ some years later. In our church we have an extensive ministry to overseas students.  Many of these students end up in our church and grow spiritually under our ministry.  We often remind these overseas students at the end of their studies.  We tell them, “Don’t stay just because your friends do, or life seems better here. Don’t go home just because your friends or family do. Seek God and obey Him.” What is the condition of our faith today?  Is it in need of resuscitation? Is it in need of a triple bypass?  It starts with making a decision.  A decision to place our trust in Christ.  Let us keep in faith. "OUT" OF GOD'S MERCY Exodus 12:29–30 (NIV) 29 At midnight the Lord struck down all the firstborn in Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh, who sat on the throne, to the firstborn of the prisoner, who was in the dungeon, and the firstborn of all the livestock as well. 30 Pharaoh and all his officials and all the Egyptians got up during the night, and there was loud wailing in Egypt, for there was not a house without someone dead. Judgment came upon the Egyptians because they were not in God's mercy.  They were "out" or outside God's mercy.  The reason why we do not face God's judgment is because of His mercy covering over His holy judgment. The concept is demonstrated by the mercy-seat at the ark of covenant.  The mercy seat is sprinkled with the blood of the Passover lamb each year by the high priest.  The mercy seat is placed on the cover of the ark of covenant and covers over the stone tablets with the 10 commandments.  The 10 commandments represent God's Laws.  The Laws represent the holy standards of God.  Without the blood on the mercy seat there would be judgment for breaking God's Laws. When the Philistines captured the ark of covenant, they kept it for 7 months.  In which time God brought diseases and death until they could not take it any longer and returned it to the Israelites.  They abandoned the ark in Beth Shemesh.  1 Samuel 6:19 (NIV) But God struck down some of the men of Beth Shemesh, putting seventy of them to death because they had looked into the ark of the LORD. The people mourned because of the heavy blow the LORD had dealt them, What happened?  The 70 men in Beth Shemesh opened the ark. They removed the cover which the mercy seat was upon and exposed God's Law.  Without mercy there will only be judgment.  So 70 men died immediately.  In the classic movie Indiana Jones and Raider of the Lost Ark, it depicted what happened when the Nazi found and opened ark of covenant.  It showed that angels of death were released which killed every person who looked.  Of course, it was a fictional dramatization by Hollywood.  Nevertheless, they caught some truth about the wrath of God. When we are "out" of God's mercy there only remains holy judgment. When we are "out" of God's mercy there only remains holy judgment.  John 3:18 (NIV) Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. As long as we remain in Christ, we will not face God's judgment. Those who come under the blood of Christ will be spared God's judgment and instead receive mercy. A long as we have faith in Christ, we will remain in Him. And as long as we remain in Christ, we will not face God's judgment. But for those who deliberately give up their faith in Christ, they are no longer in Christ and they will face God's judgment. Does this mean that apostasy can happen?  Hebrews 6:4-6 (NIV) 4 It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, 5 who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, 6 if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. God promises never to let us go.  But we can choose to let ourselves go. Heb 10:26-38, 2 Peter 2:18-20 are other clear Scriptures warnings us about the dangers of  apostasy.  But what about Scriptures assuring us that God will never let us go?  That we are save in Him?  God promises never to let us go.  But we can choose to let ourselves go.  We can choose to walk out of Christ by unbelief, by denying Christ.  So let us never walk out of Christ, for we will walk out of God's favour.  Instead let us continue in Christ.  Let us grow surer, by deepening our relationship with God, depending on Him, trusting Him and obeying Him. CONCLUSION To be “out” of Chris means total exposure to God’s holy judgment. There is no mercy available to cover over.  God desires us to be in Christ and to remain in Christ.  But the choice remains ours.  Let us choose this day to resolutely remain in Christ.  It takes faith on our part! Copyright©️2024 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

The concept of tithing can be a point of contention amongst Christians. Some practice it almost religiously while some on the other extreme reject it utterly. We believe this can be resolved by a careful examination of Scripture to unlock the truths about tithing. For if we can correctly understand God’s intentions and heart behind it, we can then align ourselves to His ways and reap the benefits of practising it in the way that best touches God’s heart. This will be the first in a series of studies about tithing, seeking to unlock the biblical truths associated and inform us on how it should be practiced today. This study will examine the biblical basis for tithing. WHAT IS A TITHE? Leviticus 27:30–32 (NIV) 30 “ ‘A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord. 32 Every tithe of the herd and flock—every tenth animal that passes under the shepherd’s rod—will be holy to the Lord. The word tithe in Hebrew is maasar and means one-tenth. Essentially God is declaring that one-tenth of all the produce of the land and of the livestock belongs to God. That is essentially what it means to be made “holy” or sacred for God. Fundamentally, God views that a tenth of all their income and/or production belongs to God and the Israelites should return it to God. WHERE WAS TITHING COMMANDED? The clearest commandment on tithing was in the Laws of Moses, as given in Lev 27:30-32. In many other passages in Scripture the command is reinforced, and God’s expectations expressed. In fact, when the Israelites failed to give their tithes to God, God judged them for robbing Him. Malachi 3:8–10 (NIV) 8 “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. 10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. The failure to tithe was not simply a failure of generosity or even just a failure of obedience. It was all that but most importantly, it was robbing God of what rightfully belongs to Him. Hence, the failure to tithe was not simply a failure of generosity or even just a failure of obedience. It was all that but most importantly, it was robbing God of what rightfully belongs to Him. No wonder God declared that His judgment was open the entire nation. This underscored the importance of the principle of tithing to God. Yet it is often argued by some that tithing was a legalistic requirement in the Laws of Moses and thus it should no longer be practiced today. However, is that argument biblical? TITHING BEFORE THE LAWS OF MOSES In Gen 14 is recorded the story of how Abram rescued Lot from 4 kings who plundered Sodom and Gomorrah. Abram went after the 4 kings and in an amazing military feat, defeated them all and rescued Lot and his family. In addition, he plundered the kings. When Abram met Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest to God Most High, Abram offered to Melchizedek a tithe of the spoils of war. Genesis 14:18–20 (NIV) 18 Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, 19 and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. 20 And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything. In effect, Abram was tithing to God by giving to God’s priest (see also Heb 7:4). Thus, Abram understood the principle of tithing to God in recognition that the spoils of war represented an increase of his income or possessions. We also find the concept of tithing was clear to Jacob, the grandson of Abram. Genesis 28:20–22 (NIV) 20 Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear 21 so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the Lord will be my God 22 and this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God’s house, and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth.” Jacob made the vow should God protect and provide for Him, then he would regard God as his deity. Accompanying that he would honour God with a tithe of all that God gives him. This showed that the concept of tithing was clear in His mind. If he followed God, he would honour God by tithing. The Law of Moses codified an existing principle rather than introduce it. The above practices demonstrates that the principle of tithing was understood and practiced long before the time of Moses. In other words, the Law of Moses codified an existing principle rather than introduce it. TITHING IN THE NEW TESTAMENT Now that we have shown tithing was practised by God’s people in the Old Testament, the question is does it carry through to the New Testament? Matthew 23:23 (NIV) 23 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. Jesus affirmed the practise of tithing in the New Testament. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees who religiously practised tithing without showing justice, mercy and faithfulness. Jesus corrected them by stating that they should practice both. Therefore, Jesus affirmed the practise of tithing in the New Testament. Some pushed back against this by arguing that Apostle Paul’s taught that the Christians should give willingly, not out of compulsion. Hence, tithing should not be a New Testament command. 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV) Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. However, this argument fails because they failed to take the context into consideration. Apostle Paul was not talking about tithing but rather about giving to help the Jerusalem churches during the time of famine (1 Cor 16:1-3). Paul was requesting for offerings, not tithes. TITHING THROUGH THE CROSS The cross of Jesus represents the transforming connection between both Testaments where under grace, the forms, ceremonies and most commands are shed. But the principle remains and is clarified. Some argue that after the crucifixion of Jesus ushered in New Testament grace, the legalistic practise of tithing should not be continued. However, that represents a failure to appreciate God’s intentions of maintaining His eternal principles in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, principles are often introduced in the form of commands, ceremonies and more rigidly applied. In the New Testament, the eternal principles are expressed much more clearly. The cross of Jesus represents the transforming connection between both Testaments where under grace, the forms, ceremonies and most commands are shed. But the principle remains and is clarified. I expounded these principles in greater depth in my blog articles “Covenant in the Bible (Part 5): How the Old connects with the New” and “Covenant in the Bible (Part 6): How the Old became New.” The fact that tithing was practised before the codified form and commands of the Laws of Moses and continued to be affirmed by Jesus in the New Testament leads us to conclude it is an eternal principle. Hence, tithing should continue to be practised, as a principle. THE BIBLICAL PRINCIPLE OF TITHING To understand why tithing is a biblical principle, we need to understand why God required tithing in the first place. Let me unpack some of the key reasons. The very act of tithing helps keeps in the fore of our minds that all we have is God’s. 1. It reminds us that God is the true Owner of all and Provider of what we have. Psalm 50:10–11 (NIV)10 for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. 11 I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine. It reminds us that we are merely stewards. Everything we possess, even our every breath, is a gift from God. Since God is the rightful owner, He can require anything He desires of us. The very act of tithing helps keeps in the fore of our minds that all we have is God’s. Tithing is therefore an act of faith in God’s faithfulness to provide. 2. We should trust God for His provision, His blessings. Malachi 3:10–12 (NIV) 10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the LORD Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. 11 I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the LORD Almighty. 12 “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the LORD Almighty. God challenges us to trust Him for abundant provisions and blessings. Indeed, God promises to provide and bless in abundance. Tithing is therefore an act of faith in God’s faithfulness to provide. 3. We tithe as an act of honouring God. By tithing we are obedient to God’s expressed desire that His people return to Him what is His, as it has been made holy or sacred unto God. Leviticus 27:30–32 (NIV) 30 “ ‘A tithe of everything from the land … belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord. 32 Every tithe of the herd and flock … will be holy to the Lord. What we give unto God, God gives to His Church. This enables the Church to undertake God’s work. 4. Our tithes support God’s work. What we give unto God, God gives to His Church. This enables the Church to undertake God’s work. For what is given will help support and release those who had set aside income to serve God’s purposes. Without such support, the ministry of the Church would suffer greatly as happened in the time of Nehemiah. Nehemiah 13:10 (NIV) I also learned that the portions assigned to the Levites had not been given to them, and that all the Levites and musicians responsible for the service had gone back to their own fields. CONCLUSIONS We should regard tithing as the principle of the tenth as a benchmark to aim for and even exceed because of our generous desire to honour God and His Church. We demonstrated that tithing is a biblical principle. It was practised by the patriarchs. It was instructed in codified form in the Laws of Moses. Jesus affirmed its practice in the New Testament. The Scriptures provide us key reasons of why tithing is a biblical principle and ought to be practised even today. However, because it is a principle, we should not approach it in a legalistic fashion. But we should regard tithing as the principle of the tenth as a benchmark to aim for and even exceed because of our generous desire to honour God and His Church. In the next study we will examine the various forms of tithes and offerings required by God and its objectives. Copyright©️2023 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

Michael Jackson was a music visionary.  He was famous not only for his songs but his dance moves.  Some of his moves such as moon walk or slide circle are some of the most imitated steps in the world.  So many people try to sing like him, or dance like him. He was imitated because people thought he was cool. As I thought about how much people desire to imitate him, it made me think how much do we desire to imitate the One who is really important?  How do we desire to imitate Christ Himself?  Thomas a Kempis recognised this and wrote the classic Christian book called the Imitation of Christ. Godliness is living a life pleasing to God, out of a heart of devotion to God.  To develop in godliness it is important to develop both God-centredness and Godlikeness.  God-centredness is devotion to God.  Godlikeness is about Christian character. What is godliness?  Godliness is living a life pleasing to God, out of a heart of devotion to God.  To develop in godliness it is important to develop both God-centredness and Godlikeness.  God-centredness is devotion to God.  Godlikeness is about Christian character. Our reverence for God may be expressed in our heart worship and heart orientation, but we demonstrate the genuineness of our devotion by our sincere efforts to be like Him.  Just as those devoted to Michael Jackson imitate him! How can we practically develop in Godlikeness? TAKE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY 1 Timothy 4:11–12 (NIV) 11 Command and teach these things. 12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. Paul’s instructions to Timothy put the onus of responsibility squarely upon his shoulders.  These things Timothy are to do, to be an example, to develop in.  To train in godliness it is important to realise that we must first take personal responsibility for our progress.  The Scriptures tells us to pursue it in 1 Timothy 6:11.  However, it is important to see the balance between responsibility and dependence. Responsibility and dependence Devotion to God is the only acceptable motive for actions that are pleasing to God. In taking responsibility we must get our motives right.  Devotion to God is the only acceptable motive for actions that are pleasing to God.  Do you realise that we could do all the right things for the wrong motives?  When Joseph was enticed by Potiphar’s wife, he did not refuse her because he was afraid of being found out.  Rather, his convictions are, Genesis 39:9 (NIV) “How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” His primary concern is not to sin against God.  His motives were right!  In all that we do, we should ask ourselves what our real motives are.  Is it for ourselves, for convenience, or is it truly out of devotion to God? We need divine enablement to live a godly life. Besides the right motives, we must also realise that we need divine enablement to live a godly life.  We are totally unable to live the godly life by our own strengths.  We need God’s grace.  That is why Scripture records in Colossians 1:29 (NIV) To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me. We are totally dependent on Christ for the power to live a godly life. Yet we are also totally responsible for developing and displaying that character. Indeed, Jesus brought out this truth in John 15:5 (NIV) “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” Hence we must remain connected to Christ to be enabled through the Holy Spirit.  To sum it up, we are totally dependent on Christ for the power to live a godly life. Yet we are also totally responsible for developing and displaying that character. This seemingly conflicting principles are found in Philippians 2:12 - 13 (NIV) 12Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,  13for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. You work out your salvation.  God also works in you to will and act according to His good purpose.  Imagine God provides us an aeroplane, with fuel and the flying instructor.  You have never flown before.  Now God has provided you everything you need to fly but the plane will not fly unless you fly it!  On the other hand, no matter how much you want to fly, you cannot without a plane, fuel nor the instructor.  But if you work with what God gives you and follow the instructor’s instructions – you will fly! God has provided everything you need to be godly.  But you must take responsibility to apply all that God has provided to grow in godliness. God has provided everything you need to be godly.  But you must take responsibility to apply all that God has provided to grow in godliness.  Some people make the mistake of thinking it is all God only.  It is like our role in flying the plane is redundant.  God has an auto-pilot so we just sit back and relax.  God will make us godly, we just have to pray.  Others, make the opposite mistake of thinking it is all about us.  If the pilot runs out of fuel for the plane, the plane will crash.  Or if there is no plane, he cannot even fly in the first place.  Without God’s provision, we can get nowhere in terms of godliness. Aim for balanced progressive growth. We should aim to grow in all aspects of the fruit of the Holy Spirit.  Not just in aspects that we are more comfortable in.  Otherwise, we may end up focussing on select areas only and neglect the areas that God specifically wants us to grow more in. As I work with many leaders and try to help them develop further, I realised that the biggest limitation to a leader’s success is often his personal weakness.  No matter how great they may be in key areas, yet eventually it is their significant weaknesses that pulls them down. Did you know that Moses’ greatest downfall is his bad temper?  When he came down from Mt Sinai and saw the Israelites committing idolatry, he lost it!  The stone tablets that God had personally written the 10 commandments – he was so upset he smashed it!  Then he ground the golden calf into powder and made the Israelites drink it!  It was the same temper that caused him to hit the rock for water when he was supposed to speak to it.  It was this incident in Numbers 20:1-13 that caused him to miss out of the Promised Land!  King David’s greatest downfall is his love for women.  He married at least 8 wives and had many concubines.  He fell in adultery with Bathsheba. Some leaders may be great in their compassion for others but their bad temper eventually drives people away.  Some leaders may be great in training and inspiring others, but their inability to manage their finances eventually came back to bite them.  People lose trust in them because of shoddy finances. Usually different temperaments will need to grow more in areas that they are weak in.  A sanguine will usually need to grow more in faithfulness in responsibilities.  A phlegmatic may usually need more joy.  While a choleric may need more patience and gentleness. As a phlegmatic, I had to grow to be more decisive.  Not to be so laid back.  I even had to challenge myself at one stage as a young pastor to make small decisions within 5 minutes time limit!  phlegmatic do not like to upset people, but I had to learn to make decisions even when I knew some people would not be happy with it! How can we change?  How can we grow?  It is important to understand that growth should be progressive and continual.  Philippians 3:12 (NIV) Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. When we stop growing, we start backsliding. Even the apostle Paul realised that he had much more to grow in.  Yet not in a defeated mentality but with a deep sense of faith and hope in what God seeks to develop in his life and ministry.  So there is always room to grow, for we will not reach perfection.  Growth in godly character is not only progressive and always unfinished, it is actually critical for spiritual survival.  When we stop growing, we start backsliding.  Just like our muscles.  Once we stop exercising it starts going flabby. Our character and spirituality do not remain stagnant, it either goes forward or goes backward.  When I do not spend as much time praying, I realise that I become less spiritual. The filth of the world starts to accumulate on my heart and my attitudes.  As a university student, I once had a vacation job working in a factory line.  The environment just sapped my mental agility.  I found my brain slowing down.  The employees used a lot of foul words and I found it stuck unto my mind, even though I did not use those foul words. When we get our attitudes right, we tend to do the right things.  And when we do this consistently enough, we tend to develop the right character. In growing in godliness, we should develop the right attitudes, consistently behave with the right actions and focus on having the right character. When we get our attitudes right, we tend to do the right things.  And when we do this consistently enough, we tend to develop the right character. I grew to love people more as I focussed on the value of each person before God.  I began to appreciate them much more with their flaws and everything.  I practised the Scripture which says “love keeps no record of wrong!”  So I decided to forgive immediately.  As I changed my attitude, I also began to act more lovingly to individuals.  As I determined to love people around me intentionally, over time I began to be more loving in my heart. I am still growing in this area, as I encounter more challenging people! LEARN FROM OTHERS 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV) set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. Timothy was instructed to be an example to others, so that he may be a role model and also to teach and instruct others in godliness.  There is so much we learn from others on the road towards godliness.  Many have been on the journey longer or further.  If we are humble enough we can gain from their insights, from their life.  Proverbs 24:32 (NIV)  I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: My attitude is to learn as much as I can from any situation or people. My attitude is to learn as much as I can from any situation or people.  Why make mistakes that others have made?  Why not learn from the positive characteristics of others?  Why not be inspired by them? “Set an example for believers in speech...”  Have you made it a point to observe those who speak with wisdom, gentleness, love, positively, etc?  I used to live with a housemate, a deacon in the church.  Although he had many tough challenges in his life, yet I never saw him complain.  He was realistic about his problems, but he did not mumble or grumble.  He did not grumble about his lot in life, about leaders, about church, about work.  I learnt what it meant to be contented and not grumble.  He went on to serve the Lord faithfully as a pastor. We ought to observe the life of godly people.  Do they live with courage, with integrity?  Are they joyful?  One of our former leaders, when she returned to Bangkok, she faithfully attended church even though her mother, a Buddhist, was very upset with her faith and many times beat her.  Yet she always maintained a joy in the Lord.  She did not falter. Observe their faith.  Do they trust God fully?  Do they step out in faith in obedience to God?  I love to hear stories of faith because it inspires me and challenges me to be bold in my faith.  Observe their attitude.  Do they love?  Do they have humility? Are they contented? Be humble enough to let others speak into your life. Perhaps they can help bring some corrections or adjustment that will help you on your journey towards godliness. DEEPEN IN THE WORD 1 Timothy 4:13 (NIV) Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Scriptures provide us an understanding of what God is seeking in godliness and how we can pursue godliness. Timothy was exhorted to devote himself to reading, preaching and teaching the Scriptures.  A key aspect to grow in godliness is the Scriptures.  Because Scriptures provide us an understanding of what God is seeking in godliness and how we can pursue godliness.  Titus 1:1 (NIV) Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ for the faith of God’s elect and the knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness. The more we understand God’s truth, the more it will open our eyes to godliness.  So often our understanding can be shallow and superficial, but as we study God’s Word we gain more depth of appreciation what godliness is all about. How do we know what each aspect of the fruit of the Holy Spirit is all about?  Unless we study deeper to understand what each aspect is truly about.  Unless we read the stories that illustrate to us how it is lived out. How do we know what the extent of love can be until we understand what Jesus did on the cross for sinners like us?  It is through God’s Word that we more fully come to see Christ’s life in the Gospel.  By observing and meditating about Christ’s life, we can learn so much and be inspired by His example. Godliness will be closer to our hearts when the Word of God is imprinted upon our hearts. May I challenge us to be a people of the Word.  Let it soak into our hearts and minds.  Godliness will be closer to our hearts when the Word of God is imprinted upon our hearts. CONCLUSIONS God desires us to grow in godliness.  We need to put feet unto our desire and the key is to take personal responsibility.  While we take responsibility, we must recognise the importance of being dependent upon God.  We should also learn from others.  We should deepen in the word and allow it to impact us. Copyright©️2024 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

Do you like gold? Yet all that glitters is not gold.  This is a lesson many thousands of men learned in the 19th century when they stormed California seeking their fortunes. By 1850 over 75,000 hopefuls had travelled to California by land, and another 40,000 by sea.  Whether by wagon or by boat, the journey was an arduous one, as adventurers left friends and family behind in search of vast fortunes. While there was treasure to be found, as evidenced by the wealth many gained from their mining ventures, there was also what came to be known as fool's gold.  While this looked like gold, it was in reality valueless iron pyrite.  For a miner to be successful he had to learn to discern the true gold from mere fool's gold. A man's livelihood depended on this. Because it was difficult to tell one from the other only by looking at it, miners developed some simple tests.  One was the hardness test, where a miner could bite a rock in question. Fool's gold was hard while real gold was much softer.  A broken tooth would prove the rock to be fool's gold. For a second test a miner would scrape the rock against a white stone.  True gold would leave a yellowish streak while fool's gold would leave one that was greenish-black. Just as it was important for miners to distinguish between the real and fool’s gold, believers must distinguish between true godliness and false godliness.  As believers, the Scriptures instruct us to pursue godliness.  1 Timothy 6:11 (NIV) But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. If we are to truly pursue godliness properly, we need to be careful not to fall into the trap of pursuing the counterfeit godliness.   Let me share 3 key things about counterfeit or false godliness based on 1 Timothy 4:1-6. INSPIRED BY UNGODLY SOURCES 1 Timothy 4:1–2 (NIV) 1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. The Bible tells us that there will be things taught by deceiving spirits and demons.  And it will be propagated by those who are no longer able to distinguish between truth and falsehood.  One key area is godliness.  You may ask, “Why does the Bible state so starkly that such concepts are being propagated from the very pits of hell?”  Because if people believe in false gold, they will buy into it and miss the real gold.  If people believe in counterfeit godliness, they will invest into it and be blinded to true godliness. False godliness blinds people to the real need for true godliness. False godliness blinds people to the real need for true godliness.  For false godliness has the appearance of godliness but lacks authenticity.  Consequently, its practitioners are lulled to a false sense of security.  Lulled to a false sense of progress.  Lulled to a false sense of devotion.  And this happens as much in the church as it does outside the church. And this false understanding is dangerous because it may cause some to abandon the faith.  The whole urgency that is in Paul’s epistle lies in the fact it was happening at that very moment still and Timothy had been sent there to confront it and to deal with it!  2 Timothy 3:2 - 5 (NIV) 2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy,  3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self–control, brutal, not lovers of the good,  4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—  5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them. False godliness will encourage people to be lovers of anything else but God Himself. Note that false godliness will encourage people to be lovers of themselves, or money, or pleasure, or religion, in fact of anything else but God Himself.  We see that the Pharisees loved themselves more than God, they loved they ego more than God, they loved the respect they gain more than God.  In the church, people can have the forms of godliness but actually have missed the real thing.  Sadly, they are some in the church today who love their prominence more than God, love their money more than God, love their accomplishments more than God, love the signs and wonders more than God. And all along thinking they are very godly.  And we see some of these amongst certain prominent Christians. Godliness without God in the centre is false godliness. Todd Bentley was a prominent evangelist that became very famous because of signs and wonders.  But he loved the prominence, the excitement, even the anointing more than God.  Eventually, he fell into sin and committed adultery, divorced his wife Shonnah and married another woman.  To those without discernment, they cannot distinguish between the true gold and the fake!  They think they are ok, but in reality they are not.  And the Kingdom of Darkness would like to keep them in that state of deception.  Godliness without God in the centre is false godliness. FOCUS ON EXTERNALS In the Ephesus church, the false teachers promote various teachings such as celibacy.  It is a false gospel that opposes the true Gospel. Prohibitions 1 Timothy 4:3 (NIV) They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. There were many things that the false teachers promoted as the means of pursuing godliness.  These included forbidding marriage and abstaining from certain foods.  We are aware today that such thinking is in fact prevalent in many religions.  Buddhism for example, encourages those who seriously seek Enlightenment to devote themselves to this goal by becoming monks, forsaking marriage and other earthly entanglements.  They are to abstain from meat and to eat only vegetables.  And so forth. We find some elements of this in Catholicism where the faithful may make vows of celibacy, especially if they are nuns or priests.  The Catholic Code of Canon Law brought out in 1983 states in  Canon 1251: Abstinence from meat, or from some other food as determined by the Episcopal Conference, is to be observed on all Fridays, unless a solemnity should fall on a Friday. Abstinence and fasting are to be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.  Canon Law still requires that Catholics not eat meat on Fridays!  Unless some other acceptance penance is substituted for it. The concept is that somehow, if we can beat our bodies into some level of submission, if we can gain mastery over our bodies through self-control, we can achieve a higher level of godliness.  In 1973, Amar Bharti, a devotee to the Hindu god Shiva, decided to raise his arms and not put it down.  After 27 years, his arm is now atrophied and permanently locked in place.  When asked whether it hurts, he said, “It hurt for the first year and a half, but its fine now thanks.” Many impose prohibitions of all kinds in order that it may help them be more holy, more godly.  But what does the Bible say?  Colossians 2:20 - 23 (NIV) 20 Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules:  21 “Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!”?  22 These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings.  23 Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self–imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence. All such prohibitions may seem useful to make people more godly.  But in reality, it is of little use as it does not change the heart.  Mark 7:15 - 22 (NIV) “15 Nothing outside a man can make him ‘unclean’ by going into him. Rather, it is what comes out of a man that makes him ‘unclean.’” 17 After he had left the crowd and entered the house, his disciples asked him about this parable.  1 8 “Are you so dull?” he asked. “Don’t you see that nothing that enters a man from the outside can make him ‘unclean’?  19 For it doesn’t go into his heart but into his stomach, and then out of his body.” (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods “clean.”) 20 He went on: “What comes out of a man is what makes him ‘unclean.’  21 For from within, out of men’s hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, 22 greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. Prohibitions such as on foods, clothes, marriage and so forth – in themselves do not change our hearts.  To imagine that various people are more godly because they forbid certain things is a misconception. I am not saying that prohibitions are wrong.  It can be useful.  Prohibitions can protect people from harmful substances or practices.  People are prohibited from crossing busy roads any way and anytime they want.  People are prohibited from driving 100kph along residential streets.  People are prohibited from taking illegal drugs. And so forth. But prohibitions cannot change the moral character of a person.  Self-imposed prohibitions need not reflect the quality of the moral character of a person But prohibitions cannot change the moral character of a person.  It is a lie to believe that it can. Self-imposed prohibitions need not reflect the quality of the moral character of a person.  Now self-control is a necessary aspect of helping us to be godly.  Titus 2:12 (NIV) It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self–controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.   But we must be clear in this: self-control is not synonymous with prohibitions though self-control may help us impose some helpful self-prohibition. Religious acts Some make the mistake of thinking that they are more godly because they are involved in more religious activities. Another area of deception is to think that because we are involved in religious acts, that it makes a person more holy or godly.  This is the spirit of religiosity.  Some make the mistake of thinking that they are more godly because they are involved in more religious activities.  Again that is untrue. Just like the Pharisee’s who fasted and prayed but were unacceptable to God.  Matthew 6:5 (NIV) “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. It is our heart condition that matters more to God. For the Pharisee’s prayed for show rather than from their hearts. If we fast and pray, or serve in the church but not primarily because of God, then we are involved in religiosity.  It is our heart condition that matters more to God.  It is our heart condition that God is either pleased with or not.  More so than our external actions. Let use examine our own hearts today.  Let us get back to having God in the centre of our worship and our service!  In the song, “The Heart of Worship” I'm coming back to the heart of worship And it's all about You It's all about You, Jesus I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it When it's all about You It's all about You, Jesus The songwriter recognised that it was not even in the worship songs, but our heart of devotion to God.  We must put God back in the centre of godliness. DERIVES FROM DISTORTIONS OF TRUTH 1 Timothy 4:6 (NIV) If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. Timothy was urged to point out the errors which contradict the truths of our faith and the good teaching that he has known.  In other words, these teaching, including on counterfeit godliness came about due to distortions on God’s truth.  The false teachers were likely advocating certain parts of the Old Testament Law – hence the emphasis on clean and unclean foods. Legalistically emphasising on some aspects of prohibitions.  Because they misunderstood the purpose of the Old Testament Laws.  And they refuse to accept corrections. They thought that God is pleased when they are able to fulfil certain religious requirements. Further, they have used it as an opportunity to make financial gain.  1 Timothy 6:5 (NIV) men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. They were preying on the wealthy women in the church.  Gullible ones whom they can mesmerise with their knowledge.  Why not make money out of the things of God?  The sad thing is there are still many out there who are trying to make financial gain out of the Kingdom of God.  Ministries and Christian leaders who often ask for lots of financial giving from their followers and it is used to line their pockets.  And they rationalise that it is fine to do so! Godliness may simply be defined as living a life pleasing to God, out of a heart devotion to God. The best way to discover counterfeit is to understand the genuine.  So what is authentic godliness? Godliness may simply be defined as living a life pleasing to God, out of a heart devotion to God. 2 Timothy 3:2 - 5 (NIV) 2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy,  3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self–control, brutal, not lovers of the good,  4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—  5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Loving God is at the centre of true godliness Loving God is at the centre of true godliness.  Let us return fully to God! CONCLUSIONS Counterfeit godliness is based on a lie that encourages people to love anything else but God.  That encourages people to believe that what they do is godliness, but it is little more than a shell.  Form of godliness but without God in the centre.  False godliness focuses on the external and placates the heart that is adrift from God.  Let us turn to true godliness which is living a life pleasing to God, out of a heart devotion to God. Copyright©️2024 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

Imagine you are on a trip in the African savannah. You are enjoying the trip immensely and busy taking photos of some wild animals when suddenly you realise a runaway herd of elephants are bearing down on you. What would you do? Will you (a) continue to take photos (b) tell them to stop (c) run out of the way? We cannot resist this runway herd of elephants, or we will be turned into human pancake. Have you ever realised that there are some things we cannot stop, we cannot resist? Yet how many try to resist God? Some try to ignore God, hoping perhaps that by rationalising God out of their daily lives, God will somehow disappear. Some try to manipulate God, thinking that God is like some parent that we can manoeuvre by our emotional tantrums. Some think we can reject God’s will, in order to pursue our own. And so on. This is a crucial topic to seriously consider and come to terms with how we should respond to God. What will happen if we resist God? Let us consider Exodus 10 and learn some key lessons from it. At this point of the story, Pharaoh had been resisting God for a season. And God sent plague after plague, yet Pharaoh continued to resist. In this 8th plague, God sent a plague of locust. A swarm so huge that the sky was darkened from horizon to horizon. Where the ground was covered with locusts. And every vegetation that was edible was eaten. In this article, we will come to understand why resistance is futile. That resistance only leads to a number of consequences to those who resist God. We will examine 5 of these consequences. RESISTANCE MISSES GOD'S PLANS Exodus 10:3 (NIV) So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said to him, “This is what the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, says: ‘How long will you refuse to humble yourself before me? Let my people go, so that they may worship me.’ ” God has His plans and purposes. Yet God gives to us individuals the choice whether we agree to be part of His plans or not. Pharaoh could have chosen to flow with God's plans for the Israelites. He could have amicably agreed to release the Israelites and go down history as the Pharaoh who had the foresight to give freedom to the slaves! Pharaoh could have done as God commanded, "Let my people go, so that they may worship me." Just as in South Africa in 1990, State President Frederick de Klerk dismantled apartheid and went down in history for doing the right thing! When we resist God, God will use someone else instead who will trust Him. But Pharaoh instead chose to resist God. As a result, he could not have a part in it. Instead of being known in history as the valiant king who did the right thing, he became known as the villain. When we resist God, we effectively walk away from God's plans and purposes. When we resist God, God will use someone else instead who will trust Him. The story of the prophetess Deborah and Barak gives us an insight into this principle. Judges 4:6-9 (NIV) 6 She sent for Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, “The LORD, the God of Israel, commands you: ‘Go, take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead the way to Mount Tabor. 7 I will lure Sisera, the commander of Jabin’s army, with his chariots and his troops to the Kishon River and give him into your hands.’” 8 Barak said to her, “If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go.” 9 “Very well,” Deborah said, “I will go with you. But because of the way you are going about this, the honor will not be yours, for the LORD will hand Sisera over to a woman.” So Deborah went with Barak to Kedesh, God wanted Barak to lead the army and trust in God for victory. But because of Barak's lack of trust in God, God chose not to give Sisera over to Barak, but to a woman. Glory went to an unknown woman rather than Barak. Men, God has chosen you for a purpose to leadership. When men fail to rise up to their call, God may pass it to women. God judged the priest Eli and his sons because they were unfaithful to God. In their place, God promised to raise another priest who will be faithful. 1 Sam 2:34-35 (NIV)34 “‘And what happens to your two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, will be a sign to you—they will both die on the same day. 35 I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who will do according to what is in my heart and mind. The more we resist God the more we wander away from God's purposes. Each one of us has a choice before God. Do we choose to participate in God's purposes or do we choose to resist? The more we resist God the more we wander away from God's purposes. Resistance can be active, like Pharaoh. Or passive where we perhaps ignore God's call upon our lives. Where we simply fold our arms and refuse to budge. If we have been resisting God, it is time to turn back and get into God's purposes. God is gracious and He can graft us back into His purposes. Although it always means we have lost time. Pastor Clark Taylor, a former Methodist pastor, was used of God to establish the Christian Outreach Centre movement in Brisbane, after he experienced the power of God upon his life. The movement grew quickly and the church became the largest church in Brisbane. By 1984, COC was at its peak, his services were broadcast in TV, churches were being planted all over Australia and into the Pacific region. But in 1989, he fell into sin, committed adultery and resigned. For 10 years he was in the wilderness and struggled with his sin and other issues. Yet by 1999, God restored him and in late 2000 both he and his wife Anne got back together. God restored him and began to use him again to start a new church in Brisbane in 2001. God can graft us back again, even though we lose time. As Clark Taylor lost more than a decade and is now an old man. God can graft you back into His purposes, if you repent and do not resist. RESISTANCE PROLONGS THE INEVITABLE Exodus 10:3–4 (NIV) 3 So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said to him, “This is what the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, says: ‘How long will you refuse to humble yourself before me? Let my people go, so that they may worship me. 4 If you refuse to let them go, I will bring locusts into your country tomorrow. What God wills, will come to pass. It is inevitable because God is sovereign. Pharaoh sought to continually resist God, but it only prolonged the inevitable. It only stretches out the time but eventually God's purposes will come to pass. God will bring His people out of Egypt. God's purposes will come to pass. What God wills, will come to pass. It is inevitable because God is sovereign. Isa 55:11 (NIV) “so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” When anyone opposes God, it will not change the final outcomes. Job 23:13 (NIV) “But he stands alone, and who can oppose him? He does whatever he pleases.” It only prolongs the inevitable. God has His own timetable where He has taken into account all our disobedience, our resistance, etc. Yet God's purposes will stand. Isa 46:10 (NIV) I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please. Resistance cannot change God's purposes. God's purpose is like a tsunami. Nothing can stand in its way. Resistance cannot change God's purposes. God's purpose is like a tsunami. Nothing can stand in its way. Instead of standing against the mega-tsunami, I rather surf it! Can you remember what happened to a whole generation of stubborn Israelites who continued to resist God’s will? God prolonged the journey of the Israelites into the Promised Land by 40 years until the whole generation of disobedient Israelites had passed away (Num 32:13). God's purposes were upheld, but with a different group of people who entered the Promised Land. We must hold 2 concepts in tension. God's plan and purpose will come to pass so nobody can hinder the purposes of God. Yet because God gives men choice, men can choose to resist God. Jer 32:33 (NIV) “They turned their backs to me and not their faces; though I taught them again and again, they would not listen or respond to discipline.” Don't resist God, flow with His tsunami! Man's resistance is that in the form of intent and action. But no intent, no action of anyone can hinder God's plans. Consider this. We can try all kinds of things to stop a tsunami, but we cannot hinder it! I have learnt to say yes to God, quickly! I rather flow with God's tsunami! Don't resist God, flow with His tsunami! RESISTANCE DEEPENS THE PAIN Exodus 10:5–7 (NIV) 5 They will cover the face of the ground so that it cannot be seen. They will devour what little you have left after the hail, including every tree that is growing in your fields. 6 They will fill your houses and those of all your officials and all the Egyptians—something neither your parents nor your ancestors have ever seen from the day they settled in this land till now.’ ” Then Moses turned and left Pharaoh. 7 Pharaoh’s officials said to him, “How long will this man be a snare to us? Let the people go, so that they may worship the Lord their God. Do you not yet realize that Egypt is ruined?” Pharaoh's resistance only caused more pain to come upon the Egyptians. Already their land had been devastated by many plagues. Almost every crop had been devastated. Now God will absolutely decimate every plant in the land with the locust that will eat everything. It brought so much pain even pharaoh's officials began to question his judgment. When the plague of blood came and the Egyptians suffered from lack of clean water, Pharaoh could have stopped the pain there. When the plague of frogs came and troubled everyone, it could have stopped there, but Pharaoh resisted. When the plague of gnats came and bit humans and animals, it could have stopped there, but Pharaoh continued to harden his heart. When the plague of flies came and food was ruined, it could have been stopped but Pharaoh refused. A plague of boils came upon men and animals. A plague came and killed the livestock and again it could have stopped there. Next came a plague of hail and destroyed their harvests. Yet Pharaoh resisted. When we resist God, it will only bring more pain. More resistance against God leads to more pain for no gain. When I was a child, and I resisted my parents it only brought more pain! As my parents disciplined me. So I understood what it means to resist God. Only the stubborn and dumb will continue to resist God and bear more pain when the outcome is inevitable. More resistance against God leads to more pain for no gain. God does not enjoy inflicting pain, but He will bring it upon those who refuse to listen to persuasion. God does not enjoy inflicting pain, but He will bring it upon those who refuse to listen to persuasion. For sometimes, pain is the only way to get people's attention. The story of the prodigal son illustrates this. Luke 15:14-17 (NIV) 14After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.17“When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! Pain finally brought the prodigal son to reflect on the error of his ways. Don’t wait for pain. Don't resist God. Be smart and flow with Him. RESISTANCE INVITES GOD'S JUDGEMENT Exodus 10:11-15 (NIV) 11 No! Have only the men go and worship the Lord, since that’s what you have been asking for.” Then Moses and Aaron were driven out of Pharaoh’s presence. 12 And the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over Egypt so that locusts swarm over the land and devour everything growing in the fields, everything left by the hail.” 13 So Moses stretched out his staff over Egypt, and the Lord made an east wind blow across the land all that day and all that night. By morning the wind had brought the locusts; 14 they invaded all Egypt and settled down in every area of the country in great numbers. Never before had there been such a plague of locusts, nor will there ever be again. 15 They covered all the ground until it was black. They devoured all that was left after the hail—everything growing in the fields and the fruit on the trees. Nothing green remained on tree or plant in all the land of Egypt. As we are God's people, discipline is intended to bring us to our senses and to turn to God. Pharaoh kicked Moses out. Pharaoh's continual resistance brought the 8th plague upon the country. When we continually resist God, it may eventually bring about God's judgment upon our lives. As we are God's people, discipline is intended to bring us to our senses and to turn to God. Heb 12:10 (NIV) Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. Or those who do know God, it is intended to make them wake up to God! You either face God now, or you will face God on Judgment Day. By that time, it is too late. There is no mercy left on that day. So consider now where you stand before a Holy God! Sometimes, because some continually resist God, God's judgment will come upon a whole city or nation. Sometimes, because some continually resist God, God's judgment will come upon a whole city or nation. The prophet Isaiah prophesied against the Israelites in Isa 3:9 (NIV) The look on their faces testifies against them; they parade their sin like Sodom; they do not hide it. Woe to them! They have brought disaster upon themselves. So when our cities continue to sin and flaunt its sin before God, one day judgment will come. Don't be surprised! “In Aug 2005, hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans and there was incredible devastation. Almost 2000 people died and estimate $81 billion in damage. New Orleans is known as a hotpot of occultic, sexual deviation practices. "Southern decadence" which promoted homosexual celebration, with some 125,000 revelers attending in 2005. It also its own annual Mardi Gras. About five years ago, in a debate before the National Association of Black Journalists, I stated that if whites were to just leave the United States and let blacks run the country, they would turn America into a ghetto within 10 years. The audience, shall we say, disagreed with me strongly. Now I have to disagree with me. I gave blacks too much credit. It took a mere three days for blacks to turn the Superdome and the convention center into ghettos, rampant with theft, rape and murder.” Rev Jesse Lee Peterson, a black pastor, WorldNet Daily 21/9/05. Those who stay on in a sin city and do not actively fight against it or pay heed to God will also eventually pay the price of God's judgment. Just as Lot and his family suffered for living in a sinful city. God does not enjoy bringing judgment. Jonah was sent to preach to the city of Nineveh about God's judgment that was coming. When the Ninevites repented, Jonah was not happy yet God’s response showed His heart in Jon 4:11 (NIV) “But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city?” But when resistance continues too long and there is stubborn refusal to repent, God's long-suffering patience will reach its end. This shows God's desire to be compassionate. But when resistance continues too long and there is stubborn refusal to repent, God's long-suffering patience will reach its end and He will act in judgment. In fact, God gave a prophetic word through Kim Clements in Houston about his coming judgment on New Orleans in July 22 2005. RESISTANCE LEADS TO HUMILIATION Exodus 10:16-17 (NIV) 16 Pharaoh quickly summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “I have sinned against the Lord your God and against you. 17 Now forgive my sin once more and pray to the Lord your God to take this deadly plague away from me.” Pharaoh had to face the humiliation of admitting that he sinned against God. He resisted God and came out second best again. We can never succeed in resisting God. We will eventually be proved wrong and God right. God is always right. Isa 2:11 (NIV) The eyes of the arrogant man will be humbled and the pride of men brought low; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day. I don't know about you, but I don't like to be humiliated. So don't resist God. For we will reap what we sow. CONCLUSION Resistance against God is futile. We are kicking against a mountain. What are you resisting today? Are you resisting God's call upon your life? Are you resisting God's challenge to you to repent? Are you resisting the conviction of God about certain matters in your life? Stop resisting and flow with God! Don't resist the tsunami of God, surf it, flow with God! Copyright©️2023 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

Emma Snowsill was an elite Australian athlete, one of the greatest female distance triathletes. Three times world champion, Olympic gold medallist and Commonwealth champion. She did 1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10 km run. She had to overcome years of pain, tragedy and frustration. In 2002, when she had the Athens Olympics in her sights, her life was turned upside down. Her boyfriend, fellow triathlete Luke Harrop, was killed in a hit-and-run accident while out on a training ride. She almost quit the sport. In 2003, when she was world champion, she suffered a stress fracture of the femur during the Olympic trials, putting her out of contention for the Athens Games. But she kept on until she won the 2008 Beijing Olympics. How does she do it? Training for the three 'swim, bike & run' disciplines of triathlon typically consume six hours of Emma's day, at least six days a week. It can involve swimming in lakes, rivers, oceans or public pools. Biking through flat country plains or over mountain roads, running trails or beach-side pathways. She rise at 5:30am, go swim-training; Breakfast; nap; ride; Lunch; nap; run-train; Dinner; then sleep. What an incredible dedication to be the best triathlete. Incredible focus and perseverance. Athletes are an incredible inspiration to me for their dedication to their sport. They are so motivated and go through such gruelling training all the time to be fit. If athletes can put so much into being fit, what about us? As Christians, the Bible challenges us to have a higher focus that fitness itself. To be godly. Yet how motivated are we to be godly? A definition of godliness: living a life pleasing to God, out of a heart devotion to God. Let me suggest a definition of godliness: living a life pleasing to God, out of a heart devotion to God. Godliness is an inner attitude, a reflection of a person’s spirituality. Now what can motivate us to desire to live a life pleasing to God? A life lived out of devotion to God? Let’s examine 3 key categories of motivation. OBEYING THE COMMAND TOWARDS GODLINESS 1 Timothy 4:7 (NIV) Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. The statement above is an imperative, a command that Apostle Paul gave to Timothy. Some of us may think, “Well, that is a command for pastors only!” It is not a command relevant only to pastors, but also to every believer. 2 Peter 3:11 - 12 (NIV) 11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. God wants all believers to become godly, we are to grow in godliness. God wants all believers to become godly, we are to grow in godliness. And as we read our Bibles, we get that sense loud and clear! For there are many passages that speak against ungodliness, that proclaim doom for the ungodly, the wicked. It is obvious that God wants us to be the opposite of the ungodly. In other words, God wants us to be godly people. Godliness was not presented to us as a suggestion, as an option. Many Christians make the mistake of thinking, I do not really need to be godly. After all, I am already saved. I already have a ticket to heaven. But growing in godliness is an imperative! Indeed, we are told to pursue godliness. 1 Timothy 6:11 (NIV) But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. We are to rigorously train to be godly! A vigorous application of energy and self-discipline to attain towards godliness. V7 uses the word “train” which is the Greek word gumnazō, from which our English words “gymnasium” and “gymnastics” derive. We are to rigorously train to be godly! A vigorous application of energy and self-discipline to attain towards godliness. Indeed, v10a states “...for this reason we labour and strive...” God is saying this is important. Important enough that you must apply yourself vigorously, with focus and determination! Be godly! Emma Snowsill spent 6 hours 6 days a week training. How much of our daily life do we spend training for godliness? Do we even spend 30 min a day in reading the Bible and prayer? How about 60 minutes? APPRECIATING THE VALUE OF GODLINESS 1 Timothy 4:8–10 (NIV) 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 9 This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. 10 That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe. What is the value of godliness? It is exceedingly valuable (v8a) “...godliness has value for all things...” Physical training, physical exercise is important. Yet it is only of some value when compared against godliness. As the NRSV puts it, “...godliness is valuable in every way”! What a statement. If exercise is very important to you. If going to gym every day is a high priority. How much more important should godliness be to you! Imagine that you have a COVID vaccine. How valuable is that? Now imagine you have a vaccine that protects against all diseases, COVID, AIDS, small pox, Ebola, etc. How valuable would that be by comparison? So how is godliness far more valuable in every way? It is absolutely valuable. Valuable in this present life (v8b) “...holding promise for both the present life...” This statement in v8 is the trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance referred to in v9. So the Bible declares that godliness is valuable because it brings positive effects while we are here on earth and later in heaven. How is that? The desire for godliness is to desire to be like God in character. The main outcome of godliness is a godly or Christlike character. For the desire for godliness is to desire to be like God in character. Some people have the wrong idea of what a godly person looks like. Some imagine it is a serious-minded person who frowns at anything that seems a little less than holy. It doesn’t help that too many movies make Jesus out as very serious! I see Jesus as a very warm-hearted and loving person that simply touched the lives of many who interacted with Him. One who knows how to relax and chill out with his mates. One who enjoys good company, who is witty and enjoys a good laugh. Growing in godliness means growing more in the fruit of the Holy Spirit. Growing in godliness means growing more in the fruit of the Holy Spirit such as described in Galatians 5:22 - 23 (NIV) 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self–control. Imagine how blessed you will be, to have great love in your heart, be full of joy, filled with peace, calmly patient, overflow with kindness and goodness, steadfastly faithful, ever so gentle and fully in self-control. The more godly you become the more people should enjoy being around you. Except the Pharisees of course! The more we grow in godliness the more we please God and we will surely see more of the blessings of God. The more we grow in godliness the more we please God and we will surely see more of the blessings of God. Psalms 119:2 (NIV) Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart. There are so many wonderful benefits of growing in godliness. Valuable in the life to come (v8c) “...and the life to come.” Clearly the godly will be richly rewarded by God in heaven. Colossians 3:23 - 24 (NIV) 23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. God will reward us not so much by how successful we are, but by how faithfully fruitful we are. God will reward us not so much by how successful we are, but by how faithfully fruitful we are. Success is invariably measured by our accomplishments. Success can occur even when we are unfaithful to God. Samson had incredibly success against the Philistines because of his God-given strength. But he was also incredibly unfaithful to God. We must understand that God seeks faithful fruitfulness. I used the word fruitfulness deliberately because it encompasses far more than success. It includes what we produce in our character, which is not usually measured by accomplishments. God seeks fruitfulness and will judge those that fail to produce good fruit. Matthew 3:10 (NIV) The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. It is not just how fruitful we are but how faithful we are to God in our fruitfulness. I used faithful as an adverb as it is not just how fruitful we are but how faithful we are to God in our fruitfulness. Faithful to be obedient to God. In other words, living lives pleasing to God. Living godly lives. To have God say to us, “Thy good and faithful servant!” The godly will be richly rewarded, and the godly will be close to God in heaven. MOTIVATIONAL FOUNDATIONS FOR PURSUING GODLINESS 1 Timothy 4:10 (NIV) That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe. What does “Saviour of all people” mean? Jesus came to be the Savior of the whole world. 1 John 4:14 (NIV) And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. Jesus, when He died, He died for all, for all sinners. However, His salvation is only effectively for those who believe. In other words, the scope of salvation is available to all (unlike what many Calvinists believe). But this is not universalism where salvation is applied to all. The are other fundamental and intrinsic motivations for growing in godliness: The foundation of hope It is important to make sure our motivation flows from our already firm hope of salvation, not out of a desire to earn it. When we desire to please God FOR salvation, our purpose is rooted in insecurity. When we desire to please God FOR salvation, our purpose is rooted in insecurity. Insecurity about whether we are good enough for God. We are hoping that our attempts at godliness will somehow be acceptable to God and that maybe He might accept us because of our own godliness. Such a motivation is susceptible to discouragement whenever we seem to lack progress in developing godliness. Maybe we just cannot make it! When we desire to please God FROM salvation, our purpose is rooted in our security. On the other hand, when we desire to please God FROM salvation, our purpose is rooted in our security. Knowing that God has already saved us, and has already secured our eternal future, we are better motivated towards godliness because we know we will eventually reach that lofty goal. 2 Corinthians 3:12 (NIV) Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. So hope becomes a foundation upon which a motivation towards godliness can arise. The foundation of devotion Godliness springs out of our devotion to God. When we love God and are devoted to Him, we would naturally want to live godly live. Godliness springs out of our devotion to God. Colossians 1: 10 (NIV) And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, We would be looking for every possible way to express our love for God. We would, as stated in Ephesians 5:10 (NIV) ... find out what pleases the Lord. Imagine a professional singer who has two children that he is lovingly devoted to. One tries with all his might to win the acceptance of his father by singing to the best of his ability all the most difficult songs, hoping that if he sings well enough, his father will love and accept him. The second son knows and trusts his father loves and accepts him, and out of that security sings to his Dad because of the love and security he has received has welled up in him as devotion to his Dad. Now both sons are loved by their Dad, but which is more pleasing to their Dad? The one motivated by a need for acceptance, or the son motivated by devotion? God is also more pleased with those motivated by devotion to grow in godliness. For our focus becomes devotion rather than performance. Martin Luther describes his struggle with sin in terms of his life in the monastery. “When I was a monk,” he wrote, “I tried with all diligence to live according to the rules, and I used to be contrite, to confess, to assiduously perform my allotted penance. And yet my conscience would never give me certainty. I always doubted and said, “You didn’t do that correctly, Martin. You were not contrite enough. You left that out of your confession.” The more I tried to remedy a weak and afflicted conscience with the traditions of men, the more I found it each day more uncertain, weaker, and troubled.” “Luther,” Rosell observes, “was caught in what we might call a circle of despair. To be absolved from sin, one needed to love God above all else. But to love God above all else Martin felt that he needed to know that his sins were forgiven. Otherwise, he would only fear a wrathful God. He was afraid that his faith/obedience wasn’t genuine, that it wasn’t motivated out of love, but out of fear of a wrathful God. It’s in the midst of that dilemma that Luther made the great discovery of the Reformation – the discovery of God’s mercy and grace”. As Martin Luther discovered the amazing grace of God, he also discovered an incredible passion to live a life please to God, not out of fear, but out of love for the one who poured out His grace. (Church Historian Professor Garth M Rosell PhD) Devotion to God is critical because it is impossible to please God without taking the time to walk with God. When we love God enough, it is only natural to be devoted to God and out of that devotion comes a desire to be godly. Devotion to God is critical because it is impossible to please God without taking the time to walk with God. Enoch was someone who walked with God. He pleased God so much, that God took him to heaven (Gen 5:21-24). CONCLUSIONS God desires us to grow in godliness. To live lives pleasing to God, out of a devotion to Him. We can be more motivated towards godliness if we realise that we are commanded towards godliness and appreciate the value of godliness. That godliness is of exceeding value both to our life here and in the hereafter. Further, if we truly place our hope in Christ, if we are truly devoted to God – we would be motivated to grow in godliness. Copyright©️2023 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

We live in an age where society is simply caught up with accessorizing. Accessorizing is about adorning with accessories, ideally with matching colours, styles and price tags. Not just women, but men as well. The movie “Confessions of the shopaholic” in 2009 with Isla Fisher, captures this addiction humorously. Her obsession to buy just the right green scarf to suit her outfit she is wearing almost caused her to miss her job interview! Apostle Paul had some wise words for the women of those times which would be equally relevant for women today. And perhaps some men as well. 1 Timothy 2:9–10 (NIV) 9 I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, 10 but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God. What can we learn from it? THE MATTER OF EXTERNAL ADORNMENTS What should be our perspective about external adornments? What is the message for us? The deception of accessories In those days, there was a Roman version of the feminist movement. One aspect involved showing off one’s wealth with expensive clothing, jewellery, elaborate braided hairstyles, even hair pieces and wigs, etc. Actually, it still sounds very much like today, doesn’t it? People want to look good, with trendy clothes, hairstyles, accessories. Once upon a time, we used to wear watches to tell us time. Now watches are to tell us time in style! With huge watch faces so everyone can see how trendy they are! All the marketing, the advertising creates this perception that we are not “in” if we do not have the latest, the trendiest. There is a great sense that you are missing out if you do not have “it”. Shopping is even the panacea or cure to the economic gloom. Indooroopilly Shopping Town in Brisbane has huge banners that “Indulge in a little retail therapy”. No money? Feeling depressed? Go shopping! Give your heart a little jingle. At least until the bill arrives! We have to ask ourselves why are we accessorizing? Apostle Paul was challenging their perspectives. And we should be challenged as well. Are we accessorizing into disrepute? We should think beyond ourselves, for we are no longer our own, but belong to Christ. Some women in the Ephesian church were accessorising without realising that it brought disrepute into the church. For the type of liberated clothing they flouted brought comparisons with prostitutes. Before you put rings in your nose, your tongue or belly button. Before wearing Gothic makeup and Mohican haircuts – you should ask yourself if it will help the witness of the church. I am not saying you cannot. But we should ask ourselves, will it cause misunderstandings to ourselves and to the church? Are we accessorizing into disrepute? We should think beyond ourselves, for we are no longer our own, but belong to Christ. 1 Corinthians 6:12(NIV) “Everything is permissible for me”—but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible for me”—but I will not be mastered by anything. Perhaps we are not accessorizing in a controversial way. Yet why are we accessorizing? Are we updating our clothing, our equipment, our stuff – simply because others are? Are we accessorizing unnecessarily? Does it make us feel good? Does it make us feel more accepted? Why? Perhaps our focus is more on worldly possessions and worldly acceptance rather than our innate worth in God? Do we care more about more we appear externally than how we appear before God? I am not saying we cannot be trendy, nor own beautiful things. We should not be totally out-of-date nor lack appreciation for beauty. After all, God created us to appreciate beauty. Heaven will be beautiful. The issue is our priorities. Do we care more about more we appear externally than how we appear before God? That is why if we are to accessorise, we should aim for: The accessories that matter 1 Timothy 2:10 (NIV) … but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God. True faith is reflected by appropriate deeds. The Apostle Paul reminded the Ephesians that the accessories of the godly woman should be her good works. It is not what we possess externally but what good we do externally that is of greater worth in God’s eyes. For true faith is reflected by appropriate deeds. James 2:14-17 (NIV) 14 What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? 15 Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. When we go to heaven, God will not ask us how trendy we have been, but what good have we done. Perhaps the amount of time and finances we spend accessorizing could be better spent helping others. THE MATTER OF INTERNAL ADORNMENTS 1 Timothy 2:11–15 (NIV) 11 A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. 12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner. 15 But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety. There are 2 matters of concern here regarding a godly woman that Paul raised. The first, most obvious one is the role of women in God’s church. I addressed the controversial topic in my blog “Women In Church: Can They Lead And Teach?” and argued that they can. The second issue, I would like to suggest, is that it is also continuation of the instruction related to the type of adornment that a godly woman should have. As part of Paul’s correction to the wrong perspective of the liberated women, he brought their focus back onto the inner qualities of a godly woman. For it is not the external beauty, but what truly matters is: Inner beauty Hesychia in v11 can properly mean quietness, as the NIV (1984) translates. However, the NIV translates this as silent in verse 12. A better translation is to be consistent and use “in quietness” which was used in the updated NIV. Silence implies not making a sound but quietness conveys the meaning of attitude and demeanour – which is sweet restraint. A reflection of inner beauty. This principle is highlighted more clearly in 1 Peter 3:3-5 (NIV) 3Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. 4Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. 5For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. They were submissive to their own husbands, Inner beauty is pleasing to God and to others who appreciate it. Indeed, in time, it is the more lasting characteristic. Part of the inner beauty is the attitude of submission to their husbands. The same point that Paul is making in v11-12. While the prohibition to teach and assuming authority over men, I have argued is contextual to the issues, the principle is nevertheless to have an attitude of submission. For rebellion is ugly. Inner beauty is pleasing to God and to others who appreciate it. Indeed, in time, it is the more lasting characteristic. Proverbs 31:30 (NIV) Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Choose inner beauty, because our external beauty has little to do with our heart while our inner beauty has everything to do with it. Choose inner beauty, because our external beauty has little to do with our heart while our inner beauty has everything to do with it. Some spend hours every week to look good. Why not spend hours beautifying our hearts each week? Getting rid of unforgiveness, bitterness. Learning to grow in gentleness, kindness, love, etc. Inner choices In v13-14, Paul referred to the creation account to point out the susceptibility of the woman to deception, as compared to a man. Not because he was trying to prove that women must be silent, but to support his point that women should be in submission to men. Such oversight, he argues, will provide protection for the woman. While I had argued previously that women can take on all kinds of roles, yet that is not to mean that they are best suited to every role. There are some roles that most men are better at and some roles which most women at generally better at. And there are areas of overlap where the reverse of the general observation can be true. Nevertheless, it seems to me that, in general, women should ultimately function in submission to a man. In general, men have certain strengths that can compensate for certain weaknesses in women. The reverse in also true in other contexts. It is also likely that Paul referred to the creation account because there were likely prevailing heretical teachings which probably distorted some elements to elevate the role of women above that of men. In v15, he then concludes that women will be saved by their choices. In the Ephesian situation, he advocated them focussing on their motherly role and effectively contrasting with the heretical view of that day which encouraged throwing away marriage, motherhood and even probably having abortions to maintain their freedom. Paul was stating that their choices were crucial. If they continue in faith, holiness and in doing right before God, they will be saved. This included behaving with propriety or decency and in accepting the role God has given them. What it means to us is that our choices are crucial, just as it was then. Let us choose to continue to faith, holiness and right doing before God. It means that personally, each woman (and each man) should discern what God’s specific role for them ought to be. Whatever the role that God has given unto us, let us accept it with faith and to carry it out with dignity. Whatever the role that God has given unto us, let us accept it with faith and to carry it out with dignity. Proverbs speak about the godly woman, Proverbs 31:25 (NIV) She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. CONCLUSIONS Do we want to be beautiful outside or beautiful inside? Accessories may be beautiful to behold, beautiful to own. But may we never take our eyes away from more important accessories, our good deeds before God! The godly will focus more on inner beauty and inner heart choices that honour God! Copyright©️2023 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

Should women be allowed to teach and lead in the church? Those with a complementarian view argue that men and women were designed for complementary purposes in God. They argue that women should remain silent in the church and must not lead over man. They build the case on passages such as 1 Timothy 2:11–14 (NIV) 11 A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. 12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner. This passage is controversial due to its interpretive issues and some churches and denominations have split over it. Those who argue against such views are known as egalitarian, meaning they hold that men and women have gender equality, particularly in church leadership and teaching scope. Addressing whether women can lead and teach Some have taken I Tim 2:11-14 to mean that women should not be involved in public teaching and leadership roles over men. They take the instructions in these passages as universal in application. On the other hand, others argue that the prohibitions are limited in its application to the context of the Ephesian and similar churches. Hence, they do not apply these instructions to women today. Thus, the issue is whether the instructions in the passage is universal or limited in application. I believe the limited application view is correct. The arguments for and against are complex and can be quite involved. I will attempt to simplify to the key elements. How can we reconcile these apparent differences in Scripture? The key lies in our interpretation methodology. Firstly, we must accept that all Scripture are important to understanding biblical principles. Not just the didactic passages over the narrative. It is in contradiction to Scripture itself as Apostle Paul himself declared in 2 Timothy 3:16–17 (NIV) 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. All Scripture genre, inclusive of narratives are to be used for deriving teaching or doctrines. Further, Scripture has never distinguished within itself nor hinted in any way whether any particular genre in Scripture is more useful than others. In other words, all Scripture genre, inclusive of narratives are to be used for deriving teaching or doctrines. Further, Scripture has never distinguished within itself nor hinted in any way whether any particular genre in Scripture is more useful than others. Obviously, all Scripture must be interpreted with consideration of its genre. Didactic passages are normally clearer in statements compared to narrative passages which require greater interpretive effort to tease out the biblical principles. However, it is not reasonable to cast aside narrative passages as inadequate to provide the basis for deriving biblical principles. That is an overly restrictive approach. An approach that undermines our ability to adequately exegete the Scriptures and essentially dishonours parts of Scripture as to its usefulness. Hence, consideration must be given to Old Testament narrative passages as well. Are there examples that provide us an understanding of God’s view towards women? Are there evidences within Scripture itself to the idea that women are intended by God to universally be in quietness in the church public meetings or otherwise? Any interpretation based on the Bible must be consistent not only within the context of the epistles but also to the Testament and the entirety of the Scriptures. For God is the ultimate author. A biblical principle is only universal if it is truly universal in every possible biblical case. If exceptions are found, then it cannot be upheld as universal in its application. Secondly, a biblical principle is only universal if it is truly universal in every possible biblical case. If exceptions are found, then it cannot be upheld as universal in its application. It simply means the proposed biblical principle does not fully represent the truth. In addition to 1 Timothy 2:11-14, the universal application view appears to be supported by another Pauline passage in 1 Corinthians 14:33-35 (NIV) 33For God is not a God of disorder but of peace. As in all the congregations of the saints, 34women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says. 35If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church. However, contrast this with Galatians 3:28 (NIV) There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. It seems that equality between genders is obtained in Christ. If so, why the huge difference allowed for men’s function in contrast to women? Scriptures records the role of key women who appeared to have leading roles, even over men. Further, Scriptures records the role of key women who appeared to have leading roles, even over men. Judges 4:4 (NIV) 4Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. Deborah the prophetess effectively led as ruler over the nation of Israel and there are no hints that she was operating outside of divine order. As judge, she presided over many issues, including national issues. She instructed Barak to go into battle. If God’s principle is that women should remain silent in the public worship or public arena, then why on earth would God appoint Deborah as prophetess and judge over the entire nation of Israel? It must be understood that prophets and prophetess had significant roles in the spiritual life of the Jewish nation. They often spoke and taught on behalf of God, as His spokesperson. It would not make sense to argue that these women prophesied only to other women. Indeed, there were many prophetesses recorded in the Scriptures such as Miriam, Moses’ sister (Ex 15:20), Huldah (2 Kings 22:14), Anna (Luke 2:36) and even Noadiah (Neh 6:14) who did wrong before God. It is also interesting that Apostle Paul seemingly recognised a female apostle, in Romans 16:7 (ESV) Greet Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen and my fellow prisoners. They are well known to the apostles, and they were in Christ before me. There is some debate on whether it should be Junia (female) or Junias (male). And whether they were prominent apostles or prominent with the apostles. The majority of scholars today hold that it was female. That both Andronicus and Junia were prominent apostles is the most probable translation. Indeed, of the Early Church Fathers in 4th century, such as Chrysostom spoke highly of Junia as a woman apostle. It was only from the 9th century, that some began to consider it as Junias (male). Clearly, a female apostle would have been involved in teaching and leading others. In Rom 16:1, Paul referred to Phoebe, most likely a deaconess in the church. In Rom 16:3, Paul gave prominence to Priscilla, the wife of Aquila by referring to her first over her husband. And Priscilla was involved in teaching Apollos about Christ. Thus, we see the women had prominent roles, even leadership in the Old Testament and in the New Testament church. It may be concluded that a number of Scriptural evidence of women in prominent leadership roles contradicts the idea of universal application. It may be concluded that a number of Scriptural evidence of women in prominent leadership roles contradicts the idea of universal application. The only way to reconcile these evidences of prominent female roles and these passages is to interpret them as having a limited application due to its context. So what is the context? The historical context of “liberated” women Firstly, it must be remembered that the epistles in the Bible were in effect letters written to various churches. They were occasional letters or epistles written to deal with issues. Historical data reveal the emergence of movement for a “new Roman woman” in that era. These women exercised freedoms and participated in public life in a way far greater than previously. Secondly, historical data reveal the emergence of movement for a “new Roman woman” in that era. These women exercised freedoms and participated in public life in a way far greater than previously. These were not all seen positively and led to considerable resistance. In fact, Augustus Caesar tried to issue legislation against it. In some ways, it could be likened to the feminist movement in the 20th century. These women behaved and dressed outside the social norm. And this was particularly significant amongst the wealthy women who had the means to do so extravagantly. It gave the impression of moral looseness. Thirdly, there were heresies occurring within the Ephesian church that compounded the problem of such enlightened women. It is likely that the heresies included that women are now fully liberated, twisting Paul’s teaching in Gal 3:28. The heresy included advocating that women did not need to get married, nor have children and can hold they own against men, not being in submission to their husbands. This probably led to some women exerting their rights in ways which was perceived by Paul to be destabilising to the church community and its witness. Fourthly, the leaders of these heresies were taking advantage of the situation and the amenability of certain women, particularly the wealthy. Thus, Paul was seeking to restrain their influence amongst these. Part of Paul’s response was to attempt to restrain these “liberated women” for he saw the behaviours and dressing of these women as counter-productive to the mission and witness of the church. The controversies it generated would be damaging. Hence, Paul’s strong instructions to the church at that time. If so, then this explains some of the prohibitions that Paul placed upon the women in the church. Fifthly, in 1 Tim 2:11-14, the Greek word translated women can actually mean either wife or woman, while the term “men” could mean either husband or men. The only way to discern its meanings is through context. Many scholars believe the contexts lean towards the husband/wife interpretation. The arguments are too complex for this particular blog to unpack except to observe that the husband/wife interpretation points to specific issues prevalent in some of the Greek churches. Historical evidence points to churches where women and men are usually segregated. Some wives are likely speaking out during worship services to their husbands and hence disrupting the service. Paul is instructing them to be in quietness and be in submission to their husbands in both 1 Corinthian 14:33-35 as well as in 1 Timothy 2:11-14. CONCLUSIONS Scriptures do not prescribe a universal application where women are to be quiet in the church service. Nor does it prohibit women from teaching in the church, particularly to men. It is argued here that the Scriptures do not prescribe a universal application where women are to be quiet in the church service. Nor does it prohibit women from teaching in the church, particularly to men. Some churches do allow women to teach other women and children while denying them this opportunity when men are involved. In other words, we believe that women can teach and lead in the church, even over men as seen in the example of the judge and prophetess Deborah. Copyright©️2023 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

Have you ever wondered why some people seemed to be totally changed by an encounter with God? Even if the encounter did not seem to be dramatic? On the other hand, there are those who seem to experience even dramatic encounters with God, but there is little change in their lives? Have you ever wondered why prayers for some people to come to Christ or to experience God seem to bring about major effects upon their lives? While prayers for others seem to have little effect? We all know that the Power of God is absolute. He can do anything and everything. His power can bring about changed lives. But is that always the case for everyone who encounters God? What about Pharaoh? He saw and experienced God's power through many miraculous signs and plagues, yet his heart remain hardened before God. Why did he not change? Wasn’t he supposed to be changed by the power of God as he had many undeniable encounters with the Almighty God? In this article we will examine Exodus 8v20-32 and look at why sometimes power encounters or God-encounters work, and at times do not! A power encounter is a demonstration of power and authority. In this case, it is God's power. We will discover that power encounters have a limited ability to bring change. In fact, it does not lie with so much with God but actually, with us. God is sovereign but He has chosen to give us choice in our decisions, in order that we may be responsible for our choices. I will also show how some insights of power encounters can be helpful for parenting situations. The context of Exodus 8 is Moses was called by God to deliver the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. But Pharaoh refused to allow the Israelites to go worship God. So God began to inflict plagues upon the Egyptians. This was the fourth plague. We examine 3 levels of possible change that can be effected by divine encounters, as well as its limitations. IN DEALING WITH COURSE OF ACTIONS When we examine the entire history of God's confrontation with Pharaoh, one key objective was to change Pharaoh's course of action. God wanted Pharaoh to release the Israelites. So power encounters can bring about a change in actions. Exodus 8:25–28 (NIV) 25 Then Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Go, sacrifice to your God here in the land.” 26 But Moses said, “That would not be right. The sacrifices we offer the Lord our God would be detestable to the Egyptians. And if we offer sacrifices that are detestable in their eyes, will they not stone us? 27 We must take a three-day journey into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to the Lord our God, as he commands us.” 28 Pharaoh said, “I will let you go to offer sacrifices to the Lord your God in the wilderness, but you must not go very far. Now pray for me.” It can bring change in course of action A God-encounter can reveal a better way, mission or vision. A God-encounter can reveal a better way, mission or vision. God comes and it is revelation! It is like trying to build a little shack and God shows us a massive mansion! For example, Peter, James and John made a remarkable change in their course of action after having an amazing encounter with Jesus. They left everything behind and followed Jesus. Luke 5:8-11 (NIV) 8When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” 9For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will catch men.” 11So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him. Jesus promised that instead of catching fish they could be world changers. They could catch men. I used to dream about building massive engineering structures to my own sense of achievement and glory. But after encountering God, I realised that it is far better to build God's Kingdom to God's glory! So I gave up everything to follow Jesus! Those who change in this way are often those who seek a better way. Such a God-encounter impacts greatly the achievers and visionaries. Some change their course of action because they are simply obedient. They may not understand but simply obey. It may fail to bring change in course of action. Some are stubborn and will only change their actions when the pain level exceeds their stubbornness level. Yet some are so stubborn in certain behaviours, they refuse to change. Pharaoh refused to change his resistance against God despite the plagues. In such times, a God-encounter expresses His displeasure. It is stop or suffer! Yet some are dense or stubborn. They may be slow to realise the consequences of their actions. They just keep on doing the same things unless they are brought face to face with pain and suffering. Some are stubborn and will only change their actions when the pain level exceeds their stubbornness level. An example is Jonah, who ran away from God's command to preach to the Ninevites. But while running away from God in a ship, God caused a whale to swallow him up. Imagine God kidnapping you while running away from His purposes. Finally, Jonah in fear of death cried out in Jonah 2:7 (NIV) “When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, LORD, and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple.” Jonah finally agreed to preach to the city of Nineveh. Have you ever noticed that God uses both the carrot and stick approaches? In the Bible you find God challenging the Israelites with blessings and curses. Blessings if you obey and curses if they disobey. Rewards if we obey God and punishment if we don't? God's example teaches us an important way to deal with those who are immature in their thinking such as children. God disciplines those He loves because He does not want us to go the wrong way. Deut 8:5 (NIV) Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you. Prov 3:11-12 (NIV) 11 My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke,12 because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in. When children are too young to understand, they need to grasp a few simple things. Who has authority, what the boundaries are and the consequences of crossing the boundaries. In the same way, if parents truly love their children, they will discipline them. When parents fail to discipline their children properly, the children can become unruly and misbehave badly. This can get worse as they grow older. When children are too young to understand, they need to grasp a few simple things. Who has authority, what the boundaries are and the consequences of crossing the boundaries. As a father, I am responsible to be a representative of God the Father to my children. As a father, I am responsible to be a representative of God the Father to my children. My children will better understand God's authority when they first understand my authority. They will better understand about God's boundaries when first understand about my boundaries. They will better understand God's wrath and judgment when they first understand my wrath and judgment. They will better develop a healthy fear of God when they have a healthy fear of their father. In the same way, they can better understand God's love, mercy, forgiveness, etc when they first learn it from their parents. How can our children learn about authority? When we exercise it consistently and firmly in a godly fashion, with grace, with justice. If we allow our children to step all over us, they will not understand nor appreciate authority. Parents should make the ultimate decisions in the home, not our children. Of course, we should consider our children's feelings, etc but we must make the family decisions. As a father, I made my children understand when my boundaries have been crossed. I don't believe it is healthy for parents to be in a shouting match with the children. Children will stretch your boundaries to the limit all the time. If we only discipline them after screaming until we are red in the face, they will stretch us to that limit every time. When we discipline at that time, it is usually not healthy. We are upset and may over-discipline. Then discipline is not effective because our emotional outburst muddy the reasons for discipline. When my children cross the boundaries I have set, I warn them nicely. If they still persist, I warn them again. Usually by the third time I use my stern voice. If they still persist, I discipline them. Whether by using a wooden spoon, of standing in a corner or staying in their room. So they learn. Break my rules and they are disciplined. Break God's rules and they will be punished eventually. Some pain helps them understand about discipline and about things they should not do. Similarly, encounters with God are meant to change our actions. But the question is this: Will we allow it to change our actions? The next level of possible change lies in our understanding. IN DEALING WITH UNDERSTANDING Exodus 8:20–24 (NIV) 20 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Get up early in the morning and confront Pharaoh as he goes to the river and say to him, ‘This is what the Lord says: Let my people go, so that they may worship me. 21 If you do not let my people go, I will send swarms of flies on you and your officials, on your people and into your houses. The houses of the Egyptians will be full of flies; even the ground will be covered with them. 22 “ ‘But on that day I will deal differently with the land of Goshen, where my people live; no swarms of flies will be there, so that you will know that I, the Lord, am in this land. 23 I will make a distinction between my people and your people. This sign will occur tomorrow.’ ” 24 And the Lord did this. Dense swarms of flies poured into Pharaoh’s palace and into the houses of his officials; throughout Egypt the land was ruined by the flies. God told Moses in v22 that, "I will deal differently with the land of Goshen, where my people live; no swarms of flies will be there, so you will know I the Lord am in this land." In this passage, it is recorded for the first time that God made a distinction in the way He brought the plagues upon the land of Egypt. Plagues will come upon the whole of Egypt except in Goshen, where the Israelites dwelled. We do not know for certain whether God made this distinction in the earlier plagues. Perhaps He did. But this is the first time that God emphasized it. God's objective is to reveal that God had come upon the land of Egypt. God was impressing upon Pharaoh that God's favour was upon His people the Israelites. And that His wrath was upon the Egyptians. God wanted to make Pharaoh understand that he was dealing with God Almighty. Power encounters can change our understanding of certain things. It can bring change in understanding. Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus changed his understanding about who the Messiah truly is. Acts 9:3-5 (NIV) 3As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” 5“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. Paul was against Jesus and His followers because he thought they were heretics. But suddenly everything changed when he encountered Jesus! God-encounters can open closed minds. It enlarges our understanding of God. God-encounters can open closed minds. It enlarges our understanding of God. How does it do this? It can help us realise that our view of God is too small. What we thought was impossible, suddenly dawns upon us, is possible in God. Perhaps our view of God is incorrect. A God-encounter can adjust a misconception of God. It can smash our framework of understanding of the purposes of God. A God-encounter can adjust a misconception of God. It can smash our framework of understanding of the purposes of God. Jack Deere was an associate professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, a bastion of conservative cessationist thinking. As far as he was concerned, spiritual gifts do not exist anymore after the apostles. God does not do many miracles anymore. God does not speak directly to believers. Until God turned his life around when he met John White, a famous Christian psychiatrist and writer. And when he experienced the power of God to heal and deliver from demons, it changed his thinking! Matt 16:17-18 (NIV) 17Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven. 18And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. Those who are open to learn. Who are honest and sincere in seeking God. Their minds are opened by God-encounters. Those who are open to learn. Who are honest and sincere in seeking God. Their minds are opened by God-encounters. That is why we need to pray that we ourselves and others encounter God in ways that may enlarge our understanding of God and His purposes. It may fail to bring change in understanding. On the other hand, encounters with God does not guarantee a change in our understanding. Some may remain steadfast in refusing to change their understanding. Jesus observed in Matt 13:13-14 (GWT)13This is why I speak to them this way. They see, but they’re blind. They hear, but they don’t listen. They don’t even try to understand. 14So they make Isaiah’s prophecy come true: ‘You will hear clearly but never understand. You will see clearly but never comprehend. Rigid perspectives, narrow-mindedness or sheer stubbornness. These cause a person to refuse to accept what they have experienced because it conflicts with their understanding. Why is it some fail to change in their understanding? It is due to rigid perspectives, narrow-mindedness or sheer stubbornness. These cause a person to refuse to accept what they have experienced because it conflicts with their understanding. They filter out evidences that contradict their thinking. The Pharisees chose not to believe despite the miracles of Jesus. They refused to accept that Jesus is the Messiah. A pastor friend shared a story of an elderly man who was diagnosed with brain tumour. The pastor was asked to pray for the elderly man, who was not a Christian. The pastor prayed for the man just before he was taken into the operating theatre. The surgeons did a last scan before they cut the man’s head open. To their shock they could not find the tumour except an empty space where it was in the brain. The man was miraculously healed. Most of the relatives who were there in hospital that day accepted Christ. But the elderly man but refused to believe in Christ. Sadly, the most learned of people can suffer from this problem more than the unlearned. The issue is often pride. So beware if you think you know a lot. That is also why, we can pray for someone and God may actually be moving upon their lives to convict them about sin, but they still do not respond. Something has blinded them. It could be pride, fear of something different, spiritual blindness caused by their association with occultic practices. In such cases we need to seek God to ask specifically about the nature of the hindrances. A God-encounter is meant to change our understanding. The question is this: Will we allow it to change our understanding? IN DEALING WITH ATTITUDES Exodus 8:29–32 (NIV) 29 Moses answered, “As soon as I leave you, I will pray to the Lord, and tomorrow the flies will leave Pharaoh and his officials and his people. Only let Pharaoh be sure that he does not act deceitfully again by not letting the people go to offer sacrifices to the Lord.” 30 Then Moses left Pharaoh and prayed to the Lord, 31 and the Lord did what Moses asked. The flies left Pharaoh and his officials and his people; not a fly remained. 32 But this time also Pharaoh hardened his heart and would not let the people go. The deepest level of change is in our attitudes. Because attitudes reflect our character. Power encounters can change our attitudes. In this passage, Moses reminded Pharaoh to change his attitude and not deal deceitfully with God and the Israelites. The deepest level of change is in our attitudes. Because attitudes reflect our character. Power encounters can change our attitudes. It can bring change in attitudes. How can a power encounter change our attitudes? It is the realisation that there is an alternative and better attitude we can have. A godly attitude. Those with sincere and soft hearts will more easily change their attitudes. Peter was a Jew who had an attitude against the Gentiles. That God would not save them. But God intervened supernaturally to change his attitude. Acts 10:11-16 (NIV) 11He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. 12It contained all kinds of four–footed animals, as well as reptiles of the earth and birds of the air. 13Then a voice told him, “Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.” 14“Surely not, Lord!” Peter replied. “I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.” 15The voice spoke to him a second time, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.” 16This happened three times, and immediately the sheet was taken back to heaven. Immediately Cornelius' men arrived and brought Peter to the Gentile soldier's home. Peter was open to do so only because of the vision he had. At one point in my youth, it dawned on me that I was losing the battle by resisting my parents. That being rebellious and obstinate was not getting me anywhere except for a few extra stripes on my leg. So, I decided to change my attitude. I decided that I may as well learn to work with my parents. In the same way, wise parents realise that authority encounters with their children can help change their attitudes. But it is not the total solution. It requires a combination of approaches. It involves discipline, instruction, modelling, encouragement, correction, loving patience, etc. It may fail to bring change in attitudes. Pharaoh chose not to change his attitude despite the encounter with God. He continued to harden his heart. He refused to change. Although God is Almighty and Sovereign, He has chosen that man should be responsible for his choices. God will not wave a wand to change man against man's will. But God chooses to work with man by persuading man. However when there is pride in our hearts, it hinders God's efforts to change us in our attitudes. Psalms 10:4 (NIV) In his pride the wicked does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God. The challenge is this: Will we allow the God-encounter to change our attitudes? CONCLUSION At the end of our lives, we will be held responsible for all our actions, and our attitudes. For we made our choices. For some the merest whisper, the slightest nudge of the Holy Spirit upon our hearts is enough to change our course of action, our understanding or attitudes. For some even the greatest divine miracles will not bend their hearts. Our encounters with God are meant to change us. The question is: Will we allow the encounter to change us? Copyright©️2023 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

Do you know that we are engaged in a war of heavenly proportions? A way being wage not only over the destiny of humankind but your very own soul? A battle waged not between God and the Devil. Well, the Devil sees it as a battle against God, but God does not. But between the Devil and you. It is in the midst of such a pitched battle that God is calling us to rise up and fight! The Christian believer is not called to be gentle, meek and mild. But we are called to be forceful, godly and full-of faith! In this article we will examine some key aspects involved in helping us to fight the good fight based on 1 Tim 1:18-20. FIGHT IN RIGHT DIVISION: ACCORDING TO YOUR CALLING 1 Timothy 1:18–20 (NIV) Timothy, my son, I am giving you this command in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the battle well, What are these “...prophecies once made about you...”? The NASB translates as, “prophecies previously made concerning you.” In other words, these were not just any prophetic words that encourage us. But prophetic words about Timothy’s life. It was most likely prophecies that spoke of God’s purposes or call upon Timothy’s life. The Apostle Paul gave Timothy “instructions in keeping” with these prophecies. Instructions that were in accordance to God’s call upon Timothy’s life. Actually, in the Greek, they were more like “commands”, as the NASB translates it. Now why was Paul giving Timothy these instructions? So that he may fight the good fight! What does it mean, fight the good fight? It is like a boxing coach reminding his protégé, “You have all the makings of a heavyweight boxing champion. That is your destiny. Now you are to remember how I gave you instructions, how I trained you. So that you may fight excellently in accordance to becoming a world heavyweight champion!” A boxer must fight in the right weight division. The heaviest go to the heavyweight. The lightest to the flyweight! So Timothy should fight according to his noble and divine calling. After all, Timothy was an apostolic representative to the churches in Ephesus. Indeed, Timothy was probably an apostle himself. Timothy should pay heed to Paul’s instructions to him in order that he may fight the good fight. To fight the good fight is more than just obtaining salvation at the end of our life. It is also about living according to our calling. To fight the good fight is more than just obtaining salvation at the end of our life. It is also about living according to our calling. The salvation element is highlighted in 1 Timothy 6:12 (NIV) Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. The calling element is highlighted in 1 Corinthians 9:26 (NIV) Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. Therefore, besides the calling as a believer, it encompasses our calling as a minister of Christ. Why the reference to fighting? The fulfilment of God’s destiny for us does not come automatically! Because there is opposition. Spiritual resistance abounds both externally and internally in our hearts. The fulfilment of God’s destiny for us does not come automatically! The Devil is like a prowling lion, out to get us! God has made His grace available to us to fight the good fight. He has provided His Holy Spirit, His Word, the Church. He has provided all the necessarily basis for us to finish the race well. God is saying, “I have given you everything you need, more than enough!” So if we look from the divine perspective, God has made abundant provision for us to finish the race well. He wants us to win! God has made abundant provision for us to finish the race well. He wants us to win! Then we have to look to the believer’s perspective, where we have to apply the grace of God in our lives. We have to make use of it. Appropriate it. That is why the Scriptures exhort us to fight the good fight. We have responsibility to do the fighting! God provides everything necessary for our faith to thrive. What we have to do is cooperate with God. Good parents want their children to succeed at school. So they may provide a good school, perhaps even tuition, encouragement, assistance, support etc. But child has to cooperate by diligently studying. Otherwise, all the provisions by the parents will not come to fruit. God provides everything necessary for our faith to thrive. What we have to do is cooperate with God. In the Hope Church, we seek to have provide everything to help equip members to fight the good fight. We have Next Steps Academy classes to help members learn God’s Word broadly and be equipped for basic ministry. In our wilsonlailing.com are provided many equipping avenues and good articles to strengthen listeners biblical understanding and spiritual walk. Life groups for fellowship and support. Spiritual mentoring to help members mature in life and ministry. Sometimes, some believers might feel that God has not given what is needed to fight the fight. But God has. Question is do we know how to apply it? Are we determined to fight a good fight? If God has called you to be a shepherd, fight accordingly. Spiritual leader, fight accordingly. Christian homemaker, fight accordingly. In the marketplace, fight accordingly. Let’s lift our game according to our calling! FIGHT FAIR: MAINTAIN CLEAR CONSCIENCE 1 Tim 1:19a (NIV) holding on to faith and a good conscience, In a boxing match, the boxers have to fight fair. They have to keep to the rules of engagement – such as no punching below the belt! There has to be integrity in their fighting! It is a matter of good conscience. In 1 Tim, Paul refers to conscience a number of times, and particularly in relation to our faith. 1 Timothy 3:9 (NIV) They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. What is conscience? It is our moral compass. It approves or disapproves our attitudes and actions. Our moral compass is normally set according to the highest standards that we subscribe to. Hence, it is not perfect. Some of God’s laws can be found in our human conscience. Mostly, we form our own laws in our conscience. Romans 2:14 - 15 (NIV) 14 (Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law, 15 since they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them.) What is the relationship between conscience and our faith? Those with a clear conscience can respond to God with integrity. Titus 1:15 (NIV) To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted. Imagine our conscience are like spectacles. When our conscience is clear, it is like having clear spectacles. We can see better and clearer. We can begin to detect what is right or wrong more correctly. Thus, we can respond to God more easily because our spiritual eyesight is clearer. A clear conscience makes for a healthy faith. A clear conscience makes for a healthy faith. If we allow our conscience to get corrupted, our ability to see clearly becomes more and more fogged up. Our hearts are being hardened. Eventually, we will no longer hear God nor respond to His grace. Consequently, we will begin to wander away from His path into the wilderness. A corrupted conscience leads to a withered faith. Eventually, some people’s conscience may become so corrupted or unresponsive to God that it is considered seared. A corrupted conscience leads to a withered faith. Eventually, some people’s conscience may become so corrupted or unresponsive to God that it is considered seared. 1 Timothy 4:2 (NIV) Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. In other words, it is permanently burnt, rendered dysfunctional. Hence to fight the good fight, we should keep our conscience in good shape. Clear it good, pure, clear! How to maintain a clear conscience? You should treasure faith in Christ more than anything else and do what you know is right. Each time you deliberately ignore your conscience, you are hardening your heart. Over time your capacity to tell right from wrong will diminish. As you walk with God, he often speaks to you through your conscience, making clear the difference between right and wrong. Act on those inner tugs to do what is right, then your conscience will remain clear. Watchmen Nee shared about some negative things he harboured about another church member, even though he did not speak it out. But he agreed with what some were saying. At that time, he was trying to publish tracts for evangelising but was facing many obstacles. As he prayed about it God told him to repent and confess his sin against this member. At first, he resisted. He ignored his conscience. After all, he reasoned, I did not say anything bad. Yet his project continued to be stuck. Eventually be repented and confessed to the member his negative feelings. Almost immediately after, the obstacles faded, and his tract project came to fruition successfully. FIGHT TO WIN: KEEP THE FAITH (v19-20) 1 Timothy 1:19–20 (NIV) …which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith. 20 Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme. Keeping the faith means holding fast to Gospel truth and trusting in Christ for salvation. Keeping the faith means holding fast to Gospel truth and trusting in Christ for salvation. Why is this important? Because believers can lose their faith. It can be shipwrecked! Gk “nauageo” What do we mean by a shipwreck? Have you ever seen a ship that is wrecked, dashed upon rocks and broken up? Such ships are totally rendered useless and no longer salvageable. When applied to our faith what does it mean? A shipwrecked faith means a faith that is totally destroyed. A faith no longer viable. In theological terms, it refers to apostasy. A shipwrecked faith means a faith that is totally destroyed. A faith no longer viable. In theological terms, it refers to apostasy. This is reinforced by Paul’s response to 2 key persons, notable leaders amongst these. It is very likely that these were even formerly elders in the Ephesus church. That is the reason for Paul’s strong warnings against wrong teaching and his specifying qualifications for elders later on. In our faith, we should fight to win the race. To fail is to lose your faith. Some Christians like Calvinists believe that it is not possible to lose our faith. Once saved, forever safe. However, as I studied the Scriptures it is clear that Christians can lose their faith. Scriptural evidence for losing the faith. Let’s examine a crucial passage that deal with apostasy. Hebrews 6:4 - 8 (NIV) 4 It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, 5 who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, 6 if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. 7 Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. 8 But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned. To properly interpret this passage, a key question is whether those who fall away were Christians in the first place. Because those who believe that saints cannot lose their salvation try to argue that the passage does not refer to genuine believers. So let’s examine it more carefully. The phrase “once been enlightened” in the Greek actually means “once effectively enlightened”. Who are those effectively enlightened by God’s light? Only believers! The phrase “tasted the heavenly gift” means in the Greek to fully eat or metaphorically to “experience”. Who have experienced the heavenly gift? Only believers! The phrase “shared in the Holy Spirit” means in the Greek partakers in the Holy Spirit. Who have a share in the Holy Spirit? Only believers! The phrase “tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age” can only mean “experienced the promises in God’s Word and the supernatural workings of God”. Who else experiences such things? Believers! In v6, it clearly states, that “if they fall away” – it is impossible to be brought back to repentance. That is apostasy. It is impossible to return to Christ again. Some argue that it was a hypothetical warning. It simply does not make sense to warn about something that cannot happen! What will be result of those who fall way in apostasy? They cannot return again to Christ. “It is impossible for those… if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.” Worse, they will be cursed and rejected by God. “Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. 8 But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.” However, we should make clear that we are not saying that we lose our salvation simply because we sin. Some Armenians believe that. We believe that the grace of God is long-suffering. But if we continue in sin, eventually our conscience becomes seared. We are no longer responsive to God. The next stage is when we no longer believe in or trust in God for salvation. That is a short step away from rejecting God. That is when we lose our salvation. 2 Pet 2:18-22 also clearly speaks about apostasy of the believer. 2 Peter 2:20–22 (NIV) 20 If they have escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and are again entangled in it and are overcome, they are worse off at the end than they were at the beginning. 21 It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than to have known it and then to turn their backs on the sacred command that was passed on to them. 22 Of them the proverbs are true: “A dog returns to its vomit,” and, “A sow that is washed returns to her wallowing in the mud.” Were these believers that Apostle Peter referred to? Surely, “they have escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” must refer to believers. Similarly, “to have known the way of righteousness”, must refer to true believers. What is the outcome for those who “turn their backs on the sacred command that was passed on to them”? Apostle Peter’s conclusion is “they are worse off at the end than they were at the beginning. It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness.” That captures the description of apostasy. Fight to keep the faith. So how do we avoid the shipwrecking of our faith? Do not get complacent. Fight the good fight of faith. Fight to finish the race. It means we should continually appropriate the grace of God in our lives, making sure we continue to hold on to sound doctrines, keeping our fellowship with God, maintaining a clear conscience. Don’t give in if ever the going gets tough, but persevere in faith, looking to God. At the end of Apostle Paul’s life, he was able to claim in 2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV) I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Let’s follow Apostle Paul’s inspiring example. CONCLUSIONS God is calling us to fight the good fight and finish well in our faith. God is calling us to fight the good fight and finish well in our faith. Let’s fight at the level we are supposed to fight. Let’s aim to win the crown that God has reserved for us. May each one of us have the same desire to fight the good fight! Let’s maintain a clear conscience in every we do. Keep the faith that God has given unto us. Copyright©️2023 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

Many Christians may be familiar with the concept of Jesus as our Passover Lamb, who sacrificed Himself in order to save us from God’s wrath towards our sins. Yet many are unfamiliar with the extent of the prophetic details involved in the Passover Feasts. In this series of articles, we unpack a wealth of hidden significance in the instructions that God gave in Exodus 12. In Part 1 we examined Exodus 12:1-5 and in Part 2 we continue to v13 to unveil further truths that apply to us today. PASSOVER LAMB SPECIFICALLY SACRIFICED Specific instructions were given by God about when the lamb was to be killed and by whom. What was the significance? By the whole community Exodus 12:6 (NIV) Take care of them until the fourteenth day of the month, when all the members of the community of Israel must slaughter them at twilight. Just as the Passover lamb was slaughtered by the whole nation, it foretold how Jesus was rejected and sacrificed by the Jewish leadership and community at large. Just as the Passover lamb was slaughtered by the whole nation, it foretold how Jesus was rejected and sacrificed by the Jewish leadership and community at large. They handed Jesus to Pontius Pilate, the roman governor (or prefect) over Judea to be crucified. Pontius was reluctant to crucify Jesus because he could not find a crime serious enough to warrant crucifixion and because his wife had a dream that Jesus was innocent. Mark 15:12-15 (NIV) 12 “What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?” Pilate asked them. 13 “Crucify him!” they shouted. 14 “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!” 15 Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified. The Jewish crowd was easily stirred, persuaded and perhaps partially bribed to reject Jesus. Are we easily swayed as well to be critical of others? Swayed by the writings of others without thinking carefully about issues? Unfortunately, even Christians are easily swayed by some well-known Christian leaders and authors who very strongly criticise others. Be careful about following such people without analysing the issue carefully. We should not accept everything we read in books and internet. At a specific time Exodus 12:6 (NIV) Take care of them until the fourteenth day of the month … slaughter them at twilight. At the 14th of Nisan the lamb was to be slaughtered at twilight. The Jewish clock is different from our modern clock. The day starts at sunset and ends at the next sunset. Thus, their day usually runs from about 6pm to 6pm. Twilight to them is our afternoon. Twilight is from 12 noon to 6pm. It is more complex than that in winter and summer. On the Passover Day 14th Nisan Jesus died at about 3pm, twilight according to Jewish time. In fact, it coincides with the time of the evening sacrifice which occurs between 2:30 to 3pm every day. The last week of Jesus demonstrated the fulfilment of prophecies and typology of Passover lamb. According to my study, Jesus must have died on Thursday afternoon around 3pm. I believe that Jesus had His Last Supper earlier on Wed night. How did I reach such a conclusion? According to my study, Jesus must have died on Thursday afternoon around 3pm. Why not Easter Friday? Because Jesus proclaimed in Matt 12:39-40 (NIV) 39 He answered, “A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a miraculous sign! But none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40 For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. How many of us know that Friday afternoon to Sunday morning does not fulfil 3 days and 3 nights? Thursday afternoon does. We have Thur night, Fri night, Sat night. We have Friday morning, Sat morning and Sun morning when Jesus arose from the dead! But Scriptures speak of Jesus dying just before Sabbath commence. This is the reason why most Christians believe Jesus died on Friday afternoon. Because it is assumed the Sabbath starts at sunset Friday. Most people do not realise that during the Feast of the Unleavened Bread, there actually occurs 2 Sabbaths in that week. Most people do not realise that during the Feast of the Unleavened Bread, there actually occurs 2 Sabbaths in that week. Ex 12:16 (NIV) On the first day hold a sacred assembly, and another one on the seventh day. Do no work at all on these days, except to prepare food for everyone to eat—that is all you may do. The first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, on 15th Nisan, it is a rest day, a Sabbath day. The Scriptures speak of other special days in the Feast of Atonement as a Sabbath day. Lev 23:31-32 (NIV) 31 You shall do no work at all. This is to be a lasting ordinance for the generations to come, wherever you live. 32 It is a sabbath of rest for you, and you must deny yourselves. From the evening of the ninth day of the month until the following evening you are to observe your sabbath.” This is not about the weekly Sabbath, but Feast Sabbaths. So when Jesus was crucified, it was hours from the Unleavened Bread Feast Sabbath. It was followed by the weekly Sabbath. And the day after, which was Sunday, Jesus rose from the dead! God had everything planned out. Isn't God amazing? Consider this. Thousands of years before Jesus was born, God gave a specific prophetic Word about the exact timing and circumstances of Jesus death! Anybody who think “planning” isn’t spiritual and isn’t something that pleases God ought to read more of their Bible! Let’s thank God right now that He’s got all the tiny details right down pat. If you ever feel that things are out of control, remember that here even amid the greatest sacrifice of all time, God was completely in control! God is always sovereign. PASSOVER LAMB SPECIFICALLY APPLIED We discover in this passage that the Passover was applied in a specific way. Why is this significant? Applied blood Exodus 12:7 (NIV) Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the lambs. It is not sufficient to know about Christ's sacrifice. By faith, we apply Christ's blood upon our lives when we accept Him as our personal Saviour. By faith the Israelites were to apply the blood on the lintels of the house in a triune fashion. Note none were applied at door threshold so no one walks over Christ's blood. Notice it was not sufficient to simply agree to the blood’s application. It must be applied to the lintels of the door. When the angelic destroyer came that night, he will see the blood and pass over the household and not kill the firstborn. In the same way, it is not sufficient to know about Christ's sacrifice. By faith, we apply Christ's blood upon our lives when we accept Him as our personal Saviour. Heb 9:14 (NIV) How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God! Since Calvary, God sees Christ's blood and His judgment will pass over us. Since Calvary, God sees Christ's blood and His judgment will pass over us. Consumed body Exodus 12:8–10 (NIV) 8 That same night they are to eat the meat roasted over the fire, along with bitter herbs, and bread made without yeast. 9 Do not eat the meat raw or boiled in water, but roast it over a fire—with the head, legs and internal organs. 10 Do not leave any of it till morning; if some is left till morning, you must burn it. So when we go through bitter experiences, consider Jesus. God brought good out of it, and He can bring good out of our painful experiences as well. The lamb was eaten with bitter herbs to signify bitter experience. For what Jesus went through was truly a painful experience. So when we go through bitter experiences, consider Jesus. God brought good out of it, and He can bring good out of our painful experiences as well. Rom 8:28 (NIV) And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. It was also eaten with unleavened bread to signify purity. It was bread without yeast. For yeast was considered a corrupting influence. 1 Cor 5:6-8 (NIV) 6 …Don’t you know that a little yeast works through the whole batch of dough? 7 Get rid of the old yeast that you may be a new batch without yeast—as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. 8 Therefore let us keep the Festival, not with the old yeast, the yeast of malice and wickedness, but with bread without yeast, the bread of sincerity and truth. The lamb is to be fully consumed. Leftovers to be totally burned. What a waste! What is the significance? It symbolises that the lamb is available for a season only. After that it is judgment. There will be no more grace available. The salvation value of lamb is more than enough for all who would believe. In fact, there will be leftovers. As Jesus, the Son of God died for the sins of the whole world. 1 John 2:2 (NIV) He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. The atoning sacrifice of Jesus is more than sufficient for the whole world.But it is effective only for those who believe in Christ. The atoning sacrifice of Jesus is more than sufficient for the whole world. But it is effective only for those who believe in Christ. Just as a Christmas gift can be set aside for me, but it is only truly mine when I accept it. So we do not teach Universalism which thinks that all sin of the entire human race has been dealt with at the sacrifice. The atoning sacrifice is only effective for those who accept and trust in what Christ did. This is known as unlimited atonement because the provision of atonement is to every human being. Most Calvinist theologians believe in a limited atonement, where Jesus died only specifically for believers. Because they cannot accept that the blood of Christ was wasted in any way. But this contradicts Scripture that teaches Christ died for all, and there are many supporting Scriptures, and also the typology here. His grace for us is often wasted!He provides for us the grace to grow to the fullest potential in Christ. Yet few Christians reach their fullest potential in Christ, because they do not appropriate all of God's provision. And when you think about it, why would God not be willing to allow for His divine provision to be wasted? After all His grace for us is often wasted! He provides for us the grace to grow to the fullest potential in Christ. Yet few Christians reach their fullest potential in Christ, because they do not appropriate all of God's provision. God loves us so much, He lavishes His love upon us, but many times His love is wasted upon us. In the sense that is not always appreciated or reciprocated. That is why I don’t want God's grace to me to be wasted! How about you? PASSOVER LAMB SPECIFICALLY SIGNIFICANT Exodus 12 was to be the first Passover. In fact, many Jews still celebrate it today. A memorial Exodus 12:11 (NIV) This is how you are to eat it: with your cloak tucked into your belt, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand. Eat it in haste; it is the Lord’s Passover. Passover was a memorial to the Jews about God's deliverance from Egypt but also an indicator pointing towards the coming Messiah's sacrifice. For Christians this has been replaced with communion which carries many elements of the same symbolic significance. But instead of blood we have wine. Instead of meat we have bread. We take communion as a memorial to remember Jesus the REAL Passover Lamb, who has already died for us and paid the price of our sins. When we take communion, it is not to remember the “Passover” when God’s judgement passed over Egypt, sparing the Israelites. We take communion as a memorial to remember Jesus the REAL Passover Lamb, who has already died for us and paid the price of our sins. That God’s judgement will also Passover us! Signifies God's holy judgment Exodus 12:12 (NIV) “On that same night I will pass through Egypt and strike down every firstborn of both people and animals, and I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD. On that night, God judged the Egyptians because they did not believe God’s warnings. In the New Testament, God judges all who do not believe in God's Lamb. Woe to those who reject the Lamb of God, because the only the wrath of a Holy God remains. John 3:18 (NIV) Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. Signifies God's holy mercy Exodus 12:13 (NIV) The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are, and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt. The Passover Lamb was God's merciful provision to save the Israelites who believed. God in His holiness must deal with sin. Yet God in His mercy provided a way of salvation to those who choose to trust in God. God's mercy is always evident. In fact, God could have wiped out all the Egyptians from day one. But He did not! After 10 warnings, God could be justified in wiping the entire nation out. Yet He did not. He only wiped out the firstborn. God’s mercy has been provided through Jesus Christ to all who would believe. His mercy has been extended even to the Gentiles. Therefore, we should be thankful to God. And we should never try to take advantage of God's mercy. CONCLUSION The Feast of Passover was not simply a memorial celebration for the Jews. It spoke prophetically of what Jesus the true Passover Lamb would do. God is a holy God who will judge unbelievers. Yet God in His loving mercy has provided the Passover Lamb in order that His wrath will pass over those who have faith in Christ Jesus. Copyright©️2023 by Wilson Lim. All rights reserved. Materials are free to be distributed in whole or part as long as proper acknowledgement is given to the author and not sold for profit.

Why did God introduce the Feast of Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread? Both were introduced together in Exodus 12. Indeed, the Festival of Unleavened Bread commences the day of the Passover. The purpose of the Festival is clearly expressed in Exodus 12:17 (NIV) “Celebrate the Festival of Unleavened Bread, because it was on this very day that I brought your divisions out of Egypt. Celebrate this day as a lasting ordinance for the generations to come.” The Festival was to remind the Israelites of God’s deliverance from Egyptian slavery. The Passover, however, is to serve a different purpose. Exodus 12:26–27 (NIV) 26 And when your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean to you?’ 27 then tell them, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when he struck down the Egyptians.’ ” To remind of the day that the angel of judgment passed over the Israelites homes and spared their lives while decimating every firstborn amongst the Egyptians. The Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread were types, a prophetic shadow of realities that were to come. Yet it served a greater purpose. As a prophetic declaration of what God was ultimately going to do through the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. The Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread were types, a prophetic shadow of realities that were to come. Each key element of the ceremony contained seeds of prophetic truth pointing to what would occur with Jesus. It reveals to us how God has planned in amazing detail for your Saviour to be sacrificed for you. In these series of articles, we will examine some major truths about the Passover Lamb. PASSOVER LAMB SPECIFICALLY PREPARED God gave very specific instructions for the Israelites to prepare a sacrificial lamb in Exodus 12. What was the significance of the preparation? Prophetic of a specific time Exodus 12:1–3 (NIV) 1 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron in Egypt, 2 “This month is to be for you the first month, the first month of your year. 3 Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man is to take a lamb for his family, one for each household. In v2, God instructed the Israelites to make that month the first month of their year. Previously, the Israelites had their civil calendar. God instituted a new calendar which became their religious calendar. In this new calendar, the first month is what is now known as the month of Nisan. On the 10th of Nisan, a sacrificial lamb or goat is kept aside. This lamb was to be slaughtered after 4 days, at twilight at the end of 14th of Nisan. Exodus 12:6 (NIV) “Take care of them until the fourteenth day of the month, when all the members of the community of Israel must slaughter them at twilight.” In other words, the Passover meal is eaten on the 15th evening of Nisan because the Jewish day starts at twilight. How did this relate to Jesus? On the 10th Nisan, Jesus enters Jerusalem publicly on donkey. How do we know this? John 12:1 (NIV) Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. John 12:12–13 (NIV) 12 The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. 13 They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!” Jesus was with Lazarus 6 days before Passover, that is the 9th Nisan since Passover occurred on the 15th Nisan. When Jesus entered Jerusalem it was the next day, the 10th of Nisan. Matching exactly the day which the Israelites are to take a sacrificial lamb and reserve it for Passover. Many of the populace saw Jesus as the prophet of God at His arrival to Jerusalem. However, God saw Jesus as the Lamb who was being kept aside for sacrifice. The Lamb was brought into the slaughterhouse of Jerusalem, yet not touched for 4 days. So the Passover lamb preparation typified what would happen to Jesus, particularly in the last week. God always has His perfect timing. Even in the sacrifice of Jesus. Gal 4:4-5 (NIV) 4 But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, 5 to redeem those under law... In the perfect climax of time, God sacrificed Jesus to save us from our sins. In the perfect climax of time, God sacrificed Jesus to save us from our sins. In man's time it was 4 days being set aside. In eternity, the Lamb of God was set aside before the earth was formed. 1 Pet 1:19-20 (NIV) 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. 20 He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. Moses had not yet even given the Law. But God is already giving a detailed account of how the Israelites would be forgiven for breaking the Law! Consider this. Moses had not yet even given the Law. But God is already giving a detailed account of how the Israelites would be forgiven for breaking the Law! How amazing is our God? God also has His perfect timing for our lives. We have to be patient and learn to discern what God is doing. The foolish rush ahead of God and make a mess. We have to be patient and discern what God is doing. If God has given you promises, it will come to pass in His time. God has planned it out in detail. A prophetic word was given to one of the senior leaders in our church when she was still a university student. In the prophecy, she was seen ministering to a whole bunch of young children. She was taken aback as she had no interest in children. More than 20 years later, after she had returned to her home country, she participated in a mission trip. During the trip she was given responsibility to minister to a group of children. While the children were running around her, it suddenly occurred to her that this was fulfilment of the prophecy given her over 20 years ago! Sometimes God’s promises may be fulfilled many years later. Sometimes God's promises to you may have conditions, it will come to pass if you fulfil the conditions. Prophetic of a specific criteria Exodus 12:5 (NIV) The animals you choose must be year-old males without defect, and you may take them from the sheep or the goats. God set specific criteria of the sacrificial lamb. It was to be firstborn male and without defect. Again this pointed to Jesus. God set specific criteria of the sacrificial lamb. It was to be firstborn male and without defect. Again this pointed to Jesus. Jesus, the Bible explains to us is the Second and Greater Adam. Adam was the head of humanity and representative of the entire human race. When he fell into sin, sin entered the entire human race. Rom 5:12 (NIV) Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned— Every human being was in Adam in seed form. When Adam sinned, we all sinned with him. From this comes the theological concept of original sin. Every human being was in Adam in seed form. When Adam sinned, we all sinned with him. We are all guilty of sin. Hence no baby is born innocent of sin, even though the baby did not personally commit a sin yet. Some hold to Pelagian's view, or are Semi-Pelagians who either hold to the view that there man is not fundamentally sinful or reject the concept of original sin. Some Arminians hold to this concept. That is not Scriptural. Jesus represents the second and spiritual Adam who brings life. Jesus represents the second and spiritual Adam who brings life. Rom 5:17 (NIV) For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the second and spiritual Adam who represents all who fulfil God's holy requirements. 1 Cor 15:45-47 (NIV) 45 So it is written: “The first man Adam became a living being”; the last Adam, a life–giving spirit. 46 The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual. 47 The first man was of the dust of the earth, the second man from heaven. Passover lamb had to be male. It also had to be without defect to typify the sinlessness of the coming Saviour. That is why the Passover lamb had to be male. It also had to be without defect to typify the sinlessness of the coming Saviour. 1 John 3:5 (NIV) …he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. The Saviour had to be sinless because all sinners have to die for their sins. Only a sinless man need not die for his sins and therefore could die in our place. As no human is sinless, the Son of God had to come and become a human. This is known theologically as the incarnation. So Jesus fulfilled fully the typology of the Passover Lamb. Thus, it may be concluded that preparations of the Passover Lamb was prophetic in its timing and criteria to points towards the sacrifice of Jesus as the Lamb of God. In Part 2 we will examine further the prophetic significance of the Passover as it relates to Jesus the Passover Lamb. Copyright©️2023 by Wilson Lim. 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