Tag: care

The Naming

Rev. Cecil W Thorn

Ephesians 3:15 (ESV):

“From whom every family in heaven and on earth is named.”

Context and Commentary:

The Immediate Context:

This verse is part of Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians (Ephesians 3:14-21). He begins by bowing in reverence before God the Father, acknowledging His authority and the unity of His creation. Verse 15 emphasizes that God is the source and sustainer of all families—both spiritual and earthly.

Key Themes in Ephesians 3:15:

The Fatherhood of God:

Paul emphasizes that God is the ultimate Father. The term “every family” suggests universality, highlighting that all families, whether heavenly (angels, saints in heaven) or earthly (believers and humanity as a whole), derive their identity and purpose from God.

Unity in Creation:

The verse ties into the broader theme of Ephesians: unity in Christ. The naming of every family reflects God’s sovereignty and creative power, uniting all under His authority.

Identity and Belonging:

In biblical culture, naming someone often signifies authority or a close relationship. By stating that every family is “named” by God, Paul conveys that all creation is intimately known and loved by Him.

Commentary Insights:

Heavenly and Earthly Families:

Heavenly Families: Includes angels and those who have gone before us in faith. They, too, derive their being from God and are part of His kingdom.

Earthly Families: Refers to humanity, with an emphasis on the family of believers who are adopted into God’s family through Christ (Ephesians 1:5).

Naming Indicates Authority and Care:

In the Bible, to name something signifies authority over it. God naming every family signifies His sovereign rule and intimate relationship with His creation. It reminds believers of His care and provision.

Universal Reach of God’s Fatherhood:

God’s fatherhood extends beyond cultural, racial, and geographical boundaries. This verse subtly reinforces the unity of all believers as one family in Christ, regardless of their earthly differences.

Application for Today:

Find Your Identity in God: As members of a “family named by God,” believers should rest in the assurance of His care and authority over their lives.

Unity in Christ: This verse challenges divisions, reminding Christians that all are equally valued as part of God’s family.

Live Under God’s Authority: Recognizing God as the source of all names and families calls believers to submit to His will and trust in His guidance.

Final Thoughts on Ephesians 3:15 (ESV):

This verse encapsulates the profound truth of God’s universal fatherhood, portraying Him as the source of all identity and unity. It reminds us that every family, whether heavenly or earthly, owes its existence and purpose to Him. The act of naming by God reflects His sovereign authority and deep care for all creation, underscoring the intimate relationship He desires with humanity.

Ephesians 3:15 challenges believers to find their true identity in God and to embrace the unity we share as part of His divine family. It invites us to reject earthly divisions and live in the humility, love, and submission that flow from acknowledging God as our ultimate Father. In a fragmented world, this verse offers a call to unity and belonging, reminding us that we are all cherished under His divine authority.

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Copyright Notice © 2024 Rev. Cecil Thorn Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this work authored by Rev. Cecil Thorn, to distribute, display, and reproduce the work, in its entirety, including verbatim copies, provided that no fee is charged for the copies or distribution. This permission is granted for non-commercial distribution only.

SELLING THE GOSPEL MESSAGE

Rev. Cecil Thorn

Let me share a recent experience that deeply impacted me. Not long ago, I encountered someone dedicated to outreach among the homeless—feeding them, sharing the gospel, offering salvation. They approached me seeking advice on how to proceed.

They mentioned giving out free Bibles to those they reached, but then came a crucial question: Our discussion turned to discipleship, and a significant hurdle emerged: they lacked funds for structured study materials.

I took it upon myself to search online for affordable resources. Sadly, even the cheapest options were beyond their means—$10 per book was simply too much. Frustration mounted as I realized the financial barrier preventing us from providing essential guidance without cost.

Determined to make a difference, I resolved to write a comprehensive discipleship training program myself. I compiled it and handed it over to them, free of charge. This experience crystallized for me the essence of the gospel: it’s about giving generously, not receiving.

Reflecting on my own work as an author, I decided to remove my books from platforms like Amazon. If my message truly reflects the gospel, it shouldn’t come with a price tag. Instead, I now offer them freely on my website, ensuring anyone can access them without cost.

This highlights the challenges faced in ministry and the commitment to providing resources freely, in line with the spirit of the gospel.

Regarding the Gospel Message:

Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV): “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

Jesus commands his disciples to spread the gospel to all nations, baptizing and teaching them to obey his commands. The central message is to share the message of salvation 

Matthew 10:8-9 (KJV), Jesus instructs his disciples, “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses.” 

These words underscore a profound principle: the gospel message and the spiritual gifts we receive from God are not commodities to be bought or sold for personal gain. Jesus specifically commands his disciples to freely share these gifts, without seeking material compensation. This challenges us to consider whether charging for aspects closely tied to the gospel, such as books, teachings, or spiritual services, aligns with the spirit of Jesus’ teachings. It’s essential to ensure that the core message of God’s grace and love remains accessible to all, without financial barriers.

Regarding Money:

Mark 11:15-17 (KJV):“And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves; And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple. And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.”
Matthew 6:19-21 (KJV): “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
Matthew 6:24 (KJV): “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”

Jesus warns against prioritizing earthly wealth and material possessions over spiritual values. He emphasizes the spiritual and eternal significance of serving God rather than pursuing riches, cautioning against the dual allegiance to God and money.

Contemporary Issues:

In modern times, there are concerns about financial exploitation within Christian ministries, where leaders may solicit money for various goods and services, including books, seminars, revivals, concerts, and more:

Critics argue: Some leaders may exploit their positions of influence, urging followers to donate money under the guise of spiritual blessings or rewards. This can potentially contradict Jesus’ call to freely share the gospel and prioritize spiritual growth over financial gain.

Biblical perspective: The Bible condemns using ministry for personal enrichment or exploiting believers for monetary gain. It emphasizes integrity, humility, and genuine care for others in all aspects of ministry.

Divine Justice:
Matthew 7:21-23 (KJV): “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

Jesus warns that outward acts in his name do not guarantee entrance into the kingdom of heaven if they are tainted by greed or self-interest. Those who misuse their ministry for personal gain may face severe judgment.

God’s Care and Justice:
The Bible assures that God is just and will hold everyone accountable for their actions, including those within Christian leadership. Those who exploit others for personal wealth or status will face consequences.
1 Timothy 6:10 (KJV): “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”

This verse underscores the danger of placing money and wealth above spiritual values. It warns against the love of money, which can lead to moral and spiritual downfall.

In conclusion, Jesus’ teachings call for spreading the gospel freely and prioritizing spiritual values over material gain. The Bible condemns exploitation in ministry and emphasizes God’s justice and care for those who misuse their positions. It urges believers to uphold integrity, humility, and genuine care for others, ensuring that ministry focuses on serving God and others rather than personal enrichment.

Copyright Notice © 2024 Rev. Cecil Thorn Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this work authored by Rev. Cecil Thorn, to distribute, display, and reproduce the work, in its entirety, including verbatim copies, provided that no fee is charged for the copies or distribution. This permission is granted for non-commercial distribution only.

Praying for God, Country and Individuals

Rev. Cecil Thorn

Praying for God, country, and individuals serves various purposes and is motivated by different aspects of faith and moral responsibility. Here are some reasons why people may choose to pray for these entities:

1. Connection with God:

   – Communion: Prayer is a means of communing with God, expressing gratitude, seeking guidance, and deepening one’s relationship with the divine.

  • “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” – Matthew 6:6 (NIV)
  • “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

2. For the Country:

   – Peace and Well-being: Praying for the country often includes asking for peace, stability, and prosperity. Individuals may pray for their nation’s leaders, citizens, and overall welfare.

  • “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” – 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
  • “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those who love you be secure.'” – Psalm 122:6 (NIV)

   – Righteous Governance: People might pray for leaders to make just and wise decisions, following principles that align with ethical and moral values.

  • “When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.” – Proverbs 29:2 (NIV)
  • “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” – 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)

3. For Individuals:

   – Healing and Comfort: Prayers for individuals often involve seeking healing, comfort, and strength during times of illness, distress, or sorrow.

  • “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” – James 5:14 (NIV)
  • “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3 (NIV)

   – Guidance and Wisdom: Individuals may pray for themselves and others to receive guidance, wisdom, and discernment in making important life decisions.

  • “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5 (NIV)
  • “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” – Psalm 32:8 (NIV)

4. Altruism and Compassion:

   – Empathy: Praying for others reflects a sense of empathy and compassion, recognizing the interconnectedness of all people and expressing a desire for their well-being.

  • “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2 (NIV)
  • “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” – Romans 12:15 (NIV)

   – Love and Care: Praying for individuals, including those we may not know personally, demonstrates a commitment to love, care, and support one another.

  • “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34 (NIV)
  • “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14 (NIV)

5. Aligning with Spiritual Values:

   – Seeking God’s Will: Praying for God involves aligning oneself with God’s will and seeking to be instruments of divine purpose in the world.

  • “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” – 1 John 5:14 (NIV)
  • “Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” – Psalm 143:10 (NIV)

   – Reflecting Virtues: Praying for the well-being of others reflects virtues such as kindness, humility, and selflessness, which are often central to various religious teachings.

  • “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” – Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
  • “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” – Philippians 4:5 (NIV)

6. Promoting Unity and Harmony:

   – Unity in Diversity: Praying for a country and its people can promote a sense of unity and harmony, encouraging individuals to focus on shared values and common goals.

  • “So in Christ Jesus, you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:26-28 (NIV)
  • “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” – Ephesians 4:3 (NIV)

   – Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Prayers may include requests for forgiveness, reconciliation, and the healing of divisions within communities and nations.

  • “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14 (NIV)
  • “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13 (NIV)

It’s important to note that the reasons for prayer is often seen as a way to express one’s faith, seek divine intervention, and contribute to the well-being of the broader community.

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