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Bible Study -
Devotional
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Contributed by Phil Spadaro
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Saturday, 07 October 2006 |
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Page 2 of 2
Paul tells us to, “ be patient with everyone “. Why? Our natural tendency is to become impatient. “Why aren't they changing?” “Why can't they just get it?” “We've talked about this?” These phrases are indicators of frustration Patients, vision, prayer and consistency help build up those we are trying to help.
Finally – the proud (arrogant); what to do with them? Thessalonians 5:14 does not address their attitude and sin.
Proverbs 9:7"Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse.
Proverbs 9:8 Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you.
Matthew 7:6 Don't give what is holy to dogs or toss your pearls before pigs, or they will trample them with their feet, turn, and tear you to pieces.
Although we should certainly challenge those who are proud and arrogant, we should not waste too much time with them. God deals with them. (James 4:6) "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Looking through the bible, arrogant men needed something extra to bring them to their knees. Something more than a talk from a brother. Challenge and warn the brother, then step back as God “talks” to them.
Hopefully we can use the bible to discern where people are so we can best help them. If we apply these principles, we can build unity within our brotherhood and not shut others down or enable sinful behavior. We can facilitate growth and maturity and have a sense of fulfillment and not frustration. Most importantly we can be patient with one another. Patients builds unity and trust, something from which we can all benefit.
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How to love others
Written by Alan on 2006-10-07 07:21:13
Good commentary.
The Greek word translated "idle" in a few translations of 1 Thess 5:14 is more often translated as "disorderly" or "unruly". It is a military term referring to those who have broken ranks. They are not living according to the pattern they have been given. They are not being productive because they are not marching with the rest.
Some time those who appear to be simply "idle" or who have broken ranks are actually uninspired. When a person doesn't see anything constructive they can do to help a situation, they are not motivated to do anything. But when a person sees something they can do that will make a positive difference, that can be tremendously motivating. People need to be inspired to believe that they can make a difference. And they need to be given something they know they can do, something that matters.
If that doesn't get them moving, then they need to be warned about being unruly / disorderly / idle. It does not say to punish the idle. Warning is just to tell them what the consequences of their idleness will be...consequences not from man but from God.
If the idleness / disorderliness is widespread, one has to ask whether leadership has broken ranks also. Leaders must set the example, and inspire others to follow. |
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Last Updated ( Saturday, 07 October 2006 )
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Bible Study 
