Morning Message: His Yoke Is Easy

Bobservations' Column
Titled - "His Yoke is Easy"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

The Epistle to the Galatians that we begin today is not just for a single Church. Asia Minor, which we refer to as Turkey today, was at the time of the letter called Anatolia. The region known as Galatia covered a large area of central Anatolia. There in that part of the country we find cities that we have read of in Acts of the Apostles: Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe were small cities but worthwhile stops in Paul’s travels. These were the Galatian Churches.

The region was named after the Gauls of Europe (Celts) after they found themselves unwelcome in their skirmishes to expand eastward to the Balkan States.
The Gauls eventually moved to central Anatolia as warrior-immigrants between 300 and 200 BC, centuries even before Christ. They established the Galatian region as their own, and it was called after them.

While Paul was near Lystra and Derbe, he met a young Timothy as a follower. It was several years later that Paul learned of problems in the region. Judaizers had followed Paul and preached the Jewish Law, requiring these new Gentile Converts to follow Jewish Laws and customs. Colossians 2:8 through chapter 3 goes into great detail of the problem also visited upon the Galatian churches, namely the completeness of Christ in the heart and mind of the Believers, rather than following laws made BY the Jews, and FOR the Jews in the practice of THEIR faith. (If Jews could not follow their own laws, what chance would gentiles have?)

The Judaizers saw this new faith in Jesus as a sect of Judaism, therefore in their minds, the Levitical Laws needed to be adopted by these new Christians. Paul disagreed vehemently! He had tasted of the freedom that Christ gave to those who follow His teachings, and knew that following Christ was a better way to live.

This wonderful Epistle is full of solid doctrine for Christian Churches and Believers: follow Christ Jesus rather than a human interpretation of His teachings! This is an important difference, and the reason that the Gospels were written: to let the Jews know that there was a better way to Worship God, and to bring them out of bondage to those laws and customs that even Paul declares were against us!

“For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” - Matthew 11:30

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Galatians 1:1-12 - "His Yoke Is Easy"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Paul wrote to the churches in southern Galatia after having a hand in starting them on his first missionary journey to Asia Minor. Paul’s close relationship to these churches helps to explain the extremely strong tone he took with them from the very beginning of the letter. Galatians exhibits Paul at his angriest, as he risked the good favor of the converts in those churches to make sure they were on the path of truth and not led off into deception. In fact, to emphasize the seriousness of his purpose, he took the pen from his scribe and wrote the end of the letter himself in large letters (Galatians 6:11).

Upon arriving back in Antioch from his first missionary journey after eighteen months on the road, Paul received a report that the churches he had started in Galatia had fallen into hard times—specifically, they had fallen into error. A group of Judaizers—those who sought to make living under the Mosaic Law a requirement of the Christian faith—had gained an influence in the Galatian churches. Paul wrote the book a few months before his attendance at the Jerusalem Council in AD 49, a meeting where the apostles would take up this very topic (Acts 15:1–30).

In advance of the Jerusalem Council, Paul’s letter speaks wisdom and clarity into the first real controversy that plagued the church in its early years—the relationship between Christian Jews and Christian Gentiles. Paul’s aggressive tone shows just how important it was to him that the people embrace unity in Christ, no matter their racial distinctions. For him, this was no minor issue, as he went so far as to call the Galatians deserters of Christ, people turning from the truth toward a gospel contrary to the one they had received from Paul (Galatians 1:6–9).

When the Galatians fell away so quickly from the gospel of grace Paul had preached to them, they also made clear their disloyalty to Paul’s authority as an apostle. Therefore, Paul began the letter to the Galatians by spending two chapters defending that very issue. Only in chapter 3 did he begin to get to the heart of their error; namely, that these Galatians sought to be justified by the Mosaic Law. In contrast, Paul presented his argument that justification comes to people by faith in Jesus Christ, not by their works under the Law.

Part of the problem that confronted the Galatians came in one of the arguments made by the Judaizers. These false teachers suggested that to live by grace and in freedom meant to live a lawless and therefore degenerate life. And so, in the final chapters of the letter, Paul made clear that justification—an act of grace through faith—need not result in a sinful lifestyle. Because Christians have been freed from bondage to the sinful nature, we now have the path of holiness open to us.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

Paul, an Apostle (1:1) - Paul was born in Tarsus, a city in the province of Cilicia, not far from Galatia.  Under the famous rabbi, Gamaliel, Paul received a thorough training in the OT Scriptures and in the rabbinic traditions at Jerusalem (Acts 22:3).  He was a member of the ultraorthodox sect of the Pharisees (Acts 23:6) and was one of the rising stars in Judaism.  Paul's life took a sudden turn when on his way to Damascus from Jerusalem to persecute Christians, he was confronted by the risen, glorified Christ.  That dramatic encounter turned Paul from Christianity's chief persecutor to its greatest missionary.  "Apostle" in general terms means "one who is sent with a commission."  The apostles of Jess Christ - The Twelve and Paul - were special ambassadors or messengers chosen and trained by Christ to lay the foundation of the early church and to be the channels of God's completed revelation (cf. Acts 1:2, 2:42; Ephesians 2:20).

Not From Men . . . But Through Jesus Christ (1:1) - Defending his apostleship against the false teachers' attack, Paul emphasized that Christ Himself appointed him as an apostle before he met the other apostles (cf. vv. 17, 18; Acts 9:3-9).

Raised Him from the Dead (1:1) - Paul included this important fact to show that the risen and ascended Christ Himself appointed him, thus Paul was a qualified witness of His resurrection (cf. Acts 1:22). 

Churches of Galatia (1:2) - The churches Paul founded at Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe during his first missionary journey (Acts 13:14-14:23).

Grace to You and Peace (1:3) - Even Paul's typical greeting attacked the Judaizers' legalistic system.  If salvation is by works as they claimed, it is not of "grace" and cannot result in "peace," since no one can be sure he has enough good works to be eternally secure.

For Our Sins (1:4) - No one can avoid sin by human effort or law-keeping (Romans 3:20); therefore, it must be forgiven, which Christ accomplished through His atoning death on the cross (3:13).

Present Evil Age (1:4) - The Greek word for "age" does not refer to a period of time but an order or system, and in particular to the current world system ruled by Satan.

The Will of Our God (1:4) - The sacrifice of Christ for salvation was the will of God designed and fulfilled for His glory. (Matthew 26:42; John 6:38-40; Acts 2:22, 23; Romans 8:3, 31, 32; Ephesians 1:7, 11; Hebrews 10:4-10).

Turning Away (1:6) - This is better translated "deserting."  The Greek word was used of military desertion, which was punishable by death.  The form of this Greek verb indicates that the Galatian believers were voluntarily deserting grace to pursue the legalism taught by the false teachers.

So Soon (1:6) - This Greek word can mean either "easily" or "Quickly" and sometimes both.  No doubt both senses characterized the Galatians' response to the false teachers' heretical doctrines.

Called You (1:6) This could be translated, "who called you once and for all" (2 Thessalonians 2:13, 14; 2 Timothy 1:8, 9; 1 Peter 1:15), and refers to God's effectual call to salvation.

Grace of Christ (1:6) - God's free and sovereign act of mercy in granting salvation through the death and resurrection of Christ, totally apart from any human work or merit.

Different Gospel (1:6) - The Judaizers' perversion of the true gospel.  They added the requirements, ceremonies, and standards of the Old Covenant as necessary prerequisites to salvation.

Trouble (1:7) - The Greek word could be translated "disturb" and means "to shake back and forth, " such as to agitate or stir up.  Here, it refers to the deep emotional disturbance the Galatian believers experienced.

Pervert (1:7) - To turn something into its opposite.  By adding law to the gospel of Christ, the false teachers were effectively destroying grace, turning the message of God's undeserved favor toward sinners into a message of earned and merited favor.

The Gospel of Christ (1:7) - The good news of salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.

We, or An Angel from Heaven (1:8) - Paul's point is hypothetical, calling on the most unlikely examples for false teaching - himself and holy angels.  The Galatians should receive no messenger, regardless of how impeccable his credentials, if his doctrine of salvation differs in the slightest degree from God's truth revealed through Christ and the apostles.

Accursed (1:8) - The translation of the familiar Greek word anathema, which refers to devoting someone to destruction in eternal hell (cf. Romans 9:3; 1 Corinthians 12:3; 16:22).

As We Have Said Before (1:9) - This refers to what Paul taught during an earlier visit to these churches, not to a previous comment in this epistle.

Anyone (1:9) - Paul turns from the hypothetical case of verse 8 to the real situation faced by the Galatians.  The Judaizers were doing just that and were to be devoted to destruction because of their damning heresy.

Still Pleased Men (1:10) - Paul's previous motivation when he used to persecute Christians on behalf of his fellow Jews.

A Bondservant of Christ (1:10) - Paul had become a willing slave of Christ which cost him a great deal of suffering from others (6:17).  Such personal sacrifice is exactly opposite the goal of pleasing men (6:12).

Make Known to You (1:11) - The strong Greek verb Paul used here often introduced an important and emphatic statement. 

The Gospel . . . Not According to Man (1:11) - The gospel Paul preached was not human in origin or it would have been like all other human religion, permeated with works righteousness born of man's pride and Satan's deception (Romans 1:16).

Neither Received it from Man, Nor Was I Taught It (1:12) - This was in contrast to the Judaizers, who received their religious instruction from rabbinic tradition.  Most Jews did no study the actual Scriptures; instead, they used human interpretations of Scripture as their religious authority and guide.  Many of their traditions not only were no taught in Scripture but also contradicted it (Mark 7:13). 

Through the Revelation (1:12) - This refers to the unveiling of something previously kept secret - in this case, Jesus Christ.  While he knew about Christ, Paul subsequently met Him personally on the road to Damascus and received the truth of the gospel from Him (Acts 9:1-16).

Morning Message: The Unity of the Church

Bobservations' Column
Titled - "The Unity of the Church"
Written By: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

This final chapter of Paul’s Epistle to the Romans is in three parts. The first part takes us through verse 16, as Paul provides an introduction for Phebe, the courier of the Roman Epistle, and then offers greetings to friends, and family alike who are in the Church at Rome. The Roman letter introduces us to some of Paul’s family, who were also Believers, some even before Paul became one!

Verses 17-20 supplies warnings of those whose doctrines are not those of Christ, but of deceivers, and blessings for those that remain faithful to Christ’s teachings.

From verse 20 through the end is like an author’s acknowledgements at the end of a novel, for all those that have been a help to him during his eighteenth months in Corinth.

This 16th chapter gives us insight into Paul’s family and his helpers in his travels around the known world of that time. The theme of this Epistle is clearly “The Gospel of Christ” and its unifying effect, and its importance to the Church. The Gospel is foundation, doctrine, teachings, and encouragement in-the-Spirt as new believers become mature in their faith. Names are named, thanks and blessings are offered, warnings supplied, and the “Mystery of the Church” becomes a unifying aspect of the entire church, truly being of one mind!

The Apostle’s eyesight was diminished, either from the temporary blinding on the Damascus Road, or a common eye disease that plagued many because of the arid climate of the region. And so, the actual scribe of the Epistle, a man named Tertius, offers his own salutation in verse 22. (Compare with Galatians 6:11.)

The Roman Epistle is the sixth of Paul’s letters chronologically, but one of the most powerful, and applicable for the Church today. Paul’s love for the Church mirrors the Love of Jesus towards all. And Paul does not shrink away from the importance of the Holy Spirit when ministering to others. All three members of the Holy Trinity are clearly at work throughout the Letter to the Romans. 

 From Colossians 1:27 -

“To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory”

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Romans 16:1-27 - "The Unity of the Church"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Romans 16 is a powerful chapter that concludes Paul’s epistle to the Romans. It’s filled with personal greetings, commendations, and final instructions to the believers in Rome.

He also warns against those who cause divisions and offenses, urging the Romans to be wise in what is good and simple concerning evil.

As we jump into the details of this chapter, we’ll uncover valuable lessons about unity, love, and steadfastness in the faith. We’ll see how Paul’s final words to the Romans can encourage and inspire us today to live out our calling as believers in Jesus Christ.

In this chapter, Paul takes the time to acknowledge and appreciate the hard work and dedication of his fellow ministers and followers of Christ.  In these verses, we clearly see the diversity in the church.  Paul mentions twenty-six individuals, twenty-four by name, two households, at least three (probably four or five or more) churches - men, women, married, single or widows, different backgrounds.

In the churches in Rome, there were Jews and Gentiles, there were freeborn, there were slaves, and there were freed men and women, that is, those who were former slaves. There were people of vastly different socioeconomic status. There were people with conflicting cultural and religious backgrounds. There were new believers and there were some who had been in Christ for many years. How do we know that? Well, Rufus and his mother, the wife of Simon of Cyrene, were saved around the time of the Crucifixion, some 25 years earlier. Paul says that Andronicus and Junias were in Christ before him, sometime before 32 or 33 AD. That, again, would have been 20-25 years before.

The question is this: how could people from such different backgrounds enjoy such a wonderful and rich spirit of unity? Not only does Christ intend for His church to be diverse, but the source of our unity is Christ our Lord. Paul says these believers were either “in the Lord” or “in Christ”. That was the source of their unity, and it is the source of our unity as well. 1 Corinthians 12:13 says, “For by one Spirit [the Holy Spirit] we were all [all believers] baptized [immersed] into one body [whose body? Christ’s body!], whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.” That’s what unites us. What defines us is our common Lord, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

Phoebe (16:1) - The name means "bright and radiant," which aptly fits Paul's brief description of her personality and Christian character.   She was a "servant" from where we get "deacon" and "deaconess."   In the early church women servants cared for sick believers, the poor, strangers, and those in prison.  They instructed the women and children (cf. Titus 2:3-5).  Whether Phoebe had an official title or not, she had the great responsibility of delivering this letter to the Romans church.  When they had served faithfully and become widowed and destitute, such women were to be cared for by the church (1 timothy 5:13-16). 

Cenchrea (16:1) - A neighboring port city of Corinth, where Paul wrote Romans.  The church in Cenchrea was probably planted by the Corinthian church.

Priscilla and Aquila (16:3) - This husband-and-wife team were Paul's close friends who even risked their own lives for him.  The remaining five times they are mentioned in Scripture, Priscilla is listed first, at least four times, which could imply she had a high social rand than Aquila, or that she was the more prominent of the two in the church.  They probably were Christians when Paul met them, having come from Rome where a church already existed (Romans 1:7, 8).

Epaenetus (16:5) - Likely saved through Paul's preaching and lovingly discipled by the apostle.  "Firstfruits" or first convert in Achaia (Asia Minor).

Mary . . . Labored Much (16:6) - Not much known about her.  It says she labored much, which means hard work to the point of exhaustion.  The context suggests she might have ministered in the church at Rome since its founding and been mentioned to Paul by others.  

Andronicus and Junia (16:7) - Possibly a married couple.  Junia can be a women's name. It says they were fellow prisoners with Paul, either sharing the same cell, or adjacent cells at some point.  Their ministry with Paul, and some of the other apostles in Jerusalem before Paul was converted, was well known and appreciated by the apostles.

Amplias (16:8) - A common name among the emperor's household of slaves at that time.  He may have been one of those in "Caesar's household" (Philippians 4:22).

Stachys (16:9) - Obviously, he was close to Paul, but the details are not known.

Aristobulus (16:10) - Paul does not greet him personally. He was probably not a believer, although some relatives and household servants apparently were.  He may have been related to Herod Agrippa I, according to some scholars. 

Herodion (16:11) - Was related to the Herod family, and so perhaps associated with the household of Aristobulus.  Paul refers to him as his "Kinsman," indicating that he may have been one of Paul's Jewish relatives. 

Household of Narcissus (16:11) - Some believe that this was the Emperor Claudius's secretary.  If so, two households within the palace had Christians in them (cf. Philippians 4:22).

Tryphena and Tryphosa (16:12) - Possibly twin sisters, whose names mean "delicate" and "dainty." 

Persis (16:12) - Named after her native Persia; since her work is spoken of in the past tense, she was probably older than the other two women in this verse. 

Rufus (16:13) - Most scholars agree that this was one of the sons of Simon of Cyrene, the man enlisted to carry Jesus' cross (cf. Mark 15:21) and was likely saved through that contact with Christ.  Paul writes that he was "chosen in the Lord," indicating he was widely known as an extraordinary believer because of his great love and service.  He is not Paul's natural brother.  Rufus's mother at some time had cared for Paul during his ministry travels.

Brethren (16:14, 15) - refers to both men and women in this context. 

Holy Kiss (16:16) - Signifying spiritual kinship with fellow believers in the faith. Kissing of friends on the forehead, cheek, or beard was common in the O.T. as it is in many cultures today.  The Jews in the NT church carried on the practice, and it became especially precious to new believers, who were often outcasts from their own families.

Divisions and Offenses (16:17) - Doctrinal falsehood and unrighteous practices (cf. Matthew 24:24; Acts 20:27-32; Galatians 1:6-8; Ephesians 4:14). 

Belly (16:18) - Driven by self-interest and self-gratification, often seen in their pretentious, extravagant, and immoral lifestyles (cf. Philippians 3:18, 19; 2 Timoth 3:7, 8; 2 Peter 1:20-2:3, 10-19; Jude 12, 13).

Lucius (16:21) - He is either a native of Cyrene, one of the prophets and teachers in Antioch who participated in Paul and Barnabas's commissioning (Acts 13:1-3) or the name is another form of "Luke," the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts.

Jason (16:21) - One of the first converts in Thessalonica who let Paul stay in his home for a short time before Paul and Silas were sent to Berea.

Sosipater (16:21) - This is one of the Bereans (cf. Acts 17:10-12) who joined other believers in the meeting Paul at Troas after the apostle left Ephesus.

Tertius (16:22) - Paul's secretary, who wrote this letter as Paul dictated it, inserts a personal greeting.

Gaius (16:23) - One of Paul's converts at Corinth (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:14). 

The Whole Church (16:23) - The congregation that met in Gaius's house.

Erastus (16:23) - A common name in NT times, but probably not the same man referred to in Acts 19:22, or 2 Timothy 3:20. He was a chamberlain or treasurer in the city of Corinth.  This was a prominent position with political clout.

Preaching of Jesus Christ (16:25) - Synonymous with the gospel, it was Paul's supreme life commitment.

The Mystery (16:25) - Refers to something hidden in former times but now is made known (1 Corinthians 4:1; Ephesians 5:32; 6:19; Colossians 1:25, 26; 2 Thessalonians 2:7, 8; 1 Timothy 3:9, 16). The New Testaments most common mystery is that God would provide salvation for Gentiles as well as Jews (Ephesians 3:3-9).

Prophetic Scriptures Made Known (16:26) - God told Israel that He would not only call her to righteousness, but appoint her as a light (of the gospel) to the nations.

To God . . . Be Glory (16:27) - It was through the Father that the gospel was ultimately revealed, therefore He deserves all the credit, praise, and worship.

Morning Message: A Calling and a Visit

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "A Calling and a Visit"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

Paul’s Epistle to the Romans was written while he was yet in Corinth. He’s ministering to two churches at once, hundreds of miles apart. The grass did not grow under Paul’s feet! We learn in this passage that Paul is planning on taking the Gospel to Spain, and along the way, planning a stop in Rome to see those of the Church there. He kept moving from Church-to-Church but was always willing to stay a while if the Churches needed him. He listened to the Holy Spirit, as in Acts 16:6, in that vision from the Lord, redirecting Paul to Macedonia, and to Philippi.

This is the flexibility of a calling rather than just a job. He is being faithful to the calling of God, and the directive from Jesus to take the Gospel to the ends of the Earth. At that time, and for all practical purposes, Spain was the western-most end of Earth. What lay beyond Spain would not be known to Europeans or Middle Easterners for almost another 1,500 years!

This calling continues even today. On Thursday of this past week, we learned of a young couple who prayed one day to be sent out, and the very next day they received an invitation to missions in the Czech Republic of Eastern Europe. Believing this was an answer to their prayer, they jumped at the invitation and will now pull up stakes from Georgia, pack up their kids, and off they’ll go to Eastern Europe. May the Lord go before them and be their rereward also.

God asks us to keep a light touch on the things of this world, and by doing that, we can remain flexible to be used as the Lord sees fit. If places far away are not appealing, how about touching someone’s life while grocery shopping at Wegman’s or Aldi’s Stores? Or lending a hand to a stressed-out Mom, or elder person? Our personal mission field might be at the end of the driveway, or around the world. Keep your eyes peeled! Or perhaps provoke one another to love and good works! If you someone’s Spiritual gifts, they might fit the needs of someone else!

Isaiah 55:6 – NOW APPEARING!

“Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.”

Delay, and you might miss Him altogether!

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Romans 15:14-33 - "A Calling and a Visit"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Romans 15:13 ended Paul’s systematic instruction to the Roman church. From this point forward, Paul will share many personal instructions and comments that are quite revealing about himself and others. Beginning in verse 14, Paul now explains his heart’s motivation concerning his ministry. If you want a true insight into the heart of Paul, and how he thought about other believers, studying these verses to the end of this epistle will be quite a revelation. In this final section he gives many personal comments, more than any other epistle in the New Testament.

Paul talks about his missionary strategy. He feels he has been called to reach the Gentile peoples of the world. He has traveled extensively in an effort to add new believers to the faith and to establish churches in communities where there were no churches. Paul hasn’t tried to go places where others had not gone.

God does not ask us all to be missionaries or church planters. However, he does ask us all to be witnesses. Paul shared by word and deed. God has placed in your path a host of people who have not heard the gospel message. They are people at work, people who are in organizations with you, neighbors, family members, friends of your children, people you spend time with at ballgames. These people are YOUR mission field. You are their missionary. Our job is to share the truth of the gospel with our own mission field.

We can learn a great deal from these concluding words of the Apostle Paul. We are reminded that living for Christ means LIVING for Christ. Jesus didn’t merely call us to be students; He called us to be disciples. He told us to take up the cross and follow after Him. Our job is to live out our faith.

Wherever life takes you, no matter what turns life takes, the faithful believer is the one who keeps going, keeps serving, and keeps sharing because the believer knows that God is in control. The faithful believer understands that the things of this life are nothing in comparison with what is yet to come. Our goal is to follow God wherever He leads, even when we don’t know where exactly God is taking us. We learn this from the example of the apostle Paul.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

Goodness (15:14) - This refers to high moral character.  The believers in Rome hated evil and loved righteousness, attitudes their lives displayed.

Knowledge (15:14) - Refers to deep, intimate knowledge indicating that the Roman believers were doctrinally sound (Colossians 2:2,3), illustrating the fact that truth and virtue are inseparable (cf. 1 Timothy 1:19).

Admonish (15:14) - To encourage, warn or advise - a comprehensive term for preaching (1 Corinthians 14:3) and personal counseling.  Every believer is responsible to encourage and strengthen other believers with God's Word and is divinely equipped to do so (2 Timothy 3:16).

As Reminding You (15:15) - In spite of their spiritual strength these Christians needed to be reminded of truths they already knew but could easily neglect or even forget (cf. 1 Timothy 4:6; 2 Timothy 2:8-14; Titus 3:1).

Minister (15:16) - This was a general Greek term used of public officials.  But in the NT, it is used most often of those who serve God in some form of public worship.

To the Gentiles (15:16) - Although Paul's practice was always to present the gospel to the Jews first in every city he visited, his primary apostolic calling was to the Gentiles (11:13; Acts 9:15).

The Offering (15:16) - Having referred to himself as a minister, a word with priestly overtones, Paul explains that his priestly ministry is to present to God an offering of a multitude of Gentile converts.

Glory (15:17) - Literally, "to boast."  Paul never boasted in his accomplishments as an apostle, but only in what Christ had accomplished through him (1 Corinthians 1:27-29, 31; 2 Corinthians 10:13-18; 12:5, 9; Galatians 6:14; 1 Timothy 1:12-16).

Signs and Wonders (15:19) - God used them to authenticate true preaching and teaching.

To Illyricum (15:19) - The Balkan region that was once called Yugoslavia that is now broken up into several independent states.  In Paul's day, this area was more commonly known as Dalmatia (2 Timothy 4:10).  The journey from Jerusalem to Illyricum was some 1400 miles.

Gospel (15:20) - The "Good News" of God is that God will forgive sins, deliver from sin's power, and give eternal hope.  It is the whole scripture concerning Christ and the way of salvation.

It is Written (15:21) - Quoted from Isaiah 52:15. 

Hindered from Coming (15:22) -   Roadblocks.  Paul was providentially being prevented by God from going to Rome (cf. Acts 16:7).

Spain (15:24) - The city and region referred to in the OT as Tarshish (1 Kings 10:22); Jonah 1:3), located on the far western end of the European continent. 

Macedonia and Achaia (15:26) - Paul ministered in these regions during his first and second missionary journeys. 

Their Spiritual Things (15:27) - The "things" were gospel truths first preached to the Gentile believers by the Jewish apostles, prophets, teachers, and evangelists.

This Fruit (15:28) - The financial gift for the Jerusalem church; the fruit of their genuine love and gratitude.

The Love of the Spirit (15:30 -This phrase occurs only here in Scripture and refers to Paul's love for the Holy Spirit, not the Spirit's love for him (cf. Psalm 143:10).

Prayers . . .That I May be Delivered (15:30, 31) - Many Jews rejected the gospel and were prepared to attack Paul when he returned.  Aware of the trouble that awaited him (Acts 10:22-24), he wanted the Roman Christians to pray for his deliverance only so he could complete the ministry the Lord had given him.  Their prayers were answered in that he met with success in Jerusalem (Acts 21:17, 19, 20) and was delivered from death but not imprisonment (Acts 21:10, 11; 23:11).

May Be Acceptable (15:31) - Paul wanted the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem to receive the financial gift from the Gentiles with loving gratitude, recognizing it as a gesture of brotherly love and kindness.

The God of Peace (15:33) - Just as he is the God of hope, He is also the source of TRUE Peace (cf. Ephesians 2:11-14; Philippians 4:7).

Morning Message: United IN Christ

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "United IN Christ"

Written By:  Pastor Bob Lawrenz

First of all, Happy Mothers’ Day to all who have born children into this world. Yes, a “Hallmark Holiday,” but a worthy one. None of us would be here were it not for God’s command to be fruitful and multiply.

On Thursday of this week past, we witnessed a new Pope being voted into his official position as Bishop of Rome. As head of the Roman Catholic Church, his outreach is world-wide. Of his many titles, he is also referred to as the Vicar of Rome, and the Vicar of Christ. Though it is the Anglican Church where the title Vicar is most often used, it is still a significant title within the Roman Church.

Personally, I find it interesting that the word “vicar” comes from the Latin, meaning “representative,” or “substitute.” Therefore, the Papal Title is for a representative, or substitute for Christ. In the Roman Catholic Church, he is looked upon as a living representative to lead a body of religious people, the human embodiment of Christ on Earth. They claim that should he ever perform a miracle, he will have the added distinction of reaching "Sainthood." However, the apostle, Paul, speaks of “believers” as living saints. Paul refers to “the saints” many times in his writings. The clearest definition of a saint is found in his salutation at the beginning of 1 Corinthians 1:1-3.

The Roman Catholic Church has pitted their beliefs against God’s Word. In Matthew 16, While Jesus gave Peter (Greek word is Petros, meaning a detached stone) some authority in His Church, Jesus said, “Upon this rock (Greek word is Petra - a mass of rock, cliff) I will build my Church." The difference is easily overlooked in some languages, but in the Greek text, Peter, Petros, is a far cry from Jesus saying, “I will build My Church.” Jesus points to Himself as the Rock of Offense (Greek, “Petra”), by which mankind stumbles (Romans 9:33). “Petros” is a small stone. “Petra” is a large mass of rock, likened to the Rock City of Petra in the Kingdom of Jordan, east of the Jordan River.

The Roman Church views Peter as the first Pope, but Peter was never “The Pope.” He was instead, as viewed by the Apostle Paul a member of a committee-of-three Apostles who oversaw the Church in its earliest years: James, Cephas (Peter), and John as mentioned in Galatians 2:9 as the “pillars" (of the church). James, half- brother to Jesus, Peter, and the Apostle John made up the Church’s Leadership from Jerusalem, and not Rome. These were chosen specifically by Jesus on three occasions: Matthew 17:1; Luke 8:51; Mark 14:33.

In Revelation 21:14, the New Jerusalem is described - 

“And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve Apostles of the Lamb.”

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Romans 15:1-13 - "United IN Christ"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

In chapter 15 of the book of Romans, Paul continues his discussion on how those who are strong (mature) are to receive and bear with the infirmities of the weak. Encouraging the strong to be concerned with uplifting the weak, he reminds them of Christ and His unselfishness (1-3). Reminding them of the value of the Old Testament Scriptures, he pleads for patience so that with one mind and one mouth they may glorify God (4-6). Finally, he calls for them to receive one another to the glory of God, just as Christ served both Jews and Gentiles in fulfilling the prophets of old (7-12). Paul then offers a prayer that God might fill them with joy and peace in believing, so that they may abound in hope with the help of the Holy Spirit (13).

With regard to the importance of unity among believers, shortly before He went to the cross, Jesus prayed for unity among His followers: “And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.” (John 17:11).

Later in the same prayer, Jesus asked “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us . . . And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one—I in them, and thou in me—that they may be made perfect in one” (John 17:21–23). Obviously, Christian unity is important to our Lord.

Jesus not only prayed for unity, but He gave the reasons that Christian unity is important: He asked that all believers may be in the Father and the Son, “so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:21). And then Jesus prayed for “complete unity” so that “the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me” (verse 23). When Christians are united in Christ, the world sees two things clearly: Jesus was sent by the Father, and Jesus loves His church.

In Romans 15, we see another, more general reason that Christian unity is important: “Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” The bottom line is God’s glory. God’s people should be speaking with one voice in glorifying God.

Christian unity comes with Christian maturity, and it is always something that we strive to attain. Paul instructs us to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). Helping us toward that unity are the gifts of the Spirit. God has given each Christian different gifts, and their exercise in the edification of the church leads to more and more unity. One purpose of the gifts is that “we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).

To promote Christian unity, God presents the church in 1 Corinthians 12:12–27 as a living body. The body has many members, each with specialized work to do, but all the parts are united in the Head of the Body, which is Christ (see Ephesians 4:15). Christians bring honor to God’s name by pursuing unity in the power of the Holy Spirit who brings us together as one through faith in Christ.

Christian unity is a virtue, but there are some things that can and should limit unity. We don’t pursue unity simply for the sake of unity; it is Christ and His truth (the Bible) that unite us. Scripturally, we are to separate from professed brothers and sisters in Christ who live in persistent, unrepentant sin (Matthew 18:15–17; 1 Corinthians 5:1–2) and from those who teach false doctrine (Revelation 2:14–15). “Watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them” (Romans 16:17).

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

We . . . Who Are Strong (15:1) - Believers who are mature, strong in the faith.

To Bear (15:1) - Means to pick up and carry a weight.  It is used of carrying a pitcher of water (Mark 14:13), of carrying a man (Acts 21:35), and figuratively of bearing an obligation (Acts 15:10).   The strong are not to simply "tolerate the weaknesses" of their weaker brothers; they are to "help the weak" by shouldering their burdens, showing loving and practical con=sideration for them (See Galatians 6:2; 1 Corinthians 9:9-12; Philippians 2:2-4).

Edification (15:2) - To build up and strengthen.  This is essentially the same appeal Paul made earlier (14:19), only with the additional qualification of self-sacrifice (1 Corinthians 10:23, 24; Philippians 2:2-5).

Christ Pleased Not Himself (15:3) - His ultimate purpose was to please God and to accomplish His will (John 4:34; 5:30; 6:38; 8:25, 27-20; Philippians 2:6-8).

It is Written (15:3) - Quoted from Psalm 69:9.

Reproaches . . . Fell on Me (15:3) - Reproaches speak of slander, false accusations, and insults.  Men hate God, and they manifested that same hate toward the One He sent to reveal Himself (cf. John 1:10, 11, 18).

Things . . . Written Aforetime (before) (15:4) - Speaking of the Old Testament scriptures.

Written for our Learning (15:4) - Although Christians live under the New Covenant and are not under the authority of the Old Covenant, God's moral law has not changed and all of Scripture is of spiritual benefit (1 Corinthians 10:6), 10, 11; 2 Peter 1:20, 21).  Paul's description of the benefits of Scripture certainly includes the NT but speaks primarily about "the sacred writings" - or the Old Testament.

Patience (15:4) - A constant steadfast, enduring, sustaining perseverance.

Comfort (15:4) - Encouragement.  God not only informs believers how to endure but also encourages them in the process. 

Hope (15:4) - The Joyful and confident expectation of eternal salvation.

Like-minded Toward One Another (15:5) - Despite our sometimes-differing views on NON-ESSENTIAL issues, to pursue loving, spiritual harmony in regard to matters on which the Bible is silent.

God and Father (15:5) - This expression emphasizes the Deity of Christ - A major doctrine of Christian Faith, not a minor issue.  Jesus is not an adopted son of God; He is of the same essential being and nature as God.  This is such an important connection that it appears frequently in the NT (2 Corinthians 1:3; 11:31; Ephesians 1:3; Colossians 1:3; 1 Peter 1:3).  

Receive . . . As Christ Received Us (15:7) - If the perfect, sinless Son of God was willing to bring sinners into God's family, how much more should forgiven believers be willing to warmly embrace and accept each other in spite of disagreements over issues of conscience (Matthew 10:24; 11:29; Ephesians 4:32-5:2).

A Minister of the Circumcision (15:8) - Speaking of Jesus. In Jesus, God was keeping all His promises to Abraham and the patriarchs. In sending Jesus as the Messiah, God was proven to be a keeper of His promises to Israel.

Promise Made to the Fathers (15:8) - The covenant with Abraham that God reiterated to both Isaac and Jacob.

That the Gentiles Might Glorify God (15:9) - Because He extended His grace and mercy to a people outside the covenant. 

(15:10) - Quoted from Deuteronomy 32:43.

(15:11) - Quoted from Psalm 117:1.

15:12) - Quoted from Isaiah 11:10.

God of Hope (15:13) - God is the source of eternal hope, life and salvation, and He is the object of hope for every believer. 

Power of the Holy Spirit (15:13) - The believer's hope comes through the Scripture which was written and applied to every believing heart by the Holy Spirit. 

Morning Message: First Amendment?

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "First Amendment?"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

We are back in Romans today, and in spite of the title “First Amendment,” the message is not about the US Constitution or the Bill of Rights, but about the freedom we enjoy in Christ Jesus! If we were to “reverse think” the premises for the Bill of Rights, we might well find its basis right here in Romans 12, 13, and 14. Romans 12:1-2 may even supply a like-phrase to “American Exceptionalism!”

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Christ’s freedom is available to all!

Before departing Romans during the Resurrection season, these chapters underscore our actions and attitudes toward principalities and powers, toward the Church, and today concerning those that do not believe as we believe. Today in particular, we must acknowledge that all Christian denominations do not agree on a large number of issues, including God’s Doctrines of Faith, and man-made dogmas of faith.

The example of Eve while being tempted by the serpent comes to mind. Eve said in Genesis 3:3, "But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, ‘Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.’" Now, we know that Eve misquoted God by saying they should not touch the fruit of that one tree. God said nothing about touching the fruit, only that she and Adam should not eat the fruit of that tree.

(Laughingly) What if Adam had invented a ball game, and that one fruit was the only suitable object? Other fruits were oblong like bananas, or bell shaped like a pear? What about a nice ripe squishy tomato? Or the tiny cherries on that tree. None of those fruit would work well for say, baseball.

Eve’s practice of adding to God’s Word would deprive us of the delightful freedom to throw out the first pitch and play ball! But there’s more; changing God’s Word would violate another command of God in Revelation 22: 18 - 19, which bring long-term consequences to those who add to God’s Word or remove anything from it.

The best thing to do it to leave God’s Word as He is: perfect, complete, and sufficient in Himself: Live like Jesus lives, doing no harm to anyone.

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Romans 14:1-23 - "First Amendment?"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Romans 14 is a profound chapter in the New Testament that addresses the themes of Christian liberty, the importance of love and unity within the body of Christ, and the necessity of living out one's faith with a clear conscience. In this chapter, the Apostle Paul speaks to the Roman Christians about the need to accept one another despite differences in convictions, particularly concerning dietary laws and the observance of special days. This passage is as relevant today as it was in the first century, offering timeless principles for maintaining harmony and mutual respect within the Christian community.

The Bible states emphatically in Galatians 5:1 that believers are free in Christ: “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” (Galatians 5:1). Before Jesus died on a cross, God’s people lived under a detailed system of laws that served as a moral compass to guide their lives. The Law, while powerless to grant salvation or produce true freedom, nevertheless pointed the way to Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:19–24). Through His sacrificial death, Jesus Christ fulfilled the Law, setting believers free from the law of sin and death. God’s laws are now written in our hearts through the Spirit of God, and we are free to follow and serve Christ in ways that please and glorify Him (Romans 8:2–8). In a nutshell, this is the definition of Christian freedom.

An important aspect of Christian freedom is our responsibility not to return to living under the Law. 

The apostle Paul compared this to slavery: “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” (Galatians 5:1). Continuing to live under the Law after salvation is merely a legalistic form of religion. We cannot earn righteousness through the Law; rather, the Law’s purpose was to define our sin and show our need of a Savior. Christian freedom involves living not under the burdensome obligations of the Law but under God’s grace: “For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” (Romans 6:14).

In Christ, we are free from the Law’s oppressive system, we are free from the penalty of sin, and we are free from the power of sin.

Also, Christian freedom is not a license to sin. 

We are free in Christ but not free to live however we want, indulging the flesh: “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13, NLT). Believers aren’t free to sin, but free to live holy lives in Christ.

Only Christians know true freedom: “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36). But what does Christian freedom look like in a practical sense? What are we free to do and not do? What can we watch on TV? What can we eat and drink? What can we wear to the beach? What about smoking and drinking? Are there limits to Christian freedom?

In 1 Corinthians 10, the apostle Paul gives a practical illustration of Christian freedom: “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not. Let no man seek his own, but every man another's well-being.” (1 Corinthians 10:23–24).

In writing to the church in Corinth, Paul mentions members who were attending meals in pagan temples, just as they had done before receiving Christ. They felt free to continue participating because they thought these festivals were merely a normal part of the social culture. They didn’t see their actions as pagan worship.

Paul laid out several warnings, reminding the Corinthians of Israel’s dangerous flirtation with idolatry in the Old Testament. Then he handled the practical concern of eating meat that had been sacrificed to idols.

“All things are lawful for me,” the Corinthians were saying. True, Paul says; Christians have a great deal of freedom in Christ. However, not everything is beneficial or constructive. Our freedom in Christ must be balanced by a desire to build up and benefit others. When deciding how to exercise our Christian freedom, we ought to seek the good of others before our own good.

In Judaism, restrictions were placed on purchasing meats in the market. Jews could only buy and eat kosher meats. Paul said believers were free in Christ to buy and eat any meat (1 Corinthians 10:25–26). However, if the issue of meat sacrificed to idols came up, believers were to follow a higher law. Love is what limits Christian freedom.

A little later in the chapter, Paul wrote about eating meat as a guest in someone’s home. Christians are free to eat whatever they are served without questions of conscience (1 Corinthians 10:27). But, if someone brings up that the meat has been offered to an idol, it is better not to eat it for the sake of the person who raised the issue of conscience (verse 28). While believers have freedom to eat the meat, they are compelled to consider what’s best for those who are observing their behavior.

Romans 14:1–13 raises a key determiner in understanding the limits of Christian freedom.

In the passage, Paul again brings up the issue of eating meat sacrificed to idols and also observing certain holy days. Some of the believers felt freedom in Christ in these areas while others did not. Their differing perspectives were causing quarrels and disunity. Paul emphasized that unity and love in the body of Christ are more important than anyone’s personal convictions or Christian liberty: “Let us not therefore judge one another anymore: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.” (Romans 14:13).

Essentially, Paul’s message to the New Testament believers and to us today is this: even if we believe we are right and have Christian freedom in an area, if our actions will cause another brother or sister to stumble in his or her faith, we are to refrain out of love.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

Receive (14:1) - The Greek word revers to personal and willing acceptance of another.

Weak in the Faith (14:1) - This characterizes those believers who are unable to let go of the religious ceremonies and rituals of their past. 

Doubtful Disputations (14:1) - The mature believer should not sit in judgment on the sincere but underdeveloped thoughts that govern the weak believer's conduct.

One Believes (14:2) - This refers to the strong believer, whose mature faith allows him to exercise his freedom in Christ by eating the inexpensive meat sold at the pagan meat markets - inexpensive because a worshiper had first offered it as a sacrifice to a pagan deity.

Eateth Herbs (14:2) - The strict diet that weak Jewish and Gentile believers ate to avoid eating meat that was unclean or may have been sacrificed to idols.

Despise...Judge (14:3) - Indicating a contempt for someone as worthless, who deserves only disdain and abhorrence.  "Judge" is equally strong and means "to condemn."  Paul uses them synonymously:  The strong hold the weak in contempt as legalistic and self-righteous; the weak judge the strong to be irresponsible at best and perhaps depraved.

To His Own Master He Stands or Falls (14:4) - How Christ evaluates each believer is what matters, and His judgment does not take into account religious tradition or personal preference (cf. 8:33, 34; 1 Corinthians 4:3-5).

Esteems One Day (14:5) - Though it was no longer required by God, the weak Jewish believer felt compelled to observe the Sabbath and other special days associated with Judaism (cf. Galatians 4:9, 10; Colossians 2:16, 17).  On the other hand, the weak Gentile wanted to separate himself from the special days of festivities associated with his former paganism because of its immorality and idolatry.

Esteems Every Day Alike (14:5) - The mature believers were unaffected by those concerns.

Let Each Be Fully Persuaded (14:5) -Each Christian must follow the dictates of his own conscience in matters not specifically commanded or prohibited in Scripture.  Since conscience is a God-given mechanism to warn, and responds to the highest standard of moral law in the mind (2:14, 15), it is not sensible to train yourself to ignore it.  Rather, respond to its compunctions, and as you mature, by learning more, your mind will not alert it to those things which are not essential.

To The Lord (14:6) - Whether weak or strong, the motive behind a believer's decisions about issues of conscience must be to please the Lord.

Lives to Himself...Dies to Himself (14:7) - The focus of Christian living is never oneself.  Everything we do should be to please the Lord (cf. 1 Corinthians 6:20; 10:31).

Lord of Both the Dead and the Living (14:9) - Christ died not only to free us from sin, but to enslave us to Himself (6:22); to establish Himself as Lord over the saints in His presence and those still on earth (cf. Philippians 2:11; 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14; 19:16).

Your Brother (14:10) -A fellow believer in Christ.

The Judgment Seat of Christ (14:10) - The preferred rendering is "the judgment seat of God."  Every believer will give an account of himself, and the Lord will judge the decisions he made including those concerning issues of conscience.  That verdict is the only one that matters.

It Is Written (14:11) - Paul quoting Isaiah 45:23; 49:18.

Judge This Rather (14:13) - The same Greek word translated "judge" is here translated "resolve."  In verses 3, 10, 13a the meaning is negative:  "to condemn."  Inverse 13b, the meaning is positive: "to determine to make a careful decision."  The point of Paul's play on words is that instead of passing judgment on their brothers, they should use their best judgment to help fellow believers.

Stumbling Block (14:13) - Anything a believer does - even though Scripture may permit it - that causes another to fall into sin (1 Corinthians 8:9).

Unclean (14:14) - The Greek word originally meant "common" but came to mean "impure" or "evil."

Grieved (14:15) -The Greek word refers to causing pain or distress.  A weak believer may be hurt when he sees a brother do something he believes is sinful.  

Love (14:15) - Love will ensure that the strong Christian is sensitive and understanding of his brother's weaknesses (1 Corinthians 8:8-13).

Destroy (14:15) - Refers to complete devastation.  In the NT, it is often used to indicate eternal damnation.  In context, however, it refers to a serious devastation of one's spiritual growth.

Your Good (14:16) - The rightful exercise of one's Christian liberty.

Spoken of as Evil (14:16) - To blaspheme.  When unbelievers see a Christian abusing his freedom in Christ and harming a weaker brother, they will conclude that Christianity is filled with unloving people, which reflects badly on God's reputation.

Eating and Drinking (14:17) - These are non-essentials and external observances.

Righteousness (14:17) - Holy, obedient living.

Peace (14:17) -The loving tranquility, produced by the Spirit, that should characterize believers' relationships with God and each other (Galatians 5:22).

Joy in the Holy Ghost (14:17) - Another part of the Spirit's fruit, this describes an abiding attitude of praise and thanksgiving regardless of circumstances, which flows from one's confidence in God's sovereignty (Galatians 5:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:6).

Approved by Men (14:18) - After a careful examination.  Christians are under the microscope of a skeptical world that is assessing how they live with and treat one another.

All Things...Pure (14:20) - Discretionary liberties which God has given to believers and are good in themselves.

Who East With Offense (14:20) - Using God-given liberties carelessly and selfishly and offending weaker brethren.

Whatever is Not of Faith (14:24) - The thoughts and actions that the conscience condemns.