Stay Focused on the Pioneer of Faith

Stay Focused on the Pioneer of Faith

 

Hebrews 12:2, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

God correctly emphasizes the significance of Jesus enduring the cross for a much greater purpose. The Lord Jesus faced immense suffering not merely as a duty but as a purposeful sacrifice—an act of obedience to God’s promises, motivated by the joy of redeeming humanity and reuniting with the Father in heaven.

Accordingly, faith…is not merely a private feeling. It is much more a loyal trust of God even under strain. Also, a believer even though he is righteous before God is not a person who has mastered life; he keeps leaning on God when the situation does not yet make sense. (See Holden Kirlin)

The Lord Jesus literally “endured the cross” signifying accepting the suffering and pain of crucifixion. This very notion encourages us to embrace our trials with faith and patience, viewing them as opportunities for obedience to God’s will and spiritual growth.

• Suffering and Sacrifice Go Together: Enduring the cross represents the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus, highlighting His obedience to God’s divine plan despite immense suffering. Faith always has this element of placing our confidence in God’s obligation—taking his statements and promises seriously even if it requires our physical life.
• Spiritual Growth is One Outcome: We are encouraged to see our own struggles as means to deepen our faith and develop resilience. Faith involves intentional actions and practices like Scripture reading, prayer, church participation, practical holiness, and service that strengthen our relationship with the Lord. 

Remember, according to Hebrews 12:2, Jesus endured the cross for the joy that lay ahead, which included fulfilling prophecy and achieving salvation for humanity. This perspective, confidence or faith based on God’s actual statements, emphasizes that enduring difficulties leads to greater rewards and fulfillment in our heavenly future.

So, throughout life’s race, we must look away from every one else and keep our eyes riveted on the Lord Jesus, who is the foremost Runner of this race. A. B. Bruce comments:

One stands out conspicuous above all the rest … the Man who first perfectly realised the idea of living by faith …, who undauntedly endured the bitter suffering of the cross, and despised the ignominy of it, sustained by a faith that so vividly realised coming joy and glory as to obliterate the consciousness of present pain and shame.

Child of God, Jesus is the author, or pioneer, of our faith meaning He has provided us with the only perfect or complete example of what the life of faith is like.

Jesus is also the “finisher of our faith.” He not only began the race but finished it triumphantly. He did it all by faith! He kept His eyes fixed on the coming glory when all the redeemed would be gathered with Him eternally. This ‘kind of faith’ enabled Him to think nothing of shame and to endure suffering by crucifixion. “Today Jesus is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”^[1]

Beloved, our supreme Model for real faith is Jesus! “He kept His eye on the joy set before Him, the “joy” alluded to in 1:9 wherein He obtained an eternal throne. The believers’ share in that joy must also be kept in view. After enduring (hypemeinen, the verb related to the noun hypomonē in 12:1; cf. vv. 3, 7) the cross and scorning its shame, Jesus assumed that triumphant position at the right hand of the throne of God (cf. 1:3; 8:1; 10:12) which presages His and the believers’ final victory (cf. 1:13–14).”^[2]

The faithful believer sees a powerful testimony of what faith looks like in action. A demonstrated trust in God made possible even in difficult circumstances. There is no rethinking, quitting, or giving up! We are encouraged to remove anything that hinders our spiritual growth and run the race of faith with serious perseverance.

Jesus stands alone as the ultimate example of faith and endurance. He endured suffering and rejection because He looked forward to the joy that would come through the redemption of humanity. Beloved, by focusing on Christ, we find strength and courage to continue forward even during our trials. (See Bible Remnant)

“This is where faith becomes practical rather than decorative. It changes how you handle guilt, how you respond to uncertainty, and how you make decisions that carry moral weight. It also reshapes personal growth, because growth in the Christian life is usually slower and less polished than people want it to be. The next challenge is that faith does not just need habits; it also needs endurance when the pressure is real.”—Holden Kirlin

Like yourself, I am deeply intimidated by this Bible claim, but the Lord Jesus, His apostles, the early martyrs, and many real believers down through history sealed their conviction with their own blood. I am not greater than they. After all, “the just shall live by faith.”

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^[1] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 2202–3.

^[2] Zane C. Hodges, “Hebrews,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 809–10.

Forgiveness Versus Reconciliation

Forgiveness Versus Reconciliation

Col. 2:13; Prov. 14:15

 

Some of the confusion surrounding the ideas of ‘forgiveness’ and ‘reconciliation’ emerges when we conflate the two terms and require a reunion immediately after any conflict between believers. Certainly, we all want things to be like they were before the conflict or offense. The problem is this is not always possible, relationally healthy, or Jesus’ recommendation! I hope to demonstrate what the Bible teaches about both concepts and how God views these ideas as separate but integrated.  

Forgiveness

Colossians 2:13, "And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;"

God completely cancels the moral and spiritual debt of our guilt through Christ. All past, present, future, and specific sins are covered and wiped clean by the work of Christ on the cross (also see Col. 2:14). When a believer sins, it is a serious matter of fellowship but never sonship.

Now, consider a passage that seems to require more than forgiving a person for some type of relational violation.

Wisdom

Proverbs 14:15, "The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going."

The verse serves as a warning against blindly trusting someone or being gullible in our beliefs regarding the safety of a relationship. It encourages Bible-based and realistic discernment—urging believers to test what they hear, measure ideas against the truth of Scripture, and think carefully about the long-term impact of their choices before moving forward. Great value is correctly placed on holy discretion for decision making. Again, the idea is credulity without caution leads to trouble, while careful thought and discretion protect a person from harm. 

Forgiveness is required for believers, but so is discretion and responsibility…. We obviously have been forgiven and so we must forgive others, but how do we maintain carefulness and prudence in our relationships? God rightly requires both behaviors of maturing believers…. Should reconciliation be introduced?

Reconciliation Always Requires Forgiveness, but Forgiveness Does Not Necessarily Require Reconciliation

Ephesians 4:32, And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

Forgiveness is obviously mandated for believers towards each other without any questions. This action is always God’s prescription for any violation of a relationship. Yes, this is a tremendous ask, but God wants this for all His children. Forgiveness is still required even if we must act alone. However, reconciliation requires both parties working toward restoring the relationship.

Matthew 18:15-17, Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. ¹⁶ But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. ¹⁷ And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.

The Lord Jesus outlines a step-by-step process for addressing a trespass by a fellow believer. He insists that personal conflicts and sin within the Christian church should be handled through this process focused on reconciliation, restoration, and protecting the fellowship, rather than bitterness, gossip, public discrediting, or revenge. Forgiveness is still required, but reconciliation is obviously not an option if an individual is not cooperative or eventually removed from the church.

God’s Example of Reconciliation

2 Corinthians 5:18-21, And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; ¹⁹ To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. ²⁰ Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. ²¹ For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

God initiated a rescue plan to restore broken relationships with everyone through Jesus Christ calling believers to share this message as His ambassadors. Jesus was entirely sinless and took the penalty of sin on behalf of us all so that believers could receive God’s righteousness. Reconciliation always requires the efforts and collaboration of at least two people. God provided this pattern of forgiveness, accountability, repentance, restoration, and reconciliation. His relational principles have not changed, and they are applicable to us.

In the Bible, forgiveness is a one-sided, heart command to release a personal violation or grudge, whereas reconciliation is a two-sided, relational process that requires mutual repentance, restored trust, and changed behavior. We can—and are commanded to—forgive someone independently—unconditionally; however, reconciliation is conditional upon both person’s repentance and safety.

This dynamic can be witnessed in the Old Testament. After 20 years of separation, Esau ran to meet Jacob, fell on his neck, kissed him, and both brothers wept (Genesis 33:4). You see true, deep reconciliation was never fully realized because the brothers did not live together, maintain close fellowship, or completely overcome their historic distrust. Yes, Esau forgave Jacob because twenty years of separation had cooled his anger, and Jacob’s deep humility—expressed through bowing seven times and substantial livestock gifts—softened his heart. Esau’s actions—running to embrace Jacob, weeping, and showing interest in his family—pointed to a genuine, individual gesture of consideration. But later in the word, their descendants—the Israelites and the Edomites—remained lasting national enemies.

The point that must not be missed is God’s pattern does not demand reunion without both parties repenting and working together toward restoring the relationship (Acts 15:36-41)! One reason this dynamic is repeated in Scripture is to help us in our troubled relationships.

Central Differences Between Forgiveness and Reconciliation in the New Testament

The Idea of Forgiveness

• The primary Greek word translated as "forgive" in the King James Version (KJV) is aphiemi (Strong's G863: ἀφίημι), meaning "to send away," "to let go," or "to leave alone". (See Bible Hub)
• This is a one-sided act: Forgiveness depends entirely on the offended person or party. You can forgive someone even if they never apologize, change, or ask for it (like Jesus forgiving His executioners in Luke 23:34 or like Stephen forgiving his murders in Acts 7:60 or even Paul forgiving his deserters 2 Timothy 4:16).
• This is canceling a debt: It means letting go of personal vengeance and leaving justice to God (as in Romans 12:19).
• This is mandatory for ALL believers: Scripture commands Christians to forgive others just as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven each of us (Ephesians 4:32).

The Idea of Reconciliation

• The primary Greek word translated as "reconcile" or "reconciled" in the New Testament is katallassō (Greek: καταλλάσσω, Strong's G2644). (See The King James Bible Dictionary). Meaning: To change mutually, to exchange, or to reconcile people who are at variance (restoring a relationship or bringing enemies into favor/peace). (See Bible Study Tools)
• This is a two-sided process: Reconciliation means restoring broken fellowship and trust, which requires both parties to participate.
• This involves repentance: Peace and restoration in relationships often depend on confession and turning away from wrong, harmful behavior, or sin (Matthew 18:15; Luke 17:3). This aspect must not be diminished or dismissed...it is an essential requirement for real reconciliation with each other! The temptation is to overlook this very component that God himself demands. Ultimately the relationship must honor God's holiness and integrity! 
• This is not always safe or possible: Forgiveness does not mean returning to an abusive, dangerous, or unrepentant situation—making ‘nice’ again or a ‘reunion’. Wisdom and boundaries are still honored when trust cannot be safely rebuilt. Remember, this is God’s counsel and this is a situation that demands thoughtfulness, foresight, carefulness, and prudence (Proverbs 14:15)! Once more great value is correctly placed on holy discretion for decision making. Beloved, we must submit ourselves to God's encouragements. 
• See Ephesians 2:16, Colossians 1:20, and 1:22.

The New Testament distinguishes between forgiveness and reconciliation. Beloved, forgiveness is a unilateral, internal requirement to let go of bitterness and leave revenge to God, whereas reconciliation is a bilateral process that requires the offender’s genuine repentance and the rebuilding of trust to finally restore the relationship. Again, forgiveness and reconciliation must be viewed as distinct concepts, yet interrelated (Col. 2:13; Prov. 14:15).

Forgiveness is a release of a debt or offense. It can be given by one person without the need for the other party’s involvement. This is depicted in Matthew 6:14-15, emphasizing the importance of forgiving others to receive forgiveness from God.

Reconciliation, on the other hand, involves restoring a broken relationship and requires cooperation from both parties. It is conditional upon repentance and rebuilding trust. Matthew 18:15-17 outlines a process for reconciliation, indicating that it necessitates communication and mutual effort.

In the final analysis, forgiveness can occur independently; however, reconciliation demands a collaborative approach to restore broken relationships. Again forgiveness does not demand returning to an abusive, dangerous, painful, or unrepentant situation while casting aside sound God prescribed wisdom in the forms of discretion and thoughtfulness. Making everything ‘nice’ again or a ‘reuniting’ may indeed be possible, but self-reflection, accountability, and repentance must eventuate into internal transformation. God desires this for us all. He wants us to be authentic with Him and each other. It may be hard to accept, but wisdom and boundaries are still honored even when relational trust cannot be safely or immediately rebuilt.

 

 

 

“Good Works, Not Good Looks”

Spiritual Leadership in the Church Series

1 Tim 2:10

THEME: the church is to conduct its services with order and this included the way women dress to execute their church related duties.

RELEVANCE: A proper appearance at church is important because it reflects respect for God and the worship environment. It helps create a reverential atmosphere, reminding attendees of the significance of the meeting. Choosing to dress appropriately can also be a form of personal expression of faith. It encourages individuals to prepare their hearts and minds for worship, aligning their outward appearance with their inner devotion. Appropriate clothing also minimizes distractions during worship. When everyone dresses with thoughtfulness, it allows the focus to remain on the Lord God rather than on individual appearances. 

INTRODUCTION:

“Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Cor. 14:40) is a basic principle for the conduct of the ministry of the church.

God cherishes “good works, not good looks” emphasizing the importance of actions over appearances. This concept highlights that what truly matters are the deeds we perform rather than superficial qualities or physical attractiveness. Good works refer to positive actions that align with God’s moral or ethical standards…true expressions of real faith and morality. These “good works” are the fruits of real faith, not the root of genuine salvation. They are important but are not the means to achieve salvation.

Show Submission in the Church Meetings Through Godly Works (1Tim. 2:10).

This is evidence of godly character; a genuinely submissive attitude will lead to wholesome deeds.  

            1.  Godliness is the Right Motive for Good Works (1Tim. 2:10).

Godliness has to do with a fear of God that results in obedience.

o   Paul Did Not Suggest That Good Works Are a Substitute for Real Clothing! (2:9b-10a)

o   It Was a Contrast. Rather, he was contrasting the “cheapness” of expensive and excessive clothes and jewelry with the true values of godly character and Christian service.

o   It Was a Comparison. The word “adorn” (2:9) you remember has the basic meaning of “an ordered system, an apt and harmonious arrangement or constitution, order.”

§  It is related to an ornament, decoration, or adornment. It is also connected to the action of “putting in order, arranging, and making ready.”

§  When this is compared to verse ten where it says, “which becometh women” the message clearly points to the Christian women’s character as the controlling factor for selecting her clothing, ordering her conduct, and determining her career (service). A Christian woman is to “adorn or harmoniously arrange” herself with clothing, conduct, and a career in a way that matches the godliness in her character!

o   It Was a Characterization. It is the principle that governs the kind of adornment, namely, the Christian woman is to depend upon a Christian character for her adornment, good works naturally flow out of godly character. When she does this, her apparel will be in keeping with her Christian character. Glamour can be partially applied on the outside, but godliness must come from within.

§  “[But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works] That is, it is not appropriate for women who profess to be the followers of the Saviour, to seek to be distinguished for personal, external decorations. If they are Christians, they have seen the vanity of these things, and have fixed the heart on more substantial realities. They are professed followers of Him "who went about doing good," and the performance of good works especially becomes them. They profess to have fixed the affections on God their Saviour, and to be living for heaven; and it is not becoming in them to seek such ornaments as would indicate that the heart is supremely attached to worldly things. There is great beauty in this direction. Good works, or deeds of benevolence, eminently become a Christian female. The nature of woman seems to be adapted to the performance of all deeds demanding kindness, tenderness, and gentleness of feeling; of all that proceeds from pity, sympathy, and affection; and we feel instinctively that … there is something exquisitely appropriate to the female character in deeds of humble and unobtrusive sympathy and benevolence. God seems to have formed her mind for just such things, and in such things it occupies its appropriate sphere rather than in seeking external adorning.” —Barnes' Notes  

§  “The positive side of women’s adorning is brought before us in this verse. The adorning which is fitting for women professing godliness is found in the performance of good works. Such “clothing” does not distract others from communion with God, but rather provokes such fellowship. Neither does it cause envy or jealousy in a wrong sense, but only encourages others to follow the example.” –William MacDonald

o   But Godliness Must Result in Righteous Behavior and Service to Others (1Tim. 2:10).

o   “Women professing godliness:”

§  Professing means to freely assert something about yourself; to voluntarily make a personal claim, or even to show one’s mastery of a certain skill.

§  Godliness means devotedness and piety; respectful and reverent of God’s goodness.  The worship of, or having reverence for God; the fear of God is the observance of His will.

§  Those who confess Christianity must substantiate this confession of their religion by good works. Women who confess Christianity must adorn themselves with good works. 

o   Those women who have publicly committed themselves to pursuing godliness should support that claim not only in their demeanor, wardrobe, and appearance, but by being clothed with righteous behavior. 

§  Christian women are not to try to be unattractive; instead, Paul called them to reject the world's standard for attractiveness. A Christian's adornment comes not from what she puts on, but from what she does for others.

§  Paul encouraged the women to be active in the practice of their faith. The context indicates that both the church and the family provided great opportunities for unlimited "good works."  They were to quietly go about the significant work of serving God. 

o   In our churches today, as in the Ephesian church, there are always temptations to pursue worldly agendas. We will stay on track better if we regularly face the question, How much of my time this week was spent in ways that will count for eternity? 

o   While a church should not strictly regulate what can or cannot be worn inside its doors (because many sinners who need to know the Lord might not be able to enter if specific standards had to be met), those who are members and servants, who profess godliness, and reverence for God ought to dress sensibly and modestly.  Here the command of love applies, and believers must accept God's standard for appearance.

o   “Godliness” Is A Key Word in Paul’s Pastoral Letters.

o   (See 1 Tim. 2:2, 10; 3:16; 4:7–8; 6:3, 5–6, 11; 2 Tim. 3:5; Titus 1:1).

            2. Church Service is the Correct Ministry of Good Works (1Tim. 2:10). 

Good works are a prominent theme in the Pastoral Epistles, forming a very necessary balance to sound doctrine.

o   Godly Women Hold an Important Place Because of Christ and the Gospel. 

o   We must never underestimate the important place that godly women played in the ministry of churches in the past.

o   The Gospel message had a tremendous impact on them because it affirmed their value before God and their equality in the local church body.

§  Galatians 3:28, There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

§  This does not mean that our ethnic background, political affiliations, or sex is changed at conversion; but it does mean that these things are of no value nor can they handicap us when it comes to our spiritual relationship to God through Christ.  The Law perpetuated these distinctions, but God in His grace has declared all men to be on the same level that He might have mercy on all men (Rom. 11:25-32). 

o   Women had a low place in the Roman world, but the Gospel changed that.

o   Godly Women Held an Important Place in Service in the Churches.

o   There were devoted women who ministered to Jesus in the days of His earthly ministry (Luke 8:1–3).

o   They were present at His crucifixion and burial, and it was a woman who first heralded the glorious news of His resurrection.

o   In the Book of Acts we meet Dorcas (Acts 9:36ff), Lydia (Acts 16:14ff), Priscilla (Acts 18:1–3), and godly women in the Berean and Thessalonian churches (Acts 17:4, 12).

o   Paul greeted at least eight women in Romans 16; and Phebe, who carried the Roman epistle to its destination, was a servant in the local church of Cenchrea (Rom. 16:1).

o   Godly Women Render Godly Works. Many believing women won their husbands to the Lord and then opened their homes for Christian ministry.

o   1 Tim. 5:9-10, Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man, [10] Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

o   1 Peter 2:12, Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

o   Acts 9:36-39, Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. [37] And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. [38] And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. [39] Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

o   Proverbs 31:30-31, Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. [31] Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

§  “The fruit of her hands is the good which, by her conduct, she has brought to maturity-the blessing which she has secured for others, but, according to the promise (Isa 3:10), has also secured for her own enjoyment. The first line proceeds on the idea that, on account of this blessing, she herself shall rejoice. Her best praise is her works themselves.” – Keil & Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament

§  “Those that do that which is good, let them have praise of the same (Rom 13:3) and let us not enviously say, or do, any thing to the diminishing of it, but be provoked by it to a holy emulation. Let none have an ill report from us, that have a good report even of the truth itself. Thus is shut up this looking-glass for ladies, which they are desired to open and dress themselves by; and, if they do so, their adorning will be found to praise, and honour, and glory, at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” –Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible

o   Does Paul's Emphasis on Good Works Contradict His Teaching That Salvation Is by Faith and Not by Works? No, because the Pastoral Epistles encourage good works for all the believers (Titus 2:4; 3:8,14), for leaders (Titus 2:7), for the wealthy (1 Tim 6:18), and for widows (1 Tim 5:10). Paul does not teach that those good works were needed for salvation. Jesus himself stressed good works based on love. Paul did, however, stress the practical side of the Christian faith, expressed by good works, in other letters (Rom 2:7; 2 Cor 11:8; Eph 2:10; Col 1:10).

Before I’m finished with this section, I wish to say once more that it is shocking and outrageous what many women wear to church. I am referring to ladies in the ‘choir,’ the church band or ensemble, women who serve in the pulpit area, sing special music, and those who teach regularly. These are serving in the church…they are a part of the ministry’s team…presenting themselves as worthy role model for others to follow. Certainly, the lost person or visitor may be clueless about these matters, but those who are church members serving the Lord and His congregation should know better…. They should understand the importance of following our Lord and not distracting attention that should be focused on God. I have had occasions when I literally had to relocate or stare downward at the floor to avoid looking at an attendee or a person on the platform. I had to FIGHT deep within with my flesh in church to stay focused! Dear, sister…we came to admire God in all His slender and not you!  

CONCLUSION:

Beloved, a proper appearance at church is important because it respects God foremost and the worship environment of the church meetings. When any serving believer acts accordingly they literally helps create a reverential atmosphere reminding attendees of the significance of the meeting. Everyone of us should want this primarily. Please do not forget what truly matters are the deeds we perform rather than superficial qualities or our physical attractiveness. We want to be guilty of looking beyond the surface to the real essence! Choosing to dress ourselves appropriately can also be a form of personal expression of our faith. We delight in encouraging attendees to prepare their hearts and minds for worship, align their outward appearance with their inner devotion, and offer praise and worship to our worthy Lord God. In doing so, appropriate clothing minimizes distractions during worship...our focus remains on our Lord where it should be. Individual appearances are important, but it should never compete for attention, respect, and glory. In the church meetings these honors obviously belong to the Lord exclusively.  

 

Failing to Prioritize God

 

Failing to Prioritize God

GEN. 13:8-13

 

SUBJECT: Carnality/Emotional Orientation

THEME: the Believer persisting in carnality ignoring the leadership of our Lord is destined for spiritual failure.

RELEVANCE: So many people rely on their feelings, thoughts, intuition, families, and experiences far more than God, His Spirit, or Word for guidance and decisions. No doubt we all want to be spiritually successful like Abraham and avoid the miserable catastrophes of Lot’s failures! Consider the elements that make spiritual failure; they must be avoided to be successful in fulfilling God’s plan for our lives!

INTRODUCTION:

Lot was a failure because of his carnality…he remained a feeling dominated person and never became a Spirit and Word obedient person! 

Erroneous standards, priorities, and decisions are the third major factor in Lot’s wrong choice to move closer to Sodom and his ultimate failure in life.

THE EVIDENCE OF BAD PRIORITIES AND DECISIONS

Gen 13:11-13, Then Lot chose him all the plain of Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other. 12, Abram dwelled in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his tent toward Sodom. 13, But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly.

A Believer who is weak in his devotions, worldly in his desires, will also be wrong in his decisions. Lot chose all the plain of Jordan and separated himself from his godly uncle Abraham. Before long he had his tent pitched toward Sodom and the Bible tells us that the men of Sodom were exceedingly wicked sinners before the LORD!

a)     Lot’s Decision Was Wrong Because of His Enduring Carnality!

Again, to be “carnal” or “carnally minded” refers our thoughts, desires, and behaviors governed by our fallen human nature and worldly appetites rather than by the Holy Spirit. Enduring or remaining in a state of carnality carries severe spiritual dangers!  

1. Carnality Directly Leads to Spiritual Death. The most immediate and severe consequence of unyielding carnality is total spiritual separation from the life of God. Romans 8:6, For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.

Two different ways of living and thinking are contrasted here:

·       The Carnal Mind (Death): If our life and thoughts are centered purely on worldly appetites, self-gratification, or sin, it results in spiritual death. As believers, it is cut off from fellowship with God. Not sonship, but fellowship or close spiritual communion with God.

·       The Spiritual Mind (Life and Peace): If a believer allows the Holy Spirit to direct their heart and mind—focusing on Christ, Scripture, and God’s grace—it leads to spiritual vitality, freedom, and deep inner peace. Clearly, Lot was carnally minded in this decision!  

2. Carnality Places us in Direct Opposition to God. A carnal mindset creates a heart that is hostile toward God and cannot submit to His law. Romans 8:7, Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

Paul contrasts life motivated by the flesh (leading to spiritual death and separation) with life lived in the Spirit (bringing peace, life, and security in Christ).  

·         Hostility Towards God: When our lifestyle or mindset centered purely on the flesh, it is fundamentally opposed to God’s character, will, and law.

·        Moral/Spiritual Inability: Left to itself, the unrenewed human mind cannot naturally obey or please God. Transformation requires the intervention and regenerating power of the Holy Spirit.

The carnal mind is not subject to the law of God. There are countless examples of this enmity and contrariness in people in the Scriptures. Think of Abraham marrying Hagar; Lot choosing Sodom; Moses smiting the Egyptian; Joshua making a deal with the Gibeonites; Saul sparing king Agage and the Amalekite Cattle; Solomon’s political marriages; Jonah fleeing to Tarshish instead of going to Nineveh as God said to. All of these illustrate this principle of rebellion that characterize the “carnal mind.” What we Christians want is the mind of Christ, that is yielding our minds to the Spirit’s control. —Unknown

3. Carnality Makes It Impossible to Please God. Operating from a state of carnality means one cannot please God. Romans 8:8, So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

·        “In the flesh”: Refers to an unregenerate person—someone whose life is governed and controlled by their sinful, self-reliant human nature rather than the guidance of God’s Spirit. It is not a reference to simply having a physical human body, but to a spiritual state of living independently from God—living in rebellion.

·        “Cannot please God”: A person living entirely under the sway of the sinful nature lacks the spiritual life, faith, and alignment with God’s will needed to offer anything acceptable to Him. Human effort, morality, or religion detached from God cannot bridge this serious gorge!

William Evans stated, “The entire nature of man, mentally, morally, spiritually, physically, is sadly affected by sin. The understanding is darkened (Eph. 4:18; 1 Cor. 2:14); the heart is deceitful and wicked (Jer. 17:9,10); the mind and conscience are defiled (Gen. 6:5; Titus 1:15); the flesh and spirit are defiled (2Cor. 7:5); the Will is enfeebled (Rom. 7:18; and we are utterly destitute of any Godlike qualities which meet the requirements of God’s holiness (Rom. 7:18).”

Believers are rescued from this state not by their own fleshly performance, but through faith in Jesus Christ and the life-giving presence of the Holy Spirit (Rom 8:1–9).

4. Carnality Breeds Strife, Envy, and Division. Enduring carnality disrupts church unity, leading individuals to act like worldly people rather than spiritual believers. 1 Corinthians 3:3, For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?

They were “babes in Christ” and feed on spiritual “milk” instead of “meat” (deep doctrine) because they were not mature enough to handle it (1 Corinthians 3:1–2).

·        “Ye are yet carnal”: They were still controlled or heavily influenced by the “flesh” (carnal). They are saved believers, but they live according to human, sinful impulses rather than yielding to the Holy Spirit.

·        “Envying, and strife, and divisions”: We have concrete proof of their carnality. Being jealous of one another’s spiritual gifts, arguing over favorite church leaders (such as Paul or Apollos), and splitting into hostile factions—is carnality. Lot through conflict separated from holy influences in his life.

·        “Walk as men”: Is to conduct your daily lifestyle acting like ‘mere humans’ behaving no differently than people of the unregenerate world who do not know God, rather than acting like transformed followers of Christ.

Human Christian leaders are just servants! We must stop boasting in men, leaders, or officials and recognize that God is the one who brings spiritual growth (1 Cor. 3:4-8). We are to unite around the central figure of the Lord!

It is not difficult to determine a believer's spiritual maturity, or immaturity, if you discover what kind of “diet” he enjoys. The immature believer knows little about the present ministry of Christ in heaven. He knows the facts about our Lord's life and ministry on earth, but not the truths about His present ministry in heaven. He lives on "Bible stories" and not Bible doctrines. He has no understanding of 1 Cor 2:6-7. –W. W. Wiesrbe

5. Carnality Reaps Corruption and God’s Judgment. Persisting in the flesh yields a destructive harvest rather than eternal life. The principle of carnality reaping corruption is most famously articulated in Galatians 6:7–8: “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.”

To “sow to the flesh” is carnality—it is living according to selfish, sensual, or sinful desires rather than God’s will. Such a lifestyle leads to “corruption” (decay, ruin, moral and spiritual degradation) and finally God’s judgment.

b)    Lot’s Decision Was Wrong Because of the Wickedness of Sodom

Gen. 13:13, But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly.

Among many other sins, Sodom WAS A CESSPOOL OF HOMOSEXUALITY! Rom.1:24-28 gives us God’s current perspective on this type of sin! The key is redemption through Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 6:9-11)! Not hating the person but certainly rejecting this carnal lifestyle. Consider verse 13:13 carefully:

·        “But the men of Sodom...”: Interrupts the narrative about Abram and Lot to expose the true moral condition of the place Lot chose to approach.

·        “...were wicked and sinners...”: They lived in deep moral corruption, characterized by pride, violence, and flagrant social decay.

·        “...before the LORD...”: Their sins were not hidden from God; they occurred in direct, open defiance of His presence and authority.

·        “...exceedingly”: Their degeneracy had reached an extreme, unrestrained level.

After Abram and Lot split, Lot chose the fertile Jordan Valley ‘toward Sodom’ because it looked rich and prosperous, prioritizing physical comfort over spiritual safety. A dramatic warning to us all that living close to severe corruption is never neutral. Pitching a tent near Sodom eventually led Lot to dwell inside the city itself (Genesis 19), exposing his family and himself to its destructive culture.

c)     Lot’s Decision Was Wrong Because of God’s Wrath Against Sodom

Gen 13:10, And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered every where, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar.

The Spiritual Conditions were Right for God’s Judgment to Fall! That is the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah…God’s judgment was a direct response to a deeply rooted and unrepented evil.

Gen 19:24-25, Then the LORD rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven;  25,  And he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground.

Gen 19:27-29, And Abraham gat up early in the morning to the place where he stood before the LORD: 28,  And he looked toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the plain, and beheld, and, lo, the smoke of the country went up as the smoke of a furnace.  29, And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that....

This is not evidence for God accepting sin, greed, manipulation, selfishness, or homosexuality as legitimate lifestyles; He condemns them all as gross sin! 

Critics and theological readers question the fairness of destroying an entire city—which would have included children, infants, and potentially marginalized or coerced individuals—rather than singling out guilty actors. —Randy Duncan

Biblical historians and scholars estimate—based on the time Lot lived in the region—that Sodom was morally corrupt or ungodly for at least 15 to 25 years, though the text itself does not mark a formal countdown for their repentance.—Bible Tools  

In Genesis 18:23–32, Abraham intercedes for the city, asking if God would spare it if fifty, forty, thirty, twenty, or even ten righteous people could be found. God agrees to spare the entire city for the sake of just ten righteous individuals. However, this society had fallen into total, unrepentant corruption without even a tiny core of righteousness.—Got Questions  

2 Peter 2:6, warns that this destruction serves as a moral lesson to those who would live ungodly in the future to demonstrate that persistent and unchecked wickedness has severe consequences.

                     4. WHAT IS THE POINT?

Now, the point is … if we are weak in our devotions, worldly in our desires then we will certainly be wrong in our decisions! As a result, we will consistently miss the WILL OF GOD FOR OUR LIVES! 

Galatians 5:16, This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

·        Primary Instruction to Us: “Walk in the Spirit”— living, acting, and being guided day-by-day under the influence and power of the Holy Spirit.

·        The Promise/Consequence to Take to Heart: “ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh” — yielding to the Spirit naturally breaks the power and completion of sinful or selfish desires.

·        Immediately Focus: In Galatians 5:17–18, the sinful nature (“the flesh”) and the Spirit oppose one another, and that those who are led by the Spirit are not under the bondage of the law.

It does not matter how sincerely you and I try to do what is right; we will continue to fail in spiritual things until we are ready to allow God by His Spirt and Word to order our lives! Direct fellowship with God and treating relationship with Him as the highest treasure is anchored in several key scriptures:

• Matthew 6:21: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” — What you value most claims your time, devotion, and affection.

• Matthew 6:19–20: “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth... But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven...” — Shifting focus from temporary things to eternal communion with God. Beloved, we must treasure fellowship with the Most High God above all else!

  Our Prayer is, “Lord Lead Me by Your Precious Word!”  “May God’s statements be my plan, my compass, my guide, my leader to spiritual success, and my restrainer from all evil!”     

Ps 119:133, Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.

Ps 37:23-24, The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.  24,  Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.

Are you persisting in carnality as opposed to growing in the Lord? Who leads your life? Who or what influences most of your decisions? How often do you study the Bible? How regularly do you attend church? In what specifically have you disobeyed God? What or who are your eyes focused on? Isn’t it time to build an ‘alter’ to the Most High God?