Planted Like Christ

 

Planted Like Christ

Jn. 12:20-33

SUBJECT: SERVANTHOOD

THEME:  Service is like being “planted” like the Lord Jesus.   

RELEVANCY:  we are called to be servants, and to have the heart of a servant regardless of the area in which we serve the church or the role we fill.  Any person who has accepted Jesus Christ as Savior is called to be God’s minister to others in certain areas of need, at particular times, but always with a mind and a heart motivated toward generous service.

INTRODUCTION: Jesus came as a servant, not as a superstar. His three-year ministry was a powerful example of servanthood.  From His first miracle of changing water to wine at a wedding feast to His sacrificial death on the cross in which His own blood flowed freely for the salvation of all who would believe in Him and receive God’s offer of forgiveness from sins.  He is indeed the Servant of all servants and certainly a worthy example for you and me.

In the days immediately preceding His crucifixion, Jesus spoke candidly with His disciples about His impending death and resurrection. Much of what He said they didn’t understand fully at the time He spoke to them; looking back, however, they understood very clearly the meaning of His words.

The Lord Jesus could very easily have become an earthly king over the Jews according to this incident that happened just before Passover.  The people wanted Jesus to make a public, political move to consolidate power and become an earthly ruler in place of both the Roman occupation and what was perceived by many to be an oppressive, legalistic Jewish Temple rulership. How did Christ handle all the confusion surrounding His purpose and mission?

MESSAGE:

I.  Jesus Liken Service to Being Planted (John 12:24-25).

Jesus was not interested in ruling, but serving! Christ’s statements about servanthood not only described His own life and sacrificial death, but it also related to our role as servants today.

A.  A MISCONCEPTION: CHRIST’S MISSION IN THE WORLD IS MISUNDERSTOOD.

Even some Greeks wanted the Lord Jesus to become a leader or philosopher among them (Jn. 12: 20-23).    

       1. The Disciples’ Idea of Glory (Jn. 12:23). Jesus gave this answer: “The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.” (John 12:23). On the surface, this statement must have been taken by the disciples and supporters of Jesus to be a strong signal—“Now is the time!”  To be glorified means to reach your crowning moment, your shining hour.

           2. The Lord’s Idea of Glory (Jn. 12:23-26).  Jesus came to Jerusalem to be glorified, but He explains what that means. No one listening to Him understood because they could not comprehend that glory and suffering go together.

                    a. “They thought in terms of crowns of gold; Jesus thought of a crown of thorns. They thought of a throne; He thought of a cross. They thought of a royal robe; He thought of a death shroud. They thought of a physical empire; He thought of a spiritual one.”—Unknown

                        b. Since Jesus places a requirement upon us every day, what does it mean to be His follower? How can an ordinary mortal share in the life of the Son of God and, in the process, share in His glory? Jesus' twelve disciples thought they were headed for fame and prestige until they discovered Jesus’ definition of glory.

                    c. I challenge you to join the disciples of the Lord Jesus in a major change in the course of your Christian experience. Do you dare receive the glory that belongs to a person who crosses the bridge Jesus established?  Will you serve the Lord Jesus even though the way is paved with trials, hardships, troubles, difficulty, and discouragements?

B.  A CLARIFICATION: CHRIST’S SERVICE IS LIKE PLANTING WHEAT. (John 12:24-25) 

       1.  The Lord Jesus Refused an Earthly Kingdom and Choose Servanthood Instead.

After the popular misconceptions about glory, thrones and a kingdom, the Lord Jesus quickly went on to say this: John 12:24-25, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. [25] He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.    

             a. Jesus Refused to Live by Earthly Motivations. (Temporal/ Physical)  Jn. 12:24        

                1) The Lord’s Mission Was Not Political.  Jesus made it very clear that He was not called to be a political king so that people might experience a better temporal, earthly existence. 

                    a)   Rather, He was destined to die a sacrificial death so that man might experience an eternal, spiritual life.

                    b)  Jesus was not called to become a king over a political domain, but, instead, the King of kings who might reign over an eternal kingdom not made with human hands.

                        c) Many times we embrace wrong motivations in Christian service.  We want to rule and tell people what to do.  We want to control and dominate like a king would, but this is not the image that the Lord give us here. Christian service is not an occasion to put ourselves on a pedestal; it is an opportunity to be of service to others!

               2) The Lord’s Mission Was Spiritual. The means to achieving Jesus’ much higher and more meaningful goal was not to be found in the man-made systems and alliances of this world, but rather through the ultimate act of ministry and servanthood, a sacrificial death.

                        a) Why are suffering and death so difficult to associate with ruling and reigning? Why do we struggle with the concepts of dying in order to live, losing in order to gain, giving in order to receive? Why do we hold so tightly to what we cannot keep? Why do temporal things have such a strong hold on us? What does it take to “give up what I cannot keep to gain that which I cannot lose”? (12:25)

                        b) Jesus’ example of exaltation through crucifixion is our pattern. Like a grain of wheat, He died. But look at the result: many fruitful seeds! Read John 12:23–26. Take some time to reflect on the truth that when we are willing to follow Jesus’ example we will enjoy His reward—much fruit!  But we must first die to self and choose to serve God and others!

         b. Jesus Resolved to Die to Make Eternal Provisions. 

John 12:24, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.

                  1) The Corn.  Jn. 12:24

                    a) “A corn of wheat” is any kind of grain-wheat, or barley.  The “corn” seed is an illustration of the life of Christ.

                    b) “Fall into the ground” refers to being planted in the earth, thereby the seed will be accessible to the proper moisture from the earth.  This illustrates Christ’s death on the cross.

                        c) By way of application, this “corn of wheat” represents the life of a true servant of God planted in the fertile soil of God’s will in Christian ministry.  Like Christ, we must view our primary purpose as serving the spiritual interests of others.  Like a seed we have great potential to be fruitful!

                 2) The Cross.   Jn. 12:24 “Fall into the ground and die”

                      a)  The whole body of the grain, except the germ, dies in the earth or is decomposed once planted.

                      b)  This decomposed substance provides the first nutrition for the tender germ.

                      c)  This is a nutriment completely appropriate for it, fitted to nourish it until it becomes strong enough to secure its nourishment from the ground. In this God has shown his wisdom and goodness.

                      d)  No one thing could be more precisely fitted for another than this provision made in the grain itself for the future needs of the tender germ.

APPLICATION:  Likewise, through the Cross of our Lord Jesus, He provided that which is most fitted for a needy and sinful people–death.  His death provides the appropriate conditions for salvation, eternal life and a great harvest of souls.  This is also the cross that the Servant of the Lord must bear. Through death we facilitate life! This is a key to fruitful Christian service!  Matthew 16:24, Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 

                 3) The Crown.  Jn. 12:23-24

                      a) “Abideth alone” simply means that the seed cannot produce fruit until it is planted and dies in the ground.  It will remain alone never producing the rich and beautiful harvest.

                      b) “the Son of man should be glorified” Jesus carefully intimates that it was only by his death that He would be glorified in the salvation of men, and in the honors and rewards in Heaven!

APPLICATION: The Lord Jesus bore the Cross therefore He now wears the Crown.  He understood that the suffering will be followed with glory.

 Heb 2:9, But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; . . . .

Phil 2:8-9, He humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross; wherefore God also hath highly exalted him. . . . .

Heb 12:2, 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.

Ephes. 1:20-23, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, [21] Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: [22] And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, [23] Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

               4) The Course.  Jn. 12:26

John 12:26, If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.  Jesus stated that as the sown kernel dies to bring forth a rich harvest, so also the death of the Son of God will result in the salvation of many. 

                     a) We Too Must Serve The Lord. “Serve me” means we are to be Christ’s disciple also.  The principle of death (see v. 24) is also applicable to us His followers. We, too, as His disciples will have to lose our life in service and witness for Him (see Matt. 10:37–39; 16:24, 25).                   

                     b) We Too Must Follow The Lord. “Let him follow me” Christ calls us to imitate Him; to do what He did, bear what He bore, and love what He loves. He is speaking particularly of his own sufferings and death, and this passage has reference, therefore, to calamity and persecution.  Not only did Jesus choose the servant role for Himself—which was actually the heavenly Father’s role for Him—but He called us, His followers, to become like Him, and to be, first and foremost, servants.  The Lord Jesus Calls His True Followers to Servant-hood 

QUOTE: “You see me triumph-you see (me enter Jerusalem, and you supposed that my kingdom was to be set up without opposition or calamity; but it is not. I am to die; and if you will serve me, you must follow me even in these scenes of calamity; be willing to endure trial and to bear shame, looking for future reward.”—Albert Barnes 

                     c) We Too Will Reign With The Lord. “Where I am, there shall also my servant be:” We as His servants will be in Heaven, with the Son of God reigning and glorified with the glorified Messiah.  The design of this verse is to comfort us in the midst of persecutions, ministry hardships, and trials. 

APPLICATION:  We are to follow Him through whatever challenges; realizing that as He was to be glorified as the result of his sufferings, so we also were to look for our eternal rewards.

Rev 3:21, To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne.

John 14:3, And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

John 17:24, Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. 

2.  The Lord Jesus Viewed His Service To God As Something Glorious Not Degrading.

Jesus concluded, “What shall I say? Father, save Me from this hour:  but for this cause came I unto this hour. Father, glorify thy name.” (John 12:27). 

     a. Jesus did not back away from servanthood or the ultimate act of service—His sacrificial death. 

     b. He did not regard His crucifixion in any way to be a demeaning or diminishing act, but he considered it to be the very purpose for His life and the fulfillment of His time on this earth.

     c. His entire life and ministry had been aimed at this supreme act of service.

John 12:27, Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour:

John 12:28, Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.

           1)  There’s a phrase that embodies this principle: “Make sure that what you are living for is what you are willing to die for.” That’s the way Jesus lived. He lived a life of service, and He died a death that was an act of service. 

           2)  Jesus came to Jerusalem to be glorified through the act of supreme service—His crucifixion. But, the people could not understand Him because they could not comprehend that glory and suffering go together. They thought in terms of crowns of gold; Jesus thought of a crown of thorns. 

           3)  No genuine believer is excluded from Christian service. We each are called to serve God and to serve others in need every day of our lives. God has already identified the precise ways in which He desires for you to serve Him and, thereby, fulfill your purpose in life.                   

QUOTE: “If we refuse to be a corn of wheat—falling into the ground, and dying; if we will neither sacrifice prospects nor risk character, and property, and health; nor when we are called, relinquish home, and break family ties, for Christ’s sake; then we shall abide alone.   But if we wish to be fruitful, we must follow our Blessed Lord Himself, by becoming a corn of wheat, and dying, then we shall bring forth much fruit.”—T. G. Ragland                                

CONCLUSION:

Nobody is excluded from service. We each are called to serve God and to serve others in need every day of our lives. God has already identified the precise ways in which He desires for you to serve Him and, thereby, fulfill your purpose in life. Ephesians 2:10 tells us: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”

Service is the doing of good works as God leads and directs through the power of the Holy Spirit. The works are there for us to do. Our responsibility is to obey God, even as Jesus obeyed the Father, and to serve Him. With all of our lives—every last grain is given Him and to others.

Walking In The Spirit of Life!

Galatians 5:24-6:1

It is easy to talk about the fruit of the Spirit or walking in the Spirit while doing very little about it. This is entirely unacceptable to our Lord Jesus. We need to learn that it is in the concrete situations, rather than in emotional highs, that the reality of the Holy Spirit in our lives is demonstrated. One of the great goals of Christian freedom is Spirit-led ministry or service to others in concrete and daily matters (Eph. 5:9; Col. 1:9-13; Phil. 1:11).

While it is true the flesh may manufacture "results" that bring attention to us, but the flesh cannot bear fruit that brings glory to God (Anders). It takes patience, an atmosphere of the Spirit, walking in the light of God’s fellowship, the seed of the Word of God, and a sincere desire to honor Christ. In short, the secret to spiritual freedom is walking in the Holy Spirit! He alone can give us the freedom from sin and self. He enables us to fulfill the law of love, to overcome the flesh, and to bear holy fruit. Will you yield to Him and let Him work in you? Note carefully what Paul said,

And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another (Gal. 5:24–26).  

Now let’s consider some thoughts on Walking in the Spirit based on this incredible statement from God’s Word.

First, Our Fallen Nature Is Rendered “Dead” As We Walk In The Spirit Of Death (Gal.5:24)

Paul lays before us the reality that our fallen nature has been crucified with Christ at His sacrificial and representative death for us. He insists that since we presently have life in the Spirit, it is incumbent upon us to walk in the Spirit. That is, we are obligated to live in complete submission and cooperation with the Spirit of God in our daily relationships and opportunities to serve others. Believers have zero obligations to fleshly carnal living; we are impressed by this passage to identify with Christ’s death through the power of the Spirit of God.

Secondly, Our Fallen Nature Is Rendered “Dead” As We Walk In The Spirit Of Life (Gal. 5:26)

Wiersbe suggests that Paul is probably focusing on particular problems in Galatia. “Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another” (Gal. 5:26).  If we walk step-by-step in the Spirit, we will have the spiritual resources to solve any attitude and conflict problems in the church. Additionally, perhaps even walking in the Spirit could be used by some as an occasion for pride. The apostle mentioned three particular problems (Gal. 5:26). They are the opposite of serving others, and they remain three prevalent sins in churches today. So, how do we walk in the Spirit of life?

By Watching Our Own Spirit (Gal. 5:26). 

This is the beginning of very practical challenges and instructions (Gal. 5:26-6:10) on how to actually walk in the Spirit as a church and as individuals. This is the first of a number of specific actions that should characterize Believers who are truly being led by the Spirit. But, it is also a return to the problems and conflicts mentioned in verse fifteen. In Galatians 5:26, there are three attitudes we must strenuously avoided:

              Beware of The Spirit of Pride and Contention —“Let us not be desirous of vainglory” (5:26).  Let us not become conceited, literally holding a false or empty opinion of ourselves. This means “prideful” or “vain” actions because of mere perceived advantages. If we are not careful we too can become conceited; expressing ourselves in favorable terms to boost our reputation and to prop up a sagging ego. In fact many Believers act rather conceited because they believe they are “more spiritual.” The bottom line is conceit causes relational problems. Beloved, do not let personal pride negatively impact your marriage, family, church, or work relationships (Phil. 2:3). But, how can we detect this harmful attitude?

                     It is an Arrogant Attitude.

A palpable spirit of contention dominates this passage and this fact points to the ‘parent sinful attitude’ of the spirit of vainglory or self-promotion (Prov. 13:10; Luke 22:24; Js. 3:14-16; 3Jn. 9, 10). Pride stirs up strife, and conflict fueling contentions like gasoline would a wildfire!            

APPLICATION: God does not want us as Christians to be boastful or conceited braggarts; such behavior is utterly inconsistent with being a sinner saved by grace. People living by human standards often become proud of their personal achievements taunting those who do not come up to their standards. The prideful Believer will often harshly criticize other Christians who do not have the same lists of taboos they condemn. In the opposite extreme are those Believers with zero apprehensions about anything. They categorize everyone, even those with legitimate biblical standards and convictions, as legalists if they possess even a few convictions. They mistakenly view spiritual freedom as permission to do whatever they fancy and pride themselves on their ‘freedom in Christ.’ With them anything goes and they arrogantly flaunt their ‘freedom’ in the face of others. Such unfounded ‘glorying’ is atypical of walking in the Spirit of God!

                    It is a False Advantage (only perceived).

Competition is stimulated and given life because of false supposed advantages. Such empty pride is based on specific imagined requirements by the deceived! Such empty bragging brings no real glory to God; instead it results in shameful pride and church clicks. Consider Webster’s definition of pride:

 Pride is an inordinate self-esteem; an unreasonable conceit of one's own superiority in talents, beauty, wealth, accomplishments, rank or elevation in office, which manifests itself in lofty airs, distance, reserve, and often in contempt of others; insolence; rude treatment of others; loftiness; ostentation. (D. Webster).

              Beware of The Spirit of Provocations and Challenges— “Provoking one another” (Gal. 5:26).  It is a denial of the Spirit-filled life to provoke or challenge other people to measure up to our own private viewpoints or standards. Please allow me to clarify, we all are profoundly obligated to live up to truly biblical standards, but personal standards cannot and should not be applied to others. Remember we can never anticipate the problems, needs, and temptations of another person’s heart. Therefore, we must refrain from such misguided provocations. Such a challenge is born of pride and entirely unjustified. Refuse to be the source of needless annoyances that only generate more anger and frustration. This is the opposite of the virtues the Holy Spirit desired to evidence in our lives. While many will find the temptation to elevate themselves because of their adherence to some false notion, we must refuse to become embroiled in prideful conflicts. Do not allow yourself to be an irritant in your church.

              Beware of The Spirit of Pinning and Comparisons—“Envying one another” (Gal. 5:26).  Envy is specifically the sin of wanting something that belongs to someone else to which one has no right or claim.  Envy begrudges another person’s superior success, talent, possessions, charisma, opportunities, or personal attractiveness. Persons of few talents or weak character are apt to envy those they deem to be more successful, accomplished, or more ‘committed’ to God. All such self-centered yearnings, greed, and avarice are foreign to grace. A godly Believer should esteem others better than themselves while rejoicing in the blessings of God in another person’s life.  Mere religious performers desire too much attention using their ‘ministry’ opportunities to garner personal attention and the accolades of others. A church is not the place to compete for godless notoriety.

True greatness is a willingness to serve others unnoticed, or in obscurity as long as it is God’s design for us. It is contentment to labor for years virtually unseen sincerely for the glory of God.

These Believers were “envying one another;” they yearned to have what others have earned or achieved. Whether recognition, family, status, money, or even spirituality is the object of envy, such comparisons are not wise. Envy will needlessly divide Believers and ruin a church’s unity in Christ. Refuse to give in to envy, and only compare yourself to God’s revealed will for you.

Pride makes us perpetually vulnerable to certain temptations. When Satan cannot stop our spiritual growth, his tactic immediately changes to the seduction of pride. As soon as we notice our progress, we must place ourselves on alert against pride taking root in our hearts. This will be especially acute if we measure our growth against the progress others are making. Growth should not be a cause for pride, but for humility and thanksgiving because it comes from God.

QUOTE: Popularity Contest

Everyone needs a certain amount of approval from others. But those who go out of their way to secure honors or to win popularity become conceited and show they are not following the Holy Spirit's leading. Those who look to God for approval won't need to envy others. Because we are God's sons and daughters, we have his Holy Spirit as the loving guarantee of his approval. Seek to please God, and the approval of others won't seem so important. (Unknown)

By Working Against Sin (Gal. 6:1). 

Watching our own spirit is half the battle; we must also work hard against sin and its impact. Here is a lovely statement on how a sinning Believer is to be treated by other Christians. Paul says, “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted” (Gal. 6:1). No, the first step is not condemnation nor calling down divine judgments upon an offender. Godly Christians are to come to the aid of a failing Believer much like a good doctor would operate to set a broken bone for a patient who is dear to him. With thoughtful reflection on the possibility of our own failures, we give spiritual aid to another in the spirit of meekness. There is no room for pride in this scenario. This is how “spiritual” Believers behave! Yes, they recognize that sinning is utterly wrong and will by no means condone or sanction anything that is truly offensive to a holy God. However, their aim or goal is not merely to be right, nor to condemn. It is to restore the fallen to fellowship with God and the church. Spiritual Believers help failing Believers get back on track in their walk with God. Paul knew how to directly discourage pride and dampen the party spirit that was ripping up the Galatian churches. Walking and working in the Spirit of Grace is the ultimate solution to such evils.              

To be overtaken in any trespass describes a man who has committed an act of sin rather than one who is habitually sinful. Such a person is to be dealt with by spiritual Christians. A carnal brother or sister in Christ might, by a hard, cold attitude, do more harm than good. Then, too, the offender will not likely receive the admonition of a ‘Christian’ who is himself out of touch with the Lord.

Yes, beloved, walking in the Spirit is living in Christian freedom! Such liberty involves developing Christlike character, and giving loving service to others as we follow the Holy Spirit. The Spirit-led Christian thinks of others, especially fellow Believers, and seeks to serve them in concrete work-a-day ways. Walking in the Spirit is not exclusively for preachers; God prescribed this lifestyle for every Believer in Christ. It is not merely for emotional elation in a high-powered church service; instead abiding in the Spirit’s power is a daily practical matter.

Please understand that spiritual fruit is not merely self-effort. A Believer is certain to become completely frustrated when their personal determination does not produce the results she or he wants to see.  Beloved, we must cooperate with the Holy Spirit in the process of developing supernatural fruit. Again the great benefit of Christian freedom is walking in the Spirit and bearing spiritual character supernaturally and not merely through self-determination. The fruit of the Spirit is character qualities that God has and He desires that we possess them also. This is the Spirit’s transforming work in a Believer’s character resulting in actions and attitudes of ministry.

To those who might prefer a mystical experience at church or a flight of ecstatic-emotional fancy, walking in the Spirit is a most down-to-earth practical matter. It involves personal relationships (Gal. 6:1-5) and the use of money (Gal. 6:6-10) and measuring spirituality by godly actions in these areas (Wiersbe).

It is easy to talk about walking the Spirit while doing very little about it. We Christians must learn that it is in the concrete situations, rather than in emotional highs, that the reality of the Holy Spirit in our lives is demonstrated. One of the great benefits of Christian freedom is Spirit-led ministry and service to others in concrete and daily matters.  

The Path of Peace

The Scriptures refer to several kinds of peace.  There is peace with God, which relates to salvation (Rom. 5:1).  Then there is the peace of God, which relates to prayerfully trusting the Lord with our circumstances (Phil. 4:7).  The Bible also mentions peace with the brethren and our fellowman (1Thess. 5:13; Col. 3:15).  This is where James is concentrating his energy in this passage. That is building peace into our relationship or walking together in peace. Once again we will see how the exercise of godly wisdom actually leads to peaceful interchanges and interactivity. In the cases where someone was able to bring about peace to a volatile situation, and on a personal level, they spoke with wisdom to secure harmony. This kind of proactivity or leadership is necessary weather the type of peace is political, professional, or interpersonal.  As believers in Jesus Christ, we should be Peace-makers (Matt. 5:9). James gives us a thorough look at how godly wisdom leads to interpersonal peace. 

Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. 14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. (James 3:13–18, KJV)

What Is The Test Of True Wisdom? (Js. 3:13)

Before we can appreciate the application of godly wisdom, it would be helpful to review what it is. Actually, the test of true wisdom is an active humility. As James continues his instructions, he focuses on the subject of healthy spiritual wisdom, contrasting it with a lower wisdom which in reality is not wisdom at all. Although his instructions are beneficial for all of God’s people, his topic is decidedly aimed at teachers or leaders. And who does not expect their teachers and leaders to be people deeply influence by godly wisdom? They above all people should be wise and knowledgeable. Merely claiming to be wise and filled with holy insight is grossly inadequate. We must live in goodness and meekness toward God and others (Js. 3:13).  The solution for the problem of interpersonal conflict is to seek and secure divine wisdom (Js. 1:5).

The Definition of Wisdom

“Wise” is the common word for speculative knowledge and philosophy, but the Hebrews infused it with the much richer meaning of skillfully applying knowledge to matters of practical living. “Wise” (Js. 3:13) then describes a person with moral insight and skill in the practical issues of life. The know how to live God’s way. To be clear wisdom goes beyond knowing facts and is best understood as skills and spiritual techniques for daily practical matters. It is not reading a book about motorbike riding, but being a skilled motorbike rider.

The word “knowledge” portrays a specialist or professional who could skillfully apply his expertise to practical situations. “Knowledge” (Js. 3:13) then is understanding and refers to intellectual perception and scientific insight. James is referring to refined and honed perspectives that are distilled from life’s experiences and developments. Beloved, such individuals have learned from their successes and failures. James is asking who is truly skilled in the art of living. So wisdom and knowledge is generally the ability to live God’s way. As you would expect, such wisdom can be demonstrated and therefore detected when it is in use.

The Demonstration of Wisdom

When godly wisdom springs into action it can be recognized. Like a rainbow in the sky has distinct characteristic, so it is with spiritual wisdom. Note again what James says in verse 13.

Wisdom is shown or demonstrated. “Let him shew” (Js. 3:13) is what James prescribes. We are not speaking in philosophical nor theoretical terms, but in the everyday language of deeds, activities, and service. Wisdom from God is anchored in shoe leather and woven into the warp and woof of our life’s fabric. If a person is wise and knowledgeable, she or he will exhibit it by a “good conversation” coupled together with the humble spirit that is also deeply rooted in godly wisdom.

Wisdom is not measured by degrees but by deeds. It is not a matter of acquiring truth in lectures but of applying truth to life. The person who possesses godly wisdom (3:17) will meekly show it with works, not just words. (W. W. Wiersbe)

The attitude, persona, and actions of a truly wise Believer show they are indeed wonderfully influenced by God’s brand of wisdom.

This intimates the fact that believers should be slow to speak (1:19). When we do engage in conversation our words inform, heal, and accomplish worthy goals, thus revealing the marks of wisdom.  It is the way we use knowledge, not whether or not we have knowledge or even whether we are intelligent. The issue is one of showing what an earlier generation called “good sense” in daily life.

                                                     

Wisdom produces good works. James says, “Let him shew out of a good conversation his works” (Js. 3:13). “Good” refers to agreeable and pleasant—positive moral quality and that which is favorably valued. As you know the word “conversation” refers more to our lifestyle and manner of behavior. “Works” points to activities that are essentially related to our faith in Jesus Christ. Faith properly understood will produce good works, deeds, services, and actions that are right and good from God’s perspective. I know society can become confused on what is truly good and right, but God is not puzzled on these matters at all. True wisdom does not lie in good notions or speculations so much as in good and useful actions. Not the person who thinks well, or speaks well, is categorized as wise in the sense of the word. We must live and act well first and foremost. When this is the case others will be more incline to listen to what we have to say and follow our lead.

Wisdom Inspires Humility. “The meekness of wisdom” (James 3:13) describes the attitude in which a truly wise person’s works are done. The word “meekness” relates to “humility, or gentleness,” and describes the state of an animal which has been tamed so that its power is brought under control and directed in a useful manner. Here in James 3:13, it is used in contrast to actions motivated by selfishness and pride. “Meekness” is the opposite of arrogance and self-promotion (see Matt. 5:5; 1:21; Num. 12:3; Gal. 5:23). Meekness can be described as power under control.

The truly wise believer is humble; his or her good life and deeds are best portrayed in humility of mind and heart. The Lord Jesus, the embodiment of true wisdom, was not proud and arrogant; He was meek and lowly in heart (Matt. 11:29). Therefore, all who are truly wise will have the hallmark of genuine humility. My honest confession is that the more I learn, the more I realize I have so much more to learn. Knowledge made me arrogant early on in my ministry, but godly wisdom has correctly humbled my soul. My physical strength moved me to evidence pride in my youth, but maturing wisdom in my heart has allowed me to realize the strength of God in my weaknesses. My competence and capability drove me to independence in my immaturity, but spiritual wisdom from God changed me to genuinely value teamwork, interdependence, and collaboration. You see, Beloved, when we travel with the Lord Jesus along the path of wisdom, we become the kind of people that can work with others and they can freely work with us.

Wisdom Evidences Meekness. James also employed the phrase, “meekness of wisdom,” (James 3:3) signifying two important things according to Dr. Wiersbe,

Meekness is the right use of power, and wisdom is the right use of knowledge. They go together. The truly wise person will show in his daily life (conversation means “behavior”) that he is a child of God. Attitude and action go together.

In James 1:21, “meekness” also connotes a readiness to receive instruction from the Word. There is nothing like working with people who are still growing, learning, and expanding in Christ. Unfortunately, few things are more egregious than putting up with an insufferably arrogant know-it-all. Just as “wisdom,” is the proper and insightful application of knowledge, meekness is the proper and insightful application of power. Such “meekness” is an evidence of salvation and the continuing work of the Spirit of Grace in our hearts. Such “wisdom” is the generous gift of God to a growing Christian (Ja. 1:5) trusting God for it. Together these terms describe a wonderful possibility and manner of life. That is a character and conduct which is conformed to Christ’s and a soul richly empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Meekness is a condition of mind and heart which demonstrates gentleness, not in weakness, but in power. It is a balance born in strength of character. Meekness is not primarily expressed in outward behavior nor toward other people, but chiefly toward God. It is that attitude of spirit of accepting God’s dealings with us as good and refusing to dispute with or resist Him. This selfless and non-self-assertive meekness comes from divine wisdom.(See Js. 1:5; Job 9:4; 28; Pss. 104:24; 111:10; Prov. 1:7; 2:1–7; 3:19,20; 9:10; Jer. 10:7,12; Dan. 1:17; 2:20–23; Rom. 11:33; 1 Cor. 1:30; Eph. 3:10; Col. 2:3).

Beloved, we can examine ourselves for the operation of true wisdom in our motives, desires and actions. Consider these questions as you pause before the Lord God. Am I sustaining meaningful relationships because I habitually use godly wisdom? Is my history peppered with painful broken friendships? Do I find myself in conflict more than in harmony? Am I easy to work with on team projects? Do I value the suggestions and ideas of others or must I have my way regardless? Am I willing to let the best ideas advance even if they are not mine? Have I made the mistake of substituting academic degrees for godly wisdom?

You and I are only required to answer these questions before the Lord. If you need to confess some things then do not hesitate. God is merciful and forgiving when we come to Him in a spirit of repentance. Remember wisdom is demonstrated in our attitudes and actions resulting in healthy stronger relationships. Peace marks those who walk in the way of wisdom. 

For Goodness Sake!!

Is fighting the Ebola virus on the continent of Africa a good idea? Should we spend more American tax dollars to provide supplies and medicines to refugees affected by the religious persecutions and wars in Iraq and Syria? Is it wise to help US veterans who are disabled and or struggling with PTSD regain their balance to make a fresh start? Should the Veteran Administration Hospitals provide higher quality service and care to those who have hazarded their lives serving our country? These are legitimate considerations facing our country collectively and each of us as Americans. As a prospering nation it is incumbent upon us to show forth goodness to others around the world while diligently addressing the swelling needs here at home. Furthermore Christians are responsible for demonstrating the goodness of God on a daily basis through acts of kindness and generosity. This brings us to another aspect of the fruit of the Spirit called “goodness.” Once more the great Apostle Paul says to us, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Gal 5:22-23). What is goodness according to the Bible?

GOODNESS

In Romans 15:14, Paul says, “And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.” Christians are to be “full of goodness” and this fits them for meaningful ministries of encouragement, exhortation, and warning to others. We should reserve zero room for evil expressions. Again in Ephesians 5:8-10, he says, “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: 9, (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)10, Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.” “All goodness” is consistent with living according to God’s light and Word; goodness is the fruit of the Spirit, and all genuine goodness is acceptable to the Lord Jesus. Of supreme importance is the fact that God, not society, defines goodness and all types thereof. Once more Paul says in Second Thessalonians 1:11-12, “Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: 12, That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” There is a goodness that belongs to God; a kind of goodness He delights to show and work out in and through Believers for Christ’s glory. Goodness actually demonstrates the grace of God as it influence our lives. Grace marks and controls the expression of goodness. Thus goodness is not merely a passive quality in Believers; it is a deliberate preference to what is right, and a decided rejection of moral evil. Goodness utterly insists upon opposing evil while persisting to follow and choose all forms of moral good (Easton’s Bible Dictionary).

So then the sixth quality the Holy Spirit produces in Believers is “goodness” (Gal. 5:22) toward all including those who have been intentionally insensitive or have sought to do harm to others. Goodness may not only be thought of as uprightness of soul, but also as outward-reaching actions toward others to help or benefit them even when it is not deserved. Goodness is virtue in both disposition and deportment. It is morality within and usefulness demonstrated. Christians must perform that which is beneficial toward others regardless of who they are while pursuing what is good for society. A person’s failed past does not automatically forfeit all expressions of goodness towards them from individuals or society. 

A defining question should be entertained at this point, “Is all ‘goodness’ God’s goodness?” It is imperative that we remember that ‘good’ is to be defined by God and not society at large. Modern secularized values persistently call good evil and evil good. The new morality is actually the same old evil of a past generation. Society influenced by a warp and twisted media will sanction sinful, evil, and outrageous practices in the name of doing ‘good.’ To the biblically illiterate alternative lifestyles are good, drug usage is good, recreational sex is good, consuming alcohol is good, cheating on your marriage is good, aborting babies is good, killing the elderly is good, and corrupt business and government is good. Our society is utterly inept at deciding or executing authentic goodness!

Biblically speaking good encompasses right motives, moral endeavors, and godly outcomes. So, to be considered “good” requires virtuous purposes, a wholesome undertaking or task that actually pleases God, and the end product is honoring to God and truly beneficial to humanity. Biblical goodness does not accommodate the relativistic and situational ethic kind of ‘good’ so common today. There is no conception of using morally evil means to secure ‘good’ ends. Nor is there toleration for wicked endeavors that brought about ‘good’ developments. No leniency is afforded for a net ‘good’ merely because the motives were right. This is because God’s standards for goodness are absolute. He requires wholesome tasks performed with spiritual motives and righteous outcomes. Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Dictionary (Youngblood, and Bruce 1995) says:

Goodness—the quality of being good; praiseworthy character; moral excellence. The Bible speaks often of the goodness of God (Ex. 33:19; Rom. 2:4). God’s goodness consists of righteousness, holiness, justice, kindness, grace, mercy, and love. Goodness is also one of the fruits of the Spirit that should characterize Christian believers (Gal. 5:22). Christians are called to goodness, even as God the Father is perfect and good (Matt. 5:48).

Therefore, a believer branded by spiritual “goodness” will manifest righteousness, holiness, justice, kindness, grace, mercy, and love in action. Though these qualities are perfect in our heavenly Father, they are quite imperfect in us His children. Nevertheless He is the standard of genuine goodness. The Spirit of God will communicate these same qualities into the yielded believer’s experience. That is, we will do right because it is indeed right, be set apart unto God’s will and pleasure, fair/honest in our dealings, kind towards the deserving and undeserving alike, graceful toward all, show mercy to those admitting their failures while affording opportunities for redemption, and give love to friends and foes unconditionally. The glory of God is upon such a life; Christ is greatly honored through such expressions. The more mature we are in Christ, the more prominently “goodness” will pervade our personalities.

Goodness can also be described as “generosity of self and possessions.”  It includes hospitality and a multiplicity of acts of benevolence, charitableness, generosity, philanthropy, and thoughtfulness that flow from an unselfish heart. It portrays a kind soul who is far more interested in investing in the lives of others than receiving.  God’s desire for all believers is that we continue actively engaging in multiplied good works. This is precisely what Paul prescribed in Titus 3:8, “This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.” God plans for His people to be intentionally plugged into activities, ventures, venues, and opportunities that express goodness—organizations that are profitable to humanity. Bible believing churches always need more bus workers, evangelism ministries always need more participants, homeless ministries constantly need volunteers, discipleship ministries need workers, and jail ministries could use a great deal more help. The person who is often given to melancholy moods, gloom and depression because of an over indulgence in self-centered thinking needs this quality.  There is something restorative about serving others that lifts a person out of the rut of self-thoughts. 

To see goodness in action consider the life of the Lord Jesus who ceaselessly “went about doing good” (Acts 10:38; Matt. 9:35; 12:15; 15:21-31). Consider the record of Matthew,

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. ²⁴ And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. ²⁵ And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan (Matthew 4:23-25).

No one would argue that these were not genuinely good actions performed by the Lord Jesus. He filled up His life with such helpful exercises of service to God and mankind. He recruited and trained others to serve alongside Himself and to continue such spiritual and benevolent acts/deeds. Likewise it is still good to preach the Gospel of salvation, teach the truth of God’s Word to transform lives, and labor to heal people’s bodies and minds. According to our Lord Jesus’ example, it is good to help folks overcome the forces of evil and darkness in their individual struggles, deal with the mistakes and failures of their past, and fight the spread of violent diseases. These are good endeavors before God and for the good of humanity. The Lord Jesus made these the focus of His ministry to others. The kind of help He afforded empowered, lifted, and transformed the present situation posturing people for a better future. He did NOT perpetuate a victim mentality! His incredible works demonstrated that He is indeed the Messiah, the Son of God, and what was truly important to God. The Lord Jesus helped people with their most pressing spiritual needs, and He ministered to their temporal needs as well. He gave them bread to eat that He may offer them the Bread of Life (John 6). He freed people from sin and it’s power that they may experience all their potential in the plan of God for them. The dysfunctional become functional and the disenfranchised are invested with fresh opportunities because of Christ’s goodness to us all.

One could also read Luke 10:30–35, where the Good Samaritan showed himself a good neighbor.  Though there was hostility and religious animosity between the Samaritans and the Jews, still he did everything in his power to aid this fallen Jewish traveler. He not only overcame cultural prejudices, but he defined what it means to be a real neighbor. The Samaritan took the time, altered his schedule, possibly endangered himself, invested his money, valued commonalities more than their differences, took the necessary pains to be of help, generously used his resources, sought to alleviate a real need, and made whatever arrangements were necessary to help this wounded man. He did good because he fundamentally valued another human life. The power of goodness is still just as potent in this modern age of injustice and prejudices. It can still transform individuals and societies through the Gospel of Jesus Christ and submissive believers. Too many Christians fear the fact that showing goodness will cost them. It will cost time, energy, and resources. It is almost never convenient, and yes, we will have times when we feel used and unappreciated. Yes, we will be challenged repeatedly to reevaluate our priorities—what is truly or most important?

But what about the risks involved with helping troubled people? Yes, people will try to take advantage of our goodness. Yes, there are serious inherent dangers to fighting viruses and diseases like Ebola. Yes, our nice and neat schedules will be altered, interrupted, and changed again…again…and again…. Yes, it will cost you and me personally and it will cost the churches or organizations we serve with. Yes, we must take serious precautions/considerations before bringing a homeless stranger into our home for the winter. Yes, there will be occasions when we feel like we are not making any progress. Yes, there will be times when we question whether all this is worthwhile. Yes, there will be setbacks, frustrations, unanticipated roadblocks, regulatory issues, misunderstandings, opposition from those who question our motives, and legal hurdles to clear, but we must remember what we are doing. Yes, we may have to give up a certain higher quality of life…perhaps less personal luxuries in order to address the raw needs of others. Yes, there will be people trying to take advantage of our services or help perpetually. Yes, we will have to make some difficult decisions concerning those who do not want Christ and the Gospel; they really only want a meal or yet another handout. Still…still…still difficulties in worthwhile endeavors are worth the headaches! With proper consideration for biblical guidance, laws, regulations, protocols, and risk management, we continue to maintain good works that are pleasing to God and good for people. There will be “Christian” groups who will criticize us for being too temporal, too social, or too liberal. Let them say what they will; model your efforts after those of the Lord Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. Remember our Lord had many critics who did NOTHING to address people’s spiritual, physical, or otherwise real needs! Like the religious leaders in our Lord’s time, these are far too concern with their personal interests to really be of help to anyone.

There will be times when the Holy Spirit will prompt us Christians to perform a kind act of service. We need to be sensitive and follow these divine impulses. D. L. Moody once stated that it was his custom, after presenting himself to the Holy Spirit’s leadership, to act upon the impulses which came to mind, provided they did not involve violating any known principle of the Word. Is this not a healthy practice to personally adopt? God will transform the inner life as we experience the joy of giving into the lives of others refusing to be selfish and stingy. God is looking for the opportunity to make a greater impact in our world, but He desires to work through people who practice divine goodness by the power of the Holy Ghost. Each submissive believer represents an opportunity to do good right now. The needs are all around us! If you are like me, there are needs in your family and home that you can address in the name of our Lord. There is a hand you can hold, a Bible story you can read at bedtime, a tear you can wipe away, a hand you can give, a prayer ministry you can execute, and a sounding board you can provide. You can be an ear to listen, someone to pray with, and a shoulder to cry on. You can provide these incredible gifts by the grace of God at work in you. You do not need the wealth of a Bill Gates to do good in people’s lives, but you do need the power of God’s Spirit. Look to Him regularly for guidance, strength, power, and all spiritual resources. Understand that you cannot do it all, but you can make a difference in someone’s life. God will supply the grace and wisdom we need as we are careful to maintain good works that glorify Him and help our fellow man. Beloved, it is right to do good for goodness sake!