"shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness" -1 Peter 5.2
This two word phrase could probably have been included in the previous post, however these two words really stood out to me as I was studying this verse. If you read the other blog I contribute to, Pr. 18.24, (https://proverbs1824brothers.blogspot.com/) you may remember from the series Jeremy and I have been writing that a significant part of my personality is focused on being helpful to others (Enneagram wing 2).
I have a need to help help others. If I see someone struggling, my initial inclination is to help, and the more difficult the situation, the more I want to help. This is a good thing, but for me, it has also proven to be a struggle. For so many years, I took this part of my personality, or maybe nature is a better a word, to an unhealthy level. My desire to help those around me caused me to ignore my needs, desires, and preferences because there were other people who needed me. I felt the need to be always strong, to never show weakness or uncertainty, and always appear like everything is held together, because the weight of the world was on my shoulders, or so I thought. It wasn't a healthy a way to live, and in all honesty, it was a very lonely life.
The reason these two words hit me, is because they are freeing. As a leader, I am responsible for the care and protection of those I am leading, but I am not called to lead the entire world. I don't have to care for the 7 billion + people in this world, and I don't have to protect all of them. My job is to shepherd the flock of God among myself. I am responsible to care for and protect those whom God has entrusted to my care. A leader is only called to shepherd those entrusted to his care, those who are among you.
When I read that, it felt as if a weight had been removed from my shoulders. I am not called to shepherd the world, no one is. I am called to shepherd those around me. My family, my brothers, those God has given me to disciple, those are the members of the flock of God around me. God will call others to shepherd other members of His flock.
The weight of the world is not on your shoulders. You are not responsible to shepherd the entire flock of God, just those who have been entrusted to your care. A leader focuses on the sheep he has been given.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Friday, March 30, 2018
Wednesday, March 28, 2018
Care for and Protect
"shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness" -1 Peter 5.2
Verse 2 begins by focusing the action of a leader; it gives one command, and one description. The first command given to a leader is to shepherd. Shepherds do two things, they provide care for the sheep they tend, and they offer protection from the predators who have a taste for mutton. Shepherds provide care by leading their sheep to green pastures and still waters. They provide care by tending to wounded animals and going after those who fall behind or stray from the group. Shepherds provide protection by being armed and alert; they stand guard over the flock, keeping a keen eye for lions, wolves, and thieves. If a sheep is carried off, they go on a rescue mission, fight the enemy, and rescue the sheep. That is what it means to shepherd.
That command in itself is one that must not be taken lightly, it involves taking on the responsibility for the well-being of others. However, the full weight of this responsibility is realized when the command issued is to shepherd the flock of God. These are simple sheep, they are God's sheep. The creator of the universe is entrusting you with the care of His people. As a parent, there aren't many people I would trust with my girls. I'm a dad of two princesses, and their safety and well-being is my top priority. God view each member of His flock as a loving parent views their child, and yet He has chosen to entrust the care of His flock to human leader. This realization should inspire a leader to be at their best, to always be learning, to always be growing in Christlikeness, and to always be moving closer to God.
Those called to lead, are called to care for and protect God's people. This is the primary role of a leader.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Verse 2 begins by focusing the action of a leader; it gives one command, and one description. The first command given to a leader is to shepherd. Shepherds do two things, they provide care for the sheep they tend, and they offer protection from the predators who have a taste for mutton. Shepherds provide care by leading their sheep to green pastures and still waters. They provide care by tending to wounded animals and going after those who fall behind or stray from the group. Shepherds provide protection by being armed and alert; they stand guard over the flock, keeping a keen eye for lions, wolves, and thieves. If a sheep is carried off, they go on a rescue mission, fight the enemy, and rescue the sheep. That is what it means to shepherd.
That command in itself is one that must not be taken lightly, it involves taking on the responsibility for the well-being of others. However, the full weight of this responsibility is realized when the command issued is to shepherd the flock of God. These are simple sheep, they are God's sheep. The creator of the universe is entrusting you with the care of His people. As a parent, there aren't many people I would trust with my girls. I'm a dad of two princesses, and their safety and well-being is my top priority. God view each member of His flock as a loving parent views their child, and yet He has chosen to entrust the care of His flock to human leader. This realization should inspire a leader to be at their best, to always be learning, to always be growing in Christlikeness, and to always be moving closer to God.
Those called to lead, are called to care for and protect God's people. This is the primary role of a leader.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Monday, March 26, 2018
1 Peter 5.2 Overview
"shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness" -1 Peter 5.2
shepherd the flock of God- The people we are called to lead belong to God.
among you- You are not responsible for the entire world, but those entrusted to you.
exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God- Lead willingly, serve willingly, not because you are forced to, but lead because you have been given the opportunity.
not for sordid gain, but with eagerness- Leadership is not an opportunity for personal benefit, but to serve and protect those we are entrusted to shepherd.
1 Peter 5.2 contains four more phrases that build on the attitude leaders are shown in verse 1. These verses continue to look at an attitude of a leader, but begins to look at the actions a leader is to take. Attitude is where actions originate.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
shepherd the flock of God- The people we are called to lead belong to God.
among you- You are not responsible for the entire world, but those entrusted to you.
exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God- Lead willingly, serve willingly, not because you are forced to, but lead because you have been given the opportunity.
not for sordid gain, but with eagerness- Leadership is not an opportunity for personal benefit, but to serve and protect those we are entrusted to shepherd.
1 Peter 5.2 contains four more phrases that build on the attitude leaders are shown in verse 1. These verses continue to look at an attitude of a leader, but begins to look at the actions a leader is to take. Attitude is where actions originate.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Friday, March 23, 2018
The Attitude of a Leader
"Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed" -1 Peter 5.1
1 Peter 5.1 talks about the attitude of a leader. A leader must not think too highly of himself. A leader must own his past failures. A leader must realize that his past failures have not disqualified him from serving, worshiping, or glorifying God.
I found a quote today from early in my graduate studies, "When God spoke to us in Scripture he used human language, and when he spoke to us in Christ he assumed human flesh. In order to reveal himself, he both emptied and humbled himself. That is the model of evangelism which the Bible supplies. There is self-emptying and self-humbling in all authentic evangelism; without it we contradict the gospel and misrepresent the Christ we proclaim."
I don't remember the source of this quote, but substitute the word evangelism for leadership, and it captures the essence of 1 Peter 5.1. The role of leader will be examined in the coming verses, but action begins with attitude. A leader is going to face difficult trials, and to begin, a leader must realize that they are human, that they are not immune to hardship and suffering, and that they will face danger and trials as they seek to do what is right. A leader cannot be afraid to acknowledge when they fall short, holding themselves to an impossible standard of perfection, or allowing others to hold them to this standard. Finally, a leader must realize that if and when they do fall short, God is able to bring redemption and restoration.
1 Peter 5.1 sets up guidelines for a leader to follow, but it all begins with the correct attitude.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
1 Peter 5.1 talks about the attitude of a leader. A leader must not think too highly of himself. A leader must own his past failures. A leader must realize that his past failures have not disqualified him from serving, worshiping, or glorifying God.
I found a quote today from early in my graduate studies, "When God spoke to us in Scripture he used human language, and when he spoke to us in Christ he assumed human flesh. In order to reveal himself, he both emptied and humbled himself. That is the model of evangelism which the Bible supplies. There is self-emptying and self-humbling in all authentic evangelism; without it we contradict the gospel and misrepresent the Christ we proclaim."
I don't remember the source of this quote, but substitute the word evangelism for leadership, and it captures the essence of 1 Peter 5.1. The role of leader will be examined in the coming verses, but action begins with attitude. A leader is going to face difficult trials, and to begin, a leader must realize that they are human, that they are not immune to hardship and suffering, and that they will face danger and trials as they seek to do what is right. A leader cannot be afraid to acknowledge when they fall short, holding themselves to an impossible standard of perfection, or allowing others to hold them to this standard. Finally, a leader must realize that if and when they do fall short, God is able to bring redemption and restoration.
1 Peter 5.1 sets up guidelines for a leader to follow, but it all begins with the correct attitude.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Not Disqualified
"Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed" -1 Peter 5.1
Peter has shared his past failure, humbly presenting himself as a fellow elder, but he doesn't end with this moment of failure because that moment of failure was not the end of his ministry. Peter states that he has witnessed the sufferings of Christ, perhaps more intensely and personally than anyone else, but he goes on to say that he is also a partaker of the glory that is going to be revealed. Peter denied Christ, but Christ forgave Peter, and Peter was not disqualified from the service of God.
Peter's failure was huge; three times he denied knowing Jesus while standing only a few yards away from Him. At the third denial Jesus and Peter locked eyes, and Peter felt the weight of his denial, leaving the courtyard and bitterly weeping. Jesus is crucified and buried, and Peter feels the guilt and shame of his actions. Then Jesus rises again, Peter and Jesus talk on a beach over breakfast, and then go for a walk. A few weeks later Jesus returns to Heaven, at Pentecost Peter is filled with the Spirit and boldly proclaims Christ. Peter failed, Jesus forgave, Peter is restored.
Your past failures don't disqualify you from being used by God, or from worshiping Him in all of His glory. There is nothing that God cannot forgive. There is nothing that once forgiven will disqualify you from God's service, or from partaking in the worship at the throne of Christ.
Peter points out his failure, and then speaks of God's grace. That is a message all leaders need to hear. There is no failure too great to be forgiven. Forgiveness allows us to partake in the glory of God.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Peter has shared his past failure, humbly presenting himself as a fellow elder, but he doesn't end with this moment of failure because that moment of failure was not the end of his ministry. Peter states that he has witnessed the sufferings of Christ, perhaps more intensely and personally than anyone else, but he goes on to say that he is also a partaker of the glory that is going to be revealed. Peter denied Christ, but Christ forgave Peter, and Peter was not disqualified from the service of God.
Peter's failure was huge; three times he denied knowing Jesus while standing only a few yards away from Him. At the third denial Jesus and Peter locked eyes, and Peter felt the weight of his denial, leaving the courtyard and bitterly weeping. Jesus is crucified and buried, and Peter feels the guilt and shame of his actions. Then Jesus rises again, Peter and Jesus talk on a beach over breakfast, and then go for a walk. A few weeks later Jesus returns to Heaven, at Pentecost Peter is filled with the Spirit and boldly proclaims Christ. Peter failed, Jesus forgave, Peter is restored.
Your past failures don't disqualify you from being used by God, or from worshiping Him in all of His glory. There is nothing that God cannot forgive. There is nothing that once forgiven will disqualify you from God's service, or from partaking in the worship at the throne of Christ.
Peter points out his failure, and then speaks of God's grace. That is a message all leaders need to hear. There is no failure too great to be forgiven. Forgiveness allows us to partake in the glory of God.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Monday, March 19, 2018
Past Failure
"Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed" -1 Peter 5.1
This phrase gave me a lot of issues when I first started to study this passage, what does it mean to be a witness of the sufferings of Christ? Had I payed attention to the title of the book, things probably wouldn't have been that difficult, but since I was reading the New Testament, I was thinking that I was reading the writing of Paul. Yes, I was reading 1 Peter, and my mind was thinking I was reading one of the Pauline Epistles. Because of this, I had to consult a commentary sooner than I wanted to, and in reading the commentary I realized my mistake.
Here, Peter is not simply recounting his presence at the crucifixion, but his presence at the trial of Christ. It was here that Peter is asked three times if he is one of Jesus' disciples, and three times Peter denies knowing Christ. It is at this third denial that Jesus looks at Peter, the two lock eyes, and Peter knows the full weight of his denial by seeing the suffering in the face of Christ that he as caused.
Peter not only puts himself on the same level as the leaders he is addressing, "your fellow elder", but he points out his own failure and unworthiness. Peter denied Christ, and saw the suffering he had caused in his face. Peter points out how he has fallen short, how he is not superior to other leaders, but that he is a flawed human striving to become more like Christ. This is the attitude and honesty that a leader must have.
Peter didn't simply contemplate the suffering of Christ, but he owned and mourned over the suffering he had caused Christ. He didn't gloss over it, exalting himself as the first one who entered the tomb on Resurrection Sunday, but points to his failure very early on Good Friday. He doesn't point out the mass conversion and baptism that resulted from his sermon on Pentecost, but points out how he witnessed the suffering of Christ. This is where a leader must begin.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
This phrase gave me a lot of issues when I first started to study this passage, what does it mean to be a witness of the sufferings of Christ? Had I payed attention to the title of the book, things probably wouldn't have been that difficult, but since I was reading the New Testament, I was thinking that I was reading the writing of Paul. Yes, I was reading 1 Peter, and my mind was thinking I was reading one of the Pauline Epistles. Because of this, I had to consult a commentary sooner than I wanted to, and in reading the commentary I realized my mistake.
Here, Peter is not simply recounting his presence at the crucifixion, but his presence at the trial of Christ. It was here that Peter is asked three times if he is one of Jesus' disciples, and three times Peter denies knowing Christ. It is at this third denial that Jesus looks at Peter, the two lock eyes, and Peter knows the full weight of his denial by seeing the suffering in the face of Christ that he as caused.
Peter not only puts himself on the same level as the leaders he is addressing, "your fellow elder", but he points out his own failure and unworthiness. Peter denied Christ, and saw the suffering he had caused in his face. Peter points out how he has fallen short, how he is not superior to other leaders, but that he is a flawed human striving to become more like Christ. This is the attitude and honesty that a leader must have.
Peter didn't simply contemplate the suffering of Christ, but he owned and mourned over the suffering he had caused Christ. He didn't gloss over it, exalting himself as the first one who entered the tomb on Resurrection Sunday, but points to his failure very early on Good Friday. He doesn't point out the mass conversion and baptism that resulted from his sermon on Pentecost, but points out how he witnessed the suffering of Christ. This is where a leader must begin.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Friday, March 16, 2018
One of You
"Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed" 1 Peter 5.1
Peter is writing this letter (obviously, but more on this in the next post), and this information makes this second phrase all the more interesting. Peter, a disciple of Christ, the one who walked on water, witnessed the transfiguration, and the first human to enter the empty tomb on resurrection Sunday; the one to whom Jesus said "you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it." That guy is writing this letter, but here he does not mention any of that. Here, he simply calls himself "your fellow elder".
He is a leader writing to other leaders, but he does not boast in the past; he does not elevate himself above others because of the relationship he had with Jesus. He humbly refers to himself as "your fellow elder". This is the attitude a leader is to have towards other leaders, one of humility, realizing that we are all in this together, leading people towards the same goal, Christlikeness.
Leaders should not brag about what they have accomplished, but about what God is doing. Leaders must seek to encourage other leaders, supporting each other, because leadership is hard, and dangerous. Leaders within the church should not see themselves in completion with each other, but part of the same team, fellow elders, who strive to build the kingdom together.
Peter who experienced Christ in ways we can only imagine at this point, did not use his history to elevate himself. He came to these elders, these leaders, and let them know they were all on the same level. That is part of the attitude a leader must have.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Peter is writing this letter (obviously, but more on this in the next post), and this information makes this second phrase all the more interesting. Peter, a disciple of Christ, the one who walked on water, witnessed the transfiguration, and the first human to enter the empty tomb on resurrection Sunday; the one to whom Jesus said "you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it." That guy is writing this letter, but here he does not mention any of that. Here, he simply calls himself "your fellow elder".
He is a leader writing to other leaders, but he does not boast in the past; he does not elevate himself above others because of the relationship he had with Jesus. He humbly refers to himself as "your fellow elder". This is the attitude a leader is to have towards other leaders, one of humility, realizing that we are all in this together, leading people towards the same goal, Christlikeness.
Leaders should not brag about what they have accomplished, but about what God is doing. Leaders must seek to encourage other leaders, supporting each other, because leadership is hard, and dangerous. Leaders within the church should not see themselves in completion with each other, but part of the same team, fellow elders, who strive to build the kingdom together.
Peter who experienced Christ in ways we can only imagine at this point, did not use his history to elevate himself. He came to these elders, these leaders, and let them know they were all on the same level. That is part of the attitude a leader must have.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Encouragement to the Elders
"Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed" -1 Peter 5.1
This passage begins with the word "Therefore", and when you are reading anything that word means what comes next comes out of what preceded it. Therefore, we need to begin by looking quickly at 1 Peter 4.12-19 (I read the New American Standard Bible because it is the most literal translation of the original languages, making it a great study tool. One of the features I love about this translation is that it indicates where the paragraph breaks occurred in the original text, this is where I am drawing the verse selection from.)
1 Peter 4.12-19 talks about sharing in the suffering of Christ, and trusting God through the suffering. It says not to be surprised by suffering, and that it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God. The call of this section is to trust God through the suffering, and to not be ashamed, but to to glorify God through Christ. With this in mind, Peter addresses the elders specifically.
Those who lead have the potential to suffer the most. Centuries ago when a nation was overrun, the leaders were executed. Even today with the persecution of Christians around the world, pastors are targeted, because of the leadership role they have undertaken. Peter writes to offer encouragement to these leaders because of the suffering they are facing, or will be facing.
I know what it is like to be beaten up as a leader. I know what it is like to pour yourself into something, to be passionate and to pour your heart into this passion, only to have no one respond. I know how disheartening and defeating it is, and I'm in America without the risk of torture or death. This introductory phrase sets the tone for what follows. This is meant to be an encouragement to the elders, the leaders.
Let all who lead on behalf of Christ find strength and encouragement in what follows.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
This passage begins with the word "Therefore", and when you are reading anything that word means what comes next comes out of what preceded it. Therefore, we need to begin by looking quickly at 1 Peter 4.12-19 (I read the New American Standard Bible because it is the most literal translation of the original languages, making it a great study tool. One of the features I love about this translation is that it indicates where the paragraph breaks occurred in the original text, this is where I am drawing the verse selection from.)
1 Peter 4.12-19 talks about sharing in the suffering of Christ, and trusting God through the suffering. It says not to be surprised by suffering, and that it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God. The call of this section is to trust God through the suffering, and to not be ashamed, but to to glorify God through Christ. With this in mind, Peter addresses the elders specifically.
Those who lead have the potential to suffer the most. Centuries ago when a nation was overrun, the leaders were executed. Even today with the persecution of Christians around the world, pastors are targeted, because of the leadership role they have undertaken. Peter writes to offer encouragement to these leaders because of the suffering they are facing, or will be facing.
I know what it is like to be beaten up as a leader. I know what it is like to pour yourself into something, to be passionate and to pour your heart into this passion, only to have no one respond. I know how disheartening and defeating it is, and I'm in America without the risk of torture or death. This introductory phrase sets the tone for what follows. This is meant to be an encouragement to the elders, the leaders.
Let all who lead on behalf of Christ find strength and encouragement in what follows.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Monday, March 12, 2018
1 Peter 5.1, Overview
Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed,
I exhort the elders among you- This is a message of encouragement to those who are in leadership.
As your fellow elder- one among equals
Witness of the sufferings of Christ- the author has intimate knowledge of the full suffering of Christ; he was a witness of the events that took place the surrounding the crucifixion.
And a partaker also of the glory that is go be revealed- the author is following Christ is obedience, and is eagerly expecting the return of Christ.
1 Peter 5.1 contains four phrases that introduce the rest of the passage. This is written to a group of leaders, by a fellow leader. The author does not exalt himself above them, despite his position and history, but acknowledges that they are all elders. He has witnessed the sufferings of Christ, but he is also going to partake in the glory when Christ is revealed in all of His power and authority.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
I exhort the elders among you- This is a message of encouragement to those who are in leadership.
As your fellow elder- one among equals
Witness of the sufferings of Christ- the author has intimate knowledge of the full suffering of Christ; he was a witness of the events that took place the surrounding the crucifixion.
And a partaker also of the glory that is go be revealed- the author is following Christ is obedience, and is eagerly expecting the return of Christ.
1 Peter 5.1 contains four phrases that introduce the rest of the passage. This is written to a group of leaders, by a fellow leader. The author does not exalt himself above them, despite his position and history, but acknowledges that they are all elders. He has witnessed the sufferings of Christ, but he is also going to partake in the glory when Christ is revealed in all of His power and authority.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Friday, March 9, 2018
Procedure of Study
I apologize again for the nature of this post, my week has been overwhelming, and the weekend is going to be just as busy, if not more so.
Over the next few weeks, maybe months, I'm going to walk through my study of 1 Peter 5.1-11. The approach I have been taking so far is one verse at a time. I begin each verse by doing an overview. In this, I break the verse down into phrases, usually based on punctuation, and then identify the main theme of each phrase. That is the first day.
The following days are determined by the number of phrases within the verse. I will spend one day on each phrase, and that day I will read it, and extract what I can from those few words. At this point, I am only using my own insights, one rule of study is to not consult outside sources, in this case commentaries, too soon, because then you no longer know what is your thought/insight, and what is the commentators. I'll spend my time reading the phrase I'm working on, writing down my insights, as well as any related Scripture verses that come to mind.
After I have gone through each phrase one day at a time, I will take the next day, and connect all of the themes from the verse. This is sort of a summary, seeing how everything fits together.
The final day of study for each verse looks at the bigger picture. On this day I'll see how the content of the current verse builds on the foundation from the previous verse or verses. This way I am looking at the larger context, and focusing on the overall message of the passage.
This is the approach that I'm going to take beginning Monday, hopefully next week will be a little less chaotic than this week has been.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Over the next few weeks, maybe months, I'm going to walk through my study of 1 Peter 5.1-11. The approach I have been taking so far is one verse at a time. I begin each verse by doing an overview. In this, I break the verse down into phrases, usually based on punctuation, and then identify the main theme of each phrase. That is the first day.
The following days are determined by the number of phrases within the verse. I will spend one day on each phrase, and that day I will read it, and extract what I can from those few words. At this point, I am only using my own insights, one rule of study is to not consult outside sources, in this case commentaries, too soon, because then you no longer know what is your thought/insight, and what is the commentators. I'll spend my time reading the phrase I'm working on, writing down my insights, as well as any related Scripture verses that come to mind.
After I have gone through each phrase one day at a time, I will take the next day, and connect all of the themes from the verse. This is sort of a summary, seeing how everything fits together.
The final day of study for each verse looks at the bigger picture. On this day I'll see how the content of the current verse builds on the foundation from the previous verse or verses. This way I am looking at the larger context, and focusing on the overall message of the passage.
This is the approach that I'm going to take beginning Monday, hopefully next week will be a little less chaotic than this week has been.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Wednesday, March 7, 2018
1 Peter 5.1-11
I'm going to cheat today, as it's almost 2 AM, and I've been up for almost 21 hours. I'm really tired, and I have to get up in three hours for another long day.
Almost three years ago God began to lead me along a path to my identity (it will be three years on Saturday). This journey has led me to a deeper understanding of who I am, and why I'm here. Along the way, God has given me a new name, and a Scriptural foundation for that name. I know some of you will think I'm crazy, but I'm not. Revelation 2.17 tells us that God will give those who overcome a new name, carved on a white stone, that is only known to the one who receives it. I've come across this concept in other sources as well, both in books and from conversations with others, and it is something I have experienced.
The name God has given me, my name, is rooted in my life verse 1 Peter 5.1-11:
Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. 11 To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.
For the next few weeks, I'm going to break these verses down, phrase by phrase, and share some of what I've observed, a lot of what I'm learning about who I'm called to be, and hopefully how I"m becoming who God made me to be.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Almost three years ago God began to lead me along a path to my identity (it will be three years on Saturday). This journey has led me to a deeper understanding of who I am, and why I'm here. Along the way, God has given me a new name, and a Scriptural foundation for that name. I know some of you will think I'm crazy, but I'm not. Revelation 2.17 tells us that God will give those who overcome a new name, carved on a white stone, that is only known to the one who receives it. I've come across this concept in other sources as well, both in books and from conversations with others, and it is something I have experienced.
The name God has given me, my name, is rooted in my life verse 1 Peter 5.1-11:
Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. 11 To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.
For the next few weeks, I'm going to break these verses down, phrase by phrase, and share some of what I've observed, a lot of what I'm learning about who I'm called to be, and hopefully how I"m becoming who God made me to be.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Monday, March 5, 2018
Where to Now?
During the closing months of 2017 when I was seeking direction for where to take this blog, I had some ideas, none of which have panned out as I thought. As I was wrapping up the series on Vision Quest 2016, getting ready for the Vision Quest 2017 posts, I thought God was leading me to share some of the healing I have pursued as a result of spending time in the woods. This past week, however, God changed all of that.
Last year I began to re-think the concept of a life verse, you can read more of my thoughts on this at: http://proverbs1824brothers.blogspot.com/2018/01/life-verse-by-will.html
I have spent this year studying 1 Peter 5.1-11, I'm in verse 9 at the moment. I have been reading through it, and making observations on a phrase by phrase basis, thus why after two months I've only studied eight verses. I had planned at some point to write on this, but only after I had thoroughly studied. My plan is to finish with initial observations, then go back and study it with a commentary, and after that, study it again in the original language, followed by a final overview observation on my own. At that point I would share what I had learned, after I had exhausted the text, but it appears that God has other plans.
Beginning Wednesday, I'm going to begin writing on my initial observations of my life verse. In some ways this is good, this week, and to an extent next week, is going to absolutely crazy for me. I am expecting work at least 60 hours, and on top of that I have school, and a side project I'm working on with for the other blog, Pr. 18.24, with Jeremy (part of which we get to completely redo because our blog somehow deleted a draft we had completed). But I'm committed to three posts a week here, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and so I'm preparing for a week or two of even less sleep. Sounds fun.
That's where we're off to now, and after that, we'll see where God leads.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Last year I began to re-think the concept of a life verse, you can read more of my thoughts on this at: http://proverbs1824brothers.blogspot.com/2018/01/life-verse-by-will.html
I have spent this year studying 1 Peter 5.1-11, I'm in verse 9 at the moment. I have been reading through it, and making observations on a phrase by phrase basis, thus why after two months I've only studied eight verses. I had planned at some point to write on this, but only after I had thoroughly studied. My plan is to finish with initial observations, then go back and study it with a commentary, and after that, study it again in the original language, followed by a final overview observation on my own. At that point I would share what I had learned, after I had exhausted the text, but it appears that God has other plans.
Beginning Wednesday, I'm going to begin writing on my initial observations of my life verse. In some ways this is good, this week, and to an extent next week, is going to absolutely crazy for me. I am expecting work at least 60 hours, and on top of that I have school, and a side project I'm working on with for the other blog, Pr. 18.24, with Jeremy (part of which we get to completely redo because our blog somehow deleted a draft we had completed). But I'm committed to three posts a week here, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and so I'm preparing for a week or two of even less sleep. Sounds fun.
That's where we're off to now, and after that, we'll see where God leads.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Friday, March 2, 2018
What I've Learned about Vision Quests
The idea of a vision quest has been on my mind for a while now. It all started with a TV show. When I was a kid we used to watch this western drama(?) called Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman. The show was set in the mid to late 1800s in Colorado, and follows Dr. Quinn, a female doctor from Boston who seeks a new life on the frontier. She ends up with three orphaned children, and they begin a new life together. The lead male is named Sully, a mountain man and widower, who has built a relationship with the Cheyenne Indians, and follows many of their practices and customs. In one episode, the oldest of the children, Matthew who is in his late teens, is frustrated that he is still being treated as a child. Sully talks to him about doing a vision quest, and Matthew undertakes the ritual.
Since watching this episode, I've wanted to do something similar. I'm drawn to nature, and the idea of getting alone with God in the woods is something that calls to me. I did not follow the Native American practice of fasting and cleansing in preparation for the quest, and I didn't spend three days alone in woods, waiting for a vision that would guide my life. I did go into the woods to hear from God, and God spoke, giving me a vision for things I needed to deal with and focus on.
In the past two years, I've done two vision quests, and though I am no expert, I have realized a few things that may be beneficial for others.
1- Nature is essential.
You have to get alone with God in nature. You don't have to hike four days into the mountains and be miles away from civilization, and if you don't have any wilderness skills or experience, don't even think about doing that, but you need to find solitude in nature. You need to get away from the noise and distractions that humanity has created, and get alone with what is real, what is calming, and where God can be clearly heard. Find a local park with some wooded area (I'm thinking about those who live in places like New York City; Central park is there because nature is good for the soul). Take some time to get alone with God in the natural world He has made.
2- Expect to hear from God.
Go into the experience expecting God to speak. Go into this ready to hear from God. The entire purpose of the vision quest is to receive guidance, for your life, so go expectantly, and wait for God to speak. Give Him the freedom and permission to say whatever He wants, and be open to wherever He wants to go.
3- Have no agenda.
Expect God to speak, but don't have an agenda for what He is going to say. Let Him direct you where He wants, not where you would have Him go. Be open to whatever He has to say, and role with what happens. I've found that this mentality has led to amazing insights, and experiences that could not be arranged for.
4- Let God end it.
Both times I have gone out, I have had a time frame. There is no getting around this, we all have responsibilities and obligations that we can't escape. I've gone into the quest with a set end time, and both times God has ended things sooner than I was expecting. Let God tell you when you are done, and don't try to force more out of Him.
5- Do it.
Don't just talk about it, don't just plan it, actually do it. Know your limits, and follow those, again, don't strand yourself in the middle of nowhere to take in nature. A vision does you no good if you don't make it back alive. But go. Get alone with God, and allow Him to speak into your life. Do it, it may just be one of the most defining moments of your life.
The vision quests I have undertaken have been very rewarding times, and the things God has shared with me in those moments has guided much of the year following them. These retreats have given me clarity and focus, and I am looking forward to what God reveals in 2018.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
Since watching this episode, I've wanted to do something similar. I'm drawn to nature, and the idea of getting alone with God in the woods is something that calls to me. I did not follow the Native American practice of fasting and cleansing in preparation for the quest, and I didn't spend three days alone in woods, waiting for a vision that would guide my life. I did go into the woods to hear from God, and God spoke, giving me a vision for things I needed to deal with and focus on.
In the past two years, I've done two vision quests, and though I am no expert, I have realized a few things that may be beneficial for others.
1- Nature is essential.
You have to get alone with God in nature. You don't have to hike four days into the mountains and be miles away from civilization, and if you don't have any wilderness skills or experience, don't even think about doing that, but you need to find solitude in nature. You need to get away from the noise and distractions that humanity has created, and get alone with what is real, what is calming, and where God can be clearly heard. Find a local park with some wooded area (I'm thinking about those who live in places like New York City; Central park is there because nature is good for the soul). Take some time to get alone with God in the natural world He has made.
2- Expect to hear from God.
Go into the experience expecting God to speak. Go into this ready to hear from God. The entire purpose of the vision quest is to receive guidance, for your life, so go expectantly, and wait for God to speak. Give Him the freedom and permission to say whatever He wants, and be open to wherever He wants to go.
3- Have no agenda.
Expect God to speak, but don't have an agenda for what He is going to say. Let Him direct you where He wants, not where you would have Him go. Be open to whatever He has to say, and role with what happens. I've found that this mentality has led to amazing insights, and experiences that could not be arranged for.
4- Let God end it.
Both times I have gone out, I have had a time frame. There is no getting around this, we all have responsibilities and obligations that we can't escape. I've gone into the quest with a set end time, and both times God has ended things sooner than I was expecting. Let God tell you when you are done, and don't try to force more out of Him.
5- Do it.
Don't just talk about it, don't just plan it, actually do it. Know your limits, and follow those, again, don't strand yourself in the middle of nowhere to take in nature. A vision does you no good if you don't make it back alive. But go. Get alone with God, and allow Him to speak into your life. Do it, it may just be one of the most defining moments of your life.
The vision quests I have undertaken have been very rewarding times, and the things God has shared with me in those moments has guided much of the year following them. These retreats have given me clarity and focus, and I am looking forward to what God reveals in 2018.
Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11
TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!
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