Msg #2237 What Therefores AreThere For

What The Bible Says

Good Samaritan's Penny Pulpit by Pastor Ed Rice

When one finds a “therefore” or “wherefore” in a text they should find out what it is there for. The one starting Philippians four is densely packed with three chapters of encouraging exhortations. It introduces six summary points, three to the church, three to individuals, and concludes with a great promise. As Paul says, this church was “dearly beloved and longed for”, and therefore entreated to “stand fast in the Lord.” In verse two he begs that they maintain a unity and in verse three that they strengthen and encourage one another. All to many go to church to get something out of it, rather than to put something into it. We meet to strengthen, edify, and encourage one another, especially in the perilous times we find in our day.

Paul goes on to give three ingredients that make us what we ought to be. “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, REJOICE” (Phil.4:4, emphasis added). Simply put the noun “joy” is changed to an action verb in “rejoice.” We need to get doing it habitually. I know that our own pathetic government is turning against us, but rejoicing, as we are commanded, produces endorphins in our brain, neurotransmitters that keep us of a sound mind! … and joyful. Secondly, get some moderation in our lives. The Lord is soon returning, “what manner of persons ought ye to be?” (Peter asks, 2Pet.3:11). Moderation is 2^nd cousin to Temperance in Gal.5:23. Finally Paul exhorts one to “be careful for nothing.” Don't be full of care; give all cares to Him. Now with our stand, unity, and helpfulness coupled with our rejoicing, moderation and “care-less-ness” look at the great promise, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (4:7).

An Essay for week #37 - Sep 11, 2022

Msg in audio at www.GSBaptistChurch.com/audio/gs220911.mp3

An Israel Virtual Visit www.gsbaptistchurch.com/israel/israel_journal.pdf

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A weekly 300 word essay- The Penny Pulpit
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