Part One: Standing Strong: Finding Joy Amidst Accusations

Jamie Pantastico writes for Mesa Bible Study

by Jamie Pantastico

On February 19, 2024

Daily Encouragement
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In the day to day of our life as believers we will encounter challenges that test the strength of their convictions. One particularly daunting hurdle is the criticism and accusations of hypocrisy hurled by unbelievers. The Bible acknowledges these struggles and offers profound guidance on how to navigate such trials with resilience and grace.

 

Embracing Blessings in the Face of Ridicule

 

As followers of Christ, it’s not uncommon to face ridicule and be labeled as hypocrites by those who may not share our beliefs. Yet, let us find comfort and even joy in the words of Jesus from Matthew 5:11-12, reminding us that we are blessed when others revile us on account of Him. The Spirit of glory and of God rests upon us when we endure insults for the sake of Christ (1 Peter 4:14-16).

 

Overcoming Evil with Good

 

In the midst of accusations, Romans 12:21 encourages believers not to be overcome by evil but to overcome evil with good. Responding with kindness and love in the face of criticism is a powerful testimony to the transformative power of Christ’s love within us.

 

A Firm Stand in Faith

 

Even if the world despises our beliefs, as stated in John 15:18-19, we are reminded that we do not belong to the world, and our allegiance is to a higher calling. Romans 8:31 reassures us that if God is for us, who can be against us? Our foundation is in Him, and no accusation or mockery can shake the solid ground of our faith.

 

The Blessed Path of Perseverance

 

2 Timothy 3:12 forewarns that all who desire to live a godly life will face persecution. However, this should not discourage us but instead serve as a confirmation that we are on the right path. Trials, accusations, and ridicule can be stepping stones to spiritual maturity and steadfastness (James 1:2-3).

 

Navigating Trials with Unshakable Joy

 

In the face of these challenges, let us not be dismayed but remember Isaiah 41:10—God is with us, strengthening and upholding us. Our joy is not dependent on the opinions of others but grounded in the unchanging love of our Creator God, Jesus Christ.

 

Dear believer, if you find yourself labeled a hypocrite, stand firm in the joy and peace secured in Christ. You are not alone in your daily walk, and the accusations of today may be the stepping stones to a more profound and resilient faith. Keep shining your light, overcoming evil with good, and embracing the blessings that come with standing strong in Christ through the study of His word daily.

 

 #JoyInPersecution #StandStrongInFaith #OvercomeWithLove

 

Thank you for reading.

Please consider sharing this post on social media.

 

Jamie Pantastico

Mesa Bible Study

Faith, Sine Qua Non

“What is Not Properly Understood can “Not” be Properly Applied”

 

 

 

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What Saith the Scripture?

Most problems in interpreting Bible passages arise from neglecting a passage’s context. The guiding principle of sound interpretation is to take a passage literally. Not maintaining this discipline, interpreting Scripture becomes made up, man’s idea, fantasy, and the passage can mean almost anything. The result is erroneous and ridiculous interpretations.

Another important principle to sound Bible interpretation is to read Scripture “in-time”. In other words, we have to read and study the Bible as a progressive revelation. Not getting ahead of God’s revelation.

God’s plan of redemption for mankind wasn’t revealed all at once to Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Isaiah, or any of the other old testament prophets. Not even Peter and the eleven were given the full counsel of God. The Lord revealed to each of the aforementioned what they needed at their particular time in Biblical history. A hermeneutical method that does not approach Scripture as a progressive revelation leads to erroneous interpretations.

To be a good bible student one must maintain a literal, grammatical and historical (in-time) hermeneutic. There has been much too much of man’s theology governing Scripture when it is God’s Word alone that reigns over theology.

 

Z

Who's writing?

Identify the author of the book and passage.

Z

Who is the author writing too?

Who is the audience? Yes, all Scripture is for us but not all of Scripture is directed to us our salvation and doctrine (how to live our daily lives). To say all of Scripture is, is erroneous interpretation.

Z

When was the Book or Passage written?

This is necessary to identify the time and historical context.

Z

What were the circumstances when it was written? (what was going on)

Z

What was going on before and after it was written?

What happen before and after the particular Book or Passage you’re reading?

Z

What is the HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF THE VERSE?

Where does the Bible verse fit in Biblical history. Use the answers from the list of these questions to identify the “historical context”.

Z

Are there other passages that the Author has written to help expand on the verse your reading?

Z

Utilize the full counsel of God to illuminate the passage

All of Scripture fits perfectly.

 

The Good News

salvation

Salvation is a FREE GIFT from God. You don’t have to do anything but believe by faith that God sent His only Son Jesus Christ to die for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead 3 days later.

THE GOOD NEWS

SALVATION

Salvation is a FREE GIFT from God. SALVATION IS BY FAITH ALONE & FAITH IS BELIEVING WHAT GOD SAYS.

  1. God declares all mankind sinners and we all fall short of Glory of God. Romans 3:23
  2. The payment for our sin is death. Romans 6:23
  3. But God…because he loved you so much sent His own Son, Jesus Christ, to die in your place, for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead three days later. 1 Cor 15:1-4; 2cor 5:21

All God asks is that you believe by faith alone in 1, 2, & 3. That you’re a sinner, separated from God but God sent his Son to die for your sins, was buried & rose again 3 days later.

that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

Romans 10:9

Do You Believe?

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