In the early Christian congregation some where saying the resurrection had already occurred. 2 Timothy 2:18 http://biblos.com/2_timothy/2-18.htm What did they mean?
I think it means that God's purpose for the future was already accomplished. If something is accomplished it is no longer something to hope for and to work towards. James 2:17 "Faith if it does not have work is dead". The work being the building up of a spiritual house. If it is to be believed that God's will is accomplished it weaken one's resolve to see it to it's finish.
2 Timothy 2:15-19
15Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. 16But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness, 17and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18men who have gone astray from the truth saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and they upset the faith of some.19Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness.
I think it means that God's purpose for the future was already accomplished. If something is accomplished it is no longer something to hope for and to work towards. James 2:17 "Faith if it does not have work is dead". The work being the building up of a spiritual house. If it is to be believed that God's will is accomplished it weaken one's resolve to see it to it's finish.
2 Timothy 2:15-19
15Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. 16But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness, 17and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18men who have gone astray from the truth saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and they upset the faith of some.19Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness.
"abstain from wickedness"
ReplyDeleteWhat does it mean?
Abstain-to lead away
Wickedness-that which causes lasting harm.
Why say "lasting"?
Because we all, no matter how good is our motive, can cause hurt feelings. And we all have been hurt. Will we keep account of the offense which causes hurt? Will we be careful not to cause lasting harm in each other? To be naming the Lord means to be led away from unrighteousness (wickedness) and to aid others in leading THEM away. It is what the wolf in sheep's clothing knows. The wolf leads the sheep away from the flock so that he might devour them. It is what Christians are suppose to know. Every Christian should have the power to lead but the wolf has it. I'm not afraid of wolves. I don't like packs of wolves. If I met one I know I would be afraid, because it would be many against me. And that's not fair.