James 3:2-8 - Geneva Bible

2 For in many things we sin all. If any man sin not in word, he is a perfect man, and able to bridle all the body.

3 Behold, we put bits into the horses’ mouths, that they should obey us, and we turn about all their body.

4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small rudder, whithersoever the governor listeth.

5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth of great things: behold, how great a thing a little fire kindleth.

6 And the tongue is fire, yea, a world of wickedness: so is the tongue set among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature, and it is set on fire of hell.

7 For the whole nature of beasts, and of birds, and of creeping things, and things of the sea is tamed, and hath been tamed of the nature of man.

8 But the tongue can no man tame. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

 Lord, help me to learn Your word, and keep it in my heart, amen

Brethren:

The Apostle James herein doth sayest, and it is true, that when men speak they open all divers ill and bad traits. Many boast of their achievements, others speak all sorts of ills upon those they profess to be friends with, and still others openly curse others and God. All of this is most unpleasing to God and reflects badly on the speaker. RP. Woitowitz Sr.

“A little world of evil in itself. This is a very expressive phrase, and is similar to one which we often employ, as when we speak of a town as being a world in miniature. We mean by it that it is an epitome of the world; that all that there is in the world is represented there on a small scale. So when the tongue is spoken of as being “a world of iniquity,” it is meant that all kinds of evil that are in the world are exhibited there in miniature; it seems to concentrate all sorts of iniquity that exist on the earth. And what evil is there which may not be originated or fomented by the tongue? What else is there that might, with so much propriety, be represented as a little world of iniquity? With all the good which it does, who can estimate the amount of evil which it causes? Who can measure the evils which arise from scandal, and slander, and profaneness, and perjury, and falsehood, and blasphemy, and obscenity, and the inculcation of error, by the tongue? Who can gauge the amount of broils, and contentions, and strifes, and wars, and suspicions, and enmities, and alienations among friends and neighbors, which it produces? Who can number the evils produced by the “honeyed” words of the seducer; or by the tongue of the eloquent in the maintenance of error, and the defense of wrong? If all men were dumb, what a portion of the crimes of the world would soon cease! If all men would speak only that which ought to be spoken, what a change would come over the face of human affairs! It stains or pollutes the whole body. It occupies a position and relation so important in respect to every part of our moral frame, that there is no portion which is not affected by it. Of the truth of this, no one can have any doubt. There is nothing else pertaining to us as moral and intellectual beings, which exerts such an influence over ourselves as the tongue. A man of pure conversation is understood and felt to be pure in every respect; but who has any confidence in the virtue of the blasphemer, or the man of obscene lips, or the calumniator and slanderer? We always regard such a man as corrupt to the core. Albert Barnes

 

James 3:1 - Geneva Bible

1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.

Father, forgive me for my sins, keep me on the right path, for I struggle at times and fall down many others. Help me to understand Your word this morning, amen.

It is rather difficult to write about this passage, but herein, the Apostle James is sayest that it is reserved unto to God Himself to judge, for if we judge we are likewise guilty of the same sins. Remember that all fall short of the glory that is God, therefore, no matter how godly a people we might be, we're still sinners, saved by grace and mercy. Now, that said, we can and should discern evil from good. We should abhor sin as best we can. “Judge not, less you be judged” RP. Woitowitz Sr.

“This exhortation may have respect to censorious persons, rigid and severe reprovers of others, who take upon them, in a haughty manner, to charge and rebuke others for their faults; reproof for sin ought to be given; sin should not be suffered upon the brethren; to reprove is not blameworthy, but commendable, when it is done in a right manner, with a good spirit, and to a good end: in case of private offences, it should be privately given, and for public ones, men should be rebuked before all; but then this ought to be done in a gentle manner, and in a spirit of meekness; and when it is a clear case, and plain matter of fact, and which ought not to be exaggerated and aggravated; mole hills are not to be made mountains of, or a man be made an offender for a word, or a matter of human frailty; and reproof should be given by persons not guilty of the same, or worse crimes, themselves, and always with a good end; not to screen and cover their own vices, or to be thought more holy and religious than others, or to satisfy a revengeful spirit, but for the glory of God, and the restoring of the person that has sinned.” John Gill

 

James 2:26 - Geneva Bible

26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, even so the faith without works is dead.

Father, forgive my sins, and help me to understand Your word, amen

Brethren:

A summation; A person can be good in works, but without faith it is dead in sin. A person can be rich in faith, but without works, is likewise dead in sin. A person that has faith, and has the fruits of that faith, works, is pleasing to our Creator. RP. Woitowitz

 James 2:18-20 - Geneva Bible

18 But some man might say, Thou hast the faith, and I have works: show me thy faith out of thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works.

19 Thou believest that there is one God: thou doest well: the devils also believe it, and tremble.

20 But wilt thou understand, O thou vain man, that the faith which is without works, is dead?

Father thank You for a good day yesterday. Help me now to understand Your word.

Brethren:

Do not neglect our duties as Christians. We cannot be pleasing to God in our everyday lives if we bring the Gospel, but neglect the needs of those whose lives are in poverty. Be charitable at all times. What does it profit us to say, “go and spread the gospel” but leave without full bellies. RP. Woitowitz

“Those are wrong who put a mere notional belief of the gospel for the whole of evangelical religion, as many now do. No doubt, true faith alone, whereby men have part in Christ's righteousness, atonement, and grace, saves their souls; but it produces holy fruits, and is shown to be real by its effect on their works; while mere assent to any form of doctrine, or mere historical belief of any facts, wholly differs from this saving faith. A bare profession may gain the good opinion of pious people; and it may procure, in some cases, worldly good things; but what profit will it be, for any to gain the whole world, and to lose their souls? Can this faith save him? All things should be accounted profitable or unprofitable to us, as they tend to forward or hinder the salvation of our souls. This place of Scripture plainly shows that an opinion, or assent to the gospel, without works, is not faith. There is no way to show we really believe in Christ, but by being diligent in good works, from gospel motives, and for gospel purposes. Men may boast to others, and be conceited of that which they really have not. There is not only to be assent in faith, but consent; not only an assent to the truth of the word, but a consent to take Christ. True believing is not an act of the understanding only, but a work of the whole heart.”

Matthew Henry

James 2:14, 17 – Geneva Bible

14 What availeth it my brethren, though a man saith, he hath faith, when he hath no works? can that faith save him?

17 Even so the faith, if it have no works, is dead in itself.

 

Lord, help me to understand Your words this morning, amen

 

Brethren:

 

Faith without works is a dead faith. How can one say that they much faith if they don do the works of charity that accompany faith? To walk the walk one must do the works as given unto us by God, to wit; walk justly, show kindness and walk humbly with our Creator. - RP Woitowitz

“It is not though he have faith, but though he say, I have faith. Here therefore true living faith is meant. But in other parts of the argument the apostle speaks of a dead imaginary faith. He does not therefore teach that true faith can, but that it cannot, subsist without works. Nor does he oppose faith to works, but that empty name of faith to real faith working by love. Can that faith which is without works save him? No more than it can profit his neighbor. The faith that does not produce works of charity and mercy is without the living principle which animates all true faith, that is, love to God and love to man. They had faith, such as a man has who credits a well-circumstanced relation because it has all the appearance of truth; but they had nothing of that faith that a sinner, convinced of his sinfulness, God's purity, and the strictness of the Divine laws, is obliged to exert in the Lord Jesus, in order to be saved from his sins.” - Adam Clark

James 2:8 - Geneva Bible

8 But if ye fulfill the royal Law according to the Scripture, which saith, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself, ye do well.

Lord go before me today and conquer all that stand in my way that I might understand Your word.

Brethren:

The Apostle James herein doth sayest, that to neglect one point of the law is to be guilty of all the law. However, if we love our neighbors, despite rank or stature, we do well and please God. Therefore it is our duty to help ALL peoples are in need. RP. Woitowitz

“Which is the law of love to men, without distinction of rich and poor, high and low, bond and free; and is so called, because it is the law of the King of kings; hence the Syriac version renders it, "the law of God", it is the law of Christ, who is King of saints; and because it is a principal law, the chief of laws; as love to God is the sum of the first and great commandment in the law, and may be called the king of laws; so love to the neighbor is the second and next unto it, and may very well bear the name of the queen of laws, and so has royalty in it; and indeed this last is said to be the fulfilling of the law, ( Romans 13:8-10 ) ( Galatians 5:14 ) and it is also submitted to, and obeyed by such who are made kings and priests to God; and that in a royal manner, with a princely spirit, willingly, and with all readiness. Which is to be understood of every nation, without distinction of Jews and Gentiles, and of persons of every state and condition, rich and poor, without any difference: and when this law is so observed, it is commendable; that which is right, and which is a man's duty to do; this, when done from right principles, and to a right end, is a good work, and is doing a good work well.” John Gill

 James 2:1,5 - Geneva Bible

1 My brethren, have not the faith of our glorious Lord Jesus Christ in respect of persons.

5 Hearken my beloved brethren, hath not God chosen the poor of this world, that they should be rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he promised to them that love him?

Father, help me this day to understand Your words – amen

Brethren:

The Creator is not a respecter of persons as far as the wealthy are concerned. Herein James sayest that men will reveal the evilness in their hearts by preferring the wealthy over the poor. This is not in line with what Christ hath said. God by contrast will take the opposite view that it is the poor and neglected of this world that will be heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven. This is not to say that the wealthy and those of their kind cannot come to Christ, for all that give themselves over to Him will be saved. What is being said is that ALL men, no matter rank or degree should be honored.  RP Woitowitz

“The apostle proceeds to show that the rich, as such, had no special claim on their favor, and that the poor in fact might be made more entitled to esteem than they were. This is the first argument which the apostle suggests why the poor should not be treated with neglect. It is, that God has had special reference to them in choosing those who should be his children. The meaning is not that he is not as willing to save the rich as the poor, for he has no partiality; but that there are circumstances in the condition of the poor which make it more likely that they will embrace the offers of the gospel than the rich; and that in fact the great mass of believers is taken from those who are in comparatively humble life. Though poor in this world‘s goods, they are rich in a higher and more important sense. They have faith in God their Savior; and in this world of trial and of sin, that is a more valuable possession than piles of hoarded silver or gold. A man who has that is sure that he will have all that is truly needful for him in this world and the next; a man who has it not, though he may have the wealth of Croesus, will be utterly without resources in respect to the great wants of his existence. Faith in God the Saviour will answer more purposes, and accomplish more valuable ends for man, than the wealth of the Indies could: and this the poor may have as well as the rich.” - Albert Barnes

 James 1:26-27 - Geneva Bible

26 If any man among you seem religious, and refraineth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.

27 Pure religion and undefiled before God, even the Father, is this, to visit the fatherless, and widows in their adversity, and to keep himself unspotted of the world.

Lord, my Lord, forgive me for not reading Your word over the past few days. I have no excuse, none that would warrant Your forgiveness, yet I believe in You, and trust Your ways. Help me to make Your ways, my ways, amen

Brethren:

A third and fourth admonition. The former speaks upon being able to bridle our tongues. When we speak ill of someone or gossip or use our mouths for anything other than blessings, (or corrections), then we sin, and our religion, our beliefs are naught more that vanity. This is not pleasing to our Creator. The corrections must of course be done in love, with patience and understanding, for we are mere flesh and blood. The latter admonition says to love one another, to do all things in love and if we were in the very presence of God Himself. In particular those that are truly in need, and have wants that needs be filled. This is true faith, and religion and is most pleasing to God. RP. Woitowitz

“When men take more pains to seem religious than really to be so, it is a sign their religion is in vain. The not bridling the tongue, readiness to speak of the faults of others, or to lessen their wisdom and piety, are signs of a vain religion. The man who has a slandering tongue, cannot have a truly humble, gracious heart. False religious may be known by their impurity and uncharitableness. True religion teaches us to do every thing as in the presence of God. An unspotted life must go with unfeigned love and charity. Our true religion is equal to the measure in which these things have place in our hearts and conduct. And let us remember, that nothing avails in Christ Jesus, but faith that worketh by love, purifies the heart, subdues carnal lusts, and obeys God's commands.” Matthew Henry

 

James 1:22-25 - Geneva Bible

22 And be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

23 For if any hear the word, and do it not, he is like unto a man, that beholdeth his natural face in a glass.

24 For when he hath considered himself, he goeth his way, and forgetteth immediately what manner of one he was.

25 But who so looketh in the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he not being a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, shall be blessed in his deed.

Thank you Lord for keeping me safe and giving me another day. I ask only that You go before me and protect me from the arrows of Satan, and to open my heart and mind to Your word, amen

Brethren:

So often we hear of people talking the walk, but instead we should be walking the walk. Be doers of God's word – Love Him, love others. Frame all of your actions, deeds and words within His words and righteousness. For then you will truly become the children of God. RP. Woitowitz Sr.

“The doer is he who from the heart embraces God’s word and testifies by his life that he really believes, according to the saying of Christ, for he shews by the fruits what that implanting is, before mentioned. We must further observe, that faith with all its works is included by James, yea, faith especially, as it is the chief work which God requires from us. The import of the whole is, that we ought to labor that the word of the Lord should strike root in us, so that it may afterwards fructify.

Heavenly doctrine is indeed a mirror in which God presents himself to our view; but so that we may be transformed unto his image, as Paul says in 2 Corinthians 3:18. But here he speaks of the external glance of the eye, not of the vivid and efficacious meditation which penetrates into the heart. It is a striking comparison, by which he briefly intimates, that a doctrine merely heard and not received inwardly into the heart avails nothing, because it soon vanishes away.” - John Calvin

James 1:19-21 - Geneva Bible

19 Wherefore my dear brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to wrath.

20 For the wrath of man doth not accomplish the righteousness of God.

21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness, and superfluity of maliciousness, and receive with meekness the word that is grafted in you, which is able to save your souls.

Father, thank you for giving me another day and for keeping me from the fowler's snare. Help me this day, and every day to understand Your word, amen

Brethren:

Good advice for all people. That is to say; listen first and then speak. Let anger take no place in your speech. However IF offense is given, let your anger be of righteousness, for it is written that God will be your avenger. - RP Woitowitz Sr.

“Let every man be swift to hear; not anything; not idle and unprofitable talk, or filthy and corrupt communication; but wholesome advice, good instructions, and the gracious experiences of the saints, and, above all, the word of God; to the hearing of which men should fly, as doves to their windows; should make haste, and be early in their attendance on it, as well, as constant; and receive it with all readiness, and with a sort of greediness of mind, that their souls may be profited, and God may be glorified. For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. This is so far from engaging persons to do that which is right and acceptable in the sight of God, that it puts them upon doing that which is evil. The Alexandrian copy reads, 'with the wrath of men do not work the righteousness of God'; do not attend upon the word and ordinances of God with a wrathful spirit.

All manner of filthiness, both of flesh and spirit; all pride, vanity, wrath, malice, and evil speaking, under hearing the word: the allusion seems to be to a boiling pot, which casts up scum and filth, which must be taken off: and such is the spirit of wrathful men; it throws up the filth of haughtiness and pride, of anger, wrath, and wickedness, which must be taken off, and laid aside; or the word will not be heard to any profit, or advantage; receive with meekness the ingrafted word; which becomes so when it is received; when it is put into the heart by the Spirit of God, and is mixed with faith by them that hear it; so that it is, as it were, incorporated into them, and becomes natural to them, which before was not; and taking deep root in them, brings forth much fruit: and where it comes with power, it reduces every high thought into the obedience of Christ, and makes men meek and humble; and only such receive the truth in the love of it; and to such is the Gospel preached.” John Gill

 

James 1:17 - Geneva Bible

17 Every good giving and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

Lord, my God, help me to understand Your word this morning, forgive and keep me from sinning, amen

Brethren:

God, does not change, He cannot change, nor will He change. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He is righteousness personified, in the flesh, through Christ, and in Heaven as Himself. There is no sin in Him, nor can He sin. Likewise he leadeth us not unto diver temptations. Temptations are from the evil hearts of men, that know no better other than to commit acts of unrighteous behaviors without a second thought for they love the carnality of this world, and look not towards the world to come. All, good things rain down upon us when He opens the windows of His great providence. Both the believer and the non-believer benefit from this act of His grace and mercy. The former gives thanks and glory to God, and the latter gives nothing back at all, for his life is of this life.  RP. Woitowitz Sr.

“The divine benignity is not subject to any such variations; it is always equally near, and equally communicative of its influences to proper objects; nor can any thing interpose between it and them: it is not the flush of good humour, which may be spent: it is not a great but limited treasury, which may be exhausted bylarge and continued communications. As God is ever unerringly wise, and unchangeably happy; as his power is infinite, and he is raised above the possibility of want or suffering; he will certainly always choose to do, what his wisdom determines best to be done; and as he ever deems the happiness of his creatures, who will accept of his mercy, to be the worthiest end, he will certainly be always disposed and delighted to promote that best end. The infinite communications of good, which he hath made already, instead of causing us to fear that his goodness may be exhausted, serve to prove it infinite, and therefore inexhaustible: they give, and they will give his faithful saints, to eternity, the most substantial reasons to expect from their Creator and Redeemer, all that can be expected from a Being infinitely wise, powerful, and benevolent.” Thomas Coke

James 1:13 - Geneva Bible

13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man.

 Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, help us this morning to understand Your Word. For Your word is precious to us, amen

Brethren:

God cannot temp man for temptations are filled with sins and as such God does not sin, nor can He look upon it. He is righteousness at all times. He does allow sin to enter into the hearts of men, and to be temped by those sins. He likewise uses them to draw out the best in us by seeing us through all of them and walking with us. If we place our trust in Him, He will NEVER fail us. RP Woitowitz Sr.

“Every soul that truly loves God, shall have its trials in this world fully recompensed in that world above, where love is made perfect. The commands of God, and the dealings of his providence, try men's hearts, and show the dispositions which prevail in them. But nothing sinful in the heart or conduct can be ascribed to God. He is not the author of the dross, though his fiery trial exposes it. Those who lay the blame of sin, either upon their constitution, or upon their condition in the world, or pretend they cannot keep from sinning, wrong God as if he were the author of sin. Afflictions, as sent by God, are designed to draw out our graces, but not our corruptions. The origin of evil and temptation is in our own hearts. Stop the beginnings of sin, or all the evils that follow must be wholly charged upon us. God has no pleasure in the death of men, as he has no hand in their sin; but both sin and misery are owing to themselves.” - Matthew Henry

 James 1:12 1599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

12 Blessed is the man, that endureth tentation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

Father, help us all to understand Your word, amen

Brethren:

Once again we read that God blesses those that endure to the end the diver temptations that he allows to come upon us. All are designed to refine us along the way and to make us closer to His image until such time as it is completed and we receive the crown of glory upon our arrival in Heaven. (Read also Job 5:17) - RP. Woitowitz Sr.

“UNDER the afflictions with which we are visited in this vale of tears, philosophy has suggested many grounds for resignation and submission: but to find in them matter for self-congratulation and joy, was beyond the reach of unassisted reason. To that however are we led by the voice of revelation, which teaches us to look with confidence to a future state, wherein all that we endure for God, and in meek submission to his will, shall be compensated with a weight of glory, proportioned to the trials we have here sustained for his sake, and the spiritual improvement which we have derived from them. St. James, who wrote to his Jewish brethren who were scattered abroad through the violence of persecution, frequently repeats this consolatory idea. He begins with bidding them to “count it all joy when they fall into divers temptations. Towards the close of his epistle he declares this to be at least the persuasion of his own mind. Behold, we count them happy that endure But in the text he does not hesitate to affirm it as an unquestionable truth, that such persons are truly blessed: Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Now as he spake this by inspiration from God, I shall consider it as a declaration from God himself; and shall unfold to you.” Charles Simeon

James 1:5-8 1599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, which giveth to all men liberally, and reproacheth no man, and it shall be given him.
6 But let him ask in faith, and waver not: for he that wavereth, is like a wave of the sea, tossed of the wind, and carried away.
7 Neither let that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord.
8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

Father, forgive any sins that I have committed whether known, or unknown, amen

Brethren:

God's wisdom of His ways are liberally given unto us if we ask aright. Asking in faith is the key and wavering not one bit, to obtain the wisdom that God grants each of us. RP. Woitowitz Sr.

“This shows that the perfection before spoken of is not to be understood as in this life, since the apostle immediately supposes lack of wisdom in them; for this is not said in a form of doubting, whether they wanted it or not, but rather as supposing, and taking it for granted that they did; and in the first, and primary sense of the words, it intends wisdom to behave aright under temptations or afflictions. Saints often want wisdom to consider God as the author of them, and not look upon them as matters of chance, or impute them merely to second causes; but to regard them as coming from the hand of God, and as his hand upon them, as Job did; who does not ascribe his calamities to the thieving Chaldeans and Sabeans, to the boisterous wind, and to the malice of Satan, but to God: they want wisdom to observe the sovereignty of God in them, and bow unto it, and be still, and know that he is God, who does all things well and wisely; and likewise to see and know that all are in love, and in very faithfulness, and for good; as well as to see his name, to hear his rod, and him that has appointed it, his voice in it, his mind and meaning, and what he designs by it; as likewise to learn the useful lessons under it, and particularly to take the cross well, to bear it patiently, and even to count it all joy, and reckon it to be right, necessary, and useful: it requires much wisdom to learn all this, and act up to it. Moreover, this may be applied to all other cases, in which wisdom is wanted; men want wisdom to conduct them in the common affairs of life, and especially the people of God; for the children of the world are wiser in their generation, for themselves and posterity, and in the management of worldly affairs, than the children of light; and also to observe the providences of God, and the footsteps of Providence, and to follow them; and likewise to make a right use of providences, and behave suitably under them, and not be lifted up too much in prosperity, nor be cast down, and too much distressed in adversity; but to consider, that the one is set against the other, and both work together for good. Saints have need of wisdom in things spiritual; they want more grace, which is the truest wisdom, and a larger knowledge of the Gospel, which is the wisdom of God, the hidden wisdom of God; and they lack wisdom to know how to walk towards them that are without, and towards them that are within, so as becomes the Gospel of Christ: and as this is more or less the case of everyone wisdom; of God the Father, who is the only wise God, who has abounded in creation, in providence, and, above all, in redemption and grace, in all wisdom and prudence; and of his Son Jesus Christ, who is the wisdom of God, and has all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge in him; and of the Spirit of God, who is a Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ, and all divine things: God is the giver of all good things, in nature, providence, and grace; every good and perfect gift comes from him, and therefore he, and he only, should be applied unto: and he gives to "all men" the bounties of his providence; and to all that ask, and call upon him in sincerity, the riches of his grace; even to Jews and Gentiles, high and low, rich and poor, greater or lesser sinners; all which he gives "liberally", readily, and at once, freely and cheerfully, and largely and abundantly; not grudgingly, sparingly, and with a strait hand, but with an open one, and in a very extensive manner. with former sins and transgressions, with former miscarriages and misconduct; or with former kindnesses, suggesting that he had given largely already, and his favours had been despised or abused; or he had been treated with ingratitude and neglect; in which manner sometimes men put off those that apply unto them, but so does not God; wherefore every word here used is encouraging to go to God for wisdom: yea, it follows, God has said it, Christ has promised it, and the apostle might, with certainty, say it after them, and all experience confirms the truths of it; See ( Matthew 7:7 Matthew 7:8 ) ( John 14:13 John 14:14 John 14:16 John 14:23 ).” John Gill

James 1:2-4 - Geneva Bible

2 My brethren, count it exceeding joy, when ye fall into divers tentations,
3 Knowing that the trying of your faith bringeth forth patience,
4 And let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, lacking nothing.

Father, today is a day that You have made for us all. Help us to understand Your word, amen


Brethren:

Let us learn to be joyful and glad at all times, but in particular during trials and temptations. This is what brings out and refines the triumphant new man that God has created in us when we accepted Christ as Savior. Now let me be clear, it is not God that brings forth these diver trials, but allows them to work as agents that perfect us. Remember always that our trust is placed in Him to deliver us out of each of them. RP Woitowitz Sr.


“As a rule, the time required for the production of an effect measures the value of that effect. The things that can be developed quickly are of less value than those which require longer time. You can weed a garden or build a house in a much shorter time than you can educate a mind or build up a soul. The training of our reasoning faculties requires a much longer time than the training of our hands. And moral qualities, being higher than intellectual, make an even greater demand upon the patience of their cultivator. Let us remember where it is that we are to get patience in the presence of temptations and sorrows. We must go in prayer, as our Master did in the garden of Gethsemane, to the source of all strength. If He would not go to His trial unprepared, it certainly is not safe for us to do so. By a stroke from the sword the warrior was knighted, small matter if the monarch's hand was heavy. Even so God gives His servants blows of trial when He desires to advance them to a higher stage of spiritual life. Jacobs become prevailing princes, but not until they have wrestled with temptations and prevailed.”
EJ Hardy

Titus 3:8-11 1599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

8 This is a true saying, and these things I will thou shouldest affirm, that they which have believed God, might be careful to show forth good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.
9 But stay foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and brawlings about the Law: for they are unprofitable and vain.
10 Reject him that is an heretic, after once or twice admonition,
11 Knowing that he that is such, is perverted, and sinneth, being damned of his own self.

Father, forgive me of my sins, help me to understand Your word better and to live by them as best I can during my temporal visit here on earth – amen


Brethren:

Continuing yesterday's study, to wit; We are to do good work, for that is God's will and command. But do so in the belief of Christ. To also refuse to get involved with those that promote unprofitable babblings and words. Admonish those that do and if the refuse the reproof avoid them and label them as heretics. - RP. Woitowitz Sr.

“When the grace of God towards mankind has been declared, the necessity of good works is pressed. Those who believe in God, must make it their care to maintain good works, to seek opportunities for doing them, being influenced by love and gratitude. Trifling, foolish questions must be avoided, and subtle distinctions and vain inquiries; nor should people be eager after novelties, but love sound doctrine which tends most to edifying. Though we may now think some sins light and little, if the Lord awaken the conscience, we shall feel even the smallest sin heavy upon our souls. Christianity is not a fruitless profession; and its professors must be filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. They must be doing good, as well as keeping away from evil. Let “ours” follow some honest labour and employment, to provide for themselves and their families. Christianity obliges all to seek some honest work and calling, and therein to abide with God. The apostle concludes with expressions of kind regard and fervent prayer. Grace be with you all; the love and favour of God, with the fruits and effects thereof, according to need; and the increase and feeling of them more and more in your souls. This is the apostle's wish and prayer, showing his affection to them, and desire for their good, and would be a means of obtaining for them, and bringing down on them, the thing requested. Grace is the chief thing to be wished and prayed for, with respect to ourselves or others; it is 'all good.'” Matthew Henry

Titus 3:5-7 1599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

5 Not by the works of righteousness, which we had done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of the new birth, and the renewing of the holy Ghost,
6 Which he shed on us abundantly, through Jesus Christ our Savior,
7 That we, being justified by his grace, should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.


Father help me to read Your word this morning – amen


Brethren:

It is not works that grant us mercy or admittance to heaven. Although doing works are important. It is the belief in the sacrifice of Christ that brings and redeems us to the Father. Without that belief we are naught more than filthy garments. - RP. Woitowitz Sr.


“For our own salvation was not by works of righteousness, but by God's mercy, His meeting us in our circumstances of sin and shame, and having compassion. The washing of regeneration implies the communication of new life, but emphasizes the moral change that new life brings with it, for it is a cleansing process. And the Holy Spirit has renewed once and for all every soul who has received this mercy. The 'old man has been forever put off, and the new man put on.'

We have seen that the 'renewing of the Holy Ghost' is not a thing to be repeated, but has been done once as to every believer: this has renewed the believer in the spirit of his mind; for the Spirit has been poured on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior. God does not give the Spirit by measure, for the Spirit is a living Person, and not limited by human limitations. And this blessing has come through Jesus Christ our Savior, He to whom all the riches of God have been given, and who delights to share unstintingly with His saints.” - LM Grant

Titus 3:1-3 - (GNVT)

1 Put them in remembrance that they be subject to the principalities and powers, and that they be obedient, and ready to every good work. 2 That they speak evil of no man, that they be no fighters, but soft, showing all meekness unto all men.
3  For we ourselves also were in times past unwise, disobedient, deceived, serving the lusts and divers pleasures, living in maliciousness and envy, hateful, and hating one another.

Lord God have mercy upon me this day, and open my heart and mind to Your word - amen

Brethren:

Remember always that we were once chained and bound by sin. We spoke evil of all men, followed laws that we wished and disregarded or neglected others. We were fallen creations of which Christ Jesus gave Himself as a sacrifice so that we might be redeemed unto the Father. - R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“We cannot sufficiently admire, the very happy method the Apostle adopted, to conciliate the minds of the people to the observance of those civil obligations he here recommended, in showing, in his own instance, as well as in all others, how unavoidably disposed a state of unrenewed nature is, to everything that is evil. What an humble representation Paul hath here made of himself, and all mankind, considered only in the state of original corruption. Reader, it is always blessed, to have it in remembrance. Nothing, under the teachings of God the Spirit, can be more profitable. It tends to lower all Pharisaical pride, which might creep into the heart. It tends, through grace, to keep the soul humble in the dust before God. It keeps open a stream of true godly sorrow, in the consciousness of our first nothingness, and continued undeservings. And, what is preferable to all, it doth endear the Person, and work, and relations, and offices of Christ, to the soul; and thereby sweetly enforceth our need of Jesus, and our everlasting dependence upon him, and his blood and righteousness, more and more. Oh, thou dear Lord, how very precious, yea, increasingly precious, art thou to my soul, when I look back, and contemplate the awful state of that foolish, disobedient, unrenewed nature, in which I was born; the many years I continued in it, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating; and the remains of indwelling corruption, even to this hour, which marks the body of sin, I carry about with me! Oh! the blessedness of knowing it; and the distinguishing mercy of so knowing it, as to loath myself for my own deformity, that I may be looking only to Jesus for holiness and salvation.” - Robert Hawker

Titus 2:14-15 - (GNVT)

14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purge us to be a peculiar people unto himself, zealous of good works.
15 These things speak, and exhort, and convince with all authority. See that no man despise thee.

Forgive my sin of not studying Your word yesterday – amen

Brethren:

For He hath redeemed us according to His mercy so that we might be one with Him again in Heaven. All believers should speak on His mercy and speak with authority so as to leave no doubt in the minds of the unrighteous. From there, they will either believe or not believe, but they cannot say that they did not know. - R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“That He for us might pay a ransom, the ransom being His precious blood. Our Savior, by the payment of this tremendous ransom, O deepest and most unfathomable of all mysteries, released us from everything which is opposed to God’s blessed will. Here the mighty ransom is spoken of as freeing us from the bondage of lawlessness; elsewhere in the divine books the same ransom is described as delivering us from the penalties of this same breaking the divine law.” - Charles John Ellicott

Titus 2:11-12 - (GNVT)

11 For that grace of God, that bringeth salvation unto all men, hath appeared,
12 And teacheth us, that we should deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and that we should live soberly and righteously, and godly in this present world,

Father, help me to understand Your word this morning – amen

Brethren:

For God hath loved us first that he gave His only begotten Son as a sacrifice for our sins. This is the redemption, that is to day the bringing of us back to God. Mercy, is the pardoning of our sins that we might now be righteous in Christ Jesus. Therefore, let us pout away unrighteousness and carnality and live lives worth our our Saviors sacrifice. - R.P. Woitowitz

“For the grace of God, that which saves, hath shone forth upon all men. Or, as it is expressed in the margin of our authorized version: The grace of God, that bringeth salvation to all men, hath appeared. As God's grace signifies God's favor, any benefit received from him may be termed God's grace. In this place, and in Colossians 1:6, the Gospel, which points out God's infinite mercy to the world, is termed the grace of God; for it is not only a favor of infinite worth in itself, but it announces that greatest gift of God to man, the incarnation and atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Now it cannot be said, except in a very refined and spiritual sense, that this Gospel had then appeared to all men; but it may be well said that it bringeth salvation to all men; this is its design; and it was to taste death for every man that its author came into the world. There is a beauty and energy in the word επεφανη, hath shined out, that is rarely noted; it seems to be a metaphor taken from the sun. As by his rising in the east and shining out, he enlightens, successively, the whole world; so the Lord Jesus, who is called the Sun of righteousness, Malachi 4:2, arises on the whole human race with healing in his wings. And as the light and heat of the sun are denied to no nation nor individual, so the grace of the Lord Jesus, this also shines out upon all; and God designs that all mankind shall be as equally benefited by it in reference to their souls, as they are in respect to their bodies by the sun that shines in the firmament of heaven. But as all the parts of the earth are not immediately illuminated, but come into the solar light successively, not only in consequence of the earth's diurnal revolution round its own axis, but in consequence of its annual revolution round its whole orbit; so this Sun of righteousness, who has shined out, is bringing every part of the habitable globe into his Divine light; that light is shining more and more to the perfect day; so that gradually and successively he is enlightening every nation, and every man; and, when his great year is filled up, every nation of the earth shall be brought into the light and heat of this unspotted, uneclipsed, and eternal Sun of righteousness and truth. Wherever the Gospel comes, it brings salvation - it offers deliverance from all sin to every soul that hears or reads it. As freely as the sun dispenses his genial influences to every inhabitant of the earth, so freely does Jesus Christ dispense the merits and blessings of his passion and death to every soul of man. From the influences of this spiritual Sun no soul is reprobated any more than from the influences of the natural sun. In both cases, only those who wilfully shut their eyes, and hide themselves in darkness, are deprived of the gracious benefit. It is no objection to this view of the subject, that whole nations have not yet received the Divine light. When the earth and the sun were created, every part of the globe did not come immediately into the light; to effect this purpose fully there must be a complete revolution, as has been marked above, and this could not be effected till the earth had not only revolved on its own axis, but passed successively through all the signs of the zodiac. When its year was completed, and not till then, every part had its due proportion of light and heat. God may, in his infinite wisdom, have determined the times and the seasons for the full manifestation of the Gospel to the nations of the world, as he has done in reference to the solar light; and when the Jews are brought in with the fullness of the Gentiles, then, and not till then, can we say that the grand revolution of the important Year of the Sun of righteousness is completed. But, in the meantime, the unenlightened parts of the earth are not left in total darkness; as there was light being created, and in a certain measure dispersed, at least three whole days before the sun was formed; (for his creation was a part of the fourth day's work); so, previously to the incarnation of Christ, there was spiritual light in the world; for he diffused his beams while his orb was yet unseen. And even now, where by the preaching of his Gospel he is not yet manifested, he is that true light which enlightens every man coming into the world; so that the moral world is no more left to absolute darkness, where the Gospel is not yet preached, than the earth was the four days which preceded the creation of the sun, or those parts of the world are where the Gospel has not yet been preached. The great year is rolling on, and all the parts of the earth are coming successively, and now rapidly, into the light. The vast revolution seems to be nearly completed, and the whole world is about to be filled with the light and glory of God. A heathen poet, apparently under the inspiration of God (for God has his witnesses every where) speaks of those glorious times in words and numbers which nothing but the Spirit of God can equal. - Thomas Coke

Titus 2:9-10 1599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

9 Let servants be subject to their masters, and please them in all things, not answering again,
10 Neither pickers, but that they show all good faithfulness, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.

Heavenly Father, I am a sinner, have mercy on me oh Son of David. I do, what I should not do, and do not do what I should. I confess my shortcomings to You this morning oh my Lord – amen

Brethren:

Advice to servants, to be honest and faithful towards their masters. For Christ is faithful towards us in all things. We likewise are servants to our Creator and it pleases Him when we do well and honestly towards our earthly masters. We have died in Christ and are reborn in Him, and now live for Him. Let us therefore do our best for Him. - R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“Servants must know and do their duty to their earthly masters, with a reference to their heavenly one. In serving an earthly master according to Christ's will, He is served; such shall be rewarded by him. Not giving disrespectful or provoking language; but to take a check or reproof with silence, not making confident or bold replies. When conscious of a fault, to excuse or justify it, doubles it. Never putting to their own use that which is their master's, nor wasting the goods they are trusted with. Showing all good fidelity to improve a master's goods, and promote his thriving. If ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own? (Read Luke 16:12). True religion is an honour to the professors of it; and they should adorn it in all things.” Matthew Henry

Titus 2:8-9 - (GNVT)

8 And with the wholesome word, which cannot be condemned, that he which withstandeth, may be ashamed, having nothing concerning you to speak evil of.
9 Let servants be subject to their masters, and please them in all things, not answering again,

Father in Heaven, may my day be filled with Your word – amen

Brethren:

The above applies to all believers that their lives should set an example and reflect a life that is in Christ Jesus. That all things are done in His name, that it might be shown to those that are non-believers, backsliders, and the young people that life in Christ is truly a life of freedom.
R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“For doctrine will otherwise carry little authority, if its power and majesty do not shine in the life of the bishop, as in a mirror. He wishes, therefore, that the teacher may be a pattern, which his scholars may copy. Without mentioning the interpretations given by others, I shall state that which appears to me to be the most probable. First, I connect these words, of good works in doctrine; for, after having enjoined Titus that, in teaching he shall inculcate the practice of good works, he wishes that good works, which correspond to this doctrine, may be visible in his life; and consequently the preposition in means that they shall be suitable, or shall correspond, to the doctrine. What follows is in no degree obscure; for; in order that he may exhibit a representation of his doctrine in morals, he bids him be 'upright and grave.'” John Calvin

Titus 2:1-6 - (GNVT)

1 But speak thou the things which become wholesome doctrine, 2 That the elder men be watchful, grave, temperate, sound in the faith, in love, and in patience:
3 The elder women likewise, that they be in such behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not subject to much wine, but teachers of honest things.
4 That they may instruct the young women to be sober minded, that they love their husbands, that they love their children,
5 That they be temperate, chaste, keeping at home, good and subject unto their husbands, that the word of God be not evil spoken of.
6 Exhort young men likewise, that they be sober minded.

Father keep me focused on things from above – amen

Brethren:

Let God rule over your houses. That fathers be men of faith, love and patience. That mothers, subject themselves to their husbands, as a different vessel of honor. Teaching their children the Word of God, loving their husbands and children. Daughters and sons obeying their parents and being sober minded to show respect for their elders.
God-fathers-mothers-children
R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“The best way to resist wrong teaching is to give positive instruction in Christian doctrine and its moral application. This will produce spiritual growth and right behaviour in all groups alike, regardless of age or social background. Older men, for instance, should set an example of a well balanced Christian life Older women also should be a good example. If their lives are free of such bad habits as gossip and social climbing, the younger women are more likely to benefit from their advice and learn how to carry out their responsibilities in the home. In encouraging the young men to be self-controlled, Titus himself should be an example. By being careful in his behavior and speech, he can prevent his opponents from finding any cause to criticize either him or his teaching.” - Bridgeway Bible Commentary

Titus 1:15-16 - (GNVT)

15 Unto the pure are all things pure, but unto them that are defiled, and unbelieving, is nothing pure, but even their minds and consciences are defiled.
16 They profess that they know God, but by works they deny him, and are abominable and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

Open my heart to Your words this morning – amen

Brethren:

All things are right, pure and noble to those that are likewise so. There is nothing that the Holy Spirit gives unto us that is not so, for all gifts and blessings proceed from His abundance and are the providence of God's throne given to us. - R.P. Woitowitz (Read Acts 10:10-15)

“Everything is made the means of increasing their depravity. No matter what ordinances of religion they observe; what distinctions of meats, or drinks, or days they regard, and what events of Providence occur, all are the occasion of augmented depravity. Such distinctions in food they make the means of fostering their pride and producing self-righteousness; the mercies of God they abuse to pamper their own lusts, and the afflictive events of Divine Providence they make the occasion of murmuring and rebellion. Naturally corrupt at heart, no ordinances of religion, and no events of Providence, make them any better, but all tend to deepen their depravity. It is not a mere external defilement - a thing which they so much dread - but a much worse kind of pollution, that which extends to the soul and the conscience. Everything which they do tends to corrupt the inner man more and more, and to make them really more polluted and abominable in the sight of God. The wicked, while they remain impenitent, are constantly becoming worse and worse. They make everything the means of increasing their depravity, and even these things which seem to pertain only to outward observances are made the occasion of the deeper corruption of the heart. [Therefore], it was so important for Titus to exercise special care in introducing men into the ministry, and in completing the arrangements contemplated in the organization of the churches there. Yet is this character confined to them? Are there none now who profess that they know God, but in works deny him; whose conduct is such that it ought to be abhorred; who are disobedient to the plain commands of God, and whose character in respect to all that pertains to true piety is to be disapproved by the truly pious, and will be by God at the last day? Alas, taking the church at large, there are many such, and the fact that there are such persons is the grand hindrance to the triumphs of religion on the earth. “'The way to heaven is blocked up by dead professors of religion.'” - Albert Barnes

Titus 1:10-14 - (GNVT)

10 For there are many disobedient and vain talkers and deceivers of minds, chiefly they of the Circumcision,
11 Whose mouths must be stopped, which subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake.
12 One of themselves, even one of their own Prophets said, The Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, slow bellies.
13 This witness is true: wherefore convince them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith.
14 And not taking heed to Jewish fables and commandments of men, that turn away from the truth.

Lord, thank You for this Sunday that we all might worship You – amen

Brethren:

Given to the unrighteousness that those that professed to be of the faith only do so under the guise of Godliness for the sake of money. - R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“Persons who are not subject to the law of God, or Gospel of Christ; whose spirits are not subject to the prophets; and who will not submit themselves to them that have the rule over them, nor attend to the admonitions of the church, nor be brought into any regularity and order; and there were many of this sort, who were not sent forth by Christ, or his churches, but went forth of themselves, and were corrupters of the word; and therefore Christ's ministers ought to hold fast the faithful word, and convince such opposers by sound doctrine; [vain talkers] who deliver out in their discourses empty, trifling, superficial, and frivolous things; which have no solidity and substance in them, nor do they tend to edification; only great swelling words of vanity, vain jangling and babbling about things to no profit, both of themselves and others; who lie in wait to deceive, and are deceitful workers; and by their good words, and fair speeches, deceive the hearts of the simple; and so are dangerous persons, and of pernicious consequence.” - John Gill

Titus 1:10 - (GNVT)

10 For there are many disobedient and vain talkers and deceivers of minds, chiefly they of the Circumcision,
Father forgive my inconsistency of the last few days – Amen

Brethren:

The wording herein is similar to the epistles to Timothy. This is to say that those who be pastors must hold fast to the Gospel of Christ of which was delivered unto them through Paul. It serves two purposes, to wit; governing others that are willing to learn AND teach, and to reprove the obstinate naysayers who only speak the lies that further they're own ambitions. - R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“To convince the gainsayers. Opening and alleging out of the scriptures to the jews, that Jesus is the Christ; calling the gentiles to repentance for their violations of the law of nature, and revolts against the power of conscience. Demonstrating also the truth of christianity by arguments, and by such signs as God was pleased to give, and by promises of the Holy Spirit to every believer. A bishop must also be able to look the jewish teachers in the face, and rebuke them sharply for their slanders of the Cretians; slanders which were particularly unwise and foolish in teachers.” - Joseph Suttcliff

Titus 1:3 - (GNVT)

3 But hath made his word manifest in due time through the preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Savior:

Lord God, keep me busy today – amen

Brethren:

God in various ages had made His Word, through the prophets available to all that would listen, and believe. His promise of a Savior came to fruition in the Word made flesh, in Christ Jesus. Therefore Paul, upon his conversion became an apostle to the Gentiles so that all people would come to God
R.P. Woitowitz

“All are the servants of God who are not slaves of sin and Satan. All gospel truth is according to godliness, teaching the fear of God. The intent of the gospel is to raise up hope as well as faith; to take off the mind and heart from the world, and to raise them to heaven and the things above. How excellent then is the gospel, which was the matter of Divine promise so early, and what thanks are due for our privileges! Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God; and whoso is appointed and called, must preach the word. Grace is the free favour of God, and acceptance with him. Mercy, the fruits of the favour, in the pardon of sin, and freedom from all miseries both here and hereafter. And peace is the effect and fruit of mercy. Peace with God through Christ who is our Peace, and with the creatures and ourselves. Grace is the fountain of all blessings. Mercy, and peace, and all good, spring out of this.” - Matthew Henry

2 Timothy 4:7-8 1599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

7 I have fought a good fight, and have finished my course: I have kept the faith.
8 For henceforth is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord the righteous Judge shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love that his appearing.

18 And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be praise for ever and ever, Amen.

Lord, thank You for the day yesterday. The singing was very good, and I appreciate Your hand in it. I ask now that you help me to read Your word with wisdom and understanding – amen

Brethren:

When we reach the end of our pilgrimage here on this temporal plane of existence we an assured that God will keep His promise and reward us with the crown at the end of the race. R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“PAUL’S long day’s work is nearly done. He is a prisoner in Rome, all but forsaken by his friends, in hourly expectation of another summons before Nero. To appear before him was, he says, like putting his head into ‘the mouth of the lion.’ His horizon was darkened by sad anticipations of decaying faith and growing corruptions in the Church. What a road he had travelled since that day when, on the way to Damascus, he saw the living Christ, and heard the words of His mouth! t had been but a failure of a life, if judged by ordinary standards. He had suffered the loss of all things, had thrown away position and prospects, had exposed himself to sorrows and toils, had been all his days a poor man and solitary, had been hunted, despised, laughed at by Jew and Gentile, worried and badgered even by so-called brethren, loved the less, the more he loved. And now the end is near. A prison-and the-headsman’s sword are the world’s wages to its best teacher. When Nero is on the throne, the only possible place for Paul is a dungeon opening on to the scaffold. Better to be the martyr than the Caesar!" - Alexander Maclaren

2 Timothy 4:5 - (GNVT)

5 But watch thou in all things: suffer adversity: do the work of an Evangelist: cause thy ministry to be thoroughly liked of.

Father God, thank You for keeping me to the straight and narrow path yesterday, help me now to understand Your word – amen

Brethren:

The faithful pastor, indeed the faithful Christian, shall study to show himself approved of God, no matter the adversity, or suffering. God in turn will cause the man to be blessed and a ministry approved by man. Not the itching ears of which Paul speaks of, but of the true word of Christ Jesus. Give no opportunity to false doctrines or deceptions to creep into your faithfulness, but instead STAY THE COURSE! - R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“Do the work of an evangelist.—The “evangelists” of the early Church seem to have been preachers of the Gospel: in the first place, assistants to the Apostles and missionaries under their direction. The especial functions of a preacher and public teacher seem always to have been allotted to Timothy, and, no doubt, a peculiar persuasive power of oratory was one of the chief gifts conferred on this eminent follower of St. Paul. In the midst of the many grave and absorbing duties of his charge of the Ephesian Church, he must be mindful not to neglect this great power which he possessed. It is here especially termed “the work of an evangelist,” to remind him that to perform rightly this duty, needed zeal, close work, much study, thought, and prayer; and it was by worthily performing the duties of an evangelist that the many who were turning from the truth to fables, would be best won back, by hearing the great facts of the Gospel placed side by side with the tables of the false teachers.
Make full proof of thy ministry.—In other words, “Fully carry out the many duties imposed upon thee by thy great office.”

The office of Timothy, it should be remembered, in Ephesus, included far more than merely those of a preacher or evangelist. He was the presiding presbyter of the Church, to whom its government was entrusted: in fact, the many-sided life of St. Paul was now to be lived by Timothy.”
Arno Clemens Gaebelein

2 Timothy 4:1-2 - (GNVT)

1 I Charge thee therefore before God, and before the Lord Jesus Christ, which shall judge the quick and dead at that his appearing, and in his kingdom,
2 Preach the word: be instant, in season, and out of season: improve, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine

Father in Heaven help me to understand Your word this morning – amen

Brethren:

Therefore all believers should be prepared to preach the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ at every opportunity; great or small, with all charity and patience. For we here are but mere pilgrims on the journey that others have trod before us. Let us learn from their example. - R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“Whose word the Scriptures are, and by whom they are inspired; who had made Timothy an able minister of the New Testament, and to whom he was accountable for his ministry: and the Lord Jesus Christ; who is equal with God, and bestows ministerial gifts on men, and from whom Timothy had his; whose Gospel he preached; in whose cause he was embarked; and before whom he must appear, to give an account of his ministry, talents, and souls under his care.

Either Christ the essential Word, who is the sum and substance of the Gospel ministry; or the word of truth and faith, the Gospel of salvation, the word of righteousness, peace, and reconciliation by Christ; which is to be preached, or published, in like manner as heralds proclaim the will of their princes; openly, publicly, and with a loud voice, without adding to it, or taking from speaking out the whole, and keeping back no part of it; and that with all courage and boldness: some copies read, "the word of God"; and the Ethiopic version, "his word"; that is, the word of Christ; that is, be constant and assiduous in the work of the ministry; be always and wholly in it, either preparing for it, or performing it; or doing those things which are annexed to it, or follow upon it; redeem time, and take every opportunity of dispensing the mysteries of grace, as a faithful steward of them; not only make use of the common and stated seasons for the ministration of the word and ordinances, but embrace every other that offers; make use not only of those seasons which may seem commodious and advantageous both to preacher and hearer, and promise usefulness and success, but even such as may seem incommodious and disadvantageous to flesh and blood; such as times of persecution and opposition; but none of these things should deter and move from the preaching of the Gospel. Several parts of the ministerial function to be insisted on and attended to are next mentioned, as being within the solemn charge given before God and Christ.” - John Gill

2 Timothy 3:16-17 1599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

16 For the whole Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable to teach, to convince, to correct, and to instruct in righteousness,
17 That the man of God may be absolute, being made perfect unto all good works.

Father, thank You for keeping me from the fowler's snare yesterday – amen

Brethren:

God's word hath, throughout the ages given inspiration to men that had no fear of speaking it. It has been used in may ways, to wit; conviction, correction, teaching, instruction in righteousness. Who can think of any thing better? Read 2 Peter 1:21

“The scriptures with which Timothy had been acquainted from his infancy were evidently those of the Old Testament; for none of the books of the New Testament were then committed to writing. The same thing seems plainly to be intended here byall scripture, which, in the preceding verse, is called the sacred scripture, and which St. Paul asserts to be divinelyinspired. The Old Testament revelations were not final, but preparatory to the New Testament; and therefore the scriptures of the Old Testament are here represented as able to make Timothy wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus. There is, however, no reason to confine St. Paul's assertion, that all scripture is given by inspiration of God, to the Old Testament. If in the Mosaic dispensation the written rule was given by inspiration of God, where the church was conducted in every step at first by divine oracular responses, and afterwards by a long series and continued succession of prophets; and all this under an extraordinary administration of Providence, such as might well seem to supersede the necessity of scriptural inspiration; how confidently may we conclude that the same divine goodness would give the infallible guide of an inspired scripture to the Christian church, where the miraculous influence of the Holy Spirit is supposed to have ceased with the apostolic ages? Nor can it be said, that what St. Paul predicates of scripture, must be confined to the law, and what is prefatory to it, since the largeness of his term, all scripture, extends to the whole canon of the Old Testament, as then received by the two churches. The canonical books of the Old Testament therefore being inspired, the reason of things directs us to expect the same quality in the New, if there were not a thousand unanswerable arguments besides. And as in the Old, among several occasional writings, there was the fundamental record, or the great charter of the Pentateuch; and in the volumes of the prophets, the oracular predictions of the future states of the church, to the first coming of the Messiah, and so indeed more obscurely to the second coming; so in the New, there is, besides the occasional Epistles, the authentic record or great charter of the Gospel-covenant; and in the Revelations of St. John, the same divine predictions continued, and more fully predicted, to the second coming of the Saviour of the world. We may therefore venture to say, that the general proposition which affirms that all scripture is given by inspiration of God, necessarily includes the scriptures in question; what it predicates of all scripture, taking in the New as well as the Old; as well that which was to be written, as that which was already collected into a canon. For the term scripture, as the context leads us to understand it, is general, and means a religious rule, perfect in its direction for the conduct of human life in belief and practice, it being under this idea that St. Paul recommends the scripture to Timothy. The assertion therefore is universal, and amounts to this, "That divine inspiration is an essential quality of every scripture, which constitutes the law or rule of a religion coming from God." On the whole then we conclude, that all the scriptures of the New Testament were given by the inspiration of God; and accordingly these scriptures are fitted for doctrine, as laying down the most fundamental doctrines and rules of religion, and every necessary truth; for reproof or conviction, as guarding us from all pernicious errors, and shewing us the turpitude of vice; for correction, as affording the strongest arguments under the grace of God for amendment; and for instruction in righteousness, as not only recommending holiness of heart and life in general, but likewise exciting us to a continual progress in holy and virtuous habits.” Thomas Coke

2 Timothy 3:13 - (GNVT)

13 But the evil men and deceivers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

Father God, I did not have a good day yesterday, as You know, please forgive me, and help me to understand Your word – amen

Brethren:

Evil will grow and likewise evil men shall grow with it. Man shall deceive and be deceived. Of this there is no profitable thing to be had or to want. Expect that the wickedness that many shall find will be their own undoing. - R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“This is the most bitter of all persecutions, when we see wicked men, with their sacrilegious hardihood, with their blasphemies and errors, gathering strength. Thus Paul says elsewhere, that Ishmael persecuted Isaac, not by the sword, but by mockery (Galatians 4:29.) Hence also we may conclude, that the Apostle spoke, in general terms, of those distresses which the children of God are compelled to endure, when they contend for the glory of their Father. 
 
He foretells not only that they will make obstinate resistance, but that they will succeed in injuring and corrupting others. One worthless person will always be more effectual in destroying, than ten faithful teachers in building, though they labor with all their might. Nor are there ever wanting the tares which Satan sows for injuring the pure corn; and even when we think that false prophets are driven away, others continually spring up in other directions.

Again, as to the power of doing injury, it is not because falsehood, in its own nature, is stronger than truth, or that the tricks of Satan exceed the energy of the Spirit of God; but because men, being naturally inclined to vanity and errors, embrace far more readily what agrees with their natural disposition, and also because, being blinded by a righteous vengeance of God, they are led, as captive slaves, at the will of Satan. And the chief reason, why the plague of wicked doctrines is so efficacious, is, that the ingratitude of men deserves that it should be so. It is highly necessary for godly teachers to be reminded of this, that they may be prepared for uninterrupted warfare, and may not be discouraged by delay, or yield to the haughtiness and insolence of adversaries.” - John Calvin

2 Timothy 3:10-12 1599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

10 ¶ But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of living, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, patience,
11 Persecutions, and afflictions which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra, which persecutions I suffered: but from them all the Lord delivered me.
12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus, shall suffer persecution.

Father God, if I am busy today, forget not me – amen

Brethren:

Those that hold to the faith shall be persecuted. It was true back in the days of the Apostles, and it is true, (no so more than ever), today. For mankind and to a degree the church has it's apostates. Those that will teach man doctrines instead of the words of God. Both have fallen greatly. For instance it has not any longer heresy for man to mock those of faith. Instead it has become, not only common practice, but is thoroughly encouraged. - R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“This, with what follows, is said in opposition to the characters, principles, and practices of the above[yesterday's study]a wicked men, and for the imitation and encouragement of Timothy, and of others, whether ministers or private believers: the apostle calls the doctrine he delivered, "my doctrine": not because he was the author of it, or that it was a scheme of principles formed and contrived by him; but because it was the doctrine which he had received from God, which was given him to preach, and which he did preach purely and faithfully; otherwise it was the doctrine of Christ, and the same with that which was preached by the rest of the apostles; and which was the doctrine of the Scriptures, and was according to godliness; and as preached by him, was all of a piece, and without any adulteration, or mixture, and was open and manifest, and well known to Timothy, and others; for he used no hidden things of dishonesty, nor did he conceal his principles, or keep back anything that was profitable. Embraced, professed, and preached by him, was well known, so no less conspicuous was the grace of faith in him, with respect to his interest in God's everlasting love, in salvation by Jesus Christ, and in eternal glory and happiness; of which be had a full assurance, and which remained constant and firm in him to the end. Unless rather his faithfulness in the discharge of his ministerial work should be here designed, for which he was very remarkable, which suffers long, and is kind; and may include his love to God, to Christ, and to the souls of men; which was very great, and particularly to his countrymen, the Jews, and also to the Gentiles; and especially to the churches he was more immediately concerned with, and even to all the saints, in bearing all indignities, reproaches, afflictions, and persecutions, for the sake of Christ and his Gospel; by which he was not in the least moved, but persevered with, great courage and constancy to the end.” John Gill

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2 Timothy 3:1-5 - (GNVT)

1 This know also, that in the last days shall come perilous times. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, cursed speakers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 Without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, intemperate, fierce, no lovers at all of them which are good,
4 Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God,
5 Having a show of godliness, but have denied the power thereof: turn away therefore from such

Lord God, Creator of all things, help me to understand Your word. Reveal to me that which You wish me to understand – amen

Brethren:

Know this that the end times, of which I fear we are now beginning to see, will show all forms of carnality and self indulgence. Men will love the things of this world and openly despise God. From such, turn away. Hold fast and remain steadfast in the knowledge of God and the Gospel of Christ. Christians indeed, as will the church face outright persecution. You will be vilified and declared and enemy of the state. You will be persecuted, charged and thrown into prisons without cause for none other than your beliefs. R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“Even in gospel times there would be perilous times; on account of persecution from without, still more on account of corruptions within. Men love to gratify their own lusts, more than to please God and do their duty. When every man is eager for what he can get, and anxious to keep what he has, this makes men dangerous to one another. When men do not fear God, they will not regard man. When children are disobedient to their parents, that makes the times perilous. Men are unholy and without the fear of God, because unthankful for the mercies of God. We abuse God's gifts, if we make them the food and fuel of our lusts. Times are perilous also, when parents are without natural affection to children. And when men have no rule over their own spirits, but despise that which is good and to be honoured. God is to be loved above all; but a carnal mind, full of enmity against him, prefers any thing before him, especially carnal pleasure. A form of godliness is very different from the power; from such as are found to be hypocrites, real Christians must withdraw. Such persons have been found within the outward church, in every place, and at all times. There ever have been artful men, who, by pretences and flatteries, creep into the favour and confidence of those who are too easy of belief, ignorant, and fanciful. All must be ever learning to know the Lord; but these follow every new notion, yet never seek the truth as it is in Jesus. Like the Egyptian magicians, these were men of corrupt minds, prejudiced against the truth, and found to be quite without faith. Yet though the spirit of error may be let loose for a time, Satan can deceive the nations and the churches no further, and no longer, than God will permit.”

Matthew Henry