Due to finishing a project by the end of the month, I found myself reading most of the epistles on Monday. When reading the letters in quick succession (and one rather long sitting) the repetitive bits stand out (perhaps, they actually stand on their hands and wave their feet in the air) … here are my thoughts.
The blended sobriety, seriousness, and practicality of the apostles’ words startle. Paul says in Ephesians that the days are evil; the other apostles take up this cry. The end is near. Your neighbor starves. It is hard for the rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Be holy for I am holy.
Although the message of boundless grace received from the sacrifice of Christ overwhelms every stroke of New Covenant language; nevertheless, the apostles are very serious. Sin crouches at our door, and the world will know us by our love. This is not something to be taken lightly. I will give an account for every word, for every touch, for every cent, for every act.
Thieves must give up stealing; rather let them labor and work honestly with their hands so as to have something to share with the needy. Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. The end of all things is near; therefore be serious and discipline yourselves for the sake of your prayers– serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received– whoever serves must do so with the strength that God supplies… Lament and mourn and weep. For you are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.
Well?
We must have a correct understanding, a correct vision of this world; the reality of sin, the reality of judgment…it is a sober truth.
Yet, we must also realize who we are “in Christ.” What a beautiful standing we have in His grace! Is there not also a threaded vein of “joy” in the words of Paul? “Consider it pure joy…” Why?
Well, that might’ve been James. This getting old and forgetful is “sobering” stuff.
I just finished a rereading of Dangerous Journey. a week ago. My conclusion . . . this stuff is serious . . .don’t waste time.
sorry there is something wrong with my computer
Because it is joy to do the work of Him who sent us, perhaps?