Tag: devil

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Matthew 5:2 — Who is Jesus? Part IV — Son

a picture of Jesus sitting on the ground in the wilderness. The devil stands nearby holding a steaming hot loaf of bread. (Grok)

… and he began to teach them.

Summary: Jesus’ role as a “son” defines him in an entirely different way from who he is as a God, Creator, and King. 

God, Creator, and King are three radically different roles for one person to occupy. Even with just these three aspects to consider, the implications are staggering. Yet we have only begun to explore the various roles that Jesus fills. Of those that are left to discuss, his role as “Son” is perhaps the most important.

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Philippians 1:27c – A Point of Focus

An image of a swan caught in the focal point of a camera lens (Pixabay)

… striving together as one for the faith of the gospel…

Summary: “Striving together” suggests a coordinated effort between people. On closer examination, we discover that a loose association of believers can also “strive together.” 

When was the last time you found yourself “striving together” with anyone? Do you remember? What were you striving for? 

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Colossians 3:9b – White Lies

Do not lie to each other …

Summary: Wondering about white lies leads us to wonder about the nature of truth as well. 

The “Food for Thought” question at the end of the last meditation was, “Are ‘white lies’ okay in church?” This sparked comments that raised more questions.

The consensus in the comments was that we shouldn’t tell “white lies.”  Lies are the province of the devil, the “father of lies” (John 8:44). Ergo, Christians should avoid lies of any kind. I agree, but what does that mean? 

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Colossians 3:8d – The Opposite of Good

Picture of a man with a devil on his shoulder whispering in his ear.

[… rid yourselves of] … malice …

Summary: Words have meanings, and meanings are important. “Malice” may not be a word we use very often anymore, but it is a good word that describes a very common condition. 

One of the things Paul encourages us to get rid of is “malice.” Malice is a great word, but one we don’t often use. The simplest definition I found for it is “the intention or desire to do evil.”* More explicitly, it is a desire to do harm or cause suffering. 

Okay … “evil” is a small word, but it carries a big stick. What does “evil” mean? 

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