Before we start reading, let's define "rule." A rule is 1. a principle or regulation governing conduct, action, procedure, arrangement, etc.: the rules of chess. 2. the code of regulations observed by a religious order or congregation. Basically, this is how we are to act as God's representatives. I heard a sermon recently that dealt with Christian rules. What struck me as interesting is that the pastor said, "[These are rules for Christians. Don't force them on non-Christians, and realize that you have a choice. You can be a Christian and follow these rules, or you can choose to be a non-Christian and ignore these rules. The choice is yours.]"
Why do we need rules anyway? Well, rules are everywhere. At home, at school, at work, in our government - they define the appropriate way to behave. When you represent the Holy and Perfect God, you should follow His rules. Besides, He created the world and everything in it. Don't you think He knows the best ways? What are these rules anyway? Let's take a look:
1. Set your thoughts on the things of God, not earthly things.
- Earthly things include:
- sexual immorality, impurity, lust
- evil desires and greed
- anger, rage, malice, slander, filthy language
- lying to each other
- racism
- Godly things include:
- compassion
- kindness
- humility
- gentleness
- patience
- endurance & forgiveness of others
- love
- peace
- The Word of God - read your Bible!
- teaching and admonishing one another
- songs of praise & thanksgiving to God
It's very simple - stop using people for your own selfish gain. Stop making it all about you - what you want, what you can get, what you think you need for pleasure. Instead, make it all about God and other people. Treat others the way you want to be treated & love your neighbor. But above all that, get in the Word and get to know God.
Paul ends with Christian household rules of conduct:
- Wives: submit. Let's define this word too. Submit: to give over or yield to the power or authority of another. In any relationship or organization there must be a leader. Women, your husband is your leader. That doesn't make him more powerful. You are still equal partners, but someone has to have the last say. Men NEED respect, so submit.
- Husbands: love and do not be harsh. The other side of the coin requires men to love their wives. Women NEED love. It's easy to submit to a loving and gentle husband.
- Children: obey your parents. Teens, that means you. The only "out" in this obedience is if your parents ask you to break one of God's rules. Even then you should be respectful in how you go about it.
- Fathers: do not embitter your children. Basically, treat them with kindness and love.
- Slaves: obey your masters. Work like you're serving the Lord.
- Masters: treat your slaves fairly and provide for them. (remember, we spoke of slavery in Roman times in Philemon. Rather than change an institution, the church attempted to change the hearts of men. Also, many slaves were working in a welfare-like program. They had no other means of support.)
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