Tag: chreia

Romans 12:13 – Pursuit of Generosity

Posted on by Will

distributing to the needs of the saints, pursuing hospitality.

Truth to Learn

Selfless sharing is a sure sign of a committed Christian.

 

Behind the Words

The Greek word translated “distributing” is koinonointes, which is derived from the word koinonia, meaning “to have things in common” or “to share things with others.” Thus we see that the command is not to distribute to the less fortunate what the more fortunate have donated. Paul is telling us to give of our own possessions to meet the needs of others.

The word “needs” is from chreia, a form of chreos, meaning “a debt.” In the current usage, chreia refers to “that which someone is lacking or has need of.”

“Saints” is a translation of the Greek word hagios, meaning “something that inspires awe.” It is the word which is often translated as “holy” particularly in reference to the holiness of God. It also carries with it the notion of being “set apart.” Specifically, it refers to something that is set apart from common use and set apart to be used for God.

The word “pursuing” is from diōkō, meaning “to pursue” or “to persecute.”

 

Meaning Explained

Continuing on with Paul’s description of how Christians ought to live their lives, he says that we should be, “distributing to the needs of the saints.” Let us first address the term “saints.” It does not refer to someone who has been canonized by the Roman Catholic Church even though they are referred to by the Church as “saints;” instead, it refers to those who have been set apart by God, those who have been saved by God’s grace. Hence, all Christians are saints.

What we are told here is that we should willingly share what we have with fellow Christians who are in need. Even those of us who think we don’t have very much can share some of what we have with other Christians who have even less.

Paul also tells us that we should be pursuing hospitality, not just being willing to be hospitable, but actively pursuing such opportunities. This was a necessary virtue in the first century, when houses of public accommodation were scarce. It is not so much a necessity today in our society, which may be one reason why we have become more isolated from each other rather than more closely engaged with one another. One never knows who a stranger really is, for in the book of Hebrews we are told,

Do not neglect to be hospitable to strangers, for by so doing some have unknowingly entertained angels. (Hebrews 13:2)

Also, in Matthew’s gospel Jesus taught:

The one receiving you receives Me, and the one receiving Me receives Him who sent Me. (Matthew 10:40)

If we are truly in God’s family then we should show all kindness in sharing with our brothers and sisters in the Lord!

 

Application

I have known some Christians who are constantly looking for opportunities to share what they have to meet the needs of others. These people are usually smiling. I have also seen Christians who hoard what they possess and seldom give to those in need. These people don’t seem to smile very often.

Do you smile a lot?

In God's service, for His glory,

Copyright © 2018 Will Krause. All rights reserved

1 Thessalonians 5:1 – Ignorance Versus Knowledge

Posted on by Will

But concerning the times and the seasons, brothers, you have no need of anything to be written to you.

Truth to Learn

There is a distinct difference between the rapture (the day of Jesus Christ) and the tribulation (the Day of the Lord).

 

Behind the Words

The word “but” is translated from the Greek particle de. It indicates transition or conversion, serving to introduce a new topic.

“Concerning” is translated from the preposition peri, which can mean “around” or “with regard to” depending on the form of the word it is referencing. In the current verse, its meaning is “with regard to” or “concerning.”

Chronos is the Greek word translated “times” in this verse. Chronos is used in reference to “a quantity of time” or “the passage of time.” Thus, this word generally refers to a measurable amount of time, or a specific moment in time.

“Seasons” is translated from another “time” word. This word is kairos which implies “a quality or character of a time period.” In other words, it expresses a period of time in a more abstract sense. It is often translated as “a season” or “an hour (not a literal hour, but a general timeframe).”

Chreia is the Greek word translated “need.” It is derived from chreos, meaning “a debt.” Thus, creia literally refers to one who owes a debt. In New Testament Greek it often refers to “a need.”

 

Meaning Explained

In the last six verses of the previous chapter, Paul taught the Thessalonians (and us) about the rapture, referred to elsewhere as “the Day of Jesus Christ.” He now starts off this chapter with “but,” indicating that he is going to make a distinction between the rapture and what he is about to talk about. He refers to it here as “the times and the seasons.” Then in the following verse he will refer to it as “the Day of the Lord.”

So, what does Paul mean by “the times and the seasons?” It is a reference to specific events and a general time period. This phrase only occurs in two other places in the Bible, Daniel 2:21 and Acts 1:7. In both cases it is used in reference to God’s dealing with Israel, and there is no reason to believe otherwise in this case. Therefore, Paul is making a distinction between how God will deal with the church and how he will deal with Israel.

Another reason for seeing the rapture and the Day of the Lord as separate events is given to us in the second half of today’s verse. In 1 Thessalonians 4:13, Paul said “I do not want you to be ignorant, brothers,” meaning that they were ignorant of the facts surrounding the rapture. In today’s verse he now says, “you have no need that I should write to you,” following in the next verse with, “you yourselves know perfectly,” regarding the Day of the Lord. We will provide more information regarding this distinction of these two in the following verses.

 

Application

The rapture is an event in which God completes salvation for Christians. The Day of the Lord (the tribulation) is a time in which God will judge the world and provide complete salvation for the believing remnant of Israel.

In God's service, for His glory,

Copyright © 2016 Will Krause. All rights reserved

1 Thessalonians 1:8 – Demonstrating Our Faith

Posted on by Will

For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God has gone out, so that we have no need to say anything.

Truth to Learn

Demonstrating our faith in everyday words and actions is the responsibility of every Christian.

 

Behind the Words

“Word” is from the Greek noun logos, which is based on the verb legō, meaning “to lay forth,” that is, “to express a thought in words.” Hence, logos refers to something said. However, it means more than just the word as spoken or written down; it includes the thought behind the word.

Kurios is the Greek word translated “Lord.” It is derived from kuros, meaning “might” or “power.” Thus, kurios refers to “someone who has legal power or supreme authority over you.” When accompanied by the definite article as it is here, it is a reference to “the Lord,” that is to God, who is our Lord and our Master.

The words “has sounded forth” are translated from the Greek verb exēcheomai. This word is made up of ex, meaning “out” or “out of” and ēcheō (from which we get our English word echo), which means “to make a loud noise.” Thus, exēcheomai means “to send out a loud sound.”

“We have no need” is the translation of the word chreia, which is derived from the verb chraomai, meaning “to furnish what is needed.” Chreia refers specifically to employment; however, it is often used as a metaphor for “that which is needed” or “that which is necessary.”

 

Meaning Explained

Back in verse three the Apostle Paul praised the members of the church in Thessalonica for their deeds of faith, their labor of love, and their patience. In verse six he said that they joyfully received the Word of God even in the midst of much affliction. He then said that they were examples to Christians all over the areas of Macedonia and Achaia. The reason they were such great examples to others included more than their labor of love and patience.

According to today’s verse, the Christians in Thessalonica proclaimed the word of the Lord far and wide. God has gifted each and every Christian with spiritual gifts, God given abilities, to be used within the church. He lists a number of these gifts in Ephesians 4:11 and 1Corinthians 12:8-10. But Jesus gave us all a commission to preach the gospel, baptize believers, and teach those who have been saved (Mark 28:19, 20). Just because you don’t have the gift of evangelism doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be proclaiming the gospel. And just because you don’t have the gift of helps doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be helping others within the church.

The members of the church in Thessalonica were so bold in proclaiming the gospel and they were so willing to put their faith into practice that they had a reputation throughout the Roman world of their day. In fact, their reputation was so great that Paul didn’t have to tell anyone, they already knew.

 

Application

As we asked yesterday, are you a “supposed Christian” or a “committed Christian?” Do your words and actions announce to everyone around you that you are a disciple of Christ? If not, why not?

In God's service, for His glory,

Copyright © 2016 Will Krause. All rights reserved

Ephesians 4:29 – Constructive Words

Posted on by Will

Let no rotten word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for needed edification, that it may give grace to the hearers.

Truth to Learn

Our speech should build up, not tear down.

 

Behind the Words

“Let … proceed” is translated from the verb ekporeuomai, which is a compound word made up of ek, meaning “out of” and poreuomai, meaning “to travel, to depart, or to go.” It is expressed here in the imperative mood, indicating a command. Since English doesn’t have a similar command form, the word “let” is used to provide this emphasis. Therefore, when you see the word “let” used with a verb in the Bible, it almost always implies a command type of directive, not a statement of permission.

The word “rotten” is from the Greek word sapros, which is based on the verb sēpō, meaning “to putrefy, to rot, or to perish.” Thus, sapros refers to that which is rotten or putrid.

“Word” is translated from the Greek noun logos, which refers to something said. However, it refers to more than just the word itself, but also to the thoughts behind the word.

“Needed” is from chreia, meaning “that which is needful, necessary, or useful.”

The word “edification” is translated from oikodomē, which we saw earlier in this chapter. It literally refers to “building a house.” Metaphorically, it refers to “building up” or “strengthening” someone or something.

                          

Meaning Explained

Paul is teaching us about the “new man” with which we are to clothe ourselves. Characteristics of this new man include not lying, not being sinfully angry, not stealing, and now – being careful about our speech.

Usually when we read today’s verse we think that it applies specifically to cursing, or as we call it, swearing: the use of four-letter swear words or using the Lord’s name in vain. It seems, however, that Paul has a much broader concept in mind. He specifically refers to it as putrid, or rotten, words and thoughts. And, as we have already pointed out, in Paul’s typical style he tells what the proper thing is right after he tells us the improper thing. The proper type of communication is “that which is good for needed edification of those who hear.”

One of the advantages of this style of teaching is that it tells us a little bit more about what to avoid. The type of speech which we are to avoid is that which does not build up. In other words, any communication which tears down or which prevents building up is the rotten communication Paul refers to. Yes, it would necessarily include swearing, but it also includes insulting or belittling speech. It includes bragging about oneself. It includes intentionally deceptive words and any type of speech which blasphemes God. In other words, if the words you say don’t encourage or build up your brothers and sisters in Christ, don’t say them.

 

Application

Your mother may have taught you, like my mother taught me, when she said, “If you can’t say something nice about someone, then don’t say anything at all.” That sounds like Apostle Paul-talk to me.

In God's service, for His glory,

Copyright © 2015 Will Krause. All rights reserved

1 Thessalonians 5:1 – Ignorance Versus Knowledge

Posted on by Will

But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you.

Truth to Learn

There is a distinct difference between the rapture (the day of Jesus Christ) and the tribulation (the Day of the Lord).

Behind the Words

The word “but” is translated from the Greek particle de. It indicates transition or conversion, serving to introduce a new topic.

“Concerning” is translated from the preposition peri, which can mean “around” or “with regard to” depending on the form of the word it is referencing. In the current verse, its meaning is “with regard to” or “concerning.”

Chronos is the Greek word translated “times” in this verse. Chronos is used in reference to “a quantity of time” or “the passage of time.” Thus, this word generally refers to a measurable amount of time, or a specific moment in time.

“Seasons” is translated from another “time” word. This word is kairos which implies “a quality or character of a time period.” In other words, it expresses a period of time in a more abstract sense. It is often translated as “a season” or “an hour (not a literal hour, but a general timeframe).”

Chreia is the Greek word translated “need.” It is derived from chreos, meaning “a debt.” Thus, creia literally refers to one who owes a debt. In New Testament Greek it often refers to “a need.”

Meaning Explained

In the last six verses of the previous chapter, Paul taught the Thessalonians (and us) about the rapture, referred to elsewhere as “the Day of Jesus Christ.” He now starts off this chapter with “but,” indicating that he is going to make a distinction between the rapture and what he is about to talk about. He refers to it here as “the times and the seasons.” Then in the following verse he will refer to it as “the Day of the Lord.”

So, what does Paul mean by “the times and the seasons?” It is a reference to specific events and a general time period. This phrase only occurs in two other places in the Bible, Daniel 2:21 and Acts 1:7. In both cases it is used in reference to God’s dealing with Israel, and there is no reason to believe otherwise in this case. Therefore, Paul is making a distinction between how God will deal with the church and how he will deal with Israel.

Another reason for seeing the rapture and the Day of the Lord as separate events is given to us in the second half of today’s verse. In 1 Thessalonians 4:13, Paul said “I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren,” meaning that they were ignorant of the facts surrounding the rapture. In today’s verse he now says, “you have no need that I should write to you,” following in the next verse with, “you yourselves know perfectly,” regarding the Day of the Lord. We will provide more information regarding this distinction of these two in the following verses.

Application

The rapture is an event in which God completes salvation for Christians. The Day of the Lord (the tribulation) is a time in which God will judge the world and provide complete salvation for the believing remnant of Israel.

In God's service, for His glory,

Copyright © 2012 Will Krause. All rights reserved

1 Thessalonians 1:8 – Demonstrating Our Faith

Posted on by Will

For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything.

Truth to Learn

Demonstrating our faith in everyday words and actions is the responsibility of every Christian.

Behind the Words

“Word” is from the Greek noun logos, which is based on the verb legō, meaning “to lay forth,” that is, “to express a thought in words.” Hence, logos refers to something said. However, it means more than just the word as spoken or written down; it includes the thought behind the word.

Kurios is the Greek word translated “Lord.” It is derived from kuros, meaning “might” or “power.” Thus, kurios refers to “someone who has legal power or supreme authority over you.” When accompanied by the definite article as it is here, it is a reference to “the Lord,” that is to God, who is our Lord and our Master.

The words “has sounded forth” are translated from the Greek verb exēcheomai. This word is made up of ex, meaning “out” or “out of” and ēcheō (from which we get our English word echo), which means “to make a loud noise.” Thus, exēcheomai means “to send out a loud sound.”

“We do not need” is the translation of the word chreia, which is derived from the verb chraomai, meaning “to furnish what is needed.” Chreia refers specifically to employment; however, it is often used as a metaphore for “that which is needed” or “that which is necessary.”

Meaning Explained

Back in verse three the Apostle Paul praised the members of the church in Thessalonica for their deeds of faith, their labor of love, and their patience. In verse six he said that they joyfully received the Word of God even in the midst of much affliction. He then said that they were examples to Christians all over the areas of Macedonia and Achaia. The reason they were such great examples to others included more than their labor of love and patience.

According to today’s verse, the Christians in Thessalonica proclaimed the word of the Lord far and wide. God has gifted each and every Christian with spiritual gifts, God given abilities, to be used within the church. He lists a number of these gifts in Ephesians 4:11 and 1Corinthians 12:8-10. But Jesus gave us all a commission to preach the gospel, baptize believers, and teach those who have been saved (Mark 28:19, 20). Just because you don’t have the gift of evangelism doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be proclaiming the gospel. And just because you don’t have the gift of helps doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be helping others within the church.

The members of the church in Thessalonica were so bold in proclaiming the gospel and they were so willing to put their faith into practice that they had a reputation throughout the Christian world of their day. In fact, their reputation was so great that Paul didn’t have to tell anyone, they already knew.

Application

As we asked yesterday, are you a “supposed Christian” or a “committed Christian?” Do your words and actions announce to everyone around you that you are a disciple of Christ? If not, why not?.

In God's service, for His glory,

Copyright © 2012 Will Krause. All rights reserved

Ephesians 4:29 – Constructive Words

Posted on by Will

Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.

Truth to Learn

Our speech should build up, not tear down.

Behind the Words

“Let … proceed” is translated from the verb ekporeuomai, which is a compound word made up of ek, meaning “out of” and poreuomai, meaning “to travel, to depart, or to go.” It is expressed here in the imperative mood, indicating a command. Since English doesn’t have a similar command form, the word “let” is used to provide this emphasis. Therefore, when you see the word “let” used with a verb in the Bible it almost always implies a command type of directive, not a statement of permission.

The word “corrupt” is from the Greek word sapros, which is based on the verb sēpō, meaning “to putrefy, to rot, or to perish.” Thus, sapros refers to that which is rotten or putrid.

“Word” is translated from the Greek noun logos, which refers to something said. However, it refers to more than just the word itself, but also to the thoughts behind the word.

“Necessary” is from chreia, meaning “that which is needful, necessary, or useful.”

The word “edification” is translated from oikodomē, which we saw earlier in this chapter. It literally refers to “building a house.” Metaphorically, it refers to “building up” or “strengthening” someone or something.

Meaning Explained

Paul is teaching us about the “new man” with which we are to clothe ourselves. Characteristics of this new man include not lying, not being sinfully angry, not stealing, and now – being careful about our speech.

Usually when we read today’s verse we think that it applies specifically to cursing, or as we call it, swearing: the use of four-letter swear words or using the Lord’s name in vain. It seems, however, that Paul has a much broader concept in mind. He specifically refers to it as putrid, or rotten, words and thoughts. And, as we have already pointed out, in Paul’s typical style he tells what the proper thing is right after he tells us the improper thing. The proper type of communication is “that which is good toward the needful edification of those who hear.”

One of the advantages of this style of teaching is that it tells us a little bit more about what to avoid. The type of speech which we are to avoid is that which does not build up. In other words, any communication which tears down or which prevents building up is the rotten communication Paul refers to. Yes, it would necessarily include swearing, but it also includes insulting or belittling speech. It includes bragging about oneself. It includes intentionally deceptive words and any type of speech which blasphemes God. In other words, if the words you say don’t encourage or build up your brothers and sisters in Christ, don’t say them.

Application

Your mother may have taught you like my mother taught me when she said, “If you can’t say something nice about someone, then don’t say anything at all.” That sounds like Apostle Paul-talk to me.

In God's service, for His glory,

Copyright © 2012 Will Krause. All rights reserved.

Romans 12:13 – Pursuit of Generosity

Posted on by Will

Romans 12:13 – Pursuit of Generosity

distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.

Truth to Learn

Selfless sharing is a sure sign of a committed Christian.

Behind the Words

The Greek word translated “distributing” is koinonointes, which is derived from the word koinonia, meaning “to have things in common” or “to share things with others.” Thus we see that the command is not to distribute to the less fortunate what the more fortunate have donated. Paul is telling us to give of our own possessions to meet the needs of others.

The word “needs” is from chreia, a form of chreos, meaning “a debt.” In the current usage, chreia refers to “that which someone is lacking or has need of.”

“Saints” is a translation of the Greek word hagios, meaning “something that inspires awe.” It is the word which is often translated as “holy” particularly in reference to the holiness of God. It also carries with it the notion of being “set apart.” Specifically, it refers to something that is set apart from common use and set apart to be used for God.

The words “given to” are from diōkō, meaning “to pursue” or “to persecute.”

Meaning Explained

Continuing on with Paul’s description of how Christians ought to live their lives, he says that we should be, “distributing to the needs of the saints.” Let us first address the term “saints.” It does not refer to someone who has been canonized by the Roman Catholic Church even though they are referred to by the Church as “saints;” instead, it refers to those who have been set apart by God, those who have been saved by God’s grace. Hence, all Christians are saints.

What we are told here is that we should willingly share what we have with fellow Christians who are in need. Even those of us who think we don’t have very much can share some of what we have with other Christians who have even less.

Paul also tells us that we should be pursuing hospitality, not just being willing, but actively pursuing such opportunities. This was a necessary virtue in the first century, when houses of public accommodation were scarce. It is not so much a necessity today in our society, which may be one reason why we have become more isolated from each other rather than more closely engaged with one another. One never knows who a stranger really is, for in the book of Hebrews we are told,

Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. (Hebrews 13:2)

Also, in Matthew’s gospel Jesus taught:

He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me. (Matthew 10:40)

If we are truly in God’s family then we should show all kindness in sharing with our brothers and sisters in the Lord!

Application

I have known some Christians who are constantly looking for opportunities to share what they have to meet the needs of others. These people are usually smiling. I have also seen Christians who hoard what they possess and seldom give to those in need. These people don’t seem to smile very often.

Do you smile a lot?

In God’s service, for His glory,

Copyright © 2011 Will Krause. All rights reserved.

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