Category: The New You

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Friday, August 8, 2014
“Necessity of Spiritual Growth”

 

 

 

 

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Episode Transcript:

You’re listening to The New You, the daily broadcast for people who have been made new by the blood of Christ. I’m Robert Hatfield, and here is today’s Scripture:

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen (2 Pet. 3:18).

We’ve been talking about growth this week. This is an important topic because the new you cannot survive unless it grows. It’s interesting to notice how the New Testament describes our new life in Christ as though it were a new human life. For example, in 1 Peter 2:2, Peter says, “As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” The writer of Hebrews addressed some words of rebuke in that book because the Christians had not nourished their souls as they should; they hadn’t grown! He says, “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food” (Heb. 5:12). Notice that they were expected to mature to the point where they could teach others. Doesn’t the Lord expect this of us, too? I know that He does.

That’s why we’ve been looking at 2 Peter this week. We’ve seen the ingredients of spiritual growth, the opponents of spiritual growth, the motivation for spiritual growth, and, today, I want us to be impressed with the necessity of spiritual growth.

Today’s text, 2 Peter 3:18, is not a suggestion, is it? No, it’s a command. Peter says that we are to grow, and mentions two areas in which we are to grow: in grace and in knowledge.

First, grow in grace. Grace is sometimes defined as the unmerited favor of God to mankind. The Holy Spirit, through Peter, employs the term here to sum up all of the favor of God. We are to grow in grace. I remember how Luke described the physical growth and maturation of Jesus from childhood to adulthood: “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” (Luke 2:52, emp. mine, RH). Further, the New Testament says that we are to learn from grace how to live in this present age (Titus 2:11-12), which would include ensuring that we speak with grace (Col. 4:6). Grow in grace.

Second, grow in knowledge. We are expected to become better informed in the doctrine of Christ. Think about the wealth of information and practical guidance for living that is awaiting you in the Word of God. It is amazing! Our study of the Word will cause us to be informed so that we can live intentionally for Christ. Also, that information will help us to be ready when people ask us for a reason of the hope that we have (1 Pet. 3:15). Still further, an increased knowledge in the Word will help us to enter more fully into sympathy with Christ’s cause. You will better understand what Christ has done for you and the true value of the church. It’s no wonder, then, that Peter commands us to grow in knowledge.

Let’s wrap it up: The Old Testament book of Hosea says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; Because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children” (Hosea 4:6). This could happen to us, too, couldn’t it? Don’t let that happen to you. Nourish the new you. Cherish the new you because that’s the you that was created by the blood of Jesus Christ. Grow, mature, and develop more and more into the image of the One who died for you. Be like Him. Life for Him.

Memory Verse: As it turns out, today’s text and this week’s memory verse are one in the same. Having examined it closely on today’s program, let’s look at it one more time to finish off the memorization for the week. I’ll say it once, then I’ll ask you to repeat it with me the second time:

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen (2 Pet. 3:18).

Over the weekend: Be sure to worship with the Lord’s people on the Lord’s day. He is worthy of our sincere and reverent praise.

OUTRO:

Thanks for joining today me on The New You. New episodes of this broadcast are released each weekday, Monday through Friday, from The Light Network. Archives of this program, episode transcripts, and more Christian podcasts are available there, too, at thelightnetwork.tv.

I welcome your questions, comments, or suggestions for the show! My email address is robert@thelightnetwork.tv and my voicemail number is 903-26-LIGHT, that’s 903-265-4448. I’d love to hear from you!

This is The New You, I’m Robert Hatfield, and I hope you have a great day!

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Thursday, August 7, 2014
“Motivation for Spiritual Growth”

 

 

 

 

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Episode Transcript:

You’re listening to The New You, the daily broadcast for people who have been made new by the blood of Christ. I’m Robert Hatfield, and here is today’s Scripture:

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? (2 Pet. 3:10-12).

What is your motivation to live for Jesus today? I realize that the answer to that question is somewhat personal and subjective to some degree, though we as Christians share many of the same motivators. You may choose to live for Jesus today because of a passage that you recently read that resonated with you and gave you that extra boost for the week. You may choose that righteous life today because you want to be reunited with a loved one in heaven. These are all great reasons.

In 2 Peter three, the Holy Spirit offers a great motivation in living for Jesus. Here’s the motivation: “the day of the Lord will come” (2 Pet. 3:10). That phrase, “the day of the Lord,” is used multiple times in Scripture. In the Old Testament, it signified a coming judgment. In the New Testament, it refers to the Lord’s coming which will precede the final judgment.

How does the coming of the Lord serve as a motivator? Let’s notice two major points from today’s text, then, in the wrap up, we’ll make a couple of applications.

First, notice the destruction. Peter says that the day of the Lord will come, it is certain. It will come suddenly and unexpectedly, “as a thief in the night.” When the Lord comes, then the destruction will take place. I’m referring to the universal, material destruction of this physical life. Notice Peter’s clear terminology: “the heavens will pass away with a great noise” (2 Pet. 3:10). The “heavens” refers to where the birds fly, the sky. He continues: “the elements will melt with fervent heat.” The word “elements” refers to the minute parts of the universe, the small things that comprise the whole. Every last thing is going to be melted. The meaning in the Greek is that the universe will literally unbind, or loosen. This will happen by fire, according to Peter. He says that “the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.” Did you notice that last detail that Peter included? Not only will the material universe be destroyed, but the works in it will be destroyed, too. All of man’s material accomplishments and all of God’s material creation will be destroyed. This is a complete destruction, and it will occur on the day of the Lord, the day that the trumpet sounds and Jesus appears in the clouds.

Second, notice the disposition. In 2 Peter 3:11, Peter says, “Therefore [linking the previous thoughts regarding the destruction of the universe, RH], since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness…?” In other words, how should you be living since you know that everything here is going to be destroyed. At best, our universe is only temporary. Peter sums up all of the duties and responsibilities of Christians in those last four words of verse eleven: “holy conduct and godliness.” That’s what living the Christian life is all about. Peter says that this ought to be our disposition in light of the fact that the material universe will not last. Focus on what will last – your soul! Be constantly engaged in all holy living and godliness. Prove – through your righteous thoughts, deeds, and words – that your citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20).

Peter goes further in verse twelve. He says that Christians ought to be “looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God.” Those words “looking for” translate a Greek word which literally means to watch for, to anticipate, to expect. We’re excited for the day when Jesus will come to take us home! Further, Peter says we ought to be “hastening the coming of the day of God.” This is an interesting word choice, isn’t it? It literally means to urge on, to be eager for.

Stop for a minute and contemplate this thought. Why hasn’t the Lord returned yet? See, those to whom Peter wrote were asking that very question. The false teachers were using the fact that Jesus had not returned as a means to shake the faith of the Christians. But Peter tells us why the Lord has not yet returned in 2 Peter 3:9: “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” Could it be that our evangelistic activity could literally hasten the coming of the day of God? If more people knew the message of the gospel, then wouldn’t it follow that there would be more Christians? It’s a thought worthy of your careful consideration.

Let’s wrap it up: What is your motivation to live for Jesus today? After studying 2 Peter 3, I think you and I both can say that the second coming of Christ is a definite motivation to life right! Why? First, because this earth, with all of its material pleasures and achievements, is going to be destroyed. And second, because we cannot wait for the day when Jesus comes again to raise the dead and to judge the nations so that we can go home to be with Him forever. That’s some serious motivation to grow in knowledge and ability for the Lord!

Memory Verse: Let’s look once again at this week’s memory verse.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen (2 Pet. 3:18).

Sometime today: Turn in your Old Testament to Hosea 4:6 and answer this question from that verse: why were the people destroyed? More on that tomorrow.

OUTRO:

Thanks for joining today me on The New You. New episodes of this broadcast are released each weekday, Monday through Friday, from The Light Network. Archives of this program, episode transcripts, and more Christian podcasts are available there, too, at thelightnetwork.tv.

I welcome your questions, comments, or suggestions for the show! My email address is robert@thelightnetwork.tv and my voicemail number is 903-26-LIGHT, that’s 903-265-4448. I’d love to hear from you!

This is The New You, I’m Robert Hatfield, and I hope you have a great day!

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Wednesday, August 6, 2014
“Opponents of Spiritual Growth”

 

 

 

 

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Episode Transcript:

You’re listening to The New You, the daily broadcast for people who have been made new by the blood of Christ. I’m Robert Hatfield, and here is today’s Scripture:

But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.  And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed (2 Pet. 2:1-2).

One of the major themes in 2 Peter is spiritual maturity. Peter wants Christians to mature. Consequently, he begins this second epistle with some ingredients for spiritual growth. In chapter two, Peter’s attention is devoted to opponents of spiritual growth.

It seems to me that Peter lists five opponents of spiritual growth in this chapter. First, false teachers are identified in 2 Peter 1:1. Second, there is false doctrine mentioned in 2 Peter 1:3 when Peter describes false teachers’ “deceptive words.” Third, there are false attitudes mentioned in 2 Peter 1:10. Peter says, “They are presumptuous, self-willed … not afraid to speak evil of dignitaries.” Fourth, there are false promises in 2 Peter 2:19. Peter says that the false teachers promise liberty, but “they themselves are slaves of corruption.” Fifth and finally, we see false living. These deceitful teachers have made their deceptions a part of their lifestyle; this is who they are! Peter says that “they are again entangled” in the pollutions of the world, and that “it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them” (2 Pet. 2:20-21).

Peter’s warnings and rebukes are clear. The Holy Spirit doesn’t mince words. I think this shows us why we must be so concerned about the doctrine that people teach and practice. To have any part in supporting false teaching will condemn our souls and the souls who are influenced by that deceptive dogma.

Let’s turn our attention from the chapter as a whole to the first three verses of 2 Peter two. Perhaps this will help us to see a clearer picture of these false teachers and why they are opponents to spiritual maturity.

In 2 Peter 2:1, the Holy Spirit (through Peter) gives four descriptions of the false teachers. First, they will come in “among you.” Those two words “among you” are chilling. They would be among the Christians! They would come in secretly, he says. The Greek word literally means to slip in by the side of. Here’s what I take from this: we must be on guard for false teaching. How will you know the difference between truth and error unless you grow in your knowledge of the truth? Once again, we see the necessity and the urgency for spiritual growth.

The second description of the false teachers is actually a description of their teaching. Peter says that they will bring in “destructive heresies.” The word “heresies” refers to their opinions, that is, their personal views or opinions that did not agree with the truth. Peter says that these heresies are destructive, that is, they are perishing. Notice that this is destruction, not annihilation. He says that these heresies will cause ruin, loss of well-being. More on this in a moment.

The third description is this: they deny the Lord who bought them. They disown Jesus! Notice again that these false teachers were once faithful Christians! They had been bought by the Lord, meaning that they had applied the blood of Christ to their souls through obedience to His will. However, now they deny Him. In 2 Peter 2:15, Peter says that “they have forsaken the right way and gone astray.” You cannot forsake a way in which you have never been.

Here’s the fourth description: they “bring on themselves swift destruction.” The destruction is swift in the sense that, when it comes, it will be sudden. Notice that this destruction is sure to occur. There’s only one way to avoid it and that is to repent immediately! If you continue reading in 2 Peter two, you will notice that Peter gives several examples that illustrate the certain doom of false teachers. Peter says that “the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment” (2 Pet. 2:9).

Let’s wrap it up: I wish it wasn’t the case that we have to be on guard for false teaching, but this is just the way it is. Some false teachers are greedy, like the ones mentioned in 2 Peter 2:3. Others are sincere in their motives, but they are sincerely wrong. Still others let their ego take control, which makes their teaching about themselves and their followers rather than about leading people to follow Jesus. Whatever the case, this is what Peter teaches us in 2 Peter two: follow and teach the truth – only the truth – and God will be pleased with you.

Memory Verse: As we come to this week’s memory verse today, we see in perhaps a new light why we must grow. It’s about our spiritual well-being through maturing as well as protecting the new you.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen (2 Pet. 3:18).

Sometime today: Take a look at 2 Peter 3:10-13. Tomorrow, we’ll look at the motivation for spiritual growth.

OUTRO:

Thanks for joining today me on The New You. New episodes of this broadcast are released each weekday, Monday through Friday, from The Light Network. Archives of this program, episode transcripts, and more Christian podcasts are available there, too, at thelightnetwork.tv.

I welcome your questions, comments, or suggestions for the show! My email address is robert@thelightnetwork.tv and my voicemail number is 903-265-4448.

This is The New You, I’m Robert Hatfield, and I hope you have a great day!

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Tuesday, August 5, 2014
“Ingredients of Growth” Part 2

 

 

 

 

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Episode Transcript:

New day, new you. This is the daily broadcast for people who have been made new by the blood of Christ. I’m Robert Hatfield, and this is The New You. Here is today’s Scripture:

But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love (2 Pet. 1:5-7).

We’re talking this week about spiritual growth. Remember: the new you needs nourishment! In today’s text, Peter links 2 Peter 1:5 to verses three and four, which we noticed yesterday. He says, “for this very reason.” He’s pointing to God’s gift of life and godliness and God’s exceedingly great and precious promises, all of which is mentioned there in verses three and four. Now Peter turns to the human side of the redemption equation. Certainly God has done His part, but there’s something for you and me to do.

Peter says that we should add to our faith. That word “add” means to fully supply, furnish. It even goes to this point: to provide at one’s own expense. Here’s what you are to bring to the table. How do you do this? Well, with all diligence, for starters. The word “diligence” means eagerness, earnestness, zeal.

Look at God’s part in your spiritual maturity. He has made available to you everything that you need and has given you an exceedingly great and precious motivation to fulfill His will for your life. God doesn’t stand as a puppet master commanding slaves around. He offers to us His will, and He gives us the freedom to choose Him. He has revealed His will to us because we are weak and sinful, and His way is exactly what we need. From that perspective, your copy of the Bible is the very manifestation of God’s love for you. God did not have to make His will known to man, but He chose to do so.

Now I want to make an important statement. Please listen carefully: Do not put indifference alongside of God’s work for you! Why do we often sit and wait for spiritual growth and maturation to happen to us? Why do we leave it up to the Bible class teacher, the preacher, or the elders? Brother or sister, it’s your responsibility to mature your own soul, just like it is your responsibility to feed your physical body it’s physical food. Give it all diligence; give it everything you have. Add to your faith.

Then Peter launches into the ingredients that are to be added to our faith. “Virtue,” is moral excellence. “Knowledge” is moral wisdom that is seen in right living. “Self-control” is the virtue of one who has mastered his or her desires and passions. Thayer says that this word especially refers to controlling one’s sensual appetites. “Perseverance” is that quality that focuses on your purpose rather than the trials or sufferings that you’re experiencing. Our faith in Christ Jesus enables us to stand in God’s grace, rejoice in our hope, and, yes, to glory in our tribulations (Rom. 5:1-4). “Godliness” is defined by Vine as “piety which, characterized by a Godward attitude, does that which is well-pleasing to Him.” Next on the list is “brotherly kindness.” That’s the Greek word philadelphia with which we are familiar, which means brotherly love. You know, one cannot show proper respect to God without caring for his or her brethren whom God has redeemed (1 John 4:7, 11, 20). The last item on the list is “love.” This is affection, goodwill, benevolence. The word refers to a selfless attitude that seeks the welfare and benefit of its object.

Let’s wrap it up: You and I cannot afford to neglect our personal spiritual growth. Peter tells us what an indifference toward spiritual maturation actually indicates. He says, “he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins” (2 Pet. 1:9).

Memory Verse: Turning to this week’s memory verse, this verse is how to prevent spiritual blindness and shortsightedness.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen (2 Pet. 3:18).

Sometime today: Read 2 Peter 2:1-3 about the false teachers. Notice especially the way the Holy Spirit describes the work of those false teachers. Tomorrow, the Lord willing, we’ll look at some opponents to spiritual growth. Hope you’ll join me.

OUTRO:

Thanks for joining today me on The New You. New episodes of this broadcast are released each weekday, Monday through Friday, from The Light Network. Archives of this program, episode transcripts, and more Christian podcasts are available there, too, at thelightnetwork.tv.

I welcome your questions, comments, or suggestions for the show! My email address is robert@thelightnetwork.tv and my voicemail number is 903-265-4448.

Until next time, don’t forget who you are and Whose you are. Remember what Jesus did for you by making it possible for your sins to be cleansed, and grow ever closer to Him and to your heaven Father. Add to your faith, and nourish your soul. This is The New You, I’m Robert Hatfield, and I hope you have a great day!

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Monday, August 4, 2014
“Ingredients of Spiritual Growth” Part 1

 

 

 

 

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Episode Transcript:

New day, new you. This is the daily broadcast for people who have been made new by the blood of Christ. I’m Robert Hatfield, and this is The New You. Here is today’s Scripture:

As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust (2 Pet. 1:3-4).

All this week we’re going to look at passages from the little epistle of 2 Peter. This is a most interesting book, especially because of the attention that Peter gives to the necessity of spiritual growth. Peter closes this epistle with these words: “but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen” (2 Pet. 3:18). So this theme of growth is found throughout the book of 2 Peter.

The new you can’t survive without some nourishment. What steps are you taking to feed your soul so that the new you can grow and mature? That’s what this week is going to be all about.

You know, you can grow spiritually! You are capable of doing it! Sometimes we get down on ourselves when we make some dumb decisions and fail at our mission in life to bring glory to God. Peter’s second epistle is here to remind us that we can do it! In fact, that’s where Peter begins in verses three and four.

He says that God’s divine power has given us something. What is it? “All things that pertain to life and godliness.” We have everything that we need! When Peter says that God has given us “all things” pertaining to life and godliness, he is saying that this gift from God is comprehensive. Nothing that I need is lacking.

Ok so life and godliness sound like things that I want. How do I get them? Peter continues: “through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue.” With that, Peter introduces another theme in this epistle: knowledge. “The knowledge of Him” is the means, or the instrument, of our growth. Do you want to grow closer to God? Learn more about Him and about His will for your life. Do you want to be more like Jesus? We all do, and we will do that by getting in the Word and studying. Again I say that the new you cannot survive without that nourishment. Are you spending time in the Word of God every day? This program is designed to assist you and me in our spiritual growth. I hope it’s helpful to you.

Having identified the gift that has been given (“all things pertaining to life and godliness”), and the agency by which we receive that gift (“through the knowledge of Him”), Peter continues by identifying the attraction of that growth. Do you have trouble being motivated to get into the Word? Then focus on what Peter says: God’s “glory and virtue.” Peter says that God “called us by glory and virtue.” Do you remember when you decided to put on your Lord in baptism? What was it that motivated you to answer the gospel call (2 Thes. 2:13-14)? Did it not have something to do with the glory and virtue of the One Who called you to Him? God’s “glory” refers to His brightness, spender, radiance, and majesty. God is a great God. God’s “virtue” has to do with His goodness and might. Thayer says that this term refers to any excellence of a person in body or mind. So we see the love of God manifested through the sacrificial love of Christ Jesus. By the way, that is the love in which you and I are to abide (John 15:9-13; 1 John 3:16).

Peter then transitions to some promises. Not just any promises, but “exceedingly great and precious promises.” It is through these amazing promises that we can be “partakers of the divine nature,” he says in verse four. That word “partaker” means a companion, partner, sharer. It refers to one who takes part in something with someone. In this case, we are able to have fellowship with God and to abide in God, knowing that when we do, He will also abide in us. We have communion with God. That is huge!

That communion with God is possible because we have “escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” How did we do that? Well, we know that we couldn’t have done it without the grace of God seen through the death of His Only Begotten Son. He has made us alive together with Him (Eph. 2:5), and, consequently, we have been made holy (1 Pet. 1:13-20).

Let’s wrap it up: We all have people who are our role models in Christianity. We respect them for who they are and for what they do. Today, I want you to know that you can be that way, too! You can grow and mature as a Christian. God’s power has given you everything that you need, but the only way for you to receive that gift is by getting in the book and growing in your knowledge. That’s the key. Then, of course, apply the things that you learn. Don’t just be a hearer, but also be a doer! The result? You can enjoy the hope associated with God’s precious promises and you can enjoy fellowship with Him, as you abide in Him and as He abides in you.

Memory Verse: I think it’s appropriate that we let 2 Peter 3:18 be our memory verse for the week.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen (2 Pet. 3:18).

OUTRO:

Thanks for joining today me on The New You. New episodes of this broadcast are released each weekday, Monday through Friday, from The Light Network. Archives of this program, episode transcripts, and more Christian podcasts are available there, too, at thelightnetwork.tv.

I welcome your questions, comments, or suggestions for the show! My email address is robert@thelightnetwork.tv and my voicemail number is 903-265-4448.

This is The New You, I’m Robert Hatfield, and I hope you have a great day!

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Friday, August 1, 2014
“Money”

 

 

 

 

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Episode Transcript:

This is the daily broadcast for people who have been made new by the blood of Christ. I’m Robert Hatfield, and this is The New You. Here is today’s Scripture:

Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life (1 Tim. 6:17-19).

About a year ago, I had the opportunity to spend a week in El Salvador on a week-long evangelistic campaign. What I saw there was absolutely eye-opening. I’ve never been so close to poverty. People lived in structures that were little more than partially-broken concrete walls with a slab of tin pulled over the top. The floors were made of dirt, and there were no amenities to be seen. Of course, there were some houses there that were nicer than this – even they paled in comparison to the huge edifices that we have. I’m sad to say that the make-shift structures were hardly the exception there.

It’s safe to say that I returned far different from who I was when I went. On the plane ride home, I couldn’t help but reflect on what I had learned and upon that to which I was returning in America. We are blessed, and we are rich. Then I thought of 1 Timothy 6. Paul says that we should not “trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God” (6:17). Here are four quick points about wealth.

First, wealth is BORROWED. In 1 Timothy 6:7, Paul says that “we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain that we can carry nothing out.” What we have isn’t ours! In fact, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds Christians that we were bought with a price (the precious blood of Christ, 1 Pet. 1:18-19), and that we are not our own. Money and every other blessing that we have is all about stewardship. How can I use the blessings with which God has entrusted me to accomplish His will in my life? Remember: wealth is borrowed.

Second, wealth is BARREN. We think that the accumulation of more money and more things will lead to happiness, but it won’t. It never does. Instead, Paul gives us this truth: “godliness with contentment is great gain … having food and clothing, with these we shall be content” (1 Tim. 6:6, 8). Remember that moth and rust corrupts among the most valuable possessions, and thieves can break in and steal them. Instead, we ought to lay up for ourselves treasures in heaven (Mat. 6:19-21). Further, everything that is on the earth is going to be destroyed by fire when Jesus comes again (2 Pet. 3:9-13). That puts things into perspective and shows us that the things that will last – the things with eternal significance – are the things that are most important. Wealth is barren.

Third, wealth can be a BOMBSHELL. Wealth can be a temptation to us that leads us down a dark, slippery slope. Paul says that “those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition.  10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1 Tim. 6:9-10).

Finally, and on a positive note, wealth can be a BLESSING. Think about what the good Samaritan did with his money (Luke 10:25-37). He used it to help an endangered traveler. What about Barnabas in Acts 4:34-37? He saw that his brethren were in need, so he sold some land that he owned and donated all of the money to the church. The funds were distributed to those who had need. How can you use your wealth to be a blessing to others?

Let’s wrap it up: Jesus told the story of the rich, young ruler, who had many possessions. Because of his unwillingness to give up his things, he refused to fully follow the Lord. Here’s the point: don’t be the rich, young ruler. Remember that money and all physical possessions are not worth anything to us once we transition to eternity. Invest in what matters. Think about your soul.

Memory Verse: Friday brings us to yet another close of the workweek. I bet you have this week’s memory verse down by now, too! Let’s look at it one more time:

But now, O LORD,

You are our Father;

We are the clay, and You our potter;

And all we are the work of Your hand (Isa. 64:8).

OUTRO:

Thanks for joining today me on The New You. New episodes of this broadcast are released each weekday, Monday through Friday, from The Light Network. Archives of this program, episode transcripts, and more Christian podcasts are available there, too, at thelightnetwork.tv.

Do you have a suggestion for The New You that would help this program to better meet your needs? Have an idea that would make the program more compelling to you or to someone you know? Why don’t you contact me with your suggestions! I’ll be happy to hear them! My email address is robert@thelightnetwork.tv and my voicemail number is 903-265-4448.

Let’s close today with Jesus’ words: “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mat. 16:26). I’m Robert Hatfield. Thanks for listening! Remember to assemble with God’s people on the Lord’s day to worship Him. Have a great weekend!

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Thursday, July 31, 2014
“Fellowship”

 

 

 

 

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Episode Transcript:

This is the daily broadcast for people who have been made new by the blood of Christ. I’m Robert Hatfield, and this is The New You. Here is today’s Scripture:

That which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. … If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:3, 6-7).

Let’s talk about fellowship. First, a definition: fellowship is a state of being together; a companionship of those of like interests, feeling, and activity. Note that this is a noun, not just a verb. Fellowship is much more than just talking before a worship service or a meal in a church building. It is a community of those who have a mutual standing, those who are connected by a common goal and purpose. We often reserve the word “fellowship” in our vernacular for religious discussions, and yet the idea of a fellowship is not an exclusively Biblical concept. There may be fellowship among golfers, policemen, hunters, doctors, people who drive Ford trucks or motorcycles. The list could go on and on.

Fellowship describes a bond that exists between people who share in something. Therefore, the conditions of the fellowship are determined by the context, that is, the thing that we have in common. For example, here are some golfing buddies who enjoy to go play 18 holes together once a month. They’re enjoying a fellowship. But what determines that fellowship? Wouldn’t it be the rules of the golf game? That dictates the commonality that they enjoy. Now perhaps that is somewhat of a technical approach to a golf game, but it’s the truth!

Let’s make this much more serious. Here is a group of people – a congregation – who are seeking to serve the Lord; to worship Him on Sunday and to live for Him every day of their lives. They’re a part of a fellowship. What determines that fellowship? Well, their standard of authority, the rule book, if you will. They’re united upon the Word of God. They live it and they teach it.

As New Testament Christians, we are a part of an amazing fellowship. This fellowship is amazing for at least two reasons. First, fellowship is amazing because it is a fellowship with God and with Christ. John said it: “truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:3). Further, Paul addressed 1 Corinthians “To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all who in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours” (1:2). See the fellowship to which he alluded there? Amazing!

Second, this is an amazing fellowship because it is a fellowship with God’s people. The first century church “continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42). From that point forward, all of God’s children are united in that fellowship. What an amazing fellowship!

Now the question begs to be asked: when do I enter into this fellowship with God and God’s people, the church? 1 Corithians 1:9 has the answer: “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” God calls us through the gospel (2 Thes. 2:14), and that gospel calls upon us to believe God’s Word, repent of our sins, confess the name of Christ, and to die with Christ in baptism. That’s when the new you was created, and that’s when you entered into that relationship with God.

Let’s wrap it up: Don’t miss 1 John 1:7, which I read earlier. John gives a condition for this fellowship that we have. What is it? Listen to him again: “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” Walk in the light, obey His will, and enjoy that amazing fellowship!

Memory Verse: Turning now to our memory verse, I’m sure that we almost have this one down for this week! Here’s Isaiah 64:8:

But now, O LORD,

You are our Father;

We are the clay, and You our potter;

And all we are the work of Your hand (Isa. 64:8).

Sometime today: Read 1 Timothy 6:17-19 and be challenged by what Paul says to people who are rich. And don’t write yourself off of the “rich” list just yet! More on that tomorrow.

OUTRO:

Thanks for joining today me on The New You. New episodes of this broadcast are released each weekday, Monday through Friday, from The Light Network. Archives of this program, episode transcripts, and more Christian podcasts are available there, too, at thelightnetwork.tv.

Do you have a suggestion for The New You that would help this program to better meet your needs? Have an idea that would make the program more compelling to you or to someone you know? Why don’t you contact me with your suggestions! I’ll be happy to hear them! My email address is robert@thelightnetwork.tv and my voicemail number is 903-265-4448.

Until next time, don’t let anything jeopardize the relationship that you have with God the Father and with God’s people. Walk in the light, and let your light shine to others. I’m Robert Hatfield, have a great day!

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Wednesday, July 30, 2014
“Modesty”

 

 

 

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Episode Transcript:

This is the daily broadcast for people who have been made new by the blood of Christ. I’m Robert Hatfield, and this is The New You. Here is today’s Scripture:

In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works (1 Tim. 2:9-10).

Today we’re talking about the ever unpopular issue of modesty. I won’t be a bit surprised if I get some angry email or if I lose a few listeners as a result of this episode. Here’s all I’m asking of you: listen to God’s Word and respond by doing whatever it says to do. That’s what The New You is all about.

The New American Oxford Dictionary defines modesty as follows: “the quality or state of being unassuming or moderate in the estimation of one’s abilities; the quality of being relatively moderate, limited, or small in amount, rate, or level; behavior, manner, or appearance intended to avoid impropriety or indecency.” Simply put, modesty is about being in the middle: not too much and not too little.

Let’s make a few observations from 1 Timothy 2:9-10. First, notice the admonition. Paul says, “in like manner also…” That points us back to verse eight, where the Holy Spirit says that men (that is, the males, the Greek word is specific) ought to lead the worship of the church. When Paul wrote those words, he did so by the authority that he received from the Holy Spirit. He is, after all, an inspired writer (2 Tim. 3:16-17). What he writes is authoritative. It is by that same authority that verses nine and ten are penned.

Second, notice the address. Paul focuses verses nine and ten on women. Is modesty just a female issue? Of course not. Are women more likely to be extravagant in their apparel on one end, or to wear too little on the other end of the spectrum? I think we must honestly answer yes. So Paul addresses the ladies.

Third, notice the adornment. Paul says that women should “adorn themselves in modest apparel.” That word “adorn” has to do with one’s arrangement or order. The word “modest” comes from a Greek word that means decent, neither overdressed or underdressed. Now think about what that means. What is too much? What is too little? We’ll get back to that in a minute.

Fourth, notice the admiration. Paul says that women should dress modestly, “with propriety and moderation.” The word “propriety” means “a sense of shame.” Has our world forgotten how to blush? Absolutely. The word “moderation” could also be translated “sobriety,” that is, self-control. So we should exercise some self-control in relation to our dress? Exactly!

Fifth, notice the aspiration. Verse ten details what it’s all about: “but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.” So what is Paul getting at here? He’s saying that our dress shouldn’t cause others to be distracted from what is truly important. The context of 1 Timothy 2:8-15 is a worship service. The point of a worship service is not to turn heads or to “dress to impress.” It is about God. Could we not easily apply this to life in general? Don’t let your clothing be a stumbling block for someone else. Think about how you can profess godliness in what you wear.

Let’s wrap it up: I recently heard about a blog post that was written by a wife to other women. In it, this concerned wife implored her readers not to post pictures of themselves that could cause her husband to stumble. The response to the post was overwhelming. Some were positive, but many were negative, saying that they weren’t responsible for how this woman’s husband reacted to their pictures.

Here’s the thing: modesty does matter. Here are four reasons why:

First, modesty matters because being a stumbling block is a serious offense. Jesus said that it would be better for someone to die before they had an opportunity to cause a faithful child of God to fall away (Luke 17:1-2).

Second, modesty matters because modesty reminds us how to blush. Jeremiah writes about people who had forgotten how to blush (Jer. 8:12). The same could be said of our culture.

Third, modesty matters because our dress reflects how we think. The wise man writes about a woman who had “the attire of a harlot” (Prov. 8:10).

Fourth, modesty matters because God expects all of His children to be holy (1 Pet. 1:13-16). Is immodesty holiness? According to the New Testament, it is not.

Memory Verse: May the sentiment of this week’s verse be our sentiment in every facet of life:

But now, O LORD,

You are our Father;

We are the clay, and You our potter;

And all we are the work of Your hand (Isa. 64:8).

Sometime today: I want to challenge you to dig deep into 1 Timothy 2:9-10 and see for yourself whether the things that I have said are true. It isn’t fun to teach things from the Bible that counter our culture, but it is necessary if you want to continue to be the new you.

OUTRO:

Thanks for joining today me on The New You. New episodes of this broadcast are released each weekday, Monday through Friday, from The Light Network. Archives of this program, episode transcripts, and more Christian podcasts are available there, too, at thelightnetwork.tv.

Do you have a suggestion for The New You that would help this program to better meet your needs? Have an idea that would make the program more compelling to you or to someone you know? Why don’t you contact me with your suggestions! I’ll be happy to hear them! My email address is robert@thelightnetwork.tv and my voicemail number is 903-265-4448.

I’ll meet you tomorrow for another edition of The New You. I’m Robert Hatfield, have a great day!

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Tuesday, July 29, 2014
“Complaining”

 

 

 

 

Submit Questions for Q & A Saturday!

• Email: robert@thelightnetwork.tv
• Voicemail: 903-26-LIGHT (903-265-4448)

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Episode Transcript:

This is the daily broadcast for people who have been made new by the blood of Christ. I’m Robert Hatfield, and this is The New You. Here is today’s Scripture:

Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world (Phil. 2:14-15).

Philippians 2 is all about being unified in Christ. Unity is the solution to most – if not all – church problems. Of course, that isn’t unity upon just any authority, that is unity based upon the Word of God.

The chapter begins with a PLEA for unity. Paul says, “fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind” (Phil. 2:2).

Next, Paul gives a PATTERN for how to accomplish that unity. The pattern, of course, is Jesus Christ, our perfect example. In this context, Paul points the Philippians to the Lord’s pattern of humility. If we will be humble and seek the best interest of other people instead of pushing our own selfish agendas, then unity can be enjoyed!

That’s where today’s topic is interjected in this inspired discussion. “Do all things without complaining and disputing,” the Holy Spirit says through Paul in Philippians 2:14. You know, complaining disrupts the unity of the local church. It turns us against each other! Nothing and no one is exempt from the cancer of complaining. We complain about the elders, the deacons, the preacher, the worship, and anything else we can observe. But this isn’t in accordance with the new you! In fact, this is nothing more than sin. It has no place in our thoughts, on our lips, and in the church.

In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul reminds us to learn from the example of the Old Testament (10:6). He follows up that exhortation with some examples. Here’s one: Paul says not to “complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer” (1 Cor. 10:10).

Complaining hinders our work, shatters our influence, and jeopardizes our salvation. That’s why Paul continues in Philippians 2 by saying, “that you may become blameless and harmless” (Phil. 2:15). Wait a minute. Look at those two thoughts linked together: “Do all things without complaining and disputing.” Why? “[T]hat you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation.” The word translated “harmless” comes from a Greek word that means unmixed. The ESV and NASB translate it “innocent.”

Let’s wrap it up: Do you want to be blameless? Do you want to be innocent in God’s sight? Then get rid of the murmuring and complaining. It’s counter-productive to Christ’s cause. It’s counter-productive to Christian unity. It tears down the church instead of building it up. The very thought of complaining goes against everything that Christ taught and practiced.

Instead, focus on the positive of living in a world without complaining. Paul hints at it in our verse of the day when he says that we can be “children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world” (Phil. 2:15). Act like God’s child. Fulfill His will in your life. Remember that you died with Christ and were adopted into His family. Be a light in our dark world.

Memory Verse: Let’s turn our attention now to this week’s memory verse. We began looking yesterday at Isaiah 64:8. I’ll say it once, then you repeat it with me.

But now, O LORD,

You are our Father;

We are the clay, and You our potter;

And all we are the work of Your hand (Isa. 64:8).

Sometime today: Head on over to 1 Timothy 2 and read verses nine and ten. Tomorrow, we’re going to discuss the topic of modesty. But before you decide not to listen, I want you to read those verses for yourself. We’re going to God’s Word speak on that topic tomorrow on The New You.

OUTRO:

Thanks for joining today me on The New You. New episodes of this broadcast are released each weekday, Monday through Friday, from The Light Network. Archives of this program, episode transcripts, and more Christian podcasts are available there, too, at thelightnetwork.tv.

Do you have a suggestion for The New You that would help this program to better meet your needs? Have an idea that would make the program more compelling to you or to someone you know? Why don’t you contact me with your suggestions! I’ll be happy to hear them! My email address is robert@thelightnetwork.tv and my voicemail number is 903-265-4448.

Until next time, focus on the positive. Look for the good in people and in situations of life. Find nice things to say instead of negative things to say. That’s how you let your light shine. That’s how you magnify Christ in your life. I’m Robert Hatfield, have a great day!

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Monday, July 28, 2014
“Worry”

 

 

 

 

Submit Questions for Q & A Saturday!

• Email: robert@thelightnetwork.tv
• Voicemail: 903-26-LIGHT (903-265-4448)

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Episode Transcript:

This is the daily broadcast for people who have been made new by the blood of Christ. I’m Robert Hatfield, and this is The New You.

Welcome back to The New You! I’m coming to you from the Low Country, Charleston, South Carolina! My wife and I have made the move to the east coast, along with Duffy the wonder-puppy, and we’re happy to be serving the Lord with the North Charleston church of Christ. I appreciate your patience with me during the craziness that has been this summer. Now, I’m excited to come to you every weekday with The New You. Let’s dive right in; here is today’s Scripture:

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God (Phil. 4:6-7).

This week we’re going to tackle the “tough stuff,” things that we’re tempted to excuse as “small things,” but are actually clearly discussed in the New Testament. Today, we begin with worry.

Life cannot be lived free from all sense of anxiety and concern. Concern is a good thing, isn’t it? It causes us to practice rules of safety first, good health, and good economy. However, as the late Brother Wendell Winkler once wrote, “concerns can turn into cares, and our fore-thoughts can become fear-thoughts. Such obtaining, the sin of anxiety results.”

Wait a minute, the sin of anxiety?! Right. If you’re looking for a “thou shalt not” in Scripture, it seems to me that Philippians 4:6-7 is absolutely one of them. Paul says, “be anxious for nothing.” The word “anxious” comes from a Greek word that means to be of a divided mind. Notice the words of contrast that follow: “be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.” To summarize, he says worry about nothing and pray about everything.

Worry is really a lack of faith in God. Paul says that in everything we are to let our requests be made known to God. Isn’t it the case that God already knows what we need? Of course He does! Jesus said, “[Y]our Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him” (Mat. 6:8). So why do we need to ask for them? Because prayer demonstrates faith. So what happens to us when we refuse to surrender our concerns to God, instead letting them turn to worry and anxiety? Obviously, nothing good can come from that. Do you want the worry to be taken care of? Listen to James when he says, “you do not have because you do not ask” (James 4:2). Let God take care of you and let go of your anxieties.

Let’s wrap it up: Jesus’ words in the middle of the Sermon on the Mount are challenging for the topic of worry. The text is Matthew 6:25-34 and here Jesus says that we shouldn’t even worry about the things that we would consider necessities. The Lord said, “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ … But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Mat. 6:31, 33). Trust God. Seek His will for your life, and let Him take care of the rest. Then Jesus gives this command: “[D]o not worry about tomorrow” (Mat. 6:34).

Memory Verse: This week’s memory verse is a powerful one from the Old Testament prophet, Isaiah:

But now, O LORD,

You are our Father;

We are the clay, and You our potter;

And all we are the work of Your hand (Isa. 64:8).

Sometime today: Take about ten minutes and do two things. First, read Philippians 2:14-15. Then, spend the rest of the time thinking about why complaining is detrimental to the cause of Christ. That’s the topic for tomorrow.

OUTRO:

Thanks for joining today me on The New You. New episodes of this broadcast are released each weekday, Monday through Friday, from The Light Network. Archives of this program, episode transcripts, and more Christian podcasts are available there, too, at thelightnetwork.tv.

Do you have a suggestion for The New You that would help this program to better meet your needs? Have an idea that would make the program more compelling to you or to someone you know? Why don’t you contact me with your suggestions! I’ll be happy to hear them! My email address is robert@thelightnetwork.tv and my voicemail number is 903-265-4448.

Until next time, remember that worry is a bad habit that must be controlled. To break it, remember this important formula from Philippians 4:6-7: Prayer + Thanks = Peace. Peace is the opposite of worry, and who doesn’t desire peace? I’m Robert Hatfield, have a great day!