
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly
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Everything posted by Dr. Gracie L. Adderly
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Q31. Fighting
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 6. The Humble Lifestyle (Titus)
Q31. (James 4:1-3) How does pride fuel conflict? How do fighting and quarrelling prevent a peaceable life? According to James, what is at the root of our fighting? How do we respond to conflict knowing that peace doesn’t depend solely upon us? Since conflict is inevitable, what are some ways we can disagree agreeably, humbly? ********************************** Pride fuels conflict because prideful people are usually motivated by arrogance, which is egocentric and can cause conflict. It's hard to live peaceably around an argumentive person because of the root stronghold; pride and fear. This person is not secure in who they are as a person. They mask their inadequacies through a need to always be right. They often exaggerate their self-worth by asserting their self-worth at the expense of others or by comparing themselves to others. By devaluing others, they may turn other people into competitors. // In the Old Testament Abram—later renamed as Abraham (Genesis 17:5)—chose peace instead of strife. There was conflict between his herdsmen and those of his nephew Lot. So, Abram said, "Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen" (Genesis 13:8). He offered Lot whatever land he wanted. He told Lot, "Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right, or if you take the right hand, then I will go to the left" (Genesis 13:9). The Lord rewarded Abram for choosing peace instead of strife. He promised Abram and his descendants all the land Abram could see, re-emphasizing the promise He had made with Abram when He called him out of his homeland (Genesis 12:1–3, 7). He said, "for all the land that you see I will give to you and to your offspring forever" (Genesis 13:15n Still in the Old Testament, SEE Proverbs 17:28: Solomon noted that a person who knows when to be quiet could be seen as wise, even if he's not. The person who lacks self-control might talk themselves into a beating (Proverbs 18:6). Not every argument is worth having, so a wise person chooses their battles carefully. Avoiding petty squabbles is the mark of a wise person; it earns the respect of others. In contrast, those who are hot-tempered, argumentative, or easily angered are clearly fools. The New Testament instructions echo this principle. Jesus commands His followers to ignore insults and other minor infractions (Luke 6:29). Paul extols the honor of peacemakers (Romans 12:18) and commands Christians to avoid revenge (Romans 12:19–21). In the New Testament; James 4:6-10 it reads: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil...and he will flee from you... // But what stops our fights is our proximity to God. “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil...and he will flee from you. (James 4:6–10) What stops our fights is our wanting who He is. - finding our souls satisfied by what we believe is our ultimate good. The solution to our conflicts is not emotional numbness. The solution is to become awakened to new desires. The resolution to our fury is to have souls that are broken by sin, washed in humility, and now not only attracted to God, but redeemed and made lovely — humble souls that in turn further attract the affection of God. -
Q23. (Numbers 12:3) Why is Moses called the most humble man in the world? What is the essence of his humility? What is the essence of Jesus’ humility? What is the lesson for leaders today? Moses was referred to as the most humble man in the world because of his consistent selflessness and willingness to put God and the needs of others before his own, even when faced with criticism or challenges from the Israelites he led out of bondage. Moses' humility was characterized by his care for others, selflessness, his lack of self-concern, and his devotion to God. Thereto, Jesus, The Christ demonstrated His selfless service to others by first emptying Himself, left His heavenly kingdom to be born in a manger, among the poor and sinners. He demonstrated selflessness by washing His disciples' feet. Washing someone's feet was generally considered a very humble and even "despicable" task, as it was typically done by the lowest-ranking servants due to the dirty conditions of the time and the practice of wearing sandals; therefore, for someone of higher status to wash another person's feet was seen as a significant act of humility and service. Finally, the ultimate show of humility, was Jesus' obedience to the Father, i.e., by dying on a cross so that by His sacrifice we could all be saved. Through Moses' leadership one might see his compassion and empathy for others as he defended the weak from the powerful. Moses trusted in God's guidance and did as he was instructed. Moses was a strategic leader, able to delegate authority - Moses set up an administrative hierarchy and appointed leaders to assist him. Moses shared in his responsibilities with others, such as when he appointed seventy elders to help him lead the Israelites. Moses mentored the next leader of Israel, Joshua. Moses was sensitive to the needs of others. Moses persevered in his vision, even when he knew he wouldn't complete it. Finally, and most importantly, Moses made time for prayer with God.
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Q20. Assistance
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 4. The Greatness of Humble Service
Q20. (Mark 9:41; Matthew 25:31-46) What do Jesus’ saying about giving a cup of cold water and Jesus’ Parable of the Sheep and the Goats have in common? What kinds of services might please Jesus that can we perform for needy people? Both sayings, i.e., the cup of cold water and the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats affirms the value in showing compassion and actively helping those in need, (particularly a society's deprecated, disparaged people), as a way to demonstrate true faith by works; essentially, even the smallest act of kindness towards someone considered "least of these" is significant. Both teachings suggest that one's actions towards others, specifically those less fortunate, will be recognized by God. These are some services that our church provides for those in need are: food pantry, supporting homeless shelters, clothing donation, collect money to support local charities or specific causes, blood donation, mentorship programs, tutoring, commit outreach programs, emergency assistance, providing hygiene products, offering basic healthcare support, educational opportunities, and helping with housing needs. -
Q19. Footwashing
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 4. The Greatness of Humble Service
Q19. (John 13:4-17) Why did Jesus intend to shock his disciples by performing such a lowly act? What message was he trying to instill in them by this footwashing? In the society and lifestyles of Jesus' time, washing someone's feet was generally done by a servant. As He revealed in Matthew 20:28, He came “not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” So, Jesus taking on this position demonstrated His will to be a servant to His disciples. Jesus washed His disciples' feet as a figurative act of humility and service, demonstrating that even the greatest leader should be willing to perform the most menial tasks for others, and to heartened His followers (us) to serve one another with the same selfless love, even when it requires putting aside pride and taking on a lowly position; fundamentally teaching us to lead by serving others. -
Q13. Pharisee and Publican
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 3. Humbling Ourselves and Being Exalted
The Pharisee prayed about how good he was - exalting himself by likening himself in contrast to others. He explicitly mentioned not being like "other men" or "this tax collector" in his prayer, pointing out his perceived superiority. Further, he openly boasted about "his" righteousness, failing to attribute it to God. Essentially, he elevated his image by putting himself above others in terms of piety and morality. But the tax collector asked for God’s mercy as he was a sinner. NOTE: Tax collectors were hated, regarded as sinners. They were Jews who worked for the Romans, so this made them traitors. Tax collectors were not paid an actual wage by the Romans, they were expected to take extra money and keep some for themselves - tax collectors, deemed dishonest and abused the system by stealing. The tax collector, on the other hand, put his head down and kept hitting himself to show how sorry he was. In humility, he knew he was a sinner that needed God to forgive him. Thus, only the tax collector had pleased God, as he demonstrated humility by asking for forgiveness. -
Q12. Self
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 3. Humbling Ourselves and Being Exalted
Pride is the basic sin that drives all other sins when it places the prideful person at the moral centre- when one's self- worth is out of proportion to reality. If God exists at all to the prideful person, it is only to gratify one’s ego and sense of importance. Pride causes a person to negate God and take all credit for one’s accomplishments. If your parents are proud of you, that does not mean they are sinning; likewise, if you are proud of yourself. There is a kind of pride that comes from an accomplishment, i.e., completing something. One can praise God that they were enabled and empowered to complete a task or achieve a goal. The kind of pride that becomes a sin is where one becomes arrogant and vain, begins to presume themselves better than others, more entitled or superior than others. The kind of pride Satan had when he was still an angel, that motivated him to rebel against God himself, despite being his highest creation and in direct and constant contact with God himself. The kind of pride that is destructive and negative, that goes against what is good and right, and feels quite justified in it. That kind of pride makes one delusional. https://www.britannica.com/topic/pride-deadly-sin -
Q2. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) In what ways does Scripture equip a Christian for ministry? In what different ways can the Scriptures function, according to verse 16? God's word is a lamp that shows us how to live and walk; like a Spiritual compass. His Word illuminates the path for each step and, keeps us from missteps and wrong turns. Living without the Word of God is like trying to go somewhere you've never been without directions. The more thoroughly equipped, the more we will bear fruit to the glory of God. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matt. 5:6) We continually ask God to fill us with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that we may live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, (Col. 1:9-10) When we are thoroughly equipped for every good work, we grow in our relationship with God, others are helped, and most importantly, God is glorified.
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Q4. (2 Timothy 3:10-12) How does a failure to accept the inevitability of persecution hinder our witness? Everyone who decides to live a godly life "will" be persecuted. It's not something to be ashamed about, but truly a honor. We are called to be imitators of Christ, i.e., love, joy, peace...imitating Christ means setting an example. In fact, in some settings these approaches are not appropriate. No matter what setting you find yourself in, you can show others the face of Christ by how you do your work, treat other people, make decisions, respond to challenges, and behave, period. No one will listen to a so-called Christian that is afraid to own their God. No one will listen to a two-faced Christian, i.e., someone who is ashamed to own God in certain settings. In other words, set a Christ-like example for the people you interact with. *Just what does it mean to "take up his cross daily" (Luke 9:23) and to "carry his cross" (Luke 14:27)? Many people interpret the “cross” to be taken up as some burden they must carry in their lives: a strained relationship, a thankless job, a physical illness, etc. With self-pitying pride, they look at their difficulty and say, “That’s my cross I have to carry.” God seeks “true worshipers [who] will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth” (John 4:23). Obedience to God. ... Guard Your Thoughts. ... Practice Self-Denial. ... Put on the New Self. ... Jesus’ call to “take up your cross and follow Me” serves to screen out the disingenuous, double-minded, and dissembling. Commitment to Christ is the practice of self denial daily. Only if you willingly take up your cross may you be called His disciple (Luke 14:27). The reward is worth the price. **Is Jesus talking about persecution -- or something else? Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me” (Mt. 16:24). This means a willingness to die for Jesus if faithfulness requires it. These two conditions clear the way to actually follow Jesus — His teaching and example in daily life. Jesus’s final warnings about persecution and suffering came at the end of His earthly ministry. In the Upper Room, He told His disciples, “Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you” (John 15:20).
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Q1. Mentoring
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 10. Endure Hardship for Christ (2 Timothy 2:1-19)
For the church, a plan of action and a shared goal of mentorship is fundamental in order for the sustainment of the word of God. This may require a rearranging of priorities to give time towards discipleship classes and groups, for the training of disciples the way Jesus commanded. Proverbs 27:17 says: "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Mentoring is a particular kind of discipleship. Through mentoring, an older believer, equips younger saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, i.e., preparing to pass the baton so that God's word endures from generation to generation. In other words, as we study and learn truths about God, we continually pass on to others what we’ve received. Now, just imagine had Jesus not made disciples. His ministry, as amazing as it was, would have ended when He ascended to heaven! —Furthermore, if Paul had not made Timothy and others as disciples, his great ministry would have ended when he was killed in the pris on in Rome. -
Q1. Blessed Hope
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 8. Christ’s Return and Redemption (Titus 2:13-3:15)
Jesus' imminent return should be our greatest motivator for change; living by the fruits of the Spirit, using self-control to say "No" to the enticements of this age. Grace teaches us to expect and prepare for our blessed hope. That hope is not heaven or glory, but Jesus Himself. Grace teaches that the first time He came to save the soul of man. Our hope is that in His second coming is to resurrect the body. Grace teaches that He came the first time to save the individual. Our hope is in the second coming He comes to save society. Grace teaches us that He came the first time to a crucifixion. Our hope is in His second coming that He will come to a coronation. Grace teaches that He came the first time to a tree. Our hope is in His second coming He will come to a throne. Grace teaches that He came the first time in humility. Our hope is in His second coming He will come in His glory. Grace teaches that He came the first time to be judged by men. Our hope is in His second coming He will come to judge all men. Grace teaches that He came the first time and stood before Pilate. Our hope is in His second coming, Pilate will stand before Him. -
The purpose for Paul leaving Titus behind in Crete was to straighten out the mess that was left unfinished. Many claimed to know God, but by their actions they denied Him. They were detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good. Titus was to encourage traits such as faithfulness, respectfulness, dignity, and self-control. Older men and women were to mentor younger men and women, respectively. In the same way, older women were to be reverent in behavior, not gossipers, or drinking in excess. They were to demonstrate and teach what was good.
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I think that most pastors (today) hesitate to call out false doctrine because of public ridicule vs. their call to the Gospel - i.e., being cancelled, appeasing the audience - as much, stumbling over the truth next to an articulate heresie. Heresies live for a good debate, and count on Christians that learn cliched phrases rather than what the Bible truly says. It used to be that when religious authorities decide that a belief was heretical, they would take active efforts to eradicate the belief, (by excommunication or worse). We are called to study to show ourselves approved, (Timothy 2:15). It is unfortunate that most practices of false doctrines study more than our pastors or people of the Christian faith. Most Baptist preachers are able to "call out" a false doctrine from the pulpit...it is "his" monologue...(so to say). But in Bible study, when false doctrine speaks back, the embarrassment is mortifying. Some false doctrines boldly come to your front door for the sheer purpose of debating you - counting on you not knowing the truth behind "Jesus wept". Heresies often use half truths or no truth at all, but many,many words that sound good to the itching ears. The Bible calls for wisdom; showing and teaching all things that which is true and pleasing unto God. The last thing I would say is to let your teaching be so powerful in clarifying the greatness and the beauty and the worth of God’s truth that your people will smell error before it infects their lives. The shape of error is always changing. You can’t preach enough negative sermons to stay ahead of it. And you don’t have to. The best protection against the darkness of error is the light of truth.
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Stay in tuned with the Holy Spirit. All of Him, less of you. It's all about lifting up Jesus, not man. Though change comes with every generation, God's word does not change. (Example:) If my objective's to win souls, and my target group do not speak English - then, I might have to learn a little of their language.
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One way to cultivate acts of generosity first and foremost, is by tithing and support the agency God has chosen to reach the world. Just like we pay gym memberships where we exercise, restaurants where we eat; we support the congregation ministering to us. A committed, and common practice of tithing makes giving simply part of your life. Consequently, when a believer acts in accordance with God's will, as described in verses 17–18, he or she is investing in heavenly rewards. Treasures in heaven are considered far more valuable than wealth in this life.
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Q2. Contentment
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 6. Reject Greed, Pursue Godliness (1 Timothy 6:3-21)
“Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). Contentment is gratitude, finding joy in what God has given to you. The opposite of contentment is greed which destroys your capacity to enjoy what God has given. Contentment is a Believers grace that grows over time. It does not come quickly, easily or naturally. Paul says “I have learned to be content” (Philippians 4:12). A Believer comes to contentment, not so much by way of addition as by way of subtraction… Contentment does not come by adding to what you have, but by subtracting from what you desire. The world says that you will find contentment when your possessions rise to meet the level of your desires… The Believer has another way to contentment, that is, he can bring his desires down to his possessions. Amen -
Q1. Greed
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 6. Reject Greed, Pursue Godliness (1 Timothy 6:3-21)
Paul warns Timothy about those who “think that godliness is a means to financial gain” (verse 5). All wrongdoing can be traced to an excessive attachment to material wealth - in other words; “The love of money is the root of all evil.” (1 Timothy 6:10). It is not a sin to be rich, but riches certainly invite temptation. The sin is not in possessing wealth but in our attitudes about that wealth and in the ways we use it. The Bible has examples of rich people being blessed by God, including Abraham (Genesis 13:2), Jacob (Genesis 30:43), and Solomon (1 Kings 10:23). The heretical teaching that infiltrated the church in Timothy’s day is still prevalent in modern Christianity. We commonly hear of preachers and Christian figureheads using their positions of influence to amass unimaginable wealth so that they can live opulent lifestyles. "Prosperity Gospel" and $20,000,000 homes, planes, etc. The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit is a Person who enables the believer to do God’s will. The prosperity gospel movement closely resembles some of the destructive greed sects that infiltrated the early church. In the prosperity gospel, the believer is told to use God, whereas the truth of biblical Christianity is just the opposite—God uses the believer. -
Paul plainly stated that a widow with children or grandchildren should be cared for by them. Family is always the "first" line of defense against poverty. Parents give unfathomably to the welfare of their children. For Christian children, this is an opportunity bear fruit, i.e., "walk the talk", to act "in" their Christian faith- giving to their parents as they have given to them. This is “acceptable” or pleasing in the sight of God. Paul goes on to say that if a person does not provide for his own family he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. Even most unbelievers were kind enough to provide for aged parents.
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Q4. Example of Godliness
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 4. Setting a Godly Example (1 Timothy 4)
People who are theologically rigid are the very opposite of what God's Word encourages leaders to be. Ones personal moral views are never supposed to take precedent over the true Gospel of Jesus the Christ. This is legalism and the complete opposite of what godliness entails. A godly leader sees his role as not to be in charge but to serve others. One reason the Lord appoints men as Shepherds (and leaders) over the church is to provide an "example" of faithful, godly living to the congregation. They are essentially the “motion picture” of following Jesus; the example in everything - not neglecting the fruits of the spirit, i.e., love, joy, peace, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness, goodness, and self-control. -
Q3. Godliness vs. Morality
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 4. Setting a Godly Example (1 Timothy 4)
We must be intentional. We must be consistent in seeking to know and become more like Jesus - using every means God has given us to know Him and grow in His likeness. Just as an athlete must be disciplined and determined to remain fit and grow in strength, so, too, must we in spiritual godliness; i.e., Bible reading, studying, prayer, and worship. Slothful Christians do not become godly. Neglecting our spiritual disciplines will not grow godliness or usefulness to the Lord. Bodily fitness is temporary, but spiritual fitness lasts for eternity. Spiritual growth impacts eternity. Paul often speaks of the "next life" as the true focus of the believer. Colossians 3:2 reminds us to "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." As a child I used to hear "Don't be so heavenly minded that you are of no earthly good," It is true that we cannot ignore the earthly realities around us. However, a person with a godly perspective on the good things God has given us (1 Timothy 4:4) can be completely "heavenly minded" and still of much "earthly good." -
Q2. Legalism vs. Gospel
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 4. Setting a Godly Example (1 Timothy 4)
Firstly, these people have an appearance of godliness; that's attractive. But their hearts are far from him. They had religion, but they did not have a legitimate relationship with God built upon truth (2 Timothy 3:16–17). This would also include those who overtly pick and choose when to obey God, and when to dismiss His message... hypocrites. -
Q1. Apostasy
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 4. Setting a Godly Example (1 Timothy 4)
Paul's warning was so that they (we) are able to recognize these false teachers so not to be led astray by them? Jesus said that we would know them by their fruits (Matt 7:16) for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. Therefore it is not surprising his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will correspond to their actions. False doctrine usually have small elements of truth added to their legalism. So, in order to guard against apostasy we must be able to recognize false teachings. -
Q2. Grace
Dr. Gracie L. Adderly replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 1. God's Grace and Calling (1 Timothy 1)
I believe Paul comments on his life as a testament to God's Grace. Paul share's this with Timothy and the church to encourage them. Paul's credentials were not good (to say the least). The Saul before this experience was “a blasphemer, a persecutor, and a man of violence” who had even assisted in, and approved of, the execution of Stephen. The post-conversion Paul, by contrast, is depicted as somebody who rejected not only violence but also impressive rhetoric, trusting instead to be empowered and strengthened by Christ for his ministry. By sharing this with the church, Paul's personal encounter inspires the church to trust in salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ...alone. The very thing that seemed to make Paul the most unlikely, and distrustful candidate for God's service, makes him, by God's grace, the most likely candidate.