Category Archives: I Peter

El pastor: su papel, responsabilidad y recompensa (1 Pedro 5; Hebreos 1) (Spanish Translation)

 

The following is an example of the Spanish translation of today’s devotional using “Konvert” software. I have been told the translation is about 97% accurate.

Lectura bíblica – 1 Pedro 5; Hebreos 1

Recordatorio – 1 de enero de 2023 marcará el comienzo de una nueva serie de estudios cronológicos de 2 años en la Palabra de Dios. Dios mediante, Heart of a Shepherd Inc. se alojará en un nuevo sitio web, y los suscriptores recibirán devocionales diarios en su casilla de correo electrónico. Además, el sitio web contará con video devocionales y un “enlace para niños” a historias bíblicas. Suscríbase hoy enviando su solicitud a HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com.

 ¡Hoy marca el primer día del último mes de nuestro viaje cronológico de dos años a través de las Escrituras! Aplaudo a quienes han participado en este “maratón espiritual” de estudio de la Palabra de Dios. Confío en que compartas conmigo una sensación de logro y regocijo. El autor del Salmo 119 escribió: “¡Cuán dulces son a mi paladar tus palabras! ¡Sí, más dulce que la miel para mi boca!” (119:103); ¡de hecho ellos son!

 La lectura de las Escrituras de hoy concluye la Primera Epístola de Pedro y presenta el Libro de Hebreos (que muchos sugieren que fue escrito por Pablo; sin embargo, eso es mera especulación). Este devocional será tomado de 1 Pedro 5:1-4.

Una revisión de 1 Pedro 1-4

 Les señalé en un devocional anterior de 1 Pedro, la naturaleza práctica de la carta del apóstol a los “extranjeros esparcidos” (1 Pedro 1:1), creyentes que habían sido alejados de su familia, amigos y país por la persecución. Pedro, ahora un anciano, tenía la carga de que los creyentes no solo conocieran las Escrituras, sino que las vivieran. Después de recordarles quiénes eran en Cristo (elegidos, escogidos y santificados, 1 Pedro 1:2), los desafió a dejar de lado los pecados que los asediaban (1 Pedro 2:1) y a “desear la leche sincera de la palabra”. , para que [ellos] crezcan de ese modo” (1 Pedro 2:2). Haciéndose eco de las palabras del salmista, Pedro afirmó: “Si es que habéis gustado la misericordia del Señor” (1 Pedro 2:3).

En el capítulo 3, Pedro encargó a los creyentes con respecto a las relaciones maritales (1 Pedro 3:1-7) y las interrelaciones con creyentes y no creyentes en el mundo (1 Pedro 3:8-22). Comprender que los santos dispersos enfrentarían sufrimientos, persecuciones e incluso la muerte… Pedro exhortó a los creyentes a soportar las injusticias (1 Pedro 4:1-6), amarse unos a otros fervientemente (1 Pedro 4:8-11) y esperar hasta el final. ! (4:12-19)

1 Pedro 5

Aunque solo tiene 14 versículos, el capítulo 5 rebosa de cargos, exhortaciones, estímulos y un desafío para que los sufrimientos de Cristo nos animen (5:10-11). Sin embargo, debo limitar mi enfoque a los primeros cuatro versículos, y lo que considero que es el desafío de Pedro a los pastores (“ancianos”) de las iglesias (5:1-4). Comprender que el papel principal del pastor es el de un pastor espiritual (por conduce, alimenta, guía y protege a las ovejas), era fundamental que los hombres maduros, llamados por el Señor, fueran ordenados en las iglesias. Escribiendo a los creyentes, Pedro abordó el papel, la responsabilidad y la recompensa del pastor.

El papel del pastor (1 Pedro 5:1)

 El pastor fue descrito como un “anciano”, ya que ningún novicio debía ser ordenado (1 Timoteo 3:6). En la cultura judía y griega, un “anciano” era un hombre mayor, alguien que era respetado y honrado en su hogar, congregación y sociedad.

 El papel del “anciano” se definía mediante tres títulos: “obispo”, que significa supervisor (1 Pedro 2:25; 1 Timoteo 3:2; Tito 1:7); “Pastor”, la palabra para pastor (Efesios 4:11); y “Ancianos”, enfatizando la madurez espiritual necesaria para el ministerio (1 Pedro 5:1; 1 Timoteo 5:19; 2 Juan 1; 3 Juan 1). Con la humildad característica de los apóstoles, el apóstol Pedro se identificó como “anciano” (1 Pedro 5:1b). Sus credenciales y autoridad se resumieron en esto: “testigo de los padecimientos de Cristo, y también participante de la gloria que ha de ser revelada” (1 Pedro 5:1c). Había sido testigo ocular de la vida, el ministerio, los milagros, la muerte, la resurrección y la gloriosa ascensión de Cristo al cielo.

La Responsabilidad del Pastor (1 Pedro 5:2-3)

 Pedro encargó a los pastores espirituales que “apacientan la grey de Dios que está entre vosotros” (1 Pedro 5:2a). El trabajo del pastor es alimentar a un rebaño que abarca la responsabilidad de guiar, proteger y proveer alimento (Salmo 23). El mismo es el llamamiento del pastor, pues ha de guiar, proteger y nutrir espiritualmente a los creyentes a su cargo.

 El apóstol luego se refirió a la actitud del pastor, escribiendo, “no por fuerza, sino de buena gana; no por ganancias deshonestas, sino de ánimo dispuesto” (1 Pedro 5:2b). El corazón de un buen pastor no necesita ser forzado a la obra del ministerio, sino que está dispuesto, motivado y, como desafió Pablo, “en el momento oportuno, fuera de tiempo” (2 Timoteo 4:2). Sirve a su llamado con afán, y no para enriquecerse (1 Pedro 5:2b).

 El pastor/pastor debe ser un modelo, un ejemplo de siervo (1 Pedro 5:3). Los pastores deben predicar con el ejemplo, no como “señores” (1 Pedro 5:3a). No son amos que ejercen autoridad absoluta, sino pastores “sobre la heredad de Dios…ejemplos para el rebaño” (1 Pedro 5:3b). Los creyentes son la “herencia”, es decir, la herencia de Dios (1 Pedro 5:3b), y los pastores deben ser modelos, “ejemplos para el rebaño” (1 Pedro 5:3c). ¿Qué son para modelar? La semejanza de Cristo, fruto del Espíritu (Gálatas 5:22-23), y el carácter y las acciones de amor (1 Corintios 13:4-8a).

La recompensa del pastor (1 Pedro 5:4)

 La suma del desafío de Pedro a los “ancianos” fue recordarles que su labor en la Palabra, las dificultades, los desafíos y las penas serían recompensados cuando Jesucristo, el “Principe de los pastores, apareciera” (1 Pedro 5:4a). En la segunda venida de Cristo, los pastores fieles “recibirán una corona de gloria inmarcesible” (1 Pedro 5:4b). ¡Una corona terrenal es temporal, pero la recompensa que Pedro prometió a los pastores fieles era eterna!

 ¡Qué maravilloso incentivo para los pastores fieles y dedicados! No solo hemos recibido un gran llamado, sino que se nos promete “¡una corona de gloria!”

 * Puede convertirse en un suscriptor regular de los devocionales diarios del Corazón de un Pastor y recibirlos directamente en su dirección de correo electrónico. Ingrese su dirección de correo electrónico en el cuadro a la derecha (si usa una computadora) o en la parte inferior (si usa un teléfono celular).

 Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

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Dirección postal: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625.

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The Pastor: His Role, Responsibility, and Reward (1 Peter 5; Hebrews 1)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotional.

Scripture reading – 1 Peter 5; Hebrews 1

Reminder – January 1, 2023 will mark the beginning of a new 2-year chronological study series in God’s Word. Lord willing, Heart of a Shepherd Inc. will be hosted on a new website, and subscribers will have daily devotions sent to their email box. In addition, the website will feature video devotionals, and a “kid’s link” to Bible stories. Subscribe today by sending your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com.

Today marks the first day of the final month of our two-year chronological journey through the Scriptures! I applaud those who have participated in this “spiritual marathon” study of God’s Word. I trust you share with me a sense of accomplishment and rejoicing. The author of Psalm 119 wrote, “How sweet are thy words unto my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (119:103); indeed, they are!

Today’s Scripture reading concludes the 1st Epistle of Peter, and introduces the Book of Hebrews (which many suggest was authored by Paul; however, that is mere speculation). This devotional will be taken from 1 Peter 5:1-4.

A Review of 1 Peter 1-4

I pointed out to you in an earlier devotional from 1 Peter, the practical nature of the apostle’s letter to the “strangers scattered” (1:1), believers who had been driven far from family, friends, and country by persecution. Peter, now an old man, was burdened that believers not only know the Scriptures, but live them. After he reminded them who they were in Christ (elect, chosen, and sanctified, 1:2), he challenged them to lay aside besetting sins (2:1), and to “desire the sincere milk of the word, that [they] may grow thereby” (2:2). Echoing the words of the psalmist, Peter affirmed, “If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious” (2:3).

In chapter 3, Peter charged believers regarding marital relationships (3:1-7), and interrelations with believers and unbelievers in the world (3:8-22). Understanding the scattered saints would face sufferings, persecutions, and even death…Peter called upon believers to bear injustices (4:1-6), love one another fervently (4:8-11), and hope to the end! (4:12-19)

1 Peter 5

Though only 14 verses in length, chapter 5 overflows with Charges, Exhortations, Encouragements, and a Challenge to be emboldened by Christ’s sufferings (5:10-11). Nevertheless, I must limit my focus to the first four verses, and what I consider to be Peter’s challenge to the pastors (“elders”) of the churches (5:1-4). Understanding the primary role of the pastor is that of a spiritual shepherd (for he leads, feeds, guides, and protects the sheep), it was critical for mature men, called by the Lord be ordained in the churches. Writing to believers, Peter addressed the role, responsibility, and reward of the pastor.

The Pastor’s Role (5:1)

The pastor was described as an “elder,” for no novice was to be ordained (1 Timothy 3:6). In Jewish and Greek culture, an “elder” was an older man, and one who was respected and given honor in his home, congregation, and society.

The role of the “elder” was defined by three titles: “Bishop,” meaning an overseer (1 Peter 2:25; 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:7); “Pastor,” the word for shepherd (Ephesians 4:11); and “Elders,” emphasizing the spiritual maturity necessary for ministry (5:1; 1 Timothy 5:19; 2 John 1; 3 John 1). With humility characteristic of the apostles, the apostle Peter identified himself as “an elder” (5:1b). His credentials and authority were summed up in this: “a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed” (5:1c). He had been an eyewitness of Christ’s life, ministry, miracles, death, resurrection, and glorious ascension to heaven.

The Pastor’s Responsibility (5:2-3)

Peter charged the spiritual shepherds to, “feed the flock of God which is among you” (5:2a). The work of the shepherd in feeding a flock encompassed the responsibility of guiding, protecting, and providing nourishment (Psalm 23). The same is the calling for the pastor, for he is to guide, protect, and spiritually nourish believers in his charge.

The apostle then addressed the attitude of the shepherd, writing, “not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind” (5:2b). The heart of a good shepherd need not be forced to the work of ministry, but is willing, self-motivated, and as Paul challenged, “instant in season, out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). He serves his calling with eagerness, and not to enrich himself (5:2b).

The pastor\shepherd is to be a model, an example of a servant (5:3). Pastors are to lead by example, not as “as being lords” (5:3a). They are not masters exercising absolute authority, but shepherds “over God’s heritage” (5:3b). Believers are the “heritage,” meaning the inheritance of God (5:3b), and pastors are to be models, “ensamples to the flock” (5:3c). What are they to model? The likeness of Christ, fruit of the Sprit (Galatians 5:22-23), and the character and actions of love (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a).

The Pastor’s Reward (5:4)

The sum of Peter’s challenge to the “elders” was to remind them their labor in the Word, hardships, challenges, and sorrows would be rewarded when Jesus Christ, the “Chief Shepherd shall appear” (5:4a). At Christ’s Second Coming, faithful pastors will “receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away” (5:4b). An earthly crown is temporal, but the reward Peter promised faithful pastors was eternal!

What a wonderful incentive to faithful, dedicated pastors! Not only have we received a great calling, but we are promised “a crown of glory!”

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone).

Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

A Righteous Response When Mistreated (1 Peter 3; 1 Peter 4)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion,

Scripture reading – 1 Peter 3; 1 Peter 4

The apostle Peter’s letter “to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia” (1:1) continues with today’s Scripture reading. As you will see, 1 Peter 3 and 4 are practical and insightful, presenting us with numerous principles that are spiritual guides to the believer’s daily life and relationships. Before we consider the subject of today’s devotional, consider the following outlines of 1 Peter 3-4.

An Outline of 1 Peter 3

  1. Peter charged wives and husbands with marital obligations that parallel those recorded by Paul in his epistles (3:1-7; Ephesians 5:22-33; Colossians 318-19; Titus 2:2-7).
  2. Five precepts for “getting along” with others (3:8)
  3. A righteous response when you are mistreated (3:9)
  4. Three essential disciplines for loving life, and seeing good days (3:10-11)
  5. Spiritual responses to trials, troubles, and persecutions (3:13-17)
  6. Keys to a living, eternal hope (3:18-22)

An Outline of 1 Peter 4

  1. Four characteristics of believers who bear injustices without bitterness (4:1-6)
  2. Four characteristics of authentic faith (4:8-11)
  3. Enduring hope in the midst of fiery trials (4:12-19)

A Righteous Response to Injustice (3:9)

To put today’s devotional in context, we should remember Peter was writing to believers who were “strangers” (1:1). They had suffered rejections, persecutions, and been driven from their homes, businesses, and country. Peter, like a pastor who knows the sorrows and sufferings of his congregation, was guided by the Holy Spirit to exhort believers regarding their attitude and response to injustice and mistreatment.

Peter had already encouraged servants to respond to harsh masters in a “good and gentle” manner (2:18); and encouraged them to do so was “acceptable to God (2:20). Yet, not only were servants expected to respond to cruel masters with humility, but the same was expected of believers when they were treated unjustly and provoked. Peter exhorted, “Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing” (3:9).

The practical application of 1 Peter 3:9 is, believers are to be longsuffering, ready to forgive, and not retaliate (“not rendering evil for evil,” 3:9a). Retaliation and revenge are the natural response when we are wounded, and treated unfairly. Our fleshly impulse is to hurt others to the same degree we have been wronged. Yet, Peter taught the persecuted saints not only to shun retaliation, but to refuse to render “railing for railing” (3:9b).

Verbal assaults, threats, and slander will find their target, and a wounded heart is inevitable. Verbal jabs and counter jabs are the way of the world, for the wicked know nothing of grace and forgiveness. We often feel mocking, demeaning, name calling, and slander are too much to bear.

Nevertheless, Peter urged believers to go counter to their instincts, and bless those who leave you wounded, promising, “knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing” (3:9b). Instead of giving an offender a “piece of your mind,” we are to extend grace (“contrariwise blessing’), knowing God has a purpose, and He will reward His child with unconditional love and favor (3:9c).

Bite Your Tongue (3:10)

If you want to “love life, and see good days” (3:10a), bite your tongue, and speak neither “evil” nor “guile” (lies or deceit, 3:10). When everything within you cries unfair, keep silent, and trust God.

Closing thoughts – Why should believers suffer wrong, and not seek revenge? Why should we be silent, though an enemy would sow lies and seek our ruin?

Because the way of the wicked is to verbally attack, insult, and lie. Yet, our faith is in the Lord, and we trust Him to bestow His favor on us. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught the multitude, “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you” (Matthew 5:11).

In his letter to believers in Rome, Paul wrote: “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath [make room for God’s wrath]: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord” (Romans 12:19).

Truth – A believer’s silence and refusal to retaliate makes room for God to work and exercise justice.

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone).

Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

An Announcement from the Heart of a Shepherd Inc.

I began a two-year chronological journey through the Scriptures on January 1, 2021. What started as a daily devotional challenge to my church family is now viewed daily by nearly 800 individuals, and this year was read in 200 nations and territories.

HeartofAShepherd.com in 2023

On December 31, 2022, my two-year Scripture reading and devotional study of the Scriptures will conclude. On January 1, 2023, I will return to Genesis and begin a renewed journey through the Bible. My plans are to revise and republish many of my published devotionals, and enrich them with new devotional thoughts and applications. I am looking forward to using “Konvert” software, and translating the devotionals into nearly 20 international languages.

Subscribing to HeartofAShepherd.com

While my daily devotionals will continue to be published for the public, some past posts and topics will be moved to a “Subscription Only” base, and available only to subscribers. For example, my studies in the Book of Proverbs will be among those that will be accessible only to subscribers.

Anyone can subscribe to receive my daily devotions by entering their email address on the devotional page. For assistance with your subscription, please email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com, and request an invitation be sent from the website to your email address. After accepting an invitation, you should begin receiving daily devotional emails.

The Future of HeartofAShepherd.com

In the future (as early as January 1, 2023), HeartofAShepherd.com will expand and become a dedicated website featuring daily devotions, translations, and video recordings of the devotions. I recently finished a verse-by-verse Bible study of the Book of Proverbs titled “Uncommon, Common Sense.” I hope to publish both Teacher and Student editions in 2023, and make them available for Bible study groups. I am also planning to write and publish in the future a daily devotional series based on Proverbs.

Your Interest and Investment

In addition to my daily preparations for preaching and teaching, and pastoral duties, I invest on average four hours a day in HeartofAShepherd.com. As you can imagine, reading the Scriptures, outlining chapters, writing devotionals, and posting them with illustrative slides is both exhausting and rewarding work.

Will you consider a financial gift to Heart of a Shepherd Inc? There is a financial burden for website domains, hosting, and other related expenses. With only a couple of exceptions to date, my wife and I have borne the financial burden for HeartofAShepherd.com. I assure you; a financial gift of any size is appreciated.

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization.

Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625.

You can also email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

With the heart of a shepherd,

Travis D. Smith

Senior Pastor

The Character and Nature of a Believer (1 Peter 1; 1 Peter 2)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotional.

Scripture reading – 1 Peter 1; 1 Peter 2

Today’s Scripture reading is 1 Peter 2, but I will take the liberty of introducing you to The First Epistle of Peter. Penned by Peter, who identified himself as “an apostle of Jesus Christ,” the letter before us was not addressed to believers of a specific city, nor individuals (as with Paul’s epistles). Instead, Peter addressed his letter “to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia” (1:1). To understand that statement, consider the historical setting of this epistle.

Historical Background

Peter was writing at a time the Roman Empire was near its peak. Reaching as far west as Britain, and south into the African continent to Egypt, Rome’s territories covered nearly two million square miles. The emperor of Peter’s day was the infamous Nero. By the time Peter penned his epistle, the dark clouds of persecution were already shadowing the world. Believers soon experienced the first wave of persecution, and tens of thousands were eventually martyred, among them the apostles Paul and Peter.

The Author – A Story of Amazing Grace (1:1a)

Peter the fisherman (Mark 1:16-20), along with his brother Andrew, had been a disciple of Jesus Christ, and an apostle. He was a natural leader, and with James and John, had been privileged to be numbered in Christ’s inner circle (Matthew 17:1-2; Mark 5:37, 9:2, 14:23). We remember him as the disciple who boasted he would never deny Christ (Matthew 26:29-35); yet, he denied Him three times the night He was betrayed (Matthew 26:69-74). Humiliated, broken, and repentant; Peter was restored (Mark 16:7), and became a testimony of faith, courage, and faithfulness to the Lord.

The Recipients of the First Epistle of Peter (1 Peter 1:1b-2)

Who were “the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia” (1:1). They were not “strangers” to Peter, but aliens, foreigners to this world (1:1). They were numbered among the tribes who believed Jesus was the Messiah, and were rejected by their families, driven from their homes by religious zealots, and left a people without home or country.

They were not only “strangers,” they were the saved “elect,” and chosen “according to the foreknowledge of God” (1:2a). To be elect is a term of endearment. When a sinner becomes a part of God’s kingdom, he becomes part of His family, and is endeared to the Father. In His foresight, God the Father knows those sinners who come to Him by faith, and are sanctified by His Spirit. Their salvation is a covenant relationship, and they are sealed by the “sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ” (1:2).

On a personal note: I believe the “elect” are chosen by God, according to His foreknowledge, and are the objects of His saving grace, through faith in the sacrificial offering of Christ for our sin [His suffering, death, burial, and resurrection]. Paul described “election” in Ephesians 1:4 in these words: “According as He hath chosen us in Him [i.e., for Himself] before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame [above reproach]before him in love.”

Who are the chosen? Who are the elect? Who can be saved?

My answer is, “whosoever will.”  The elect are “whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord” (John 3:16; Romans 10:13). My heart rejoices to conclude our brief introduction to 1 Peter 1 with this eternal promise: “And [Jesus] is the propitiation [atoning sacrifice] for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2).

1 Peter 2 – Progressive Sanctification

A brief introduction of chapter 2 will suffice, but I invite you to consider a doctrine that is all but forgotten by the 21st century church: Progressive Sanctification.

In essence, “progressive sanctification” is the sanctifying work of God in the heart of a believer (John 17:17, Ephesians 5:25–27; Colossians 1:22; 1 Thessalonica 5:23; Hebrew 13:12). While it is the work of God, sanctification also requires spiritual discipline on the part of the believer. Paul described progressive sanctification as a “putting off” the sinful ways of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21; Ephesians 4:22, 25-31), and “putting on”spiritual virtues and the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-24; Ephesians 4:23-24, 32).

Peter taught progressive sanctification in 1 Peter 2:1-2, when he exhorted believers: “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,  2As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby” (2:1-2).

Five Besetting Sins (2:1)

Understanding “laying aside” describes how one might remove and exchange a garment for another, Peter challenged believers to be “laying aside” five besetting sins that hinder spiritual growth. The first, “all malice,” a desire that embraces evil, and is acted out in a pattern of hurting and injuring others (2:1a). The second sin to be laid aside is “all guile” (2:1b), implying deception, or as some might say, “two-faced.” Peter exhorted believers to lay aside “hypocrisies” (2:1c), which implies hiding behind a mask (perhaps a mask of spiritual piety that conceals one’s true heart and motive. “Envies” (2:1d) is also identified as a hindrance to spiritual growth, and is a jealousy and longing for what others possess (money, friends, popularity). Finally, “all evil speakings” (2:1e) were to be set aside, knowing slander, gossip, and disparaging words have no place in the congregation.

Closing thoughts (2:1-2) – Having set aside sins that hinder spiritual growth (2:1), Peter urged believers to be as “newborn babes” and “desire the sincere milk of the word” (2:2). In the same way a healthy, growing newborn craves its mother’s milk, believers will earnestly desire the sincere, unadulterated, truths of God’s Word.

A sincere, spiritually growing believer will evidence the signs of progressive sanctification, and “desire the sincere milk of the Word.” (2:2)

How’s your spiritual appetite?

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone).

Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Living in the Midst of a World Gone Mad (Titus 3; 1 Peter 1)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

Scripture reading – Titus 3; 1 Peter 1

Today’s Scripture reading is Titus 3 and 1 Peter 1. The focus of our devotional is Titus 3.

After challenging Titus regarding the character and virtues of men he would ordain to minister to the churches (1:5-8), Paul warned him concerning those who would oppose the Gospel (describing them as “liars, evil beasts, [and] slow bellies” (in essence, lazy gluttons, 1:12).

In chapter 2, the apostle charged Titus concerning the spiritual character he was to expect of the membership of the church. Addressed were “aged men” (2:2), “aged women” (2:3), “young women” (2:4-5), and “young men” (2:6) of the congregation. Knowing believers of the church would be a reflection of their spiritual leaders, Paul challenged Titus concerning his demeanor before the churches (2:7), and the character and tone of his speech (2:8). He was urged to conduct himself in such a way, that those who opposed him would have “no evil thing to say” of him (2:8b).

Titus 3

The focus of Titus 3 was the life and testimony of believers in that day. The 1st century world was not much different from our own. Like the politicians and bureaucrats of the 21st century, the Roman empire was plagued with government corruption, gross injustices, and high taxes (to support Rome’s vast armies). The Caesars, and governors of Rome’s territories, were infamously immoral, and the bloody spectacle of gladiator fights was employed to feed the demand of the masses for entertainment.

The Believer’s Response to Secular Authority (3:1)

In spite of the wickedness and persecution, Paul commanded Titus to instruct believers, and “put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work” (3:1). A believer was to obey human authority (the one exception is when those in authority demand we violate the commands and word of God; Acts 4:18-20; 5:25-29). Believers were not only to be obedient, they were to be ready and eager “to every good work” (3:1d; Galatians 6:10).

The Believer’s Testimony Before His Fellow Man (3:2)

I conclude our study of Titus, and invite you to consider four practical commands (two negative, and two positive). Instructing believers concerning their relationship with others, Titus was to urge God’s people “to speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men” (3:2)

Regardless the ill treatment we might receive from others, believers are not to defame, slander, or malign the character of their fellow man (3:2a). Nor are God’s people to be “brawlers,” and find themselves caught up in the midst of needless quarrels and arguments.

Finally, the saints of God are to conduct themselves in a “gentle” manner, “shewing meekness unto all men” (3:2b). To be gentle and compassionate toward those we love is a small matter; but to do the same toward those who are inconsiderate, and mean-spirited is another. Yet, such is the burden of believers; we are to be ready to forgive, and harbor no bitterness in our hearts (Ephesians 4:32). Though the wicked are brazen, and offensive, believers are commanded to respond in “meekness,” accepting slights with gentleness.

Are those spiritual qualities true of you?

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Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

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