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The Nazarene Community - Part 3

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CHARACTERISTIC #8 -- ENTHUSIASTIC. Verse 11b reads in the King James Version: "fervent in spirit." The literal Greek (KIT) may be "to the spirit boiling" or "in spirit burning." (UBS) It is variously rendered: MON: be glowing in spirit; WEY: have your spirits aglow; GDSP: on fire with the Spirit; RSV: be ardent in spirit; NJB: an eager spirit; LB: serve the Lord enthusiastically; PME: keep the fires of the spirit burning.

Essentially this is telling us to be enthusiastic rather than walk around with a sour or saddened demeanor. Such a person was Apollos, a man "mighty in Scripture," as the King James describes him. Ac 18.24, 25 reports: "Now a certain Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, an eloquent man, arrived in Ephesus; and he was well versed in the Scriptures. This man had been orally instructed in the way of the Lord and, as he was aglow with the spirit, he went speaking and teaching with correctness the things about Jesus." (NWT)

Some persons have an introverted demeanor and others present themselves as overly serious. Many misinterpret this as arrogance. Some will have to make a concerted effort to manifest a happy outgoing disposition which seems always "up." True, this takes more energy, but your neighbor is worth it.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: Am I an "up" person? Am I out-going and enthusiastic? If not, how can I reflect the real joy of Christ residing in my heart? Can I smile more? Can I strive to make uplifting and encouraging remarks?

CHARACTERISTIC #9 -- SLAVE FOR THE LORD. Verse 11c reads in the King James Version: "serving the Lord." This is variously rendered: CON: be true bondsmen of your Lord; MON: slave for the Master; NW: slave for Jehovah; PME: do our work for God; VUL: servants of opportunity.

The "Lord" here could be the Father, whose Name is Yahweh (Ac 2.18; 4.29; 16.17), but the word "slave" is more often used with regard to Christ. (Ro 1.1; 14.18; 16.18; 1 Co 7.22; 2 Co 4.5; Ga 1.10; Ep 6.7; Ph 1.1; Co 3.24) This later text, Colossians 3.24, holds virtually the same expression as Romans 12.11, "Be slaves to the Master, Christ."

Slavery will be repulsive to many in the Western world, but it was common in the ancient Middle East, even among Israelites and Christians. The word group "slave" occurs over 400 times in the Bible, most often in the OT Book of Genesis and the NT Gospel of Matthew. God’s Law controlled the treatment of slaves. They often chose to remain in permanent servitude for the alternative was unacceptable. An attitude of slavery puts the Lord first in everything the Nazarene Saint does. Jesus uses the illustration of a Master and his slaves often in his parables. These emphasize two major ideas: a) remaining awake and alert for the Master’s Return; and, b) remaining busy with the Master’s goods until he Arrives. (Mt 25.31-46; Lk 12.35-48)

The great missionary Paul was an outstanding example of a "faithful steward." (1 Co 4.1, 2) The record of his life demonstrates for all FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE to follow what that zealous servitude to the Lord involved. (1 Co 4.11-13; 2 Co 6.4-10; 11.23-28) Paul encourages his own example. (1 Co 11.1)

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: Do I truly view myself as a slave of Jesus Christ? How do I demonstrate I do my Lord’s bidding? Am I happy in this relationship with my Master?

CHARACTERISTIC #10 -- REJOICE IN THE HOPE. Verse 12a reads in the King James Version: "rejoicing in hope." The Greek has the article and thus it is "the hope." The phrase is variously rendered: CON: in your hope be joyful; MOF: let your hope be a joy to you; NEB: let hope keep you joyful; WEY: full of joyful hope; PME: base your happiness on your hope in Christ; LB: be glad for all God is planning for you.

Paul had earlier described the condition of the human creation as, "The (human) creation groans together and travails in pain together." (Ro 8.22) He continues to show that despite this groaning pain there is a sustaining hope: "We groan eagerly awaiting the adoption (as children), the release by ransom of our Body. For to this hope we were saved. But, hope seen is no longer hope, for why hope for what you can see. But if we hope for the unseen we keep waiting by enduring." (Ro 8.23-25)

This hope is "one" and unique to the Body of Christ. (Ep 4.4) It is The Hope. It is the hope of "partaking in the heavenly calling." (He 3.1) This "hope" has two premier elements. The first is described by 1 John 3.2, "Now we are children of God but when (the Son) is made visible we shall see him as he really is." What a joyous part of our hope, seeing our Lord! But, if possible, there is another feature of the hope even more transcendental and it is recorded at Revelation 22.3, 4: "His slaves will serve Him reverently and they will see His face." The power of this "one hope" -- one day meeting both the Celestial Christ and his Father, God Almighty -- is beyond description. Such a hope, renewed daily in prayer and Scriptural meditations, will be characterized in our joy. When we find ourselves overcome by "the groaning pain of this human creation" we will prayerfully reflect on that "one hope" of viewing the Father and the Son within the golden walls of the Celestial New Jerusalem. (Re chs 19, 22)

The Bible is a Book of joy and hope. The word groups "joy" and "happy" occur 650 times in one translation. These words appear most often in the Psalms (118 times) and so meditating on these will build the joy of this God-given hope. In the Christian Bible Luke has been called "the theologian of joy" with over 50 occurrences in the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. The Bible is also a book of "hope" with this word occurring 240 times. By regularly reading God’s Word and prayerfully meditating on it, hope can be sustained and will manifest itself in a happy and joyful disposition. As in all matters of life, when things are particularly difficult, this joy may reside within instead of revealing itself by the countenance. But, it will be helpful and healthy to keep this hope alive like a burning coal which keeps the inner self warm while the outside may shiver in the cold.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: When I consider everything else what is my grandest hope? Did something material come to mind? If I was to make a list of those things which bring me the greatest joy what would be at the top?

CHARACTERISTIC #11 -- ENDURE OPPRESSION. Verse 12b reads in the King James Version: "patient in tribulation." The Greek word thlipsei is rooted in "press or squeeze" and though it is often translation "tribulation" the word "oppress" comes closer. There may be pressures of both an internal and external kind. The phrase is variously rendered: WEY: patient under affliction; CON: in your sufferings be steadfast; GDSP: steadfast in time of trouble.

In the historical context of Paul’s phrase Christians, as well as Jews, were experiencing intense affliction, persecution, and oppression from the Roman world. Some were oppressed for merely living in a country occupied by the present western world power. Others were persecuted because of their religious faith, particularly Christians and Jews. The Christian record historically reports of certain periods of increased difficulties. (Ac 18.2) When a person is oppressed or afflicted for beliefs it becomes difficult to endure.

Endurance is a word group which occurs often in the teachings of Jesus and his disciples. "Endurance" occurs over three dozen times in the Christian Scriptures and most often in the Book of Revelation. The meaning of the whole idea is well illustrated in the source for the English word which is the oak tree. (dru, dur) The oak tree has become a symbol of strength and such is required to endure in the face of political, religious or economic persecutions.

The earth is yet to experience the worst religious oppression in the history of mankind -- truly the greatest of all holocausts. (Re 13.5-7, 9, 10, 15) Happily we are assured by a celestial presbyter in the Apocalypse that "a large crowd" will endure this satanic persecution.

There are other afflictions which oppress all of us. They come in the forms of illness, emotional depressions, relationships, or financial hardships. Often these are just as difficult as facing lions. Faith is the engine of endurance and prayers are the fuel.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: How does my endurance manifest itself? Do others know me as steady and enduring in my Christian walk?

CHARACTERISTIC #12 -- PERSEVERE IN PRAYER. Verse 12c reads in the King James Version: "continuing instant in prayer." Various renderings of the phrase are: GDSP: persistent in prayer; PME: steadfastly maintain the habit of prayer; CON: in your prayers be unwearied; ; LB: prayerful always; BW: in prayer constantly attending; NJB: keep praying regularly.

The Nazarene teaches the same thing, "Always pray, never give up." (Lk 18.1) Not only does our Lord teach it, he demonstrates it, as Luke 22.41-44 records: "And (Jesus) withdrew (for the third time -- Matthew) about a stone’s throw, and kneeling, he began to pray: ‘Father, if you wish it, take this cup away from me, but let not my will, but yours be realized.’ But, an angel from heaven became visible strengthening him. And in agony he prayed with greater earnestness. His sweat became as drops of blood dripping onto the ground." Is there any question the Nazarene was here "persevering in prayer"? In this we find a good lesson, for if the Son of God can heighten the intensity of his prayers, we too, must realize we may need to "pray with greater earnestness."

Paul and Peter give this same encouragement elsewhere: "Carry on every form of prayer." (Ph 4.6) "Pray incessentantly." (1 Th 5.17) "Be vigilant with a view to prayers." (1 Pe 4.7) Prayer ought to characterize the Nazarene Saint each day. The Nazarene taught several principles which will highlight our prayers: a) persistence (Mt 5.42); b) pray for your persecuting enemies (Mt 5.44); c) privacy in prayer (Mt 6.6); d) avoid repetitious and wordy prayers (Mt 6.7).

The Bible is a book of prayers and about prayers. The word group occurs about 400 times in one translation. The first occurrence is the prayer of a woman, Hannah at 1 Samuel 1.12. The word is used most often in the Hebrew Bible in the Book of Psalms (34) and in the Christian Bible in the Gospel of Matthew 13 times. Why this constant reminder to pray? It seems the sad part of human nature to forget to pray save with those who are spiritual through and through. Many get so preoccupied and distracted they actually forget to go to the Father in prayer, other than in those formal situations such as meals and Christian meetings. When Christians pray for one another they create a spirit of harmony for it is impossible to approach God in sincere prayer and harbor ill feelings about another. Pray for harmony. Pray for that Nazarene disciple you suppose to be your enemy. Also, pray for yourself that no spirit of envy invade your Christian character.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: If my faith were to be judged by my prayers of what quality would it be?

CHARACTERISTIC #13 -- SHARING. Verse 13a reads in the King James Version: "distributing to the necessity of saints." The Greek reads literally, "to the needs of the (Saints) having in common." (KIT) Or, "to the needs of the saints contributing." (UBS) The Greek word KOINONOUNTES is rooted in the idea of common or sharing in common. This phrase is variously rendered: TCNT: relieving the wants; KNX: providing generously for the needs of the saints; NW: share with the holy ones according to their needs; RSV: contributes to the needs of the saints; NJB: share with any of God’s holy people who are in need; WEY: relieve the necessities of the saints; PME: give freely to fellow Christians in want; LB: when God’s children are in need, you be the one to help them out.

The real meaning probably comes closer to the idea of "sharing in common" for this is the tradition based on Acts 2.44 and 4.32: "And all who shared the faith owned everything in common (KOINA = English "coin" -- note Ac 2.42 KOINONIA); they sold their goods and possessions and distributed the proceeds among themselves according to what each one needed. ... The whole group of believers was united, heart and soul; no one claimed private ownership of any possessions as everything they owned was held in common (KOINA)." (NJB) Paul has already expressed the idea earlier in 12.8, "Let the man who gives in charity do so with a generous heart." (TCNT) Timothy was to "give orders to those who are rich ... to be liberal (well-distributing), to be ready to share (KOINONIKOUS)." (1 Tm 6.17, 18 NW)

The primitive Church was originally a community which owned no property but shared with all. Later some congregations failed to do this. (Ph 4.15) The cosmopolitan Corinthians were charged to use their surplus to equalize the needs of the poor: "It is not that you ought to relieve other people’s needs and leave yourselves in hardship; but there should be a fair balance --- your surplus at present may fill their deficiency, and another time their surplus may fill your deficiency. So there may be a fair balance; as the scripture says: ‘No one who had collected more had too much, no one who collected less had too little.’" (Ex 16.18; 2 Co 8.13-15) Paul argues for an economic equality (ISOTES) among Christians and though he wants no hardship on the rich Corinthians, other Christians went beyond this. To the Hebrew Christians it is written: "For you had compassion for those who were in prison, and you cheerfully accepted the plundering of your possessions. ... Do not neglect to do good and to share (KOINONIAS) what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." (He 10.34; 13.16 RSV)

Giving and charity ought to characterize the Nazarene Saint. Jesus taught the way to perfection: "Give to the one asking you, and do not turn away from one that wants to borrow from you. ... You must be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect. ... When making a gift of charity do not blow a trumpet. ... Do not let your left-hand know what your right-hand is doing so your charitable gift is in secret. Then your heavenly Father, secretly watching, will repay you. .... Love your enemies and do good, lending without hoping for anything in return. .... Practice giving." (Mt 5.42, 48; 6.3, 4; Lk 6.35, 37) Not only have masses of "Christians" deviated from what the Nazarene taught doctrinally but they have parted from his counsels regarding charity and giving. The Christian who observes the above is rare, indeed. No association or organization of Christians can claim the name until they are prepared to share in common what they possess with others.

Proverbs 3.27 counsels: "Refuse no kindness to those who have a right to it, if it is in your power to perform it." (NJB) The Nazarene goes beyond this as shown above regarding enemies, including the wicked and unthankful. (Mt 5.45; He 1.1) Paul also echoes his Lord when he writes: "For God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name, in that you have ministered to the Saints and continue ministering. ... For you both expressed sympathy for those in prison and joyfully took the plundering of your belongings, knowing you yourselves have a better and an abiding possession." (He 6.10; 10.34 NWT) Indeed, the Beloved Apostle John warns how charity keeps one in God’s love: "By this we have come to know love, because that one surrendered his soul for us; and we are under obligation to surrender [our] souls for [our] brothers. But whoever has this world's means for supporting life and beholds his brother having need and yet shuts the door of his tender compassions upon him, in what way does the love of God remain in him? Little children, let us love, neither in word nor with the tongue, but in deed and truth." (1 Jn 3.16-18 NWT; compare also Ja 2.14-17)

Note a failure to share impartially or unselfishly can cause disharmony. Nothing divides Christians more than economic class distinctions. The first serious case of disunity in the Christian congregation involved such a matter. (Ac 6.1, 2) The word "share" here is the Greek koinonountes and means literally "have in common." This is the same word used in Acts 2.44 and 4.32 when the early Christians had "all things in common." Paul uses the same word when he opens his discussion with the Corinthians on the subject of "equalization." (2 Co 8.4-21) Ideally, after the typical model of the gathering of manna in the wilderness, "an equalizing might take place," with no unequal distribution (see vs 8 above) of supplies. In reality, before the Father and his Son, all things ought to be commonly shared, though the freedom not to is demonstrated in the case of Ananias and Saphira. (Ac 5.1ff) Materialistic and selfish attitudes are disheartening to others. (Nu 32.6-10)

The Nazarene had set the pattern with his life-style and teachings for the "little flock" (Lk 12.32) when he tells them, "Sell your property and give to charity." (WMS) and Peter professes to have done this. (Lk 18.28) However, disheartened himself, Peter quickly goes back to his fishing business, showing he may have "left" (Lk 18.28), or even "abandoned" (Mt 4.20), his fishing boats, but he had not, in fact, "sold" them. (Jn 21.15 -- perhaps gesturing toward Peter’s boats, fishing nets, and fish) Paul instructs Timothy to "give orders" to the rich regarding their surplus -- "to be liberal, ready to share." (1Tm 6.17,18) Sharing contributes to joint-harmony.

There is another matter worthy of note here: in the parousia-Judgment true "saints" -- brothers of the King -- would find themselves in need because of responding rightly to Luke12.33, or persecution during the Great Oppression. (Re 13.7, 9, 16, 17) The "sheep" are those who responded positively to this. (Mt 25.31-40) The idea that we are to be judged on our human decency, hospitality, and charity is enough to give the Nazarene Saint pause to examine the Christian character in this matter.

Finally, besides possessing the charitable spirit of giving, the manner of giving is something touched on by the Nazarene. Jesus encourages secret giving without a showy display. The Man who gave the most taught: "Hence when you go making gifts of mercy, do not blow a trumpet ahead of you, just as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be glorified by men. Truly I say to you, They are having their reward in full. But you, when making gifts of mercy, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, that your gifts of mercy may be in secret; then your Father who is looking on in secret will repay you." (Mt 6.2-4 NWT) Giving in such secrecy demonstrates you seek no glory from observers, you are not trying to buy something with some hidden agenda, and you do not embarrass the recipient of your loving gift. "There is more happiness in giving that receiving." (Ac 20.35 NWT)

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: How do I feel about my sharing and giving? If I compare myself to the rich Pharisees and the poor widow which one does my character represent? How can I give more? Do people who know me recognize me as a giving and charitable person?

CHARACTERISTIC #14 -- LOVE YOUR ENEMIES. Verse 14 reads in the King James Version: "Bless them which persecute you; bless, and curse not." This phrase is variously rendered: NEB: call down blessings on your persecutors; LB: if someone harms you, don’t curse them; NW: keep on blessing those who persecute.

These words echo the Nazarene when he teaches: "Continue to love your enemies and to pray for those persecuting you ... Continue to love your enemies, to do good to those hating you, to bless those cursing you, to pray for those who are insulting you. To him that strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also." (Mt 5.44; Lk 6.27-29) Paul expresses the idea to the Corinthians: "We meet abuse with blessings (TCNT) ... They make our lives miserable, but we take it patiently. (PME) ... When we are slandered by them we try to conciliate them." (WMS) (1 Co 4.12, 13)

Christians are characterized by how they respond to those who hate them or love them less. Their reactions are exactly the opposite in the same degree of the antagonist. The Nazarene went further than any spiritual teacher and struck at the very heart of a person’s purse or wallet as the seat of motive when it came to enemies. He taught: "Love your enemies and lend to them expecting no repayment." (Lk 6.35) Nothing could prove love more than actually giving money to the very person who dislikes you.

The Hebrew word for "blessing" (ba·rakh') carries the idea of speaking well of someone, or to "wish well" (1 Sa 25.14) and "congratulate." (1 Ch 18.10) The Greek eu·lo·ge'o can mean to speak well of or compliment. Thus, the speech of the Nazarene Saint is very much involved in responding to an enemy.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: How did I respond the last time someone acted as my enemy or hater? Did I respond positively to negative words and actions?

CHARACTERISTIC #15 -- A SYMPATHETIC HEART. Verses 15 and 16a read in the King James Version: "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another." Some of these phrases are rendered by others: NEB: with the joyful be joyful; PME: share the happiness of those who are happy; LB: when others are happy, be happy with them; GDSP: live in harmony with one another; MON: have full sympathy with one another; NEB: have equal regard for one another.

Sympathy and empathy ought to characterize the Nazarene Saint. This is the ability to put yourself in another’s place. Or, as someone one put it, "walk a mile in another’s sandals." Paul’s counsel echoes Ecclesiastes 3.4, for there is
"a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to wail and a time to skip about." The Living Bible paraphrases Proverbs 25.20: "Being happy-go-lucky around a person whose heart is heavy is as bad as stealing his jacket in cold weather or rubbing salt in his wounds."

Paul’s phrase "be minded the same way toward others as to yourself" (NW) is a paraphrase of the Golden Rule, "Just as you want men to do to you, do the same way to them." (Lk 6.31NW) Paul makes similar statements in other words to the Corinthian and Phillipian congregations: "Let no man, then, set his own advantage as his objective, but rather the good of his neighbor. ... None of you should think only of his own affairs, but each should learn to see things from other people’s point of view." 1 Co 10.24; Ph 2.4 PME) Peter writes in a similar vein: "You should al be united, sympathetic, full of brotherly love, kind-hearted, humble-minded." (1 Pe 3.8 TCNT) Thus, the Transformed Mind gives thought to others with a self-less motive and with the interests of others in mind. This truly is the way to joint-harmony.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: Do I try to understand how others feel before I express my opinions? Can I learn to sympathize with all kinds of people who may have been raised differently than me. Does empathy characterize my personality? Do people know me to be such an understanding person?

CHARACTERISTIC #16 -- A HUMBLE SPIRIT. Verse 16b reads in the King James Version: "Mind not high things." The phrase is variously rendered: RSV: do not be haughty; ASV: set not your mind on high things; GDSP: do not be too ambitious; WEY: do not let your thoughts be high-flown; BER: do not aspire to eminence; MOF: instead of being ambitious; PHI: don’t become snobbish.

The Nazarene is the premier example of humility. In what amounts to a hymn Paul sings: "(The pre-existent Christ) stripped himself of all privilege by consenting to be a slave by nature and being born as mortal man. And, having become man, he humbled himself by living a life of utter obedience, even to the extent of dying." (Ph 2.6, 7 PME) By way of illustration, imagine you are living as royalty in high standards and have never known want, but lived in luxury all your life. Now, you are asked to leave all of this and travel to Haiti to become a medical missionary in the red light districts where AIDS is thought to have been brewed. What characteristic would that require?

This humble characteristic is a key subject in the teachings of the Nazarene because it runs counter to those ego-centric drives in most persons. The subject of "who was the greatest" came up among Jesus’ disciples. Christ taught: "You know that those who appear to be ruling the nations lord it over them and their great ones wield authority over them. This is not the way among you; but whoever wants to become great among you must be your minister, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of all. For even the Son of man came, not to be ministered to, but to minister and to give his soul a ransom in exchange for many." (Mk 10.42-45 NW)

The Good Doctor Luke records the account: "However, there also arose a heated dispute among them over which one of them seemed to be greatest. But he said to them: "The kings of the nations lord it over them, and those having authority over them are called Benefactors. You, though, are not to be that way. But let him that is the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the one acting as chief as the one ministering. For which one is greater, the one reclining at the table or the one ministering? Is it not the one reclining at the table? But I am in your midst as the one ministering." (Lk 22.24-27 NW) Peter must have learned this lesson for he himself writes: "Humility towards one another must be the garment you all wear constantly, because God opposes the proud but accords his favour to the humble." (1 Pe 5.5; Pr 3.34 LXX)

Nothing is more disharmonious than the individual who takes himself too seriously. It is interesting that Peter’s mention of haughtiness follows right on the heals of his discussion of shepherds and elders. Ambition is not only self-destructive, it destroys the harmony and unity of God’s people. Satan is the originator of ambition. Ambitious men have existed throughout the history of Jehovah’s people. It was a problem among the Christian disciples and Paul alludes to it in his letters.

On the other hand, the truly humble person, who modestly recognizes his place, contributes greatly to the inner harmony of the Nazarene Community of Saints. After honest and prayerful examination, those who find themselves to be ambitious, ought to reflect deeply on the beauty of David’s humble attitude in Psalm131 and offer a similar prayer in naked repentance.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: As a disciple of the Nazarene how can I become more like him in his example of humility? Do others view me as arrogant or prideful? How can I manifest humility in my life today?

CHARACTERISTIC #17 --- DEFERENCE. Verse 16b reads in the King James Version: "but condescend to men of low estate." The phrase is variously rendered: NW: be led along with lowly things; ASV: condescend to things that are lowly; GDSP: accept humble tasks; WEY: accommodate yourselves to humble ways; BER: willingly adjust yourselves to humble situations; MOF: associate with humble folk; PH: don’t become snobbish but take a real interest in ordinary people; NOR: mingle with the lowly.

The Nazarene illustrated this when he taught: "He then went on to tell the invited men an illustration, as he marked how they were choosing the most prominent places for themselves, saying to them: ‘When you are invited by someone to a marriage feast, do not lie down in the most prominent place. Perhaps someone more distinguished than you may at the time have been invited by him, and he that invited you and him will come and say to you, 'Let this man have the place.' And then you will start off with shame to occupy the lowest place. But when you are invited, go and recline in the lowest place, that when the man that has invited you comes he will say to you, 'Friend, go on up higher.' Then you will have honor in front of all your fellow guests. For everyone that exalts himself will be humbled and he that humbles himself will be exalted." (Lk 14.7-11 NW)

Paul writes about this subject to other congregations: "Never act from motives of rivalry or personal vanity, but in humility think more of one another than you do of yourselves. None of you should think only of his own affairs, but each should learn to see thing from other people’s point of view. ... Accept life with humility and patience, making allowances for one another." (Ph 2.3, 4; Ep 4.2 PME) The lowly and humble will never be disharmonious. Pride is the disrupter. Humility the healer. All of your current pains, indeed all of your pains in life, may be traceable to that original act of pride on the part of Satan.

There was not an ounce of racial, religious, or intellectual superiority in the Nazarene’s character. The Gospels are filled with his willingness to associate with those viewed as either outcasts or very low on the social ladder: prostitutes, drunks, lepers, tax collectors, and the unschooled and low caste. Some early Christians had problems with this as James describes: "Don’t ever attempt, my brothers, to combine snobbery with faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ! Suppose one man comes into your meeting well dressed with a gold ring on his finger, and another man, obviously poor, arrives in shabby clothes. If you pay special attention to the well dressed man .... doesn’t that prove you are making class distinctions in your mind, and setting yourselves up to assess a man’s quality? -- a very bad thing." (Js 2.1-4 PME)

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: Do I feel superior to certain persons? Perhaps due to education, social background, race, religion, ethnic roots, personal beauty, physical prowess, or economic advantage? Do I feel free to associate with any so- called "class" of persons?

CHARACTERISTIC #18 -- LACK OF CONCEIT. Verse 16c reads in the King James Version: "Be not wise in your own conceits." The phrase is variously rendered: NW: do not become discreet in your own eyes; NASB: do not be wise in your own estimation; TCNT: not think too highly; GDSP: do not be conceited; LB: and don’t think you know it all; PME: don’t become set in your own opinions; WEY: do not be self-opinionated.

The Bible warns about such self-exalted opinions of one’s self. The Book of Proverbs warns: "Do not congratulate yourself on your own wisdom." (Pr 3.7 NJB) Where is the person who does not hold an opinion? Where is the person with such an opinion who thinks it wrong? The problem lies not in possessing an opinion, but in always feeling the need to express it as superior to any other. The Christian character is marked by an absence of regular and persistent opinionation. Self-conceit is obvious to everyone and creates a chasm of disharmony across which no one can approach.

Paul has already touched on this subject in verse 3 when he writes of the Transformed Mind: "Don’t cherish exaggerated ideas of yourself or your importance, but try to have a sane estimate of your capabilities by the light of the faith that God has given to you all." (PME) The New English Bible renders 1 Corinthians 8.1-3 in this manner: "Knowledge breeds conceit; it is love that builds. If anyone fancies that he knows, he knows nothing yet, in the true sense of knowing. But if a man loves, he is acknowledged by God."

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: Do I express my opinions too often? Often enough that others consider me opinionated? Or, am I viewed as conceited? Can I work hard at keeping my opinions to myself unless I am asked?

CHARACTERISTIC #20 -- NON-INJURIOUS. Verse 17a reads in the King James Version: "Recompense to no man evil for evil." This is variously rendered: TCNT: never return injury for injury; PME: don’t pay back a bad turn by a bad turn. Paul writes similarly to the Thessalonians: "See that no one renders injury for injury to anyone else." (1 Th 5.15 NW)

Interestingly it is the man who chopped off another’s ear who writes: "Yet when (Jesus) was insulted he offered no insult in return"; and, "not rendering evil for evil." (1 Pe 2.23 PME; 1 Pe 3.9 KJV) It may be that Peter quoted Paul.

Clearly, any type of revenge -- "I don’t get mad, I get even" -- is out of character with the Nazarene Saint. Such a spitefully, vengeful and retaliatory disposition is not conducive to joint-harmony within a Nazarene community. There is no place for the law of talion -- "like for like" -- in the Christian association. Better to be damaged or injured than retaliate in kind. (1 Co 6.7) Such a character results from meekness and a gentleness toward all.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: Do I find myself reacting in kind when others treat me wrongly or hurtfully? If others speak abusively about me do I return kindness? Am I characterized by others as a confrontational or adversarial person?

CHARACTERISTIC #21 -- THINK FIRST. Verse 17b reads in the King James Version: "Provide things honest in the sight of all men." This phrase reads literally in Greek, "take fore thought for good things before all men" (UBS) and "thinking beforehand fine things in sight of all men." (KIT) The phrase is variously rendered: NW: provide fine things in the sight of all men; RSV: take thought for what is noble in the sight of all; BER: determine on the noblest ways in dealing with all people; GDSP: see that you are above reproach in the eyes of everyone; NJB: bear in mind the ideals that all regard with respect. Some versions note the phrase in Greek is the same as that found in the Septuagint at Proverbs 3.4, "do thou provide things honest in the sight of the Lord (YHWH) and of men." (Compare WEY)

Though the above versions vary a bit in some of the details the thrust of Paul’s point has to do with "thinking ahead" in regard to dealings with others so that a good and honest reputation results. Paul lists "a fine testimony from the outside" as a requirement for an "overseer." (1 Tm 3.7) Peter writes, "Your conduct among the surrounding peoples in your different countries should always be good and right .... (that) they see how well you conduct yourselves." (1 Pe 2.12 PME)

Christians live in all parts of the world with a wide variety of social and cultural environments. Paul’s words would encourage disciples of the Nazarene to behave in such a way, though there may be no direct Scriptural principles involved, that local peoples will not find fault with these honest Saints.

When Paul says "all men" he means Christian and non-Christian. This is the foundation of a good reputation. (EC7.1) This amounts to "recommending ourselves to every human conscience in the sight of God." (2COR4.2) Whenever or wherever, this harmonious individual is known as a decent and well-mannered person, even if enemies give respect begrudgingly. True Christians are praised world-wide for their conduct, behavior and attitude.

This requires thinking ahead, or thinking first, before speaking or acting. How will my speech and conduct affect others? Will others be led to Christ because of the type of person they behold?

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: How do my neighbors view me? Do I have a good reputation among the people of my community? Do I think before I speak or act out of concern for the view people will have of me?

CHARACTERISTIC #22 -- PEACEABLE. Verse 18 reads in the King James Version: "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." The phrase is variously rendered: PME: as far as your responsibility goes; ASV: be at peace with all men.

Paul’s words echo the Nazarene’s Mountain Teachings: "Blessed are the peaceable that they will be called Sons of God." (Mt 5.9) Paul counsels Timothy, "It is binding a slave of the Lord not be a fighter but be gentle toward all." (2 Tm 2.24) "Seek eagerly for peace with everyone." (He 12.14 BER)

A peaceable person is harmonious -- not adversarial, confrontational or martial in nature and disposition. Such a Christian seeks good relations. Such a saint wants unity, tranquillity and good relations between all. Indeed, peace is a synonym for harmony and there should be peace before worship as shown by Jesus. (MT5.24) There are rare occasions when this is impossible due to the wicked inclination of hateful men as David learned. (PS120.7)

Because of the egocentric nature of people there is a tendency to react first in a fighting mood which never makes for peace. The peaceable Christian has trained mind and heart to always respond in a peaceable manner no matter the provocation. Often this is a matter of hesitating for a moment before speaking or taking action --- the proverbial count to ten --- and so the characteristic of peaceableness is related to the previous one. To behave peaceably there must a degree of inner tranquility.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: Do people know me as confrontational or adversarial? Or does peace and tranquillity characterize my personality?

CHARACTERISTIC #23 -- FORGIVING. Verse 19a reads in the King James Version: "avenge not yourselves." The phrase is variously rendered: PME: never take vengeance into your own hands.

"I don’t get mad. I get even." This is not a characteristic of a Christian. One of the greatest ways to keep peace is to be forgiving. Revenge never results in peace which is the subject Paul is discussing. Forgiveness is at the root of this characteristic. Also, a non-judgmental disposition prohibits the Christian from taking the law into his own hands. The Nazarene Saint is well aware that God is the Judge as Paul goes on to state.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: Do I try to get back or get even toward those who have abused me? Do I answer like with like? Do I seek revenge against perceived injuries? What is my first inclination: forgiveness or vengeance?

CHARACTERISTIC #24 -- NON-ADVERSARIAL. Verse 19b reads in the King James Version: "but rather give place unto wrath." The phrase is variously rendered: NW: yield place to the wrath; KNX: allow retribution to run its course.

The spirit of non-resistance to oppressive authority is one taught by the Nazarene: "Do not resist the wicked." (Mt 5.39) This is virtually the flag of Ghandi and the anthem of Martin Luther King. This may be written on the banner of the civil-rights movement. It is the spirit of non-resistance and the abhorrence of violent retaliation. Paul writes, "Be wrathful, but do not sin." (Ep 4.26 which alludes to Ps 4.4) So, it is possible that a Christian could be the object of wrath from one of his fellow worshippers overcome in a moment of indignation or loss of self-control even as David was. "Yield" is the entreaty here. Yielding begets harmony. Indeed, the word translated "reasonable" is literally "yielding" in Greek and characterizes a "overseer." (1TM3.3 ftn)

Proverbs 24.29 may be the source of Paul’s inspired thoughts: "Never think: ‘I will treat him as he treated me. I will pay back the man for what he did.’" This correct attitude echoes that "love your enemy" taught by the Nazarene. (Lk 6.35)

Rather than seek revenge Paul encourages the Nazarene disciple to yield and treat his enemy with kindness instead of revenge. He continues quoting Proverbs 25.21, 22: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by doing this you will heap fiery coals upon his head." (NW) By unexpected kindness the opposite response is the result.

Who is the enemy? It could be a whole congregation of Christians. (GAL4.16) There are friends and there are enemies. There is love and there is hate. Often "hate" is loving a person less than one should and thereby behaves like an enemy, that is, not a friend. James Moffatt renders the next phrase: "for in this way you will make him feel a burning sense of shame."

Overcome the adversary with kindness. Kindness shown in hospitality softens the hardened attitudes of persons who love you less. It is true some persons are just irritated more by such kind actions but that is beyond your control.

The law of Moses taught the same attitude: "Should you come upon your enemy's bull or his ass going astray, you are to return it without fail to him. Should you see the ass of someone who hates you lying down under its load, then you must refrain from leaving him. With him you are without fail to get it loose." (Ex. 23:4, 5 NW) The Nazarene taught the same: "Continue to love your enemies and to pray for those persecuting you; that you may prove yourselves sons of your Father who is in the heavens." (Mt 5.44, 45 NW) This is the way to spiritual perfection.

FRIENDS OF THE NAZARENE ASK: Can I find it in my heart not to resist loveless people but yield to them for their own good? Do others characterize me as reasonable and yielding?

CONCLUSION. Paul ends his list of Christian characteristics by exhorting: "Don’t allow yourself to be overpowered with evil. Take the offensive -- overpower evil by good!" (Ro 12.21 PME)

During the Nazarene’s Passover Sermon he said: "I have many things yet to say to you, but you are not able to bear them at present. However, when that one arrives, the spirit of the truth, he will guide you into all the truth." (JN16.12,13) Romans chapter twelve is part of the fulfillment of that promise. It stands as the Risen Christ’s own commentary on his Mountain Teachings for many of these principles are drawn from it. Following these entreaties will result in complete harmony among the Nazarene Saints. They will be truly joined harmoniously together by the observance of Paul’s discussion on the Transformed Mind and Christian Harmony. Here is all that is needed for a completely unified and harmonious body of Christians, working together to accomplish the King’s Commission. (Mt 28.19) It ought to be mandatory reading for every elder and every disciple once a month until it becomes fully embedded in heart and mind.

So, dear Nazarene Saints, though you be alone, or members of a small house church, or a large city congregation, learn to humbly serve your Christian associates in that perfection of Christian character and unity of brotherhood. Prayerfully strive to obey the exhortation: "Do not waver but hold tightly the confession of our Hope, for He is faithful who promised. Be considerate of one another. Stir up the fire of our mutual love and fine works. Do not forsake our meetings as is the custom of some but encourage one another." (He 10.23-25)

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