"Was Paul a 'Leader' or an 'Example?'"

On the example the apostle Paul set, for others to imitate

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This is regarding 1 Corinthians 4:16 and 11:1, Philippians 3:17, 1 Thessalonians 1:6 and 2 Thessalonians 3:7 and 9. A number of English bible-versions have in those verses wordings which could cause the readers to think that the apostle Paul told the believers to “follow him as their leader”. But, a check of the Greek text of the New Testament shows that Paul did not do that. What he did, was that he told them to imitate him, that is, copy his example. – Believers should know what that example was. That is what this article is all about.

A note: This study contains translation-related comments. If you have been subjected to dogmas which claim that some particular bible-version has no errors and has all things right, make sure to read the article ms03.htm.

The nature of the example which Paul and his companions set.

This has to do with the six above-mentioned verses and their context. All might not even know that they refer to imitating, copying an example, because many bible-translators have put into those verses such words as “follow” and “followers."

Appendix 1 at the end of this study considers some linguistic details in those verses, but in short: In the Greek text, the relevant words are mimeomai, mimêtês and summimêtês which all refer to imitating, that is, copying an example.

Let us take a closer look at all of the five passages in question, one by one, including their context.

1 Corinthians 4:16, ‘Because of this, I urge you, be imitators of me’.

Before going to verse 16, let us first consider verse 6. Some bible-translators have put into that verse wordings which are more or less impossible to understand, such as “these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes”. But, for instance the BBE gives a clearer translation, “I have taken Apollos and myself as examples of these things”, verse 6 and “so my desire is that you take me as your example” (verse 16). In short: Paul was talking about the example which he and Apollos had set.

Then there is verse 16, where many bible-versions have such wordings as “why I beseech you, be you followers of me”. – The meaning of the Greek text is more like this:

1 Corinthians 4:16 Because of this, I urge you, be imitators of me. (LIT)

“Because of this” – because of what? And, really what were the believers to imitate?

Here is some of the context, as the BBE has it.

1 Corinthians 4: […] 6 My brothers, it is because of you that I have taken Apollos and myself as examples of these things, so that in us you might see that it is not wise to go farther than what is in the holy Writings, so that no one of you may be lifted up against his brother. 7 For who made you better than your brother? or what have you that has not been given to you? but if it has been given to you, what cause have you for pride, as if it had not been given to you? 8 For even now you are full, even now you have wealth, you have been made kings without us: truly, I would be glad if you were kings, so that we might be kings with you. 9 For it seems to me that God has put us the Apostles last of all, as men whose fate is death: for we are put on view to the world, and to angels, and to men. 10 We are made to seem foolish for Christ, but you are wise in Christ; we are feeble, but you are strong; you have glory, but we have shame. 11 Even to this hour we are without food, drink, and clothing, we are given blows and have no certain resting-place; 12 And with our hands we do the hardest work: when they give us curses we give blessings, when we undergo punishment we take it quietly; 13 When evil things are said about us we give gentle answers: we are made as the unclean things of the world, as that for which no one has any use, even till now. 14 I am not saying these things to put you to shame, but so that, as my dear children, you may see what is right. […] 16 So my desire is that you take me as your example. (BBE, highlighting added)

Please read the above-quoted verses, at least one more time, with care and with thought. One part of Paul’s example was humility, and his self-sacrificing way of serving others.

A part of this was that the apostle Paul supported himself, also in Corinth. He was a skilled worker, a tentmaker. Acts 18:1–3 shows that when he was in that town, he worked in that occupation. 1 Corinthians 19 records how he noted that he had not lived at the cost of others, and that he was not about to do that, either. Acts 20 records how he reminded the elders from Ephesus that they knew that he had always supported himself through his own manual work. 2 Thessalonians 3 shows that when Paul was in Thessalonica, he and his companions “worked night and day” so that they would not be a burden to anyone, and that they “did not eat anyone’s bread without paying for it”. (There is more on that passage, later in this study.)

Now, consider this: Why did Paul several times remind people about the example which he and his companions had set?

It appears that the reason for this was that after Paul’s departure from Corinth, things had gone bad. There had come forth deceivers who presented themselves as “apostles” or something similar. Some such men had set up themselves as “leaders” and even managed to make (at least some of) the believers pay them. Paul’s two letters to that town contain a number of clues and hints in regard to the men in question, but we do not know the details. The believers in Corinth of course knew what things and which persons Paul referred to. (A note: 1 Corinthians 5:9 shows that Paul had written to Corinth already before he wrote the letter which we call “1 Corinthians”.)

Before going to the other passages which mention this with “imitating”, let us first read what Paul said about the men who did not follow his example but acted in a different way. Paul had some pretty acid things to say about those deceivers. We read:

2 Corinthians 11:13 God’s messengers? They are counterfeits of the real thing, dishonest practitioners masquerading as the messengers of Christ. 14 Nor do their tactics surprise me when I consider how Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is only to be expected that his agents shall have the appearance of ministers of righteousness—but they will get what they deserve in the end. 16 Once more, let me advise you not to look upon me as a fool. Yet if you do, then listen to what this “fool” has to make his little boast about. 17 I am not now speaking as the Lord commands me but as a fool in this business of boasting. 18 Since all the others are so proud of themselves, let me do a little boasting as well. 19 From your heights of wisdom I am sure you can smile tolerantly on a fool. 20 Oh, you’re tolerant all right! You don’t mind, do you, if a man takes away your liberty, spends your money, takes advantage of you, puts on airs or even smacks your face? 21 I am almost ashamed to say that I never did brave strong things like that to you. Yet in whatever particular they parade such confidence I (speaking as a fool, remember) can do the same. (PH72)

(In the following verses, Paul mentioned some of the sufferings he had gone through, in order to help others. See even chapter 12.)

As you can see, it is obvious that at least some of the believers in Corinth had allowed themselves to be deceived and used. Paul was in fact mocking them, because of this. Verse 20, “Oh, you’re tolerant all right! You don’t mind, do you, if a man takes away your liberty, spends your money, takes advantage of you, puts on airs or even smacks your face?”

Paul and his companions did not act that way. Their manner of life – their example – was totally different.

(Here, some might wonder about 2 Corinthians 11:8, because many bible-translators have put into that verse such wordings as “I robbed other churches, taking wages of them that I might minister unto you”. The article nm09.htm sorts out the translation and meaning of that verse and its context. The article om05.htm takes a closer look at the meaning of 1 Corinthians 9:12, 14, 17 and 18.)

1 Corinthians 11:1, ‘Be imitators of me, just as I am (an imitator) of the Anointed’.

Let us now consider the second passage which records how Paul told the believers in Corinth to copy his example. Here, the context is slightly different, but even in this case, Paul noted that he was not seeking his own profit.

1 Corinthians 10:32 Give no occasion to stumbling, whether to Jews, or Greeks, or the assembly of God. 33 Even as I also please all in all things; not seeking my own profit, but that of the many, that they may be saved. 1 Corinthians 11:1 Be my imitators, even as I also am of Christ. (DBY)

Please note that the words “be imitators of me”, 1 Corinthians 11:1, refer back to the preceding verse 1 Corinthians 10:33 where we see Paul stating that he was not proclaiming the Good Message for profit (money).

He told the believers in Corinth to imitate his example in that regard, as well as in other ways.

Philippians 3:17, ‘be imitators all together of me, brethren, and fix your eyes on those walking thus as you have us for a model’.

Philippians 3:17 records how Paul told the believers in Philippi to copy the example which he and his companions had set. Their example was in stark contrast with the manners of certain men “whose god was the belly” and who were after mundane things (verse 19).

Philippians 3:17 Be imitators all together of me, brethren, and fix your eyes on those walking thus as you have us for a model; 18 (for many walk of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is the belly, and their glory in their shame, who mind earthly things) (DBY, highlighting added)

Note even verse 19. – Paul was not one “whose god was the belly”, nor was he after earthly things. Several New Testament passages show that a part of Paul’s example was that he did not live at other people’s cost. He and his companions supported themselves through their own manual work. They proclaimed the Good Message for free.

Still regarding verse 19 – it is not clear whom Paul referred to (he did not mention any names), but several passages in the NT indicate that there were men who were after earthly things and used “the Gospel” for their own profit. Paul repeatedly warned about men of that kind, and he told the believers to mark and avoid them and cast them out from their fellowships. The article ia10.htm has more on that matter, but even this present study considers one of the passages in question.

1 Thessalonians 1:6, ‘And you became imitators of us and of the Lord’.

Here, Paul was talking about people who actually did imitate the example which was set by Jesus, and also by Paul and his companions.

1 Thessalonians 1:1 Paul and Silvanus and Timotheus to the assembly of Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace to you and peace. 2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you at our prayers, 3 remembering unceasingly your work of faith, and labour of love, and enduring constancy of hope, of our Lord Jesus Christ, before our God and Father; 4 knowing, brethren beloved by God, your election. 5 For our glad tidings were not with you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance; even as ye know what we were among you for your sakes: 6 and ye became our imitators, and of the Lord, having accepted the word in much tribulation with joy of the Holy Spirit, 7 so that ye became models to all that believe in Macedonia and in Achaia: 8 for the word of the Lord sounded out from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place your faith which is towards God has gone abroad, so that we have no need to say anything (DBY, highlighting added)

Some bible-translators have put into verse 6 such wordings as “you became followers of us”. But again, the Greek text talks about imitating, copying an example. As you can see, verses 6–8, the saints of the Thessalonica area worked and laboured and, it appears, “sounded forth” the Good Message even in other areas, so that Paul and his companions had “no need to say anything” (verse 7). Those believers did this, despite persecution and other troubles. By doing that, they copied the example of unselfish care for others, the example which Paul and his companions had set, just as Jesus had.

2 Thessalonians 3:7–9, ‘For you know in what way you should imitate us […] we made ourselves a model, for you to imitate’.

Again, a part of the example set by Paul and his companions, was that they did not “eat anyone’s bread without paying for it” and that they “worked night and day”, so that they would not be a burden to anyone. These words are found in his letter to the believers in Thessalonica.

2 Thessalonians 3:6 Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus the Anointed, to withdraw yourselves from every brother who leads an idle life, instead of living according to the instruction you received from us. 7 For you know in what way you should imitate us, because we did not behave disorderly among you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it; rather, with labour and toil we worked night and day, so that we would not be a burden to any of you. 9 Not that we did not have the opportunity, but we made ourselves a model, for you to imitate. 10 Even when we were with you, we told you this: If someone does not want to work, neither let him eat. 11 But we hear that some among you are leading negligent lives, not working at all but being busybodies. 12 We charge and exhort such persons, by our Lord Jesus the Anointed, to work in a quiet fashion, and to eat their own bread. 13 So, brothers, keep on acting in an upright way. 14 But if someone does not give attention to what we have said in this letter, note that man and have no company with him, so that he may be ashamed. 15 Yet do not count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. (BPT)

Verses 7 and 8 speak their clear language. “For you know in what way you should imitate us, because we did not behave disorderly among you, nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it; rather, with labour and toil we worked night and day, so that we would not be a burden to any of you.”

Verses 8 and 9, “so that we would not be a burden to any of you—not that we did not have the opportunity” – this passage and its translation and meaning is discussed in more detail in appendix 2 at the end of this article. Even the meaning of the word “busybodies” in verse 11 is clarified there.

Verses 10 and onward: Paul said that all were to work. Please note that he did not state this as a “suggestion”, but as a specific commandment relayed from the Lord. Clarification: In the Greek text of verses 6 and 12, we find the verb parangellô whose primary meaning was “to pass on or transmit a message”. Paul wrote those things “in the name of our Lord Jesus the Anointed”, verse 6, and “by our Lord Jesus the Anointed”, verse 12. In other words: It was an instruction from Jesus that Paul in this way relayed to the believers in Thessalonica.

(Obviously, the instruction that all should work and support themselves, applied only to able-bodied people in their sound mind and in their working age. Work: In honest occupations for useful purposes. And yes, this applied even to elders. There are some notes on this, under the next heading.)

More: The above-quoted passage shows that Paul told the believers to mark and shun (keep away from) men who wanted to live at other people’s cost. They were to cast them out from their fellowships.

A note: We know that when Paul was imprisoned, he received some aid from certain believers. That was an altogether different matter, of course. And, it appears that he may have received aid even on some occasions when he was either sick or recovering from stonings or beatings so that he could not work.

Please understand that many bible-translators – churchmen working for churches – have “adjusted” a number of New Testament passages, to their own (financial) benefit. For more on this, see the “recommended reading” section at the end of this article.

Acts 20 – Paul’s spoke to the elders from Ephesus, and told them to follow his example in regard to certain things.

When Paul was on his way to Jerusalem, knowing that he would imprisoned there, he made a stop in Miletus and sent for the elders from Ephesus and asked them to come to meet him. (Earlier, he had stayed and lived a longer time in Ephesus.) He reminded those elders that they knew the example he had set, how he had acted. At the same time, he warned about men who would act in a different way.

Acts 20:17 From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the assembly. 18 And when they had come to him, he said to them, You are familiar with, from the day when I arrived in Asia, after what manner I lived among you all the time, 19 serving the Lord with all humility […] 33 I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothes – 34 rather, as you yourselves know, these hands have provided for my needs and for those who were with me. 35 I have shown you in everything, that by working hard like this, we must support the infirm and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive”. (BPT)

Verse 35, “I have shown you in everything” – that is, Paul had set an example, for those elders to copy. He noted, verses 34 and 35, that they knew that he had supported himself through manual work, and that he had even provided aid to people who could not support themselves. That is what the words “we must support the infirm” refer to (verse 35). In was in that connection, that he reminded those elders of the words of Jesus, “it is more blessed to give than to receive”. Please note that Paul had been on the giving side, so that he had even provided aid to people in need. He told those elders to copy his example, in that regard.

The article mm02.htm has more on Acts 20 and its translation. The article om01.htm sorts out the matter of “tithes” and “offerings”.

Summary.

The apostle Paul told the believers to imitate (copy) the example which he and his companions had set when they went proclaiming the Good Message. A part of that example was their humble and self-sacrificing manner of serving others. They did not live at other people’s cost but instead worked so that they could support themselves. That example also included patient endurance during times of hardship and persecution. In short: Those men put their lives into the service of others. Unselfishly, without payment.

Some did not follow that example. Because of this, they could not produce fruit to God. Jesus had warned about this. The article hm08.htm has some notes on that matter.

Now, there are many other passages which are related to Paul’s example. All of them cannot be included here, but here is one of them, Philippians 4:9.

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if virtue is anything, if honor is anything, be always thinking about these. 9 Put in practice also what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me; and the God of peace shall be with you. (CT)

Even here, verse 9, Paul told believers to copy his example, to act as he had done. “Put in practice also what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me.”

By the way, regarding that chapter – some have cited the words “communicating” and “giving and receiving” which some translations have in verses 14 and 15, and claimed them to mean that people should give money to preachers. But what do those verses actually refer to? Because, several NT passages make it clear that when Paul was a free man and in health, he supported himself through his own manual work. Most probably, Philippians 4:14–16 with its context refers to some of the occasions when Paul was either imprisoned or sick so that he could not work. For more on this, see the article mm10.htm.

See also the “recommended reading” section, after the appendixes below.

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Appendix 1 – On the Greek words mimêtês, summimêtês and mimeomai which some have misleadingly translated as ‘follow’, in Paul’s epistles.

This has to do with 1 Corinthians 4:16 and 11:1, Philippians 3:17, 1 Thessalonians 1:6 and 2 Thessalonians 3:7 and 9. A number of English bible-versions have in those verses wordings which could cause the readers to think that the apostle Paul told the believers to “follow him as their leader”. But, a check of the Greek text of the New Testament shows that Paul did not do that. What he did, was that he urged them to copy the example which he and his companions had set.

In the Greek text of those verses, the relevant words are mimêtês, summimêtês and mimeomai. A number of bible-translators have rendered them as “following” or similar, but they all refer to “imitating” (copying an example).

The six above-mentioned verses and the example which they refer to, are discussed in more detail in the main part of this study, but they are quoted even here, along with the wordings in the Byzantine text. The corresponding words in the Greek and English texts are highlighted in bold style.

1 Corinthians 4:16 Parakalô oun humas mimêtai mou ginesthe. (BYZ)

1 Corinthians 4:16 I urge you, then, be imitators of me. (ESV01)

1 Corinthians 11:1 Mimêtai mou ginesthe kathôs kagô Christou. (BYZ)

1 Corinthians 11:1 Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. (ESV01)

Philippians 3:17 Summimêtai mou ginesthe adelphoi kai skopeite tous houtôs peripatountas kathôs echete tupon hêmas. (BYZ)

Philippians 3:17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. (ESV01)

1 Thessalonians 1:6 Kai humeis mimêtai hêmôn egenêthête kai tou Kuriou dexamenoi ton logon en thlipsei pollê meta charas Pneumatos Hagiou. (BYZ)

1 Thessalonians 1:6 And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit (ESV01)

2 Thessalonians 3:7 Autoi gar oidate pôs dei mimeisthai hêmas hoti ouk êtaktêsamen en humin 8 oude dôrean arton ephagomen para tinos all en kopô kai mochthô nukta kai hêmeran ergazomenoi pros to mê epibarêsai tina humôn 9 ouch hoti ouk echomen exousian all hina heautous tupon dômen humin eis to mimeisthai hêmas 10 kai gar hote êmen pros humas touto parêngellomen humin hoti ei tis ou thelei ergazesthai mêde esthietô (BYZ)

2 Thessalonians 3:7 For you know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you. 9 It was not because we do not have that right, a but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. (ESV01, note sign added)

Please note what Paul was saying here. The example which Paul and his companions set, verses 7 and 9, is explained in verse 8: “Nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you”.

a Regarding the word “right” which the above-quoted ESV01 and a number of other bible-versions have in verse 9: That is a misleading translation. The apostle was not talking about any “right to be paid” but about something quite different. This has to do with the many-faceted old Greek word exousia. See appendix 2, below.

Appendix 2 – On the meaning and translation of the Greek text of 2 Thessalonians 3:9, including the word exousia.

Bible-translators have not always given the many-faceted old Greek noun exousia the meaning which is correct for the context.

The noun exousia was derived from the verb-like word construction exesti which was used in many different ways and meanings, such as “it is right”, “let”, “permissible”, “permitted”, “it is allowed”, “it is in one’s power”, “it is possible”. Here is what the Intermediate Greek-English Lexicon by Liddell and Scott (Clarendon Press, 1889) has on exesti (which is the root of the noun exousia):

it is allowed, it is in one’s power, is possible, c. inf., Hdt.: c. dat. pers. et inf., id=Hdt., attic; ἔξ. σοι ἀνδρὶ γενέσθαι Xen.:— c. acc. pers. et inf., Ar.:—part. neut. absol., ἐξόν since it was possible, Hdt., Aesch., etc.

So, the word exesti meant such things as “it is allowed”, “it is in one’s power”, “it is possible”. – Its derivative, the noun exousia, was used in many different meanings, such as “power”, “right”, “power of choice”, “liberty of doing as one pleases”, “permission”, “chance”, et cetera. Thayer’s Greek-English lexicon gives exousia such definitions as these:

1. power of choice, liberty of doing as one pleases
a. leave or permission2. physical and mental power
a. the ability or strength with which one is endued, which he either possesses or exercises
3. the power of authority (influence) and of right (privilege)

(Those are the first three points in that lexicon entry.)

It is always the context that shows how the speaker or author used the noun exousia and meant it to be understood. In the case of 2 Thessalonians 3:9 which is quoted in the main part of this article and also below, it is obvious that Paul used that word in the meaning “chance”, “opportunity”. Clarification:

Verses 8 and 9, “so that we would not be a burden to any of you—not that we did not have the opportunity” – it appears that Paul was politely stating that he knew that the believers in Thessalonica were generous and would have permitted him and his companions to stay as guests, for free. Through this, they would have had the chance or opportunity (exousia) to be a “burden” for those people. But, Paul had received an instruction from the Lord, and he was relaying it to those believers – see verses 6–15 – and so, he and his companions set an example, by not living at the cost of others. Verse 8, “nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it; rather, with labour and toil we worked night and day, so that we would not be a burden to any of you”.

2 Thessalonians 3:6 Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus the Anointed, to withdraw yourselves from every brother who leads an idle life, instead of living according to the instruction you received from us. 7 For you know in what way you should imitate us, because we did not behave disorderly among you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it; rather, with labour and toil we worked night and day, so that we would not be a burden to any of you. 9 Not that we did not have the opportunity, but we made ourselves a model, for you to imitate. 10 Even when we were with you, we told you this: If someone does not want to work, neither let him eat. 11 But we hear that some among you are leading negligent lives, not working at all but being busybodies. b 12 We charge and exhort such persons, by our Lord Jesus the Anointed, to work in a quiet fashion, and to eat their own bread. 13 So, brothers, keep on acting in an upright way. 14 But if someone does not give attention to what we have said in this letter, note that man and have no company with him, so that he may be ashamed. 15 Yet do not count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. (BPT)

(The meaning of verses 8 and 9 was clarified above this scripture-quote.)

A note regarding verse 10: Obviously, the instruction that all were to work and support themselves, applied to able-bodied people who were in working age and had a sound mind. Several other NT passages record how the believers were instructed to take care of those who for different reasons such as age, disability, sickness or poverty were not able to support or manage themselves.

One of the passages where Paul used the many-faceted word exousia in a similar way (tês exousias humôn, “this permission of yours”), is 1 Corinthians 9:12. In the case of 1 Corinthians 9:18, he used it in a different way, in the phrase tê exousia mou en tô euangeliô, “my authority in the Gospel”. Those verses and their context and meaning are discussed in the article om05.htm.

b Regarding the word “busybodies”, verse 11 – it is hard to form an English phrase that would carry over the “taste” of what Paul wrote in Greek. Some other translations have “meddlers”, “over-interested in the business of others”, or similar. But, those wordings do not really make it clear what the apostle Paul was saying. Clarification:

Paul often played with words. That is the case even here. This can be seen in the Greek text, but unfortunately, most of that is lost in translation. The word-play in verse 11 (Greek text):

Paul used the phrase ergazomenous alla periergazomenous – that is, he was contrasting the verbs ergazomai (ergô) and periergazomai (periergô).

With the former, he referred to useful labour and work.
With the latter, he referred to the opposite of useful work.

And so, one edition of the paraphrase WIL renders verse 11 this way:

2 Thessalonians 3:11 But we are informed that some among you are living as shirkers, mere busybodies, instead of busy at work”. (WIL)

See also the “recommended reading” section, below.

Recommended reading here at the Bible Pages, on related as well as other matters

An explanation of the short names for the bible-translations that are quoted or mentioned at this site. → hs09.htm

Acts 20:35 – what the apostle Paul meant when he reminded the elders from Ephesus that it is more blessed to give than to receive, and when he said to them, “I have shown you in everything, that by working hard like this, we must support the infirm”. → mm02.htm

How the saints took care of widows, the elderly, the sick and the needy. → nm07.htm

“Amateur bible students” versus “professional theologians”. The actual meaning of such words as “clergy”, “laity” and “scholar”. → is07.htm

On the meaning of 1 Corinthians 9:12, 14, 17 and 18. → om05.htm

What is the truth about tithing, the concept of giving “tithes” and “offerings” to a church? In connection with the New Covenant: Is tithing biblical or unbiblical, right or wrong? → om01.htm

On the translation and meaning of Galatians 6:6. Does it refer to joining in in good things as the Greek text indicates, or to sharing one’s goods with a preacher, as some translations have it? → im04.htm

On the translation and meaning of 1 Thessalonians 2:6. Was the apostle Paul talking about dignity, or about a right to be “burdensome”? → mm06.htm

A study on the phrases “the snare of the Devil” and “the love of money is the root of all evil”. How Jesus and the apostle Paul warned that those who proclaimed the Good Message, could become spiritually unfruitful. → hm08.htm

On 2 Corinthians 11:8, the translation “I robbed other churches, taking wages of them”. Did Paul really receive wages for his proclaiming work, as many bible-versions make it seem? → nm09.htm

On Philippians 4:14–16 and what the word “communicate” in that passage refers to. → mm10.htm

On the King James translation, the “authorised version”. The story behind king James’ bible, including the men who were involved in producing it. → ms03.htm

Is “servant leadership” a biblical concept? Did elders in the saints’ fellowships act as “leaders”? On what the Bible says about leadership among Jesus’ disciples. → ie03.htm

What does the Bible say about ordaining and ordination? In other words: How did the saints choose their elders? And, were those elders “ordained”, and did they function as “priests” of some kind? → ie02.htm

What does the Bible say about authority? Who has biblical, spiritual or religious authority on the human level? Who can speak for God? → hs06.htm

What the Bible says about excommunication, marking and avoiding. Also, some notes on the words and concepts “heresy” and “heretic”. → ia10.htm

On Titus 1:15 and the translation “to the pure all things are pure”, and what that verse really means and refers to. → ie05.htm

Jesus to his disciples, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:34 and Matthew 6:21). What did he mean? → ih12.htm

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About this Blog:

The purpose of this Blog is to encourage a thorough and accurate study of the Bible and relative historical facts in an effort to determine the truth.*

Neil Jennings Braithwaite

Blog Editor

Yahshua (Jesus) said:

“I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. John 14:6

“If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” John 8:31-32

He who rejects Me and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day. For I did not speak on My own initiative, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me a commandment as to what to say and what to speak. I know that His commandment is eternal life; therefore the things I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me.” John 12:47-50

“This is eternal life, that they may know You, the one (monos) true God, and Yahshua Messiah whom You have sent.” John 17:3

Out of respect for revealed truth, whenever possible, original content will use the proper, eternal and memorial name of the God if Israel - Yahweh (YHWH - Exodus 3:15) rather than the generic "titles" LORD or God, and the Hebrew name He gave His son - Yahshua (Yahweh is Salvation).

Why I spell the Messiah's name "Yahshua" and not "Yehshua" Click Here

*Content of posts or links not written by the Editor of HonorGodsWord.com may not always represent the expressed beliefs of the Editor.

Surely you know "THEIR" names?

Who has ascended into heaven and descended?
Who has gathered the wind in his fists?
Who has wrapped the waters in his garment?
Who has established all the ends of the earth?
What is His NAME or His son's NAME?
Surely you know?
Proverbs 30:4

Do YOU know the "personal" names of the God of Israel and His only begotten son?

This is not a random question - it's a question being asked directly from scripture - and the questioner expects YOU to know the correct answer.

“Surely you know?”

YAHWEH (YHWH) is the "eternal and memorial name" given to Moses by the God of Israel in Exodus 3:15.

YAHSHUA (Joshua) is the Hebrew name Yahweh gave His son. Matthew 1:21

Fact: The name Yahweh has been known since Moses received it directly from Him at the burning bush. Likewise, the name Yahshua has been known since Mary and Joseph received it directly from the angel Gabriel. Neither of these names has ever been lost - they have just been ignored and replaced.

If this is true, then why use another name - a different name?

Do names really matter?

Those who know your name will put their trust in you, for you, Yahweh, have not forsaken those who seek you. Psalms 9:10

Click here to find out.

Who is Yahshua's God?

Yahshua was a Jew and believed there was only one true God of Israel. His creed was the Shema of Deuteronomy 6:4-9 - the monotheist creed of all Jews. Yahshua was NOT a trinitarian, nor did he ever espouse such a doctrine.

"...and Yahshua answered him, `The first and most important of all the commands [is], Hear, O Israel, Yahweh is our God, Yahweh is ONE." Mark 12:29

"And this is eternal life: to know You (Yahweh), the ONE [Greek: monos - alone, solitary - without a companion] true God, and the one whom you sent—Yahshua Messiah." John 17:3

The Apostle Paul said the Messiah's God was also his God - and that the two were not both God.

"For there is ONE God, and ONE mediator also between God and men, the MAN [anthrópos - human] Yahshua Messiah" 1 Timothy 2:5

The ONE GOD Yahweh and the ONE MAN Messiah do NOT equal ONE God!

Link: Is the Trinity Doctrine a lie?

Read More on the Trinity Issue..

Yahweh Named His Son Yahshua - Not Jesus

Yahshua: Yah (Yahweh) & shua (salvation)

And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall NAME him Yahshua. Luke 1:31

“She will bear a Son; and you shall call His NAME Yahshua, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21

"And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other NAME under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12

“Whoever will call on the NAME of Yahshua will be saved.”
Romans 10:13, Acts 2:21

To the angel of the ekklesia in Philadelphia write:
"I know your deeds. Behold, I have put before you an open door which no one can shut, because you have a little power, and have kept My word, and have not denied My NAME." Revelation 3:8-9

READ MORE: Here, Here and Here

Yahshua never used the word "Church"

"And I say that you are Peter/Petros [Small stone], and on this petra [Large rock] I will build my Ekklesia, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it." Matthew:16:18

Yahshua Messiah said "I will build MY "Ekklesia." The Greek word Ekklesia means called-out assembly, or called-out community. So why do most bibles translate Ekklesia as "church" (Greek: kyriakos), which means a "building?" Who is responsible for changing the word Ekklesia to church over 100 times in the bible - and Why did they do it? Click here to find out why it should matter to every Christian.

Denominations = Divisions

"Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of Yahshua Messiah, that you all agree and that there be NO DIVISIONS among you, but that you be made complete in the SAME mind and in the SAME judgment. Now I mean this, that each one of you is saying, “I am of Paul,” and “I of Apollos,” and “I of Cephas,” and “I of Christ.” Has Yahshua Messiah been divided? Paul was not crucified for you, was he? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?" 1 Corinthians 1:10-14

"Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions, divisions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and TURN AWAY FROM THEM. For such men are slaves, not of our Messiah but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.
Romans 16:17-18

By scriptural definition, denominations are exclusive divisions of the true Ekklesia based on different doctrines, creeds and traditions of men. By Paul's own words, denominations are divisions that render the Ekklesia "incomplete." Paul exhorts Christians, by the name of Yahshua, that there should "be NO DIVISIONS" within the Ekklesia - only UNITY of the "SAME MIND" and the "SAME JUDGMENT." Paul "urges" Christians to "TURN AWAY" from men who cause "dissensions, divisions and hindrances."

What was the Gospel Message that Yahshua preached?

"Whatever Yahshua preached, it got people excited. Even the demons were riled up. And Yahshua’s message angered most of the religious leaders he encountered. In the end, it got him killed on a Roman cross. So what exactly was this inspiring, challenging, goading, and apparently subversive message of Yahshua Messiah all about?" READ MORE: HERE and HERE.

So how important is it to both understand and believe the gospel that Yahshua Messiah preached?

Now after John had been taken into custody, Yahshua came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of Yahweh, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of Yahweh is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark 1:14-15

Today's "Church" Hierarchy (Clergy vs. Laity)

But he [Yahshua] told them, “The kings of the unbelievers rule over them, and those who exercise authority over them are called benefactors [Title of honor]. But you [My disciples] are NOT to do so. On the contrary, whoever desires to be greatest among you should become like the youngest [Recent convert], and the one who leads should become like the one who serves [A slave who waits on guests]. Because who is greater, the one who sits at the table, or the one who serves? It is the one at the table, isn’t it? But I [Yahshua] am among you as [An example] one who serves. Luke 22:25-27

"But in vain do they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the precepts of men."

~ WARNING ~ WARNING ~
"Scripture clearly predicts that false teachers and a counterfeit church system will come to the height of power in the last days."

“Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves."
~ Yahshua Messiah: Matthew 7:15

"I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking corrupt things to draw away disciples after them. Therefore be on the alert..."
~ The Apostle Paul: Acts 20:29-31

"Now I urge you, brethren, identify and expose those who cause dissensions, divisions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. For such men are slaves, not of our Messiah but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.
~ The Apostle Paul: Romans 16:17-18

"But what I am doing I will continue to do, so that I may cut off opportunity from those who desire an opportunity to be regarded just as we are in the matter about which they are boasting. For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of the Messiah. No wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. Therefore it is not surprising if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will be according to their deeds.
~ The Apostle Paul: 2 Corinthians 11:12-15

"But it was because of the false brethren secretly brought in, who had sneaked in to spy out our liberty which we have in Yahshua Messiah, in order to bring us into bondage."
~ The Apostle Paul: Galatians 2:4

"Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. For many [false teachers] walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Yahshua Messiah, whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things."
~ The Apostle Paul: Philippians 3:17-19

"But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron..."
~ The Apostle Paul: 1 Timothy 4:1-2

“But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived."
~ The Apostle Paul: 2 Timothy 3:13

"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths."
~ The Apostle Paul: 2 Timothy 4:3-4

"Children, it is the last hour; and just as you heard that anti-messiah is coming, even now many anti-messiahs have appeared; from this we know that it is the last hour. They went out from us, but they were not really of us; for if they had been of us, they would have remained with us; but they went out, so that it would be shown that they all are not of us."
~ The Apostle John: 1 John2:18-20

"Reject a factious man [specializing in half-truths and misrepresentations "to win others over" - to their personal opinion and misguided zeal – while creating harmful divisions] after a first and second warning, knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned."
~ The Apostle Paul: Titus 3:10-11

"Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from Yahweh as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. ...But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep."
~ The Apostle Peter: 2 Peter 1:20-21, 2:1-3

"For certain persons have crept in unnoticed, those who were long beforehand marked out for this condemnation, ungodly persons who turn the grace of Yahweh into licentiousness and deny our only Master and Lord, Yahshua Messiah. Woe to them! For they have gone the way of Cain, and for pay they have rushed headlong into the error of Balaam. These are the ones who cause divisions, worldly-minded, devoid of the Spirit."
~ Jude: Jude 1:3-4, 11, 19

"Do not be carried away by varied and strange teachings"
~ The Apostle Paul Hebrews 13:9

"You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward Yahweh? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of Yahweh."
~ The Apostle James: James 4:4

"I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth. Because you say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked, I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see. Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent."
~ Yahshua Messiah: Revelation 3:15-19

The Pastor...

"He is the fundamental figure of the Protestant faith. So prevailing is the pastor in the minds of most Christians that he is often better known, more highly praised, and more heavily relied upon than Jesus Christ Himself! The un-scriptural clergy/laity distinction has done untold harm to the body of Christ. It has divided the believing community into first and second-class Christians… and perpetuates an awful falsehood – namely, that some Christians are more privileged than others to serve the Lord… We believe the pastoral office has stolen your right to function as a full member of Christ’s body. It has distorted the reality of the body, making the pastor a giant mouth and transforming you into a tiny ear. It has rendered you a mute spectator who is proficient at taking sermon notes and passing an offering plate. The contemporary pastor is the most unquestioned fixture in twenty-first-century Christianity. Yet not a strand of Scripture supports the existence of this office. "
~ ‘Pagan Christianity?’

Beware of/Expose False Teaching

Romans 16:17-18

I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Yahshua Messiah, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

2 Timothy 4:3-4

For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.

Matthew 7:15

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.

1 John 4:1

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from Yahweh, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.

Colossians 2:8

See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Yahshua Messiah.

Galatians 1:6-9

I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of our Messiah and are turning to a different gospel— not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Yahshua Messiah. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.

2 Corinthians 11:13-15

For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Yahshua Messiah. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.

1 Timothy 4:1

Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,

Jude 1:4

For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our Yahweh into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Yahshua Messiah.

1 Timothy 5:20

As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.

Acts 20:29

I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock;

Matthew 7:21-23

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’

2 Peter 2:1

But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction.

1 Timothy 4:6

If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Yahshua Messiah, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed.

1 Thessalonians 5:21

But test everything; hold fast what is good.

2 John 1:7

For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess the coming of Yahshua Messiah in the flesh. Such a one is the deceiver and the antimessiah.

Ephesians 5:6-13

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of Yahweh comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Yahweh. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Yahweh. ...

John 7:24

Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.”

Matthew 7:15-20

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ...

Matthew 7:13-14

“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.

1 John 4:1-6

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from Yahweh, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of Yahweh: every spirit that confesses that Yahshua Messiah has come in the flesh is from Yahweh, and every spirit that does not confess Yahshua is not from Yahweh. This is the spirit of the antimessiah, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. Little children, you are from Yahweh and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. ...

Colossians 2:20

If with Yahshua Messiah you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations—

2 Corinthians 11:13-14

For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Yahshua Messiah. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.

Matthew 24:1-51

Yahshua left the temple and was going away, when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the close of the age?” And Yahshua answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and they will lead many astray. ...

Matthew 18:15-17

“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the ekklesia, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.

Jude 1:3

Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.

2 John 1:10

If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting,

1 John 2:27

But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.

2 Peter 2:3

And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.

2 Peter 1:21

For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from Yahweh as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

2 Timothy 4:3

For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,

2 Timothy 3:16-17

All Scripture is breathed out by Yahweh and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of Yahweh may be competent, equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 3:13

While evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.

2 Timothy 3:5

Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.

1 Timothy 6:3-5

If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Yahshua Messiah and the teaching that accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.

2 Thessalonians 2:8

And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom Yahshua Messiah will kill with the breath of his mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming.

2 Corinthians 11:13

For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Yahshua messiah.

2 Corinthians 4:4

In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Yahshua messiah, who is the image of Yahweh.

John 8:44

You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

John 3:19-20

And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed.

Luke 6:46

“Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?

Luke 6:39

He also told them a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?

Mark 13:1-37

And as he came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher, what wonderful stones and what wonderful buildings!” And Yahshua said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? There will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” And as he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when all these things are about to be accomplished?” And Yahshua began to say to them, “See that no one leads you astray. ...

Honor Yahweh's Word