Barnes church of Christ

The question before us in this series of articles is, did the apostles of Christ know that Jesus was not resurrected? Yet, they preached he was resurrected anyway, but if they knew he was not resurrected, there must be some compelling reason. Think about it, what reason did the apostles have for preaching a resurrected Jesus, when they knew he was not resurrected?
On the first Pentecost after the death of Jesus, Peter with the other eleven apostles said: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36). You can almost see Peter pointing his finger right at them as he speaks! But, just what did he say? If they crucified Jesus, and they did; and God made Jesus “both Lord and Christ,” and he did; Peter was preaching a resurrected Jesus! This was only fifty days after the crucifixion, and if Jesus was not resurrected, and the apostles knew it; then, they had to come up with this elaborate, unbelievable, story of the resurrection in this short time! But if so, why did they do so? Keep in mind, the people, only fifty days earlier had cried out, “Crucify him” (Mark 15:14). Would the same people now favor those who preach “Jesus,” the same one they had cried out, “Crucify him” only a time earlier? Would they now believe this “fairy tale” resurrection which even the preachers of it knew was false? Yes, about 3,000 of them did believe, having their heart “pierced thoroughly” by the words spoken and they cried out, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). They were now convinced they had crucified the Christ and he was now resurrected!
Yet, the question remains, did the apostles know it was all a lie? But why would these men, part of which had a business of fishing, Peter, Andrew, James and John (Matt. 4:18-22), and another, Matthew, being a tax collector, which they gave up; gain by promoting this lie? Would they be favored with the majority of the people, with leaders of the Jews, or would they gain financially? The 3,000 who obeyed their teaching on the day of Pentecost was but a small part of the total number of those in Jerusalem, which some have set at over two million seven hundred thousand! Then, just how well did things go? In Acts chapter five they sure were not favored, as the high priest and the Sadducees were all “filled with indignation, “and laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison” (Acts 5:17-18). This was only the start of their difficulties! They were taken again, but what had they done between the two events? Luke wrote the chief priest said: “Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us” (verse 28). Yes, between the first arrest and the second, these men had filled Jerusalem with the preaching of the resurrected Jesus! If they knew it was all a lie, why would they do this? Then, they are now commanded not to teach “in this name (Jesus)!’ So, what is their answer? In a very clear voice, they said: “We ought to obey God rather than men” (verse 29). With prison before them, they declared to the high priest, we are going to obey God, not you! But, if they knew it was a lie, why?
But, it did not stop here! Next Stephen, though not an apostle, is stoned to death (Acts 7:59). Now, think about this, enter Saul: “And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles” (Acts 8:1-2). Looking on are the apostles, they see those they have converted by their teaching, but, if they know it is all a lie, how can they stand by while their converts are being persecuted by Saul? Then, one of their own is put to death by Herod in Acts chapter 12. Did the other eleven finally come to their senses and stop this lie?
No, they knew it was not a lie, but divine truth! They had seen the resurrected Jesus and this is why they no longer went fishing, but were preaching the resurrected Christ! This is why they said: “We ought to obey God rather than men!” This is why they were willing to die, it was not a lie, but the truth; Jesus was in fact resurrected from the dead and he lives! And so they preached it!
This is what they knew! This is why they preached: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.” Friends, here is the means of your salvation! Yet, it remains for you, as Peter said: “Save yourselves from this untoward generation” (Acts 2:40).

— Frank R. Williams

It was early the first day of the week, in fact, it was just beginning to dawn toward the first day of the week, when women started their journey toward the sepulcher where the body of Jesus at been placed. As they neared the sepulcher it was at the rising of the sun. They talked about the large stone which sealed the tomb and how it was to be moved, as they knew they could not do so.
As they approached the tomb they were surprised to see that the stone had been moved; the sepulcher was open! As they entered into the tomb, ”they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him” (Mark 16:5-6). The key words are, “he is risen!” Meaning, he is resurrected! The question at the heart of this series of articles is this, did the apostles know that Jesus was not resurrected, yet preached that he was anyway?
It is a well-known fact; many people through the years have believed a lie! People have even been willing to die, while believing a lie. However, it is wrong to put the apostles of Christ in this same category! Why so you ask? The apostles, at first did not believe that Jesus was resurrected. This was pointed out in the first article, so just one reference will be noticed here. Luke wrote, when the women told the apostles that Jesus had been resurrected: “And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not” (Luke 24:11). Then, there is this point, Jesus had told the apostles before his death about his resurrection; and he told the apostles: “But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee” (Matt. 26:32). Did the apostles believe he would be resurrected? No, they did not! They did not go to Galilee after his death. In fact, notice what the angel tells the women: “And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you” (Matt. 28:7). Why did the angel have to tell the women to tell the apostles to go to Galilee? Had they believed in the resurrection of Jesus, they would have already been in Galilee, but they did not go. Thus, proving they did not believe he was going to be resurrected! So, what changed their minds? Or, did they just decide to believe a lie and start preaching a lie?
So, at the time Jesus was put to death, the apostles did not believe he was going to be resurrected! They did not prepare for his resurrection, as they did not obey him. Then, even after some of them had seen Jesus alive, at least one, Thomas, still did not believe Jesus was alive! Here is a good place to point out, they were not busy preparing a story about Jesus being resurrected, as they were a group of men without any hope. Their hope of a king and kingdom, died with Jesus. Their hope was buried in the tomb with a dead man, in whom they had placed their hope and in who their hope died! So, why in only fifty days, were they in Jerusalem preaching that Jesus was resurrected?
We have already seen that the Jews had made sure that no one could come by night and take the body of Jesus, as they sealed the tomb and put forth a guard. They knew that Jesus had taught that he was going to be resurrected in three days. It may be the case that they understood this point better than did the disciples, as the disciples gave no credence to it at all. So, here we are asking the question, did the apostles know that Jesus was not resurrected, but after fifty days went out and preached a resurrected Jesus anyway?
Did the apostles know it was a lie, but preached it anyway? Did they have anything to gain by doing so? Did they think it would make them popular? It is easy to answer these questions, as all one has to do is look at Jesus. Did he gain anything by being Jesus? Just look at the cross and there is your answer! So, did the apostles of Christ know the story of the resurrection of Jesus was a lie, but they preached it anyway? What did they have to gain by doing so? Did they gain favor with the Jews? Did they enjoy favor with the Romans? Did they become wealthy?

— Frank R. Williams

Jesus of Nazareth stood before Pilate and heard him say: “I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it” (Matt. 27:24). “Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers. And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe. And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews! And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head. And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him” (Matt. 27:27-31). Here Jesus died!
It was Joseph, a counsellor of Arimathaes, a city of the Jews; who went unto Pilate, “and begged the body of Jesus he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid” (Luke 23:50-53). Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, joined Joseph in this burial (John 19:39). As these two men buried Jesus there were women who followed them in order to know where the body of Jesus was buried (Luke 23:55). The reason for their action was that they planned to return to the sepulchre on the first day of the week with “prepared spices and ointments” (Luke 23:56). Therefore, these women made their way to the sepulchre as it was yet dark, but light was seen coming up “upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning” (Luke 24:1). As they walked toward the Sepulchre they talked among themselves as to how the large stone covering the entry way into the sepulchre would be rolled away (Mark 16:3). To their amazement, as they reached the sepulchre, the women saw the stone was already rolled away; so they entered “into the sepulchre” and “saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted” (Mark 16:5). The body of Jesus was not there! Matthew informs us the “young man” was an angel (Matt. 28:5) and he said: “Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him” (Mark 16:6). It is with these words that the challenge to the apostles of Christ begins!
Did the apostles know that Jesus of Nazerath was not really resurrected? But that his body had been taken away. This was the story put forth by the Jews at the time: “And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers, Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept. And if this come to the governor’s ears, we will persuade him, and secure you. So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day” (Matt. 28:12-15).
Let us look at the words, “if this come to the governor’s ears.” What is the subject of these words? The subject is, “while we slept.” If word reached the governor’s ears that the soldiers fell asleep while on guard duty, a penalty would have to be paid by the soldiers. Whatever the penalty would have been, the Jews said they “will persuade him;” meaning, persuade him not to take action against them! Now, we must understand, the body of Jesus was missing; it was missing while the guards were on duty; it was missing while the guards were not asleep, as this was to be their excuse for it being stolen. So, what happened to the body of Jesus? Did the apostles of Christ know it had actually been stolen?
Never mind for the moment, how the body was stolen with guards on duty, and a false story had to be concocted up by the elders of the Jews. Answer this question: Why would the apostles, who did not believe Jesus was going to be resurrected and who did not go to Galilee as Jesus had told them to do; at the last moment determine to fake a resurrection? Then, these same men would for the rest of their lives, put their lives in danger, indeed, tradition says, they were put to death (James was put to death in Acts 12) for preaching the resurrected Christ; while all the time knowing that it was all false!
People will die for what they believe, but how many will willingly die knowing what they are teaching is a lie?

– Frank R. Williams

Solomon wrote: “And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh” (Ecc. 12:12). There is more here than first meets the eye in Solomon’s words, but, our attention will be directed to the words, “of making many books there is no end.” With the invention of the printing press the subjects of making of “many books,” took on new life; but even this requires a few words itself. We are talking about “movable type printing” which was invented around 1439 by Johannes Gutenberg. The arrival of mechanical movable type printing introduced the era of mass communication and it produced a remarkable increase in the number of books it made available to the general public. Of course, before this, most copies of books were hand copied and sold at a very high price. Therefore, the average person could not afford to purchase books.
Think about it this way, Wikipedia says there are 800,000 words in the Bible and the average person can copy 1,300 words an hour. This means it would take one person, if he could maintain 1,300 words per hour for eight hours, about 77 days to copy the Bible. However, it must be remembered, when the copy was completed, you had but one copy. So, what does this mean? It means the making of books was slower than trying to pour cold molasses! On the other hand, the Gutenberg printing press allowed, once the type was set up, many copies to be printed; thus, the making of books was greatly increased.
No matter the number of books printed there is one book known as “The Book,” which has at its core these words: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecc. 12:13-14). Though greatly rejected by the majority of every generation, they still stand as the one message to mankind! Man can reject God as the Creator, but he is left with the impossibility to answer his own existence. For as he tries to answer, certain facts keep coming back to him; “nothing comes from nothing!” and “life comes from life!” Each of these eternal facts do not go away and have no answer without God. Thus, “The Book” reads: “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” (Gen. 1:1). “The Book” starts with “something” and it starts with “life.” Thus, it answers both questions which the rejecter of God cannot answer and it does so in its opening statement! In doing so, “The Book” has made man responsible to and answerable to God; thus, the words of Solomon.
In the failure of mankind to “keep” the commandments of God, he sinned and this resulted in being separated from God. Therefore, because God is not only the Creator, but also the loving Father, he provided an answer to mankind’s greatest need. Man needed a means of reconciliation; a restoration to God. Why was this necessary? Because as Paul wrote, when speaking of the Jews and Gentiles: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). For as sure as we live, we sin once we reach a time in life wherein we are accountable for our actions; therefore, we need reconciliation as our sin has separated us from God. Thanks be to God, as Paul wrote: “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8). “The Book” reveals to us, “the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot” (1 Pet. 1:19), by which we are redeemed. Being redeemed, we are also reconciled, restored to God from which our personal sin had separated us. Thus, “The Book” not only states our obligation to keep the commandments of God, but answers the question of what happens when we fail to do so.
Yes, Solomon wrote of the making of books there is no end, but “The Book” stands alone, even with the invention of the printing press and in the modern world where books may be printed within forty-eight hours, “The Book” still stands! It is said that more than 6 billion copies of the Bible, “The Book,” have been sold starting from 1541. This is more than any other book! It is also said, that the Bible has been translated into at least 531 languages; then, at least some part of it has been translated into 2,883 languages.
But, in whatever language, it is the only book that answers the questions of life; where did we come from, to whom are we accountable, by what standard must we live, and where are we going after death? There is but one book which answers to “The Book” and it is Bible, the word of God! My friends, you need to read it, study it, love it, and obey it!

— Frank R. Williams

It may be the case that you never gave much thought to the importance of pronouns and the stories they have to tell, but they can change the meaning of a text when understood. When a text has two pronouns: 1) “us” and 2) “ye;” it should be clear that two groups are being addressed. When the “us” has done something on behalf of the “ye,” that has changed the spiritual state of the “ye,” it is important to know who did it and what was done.
Is there such a text that reveals the above action? Yes, the apostle Paul wrote such words. However, before looking at these words, let us notice a text which most of us know: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Cor. 5:17). One must “be in Christ” in order to be “a new creature;” but many have no idea how to get “in Christ!” The same apostle will answer the question: “For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ” (Gal. 3:17). So, how one gets “in Christ” is no longer a mystery, as Paul stated, “as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ; “ and no one, but those who have been “baptized into Christ” have “put on Christ.” If one has “put on Christ” by being “baptized into Christ,” then, he is “in Christ” and this is how one gets “into Christ!”
Now, just what does this mean? Going back to our text and allowing Paul to answer: “And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Cor. 5:18). Did you notice that Paul changed terms? More than likely you did not! He went from the generic “any man” in verse 17, to “us” in verse 18. Why the change? Paul informs why when he writes, it is God who “hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ.” Now, here is the question: Who is the antecedent of the pronoun “us?” Is it not a fact, that all who have obeyed the gospel of Christ have been “reconciled” to God? Well, let us give more thought to the question. Whoever stands as the antecedent to the pronoun “us,” has also received “the ministry of reconciliation,” as God has “given to us the ministry of reconciliation.” Before writing any more, it is important that we remember the New Testament was written during the time of the apostles, who had been commissioned and who had received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. These men stood where no others stood; they had received what no others ever received; and they were charged with doing what no others were so charged. Let Peter clarify this point as he speaks to Cornelius: “And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead” (Acts 10:39-42). As you read this, did you notice that Peter said: “Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead?” Clearly, the apostles stood separated, in that they were “witnesses chosen before of God” to “testify.” We must not confuse any others with the charge: “he commanded us to preach unto the people and to testify” with what others did. The apostles stood under a commandment which no others stood; and they received what no others ever received.
Now, with these thoughts before us, let us go back to our text and the words: “hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Cor. 5:18). These words are followed with: “To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation” (verse 19). Just who is this “us?” It is the apostles! Now hang on to your hat! Paul continued: “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God” (verse 20). Did you see it? Did you notice the change in Paul’s use of pronouns? He went from “we” to “you” in his statement. He wrote: “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ;” friends, he did not write “you” are “ambassadors!” No, but he did write: “we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” You see, the Corinthians were reconciled to God by the “us,” the “ambassadors for Christ!”
The apostles by their unique commission were “ambassadors for Christ!” Just what does the word “ambassador” mean? It is the Greek, “presbeuó,” and has more than one meaning. Yet, each one is important to understanding the word. First, it means: to be older; second, it means: to be an ambassador. Paul used this word when writing to Philemon where it is translated Paul “the aged” (verse 9). However, the word “ambassador” means: “an authorized representative or messenger.” Yes, there are other meanings, but this relates directly to our text. Remember Paul had just written: “that God … hath committed unto us (the apostles) the word of reconciliation … now then we are ambassadors for Christ.” The word of reconciliation was given to the apostles of Christ in order that we may be reconciled to God! The apostles of Christ were the authorized representatives, the witnesses, the ambassadors for Christ; in that their words were his words and his words were their words!
It is hoped that in our study of pronouns the reader will pay more attention to the pronouns when reading the word of God! The Holy Spirit chose these pronouns; therefore, each one is important to the meaning and understanding of the text in which they appear!

— Frank R. Williams

In this article about pronouns, attention is called to the words of the apostle Peter. However, before looking his at words, here is a question: “How many times have you read a passage and not noticed that the writer changes pronouns?” More than likely you do not know, having not noticed the change. Just a change in pronouns, also changes what the writer is saying.
At times the overall truth is not changed, but our understanding of the truth being written is changed. Such changes are important to the person who truly desires to know the truth. Let us remember the words of Jesus to those Jews who believed on him: “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). Realizing it is truth and only truth that has the ability to make us truly free; truth is all important to the lover of truth. Therefore, even if we understand the overall truth on a subject, but fail to see the truth being taught in a verse, we must be willing to learn and change our minds about what the writer is teaching. So, with this challenge before us, we are ready to study the words of Peter.
In the open verses of Second Peter, he wrote: “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (2 Pet. 1:3-4). So, how many times have you read these verses? Maybe you have read these verses hundreds of times or even more? Have you ever noticed that Peter changes pronouns as he writes? He goes from “us” to “ye” and this change makes a big difference in what he is saying! It has been said, that confession is good for the soul, so allow me to confess, I have failed to see this change in years gone by, but then one day I read with more care and there it was, “us” and “ye” and what Peter was writing became clearer.
First, we need to identify the antecedent to the first pronoun “us.” There is no one else with Peter as he writes: “Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ” (verse 1). The pronoun “ye” must refer to those to whom he wrote; therefore, they are not included in the “us.” Would it surprise you, if I were to write, there is no antecedient in the context for the plural pronoun “us?” Therefore, it must be an understood antecedent! It is understood by the action of what Peter writes: “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue.” Let us stop just here and notice the words “hath given,” (doreomai) which expresses the perfect tense, indicating past completed action with an ongoing effect, where the emphasis is on the effect. The past action is when the Holy Spirit guided the apostles into “all truth,” which continues to have a present effect. To whom did the Lord give “all things that pertain unto life and godliness?” Your first response might be, well, don’t we today have “all things that pertain unto life and godliness?” Yes, we do, but it was not given unto us in the way it was given unto the apostles of Christ, and this is the key to understanding Peter’s words. You see, the apostles of Christ were guided, directly and personally, into all truth, “all things pertain unto life and godliness” by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, the pronoun “us” refers to the apostles of Christ!
Second, this brings us the pronoun “ye,” of which Peter writes: “that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature.” That is, by “all things that pertain unto life and godliness,” which the apostles of Christ received directly by means of the Holy Spirit; we (“ye”) having heard are able to become “partakers of the divine nature!” Thus, our being able to “become partakers of the divine nature” is by means of the words the apostles preached, as they were guided by the Holy Spirit! Here once more is the past action with the present effect!
Therefore, by means of the preaching and writing of the apostles of Christ, the New Testament, we today have “all things that pertain to life and godliness,” and by these things we have the ability to become “partakers of the divine nature!” You see, the end result has not changed as to your understanding of this great text, but you now, hopefully, have a better understanding of the context by noticing Peter’s change in the uses of pronouns!
Yes, pronouns have a story to tell as they lead to a better and fuller understanding of the truth which shall make us free when obeyed.

– – Frank R. Williams

In an earlier article under this heading, it was pointed out that even when something is said to one group, in the context, it may have application to a larger group of people. In this article we will look at this once more. Attention is called to Jesus’ words: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:34-35). That these words spoken by Jesus were personally directed to the twelve disciples is clear from the context.
However, it is necessary to spend a little time proving the point. The event, thus, the context, is “supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot” to betray Jesus (verse 2); Jesus washed the feet of the disciples. Afterwards, Jesus was troubled in spirit and said: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me” (verse 21). Judas is identified: “He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon” (verse 26). Judas then departed, leaving Jesus and the eleven. It is here that Jesus speaks a few words about his departing, his death and resurrection, but in unusual words. This brings us to those beautiful words: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” Yes, without question, these words were spoken directly to the eleven! The first application was to the eleven to whom Jesus spoke.
However, though the personal pronoun “you,” being the Greek “humin,” is plural and refers to the eleven; the commandment is far greater than those who would be the apostles of Christ. The revelation which is revealed in the action commanded, “that ye love one another,” and identifies them as his disciples is open ended and unlimited! It is in fact, a test, the test of discipleship! Taking into account that it was “disciples” who were first called “Christians,” (Acts 11:26) it is also a test of being a Christian!
Yet, the context is most clear that Jesus was personally speaking to the eleven! Notice what happens next: “Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards. Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice” (verses 36 – 38). Yes, it is obvious that in this context Jesus was addressing Peter! As a side note, have we not all been like Peter, in our words spoken so bravely, been so sure of our faithfulness; only see our failure in short order?
We do not rejoice in Peter’s failure, but we can identify with it. As we are writing on this subject, we must also note Peter’s great example of what to do upon seeing our sin. This results in one of the great scenes in the New Testament; Peter is charged with being one of Jesus’ disciples: “And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And Peter went out, and wept bitterly (Luke 22:60-62). If only we could see the eyes of the Lord when we sin and see the look on his face; we also might “wept bitterly!”
Yes pronouns have lessons to teach, if we are only willing to learn! So it is true, that words spoken or written to a certain person, or group of people, may have greater application as we have seen in the context of John chapter thirteen. Yet, this is not always the case and there is great danger in failing to identifying the antecedent of a pronoun(s), as we might conclude that the command, the promise, or what is being said, wrongly applies to us today when it does not!
At the same time, as in this article, we must not overlook the fact that we may find in some context which does not apply to us today directly, nevertheless may reveal truths that are greater than the context! However, this truth is no excuse for laziness on our part in studying the word of life!

— Frank R. Williams

As we read pronouns in the New Testament, we must keep in mind, each one was chosen by the Holy Spirit; therefore, each has its own story to tell in the context it appears. If we just read over these little, often two-letter pronouns, we are going to miss something the Holy Spirit has put into the statement being made. By doing this, we are subject to reaching a wrong conclusion as to what the Holy Spirit, through the writer, is revealing. Let us now notice a few cases where the use of a certain pronoun changes what some have concluded.
Paul wrote to the church in Corinth: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1 Cor. 6:19). Just how carefully did you read Paul’s words? First, the words “know ye not” is an expression used to introduce an argument. In this case, here is something you should know, “your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.” Did you notice the pronoun “your?” It is a plural pronoun being the Greek “humon.” Now, read with care the next word, “body,” which has the article “the” before the word “body” in the Greek Majority Text; therefore it reads: “the body.” It must be noted the words “the body” is singular! Yes, Paul used a plural pronoun “your” with a singular “the body!” Paul did not write “bodies,” but “the body,” as in the one body which is the church (Eph. 1:22-23). Paul then follows with: “is the temple of the Holy Spirit.” The singular “body,” the church is “the temple of the Holy Spirit.” Paul is not writing about the human physical body, but the one “body,” the church, which is “the temple of the Holy Spirit.” Yet, people continue to read this text as though Paul used a singular pronoun “you,” making Paul say, our physical body is “the temple of the Holy Spirit,” which he did not!
It is also of interest to note the following verse: “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your (humon) body, and in your (humon) spirit, which are God’s” (verse 20). The pronouns “your” before the word “body” and before the word “spirit” are both plural (humōn). Yet, each is used with a singular “body” and “spirit.” It is also true here, as in verse 19, the article “the” appears before both: 1) “the body” and 2) “the spirit.” Therefore, the one body, the church, has one spirit. More than likely the word “spirit” refers to one disposition that runs through the one body. Now, why is this? Because we have all, all who are in the one body and who have one disposition have been “bought with a price” and that “price” is “the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot” (1 Pet. 1:19). Therefore, the body and the spirit which we are collectively and does not belong to us, but as Paul wrote, “which are God’s!” Shame on anyone, or any group who would treat the church as though she belongs to them!
While on this subject, this is a good time to address the subject that the church, the body, was purchased by Christ as Paul pointed out when addressing the elders of church of Ephesus, he said: “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Spirit hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood” (Acts 20:28). Here Paul wrote that “God” “hath purchased” the church “with his own blood.” The word “God” must refer to the second member of the Godhead as he is the only member who was made flesh, thus, having blood. Some manuscripts have “the church of the Lord.” However, the point being made here is the “preciousness” of the church. The value we place upon a thing is the price we are willing to pay for it. God was willing to pay for the church the “precious blood” of Jesus, his only begotten Son.
It should be noted that pronouns are very important to our understanding of the text in which they appear! First, we need to read with care; while noticing when there is a plural pronoun used with another word that is singular. As the writer is expressing a collective singular and this is the church; as in ye (plural) are the Barnes church of Christ. The Barnes church of Christ is one, but made up of “ye!” You, singular, are never “the temple of the Holy Spirit,” unless you are the only member of the church.
Yes, pronouns have a story to tell if we are willing to listen. How many times have we read a text, but never noticed the Holy Spirit had the writer using a plural pronoun with singular noun? Let us keep in mind, we are reading the word of God, we are reading the words chosen by the Holy Spirit; and we are reading the word of life!

— Frank R. Williams

Understanding the use of pronouns may become more difficult when, in the context, words appear which are amenable to those being personally spoken to, but also are amenable to all. In the last article, we studied John chapters fourteen through sixteen, and the subject was the “Comforter.” The text was: “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you” (John 14:26). It was proven in the article, that the pronoun “you” does not refer to anyone living today. It referred to the apostles of Christ.
Yet, in this same context, Jesus spoke words which apply to all; those living then and all living today. As a matter of fact, the words could have been said in the Garden of Eden! In other words, the words which are here referred to are amenable and applied to people of all time. So, what are these words? “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). It is always true, the person who loves God (Jesus being Deity) will keep his commandments! This was true of Adam, of Abraham, of Isaac, of Jacob, of Moses, of Daniel, of John, who baptized, of John the apostle of Christ, it was true of the churches of Christ in the first century, and it is true of those living today. It does not matter the context, it does not matter to whom the words are being spoken and neither does it matter who is saying them, it will always be true: ““If ye love me, keep my commandments,” when the “me” and the “my” refer to God, to Jesus!
This just points out the truth, as one reads and studies the word of God, be it the Old or New Testament, care must be given to the pronouns in the text. For example, Jesus sent out his twelve disciples to the “the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matt. 10:1-6). Clearly he is speaking and commanding the twelve, but are there things within the context which would apply to us today? What about these words: “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves” (Matt. 10:16)? Is it not true, Christians should, as we do the work of the church (Eph.1:23; 3:9-10) in teaching the lost, are going “in the midst of wolves,” but we should be “wise as serpents, and harmless as doves?” Yes we should! So once more we have found words spoken to one small group of men, the twelve disciples, which are also true of the church of our Lord today. There are a number of other points in this context which have application to us today, but there are also some things within the context which do not apply to anyone but the twelve disciples who are named in verses two through four. Look at verse 19: “But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.” Personally, I confess that I would be a much better teacher and preacher if the Holy Spirit would put within my mind the words I needed and the “how” I should speak; but alas it is not to be! These words applied to the twelve and not to anyone living today. Yet, there are some who think otherwise, but the evidence is missing! So, what does this mean to the person reading and studying the New Testament? It means we must read and study with care; even great care, as we notice the pronouns appearing in the context!
Let us look at a few other statements in the context of Matthew chapter ten. Having seen that Jesus is speaking to the twelve disciples, of whom eleven would become the apostles of Christ; there are other very important points that apply to all the disciples of Christ today; the church of our Lord. Throughout history, Christians have suffered persecution, and some have been put to death. Therefore, fear has filled their hearts and Jesus addressed this subject with the twelve disciples, personally. He said to them: “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (The word “hell” is “Gehenna,” the eternal place of punishment)” (Matt. 10:28). Do these words have any application to the Christian of today? Yes, very much! In our world today, Christians are persecuted and some are being put to death. Should these take the words of Jesus personally; or should they fear man to the point of denying their faith in Christ? You see, even though the words were spoken to the twelve disciples, they have application to all who would be faithful to Christ throughout the age of Christ.
So, we have learned that even in a context where the pronouns refer to others, we may find words within the context that have application to others; even those living today. We must read, but we must also study and as we do so, we must pay attention to the pronouns used in the text and context.

— Frank R. Williams

Pronouns are most important in any study of the New Testament, as they have a story to tell. As a matter of fact, you cannot understand the teaching of Christ without paying attention to the speaker’s, or the writer’s use of pronouns. Any number of false teachings have been arrived at simply because someone did not study more carefully the pronouns in the context.
This may cause some of you to mark me as a “heretic”, but the New Testament was not written to you! Oh, of course, you have known that letters were written to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon; you also have known that letters were written to churches, such as the church at Rome, at Corinth, at Ephesus and others; then you have known that letters were written to groups of people, such as the Hebrews Christians, and to those James called, “the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad” and Peter called “to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia.” Yet, somehow, we have continued to maintain in our minds, that everything we read is directly written to us. Well, it just wasn’t! Those pronouns “us” and “you” in the text is not “you” and “us!” These pronouns must not be taken at first reading as personal; speaking directly to us today.
Here is what I mean! Jesus said: “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever” (John 14:16). Just who is this “you” that Jesus is referring to? One thing for sure, it is not YOU and me! First, it is unfortunate that the King James translators used the word “Comforter;” for this same Greek word, “paraklētos,” is translated into our English word, “advocate” in 1 John 2:1, as John writes: “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate (parakletos) with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” Here Jesus is the “paraklētos,” the “advocate” and not the Holy Spirit. Therefore, Jesus and the Holy Spirit which he was to send in John 14:26, in one respect did and Jesus still does, the same thing. This is understood if we notice Jesus’ use of the word “another,” which is the Greek “allos” and means: another of the same kind; thus, another of the Godhead. In this case, in John 14:26 the Holy Spirit! So, the Holy Spirit was to be “another” of the Godhead who would serve as a “paraklētos!” Some have concluded that the Holy Spirit has the job of “comforting” us today because of these words! But, they have [over- looked] the antecedent to the pronoun Jesus used in the text.
However, “comforting” was not the work of the Holy Spirit, as that is not a good meaning to the Greek word. The word means: “one who pleads another’s cause before a judge, a pleader, counsel for defense, legal assistant, an advocate.” Yet, Jesus did not leave us without understanding as to what the “parakletos” would do; for he said: 1) he will teach you all things, 2) bring all things to your remembrance, 3) guide you into all truth, and 4) show you things to come. (John 14:26 and 16:13). There is the work of the “paraklētos!” Now, do you still believe the “Comforter” is for you? It should be very clear Jesus was not talking to you and me when making this promise! No, he was talking to the disciples, those men who would become his apostles as he would send them out; once the Holy Spirit, the “paraklētos,” came upon them to preach the gospel and to confirm the gospel with signs, to “the uttermost most part of the earth” and this they did (Acts 1:8 and Mark 16:20 and Col 1:23).
Yes, there it is, the personal pronoun “you,” but it does not refer to you and me! It referred to those to whom Jesus was speaking, and this is easy determined by reading and studying the context! The context starts in John chapter thirteen, verse one: “Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.” And it ends in chapter eighteen, verse one: “When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples.”
The only names which appear in this context are those of the twelve disciples, Jesus, and the devil. Clearly, Jesus was not talking to the devil, but he was talking to the disciples; and the pronoun “you” and the promise of the “Comforter,” was not promised to us! A study of those pronouns proves the case!
Yes, the pronouns of the New Testament have a story to tell, if only we will listen and learn what they are telling us. Are you willing to learn?

— Frank R. Williams