More Than a Carpenter - Natural abilities and excellence or Spiritual?

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as_i_am

Junior Member
May 16, 2012
21
0
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"Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him." ~Mark 6:3

This is a vague biblical fact that Jesus was a carpenter and His occupation was as Joseph's who was His father on earth. This seemed to be Jesus' natural ability.
As much as the world gives more attention to the natural talents or "gifts", biblically, there is no emphasis placed on Jesus' natural abilities or excellence. He did as His father on earth, but this was not the excellence nor the most important. The biblical emphasis is instead, on His inner excellence and doing as His Father in heaven. The power of His truth was tempered by patience, long-suffering, kindness, sound-mind, and a compassionate persona. By the Love of Christ, people were set free from the symptoms of their sin which was their separation from all that is Holy. His more excellent gifts were emphasized through people with their healings of mind, body and Spirit coupled with His hope of them being brought to unity with His Father in Heaven.
So the question today is: Are you striving for excellence of flesh or Spirit?

While you may not be the best carpenter, wife, dad or friend, the natural talent can only bring temporary satisfaction to the flesh.
Peter told the blind man... riches he had not (temporarily bring him food, water or even new shoes). Peter had something more excellent that he could give the blind beggar. Peter gave Him the gospel of Jesus the Christ. Through the Holy Spirit, Peter gave the beggar hope through Christ's power to build the blind man's faith... the very gift of heaven. He gave the blind begger His sight, but so he could see more Spiritually than physically. Besides, what was more important after receiving his physical sight? It was to see the riches of Christ, the most valuable thing anyone could attain on this para of heaven.

Be blessed.
 
Exactly. Paul said to Timothy: "Study to show thyself approved unto God". Lots of people study for their diplomas. Studying the Scriptures prayerfully takes spiritual exercise, in contrast, but its rewards are eternal. Blessings.