"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." (Phil. 4:8)
The word 'honest' in this verse carries the idea of 'honorable' (Strong) or 'venerable' (Thayer). This word is translated 'grave' in 1 Timothy 3:8, 11; Titus 2:2. Many professing Christians attend church in an attitude that is casual rather than 'grave.' They view God as a 'buddy.' Church is a social club. Some throw a swimming party when observing baptism (by this I mean: they would back-flip some candidate into the water if so requested). I read of a church and restaurant merge called "Holy Macaroni." I believe they still try to hold services there, but folks could just sit and relax, enjoy a meal, as well as a church service, of course "no one is going to force Christianity" on anyone. How casual, how irreverent, how opposite of 'things honest.'
The word 'honest' in this verse carries the idea of 'honorable' (Strong) or 'venerable' (Thayer). This word is translated 'grave' in 1 Timothy 3:8, 11; Titus 2:2. Many professing Christians attend church in an attitude that is casual rather than 'grave.' They view God as a 'buddy.' Church is a social club. Some throw a swimming party when observing baptism (by this I mean: they would back-flip some candidate into the water if so requested). I read of a church and restaurant merge called "Holy Macaroni." I believe they still try to hold services there, but folks could just sit and relax, enjoy a meal, as well as a church service, of course "no one is going to force Christianity" on anyone. How casual, how irreverent, how opposite of 'things honest.'
The word 'just' means 'righteous, observing divine law' (Thayer). We should want to learn more about God and His Word to in order to be 'just.' We live in a day and age where right and wrong is being blurred by compromise. Good is spoken of as evil and vice versa. Doing what is just may not necessarily be the most popular thing to do but as Christians we have a responsibility to make sure that we are equitable in dealing with others. When we deal with people about their soul's destiny, for example, we must tell them about their sinful condition and warn them about Hell. When we deal with others in business we must strive to provide them with the best materials, or the best service that we could possibly render.
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