The End of Days?
***The doomsday clock is set at two minutes to midnight. Some scientists and politicians think that climate change will destroy the earth in less than 12 years unless we do something. Predictions about the end of the world abound. In January of 1989, my wife and I walked into a bookstore. A book caught my eye. It had to do with 88 reasons why Jesus would return in 1988. It was 50% off. Men’s predictions of the end of the world are always foolish.
***Jesus is coming again. There’s no doubt about it. We just don’t know when. Many fail to realize that there are two future comings of the Lord. One day, Jesus will come back to rule and reign on earth. This will happen immediately after “great tribulation such as has not been since the beginning of the world” (Matthew 24:21). This is commonly referred to as the Second Coming.
***But prior to this, He is coming back for His church – all those who have trusted in Him as Savior. He will descend from heaven with a shout, and “the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians. 4:15-17). This is referred to as the Rapture. And though the word is not in the Bible, the concept is.
***At the rapture, the believers are removed from earth to meet the Lord in the air. Only unbelievers are left on the earth. Many of them believe in Christ after the rapture (Revelation 7:9-14). Then, when Christ returns to earth at the second coming, those who have come to faith in Christ and survived the tribulation remain on earth to enter Christ’s kingdom. He then reigns for a thousand years. Those who have continued in unbelief are removed to judgment (Revelation 20: 6; Luke 17:37).
***When Christ comes back in the air (the rapture) to remove the church, this is an imminent event. It can happen at any time. It could happen today, or it may not happen for years. The Scripture teaches the believer to be “looking for the blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our Great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). This truth should comfort us, not make us fear
(1 Thessalonians 4:18).
***The doomsday clock is set at two minutes to midnight. Some scientists and politicians think that climate change will destroy the earth in less than 12 years unless we do something. Predictions about the end of the world abound. In January of 1989, my wife and I walked into a bookstore. A book caught my eye. It had to do with 88 reasons why Jesus would return in 1988. It was 50% off. Men’s predictions of the end of the world are always foolish.
***Jesus is coming again. There’s no doubt about it. We just don’t know when. Many fail to realize that there are two future comings of the Lord. One day, Jesus will come back to rule and reign on earth. This will happen immediately after “great tribulation such as has not been since the beginning of the world” (Matthew 24:21). This is commonly referred to as the Second Coming.
***But prior to this, He is coming back for His church – all those who have trusted in Him as Savior. He will descend from heaven with a shout, and “the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians. 4:15-17). This is referred to as the Rapture. And though the word is not in the Bible, the concept is.
***At the rapture, the believers are removed from earth to meet the Lord in the air. Only unbelievers are left on the earth. Many of them believe in Christ after the rapture (Revelation 7:9-14). Then, when Christ returns to earth at the second coming, those who have come to faith in Christ and survived the tribulation remain on earth to enter Christ’s kingdom. He then reigns for a thousand years. Those who have continued in unbelief are removed to judgment (Revelation 20: 6; Luke 17:37).
***When Christ comes back in the air (the rapture) to remove the church, this is an imminent event. It can happen at any time. It could happen today, or it may not happen for years. The Scripture teaches the believer to be “looking for the blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our Great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). This truth should comfort us, not make us fear
(1 Thessalonians 4:18).
A Sure Claim
Without Christ, I have no claim
There is no worth in fortune nor fame
There is no silver, nor there be gold
Nor anything of the earth my hands can hold
To measure out the worth of His Love
Nothing near, far, under, or above
Without Christ, I am just sinking sand
Thank You, Jesus, for taking hold of my hand
From the pit, You lift me up
And pour Living Water from Thy Cup
To my mouth so feeble and dry
And have wiped every tear from my eye
With Christ, I have a sure claim
I shall be as He is even like the same
And silver and gold will under my feet be
As I walk the Streets, He hast prepared for me.
Without Christ, I have no claim
There is no worth in fortune nor fame
There is no silver, nor there be gold
Nor anything of the earth my hands can hold
To measure out the worth of His Love
Nothing near, far, under, or above
Without Christ, I am just sinking sand
Thank You, Jesus, for taking hold of my hand
From the pit, You lift me up
And pour Living Water from Thy Cup
To my mouth so feeble and dry
And have wiped every tear from my eye
With Christ, I have a sure claim
I shall be as He is even like the same
And silver and gold will under my feet be
As I walk the Streets, He hast prepared for me.
Scary Bible Verses Part 3
“Whoever is born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in Him; and he cannot sin.” (1 John 3:9)
Several verses like this in First John appear cut and dry. For that reason, I shied away from reading it. I know I sin. Some say it just refers to habitual sin, which could be based on the Greek tense. In other words, a ‘true’ believer cannot practice sin. If you do, then you are not saved, according to them. Listening to this teaching made me fear and caused me to lack assurance. It’s the opposite of what John wants his readers to have; “Beloved, we are children of God…” (1 John 3:2). He also assures them here and in chapter five. “These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life…” (1 John 5:13).
Well, my first question is always: what is the context? Does the interpretation fit the context of the passage, the book, and the entire Bible? Secondly, who is the epistle written to? Thirdly, what is the purpose of the letter?
Fellowship vs. Relationship
The apostle John is writing to fellow believers so they could have fellowship with him, other believers, and the Lord (1 John 1:3). Fellowship is only available to believers, not unbelievers. All believers are in a relationship with God, but not all are in fellowship. Chapter three is about abiding in Christ. “Whoever abides in Him does not sin” (1 John 3:6). Abiding is the same as fellowship. It’s walking in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:7). It is living life out of the new nature. When you live out of the resource and power of the Spirit, it is impossible to sin. The new nature is born of God and cannot sin.
Practice vs. Do
Now, I readily admit I’m not a Greek scholar. But I can look things up in Greek concordances and dictionaries. In my humble opinion, this argument for ‘practicing’ doesn’t fit. According to Strong’s Concordance, the Greek word for practice is ‘prasso’. The word used in 1 John 3:9 is the Greek word, ‘poieo’. Strong’s states that; ‘poieo’ refers to a single act. That makes sense because you cannot do one single act of sin when living out of the resources of the new nature. The new nature is what is born of God and cannot sin.
Sinners by nature and by practice
If you are honest with yourself, you will readily admit that you sin regularly, even if it’s only once a day in thought, word, or deed. Additionally, not doing what you should is a sin of omission. One sin a day for a month certainly would be a practice, wouldn’t it? The truth is we are sinners by nature and by practice. John made it clear in chapter one that all sin – “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8).
Some sinners are worse than others
In comparison to one another, indeed, some are worse sinners than others. You can look at the Bible and see that some believers were more faithful than others. But even the best in the Bible sinned in some significant ways. Often, they suffered the results of their sin, but it didn’t keep them from entering the kingdom of heaven.
The way you live matters!
God’s will for us is our sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3). Sanctification is living a life that is set apart unto God. He gave us a new nature and the Spirit to give us the power to do what He wants us to do. His grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts; and that we should live godly and soberly (Titus 2:11). I’m not trying to say that how you live doesn’t matter. It does matter. It is impossible to determine how much sinning proves you’re not saved.
Those who teach that practicing sinners are not saved should look at themselves. They are laying heavy burdens on people, which they themselves cannot do (Matthew 23:4). John has written this epistle to believers, encouraging them to walk in the light so that they would remain in fellowship with the Lord, not so they could go to heaven. As a believer, abiding in Christ is the only way to live a purposeful, functional, and fruitful life. When abiding in Him, you cannot sin because you are living out of the new nature that is born of God. But no one abides in Him 100% of the time.
“Whoever is born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in Him; and he cannot sin.” (1 John 3:9)
Several verses like this in First John appear cut and dry. For that reason, I shied away from reading it. I know I sin. Some say it just refers to habitual sin, which could be based on the Greek tense. In other words, a ‘true’ believer cannot practice sin. If you do, then you are not saved, according to them. Listening to this teaching made me fear and caused me to lack assurance. It’s the opposite of what John wants his readers to have; “Beloved, we are children of God…” (1 John 3:2). He also assures them here and in chapter five. “These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life…” (1 John 5:13).
Well, my first question is always: what is the context? Does the interpretation fit the context of the passage, the book, and the entire Bible? Secondly, who is the epistle written to? Thirdly, what is the purpose of the letter?
Fellowship vs. Relationship
The apostle John is writing to fellow believers so they could have fellowship with him, other believers, and the Lord (1 John 1:3). Fellowship is only available to believers, not unbelievers. All believers are in a relationship with God, but not all are in fellowship. Chapter three is about abiding in Christ. “Whoever abides in Him does not sin” (1 John 3:6). Abiding is the same as fellowship. It’s walking in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:7). It is living life out of the new nature. When you live out of the resource and power of the Spirit, it is impossible to sin. The new nature is born of God and cannot sin.
Practice vs. Do
Now, I readily admit I’m not a Greek scholar. But I can look things up in Greek concordances and dictionaries. In my humble opinion, this argument for ‘practicing’ doesn’t fit. According to Strong’s Concordance, the Greek word for practice is ‘prasso’. The word used in 1 John 3:9 is the Greek word, ‘poieo’. Strong’s states that; ‘poieo’ refers to a single act. That makes sense because you cannot do one single act of sin when living out of the resources of the new nature. The new nature is what is born of God and cannot sin.
Sinners by nature and by practice
If you are honest with yourself, you will readily admit that you sin regularly, even if it’s only once a day in thought, word, or deed. Additionally, not doing what you should is a sin of omission. One sin a day for a month certainly would be a practice, wouldn’t it? The truth is we are sinners by nature and by practice. John made it clear in chapter one that all sin – “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8).
Some sinners are worse than others
In comparison to one another, indeed, some are worse sinners than others. You can look at the Bible and see that some believers were more faithful than others. But even the best in the Bible sinned in some significant ways. Often, they suffered the results of their sin, but it didn’t keep them from entering the kingdom of heaven.
The way you live matters!
God’s will for us is our sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3). Sanctification is living a life that is set apart unto God. He gave us a new nature and the Spirit to give us the power to do what He wants us to do. His grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts; and that we should live godly and soberly (Titus 2:11). I’m not trying to say that how you live doesn’t matter. It does matter. It is impossible to determine how much sinning proves you’re not saved.
Those who teach that practicing sinners are not saved should look at themselves. They are laying heavy burdens on people, which they themselves cannot do (Matthew 23:4). John has written this epistle to believers, encouraging them to walk in the light so that they would remain in fellowship with the Lord, not so they could go to heaven. As a believer, abiding in Christ is the only way to live a purposeful, functional, and fruitful life. When abiding in Him, you cannot sin because you are living out of the new nature that is born of God. But no one abides in Him 100% of the time.
It Doesn't Mean What You Think It Means
A while back, Peter Buttigieg, a Democratic Candidate for President, got into a dust-up with then Vice-President Mike Pence concerning the Christian faith. Pete mentioned Matthew, chapter 25, as being a favorite of his. In the aftermath, Jim Wallis, a leading voice in the progressive Christian movement, came to Mr. Buttigieg's defense and mentioned the same chapter was his favorite as well. They both explained the reason for that preference has to do with the "I was hungry, and you fed me, etc." portion of Chapter 25.
Folks, the 25th chapter of the Gospel of Matthew is a stark and foreboding warning of the coming judgment upon the nations of this world. (Is that what they like about it?) It begins with the ten virgins: five believe in Christ, five do not, and He is suddenly at their door. Then, three individuals are given varying amounts of goods to invest in His kingdom. In faith, two did so; the third did not. The two believers entered into their reward; the unbelieving servant was cast out. Next are the sheep and goats. The sheep are described as His brethren and the righteous. Who are His brethren and the righteous? Unlock that key if you can. Chapter 24 is an excellent place to start. The sheep are already His and will respond in faith to HIS call on their lives. The goats are those who reject Him as Savior and Lord and are called cursed and prepared for hell.
We are most assuredly to respond to the physical needs of others as is stressed throughout Scripture, but the third part of Matthew 25 is not about that. When we read or hear information without proper and accurate context, we can go south when we should have gone north. That is often the case with this section of Matthew.
Speaking of the Bible and context, did you know the Bible says, "There is no God"? That is what it says, and I'm not making it up. In Psalm 14:1 it says there is no God. Here is the verse: The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt. They have done abominable works, and none does good." I'm sorry; I guess I was using "There is no God" out of context. Why do we play with words and their intended meanings and context?
The answer in Mr. Wallis and Mr. Buttigieg's cases is found in agendas and fixed narratives. These men and those who are like-minded want to present Jesus as a type of socialist who rubber-stamps their sought-after ever-growing redistributive social programs, aka Big Government. Speaking of which, where in the 25th chapter of Matthew does it say, "I was thirsty, and you had the government take your neighbor's water and give it to me; blessed are you"?
Folks, if you get down to the nitty-gritty of all this, these gentlemen and people who believe as they do are far off on what they think Matthew 25 means and much closer to precisely what Psalm 14:1 means.
A while back, Peter Buttigieg, a Democratic Candidate for President, got into a dust-up with then Vice-President Mike Pence concerning the Christian faith. Pete mentioned Matthew, chapter 25, as being a favorite of his. In the aftermath, Jim Wallis, a leading voice in the progressive Christian movement, came to Mr. Buttigieg's defense and mentioned the same chapter was his favorite as well. They both explained the reason for that preference has to do with the "I was hungry, and you fed me, etc." portion of Chapter 25.
Folks, the 25th chapter of the Gospel of Matthew is a stark and foreboding warning of the coming judgment upon the nations of this world. (Is that what they like about it?) It begins with the ten virgins: five believe in Christ, five do not, and He is suddenly at their door. Then, three individuals are given varying amounts of goods to invest in His kingdom. In faith, two did so; the third did not. The two believers entered into their reward; the unbelieving servant was cast out. Next are the sheep and goats. The sheep are described as His brethren and the righteous. Who are His brethren and the righteous? Unlock that key if you can. Chapter 24 is an excellent place to start. The sheep are already His and will respond in faith to HIS call on their lives. The goats are those who reject Him as Savior and Lord and are called cursed and prepared for hell.
We are most assuredly to respond to the physical needs of others as is stressed throughout Scripture, but the third part of Matthew 25 is not about that. When we read or hear information without proper and accurate context, we can go south when we should have gone north. That is often the case with this section of Matthew.
Speaking of the Bible and context, did you know the Bible says, "There is no God"? That is what it says, and I'm not making it up. In Psalm 14:1 it says there is no God. Here is the verse: The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt. They have done abominable works, and none does good." I'm sorry; I guess I was using "There is no God" out of context. Why do we play with words and their intended meanings and context?
The answer in Mr. Wallis and Mr. Buttigieg's cases is found in agendas and fixed narratives. These men and those who are like-minded want to present Jesus as a type of socialist who rubber-stamps their sought-after ever-growing redistributive social programs, aka Big Government. Speaking of which, where in the 25th chapter of Matthew does it say, "I was thirsty, and you had the government take your neighbor's water and give it to me; blessed are you"?
Folks, if you get down to the nitty-gritty of all this, these gentlemen and people who believe as they do are far off on what they think Matthew 25 means and much closer to precisely what Psalm 14:1 means.
“So much wasted time.”
We don’t have many years to live in this world. The Bible says seventy, eighty. We are a morning bloom, an evening wither, left to the winds. How often do such things occupy our thoughts? Too often, we dive into endless amusements and favored distractions. Like Cain, we go to the land of Nod, the land of endless and useless wanderings. And then the day comes.
In November 2017, when entertainer David Cassidy was breathing his last breath, he said these final words: “So much wasted time.” That struck me. I’ve lived long enough to relate to that. I also recall that when I was a teenager, I wanted to be Keith Partridge. Instead, I was the first incarnation of Steve Urkel. But even David Cassidy, with so much, didn’t have enough bloom to last.
The evening will be here before we know it: amusements and distractions will not forestall the sun setting. Can we put them aside long enough while it is still day to ponder life, death, and eternity? Would that we pray, “O LORD, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am! Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths, and my lifetime is as nothing before you. Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath! And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you. Deliver me from all my transgressions. Do not make me the scorn of the fool!” (Psalm 39:4-8)
What of our brevity? What about our hourglass that runs to an end? Has it been so much wasted time? Who is the ultimate judge of that? Where will I, where will you spend forever, in our endless Nod or His forever glory?
We don’t have many years to live in this world. The Bible says seventy, eighty. We are a morning bloom, an evening wither, left to the winds. How often do such things occupy our thoughts? Too often, we dive into endless amusements and favored distractions. Like Cain, we go to the land of Nod, the land of endless and useless wanderings. And then the day comes.
In November 2017, when entertainer David Cassidy was breathing his last breath, he said these final words: “So much wasted time.” That struck me. I’ve lived long enough to relate to that. I also recall that when I was a teenager, I wanted to be Keith Partridge. Instead, I was the first incarnation of Steve Urkel. But even David Cassidy, with so much, didn’t have enough bloom to last.
The evening will be here before we know it: amusements and distractions will not forestall the sun setting. Can we put them aside long enough while it is still day to ponder life, death, and eternity? Would that we pray, “O LORD, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am! Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths, and my lifetime is as nothing before you. Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath! And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you. Deliver me from all my transgressions. Do not make me the scorn of the fool!” (Psalm 39:4-8)
What of our brevity? What about our hourglass that runs to an end? Has it been so much wasted time? Who is the ultimate judge of that? Where will I, where will you spend forever, in our endless Nod or His forever glory?
Scary Bible Verses Part 2
It has been a while, but let's return to another verse that caused me some fearful moments. "Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works is dead" (James 2:17). Have I done enough good works to prove that I am really saved? I examined 32 commentaries on this verse for my book, Assurance of Heaven. Twenty-seven basically stated that if you do not have works, it is proof that you're not saved. Two of the commentaries were convoluted, and only three were clear that these were saved persons who had failed to show forth spiritual fruit.
Well, which is it? If you see these as unbelievers, which most people do, you will be motivated to do many good things for the wrong reasons. You'll try to do things to make you feel secure that you are on your way to heaven. But you will never have any rest for your soul because you will never know if you have done enough.
The certainty of entering the kingdom of God is not in what we do but in what God has done for us. Assurance is in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is in the promise of God, who cannot lie, that whoever believes in Jesus has everlasting life (John 3:16).
*** Context is key! ***
As always, context is the key to understanding the Bible. The book of James was written to believers. Fifteen times in the book, he refers to them as 'brethren' or 'beloved brethren,' a reference to their spiritual relationship. God brought them forth (He gave spiritual birth to them) by the word of truth (James 1:18). But they had a number of sin issues. They were not being doers of the word (James 1:22). This resulted in showing partiality to the richer brother (James 2:3, 4). They were living according to the world's wisdom (James 3:13, 14). They were fighting and warring with one another (James 4:1). James called them spiritual adulterers and adulteresses (James 4:4). You cannot commit adultery if you have no relationship with another. The same is true with our relationship with God. In other words, they had a relationship with Christ but lived according to the principles of the world.
***Dead doesn't mean non-existent***
James used the example of a brother or sister in need of food. What does it profit the needy brother or sister if you do not give them the help they need? (James 2:16) It doesn't help them and is an example of dead (inactive) faith. Dead doesn't mean non-existent. It simply means inactive or barren.
***Good works are not automatic***
Good works are not automatic in the life of a believer. "And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful" (Titus 3:14). New believers must be taught many things. One of those is to be attentive to the needs of others.
Our old nature is self-focused. When you are born again, God doesn't eradicate it. He gives you a new nature created in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians. 4:24). As believers, we should be learning to live out of the new nature by faith. This is a moment-by-moment, day-by-day response to life. Are you being led by the Spirit, or are you living out the resources of the old nature (the flesh)?
***Failing to walk by faith***
The believers to whom James wrote were saved by faith. But they weren't walking by faith. They were walking according to the old nature, fulfilling the lusts of it. They needed to become doers of the word and not simply hearers only, deceiving themselves (James 1:22). On the positive, they would be blessed by being doers. However, failing to be a doer could eventually lead to premature physical death (James 1:15). As believers, we are not immune from living a sinful lifestyle. But realize that God never removed the consequences for living in such a way.
"The fear of the Lord prolongs days, but the years of the wicked will be shortened" (Proverbs 10:27).
It has been a while, but let's return to another verse that caused me some fearful moments. "Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works is dead" (James 2:17). Have I done enough good works to prove that I am really saved? I examined 32 commentaries on this verse for my book, Assurance of Heaven. Twenty-seven basically stated that if you do not have works, it is proof that you're not saved. Two of the commentaries were convoluted, and only three were clear that these were saved persons who had failed to show forth spiritual fruit.
Well, which is it? If you see these as unbelievers, which most people do, you will be motivated to do many good things for the wrong reasons. You'll try to do things to make you feel secure that you are on your way to heaven. But you will never have any rest for your soul because you will never know if you have done enough.
The certainty of entering the kingdom of God is not in what we do but in what God has done for us. Assurance is in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is in the promise of God, who cannot lie, that whoever believes in Jesus has everlasting life (John 3:16).
*** Context is key! ***
As always, context is the key to understanding the Bible. The book of James was written to believers. Fifteen times in the book, he refers to them as 'brethren' or 'beloved brethren,' a reference to their spiritual relationship. God brought them forth (He gave spiritual birth to them) by the word of truth (James 1:18). But they had a number of sin issues. They were not being doers of the word (James 1:22). This resulted in showing partiality to the richer brother (James 2:3, 4). They were living according to the world's wisdom (James 3:13, 14). They were fighting and warring with one another (James 4:1). James called them spiritual adulterers and adulteresses (James 4:4). You cannot commit adultery if you have no relationship with another. The same is true with our relationship with God. In other words, they had a relationship with Christ but lived according to the principles of the world.
***Dead doesn't mean non-existent***
James used the example of a brother or sister in need of food. What does it profit the needy brother or sister if you do not give them the help they need? (James 2:16) It doesn't help them and is an example of dead (inactive) faith. Dead doesn't mean non-existent. It simply means inactive or barren.
***Good works are not automatic***
Good works are not automatic in the life of a believer. "And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful" (Titus 3:14). New believers must be taught many things. One of those is to be attentive to the needs of others.
Our old nature is self-focused. When you are born again, God doesn't eradicate it. He gives you a new nature created in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians. 4:24). As believers, we should be learning to live out of the new nature by faith. This is a moment-by-moment, day-by-day response to life. Are you being led by the Spirit, or are you living out the resources of the old nature (the flesh)?
***Failing to walk by faith***
The believers to whom James wrote were saved by faith. But they weren't walking by faith. They were walking according to the old nature, fulfilling the lusts of it. They needed to become doers of the word and not simply hearers only, deceiving themselves (James 1:22). On the positive, they would be blessed by being doers. However, failing to be a doer could eventually lead to premature physical death (James 1:15). As believers, we are not immune from living a sinful lifestyle. But realize that God never removed the consequences for living in such a way.
"The fear of the Lord prolongs days, but the years of the wicked will be shortened" (Proverbs 10:27).
Pouring Out, Casting Down
When Doctor Livingstone, the missionary pioneer, was working in Africa, some friends wrote: "We would like to send other men to you. Have you found a good road into your area yet?"
Livingstone wrote back: "If you have men who will only come if they know there is a good road, I don't want them. I want men who will come if there is no road at all." (Reader's Digest [8/89], p.143.)
The Bible tells us that David, the sweet singer of Israel, mighty warrior, and King, had thirty-seven such men. They were fierce fighters against the Philistines and extremely loyal to the Lord's anointed King.
Let us look at one event that demonstrates this: Three of the chief men went down at harvest time and came to David at the cave of Adullam. And the troop of Philistines encamped in the Valley of Rephaim. David was then in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem. David said with longing, "Oh, that someone would give me a drink of the water from the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate!" (2 Samuel 23:13-15)
I imagine David could have attained a drink closer and more accessible, but my guess is he longed for the water from his hometown. Something from home to remind him when life was simple and made of quiet, peaceful green pastures and grazing sheep. Notice what happened next: So, the three mighty men broke through the camp of the Philistines, drew water from the well of Bethlehem that was by the gate, and took it and brought it to David. (2 Samuel 23:16)
That was Love, sacrifice, and the willingness to give all for another, even their lives. How would David respond as they handed the water to him, and he realized what they had done?
Nevertheless, he would not drink it, but poured it out to the Lord. And he said, "Far be it from me, O Lord, that I should do this! Is this not the blood of the men who went in jeopardy of their lives?" Therefore, he would not drink it. (2 Samuel 23:17)
I am sure those three men were shocked. I would be trying to chase the water back into the pouch. "Nooo!!!" But David was overwhelmed by what they had done for him, and pouring out the water became an act of worship to the Lord for His demonstration of love through these men.
The pouring out of the water reminds me of a future event described in Revelation: "The twenty-four elders fall down before Him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying, 'Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they existed and were created.'" (Revelation 4:10-11)
We know Believers will receive crowns, among them the crown of life, glory, and righteousness, and I am sure all will end up at the feet of Jesus Christ. We only attain them in and through Him. Jesus loved us so much that He gave His life to save us from judgment and its eternal consequences. He also gives us His life so that if we so choose, we can live abundantly and Godly now, even in our fallen world.
David's mighty men put their lives out there to get him water. Knowing what they had done for him, he poured it out in great humility and gratitude. How much more will we eagerly cast down our crowns before our great God and Savior!!!
When Doctor Livingstone, the missionary pioneer, was working in Africa, some friends wrote: "We would like to send other men to you. Have you found a good road into your area yet?"
Livingstone wrote back: "If you have men who will only come if they know there is a good road, I don't want them. I want men who will come if there is no road at all." (Reader's Digest [8/89], p.143.)
The Bible tells us that David, the sweet singer of Israel, mighty warrior, and King, had thirty-seven such men. They were fierce fighters against the Philistines and extremely loyal to the Lord's anointed King.
Let us look at one event that demonstrates this: Three of the chief men went down at harvest time and came to David at the cave of Adullam. And the troop of Philistines encamped in the Valley of Rephaim. David was then in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem. David said with longing, "Oh, that someone would give me a drink of the water from the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate!" (2 Samuel 23:13-15)
I imagine David could have attained a drink closer and more accessible, but my guess is he longed for the water from his hometown. Something from home to remind him when life was simple and made of quiet, peaceful green pastures and grazing sheep. Notice what happened next: So, the three mighty men broke through the camp of the Philistines, drew water from the well of Bethlehem that was by the gate, and took it and brought it to David. (2 Samuel 23:16)
That was Love, sacrifice, and the willingness to give all for another, even their lives. How would David respond as they handed the water to him, and he realized what they had done?
Nevertheless, he would not drink it, but poured it out to the Lord. And he said, "Far be it from me, O Lord, that I should do this! Is this not the blood of the men who went in jeopardy of their lives?" Therefore, he would not drink it. (2 Samuel 23:17)
I am sure those three men were shocked. I would be trying to chase the water back into the pouch. "Nooo!!!" But David was overwhelmed by what they had done for him, and pouring out the water became an act of worship to the Lord for His demonstration of love through these men.
The pouring out of the water reminds me of a future event described in Revelation: "The twenty-four elders fall down before Him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying, 'Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they existed and were created.'" (Revelation 4:10-11)
We know Believers will receive crowns, among them the crown of life, glory, and righteousness, and I am sure all will end up at the feet of Jesus Christ. We only attain them in and through Him. Jesus loved us so much that He gave His life to save us from judgment and its eternal consequences. He also gives us His life so that if we so choose, we can live abundantly and Godly now, even in our fallen world.
David's mighty men put their lives out there to get him water. Knowing what they had done for him, he poured it out in great humility and gratitude. How much more will we eagerly cast down our crowns before our great God and Savior!!!
9 Things that won’t get you to Heaven.
Christianity is confusing sometimes. The message is often convoluted or contradictory. One church says this. Another says that. It causes a lack of assurance in God and His word. It creates inner conflict about what is right.
I remember listening to a famous evangelist who invited people to come to Jesus just as you are. In the next breath, he would tell you that you must repent of all your sins and commit your life to Christ.
Another well-known preacher writes, “Salvation isn’t the result of an intellectual exercise. It comes from a life lived in obedience and service to Christ as revealed in the Scripture; it’s the fruit of actions, not intentions”.
The message of commitment and repentance confused me. Do I come just as I am, or must I clean up my life first? Am I living obediently? Am I serving enough? It made me question my relationship with God. Was I saved or not? It created fear rather than assurance.
Here are 9 common things people think will ‘help’ you get to heaven. Often, churches outright or subtly teach such things
*** You must be a good person (You’re not, and neither am I in comparison to God who is holy! Ecclesiastes 7:20; Romans 3:12)
*** You must do good works. (Good works do not save and cannot take away the bad things that we do. Ephesians 2:8, 9)
*** You must obey the Ten Commandments. (No one can obey perfectly, and God demands perfection. James 2:10; Galatians 3:10)
*** You must repent of all your sins. (This is a work of righteousness; our works do not save us. Titus 3:5; Romans 3:10)
*** You must be baptized. (The blood of Jesus washes away our sin; water doesn’t. (1 Corinthians 1:14, 17, 18; Ephesians 1:7; Hebrews 9:22; 1 Peter 1:18, 19)
*** You must confess your sins. (One must simply admit to God that they are a helpless sinner. Romans 3:23, 6:23)
*** You must commit your life to Christ. (This should come after one is saved. It’s called sanctification. It requires understanding, which does not occur immediately, and it’s not required to receive or maintain everlasting life. (Romans 12:1, 2; John 8:31, 32)
*** You must go to a particular church. (This doesn’t make one a Christian any more than standing in the garage makes one a car. Galatians 3:26; Acts 20:28)
*** Any combination of the above. (There’s only one gospel. 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Galatians 1:6) According to the Bible, there is only one thing a person can do to get to heaven – BELIEVE. Faith in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ is all that is necessary to be delivered from the penalty of sin (John 3:16, 3:36, 6:47; Acts 4:12; Romans 1:16; Ephesians 2:8, 9). We can’t do anything to ‘help’ Jesus save us. And faith is not a work (Romans 4:5).
It’s not about what you or I do. It’s all about what Jesus did. Forgiveness, perfect righteousness, and everlasting life all come from what Jesus Christ accomplished for us. They are simply received when a lost sinner trusts in Christ. Faith begins with recognizing and believing that I am what God says I am. I’m a lost and helpless sinner separated from my Creator in need of a Savior.
There is only one gospel of grace: “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Any addition to this is another gospel (Galatians 1:6-9).
Christianity is confusing sometimes. The message is often convoluted or contradictory. One church says this. Another says that. It causes a lack of assurance in God and His word. It creates inner conflict about what is right.
I remember listening to a famous evangelist who invited people to come to Jesus just as you are. In the next breath, he would tell you that you must repent of all your sins and commit your life to Christ.
Another well-known preacher writes, “Salvation isn’t the result of an intellectual exercise. It comes from a life lived in obedience and service to Christ as revealed in the Scripture; it’s the fruit of actions, not intentions”.
The message of commitment and repentance confused me. Do I come just as I am, or must I clean up my life first? Am I living obediently? Am I serving enough? It made me question my relationship with God. Was I saved or not? It created fear rather than assurance.
Here are 9 common things people think will ‘help’ you get to heaven. Often, churches outright or subtly teach such things
*** You must be a good person (You’re not, and neither am I in comparison to God who is holy! Ecclesiastes 7:20; Romans 3:12)
*** You must do good works. (Good works do not save and cannot take away the bad things that we do. Ephesians 2:8, 9)
*** You must obey the Ten Commandments. (No one can obey perfectly, and God demands perfection. James 2:10; Galatians 3:10)
*** You must repent of all your sins. (This is a work of righteousness; our works do not save us. Titus 3:5; Romans 3:10)
*** You must be baptized. (The blood of Jesus washes away our sin; water doesn’t. (1 Corinthians 1:14, 17, 18; Ephesians 1:7; Hebrews 9:22; 1 Peter 1:18, 19)
*** You must confess your sins. (One must simply admit to God that they are a helpless sinner. Romans 3:23, 6:23)
*** You must commit your life to Christ. (This should come after one is saved. It’s called sanctification. It requires understanding, which does not occur immediately, and it’s not required to receive or maintain everlasting life. (Romans 12:1, 2; John 8:31, 32)
*** You must go to a particular church. (This doesn’t make one a Christian any more than standing in the garage makes one a car. Galatians 3:26; Acts 20:28)
*** Any combination of the above. (There’s only one gospel. 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Galatians 1:6) According to the Bible, there is only one thing a person can do to get to heaven – BELIEVE. Faith in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ is all that is necessary to be delivered from the penalty of sin (John 3:16, 3:36, 6:47; Acts 4:12; Romans 1:16; Ephesians 2:8, 9). We can’t do anything to ‘help’ Jesus save us. And faith is not a work (Romans 4:5).
It’s not about what you or I do. It’s all about what Jesus did. Forgiveness, perfect righteousness, and everlasting life all come from what Jesus Christ accomplished for us. They are simply received when a lost sinner trusts in Christ. Faith begins with recognizing and believing that I am what God says I am. I’m a lost and helpless sinner separated from my Creator in need of a Savior.
There is only one gospel of grace: “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Any addition to this is another gospel (Galatians 1:6-9).
The Goads
Saul, the Pharisee of Pharisees, headed to Damascus to round up and bound up more Christians for eventual imprisonment and even extermination. However, Saul had a head-on collision with Jesus Christ on the road, which knocked him on his backside.
"Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?"
"Who are You, Lord?"
"I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads."
When first reading this portion of scripture, I was puzzled about the goads statement. What does that mean, especially regarding Saul? How had he been goaded?
First, the definition and examples of the word's use: to provoke or annoy (someone) to stimulate some action or reaction. (He seemed determined to goad him into a fight.) to drive or urge (an animal) on with a goad, a spiked stick, a prod: ("The cowboys goaded their cattle across the meadows.")
Perhaps Saul, even in his despising Christians or members of the Way, had heard and seen enough to goad him to question his beliefs and prodded his interest in theirs. Saul had just witnessed a power-packed sermon given by Christ-follower Stephen before the Jewish leaders. When Stephen concluded his dressing down of the religious men before him, they stopped their ears, screamed, charged, dragged him from the city, and stoned him to death.
When I walked away from Jesus years ago, the further I went, the more hostile to Him I became. I mocked Him and His hypocritical followers and threw verbal scat at the Bible, that book of Fairy Tales. I embraced the naturalist, secular views of life that drove me even farther away.
But the Goads: Our toddler son giggled in child's delight – was he a beautiful creation, or did he fall off the evolution tree like millions of other Monkeys? The tough guy at work bringing his Bible to read on breaks. The quiet man at work talked patiently about Jesus while I fought back. The hospital patient in the bed beside me speaking so passionately about God's purposes and plans in Christ for each of us. Yes, the countless goads. On a warm day in a hilltop cow pasture in January 1986, the goads brought me home to Jesus Christ.
And of Saul, the Lord said, "He is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake." Saul, the Pharisee of Pharisees, a former religious zealot, became the Apostle Paul of love, mercy, and grace—the writer of a significant portion of the New Testament. He did all that Jesus said he would, including suffering greatly.
It is hard to kick against the goads from the Lord. It is easy to come to Jesus. I am so thankful I did. Have you?
Saul, the Pharisee of Pharisees, headed to Damascus to round up and bound up more Christians for eventual imprisonment and even extermination. However, Saul had a head-on collision with Jesus Christ on the road, which knocked him on his backside.
"Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?"
"Who are You, Lord?"
"I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads."
When first reading this portion of scripture, I was puzzled about the goads statement. What does that mean, especially regarding Saul? How had he been goaded?
First, the definition and examples of the word's use: to provoke or annoy (someone) to stimulate some action or reaction. (He seemed determined to goad him into a fight.) to drive or urge (an animal) on with a goad, a spiked stick, a prod: ("The cowboys goaded their cattle across the meadows.")
Perhaps Saul, even in his despising Christians or members of the Way, had heard and seen enough to goad him to question his beliefs and prodded his interest in theirs. Saul had just witnessed a power-packed sermon given by Christ-follower Stephen before the Jewish leaders. When Stephen concluded his dressing down of the religious men before him, they stopped their ears, screamed, charged, dragged him from the city, and stoned him to death.
When I walked away from Jesus years ago, the further I went, the more hostile to Him I became. I mocked Him and His hypocritical followers and threw verbal scat at the Bible, that book of Fairy Tales. I embraced the naturalist, secular views of life that drove me even farther away.
But the Goads: Our toddler son giggled in child's delight – was he a beautiful creation, or did he fall off the evolution tree like millions of other Monkeys? The tough guy at work bringing his Bible to read on breaks. The quiet man at work talked patiently about Jesus while I fought back. The hospital patient in the bed beside me speaking so passionately about God's purposes and plans in Christ for each of us. Yes, the countless goads. On a warm day in a hilltop cow pasture in January 1986, the goads brought me home to Jesus Christ.
And of Saul, the Lord said, "He is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake." Saul, the Pharisee of Pharisees, a former religious zealot, became the Apostle Paul of love, mercy, and grace—the writer of a significant portion of the New Testament. He did all that Jesus said he would, including suffering greatly.
It is hard to kick against the goads from the Lord. It is easy to come to Jesus. I am so thankful I did. Have you?
Without Holiness, No One Will See the Lord!
This verse in the book of Hebrews (12:14) makes it sound as if you are not living up to some high standard of holiness; you will not see heaven. One modern-day commentary states the following about this verse, “If a person is not growing more holy, he is not saved.” I often wonder how people can make statements like this.
What about the Corinthians, who died due to God’s discipline?
(1 Corinthians 11:30) They weren’t very holy. Were they saved? What about those who had retrogressed in faith in Hebrews? (Hebrews 5:12) What about those in the Corinthian church who had failed to turn from certain sins? (2 Corinthians 12:21) How does one judge how much holiness is required? In my humble opinion, this is an incorrect understanding of this verse.
***What is holiness?***
The word ‘holiness’ means separated unto God. Often, it is translated as sanctification. When used for people, it has the idea of being set apart unto God.
***How does one achieve positional holiness?***
When a person receives Christ as Savior, that individual immediately has a holy standing before God. It is called positional holiness. The carnal Christians in Corinth “were sanctified” [holy]. (1 Corinthians 6:11) The moment a person trusts in Christ, they have perfect holiness to enter God’s presence.
***Why Holiness is not Automatic***
However, this doesn’t mean that holy living is automatic or natural. For the child of God, it is a daily battle. “The flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh… so you do not do the things that you wish”. (Galatians 5:17) Some do better than others. Believers can quench the Spirit and grieve the Spirit by unrighteous living. (1 Thessalonians 5:13; Ephesians 4:30) If holiness was natural, why did the apostle Paul admonish the churches and warn them about acting like the world? (Examples: Ephesians 5:1-4, 8, 11; Colossians 3:5, 8-10; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; 1 Timothy 6:9-10; Titus 3:8-14; Hebrews 3:12)
***A Connection between Holiness and Discipline***
The writer of Hebrews exhorted them to “pursue peace with all people and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14) The Lord disciplines us for our profit. Pursuing peace and holiness means that as BELIEVERS, we will accept God’s discipline so that we may be partakers of His holiness (Hebrews 12:10) This holiness is progressive as one walks with Him. The writer is not holding the threat of hell over their head.
***Holiness is a Product of Christ***
Holiness is never a product of my flesh. I have no holiness. It also has nothing to do with being ‘religious.’ It only happens as I am living out of the resources of the new nature, which is created according to God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:24) In other words, I am learning how to surrender to the Spirit of God through the word of God by faith. It is not my holiness but the very perfect righteousness of Christ living in me and through me. (Galatians 2:20)
***What does the verse mean?***
Since this verse does not speak about getting into heaven, I believe there are two potential meanings. First, a believer who is not being trained by God’s discipline, which will produce peace and holiness, will not see the Lord operating in his life. Secondly, it could mean that others will not see the Lord if we are not living at peace and exhibiting a holy life as believers. When a believer rejects Godly discipline and fails to pursue peace and holiness, it not only affects his life but bleeds into the lives of others. But if we are trained by it, it leads to the peaceable fruits of righteousness. (Hebrews 12:11)
This verse in the book of Hebrews (12:14) makes it sound as if you are not living up to some high standard of holiness; you will not see heaven. One modern-day commentary states the following about this verse, “If a person is not growing more holy, he is not saved.” I often wonder how people can make statements like this.
What about the Corinthians, who died due to God’s discipline?
(1 Corinthians 11:30) They weren’t very holy. Were they saved? What about those who had retrogressed in faith in Hebrews? (Hebrews 5:12) What about those in the Corinthian church who had failed to turn from certain sins? (2 Corinthians 12:21) How does one judge how much holiness is required? In my humble opinion, this is an incorrect understanding of this verse.
***What is holiness?***
The word ‘holiness’ means separated unto God. Often, it is translated as sanctification. When used for people, it has the idea of being set apart unto God.
***How does one achieve positional holiness?***
When a person receives Christ as Savior, that individual immediately has a holy standing before God. It is called positional holiness. The carnal Christians in Corinth “were sanctified” [holy]. (1 Corinthians 6:11) The moment a person trusts in Christ, they have perfect holiness to enter God’s presence.
***Why Holiness is not Automatic***
However, this doesn’t mean that holy living is automatic or natural. For the child of God, it is a daily battle. “The flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh… so you do not do the things that you wish”. (Galatians 5:17) Some do better than others. Believers can quench the Spirit and grieve the Spirit by unrighteous living. (1 Thessalonians 5:13; Ephesians 4:30) If holiness was natural, why did the apostle Paul admonish the churches and warn them about acting like the world? (Examples: Ephesians 5:1-4, 8, 11; Colossians 3:5, 8-10; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; 1 Timothy 6:9-10; Titus 3:8-14; Hebrews 3:12)
***A Connection between Holiness and Discipline***
The writer of Hebrews exhorted them to “pursue peace with all people and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14) The Lord disciplines us for our profit. Pursuing peace and holiness means that as BELIEVERS, we will accept God’s discipline so that we may be partakers of His holiness (Hebrews 12:10) This holiness is progressive as one walks with Him. The writer is not holding the threat of hell over their head.
***Holiness is a Product of Christ***
Holiness is never a product of my flesh. I have no holiness. It also has nothing to do with being ‘religious.’ It only happens as I am living out of the resources of the new nature, which is created according to God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:24) In other words, I am learning how to surrender to the Spirit of God through the word of God by faith. It is not my holiness but the very perfect righteousness of Christ living in me and through me. (Galatians 2:20)
***What does the verse mean?***
Since this verse does not speak about getting into heaven, I believe there are two potential meanings. First, a believer who is not being trained by God’s discipline, which will produce peace and holiness, will not see the Lord operating in his life. Secondly, it could mean that others will not see the Lord if we are not living at peace and exhibiting a holy life as believers. When a believer rejects Godly discipline and fails to pursue peace and holiness, it not only affects his life but bleeds into the lives of others. But if we are trained by it, it leads to the peaceable fruits of righteousness. (Hebrews 12:11)
Nine Words
As early as Genesis, Chapter 3 in the Bible, we find out a Savior is on the Way. God tells the Adversary of our original beguiled parents that he is going down. In Genesis 3:15, what is known as the protoevangelium (the first stating of the Gospel), the Lord confronts Satan:
“And I will put enmity between you and the woman,
And between your seed and her Seed (women do not have seed; only men do, a reference to the Virgin Birth).
He shall bruise your head,
And you shall bruise His heel.” (Satan would bruise the Coming One to the point of death, but in the process, because of the resurrection, the serpent’s head would ultimately be crushed).
Thousands of years later, in another garden, the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives, that life-and-death confrontation came to pass. We find Jesus, the promised Messiah, in tremendous agony. The physical torture He will soon face is heavy enough on His mind, but being separated from the Father while bearing the unrelenting burden of all the sins of humanity and accompanying darkness finds Him in desperate despair.
“Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. (Luke 22:42-44)
They came for Him, leaving the drops of blood to dry in the quiet garden. He met them with an unshakable resolve. With the Serpent’s kiss from a follower, He was delivered to the bruising unto death.
He cried out for His Father the following day while nailed to a tree, but only darkness swarmed the scene. He spoke words of love to His mother and salvation to a thief next to Him.
After this, Jesus, knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit. (John 19:28-30)
They buried Him in a borrowed tomb—the End until it was not. “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead, and indeed He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him. Behold, I have told you.”
(Matthew 28:5-7)
Nine Words. Nine words that affect your life and my life more than any other. Three from the Garden of Gethsemane, three from Calvary, and three from the empty Tomb;
“Not My Will.”
“It is Finished!”
“He is Risen!”
The world’s rescue and redemption spoken of in Genesis, Chapter 3, was accomplished in these nine words. We believe them and receive them by faith unto our salvation and God’s Glory! Have you done this?
As early as Genesis, Chapter 3 in the Bible, we find out a Savior is on the Way. God tells the Adversary of our original beguiled parents that he is going down. In Genesis 3:15, what is known as the protoevangelium (the first stating of the Gospel), the Lord confronts Satan:
“And I will put enmity between you and the woman,
And between your seed and her Seed (women do not have seed; only men do, a reference to the Virgin Birth).
He shall bruise your head,
And you shall bruise His heel.” (Satan would bruise the Coming One to the point of death, but in the process, because of the resurrection, the serpent’s head would ultimately be crushed).
Thousands of years later, in another garden, the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives, that life-and-death confrontation came to pass. We find Jesus, the promised Messiah, in tremendous agony. The physical torture He will soon face is heavy enough on His mind, but being separated from the Father while bearing the unrelenting burden of all the sins of humanity and accompanying darkness finds Him in desperate despair.
“Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. (Luke 22:42-44)
They came for Him, leaving the drops of blood to dry in the quiet garden. He met them with an unshakable resolve. With the Serpent’s kiss from a follower, He was delivered to the bruising unto death.
He cried out for His Father the following day while nailed to a tree, but only darkness swarmed the scene. He spoke words of love to His mother and salvation to a thief next to Him.
After this, Jesus, knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit. (John 19:28-30)
They buried Him in a borrowed tomb—the End until it was not. “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead, and indeed He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him. Behold, I have told you.”
(Matthew 28:5-7)
Nine Words. Nine words that affect your life and my life more than any other. Three from the Garden of Gethsemane, three from Calvary, and three from the empty Tomb;
“Not My Will.”
“It is Finished!”
“He is Risen!”
The world’s rescue and redemption spoken of in Genesis, Chapter 3, was accomplished in these nine words. We believe them and receive them by faith unto our salvation and God’s Glory! Have you done this?
The Ruins
We cannot help but marvel at the beauty of the spring-bursting-out pictures included here. For most of us, our thoughts go immediately to God, the Designer, the Creator, and the Artist.
Have you ever considered what we see in these pictures are the ruins of the pre-flood world? We live on the ruins. We walk on the ruins. We take photographs and paint glorious paintings of a fallen, destroyed world.
The whole creation groans, does it not? Nevertheless, God's beauty, majesty, and wondrous things overtake and cover the ruins.
Now pause and imagine what the pre-flood world must have looked like; the Garden, Oh my, to ponder its landscapes! And what of those things to come, the new heaven, the new earth, no more ruins, but all new, in His presence forever: Glory upon Glory!!!
We cannot help but marvel at the beauty of the spring-bursting-out pictures included here. For most of us, our thoughts go immediately to God, the Designer, the Creator, and the Artist.
Have you ever considered what we see in these pictures are the ruins of the pre-flood world? We live on the ruins. We walk on the ruins. We take photographs and paint glorious paintings of a fallen, destroyed world.
The whole creation groans, does it not? Nevertheless, God's beauty, majesty, and wondrous things overtake and cover the ruins.
Now pause and imagine what the pre-flood world must have looked like; the Garden, Oh my, to ponder its landscapes! And what of those things to come, the new heaven, the new earth, no more ruins, but all new, in His presence forever: Glory upon Glory!!!
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“Who touched Me?”
“But as He went, the multitudes thronged Him. Now a woman, having a flow of blood for twelve years, who had spent all her livelihood on physicians and could not be healed by any, came from behind and touched the border of His garment. And immediately her flow of blood stopped.” (Luke 8:42-44)
And Jesus said, “Who touched Me? "When all denied it, Peter and those with him said, “Master, the multitudes throng and press You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’” But Jesus said, “Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power going out from Me.”
Now, when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before Him, she declared to Him in the presence of all the people the reason she had touched Him and how she was healed immediately. And He said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”
Have I touched Him? Has my timid soul pushed through the crowd to reach Him? Did I receive His power? Has my puny mustard seed faith made me well? Can I go about in peace, even a peace that passes all understanding?
Have I touched Him, this weak soul of mine? Does He know it was me, even me, on bended prostrate knees?
Have I taken hold of the only Thread of Hope that saves and secures me for eternity? I have; have you?
“But as He went, the multitudes thronged Him. Now a woman, having a flow of blood for twelve years, who had spent all her livelihood on physicians and could not be healed by any, came from behind and touched the border of His garment. And immediately her flow of blood stopped.” (Luke 8:42-44)
And Jesus said, “Who touched Me? "When all denied it, Peter and those with him said, “Master, the multitudes throng and press You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’” But Jesus said, “Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power going out from Me.”
Now, when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before Him, she declared to Him in the presence of all the people the reason she had touched Him and how she was healed immediately. And He said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”
Have I touched Him? Has my timid soul pushed through the crowd to reach Him? Did I receive His power? Has my puny mustard seed faith made me well? Can I go about in peace, even a peace that passes all understanding?
Have I touched Him, this weak soul of mine? Does He know it was me, even me, on bended prostrate knees?
Have I taken hold of the only Thread of Hope that saves and secures me for eternity? I have; have you?
Who Decides and How?
“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.” (Romans 5:10-11)
Has someone ever hurt you badly? Has their offense impacted your life to the point where forgiving and forgetting seem beyond your ability? Then they show up at your door one day and kind of admit they may have wronged you a little bit, and here is a plate of cookies with an invitation to lunch on Sunday, as long as you’ll pick up the check. What might your reaction be? As the offended party, would it not be you who decides if and how there might be restoration in the relationship?
Because of our Adamic nature, the truth is that we are all in the position of offenders against our Holy God. We might think it unfair that Adam’s choice has us in our situation, but I am not confident I would have chosen better. Even in the light of walking in the cool of the day with God, entirely depending on Him, Adam could not resist having his independence from the Lord. Therein is the singular definition of Sin.
We are like all the people who have lived and will live on the earth: we need to be reconciled with our Creator. How do we do that? Adam dressed in a plant costume. There was no restoration in that choice.
In Luke Chapter 15, Jesus tells the tale of the Prodigal Son. The young man asked for his inheritance, which his father gave him. He spent it all on parties and prostitutes and wasteful things. The young man found himself working for a pig farmer, envying the pigs for their food and shelter. He decided to go home and decided how to reconcile with his father. It didn’t happen the way he chose.
Isn’t that the way for so many people? Most believe in religion and religious activity or do more good than bad, and a thousand other things; maybe putting a plate of cookies on the altar will reconcile them. Others claim that there is no God, and therefore, there is no offense. It doesn’t work in any of those ways.
God is the one who decides, not us. God is the one with the how, not us. Amazingly, God, the offended, took it upon Himself to make a Way of reconciliation. God sacrificed an animal, shedding its blood, and dressed Adam in acceptable clothing. God ran to the wayward son and overwhelmed the boy’s feeble restoration attempt with His love, mercy, grace, and forgiveness.
The how and way of reconciliation is God reconciling all things to Himself by Jesus, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. (Colossians 1:20)
****Be reconciled in Christ today****
“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.” (Romans 5:10-11)
Has someone ever hurt you badly? Has their offense impacted your life to the point where forgiving and forgetting seem beyond your ability? Then they show up at your door one day and kind of admit they may have wronged you a little bit, and here is a plate of cookies with an invitation to lunch on Sunday, as long as you’ll pick up the check. What might your reaction be? As the offended party, would it not be you who decides if and how there might be restoration in the relationship?
Because of our Adamic nature, the truth is that we are all in the position of offenders against our Holy God. We might think it unfair that Adam’s choice has us in our situation, but I am not confident I would have chosen better. Even in the light of walking in the cool of the day with God, entirely depending on Him, Adam could not resist having his independence from the Lord. Therein is the singular definition of Sin.
We are like all the people who have lived and will live on the earth: we need to be reconciled with our Creator. How do we do that? Adam dressed in a plant costume. There was no restoration in that choice.
In Luke Chapter 15, Jesus tells the tale of the Prodigal Son. The young man asked for his inheritance, which his father gave him. He spent it all on parties and prostitutes and wasteful things. The young man found himself working for a pig farmer, envying the pigs for their food and shelter. He decided to go home and decided how to reconcile with his father. It didn’t happen the way he chose.
Isn’t that the way for so many people? Most believe in religion and religious activity or do more good than bad, and a thousand other things; maybe putting a plate of cookies on the altar will reconcile them. Others claim that there is no God, and therefore, there is no offense. It doesn’t work in any of those ways.
God is the one who decides, not us. God is the one with the how, not us. Amazingly, God, the offended, took it upon Himself to make a Way of reconciliation. God sacrificed an animal, shedding its blood, and dressed Adam in acceptable clothing. God ran to the wayward son and overwhelmed the boy’s feeble restoration attempt with His love, mercy, grace, and forgiveness.
The how and way of reconciliation is God reconciling all things to Himself by Jesus, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. (Colossians 1:20)
****Be reconciled in Christ today****
Hymn: Great is Thy Faithfulness
A friend recently sent me a Christian song that I never heard before. It was good. An old hymn was next on the list: Great is Thy Faithfulness. That particular day, I needed to hear the words of that song. The author wrote it from the words of Jeremiah in the book of Lamentations; “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations. 3:22-23).
The Jewish nation had been taken captive by the Babylonians. They no longer had control over their land or their lives. Yet these words were spoken during such a devastating time when there seemed to be no hope for them. But there was. In fact, Jeremiah acknowledges in the next verse; “The Lord is my portion, says my soul, therefore I hope in Him!” (Lamentations 3:24)
There is also hope for us. IT’S IN THE LORD AND HIS FAITHFULNESS. God is faithful even in the difficult moments and circumstances of life. He will never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5) Here are the words of the hymn written by Thomas O. Chisholm in 1923:
1 Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
there is no shadow of turning with thee;
Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not;
as Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
[Refrain]
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see:
all I have needed thy hand hath provided–
Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
2 Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
sun, moon, and stars in their courses above
join with all nature in manifold witness
to thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.
[Refrain]
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see:
all I have needed thy hand hath provided–
Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
3 Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide,
strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!
[Refrain]
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see:
all I have needed thy hand hath provided–
Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
A friend recently sent me a Christian song that I never heard before. It was good. An old hymn was next on the list: Great is Thy Faithfulness. That particular day, I needed to hear the words of that song. The author wrote it from the words of Jeremiah in the book of Lamentations; “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations. 3:22-23).
The Jewish nation had been taken captive by the Babylonians. They no longer had control over their land or their lives. Yet these words were spoken during such a devastating time when there seemed to be no hope for them. But there was. In fact, Jeremiah acknowledges in the next verse; “The Lord is my portion, says my soul, therefore I hope in Him!” (Lamentations 3:24)
There is also hope for us. IT’S IN THE LORD AND HIS FAITHFULNESS. God is faithful even in the difficult moments and circumstances of life. He will never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5) Here are the words of the hymn written by Thomas O. Chisholm in 1923:
1 Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
there is no shadow of turning with thee;
Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not;
as Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
[Refrain]
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see:
all I have needed thy hand hath provided–
Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
2 Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
sun, moon, and stars in their courses above
join with all nature in manifold witness
to thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.
[Refrain]
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see:
all I have needed thy hand hath provided–
Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
3 Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide,
strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!
[Refrain]
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see:
all I have needed thy hand hath provided–
Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
Are you Walking in Darkness?
I lived about ten years earlier in life in spiritual darkness. When walking in darkness, you live without the influence of spiritual light. I had a relationship with God through faith in Christ, but I lived in darkness for several years. If you live in darkness, you have no fellowship with God.
We can’t live the Christian Life
I thought you attained the Christian life by self-effort. I was ignorant because I failed to read and study the Bible to understand it. There was no spiritual light shining into my life. I attempted to do life in the power of the old nature (the flesh). The flesh has no power and cannot produce anything acceptable to God.
Nothing Good can be done in the Flesh
The apostle Paul recognized this in himself; “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells” (Romans. 7:18). John wrote that believers cannot walk in darkness and have fellowship with God (1 John 1:6). It requires walking in the light as He (Jesus) is in the light (1 John 1:7). Lack of fellowship causes frustration and eventually can influence you to give up.
To walk in the light, we must be in His word, understanding His principles for righteous living. Like a marriage, it takes time to know God through His word. And it requires acting on it by faith, depending on the power of the Holy Spirit for the strength to do it. Jesus told His disciples, “For apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).
The Vine Illustration - Jesus is the Vine, and we are the branches. The Vine provides all the things necessary for the branches to bear fruit. There is no acceptable fruit when the branches (disciples) are separated from the Vine. A branch cannot bear fruit separated from the vine. Fellowship with Him is remaining (abiding) in Him, depending on Him for the resources and the outcome (John 15:1-5). He produces the fruit in us, and we simply bear the fruit when we abide in Him.
Fellowship Principle
**** Reading and studying the Bible is not intended to be an academic exercise. It should be a relational skill to help you grow and develop a deeper relationship with God. His word “is a lamp to my feet and light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). “Give me understanding according to Your word” (Psalm 119:169).
**** Learn to live by faith, trusting in God and His word. Pray that you would be “strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith” (Ephesians 3:16-17).
**** Learn to depend on Him for the power over sin. “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
**** Don’t be defeated when you fail; and fail sometimes repeatedly. “My little children, these things I write to you so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:1).
**** Learn to pray Biblically. “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14).
**** Stay connected to the Vine (Jesus) even in times of failure by acknowledging your sin and walking in the light with Him. (1 John 1:7- 9). He promises, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). There’s nothing you can do to lose your relationship. BUT Fellowship, if lost, can always be restored!
I lived about ten years earlier in life in spiritual darkness. When walking in darkness, you live without the influence of spiritual light. I had a relationship with God through faith in Christ, but I lived in darkness for several years. If you live in darkness, you have no fellowship with God.
We can’t live the Christian Life
I thought you attained the Christian life by self-effort. I was ignorant because I failed to read and study the Bible to understand it. There was no spiritual light shining into my life. I attempted to do life in the power of the old nature (the flesh). The flesh has no power and cannot produce anything acceptable to God.
Nothing Good can be done in the Flesh
The apostle Paul recognized this in himself; “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells” (Romans. 7:18). John wrote that believers cannot walk in darkness and have fellowship with God (1 John 1:6). It requires walking in the light as He (Jesus) is in the light (1 John 1:7). Lack of fellowship causes frustration and eventually can influence you to give up.
To walk in the light, we must be in His word, understanding His principles for righteous living. Like a marriage, it takes time to know God through His word. And it requires acting on it by faith, depending on the power of the Holy Spirit for the strength to do it. Jesus told His disciples, “For apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).
The Vine Illustration - Jesus is the Vine, and we are the branches. The Vine provides all the things necessary for the branches to bear fruit. There is no acceptable fruit when the branches (disciples) are separated from the Vine. A branch cannot bear fruit separated from the vine. Fellowship with Him is remaining (abiding) in Him, depending on Him for the resources and the outcome (John 15:1-5). He produces the fruit in us, and we simply bear the fruit when we abide in Him.
Fellowship Principle
**** Reading and studying the Bible is not intended to be an academic exercise. It should be a relational skill to help you grow and develop a deeper relationship with God. His word “is a lamp to my feet and light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). “Give me understanding according to Your word” (Psalm 119:169).
**** Learn to live by faith, trusting in God and His word. Pray that you would be “strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith” (Ephesians 3:16-17).
**** Learn to depend on Him for the power over sin. “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
**** Don’t be defeated when you fail; and fail sometimes repeatedly. “My little children, these things I write to you so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:1).
**** Learn to pray Biblically. “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14).
**** Stay connected to the Vine (Jesus) even in times of failure by acknowledging your sin and walking in the light with Him. (1 John 1:7- 9). He promises, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). There’s nothing you can do to lose your relationship. BUT Fellowship, if lost, can always be restored!
Jump for Joy
I slowed my car and came to a stop. The school bus discharged a passenger in my neighborhood. Waiting for the flashing lights to cease, I watched the little neighbor boy leap onto his lane. He paused, catching some snowflakes on his tongue. Then, he jumped and leaped before breaking into a hop, skipping, and sprinting for his house.
At the time, even though I was heading for my toxic, miserable workplace, a knowing smile brightened my glum face. It was Friday afternoon on a holiday weekend, and how euphoric that can be for a child. I once knew the feeling. That little neighbor boy was jumping for joy. It got me remembering when he was me many years ago. It also put a couple of other images on my brain’s plate. Being a country boy, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing cows turned out of the barn in the spring for the first time. After a winter of standing in a stanchion, suddenly, the day arrives when they are freed into lush green grass and fresh air. Now, bovines tend to be pretty laid-back creatures; a chew of cud in the cheek, and they’re content to hang out and do - not much. But my goodness, when that stanchion clatters open, and their feet hit that grass carpet, placidity takes leave with leaps, hops, skips, sprints, and several jumps for joy. It is a stirring sight.
The other image was that of Christ’s return. Suddenly, the day will arrive when we are freed from those things that hold us - when “the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then the lame shall leap like deer, and the tongue of the dumb sing. For the waters shall burst forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert. The parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water; In the habitation of jackals, where each lay, there shall be grass with reeds and rushes.” (Isaiah 35:5-7)
When the King comes, He will change humanity and nature tremendously and wondrously. Friday afternoon is coming, as is the fulfillment of His Kingdom promises. Just thinking about that day makes one want to do a jump for joy - or two or three. There will be no more school buses, grim workplaces or stuffy stanchions, only lanes and roads to home and green pastures in which to leap, hop, skip, sprint, and jump for joy.
I slowed my car and came to a stop. The school bus discharged a passenger in my neighborhood. Waiting for the flashing lights to cease, I watched the little neighbor boy leap onto his lane. He paused, catching some snowflakes on his tongue. Then, he jumped and leaped before breaking into a hop, skipping, and sprinting for his house.
At the time, even though I was heading for my toxic, miserable workplace, a knowing smile brightened my glum face. It was Friday afternoon on a holiday weekend, and how euphoric that can be for a child. I once knew the feeling. That little neighbor boy was jumping for joy. It got me remembering when he was me many years ago. It also put a couple of other images on my brain’s plate. Being a country boy, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing cows turned out of the barn in the spring for the first time. After a winter of standing in a stanchion, suddenly, the day arrives when they are freed into lush green grass and fresh air. Now, bovines tend to be pretty laid-back creatures; a chew of cud in the cheek, and they’re content to hang out and do - not much. But my goodness, when that stanchion clatters open, and their feet hit that grass carpet, placidity takes leave with leaps, hops, skips, sprints, and several jumps for joy. It is a stirring sight.
The other image was that of Christ’s return. Suddenly, the day will arrive when we are freed from those things that hold us - when “the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then the lame shall leap like deer, and the tongue of the dumb sing. For the waters shall burst forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert. The parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water; In the habitation of jackals, where each lay, there shall be grass with reeds and rushes.” (Isaiah 35:5-7)
When the King comes, He will change humanity and nature tremendously and wondrously. Friday afternoon is coming, as is the fulfillment of His Kingdom promises. Just thinking about that day makes one want to do a jump for joy - or two or three. There will be no more school buses, grim workplaces or stuffy stanchions, only lanes and roads to home and green pastures in which to leap, hop, skip, sprint, and jump for joy.
Can a Real Believer Depart from the Faith?
Falling away is generally referred to as backsliding. It is defined as one who once believed but has departed from the faith. Some believe a 'real' Christian could never depart from the faith. ' Genuine' believers could never fall away. However, does the Bible actually teach that?
Justification is the act whereby God declares a condemned sinner not guilty. It happens at the moment a person understands and believes the gospel. (John 1:12, 5:24; Acts 2:41; Acts 8:30-38; Galatians 2:16; Galatians 3:26; Ephesians 1:13; Philippians 3:9) The new believer immediately receives everlasting life, and the perfect righteousness of Christ is credited to the new convert. They are born again, never to be "unborn." It is a one-time act of hearing (understanding the gospel) and believing it, which causes an irreversible change in your final destiny.
****Examples in the Bible of Believers who Departed from the Faith****
Justification does not guarantee a believer will remain faithful to the end of their life. Many examples in the Bible indicate believers who were justified by faith did depart for some time or had the potential to depart from the faith. And since the Scriptures show that a believer cannot lose salvation, it is possible for someone to depart and still end up in heaven. For example:
***Peter said he would never deny the Lord but denied the Lord three times. (Matthew 26:35; John 19:27)
***Hymenaeus and Philetus strayed from the truth and overthrew the faith of some. (2 Timothy 2:18) It is possible to have your faith overthrown and remain saved.
***Paul wrote to Timothy, "If we [Timothy or Paul] are faithless, He [God] remains faithful. (2 Timothy 2:13)
***Some widows in the church had already turned aside after Satan. [In the context, it implies they had married unbelievers].
(1Timothy 5:15)
***Demas, a disciple, forsook Paul, "having loved this present world." (Colossians 4:16; 2 Timothy 4:10) [He became unfruitful, not unsaved. Luke 8:14]
***The Hebrew believers were cautioned about drifting away and departing from the living God, failing to enter His rest.
(Hebrews 2:1-3, 3:12)
***The Israelites passed through the Red Sea by faith but failed to enter the Promised Land because of unbelief.
(Hebrews 3:19, 11:29)
***When Solomon was old, his wives turned his heart after other gods. (1 Kings 11:4)
***King Saul sought the advice of a medium and died for his unfaithfulness. (1 Chronicles 10:13-14) We need not be too self-righteous to think it can't happen to you or me. Only believers can depart from the faith. Unbelievers cannot depart from the faith because they were never of the faith. You cannot depart from a place that you have never been.
****Avoiding Difficulties****
Our default position is to give up when things get difficult. Sometimes living on a mountain seems appealing to me. Living faithfully is not the easiest road to take. "All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." (2 Timothy 3:12) Even many of the rulers that believed in Christ did not confess Him openly for fear of being put out of the synagogue. (John 12:42) That is why God's word encourages us to endure, press on, and be faithful.
****Consequences for Falling Away****
Departing from the faith is not a good thing to do. It brings no glory to God and results in a wasted life. God may discipline you. (Hebrews 12:5-11) His discipline can be severe, if necessary, even giving you an early entrance to heaven. (1 Corinthians 11:30; James 5:19, 20) But it doesn't cause a person justified by faith to lose their eternal destination. That's how amazing God's grace is. "As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:14, 15) Just as it took one look of faith to be delivered from the serpent's bite [they didn't have to keep on looking], it only takes one look of faith to the Savior, and you are saved forever. "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (2 Corinthians 9:15)
Falling away is generally referred to as backsliding. It is defined as one who once believed but has departed from the faith. Some believe a 'real' Christian could never depart from the faith. ' Genuine' believers could never fall away. However, does the Bible actually teach that?
Justification is the act whereby God declares a condemned sinner not guilty. It happens at the moment a person understands and believes the gospel. (John 1:12, 5:24; Acts 2:41; Acts 8:30-38; Galatians 2:16; Galatians 3:26; Ephesians 1:13; Philippians 3:9) The new believer immediately receives everlasting life, and the perfect righteousness of Christ is credited to the new convert. They are born again, never to be "unborn." It is a one-time act of hearing (understanding the gospel) and believing it, which causes an irreversible change in your final destiny.
****Examples in the Bible of Believers who Departed from the Faith****
Justification does not guarantee a believer will remain faithful to the end of their life. Many examples in the Bible indicate believers who were justified by faith did depart for some time or had the potential to depart from the faith. And since the Scriptures show that a believer cannot lose salvation, it is possible for someone to depart and still end up in heaven. For example:
***Peter said he would never deny the Lord but denied the Lord three times. (Matthew 26:35; John 19:27)
***Hymenaeus and Philetus strayed from the truth and overthrew the faith of some. (2 Timothy 2:18) It is possible to have your faith overthrown and remain saved.
***Paul wrote to Timothy, "If we [Timothy or Paul] are faithless, He [God] remains faithful. (2 Timothy 2:13)
***Some widows in the church had already turned aside after Satan. [In the context, it implies they had married unbelievers].
(1Timothy 5:15)
***Demas, a disciple, forsook Paul, "having loved this present world." (Colossians 4:16; 2 Timothy 4:10) [He became unfruitful, not unsaved. Luke 8:14]
***The Hebrew believers were cautioned about drifting away and departing from the living God, failing to enter His rest.
(Hebrews 2:1-3, 3:12)
***The Israelites passed through the Red Sea by faith but failed to enter the Promised Land because of unbelief.
(Hebrews 3:19, 11:29)
***When Solomon was old, his wives turned his heart after other gods. (1 Kings 11:4)
***King Saul sought the advice of a medium and died for his unfaithfulness. (1 Chronicles 10:13-14) We need not be too self-righteous to think it can't happen to you or me. Only believers can depart from the faith. Unbelievers cannot depart from the faith because they were never of the faith. You cannot depart from a place that you have never been.
****Avoiding Difficulties****
Our default position is to give up when things get difficult. Sometimes living on a mountain seems appealing to me. Living faithfully is not the easiest road to take. "All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." (2 Timothy 3:12) Even many of the rulers that believed in Christ did not confess Him openly for fear of being put out of the synagogue. (John 12:42) That is why God's word encourages us to endure, press on, and be faithful.
****Consequences for Falling Away****
Departing from the faith is not a good thing to do. It brings no glory to God and results in a wasted life. God may discipline you. (Hebrews 12:5-11) His discipline can be severe, if necessary, even giving you an early entrance to heaven. (1 Corinthians 11:30; James 5:19, 20) But it doesn't cause a person justified by faith to lose their eternal destination. That's how amazing God's grace is. "As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:14, 15) Just as it took one look of faith to be delivered from the serpent's bite [they didn't have to keep on looking], it only takes one look of faith to the Savior, and you are saved forever. "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (2 Corinthians 9:15)
Can You Lose Your Salvation?
Some think you can lose your salvation by sinning too much. Some think you can lose it by committing certain sins. Others think you can become saved, and then at some time in the future, you can walk away from the faith, losing your relationship with God. Still, others will say that if you walk away, you are never saved to begin with. The sixth chapter of the book of Hebrews is one of those passages theologians use to make these claims. Are their interpretations accurate?
One of the Main Problem Passages
(Hebrews 6:4-6) is not an easy passage to understand. (4) “For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit, (5) and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, (6) if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame.”
It’s not wise to make a doctrine from a difficult passage. The best way to go about it is to try to understand the Biblical context.
Context – Context – Context!
One of the most critical things in Bible interpretation is context. How does it fit into the entire Scriptures? Secondly, how does it fit into the book [Hebrews]? And thirdly, how does it fit into the surrounding verses?
Do other verses teach that you can lose your salvation?
There are only a few that can be taken that way. But many confirm that once a person believes the gospel, they are secure forever! For example:
***** You become a child of God by faith in Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:26)
***** You are born again once. Just like physical birth, you can’t be unborn and then reborn. (John 3:3-4) There is nothing in the Bible about being born again over and over.
***** At the moment of faith, you receive everlasting life. How long is everlasting life? Forever! If it could be taken away, it wouldn’t be everlasting. (John 1:12; 3:15-16, 36; 5:24; 6:27, 40, 47; 9:38; 11:25-26)
***** Everlasting life is a gift. A gift is given with no strings attached. If there is something you must do to keep it, then it’s not a gift. (Romans. 6:23)
***** At the moment of faith in Christ, you are sealed by the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption. (Ephesians 1:13, 4:30)
***** No one can snatch out of God’s hand. No one would even include you! (John 10:28)
***** At the moment of faith, Christ’s perfect righteousness is imputed [credited] to your account. (2 Corinthians 5:21)
***** At the moment of faith, you are positionally sanctified and glorified. (1 Corinthians 6:11; Romans 8:30)
***** Even the most carnal believers are referred to as saints. (1 Corinthians 1:2)
Context #1 The Bible
As shown above, the Bible overwhelmingly teaches that when a person understands the gospel and places their faith in Christ, they have everlasting life that can never be lost. You are justified by faith. It is a one-time act of hearing (understanding the gospel) and believing it, which causes an irreversible change in your final destiny. If salvation is permanent, then Hebrews 6:4-6 can’t mean that you can lose salvation. The Bible does not contradict itself.
Context #2 The Book of Hebrews
To support the fact that they were of the faith, the writer refers to them as brethren or holy brethren at least four different times. (Hebrews 3:1, 12; 10:19, 13:22) Chapter 10 gives more insight into their situation. It implies they were experiencing another significant trial, a tribulation. They were to remember how they successfully endured past struggles and apply that same faith to this new one. (Hebrews 10:32-35)
Then, in Chapter 13, there is a little nugget that suggests the trouble they were experiencing. They were exhorted to “go forth to Him outside the camp, bearing his reproach.” (Hebrews 13:13). Being in the camp is a reference to Judaism. If they return to Judaism, they eliminate a lot of grief [persecution] from the religious Jews. If they go outside the camp [of Judaism], they face trouble from their fellow countrymen. They were believers being influenced to return to Judaism as a way to avoid persecution. Going back would result in “an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God.” (Hebrews 3:12) Minimally, it would result in a loss of reward at the judgment seat of Christ (Hebrews 10:35, 11:6; 2 Corinthians 5:7-10).
Context #3 The Surrounding Verses
The narrow context of Hebrews 6:4-6 begins in Chapter 5. They had become dull of hearing, which helped to influence them to go back to Judaism. In other words, they had retrogressed in their faith and needed to be taught again the fundamental truths of the faith. Spiritually, they needed milk (Baby stage of the faith), not solid food (Maturing stage of the faith). It left them unskilled and kept them from growing in the faith. (Hebrews 5:11-14) Their lack of maturity hindered their endurance to persevere through difficulty.
Conclusion of Context 1, 2, and 3
Since they could not lose their salvation, these Hebrews were believers. They had retrogressed in their faith. Due to their lack of spiritual maturity, they were tempted to return to Judaism when pressured by the religious Jews. They weren’t about to lose their salvation. They endangered their intimacy with God by leaving the faith, ultimately affecting their reward and testimony for the Lord.
** More on Hebrews 6 in the next blog. **
Some think you can lose your salvation by sinning too much. Some think you can lose it by committing certain sins. Others think you can become saved, and then at some time in the future, you can walk away from the faith, losing your relationship with God. Still, others will say that if you walk away, you are never saved to begin with. The sixth chapter of the book of Hebrews is one of those passages theologians use to make these claims. Are their interpretations accurate?
One of the Main Problem Passages
(Hebrews 6:4-6) is not an easy passage to understand. (4) “For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit, (5) and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, (6) if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame.”
It’s not wise to make a doctrine from a difficult passage. The best way to go about it is to try to understand the Biblical context.
Context – Context – Context!
One of the most critical things in Bible interpretation is context. How does it fit into the entire Scriptures? Secondly, how does it fit into the book [Hebrews]? And thirdly, how does it fit into the surrounding verses?
Do other verses teach that you can lose your salvation?
There are only a few that can be taken that way. But many confirm that once a person believes the gospel, they are secure forever! For example:
***** You become a child of God by faith in Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:26)
***** You are born again once. Just like physical birth, you can’t be unborn and then reborn. (John 3:3-4) There is nothing in the Bible about being born again over and over.
***** At the moment of faith, you receive everlasting life. How long is everlasting life? Forever! If it could be taken away, it wouldn’t be everlasting. (John 1:12; 3:15-16, 36; 5:24; 6:27, 40, 47; 9:38; 11:25-26)
***** Everlasting life is a gift. A gift is given with no strings attached. If there is something you must do to keep it, then it’s not a gift. (Romans. 6:23)
***** At the moment of faith in Christ, you are sealed by the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption. (Ephesians 1:13, 4:30)
***** No one can snatch out of God’s hand. No one would even include you! (John 10:28)
***** At the moment of faith, Christ’s perfect righteousness is imputed [credited] to your account. (2 Corinthians 5:21)
***** At the moment of faith, you are positionally sanctified and glorified. (1 Corinthians 6:11; Romans 8:30)
***** Even the most carnal believers are referred to as saints. (1 Corinthians 1:2)
Context #1 The Bible
As shown above, the Bible overwhelmingly teaches that when a person understands the gospel and places their faith in Christ, they have everlasting life that can never be lost. You are justified by faith. It is a one-time act of hearing (understanding the gospel) and believing it, which causes an irreversible change in your final destiny. If salvation is permanent, then Hebrews 6:4-6 can’t mean that you can lose salvation. The Bible does not contradict itself.
Context #2 The Book of Hebrews
To support the fact that they were of the faith, the writer refers to them as brethren or holy brethren at least four different times. (Hebrews 3:1, 12; 10:19, 13:22) Chapter 10 gives more insight into their situation. It implies they were experiencing another significant trial, a tribulation. They were to remember how they successfully endured past struggles and apply that same faith to this new one. (Hebrews 10:32-35)
Then, in Chapter 13, there is a little nugget that suggests the trouble they were experiencing. They were exhorted to “go forth to Him outside the camp, bearing his reproach.” (Hebrews 13:13). Being in the camp is a reference to Judaism. If they return to Judaism, they eliminate a lot of grief [persecution] from the religious Jews. If they go outside the camp [of Judaism], they face trouble from their fellow countrymen. They were believers being influenced to return to Judaism as a way to avoid persecution. Going back would result in “an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God.” (Hebrews 3:12) Minimally, it would result in a loss of reward at the judgment seat of Christ (Hebrews 10:35, 11:6; 2 Corinthians 5:7-10).
Context #3 The Surrounding Verses
The narrow context of Hebrews 6:4-6 begins in Chapter 5. They had become dull of hearing, which helped to influence them to go back to Judaism. In other words, they had retrogressed in their faith and needed to be taught again the fundamental truths of the faith. Spiritually, they needed milk (Baby stage of the faith), not solid food (Maturing stage of the faith). It left them unskilled and kept them from growing in the faith. (Hebrews 5:11-14) Their lack of maturity hindered their endurance to persevere through difficulty.
Conclusion of Context 1, 2, and 3
Since they could not lose their salvation, these Hebrews were believers. They had retrogressed in their faith. Due to their lack of spiritual maturity, they were tempted to return to Judaism when pressured by the religious Jews. They weren’t about to lose their salvation. They endangered their intimacy with God by leaving the faith, ultimately affecting their reward and testimony for the Lord.
** More on Hebrews 6 in the next blog. **
Two Wrongs and No Right
The accompanying post compares the two commonplace approaches many people follow to engage with a supposed Divine. Mr. Chopra’s preferred and advised route is spirituality rather than religion. While there is a distinction in the details, you will find the same devil in the details. Religion is a man-created, man-centered attempt to appease God. It is thoroughly ego-centric rather than theocentric. We do or do not do, and if we get it right 51% of our lifetime, we’re good to go; the scales weigh in our favor. It’s about me and me and me. Such is a vomitus stench to the God outside of ourselves who has revealed Himself to us through His creation and Biblical revelation: He wrote to us in both. God hates religion! It is murderous, corrupt, and experientially always ends with the people bowing before golden calves. Every single time religion is expressed, it stomps all over the possibility of our relationship with Him (as well as our fellow beings) for which we were created.
What do we then say of spirituality? My goodness, if we maintain that religion is ego-centric, what must we conclude regarding spirituality? Perhaps capitalize every letter like E-G-O-C-E-N-T-R-I-C and still fall far short in the me, me, and me of it all. Our original parents resisted that slithery voice until it whispered, “You can be as God.” “Chomp, chomp, chomp!!!” Imagine creating your own god in your image from a conglomeration of fluxional experiences, cultural clichés, and a’ la carte morality. These people end up believing, “I AM the golden calf!”
There are two wrongs and no right in this meme. Both “golden calf” versions, the religionist and the spiritualist, reject the love, mercy, grace, ways, and the Way of their Creator, all going the way of Cain to the land of Nod, the land of endless wandering. They will perish there.
Still, Christ calls to them from the land of abundant living, “Come to Me…”
The accompanying post compares the two commonplace approaches many people follow to engage with a supposed Divine. Mr. Chopra’s preferred and advised route is spirituality rather than religion. While there is a distinction in the details, you will find the same devil in the details. Religion is a man-created, man-centered attempt to appease God. It is thoroughly ego-centric rather than theocentric. We do or do not do, and if we get it right 51% of our lifetime, we’re good to go; the scales weigh in our favor. It’s about me and me and me. Such is a vomitus stench to the God outside of ourselves who has revealed Himself to us through His creation and Biblical revelation: He wrote to us in both. God hates religion! It is murderous, corrupt, and experientially always ends with the people bowing before golden calves. Every single time religion is expressed, it stomps all over the possibility of our relationship with Him (as well as our fellow beings) for which we were created.
What do we then say of spirituality? My goodness, if we maintain that religion is ego-centric, what must we conclude regarding spirituality? Perhaps capitalize every letter like E-G-O-C-E-N-T-R-I-C and still fall far short in the me, me, and me of it all. Our original parents resisted that slithery voice until it whispered, “You can be as God.” “Chomp, chomp, chomp!!!” Imagine creating your own god in your image from a conglomeration of fluxional experiences, cultural clichés, and a’ la carte morality. These people end up believing, “I AM the golden calf!”
There are two wrongs and no right in this meme. Both “golden calf” versions, the religionist and the spiritualist, reject the love, mercy, grace, ways, and the Way of their Creator, all going the way of Cain to the land of Nod, the land of endless wandering. They will perish there.
Still, Christ calls to them from the land of abundant living, “Come to Me…”
Looking Forward
"Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless." (2 Peter 3:13-14)
Our world gets shaken by interminable wars and rumors of wars and violence. Injustice, corruption, vice, and selfish pursuits fall like the constant white powder of a nor'easter. And we shovel and shovel some more, but it seems we're just surrounding ourselves with big drifts of strife, loss, and exasperation. Yet, we can be assured Spring is coming!
The Apostle Peter speaks of fiery trials (1 Peter 4:12-19) and all the rubbish piling up in a false and fallen world. He tells us the scoffers will say, "Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation." (2 Peter 3:4) In other words, spring isn't coming, so let's play in the snow, eat, drink, and be merry until we die!
NO! Peter responds, "For this they willfully forget that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men." (2 Peter 3: 5-7)
This is ultimately our Father's world! Spring will come as promised. What seems like a delay is our Creator's love and mercy. "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) He loves people. What amazing grace!
BUT the day of the Lord will come. And the elements and the earth and its works and the snows "will melt with fervent heat" and be burned up. (2 Peter 3:10) "Therefore," Peter asks, "Since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of the God…?" (2 Peter 3:11-12)
We are to be filled with His Spirit, not that of the world, in pursuit of holiness, godliness, and peace. We must use our God-led time, treasure, and talents to reach the perishing. We should be joyfully looking forward for we know that His promised Spring will assuredly come.
"Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless." (2 Peter 3:13-14)
Our world gets shaken by interminable wars and rumors of wars and violence. Injustice, corruption, vice, and selfish pursuits fall like the constant white powder of a nor'easter. And we shovel and shovel some more, but it seems we're just surrounding ourselves with big drifts of strife, loss, and exasperation. Yet, we can be assured Spring is coming!
The Apostle Peter speaks of fiery trials (1 Peter 4:12-19) and all the rubbish piling up in a false and fallen world. He tells us the scoffers will say, "Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation." (2 Peter 3:4) In other words, spring isn't coming, so let's play in the snow, eat, drink, and be merry until we die!
NO! Peter responds, "For this they willfully forget that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men." (2 Peter 3: 5-7)
This is ultimately our Father's world! Spring will come as promised. What seems like a delay is our Creator's love and mercy. "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) He loves people. What amazing grace!
BUT the day of the Lord will come. And the elements and the earth and its works and the snows "will melt with fervent heat" and be burned up. (2 Peter 3:10) "Therefore," Peter asks, "Since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of the God…?" (2 Peter 3:11-12)
We are to be filled with His Spirit, not that of the world, in pursuit of holiness, godliness, and peace. We must use our God-led time, treasure, and talents to reach the perishing. We should be joyfully looking forward for we know that His promised Spring will assuredly come.
Alternative Christianity
Look at this meme and notice who created it in the lower right-hand corner: The Christian Left. From their point of view, the Religious or, more directly, the Christian Right employs an alternate form of Christianity.
Whenever this subject arises, I think back to the time of Jesus as described in the Bible. The ordinary Joe did not oppose Jesus by and large. The religious leaders were another story. We're all familiar with the Pharisees; they were one of the groups who ruled religious life in Judea at that time. These men were very well versed in every jot and tittle of the Law. With this extensive knowledge, they polished their humanity to quite a shine – at least − on the outside. Not only had they adopted this veneer, but they also expected and intimidated everyone else to do so. They were legalism on steroids.
Then the Nazarene entered the picture. He had a lot to say to the Pharisees. I guess if one was to attempt to sum up His position, it might be – "Gentlemen, you know the Letter of the Law, and that is good, but you're stuck there and have forsaken the Spirit of the Law, as well as grace mercy and love, and that is not acceptable. The Law matters, but flesh and blood people mean much more." Read Matthew, Chapter 23, as an example of one of Jesus' exchanges with these men. Do you know some Pharisees responded to Jesus and became His followers? The others took out a contract on His life – 30 pieces of silver.
Far too often, the Religious/Christian right has resembled the Pharisees more than they have Jesus Christ. That is at least one reason for this meme from the self-described Christian Left. My goodness, I've worn self-righteous cloaks way too many times. How about you? Do you know what we need to do? Exchange our filthy rags for His Robe of Righteousness once and for all. We must become empty vessels that Christ can live in and through to accomplish His will in this world. There won't be any alternative faith or agendas found in that.
You thought I was done, right? No. You see, the Pharisees weren't the only religious leaders in Judea at the time of Jesus. The Pharisees were not His only Protagonists. The Sadducees didn't think much of the Carpenter either. These men were elitists and had close ties with the Roman government. They did not believe in an afterlife or the supernatural. When they challenged Jesus concerning the resurrection of the dead, the Lord set them straight. One interesting thing He says to them is this: Jesus answered them, "How wrong you are! It is because you don't know the Scriptures or God's power. (Matthew 22:29)
Did you notice anything about the Sadducees? Are they not representative of the Religious/Christian Left? Elitist attitudes with their own agendas and brand of doing what I say, not what I do, with their "Caesars can do it better mantra," and the ultimates in life begin and end with mankind. Jesus told them, "You don't know the Scriptures!" The Christian Left does not believe in the authorship, authority, inerrancy, and the absolute truth of Scripture. If you don't believe me on that – have a conversation with someone who identifies as such; ask some basic questions and note their answers.
The Sadducees also didn't know the power of God. The Christian Left is no different. They are masters of purposely twisting the evident truths of Scripture into a mishmash of ambiguity: Jesus was but a great social justice warrior, the first community organizer, the utopian socialist - but Immanuel (God with us), the Creator (who spoke all into existence), the Sustainer of the universe (who holds it all together), the Alpha and the Omega, the King of Kings who is coming again, the "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me" – no, such is myth and fabrication.
The creators of this post are themselves an exact image of Alternative Christianity. They are the Sadducees pointing accusing fingers at the Pharisees when they are just as far away from the will of God.
I am not desirous of being left or right. I want to be where God wants me: becoming the person He created me to be for His glory and good pleasure. I want to be aligned with His Truth. What about you?
Look at this meme and notice who created it in the lower right-hand corner: The Christian Left. From their point of view, the Religious or, more directly, the Christian Right employs an alternate form of Christianity.
Whenever this subject arises, I think back to the time of Jesus as described in the Bible. The ordinary Joe did not oppose Jesus by and large. The religious leaders were another story. We're all familiar with the Pharisees; they were one of the groups who ruled religious life in Judea at that time. These men were very well versed in every jot and tittle of the Law. With this extensive knowledge, they polished their humanity to quite a shine – at least − on the outside. Not only had they adopted this veneer, but they also expected and intimidated everyone else to do so. They were legalism on steroids.
Then the Nazarene entered the picture. He had a lot to say to the Pharisees. I guess if one was to attempt to sum up His position, it might be – "Gentlemen, you know the Letter of the Law, and that is good, but you're stuck there and have forsaken the Spirit of the Law, as well as grace mercy and love, and that is not acceptable. The Law matters, but flesh and blood people mean much more." Read Matthew, Chapter 23, as an example of one of Jesus' exchanges with these men. Do you know some Pharisees responded to Jesus and became His followers? The others took out a contract on His life – 30 pieces of silver.
Far too often, the Religious/Christian right has resembled the Pharisees more than they have Jesus Christ. That is at least one reason for this meme from the self-described Christian Left. My goodness, I've worn self-righteous cloaks way too many times. How about you? Do you know what we need to do? Exchange our filthy rags for His Robe of Righteousness once and for all. We must become empty vessels that Christ can live in and through to accomplish His will in this world. There won't be any alternative faith or agendas found in that.
You thought I was done, right? No. You see, the Pharisees weren't the only religious leaders in Judea at the time of Jesus. The Pharisees were not His only Protagonists. The Sadducees didn't think much of the Carpenter either. These men were elitists and had close ties with the Roman government. They did not believe in an afterlife or the supernatural. When they challenged Jesus concerning the resurrection of the dead, the Lord set them straight. One interesting thing He says to them is this: Jesus answered them, "How wrong you are! It is because you don't know the Scriptures or God's power. (Matthew 22:29)
Did you notice anything about the Sadducees? Are they not representative of the Religious/Christian Left? Elitist attitudes with their own agendas and brand of doing what I say, not what I do, with their "Caesars can do it better mantra," and the ultimates in life begin and end with mankind. Jesus told them, "You don't know the Scriptures!" The Christian Left does not believe in the authorship, authority, inerrancy, and the absolute truth of Scripture. If you don't believe me on that – have a conversation with someone who identifies as such; ask some basic questions and note their answers.
The Sadducees also didn't know the power of God. The Christian Left is no different. They are masters of purposely twisting the evident truths of Scripture into a mishmash of ambiguity: Jesus was but a great social justice warrior, the first community organizer, the utopian socialist - but Immanuel (God with us), the Creator (who spoke all into existence), the Sustainer of the universe (who holds it all together), the Alpha and the Omega, the King of Kings who is coming again, the "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me" – no, such is myth and fabrication.
The creators of this post are themselves an exact image of Alternative Christianity. They are the Sadducees pointing accusing fingers at the Pharisees when they are just as far away from the will of God.
I am not desirous of being left or right. I want to be where God wants me: becoming the person He created me to be for His glory and good pleasure. I want to be aligned with His Truth. What about you?
Then What?
The older you get; the faster life seems to go. Even if you live to be a hundred, that’s a blink compared to eternity. Years ago, I listened to a preacher tell a story about a conversation he had with a high school student. He asked the young man what he would do after high school. He answered, “I’m going to college.”
“What are you going to do after college?” “Well,” he answered, “I guess I’ll find a job and go to work.”
“Then what will you do?” he asked. “I’ll probably get married and have a family.”
“Then what?” “I’ll probably have kids, take vacations, and do family things.”
“Once you have raised your family, then what will you do?” “I guess I’ll retire. I’ll play golf, fish, hopefully have grandkids, and travel”.
“Then what?” the pastor asked.
Thinking for a couple of seconds, he said, “I guess I’ll die.”
“Then what?” …
Often, we have long-range goals. Usually, we don’t have eternal goals starting out early in life. Long-range goals may last 50, 60, or 70 years. Eternal goals last forever. Jesus said, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19-20).
Getting into heaven is simply by trusting in Jesus as Savior. He died and rose again so that we could have life (spiritual). But how we live matters for now and for eternity. Where are you storing up your treasures? Life is short. Death is sure. Sin’s the cause. Christ’s the cure!
The older you get; the faster life seems to go. Even if you live to be a hundred, that’s a blink compared to eternity. Years ago, I listened to a preacher tell a story about a conversation he had with a high school student. He asked the young man what he would do after high school. He answered, “I’m going to college.”
“What are you going to do after college?” “Well,” he answered, “I guess I’ll find a job and go to work.”
“Then what will you do?” he asked. “I’ll probably get married and have a family.”
“Then what?” “I’ll probably have kids, take vacations, and do family things.”
“Once you have raised your family, then what will you do?” “I guess I’ll retire. I’ll play golf, fish, hopefully have grandkids, and travel”.
“Then what?” the pastor asked.
Thinking for a couple of seconds, he said, “I guess I’ll die.”
“Then what?” …
Often, we have long-range goals. Usually, we don’t have eternal goals starting out early in life. Long-range goals may last 50, 60, or 70 years. Eternal goals last forever. Jesus said, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19-20).
Getting into heaven is simply by trusting in Jesus as Savior. He died and rose again so that we could have life (spiritual). But how we live matters for now and for eternity. Where are you storing up your treasures? Life is short. Death is sure. Sin’s the cause. Christ’s the cure!
The Last Cowboy
My precious parents knew me well. Sixty years ago, my Christmas stocking held a special gift—a bag filled with many miniature Cowboys and Indians. They rode magnificent steeds into battle. I especially loved the Indians, those stout and brave warriors leaning low in the saddle, ready to let loose their arrows.
The picture shown here I took today of the Last Cowboy. He has somehow survived sixty years. The relentless attrition of time claimed all my Indians and the other cowboys. Time does that; it gives, it takes. When my grandson dreads some event, I remind him that time is friend and foe. We must endure the unwanted as the ticks and tocks play foe, but then, as a friend, brings us through to the other side. Last month, while dusting the dresser in our bedroom (yes, I do that), the photograph of my parents we have there froze me. I sat on the bed, cradling it, overwhelmed by a tsunami wave of missing them. I missed my Mom and Dad. I missed my Mommy and Daddy, to be more accurate. When your parents are precious, so are the memories: Dad working in the yard and garden, faithful and strong. Mom baking in the kitchen and nursing me when I was sick, kind and loving. The family drives, the meals and holidays, and so much more. But time has been a foe; too many ticks took them away. However, it does not end there. Remember, time can also be our friend, and indeed, it is when we read this: “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” (Galatians 4:4-5)
God made a Way to bring us through to the other side. God sent forth His Son when the time was right. The Son redeemed us all, and we are left to receive or refuse it. I will see my parents again at His appointed time; I just need to endure the ticking and tocking until then. I am sure you can relate when thinking of your loved ones already with Christ.
The Last Cowboy might end up at my grandson’s house someday. Until then, he rides the prairie alone on one of my bookshelves. He reminds me of a Christmas sixty years past and from whom he came.
My precious parents knew me well. Sixty years ago, my Christmas stocking held a special gift—a bag filled with many miniature Cowboys and Indians. They rode magnificent steeds into battle. I especially loved the Indians, those stout and brave warriors leaning low in the saddle, ready to let loose their arrows.
The picture shown here I took today of the Last Cowboy. He has somehow survived sixty years. The relentless attrition of time claimed all my Indians and the other cowboys. Time does that; it gives, it takes. When my grandson dreads some event, I remind him that time is friend and foe. We must endure the unwanted as the ticks and tocks play foe, but then, as a friend, brings us through to the other side. Last month, while dusting the dresser in our bedroom (yes, I do that), the photograph of my parents we have there froze me. I sat on the bed, cradling it, overwhelmed by a tsunami wave of missing them. I missed my Mom and Dad. I missed my Mommy and Daddy, to be more accurate. When your parents are precious, so are the memories: Dad working in the yard and garden, faithful and strong. Mom baking in the kitchen and nursing me when I was sick, kind and loving. The family drives, the meals and holidays, and so much more. But time has been a foe; too many ticks took them away. However, it does not end there. Remember, time can also be our friend, and indeed, it is when we read this: “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” (Galatians 4:4-5)
God made a Way to bring us through to the other side. God sent forth His Son when the time was right. The Son redeemed us all, and we are left to receive or refuse it. I will see my parents again at His appointed time; I just need to endure the ticking and tocking until then. I am sure you can relate when thinking of your loved ones already with Christ.
The Last Cowboy might end up at my grandson’s house someday. Until then, he rides the prairie alone on one of my bookshelves. He reminds me of a Christmas sixty years past and from whom he came.
Do You Have True Peace?
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end,
Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom,
To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9:6-7).
Two thousand years ago, Jesus was born of a virgin. God did not send Him into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved (John 3:17). He restored the relationship between man and God. Thus, by faith, we can have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1).
Jesus came the first time as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). He’s coming back a second time to rule and reign on earth as KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS (Revelation 19:16). And the Lord shall be King over all the earth (Zechariah 14:9). That’s the full message of Christmas.
Although family gatherings, feasts, and gifts may be fun things to do, you have missed the true Person of Christmas if that is all it is for you. Jesus Christ is coming back to set up His kingdom on earth. He’s coming to bring true peace on earth. Are you ready to meet Him?
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end,
Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom,
To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9:6-7).
Two thousand years ago, Jesus was born of a virgin. God did not send Him into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved (John 3:17). He restored the relationship between man and God. Thus, by faith, we can have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1).
Jesus came the first time as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). He’s coming back a second time to rule and reign on earth as KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS (Revelation 19:16). And the Lord shall be King over all the earth (Zechariah 14:9). That’s the full message of Christmas.
Although family gatherings, feasts, and gifts may be fun things to do, you have missed the true Person of Christmas if that is all it is for you. Jesus Christ is coming back to set up His kingdom on earth. He’s coming to bring true peace on earth. Are you ready to meet Him?
The Cost of Rebellion
Before entering my teenage years, I was something of a whiz kid. My noticeable talent and unquenchable interest was in farming. Adults would stare at me in astonishment as the little boy before them explained, "Cows." At ten and younger, I buried my head in our encyclopedias and my Dad's old college textbooks, researching everything about agriculture. I had farm blood.
I spent many summer days on my grandparents' and uncles' farms. At age ten, I started working on the Earhart farm, encompassing our neighborhood. I helped with the evening milking, baling hay, and other farm chores, learning to fulfill my dream of being a farmer.
It never happened. When I turned thirteen, I became distracted by my peers and, of course, girls. There was nothing unusual about that. Everyone wants to be popular and accepted. Most often, your family or church members are not the people you want to be accepted by.
I became more peer-oriented, and my interests and activities changed dramatically. I exchanged encyclopedias and college textbooks for smutty magazines. I divorced the Earharts, who were like family to me. Instead, I ran with the kids in the neighborhood, breaking windows, raiding their parent's liquor cabinets, picking up cigarette butts from the road and smoking them. We had to hide from the police a time or two—all pretty tame stuff by today's standards.
By my high school years, cloistered in my bedroom, I was an empty person with no dreams, direction, or any emotional bonds with anyone. I had only myself and my foolish choices to blame. My faith lay shattered in stained-glassed pieces. Almost daily, I contemplated and then wrestled with the idea of hanging myself.
But God − aren't you thankful for those two words, blessed by those two words? I sure am! But God chased me down, that Hound of Heaven, scooped me up, and brought me home to my faith, family, and friends. He restored my fellowship with Him, even me, the least in His household.
I have strongly encouraged my son, my grandson, and now our young people at church: "Do not follow the crowd. Do not exchange love for God, family, and true friends for the emptiness the world offers. If you have a dream, hold onto it with everything you have. If you are still searching, do not be waylaid from the only path on which you will find it. Do not deny the wholesome desires God has placed in your heart. Do not put yourself in the position of sadly looking back at what might have been. Rebellion against God always costs but never pays. Do not end up like me."
You know, I used to walk to the Earhart farm as an adult. I'd watch the Hereford cattle grazing contently upon the green rolling hills. I would go there and remember my pure and simple times as a young boy. When the sun set in the evening sky, and I would turn for home, back to a good, blessed life. At the crest of the hill, I'd stop and look back. Tears would come, my heart would ache, a longing that would never know satisfaction, and "what might have been" coursed through my veins where farm blood still flowed.
I would turn and walk away, just as I walked away at thirteen and left my dream forever in the past.
Before entering my teenage years, I was something of a whiz kid. My noticeable talent and unquenchable interest was in farming. Adults would stare at me in astonishment as the little boy before them explained, "Cows." At ten and younger, I buried my head in our encyclopedias and my Dad's old college textbooks, researching everything about agriculture. I had farm blood.
I spent many summer days on my grandparents' and uncles' farms. At age ten, I started working on the Earhart farm, encompassing our neighborhood. I helped with the evening milking, baling hay, and other farm chores, learning to fulfill my dream of being a farmer.
It never happened. When I turned thirteen, I became distracted by my peers and, of course, girls. There was nothing unusual about that. Everyone wants to be popular and accepted. Most often, your family or church members are not the people you want to be accepted by.
I became more peer-oriented, and my interests and activities changed dramatically. I exchanged encyclopedias and college textbooks for smutty magazines. I divorced the Earharts, who were like family to me. Instead, I ran with the kids in the neighborhood, breaking windows, raiding their parent's liquor cabinets, picking up cigarette butts from the road and smoking them. We had to hide from the police a time or two—all pretty tame stuff by today's standards.
By my high school years, cloistered in my bedroom, I was an empty person with no dreams, direction, or any emotional bonds with anyone. I had only myself and my foolish choices to blame. My faith lay shattered in stained-glassed pieces. Almost daily, I contemplated and then wrestled with the idea of hanging myself.
But God − aren't you thankful for those two words, blessed by those two words? I sure am! But God chased me down, that Hound of Heaven, scooped me up, and brought me home to my faith, family, and friends. He restored my fellowship with Him, even me, the least in His household.
I have strongly encouraged my son, my grandson, and now our young people at church: "Do not follow the crowd. Do not exchange love for God, family, and true friends for the emptiness the world offers. If you have a dream, hold onto it with everything you have. If you are still searching, do not be waylaid from the only path on which you will find it. Do not deny the wholesome desires God has placed in your heart. Do not put yourself in the position of sadly looking back at what might have been. Rebellion against God always costs but never pays. Do not end up like me."
You know, I used to walk to the Earhart farm as an adult. I'd watch the Hereford cattle grazing contently upon the green rolling hills. I would go there and remember my pure and simple times as a young boy. When the sun set in the evening sky, and I would turn for home, back to a good, blessed life. At the crest of the hill, I'd stop and look back. Tears would come, my heart would ache, a longing that would never know satisfaction, and "what might have been" coursed through my veins where farm blood still flowed.
I would turn and walk away, just as I walked away at thirteen and left my dream forever in the past.
7 Things that Point to the End
Unlike the second coming, the rapture of the church can happen at any moment. There are no signs indicating when it might happen. However, the Bible identifies numerous things that will occur before Christ returns to earth to set up His kingdom.
Here is a summary of seven things that point to the season of end-time events:
1) - The Existence of Israel – This may be the most significant of Bible prophecies setting up the return of Jesus Christ. God had promised to bring them back into the land after a worldwide dispersion. (Isaiah 11:12; Jeremiah 29:14; Ezekiel 37:21). Daniel prophesied that a treaty will be confirmed with the nation of Israel after the death of the Messiah. (Daniel 9:26-27) For this to happen, Israel must exist as a nation. For almost two thousand years, the land of Israel was controlled by Gentile powers. Israel is the only nation that was ever destroyed; its people dispersed; its language disappeared; and then, after 2000 years, its people were brought back to the land and reestablished as a sovereign nation. That happened on May 14, 1948, and puts in place a vital piece of the puzzle to fulfill end-time events.
2) - A Temple – There will be a rebuilt temple in Jerusalem. In 2012, prophecy teacher Jimmy De Young wrote an article titled Preparing for the Third Temple. The Jewish Rabbis in Israel are preparing the garments and vessels for a temple. The Bible tells us that in the middle of the seven-year treaty, the antichrist breaks his covenant by desolating the temple. “He sits in the temple of God showing himself that he is God” (2 Thessalonians 2:4). Matthew calls this the abomination of desolation. (Matthew 24:15).
3) - One World Government – There will be a worldwide government. Jesus will return, destroy this kingdom, and set up His kingdom. (Daniel 2:28-44; Daniel 7:23-28; Revelation 13:7-8) In case you missed it, the World Government Summit gathers annually in Dubai. Undoubtedly, the world is heading toward a one-world government. The Covid-19 pandemic led government leaders to take another step in this direction.
4) - One World Ruler – There will be a one-man world ruler, usually called the antichrist. Kingdoms always require a king.
(Daniel 7:23-24; Revelation 13:4-5) Eventually, he will set himself up in the Jewish temple, claiming to be God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4) At His second coming, Jesus will cast the antichrist (the world ruler) into the lake of fire. (Revelation 19:20)
5) - The Ability to Control Buying or Selling – No one will be able to buy or sell unless they have the mark of the beast on their right hand or on the forehead. (Revelation 13:16-17) The word for “mark” comes from a Greek word meaning “to engrave.” “Mark” is translated as “to stamp or to impress.” It could very well be related to some sort of tattoo. One scholar suggests that the word “mark” is probably connected with ancient customs. Domestic slave owners sometimes branded their slaves with their mark. At the midpoint of the great tribulation, the antichrist will require this mark in order to buy or sell. It’s only in recent history that the technology exists for this to be enforced. For example, the ‘summit supercomputer can calculate in one second what it would take a person six billion years to do. Recently, Amazon has developed a technology where you can pay by scanning the palm of your hand.
6) - Alignment of the Nations – The modern-day alignment of nations that are enemies of Israel fits perfectly with Biblical prophecy. Ezekiel prophesied that Russia, Iran, Turkey, and others will come against Israel (Ezekiel 38, 39). Psalm 83 lists ten people groups that currently surround Israel and will form a confederacy against them. Their common bond is a shared hatred of Israel. They call for Israel’s destruction, “Come and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more” (Psalm 83:4). Sound familiar?
7) - The Increase of Evil – “But evil men and imposters will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived” (2 Timothy 3:13). “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power” (2 Timothy 3:1-5). It will be a time when evil may appear to be winning the day. Within my lifetime, 72 years, it is evident that the world is becoming worse in its morals and practices.
Students of Bible prophecy see these trends as precursors to fulfillment. For the first time in human history, a number of major prophesies are converging at the same time to set the stage for the end. How much longer? God only knows.
Unlike the second coming, the rapture of the church can happen at any moment. There are no signs indicating when it might happen. However, the Bible identifies numerous things that will occur before Christ returns to earth to set up His kingdom.
Here is a summary of seven things that point to the season of end-time events:
1) - The Existence of Israel – This may be the most significant of Bible prophecies setting up the return of Jesus Christ. God had promised to bring them back into the land after a worldwide dispersion. (Isaiah 11:12; Jeremiah 29:14; Ezekiel 37:21). Daniel prophesied that a treaty will be confirmed with the nation of Israel after the death of the Messiah. (Daniel 9:26-27) For this to happen, Israel must exist as a nation. For almost two thousand years, the land of Israel was controlled by Gentile powers. Israel is the only nation that was ever destroyed; its people dispersed; its language disappeared; and then, after 2000 years, its people were brought back to the land and reestablished as a sovereign nation. That happened on May 14, 1948, and puts in place a vital piece of the puzzle to fulfill end-time events.
2) - A Temple – There will be a rebuilt temple in Jerusalem. In 2012, prophecy teacher Jimmy De Young wrote an article titled Preparing for the Third Temple. The Jewish Rabbis in Israel are preparing the garments and vessels for a temple. The Bible tells us that in the middle of the seven-year treaty, the antichrist breaks his covenant by desolating the temple. “He sits in the temple of God showing himself that he is God” (2 Thessalonians 2:4). Matthew calls this the abomination of desolation. (Matthew 24:15).
3) - One World Government – There will be a worldwide government. Jesus will return, destroy this kingdom, and set up His kingdom. (Daniel 2:28-44; Daniel 7:23-28; Revelation 13:7-8) In case you missed it, the World Government Summit gathers annually in Dubai. Undoubtedly, the world is heading toward a one-world government. The Covid-19 pandemic led government leaders to take another step in this direction.
4) - One World Ruler – There will be a one-man world ruler, usually called the antichrist. Kingdoms always require a king.
(Daniel 7:23-24; Revelation 13:4-5) Eventually, he will set himself up in the Jewish temple, claiming to be God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4) At His second coming, Jesus will cast the antichrist (the world ruler) into the lake of fire. (Revelation 19:20)
5) - The Ability to Control Buying or Selling – No one will be able to buy or sell unless they have the mark of the beast on their right hand or on the forehead. (Revelation 13:16-17) The word for “mark” comes from a Greek word meaning “to engrave.” “Mark” is translated as “to stamp or to impress.” It could very well be related to some sort of tattoo. One scholar suggests that the word “mark” is probably connected with ancient customs. Domestic slave owners sometimes branded their slaves with their mark. At the midpoint of the great tribulation, the antichrist will require this mark in order to buy or sell. It’s only in recent history that the technology exists for this to be enforced. For example, the ‘summit supercomputer can calculate in one second what it would take a person six billion years to do. Recently, Amazon has developed a technology where you can pay by scanning the palm of your hand.
6) - Alignment of the Nations – The modern-day alignment of nations that are enemies of Israel fits perfectly with Biblical prophecy. Ezekiel prophesied that Russia, Iran, Turkey, and others will come against Israel (Ezekiel 38, 39). Psalm 83 lists ten people groups that currently surround Israel and will form a confederacy against them. Their common bond is a shared hatred of Israel. They call for Israel’s destruction, “Come and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more” (Psalm 83:4). Sound familiar?
7) - The Increase of Evil – “But evil men and imposters will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived” (2 Timothy 3:13). “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power” (2 Timothy 3:1-5). It will be a time when evil may appear to be winning the day. Within my lifetime, 72 years, it is evident that the world is becoming worse in its morals and practices.
Students of Bible prophecy see these trends as precursors to fulfillment. For the first time in human history, a number of major prophesies are converging at the same time to set the stage for the end. How much longer? God only knows.
Do You Know the Signs?
One day, the Pharisees and Sadducees came to test Jesus, demanding that he show them a miraculous sign from heaven to prove his authority.
He replied, "You know the saying, 'Red sky at night means fair weather tomorrow; red sky in the morning means foul weather all day.' You know how to interpret the weather signs in the sky, but you don't know how to interpret the signs of the times! Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign, but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah." Then Jesus left them and went away. (Matthew 16:1-4)
Here, Jesus refers to (His) Messiah's first coming to the earth and the miraculous things He did. The Pharisees and Sadducees and their followers failed to read the signs right in front of their faces, in their very midst.
The Signs of His Second Coming are upon us like the day's weather right in front of our faces, in our midst, but the world is full of Pharisees and Sadducees and their followers who again fail to read the signs.
The Sign of the Prophet Jonah: Jesus said, "Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign; but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah. For as Jonah was in the belly of the great fish for three days and three nights, so will the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth for three days and three nights.
"The people of Nineveh will stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for they repented of their sins at the preaching of Jonah. Now someone greater than Jonah is here—but you refuse to repent. The queen of Sheba will also stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for she came from a distant land to hear the wisdom of Solomon. Now someone greater than Solomon is here—but you refuse to listen. (Matthew 12:39-42)
One day, the Pharisees and Sadducees came to test Jesus, demanding that he show them a miraculous sign from heaven to prove his authority.
He replied, "You know the saying, 'Red sky at night means fair weather tomorrow; red sky in the morning means foul weather all day.' You know how to interpret the weather signs in the sky, but you don't know how to interpret the signs of the times! Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign, but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah." Then Jesus left them and went away. (Matthew 16:1-4)
Here, Jesus refers to (His) Messiah's first coming to the earth and the miraculous things He did. The Pharisees and Sadducees and their followers failed to read the signs right in front of their faces, in their very midst.
The Signs of His Second Coming are upon us like the day's weather right in front of our faces, in our midst, but the world is full of Pharisees and Sadducees and their followers who again fail to read the signs.
The Sign of the Prophet Jonah: Jesus said, "Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign; but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah. For as Jonah was in the belly of the great fish for three days and three nights, so will the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth for three days and three nights.
"The people of Nineveh will stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for they repented of their sins at the preaching of Jonah. Now someone greater than Jonah is here—but you refuse to repent. The queen of Sheba will also stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for she came from a distant land to hear the wisdom of Solomon. Now someone greater than Solomon is here—but you refuse to listen. (Matthew 12:39-42)
Without or With
Without Christ, I have no claim,
there is no worth in fortune or fame.
There is no silver, nor there be gold,
nor anything of earth my hands can hold.
To measure out the worth of His love
Nothing far, near, under or above.
Without Christ, I am just sinking sand.
Thank You, Jesus, for taking hold of my hand.
From the pit of death, you lifted me up.
And poured Life-giving water from Thy cup
O to my mouth so feeble and dry
And will wipe every tear from my eye.
With Christ, I have the most assured claim.
I shall be as He is, even like unto the same.
And that silver and gold shall beneath my feet be When I walk those streets prepared for me......with Christ.
Without Christ, I have no claim,
there is no worth in fortune or fame.
There is no silver, nor there be gold,
nor anything of earth my hands can hold.
To measure out the worth of His love
Nothing far, near, under or above.
Without Christ, I am just sinking sand.
Thank You, Jesus, for taking hold of my hand.
From the pit of death, you lifted me up.
And poured Life-giving water from Thy cup
O to my mouth so feeble and dry
And will wipe every tear from my eye.
With Christ, I have the most assured claim.
I shall be as He is, even like unto the same.
And that silver and gold shall beneath my feet be When I walk those streets prepared for me......with Christ.
Ishmael and Isaac
"And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him.
And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation.
But my covenant will I establish with Isaac, which Sarah shall bear unto thee at this set time in the next year." (Genesis 17:19-21)
Look at the map included here. The green is Ishmael. The small gray speck outlined in the red box is Isaac. Do you think the ongoing conflicts have anything to do with land at the core of things? Ishmael (the Child of Flesh) HATES Isaac (the Child of Promise). Ishmael could care less about a sliver of land; he only wants it because it belongs to Isaac. What he wants ultimately is to exterminate Isaac.
God also tells us this about Ishmael: "And he will be a wild man; his hand will be against every man, and every man's hand against him; and he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren." (Genesis 16:12)
Keep the map in mind when you are hearing about dividing land. Keep all this in mind if you want to know and understand what has been, is currently, and will occur there in the future.
"And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him.
And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation.
But my covenant will I establish with Isaac, which Sarah shall bear unto thee at this set time in the next year." (Genesis 17:19-21)
Look at the map included here. The green is Ishmael. The small gray speck outlined in the red box is Isaac. Do you think the ongoing conflicts have anything to do with land at the core of things? Ishmael (the Child of Flesh) HATES Isaac (the Child of Promise). Ishmael could care less about a sliver of land; he only wants it because it belongs to Isaac. What he wants ultimately is to exterminate Isaac.
God also tells us this about Ishmael: "And he will be a wild man; his hand will be against every man, and every man's hand against him; and he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren." (Genesis 16:12)
Keep the map in mind when you are hearing about dividing land. Keep all this in mind if you want to know and understand what has been, is currently, and will occur there in the future.
Kiss The Son
I watched a video featuring one of the global elite. In a deadpan delivery, he explained the world can only sustain a population of one billion people moving forward. In November 2022, we got to eight billion souls on the planet.
Question: What happens to seven billion people?
Mr. Global Guy continued that if things went right with their control of the climate and such, we might be able to keep two or three, maybe even four billion if we have perfect outcomes from the New World Order.
Question: What happens to six, five, or four billion people?
The topic reminded me of something, so I went to the book of Revelation in the Bible, and sure enough, I read, “So I looked, and behold, a pale horse. And the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades followed with him. And power was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, with hunger, with death, and by the beasts of the earth. (Revelation 6:8)
Eight billion divided by four is two billion and subtracting two billion from eight billion leaves six billion. I kept reading into Revelation Chapter 9. “So, the four angels, who had been prepared for the hour and day and month and year, were released to kill a third of mankind. (Revelation 9:15)
Six billion divided by three is two billion. Well, that leaves us with four billion people. We can only hope the New World Order gets all our ducks in a row, right?
Again, everything we see coming at us is foretold in Scripture. Take heart in the surety of God’s Word. It may look quite bleak, and it is for Mr. Global Guy and all those who reject the Son. But for those who kiss the Son, be encouraged in Psalm 2, for it is playing out right before our eyes:
Psalm 2
(1) “Why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing? (2) The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying, (3) “Let us break Their bonds in pieces and cast away Their cords from us.”
(4) He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; The Lord shall hold them in derision. (5) Then He shall speak to them in His wrath, and distress them in His deep displeasure: (6) “Yet I have set My King On My holy hill of Zion.”
(7) “I will declare the decree: The LORD has said to Me, ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You. (8) Ask of Me, and I will give You the nations for Your inheritance, and the ends of the earth for Your possession. (9) You shall break them with a rod of iron; You shall dash them to pieces like a potter’s vessel.’
(10) “Now therefore, be wise, O kings; be instructed, you judges of the earth. (11) Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling. (12) Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish in the way, when His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.”
I watched a video featuring one of the global elite. In a deadpan delivery, he explained the world can only sustain a population of one billion people moving forward. In November 2022, we got to eight billion souls on the planet.
Question: What happens to seven billion people?
Mr. Global Guy continued that if things went right with their control of the climate and such, we might be able to keep two or three, maybe even four billion if we have perfect outcomes from the New World Order.
Question: What happens to six, five, or four billion people?
The topic reminded me of something, so I went to the book of Revelation in the Bible, and sure enough, I read, “So I looked, and behold, a pale horse. And the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades followed with him. And power was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, with hunger, with death, and by the beasts of the earth. (Revelation 6:8)
Eight billion divided by four is two billion and subtracting two billion from eight billion leaves six billion. I kept reading into Revelation Chapter 9. “So, the four angels, who had been prepared for the hour and day and month and year, were released to kill a third of mankind. (Revelation 9:15)
Six billion divided by three is two billion. Well, that leaves us with four billion people. We can only hope the New World Order gets all our ducks in a row, right?
Again, everything we see coming at us is foretold in Scripture. Take heart in the surety of God’s Word. It may look quite bleak, and it is for Mr. Global Guy and all those who reject the Son. But for those who kiss the Son, be encouraged in Psalm 2, for it is playing out right before our eyes:
Psalm 2
(1) “Why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing? (2) The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying, (3) “Let us break Their bonds in pieces and cast away Their cords from us.”
(4) He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; The Lord shall hold them in derision. (5) Then He shall speak to them in His wrath, and distress them in His deep displeasure: (6) “Yet I have set My King On My holy hill of Zion.”
(7) “I will declare the decree: The LORD has said to Me, ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You. (8) Ask of Me, and I will give You the nations for Your inheritance, and the ends of the earth for Your possession. (9) You shall break them with a rod of iron; You shall dash them to pieces like a potter’s vessel.’
(10) “Now therefore, be wise, O kings; be instructed, you judges of the earth. (11) Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling. (12) Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish in the way, when His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.”
The Keys
“And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” (Matthew 16:18-19)
When my grandson was a tyke, he loved keys. That is probably an extension of another love of his, which I wrote about a while back: He liked to open and shut doors. I guess it all makes sense, right? I found a bunch of old keys in our junk drawer (one of them) and put them in his toy box. He was a super happy, excited little boy when he made the discovery. It seemed he was always carrying the keys around. On more than one occasion, the last thing I had to do when laying him down in bed was lovingly take the keys from his hands.
When Peter confessed that Jesus was “the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16), the keys of the kingdom were given to the church; with the keys came the privilege and the responsibility to continue the work of Jesus Christ upon the earth. Despite many times of dysfunction and delay, the church has persevered and carried His mantle onward. Millions have come to know and grow in the Savior through the witness of the church and the equipping of the saints. How wonderful to have the keys of the kingdom in our hands! We definitely should be super happy, excited people.
We know that failure is not an option, as even the very gates of hell shall not prevail against His church. This is not of our making, but His, for Jesus says, “I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and Death.” (Revelation 1:18)
When our life in Christ has finished its course and we enter our rest, perhaps the Lord Himself will lovingly take the keys from our hands. Amen
“And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” (Matthew 16:18-19)
When my grandson was a tyke, he loved keys. That is probably an extension of another love of his, which I wrote about a while back: He liked to open and shut doors. I guess it all makes sense, right? I found a bunch of old keys in our junk drawer (one of them) and put them in his toy box. He was a super happy, excited little boy when he made the discovery. It seemed he was always carrying the keys around. On more than one occasion, the last thing I had to do when laying him down in bed was lovingly take the keys from his hands.
When Peter confessed that Jesus was “the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16), the keys of the kingdom were given to the church; with the keys came the privilege and the responsibility to continue the work of Jesus Christ upon the earth. Despite many times of dysfunction and delay, the church has persevered and carried His mantle onward. Millions have come to know and grow in the Savior through the witness of the church and the equipping of the saints. How wonderful to have the keys of the kingdom in our hands! We definitely should be super happy, excited people.
We know that failure is not an option, as even the very gates of hell shall not prevail against His church. This is not of our making, but His, for Jesus says, “I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and Death.” (Revelation 1:18)
When our life in Christ has finished its course and we enter our rest, perhaps the Lord Himself will lovingly take the keys from our hands. Amen
From the God who keeps every Promise.
"But now the Lord Who made you, O Jacob, and He Who made you, O Israel, says, “Do not be afraid. For I have bought you and made you free. I have called you by name. You are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. When you pass through the rivers, they will not flow over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned. The fire will not destroy you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, Who saves you.
I have given Egypt as pay for your life and have traded Cush and Seba for you. You are of great worth in My eyes. You are honored and I love you. I will give other men in your place. I will trade other people for your life. Do not fear, for I am with you. I will bring your children from the east, and I will gather you from the west. I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ and to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’ Bring My sons from far away, and My daughters from the ends of the earth. Bring everyone who is called by My name, for I have made him for My honor, yes, I made him.” (Isaiah 43:1-7)
"But now the Lord Who made you, O Jacob, and He Who made you, O Israel, says, “Do not be afraid. For I have bought you and made you free. I have called you by name. You are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. When you pass through the rivers, they will not flow over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned. The fire will not destroy you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, Who saves you.
I have given Egypt as pay for your life and have traded Cush and Seba for you. You are of great worth in My eyes. You are honored and I love you. I will give other men in your place. I will trade other people for your life. Do not fear, for I am with you. I will bring your children from the east, and I will gather you from the west. I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ and to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’ Bring My sons from far away, and My daughters from the ends of the earth. Bring everyone who is called by My name, for I have made him for My honor, yes, I made him.” (Isaiah 43:1-7)
Complete
"For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself." (Philippians 3:20-21)
Romans, chapter 12, verses 1 and 2 take us from the story of our redemption over to the realization and results of such. We are being conformed to the image of His Son over here. We are being transformed in body, mind, and spirit, proving God's good, acceptable, and perfect will over here. We SHOULD be His vessels filled with Him now. In so doing, we can live the meaningful and abundant life that Jesus promised we would. And in so doing, we will turn our upside-down world right side up. If this is not an accurate description of how we are living, that tells us we are holding a part or parts of our lives back from God's use. That is a common condition for almost all of us. We must press on that we "may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of (us)." (Philippians 3:12)
As we press on in Christ, God's purposes and plans for our life will be accomplished. All the while, we know our true citizenship is in heaven. And we are assured that either we will go to Him or He will come for us - and we will see our lowly body exchanged for a glorious body. Praise the Lord, then we will be complete.
"For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself." (Philippians 3:20-21)
Romans, chapter 12, verses 1 and 2 take us from the story of our redemption over to the realization and results of such. We are being conformed to the image of His Son over here. We are being transformed in body, mind, and spirit, proving God's good, acceptable, and perfect will over here. We SHOULD be His vessels filled with Him now. In so doing, we can live the meaningful and abundant life that Jesus promised we would. And in so doing, we will turn our upside-down world right side up. If this is not an accurate description of how we are living, that tells us we are holding a part or parts of our lives back from God's use. That is a common condition for almost all of us. We must press on that we "may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of (us)." (Philippians 3:12)
As we press on in Christ, God's purposes and plans for our life will be accomplished. All the while, we know our true citizenship is in heaven. And we are assured that either we will go to Him or He will come for us - and we will see our lowly body exchanged for a glorious body. Praise the Lord, then we will be complete.
Transformed
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:1-2)
When we see the word “therefore,” we recognize it as a bridge between what was just stated and that to follow. Here, in perhaps the most pivotal verses of Scripture, we see a bridge between all the previous dispensations of history and the following expected result. The expected outcome of our redemption is no longer conformity to the world but conformity to the image of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:29) and a daily outward manifesting of our inward transformation: Christ living in us and through us, and therefore, our lives SHOULD look like this:
*** We do not think of ourselves more highly than we ought to think.
*** We let our love be without hypocrisy.
*** We abhor what is evil.
*** We cling to what is good.
*** We are kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love.
*** We, in honor, give preference to one another.
*** We are diligent.
*** We are fervent in spirit.
*** We serve the Lord.
*** We rejoice in hope.
*** We are patient in tribulation.
*** We continue steadfastly in prayer.
*** We distribute to the needs of the saints.
*** We are hospitable.
*** We bless those who persecute us.
*** We bless and do not curse.
*** We rejoice with those who rejoice.
*** We weep with those who weep.
*** We are of the same mind toward one another.
*** We do not set our minds on high things.
*** We associate with the humble.
*** We are not to be wise in our own opinion.
*** We repay no one evil for evil.
*** We have regard for good things in the sight of all men.
*** We, when possible, live peaceably with all men.
*** We do not avenge ourselves.
*** We overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:3-21)
That list is worth studying and using to inventory our daily living. It is an excellent picture of a meaningful and abundant life - a Christ in us life. It is a fantastic picture of who we are to be in body, mind, and spirit while being conformed and transformed.
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:1-2)
When we see the word “therefore,” we recognize it as a bridge between what was just stated and that to follow. Here, in perhaps the most pivotal verses of Scripture, we see a bridge between all the previous dispensations of history and the following expected result. The expected outcome of our redemption is no longer conformity to the world but conformity to the image of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:29) and a daily outward manifesting of our inward transformation: Christ living in us and through us, and therefore, our lives SHOULD look like this:
*** We do not think of ourselves more highly than we ought to think.
*** We let our love be without hypocrisy.
*** We abhor what is evil.
*** We cling to what is good.
*** We are kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love.
*** We, in honor, give preference to one another.
*** We are diligent.
*** We are fervent in spirit.
*** We serve the Lord.
*** We rejoice in hope.
*** We are patient in tribulation.
*** We continue steadfastly in prayer.
*** We distribute to the needs of the saints.
*** We are hospitable.
*** We bless those who persecute us.
*** We bless and do not curse.
*** We rejoice with those who rejoice.
*** We weep with those who weep.
*** We are of the same mind toward one another.
*** We do not set our minds on high things.
*** We associate with the humble.
*** We are not to be wise in our own opinion.
*** We repay no one evil for evil.
*** We have regard for good things in the sight of all men.
*** We, when possible, live peaceably with all men.
*** We do not avenge ourselves.
*** We overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:3-21)
That list is worth studying and using to inventory our daily living. It is an excellent picture of a meaningful and abundant life - a Christ in us life. It is a fantastic picture of who we are to be in body, mind, and spirit while being conformed and transformed.
His Vision – Part 3
If we were to walk in the cool of the day with God and chat about all manner of things, would it turn into a series of disagreements or passionate debates? Of course not is the Christian’s immediate answer to such a proposition. We may have some questions for God, but only as a child or student would ask a parent or teacher how we’re to perceive and relate to Him and the world around us. The reality is multitudes that “name the name of Christ” view much of life in opposition to His will and vision.
These people, whether in ignorance, disobedience, or even unbelief, fail to heed the Apostle Paul’s warning: “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the traditions of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” (Colossians 2:6-10)
Paul says, “As you have been taught.” Since our literal walks with God in the cool of the day are, for a time, relegated to the past, how are we taught? How does He teach us?
“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork.” (Psalm 19:1; see also Romans 1:20) As always, His glorious, splendid creation teaches us.
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17; see also Psalm 19:7-11) His perfect, inerrant, inspired Word teaches us.
“When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take what is Mine and declare it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you.” (John 16:13-15; see also I John 3:24-4:1-6) The Holy Spirit, our Helper, our Comforter, teaches us.
All proclaim the same message: His vision. In light of this threefold revelation, how can we not have His vision?
When you name the name of Christ, you are to “be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) You are to see, think, understand and agree with God about everything every day. In Christ, you are equipped to speak spiritual truth to our darkened culture concerning all moral, social, and political matters. “See then that you walk, circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16; see also Colossians 4:2-6)
We’re to be the “new man” taught by Him and renewed in the spirit of our mind. Are we?
If we were to walk in the cool of the day with God and chat about all manner of things, would it turn into a series of disagreements or passionate debates? Of course not is the Christian’s immediate answer to such a proposition. We may have some questions for God, but only as a child or student would ask a parent or teacher how we’re to perceive and relate to Him and the world around us. The reality is multitudes that “name the name of Christ” view much of life in opposition to His will and vision.
These people, whether in ignorance, disobedience, or even unbelief, fail to heed the Apostle Paul’s warning: “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the traditions of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” (Colossians 2:6-10)
Paul says, “As you have been taught.” Since our literal walks with God in the cool of the day are, for a time, relegated to the past, how are we taught? How does He teach us?
“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork.” (Psalm 19:1; see also Romans 1:20) As always, His glorious, splendid creation teaches us.
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17; see also Psalm 19:7-11) His perfect, inerrant, inspired Word teaches us.
“When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take what is Mine and declare it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you.” (John 16:13-15; see also I John 3:24-4:1-6) The Holy Spirit, our Helper, our Comforter, teaches us.
All proclaim the same message: His vision. In light of this threefold revelation, how can we not have His vision?
When you name the name of Christ, you are to “be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) You are to see, think, understand and agree with God about everything every day. In Christ, you are equipped to speak spiritual truth to our darkened culture concerning all moral, social, and political matters. “See then that you walk, circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16; see also Colossians 4:2-6)
We’re to be the “new man” taught by Him and renewed in the spirit of our mind. Are we?
His Vision – Part 2
Do we see life the way God does? The Bible says Christians “…have the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:16b) That more than suggests Christians should see, think, understand, and agree with God on everything every day, not Sunday morning alone. When we observe our world and engage with it on any level, we are to do so according to what God has taught us through the revelation of His Word. An open Bible on our laps is our school room, and the Holy Spirit is our teacher.
What manner of students are we? In far too many cases, we are fickle, wavering “children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, [and] the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting.” (Ephesians 4:14) Because of this many who profess Christ side with the popular culture at the expense of Biblical truth. Whether it is the origins of life, sexuality, abortion, euthanasia, environmental topics, the role of government, race issues, or numerous other matters, Christians must be ever-growing and aligning with Scripture.
The apostle Paul makes this very clear: “…you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart.” (Ephesians 4:17-18) Who are you walking with, friend? When you take a stand (we are called to do so) on the controversial subjects mentioned above – who is marching next to you: Hollywood, Big Government politicians, the Left’s utopian socialists, the mainstream news media, Mother Earth devotees, possibly the ACLU or the “political correctness” crowd? If so, you had best look honestly at which road you are traveling.
The apostle Paul goes on to challenge us: “But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and been taught by Him, AS THE TRUTH IS IN JESUS: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 20-24) {Capitalization mine}
Have you heard Him and been taught by Him? Have you been renewed in the spirit of your mind and put on the new man?
Do we see life the way God does? The Bible says Christians “…have the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:16b) That more than suggests Christians should see, think, understand, and agree with God on everything every day, not Sunday morning alone. When we observe our world and engage with it on any level, we are to do so according to what God has taught us through the revelation of His Word. An open Bible on our laps is our school room, and the Holy Spirit is our teacher.
What manner of students are we? In far too many cases, we are fickle, wavering “children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, [and] the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting.” (Ephesians 4:14) Because of this many who profess Christ side with the popular culture at the expense of Biblical truth. Whether it is the origins of life, sexuality, abortion, euthanasia, environmental topics, the role of government, race issues, or numerous other matters, Christians must be ever-growing and aligning with Scripture.
The apostle Paul makes this very clear: “…you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart.” (Ephesians 4:17-18) Who are you walking with, friend? When you take a stand (we are called to do so) on the controversial subjects mentioned above – who is marching next to you: Hollywood, Big Government politicians, the Left’s utopian socialists, the mainstream news media, Mother Earth devotees, possibly the ACLU or the “political correctness” crowd? If so, you had best look honestly at which road you are traveling.
The apostle Paul goes on to challenge us: “But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and been taught by Him, AS THE TRUTH IS IN JESUS: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 20-24) {Capitalization mine}
Have you heard Him and been taught by Him? Have you been renewed in the spirit of your mind and put on the new man?
His Vision – Part 1
Several years ago, we went to the Pirates home opener, and I must say, my first visit to PNC Park impressed me. It was a picture-perfect day. We sat up high in the club box section just to the first base side of home plate. The city, the river, the bridges, and the green grass were all lit up with golden sunshine. They had a flyover by four jets as the national anthem ended. Very inspirational! The Goodyear blimp floated about doing whatever blimps do. We spent the day bombarded with rapturous visions, except for a particular home team’s performance.
Nevertheless, from our vantage point, we only saw these things from a distance. The landmarks were way over yonder. The player’s faces weren’t quite distinguishable. The ball bouncing into the outfield had the semblance of a white pinhead. The people sitting higher up could see even fewer details. At least with the naked eye, the pilots in those jets and the hovering airship weren’t observing too many specific features either. The higher up, the more you could see, but the less you could see.
God wants us to see. We are called to have His vision. He sees things from far off, and yet, “there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we give account.” (Hebrews 4:13) God sees far and right up close. Do we? Do we see? Do we have His vision? Where are we – perhaps way up in one of those life-in-the-fast-lane jets or couch-potato-comfortable in the slow, lazy blimp? Are we content with Peanut Heaven, or do we want front-row box seats? God wants us to see the seams on the ball as it zips toward home plate, the inscription, and the rotation. When we look from far off, are we seeing life the way God does? When we look up close, are we seeing life the way God does? Perhaps on Sunday morning, but what of the rest of the week? Whose glasses are we wearing for the rest of the week?
Several years ago, we went to the Pirates home opener, and I must say, my first visit to PNC Park impressed me. It was a picture-perfect day. We sat up high in the club box section just to the first base side of home plate. The city, the river, the bridges, and the green grass were all lit up with golden sunshine. They had a flyover by four jets as the national anthem ended. Very inspirational! The Goodyear blimp floated about doing whatever blimps do. We spent the day bombarded with rapturous visions, except for a particular home team’s performance.
Nevertheless, from our vantage point, we only saw these things from a distance. The landmarks were way over yonder. The player’s faces weren’t quite distinguishable. The ball bouncing into the outfield had the semblance of a white pinhead. The people sitting higher up could see even fewer details. At least with the naked eye, the pilots in those jets and the hovering airship weren’t observing too many specific features either. The higher up, the more you could see, but the less you could see.
God wants us to see. We are called to have His vision. He sees things from far off, and yet, “there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we give account.” (Hebrews 4:13) God sees far and right up close. Do we? Do we see? Do we have His vision? Where are we – perhaps way up in one of those life-in-the-fast-lane jets or couch-potato-comfortable in the slow, lazy blimp? Are we content with Peanut Heaven, or do we want front-row box seats? God wants us to see the seams on the ball as it zips toward home plate, the inscription, and the rotation. When we look from far off, are we seeing life the way God does? When we look up close, are we seeing life the way God does? Perhaps on Sunday morning, but what of the rest of the week? Whose glasses are we wearing for the rest of the week?
Danger on the High Seas
My dad bought a boat after my brother, and I moved out of the house. My brother used it for water skiing, and I used it for fishing. On one of the fishing trips, my two boys, their two friends, and a friend of mine were fishing a fairly large lake. The kids were young, seven to ten years old. My mother and wife were with us as observers. We were catching fish. We decided it was time to go at dusk as it got colder and began to drizzle. There was only one other boat on the lake within sight. I hit the ignition, and the boat wouldn't start. The battery had died.
That's the closest I ever came to being shipwrecked. When that boat wouldn't start, my adrenaline started to flow. Frustrated, my mind began to spin. How are we going to get out of this? We weren't about to perish, but it became stressful for the boat's captain (me). The kids were cold. The women were getting wet! Thankfully, by the grace of God, the only other boat we could see helped us get back to the dock.
Danger On The High Seas
We experienced nothing like what the apostle Paul experienced on his way to Rome. We had a dead battery. He was on a ship about to be torn apart by a hurricane. The crew undergirded it with cables (Acts 27:17). That action became known as frapping. They wrapped the ship with cables to help hold the timbers together so the wind and the waves wouldn't break it apart. It was a scary time for even seasoned sailors.
Do You Have Cables For The Storm?
The Greek word for 'cable' is the same word used in Hebrews (4:16) for 'help.' "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace; that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help (cable) in time of need" (Hebrews 4:15-16). God's grace and mercy will help us like those cables on a sinking ship.
Storms Always Come.
When they began to sail, the sea was calm. But not long afterward, a tempestuous wind began to blow. Trouble came. And it lasted for quite some time – weeks! It's the same way with us. God doesn't remove the storms of life. He allows them for the purpose of growing us spiritually.
Getting Through The Storm
We usually try to figure a way out of the storm immediately. We generally don't like storms. We want smooth sailing. But God has not promised us smooth sailing. He promises us that He will be with us through the storm (John 16:33).
Who Do You Seek in The Storm?
When your ship is falling apart, when troubles are coming your way, do you go boldly to the throne of grace to obtain mercy and grace to help in time of need? King David did. He said, "I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears" (Psalm 34:4).
He will do the same for you and me if we're willing to trust Him and come to Him to find mercy and grace to help in our time of need. If we do, His cables will hold our ship together through the storm.
"In the day when I cried out, You answered me, And made me bold with strength in my soul." (Psalm 138:3)
My dad bought a boat after my brother, and I moved out of the house. My brother used it for water skiing, and I used it for fishing. On one of the fishing trips, my two boys, their two friends, and a friend of mine were fishing a fairly large lake. The kids were young, seven to ten years old. My mother and wife were with us as observers. We were catching fish. We decided it was time to go at dusk as it got colder and began to drizzle. There was only one other boat on the lake within sight. I hit the ignition, and the boat wouldn't start. The battery had died.
That's the closest I ever came to being shipwrecked. When that boat wouldn't start, my adrenaline started to flow. Frustrated, my mind began to spin. How are we going to get out of this? We weren't about to perish, but it became stressful for the boat's captain (me). The kids were cold. The women were getting wet! Thankfully, by the grace of God, the only other boat we could see helped us get back to the dock.
Danger On The High Seas
We experienced nothing like what the apostle Paul experienced on his way to Rome. We had a dead battery. He was on a ship about to be torn apart by a hurricane. The crew undergirded it with cables (Acts 27:17). That action became known as frapping. They wrapped the ship with cables to help hold the timbers together so the wind and the waves wouldn't break it apart. It was a scary time for even seasoned sailors.
Do You Have Cables For The Storm?
The Greek word for 'cable' is the same word used in Hebrews (4:16) for 'help.' "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace; that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help (cable) in time of need" (Hebrews 4:15-16). God's grace and mercy will help us like those cables on a sinking ship.
Storms Always Come.
When they began to sail, the sea was calm. But not long afterward, a tempestuous wind began to blow. Trouble came. And it lasted for quite some time – weeks! It's the same way with us. God doesn't remove the storms of life. He allows them for the purpose of growing us spiritually.
Getting Through The Storm
We usually try to figure a way out of the storm immediately. We generally don't like storms. We want smooth sailing. But God has not promised us smooth sailing. He promises us that He will be with us through the storm (John 16:33).
Who Do You Seek in The Storm?
When your ship is falling apart, when troubles are coming your way, do you go boldly to the throne of grace to obtain mercy and grace to help in time of need? King David did. He said, "I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears" (Psalm 34:4).
He will do the same for you and me if we're willing to trust Him and come to Him to find mercy and grace to help in our time of need. If we do, His cables will hold our ship together through the storm.
"In the day when I cried out, You answered me, And made me bold with strength in my soul." (Psalm 138:3)
He Sings Over You
At bedtime, I sang songs to my son while our rocking chair creaked its own tune. He would nestle in with sleepy eyes and ears and find peace and serenity in his father's songs. I did the same with his son. Even now, I sing hymns to my grandson at bedtime. Many people find the songs ending when their childhoods end. Others never had songs sung over them.
Are there no songs in the morning? Is the day silent? Is nothing sung in the darkness before dawn? Do the storms of life drown out the music of life? There is always a song. Are we listening?
Every morning begins with a song. Somewhere upon this globe, the birds are singing. What a wonder-filled way to greet the day – with a thousand songs. The morning itself sings with sparkling dew, a fresh snowfall, the work of frosty fingers, or rolling fog upon the meadow. The eastern horizon begins with the softest note and then builds to a powerful crescendo, declaring, “A new day has arrived!” When God laid the earth’s foundation, “the morning stars sang together, and all the angels shouted for joy.” (Job 38:4, 7)
Every morning is a love song sung over us by the Heavenly Father. The psalmist says, “By day, the Lord directs His love.” (Psalm 42:8) The great Conductor sweeps His baton, adding more musicians to the ongoing concert. Bees buzz on blossoms. Unseen locusts shout from the woods. The wind stirs the trees with a melodious breeze. Gentle rains fall pitter-patter to the earth. Plants leap up from the ground. Flowers open in vivid display. Laughing children splash into a pile of autumn leaves, squeal on a runaway sled, do cartwheels in thick spring grass or dive into summer pools. The chorus of children at play leaves no day silent.
Every day is a love song sung over us by the Heavenly Father.
The western sky pulls the shades down. All seems solemn and still. Do you hear them? Tree frogs, peepers peep, the locusts get louder, crickets join in, and the distinctive call of katydids chirp and hum in late summer. Lightening bugs sparkle. And the Stars! The Moon overhead, oh my, the glorious songs they sing stretched out across the night sky! The psalmist rejoices, “At night, His song is with me.” (Psalm 42:8)
Every evening, every night, is a love song sung over us by the Heavenly Father.
Living in a fallen, cursed world lashes us with storms. A host of problems plague all weary travelers in this life. In those times, we can become convinced there is no song for us. But, there is a song; it is a song of victory. King David, amid his most significant storm, celebrated, “You are my hiding place from every storm of life…You surround me with songs of victory.” (Psalm 32:7)
Every storm becomes a love song of victory sung over us by the Heavenly Father.
“For the Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty Savior. He will give you victory. He will rejoice over you in great gladness; He will love you and not accuse you. Is that a joyous choir I hear? No, it is the Lord Himself exulting over you in happy song.” (Zephaniah 3:15, 17) He sings over you!
At bedtime, I sang songs to my son while our rocking chair creaked its own tune. He would nestle in with sleepy eyes and ears and find peace and serenity in his father's songs. I did the same with his son. Even now, I sing hymns to my grandson at bedtime. Many people find the songs ending when their childhoods end. Others never had songs sung over them.
Are there no songs in the morning? Is the day silent? Is nothing sung in the darkness before dawn? Do the storms of life drown out the music of life? There is always a song. Are we listening?
Every morning begins with a song. Somewhere upon this globe, the birds are singing. What a wonder-filled way to greet the day – with a thousand songs. The morning itself sings with sparkling dew, a fresh snowfall, the work of frosty fingers, or rolling fog upon the meadow. The eastern horizon begins with the softest note and then builds to a powerful crescendo, declaring, “A new day has arrived!” When God laid the earth’s foundation, “the morning stars sang together, and all the angels shouted for joy.” (Job 38:4, 7)
Every morning is a love song sung over us by the Heavenly Father. The psalmist says, “By day, the Lord directs His love.” (Psalm 42:8) The great Conductor sweeps His baton, adding more musicians to the ongoing concert. Bees buzz on blossoms. Unseen locusts shout from the woods. The wind stirs the trees with a melodious breeze. Gentle rains fall pitter-patter to the earth. Plants leap up from the ground. Flowers open in vivid display. Laughing children splash into a pile of autumn leaves, squeal on a runaway sled, do cartwheels in thick spring grass or dive into summer pools. The chorus of children at play leaves no day silent.
Every day is a love song sung over us by the Heavenly Father.
The western sky pulls the shades down. All seems solemn and still. Do you hear them? Tree frogs, peepers peep, the locusts get louder, crickets join in, and the distinctive call of katydids chirp and hum in late summer. Lightening bugs sparkle. And the Stars! The Moon overhead, oh my, the glorious songs they sing stretched out across the night sky! The psalmist rejoices, “At night, His song is with me.” (Psalm 42:8)
Every evening, every night, is a love song sung over us by the Heavenly Father.
Living in a fallen, cursed world lashes us with storms. A host of problems plague all weary travelers in this life. In those times, we can become convinced there is no song for us. But, there is a song; it is a song of victory. King David, amid his most significant storm, celebrated, “You are my hiding place from every storm of life…You surround me with songs of victory.” (Psalm 32:7)
Every storm becomes a love song of victory sung over us by the Heavenly Father.
“For the Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty Savior. He will give you victory. He will rejoice over you in great gladness; He will love you and not accuse you. Is that a joyous choir I hear? No, it is the Lord Himself exulting over you in happy song.” (Zephaniah 3:15, 17) He sings over you!
The Bible, Why Should You Read It?
A few years ago, from time to time, a fellow would say to me, “If you don’t read the Bible, then I think you’re probably not saved.” I didn’t read and study God’s word for a number of years. Was I not saved? According to him, probably not. I guess the thief on the cross wasn’t saved, either. This is just one of many things that people judge others to determine if they are ‘truly’ saved.
For sure, I would agree that Christians should read the Bible. It’s how we hear from God. People want to know God’s will. Read, listen, and study the Bible, and you will easily discover it. However, I have a hard time finding a verse that says there is something you must do to be saved from the penalty of sin other than believing the gospel.
The Bible reveals the way of Salvation
The Bible is the only document that reveals God’s plan of salvation from the penalty of sin (eternal death) by faith in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. In a roundabout way, every person is saved by hearing and responding to the word of God by faith. Many, I would say, are saved when the Holy Spirit uses someone to share the Biblical gospel with them; a preacher, a Sunday School teacher, a friend, a street evangelist, or a combination of voices (Acts 2:41; 16:31). However, not everyone is saved by directly reading the Bible.
The Bible is food for the Believer
But the Bible is a valuable food for believers to grow spiritually; to deepen their relationship with the Lord. We should do it daily, not for an academic pursuit but out of a desire to know Him (Philippians 3:10). Psalm 119 teaches us the virtues of knowing God through His word. Following are nine truths from the Psalm:
Nine Truths from Psalm 119
Verse 2 – Blessed are those who keep His Testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart!
Verse 9 – How can a young man cleanse his ways? By taking heed according to Your Word.
Verse 11 – Your Word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.
Verse 24 – Your Testimonies also are my delight And my counselors.
Verse 50 – This is my comfort in my affliction, For Your word has given me life.
Verse 105 – Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.
Verse 160 – The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.
Verse 162 – I rejoice at Your word As one who finds great treasure.
Verse 165 – Great peace have those who love Your law, And nothing causes them to stumble.
The Bible is an essential tool in living the Christian life. The Spirit of God is the agent, and the Word of God is the instrument that He uses to develop us into mature believers (2 Timothy 3:16). If we are not in the Word, learning how to deepen our relationship with the Lord, our life will fail to glorify Him. It will also be detrimental to the way we live and our future in the kingdom of God.
“Now godliness with contentment is great gain.” I Timothy 6:6
A few years ago, from time to time, a fellow would say to me, “If you don’t read the Bible, then I think you’re probably not saved.” I didn’t read and study God’s word for a number of years. Was I not saved? According to him, probably not. I guess the thief on the cross wasn’t saved, either. This is just one of many things that people judge others to determine if they are ‘truly’ saved.
For sure, I would agree that Christians should read the Bible. It’s how we hear from God. People want to know God’s will. Read, listen, and study the Bible, and you will easily discover it. However, I have a hard time finding a verse that says there is something you must do to be saved from the penalty of sin other than believing the gospel.
The Bible reveals the way of Salvation
The Bible is the only document that reveals God’s plan of salvation from the penalty of sin (eternal death) by faith in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. In a roundabout way, every person is saved by hearing and responding to the word of God by faith. Many, I would say, are saved when the Holy Spirit uses someone to share the Biblical gospel with them; a preacher, a Sunday School teacher, a friend, a street evangelist, or a combination of voices (Acts 2:41; 16:31). However, not everyone is saved by directly reading the Bible.
The Bible is food for the Believer
But the Bible is a valuable food for believers to grow spiritually; to deepen their relationship with the Lord. We should do it daily, not for an academic pursuit but out of a desire to know Him (Philippians 3:10). Psalm 119 teaches us the virtues of knowing God through His word. Following are nine truths from the Psalm:
Nine Truths from Psalm 119
Verse 2 – Blessed are those who keep His Testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart!
Verse 9 – How can a young man cleanse his ways? By taking heed according to Your Word.
Verse 11 – Your Word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.
Verse 24 – Your Testimonies also are my delight And my counselors.
Verse 50 – This is my comfort in my affliction, For Your word has given me life.
Verse 105 – Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.
Verse 160 – The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.
Verse 162 – I rejoice at Your word As one who finds great treasure.
Verse 165 – Great peace have those who love Your law, And nothing causes them to stumble.
The Bible is an essential tool in living the Christian life. The Spirit of God is the agent, and the Word of God is the instrument that He uses to develop us into mature believers (2 Timothy 3:16). If we are not in the Word, learning how to deepen our relationship with the Lord, our life will fail to glorify Him. It will also be detrimental to the way we live and our future in the kingdom of God.
“Now godliness with contentment is great gain.” I Timothy 6:6
Who is the Potter?
And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: “For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.” (Genesis 3:4-5)
But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou, our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.” (Isaiah 64:8)
We so desire to be the potter, and He be the clay.
While busy hands form and mold Him our very own way
Till at last, we hold Him up before the mirror to see.
And take vain delight; why He looks just like me!!!
And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: “For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.” (Genesis 3:4-5)
But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou, our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.” (Isaiah 64:8)
We so desire to be the potter, and He be the clay.
While busy hands form and mold Him our very own way
Till at last, we hold Him up before the mirror to see.
And take vain delight; why He looks just like me!!!
How do You Survive a Snakebite?
Few people like snakes. I don’t. So, when God had enough of Israel’s constant complaining, He sent serpents among them. They had grumbled about many things in their journey in the wilderness. They had failed to trust God. Now finally, the Lord had reached His limitations with their complaining. He sent fiery serpents among the people, and many of the people were bitten and died (Numbers 21:5-9).
God instructs Moses to make a Fiery Serpent
The fiery serpents quickly got their attention and changed their ungrateful attitude. They repented and went to Moses, seeking deliverance. Moses went to the Lord, and He gave them the antidote. “Make a fiery serpent and set it on a pole; and it shall be that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, shall live” (Numbers 21:8).
How could a Bronze Serpent save Anyone?
Moses made a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. God provided supernatural deliverance. It simply required faith of the one bitten to look to the pole. It was the only remedy. Would you have believed God and looked to the pole?
Jesus uses the Serpent with Nicodemus
About 1,400 years later, Jesus would use this same illustration in a conversation with Nicodemus. Nicodemus was a very religious man and an influential teacher in Israel. Jesus told him that he must be born again to enter the kingdom of heaven. Nicodemus was perplexed. He didn’t understand.
Salvation in the Picture of the Serpent Lifted Up
So, Jesus explained, “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:14-15). A snake has bitten all of us. It’s called sin. “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
SEE BELOW
Few people like snakes. I don’t. So, when God had enough of Israel’s constant complaining, He sent serpents among them. They had grumbled about many things in their journey in the wilderness. They had failed to trust God. Now finally, the Lord had reached His limitations with their complaining. He sent fiery serpents among the people, and many of the people were bitten and died (Numbers 21:5-9).
God instructs Moses to make a Fiery Serpent
The fiery serpents quickly got their attention and changed their ungrateful attitude. They repented and went to Moses, seeking deliverance. Moses went to the Lord, and He gave them the antidote. “Make a fiery serpent and set it on a pole; and it shall be that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, shall live” (Numbers 21:8).
How could a Bronze Serpent save Anyone?
Moses made a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. God provided supernatural deliverance. It simply required faith of the one bitten to look to the pole. It was the only remedy. Would you have believed God and looked to the pole?
Jesus uses the Serpent with Nicodemus
About 1,400 years later, Jesus would use this same illustration in a conversation with Nicodemus. Nicodemus was a very religious man and an influential teacher in Israel. Jesus told him that he must be born again to enter the kingdom of heaven. Nicodemus was perplexed. He didn’t understand.
Salvation in the Picture of the Serpent Lifted Up
So, Jesus explained, “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:14-15). A snake has bitten all of us. It’s called sin. “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
SEE BELOW
Have You Ever Taken a Drink of Living Water?
When I was a kid growing up in the fifties, this was a pump at one of the neighbors where you could get a drink. We’d be running around outside playing ball. The humidity is usually high in western Pennsylvania in the summertime. Sweat would be dripping. But the water that came out of this well was nice and cool. One kid would pump, and the others would cup their hands to get a nice refreshing drink. You could feel it restoring life to your body.
Jesus offers Living Water
One day Jesus needed to go through Samaria. This was unusual because the Jews had no love for the Samaritans. There He met a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. He asked her for a drink. She was perplexed. “How is it that you ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman? (John 4:9). He responded, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water” (John 4:10).
Curiously she asked, “Where then do you get that living water?” Jesus explained, “Whoever drinks this water will thirst again. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water, springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:14).
Jesus Water is Everlasting Life
I drank from that old pump and was thirsty again. But I took one drink from Jesus fifty-seven years ago and never needed another spiritual drink. Jesus gave me and gave to anyone the gift of everlasting life the moment you drink His water. Living water symbolizes everlasting life by belief in Him. Many of the Samaritans, despised by the Jews, drank His water that day; “Now we believe… for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world” (John 4:42).
If you have taken that one spiritual drink, you can know you have everlasting life. You don’t have to wait until the end to know for sure. Like the Samaritans, we have the words of Jesus, “Truly, truly I say to you, He who believes in Me has everlasting life” (John 6:47). You receive living water (everlasting life) the moment you trust in Him. It’s as simple as taking one drink of water.
When I was a kid growing up in the fifties, this was a pump at one of the neighbors where you could get a drink. We’d be running around outside playing ball. The humidity is usually high in western Pennsylvania in the summertime. Sweat would be dripping. But the water that came out of this well was nice and cool. One kid would pump, and the others would cup their hands to get a nice refreshing drink. You could feel it restoring life to your body.
Jesus offers Living Water
One day Jesus needed to go through Samaria. This was unusual because the Jews had no love for the Samaritans. There He met a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. He asked her for a drink. She was perplexed. “How is it that you ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman? (John 4:9). He responded, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water” (John 4:10).
Curiously she asked, “Where then do you get that living water?” Jesus explained, “Whoever drinks this water will thirst again. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water, springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:14).
Jesus Water is Everlasting Life
I drank from that old pump and was thirsty again. But I took one drink from Jesus fifty-seven years ago and never needed another spiritual drink. Jesus gave me and gave to anyone the gift of everlasting life the moment you drink His water. Living water symbolizes everlasting life by belief in Him. Many of the Samaritans, despised by the Jews, drank His water that day; “Now we believe… for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world” (John 4:42).
If you have taken that one spiritual drink, you can know you have everlasting life. You don’t have to wait until the end to know for sure. Like the Samaritans, we have the words of Jesus, “Truly, truly I say to you, He who believes in Me has everlasting life” (John 6:47). You receive living water (everlasting life) the moment you trust in Him. It’s as simple as taking one drink of water.
Have You Thanked God Today?
When I worked full time, I passed a church sign that read, ‘Have you thanked God today?’ The sign was really convicting, and I drove by it often. I don’t know about you, but I complain way too much about things. You can’t be complaining and thankful at the same time.
We're not Thankful.
We, humans, can be pretty unthankful. Just think about how often we complain about things daily. The service is too slow at the local fast-food restaurant. The guy in front of me just cut me off. I don’t get paid enough for what I do. The preacher preached too long. I am sick of this weather – too cold, too hot, too much rain, too much snow, not enough sun, etc. When we get caught up in our complaining and not-so-perfect life, it becomes pretty challenging to see God let alone thank Him.
He Provided Redemption for Us
Well, some might say, “Thank Him for what?” I would say because “He is kind to the unthankful and evil.” (Luke 6:35) The very people that would curse Him… those that would deny his existence, to them He is kind. How amazing is that! Yet even more amazing is that He continues to be kind to those who know Him and often fail to offer up the thanks that He deserves. He “demonstrated His own love towards us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Where would we be without His Son and His plan of salvation in Him and Him alone? That in and of itself should be enough for us to offer up our continual thankfulness and praise. “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15)
He Gave Us Life
But we also have Him to thank for our very existence, our life. “Know that the Lord is God; It is He who made us and not we ourselves…Be thankful to Him and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.” (Psalm 100: 3-5)
He Owns Everything
He created the universe, and He owns it all. He made it and has given us temporary stewardship over it. Once, I heard a pastor exclaim, “How much of what you have will you have a hundred years from now?” It is all His – house, property, cars, clothes, etc.
We Need to Thank Him
Often, I hear someone say that they are so thankful for something. Typically, they never finish the sentence. I wonder, “Thankful to who?” Well, I am going to make it my purpose to thank Him more often -for salvation; for life; for Him. And maybe one day I will be able to give thanks in everything because that is His will for us (1 Thessalonians. 5:18). What about you? Have you thanked God today?
When I worked full time, I passed a church sign that read, ‘Have you thanked God today?’ The sign was really convicting, and I drove by it often. I don’t know about you, but I complain way too much about things. You can’t be complaining and thankful at the same time.
We're not Thankful.
We, humans, can be pretty unthankful. Just think about how often we complain about things daily. The service is too slow at the local fast-food restaurant. The guy in front of me just cut me off. I don’t get paid enough for what I do. The preacher preached too long. I am sick of this weather – too cold, too hot, too much rain, too much snow, not enough sun, etc. When we get caught up in our complaining and not-so-perfect life, it becomes pretty challenging to see God let alone thank Him.
He Provided Redemption for Us
Well, some might say, “Thank Him for what?” I would say because “He is kind to the unthankful and evil.” (Luke 6:35) The very people that would curse Him… those that would deny his existence, to them He is kind. How amazing is that! Yet even more amazing is that He continues to be kind to those who know Him and often fail to offer up the thanks that He deserves. He “demonstrated His own love towards us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Where would we be without His Son and His plan of salvation in Him and Him alone? That in and of itself should be enough for us to offer up our continual thankfulness and praise. “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15)
He Gave Us Life
But we also have Him to thank for our very existence, our life. “Know that the Lord is God; It is He who made us and not we ourselves…Be thankful to Him and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.” (Psalm 100: 3-5)
He Owns Everything
He created the universe, and He owns it all. He made it and has given us temporary stewardship over it. Once, I heard a pastor exclaim, “How much of what you have will you have a hundred years from now?” It is all His – house, property, cars, clothes, etc.
We Need to Thank Him
Often, I hear someone say that they are so thankful for something. Typically, they never finish the sentence. I wonder, “Thankful to who?” Well, I am going to make it my purpose to thank Him more often -for salvation; for life; for Him. And maybe one day I will be able to give thanks in everything because that is His will for us (1 Thessalonians. 5:18). What about you? Have you thanked God today?
Who Lights up Your Life?
Have you ever been in complete darkness? Most of us have experienced the loss of electricity due to a thunderstorm, but even then, there is usually ambient light from outside sources. Total darkness is a fearful experience. And that is what God brought upon the Egyptians.
Can You Feel Darkness?
There was a thick darkness in all the land of Egypt three days (Exodus 10:22). But all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings (Exodus 10:23). In fact, the Bible states that the darkness was so dark that it could be felt (Exodus 10:21). The word ‘felt’ could also mean ‘grope.’ It would be like having your eyes fully covered and trying to find your way even around your own home. They had no light. They had no idea how long the darkness would last. One can only imagine the fear and panic they would have ‘felt.’
They Worshipped the Sun
The Egyptians had many gods. Ra, the sun god, was one of them. He ruled over all. He was their spiritual light. For this reason, it is very clear that God was sending them a message that He was greater than their sun god. But greater still, the darkness was not only literal; it was a picture of their spiritual condition. They were in spiritual darkness while the Israelites were in light; because God gave them light, and He was their Light.
<<<<< Jesus is the Light >>>>>
Jesus the Messiah (Christ) came into the world, and “the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light” (Matthew 4:16). He is the light of the world, and whoever “follows Him shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life” (John 8:12). For those who have trusted in the Messiah as Savior, you are no longer living in the darkness of Egypt. For God “has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love…” (Colossians 1:13). You have been brought out of darkness through the death and resurrection of the Light (Jesus) and transferred into the kingdom of light. “For you were once darkness but now are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8).
Jesus said, “I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness” (John 12:46). Allow Jesus to light up your life!
Have you ever been in complete darkness? Most of us have experienced the loss of electricity due to a thunderstorm, but even then, there is usually ambient light from outside sources. Total darkness is a fearful experience. And that is what God brought upon the Egyptians.
Can You Feel Darkness?
There was a thick darkness in all the land of Egypt three days (Exodus 10:22). But all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings (Exodus 10:23). In fact, the Bible states that the darkness was so dark that it could be felt (Exodus 10:21). The word ‘felt’ could also mean ‘grope.’ It would be like having your eyes fully covered and trying to find your way even around your own home. They had no light. They had no idea how long the darkness would last. One can only imagine the fear and panic they would have ‘felt.’
They Worshipped the Sun
The Egyptians had many gods. Ra, the sun god, was one of them. He ruled over all. He was their spiritual light. For this reason, it is very clear that God was sending them a message that He was greater than their sun god. But greater still, the darkness was not only literal; it was a picture of their spiritual condition. They were in spiritual darkness while the Israelites were in light; because God gave them light, and He was their Light.
<<<<< Jesus is the Light >>>>>
Jesus the Messiah (Christ) came into the world, and “the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light” (Matthew 4:16). He is the light of the world, and whoever “follows Him shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life” (John 8:12). For those who have trusted in the Messiah as Savior, you are no longer living in the darkness of Egypt. For God “has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love…” (Colossians 1:13). You have been brought out of darkness through the death and resurrection of the Light (Jesus) and transferred into the kingdom of light. “For you were once darkness but now are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8).
Jesus said, “I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness” (John 12:46). Allow Jesus to light up your life!
What’s pulling your Train – the Engine or
the Caboose?
Often decisions about what is right and what is wrong are defined according to what one feels. Feelings motivate people to do a whole host of things. As a young boy, I was hammering on a piece of wood. I hit my thumb. In anger, I swung the hammer again and hit my thumb a second time. Emotions often get the best of us.
Emotions in and of themselves are not a bad thing. We were created to have emotions. But when emotions lead your decision-making process, then things can go astray. Simply put, the ‘mind’ should be the engine, the ‘will’ should be the coal car, and ’emotion’ should follow.
Mind-Will-Emotions
God appeals to our mind (engine) through His truth, intending it to change our will (coal car), and emotions (caboose) may follow. He intends to lead us according to His Word. God designed us with a mind, will, and emotions. But He never intended for us to be led by emotions.
the Caboose?
Often decisions about what is right and what is wrong are defined according to what one feels. Feelings motivate people to do a whole host of things. As a young boy, I was hammering on a piece of wood. I hit my thumb. In anger, I swung the hammer again and hit my thumb a second time. Emotions often get the best of us.
Emotions in and of themselves are not a bad thing. We were created to have emotions. But when emotions lead your decision-making process, then things can go astray. Simply put, the ‘mind’ should be the engine, the ‘will’ should be the coal car, and ’emotion’ should follow.
Mind-Will-Emotions
God appeals to our mind (engine) through His truth, intending it to change our will (coal car), and emotions (caboose) may follow. He intends to lead us according to His Word. God designed us with a mind, will, and emotions. But He never intended for us to be led by emotions.
But the world system created by the devil appeals to our old nature to lead us according to our emotions. It appeals to my emotions to affect change in my mind and my will follows. In this way what we think and do is controlled by emotion rather than truth.
God intended to change our mind through His word. That’s the only way transformation takes place in the life of a believer. (Romans 12:2) He intends for His truth to lead and guide the way we live and how we respond to the situations of life so that we can be functional and fruitful. Nothing wrong with feelings, but like a caboose, they’re not intended to pull the train.
* God told David, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go”…Psalm 32:8
* Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free”…John 8:31-32
*“I thought about my ways, and turned my feet to Your testimonies”…Psalm 119:59
*David asked of God, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me”…Psalm 25:4-5
*“My little children let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth”…1 John 3:18
*Job said, “I have treasured the word of His mouth more than my necessary food”…Job 23:12
What and who is guiding your life? Do your emotions influence your decisions? Or are you allowing God to direct you according to His word? Are you being led by the engine or the caboose?
God intended to change our mind through His word. That’s the only way transformation takes place in the life of a believer. (Romans 12:2) He intends for His truth to lead and guide the way we live and how we respond to the situations of life so that we can be functional and fruitful. Nothing wrong with feelings, but like a caboose, they’re not intended to pull the train.
* God told David, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go”…Psalm 32:8
* Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free”…John 8:31-32
*“I thought about my ways, and turned my feet to Your testimonies”…Psalm 119:59
*David asked of God, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me”…Psalm 25:4-5
*“My little children let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth”…1 John 3:18
*Job said, “I have treasured the word of His mouth more than my necessary food”…Job 23:12
What and who is guiding your life? Do your emotions influence your decisions? Or are you allowing God to direct you according to His word? Are you being led by the engine or the caboose?
Is Anything Really Free?
A gift is supposed to be free. But it does cost something to the giver, although to the recipient, it is FREE. If there are stipulations to what is given, it is no longer a gift. For example, if someone gives you a new computer but expects you to Facetime with them or they’ll want it back, that’s not a gift. It’s an exchange. You get a new computer if you meet their expectation of how to use it.
Salvation is a Gift, not an Exchange
Some communicate the wonderful grace of God as an exchange. They say if you do not put your faith into action, either you never had it, or God will take it away. If that is the case, then it isn’t a gift. It’s an exchange. You get to keep everlasting life by being faithful. So now it becomes dependent on you. But the Bible says it’s a gift. The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23). If He removed it from you because of something bad that you did, then it wouldn’t be a gift. It would be an exchange. You could only get eternal life by continued obedience to God, or He would take it away.
The Greatest Gift
Two thousand years ago, God brought His plan to fruition. It was THE GREATEST GIFT mankind could ever receive. Jesus Christ was born, the promised Messiah. “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman…” (Galatians. 4:4). God said that Jesus did not come into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved (John 3:17).
Sin separated us from our Creator. We became helpless sinners. He lived a perfect life so He could be the perfect sacrifice in order to make the necessary payment for sin. His resurrection proved that He has the power over sin and death (John 2:22). And though it cost Him greatly, He offers us eternal life as a gift.
A Gift must be Accepted
The only requirement to receive the benefit of a gift is to accept it. In the case of salvation, you can reject it or accept it as His gift to you, with no strings attached. The gift is simply received by believing the Lord Jesus died for you in your place and rose again. “But as many received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name” (John 1:12). The gift of God really is free.
A gift is supposed to be free. But it does cost something to the giver, although to the recipient, it is FREE. If there are stipulations to what is given, it is no longer a gift. For example, if someone gives you a new computer but expects you to Facetime with them or they’ll want it back, that’s not a gift. It’s an exchange. You get a new computer if you meet their expectation of how to use it.
Salvation is a Gift, not an Exchange
Some communicate the wonderful grace of God as an exchange. They say if you do not put your faith into action, either you never had it, or God will take it away. If that is the case, then it isn’t a gift. It’s an exchange. You get to keep everlasting life by being faithful. So now it becomes dependent on you. But the Bible says it’s a gift. The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23). If He removed it from you because of something bad that you did, then it wouldn’t be a gift. It would be an exchange. You could only get eternal life by continued obedience to God, or He would take it away.
The Greatest Gift
Two thousand years ago, God brought His plan to fruition. It was THE GREATEST GIFT mankind could ever receive. Jesus Christ was born, the promised Messiah. “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman…” (Galatians. 4:4). God said that Jesus did not come into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved (John 3:17).
Sin separated us from our Creator. We became helpless sinners. He lived a perfect life so He could be the perfect sacrifice in order to make the necessary payment for sin. His resurrection proved that He has the power over sin and death (John 2:22). And though it cost Him greatly, He offers us eternal life as a gift.
A Gift must be Accepted
The only requirement to receive the benefit of a gift is to accept it. In the case of salvation, you can reject it or accept it as His gift to you, with no strings attached. The gift is simply received by believing the Lord Jesus died for you in your place and rose again. “But as many received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name” (John 1:12). The gift of God really is free.
“A Name for Ourselves”
After Noah’s flood, God instructed Noah’s sons and their wives to be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth. Is that what occurred? Let’s take a look at what happened.
After some time had passed, the Bible tells us all the people spoke one language, which makes sense as they were all direct descendants of Noah and his sons. So, they were one in speech, thought, and purpose. Together they moved from the east until arriving in the fertile plains of Shinar.
Upon their arrival, this is what they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth.” (Genesis 11:4) Read that again. Does that sound anything like God’s plan for them?
The post-flood people gathered at Shinar and declared here we will stay. We will build a city showing our permanence. We will build a mighty tower showing our power. We will make a name for ourselves! Those words were spoken then, just as they are still today. Lastly, they were determined not to be scattered. They were united in the first attempt at forming a Collective, rebelliously rejecting God’s authority over them and any association with His name.
What was God’s reaction? He said, “Indeed the people are one and they all have one language, and this is what they begin to do; now nothing that they propose to do will be withheld from them.” (Genesis 11:6) God then confused their languages, causing them to be scattered over the face of the earth. God knew that apart from Him, their collective would devolve into doing the most murderous and evil things. He well knows the nature of mankind.
Has the spirit of Shinar ever ceased? You tell me. The Collectives of the 20th Century killed 100,000,000 of their own citizens. Count those zeros. It continues today. The Western world and the United States are now under assault by modern-day citizens of “Shinar.” They intend to demolish anything related to the Lord. They are one in speech, thought, and purpose. They foam at the mouth, rabidly anxious to build a socialist city and a globalist tower of power upon the ruins of this land and across the globe. Have you been watching these lawless hordes? Can you imagine living in a world under their control?
They, too, say, “Let us make a name for ourselves!”
After Noah’s flood, God instructed Noah’s sons and their wives to be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth. Is that what occurred? Let’s take a look at what happened.
After some time had passed, the Bible tells us all the people spoke one language, which makes sense as they were all direct descendants of Noah and his sons. So, they were one in speech, thought, and purpose. Together they moved from the east until arriving in the fertile plains of Shinar.
Upon their arrival, this is what they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth.” (Genesis 11:4) Read that again. Does that sound anything like God’s plan for them?
The post-flood people gathered at Shinar and declared here we will stay. We will build a city showing our permanence. We will build a mighty tower showing our power. We will make a name for ourselves! Those words were spoken then, just as they are still today. Lastly, they were determined not to be scattered. They were united in the first attempt at forming a Collective, rebelliously rejecting God’s authority over them and any association with His name.
What was God’s reaction? He said, “Indeed the people are one and they all have one language, and this is what they begin to do; now nothing that they propose to do will be withheld from them.” (Genesis 11:6) God then confused their languages, causing them to be scattered over the face of the earth. God knew that apart from Him, their collective would devolve into doing the most murderous and evil things. He well knows the nature of mankind.
Has the spirit of Shinar ever ceased? You tell me. The Collectives of the 20th Century killed 100,000,000 of their own citizens. Count those zeros. It continues today. The Western world and the United States are now under assault by modern-day citizens of “Shinar.” They intend to demolish anything related to the Lord. They are one in speech, thought, and purpose. They foam at the mouth, rabidly anxious to build a socialist city and a globalist tower of power upon the ruins of this land and across the globe. Have you been watching these lawless hordes? Can you imagine living in a world under their control?
They, too, say, “Let us make a name for ourselves!”
Letters
“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.” Acts 4:13
Some years ago, I wanted to begin sharing Christ with others. However, a lifetime of severe shyness had retarded my ability to communicate. I was a social misfit. How was a tongue-tied person like me supposed to tell others the Good News? T−shirts became my plan. I had scriptures and spiritual messages printed on some of my shirts. When people read them, they might be inclined to initiate a conversation making it easier for me to respond.
Let me say it did not work, at least in my case. It led to some embarrassing moments of failure in which I imagined the Lord rolling His eyes and rubbing His forehead. The T−shirts went away.
The Book of Acts describes the events when Peter and John healed the lame man at the Temple Gate called Beautiful. A confrontation with the Jewish leaders ensued because Peter used the occasion to witness to the power of the risen Christ. The Apostles were seized and placed in prison overnight.
The following day, Peter and John stood before all the rulers of Israel and once again spoke boldly about the Nazarene. Their audience was astonished by the words and courage of these “ordinary” men. They took note that Peter and John had been with Jesus. There was no need for printed shirts or even bumper stickers. Peter and John were living messages written by the Spirit of the living God.
The Apostle Paul refers to this in his second letter to the Corinthians: “You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.” (2 Corinthians 3:2-3)
Have you ever thought of yourself as a Letter? Christians are letters written by Christ to the world. The Book of Acts has not ended. His story continues to be written in and through the lives of “ordinary” people.
The world is reading us. What are they reading? Do people note that we have been with Jesus? Are they astonished by our words and courage to boldly stand up for the One called Truth? Do they see the presence of the Holy Spirit manifested in our lives?
*** We are Letters from Christ. ***
“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.” Acts 4:13
Some years ago, I wanted to begin sharing Christ with others. However, a lifetime of severe shyness had retarded my ability to communicate. I was a social misfit. How was a tongue-tied person like me supposed to tell others the Good News? T−shirts became my plan. I had scriptures and spiritual messages printed on some of my shirts. When people read them, they might be inclined to initiate a conversation making it easier for me to respond.
Let me say it did not work, at least in my case. It led to some embarrassing moments of failure in which I imagined the Lord rolling His eyes and rubbing His forehead. The T−shirts went away.
The Book of Acts describes the events when Peter and John healed the lame man at the Temple Gate called Beautiful. A confrontation with the Jewish leaders ensued because Peter used the occasion to witness to the power of the risen Christ. The Apostles were seized and placed in prison overnight.
The following day, Peter and John stood before all the rulers of Israel and once again spoke boldly about the Nazarene. Their audience was astonished by the words and courage of these “ordinary” men. They took note that Peter and John had been with Jesus. There was no need for printed shirts or even bumper stickers. Peter and John were living messages written by the Spirit of the living God.
The Apostle Paul refers to this in his second letter to the Corinthians: “You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.” (2 Corinthians 3:2-3)
Have you ever thought of yourself as a Letter? Christians are letters written by Christ to the world. The Book of Acts has not ended. His story continues to be written in and through the lives of “ordinary” people.
The world is reading us. What are they reading? Do people note that we have been with Jesus? Are they astonished by our words and courage to boldly stand up for the One called Truth? Do they see the presence of the Holy Spirit manifested in our lives?
*** We are Letters from Christ. ***
Backflush
Many believe we must “work” to be saved (justified). We have to “be (doing) good” (works) to be saved. But the work was done by Christ on the Cross. It was a one-and-done. “It is finished!” The penalty for sin was paid in full. What must we do? “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31)
We believe it (trust in what He has done for us helpless sinners that we could never do for ourselves), and the truth of Ephesians 2:8 immediately comes to pass: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Verse nine assures us works do not play a part.
But we like works. We want to earn our salvation; we want to justify ourselves. What is that saying? “NO CAN DO!” Many bring that same approach to the post-justification life-long process of sanctification. Now we “work” to STAY saved. But again, we can do nothing apart from Christ. He must do the work in us and through us. In sanctification, we are saved from the power of sin. Our part is to surrender, become living sacrifices, and cooperate as vessels for the Master’s use.
I think the next verse (Ephesians 2:10) trips us up – “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus FOR good works, which God prepared beforehand that we SHOULD walk in them.” I capitalized the word “for” because I believe a lot of folks replace it with “and” − seeing it as Christ Jesus “and” good works. They want to add works to the equation because, again, we like works. It’s about us and what we do in our power (Egocentric), not what He does in and through us in His Power (Theocentric).
I also capitalized “should” because it says we should walk in them. What if we don’t walk in them as we should? There will be consequences, some being: We will not experience the abundant life He promises. We will not have the level of fellowship with Him that we could possess. We will not bear His fruit. We will suffer the loss of reward at the Bema seat. But we will not lose our salvation. Our justification will not get tossed on the scrap heap along with us. Thank God!
When we “backflush” sanctification into justification, we tend to judge other believers, and even ourselves, as to whether we are saved based on a works mentality. That will quickly get us onto the slippery slope of grace lost, and legalism found. There is no Christ in that.
Lastly is our glorification when we go to be with the Lord. We will be, finally, gloriously saved from the presence of sin, even in ourselves. Hallelujah!
Many believe we must “work” to be saved (justified). We have to “be (doing) good” (works) to be saved. But the work was done by Christ on the Cross. It was a one-and-done. “It is finished!” The penalty for sin was paid in full. What must we do? “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31)
We believe it (trust in what He has done for us helpless sinners that we could never do for ourselves), and the truth of Ephesians 2:8 immediately comes to pass: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Verse nine assures us works do not play a part.
But we like works. We want to earn our salvation; we want to justify ourselves. What is that saying? “NO CAN DO!” Many bring that same approach to the post-justification life-long process of sanctification. Now we “work” to STAY saved. But again, we can do nothing apart from Christ. He must do the work in us and through us. In sanctification, we are saved from the power of sin. Our part is to surrender, become living sacrifices, and cooperate as vessels for the Master’s use.
I think the next verse (Ephesians 2:10) trips us up – “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus FOR good works, which God prepared beforehand that we SHOULD walk in them.” I capitalized the word “for” because I believe a lot of folks replace it with “and” − seeing it as Christ Jesus “and” good works. They want to add works to the equation because, again, we like works. It’s about us and what we do in our power (Egocentric), not what He does in and through us in His Power (Theocentric).
I also capitalized “should” because it says we should walk in them. What if we don’t walk in them as we should? There will be consequences, some being: We will not experience the abundant life He promises. We will not have the level of fellowship with Him that we could possess. We will not bear His fruit. We will suffer the loss of reward at the Bema seat. But we will not lose our salvation. Our justification will not get tossed on the scrap heap along with us. Thank God!
When we “backflush” sanctification into justification, we tend to judge other believers, and even ourselves, as to whether we are saved based on a works mentality. That will quickly get us onto the slippery slope of grace lost, and legalism found. There is no Christ in that.
Lastly is our glorification when we go to be with the Lord. We will be, finally, gloriously saved from the presence of sin, even in ourselves. Hallelujah!
"Animal Crackers in My Soup"
"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so they are without excuse, because although they knew God they did not glorify Him as God, nor were they thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools." (Romans 1:18-22)
Do you remember Shirley Temple? She delighted movie audiences throughout the 1930s. The cute curly-haired moppet sang, danced, and acted her way into the world's heart. In the film Curly Top, she sang a little ditty: Once my mother said: "My little pet, you ought to learn the alphabet." I learned them all from A to Z and now my mother's giving me: Animal crackers in my soup monkey's and rabbits loop the loop; Gosh, oh gee, but I have fun swallowing animals one by one! In every bowl of soup I see, lions and tigers watching me; I make them jump right through a hoop, those animal crackers in my soup. Whenever I hear "evolution," I think of Shirley Temple and the "… monkeys and (men) loop the loop" version of life's origins concocted by those described in the Scripture above.
You know the story: We used to be little ameba faces floating around in a big soup bowl, and then we grew some frog legs and then "jumped right through a hoop, those animal crackers in my soup."
Folks, evolution has little to do with science and a big bunch to do with rebellious man's determined quest to rule and reign without the pesky reality that our Creator is the only occupant on the Throne.
Consider that the dating methods and claims of billions of years for our world are either: 1] Fool's fantasies. 2] Null and void due to Noah's Flood. 3] Rendered meaningless if you ask a question like - how old was Adam the day he was created; was he one minute old when he stood up or a mature man? How old did God make the rocks the day they were created, a minute or millennia? Was the light from our solar system that takes so long to travel here already here? 4] How about all the above?
Almighty God does not need to use mistakes, mutations, and multiple millennia to create anything. HE SPEAKS, AND IT IS DONE.
The monkeys and men loop the loop creation story dies in several lights, including the mathematical impossibilities, the fossil record, the complexity of what was once called the simple cell, and the discovery of DNA, which tells us we're intricately made from an alphabetical code, but not the soup kind. Then we have the irreducible complexity of the eye; the second law of thermodynamics, which says all things are like a clock winding down, not up (devolving, not evolving), and most importantly - our capability to observe design everywhere and the wisdom to know design requires a Designer.
God has made Himself clearly known in Creation but still allows us to choose what we believe. So, what are we choosing to believe?
Since the world's creation, His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse - for believing monkeys and men loop the loop.
"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so they are without excuse, because although they knew God they did not glorify Him as God, nor were they thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools." (Romans 1:18-22)
Do you remember Shirley Temple? She delighted movie audiences throughout the 1930s. The cute curly-haired moppet sang, danced, and acted her way into the world's heart. In the film Curly Top, she sang a little ditty: Once my mother said: "My little pet, you ought to learn the alphabet." I learned them all from A to Z and now my mother's giving me: Animal crackers in my soup monkey's and rabbits loop the loop; Gosh, oh gee, but I have fun swallowing animals one by one! In every bowl of soup I see, lions and tigers watching me; I make them jump right through a hoop, those animal crackers in my soup. Whenever I hear "evolution," I think of Shirley Temple and the "… monkeys and (men) loop the loop" version of life's origins concocted by those described in the Scripture above.
You know the story: We used to be little ameba faces floating around in a big soup bowl, and then we grew some frog legs and then "jumped right through a hoop, those animal crackers in my soup."
Folks, evolution has little to do with science and a big bunch to do with rebellious man's determined quest to rule and reign without the pesky reality that our Creator is the only occupant on the Throne.
Consider that the dating methods and claims of billions of years for our world are either: 1] Fool's fantasies. 2] Null and void due to Noah's Flood. 3] Rendered meaningless if you ask a question like - how old was Adam the day he was created; was he one minute old when he stood up or a mature man? How old did God make the rocks the day they were created, a minute or millennia? Was the light from our solar system that takes so long to travel here already here? 4] How about all the above?
Almighty God does not need to use mistakes, mutations, and multiple millennia to create anything. HE SPEAKS, AND IT IS DONE.
The monkeys and men loop the loop creation story dies in several lights, including the mathematical impossibilities, the fossil record, the complexity of what was once called the simple cell, and the discovery of DNA, which tells us we're intricately made from an alphabetical code, but not the soup kind. Then we have the irreducible complexity of the eye; the second law of thermodynamics, which says all things are like a clock winding down, not up (devolving, not evolving), and most importantly - our capability to observe design everywhere and the wisdom to know design requires a Designer.
God has made Himself clearly known in Creation but still allows us to choose what we believe. So, what are we choosing to believe?
Since the world's creation, His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse - for believing monkeys and men loop the loop.
Life (Experience and Meaning)
Life: Philosophers ponder it, and poets wax about it − while the worldly wise debate it, mystics dream of it, and theologians seek to unravel it. Words are spoken, words are sung, and words written of it could fill the seas if flung out upon them. But squeezing and wrapping it small enough to fit in our hands and minds is another thing altogether. What is life in experience? What is life in meaning? Can we know these things? Can we understand them?
The Bible describes King Solomon as the wisest man ever to live. He is the one who has given us a dinner plate-size summation of life fit for our consumption. He speaks first of life’s experience at ground level in a fallen world:
To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to gain, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to throw away;
A time to tear, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate;
A time of war, and a time of peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)
Those are beautiful words: Haunting. Melancholy. Profound. Simple. True. They transcend time, culture, and the diverse paths of men and women of all ages. And most people would agree with the king. But what does he tell us about the meaning of life?
What is the meaning of life according to Ecclesiastes? Well, much of the book is written to tell us what is not meaningful. Solomon says he tried all kinds of things to make his life a meaningful one. He did the workaholic bit and realized all his gain would end when he died. He chased after all the famous “Ps” and came up empty. You know the Ps?
Pursuit of
Position leads to
Power and that leads to
Possessions followed by
Prestige which brings
Popularity leading to
Pleasure which opens up a
Pandora’s box of more
Pursuits leading to…and…
Solomon concluded all of it was vanity and chasing the wind. “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity.” (Ecclesiastes 1:2) He who dies with the most toys does not win!
Instead, Solomon tells us: “He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end. I know that nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives, and also that every man should eat and drink the good of all his labor − it is the gift of God. I know that whatever God does, it shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, and nothing taken from it. God does it, that men should fear before Him. That which is has already been, and what is to be has already been; and God requires an account of the past.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11-15)
Meaning is the eternal in our hearts − living with forever in view, not just what’s in front of me now. Meaning is not only the extraordinary of life but the common as well − all is a gift of God. Meaning comprehends that we are forever creatures made in the image of a forever God. Meaning knows God’s eternal and perfect work. Meaning is reverence and worship of our Creator and Judge. Without these, life will have no meaning, no way.
Solomon ends with this: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter:
Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)
The meaning of life is a restored relationship with the Father through the Son by the Spirit. − This is man’s all. Anything else is vanity and chasing the wind. If you are running on empty and tired of wind chasing, HE says, “Behold now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2b)
Life: Philosophers ponder it, and poets wax about it − while the worldly wise debate it, mystics dream of it, and theologians seek to unravel it. Words are spoken, words are sung, and words written of it could fill the seas if flung out upon them. But squeezing and wrapping it small enough to fit in our hands and minds is another thing altogether. What is life in experience? What is life in meaning? Can we know these things? Can we understand them?
The Bible describes King Solomon as the wisest man ever to live. He is the one who has given us a dinner plate-size summation of life fit for our consumption. He speaks first of life’s experience at ground level in a fallen world:
To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to gain, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to throw away;
A time to tear, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate;
A time of war, and a time of peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)
Those are beautiful words: Haunting. Melancholy. Profound. Simple. True. They transcend time, culture, and the diverse paths of men and women of all ages. And most people would agree with the king. But what does he tell us about the meaning of life?
What is the meaning of life according to Ecclesiastes? Well, much of the book is written to tell us what is not meaningful. Solomon says he tried all kinds of things to make his life a meaningful one. He did the workaholic bit and realized all his gain would end when he died. He chased after all the famous “Ps” and came up empty. You know the Ps?
Pursuit of
Position leads to
Power and that leads to
Possessions followed by
Prestige which brings
Popularity leading to
Pleasure which opens up a
Pandora’s box of more
Pursuits leading to…and…
Solomon concluded all of it was vanity and chasing the wind. “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity.” (Ecclesiastes 1:2) He who dies with the most toys does not win!
Instead, Solomon tells us: “He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end. I know that nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives, and also that every man should eat and drink the good of all his labor − it is the gift of God. I know that whatever God does, it shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, and nothing taken from it. God does it, that men should fear before Him. That which is has already been, and what is to be has already been; and God requires an account of the past.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11-15)
Meaning is the eternal in our hearts − living with forever in view, not just what’s in front of me now. Meaning is not only the extraordinary of life but the common as well − all is a gift of God. Meaning comprehends that we are forever creatures made in the image of a forever God. Meaning knows God’s eternal and perfect work. Meaning is reverence and worship of our Creator and Judge. Without these, life will have no meaning, no way.
Solomon ends with this: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter:
Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)
The meaning of life is a restored relationship with the Father through the Son by the Spirit. − This is man’s all. Anything else is vanity and chasing the wind. If you are running on empty and tired of wind chasing, HE says, “Behold now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2b)
Lay it Down (Written in December 2012)
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
The news reports came today. A Navy Seal from our area, identified as Nicolas D. Checque, was killed over the weekend. He died during a mission to rescue Dr. Dilip Joseph from the Taliban in Afghanistan. President Obama said, “He gave his life for his fellow Americans, and he and his teammates remind us once more of the selfless service that allows our nation to stay strong, safe, and free.”
Most of those fellow Americans the president referred to will mourn this brave young man’s death. He is of that great fraternity amongst our citizenry, whether soldier, law officer, firefighter, or anyone who runs toward whatever trouble or threat exists while the rest of us run in the opposite direction. It is understood by anyone who joins this courageous company of people that they may be called to lay down their life for others. They deserve our deepest appreciation, unwavering support, inordinate respect, and honor. I’m sure Dilip Joseph will always feel that way about the soldier who willingly gave his life for him.
Many centuries ago, at the appointed time, an even greater rescue mission took place in our world. A far greater oppressor than the Taliban held all humanity captive. All mankind – past, present, and future wore chains unto death: Lost sheep under the sway of the wolf, eventually to be scattered and devoured. (John 10:12) But the good shepherd defeated the wolf, even unto the cost of His life. He gave Himself willingly to save the sheep. He said, “Therefore, My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again…” (John 10:17-18)
How has mankind responded to their Rescuer? To the One who put His life between them and the wolf and lay it down – for each and every single soul ever conceived? In many cases, we know the sad answer to such an inquiry. Many have chosen to remain in chains unto death. Others have cast their lot with the wolf and are eventually scattered and devoured. In contrast, a few have held out their hands to Him and seen the chains fall at His feet; the wolf trampled beneath His heel. (Genesis 3:15)
He has come to your rescue. He put His life between you and your assured death and laid it down. How have you responded? Have you offered up your very life in return, and will you lay it down for Him?
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
The news reports came today. A Navy Seal from our area, identified as Nicolas D. Checque, was killed over the weekend. He died during a mission to rescue Dr. Dilip Joseph from the Taliban in Afghanistan. President Obama said, “He gave his life for his fellow Americans, and he and his teammates remind us once more of the selfless service that allows our nation to stay strong, safe, and free.”
Most of those fellow Americans the president referred to will mourn this brave young man’s death. He is of that great fraternity amongst our citizenry, whether soldier, law officer, firefighter, or anyone who runs toward whatever trouble or threat exists while the rest of us run in the opposite direction. It is understood by anyone who joins this courageous company of people that they may be called to lay down their life for others. They deserve our deepest appreciation, unwavering support, inordinate respect, and honor. I’m sure Dilip Joseph will always feel that way about the soldier who willingly gave his life for him.
Many centuries ago, at the appointed time, an even greater rescue mission took place in our world. A far greater oppressor than the Taliban held all humanity captive. All mankind – past, present, and future wore chains unto death: Lost sheep under the sway of the wolf, eventually to be scattered and devoured. (John 10:12) But the good shepherd defeated the wolf, even unto the cost of His life. He gave Himself willingly to save the sheep. He said, “Therefore, My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again…” (John 10:17-18)
How has mankind responded to their Rescuer? To the One who put His life between them and the wolf and lay it down – for each and every single soul ever conceived? In many cases, we know the sad answer to such an inquiry. Many have chosen to remain in chains unto death. Others have cast their lot with the wolf and are eventually scattered and devoured. In contrast, a few have held out their hands to Him and seen the chains fall at His feet; the wolf trampled beneath His heel. (Genesis 3:15)
He has come to your rescue. He put His life between you and your assured death and laid it down. How have you responded? Have you offered up your very life in return, and will you lay it down for Him?
In God's Own Time
"We read that Moses, disobeying God's command
To strike the rock in God's strength, not his own,
Might see, but might not enter, Canaan,
The Promised Land.
Again, we read that Peter, James, and John,
Standing with Christ upon the mountain,
Saw a great light fall upon Him,
And standing with the Christ, transfigured,
Were Moses and Elias.
In God's own time
Moses had reached the Promised Land." (By Mary Rinehart Hoge)
Some things troubled me as I began to read the Bible years ago. Such as why did God accept Abel's sacrifice and not Cain's? (Genesis 4:1-6) Why, on several occasions, did the Lord give Israel marching orders, which included exterminating women and children? (Joshua 6:17, 21) And one stuck in my craw: Why wasn't Moses allowed to enter the Promised Land when he had been so faithful to God?
Scripture says, "The Lord spoke to Moses' face to face, as a man speaks to his friend." (Exodus 33:11) It also says of Moses: "Now the man Moses was very humble, more than all men who were on the face of the earth." (Numbers 12:3) And Moses forsook the "the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward." (Hebrews 11:24-26)
How's that for a resume? Nevertheless, because Moses had struck the rock in the wilderness of Zin instead of speaking to it, he could only gaze upon the Promised Land. (Numbers 20:1-13) "Then Moses went up from the plains of Moab to Mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, which is across from Jericho. And the Lord showed him all the land…" (Deuteronomy 34:1) Then Moses died.
At the time, I thought, how sad. Moses did such great things for God (or is it God did such great things through Moses?), and all he wanted was to get to the promised land. But he came up short. Then one day, while reading a book of poetry written by my great-aunt, I came to the poem above. I had never made the connection, and it filled me with awe at the faithfulness of the Heavenly Father.
In God's own time, Moses had made it to his longed-for destination. It reminded me that when we are born, we are born into eternity. The steps we take in this brief life on the earth are steps either toward God and His Way or away from God and His Way. It is the direction we chose here that we will walk in forever. So Moses had, in fact, just kept walking, finding that nothing "shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:39) We will never come up short in Christ.
It was said of Moses that he was a friend of God. It was said of Moses that he was the most humble person of his time. It was said of Moses that he chose God's direction leading to the Promised Land rather than the world's course leading to Egypt. What will be said of us?
"We read that Moses, disobeying God's command
To strike the rock in God's strength, not his own,
Might see, but might not enter, Canaan,
The Promised Land.
Again, we read that Peter, James, and John,
Standing with Christ upon the mountain,
Saw a great light fall upon Him,
And standing with the Christ, transfigured,
Were Moses and Elias.
In God's own time
Moses had reached the Promised Land." (By Mary Rinehart Hoge)
Some things troubled me as I began to read the Bible years ago. Such as why did God accept Abel's sacrifice and not Cain's? (Genesis 4:1-6) Why, on several occasions, did the Lord give Israel marching orders, which included exterminating women and children? (Joshua 6:17, 21) And one stuck in my craw: Why wasn't Moses allowed to enter the Promised Land when he had been so faithful to God?
Scripture says, "The Lord spoke to Moses' face to face, as a man speaks to his friend." (Exodus 33:11) It also says of Moses: "Now the man Moses was very humble, more than all men who were on the face of the earth." (Numbers 12:3) And Moses forsook the "the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward." (Hebrews 11:24-26)
How's that for a resume? Nevertheless, because Moses had struck the rock in the wilderness of Zin instead of speaking to it, he could only gaze upon the Promised Land. (Numbers 20:1-13) "Then Moses went up from the plains of Moab to Mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, which is across from Jericho. And the Lord showed him all the land…" (Deuteronomy 34:1) Then Moses died.
At the time, I thought, how sad. Moses did such great things for God (or is it God did such great things through Moses?), and all he wanted was to get to the promised land. But he came up short. Then one day, while reading a book of poetry written by my great-aunt, I came to the poem above. I had never made the connection, and it filled me with awe at the faithfulness of the Heavenly Father.
In God's own time, Moses had made it to his longed-for destination. It reminded me that when we are born, we are born into eternity. The steps we take in this brief life on the earth are steps either toward God and His Way or away from God and His Way. It is the direction we chose here that we will walk in forever. So Moses had, in fact, just kept walking, finding that nothing "shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:39) We will never come up short in Christ.
It was said of Moses that he was a friend of God. It was said of Moses that he was the most humble person of his time. It was said of Moses that he chose God's direction leading to the Promised Land rather than the world's course leading to Egypt. What will be said of us?
Does God Really Love Me?
If we are honest with ourselves, most of us are not that lovable. That’s why relationships are difficult. I tell young people that the first couple of times you date someone is the best you will see of them. It’s all downhill from there.
I am being a bit facetious. It can get better, but it takes work. Some are not willing to put in the effort. I’ve been married for 46 years, which wasn’t always easy. [Just ask my wife; I’m no bargain]
The American Definition of Love
In America, we love all kinds of things. We love apple pie and ice cream. We love going on vacations. Some love the beach. Others love going to the mountains. In the ’70s, Crosby, Stills, and Nash sang ‘Love the One Your With.’ It was the rallying cry for generations; “And if you can’t be with the one you love, honey, love the one you’re with.” Now love has become a euphemism for casual sex.
Because love is defined so broadly in our culture, often, it is misunderstood when it comes to God’s love for us. Human love is based strongly on emotions and fleshly desires. God’s love is based upon action.
What does it mean that “God Loves You.”
People often say, “God loves you,” and he does. But the receptors in most of our minds interpret that to mean that he accepts me and has a warm fuzzy feeling for me. He puts His stamp of approval on whatever I want to do. We define the word according to our twisted human understanding.
But God’s love is infinitely different. He demonstrated His love immediately with Adam by warning him not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. When they disobeyed, He loved them by looking for them and providing the necessary sacrifice; an animal skin [God’s provision for their sin] that restored their relationship with Him, replacing their fig leaf covering [the works of their hands]. In His love, He announced that they would not live in a fallen creation forever. They would physically die and be promoted to a better place where there is no curse and life is very good again.
Adam and Eve are our example to us that God loves us too. He would demonstrate His love for us and for them, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8) His death made the full payment for the sins of the world [All sins – past, present, and future]. (John 3:16) The animal coverings provided by God for Adam and Eve were a picture of the ultimate, once-for-all sacrifice of God’s Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Where are you looking for love?
If you are looking for love, don’t look for it in all the wrong places. Nothing wrong with emotions. But God’s love for you is different than our emotional love. It’s an action verb. His love has your best interest at heart. “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” (John 15:13) Jesus laid down His life for you. He made the payment for the penalty of sin for you and for me. But it must be received by faith. Genuine love for others begins with understanding God’s love for you.
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)
If we are honest with ourselves, most of us are not that lovable. That’s why relationships are difficult. I tell young people that the first couple of times you date someone is the best you will see of them. It’s all downhill from there.
I am being a bit facetious. It can get better, but it takes work. Some are not willing to put in the effort. I’ve been married for 46 years, which wasn’t always easy. [Just ask my wife; I’m no bargain]
The American Definition of Love
In America, we love all kinds of things. We love apple pie and ice cream. We love going on vacations. Some love the beach. Others love going to the mountains. In the ’70s, Crosby, Stills, and Nash sang ‘Love the One Your With.’ It was the rallying cry for generations; “And if you can’t be with the one you love, honey, love the one you’re with.” Now love has become a euphemism for casual sex.
Because love is defined so broadly in our culture, often, it is misunderstood when it comes to God’s love for us. Human love is based strongly on emotions and fleshly desires. God’s love is based upon action.
What does it mean that “God Loves You.”
People often say, “God loves you,” and he does. But the receptors in most of our minds interpret that to mean that he accepts me and has a warm fuzzy feeling for me. He puts His stamp of approval on whatever I want to do. We define the word according to our twisted human understanding.
But God’s love is infinitely different. He demonstrated His love immediately with Adam by warning him not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. When they disobeyed, He loved them by looking for them and providing the necessary sacrifice; an animal skin [God’s provision for their sin] that restored their relationship with Him, replacing their fig leaf covering [the works of their hands]. In His love, He announced that they would not live in a fallen creation forever. They would physically die and be promoted to a better place where there is no curse and life is very good again.
Adam and Eve are our example to us that God loves us too. He would demonstrate His love for us and for them, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8) His death made the full payment for the sins of the world [All sins – past, present, and future]. (John 3:16) The animal coverings provided by God for Adam and Eve were a picture of the ultimate, once-for-all sacrifice of God’s Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Where are you looking for love?
If you are looking for love, don’t look for it in all the wrong places. Nothing wrong with emotions. But God’s love for you is different than our emotional love. It’s an action verb. His love has your best interest at heart. “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” (John 15:13) Jesus laid down His life for you. He made the payment for the penalty of sin for you and for me. But it must be received by faith. Genuine love for others begins with understanding God’s love for you.
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)
A Sinner Forgiven
In the previous post, “A Sinner,” I (we) got honest about my (our) propensity to play hide and seek with sin. We hide our sins and seek out the sins of others. But it is not about me compared to others but to Jesus Christ. We cannot escape - “You are the man!” We must own our sin, and “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (See 1 John 1:5-10)
After being confronted by the prophet Nathan (“You are the man!”), King David finally owned his sin. (2 Sam 12:1-15) Following this episode, David wrote Psalms 51 and 32. Let’s focus on Psalm 51 and note what he did to become a sinner forgiven.
David confessed that he had sinned and admitted the heaviness of the burden. He then called upon God trusting in His lovingkindness and tender mercies. Wash me clean, the repentant king asked. (Psalm 51:1-3) The blood of the Lamb cleanses us. (Revelation 12:11)
David then said something that troubles a lot of people. He says, “Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight...” (Psalm 51:4) What about Bathsheba and Uriah? What about the great multitude of people who got hurt or destroyed by his sin and its terrible consequences? But David understood something we all need to know; all of our sin, our lawlessness, is ultimately against a holy God and His divine law. The hurt we cause or inflict on others, even on ourselves, tears His loving and just heart asunder. In the end, we hurt Him the most. “How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing.” (Matthew 23:37)
David then recalled that he was born in sin and a sinner he is. And that we are folks. Me. You. We cannot fix ourselves; only God can. Therefore, make me whiter than snow, heal my brokenness, and blot out these stains I have caused. (Psalm 51:5-9) Clean my heart with newness and renew my spiritual communion with You, O God. And above all: “Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.” (Psalm 51:10-11) Hold on to me, Lord, even if I foolishly let go of You, please hold on to me. “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ…?” (Romans 8:35)
The Lord God does indeed hold onto a floppy and floundering us. Like a disobedient child making amends with a good parent, David desired to climb into his Father’s lap. David wanted his joy and fellowship back. David wanted to know that God’s salvation, like a good parent’s unconditional love, is the most certain thing in life. (Psalm 51:12) “My sheep hear My voice…they shall never perish, neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” (John 10:27-28)
David then determines: “I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners shall be converted to You…my tongue shall sing aloud of Your righteousness…my mouth shall show forth Your praise.” (Psalm 51:13-15) The Lord’s love, grace and forgiveness, given and received, inspired the repentant king to shout it from the rooftops. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…”
(Matthew 28:19)
David concludes the Psalm espousing the highest truth, missed by so many, that God has not called us to a religion with Him but to a relationship with Him. (Psalm 51:16-19) “As the Father loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love.” (John 15:9)
Are you a sinner forgiven? Are you cleansed, made whole, anxious to tell others of God’s lovingkindness and tender mercies? Are you repulsed by religion and rejoicing in a restored relationship with your Creator through Christ? If not, today is the day of salvation! (2 Corinthians 6:2)
In the previous post, “A Sinner,” I (we) got honest about my (our) propensity to play hide and seek with sin. We hide our sins and seek out the sins of others. But it is not about me compared to others but to Jesus Christ. We cannot escape - “You are the man!” We must own our sin, and “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (See 1 John 1:5-10)
After being confronted by the prophet Nathan (“You are the man!”), King David finally owned his sin. (2 Sam 12:1-15) Following this episode, David wrote Psalms 51 and 32. Let’s focus on Psalm 51 and note what he did to become a sinner forgiven.
David confessed that he had sinned and admitted the heaviness of the burden. He then called upon God trusting in His lovingkindness and tender mercies. Wash me clean, the repentant king asked. (Psalm 51:1-3) The blood of the Lamb cleanses us. (Revelation 12:11)
David then said something that troubles a lot of people. He says, “Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight...” (Psalm 51:4) What about Bathsheba and Uriah? What about the great multitude of people who got hurt or destroyed by his sin and its terrible consequences? But David understood something we all need to know; all of our sin, our lawlessness, is ultimately against a holy God and His divine law. The hurt we cause or inflict on others, even on ourselves, tears His loving and just heart asunder. In the end, we hurt Him the most. “How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing.” (Matthew 23:37)
David then recalled that he was born in sin and a sinner he is. And that we are folks. Me. You. We cannot fix ourselves; only God can. Therefore, make me whiter than snow, heal my brokenness, and blot out these stains I have caused. (Psalm 51:5-9) Clean my heart with newness and renew my spiritual communion with You, O God. And above all: “Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.” (Psalm 51:10-11) Hold on to me, Lord, even if I foolishly let go of You, please hold on to me. “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ…?” (Romans 8:35)
The Lord God does indeed hold onto a floppy and floundering us. Like a disobedient child making amends with a good parent, David desired to climb into his Father’s lap. David wanted his joy and fellowship back. David wanted to know that God’s salvation, like a good parent’s unconditional love, is the most certain thing in life. (Psalm 51:12) “My sheep hear My voice…they shall never perish, neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” (John 10:27-28)
David then determines: “I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners shall be converted to You…my tongue shall sing aloud of Your righteousness…my mouth shall show forth Your praise.” (Psalm 51:13-15) The Lord’s love, grace and forgiveness, given and received, inspired the repentant king to shout it from the rooftops. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…”
(Matthew 28:19)
David concludes the Psalm espousing the highest truth, missed by so many, that God has not called us to a religion with Him but to a relationship with Him. (Psalm 51:16-19) “As the Father loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love.” (John 15:9)
Are you a sinner forgiven? Are you cleansed, made whole, anxious to tell others of God’s lovingkindness and tender mercies? Are you repulsed by religion and rejoicing in a restored relationship with your Creator through Christ? If not, today is the day of salvation! (2 Corinthians 6:2)
A Sinner!
I see things. I hear things. All around me. All the time. At home. At work. At church. In the neighborhood. In the family. In the newspaper. On the television. On the radio. On the Internet. Wherever people are, I see and hear things. I’m just a little more aware than your average bear.
My keen observations reveal precisely when people are not thinking and acting biblically. If sin stirs the grass, I can see and hear it. I can see the wrinkles and faults and failures of others from a long country mile away. Not much escapes these hawk eyes.
It’s like the story that Nathan told King David is being lived out every day everywhere. It is the world in a nutshell. Remember the account: “There were two men in one city, one rich and the other poor. The rich man had exceedingly many flocks and herds. But the poor man had nothing, except one little ewe lamb which he had bought and nourished; and it grew up together with him and with his children. It ate of his own food and drank from his own cup and lay in his bosom; and it was like a daughter to him. And a traveler came to the rich man, who refused to take from his own flock and from his own herd to prepare one for the wayfaring man who had come to him; but he took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him.” (2 Samuel 12:1-4)
That is what I’m talking about selfish, self-centered, self-serving sinners all around me! “Lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God…” (2 Timothy 3:2-4) And so on and so on. I see and hear it; why I can even smell it! It reeks!
I am so with King David when told what that rich stinking sinner did to the poor man and his innocent lamb. “As the Lord lives, the man who has done this shall surely die! And he shall restore fourfold for the lamb, because he did this thing and because he had no pity.” (2 Samuel 12:5- 6) That sounds good to me. I am sick of seeing, hearing, and smelling the stench of people and their callous sins. I want justice! I want righteousness! Then Nathan pointed his finger and said to David, “You are the man!” (2 Samuel 12:7)
Nathan still points down the centuries to the one more aware than your average bear, sitting like a hawk high on his perch, watching, listening, and sniffing at the wind and seeing nothing, hearing nothing, smelling nothing of the sin in and upon himself. Nathan points to the one who is satisfied to compare himself to other people rather than God, where he would be sure to be found woeful and wanting.
When David stood facing Nathan’s pointing finger, he responded in this way, “I have sinned against the Lord.” (2 Samuel 12:13)
As I face the same truth, how shall I respond? Shall I say, “God, I thank You that I am not like other men…” Or do I lower my eyes and beat my breast and plead, “God, be merciful to me a sinner!” (Luke 18:11-13)
Next Time: A Sinner Forgiven
I see things. I hear things. All around me. All the time. At home. At work. At church. In the neighborhood. In the family. In the newspaper. On the television. On the radio. On the Internet. Wherever people are, I see and hear things. I’m just a little more aware than your average bear.
My keen observations reveal precisely when people are not thinking and acting biblically. If sin stirs the grass, I can see and hear it. I can see the wrinkles and faults and failures of others from a long country mile away. Not much escapes these hawk eyes.
It’s like the story that Nathan told King David is being lived out every day everywhere. It is the world in a nutshell. Remember the account: “There were two men in one city, one rich and the other poor. The rich man had exceedingly many flocks and herds. But the poor man had nothing, except one little ewe lamb which he had bought and nourished; and it grew up together with him and with his children. It ate of his own food and drank from his own cup and lay in his bosom; and it was like a daughter to him. And a traveler came to the rich man, who refused to take from his own flock and from his own herd to prepare one for the wayfaring man who had come to him; but he took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him.” (2 Samuel 12:1-4)
That is what I’m talking about selfish, self-centered, self-serving sinners all around me! “Lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God…” (2 Timothy 3:2-4) And so on and so on. I see and hear it; why I can even smell it! It reeks!
I am so with King David when told what that rich stinking sinner did to the poor man and his innocent lamb. “As the Lord lives, the man who has done this shall surely die! And he shall restore fourfold for the lamb, because he did this thing and because he had no pity.” (2 Samuel 12:5- 6) That sounds good to me. I am sick of seeing, hearing, and smelling the stench of people and their callous sins. I want justice! I want righteousness! Then Nathan pointed his finger and said to David, “You are the man!” (2 Samuel 12:7)
Nathan still points down the centuries to the one more aware than your average bear, sitting like a hawk high on his perch, watching, listening, and sniffing at the wind and seeing nothing, hearing nothing, smelling nothing of the sin in and upon himself. Nathan points to the one who is satisfied to compare himself to other people rather than God, where he would be sure to be found woeful and wanting.
When David stood facing Nathan’s pointing finger, he responded in this way, “I have sinned against the Lord.” (2 Samuel 12:13)
As I face the same truth, how shall I respond? Shall I say, “God, I thank You that I am not like other men…” Or do I lower my eyes and beat my breast and plead, “God, be merciful to me a sinner!” (Luke 18:11-13)
Next Time: A Sinner Forgiven
How Can You Have Two Birthdays in the Same Year?
Jesus said unless you are born again, one cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. (John 3:3) This confused Nicodemus, who was a religious leader. The concept of being "born again" perplexed him. Nicodemus asked Jesus, "How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born, can he?" The same is true today. Religious leaders, as well as many others, are confused. How can a person be born twice?
It's not a difficult concept to understand. All are born physically. No one is born spiritually until they believe in the Lord Jesus Christ; there is no need to show emotions, speak in tongues, or water baptism. You become a child of God by faith in Jesus Christ. (Gal. 3:26) You have passed from death (spiritual) to spiritual life, receiving everlasting life as a free gift. God regenerates you immediately when you believe the gospel. It's an action by God that you believe by faith. It's your second birth.
A Young Man born Twice
Last year I had the privilege to witness to a group of three young men in their early teens. One of them immediately said to me that it was his spiritual birthday. He had stopped by our tent at the fair the prior year and received Jesus Christ as his Savior. The evangelist wrote his name down on a card, dated it, and marked it as his spiritual birthday. He brought a couple of buddies back to have them hear the gospel, hoping they would be "born again."
That incident impacted me because most Christians do not understand that concept. We judge people on their behavior as to whether they are really saved, not on what they have believed. Much of Christianity is works driven rather than faith-driven.
A Spiritual Birthday Card
The young man got it. He understood he was born a second time when he believed the gospel. I like the concept of a spiritual birthday card. It's a reminder of Who saved me and when I was saved from the penalty of sin. I think it might look something like this:
Profession of Faith on one side:
Jesus said unless you are born again, one cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. (John 3:3) This confused Nicodemus, who was a religious leader. The concept of being "born again" perplexed him. Nicodemus asked Jesus, "How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born, can he?" The same is true today. Religious leaders, as well as many others, are confused. How can a person be born twice?
It's not a difficult concept to understand. All are born physically. No one is born spiritually until they believe in the Lord Jesus Christ; there is no need to show emotions, speak in tongues, or water baptism. You become a child of God by faith in Jesus Christ. (Gal. 3:26) You have passed from death (spiritual) to spiritual life, receiving everlasting life as a free gift. God regenerates you immediately when you believe the gospel. It's an action by God that you believe by faith. It's your second birth.
A Young Man born Twice
Last year I had the privilege to witness to a group of three young men in their early teens. One of them immediately said to me that it was his spiritual birthday. He had stopped by our tent at the fair the prior year and received Jesus Christ as his Savior. The evangelist wrote his name down on a card, dated it, and marked it as his spiritual birthday. He brought a couple of buddies back to have them hear the gospel, hoping they would be "born again."
That incident impacted me because most Christians do not understand that concept. We judge people on their behavior as to whether they are really saved, not on what they have believed. Much of Christianity is works driven rather than faith-driven.
A Spiritual Birthday Card
The young man got it. He understood he was born a second time when he believed the gospel. I like the concept of a spiritual birthday card. It's a reminder of Who saved me and when I was saved from the penalty of sin. I think it might look something like this:
Profession of Faith on one side:
Spiritual Birthday on the other side
Jesus compared salvation from the penalty of sin to the Israelites being saved physically from the serpent's bite when they were in the wilderness. They had to look once to the pole made by Moses, and they would live. Whoever looks to Jesus, believing who He is and what He did, is saved immediately and forever from the penalty of sin [eternal death in the Lake of Fire]. It's what the Bible defines as justification by faith. It's the beginning of our faith journey. Have you been justified by faith? Have you been born a second time?
14“And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." (John 3:14-18)
14“And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." (John 3:14-18)
Now I See – PART 5
(Open Eyes)
Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when He found him, He said to him, “Do you believe in the Son of God?”
He answered and said, “Who is He, Lord, that I may believe in Him?”
And Jesus said to him, “You have both seen Him and it is he who is talking with you.” Then he said, “Lord, I believe!” And he worshiped Him. (John 9:35-38)
“I’m kind of turned off by religion.” I’ve been told that numerous times. Do you know how I always respond to that statement? “That is great! Run from it; get as far away from man’s religion as possible! Run to Jesus Christ instead!” Boy, does that get me some puzzled looks, and usually a grand opening to talk about the night and day difference between the two.
My face twists into a sour-puss cringe whenever I hear someone describe a new believer like this: “They got religion.” No, no, nothing could be further from the truth! They got away from religion. That is actually what happens to a believer in Jesus Christ.
So, in this scene, the guy with new eyes gets the heave-ho from Moses’ disciples. Jesus finds him. Jesus finds us. Aren’t you glad and grateful for that? Wait a second, are you sure you’re glad and grateful? Because when He finds us, the all-time forever question will be asked of each of us. An eternal dividing line is drawn by this very inquiry right here: “Do you believe in the Son of God?”
I’m kind of partial to this man’s answer. “Who is He?” There isn’t a thing wrong with that query. He wanted to know who he was confessing and professing to believe in. Don’t you? I want to know this real person, this Son of God. Don’t you?
Do you know Him?
Except for a handful of secular references to Jesus, how do we know He even existed? Without the universal witness of nature, how do we begin to know anything of God? If we attribute our knowledge of Him to “a preacher told me” or “my grandmother taught me by her life and words,” how did they attain their knowing - apart from Scripture?
When our open eyes read the Bible, the Word of God, we see Him. With Scripture unfolded in our lap, He is talking to us. And the further we walk on our Spirit-led journey into His revelation, the deeper our knowing Him will be. If the Bible, the Word of God, is nothing more than an ornament in our life, we will never be able to exclaim, “Lord, I believe truly!” We will never worship Him in Spirit and in Truth.
(Judging Eyes)
And Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, that those who do not see may see, and those who see may be made blind.” Then some of the Pharisees who were with Him heard these words, and said to Him, “Are we blind also?” Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now you say, ‘We see.’ Therefore, your sin remains.” (John 9:39-41)
Well, what say you before the judging eyes of the Son of God? Those who insist on seeing God through the hollow eyes of religion see nothing of Him. Those who humbly walk blind and helpless into the open arms of Jesus Christ are given new eyes to see Him in all His glory. And it is they who so truthfully and thankfully proclaim: “Though I was blind, now I see.”
(Open Eyes)
Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when He found him, He said to him, “Do you believe in the Son of God?”
He answered and said, “Who is He, Lord, that I may believe in Him?”
And Jesus said to him, “You have both seen Him and it is he who is talking with you.” Then he said, “Lord, I believe!” And he worshiped Him. (John 9:35-38)
“I’m kind of turned off by religion.” I’ve been told that numerous times. Do you know how I always respond to that statement? “That is great! Run from it; get as far away from man’s religion as possible! Run to Jesus Christ instead!” Boy, does that get me some puzzled looks, and usually a grand opening to talk about the night and day difference between the two.
My face twists into a sour-puss cringe whenever I hear someone describe a new believer like this: “They got religion.” No, no, nothing could be further from the truth! They got away from religion. That is actually what happens to a believer in Jesus Christ.
So, in this scene, the guy with new eyes gets the heave-ho from Moses’ disciples. Jesus finds him. Jesus finds us. Aren’t you glad and grateful for that? Wait a second, are you sure you’re glad and grateful? Because when He finds us, the all-time forever question will be asked of each of us. An eternal dividing line is drawn by this very inquiry right here: “Do you believe in the Son of God?”
I’m kind of partial to this man’s answer. “Who is He?” There isn’t a thing wrong with that query. He wanted to know who he was confessing and professing to believe in. Don’t you? I want to know this real person, this Son of God. Don’t you?
Do you know Him?
Except for a handful of secular references to Jesus, how do we know He even existed? Without the universal witness of nature, how do we begin to know anything of God? If we attribute our knowledge of Him to “a preacher told me” or “my grandmother taught me by her life and words,” how did they attain their knowing - apart from Scripture?
When our open eyes read the Bible, the Word of God, we see Him. With Scripture unfolded in our lap, He is talking to us. And the further we walk on our Spirit-led journey into His revelation, the deeper our knowing Him will be. If the Bible, the Word of God, is nothing more than an ornament in our life, we will never be able to exclaim, “Lord, I believe truly!” We will never worship Him in Spirit and in Truth.
(Judging Eyes)
And Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, that those who do not see may see, and those who see may be made blind.” Then some of the Pharisees who were with Him heard these words, and said to Him, “Are we blind also?” Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now you say, ‘We see.’ Therefore, your sin remains.” (John 9:39-41)
Well, what say you before the judging eyes of the Son of God? Those who insist on seeing God through the hollow eyes of religion see nothing of Him. Those who humbly walk blind and helpless into the open arms of Jesus Christ are given new eyes to see Him in all His glory. And it is they who so truthfully and thankfully proclaim: “Though I was blind, now I see.”
Now I See – PART 4
(Closed Eyes)
Then they said to him again, “What did He do to you? How did He open your eyes?” He answered them, “I told you already, and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become His disciples?”
Then they reviled him and said, “You are His disciple, but we are Moses’ disciples. We know that God spoke to Moses; as for this fellow, we do not know where He is from.”
The man answered and said to them, “Why, this is a marvelous thing, that you do not know where He is from; yet He has opened my eyes! Now we know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, He hears them. Since the world began it has been unheard of that anyone opened the eyes of one who was born blind. If this man were not from God, He could do nothing.”
They answered and said to him, “You were completely born in sins, and you are teaching us?” And they cast him out. (John 9:26-34)
Have you ever talked to someone who refuses to hear the facts, even though those facts are banging outside their ear like a giant gong? Have you ever held up the “smoking gun” right before someone’s eyes and then gasped in exasperation at their obstinate denial of the evidence? We, humans, specialize in mulish rebellion. We are a tiny bit partial to our own agendas. We are just a wee tad inclined towards our own self-interest.
When the Nazarene begins the lifelong process of turning us stubborn mules into His lambs, we become witnesses of Him and for Him. We will find many different kinds of people, but one is the most common. The “deaf and blind on purpose” award, hands down, belongs to religious people, even churchgoers. But, in reality, they are actually Moses’ disciples. “I don’t need a “personal relationship” with Jesus Christ.” they scold, “I have my religion; I am a good person.”
And still, like the man born blind, His lambs must testify to the religious mules: “This is a marvelous thing! Jesus opened my eyes!”
And even still, they look back at you with closed eyes: “You are teaching me???”
Next time: Open Eyes
(Closed Eyes)
Then they said to him again, “What did He do to you? How did He open your eyes?” He answered them, “I told you already, and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become His disciples?”
Then they reviled him and said, “You are His disciple, but we are Moses’ disciples. We know that God spoke to Moses; as for this fellow, we do not know where He is from.”
The man answered and said to them, “Why, this is a marvelous thing, that you do not know where He is from; yet He has opened my eyes! Now we know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, He hears them. Since the world began it has been unheard of that anyone opened the eyes of one who was born blind. If this man were not from God, He could do nothing.”
They answered and said to him, “You were completely born in sins, and you are teaching us?” And they cast him out. (John 9:26-34)
Have you ever talked to someone who refuses to hear the facts, even though those facts are banging outside their ear like a giant gong? Have you ever held up the “smoking gun” right before someone’s eyes and then gasped in exasperation at their obstinate denial of the evidence? We, humans, specialize in mulish rebellion. We are a tiny bit partial to our own agendas. We are just a wee tad inclined towards our own self-interest.
When the Nazarene begins the lifelong process of turning us stubborn mules into His lambs, we become witnesses of Him and for Him. We will find many different kinds of people, but one is the most common. The “deaf and blind on purpose” award, hands down, belongs to religious people, even churchgoers. But, in reality, they are actually Moses’ disciples. “I don’t need a “personal relationship” with Jesus Christ.” they scold, “I have my religion; I am a good person.”
And still, like the man born blind, His lambs must testify to the religious mules: “This is a marvelous thing! Jesus opened my eyes!”
And even still, they look back at you with closed eyes: “You are teaching me???”
Next time: Open Eyes
Now I See – PART 3
(Eye Witnesses)
They called his parents of him, who had received his sight. And they asked them, saying, "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?”
His parents answered them and said, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; but by what means he now sees we do not know, or who opened his eyes we do not know. He is of age; ask him. He will speak for himself.” His parents said these things because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had agreed already that if anyone confessed that He was Christ, he would be put out of the synagogue. Therefore, his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.”
They again called the man who was blind, and said to him, “Give God the glory! We know this man is a sinner.”
He answered and said, “Whether He is a sinner or not I do not know. One thing I know: that though I was blind, now I see.”
(John 9:18-25)
I have a few thoughts when reading about this man’s parents. Where is their abandoned joy in seeing their son seeing? Maybe it’s just me, but if my son were born blind, he wouldn’t be begging to survive, not on my watch. Now, to their credit, they did confess it was their son. And they did give eyewitness testimony of his blindness. But sadly, their bondage to religion trumped any care or concern for the inquisition their boy was enduring.
The parents made one good point, despite their motivation being selfish and self-protective. They twice stated an important truth: the son was responsible for his own confession and witness of the one called Christ. God has no grandchildren. I repeatedly stressed this to my own son in his wanderings. His grandparents, his parents, nor anyone else’s personal relationship with Jesus Christ is his. He must speak for himself. We all must.
“Give God the glory!” Have you ever noticed how acceptable it is to invoke the name of God? Except for the most hardened atheists, a good mention of the name, God, is welcomed just about anywhere by everyone. However, the J-word, the C-word, no, no, such references cause the air to suddenly get asthmatic, followed by a lot of gawking at the floor and twitches and nervous ticks. Yet, how is God ever glorified in the numerous denials of His beloved Son?
The man, who moments before had never seen anything, now sees the corner he’s been backed into, and out he charges. “Yeah, well, maybe He is a sinner by your definition, but what I know of Him is this: I was born blind; now I see.”
Next time: Closed Eyes
(Eye Witnesses)
They called his parents of him, who had received his sight. And they asked them, saying, "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?”
His parents answered them and said, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; but by what means he now sees we do not know, or who opened his eyes we do not know. He is of age; ask him. He will speak for himself.” His parents said these things because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had agreed already that if anyone confessed that He was Christ, he would be put out of the synagogue. Therefore, his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.”
They again called the man who was blind, and said to him, “Give God the glory! We know this man is a sinner.”
He answered and said, “Whether He is a sinner or not I do not know. One thing I know: that though I was blind, now I see.”
(John 9:18-25)
I have a few thoughts when reading about this man’s parents. Where is their abandoned joy in seeing their son seeing? Maybe it’s just me, but if my son were born blind, he wouldn’t be begging to survive, not on my watch. Now, to their credit, they did confess it was their son. And they did give eyewitness testimony of his blindness. But sadly, their bondage to religion trumped any care or concern for the inquisition their boy was enduring.
The parents made one good point, despite their motivation being selfish and self-protective. They twice stated an important truth: the son was responsible for his own confession and witness of the one called Christ. God has no grandchildren. I repeatedly stressed this to my own son in his wanderings. His grandparents, his parents, nor anyone else’s personal relationship with Jesus Christ is his. He must speak for himself. We all must.
“Give God the glory!” Have you ever noticed how acceptable it is to invoke the name of God? Except for the most hardened atheists, a good mention of the name, God, is welcomed just about anywhere by everyone. However, the J-word, the C-word, no, no, such references cause the air to suddenly get asthmatic, followed by a lot of gawking at the floor and twitches and nervous ticks. Yet, how is God ever glorified in the numerous denials of His beloved Son?
The man, who moments before had never seen anything, now sees the corner he’s been backed into, and out he charges. “Yeah, well, maybe He is a sinner by your definition, but what I know of Him is this: I was born blind; now I see.”
Next time: Closed Eyes
Now I See – PART 2
(Eye Exam)
They brought him who formerly was blind to the Pharisees. Now it was the Sabbath when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. Then the Pharisees also asked him again how he had received his sight. He said to them, “He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and I see.”
Therefore, some of the Pharisees said, “This Man is not from God, because He does not keep the Sabbath.”
Others said, “How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?” And there was division among them. They said to the blind man again, “What do you say about Him because He opened your eyes?” He said, “He is a prophet.” (John 9:13-17)
The man had just received a personal touch from the Balm of Gilead. Now he was brought to religion’s impersonal hands for an examination. Things did not go too well. Even though he could read the smallest letter on the eye chart, he was healed by the wrong man on the wrong day and in the wrong way. The man got the thumbs down from religion.
Why is that not surprising? The religions of men have caused the most harm and ardently opposed the true things of God more so than any heathen or atheist. When presenting Christ to people, they often hold up defensive hands and say, “I am not a religious person.” That is our opportunity to respond with, “That is great; you are not far from the kingdom of God.” (Mark 12:34)
Next Time: Eye Witness
(Eye Exam)
They brought him who formerly was blind to the Pharisees. Now it was the Sabbath when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. Then the Pharisees also asked him again how he had received his sight. He said to them, “He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and I see.”
Therefore, some of the Pharisees said, “This Man is not from God, because He does not keep the Sabbath.”
Others said, “How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?” And there was division among them. They said to the blind man again, “What do you say about Him because He opened your eyes?” He said, “He is a prophet.” (John 9:13-17)
The man had just received a personal touch from the Balm of Gilead. Now he was brought to religion’s impersonal hands for an examination. Things did not go too well. Even though he could read the smallest letter on the eye chart, he was healed by the wrong man on the wrong day and in the wrong way. The man got the thumbs down from religion.
Why is that not surprising? The religions of men have caused the most harm and ardently opposed the true things of God more so than any heathen or atheist. When presenting Christ to people, they often hold up defensive hands and say, “I am not a religious person.” That is our opportunity to respond with, “That is great; you are not far from the kingdom of God.” (Mark 12:34)
Next Time: Eye Witness
Now I See – PART 1
(Blind Eyes)
Now as Jesus passed by, He saw a man who was blind from birth. And the disciples asked Him, saying, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”
Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” (John 9:1-5)
Did you pick up on the disciples’ question? Teacher, did this man’s sin cause him to be born blind? Huh? That’s a little cart before the horse, is it not? Now, his parent’s sin could be responsible for his condition. Perhaps they participated in unhealthy behavior or deliberately ignored good prenatal care. But in the big picture sense - aren’t we all born blinded by sin? Indeed, we are sightless to the things of God until our spiritual nativity supplants our natural birth.
Jesus bypasses all that and heads for another revelation. The man was born blind, lived in darkness, and had to beg to survive so that Jesus could heal him on a divinely appointed day. Is this not a demonstration of the greater purposes of God superintending our destiny? When we question why someone blameless and upright must sit on suffering Job’s ash heap, are we overlooking the greater purposes of a loving God?
Then Jesus says, “I must work the works of Him who sent Me” while I am here. You and I are here for a reason and a season. We, too, must work the works of Him who sends us. The Lord also states that as long as He is in the world, the world is lit. And since His ascension, every true disciple, like an Olympian, has taken a turn running with His eternal light lifted up for the entire world to see.
(New Eyes)
When He had said these things, He spat on the ground and made clay with the saliva; and He anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay. And He said to him, “Go wash in the pool of Siloam.” So, he went and washed, and came back seeing.
Therefore, the neighbors and those who previously had seen that he was blind said, “Is this not he who sat and begged?”
Some said, “This is he.” Others said, “He is like him.”
He said, “I am he.”
Therefore, they said to him, “How were your eyes opened?”
He answered and said, “A Man named Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes and said to me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash.’ So, I went and washed, and received sight.” (John 9: 6-11)
So, what is up with the mud pies? John specifically mentions the blind man being born blind in his narrative. When Christ heals other blind people at Bethsaida, Jericho, and after departing from Capernaum, there are spoken words and a bit of spit, but no dirt involved. Are we privy to an act of creation here? Not of fish and loaves, but new human eyes made from the dust, for a man born without. Is it not Jesus Christ displaying, yet again, His omnipotence, His Deity?
Note the man did what he was told to do. He came back seeing. He obeyed the command. He came back changed. The neighbors are confused; this guy we knew, or thought we knew, he’s different now. They had to ask, “What happened to you? How has this change come about?”
The man answered them, “A Man named Jesus.”
Next Time: Eye Exam
(Blind Eyes)
Now as Jesus passed by, He saw a man who was blind from birth. And the disciples asked Him, saying, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”
Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” (John 9:1-5)
Did you pick up on the disciples’ question? Teacher, did this man’s sin cause him to be born blind? Huh? That’s a little cart before the horse, is it not? Now, his parent’s sin could be responsible for his condition. Perhaps they participated in unhealthy behavior or deliberately ignored good prenatal care. But in the big picture sense - aren’t we all born blinded by sin? Indeed, we are sightless to the things of God until our spiritual nativity supplants our natural birth.
Jesus bypasses all that and heads for another revelation. The man was born blind, lived in darkness, and had to beg to survive so that Jesus could heal him on a divinely appointed day. Is this not a demonstration of the greater purposes of God superintending our destiny? When we question why someone blameless and upright must sit on suffering Job’s ash heap, are we overlooking the greater purposes of a loving God?
Then Jesus says, “I must work the works of Him who sent Me” while I am here. You and I are here for a reason and a season. We, too, must work the works of Him who sends us. The Lord also states that as long as He is in the world, the world is lit. And since His ascension, every true disciple, like an Olympian, has taken a turn running with His eternal light lifted up for the entire world to see.
(New Eyes)
When He had said these things, He spat on the ground and made clay with the saliva; and He anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay. And He said to him, “Go wash in the pool of Siloam.” So, he went and washed, and came back seeing.
Therefore, the neighbors and those who previously had seen that he was blind said, “Is this not he who sat and begged?”
Some said, “This is he.” Others said, “He is like him.”
He said, “I am he.”
Therefore, they said to him, “How were your eyes opened?”
He answered and said, “A Man named Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes and said to me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash.’ So, I went and washed, and received sight.” (John 9: 6-11)
So, what is up with the mud pies? John specifically mentions the blind man being born blind in his narrative. When Christ heals other blind people at Bethsaida, Jericho, and after departing from Capernaum, there are spoken words and a bit of spit, but no dirt involved. Are we privy to an act of creation here? Not of fish and loaves, but new human eyes made from the dust, for a man born without. Is it not Jesus Christ displaying, yet again, His omnipotence, His Deity?
Note the man did what he was told to do. He came back seeing. He obeyed the command. He came back changed. The neighbors are confused; this guy we knew, or thought we knew, he’s different now. They had to ask, “What happened to you? How has this change come about?”
The man answered them, “A Man named Jesus.”
Next Time: Eye Exam
Helpless Sinners
For the last several years, I have spent time at ministry booths at fairs and town festivals attempting to share the gospel with people. I think that I know people well enough not to be surprised by the way they think. But someone always blindsides me with something that I have never experienced before.
In one case, a while ago, as I was sharing the gospel, I stopped and asked a group if they had ever done anything wrong. Typically, the response is affirmative; “everybody does; no one is perfect.” It’s a point in the gospel presentation when people must recognize they are separated from God because of sin. But one person said “no.” I double-checked. “You never did anything wrong?” “No.” Then I proceeded to ask a couple of probing questions along that line. “Did you ever tell a lie?” “No” again was the answer. “Never told a lie?” “No.” At that point, I wanted to say you just lied by saying you never lied.
I continued. “Did you ever steal anything, no matter how small?” Again, the answer was “No.” I persisted. This one should get you to admit you’ve done some wrong things. “Have you ever had a bad thought?” “No.” Wow, a person that never had a wrong thought! That’s pretty incredible. Well, the next question was kind of off the wall, but it struck the right nerve. Did you ever fight with anyone? Smiling and nodding, the person at that point realized that no one was perfect.
This individual is no different than the rest of us. It’s our pride that keeps us from believing that we need a Savior. If you probe long enough and deep enough, everyone realizes they are sinners. Most, however, do not recognize that they are helpless sinners. Most think they can fix their situation by trying to have their good outweigh their bad. But that’s an impossible thing to figure out. The truth is we cannot fix our relationship with God by being good, trying to be good, or promising to be good. The Lord had to fix it, and He did.
So why not just agree with what God says about us? He says that we all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). He says that we can’t be good enough. In comparison to Him, “There is none who does good, no not one” (Romans 3:12). Then accept His free gift of salvation by faith in the Person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). It’s that simple. This person eventually did.
For the last several years, I have spent time at ministry booths at fairs and town festivals attempting to share the gospel with people. I think that I know people well enough not to be surprised by the way they think. But someone always blindsides me with something that I have never experienced before.
In one case, a while ago, as I was sharing the gospel, I stopped and asked a group if they had ever done anything wrong. Typically, the response is affirmative; “everybody does; no one is perfect.” It’s a point in the gospel presentation when people must recognize they are separated from God because of sin. But one person said “no.” I double-checked. “You never did anything wrong?” “No.” Then I proceeded to ask a couple of probing questions along that line. “Did you ever tell a lie?” “No” again was the answer. “Never told a lie?” “No.” At that point, I wanted to say you just lied by saying you never lied.
I continued. “Did you ever steal anything, no matter how small?” Again, the answer was “No.” I persisted. This one should get you to admit you’ve done some wrong things. “Have you ever had a bad thought?” “No.” Wow, a person that never had a wrong thought! That’s pretty incredible. Well, the next question was kind of off the wall, but it struck the right nerve. Did you ever fight with anyone? Smiling and nodding, the person at that point realized that no one was perfect.
This individual is no different than the rest of us. It’s our pride that keeps us from believing that we need a Savior. If you probe long enough and deep enough, everyone realizes they are sinners. Most, however, do not recognize that they are helpless sinners. Most think they can fix their situation by trying to have their good outweigh their bad. But that’s an impossible thing to figure out. The truth is we cannot fix our relationship with God by being good, trying to be good, or promising to be good. The Lord had to fix it, and He did.
So why not just agree with what God says about us? He says that we all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). He says that we can’t be good enough. In comparison to Him, “There is none who does good, no not one” (Romans 3:12). Then accept His free gift of salvation by faith in the Person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). It’s that simple. This person eventually did.
Does God Grade on a Curve?
Are you a good person? You’re probably better than me. The problem with thinking this way is you don’t get into the kingdom of heaven by being better than me. You have to be as good as God. But many people think God grades on a curve. They trust in their good acts to outweigh the wrong they have done.
Let’s think about this for a minute. Say I stole a car. The judge is about to sentence me. I shout out, “Wait a minute Judge! Before you sentence me, consider the fact that I’m a really good person. And I only stole one car. Think about all the cars I could have stolen, but I only took this one.” Would a good judge find me not guilty and let me go? I don’t think so. Our good can never take away the bad things we do. There are human penalties for committing wrong actions. So, if an earthly judge doesn’t overlook our crimes, why do we think a holy and just God will ignore our wrongs, our sin?
The truth is, He doesn’t. Sin required a payment – spiritual death, separation from God forever. But He provided a way. God offered the only acceptable payment for our sin. Jesus paid our sin penalty on the cross. He took the penalty we all deserve. He is our sufficient Substitute. Now there is no sin debt to pay. But God requires an individual response to receive the benefit of the payment. You must transfer your trust from yourself to the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. It’s the only way you can stand before a holy God. When a helpless sinner trusts in Christ, they pass from (spiritual) death to (spiritual) life. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved (Acts 16:31).
Are you a good person? You’re probably better than me. The problem with thinking this way is you don’t get into the kingdom of heaven by being better than me. You have to be as good as God. But many people think God grades on a curve. They trust in their good acts to outweigh the wrong they have done.
Let’s think about this for a minute. Say I stole a car. The judge is about to sentence me. I shout out, “Wait a minute Judge! Before you sentence me, consider the fact that I’m a really good person. And I only stole one car. Think about all the cars I could have stolen, but I only took this one.” Would a good judge find me not guilty and let me go? I don’t think so. Our good can never take away the bad things we do. There are human penalties for committing wrong actions. So, if an earthly judge doesn’t overlook our crimes, why do we think a holy and just God will ignore our wrongs, our sin?
The truth is, He doesn’t. Sin required a payment – spiritual death, separation from God forever. But He provided a way. God offered the only acceptable payment for our sin. Jesus paid our sin penalty on the cross. He took the penalty we all deserve. He is our sufficient Substitute. Now there is no sin debt to pay. But God requires an individual response to receive the benefit of the payment. You must transfer your trust from yourself to the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. It’s the only way you can stand before a holy God. When a helpless sinner trusts in Christ, they pass from (spiritual) death to (spiritual) life. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved (Acts 16:31).
"Time under the Sun"
King Solomon reminds us there is a time to be born and a time to die, laugh and cry, and so on. One measure of life is in the increments of time. The other, undoubtedly more significant, is discovering what makes for a meaningful life within our clock's first and last tick. Solomon tells us what is NOT of value – living only for the things of this earth. (Our time under the sun) The old king warns us, "Been there, done that, forget that!" He concluded all of it was vanity and a chasing of the wind. "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity." (Ecclesiastes 1:2) He who dies with the most toys does not win! There is no useful purpose in such a life during our time under the sun.
Instead, Solomon tells us that meaningful living has forever in view, not just what's in front of us now. It comprehends that we are forever creatures made in the image of a forever God. A meaningful life understands something of God's eternal power, actual purposes, and excellent work in His Creation. It produces reverence and worship of our Creator and Redeemer. A meaningful existence under the sun glorifies the Father by conforming to the Son's image. Apart from these, our lives have no real meaning, no how, no way.
Solomon ends his instruction: "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man's all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)
A meaningful and abundant walk under the sun can only be realized in Jesus Christ, the life-giving Vine. Apart from Him, we will eventually wither and die no matter where our pursuits lead us, even to the world's mountaintops. A restored relationship with the Lord God is man's ALL in our time under the sun and then "Glory Hallelujah" with Him forever.
King Solomon reminds us there is a time to be born and a time to die, laugh and cry, and so on. One measure of life is in the increments of time. The other, undoubtedly more significant, is discovering what makes for a meaningful life within our clock's first and last tick. Solomon tells us what is NOT of value – living only for the things of this earth. (Our time under the sun) The old king warns us, "Been there, done that, forget that!" He concluded all of it was vanity and a chasing of the wind. "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity." (Ecclesiastes 1:2) He who dies with the most toys does not win! There is no useful purpose in such a life during our time under the sun.
Instead, Solomon tells us that meaningful living has forever in view, not just what's in front of us now. It comprehends that we are forever creatures made in the image of a forever God. A meaningful life understands something of God's eternal power, actual purposes, and excellent work in His Creation. It produces reverence and worship of our Creator and Redeemer. A meaningful existence under the sun glorifies the Father by conforming to the Son's image. Apart from these, our lives have no real meaning, no how, no way.
Solomon ends his instruction: "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man's all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)
A meaningful and abundant walk under the sun can only be realized in Jesus Christ, the life-giving Vine. Apart from Him, we will eventually wither and die no matter where our pursuits lead us, even to the world's mountaintops. A restored relationship with the Lord God is man's ALL in our time under the sun and then "Glory Hallelujah" with Him forever.
Signs and Wonders of the Antichrist
The antichrist is the future world ruler prophesied in the Bible. He will have great power to deceive. He and his false prophet will perform amazing things to deceive people during the tribulation period. For example, the false prophet “performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.” (Rev. 13:13)
I have often wondered why this particular sign is mentioned.
In the Bible, ‘fire’ and ‘fire coming from heaven’ are often associated with the Lord and/or His judgment.
* From out of the heavens, the Lord rained brimstone and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah. (Genesis 19:24)
* The Lord sent thunder, hail, and fire on the Land of Egypt. (Exodus 9:23)
* The Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead the way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light. (Ex. 13:21)
* The Lord descended upon Mt. Sinai in fire. (Exodus 19:18)
* The fire of the Lord fell and consumed Elijah’s sacrifice. (1 Kings 18:38)
* Elijah called fire down from heaven… and the fire of God consumed the captain and his men. (2 Kings 1:12)
* When Solomon finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering. (2 Chronicles 7:1)
The false prophet will be able to mimic to some degree the power of God (Revelation 13:15) He will be able to summon great power like Moses or Elijah, but it will come from Satan, not from God. Through the supernatural signs, the false prophet will cause people to worship the antichrist, who will eventually make the false claim that he is God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4)
Antichrist’s Powers
But this is not the only powers the antichrist will have. His coming to global leadership will be “according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception…” (2 Thessalonians 2:9, 10) The three descriptive words in this verse – power, signs, and wonders – were the same words describing the things done by Jesus – “Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by miracles, wonders, and signs…” (Acts 2:22) [The word for ‘miracles’ and the word for ‘power’ are the same word in the Greek, dunamis.]
Will the antichrist be able to heal some diseases? Will he be able to control storms? Will he be able to change water into wine? Will he have power over death? Jesus did all these things. It seems the antichrist will have the ability to do similar miracles. (Matthew 8:3, 26; John 2:7-9; Matthew 9:24, 25)
Antichrist’s Resurrection
The antichrist will not only have god-like powers to perform miracles, but he will also appear to have come back to life from a deadly wound (Revelation 13:3-5). To the masses, it will appear as though he was resurrected! [Some believe he dies and returns from the dead, while others believe he fakes it to make it look real. Either way, it accomplishes his purpose, to deceive.]
Antichrist will come back from the dead as Jesus did. His prophet will cause fire to come down from heaven like God’s prophets. He will perform supernatural miracles like Jesus. These things are all unrighteous deception, but they will appear real. Beware!
Believing is not Seeing!
The real Messiah lived two thousand years ago. The Bible that records His life and work is ridiculed more and more. Man always wants to see with the physical eye to believe. Most find something two thousand years ago hard to believe. But Thomas, a disciple of Jesus, demonstrated his unbelief in the resurrection only days afterward; “Unless I see… I will not believe”. (John 21:25) Because it happened long ago, it doesn’t make it difficult to believe. It’s difficult to believe because the heart of man is deceitful and desperately wicked. (Jeremiah. 17:9) Our heart [the seat of the will, mind, and emotion] tries to convince us that we are good and have no need for a Savior.
Sudden Destruction!
But, when the antichrist comes on the scene with all unrighteous deception backed by the power of Satan, many who have rejected the truth of Christ will accept the lie. Because they did not receive the love of the truth, they will see supernatural powers to cause them to believe that the antichrist is the true Messiah falsely. Mankind’s desire for utopia, a world ruled apart from God, will have been thought to have arrived. But the opposite will occur. The worst time of planet earth will have just begun – “For when they say, ‘peace [tranquility] and safety [security]!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. (1 Thessalonians 5:3)
Time is running out. Anyone can avoid this time of great deception. More importantly, if anyone who dies and has rejected Christ as Savior, they will end up separated from the Lord for all eternity in the Lake of Fire. Jesus Christ, the God/Man, came into the world to save sinners. Because God loves us, He sent His Son to pay our sin penalty on the cross. He offers the free gift of salvation to whosoever will believe it. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved! (Acts 16:31)
The antichrist is the future world ruler prophesied in the Bible. He will have great power to deceive. He and his false prophet will perform amazing things to deceive people during the tribulation period. For example, the false prophet “performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.” (Rev. 13:13)
I have often wondered why this particular sign is mentioned.
In the Bible, ‘fire’ and ‘fire coming from heaven’ are often associated with the Lord and/or His judgment.
* From out of the heavens, the Lord rained brimstone and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah. (Genesis 19:24)
* The Lord sent thunder, hail, and fire on the Land of Egypt. (Exodus 9:23)
* The Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead the way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light. (Ex. 13:21)
* The Lord descended upon Mt. Sinai in fire. (Exodus 19:18)
* The fire of the Lord fell and consumed Elijah’s sacrifice. (1 Kings 18:38)
* Elijah called fire down from heaven… and the fire of God consumed the captain and his men. (2 Kings 1:12)
* When Solomon finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering. (2 Chronicles 7:1)
The false prophet will be able to mimic to some degree the power of God (Revelation 13:15) He will be able to summon great power like Moses or Elijah, but it will come from Satan, not from God. Through the supernatural signs, the false prophet will cause people to worship the antichrist, who will eventually make the false claim that he is God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4)
Antichrist’s Powers
But this is not the only powers the antichrist will have. His coming to global leadership will be “according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception…” (2 Thessalonians 2:9, 10) The three descriptive words in this verse – power, signs, and wonders – were the same words describing the things done by Jesus – “Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by miracles, wonders, and signs…” (Acts 2:22) [The word for ‘miracles’ and the word for ‘power’ are the same word in the Greek, dunamis.]
Will the antichrist be able to heal some diseases? Will he be able to control storms? Will he be able to change water into wine? Will he have power over death? Jesus did all these things. It seems the antichrist will have the ability to do similar miracles. (Matthew 8:3, 26; John 2:7-9; Matthew 9:24, 25)
Antichrist’s Resurrection
The antichrist will not only have god-like powers to perform miracles, but he will also appear to have come back to life from a deadly wound (Revelation 13:3-5). To the masses, it will appear as though he was resurrected! [Some believe he dies and returns from the dead, while others believe he fakes it to make it look real. Either way, it accomplishes his purpose, to deceive.]
Antichrist will come back from the dead as Jesus did. His prophet will cause fire to come down from heaven like God’s prophets. He will perform supernatural miracles like Jesus. These things are all unrighteous deception, but they will appear real. Beware!
Believing is not Seeing!
The real Messiah lived two thousand years ago. The Bible that records His life and work is ridiculed more and more. Man always wants to see with the physical eye to believe. Most find something two thousand years ago hard to believe. But Thomas, a disciple of Jesus, demonstrated his unbelief in the resurrection only days afterward; “Unless I see… I will not believe”. (John 21:25) Because it happened long ago, it doesn’t make it difficult to believe. It’s difficult to believe because the heart of man is deceitful and desperately wicked. (Jeremiah. 17:9) Our heart [the seat of the will, mind, and emotion] tries to convince us that we are good and have no need for a Savior.
Sudden Destruction!
But, when the antichrist comes on the scene with all unrighteous deception backed by the power of Satan, many who have rejected the truth of Christ will accept the lie. Because they did not receive the love of the truth, they will see supernatural powers to cause them to believe that the antichrist is the true Messiah falsely. Mankind’s desire for utopia, a world ruled apart from God, will have been thought to have arrived. But the opposite will occur. The worst time of planet earth will have just begun – “For when they say, ‘peace [tranquility] and safety [security]!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. (1 Thessalonians 5:3)
Time is running out. Anyone can avoid this time of great deception. More importantly, if anyone who dies and has rejected Christ as Savior, they will end up separated from the Lord for all eternity in the Lake of Fire. Jesus Christ, the God/Man, came into the world to save sinners. Because God loves us, He sent His Son to pay our sin penalty on the cross. He offers the free gift of salvation to whosoever will believe it. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved! (Acts 16:31)
Duty Bound
I worked in a Control Room for a Natural Gas Company for most of my career. There were a lot of responsibilities involved, as natural gas can be volatile. When consumers needed our product, I operated various pipeline gates and compressors to fulfill their requests. My job required knowledge of a complex operating system and the ability to use it safely and efficiently. That’s why, as the saying goes, “I got the Big Bucks.”
I also had numerous reports to make, a bank of phones to answer, and a work crew to direct; I calculated how much gas we moved through the plant and if it was natural flow or compressed, amongst other related things.
Those weren’t the only duties I had. I cleaned the Control Building, mopped the floor, scrubbed its toilet and urinal, and shoveled snow from the sidewalks.
So what was my JOB at the Gas Company? Was my job to spick n’ span the urinal? Or would you say it was operating a complex system safely and efficiently to deliver our product to customers? Yes, it’s the second one.
Before Jesus Christ ascended, He gave His disciples what is known as the Great Commission. Webster defines this type of commission as − the authority to act for, in behalf of, or in place of another, and a task or matter entrusted to one as an agent for another.
What is the Great Commission given to Christ’s followers? Jesus said, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matt 28:18-20)
Christians are to go forth in His authority, indwelt and empowered by His Spirit, and make Disciples. We’re to Preach the Gospel (Mark 16:15) and be a witness and a testimony for Him. (Acts 1:8) That is our job; we are duty-bound by it.
Many in our current secularized culture have a problem with that. I see it all the time, “Shut up about this Jesus stuff and gospel talk, and get about feeding the poor and seeking justice for the oppressed!” they bemoan.
Yes, Christians also have those “duties,” although you do not have to be a Christian to do such − RIGHT? Like my “operating a complex system safely and efficiently to deliver our product to customers” job at the Gas Company, Christ-followers must obey our boss, our Master, and, First and Foremost, do what He commanded and fulfill our commission.
People need to know Jesus above ALL else! It will make the difference between eternal life and eternal death.
I worked in a Control Room for a Natural Gas Company for most of my career. There were a lot of responsibilities involved, as natural gas can be volatile. When consumers needed our product, I operated various pipeline gates and compressors to fulfill their requests. My job required knowledge of a complex operating system and the ability to use it safely and efficiently. That’s why, as the saying goes, “I got the Big Bucks.”
I also had numerous reports to make, a bank of phones to answer, and a work crew to direct; I calculated how much gas we moved through the plant and if it was natural flow or compressed, amongst other related things.
Those weren’t the only duties I had. I cleaned the Control Building, mopped the floor, scrubbed its toilet and urinal, and shoveled snow from the sidewalks.
So what was my JOB at the Gas Company? Was my job to spick n’ span the urinal? Or would you say it was operating a complex system safely and efficiently to deliver our product to customers? Yes, it’s the second one.
Before Jesus Christ ascended, He gave His disciples what is known as the Great Commission. Webster defines this type of commission as − the authority to act for, in behalf of, or in place of another, and a task or matter entrusted to one as an agent for another.
What is the Great Commission given to Christ’s followers? Jesus said, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matt 28:18-20)
Christians are to go forth in His authority, indwelt and empowered by His Spirit, and make Disciples. We’re to Preach the Gospel (Mark 16:15) and be a witness and a testimony for Him. (Acts 1:8) That is our job; we are duty-bound by it.
Many in our current secularized culture have a problem with that. I see it all the time, “Shut up about this Jesus stuff and gospel talk, and get about feeding the poor and seeking justice for the oppressed!” they bemoan.
Yes, Christians also have those “duties,” although you do not have to be a Christian to do such − RIGHT? Like my “operating a complex system safely and efficiently to deliver our product to customers” job at the Gas Company, Christ-followers must obey our boss, our Master, and, First and Foremost, do what He commanded and fulfill our commission.
People need to know Jesus above ALL else! It will make the difference between eternal life and eternal death.
Can a Real Believer Depart from the Faith? By George Mains
Falling away is generally referred to as backsliding. It is defined as one who once believed but has departed from the faith. Some believe a 'real' Christian could never depart from the faith. 'Genuine' believers could never fall away. However, does the Bible actually teach that?
Justification is the act whereby God declares a condemned sinner not guilty. It happens at the moment a person understands and believes the gospel. (John 1:12, 5:24; Acts 2:41; Acts 8:30-38; Gal. 2:16; Gal. 3:26; Eph. 1:13; Phil 3:9) The new believer immediately receives everlasting life, and the perfect righteousness of Christ is credited to the new convert. They are born again, never to be "unborn." It is a one-time act of hearing (understanding the gospel) and believing it, which causes an irreversible change in your final destiny.
Examples in the Bible of Believers who Departed from the Faith
Justification does not guarantee a believer will remain faithful to the end of their life. Many examples in the Bible indicate believers who were justified by faith did depart for some time or had the potential to depart from the faith. And since the Scriptures show that a believer cannot lose salvation, it is possible for someone to depart and still end up in heaven.
For example:
* Peter said he would never deny the Lord but denied the Lord three times. (Matt. 26:35; John 19:27)
* Hymenaeus and Philetus strayed from the truth and overthrew the faith of some. (2Tim. 2:18) It is possible to have your faith overthrown and remain saved.
* Paul wrote to Timothy, "If we [Timothy or Paul] are faithless, He [God] remains faithful. (2Tim. 2:13)
* Some widows in the church had already turned aside after Satan. [In the context, it implies they had married unbelievers].
(1Tim 5:15)
* Demas, a disciple, forsook Paul, "having loved this present world." (Col. 4:16; 2Tim. 4:10)
[He became unfruitful, not unsaved - Luke 8:14]
* The Hebrew believers were cautioned about drifting away and departing from the living God, failing to enter His rest.
(Heb. 2:1-3, 3:12)
* The Israelites passed through the Red Sea by faith but failed to enter the Promised Land because of unbelief.
(Heb. 3:19, 11:29)
* When Solomon was old, his wives turned his heart after other gods. (1Kings. 11:4)
* King Saul sought the advice of a medium and died for his unfaithfulness. (1Chr. 10:13-14) We need not be too self-righteous to think it can't happen to you or me. Only believers can depart from the faith. Unbelievers cannot depart from the faith because they were never of the faith. You cannot depart from a place that you have never been.
Avoiding Difficulties
Our default position is to give up when things get difficult. Sometimes living on a mountain seems appealing to me. Living faithfully is not the easiest road to take. "All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." (2Tim, 3:12) Even many of the rulers that believed in Christ did not confess Him openly for fear of being put out of the synagogue. (John 12:42) That is why God's word encourages us to endure, press on, and be faithful.
Consequences for Falling Away
Departing from the faith is not a good thing to do. It brings no glory to God and results in a wasted life. God may discipline you. (Heb. 12:5-11) His discipline can be severe, if necessary, even giving you an early entrance to heaven. (1Cor. 11:30; James 5:19, 20) But it doesn't cause a person justified by faith to lose their eternal destination. That's how amazing God's grace is. "As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:14, 15) Just as it took one look of faith to be delivered from the serpent's bite [they didn't have to keep on looking], it only takes one look of faith to the Savior, and you are saved forever. "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (2Cor. 9:15)
Falling away is generally referred to as backsliding. It is defined as one who once believed but has departed from the faith. Some believe a 'real' Christian could never depart from the faith. 'Genuine' believers could never fall away. However, does the Bible actually teach that?
Justification is the act whereby God declares a condemned sinner not guilty. It happens at the moment a person understands and believes the gospel. (John 1:12, 5:24; Acts 2:41; Acts 8:30-38; Gal. 2:16; Gal. 3:26; Eph. 1:13; Phil 3:9) The new believer immediately receives everlasting life, and the perfect righteousness of Christ is credited to the new convert. They are born again, never to be "unborn." It is a one-time act of hearing (understanding the gospel) and believing it, which causes an irreversible change in your final destiny.
Examples in the Bible of Believers who Departed from the Faith
Justification does not guarantee a believer will remain faithful to the end of their life. Many examples in the Bible indicate believers who were justified by faith did depart for some time or had the potential to depart from the faith. And since the Scriptures show that a believer cannot lose salvation, it is possible for someone to depart and still end up in heaven.
For example:
* Peter said he would never deny the Lord but denied the Lord three times. (Matt. 26:35; John 19:27)
* Hymenaeus and Philetus strayed from the truth and overthrew the faith of some. (2Tim. 2:18) It is possible to have your faith overthrown and remain saved.
* Paul wrote to Timothy, "If we [Timothy or Paul] are faithless, He [God] remains faithful. (2Tim. 2:13)
* Some widows in the church had already turned aside after Satan. [In the context, it implies they had married unbelievers].
(1Tim 5:15)
* Demas, a disciple, forsook Paul, "having loved this present world." (Col. 4:16; 2Tim. 4:10)
[He became unfruitful, not unsaved - Luke 8:14]
* The Hebrew believers were cautioned about drifting away and departing from the living God, failing to enter His rest.
(Heb. 2:1-3, 3:12)
* The Israelites passed through the Red Sea by faith but failed to enter the Promised Land because of unbelief.
(Heb. 3:19, 11:29)
* When Solomon was old, his wives turned his heart after other gods. (1Kings. 11:4)
* King Saul sought the advice of a medium and died for his unfaithfulness. (1Chr. 10:13-14) We need not be too self-righteous to think it can't happen to you or me. Only believers can depart from the faith. Unbelievers cannot depart from the faith because they were never of the faith. You cannot depart from a place that you have never been.
Avoiding Difficulties
Our default position is to give up when things get difficult. Sometimes living on a mountain seems appealing to me. Living faithfully is not the easiest road to take. "All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." (2Tim, 3:12) Even many of the rulers that believed in Christ did not confess Him openly for fear of being put out of the synagogue. (John 12:42) That is why God's word encourages us to endure, press on, and be faithful.
Consequences for Falling Away
Departing from the faith is not a good thing to do. It brings no glory to God and results in a wasted life. God may discipline you. (Heb. 12:5-11) His discipline can be severe, if necessary, even giving you an early entrance to heaven. (1Cor. 11:30; James 5:19, 20) But it doesn't cause a person justified by faith to lose their eternal destination. That's how amazing God's grace is. "As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:14, 15) Just as it took one look of faith to be delivered from the serpent's bite [they didn't have to keep on looking], it only takes one look of faith to the Savior, and you are saved forever. "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (2Cor. 9:15)
The Wall - Part 2
“Now it happened, when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites heard that the walls of Jerusalem were being restored and the gaps were beginning to be closed, that they became very angry, and all of them conspired together to come and attack Jerusalem and create confusion. Nevertheless, we made our prayer to our God, and because of them we set a watch against them day and night.” (Nehemiah 4:7-9)
In Nehemiah’s narrative, we are introduced to Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem in Chapter 2 and at the beginning of the 4th, mocking and disparaging the Jew’s effort to rebuild the walls of the Holy City. When that did not work, we see attempts at (conspiracy, confusion, and conquest) in the scripture above. Try doing anything for God and watch the evil one’s agents gather to impede, delay, and destroy the endeavor. It is a given in this fallen world. But Nehemiah acted by setting armed guards on the wall. “And [he] looked and arose and said to the nobles, to the leaders, and the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, great and awesome, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives and your houses.” (Nehemiah 4:14) I sometimes wonder if any fight is left in us.
When the threat of attack did not stop the wall, the terrible threesome tried to deceive Nehemiah and lure him out of the city. Five message exchanges went back and forth, with the last from Sanballat being an open letter accusing Nehemiah of trying to make himself king. Nehemiah responded, ‘No such things as you say are being done, but you invent them in your own heart.’ For they all were trying to make us afraid, saying, ‘Their hands will be weakened in the work, and it will not be done.’ Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.” (Nehemiah 6:1-9) Here we see persistent deception, diversion, accusation, and fear being used against the hands doing God’s work and will. Indeed, O God, strengthen our hands in these, our times.
After this, his enemies hired a false prophet, Shemaiah, to lure Nehemiah into the Holy Place in the temple for refuge from a murder plot. But had he taken such refuge there, it would have been a desecration of the house of God and would have put his reverence for God in question. He was not a priest and had no right to enter the Holy Place. Nehemiah perceived what was happening and refused to enter the temple.
Satan often attacks from within the community of believers. He lures the faithful to compromise in the Word. Whether by a little or a lot, our work on the wall will cease if we stray from the truth. Many unfinished walls in our decaying world would have made a difference. But the evil one and his agents persisted, using whatever means necessary to stop the work. It has been said, “It would seem that good is satisfied to work eight hours a day, while evil is only content to stay on the job around the clock.”
Nehemiah’s calling and conviction, and leadership made a difference. The people with him possessed a stick-to-it-ness faith that made a difference. Can the same be said of us?
“So, the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of Elul, in fifty-two days. And it happened, when all our enemies heard of it, and all the nations around us saw these things, they were very disheartened in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was done by our God.” (Nehemiah 6:15-16)
“Now it happened, when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites heard that the walls of Jerusalem were being restored and the gaps were beginning to be closed, that they became very angry, and all of them conspired together to come and attack Jerusalem and create confusion. Nevertheless, we made our prayer to our God, and because of them we set a watch against them day and night.” (Nehemiah 4:7-9)
In Nehemiah’s narrative, we are introduced to Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem in Chapter 2 and at the beginning of the 4th, mocking and disparaging the Jew’s effort to rebuild the walls of the Holy City. When that did not work, we see attempts at (conspiracy, confusion, and conquest) in the scripture above. Try doing anything for God and watch the evil one’s agents gather to impede, delay, and destroy the endeavor. It is a given in this fallen world. But Nehemiah acted by setting armed guards on the wall. “And [he] looked and arose and said to the nobles, to the leaders, and the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, great and awesome, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives and your houses.” (Nehemiah 4:14) I sometimes wonder if any fight is left in us.
When the threat of attack did not stop the wall, the terrible threesome tried to deceive Nehemiah and lure him out of the city. Five message exchanges went back and forth, with the last from Sanballat being an open letter accusing Nehemiah of trying to make himself king. Nehemiah responded, ‘No such things as you say are being done, but you invent them in your own heart.’ For they all were trying to make us afraid, saying, ‘Their hands will be weakened in the work, and it will not be done.’ Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.” (Nehemiah 6:1-9) Here we see persistent deception, diversion, accusation, and fear being used against the hands doing God’s work and will. Indeed, O God, strengthen our hands in these, our times.
After this, his enemies hired a false prophet, Shemaiah, to lure Nehemiah into the Holy Place in the temple for refuge from a murder plot. But had he taken such refuge there, it would have been a desecration of the house of God and would have put his reverence for God in question. He was not a priest and had no right to enter the Holy Place. Nehemiah perceived what was happening and refused to enter the temple.
Satan often attacks from within the community of believers. He lures the faithful to compromise in the Word. Whether by a little or a lot, our work on the wall will cease if we stray from the truth. Many unfinished walls in our decaying world would have made a difference. But the evil one and his agents persisted, using whatever means necessary to stop the work. It has been said, “It would seem that good is satisfied to work eight hours a day, while evil is only content to stay on the job around the clock.”
Nehemiah’s calling and conviction, and leadership made a difference. The people with him possessed a stick-to-it-ness faith that made a difference. Can the same be said of us?
“So, the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of Elul, in fifty-two days. And it happened, when all our enemies heard of it, and all the nations around us saw these things, they were very disheartened in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was done by our God.” (Nehemiah 6:15-16)
The Wall - Part 1
"It came to pass in the month of Chislev, in the twentieth year, as I was in Shushan the citadel, that Hanani one of my brethren came with men from Judah; and I asked them concerning the Jews who had escaped, who had survived the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem. And they said to me, 'The survivors who are left from the captivity in the province are there in great distress and reproach. The wall of Jerusalem is also broken down, and its gates are burned with fire.'" (Nehemiah 1: 1-3).
In 446 B.C., word came to Nehemiah during the captivity in Babylon that the Jews left in the holy land were in desperate straits. Nehemiah then sat down, wept, mourned, fasted, and prayed for many days. He brought the situation before the Lord confessing the people's sin, his sin, and asked for forgiveness and an open door back to Jerusalem. God answered his prayer, but we should note how it came to be answered.
Nehemiah was King Artaxerxes' cupbearer. Like Joseph, Daniel, Esther, and Mordecai, this devout Jew had risen to an influential position in a pagan land. His above-reproach true, honest character had won him favor with those in authority over him – an excellent example for Christians in our secular culture. I wonder what kind of influence we would have if our walk matched our talk. The king noticed Nehemiah's despair. 'What can I do for you, Nehemiah?' The most powerful man in the world, this pagan leader, said to this sad little wine-taster 'Let me help you.' The open door back to Jerusalem was Nehemiah's character.
Nehemiah presented his requests to the king, and all were granted to him. When he arrived with letters of permission from the king to pass through, there arose a grumbling about this man who was intent on helping the Jews. Later we will see this beneath-the-surface antipathy boil up in full-blown opposition. Doesn't it always?
Nehemiah then says, "So I came to Jerusalem and was there three days. Then I arose in the night, I and a few men with me; I told no one what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem…" (Nehemiah 2:11-12). When Nehemiah revealed his God-given plans to the people, they exclaimed, "Let us rise up and build." - Then they set their hands to do this good work." (Nehemiah 2: 16-18) And in the third chapter, we see them doing just that. Name after name is recorded, and the detailed work each did. When God's people come together, pooling all their gifts, talents, and ministries, it is surprising and impressive what can be accomplished. But then, we do serve an amazing and awesome God, do we not?
All was well. "But it so happened…" (Nehemiah 4:1a) As long as the devil and his minions are unchained, there will always be a - But it so happened. "But it so happened when Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, that he was furious and very indignant and mocked the Jews." (Nehemiah 4:1) The building of the wall stirred up a hellish hornet's nest, and Satan's agents began swarming seeking to discourage and destroy God's work and will.
"It came to pass in the month of Chislev, in the twentieth year, as I was in Shushan the citadel, that Hanani one of my brethren came with men from Judah; and I asked them concerning the Jews who had escaped, who had survived the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem. And they said to me, 'The survivors who are left from the captivity in the province are there in great distress and reproach. The wall of Jerusalem is also broken down, and its gates are burned with fire.'" (Nehemiah 1: 1-3).
In 446 B.C., word came to Nehemiah during the captivity in Babylon that the Jews left in the holy land were in desperate straits. Nehemiah then sat down, wept, mourned, fasted, and prayed for many days. He brought the situation before the Lord confessing the people's sin, his sin, and asked for forgiveness and an open door back to Jerusalem. God answered his prayer, but we should note how it came to be answered.
Nehemiah was King Artaxerxes' cupbearer. Like Joseph, Daniel, Esther, and Mordecai, this devout Jew had risen to an influential position in a pagan land. His above-reproach true, honest character had won him favor with those in authority over him – an excellent example for Christians in our secular culture. I wonder what kind of influence we would have if our walk matched our talk. The king noticed Nehemiah's despair. 'What can I do for you, Nehemiah?' The most powerful man in the world, this pagan leader, said to this sad little wine-taster 'Let me help you.' The open door back to Jerusalem was Nehemiah's character.
Nehemiah presented his requests to the king, and all were granted to him. When he arrived with letters of permission from the king to pass through, there arose a grumbling about this man who was intent on helping the Jews. Later we will see this beneath-the-surface antipathy boil up in full-blown opposition. Doesn't it always?
Nehemiah then says, "So I came to Jerusalem and was there three days. Then I arose in the night, I and a few men with me; I told no one what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem…" (Nehemiah 2:11-12). When Nehemiah revealed his God-given plans to the people, they exclaimed, "Let us rise up and build." - Then they set their hands to do this good work." (Nehemiah 2: 16-18) And in the third chapter, we see them doing just that. Name after name is recorded, and the detailed work each did. When God's people come together, pooling all their gifts, talents, and ministries, it is surprising and impressive what can be accomplished. But then, we do serve an amazing and awesome God, do we not?
All was well. "But it so happened…" (Nehemiah 4:1a) As long as the devil and his minions are unchained, there will always be a - But it so happened. "But it so happened when Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, that he was furious and very indignant and mocked the Jews." (Nehemiah 4:1) The building of the wall stirred up a hellish hornet's nest, and Satan's agents began swarming seeking to discourage and destroy God's work and will.
Worthy is the Lamb!
In the fifth chapter of Revelation, the Apostle John sees a scroll written on both sides in the right hand of God. However, he was distressed because there was not one person worthy in heaven or on earth or under the earth to open it or look at it. John wept greatly because it seemed hopeless. Somehow he knew that the scroll must be opened to bring God’s final program for planet earth to an end.
After His resurrection, Jesus told His disciples that He had been given all authority in heaven and on earth. (Matthew 28:18) Here we see that picture. He alone is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll. He is worthy because He is the one who paid the price for our redemption, and that price was the shedding of His blood.
(1 Corinthians 6:20; Revelation 5:9) For that reason, an innumerable number of angels, the four living creatures, and twenty-four elders join in worship, saying, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing.”
When you get a glimpse of our ultimate destination in such a scene of worship as this, it makes you think of the unimportant things in this world that often sidetrack us from our created purpose. How much of our time is wasted on trivial matters! How often our sinful nature gets in the way of what is most important! How often do we tell our Lord that we got a lot going on today, so we’ll talk to You later – maybe tomorrow, maybe next week?
In the end, the Lord will receive His praise and honor that only He deserves. It won’t be just for an hour on Sunday Morning. And because we no longer will have a fallen nature but will be made perfect (1 John 3:2), He will have our full attention and worship. It will be totally about Him. O’ what a day that will be! Jesus said, “I am coming quickly.”
Hopefully, you respond as John responded, “Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20)
In the fifth chapter of Revelation, the Apostle John sees a scroll written on both sides in the right hand of God. However, he was distressed because there was not one person worthy in heaven or on earth or under the earth to open it or look at it. John wept greatly because it seemed hopeless. Somehow he knew that the scroll must be opened to bring God’s final program for planet earth to an end.
After His resurrection, Jesus told His disciples that He had been given all authority in heaven and on earth. (Matthew 28:18) Here we see that picture. He alone is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll. He is worthy because He is the one who paid the price for our redemption, and that price was the shedding of His blood.
(1 Corinthians 6:20; Revelation 5:9) For that reason, an innumerable number of angels, the four living creatures, and twenty-four elders join in worship, saying, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing.”
When you get a glimpse of our ultimate destination in such a scene of worship as this, it makes you think of the unimportant things in this world that often sidetrack us from our created purpose. How much of our time is wasted on trivial matters! How often our sinful nature gets in the way of what is most important! How often do we tell our Lord that we got a lot going on today, so we’ll talk to You later – maybe tomorrow, maybe next week?
In the end, the Lord will receive His praise and honor that only He deserves. It won’t be just for an hour on Sunday Morning. And because we no longer will have a fallen nature but will be made perfect (1 John 3:2), He will have our full attention and worship. It will be totally about Him. O’ what a day that will be! Jesus said, “I am coming quickly.”
Hopefully, you respond as John responded, “Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20)
A Gift Not Opened
O, the bliss of children on Christmas morning!
Will any packages with their names upon them remain unopened? No, there is no danger of that happening. The paper will undoubtedly be torn asunder, and many of the contents held close with squeals of delight. Who could imagine a gift not being opened?
The world is full of such. God gave to all the gift of His Son, yet most refuse to open His gift. It sits like the elephant in the room, a stone of stumbling and a pearl of great price left in the shell. Perfect and priceless is His indescribable gift to us. (2 Cor. 9:15) Have you opened it? Are you encouraging others to open His gift as well?
O, the bliss of children on Christmas morning!
Will any packages with their names upon them remain unopened? No, there is no danger of that happening. The paper will undoubtedly be torn asunder, and many of the contents held close with squeals of delight. Who could imagine a gift not being opened?
The world is full of such. God gave to all the gift of His Son, yet most refuse to open His gift. It sits like the elephant in the room, a stone of stumbling and a pearl of great price left in the shell. Perfect and priceless is His indescribable gift to us. (2 Cor. 9:15) Have you opened it? Are you encouraging others to open His gift as well?
Trials and Trust
When we adopted our cat Shelby, we noticed she needed a good cleaning. We found that odd because she had been in a home, and cats are self-cleaning machines. Her long fur had twists and turns, and her muzzle was stained with food. Motley made for an apt description. Rather than lick her fur, she would pull it out in tufts leaving a fuzzy trail throughout the house.
A vet visit revealed the problem. Part of Shelby’s tongue is missing inhibiting her ability to self-bathe and chew her food thoroughly. Guess where that led us - the professional (and expensive!) grooming world. Miss Shelby has to go about every three months for a bath and be shaved into a short-haired cat. And she is not happy about it. Getting plucked from her spot on the back of the couch, stuffed in a carrier, and hauled off is a significant trial for her.
I know how Shelby feels. My life has twists and turns and stains, and Motley is an apt description. I try to clean myself but end up leaving dirty tufts trailing behind me. And for sure, my self-life is missing everything I need to be pure and complete. I need to be washed and groomed in the process of becoming the person God created me to be. And like Shelby, when God plucks me from my comfortable couch life and puts me in situations I do not want to be in - I am not happy about it. Still, one of the most efficient ways to soap me down and groom me into His image is to put me through trials. Nothing grooms a human being better than trials.
The apostle Peter tells us trials test the genuineness of our faith. (1Peter 1:6-9) James says to “…count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:2-4)
Another outcome of trials that the Bible speaks of often is trust. “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in YAH, the Lord is everlasting strength.” (Isaiah 26:3, 4) And the ultimate declaration of trust amid great trials is spoken by Job: “Though He slay me, yet I will trust Him.” (Job 13:15)
I try to explain these things to Shelby on the way to the groomers, but she continues to meow in protest. I’m just not sure she’s learning anything about trials and trust. Of course, I admit; I’m a pretty reluctant learner myself. But I do know this - I want my trust in the Lord to grow so much that I can say right along with Job: “Though He slay me, yet I will trust Him.” How about you?
When we adopted our cat Shelby, we noticed she needed a good cleaning. We found that odd because she had been in a home, and cats are self-cleaning machines. Her long fur had twists and turns, and her muzzle was stained with food. Motley made for an apt description. Rather than lick her fur, she would pull it out in tufts leaving a fuzzy trail throughout the house.
A vet visit revealed the problem. Part of Shelby’s tongue is missing inhibiting her ability to self-bathe and chew her food thoroughly. Guess where that led us - the professional (and expensive!) grooming world. Miss Shelby has to go about every three months for a bath and be shaved into a short-haired cat. And she is not happy about it. Getting plucked from her spot on the back of the couch, stuffed in a carrier, and hauled off is a significant trial for her.
I know how Shelby feels. My life has twists and turns and stains, and Motley is an apt description. I try to clean myself but end up leaving dirty tufts trailing behind me. And for sure, my self-life is missing everything I need to be pure and complete. I need to be washed and groomed in the process of becoming the person God created me to be. And like Shelby, when God plucks me from my comfortable couch life and puts me in situations I do not want to be in - I am not happy about it. Still, one of the most efficient ways to soap me down and groom me into His image is to put me through trials. Nothing grooms a human being better than trials.
The apostle Peter tells us trials test the genuineness of our faith. (1Peter 1:6-9) James says to “…count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:2-4)
Another outcome of trials that the Bible speaks of often is trust. “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in YAH, the Lord is everlasting strength.” (Isaiah 26:3, 4) And the ultimate declaration of trust amid great trials is spoken by Job: “Though He slay me, yet I will trust Him.” (Job 13:15)
I try to explain these things to Shelby on the way to the groomers, but she continues to meow in protest. I’m just not sure she’s learning anything about trials and trust. Of course, I admit; I’m a pretty reluctant learner myself. But I do know this - I want my trust in the Lord to grow so much that I can say right along with Job: “Though He slay me, yet I will trust Him.” How about you?
The Whole Counsel (Growing Up)
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.” (Ephesians 14:11-14 [NIV])
Previously we looked at some of my experiences at my former church. The people were great. The fellowship was pleasant and authentic. I received Christ as my Savior, as did our son, and my wife recommitted her life to Him there. The memories are warm, and the gratitude genuine. But teaching the whole counsel of God was neglected there. The expected result of drifting from biblical truth to the ever-changing cultural whims occurred there. The leaders, those called to build up the people in knowledge, and maturity, were satisfied to bottle-feed them instead with spiritual pablum. Most people were pleased to continue in the nursery-level things of God.
God does not want us to be lifelong toddlers in our knowledge of Him, nor should we ever be content being such. We indeed begin as babes, but we need to grow up. How do we grow up physically? We consume food. How do we grow up spiritually? We consume food. “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4) Job said, “Neither have I gone back from the commandment of His lips; I have esteemed the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.” (Job 23:12) We must feed on God’s Word to know and to grow.
Last time we demonstrated how NOT to take care of a newborn. You do not leave them to fend for themselves. Christ does not leave us to fend for ourselves, either. He gives us preachers and teachers to help us grow from baby believers to spiritual adults. Two critical factors for transitioning from milk to solid food are teachers willing to expound on the whole counsel of God and hearers that are teachable and intentional in growing up.
Would it be accurate to say the current state of the church finds both these essential components substantially lacking? Would it also be fair to say it is no wonder so much of the church gets tossed yonder and back and blown here and there by popular culture?
I am not sharing the following as a means of judging or boasting but rather as a comparative example of what I speak. (Perhaps you can relate it to your past or current situation positively or negatively). My former church read a scripture before a twenty-minute story sermonette, most often devoid of additional scripture. Conversely, on one occasion, at Calvary Baptist, our pastor preached more than twenty sermons teaching through the book of Jonah. The book of Jonah is four chapters long. The sermons are forty minutes in length. This level of teaching is a normative occurrence at CBC. It is pretty challenging on many fronts, not to mention Sunday morning classes and the in-depth Bible Studies. It can make one’s head spin at times. It is never about feeling good or scratching itching ears. (2 Timothy 4:3) Instead, it is always about – “Be(ing) diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) It is always about seeking to grow up to maturity in the life-long process of attaining the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Lastly, but of no less importance, an open Bible in our lap is a vital part of growing up in Christ. I have heard it said the Bible is the only book read in which the Author resides within the reader (believer). The Holy Spirit is able and eager to teach us when we open His Word. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) And to be successful in – growing up.
“I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure.” (Psalm 119:162)
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.” (Ephesians 14:11-14 [NIV])
Previously we looked at some of my experiences at my former church. The people were great. The fellowship was pleasant and authentic. I received Christ as my Savior, as did our son, and my wife recommitted her life to Him there. The memories are warm, and the gratitude genuine. But teaching the whole counsel of God was neglected there. The expected result of drifting from biblical truth to the ever-changing cultural whims occurred there. The leaders, those called to build up the people in knowledge, and maturity, were satisfied to bottle-feed them instead with spiritual pablum. Most people were pleased to continue in the nursery-level things of God.
God does not want us to be lifelong toddlers in our knowledge of Him, nor should we ever be content being such. We indeed begin as babes, but we need to grow up. How do we grow up physically? We consume food. How do we grow up spiritually? We consume food. “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4) Job said, “Neither have I gone back from the commandment of His lips; I have esteemed the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.” (Job 23:12) We must feed on God’s Word to know and to grow.
Last time we demonstrated how NOT to take care of a newborn. You do not leave them to fend for themselves. Christ does not leave us to fend for ourselves, either. He gives us preachers and teachers to help us grow from baby believers to spiritual adults. Two critical factors for transitioning from milk to solid food are teachers willing to expound on the whole counsel of God and hearers that are teachable and intentional in growing up.
Would it be accurate to say the current state of the church finds both these essential components substantially lacking? Would it also be fair to say it is no wonder so much of the church gets tossed yonder and back and blown here and there by popular culture?
I am not sharing the following as a means of judging or boasting but rather as a comparative example of what I speak. (Perhaps you can relate it to your past or current situation positively or negatively). My former church read a scripture before a twenty-minute story sermonette, most often devoid of additional scripture. Conversely, on one occasion, at Calvary Baptist, our pastor preached more than twenty sermons teaching through the book of Jonah. The book of Jonah is four chapters long. The sermons are forty minutes in length. This level of teaching is a normative occurrence at CBC. It is pretty challenging on many fronts, not to mention Sunday morning classes and the in-depth Bible Studies. It can make one’s head spin at times. It is never about feeling good or scratching itching ears. (2 Timothy 4:3) Instead, it is always about – “Be(ing) diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) It is always about seeking to grow up to maturity in the life-long process of attaining the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Lastly, but of no less importance, an open Bible in our lap is a vital part of growing up in Christ. I have heard it said the Bible is the only book read in which the Author resides within the reader (believer). The Holy Spirit is able and eager to teach us when we open His Word. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) And to be successful in – growing up.
“I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure.” (Psalm 119:162)
The Whole Counsel (Starting Line)
“For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food.” (Hebrews 5:12)
We know how to take care of newborns: We tell them here’s the crib. The milk is in the fridge. The bottles are on the counter. Heat the milk until it is warm. After you eat lunch – Burp yourself. Grab a Pamper and change. Then hop in the bassinet and take a nap. Is that how we take care of a newborn? Gosh, I sure hope not!
What about the reborn? At physical birth, we know the infant needs total care for quite some time. Is spiritual birth that different? Many people who are just babes in Christ are attended to like the description in the previous paragraph. Is it any wonder so much of the church is floundering and failing?
When a person believes in the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31), they are:
* Born again. (John 3:3; 1 Pet 1:3)
* Converted from eternal death to eternal life. (John 3:16; Eph 2:4-5)
* Justified before God. (Rom 5:1-21; 1 Cor 6:11; Gal 3:24)
* Secure in Christ. (John 10:28-29; Phil 1:6; 2 Thes 3:3)
* Sealed by the Holy Spirit. (Eph 1:13; Eph 4:30)
The question we might ask is – at the moment this regenesis (new birth) occurs have we reached the finish line or the starting line?
Last time I spoke of my experience attending the same church for forty years. I came to understand after leaving that it is a soteriological church. Soteriology is a branch of theology dealing with the nature and means of salvation. My former church focused on getting people saved. They made converts. Praise God for converts. Praise God for people getting saved. Thank You, God, for the “gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…” (Rom 1:16) WE ARE SAVED!!! My goodness, we do not want to diminish in any way people getting saved. But………………
Our salvation places us at the starting line, not the finish line. A lot of people and a lot of churches miss that crucial reality. Babes in Christ are not meant to stay babes. Peter says, “As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” (1Peter 2:2) Like the physical infant, the spiritual babe consumes milk. Likewise, they both must transition to solid food at the proper time. The saved person will begin with the elementary things of God and then receive incremental instruction so they can know and grow up in the whole counsel of God.
Twenty-five years ago, I discovered solid food when I began to read the Bible. The fulfillment found in Biblical cuisine left me wanting more. I wanted to know, and I wanted to grow in my relationship with God. I had a foundation, but nothing built upon it. My church had only milk and the first principles of the oracles of God to put on my plate.
The writer of Hebrews goes on to say, “For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” (Hebrews 5:13,14)
If we recall the two reasons I left my church of forty years, they were right here. First, we were unskilled in the word, neglecting the whole counsel of such. Second, as a result, we lacked the discernment of good and evil, causing us to wander away from Biblical truth. Sadly, these are common maladies in much of the church today.
More next time.
The Whole Counsel
"For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God." (Acts 20:27
I attended the same church for forty years. I grew up there, got saved, left as a foolish prodigal, and returned there. The people were fantastic. The fellowship was warm and genuine. We spent many shared evenings in the company of other members. We had those famous potluck suppers and fun-filled picnics. My wife recommitted her life to Christ and got baptized there. At nine, our son believed in Jesus as his Savior and got baptized there. Eventually, I wrote a monthly column in the newsletter, served on committees, turned out for most Bible Studies,
and became a deacon there. Then we (my family, even my parents) left that church.
Why? The answer starts with the scripture above. I began to read the Bible. I kept reading the Bible over and over. Soon my little family and my parents were doing the same. Our departure from the church seemed rather sudden but had been advancing for almost a decade. I had begun to question why we weren't being taught the whole counsel of God. I would hear sermons and teaching from other sources expounding on God's Word. We had a substantial lack of the same at our church. I brought this to the attention of our leaders on several occasions and encouraged them to change course, but all for naught.
As I said, the answer to why we departed started with the scripture above. The other reason relates to the four verses following verse 27. The Apostle Paul pleads with the Ephesian leaders to declare the whole counsel of God. Why? Paul explained that wolves would come from outside the church and ravage the people in their ignorance. Likewise, within the church, men would lead the people away from the truth by aberrant teaching. That happened at our church. A steady progression away from Biblical truth took place.
When it became known that we were leaving, an elder's wife inquired as to why. Our response concluded, "these things are not lining up with what we're reading in the Bible." The dear woman's response sadly encapsulated the situation. She said, "Well, stop reading the Bible!"
We are very blessed to be at Calvary Baptist Church in Irwin. There is no lack in declaring the whole counsel of God here. Wolves do not have a place here. Nor do we play footsie with our culture at the expense of Biblical truth here. We have every opportunity to know Him and thereby grow in Him here. We are knowing and growing together as His Body here.
I am grateful for my former church. They laid the foundation of my faith. God did use His people there to impact my life tremendously. And not only my life but my family as well. However, they never had a willingness or perhaps even an understanding that the foundation was the beginning, not the end. We will explore that next time. Stay tuned.
"For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God." (Acts 20:27
I attended the same church for forty years. I grew up there, got saved, left as a foolish prodigal, and returned there. The people were fantastic. The fellowship was warm and genuine. We spent many shared evenings in the company of other members. We had those famous potluck suppers and fun-filled picnics. My wife recommitted her life to Christ and got baptized there. At nine, our son believed in Jesus as his Savior and got baptized there. Eventually, I wrote a monthly column in the newsletter, served on committees, turned out for most Bible Studies,
and became a deacon there. Then we (my family, even my parents) left that church.
Why? The answer starts with the scripture above. I began to read the Bible. I kept reading the Bible over and over. Soon my little family and my parents were doing the same. Our departure from the church seemed rather sudden but had been advancing for almost a decade. I had begun to question why we weren't being taught the whole counsel of God. I would hear sermons and teaching from other sources expounding on God's Word. We had a substantial lack of the same at our church. I brought this to the attention of our leaders on several occasions and encouraged them to change course, but all for naught.
As I said, the answer to why we departed started with the scripture above. The other reason relates to the four verses following verse 27. The Apostle Paul pleads with the Ephesian leaders to declare the whole counsel of God. Why? Paul explained that wolves would come from outside the church and ravage the people in their ignorance. Likewise, within the church, men would lead the people away from the truth by aberrant teaching. That happened at our church. A steady progression away from Biblical truth took place.
When it became known that we were leaving, an elder's wife inquired as to why. Our response concluded, "these things are not lining up with what we're reading in the Bible." The dear woman's response sadly encapsulated the situation. She said, "Well, stop reading the Bible!"
We are very blessed to be at Calvary Baptist Church in Irwin. There is no lack in declaring the whole counsel of God here. Wolves do not have a place here. Nor do we play footsie with our culture at the expense of Biblical truth here. We have every opportunity to know Him and thereby grow in Him here. We are knowing and growing together as His Body here.
I am grateful for my former church. They laid the foundation of my faith. God did use His people there to impact my life tremendously. And not only my life but my family as well. However, they never had a willingness or perhaps even an understanding that the foundation was the beginning, not the end. We will explore that next time. Stay tuned.
The Battle of Two Natures
When anyone is restored to the relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ, their old sinful nature remains (Rom. 7:18). But God gives every believer a new nature. The two natures are contrary to one another and create great conflict in every believer's life (Gal. 5:17).
Every believer in Christ is sealed by the Spirit of God until the day of redemption (Eph. 4:30). A seal indicates safety and security. All believers are secure in Christ from the moment of faith because the Holy Spirit keeps them safe and secure.
However, every believer is still capable of living sinfully due to the fact that the old nature still exists. Do you still get angry? Do you still lust for things? Do you have hate in your heart? Do you ever lie? Are you envious? Those things come from the old sinful nature we are born with, also referred to as the flesh (Rom. 7:18; Jer. 17:9; Mark 7:21-23).
Many church leaders downplay the power and/or deny the existence of the old nature in the life of a Christian. But most of the New Testament is written to believers to instruct them not to live like the unbelieving world. These instructions wouldn’t be necessary if believers could no longer be controlled by the old nature. Why would the apostle Paul command the Ephesian church to “have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them” (Eph. 5:11)? Why would he command believers to put off the old man and to put on the new man (Eph. 4:21 -24)?
When walking in the flesh (the old nature), I sin. It’s not possible to please God when walking in the flesh. However, as I walk in the Spirit, it is impossible to sin (1 John 3:9). The fruit of the Spirit is “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Gal. 5:22, 23).
If you have understood and believed the gospel, that Jesus, the God/Man, died for our sins and rose again, then you have been delivered from the penalty of sin. You are born again. You will never perish (John 3:16). Now, learning how to walk by faith should result.
Walking by faith is a moment-by-moment choice. This is learning to develop my relational skill with God through His word (the Bible) to respond to the situations of life His way, not my way. This takes time. No one does it perfectly. And no one arrives at perfection on this side of eternity.
Growing “in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” is the pathway to obedience and to spiritual growth
(2 Peter 3:18). Real spiritual growth will never happen by denying the power and/or existence of the sin nature in the child of God.
The chart below distinguishes the differences between the two.
The Devil Made Me Do It!
Flip Wilson, a comedian, popularized that phrase back in the 70s. It’s funny because we all would like to blame our wrongdoings on someone else. But in reality, we only have ourselves to blame. The devil doesn’t make us do anything.
The prophet Jeremiah explained that the heart is “deceitful above all things and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9). The New Testament affirms this truth through the apostle Paul; “For I know that in me (that is, my flesh) nothing good dwells…” (Romans 7:18). Paul said this after he had been a believer for a number of years. My main enemy is myself. The devil certainly influences and tempts, but it is my heart that is deceitful above all things. My heart is even more deceitful than the devil.
Many Christians fail to understand that God didn’t remove the old nature (flesh) when we were saved. As an unbeliever, we only had an old nature. The Christian, however, has both an old and new nature. When you were saved, God didn’t improve your old nature, nor did He remove it. He gave you a new nature “which was created according to God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24). If we only had a new nature, we would not sin.
Do you struggle with sin? If you do, it’s because you have two natures. “The flesh lusts against the Spirit and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish” (Galatians 5:17). It’s that old nature that is the cause of our sinful behaviors and action. However, when walking in the Spirit, you cannot sin.
Regardless, we are still responsible for our decisions and actions. As believers, we can’t blame our old nature when we sin. It’s our responsibility to begin to learn how to live out of the new nature by faith. This can only happen when we begin to read the Bible, the word of God, learning to understand truth and apply it to our daily living while depending on the Spirit of God for the power to do what God says we should do.
Failure to mature and grow as a believer won’t keep you out of heaven, but it makes one unfruitful and dysfunctional in life
(2 Peter 1:8). There are consequences for sin, and sometimes they can be disastrous. Most importantly, though, your life will fail to glorify God.
Flip Wilson, a comedian, popularized that phrase back in the 70s. It’s funny because we all would like to blame our wrongdoings on someone else. But in reality, we only have ourselves to blame. The devil doesn’t make us do anything.
The prophet Jeremiah explained that the heart is “deceitful above all things and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9). The New Testament affirms this truth through the apostle Paul; “For I know that in me (that is, my flesh) nothing good dwells…” (Romans 7:18). Paul said this after he had been a believer for a number of years. My main enemy is myself. The devil certainly influences and tempts, but it is my heart that is deceitful above all things. My heart is even more deceitful than the devil.
Many Christians fail to understand that God didn’t remove the old nature (flesh) when we were saved. As an unbeliever, we only had an old nature. The Christian, however, has both an old and new nature. When you were saved, God didn’t improve your old nature, nor did He remove it. He gave you a new nature “which was created according to God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24). If we only had a new nature, we would not sin.
Do you struggle with sin? If you do, it’s because you have two natures. “The flesh lusts against the Spirit and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish” (Galatians 5:17). It’s that old nature that is the cause of our sinful behaviors and action. However, when walking in the Spirit, you cannot sin.
Regardless, we are still responsible for our decisions and actions. As believers, we can’t blame our old nature when we sin. It’s our responsibility to begin to learn how to live out of the new nature by faith. This can only happen when we begin to read the Bible, the word of God, learning to understand truth and apply it to our daily living while depending on the Spirit of God for the power to do what God says we should do.
Failure to mature and grow as a believer won’t keep you out of heaven, but it makes one unfruitful and dysfunctional in life
(2 Peter 1:8). There are consequences for sin, and sometimes they can be disastrous. Most importantly, though, your life will fail to glorify God.
Who Did the Birds and Wild Animals Feed on at Day's End?
Meanwhile, the Philistine, with his shield bearer in front of him, kept coming closer to David. He looked David over and saw that he was little more than a boy, glowing with health and handsome, and he despised him. He said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come at me with sticks?” And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. “Come here,” he said, “and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and the wild animals!”
David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.”
As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David RAN QUICKLY TOWARD THE BATTLE LINE TO MEET HIM. Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell face down on the ground. So, David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him. David ran and stood over him. He took hold of the Philistine’s sword and drew it from the sheath. After he killed him, he cut off his head with the sword. (1 Samuel 17:41-51)
Meanwhile, the Philistine, with his shield bearer in front of him, kept coming closer to David. He looked David over and saw that he was little more than a boy, glowing with health and handsome, and he despised him. He said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come at me with sticks?” And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. “Come here,” he said, “and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and the wild animals!”
David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.”
As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David RAN QUICKLY TOWARD THE BATTLE LINE TO MEET HIM. Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell face down on the ground. So, David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him. David ran and stood over him. He took hold of the Philistine’s sword and drew it from the sheath. After he killed him, he cut off his head with the sword. (1 Samuel 17:41-51)
“Who are you?”
And the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” (Acts 19:15)
When the Apostle Paul came to Ephesus, God worked unusual miracles by his hands. The scripture says that handkerchiefs and aprons that touched Paul were used to heal the sick and chase out disease and evil spirits from the people. Witnessing this, exorcists tried using the name of Jesus to expel evil spirits. Among them were the seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish priest. (Acts 19:11-14)
That led to verse 15 above and what immediately happened afterward. “Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.” (Acts 19:16-17)
Some modern-day hucksters have used this portion of scripture to make a living peddling magic handkerchiefs and the like to the deceived and gullible. A much better use might be to demonstrate that the Lord and the apostles had the power and authority to send demons packing. We have seen other “sons of Sceva” throughout church history, and their claims of success are at least suspect.
Others have noted the question asked by the evil spirit - “who are you?” Jesus, we know because He is the Lord of all; Paul, we know because he was a chosen and prepared vessel to “turn the world upside down” for Christ (Acts 17:6). And you? Me? We may only use handkerchiefs to wipe our brows or nose, but is our presence displacing evil? Are we having the kind of impact on our world that we, too, are known to be of Christ and in Christ?
*** Is the name of the Lord Jesus magnified by our life? ***
And the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” (Acts 19:15)
When the Apostle Paul came to Ephesus, God worked unusual miracles by his hands. The scripture says that handkerchiefs and aprons that touched Paul were used to heal the sick and chase out disease and evil spirits from the people. Witnessing this, exorcists tried using the name of Jesus to expel evil spirits. Among them were the seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish priest. (Acts 19:11-14)
That led to verse 15 above and what immediately happened afterward. “Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.” (Acts 19:16-17)
Some modern-day hucksters have used this portion of scripture to make a living peddling magic handkerchiefs and the like to the deceived and gullible. A much better use might be to demonstrate that the Lord and the apostles had the power and authority to send demons packing. We have seen other “sons of Sceva” throughout church history, and their claims of success are at least suspect.
Others have noted the question asked by the evil spirit - “who are you?” Jesus, we know because He is the Lord of all; Paul, we know because he was a chosen and prepared vessel to “turn the world upside down” for Christ (Acts 17:6). And you? Me? We may only use handkerchiefs to wipe our brows or nose, but is our presence displacing evil? Are we having the kind of impact on our world that we, too, are known to be of Christ and in Christ?
*** Is the name of the Lord Jesus magnified by our life? ***
For Such a Time as This (Part 8 Conclusion)
So what are some of the things we have learned from the book of Esther? How about God is nowhere, yet God is everywhere? He has no mention in this portion of scripture, but He is the main character. God is always and forever the main character. Still, we, too, have roles to play, and such a time is given to play them on the grand stage of life. God is at work, and so are we during our appointed time. We're to be His faithful actors in this cosmic drama. How exciting! How do we invest our time − Accumulating stuff? Bigger barns or bigger hearts? A barn is for keeping stuff in; a big heart is for His love and blessing to flow out to others. Maybe our times are filled with food, drink, and pleasure ( to the exclusion of rightly relating to our Creator). But if we are not in constant communion with the Father, we cannot rightly relate to people. Relationships, first vertical and then horizontal, are life's real stuff. Loving God and loving people is the whole of life in four words. If we disobey or ignore this fundamental principle of life, we will have regrets - a lot of regrets. How thought-provoking!
We learned that a captive slave girl became queen of much of the known world. God did that. And He has taken sinners like you and me and through His Son has made us sons and daughters and heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. He makes ragamuffins into royalty. How amazing!
In one man, we see godliness and goodness; in the other, selfishness and evil—every generation during every day, good and evil battle to win our such a time. And every generation and every soul has to choose whose side they are on. Esther had to. Even to the point of physical death, she had to decide how her such a time would be invested. How challenging! Her choice made a vast cosmic difference.
We learned God = no coincidence. Perhaps if that is all we come away with, it was worth studying through the book of Esther. Remember, the king can't sleep? God is in charge. God is always in charge. How comforting!
Evil steals, kills, and destroys. Evil always seems to have the winning hand. Yet, we see an obvious illustration in the book of Esther that when the final hand is played - God has a royal flush. And evil ends up grasping defeat from the jaws of victory. It swings on its own gallows before the sun finally goes down. How perfect!
We learned two roads are out there, just as the Lord said. Hard and narrow goes north; easy and wide goes south. The Lord tells us to follow Him and go north. The enemy doesn't care if he can steer us south, east or west, just as long as he can distract, delay, or destroy us before we turn northward. We always will find that "In the way of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death." or "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." (Prov 14:12, 12:28) How sobering!
Esther was asked, "Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" You, me, we don't need to be asked that question, do we? I think we know or perhaps have just learned we are here for such a time as this. God has a unique plan and purpose for your life and mine. No one else can fulfill yours except you, nor mine except me. How awesome!
"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." (Eph 5:15, 16)
So what are some of the things we have learned from the book of Esther? How about God is nowhere, yet God is everywhere? He has no mention in this portion of scripture, but He is the main character. God is always and forever the main character. Still, we, too, have roles to play, and such a time is given to play them on the grand stage of life. God is at work, and so are we during our appointed time. We're to be His faithful actors in this cosmic drama. How exciting! How do we invest our time − Accumulating stuff? Bigger barns or bigger hearts? A barn is for keeping stuff in; a big heart is for His love and blessing to flow out to others. Maybe our times are filled with food, drink, and pleasure ( to the exclusion of rightly relating to our Creator). But if we are not in constant communion with the Father, we cannot rightly relate to people. Relationships, first vertical and then horizontal, are life's real stuff. Loving God and loving people is the whole of life in four words. If we disobey or ignore this fundamental principle of life, we will have regrets - a lot of regrets. How thought-provoking!
We learned that a captive slave girl became queen of much of the known world. God did that. And He has taken sinners like you and me and through His Son has made us sons and daughters and heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. He makes ragamuffins into royalty. How amazing!
In one man, we see godliness and goodness; in the other, selfishness and evil—every generation during every day, good and evil battle to win our such a time. And every generation and every soul has to choose whose side they are on. Esther had to. Even to the point of physical death, she had to decide how her such a time would be invested. How challenging! Her choice made a vast cosmic difference.
We learned God = no coincidence. Perhaps if that is all we come away with, it was worth studying through the book of Esther. Remember, the king can't sleep? God is in charge. God is always in charge. How comforting!
Evil steals, kills, and destroys. Evil always seems to have the winning hand. Yet, we see an obvious illustration in the book of Esther that when the final hand is played - God has a royal flush. And evil ends up grasping defeat from the jaws of victory. It swings on its own gallows before the sun finally goes down. How perfect!
We learned two roads are out there, just as the Lord said. Hard and narrow goes north; easy and wide goes south. The Lord tells us to follow Him and go north. The enemy doesn't care if he can steer us south, east or west, just as long as he can distract, delay, or destroy us before we turn northward. We always will find that "In the way of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death." or "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." (Prov 14:12, 12:28) How sobering!
Esther was asked, "Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" You, me, we don't need to be asked that question, do we? I think we know or perhaps have just learned we are here for such a time as this. God has a unique plan and purpose for your life and mine. No one else can fulfill yours except you, nor mine except me. How awesome!
"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." (Eph 5:15, 16)
For Such a Time as This (Part 7)
The day had finally arrived for Haman. When he went to bed, he had everything set up to his liking: He was zooming up the royalty ladder. His bitter enemy Mordecai would be hanging from the gallows come morning. And all the hated Jews had an approaching date with slaughter. He probably had trouble sleeping from all the excitement. But the Bible tells us something else just happened to happen -"That night the king could not sleep." (Esther 6:1a)
It just happened to happen. Coincidence. How many "coincidences" do you figure you have experienced in your lifetime? If we could pile up all the historical coincidences, how high do you think that would be? Well, if the truth is told, and you believe the Bible, there is no such thing as just happened to happen. God = nothing is a coincidence. So the king couldn't sleep and asked for the records of the chronicles to be read to him. The part about Mordecai breaking up the assassination plot against the king five years previous got read. Huh, imagine that! Then the king said, "What honor or dignity has been bestowed on Mordecai for this?" And the king's servants who attended him said, "Nothing has been done for him." (Esther 6:3)
Right about then is when Haman shows up bright and early to make his request to King Ahasuerus that Mordecai be hanged. Haman enters the courtyard just when the king's court is looking for someone to honor Mordecai for his act on the king's behalf. So Haman came in, and the king asked him, "What shall be done for the man whom the king delights to honor?" (Esther 6:6a) Haman's pride immediately runs wild, knowing he's the one to be honored. He can't talk fast enough - put the royal robe on him; put him on the king's horse with the royal crest; then have a prince parade him through the city proclaiming how great he is!
The king instructed Haman to do everything he had suggested. Only the ego-maniac Haman is to be the prince leading the horse, and the humble Mordecai would be the one honored. And some say God doesn't have a sense of humor! Haman did as he was told and then went home and mourned. But not for long; it was time for the banquet with the royal couple.
Queen Esther reveals to the king that she and her people are marked for death. Who is responsible for this? The king demands to know. And Esther said, "The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman!" What followed were terrible wrath, Haman's desperate pleading, and one of the eunuchs yelling to the king about the gallows at Haman's house made for Mordecai. "Then the king said, "Hang him on it!" So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai." (Esther 7:9-10)
Wasn't it just a few paragraphs ago that Haman had everything set up to his liking? But -"That night the king could not sleep."
On the day they hung the evil Haman, "King Ahasuerus gave Queen Esther the house of Haman." (Esther 8:1) Esther then brought Mordecai before the king and explained their relationship. The king promoted Mordecai to Haman's position, and the queen put her cousin in charge of the house of Haman. Then the queen implored the king to revoke the law Haman had devised to annihilate the Jews. However, the laws of the Persians and Medes were irrevocable. Therefore the king said to Esther and Mordecai: "You yourselves write a decree concerning the Jews, as you please, in the king's name, and seal it with the king's ring." (Esther 8:8)
The new law stated the Jews had the king's permission to defend themselves wherever they were assaulted. When the time of Haman's decree came, and the Jews were attacked, they "overpowered those who hated them." (Esther 9:1) Not only this, but all of the king's governors and officials "helped the Jews, because the fear of Mordecai fell upon them. For Mordecai was great in the king's palace, and his fame spread throughout all the provinces; for this man Mordecai became increasingly prominent" (Esther 9:3-4)
"Thus the Jews defeated all their enemies…" (Esther 9:5)
Still, the story was not yet complete. Esther again requested to extend one more day of the battle in Shushan and to "let Haman's ten sons be hanged on the gallows." (Esther 9:13) Here, we see the fruition of what we spoke of earlier. The utter blotting out of the Amalekites fulfilling God's original decree in Exodus 17:14. Fifteen hundred years had passed from the time of God's promise to Moses concerning the Amalekite's extinction and the actual realization of it.
How patient is our God! How sure are His promises! How faithful He is to His people! As we observed before, the 37th Psalm speaks of this so well: "He shall give you the desires of your heart…He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light…you shall inherit the earth…you shall delight in the abundance of peace…you shall not be ashamed in the evil time…you shall see the wicked cut off…and you shall receive strength, help, deliverance and salvation because you trust in Him."
That is the way of Mordecai!!!
In contrast, we are told: "Do not fret because of evildoers…they shall soon be cut down…they shall be cut off…they shall be no more…they shall be broken…they shall perish…they shall vanish away…they shall be destroyed."
That is the way of Haman!!! And you? And me? We get one walk. We get one such a time. Do we go the way of Mordecai? Or do we go the way of Haman?
The day had finally arrived for Haman. When he went to bed, he had everything set up to his liking: He was zooming up the royalty ladder. His bitter enemy Mordecai would be hanging from the gallows come morning. And all the hated Jews had an approaching date with slaughter. He probably had trouble sleeping from all the excitement. But the Bible tells us something else just happened to happen -"That night the king could not sleep." (Esther 6:1a)
It just happened to happen. Coincidence. How many "coincidences" do you figure you have experienced in your lifetime? If we could pile up all the historical coincidences, how high do you think that would be? Well, if the truth is told, and you believe the Bible, there is no such thing as just happened to happen. God = nothing is a coincidence. So the king couldn't sleep and asked for the records of the chronicles to be read to him. The part about Mordecai breaking up the assassination plot against the king five years previous got read. Huh, imagine that! Then the king said, "What honor or dignity has been bestowed on Mordecai for this?" And the king's servants who attended him said, "Nothing has been done for him." (Esther 6:3)
Right about then is when Haman shows up bright and early to make his request to King Ahasuerus that Mordecai be hanged. Haman enters the courtyard just when the king's court is looking for someone to honor Mordecai for his act on the king's behalf. So Haman came in, and the king asked him, "What shall be done for the man whom the king delights to honor?" (Esther 6:6a) Haman's pride immediately runs wild, knowing he's the one to be honored. He can't talk fast enough - put the royal robe on him; put him on the king's horse with the royal crest; then have a prince parade him through the city proclaiming how great he is!
The king instructed Haman to do everything he had suggested. Only the ego-maniac Haman is to be the prince leading the horse, and the humble Mordecai would be the one honored. And some say God doesn't have a sense of humor! Haman did as he was told and then went home and mourned. But not for long; it was time for the banquet with the royal couple.
Queen Esther reveals to the king that she and her people are marked for death. Who is responsible for this? The king demands to know. And Esther said, "The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman!" What followed were terrible wrath, Haman's desperate pleading, and one of the eunuchs yelling to the king about the gallows at Haman's house made for Mordecai. "Then the king said, "Hang him on it!" So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai." (Esther 7:9-10)
Wasn't it just a few paragraphs ago that Haman had everything set up to his liking? But -"That night the king could not sleep."
On the day they hung the evil Haman, "King Ahasuerus gave Queen Esther the house of Haman." (Esther 8:1) Esther then brought Mordecai before the king and explained their relationship. The king promoted Mordecai to Haman's position, and the queen put her cousin in charge of the house of Haman. Then the queen implored the king to revoke the law Haman had devised to annihilate the Jews. However, the laws of the Persians and Medes were irrevocable. Therefore the king said to Esther and Mordecai: "You yourselves write a decree concerning the Jews, as you please, in the king's name, and seal it with the king's ring." (Esther 8:8)
The new law stated the Jews had the king's permission to defend themselves wherever they were assaulted. When the time of Haman's decree came, and the Jews were attacked, they "overpowered those who hated them." (Esther 9:1) Not only this, but all of the king's governors and officials "helped the Jews, because the fear of Mordecai fell upon them. For Mordecai was great in the king's palace, and his fame spread throughout all the provinces; for this man Mordecai became increasingly prominent" (Esther 9:3-4)
"Thus the Jews defeated all their enemies…" (Esther 9:5)
Still, the story was not yet complete. Esther again requested to extend one more day of the battle in Shushan and to "let Haman's ten sons be hanged on the gallows." (Esther 9:13) Here, we see the fruition of what we spoke of earlier. The utter blotting out of the Amalekites fulfilling God's original decree in Exodus 17:14. Fifteen hundred years had passed from the time of God's promise to Moses concerning the Amalekite's extinction and the actual realization of it.
How patient is our God! How sure are His promises! How faithful He is to His people! As we observed before, the 37th Psalm speaks of this so well: "He shall give you the desires of your heart…He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light…you shall inherit the earth…you shall delight in the abundance of peace…you shall not be ashamed in the evil time…you shall see the wicked cut off…and you shall receive strength, help, deliverance and salvation because you trust in Him."
That is the way of Mordecai!!!
In contrast, we are told: "Do not fret because of evildoers…they shall soon be cut down…they shall be cut off…they shall be no more…they shall be broken…they shall perish…they shall vanish away…they shall be destroyed."
That is the way of Haman!!! And you? And me? We get one walk. We get one such a time. Do we go the way of Mordecai? Or do we go the way of Haman?
For Such a Time as This (Part 6)
Esther went and stood in the king's court. If he did not hold out the golden scepter, she would perish. He held it out to her. "What do you wish, Queen Esther? What is your request? It shall be given to you - up to half the kingdom!" (Esther 5:3) Esther asked that the king and Haman come to a banquet on the morrow. The king agreed to go, and Haman would not pass up such an opportunity to rub more elbows with royalty and increase his power and influence.
Haman took off for home, elated at his rising fortunes. Then he spotted Mordecai and became indignant. "Nevertheless, Haman restrained himself and went home, and he sent and called for all his friends and his wife, Zeresh. Then Haman told them of his great riches, the multitude of his children, everything in which the king had promoted him, and how he had advanced him above the officials and servants of the king." (Esther 5:10-11) And Haman informed them of his special invitation to dine with the royal couple.
If there is such a thing as being on top of the world, Haman was there. He had all he desired, including the coming destruction of the Jews. He was rolling in success. "Yet all this avails me nothing, so long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king's gate." (Esther 5:13)
All that the Evil One gains avails him nothing when he sees God upon His Throne and the souls of men worshiping at the Lord's feet. Satan hates God. He hates people because God created them. He comes only "to steal, and to kill, and to destroy." (John 10:10a) And those who succumb to his lies and temporal riches also hate God and the people of God. (John 15:18-25) The Bible tells us, "The wicked plots against the just, and gnashes at him with his teeth." (Psalm 37:12)
Haman hates and plots and grinds his teeth against Mordecai and the people of God. Then his wife makes a suggestion: "Let a gallows be made, fifty cubits high, and in the morning suggest to the king that Mordecai be hanged on it; then go merrily with the king to the banquet." (Esther 5:14) Haman adored the idea and had the gallows constructed.
It just seems there is no stopping evil in this world. It is relentless. Read the paper, watch the news, even venture out and dare make yourself known as a child of the Most High God. We are here for such a time as this, but evil is so evil and… "the wicked watches the righteous and seeks to slay him." (Psalm 37:32) And the spirit of Haman is everywhere, and the gallows are built, and the morning is coming and what is the Lord doing as the wicked one draws his sword "to slay those of upright conduct?" (Psalm 37:14c)
-"The Lord laughs at him, for He sees that his day is coming." (Psalm 37:13) And we will soon see Haman's day.
Esther went and stood in the king's court. If he did not hold out the golden scepter, she would perish. He held it out to her. "What do you wish, Queen Esther? What is your request? It shall be given to you - up to half the kingdom!" (Esther 5:3) Esther asked that the king and Haman come to a banquet on the morrow. The king agreed to go, and Haman would not pass up such an opportunity to rub more elbows with royalty and increase his power and influence.
Haman took off for home, elated at his rising fortunes. Then he spotted Mordecai and became indignant. "Nevertheless, Haman restrained himself and went home, and he sent and called for all his friends and his wife, Zeresh. Then Haman told them of his great riches, the multitude of his children, everything in which the king had promoted him, and how he had advanced him above the officials and servants of the king." (Esther 5:10-11) And Haman informed them of his special invitation to dine with the royal couple.
If there is such a thing as being on top of the world, Haman was there. He had all he desired, including the coming destruction of the Jews. He was rolling in success. "Yet all this avails me nothing, so long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king's gate." (Esther 5:13)
All that the Evil One gains avails him nothing when he sees God upon His Throne and the souls of men worshiping at the Lord's feet. Satan hates God. He hates people because God created them. He comes only "to steal, and to kill, and to destroy." (John 10:10a) And those who succumb to his lies and temporal riches also hate God and the people of God. (John 15:18-25) The Bible tells us, "The wicked plots against the just, and gnashes at him with his teeth." (Psalm 37:12)
Haman hates and plots and grinds his teeth against Mordecai and the people of God. Then his wife makes a suggestion: "Let a gallows be made, fifty cubits high, and in the morning suggest to the king that Mordecai be hanged on it; then go merrily with the king to the banquet." (Esther 5:14) Haman adored the idea and had the gallows constructed.
It just seems there is no stopping evil in this world. It is relentless. Read the paper, watch the news, even venture out and dare make yourself known as a child of the Most High God. We are here for such a time as this, but evil is so evil and… "the wicked watches the righteous and seeks to slay him." (Psalm 37:32) And the spirit of Haman is everywhere, and the gallows are built, and the morning is coming and what is the Lord doing as the wicked one draws his sword "to slay those of upright conduct?" (Psalm 37:14c)
-"The Lord laughs at him, for He sees that his day is coming." (Psalm 37:13) And we will soon see Haman's day.
For Such a Time as This (Part 5)
We are ready to meet a new character during the time of Esther. His name is Haman. He stinks of pride and arrogance, and ego. And, of course, just as in our day, such people push, shove, and do whatever is deemed necessary to get into positions of power. [Sounds like a couple of bosses I used to have] King Ahasuerus "advanced (Haman) and set his seat above all the princes who were with him. And all the king's servants… bowed and paid homage to Haman." (Esther 3:1-2)
All bowed and paid homage to Haman with one exception - Mordecai. This filled Haman to the brim with wrath. The prideful always seethe when confronted by the strength of the meek. "But he disdained to lay hands on Mordecai alone, for they had told him of the people of Mordecai. Instead, Haman sought to destroy all the Jews who were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus - the people of Mordecai." (Esther 3:6) Haman, a precursor of Hitler, had his own version of the "final solution."
A short history lesson here concerning Haman and Mordecai would be helpful. Mordecai was a Benjamite, a descendant of Saul, and Haman was an Agagite. Almost a thousand years previous, when the Jews exited from Egypt (ca. 1445 B.C.), the Amalekites attacked them (Ex 17:8-16), whose line began with Amalek, a son of Esau (Gen 36:12). God then pronounced a curse on the Amalekites, which resulted in their total elimination as a people. [Note to readers - this will occur later in the sequence of events that we're looking at in Esther.] King Saul (ca. 1030 B.C.) received God's orders to kill all the Amalekites, including their king, Agag
(1 Samuel chap.15); Saul disobeyed, and this brought God's displeasure. Samuel finally killed Agag. Because of his lineage from Agag, Haman had a deep hatred for the Jews.
Even though centuries had passed, Mordecai would never bow to the Agagite of the Amalekites, and Haman burned with hostility for the Jews. Who would prevail? Haman had all the power of the world at his disposal. He went to King Ahasuerus and got a decree for all the Jews to be exterminated. It appeared to be over for God's chosen people: No more Israel, no Messiah coming through the Jews, no redemption of the world! It seemed clear that Evil's win was in the bag, and God's plans would be thwarted! Except for someone who had been called for such a time as this, a woman by the name of - Queen Esther.
So the Hitler-like Haman sat on top of the world. The king deceived. The Jews were doomed. And now we find Mordecai in sackcloth and the Jews in mourning. Queen Esther soon learned of her cousin's anguish and inquired through her servant Hathach as to what was happening. Mordecai sent him back with all the details of Haman's plot and told her to go to King Ahasuerus and plead for her people's lives. Esther sent a message explaining that no one went to the king unless summoned. If one does go and the king doesn't hold out his golden scepter, it's curtains! And she continued, even she the queen had not been called for in a month. Not to mention, the king did not know that she was a Jew, and then he would know, and her beloved cousin was going to get her killed! "So they told Mordecai Esther's words." (Esther 4:12)
And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: "Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king's palace any more than all the other Jews. For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:13,14)
In the book of Ephesians, we are told that before we ever stepped foot upon this earth, God had prepared works for us to do. He told Isaiah, Jeremiah, and others in Scripture that before they were born, He had their tables already set. He had their times, places, and people to know and meet. Like before Satan crashed Eden's garden party, God had a Redeemer at the ready. Jesus revealed in the gospel of John, chapter 9, that the blind man was born blind so Jesus could heal him on that day and show Jesus to be God and the blind man to be His witness down through the centuries. Jesus later told Peter what his destiny would be, and it was so.
You and I are here for such a time as this. If we do whatever God has prepared us for and put us here for - what might it cost us – perhaps our high position, our seat of power, our possessions or our popularity; maybe a friendship or a dream or our very life. That is what Esther faced. What would she do? What would you do?
Esther sent word back to Mordecai to call for all of God's people to fast and pray. "And I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!" (Esther 4:15,16) Esther was taking up her cross and walking into the paradox spoken of by Jesus Christ: "For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it." (Mark 16:25) The Apostle Paul learned this as well: "But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ." (Phil 3:7)
What is God asking of me today? - of you today? Are we willing to lose our gain to have His? Even… "if I perish, I perish!?"
We are ready to meet a new character during the time of Esther. His name is Haman. He stinks of pride and arrogance, and ego. And, of course, just as in our day, such people push, shove, and do whatever is deemed necessary to get into positions of power. [Sounds like a couple of bosses I used to have] King Ahasuerus "advanced (Haman) and set his seat above all the princes who were with him. And all the king's servants… bowed and paid homage to Haman." (Esther 3:1-2)
All bowed and paid homage to Haman with one exception - Mordecai. This filled Haman to the brim with wrath. The prideful always seethe when confronted by the strength of the meek. "But he disdained to lay hands on Mordecai alone, for they had told him of the people of Mordecai. Instead, Haman sought to destroy all the Jews who were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus - the people of Mordecai." (Esther 3:6) Haman, a precursor of Hitler, had his own version of the "final solution."
A short history lesson here concerning Haman and Mordecai would be helpful. Mordecai was a Benjamite, a descendant of Saul, and Haman was an Agagite. Almost a thousand years previous, when the Jews exited from Egypt (ca. 1445 B.C.), the Amalekites attacked them (Ex 17:8-16), whose line began with Amalek, a son of Esau (Gen 36:12). God then pronounced a curse on the Amalekites, which resulted in their total elimination as a people. [Note to readers - this will occur later in the sequence of events that we're looking at in Esther.] King Saul (ca. 1030 B.C.) received God's orders to kill all the Amalekites, including their king, Agag
(1 Samuel chap.15); Saul disobeyed, and this brought God's displeasure. Samuel finally killed Agag. Because of his lineage from Agag, Haman had a deep hatred for the Jews.
Even though centuries had passed, Mordecai would never bow to the Agagite of the Amalekites, and Haman burned with hostility for the Jews. Who would prevail? Haman had all the power of the world at his disposal. He went to King Ahasuerus and got a decree for all the Jews to be exterminated. It appeared to be over for God's chosen people: No more Israel, no Messiah coming through the Jews, no redemption of the world! It seemed clear that Evil's win was in the bag, and God's plans would be thwarted! Except for someone who had been called for such a time as this, a woman by the name of - Queen Esther.
So the Hitler-like Haman sat on top of the world. The king deceived. The Jews were doomed. And now we find Mordecai in sackcloth and the Jews in mourning. Queen Esther soon learned of her cousin's anguish and inquired through her servant Hathach as to what was happening. Mordecai sent him back with all the details of Haman's plot and told her to go to King Ahasuerus and plead for her people's lives. Esther sent a message explaining that no one went to the king unless summoned. If one does go and the king doesn't hold out his golden scepter, it's curtains! And she continued, even she the queen had not been called for in a month. Not to mention, the king did not know that she was a Jew, and then he would know, and her beloved cousin was going to get her killed! "So they told Mordecai Esther's words." (Esther 4:12)
And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: "Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king's palace any more than all the other Jews. For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:13,14)
In the book of Ephesians, we are told that before we ever stepped foot upon this earth, God had prepared works for us to do. He told Isaiah, Jeremiah, and others in Scripture that before they were born, He had their tables already set. He had their times, places, and people to know and meet. Like before Satan crashed Eden's garden party, God had a Redeemer at the ready. Jesus revealed in the gospel of John, chapter 9, that the blind man was born blind so Jesus could heal him on that day and show Jesus to be God and the blind man to be His witness down through the centuries. Jesus later told Peter what his destiny would be, and it was so.
You and I are here for such a time as this. If we do whatever God has prepared us for and put us here for - what might it cost us – perhaps our high position, our seat of power, our possessions or our popularity; maybe a friendship or a dream or our very life. That is what Esther faced. What would she do? What would you do?
Esther sent word back to Mordecai to call for all of God's people to fast and pray. "And I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!" (Esther 4:15,16) Esther was taking up her cross and walking into the paradox spoken of by Jesus Christ: "For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it." (Mark 16:25) The Apostle Paul learned this as well: "But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ." (Phil 3:7)
What is God asking of me today? - of you today? Are we willing to lose our gain to have His? Even… "if I perish, I perish!?"
For Such a Time as This (Part 4)
Queen Vashti was banished. Beautiful young virgin girls from all the provinces of Persia and Media were gathered in the women's quarters. The girls then went through beauty preparations. This preparation time consisted of six months with oil of myrrh and another six months with special perfumes. That amounts to a total of a year soaking in fragrances. I guess we guys shouldn't complain when our wives take a few extra minutes getting ready - at least it's not a year!
After a year, each young lady would be brought to the king in the evening and leave in the morning. The one who most pleased him would be chosen to replace Vashti. This is all a polite way of describing a harem. The women weren't in a cooking contest. I'm sure some of them did not want to be there and wanted to go home.
One of the girls was a Jewish captive of the Babylonians, now under Persian control. Her name was Hadassah (Persian name - Esther). An orphan, she had been raised by her cousin. The Bible says Hadassah was lovely and beautiful. (Esther 2:7) From the time she came into the palace, she obtained the favor of the custodian of the women, Hegai, the king's eunuch. We are told she "obtained favor in the sight of all who saw her." (Esther 2:15) The favor here would have been cultivated from Hadassah's person, not her sexuality.
Hegai gave individual and insightful instruction to Hadassah during her time with the king. And "the King loved Esther more than all the other women, and she obtained grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins; so he set the royal crown upon her head and made her queen instead of Vashti." (Esther 2:17)
A Jewish orphan taken from her homeland to foreign soil became queen of the vast world empire of the Persians and the Medes. Only God in heaven could bring such a thing to pass, and indeed He did. Only God could take sinners like you and me and, through Christ, make us sons and daughters and heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. (Rom 8: 17)
God put Esther on a throne for her such a time to accomplish His purposes and plans. He, in turn, has made us royalty as well for our such a time to accomplish His purposes and plans. (1 Peter 2:9-10) Are we aware of this? Are we living our lives and times accordingly? Are we "walking circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil"? (Eph 5:15-16)
That is quite a story! Quite a God thing! But in the telling, we only briefly mentioned a very significant person in that "such a time." He was Hadassah's, that is, Esther's cousin, Mordecai. Esther's parents had died, and Mordecai had taken her as his daughter. When Esther was brought to the king, Mordecai instructed her not to reveal she was a Jew. While that kept secret gave her some protection in the foreign land and culture of the Persians, it would prove pivotal in the purposes and plans of God for this entire world.
Mordecai kept close track of Esther before and after she became queen. The Bible says Mordecai "sat within the king's gate," indicating that he had some prominence. And "in those days, while Mordecai sat within the king's gate, two of the king's eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, doorkeepers, became furious and sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus. So the matter became known to Mordecai, who told Queen Esther, and Esther informed the king in Mordecai's name." (Esther 2:21-22) The assassination plot was investigated, confirmed, and both men were executed. Then the entire situation, including Mordecai's primary role, was written in the king's chronicles.
Let it be said here before we move forward and eventually to the conclusion of the book of Esther - the man, Mordecai, exceeded all others in his such a time and place in Godly wisdom, principal, influence, and obedience. And as we will see, it made a world of difference.
Are you and I having that kind of impact for God in our time and place? Jesus says, "You are the salt of the earth…" (Matt 5:13a) Are we flavoring the lives around us to the things of God? Jesus says, "You are the light of the world…" (Matt 5:14a) Are we illuminating the lives around us to the things of God? Jesus also says, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matt 5:16)
Mordecai, in his such a time, is an excellent example for us in ours. May we, too, be wise, principled, influential, and obedient salt shakers and candles.
Queen Vashti was banished. Beautiful young virgin girls from all the provinces of Persia and Media were gathered in the women's quarters. The girls then went through beauty preparations. This preparation time consisted of six months with oil of myrrh and another six months with special perfumes. That amounts to a total of a year soaking in fragrances. I guess we guys shouldn't complain when our wives take a few extra minutes getting ready - at least it's not a year!
After a year, each young lady would be brought to the king in the evening and leave in the morning. The one who most pleased him would be chosen to replace Vashti. This is all a polite way of describing a harem. The women weren't in a cooking contest. I'm sure some of them did not want to be there and wanted to go home.
One of the girls was a Jewish captive of the Babylonians, now under Persian control. Her name was Hadassah (Persian name - Esther). An orphan, she had been raised by her cousin. The Bible says Hadassah was lovely and beautiful. (Esther 2:7) From the time she came into the palace, she obtained the favor of the custodian of the women, Hegai, the king's eunuch. We are told she "obtained favor in the sight of all who saw her." (Esther 2:15) The favor here would have been cultivated from Hadassah's person, not her sexuality.
Hegai gave individual and insightful instruction to Hadassah during her time with the king. And "the King loved Esther more than all the other women, and she obtained grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins; so he set the royal crown upon her head and made her queen instead of Vashti." (Esther 2:17)
A Jewish orphan taken from her homeland to foreign soil became queen of the vast world empire of the Persians and the Medes. Only God in heaven could bring such a thing to pass, and indeed He did. Only God could take sinners like you and me and, through Christ, make us sons and daughters and heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. (Rom 8: 17)
God put Esther on a throne for her such a time to accomplish His purposes and plans. He, in turn, has made us royalty as well for our such a time to accomplish His purposes and plans. (1 Peter 2:9-10) Are we aware of this? Are we living our lives and times accordingly? Are we "walking circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil"? (Eph 5:15-16)
That is quite a story! Quite a God thing! But in the telling, we only briefly mentioned a very significant person in that "such a time." He was Hadassah's, that is, Esther's cousin, Mordecai. Esther's parents had died, and Mordecai had taken her as his daughter. When Esther was brought to the king, Mordecai instructed her not to reveal she was a Jew. While that kept secret gave her some protection in the foreign land and culture of the Persians, it would prove pivotal in the purposes and plans of God for this entire world.
Mordecai kept close track of Esther before and after she became queen. The Bible says Mordecai "sat within the king's gate," indicating that he had some prominence. And "in those days, while Mordecai sat within the king's gate, two of the king's eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, doorkeepers, became furious and sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus. So the matter became known to Mordecai, who told Queen Esther, and Esther informed the king in Mordecai's name." (Esther 2:21-22) The assassination plot was investigated, confirmed, and both men were executed. Then the entire situation, including Mordecai's primary role, was written in the king's chronicles.
Let it be said here before we move forward and eventually to the conclusion of the book of Esther - the man, Mordecai, exceeded all others in his such a time and place in Godly wisdom, principal, influence, and obedience. And as we will see, it made a world of difference.
Are you and I having that kind of impact for God in our time and place? Jesus says, "You are the salt of the earth…" (Matt 5:13a) Are we flavoring the lives around us to the things of God? Jesus says, "You are the light of the world…" (Matt 5:14a) Are we illuminating the lives around us to the things of God? Jesus also says, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matt 5:16)
Mordecai, in his such a time, is an excellent example for us in ours. May we, too, be wise, principled, influential, and obedient salt shakers and candles.
For Such a Time as This (Part 3)
"After these things, when the wrath of King Ahasuerus subsided, he remembered Vashti, what she had done, and what had been decreed against her." (Esther 2:1)
These things, what things? – A 180-day parade of the king's riches; a seven-day beer bash; and a little bitty incident where the king kind of forever banished his wife - like he could never, ever see her again. Then the party boy woke up, sobered up, and wised up. But it was all too little, all too late, and he stared at his self-induced fate - Queen Vashti was gone, and he missed her. How do you spell regret? But his servants suggested putting together a nice harem for the king "then let the young woman who pleases the king be queen instead of Vashti." (Esther 2:2-4) That idea pleased the king (imagine that), and King Hefner let it be so.
How do you spell regret? Some folks say they have no regrets because the sum of their life has made them what they are, placed them where they are, and they wouldn't change anything, the regretful parts included. I like that answer and kind of feel that way myself. Yes indeed…now… let's get down and dirty honest. We all have regrets, lots of them. I regret not bringing a book home in high school, pitching out my dream to go to Penn State, and winding up in a job I hated. I regret throwing a big stone at my brother and hitting him in the back of his leg. I regret throwing a stick into the spokes on his bicycle, causing a rapid stop and my brother going over the handlebars. I regret the time I was listening to my stereo with headphones, and my sister cranked up the volume, and I knocked her on her backside. I regret having a brother and sister -I'm just kidding!
Selfishness, our own and that of others, cause regret. Majoring in the minors called stuff, toys, and noise, while minoring in the majors called God, people and relationships lead us right into the house of regret. Just living in a cursed and sin-filled world downpour regret, and we're bound to get wet.
The Bible has a prescription for avoiding regret, such as "Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men." (Rom 12:17, 18) His word also teaches us to "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others." (Phil 2:3, 4) These things will bring no regrets. But what of those things already deposited in the bank of regret? The Apostle Paul says, "…I press on…forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead…." (Phil 3:12b, 13)
And again, we are here on this earth, this stage, right here, right now for such a time as this - are we majoring in the minors and minoring in the majors leading to regret, or are we "laying hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of [us]." (Phil 3:12)
"After these things, when the wrath of King Ahasuerus subsided, he remembered Vashti, what she had done, and what had been decreed against her." (Esther 2:1)
These things, what things? – A 180-day parade of the king's riches; a seven-day beer bash; and a little bitty incident where the king kind of forever banished his wife - like he could never, ever see her again. Then the party boy woke up, sobered up, and wised up. But it was all too little, all too late, and he stared at his self-induced fate - Queen Vashti was gone, and he missed her. How do you spell regret? But his servants suggested putting together a nice harem for the king "then let the young woman who pleases the king be queen instead of Vashti." (Esther 2:2-4) That idea pleased the king (imagine that), and King Hefner let it be so.
How do you spell regret? Some folks say they have no regrets because the sum of their life has made them what they are, placed them where they are, and they wouldn't change anything, the regretful parts included. I like that answer and kind of feel that way myself. Yes indeed…now… let's get down and dirty honest. We all have regrets, lots of them. I regret not bringing a book home in high school, pitching out my dream to go to Penn State, and winding up in a job I hated. I regret throwing a big stone at my brother and hitting him in the back of his leg. I regret throwing a stick into the spokes on his bicycle, causing a rapid stop and my brother going over the handlebars. I regret the time I was listening to my stereo with headphones, and my sister cranked up the volume, and I knocked her on her backside. I regret having a brother and sister -I'm just kidding!
Selfishness, our own and that of others, cause regret. Majoring in the minors called stuff, toys, and noise, while minoring in the majors called God, people and relationships lead us right into the house of regret. Just living in a cursed and sin-filled world downpour regret, and we're bound to get wet.
The Bible has a prescription for avoiding regret, such as "Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men." (Rom 12:17, 18) His word also teaches us to "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others." (Phil 2:3, 4) These things will bring no regrets. But what of those things already deposited in the bank of regret? The Apostle Paul says, "…I press on…forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead…." (Phil 3:12b, 13)
And again, we are here on this earth, this stage, right here, right now for such a time as this - are we majoring in the minors and minoring in the majors leading to regret, or are we "laying hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of [us]." (Phil 3:12)
For Such a Time as This (Part 2)
Again, we are here on this earth, this stage, right here, right now for such a time as this - are we living for the noise and toys or "according to God in the spirit." (1Peter 4:6)
As the party is winding down, King Ahasuerus is full of wine and has one more "stuff" to show off to his homeboys. "Hey, send in the queen all dressed to the nines so I can show her off. Men, wait until you see my 'trophy wife.' If you weren't envious of any of my other stuff, you will be when you see this babe!" (Esther 1:11 paraphrased)
"But Queen Vashti refused to come at the king's command brought by his eunuchs; therefore, the king was furious, and his anger burned within him." (Esther 1:12) "Ah, King Ahasuerus, Queen Vashti said to tell you that she is your wife and the mother of your children and not an object for you and your drunken buddies to ogle."
Oh boy, big trouble in Persia and Media. "For the queen's behavior will become known to all women, so that they will despise their husbands in their eyes…" (Esther 1:17) This brought laws and decrees throughout the land that wives were to honor their husbands and that each man was the master of his own house.
You know, our world is pretty much like Persia. We're all about stuff and parties and disposable relationships, including marital unions. Every time I see the latest marriage between those in the entertainment industry, I figure, maybe a year before, they tire of their physical attractions and move on to - Next! Sadly, those types of problems are rampant throughout our culture. And the laws of the Persians and Medes won't fix anything. The only real solutions are found in God's word.
The Bible tells husbands to love their wives and give their lives for them as Christ did for the church. So, for instance, if a pack of vicious dogs attack − is the husband to jump in between them and his wife even if it means death? Yes, it does mean that. Unfortunately, many men think that encompasses the giving of their lives. But it also means that the husband cares more about his wife than he does himself and puts her interests and needs before his own. It means selfless and sacrificial love for his wife. It means serving her. If husbands do this, wives will fulfill their God-given roles naturally. No fuss, no muss. And married couples following Ephesians 5:22-32 don't need any laws and decrees to make it so.
The Bible speaks to all kinds of relationships with instructions and commandments on how to relate vertically to God and horizontally to our parents, children, friends, neighbors, employers, employees, widows and orphans, strangers, and even our enemies, and so on. The word of God makes it quite understandable - life is about:
Relationships - which have eternal significance - not things and flings and toys and noise, which are here today and gone tomorrow.
Once again, we are here on this earth, this stage, right here, right now for such a time as this - are we living for me, myself, and I, or are we loving God and people with every fiber of our being? (See Luke 10:25-28)
Again, we are here on this earth, this stage, right here, right now for such a time as this - are we living for the noise and toys or "according to God in the spirit." (1Peter 4:6)
As the party is winding down, King Ahasuerus is full of wine and has one more "stuff" to show off to his homeboys. "Hey, send in the queen all dressed to the nines so I can show her off. Men, wait until you see my 'trophy wife.' If you weren't envious of any of my other stuff, you will be when you see this babe!" (Esther 1:11 paraphrased)
"But Queen Vashti refused to come at the king's command brought by his eunuchs; therefore, the king was furious, and his anger burned within him." (Esther 1:12) "Ah, King Ahasuerus, Queen Vashti said to tell you that she is your wife and the mother of your children and not an object for you and your drunken buddies to ogle."
Oh boy, big trouble in Persia and Media. "For the queen's behavior will become known to all women, so that they will despise their husbands in their eyes…" (Esther 1:17) This brought laws and decrees throughout the land that wives were to honor their husbands and that each man was the master of his own house.
You know, our world is pretty much like Persia. We're all about stuff and parties and disposable relationships, including marital unions. Every time I see the latest marriage between those in the entertainment industry, I figure, maybe a year before, they tire of their physical attractions and move on to - Next! Sadly, those types of problems are rampant throughout our culture. And the laws of the Persians and Medes won't fix anything. The only real solutions are found in God's word.
The Bible tells husbands to love their wives and give their lives for them as Christ did for the church. So, for instance, if a pack of vicious dogs attack − is the husband to jump in between them and his wife even if it means death? Yes, it does mean that. Unfortunately, many men think that encompasses the giving of their lives. But it also means that the husband cares more about his wife than he does himself and puts her interests and needs before his own. It means selfless and sacrificial love for his wife. It means serving her. If husbands do this, wives will fulfill their God-given roles naturally. No fuss, no muss. And married couples following Ephesians 5:22-32 don't need any laws and decrees to make it so.
The Bible speaks to all kinds of relationships with instructions and commandments on how to relate vertically to God and horizontally to our parents, children, friends, neighbors, employers, employees, widows and orphans, strangers, and even our enemies, and so on. The word of God makes it quite understandable - life is about:
Relationships - which have eternal significance - not things and flings and toys and noise, which are here today and gone tomorrow.
Once again, we are here on this earth, this stage, right here, right now for such a time as this - are we living for me, myself, and I, or are we loving God and people with every fiber of our being? (See Luke 10:25-28)
For Such a Time as This (Part 1)
When reading the book of Esther, we see God everywhere. As the last words are read, and we shut our Bibles, most would agree it is one of the most "God-is-very-involved-in-our-lives" portions in all of Scripture – which makes the fact that God is never mentioned quite befuddling. Except for the Song of Solomon (depending on interpretation), the book of Esther is alone in its exclusion of God.
Nevertheless, God is the main character in this drama, and as this very real story of Esther begins, we see a grand stage set. The players are taking their places. They do not realize what profound and eternal roles they will play. Perhaps they felt little, weak, insignificant, and of no worth. But where God works, little becomes big, weakness becomes strength, insignificant becomes world-changing, and worthless becomes riches beyond measure.
Are the words of the previous paragraph unique to Esther and those in her story, life, and time? No, they are not. They are mine and yours as well. "Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Esther was asked.
It was her time, just as now is our time. How did Esther respond? How shall we? Historically the events recorded for us took place from 483 to 473 B.C. between the first return of the Jews to their homeland after their captivity in Babylon and the second return sometime later.
Let's begin by looking at the characters and observing how they lived out their 'such a time' just as we are in the present. King Ahasuerus, the ruler of Persia and Media, steps forward first. In the third year of his reign, he gathered all his officials and servants. To these princes and nobles, "he showed the riches of his glorious kingdom and the splendor of his excellent majesty for many days, one hundred and eighty days in all." (Esther1:3, 4)
Man, that's a lot of stuff! A hundred and eighty days it took to show all his stuff. Lots of stuff! It reminded me of a few years ago when my wife and I visited some folks in their new house. It was big and beautiful. When our gracious hostess led us on tour, she said, "We'll start in the east wing." Being the unsophisticated and goofy people we are, the wife and I got a memorable kick out of that. When we have company, we tell them that story about the "wings" of the house and then lead them to our hallway. From there you can see all four rooms of our house. "There's the east, west, north, and of course, the south wing over yonder." we giggle. Our stuff takes about a hundred and eighty seconds to peruse thoroughly.
Of course, stuff in and of itself is benign. It's not how much stuff we have, but how we view and use our stuff matters. Jesus tells us not to store our stuff for use on earth but invest our stuff in the things of God, which last forever. "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matt 6:21) King Ahasuerus' heart treasured earthly things. What do we treasure?
We are here on this earth, this stage, right here, right now for such a time as this - are we building bigger barns to lay up stuff for ourselves or bigger hearts that are rich toward God? (See Luke 12:16-21)
"When these days were completed, the king made a feast lasting seven days for all the people who were present in Shushan the citadel, from great to small, in the court of the king's palace." (Esther1:5) We also get some description about the stuff included with this shin-ding: White and blue linen curtains, silver rods, marble pillars, "and the couches were of gold and silver on a mosaic pavement of alabaster, turquoise, and white and black marble." (Esther1:6) The royal wine was served in abundance in golden vessels - and man, that's a lot of party!
Maybe it's just me, but have you noticed how party-obsessed our culture is nowadays? Any holiday - party! Weekend - party! Special events - party included! Momma got new shoes - hey, let's party! I think we adore parties because they're noisy and busy and distracting. In another forum, I wrote this: "Our televisions and radios blare, phones ring, horns honk, as we sing and yell and dwell amidst a never-ending chorus of noise. We don't want even a glimpse of our Creator's beauty, perfection, and glory if it means seeing the ugliness, brokenness, and gloom within ourselves. We try to drown out the quiet, resist the stillness, and flee from the reality of our fallen state."
The Apostle Peter instructs believers on how to spend our "such a time" thusly: "Since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles - when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries." (1 Peter 4:1-3)
While a party, like stuff, is in and of itself benign, the believer does not want to try to drown, resist, or flee from the quiet and the stillness where we can relate to our Creator and Father in all truth. The believer gathers in fellowship and celebrations to learn and do God's will, not run from it.
When reading the book of Esther, we see God everywhere. As the last words are read, and we shut our Bibles, most would agree it is one of the most "God-is-very-involved-in-our-lives" portions in all of Scripture – which makes the fact that God is never mentioned quite befuddling. Except for the Song of Solomon (depending on interpretation), the book of Esther is alone in its exclusion of God.
Nevertheless, God is the main character in this drama, and as this very real story of Esther begins, we see a grand stage set. The players are taking their places. They do not realize what profound and eternal roles they will play. Perhaps they felt little, weak, insignificant, and of no worth. But where God works, little becomes big, weakness becomes strength, insignificant becomes world-changing, and worthless becomes riches beyond measure.
Are the words of the previous paragraph unique to Esther and those in her story, life, and time? No, they are not. They are mine and yours as well. "Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Esther was asked.
It was her time, just as now is our time. How did Esther respond? How shall we? Historically the events recorded for us took place from 483 to 473 B.C. between the first return of the Jews to their homeland after their captivity in Babylon and the second return sometime later.
Let's begin by looking at the characters and observing how they lived out their 'such a time' just as we are in the present. King Ahasuerus, the ruler of Persia and Media, steps forward first. In the third year of his reign, he gathered all his officials and servants. To these princes and nobles, "he showed the riches of his glorious kingdom and the splendor of his excellent majesty for many days, one hundred and eighty days in all." (Esther1:3, 4)
Man, that's a lot of stuff! A hundred and eighty days it took to show all his stuff. Lots of stuff! It reminded me of a few years ago when my wife and I visited some folks in their new house. It was big and beautiful. When our gracious hostess led us on tour, she said, "We'll start in the east wing." Being the unsophisticated and goofy people we are, the wife and I got a memorable kick out of that. When we have company, we tell them that story about the "wings" of the house and then lead them to our hallway. From there you can see all four rooms of our house. "There's the east, west, north, and of course, the south wing over yonder." we giggle. Our stuff takes about a hundred and eighty seconds to peruse thoroughly.
Of course, stuff in and of itself is benign. It's not how much stuff we have, but how we view and use our stuff matters. Jesus tells us not to store our stuff for use on earth but invest our stuff in the things of God, which last forever. "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matt 6:21) King Ahasuerus' heart treasured earthly things. What do we treasure?
We are here on this earth, this stage, right here, right now for such a time as this - are we building bigger barns to lay up stuff for ourselves or bigger hearts that are rich toward God? (See Luke 12:16-21)
"When these days were completed, the king made a feast lasting seven days for all the people who were present in Shushan the citadel, from great to small, in the court of the king's palace." (Esther1:5) We also get some description about the stuff included with this shin-ding: White and blue linen curtains, silver rods, marble pillars, "and the couches were of gold and silver on a mosaic pavement of alabaster, turquoise, and white and black marble." (Esther1:6) The royal wine was served in abundance in golden vessels - and man, that's a lot of party!
Maybe it's just me, but have you noticed how party-obsessed our culture is nowadays? Any holiday - party! Weekend - party! Special events - party included! Momma got new shoes - hey, let's party! I think we adore parties because they're noisy and busy and distracting. In another forum, I wrote this: "Our televisions and radios blare, phones ring, horns honk, as we sing and yell and dwell amidst a never-ending chorus of noise. We don't want even a glimpse of our Creator's beauty, perfection, and glory if it means seeing the ugliness, brokenness, and gloom within ourselves. We try to drown out the quiet, resist the stillness, and flee from the reality of our fallen state."
The Apostle Peter instructs believers on how to spend our "such a time" thusly: "Since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles - when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries." (1 Peter 4:1-3)
While a party, like stuff, is in and of itself benign, the believer does not want to try to drown, resist, or flee from the quiet and the stillness where we can relate to our Creator and Father in all truth. The believer gathers in fellowship and celebrations to learn and do God's will, not run from it.
Is a One World Government Coming?
Yes! It's Biblical. The prophet Daniel saw a vision of four beasts. The last beast appeared dreadful, terrible, and was exceedingly strong. It had huge iron teeth and devoured and trampled the residue with its feet. (Daniel 7:7)
The angel explained to Daniel that the fourth beast would be a fourth kingdom on earth that would exist immediately before Christ returns and sets up His kingdom. It will exercise tyrannical authority over the whole earth. Once this government has gained control over the whole world, God will judge it and destroy it forever. (Daniel 7:19-27)
The War of Two Worlds
Many conservatives, Christians, and even a few liberals recognize this evil desire of the global 'elites' and are working fervently to keep this from happening. That's not a bad thing. We all want to continue to live in a free society. On the other hand, the global 'elites' are working fervently to make it happen. It's the war of two worlds and has been since our very first parents chose to disobey God. (Gen. 2:16-17; 3:6)
The Great Reset and Build Back Better
About thirty years ago, I ran across a small booklet my dad received when he went into the Navy in 1942. To my surprise, it mentioned the new world order! Around the time that I discovered it, I heard President Bush Sr. announce the invasion of Iraq, telling the nation, "We have before us the opportunity to forge for ourselves and for future generations a new world order."
Ever since my antenna has been up, more and more people speak of this new world order. The coronavirus pandemic accelerated this cry of the globalist. They call it the 'Great Reset.' President Biden calls it 'Build Back Better". It's all the same call for a one-world government. It's out in the open now.
Good versus Evil
A one-world government, the new world order, is the spiritual goal of the enemy. The internet and modern technology are playing a significant role in bringing the world together. It is a modern-day Tower of Babel. "Digital" togetherness makes it easier to corrupt the whole world. Eventually, God will allow them to have their way for a short time.
Both God and Satan have a purpose for history. The kingdom of Satan has continued to attack the kingdom of God in an attempt to destroy it. If he could, he would become the sovereign ruler of the universe. To accomplish his goal, Satan has tried to physically kill the members of God's kingdom [persecution]. Secondly, he has tried to destroy it from the inside through false teaching, taking members captive to do his will so that its members will spread a false gospel. (Gal. 1:6; II Tim. 2:26)
Who will win?
Ultimately, Satan, as a created creature, will fail. God is God, and His purpose for world history will prevail. He will destroy Satan and his kingdom. Then He will establish His kingdom and will rule His one world government on earth in righteousness! (Jer. 23:5) Until then, expect the drive for a one-world government. It will come to fruition because God, in His word, said it would. Just make sure that you are on the winning side.
Yes! It's Biblical. The prophet Daniel saw a vision of four beasts. The last beast appeared dreadful, terrible, and was exceedingly strong. It had huge iron teeth and devoured and trampled the residue with its feet. (Daniel 7:7)
The angel explained to Daniel that the fourth beast would be a fourth kingdom on earth that would exist immediately before Christ returns and sets up His kingdom. It will exercise tyrannical authority over the whole earth. Once this government has gained control over the whole world, God will judge it and destroy it forever. (Daniel 7:19-27)
The War of Two Worlds
Many conservatives, Christians, and even a few liberals recognize this evil desire of the global 'elites' and are working fervently to keep this from happening. That's not a bad thing. We all want to continue to live in a free society. On the other hand, the global 'elites' are working fervently to make it happen. It's the war of two worlds and has been since our very first parents chose to disobey God. (Gen. 2:16-17; 3:6)
The Great Reset and Build Back Better
About thirty years ago, I ran across a small booklet my dad received when he went into the Navy in 1942. To my surprise, it mentioned the new world order! Around the time that I discovered it, I heard President Bush Sr. announce the invasion of Iraq, telling the nation, "We have before us the opportunity to forge for ourselves and for future generations a new world order."
Ever since my antenna has been up, more and more people speak of this new world order. The coronavirus pandemic accelerated this cry of the globalist. They call it the 'Great Reset.' President Biden calls it 'Build Back Better". It's all the same call for a one-world government. It's out in the open now.
Good versus Evil
A one-world government, the new world order, is the spiritual goal of the enemy. The internet and modern technology are playing a significant role in bringing the world together. It is a modern-day Tower of Babel. "Digital" togetherness makes it easier to corrupt the whole world. Eventually, God will allow them to have their way for a short time.
Both God and Satan have a purpose for history. The kingdom of Satan has continued to attack the kingdom of God in an attempt to destroy it. If he could, he would become the sovereign ruler of the universe. To accomplish his goal, Satan has tried to physically kill the members of God's kingdom [persecution]. Secondly, he has tried to destroy it from the inside through false teaching, taking members captive to do his will so that its members will spread a false gospel. (Gal. 1:6; II Tim. 2:26)
Who will win?
Ultimately, Satan, as a created creature, will fail. God is God, and His purpose for world history will prevail. He will destroy Satan and his kingdom. Then He will establish His kingdom and will rule His one world government on earth in righteousness! (Jer. 23:5) Until then, expect the drive for a one-world government. It will come to fruition because God, in His word, said it would. Just make sure that you are on the winning side.
Whoever Believes in Him
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.
Is it easy for a person to be saved? When you say yes, an immediate concern is often raised − is easy believism being advocated? We will address that here.
In Acts 16, the Philippian jailer asks what he must do to be saved. Paul and Silas said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:31). Notice that “Belief” is the only stated requirement for justification. Then Paul and Silas “…spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house.” (Acts 16:32) They believed. The jailer then washed Paul and Silas’ wounds, and the entire family was baptized. (Acts 16:33)
What does one have to believe to be saved? One must acknowledge the truth that one is a sinner before a Holy God. One must understand that Jesus Christ came as God in the flesh. He paid the penalty for all past, present, and future sins through His death, burial, and resurrection. The moment a person believes (meaning to trust in or rely on) in Him and His work on their behalf, that person immediately possesses forgiveness and everlasting life. That is justification; God declares a guilty sinner righteous by faith. (Phil 3:9, Eph 2:5-9)
Is that easy believism? Well, one thing we know – the Gospel is easy enough for a child to understand and believe. We also know the simplicity of the very same Gospel confounds the proud and shames the wise. (1Cor 1:22, 27) They stumble and fall over it all the time. On the other hand, the humble will not stumble when they sincerely inquire, “What must I do to be saved?”
Believing God so loved He “Gave to Save” can boggle the mind. But getting out of the way of our pride and self-importance is where we truly bang our heads. The Fall severely bent us toward being egocentric rather than theocentric. It’s more about us and less about Him. This can be true even when we approach Him to receive the GIFT of salvation. We want to do anything, dress in fig leaves, be circumcised or baptized, self-flagellate, or self-congratulate. We insist on the add-ons to be saved, not God!
Another time the Apostle Paul would remind the foolish Galatians: “…a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified. (Gal 2:16)
Returning to Philippi: “Now when he (the jailer) had brought them (Paul & Silas) into his house, he set food before them; and he rejoiced, having believed in God with all his household.” (Acts 16:34)
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.
Is it easy for a person to be saved? When you say yes, an immediate concern is often raised − is easy believism being advocated? We will address that here.
In Acts 16, the Philippian jailer asks what he must do to be saved. Paul and Silas said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:31). Notice that “Belief” is the only stated requirement for justification. Then Paul and Silas “…spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house.” (Acts 16:32) They believed. The jailer then washed Paul and Silas’ wounds, and the entire family was baptized. (Acts 16:33)
What does one have to believe to be saved? One must acknowledge the truth that one is a sinner before a Holy God. One must understand that Jesus Christ came as God in the flesh. He paid the penalty for all past, present, and future sins through His death, burial, and resurrection. The moment a person believes (meaning to trust in or rely on) in Him and His work on their behalf, that person immediately possesses forgiveness and everlasting life. That is justification; God declares a guilty sinner righteous by faith. (Phil 3:9, Eph 2:5-9)
Is that easy believism? Well, one thing we know – the Gospel is easy enough for a child to understand and believe. We also know the simplicity of the very same Gospel confounds the proud and shames the wise. (1Cor 1:22, 27) They stumble and fall over it all the time. On the other hand, the humble will not stumble when they sincerely inquire, “What must I do to be saved?”
Believing God so loved He “Gave to Save” can boggle the mind. But getting out of the way of our pride and self-importance is where we truly bang our heads. The Fall severely bent us toward being egocentric rather than theocentric. It’s more about us and less about Him. This can be true even when we approach Him to receive the GIFT of salvation. We want to do anything, dress in fig leaves, be circumcised or baptized, self-flagellate, or self-congratulate. We insist on the add-ons to be saved, not God!
Another time the Apostle Paul would remind the foolish Galatians: “…a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified. (Gal 2:16)
Returning to Philippi: “Now when he (the jailer) had brought them (Paul & Silas) into his house, he set food before them; and he rejoiced, having believed in God with all his household.” (Acts 16:34)
To whom shall we go?
“My flesh is food indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me and I in him.” (John 6:56)
Therefore, many of His disciples, when they heard this, said, “This is a hard saying; who can understand it?” (John 6:60)
From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. (John 6:66)
Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” (John 6:67)
But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Also, we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (John 6:68, 69)
By the hand of God, Israel walked out of Egypt. They left the roofs over their heads and the comforts such as they were. Easy access to water was in their rear-view mirror. Giants were looming. It did not take much time until they longed for – “The fish which we ate freely in Egypt, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic; but now our whole being is dried up; there is nothing at all except this manna before our eyes!” (Num 11:5) Israel despised the daily ration of manna even though it kept them alive. They wanted to turn around and go back to Egypt - back to small and temporal pleasures, to slavery, to suffering, to cruel bondage.
Centuries later, standing before Israel, Jesus told them, “I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they are dead. This is the bread which comes down from heaven that one may eat of it and not die.” (John 6:48-50) Israel didn’t want this bread either. They turned away and returned to slavery, suffering, and bondage to sin.
We are in today’s audience, and still, Jesus speaks. As ever, He has the words of eternal life. Jesus offers abundance and freedom. He also promises crosses to bear and enmity with the world. These are like the giants in the land. But He assures us, “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Rom 8:37).
Egypt still offers small and temporal pleasures – and eternal bondage.
So let me ask you, “To whom shall we go?”
“My flesh is food indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me and I in him.” (John 6:56)
Therefore, many of His disciples, when they heard this, said, “This is a hard saying; who can understand it?” (John 6:60)
From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. (John 6:66)
Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” (John 6:67)
But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Also, we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (John 6:68, 69)
By the hand of God, Israel walked out of Egypt. They left the roofs over their heads and the comforts such as they were. Easy access to water was in their rear-view mirror. Giants were looming. It did not take much time until they longed for – “The fish which we ate freely in Egypt, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic; but now our whole being is dried up; there is nothing at all except this manna before our eyes!” (Num 11:5) Israel despised the daily ration of manna even though it kept them alive. They wanted to turn around and go back to Egypt - back to small and temporal pleasures, to slavery, to suffering, to cruel bondage.
Centuries later, standing before Israel, Jesus told them, “I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they are dead. This is the bread which comes down from heaven that one may eat of it and not die.” (John 6:48-50) Israel didn’t want this bread either. They turned away and returned to slavery, suffering, and bondage to sin.
We are in today’s audience, and still, Jesus speaks. As ever, He has the words of eternal life. Jesus offers abundance and freedom. He also promises crosses to bear and enmity with the world. These are like the giants in the land. But He assures us, “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Rom 8:37).
Egypt still offers small and temporal pleasures – and eternal bondage.
So let me ask you, “To whom shall we go?”
Are People Generally Good and Deserving of Heaven?
I remember those times when our kids would fall asleep in the car, and we would have to carry them into the house. They looked so at peace and so angelic. But then, when they would wake up, how things would change. How could these innocent-looking children act like a holy terror sometimes when they were awake?
I also remember speaking to a young mother one time. She shared with me how she noticed that her young child, not quite a year old, was starting to express her own mild rebellious will. They figure out the wrong things all by themselves! That’s why you have to teach kids to do the right thing.
Today we are seeing more and more teens committing heinous crimes. Some wonder how an ‘innocent ‘ child can grow up to be such a monster. To some degree, the answer can be complex. But from a Biblical perspective, it is not that hard to understand.
What does Jesus say about the human condition?
We are born separated from God because of the disobedience of our very first parents. In David’s confession, he declared, “Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me. “ (Ps. 51:5) Through Adam, sin, and death entered the world. (Rom. 5:12) We are born with a sin nature, and therefore we sin; “…all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. (Rom. 3:23) From God’s perspective, Jeremiah the prophet proclaimed that “the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” (Jer. 17:9) Jesus explained, “…out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornication, murders, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness”. (Mark 7:21, 22)
What happens when 1+1=3?
Our heart [mind, will, emotion] deceives us into thinking that we aren’t that bad. Because we compare ourselves to others, most of us think we are good. But if you are honest and compare yourself to God, who is holy, you will be convicted of your lack of holiness. If you get this basic truth wrong, it’s like adding one plus one and coming up with three as the answer. You can never understand the problem if you get the basics wrong.
Where does true salvation begin?
It must start with the understanding that in comparison to God, I am not good. “There is none righteous, no, not one.” (Rom 3:10) God is holy. He told Moses, “No man can see Me and live.” (Ex. 33:20) The Lord dwells “in unapproachable light whom no man has seen or can see.” (I Tim. 6:16) The initial step toward God in salvation is when one in humility realizes that God is holy, and I am not.
Do not be Deceived!
Most people acknowledge that they do wrong things. They say things like, “no one is perfect” or “we all make mistakes.” Yet most believe they are good enough and deserve heaven. People reason, “I go to church; I help my neighbors; I tried to live a good life; I never killed anyone!” But even our righteousness is like filthy rags to our Holy God. (Is. 64:6) This belief that we are good will condemn many on the day of judgment when many hear Jesus say, “I never knew you; depart from Me you who practice lawlessness!” (Matt. 7:23) DON’T BE ONE OF THEM! “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31)
I remember those times when our kids would fall asleep in the car, and we would have to carry them into the house. They looked so at peace and so angelic. But then, when they would wake up, how things would change. How could these innocent-looking children act like a holy terror sometimes when they were awake?
I also remember speaking to a young mother one time. She shared with me how she noticed that her young child, not quite a year old, was starting to express her own mild rebellious will. They figure out the wrong things all by themselves! That’s why you have to teach kids to do the right thing.
Today we are seeing more and more teens committing heinous crimes. Some wonder how an ‘innocent ‘ child can grow up to be such a monster. To some degree, the answer can be complex. But from a Biblical perspective, it is not that hard to understand.
What does Jesus say about the human condition?
We are born separated from God because of the disobedience of our very first parents. In David’s confession, he declared, “Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me. “ (Ps. 51:5) Through Adam, sin, and death entered the world. (Rom. 5:12) We are born with a sin nature, and therefore we sin; “…all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. (Rom. 3:23) From God’s perspective, Jeremiah the prophet proclaimed that “the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” (Jer. 17:9) Jesus explained, “…out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornication, murders, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness”. (Mark 7:21, 22)
What happens when 1+1=3?
Our heart [mind, will, emotion] deceives us into thinking that we aren’t that bad. Because we compare ourselves to others, most of us think we are good. But if you are honest and compare yourself to God, who is holy, you will be convicted of your lack of holiness. If you get this basic truth wrong, it’s like adding one plus one and coming up with three as the answer. You can never understand the problem if you get the basics wrong.
Where does true salvation begin?
It must start with the understanding that in comparison to God, I am not good. “There is none righteous, no, not one.” (Rom 3:10) God is holy. He told Moses, “No man can see Me and live.” (Ex. 33:20) The Lord dwells “in unapproachable light whom no man has seen or can see.” (I Tim. 6:16) The initial step toward God in salvation is when one in humility realizes that God is holy, and I am not.
Do not be Deceived!
Most people acknowledge that they do wrong things. They say things like, “no one is perfect” or “we all make mistakes.” Yet most believe they are good enough and deserve heaven. People reason, “I go to church; I help my neighbors; I tried to live a good life; I never killed anyone!” But even our righteousness is like filthy rags to our Holy God. (Is. 64:6) This belief that we are good will condemn many on the day of judgment when many hear Jesus say, “I never knew you; depart from Me you who practice lawlessness!” (Matt. 7:23) DON’T BE ONE OF THEM! “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31)
Psalm 104
1 Bless the LORD, O my soul!
O LORD my God, You are very great:
You are clothed with honor and majesty,
2 Who cover Yourself with light as with a garment,
Who stretch out the heavens like a curtain.
3 He lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters,
Who makes the clouds His chariot,
Who walks on the wings of the wind,
4 Who makes His angels spirits,
His ministers a flame of fire.
5 You who laid the foundations of the earth,
So that it should not be moved forever,
6 You covered it with the deep as with a garment;
The waters stood above the mountains.
7 At Your rebuke they fled;
At the voice of Your thunder they hastened away.
8 They went up over the mountains;
They went down into the valleys,
To the place which You founded for them.
9 You have set a boundary that they may not pass over,
That they may not return to cover the earth.
10 He sends the springs into the valleys;
They flow among the hills.
11 They give drink to every beast of the field;
The wild donkeys quench their thirst.
12 By them the birds of the heavens have their home;
They sing among the branches.
13 He waters the hills from His upper chambers;
The earth is satisfied with the fruit of Your works.
14 He causes the grass to grow for the cattle,
And vegetation for the service of man,
That he may bring forth food from the earth,
15 And wine that makes glad the heart of man,
Oil to make his face shine,
And bread which strengthens man’s heart.
16 The trees of the LORD are full of sap,
The cedars of Lebanon which He planted,
17 Where the birds make their nests;
The stork has her home in the fir trees.
18 The high hills are for the wild goats;
The cliffs are a refuge for the rock badgers.
19 He appointed the moon for seasons;
The sun knows its going down.
20 You make darkness, and it is night,
In which all the beasts of the forest creep about.
21 The young lions roar after their prey,
And seek their food from God.
22 When the sun rises, they gather together
And lie down in their dens.
23 Man goes out to his work
And to his labor until the evening.
24 O LORD, how manifold are Your works!
In wisdom You have made them all.
The earth is full of Your possessions--
25 This great and wide sea,
In which are innumerable teeming things,
Living things both small and great.
26 There the ships sail about;
There is that Leviathan
Which You have made to play there.
27 These all wait for You,
That You may give them their food in due season.
28 What You give them they gather in;
You open Your hand, they are filled with good.
29 You hide Your face, they are troubled;
You take away their breath, they die and return to their dust.
30 You send forth Your Spirit, they are created;
And You renew the face of the earth.
31 May the glory of the LORD endure forever;
May the LORD rejoice in His works.
32 He looks on the earth, and it trembles;
He touches the hills, and they smoke.
33 I will sing to the LORD as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.
34 May my meditation be sweet to Him;
I will be glad in the LORD.
35 May sinners be consumed from the earth,
And the wicked be no more.
Bless the LORD, O my soul! Praise the LORD!
1 Bless the LORD, O my soul!
O LORD my God, You are very great:
You are clothed with honor and majesty,
2 Who cover Yourself with light as with a garment,
Who stretch out the heavens like a curtain.
3 He lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters,
Who makes the clouds His chariot,
Who walks on the wings of the wind,
4 Who makes His angels spirits,
His ministers a flame of fire.
5 You who laid the foundations of the earth,
So that it should not be moved forever,
6 You covered it with the deep as with a garment;
The waters stood above the mountains.
7 At Your rebuke they fled;
At the voice of Your thunder they hastened away.
8 They went up over the mountains;
They went down into the valleys,
To the place which You founded for them.
9 You have set a boundary that they may not pass over,
That they may not return to cover the earth.
10 He sends the springs into the valleys;
They flow among the hills.
11 They give drink to every beast of the field;
The wild donkeys quench their thirst.
12 By them the birds of the heavens have their home;
They sing among the branches.
13 He waters the hills from His upper chambers;
The earth is satisfied with the fruit of Your works.
14 He causes the grass to grow for the cattle,
And vegetation for the service of man,
That he may bring forth food from the earth,
15 And wine that makes glad the heart of man,
Oil to make his face shine,
And bread which strengthens man’s heart.
16 The trees of the LORD are full of sap,
The cedars of Lebanon which He planted,
17 Where the birds make their nests;
The stork has her home in the fir trees.
18 The high hills are for the wild goats;
The cliffs are a refuge for the rock badgers.
19 He appointed the moon for seasons;
The sun knows its going down.
20 You make darkness, and it is night,
In which all the beasts of the forest creep about.
21 The young lions roar after their prey,
And seek their food from God.
22 When the sun rises, they gather together
And lie down in their dens.
23 Man goes out to his work
And to his labor until the evening.
24 O LORD, how manifold are Your works!
In wisdom You have made them all.
The earth is full of Your possessions--
25 This great and wide sea,
In which are innumerable teeming things,
Living things both small and great.
26 There the ships sail about;
There is that Leviathan
Which You have made to play there.
27 These all wait for You,
That You may give them their food in due season.
28 What You give them they gather in;
You open Your hand, they are filled with good.
29 You hide Your face, they are troubled;
You take away their breath, they die and return to their dust.
30 You send forth Your Spirit, they are created;
And You renew the face of the earth.
31 May the glory of the LORD endure forever;
May the LORD rejoice in His works.
32 He looks on the earth, and it trembles;
He touches the hills, and they smoke.
33 I will sing to the LORD as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.
34 May my meditation be sweet to Him;
I will be glad in the LORD.
35 May sinners be consumed from the earth,
And the wicked be no more.
Bless the LORD, O my soul! Praise the LORD!
Gone
“As for man, his days are like grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more.” (Psalm 103:15-16)
A thunderstorm passed earlier this evening, and it is gone. The humidity is gone, the clouds, the day. I am standing by the old foundations on the backside of my neighbor’s farm. Remnants of a stone wall, and a few rock slabs, are gone from sight in briars and wild raspberry bushes. A century back, a family and a farm existed here. They are long gone. The present farm and the one I spent countless days on is further east of this old place. The farmer is gone, passing a few years back. Our visits are gone. The dairy cows, the horses, the pigs, the rabbits, the goats, the mules, the beef cows, and the chickens are all gone. The fences are gone. That time is gone. The last generation lives there now, and then......
A pleasant breeze moves the tall grass around me like a grassy ocean in shimmering waves. The unseen wind has its effect, and then it is gone as it travels southeast to be followed by more wind. The sun will soon be gone behind the western horizon. I stand here and remember many things that took place on this land. The most important to me happened over there on that hill, that one right there - I, the prodigal, decided to return to my Father’s house and follow Jesus Christ for the rest of my days. That euphoric moment is gone, and now is the time of sanctification, the “working out (my) salvation…for it is God who works in (me) both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” (Phil 2:12-13)
I got to thinking as I took a final look around before heading home. We have such a brief time to glorify God with our lives and make a difference in this world for Him and others - before we are gone.
“As for man, his days are like grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more.” (Psalm 103:15-16)
A thunderstorm passed earlier this evening, and it is gone. The humidity is gone, the clouds, the day. I am standing by the old foundations on the backside of my neighbor’s farm. Remnants of a stone wall, and a few rock slabs, are gone from sight in briars and wild raspberry bushes. A century back, a family and a farm existed here. They are long gone. The present farm and the one I spent countless days on is further east of this old place. The farmer is gone, passing a few years back. Our visits are gone. The dairy cows, the horses, the pigs, the rabbits, the goats, the mules, the beef cows, and the chickens are all gone. The fences are gone. That time is gone. The last generation lives there now, and then......
A pleasant breeze moves the tall grass around me like a grassy ocean in shimmering waves. The unseen wind has its effect, and then it is gone as it travels southeast to be followed by more wind. The sun will soon be gone behind the western horizon. I stand here and remember many things that took place on this land. The most important to me happened over there on that hill, that one right there - I, the prodigal, decided to return to my Father’s house and follow Jesus Christ for the rest of my days. That euphoric moment is gone, and now is the time of sanctification, the “working out (my) salvation…for it is God who works in (me) both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” (Phil 2:12-13)
I got to thinking as I took a final look around before heading home. We have such a brief time to glorify God with our lives and make a difference in this world for Him and others - before we are gone.
Whoever is Born of God does not Sin
The book of First John, written by the apostle John, caused me much grief. To me, it always seemed so black and white. Listening to the wrong people just added to my confusion. According to this verse in the title, they will tell you that if you sin habitually, you aren’t saved.
In addition, a number of popular preachers teach that 1 John demonstrates ten tests for determining salvation. One has come up with twelve tests to evaluate your salvation.
A reviewer summarized these twelve tests as follows [My answers are in parenthesis]:
1) Do you walk in the light? [Not all the time. It can change moment by moment.]
2) Do you confess your sins? [Not always]
3) Do you keep God’s commands and are not burdened by them? [Not all of the time]
4) Do you walk as He walked? [Absolutely not! Jesus is perfect. I am not.]
5) Do you love other believers? [Most of the time]
6) Do you reject “the world”? [More so now than I did when I was a younger believer.]
7) Are you remaining in fellowship with believers and persevering in your faith? [I am, but I cannot guarantee I will do so until the day I die.]
8) Do you confess with your mouth and believe in your heart what the Scriptures testify to about the Christ? [I do. This is basically the same as the last test.]
9) Are you growing in holiness? [I have, but it makes me see more of my wretchedness.]
10) Are you growing in your practice of righteousness? [Sometimes, but not always.]
11) Are you overcoming the world, or is the world overcoming you? [I am overcoming the world at this moment. That could change in a nanosecond.]
12) Do you believe the Gospel? [Yes. It’s the only way to be saved.]
*** The Only Important Test for Salvation ***
According to these tests, I have failed miserably over 71 years of my life. It’s only the last test that can offer anyone assurance because it’s the only Biblical requirement to be saved from the penalty of sin – to understand and believe the gospel.
[See Assurance to be sure of your salvation]
The Purpose of the Book of 1 John
The book of First John was written to believers for the purpose of fellowship with God (1:3-7). It was written to encourage them to abide in Christ. Fellowship and abiding are basically the same things. It focuses on the ongoing relationship [sanctification] a believer has with the person of Christ after they have become a child of God by faith in Jesus Christ [justification].
See post, The Battle of the Two Natures
What is habitual sin?
I struggled with this verse for a long time -“Whoever is born of God does not sin. “(1 John 3:9) Most will not go as far as to say that you will never commit sin, but they will use this verse to say that you cannot habitually sin. According to them, if you habitually sin, then you were never saved. They are the ones who usually define habitual. I sometimes ask people how often one has to sin for it to be habitual – once an hour, once a day, once a week, once a month? I never get the same answer. How would it even be possible to know?
For that reason, we know it cannot mean habitual. There’s no way to determine what habitual means. John is also clear that we do sin. He says in chapter one, “if we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. “So to say we do not sin is not a Scriptural option. We all sin even after we are saved. Biblical characters exemplify this as well as experience as a human being.
What does it mean, ‘does not sin’?
The third option to understand 1 John 3:9 is to see the difference in the meaning between ‘do’ and ‘practice.’ The Greek word for ‘do’ is “poeio” [4160] and is found in this verse. The Greek word for ‘practice’ is prasso [4238] and is not in this verse. Strong’s concordance explains the difference – prasso, which means to “perform repeatedly or habitually, “thus differing from [4160] poeio, which properly refers to a SINGLE ACT. Thus, the verse would actually mean, “whoever has been born of God does not do a single act of sin.”
Since we do sin, the only conclusion one can come to is that it is impossible to sin when one is living out of the resources of the new nature, whatever is born of God. “Walk in the Spirit and you will not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.” (Gal. 5:16) It’s impossible for the new nature to sin because it is God’s nature. The reverse is also true; we can only sin when we are living out of the resources of the old nature, the flesh.
How do I know I am saved?
God absolutely desires for us to live a holy life. There are consequences for sinning. It should be the desire of every believer to live a committed and faithful life out of a thankful heart for what God has done for us. But the truth is that we are still sinners by nature and by practice even after we are saved from the penalty of sin.
The only accurate way of determining if someone is saved is to see if they have understood the gospel and believed it. All other ways lead down the road of self-examination. Have I done enough? Am I doing enough? Am I sinning less? Have I confessed all my sin? Did I really repent? Was I sincere? Those things will only lead to a performance-driven life that causes more doubt than assurance. It may also lead one to think they are saved [I am doing many of these things] but have failed to place their faith in Christ and His work on the cross.
So, my question to you is, “Have you believed on the Lord Jesus Christ?” If you are a believer, are you desiring to live a life out of gratitude that glorifies Him and is good for you?
The book of First John, written by the apostle John, caused me much grief. To me, it always seemed so black and white. Listening to the wrong people just added to my confusion. According to this verse in the title, they will tell you that if you sin habitually, you aren’t saved.
In addition, a number of popular preachers teach that 1 John demonstrates ten tests for determining salvation. One has come up with twelve tests to evaluate your salvation.
A reviewer summarized these twelve tests as follows [My answers are in parenthesis]:
1) Do you walk in the light? [Not all the time. It can change moment by moment.]
2) Do you confess your sins? [Not always]
3) Do you keep God’s commands and are not burdened by them? [Not all of the time]
4) Do you walk as He walked? [Absolutely not! Jesus is perfect. I am not.]
5) Do you love other believers? [Most of the time]
6) Do you reject “the world”? [More so now than I did when I was a younger believer.]
7) Are you remaining in fellowship with believers and persevering in your faith? [I am, but I cannot guarantee I will do so until the day I die.]
8) Do you confess with your mouth and believe in your heart what the Scriptures testify to about the Christ? [I do. This is basically the same as the last test.]
9) Are you growing in holiness? [I have, but it makes me see more of my wretchedness.]
10) Are you growing in your practice of righteousness? [Sometimes, but not always.]
11) Are you overcoming the world, or is the world overcoming you? [I am overcoming the world at this moment. That could change in a nanosecond.]
12) Do you believe the Gospel? [Yes. It’s the only way to be saved.]
*** The Only Important Test for Salvation ***
According to these tests, I have failed miserably over 71 years of my life. It’s only the last test that can offer anyone assurance because it’s the only Biblical requirement to be saved from the penalty of sin – to understand and believe the gospel.
[See Assurance to be sure of your salvation]
The Purpose of the Book of 1 John
The book of First John was written to believers for the purpose of fellowship with God (1:3-7). It was written to encourage them to abide in Christ. Fellowship and abiding are basically the same things. It focuses on the ongoing relationship [sanctification] a believer has with the person of Christ after they have become a child of God by faith in Jesus Christ [justification].
See post, The Battle of the Two Natures
What is habitual sin?
I struggled with this verse for a long time -“Whoever is born of God does not sin. “(1 John 3:9) Most will not go as far as to say that you will never commit sin, but they will use this verse to say that you cannot habitually sin. According to them, if you habitually sin, then you were never saved. They are the ones who usually define habitual. I sometimes ask people how often one has to sin for it to be habitual – once an hour, once a day, once a week, once a month? I never get the same answer. How would it even be possible to know?
For that reason, we know it cannot mean habitual. There’s no way to determine what habitual means. John is also clear that we do sin. He says in chapter one, “if we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. “So to say we do not sin is not a Scriptural option. We all sin even after we are saved. Biblical characters exemplify this as well as experience as a human being.
What does it mean, ‘does not sin’?
The third option to understand 1 John 3:9 is to see the difference in the meaning between ‘do’ and ‘practice.’ The Greek word for ‘do’ is “poeio” [4160] and is found in this verse. The Greek word for ‘practice’ is prasso [4238] and is not in this verse. Strong’s concordance explains the difference – prasso, which means to “perform repeatedly or habitually, “thus differing from [4160] poeio, which properly refers to a SINGLE ACT. Thus, the verse would actually mean, “whoever has been born of God does not do a single act of sin.”
Since we do sin, the only conclusion one can come to is that it is impossible to sin when one is living out of the resources of the new nature, whatever is born of God. “Walk in the Spirit and you will not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.” (Gal. 5:16) It’s impossible for the new nature to sin because it is God’s nature. The reverse is also true; we can only sin when we are living out of the resources of the old nature, the flesh.
How do I know I am saved?
God absolutely desires for us to live a holy life. There are consequences for sinning. It should be the desire of every believer to live a committed and faithful life out of a thankful heart for what God has done for us. But the truth is that we are still sinners by nature and by practice even after we are saved from the penalty of sin.
The only accurate way of determining if someone is saved is to see if they have understood the gospel and believed it. All other ways lead down the road of self-examination. Have I done enough? Am I doing enough? Am I sinning less? Have I confessed all my sin? Did I really repent? Was I sincere? Those things will only lead to a performance-driven life that causes more doubt than assurance. It may also lead one to think they are saved [I am doing many of these things] but have failed to place their faith in Christ and His work on the cross.
So, my question to you is, “Have you believed on the Lord Jesus Christ?” If you are a believer, are you desiring to live a life out of gratitude that glorifies Him and is good for you?
The Next Generation
Growing up in a rural area, there were a lot of folks around us who had gardens. My grandfather lived on one side of us, and my uncle on the other side. They always planted a garden. But gardens seemed to have lost their importance with the ease of going to a grocery store to get your food.
I should have no problem growing a garden, but I would. That skill was not passed on to me. Generations lose out when valuable information is not passed on. The same is true in the spiritual realm.
God had commanded the Israelites to teach their children the commands given to them in the law. They were to do this diligently and often –"when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up." (Deut. 6:7) In this way, future generations would know the Lord and follow Him. The result would be that God would continue to bless them and protect them. (Deut. 28:1-14) And they would fulfill their God-intended purpose of being a kingdom of priests and a Holy nation while witnessing to the one true God. (Ex. 19:6; Is. 43:10, 12)
But after Joshua and his generation died, the next generation of Israelites began to back slide. They "did evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals." (Judges 2:11) Why would they do this? The previous verse gives some light. After the death of Joshua, the next generation "did not know the Lord, nor yet the work which he had done for Israel." (v. 10) How could they not know?
There are certainly other issues involved in them not knowing the Lord, such as their own heart conditions and the failure of the previous generation to cast out all the land's inhabitants. Yet it is also apparent that the older generation failed to communicate the commandments and the faithfulness of the Lord to their sons and daughters. This failure resulted in significant consequences for the nation.
There are some today who question the effectiveness of the church. Could it be that we failed to share our faith with the next generation? Did we miss the opportunities at the dinner table, while riding in the car, or after church on Sunday? Discipleship begins in the home. If you have young children, you can start now. If you're a grandparent, you can have a significant influence on the faith of your grandchildren. We may have failed in the past, but we can change that today.
Some have the skills to teach a person how to grow a garden. But more importantly, if you are a Christian, you can share the truth about our great God and Savior Jesus Christ with them. This will have an everlasting influence.
Psalm 78:5-7 For He established a testimony in Jacob, And appointed a law in Israel, Which He commanded our fathers, That they should make them known to their children; That the generation to come might know them, The children who would be born, That they may arise and declare them to their children, That they may set their hope in God, And not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments…
Growing up in a rural area, there were a lot of folks around us who had gardens. My grandfather lived on one side of us, and my uncle on the other side. They always planted a garden. But gardens seemed to have lost their importance with the ease of going to a grocery store to get your food.
I should have no problem growing a garden, but I would. That skill was not passed on to me. Generations lose out when valuable information is not passed on. The same is true in the spiritual realm.
God had commanded the Israelites to teach their children the commands given to them in the law. They were to do this diligently and often –"when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up." (Deut. 6:7) In this way, future generations would know the Lord and follow Him. The result would be that God would continue to bless them and protect them. (Deut. 28:1-14) And they would fulfill their God-intended purpose of being a kingdom of priests and a Holy nation while witnessing to the one true God. (Ex. 19:6; Is. 43:10, 12)
But after Joshua and his generation died, the next generation of Israelites began to back slide. They "did evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals." (Judges 2:11) Why would they do this? The previous verse gives some light. After the death of Joshua, the next generation "did not know the Lord, nor yet the work which he had done for Israel." (v. 10) How could they not know?
There are certainly other issues involved in them not knowing the Lord, such as their own heart conditions and the failure of the previous generation to cast out all the land's inhabitants. Yet it is also apparent that the older generation failed to communicate the commandments and the faithfulness of the Lord to their sons and daughters. This failure resulted in significant consequences for the nation.
There are some today who question the effectiveness of the church. Could it be that we failed to share our faith with the next generation? Did we miss the opportunities at the dinner table, while riding in the car, or after church on Sunday? Discipleship begins in the home. If you have young children, you can start now. If you're a grandparent, you can have a significant influence on the faith of your grandchildren. We may have failed in the past, but we can change that today.
Some have the skills to teach a person how to grow a garden. But more importantly, if you are a Christian, you can share the truth about our great God and Savior Jesus Christ with them. This will have an everlasting influence.
Psalm 78:5-7 For He established a testimony in Jacob, And appointed a law in Israel, Which He commanded our fathers, That they should make them known to their children; That the generation to come might know them, The children who would be born, That they may arise and declare them to their children, That they may set their hope in God, And not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments…
Living by Dying
“When Christ calls, He bids a man, come and die.” (Bonhoeffer)
Lord Jesus, that indeed, would I but lay my life down for Thee. My old man, my old nature, my flesh, does not want to die even though I have come, and I knew that death would be required. Instead, I grasp it ever close, often in the pretense of myself dying. Forgive me and hold me steady as I step out warily by faith to live a surrendered life; a Christ is living-in-me and through-me life. A life of praise, gratitude, of giving rather than taking. A life of sacrifice scattering Your bounty and blessings and not grabbing, clutching them to myself.
Those who do not believe in You, Lord Jesus, will stand outside the arena and point to believers in the throes of this battle to die to the old and live to the new and mock with chants of hypocrisy and foolishness. Many times these aren’t false charges but all too true. Nevertheless, they do not realize the man, woman, or even the child in that arena has come to die. You have called us and bid us exchange our very lives for Yours. We falter, we fail, and we lay in the dust and dirt, kicking at the goads of such a death, even as the accusing pointing fingers cannot discern the lifelong ongoing process of the exchange.
Today will be one more day of the progression from faith to faith and glory to glory through Him who has loved me, even unto His death. There will be day by day of my sanctification until the day I am glorified. I will cease to walk by faith on that day but then praise God by sight.
For indeed, Christ calls and bids us come and die that we may truly live with Him now and forever.
Thank You, Lord Jesus.
“When Christ calls, He bids a man, come and die.” (Bonhoeffer)
Lord Jesus, that indeed, would I but lay my life down for Thee. My old man, my old nature, my flesh, does not want to die even though I have come, and I knew that death would be required. Instead, I grasp it ever close, often in the pretense of myself dying. Forgive me and hold me steady as I step out warily by faith to live a surrendered life; a Christ is living-in-me and through-me life. A life of praise, gratitude, of giving rather than taking. A life of sacrifice scattering Your bounty and blessings and not grabbing, clutching them to myself.
Those who do not believe in You, Lord Jesus, will stand outside the arena and point to believers in the throes of this battle to die to the old and live to the new and mock with chants of hypocrisy and foolishness. Many times these aren’t false charges but all too true. Nevertheless, they do not realize the man, woman, or even the child in that arena has come to die. You have called us and bid us exchange our very lives for Yours. We falter, we fail, and we lay in the dust and dirt, kicking at the goads of such a death, even as the accusing pointing fingers cannot discern the lifelong ongoing process of the exchange.
Today will be one more day of the progression from faith to faith and glory to glory through Him who has loved me, even unto His death. There will be day by day of my sanctification until the day I am glorified. I will cease to walk by faith on that day but then praise God by sight.
For indeed, Christ calls and bids us come and die that we may truly live with Him now and forever.
Thank You, Lord Jesus.
Come to the Light
It happened in about five seconds. I had placed some paper in the dry woodpile and struck a match to it. Immediately whoosh and crackle, the flames spread. And out of the inferno, a baby bird came running. It hit the light of the day and the fresh air of freedom and life. I felt happy relief for the innocent little bird's salvation - then, to my disbelief and horror, it turned around, ran back into the woodpile, and to its death in the roaring flames. My heart sank, and I said, "Why baby bird did you do that?"
"And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. Then the Lord God called to Adam and said to him, "Where are you"?" (Gen 3:8, 9) Adam and Eve had sinned against the Lord God and high-tailed it for the woods. They ran from the light of day and the fresh air of freedom and life to darkness and death. "Why Adam and Eve did you do that?"
It brought fire to Eve's childbirth and grudging submission to her husband. It brought Adam toil under the wilting heat of the sun, contention with his helpmate, and banishment from the garden. It brought a curse upon the world and all generations to follow. But before they departed paradise, the Lord God promised them a Redeemer would come. He then shed an animal's blood, made skin tunics, and clothed them. Such was a picture of the coming Redeemer's shed blood and clothing those who believed with His righteousness.
By the cover of night, a very religious man came to Jesus centuries later. He asked Jesus, "How do we get back to the garden from these dark and deadly woods?" Jesus told him to run to the Son for light and life. All else is under condemnation. The light has come into the world, but men love the darkness of the woods because they have sinned and know it. "But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God." (John 3:21)
We must run out of the woodpile to light, liberty, and life. We can do so because "He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins." (Col 1:13, 14)
The Lord God is calling, "Where are you? Come to the Light!" And your answer is……..?
It happened in about five seconds. I had placed some paper in the dry woodpile and struck a match to it. Immediately whoosh and crackle, the flames spread. And out of the inferno, a baby bird came running. It hit the light of the day and the fresh air of freedom and life. I felt happy relief for the innocent little bird's salvation - then, to my disbelief and horror, it turned around, ran back into the woodpile, and to its death in the roaring flames. My heart sank, and I said, "Why baby bird did you do that?"
"And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. Then the Lord God called to Adam and said to him, "Where are you"?" (Gen 3:8, 9) Adam and Eve had sinned against the Lord God and high-tailed it for the woods. They ran from the light of day and the fresh air of freedom and life to darkness and death. "Why Adam and Eve did you do that?"
It brought fire to Eve's childbirth and grudging submission to her husband. It brought Adam toil under the wilting heat of the sun, contention with his helpmate, and banishment from the garden. It brought a curse upon the world and all generations to follow. But before they departed paradise, the Lord God promised them a Redeemer would come. He then shed an animal's blood, made skin tunics, and clothed them. Such was a picture of the coming Redeemer's shed blood and clothing those who believed with His righteousness.
By the cover of night, a very religious man came to Jesus centuries later. He asked Jesus, "How do we get back to the garden from these dark and deadly woods?" Jesus told him to run to the Son for light and life. All else is under condemnation. The light has come into the world, but men love the darkness of the woods because they have sinned and know it. "But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God." (John 3:21)
We must run out of the woodpile to light, liberty, and life. We can do so because "He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins." (Col 1:13, 14)
The Lord God is calling, "Where are you? Come to the Light!" And your answer is……..?
Oh Shepherd, come find me
I walked down a bending dark road
Not even sure how I came to be there
Something tumbled bout in my chest
Then my stomach became a butterfly snare
Why do I go to where I find nothing of rest?
Adam that Adam it is he who brings me here
The best of fruit is but two dark bends beyond
Further, further, surely, I have nothing to fear
Oh, have I gone too far? Will my Rescuer respond?
The darkness ahead made pretty promises to me
I chased the voice; convinced life would be found
Now, like a bad dream, my heavy feet seek to flee
But in the many lies that bid me on, I am sorely bound
Shepherd, oh Shepherd, come find me once again
This sheep has wandered afar to where I do not know
Caught in the brambles and tangles of my foolish sins
Pick me up and tend me in Your grace and mercies’ flow
Place me on Your shoulders; return me to Thy safe fold
I am so thankful for the search and answer to my plea
Walks on dark roads are chasing dung rather than Your gold
My Rescuer, Redeemer, and Lord, only in Your Truth am I Free.
I walked down a bending dark road
Not even sure how I came to be there
Something tumbled bout in my chest
Then my stomach became a butterfly snare
Why do I go to where I find nothing of rest?
Adam that Adam it is he who brings me here
The best of fruit is but two dark bends beyond
Further, further, surely, I have nothing to fear
Oh, have I gone too far? Will my Rescuer respond?
The darkness ahead made pretty promises to me
I chased the voice; convinced life would be found
Now, like a bad dream, my heavy feet seek to flee
But in the many lies that bid me on, I am sorely bound
Shepherd, oh Shepherd, come find me once again
This sheep has wandered afar to where I do not know
Caught in the brambles and tangles of my foolish sins
Pick me up and tend me in Your grace and mercies’ flow
Place me on Your shoulders; return me to Thy safe fold
I am so thankful for the search and answer to my plea
Walks on dark roads are chasing dung rather than Your gold
My Rescuer, Redeemer, and Lord, only in Your Truth am I Free.
The Miracle of Modern Day Israel by George Mains
The nation of Israel had its beginning with Abraham. He and his wife, Sarah, had a son, Isaac. Isaac had a son, Jacob, through whom all the promises of God would come. God would eventually change Jacob's name to Israel. (Gen. 32:28) Jacob had twelve sons that would become the twelve tribes of Israel. They were chosen by God to bring blessings to the whole world. The ultimate Blessing would be the descendant of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
God's Witness
God chose Israel to be His witness to the surrounding nations. If the nation lived obediently, God would bless them and cause the other countries to realize that the God of Israel was the true God. (Is. 43:10-12; Deut. 28:10; Josh. 2:9-11). The queen of Sheba traveled over 1,000 miles, about a three-month journey, to see the kingdom of Solomon.
Unfaithfulness
However, over the course of hundreds of years, Israel failed in their mission. They forsook the Lord over and over until there was no remedy. (II Chr. 36:16) Due to their disobedience, He would "bring a nation against" them, "a fierce nation" who would "besiege" their fortified walls and "destroy them," just as He had warned (Deut. 28:49-52).
Consequences
Due to their rejection of the Lord, He sent them into seventy years of Babylonian captivity. (II Chr. 36:16) Afterward, God brought them back into the land, and they rebuilt Jerusalem, the wall, and the temple. Then again, after six hundred years, the nation would reject Christ, God's ultimate Prophet. For that reason, God used the Romans to destroy the temple in 70 AD, eventually scattering the Jews around the world just as He said. They would become "few in number, whereas you were as the stars of heaven in multitude, because you would not obey the voice of the Lord your God (Deut. 28:62). Eventually, the Holy Land would almost become uninhabited. In the 1500s, there were only an estimated 5,000 Jews living in Ottoman Palestine and about 150,000 Muslims and Christians.
A Promise Fulfilled
God promised Israel a land forever. (Gen. 17:8) He pledged to bring them back into their land despite their unfaithfulness - "I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries; then I will bring you to your land" (Ez. 36:24). Amazingly, God has brought them back into their land. Today there are almost seven million Jewish people and almost two million Muslims and Christians living there. After being exiled for two thousand years, no other nation has been reunited to their land. Modern-day Israel is a God-ordained modern-day miracle.
Future Promises
Regardless of man's failure, God will fulfill all His promises to Israel and to the church as well. His fulfillment of past judgments and future promises to Israel confirms that He will also fulfill His promise of everlasting life to those who have believed on the Lord Jesus Christ. (John 3:16) His promise of a future kingdom on earth where Jesus will rule and reign in righteousness is coming. Are you ready? Will you be part of it?
The nation of Israel had its beginning with Abraham. He and his wife, Sarah, had a son, Isaac. Isaac had a son, Jacob, through whom all the promises of God would come. God would eventually change Jacob's name to Israel. (Gen. 32:28) Jacob had twelve sons that would become the twelve tribes of Israel. They were chosen by God to bring blessings to the whole world. The ultimate Blessing would be the descendant of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
God's Witness
God chose Israel to be His witness to the surrounding nations. If the nation lived obediently, God would bless them and cause the other countries to realize that the God of Israel was the true God. (Is. 43:10-12; Deut. 28:10; Josh. 2:9-11). The queen of Sheba traveled over 1,000 miles, about a three-month journey, to see the kingdom of Solomon.
Unfaithfulness
However, over the course of hundreds of years, Israel failed in their mission. They forsook the Lord over and over until there was no remedy. (II Chr. 36:16) Due to their disobedience, He would "bring a nation against" them, "a fierce nation" who would "besiege" their fortified walls and "destroy them," just as He had warned (Deut. 28:49-52).
Consequences
Due to their rejection of the Lord, He sent them into seventy years of Babylonian captivity. (II Chr. 36:16) Afterward, God brought them back into the land, and they rebuilt Jerusalem, the wall, and the temple. Then again, after six hundred years, the nation would reject Christ, God's ultimate Prophet. For that reason, God used the Romans to destroy the temple in 70 AD, eventually scattering the Jews around the world just as He said. They would become "few in number, whereas you were as the stars of heaven in multitude, because you would not obey the voice of the Lord your God (Deut. 28:62). Eventually, the Holy Land would almost become uninhabited. In the 1500s, there were only an estimated 5,000 Jews living in Ottoman Palestine and about 150,000 Muslims and Christians.
A Promise Fulfilled
God promised Israel a land forever. (Gen. 17:8) He pledged to bring them back into their land despite their unfaithfulness - "I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries; then I will bring you to your land" (Ez. 36:24). Amazingly, God has brought them back into their land. Today there are almost seven million Jewish people and almost two million Muslims and Christians living there. After being exiled for two thousand years, no other nation has been reunited to their land. Modern-day Israel is a God-ordained modern-day miracle.
Future Promises
Regardless of man's failure, God will fulfill all His promises to Israel and to the church as well. His fulfillment of past judgments and future promises to Israel confirms that He will also fulfill His promise of everlasting life to those who have believed on the Lord Jesus Christ. (John 3:16) His promise of a future kingdom on earth where Jesus will rule and reign in righteousness is coming. Are you ready? Will you be part of it?
By the Grace of God
“For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God, I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” (1Corinthians 15: 9, 10)
The Bible says Saul of Tarsus watched with great satisfaction as Stephen died beneath a hailstorm of rocks. Following that, “Saul made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.” (Acts 8:3) Then huffing and puffing threats and murder, Saul, his mayhem escalating, screamed off to Damascus after the Christians there.
Well, Saul made it to his destination, but with a sore backside and two blind eyes. (Acts 9: 3-9) And Saul of Tarsus became the great Apostle Paul, also known as the “man who turned the world upside down.” (Acts 17:6)
In meeting Christ, Paul discovered how awesome and wonderful and holy the Lord is and how NOT awesome, wonderful, or holy he was. As the Holy Spirit turned on His searchlight and disclosed more and more to Paul, he realized the malignancy that infected the marrow of his being. In his epistles, he often recounted where his heart had led him before his abrupt meeting with Christ and even the ongoing battle with it after his conversion. (See Romans 7 and 8: 26, 27 for examples of the latter).
The fact is our hearts are dangerous, deceitful, deadly, devious, dishonest, duplicitous dark domains of damnable depravity. Say that ten times fast! We are rotten apples to our Adamic core. Our prideful apple flesh always promises to make us delicious if we provide everything it desires. So we do, and without fail, end up useless mush on the ground. No matter how hard we try, we cannot produce good fruit from one of those hearts just described.
That is the bad news, and it is bad, but even as Paul recounted his failings and unworthiness, he added, “But by the grace of God…” - Yes, God’s grace is the game-changer. God’s amazing grace unchains us from our past, present, and future. The riches of His grace have made us acceptable in the Beloved and provided redemption and forgiveness of sins. (Ephesians 1: 6, 7)
That is the good news, and it is good!
Only when we truly understand that the depth of our Adamic core is nothing but a lot of bad adjectives can we truly understand the depth of His amazing regenerating and conforming grace. Like Paul, none of us is worthy. Even so, with hearts awash in His grace, we too can declare with the great Apostle: “By the grace of God, I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain.”
“For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God, I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” (1Corinthians 15: 9, 10)
The Bible says Saul of Tarsus watched with great satisfaction as Stephen died beneath a hailstorm of rocks. Following that, “Saul made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.” (Acts 8:3) Then huffing and puffing threats and murder, Saul, his mayhem escalating, screamed off to Damascus after the Christians there.
Well, Saul made it to his destination, but with a sore backside and two blind eyes. (Acts 9: 3-9) And Saul of Tarsus became the great Apostle Paul, also known as the “man who turned the world upside down.” (Acts 17:6)
In meeting Christ, Paul discovered how awesome and wonderful and holy the Lord is and how NOT awesome, wonderful, or holy he was. As the Holy Spirit turned on His searchlight and disclosed more and more to Paul, he realized the malignancy that infected the marrow of his being. In his epistles, he often recounted where his heart had led him before his abrupt meeting with Christ and even the ongoing battle with it after his conversion. (See Romans 7 and 8: 26, 27 for examples of the latter).
The fact is our hearts are dangerous, deceitful, deadly, devious, dishonest, duplicitous dark domains of damnable depravity. Say that ten times fast! We are rotten apples to our Adamic core. Our prideful apple flesh always promises to make us delicious if we provide everything it desires. So we do, and without fail, end up useless mush on the ground. No matter how hard we try, we cannot produce good fruit from one of those hearts just described.
That is the bad news, and it is bad, but even as Paul recounted his failings and unworthiness, he added, “But by the grace of God…” - Yes, God’s grace is the game-changer. God’s amazing grace unchains us from our past, present, and future. The riches of His grace have made us acceptable in the Beloved and provided redemption and forgiveness of sins. (Ephesians 1: 6, 7)
That is the good news, and it is good!
Only when we truly understand that the depth of our Adamic core is nothing but a lot of bad adjectives can we truly understand the depth of His amazing regenerating and conforming grace. Like Paul, none of us is worthy. Even so, with hearts awash in His grace, we too can declare with the great Apostle: “By the grace of God, I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain.”
Be HIS Tree
He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” Jer 17:8
He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:3
All the birds of the heavens made their nests in its boughs; under its branches all the beasts of the field gave birth to their young, and under its shadow lived all great nations. Ezek 31:6
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise. Prov 11:30
Its leaves were beautiful and its fruit abundant, and in it was food for all. The beasts of the field found shade under it, and the birds of the heavens lived in its branches, and all flesh was fed from it. Dan 4:12
The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Psalm 92:12
And on the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither, nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for healing.” Ezek 47:12
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1
Be HIS Tree
He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” Jer 17:8
He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:3
All the birds of the heavens made their nests in its boughs; under its branches all the beasts of the field gave birth to their young, and under its shadow lived all great nations. Ezek 31:6
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise. Prov 11:30
Its leaves were beautiful and its fruit abundant, and in it was food for all. The beasts of the field found shade under it, and the birds of the heavens lived in its branches, and all flesh was fed from it. Dan 4:12
The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Psalm 92:12
And on the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither, nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for healing.” Ezek 47:12
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1
Fearfully and Wonderfully Made
“As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all.” (Ecclesiastes 11:5)
What does the Bible tell us about God’s role in creating life?
David says, “You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them.” (Psalm 139:13-16)
In Genesis 25:23, the Lord told Isaac’s wife Rebekah this about her unborn twins: “Two nations are in your womb, Two peoples shall be separated from your body; One people shall be stronger than the other, And the older shall serve the younger.” Rebekah’s boys already had a destiny while still in the womb.
The Lord spoke through the prophet Isaiah, “I am your Redeemer, who formed you in the womb; I am the Lord who has made all things…” (44:24). Isaiah adds in the 49th chapter, “The Lord called me before my birth. From within the womb, He called me by my name.” God already had a calling for Isaiah to fulfill while he was yet to kick his feet in the womb.
This was also the case concerning the prophet Jeremiah. “Then the word of the Lord came to me saying: Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1:4-5) God knew Jeremiah as a person even before He formed him in the womb.
As per John the Baptist, the events surrounding his conception and life in the womb attests to God’s creative and purpose-driven role as the Messiah‘s forerunner. (Luke 1:15-16, 44) And we are all familiar with the arrival of that Messiah as an embryo in the womb of Mary.
The apostle Paul explains that “It pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me that I might preach Him among the Gentiles.” (Gal. 1:15-16)
The Lord knows everyone before He forms them in the womb and has their purpose established before birth. He knows our talents, gifts, dreams and desires, personality, and unique individuality, which He intends to use for His glory and the good of ourselves and others.
Do you think that includes “unwanted” babies disposed of at abortion clinics?
Those who believe it is acceptable to kill the unborn “knowest not the works of God who maketh all.”
“As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all.” (Ecclesiastes 11:5)
What does the Bible tell us about God’s role in creating life?
David says, “You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them.” (Psalm 139:13-16)
In Genesis 25:23, the Lord told Isaac’s wife Rebekah this about her unborn twins: “Two nations are in your womb, Two peoples shall be separated from your body; One people shall be stronger than the other, And the older shall serve the younger.” Rebekah’s boys already had a destiny while still in the womb.
The Lord spoke through the prophet Isaiah, “I am your Redeemer, who formed you in the womb; I am the Lord who has made all things…” (44:24). Isaiah adds in the 49th chapter, “The Lord called me before my birth. From within the womb, He called me by my name.” God already had a calling for Isaiah to fulfill while he was yet to kick his feet in the womb.
This was also the case concerning the prophet Jeremiah. “Then the word of the Lord came to me saying: Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1:4-5) God knew Jeremiah as a person even before He formed him in the womb.
As per John the Baptist, the events surrounding his conception and life in the womb attests to God’s creative and purpose-driven role as the Messiah‘s forerunner. (Luke 1:15-16, 44) And we are all familiar with the arrival of that Messiah as an embryo in the womb of Mary.
The apostle Paul explains that “It pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me that I might preach Him among the Gentiles.” (Gal. 1:15-16)
The Lord knows everyone before He forms them in the womb and has their purpose established before birth. He knows our talents, gifts, dreams and desires, personality, and unique individuality, which He intends to use for His glory and the good of ourselves and others.
Do you think that includes “unwanted” babies disposed of at abortion clinics?
Those who believe it is acceptable to kill the unborn “knowest not the works of God who maketh all.”
The beauty of the Lord Jesus
“One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.” (Psalm 27:4)
My friend called me upon arrival at a local Walmart. After catching up on our news, his voice suddenly changed to a frustrated tone. “Why do these women dress like this? I swear they’re practically naked! Seriously, why do they do this?”
“Well,” I responded, knowing what he was referring to, “some of them might be doing so for comfort in the hot weather. Others do so to attract attention to themselves, and some for a turn-on.” How is that for an answer? Some may suggest men keep their eyes to themselves. They should just as women should dress modestly as the Bible tells us. What would you opine on such a subject?
No matter what may catch our eyes and attention in this world, it cannot measure up to the One who “is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.” (Col 1:15-16)
Good things should center us on His beauty; after all, He made them. I walk in some local woods that take my breath away. If I allowed myself to (and nearly do), the beauty of those woods could come to overshadow the One who made them. Yet nothing can match the majesty and the beauty of the Lord Jesus.
There are numerous not-so-good things, and these should quickly remind us that this world has fallen down and can’t get up. Again, in looking upon idols of whatever kind (there are many kinds, including half-naked women), we should seek instead to behold the beauty of the Lord. That is much easier said than done. We love to fashion our idols to be mighty pretty. Yet nothing can match the majesty and the beauty of the Lord Jesus.
The Psalmist declares he desires one thing: to be wholly wrapped up in a relationship with the Lord, beholding His beauty always. Can we say the same thing? Really? In this land of a million and one idols?
If our answers cause us discomfort, what might we do? I suggest we curl up with the four Gospels in our laps. Observe Jesus as He moves and lives and has His being upon this earth. His is a beautiful life, a servant’s life, a sacrificial life. He is the one “who knew no sin {that became} sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Cor 5:21)
Watch Jesus as He acts and interacts with all kinds of people in all kinds of situations. Purpose to dwell with Jesus and behold His beauty. Yes, there may be times we avert our eyes and attention to other things in this world (even good things), yet nothing can match the majesty and the beauty of the Lord Jesus.
“One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.” (Psalm 27:4)
My friend called me upon arrival at a local Walmart. After catching up on our news, his voice suddenly changed to a frustrated tone. “Why do these women dress like this? I swear they’re practically naked! Seriously, why do they do this?”
“Well,” I responded, knowing what he was referring to, “some of them might be doing so for comfort in the hot weather. Others do so to attract attention to themselves, and some for a turn-on.” How is that for an answer? Some may suggest men keep their eyes to themselves. They should just as women should dress modestly as the Bible tells us. What would you opine on such a subject?
No matter what may catch our eyes and attention in this world, it cannot measure up to the One who “is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.” (Col 1:15-16)
Good things should center us on His beauty; after all, He made them. I walk in some local woods that take my breath away. If I allowed myself to (and nearly do), the beauty of those woods could come to overshadow the One who made them. Yet nothing can match the majesty and the beauty of the Lord Jesus.
There are numerous not-so-good things, and these should quickly remind us that this world has fallen down and can’t get up. Again, in looking upon idols of whatever kind (there are many kinds, including half-naked women), we should seek instead to behold the beauty of the Lord. That is much easier said than done. We love to fashion our idols to be mighty pretty. Yet nothing can match the majesty and the beauty of the Lord Jesus.
The Psalmist declares he desires one thing: to be wholly wrapped up in a relationship with the Lord, beholding His beauty always. Can we say the same thing? Really? In this land of a million and one idols?
If our answers cause us discomfort, what might we do? I suggest we curl up with the four Gospels in our laps. Observe Jesus as He moves and lives and has His being upon this earth. His is a beautiful life, a servant’s life, a sacrificial life. He is the one “who knew no sin {that became} sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Cor 5:21)
Watch Jesus as He acts and interacts with all kinds of people in all kinds of situations. Purpose to dwell with Jesus and behold His beauty. Yes, there may be times we avert our eyes and attention to other things in this world (even good things), yet nothing can match the majesty and the beauty of the Lord Jesus.
The Will of God - Part 3
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
In the first two parts of this series, we discussed rejoicing always and found that it is possible to do so if we truly live in the reality of God's BIG picture: "Rejoice because your names are written in heaven." (Luke 10:20) Then we hit upon praying always, and again, if we are wrapped up in a relationship with God, we will be conversing and communing with Him all the time. The third part of our verse above is now on the plate. We are always to give thanks, and once more, the challenges seem to loom large.
Good health - Thank You. Sunny day - Thank You. A bull market - Thank You. You got that promotion - Thank You. Passed the exam - Thank You. Cancer, rain, bear market, fired, failed - No Thank You. Circumstances change seemingly by the minute. Can you say, "rollercoaster ride"?
How are we to maintain an attitude of gratitude? A great place to start is knowing that even life's rollercoasters sit on terra-firma. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." (Heb 13:8) God is a rock. God is an excellent provider and protector. Before we ever needed air to breathe, it was here. Before we ever needed food to eat, water to drink, shelter to rest under, it was already here. We have so much for which to be thankful. God is ever faithful.
We should have no problem "giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Eph 5:20) We can be thankful for our faith, family, friends, fellowship, ministries, and the many wonders of nature and life itself. But…yes, there is a but…Life is, in fact, a tireless purveyor of loss. When we are born, our physical life starts its journey to death. And along the way, we lose our childhood and innocence. Many of our hopes and dreams turn to dust. Our stuff comes and then goes—our bodies decay. We lose loved ones. Where is thanksgiving in all that?
There was a man by the name of Job, and his life was good and bad and happy and sad, and he said, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord." (Job 1:21) From the ashes he asked, "Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?" (Job 2:10) Amid the tempest he declared, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him." (Job 13:15) In all things, we can give thanks because God is in all things "and we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
We thank God for what He has so richly given and peacefully trust Him in what He has taken away. One example for me was my dad's passing a few years back. I still miss him terribly, yet though I mourn, I have such great memories and thoughts of him that I cannot help but thank my Heavenly Father for giving me such a wonderful earthly father.
The will of God in Christ Jesus for you and me is to rejoice always, pray always, and give thanks always. And in Christ Jesus, we can do just that.
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
In the first two parts of this series, we discussed rejoicing always and found that it is possible to do so if we truly live in the reality of God's BIG picture: "Rejoice because your names are written in heaven." (Luke 10:20) Then we hit upon praying always, and again, if we are wrapped up in a relationship with God, we will be conversing and communing with Him all the time. The third part of our verse above is now on the plate. We are always to give thanks, and once more, the challenges seem to loom large.
Good health - Thank You. Sunny day - Thank You. A bull market - Thank You. You got that promotion - Thank You. Passed the exam - Thank You. Cancer, rain, bear market, fired, failed - No Thank You. Circumstances change seemingly by the minute. Can you say, "rollercoaster ride"?
How are we to maintain an attitude of gratitude? A great place to start is knowing that even life's rollercoasters sit on terra-firma. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." (Heb 13:8) God is a rock. God is an excellent provider and protector. Before we ever needed air to breathe, it was here. Before we ever needed food to eat, water to drink, shelter to rest under, it was already here. We have so much for which to be thankful. God is ever faithful.
We should have no problem "giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Eph 5:20) We can be thankful for our faith, family, friends, fellowship, ministries, and the many wonders of nature and life itself. But…yes, there is a but…Life is, in fact, a tireless purveyor of loss. When we are born, our physical life starts its journey to death. And along the way, we lose our childhood and innocence. Many of our hopes and dreams turn to dust. Our stuff comes and then goes—our bodies decay. We lose loved ones. Where is thanksgiving in all that?
There was a man by the name of Job, and his life was good and bad and happy and sad, and he said, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord." (Job 1:21) From the ashes he asked, "Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?" (Job 2:10) Amid the tempest he declared, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him." (Job 13:15) In all things, we can give thanks because God is in all things "and we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
We thank God for what He has so richly given and peacefully trust Him in what He has taken away. One example for me was my dad's passing a few years back. I still miss him terribly, yet though I mourn, I have such great memories and thoughts of him that I cannot help but thank my Heavenly Father for giving me such a wonderful earthly father.
The will of God in Christ Jesus for you and me is to rejoice always, pray always, and give thanks always. And in Christ Jesus, we can do just that.
The Will of God - Part 2
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Previously we held up the difficulty of “rejoicing always” on the one hand and the need to and how-to on the other hand. Hopefully, we came away with a better understanding of that aspect of the will of God in Christ Jesus for us. This time we will tackle yet another seemingly impossible task here in the real world - we, you and me, are to pray without ceasing from the time our first eye cracks open in the morning light until the last eye drifts shut at night. Pray, pray, pray, and pray.
Wherever are we to find the time to pray “all the time”??? Hello, we got stuff to do, and we call it “living”!!! I have a couple of friends that get up before the birds to beat the rush and pray. That’s pretty admirable, especially compared to a sleepyhead like me. But whether it’s late morning prayers by sleepy me or petitions and intercessions by my early bird buddies’ – we are to pray all the time, not just with birds and brunch! How are we to do that? Well, what is prayer? The answer to that question is the key to the how.
Prayer is communication with God: a conversation with God, a simple and ongoing communing with our Heavenly Father. Prayer is just talking to our Abba, whether aloud or silently. It is also listening to our Abba as He speaks to us through His Word and the Holy Spirit.
I like what Oswald Chambers says about ceaseless prayer: “We think rightly or wrongly about prayer according to the conception we have in our minds of prayer. If we think of prayer as the breath in our lungs and the blood from our hearts, we think rightly. The blood flows ceaselessly and breathing continues ceaselessly; we are not conscious of it, but it is always going on. We are not always conscious of Jesus keeping us in perfect joint with God, but if we are obeying Him, He always is. Prayer is not an exercise; it is the life.” (My Utmost for His Highest)
When you consider the depths of depravity in this world and in our hearts, how can we not be praying all the time? When you realize all the needs of other people, how can we not be praying all the time? We are to be “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…” (Eph 6:18), and for others, and “Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” (Rom 8:26)
We commune with our Father in the Spirit, and even when we’re not quite praying right, the Spirit does the praying for us. That is fantastic! So, in Christ, we can indeed pray without ceasing. Do you pray without ceasing? It is the will of God.
NEXT TIME: Thankful in everything.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Previously we held up the difficulty of “rejoicing always” on the one hand and the need to and how-to on the other hand. Hopefully, we came away with a better understanding of that aspect of the will of God in Christ Jesus for us. This time we will tackle yet another seemingly impossible task here in the real world - we, you and me, are to pray without ceasing from the time our first eye cracks open in the morning light until the last eye drifts shut at night. Pray, pray, pray, and pray.
Wherever are we to find the time to pray “all the time”??? Hello, we got stuff to do, and we call it “living”!!! I have a couple of friends that get up before the birds to beat the rush and pray. That’s pretty admirable, especially compared to a sleepyhead like me. But whether it’s late morning prayers by sleepy me or petitions and intercessions by my early bird buddies’ – we are to pray all the time, not just with birds and brunch! How are we to do that? Well, what is prayer? The answer to that question is the key to the how.
Prayer is communication with God: a conversation with God, a simple and ongoing communing with our Heavenly Father. Prayer is just talking to our Abba, whether aloud or silently. It is also listening to our Abba as He speaks to us through His Word and the Holy Spirit.
I like what Oswald Chambers says about ceaseless prayer: “We think rightly or wrongly about prayer according to the conception we have in our minds of prayer. If we think of prayer as the breath in our lungs and the blood from our hearts, we think rightly. The blood flows ceaselessly and breathing continues ceaselessly; we are not conscious of it, but it is always going on. We are not always conscious of Jesus keeping us in perfect joint with God, but if we are obeying Him, He always is. Prayer is not an exercise; it is the life.” (My Utmost for His Highest)
When you consider the depths of depravity in this world and in our hearts, how can we not be praying all the time? When you realize all the needs of other people, how can we not be praying all the time? We are to be “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…” (Eph 6:18), and for others, and “Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” (Rom 8:26)
We commune with our Father in the Spirit, and even when we’re not quite praying right, the Spirit does the praying for us. That is fantastic! So, in Christ, we can indeed pray without ceasing. Do you pray without ceasing? It is the will of God.
NEXT TIME: Thankful in everything.
The Will of God - Part 1
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
The will of God in Christ Jesus is that we rejoice always. How is that possible in the world we wake up in each morning? It is not conceivable if we are only looking at eye level. A small view leaves us with a small view. Instead, look out, look further, look up. We can rejoice because our names are written in heaven. (Luke 10:20) We can rejoice because He is giving us "beauty for ashes, and the oil of joy for mourning. The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness…" (Isa 61:3)
The Lord, on the night He was betrayed, promised the disciples (and us in a sense), "…you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you." (John 16:22) When our joy leaves, is it taken away, or are we giving it away? Either way, here is what He tells us we must do to get it back, to keep it: "…Abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full." (John 15:9-11)
Still, my goodness, the trials and tribulations come, don't they? They can disturb and distract us from any such temperament of perpetual jubilance. Like the country song crones, "But here in the real world/it's not that easy at all/ Cause when hearts get broken/ It's real tears that fall…"
Nevertheless, remember, you and I have been begotten "to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." (1 Pet 1:3-5)
We have a living hope today, which cannot be taken away. Halleluiah!
"In this you greatly rejoice," continues Peter, "though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith - the salvation of your souls." (Vs. 6-9)
That is awesome and provides us with everything we need to rejoice always!
Do you rejoice always? It is the will of God.
Next time - Pray without ceasing.
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
The will of God in Christ Jesus is that we rejoice always. How is that possible in the world we wake up in each morning? It is not conceivable if we are only looking at eye level. A small view leaves us with a small view. Instead, look out, look further, look up. We can rejoice because our names are written in heaven. (Luke 10:20) We can rejoice because He is giving us "beauty for ashes, and the oil of joy for mourning. The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness…" (Isa 61:3)
The Lord, on the night He was betrayed, promised the disciples (and us in a sense), "…you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you." (John 16:22) When our joy leaves, is it taken away, or are we giving it away? Either way, here is what He tells us we must do to get it back, to keep it: "…Abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full." (John 15:9-11)
Still, my goodness, the trials and tribulations come, don't they? They can disturb and distract us from any such temperament of perpetual jubilance. Like the country song crones, "But here in the real world/it's not that easy at all/ Cause when hearts get broken/ It's real tears that fall…"
Nevertheless, remember, you and I have been begotten "to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." (1 Pet 1:3-5)
We have a living hope today, which cannot be taken away. Halleluiah!
"In this you greatly rejoice," continues Peter, "though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith - the salvation of your souls." (Vs. 6-9)
That is awesome and provides us with everything we need to rejoice always!
Do you rejoice always? It is the will of God.
Next time - Pray without ceasing.
And I Will Put Enmity........
"And I will put enmity
Between you and the woman,
And between your seed and her Seed;
He shall bruise your head,
And you shall bruise His heel." Genesis 3:15
It is quiet now, the cross on the ground
The tomb is sealed with guards all around.
The serpent of old has struck his blow
The hopeful few now choked with woe
It is quiet now; the blood dried black
What can the faithful do but turn back
The garden whisperer sleeps well tonight
Then dances this day with uncommon delight
It is quiet now but here cometh Sunday morn
The shroud is empty as though never worn
The bruised Heel is alive just as He said
And steps a death blow to the serpent's head.
REDEMPTION!!!
Wash and be Clean
“Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master and in high favor, because by him the Lord had given victory to Syria. He was a mighty man of valor, but he was a leper.” (2 Kings 5:1-3)
Here we are introduced to a man named Naaman. Did you notice anything strange about him? First, he is a Syrian; the Syrians were bitter enemies of Israel. Then, the Hebrew writer describes this adversary as a great and mighty man. Finally, Naaman had high favor with his king because the God of Israel had given Syria victories on account of Naaman. The Lord was at work in this man’s life. A life that at that time was most likely to be cut short – Naaman had leprosy.
In Naaman’s household, a girl taken from Israel in a raid served his wife. You might think this kidnapped servant girl would rail against her masters. No, it was she who told the couple of the prophet (Elisha) in Samaria who would cure her lord, Naaman.
Eventually, Naaman and his entourage stood outside Elisha’s house. Elisha sent a messenger out who said, “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored, and you shall be clean.” What do you suppose happened next? Naaman made a mad dash for the Jordan? No, enraged that the prophet didn’t come out and do a miracle, that he should dunk himself seven times in the dirty Jordan, Naaman turned to go home. He railed that the rivers in Syria were far better than the muddy Jordan. He would immerse himself in one of them.
“But his servants came near and said to him, ‘My father, it is a great word the prophet has spoken to you; will you not do it? Has he actually said to you, “Wash, and be clean?’” (v.13) The servant girl called Naaman her lord; his servants called him father. They wanted the best for him, which speaks volumes about his character. So what did Naaman do?
“So he went down and dipped himself seven times in the Jordan, according to the word of the man of God, and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a child, and he was clean.” (v.14)
Naaman went home with his adoring servants to his thrilled wife and the loyal servant girl taken captive from Israel. And he declared, “Behold, I know that there is no God in all the earth but in Israel!” (v.15)
Like most of us friends, Naaman had his own ideas of how to be made whole, cleansed, and what terms God should beholden to in dealing with him (us). Whether it is dipping seven times in the Jordan to be healed and cleansed or the more significant issue, how to be justified (saved), “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).
“No, I’ll find my own river.”
“No, I’ll make my own way to heaven.”
“No, whatever it is, it will be on my own terms.”
If you find yourself there, I pray God sends someone to you saying, “It’s so simple, this Gospel. Why not “Wash and be Clean?”
“Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master and in high favor, because by him the Lord had given victory to Syria. He was a mighty man of valor, but he was a leper.” (2 Kings 5:1-3)
Here we are introduced to a man named Naaman. Did you notice anything strange about him? First, he is a Syrian; the Syrians were bitter enemies of Israel. Then, the Hebrew writer describes this adversary as a great and mighty man. Finally, Naaman had high favor with his king because the God of Israel had given Syria victories on account of Naaman. The Lord was at work in this man’s life. A life that at that time was most likely to be cut short – Naaman had leprosy.
In Naaman’s household, a girl taken from Israel in a raid served his wife. You might think this kidnapped servant girl would rail against her masters. No, it was she who told the couple of the prophet (Elisha) in Samaria who would cure her lord, Naaman.
Eventually, Naaman and his entourage stood outside Elisha’s house. Elisha sent a messenger out who said, “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored, and you shall be clean.” What do you suppose happened next? Naaman made a mad dash for the Jordan? No, enraged that the prophet didn’t come out and do a miracle, that he should dunk himself seven times in the dirty Jordan, Naaman turned to go home. He railed that the rivers in Syria were far better than the muddy Jordan. He would immerse himself in one of them.
“But his servants came near and said to him, ‘My father, it is a great word the prophet has spoken to you; will you not do it? Has he actually said to you, “Wash, and be clean?’” (v.13) The servant girl called Naaman her lord; his servants called him father. They wanted the best for him, which speaks volumes about his character. So what did Naaman do?
“So he went down and dipped himself seven times in the Jordan, according to the word of the man of God, and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a child, and he was clean.” (v.14)
Naaman went home with his adoring servants to his thrilled wife and the loyal servant girl taken captive from Israel. And he declared, “Behold, I know that there is no God in all the earth but in Israel!” (v.15)
Like most of us friends, Naaman had his own ideas of how to be made whole, cleansed, and what terms God should beholden to in dealing with him (us). Whether it is dipping seven times in the Jordan to be healed and cleansed or the more significant issue, how to be justified (saved), “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).
“No, I’ll find my own river.”
“No, I’ll make my own way to heaven.”
“No, whatever it is, it will be on my own terms.”
If you find yourself there, I pray God sends someone to you saying, “It’s so simple, this Gospel. Why not “Wash and be Clean?”
Is Earth being visited by Aliens?
One evening I stopped to visit my cousin who lived up the hill from me. When she opened the door, we saw a bright light in the sky moving toward us. At first, we thought it was an airplane. But it made no sound. Instantly it made a 90-degree turn, shot across the sky in a streak, and vanished within a second. Shocked, I left and went home. That was about 52 years ago. Since then, I have never seen anything like it. I have no explanation for what I saw. Was it an alien craft? I have no idea. Maybe it was some military experiment. Maybe it was something that we do not understand about the property of light. Many of these things have a rational scientific explanation.
The Unexplainable
However, there are things reported by reputable people that cannot be explained. Our government recently revealed pictures of crafts photographed by Navy and Air Force pilots. John Ratcliffe, who served as the Director of National Intelligence, told Fox News’s Maria Bartiromo that reports of UFOs included sightings of objects that “frankly engage in actions that are difficult to explain.” He commented that they are “traveling at speeds that exceed the sound barrier without a sonic boom. In short, things that we are observing are difficult to explain.”
A Pew Research Study reports that 65% of people said they think there is intelligent alien life on other planets. In the opinion of former Ministry of Defense UFO investigator expert Nick Pope, “it’s only a matter of time before we find alien life – or before it finds us, if it hasn’t already!”
The Deceiver
The Bible teaches us that Satan “transforms himself into an angel of light” (II Cor. 11:14). He is the master of deception. A coming world leader will be empowered by him “with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception…” (II Thess. 2:9, 10) Power together with signs and lying wonders suggest that Satan has the power to work through an individual to manifest unusual occurrences, transcending the common course of nature. Power, signs, and lying wonders were the same words used of Jesus when He did the miraculous. In the future, the false prophet will deceive many to worship this man [antichrist] by performing great signs, “so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men” (Rev. 13:13).
Is There Alien Life in the Bible?
The world is being set up for future deceptions. Government officials give credence to the existence of ‘aliens.’ But aliens are not beings from another planet, says Pastor Billy Crone, but are demonic in nature. The Bible is explicit that there is a spiritual realm and that Satan and his forces currently have influence over the world – “the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one” (I John 5:19). As believers, “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts in heavenly places” (Eph. 6:12, 13). These are the description of evil angels who influence and control powerful rulers and evil movements on the earth. They have the ability to leave their spiritual dimension and enter into the physical world.
The claim that alien life interacting with humanity may become the best explanation for the rapture. The rapture is a sudden and instantaneous supernatural act of God to remove all believers to be with Him (I Thess. 4:15-18; I Cor. 15:51, 52; John 14:1-3). The world will need an explanation for such a worldwide event. More and more people are inclined to believe that Christianity is holding back society and that aliens may be trying to help us advance. An explanation of the removal of millions of Christians by alien abduction may be one of the soon-coming great satanic deceptions.
One evening I stopped to visit my cousin who lived up the hill from me. When she opened the door, we saw a bright light in the sky moving toward us. At first, we thought it was an airplane. But it made no sound. Instantly it made a 90-degree turn, shot across the sky in a streak, and vanished within a second. Shocked, I left and went home. That was about 52 years ago. Since then, I have never seen anything like it. I have no explanation for what I saw. Was it an alien craft? I have no idea. Maybe it was some military experiment. Maybe it was something that we do not understand about the property of light. Many of these things have a rational scientific explanation.
The Unexplainable
However, there are things reported by reputable people that cannot be explained. Our government recently revealed pictures of crafts photographed by Navy and Air Force pilots. John Ratcliffe, who served as the Director of National Intelligence, told Fox News’s Maria Bartiromo that reports of UFOs included sightings of objects that “frankly engage in actions that are difficult to explain.” He commented that they are “traveling at speeds that exceed the sound barrier without a sonic boom. In short, things that we are observing are difficult to explain.”
A Pew Research Study reports that 65% of people said they think there is intelligent alien life on other planets. In the opinion of former Ministry of Defense UFO investigator expert Nick Pope, “it’s only a matter of time before we find alien life – or before it finds us, if it hasn’t already!”
The Deceiver
The Bible teaches us that Satan “transforms himself into an angel of light” (II Cor. 11:14). He is the master of deception. A coming world leader will be empowered by him “with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception…” (II Thess. 2:9, 10) Power together with signs and lying wonders suggest that Satan has the power to work through an individual to manifest unusual occurrences, transcending the common course of nature. Power, signs, and lying wonders were the same words used of Jesus when He did the miraculous. In the future, the false prophet will deceive many to worship this man [antichrist] by performing great signs, “so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men” (Rev. 13:13).
Is There Alien Life in the Bible?
The world is being set up for future deceptions. Government officials give credence to the existence of ‘aliens.’ But aliens are not beings from another planet, says Pastor Billy Crone, but are demonic in nature. The Bible is explicit that there is a spiritual realm and that Satan and his forces currently have influence over the world – “the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one” (I John 5:19). As believers, “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts in heavenly places” (Eph. 6:12, 13). These are the description of evil angels who influence and control powerful rulers and evil movements on the earth. They have the ability to leave their spiritual dimension and enter into the physical world.
The claim that alien life interacting with humanity may become the best explanation for the rapture. The rapture is a sudden and instantaneous supernatural act of God to remove all believers to be with Him (I Thess. 4:15-18; I Cor. 15:51, 52; John 14:1-3). The world will need an explanation for such a worldwide event. More and more people are inclined to believe that Christianity is holding back society and that aliens may be trying to help us advance. An explanation of the removal of millions of Christians by alien abduction may be one of the soon-coming great satanic deceptions.
The Statue Speaks
"Awaken the Giant in You!" It is the world's tallest moving statue standing more than ten stories high. They are programmable to speak, sing, move their heads and arms, AND shape-shift into forms of people. One might appear as Abe Lincoln, then Shaq O Neal, then Batman. The Giant can even make itself look like you, as well.
The plan is to install 21 of these statues in 21 cities worldwide. The maker of these giants is "The Giant Company," whose purpose is to entertain audiences. No doubt, this ever-evolving bedazzling technology will be the show's star.
"Then I saw a beast rising up out of the sea. It had seven heads and ten horns, with ten crowns on its horns. And written on each head were names that blasphemed God. This beast looked like a leopard, but it had the feet of a bear and the mouth of a lion! And the dragon gave the beast his own power and throne and great authority.
I saw that one of the heads of the beast seemed wounded beyond recovery—but the fatal wound was healed! The whole world marveled at this miracle and gave allegiance to the beast. They worshiped the dragon for giving the beast such power, and they also worshiped the beast. "Who is as great as the beast?" they exclaimed. "Who is able to fight against him?"
Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do whatever he wanted for forty-two months. And he spoke terrible words of blasphemy against God, slandering his name and his dwelling—that is, those who dwell in heaven. And the beast was allowed to wage war against God's holy people and to conquer them. And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation. And all the people who belong to this world worshiped the beast. They are the ones whose names were not written in the Book of Life that belongs to the Lamb who was slaughtered before the world was made.
Anyone with ears to hear
should listen and understand.
Anyone who is destined for prison
will be taken to prison.
Anyone destined to die by the sword
will die by the sword.
This means that God's holy people must endure persecution patiently and remain faithful.
Then I saw another beast come up out of the earth. He had two horns like those of a lamb, but he spoke with the voice of a dragon. He exercised all the authority of the first beast. And he required all the earth and its people to worship the first beast, whose fatal wound had been healed. He did astounding miracles, even making fire flash down to earth from the sky while everyone was watching. And with all the miracles he was allowed to perform on behalf of the first beast, he deceived all the people who belong to this world. He ordered the people to make a great statue of the first beast, who was fatally wounded and then came back to life. He was then permitted to give life to this statue so that it could speak. Then the statue of the beast commanded that anyone refusing to worship it must die.
He required everyone—small and great, rich and poor, free and slave—to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name. Wisdom is needed here. Let the one with understanding solve the meaning of the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man. His number is 666." (Revelation, Chapter 13 NLT)
"Awaken the Giant in You!" It is the world's tallest moving statue standing more than ten stories high. They are programmable to speak, sing, move their heads and arms, AND shape-shift into forms of people. One might appear as Abe Lincoln, then Shaq O Neal, then Batman. The Giant can even make itself look like you, as well.
The plan is to install 21 of these statues in 21 cities worldwide. The maker of these giants is "The Giant Company," whose purpose is to entertain audiences. No doubt, this ever-evolving bedazzling technology will be the show's star.
"Then I saw a beast rising up out of the sea. It had seven heads and ten horns, with ten crowns on its horns. And written on each head were names that blasphemed God. This beast looked like a leopard, but it had the feet of a bear and the mouth of a lion! And the dragon gave the beast his own power and throne and great authority.
I saw that one of the heads of the beast seemed wounded beyond recovery—but the fatal wound was healed! The whole world marveled at this miracle and gave allegiance to the beast. They worshiped the dragon for giving the beast such power, and they also worshiped the beast. "Who is as great as the beast?" they exclaimed. "Who is able to fight against him?"
Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do whatever he wanted for forty-two months. And he spoke terrible words of blasphemy against God, slandering his name and his dwelling—that is, those who dwell in heaven. And the beast was allowed to wage war against God's holy people and to conquer them. And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation. And all the people who belong to this world worshiped the beast. They are the ones whose names were not written in the Book of Life that belongs to the Lamb who was slaughtered before the world was made.
Anyone with ears to hear
should listen and understand.
Anyone who is destined for prison
will be taken to prison.
Anyone destined to die by the sword
will die by the sword.
This means that God's holy people must endure persecution patiently and remain faithful.
Then I saw another beast come up out of the earth. He had two horns like those of a lamb, but he spoke with the voice of a dragon. He exercised all the authority of the first beast. And he required all the earth and its people to worship the first beast, whose fatal wound had been healed. He did astounding miracles, even making fire flash down to earth from the sky while everyone was watching. And with all the miracles he was allowed to perform on behalf of the first beast, he deceived all the people who belong to this world. He ordered the people to make a great statue of the first beast, who was fatally wounded and then came back to life. He was then permitted to give life to this statue so that it could speak. Then the statue of the beast commanded that anyone refusing to worship it must die.
He required everyone—small and great, rich and poor, free and slave—to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name. Wisdom is needed here. Let the one with understanding solve the meaning of the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man. His number is 666." (Revelation, Chapter 13 NLT)
Grace Dance
"For by grace, you have been saved..."
GOD'S GRACE: Have we counted the bounty of His grace? Where would we start, where could we end? We are awash in His grace; it pours over our lives – it sets our feet on the ground in the morn, carries us through the day, lays our head to rest at night. What have we apart from His grace? We sing Amazing Grace how sweet the sound - and indeed it is a beautiful sound! Jump in its endless waves, dance, and twirl and celebrate in the constant rain and sunshine of our God's unmerited favor upon us. May we ever be thankful and ever Amazed!
"For by grace, you have been saved..."
GOD'S GRACE: Have we counted the bounty of His grace? Where would we start, where could we end? We are awash in His grace; it pours over our lives – it sets our feet on the ground in the morn, carries us through the day, lays our head to rest at night. What have we apart from His grace? We sing Amazing Grace how sweet the sound - and indeed it is a beautiful sound! Jump in its endless waves, dance, and twirl and celebrate in the constant rain and sunshine of our God's unmerited favor upon us. May we ever be thankful and ever Amazed!
The Next Russian Invasion
When I was a kid, the television would run ads of Nikita Khrushchev, the premier of the Soviet Union, saying to us, “We will bury you.” The United States was in a cold war with Russia. It was definitely a scary time. In 1962 the Soviet Union placed nuclear missiles in Cuba, only 90 miles from our southern coast. After thirteen days and the threat of a nuclear conflict, they removed them.
During those years in school, we practiced drills in case of a nuclear attack by crouching under your desk. People began to build underground bomb shelters. It was an unsettling time. Well, it seems that Russia is up to something again, but not in the way you may be thinking.
Invasion in the Latter Days
In my upcoming book, Vanished When Millions Go Missing, I include a brief chapter about the invasion into Israel by Gog (a ruler) of the land of Magog. The prophet, Ezekiel, records information about a land, once called Magog, where a major attack into Israel will originate during the end times. Some believe Magog is located in the Caucasus Mountains in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and parts of Southern Russia. Others point out that Magog is also associated with “Rosh” in Ezekiel 38, which some believe is a reference to Russia. Ezekiel says that the invasion will happen “in the latter years” and “in the latter days” (Ez. 38:8, 16).
The ancient prophecy makes it clear that this invasion will come from “the far north” in relation to Israel (Ez. 38:15). Both modern-day Ukraine and Russia are directly far north of Israel. This battle will also involve the modern-day countries of Turkey [Meshech, Gomer, Togarmah, and Tubal], Iran [Persia], northern Sudan [Cush], Libya [Put], and Ethiopia. (Ez. 38:2-6) It occurs when Israel is dwelling safely without walled villages (Ez. 38:11). This confederation of nations will be drawn there to plunder and take booty (Ez. 38:12).
The Necessity of a Modern-Day Nation of Israel
The invasion was not possible a thousand years ago or even a hundred years ago. It wasn’t possible because Israel didn’t exist until May of 1948 as a sovereign nation. God said He would regather the remnant a second time at the end of the tribulation. (Is. 11:11, 12; Matt. 24:31) The first worldwide gathering has happened. Many Jewish people have immigrated back to their homeland in the last one hundred years. The Jewish population has grown from about 85,000 in 1915 to almost 7 million today.
Secondly, the land was barren at that time, and the fledgling country had little to offer economically. There was nothing there to plunder. There was nothing there to take. In recent years, Israel has only begun to prosper as a nation.
Israel’s Growing Prosperity
Though it has a population of only 8.65 million, Israel ranks 23rd worldwide in its total number of millionaires, and its wealth is growing quickly. According to an article by Nate Martin on alux.com, “Earlier in the history of the country, it was struggling. Now “the World Bank states that Israel is a high-income country. Its standard of living is significantly higher when compared to most other countries in the same region. In fact, its standard of living is comparable to that of many other highly developed countries.”
ISRAEL HAS SOMETHING TO PLUNDER NOW! It has only been in the last twenty to thirty years that this prophecy could be fulfilled. They are there and thriving. No other group of people has been restored to their homeland after 2,000 years of dispersion. The fact that the people have come back into the land and are prospering is a modern-day miracle.
Are We Living in the Latter Years?
Due to Israel’s return to the land, their growing wealth, and the current rise again of antisemitism, in addition to the current condition of the world and the lack of stability in the Middle East, are these factors converging to prepare these nations for this future invasion? When will Russia, Turkey, Iran, and others invade Israel and be defeated on the mountains of Israel? (Ez. 39:4) Are we living in the latter years and latter days? After 2,600 years and 950,000 days since Ezekiel’s prophecy, sure seems like we might be!
When I was a kid, the television would run ads of Nikita Khrushchev, the premier of the Soviet Union, saying to us, “We will bury you.” The United States was in a cold war with Russia. It was definitely a scary time. In 1962 the Soviet Union placed nuclear missiles in Cuba, only 90 miles from our southern coast. After thirteen days and the threat of a nuclear conflict, they removed them.
During those years in school, we practiced drills in case of a nuclear attack by crouching under your desk. People began to build underground bomb shelters. It was an unsettling time. Well, it seems that Russia is up to something again, but not in the way you may be thinking.
Invasion in the Latter Days
In my upcoming book, Vanished When Millions Go Missing, I include a brief chapter about the invasion into Israel by Gog (a ruler) of the land of Magog. The prophet, Ezekiel, records information about a land, once called Magog, where a major attack into Israel will originate during the end times. Some believe Magog is located in the Caucasus Mountains in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and parts of Southern Russia. Others point out that Magog is also associated with “Rosh” in Ezekiel 38, which some believe is a reference to Russia. Ezekiel says that the invasion will happen “in the latter years” and “in the latter days” (Ez. 38:8, 16).
The ancient prophecy makes it clear that this invasion will come from “the far north” in relation to Israel (Ez. 38:15). Both modern-day Ukraine and Russia are directly far north of Israel. This battle will also involve the modern-day countries of Turkey [Meshech, Gomer, Togarmah, and Tubal], Iran [Persia], northern Sudan [Cush], Libya [Put], and Ethiopia. (Ez. 38:2-6) It occurs when Israel is dwelling safely without walled villages (Ez. 38:11). This confederation of nations will be drawn there to plunder and take booty (Ez. 38:12).
The Necessity of a Modern-Day Nation of Israel
The invasion was not possible a thousand years ago or even a hundred years ago. It wasn’t possible because Israel didn’t exist until May of 1948 as a sovereign nation. God said He would regather the remnant a second time at the end of the tribulation. (Is. 11:11, 12; Matt. 24:31) The first worldwide gathering has happened. Many Jewish people have immigrated back to their homeland in the last one hundred years. The Jewish population has grown from about 85,000 in 1915 to almost 7 million today.
Secondly, the land was barren at that time, and the fledgling country had little to offer economically. There was nothing there to plunder. There was nothing there to take. In recent years, Israel has only begun to prosper as a nation.
Israel’s Growing Prosperity
Though it has a population of only 8.65 million, Israel ranks 23rd worldwide in its total number of millionaires, and its wealth is growing quickly. According to an article by Nate Martin on alux.com, “Earlier in the history of the country, it was struggling. Now “the World Bank states that Israel is a high-income country. Its standard of living is significantly higher when compared to most other countries in the same region. In fact, its standard of living is comparable to that of many other highly developed countries.”
ISRAEL HAS SOMETHING TO PLUNDER NOW! It has only been in the last twenty to thirty years that this prophecy could be fulfilled. They are there and thriving. No other group of people has been restored to their homeland after 2,000 years of dispersion. The fact that the people have come back into the land and are prospering is a modern-day miracle.
Are We Living in the Latter Years?
Due to Israel’s return to the land, their growing wealth, and the current rise again of antisemitism, in addition to the current condition of the world and the lack of stability in the Middle East, are these factors converging to prepare these nations for this future invasion? When will Russia, Turkey, Iran, and others invade Israel and be defeated on the mountains of Israel? (Ez. 39:4) Are we living in the latter years and latter days? After 2,600 years and 950,000 days since Ezekiel’s prophecy, sure seems like we might be!
Void
It became an interesting discussion amongst a group of Christian men. One of them had mentioned his intention to share the gospel with an unbelieving acquaintance that was ill and hospitalized. However, when he arrived, the person’s family and friends were visiting. The man expressed his disappointment concerning the circumstances he walked into and a missed opportunity for his intended evangelism. Not wanting to sort of push his way into a gospel presentation at that time, he kept his visitation confined to sharing concern, well wishes, and a promise to keep them in prayer.
His Christian brothers did not give him much empathy for the most part. Yes, they all admitted to having experiences with “failure” at sharing the gospel. Still, with a couple of exceptions, the popular opinion was he should have spoken up and out to everyone in that hospital room. “We have to be bold and unafraid! Everyone in the room may have come to salvation! You could have had a great impact!” Sheepish and ashamed, he promised not to miss the next opportunity.
One brother quietly reminded that there is something called discernment, and he felt the right action had wisely been taken. Yes, all those great things might have transpired, or instead, great offense taken at his “pushiness” and “piety” and “inopportunity” that might have turned hard hearts even harder. However well-intentioned we may be, it is possible to do more harm than good when spiritual discernment is not exercised. One of the voices in the group responded with, “God’s word does not come back void.” This brought a chorus of agreement and the end of the subject.
Upon arriving home, the lone voice who spoke up remained troubled. The “God’s word does not come back void” quotation bothered him. So he went to the source - Isaiah 55:10,11 - and read: “For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and do not return there, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.” See the rub? It is HIS word, going forth from HIS mouth, to accomplish what HE sends it for that will not return void.
Our just flinging God’s word around has no guarantee it will not come back null and void. Discernment is absolutely vital if we are to be effective and faithful conduits for what the Lord imparts to us to send through us.
Jesus warned His followers: “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.” (Matthew 7:6) We must handle the word of God carefully, not carelessly. Being open and sensitive to the Holy Spirit is vital for knowing when, where, how, and whom God is sending His word to accomplish His purposes.
Are you open to receiving and discerning as to when, where, how, and to whom it is being sent? When God sends His Word, it shall prosper in the thing for which He sent it and most certainly will not come back void.
It became an interesting discussion amongst a group of Christian men. One of them had mentioned his intention to share the gospel with an unbelieving acquaintance that was ill and hospitalized. However, when he arrived, the person’s family and friends were visiting. The man expressed his disappointment concerning the circumstances he walked into and a missed opportunity for his intended evangelism. Not wanting to sort of push his way into a gospel presentation at that time, he kept his visitation confined to sharing concern, well wishes, and a promise to keep them in prayer.
His Christian brothers did not give him much empathy for the most part. Yes, they all admitted to having experiences with “failure” at sharing the gospel. Still, with a couple of exceptions, the popular opinion was he should have spoken up and out to everyone in that hospital room. “We have to be bold and unafraid! Everyone in the room may have come to salvation! You could have had a great impact!” Sheepish and ashamed, he promised not to miss the next opportunity.
One brother quietly reminded that there is something called discernment, and he felt the right action had wisely been taken. Yes, all those great things might have transpired, or instead, great offense taken at his “pushiness” and “piety” and “inopportunity” that might have turned hard hearts even harder. However well-intentioned we may be, it is possible to do more harm than good when spiritual discernment is not exercised. One of the voices in the group responded with, “God’s word does not come back void.” This brought a chorus of agreement and the end of the subject.
Upon arriving home, the lone voice who spoke up remained troubled. The “God’s word does not come back void” quotation bothered him. So he went to the source - Isaiah 55:10,11 - and read: “For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and do not return there, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.” See the rub? It is HIS word, going forth from HIS mouth, to accomplish what HE sends it for that will not return void.
Our just flinging God’s word around has no guarantee it will not come back null and void. Discernment is absolutely vital if we are to be effective and faithful conduits for what the Lord imparts to us to send through us.
Jesus warned His followers: “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.” (Matthew 7:6) We must handle the word of God carefully, not carelessly. Being open and sensitive to the Holy Spirit is vital for knowing when, where, how, and whom God is sending His word to accomplish His purposes.
Are you open to receiving and discerning as to when, where, how, and to whom it is being sent? When God sends His Word, it shall prosper in the thing for which He sent it and most certainly will not come back void.
Heaven’s Surprise
I never had much interest in poetry. But every once in a while, you come across a unique poem that makes you laugh and/or communicates truth. The following one is unnamed by an unknown author concerning heaven. Although it contains some doctrinal inaccuracies, I think it captures a profound truth about the way many of us think when it comes to getting to heaven.
I was shocked, confused, bewildered as I entered Heaven’s door; Not by the beauty of it all, Nor the lights or its décor.
But it was the folks in Heaven Who made me sputter and gasp; The thieves, the liars, the sinners; The alcoholics and the trash.
There stood the kid from seventh grade Who swiped my lunch money twice. Next to him was my old neighbor Who never said anything nice.
Bob, who I always thought Was rotting away in hell, Was sitting pretty on cloud nine, Looking incredibly well.
I nudged Jesus, “What’s the deal? I would love to hear Your take. How’d all these sinners get up here? God must’ve made a mistake.”
“And why is everyone so quiet, So somber; give me a clue.” “Hush, child,” He said, “They’re all in shock! No one thought they’d see you!”
The biggest lie we tell ourselves is that we can be good enough to be accepted by God. That’s because we compare ourselves to others, especially the thieves, druggies, and the immoral. “I’m better than those people,” I tell myself. “God will accept me because I’m a good person,” I reason.
But before a holy God, “there is none righteous, not even one.” (Romans 3:10) “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) Maybe the most self-righteous man before his conversion, the apostle Paul, after his conversion, counted all his good works as rubbish (Philippians 3:8). He had hunted down Christians, throwing them in jail, and had them executed, thinking he was working for the Lord. (Acts 8:3) He approved the killing of Stephen (Acts 8:1). I’m sure he surprised Stephen when he showed up at the Pearly Gates.
The fact is that heaven will be full of thieves, murders, adulterers, alcoholics, and many others. Rahab was a harlot. Samson was a womanizer. Jacob was a deceiver. David committed adultery and murder. Solomon worshipped other gods, sacrificing his children to them. Some in the Corinthian church got drunk while participating in the Lord’s supper. Others chased after riches and strayed from the faith. (1Timothy 6:10) The Bible is full of imperfect people who will be in heaven. The BIG question, “Will you be there?
There is only one way. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. (John 14:6) His death on the cross paid for all of our sins, past, present, and future. His resurrection proved that He is God and that His sacrifice was all-sufficient to restore man’s relationship with God. There’s not one thing we can add to Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection that will make us more acceptable to God. Will you stand before God one day with all your rubbish? Or will you stand before Him with Jesus as your Savior? It simply requires a faith response from you to the Lord. Will you surprise someone in heaven someday?
I never had much interest in poetry. But every once in a while, you come across a unique poem that makes you laugh and/or communicates truth. The following one is unnamed by an unknown author concerning heaven. Although it contains some doctrinal inaccuracies, I think it captures a profound truth about the way many of us think when it comes to getting to heaven.
I was shocked, confused, bewildered as I entered Heaven’s door; Not by the beauty of it all, Nor the lights or its décor.
But it was the folks in Heaven Who made me sputter and gasp; The thieves, the liars, the sinners; The alcoholics and the trash.
There stood the kid from seventh grade Who swiped my lunch money twice. Next to him was my old neighbor Who never said anything nice.
Bob, who I always thought Was rotting away in hell, Was sitting pretty on cloud nine, Looking incredibly well.
I nudged Jesus, “What’s the deal? I would love to hear Your take. How’d all these sinners get up here? God must’ve made a mistake.”
“And why is everyone so quiet, So somber; give me a clue.” “Hush, child,” He said, “They’re all in shock! No one thought they’d see you!”
The biggest lie we tell ourselves is that we can be good enough to be accepted by God. That’s because we compare ourselves to others, especially the thieves, druggies, and the immoral. “I’m better than those people,” I tell myself. “God will accept me because I’m a good person,” I reason.
But before a holy God, “there is none righteous, not even one.” (Romans 3:10) “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) Maybe the most self-righteous man before his conversion, the apostle Paul, after his conversion, counted all his good works as rubbish (Philippians 3:8). He had hunted down Christians, throwing them in jail, and had them executed, thinking he was working for the Lord. (Acts 8:3) He approved the killing of Stephen (Acts 8:1). I’m sure he surprised Stephen when he showed up at the Pearly Gates.
The fact is that heaven will be full of thieves, murders, adulterers, alcoholics, and many others. Rahab was a harlot. Samson was a womanizer. Jacob was a deceiver. David committed adultery and murder. Solomon worshipped other gods, sacrificing his children to them. Some in the Corinthian church got drunk while participating in the Lord’s supper. Others chased after riches and strayed from the faith. (1Timothy 6:10) The Bible is full of imperfect people who will be in heaven. The BIG question, “Will you be there?
There is only one way. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. (John 14:6) His death on the cross paid for all of our sins, past, present, and future. His resurrection proved that He is God and that His sacrifice was all-sufficient to restore man’s relationship with God. There’s not one thing we can add to Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection that will make us more acceptable to God. Will you stand before God one day with all your rubbish? Or will you stand before Him with Jesus as your Savior? It simply requires a faith response from you to the Lord. Will you surprise someone in heaven someday?
Memory Marks
Then Joshua called the twelve men whom he had appointed from the children of Israel, one man from each tribe; and Joshua said to them: “Cross over before the ark of the Lord your God into the midst of the Jordan, and each one of you take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the children of Israel, that this may be a sign among you when your children ask in time to come, saying, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ Then you shall answer them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord; when it crossed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. And these stones shall be for a memorial to the children of Israel forever.” (Joshua 4:4-7)
When our grandson was an infant, he began making some overnight visits to our house. He slept in a pack and play. When he got older, we purchased a good crib for him. It had a nice wood finish and converted into a bed. It fit well in the spare room, and our little houseguest liked it just fine.
One day I noticed several scratch marks on the top of the railing. The child was too small to make them. I tracked down the likely culprit - the wife. “You scratched the crib; look right here.” She didn’t deny the possibility of being the guilty party, although she also did not recall making those marks. Not long after that, she discovered the mark maker. A particular little boy was pulling himself to a standing position and gnawing on the crib railings. “Ahh, that is so cute. I gushed. Look at his little teeth marks.” “Hey, what a minute,” the wife said, “When you thought it was me, I was in all kinds of trouble. But now, it’s “cute”?! “Well, yeah, because I just figured you had been careless and damaged new furniture. But these are memory marks. Whenever we see them, it will remind us of this precious little child.” “Uh-huh,” she responded.
I’m sure lots of us have memory marks in our lives. Perhaps pencil marks on a wall somewhere give testimony to children’s growing times. A heart and arrow carved in a favorite tree. A card from that special loved one who is no longer here. Maybe even a scar on a forehead or chin. These give their intimate witness to the unique experiences of each of our lives.
Most are familiar with Jacob’s ladder. Jacob laid down in Haran for the night and saw the angels of God ascending and descending between heaven and earth. God then spoke to him there. The next morning Jacob took the stone he had used as a pillow and set it up as a pillar, “and he called the name of that place Bethel.” (Genesis 28:10-22)
Other times in scripture, we see the use of memory marks also. Such as, in our opening verses, the Israelites put twelve stones in the Jordan. And the Lord Jesus, on the night of His betrayal, made the ordinary things of bread and wine into memorials as well.
Do we have memory markers in our lives that speak to others about the things of God? Marks that people can point to and inquire about the meaning and significance of such. Marks that we can point to and use as a testimony to the faithfulness, the kindness, the love, the mercy, the grace, and the goodness of God? I hope we all do.
No other marks are witness to these things like the ultimate memory marks. “Then He [Jesus] said to Thomas [us], “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving but believing.” (John 20:27)
Then Joshua called the twelve men whom he had appointed from the children of Israel, one man from each tribe; and Joshua said to them: “Cross over before the ark of the Lord your God into the midst of the Jordan, and each one of you take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the children of Israel, that this may be a sign among you when your children ask in time to come, saying, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ Then you shall answer them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord; when it crossed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. And these stones shall be for a memorial to the children of Israel forever.” (Joshua 4:4-7)
When our grandson was an infant, he began making some overnight visits to our house. He slept in a pack and play. When he got older, we purchased a good crib for him. It had a nice wood finish and converted into a bed. It fit well in the spare room, and our little houseguest liked it just fine.
One day I noticed several scratch marks on the top of the railing. The child was too small to make them. I tracked down the likely culprit - the wife. “You scratched the crib; look right here.” She didn’t deny the possibility of being the guilty party, although she also did not recall making those marks. Not long after that, she discovered the mark maker. A particular little boy was pulling himself to a standing position and gnawing on the crib railings. “Ahh, that is so cute. I gushed. Look at his little teeth marks.” “Hey, what a minute,” the wife said, “When you thought it was me, I was in all kinds of trouble. But now, it’s “cute”?! “Well, yeah, because I just figured you had been careless and damaged new furniture. But these are memory marks. Whenever we see them, it will remind us of this precious little child.” “Uh-huh,” she responded.
I’m sure lots of us have memory marks in our lives. Perhaps pencil marks on a wall somewhere give testimony to children’s growing times. A heart and arrow carved in a favorite tree. A card from that special loved one who is no longer here. Maybe even a scar on a forehead or chin. These give their intimate witness to the unique experiences of each of our lives.
Most are familiar with Jacob’s ladder. Jacob laid down in Haran for the night and saw the angels of God ascending and descending between heaven and earth. God then spoke to him there. The next morning Jacob took the stone he had used as a pillow and set it up as a pillar, “and he called the name of that place Bethel.” (Genesis 28:10-22)
Other times in scripture, we see the use of memory marks also. Such as, in our opening verses, the Israelites put twelve stones in the Jordan. And the Lord Jesus, on the night of His betrayal, made the ordinary things of bread and wine into memorials as well.
Do we have memory markers in our lives that speak to others about the things of God? Marks that people can point to and inquire about the meaning and significance of such. Marks that we can point to and use as a testimony to the faithfulness, the kindness, the love, the mercy, the grace, and the goodness of God? I hope we all do.
No other marks are witness to these things like the ultimate memory marks. “Then He [Jesus] said to Thomas [us], “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving but believing.” (John 20:27)
Chosen by God?
In high school, the gym teacher would often pick two captains for two teams, whether football, baseball, or dodge ball. The two captains would then take turns picking others for their team. Obviously, they would pick friends and then guys they believed would have the best athletic ability. The fear that ran through most of our veins was not to be picked last. Well, that fear can grow exponentially if you think God has not picked you.
A few years ago, I knew a young man that struggled with his relationship with God. He commented to another brother in the Lord that he was struggling with assurance; he was not sure if he was saved and going to heaven. Rather than providing the comfort of the gospel, the other brother gave him a devastating answer, saying that maybe he wasn’t ‘elect’ or ‘chosen.’ That’s pretty harsh and presumptuous, in my opinion.
The Go-to-Verse
The go-to-verse for those who believe God arbitrarily chooses some people for salvation and rejects the rest is Ephesians chapter one, verse four: “…just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love”.
Presuppositions
Most everyone has presuppositions, especially when it comes to seeing the word ‘chosen.’ We can focus on the word ‘chosen’ and automatically think that God picked some and not others for salvation. But is that what the verse actually says?
The Body of Christ
No, it doesn’t. It does say that He chose us (referring to the apostle Paul and the Christians at Ephesus – Gentiles) in Him. The context, as you read into chapter 2, is referring to believing Jews and Gentiles. They are the ‘us’ that God chose in Him. There was significant enmity between the two groups. But God reconciled them through Christ, and now both Jew and Gentile believers form one new man (Eph. 1:10; 2:15, 16). That one new man is referred to as the church, the body of Christ (Eph. 3:6).
Unbelievers were never in Christ
Unbelievers are “in Adam.” IN ADAM, all die. Only in Christ are we made alive (I Cor. 15:22). This happens when a person is born again and becomes a believer (John 5:24). No one is in Christ before the foundation of the world. According to Ephesians 2:12, Gentiles were without Christ. How could Gentiles who came to faith in Christ be without Christ if all believers were chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world?
Secondly, the apostle Paul greeted Andronicus and Junia, who “were in Christ” before him (Romans 16:7). How could those two disciples be in Christ before Paul if all believers are chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world? It’s not possible.
The Place of Spiritual Blessings
Under the New Covenant, God decided before creation to place all believers (Jews and Gentiles) after the cross − in Christ − when they believed the gospel. That means that every person who trusts in Jesus Christ as Savior is placed into the body of Christ (the church), where we are blessed with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places in Christ (Eph. 1:3). It’s a positional truth.
Being “in Him” is the very first blessing, resulting in being holy and without blame (v. 4), adopted as sons (v. 5), accepted in the Beloved (v. 6), and receiving redemption (v. 7). Many more of these blessings follow in the rest of chapters one and two. However, a person isn’t “in Christ” until he believes. God decided before He created the world that all believing Jews and Gentiles would be placed into one body (in Christ), His church.
Conclusion
Trying to say that Ephesians 1:4 means that God picks some and not others for salvation is reading that into the verse. Jesus Christ died for the ungodly (Rom. 5:6). That includes all of us. He tasted death for everyone (Hebrews 2:9). God “desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth” (I Tim. 2:4). People don’t get saved because God didn’t choose them. They fail to receive salvation because they reject the one and only way, Jesus Christ (John 14:6; John 5:40).
In high school, the gym teacher would often pick two captains for two teams, whether football, baseball, or dodge ball. The two captains would then take turns picking others for their team. Obviously, they would pick friends and then guys they believed would have the best athletic ability. The fear that ran through most of our veins was not to be picked last. Well, that fear can grow exponentially if you think God has not picked you.
A few years ago, I knew a young man that struggled with his relationship with God. He commented to another brother in the Lord that he was struggling with assurance; he was not sure if he was saved and going to heaven. Rather than providing the comfort of the gospel, the other brother gave him a devastating answer, saying that maybe he wasn’t ‘elect’ or ‘chosen.’ That’s pretty harsh and presumptuous, in my opinion.
The Go-to-Verse
The go-to-verse for those who believe God arbitrarily chooses some people for salvation and rejects the rest is Ephesians chapter one, verse four: “…just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love”.
Presuppositions
Most everyone has presuppositions, especially when it comes to seeing the word ‘chosen.’ We can focus on the word ‘chosen’ and automatically think that God picked some and not others for salvation. But is that what the verse actually says?
The Body of Christ
No, it doesn’t. It does say that He chose us (referring to the apostle Paul and the Christians at Ephesus – Gentiles) in Him. The context, as you read into chapter 2, is referring to believing Jews and Gentiles. They are the ‘us’ that God chose in Him. There was significant enmity between the two groups. But God reconciled them through Christ, and now both Jew and Gentile believers form one new man (Eph. 1:10; 2:15, 16). That one new man is referred to as the church, the body of Christ (Eph. 3:6).
Unbelievers were never in Christ
Unbelievers are “in Adam.” IN ADAM, all die. Only in Christ are we made alive (I Cor. 15:22). This happens when a person is born again and becomes a believer (John 5:24). No one is in Christ before the foundation of the world. According to Ephesians 2:12, Gentiles were without Christ. How could Gentiles who came to faith in Christ be without Christ if all believers were chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world?
Secondly, the apostle Paul greeted Andronicus and Junia, who “were in Christ” before him (Romans 16:7). How could those two disciples be in Christ before Paul if all believers are chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world? It’s not possible.
The Place of Spiritual Blessings
Under the New Covenant, God decided before creation to place all believers (Jews and Gentiles) after the cross − in Christ − when they believed the gospel. That means that every person who trusts in Jesus Christ as Savior is placed into the body of Christ (the church), where we are blessed with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places in Christ (Eph. 1:3). It’s a positional truth.
Being “in Him” is the very first blessing, resulting in being holy and without blame (v. 4), adopted as sons (v. 5), accepted in the Beloved (v. 6), and receiving redemption (v. 7). Many more of these blessings follow in the rest of chapters one and two. However, a person isn’t “in Christ” until he believes. God decided before He created the world that all believing Jews and Gentiles would be placed into one body (in Christ), His church.
Conclusion
Trying to say that Ephesians 1:4 means that God picks some and not others for salvation is reading that into the verse. Jesus Christ died for the ungodly (Rom. 5:6). That includes all of us. He tasted death for everyone (Hebrews 2:9). God “desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth” (I Tim. 2:4). People don’t get saved because God didn’t choose them. They fail to receive salvation because they reject the one and only way, Jesus Christ (John 14:6; John 5:40).
Pass the Salt
“You are the salt of the earth; but, if salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.” (Matthew 5:13)
Salt has some crucial and diverse functions in our world. Salt enhances taste, overcoming blandness. Salt will make a lamp’s oil burn brighter, overcoming the darkness. Salt preserves food, overcoming spoil. Salt prevents the growth of weeds, overcoming ruin. Salt heals, overcoming painful wounds.
Jesus says you and I are the salt of the earth. With Christ living in us and through us, we are to enrich the lives of those around us, adding a spiritual flavor to life. We are to brighten the lives of those around us, revealing an eternal light in life. We are to safeguard the lives of those around us, providing a Godly freshness in life. We are to contend for the lives of those around us, planting the good seeds of righteousness in life. We are to restore the lives of those around us, offering the Lamb’s healing in life.
You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its flavor, it is good for nothing. We have much at stake here, as individuals and as a Body. A personal and collective look in the mirror is needed. Are we choosing to enrich, brighten, safeguard, contend and restore - or instead, find ourselves useless and unfruitful to our Lord?
Please pass the salt!
“You are the salt of the earth; but, if salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.” (Matthew 5:13)
Salt has some crucial and diverse functions in our world. Salt enhances taste, overcoming blandness. Salt will make a lamp’s oil burn brighter, overcoming the darkness. Salt preserves food, overcoming spoil. Salt prevents the growth of weeds, overcoming ruin. Salt heals, overcoming painful wounds.
Jesus says you and I are the salt of the earth. With Christ living in us and through us, we are to enrich the lives of those around us, adding a spiritual flavor to life. We are to brighten the lives of those around us, revealing an eternal light in life. We are to safeguard the lives of those around us, providing a Godly freshness in life. We are to contend for the lives of those around us, planting the good seeds of righteousness in life. We are to restore the lives of those around us, offering the Lamb’s healing in life.
You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its flavor, it is good for nothing. We have much at stake here, as individuals and as a Body. A personal and collective look in the mirror is needed. Are we choosing to enrich, brighten, safeguard, contend and restore - or instead, find ourselves useless and unfruitful to our Lord?
Please pass the salt!
Has Your Debt Been Paid?
Back in the 1950s, there was a TV show called the millionaire. In this series, an anonymous millionaire would give away a million dollars to someone he had never met.
If you were a recipient, it could enable you to pay off car loans, a house mortgage, and/or significant medical bills. How much joy would there be knowing that you were able to pay off all your debt due to the benevolence of an unknown individual!
‘Tetelestai’ – Debt Cancellation in the Bible
In Biblical times when someone paid off a debt, the creditor would mark the bill with the word, ‘tetelestai.’ This is a Greek word that literally means, ‘bring to an end.’ A servant who finished his task would tell his master that he had completed the work, ‘tetelestai.’ When a priest would find the perfect lamb for sacrifice, he would exclaim, ‘tetelestai.’ In regard to the payment of a debt, ‘tetelestai’ would communicate that ‘the debt has been paid.
The Last Words of Jesus
In John 19:30, the word is used in the perfect tense and is translated, ‘It is finished.’ “So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.” It was the final words of Jesus on the cross. In other words, the debt has been paid. The certificate of debt has been canceled. (Colossians 2:14 NASB)
What Debt Did Jesus Pay?
His death satisfied the Father’s holy wrath toward sin. Every person has a sin debt that they cannot pay. “The wages of sin is death (eternal separation from God).” That’s what our sin earns – eternal death, being separated from God forever in the place the Bible calls the Lake of Fire.
But JESUS’ DEATH PAID OUR SIN DEBT! If Jesus paid our sin debt, do we have any debt to pay? No! He paid it all. For example, if I was found guilty of speeding and the judge was about to fine me $100. But someone else, out of the kindness of their heart, stepped up and paid my fine of $100. Would I have a fine to pay? No, because someone else paid my fine for me. On a much grandeur and infinite scale, Jesus’ death paid our fine, our sin debt. Therefore, we have no debt to pay.
A Transfer of Trust
Most people think they will get to heaven based on their own personal goodness. Recently, I had a young man tell me that he believed it was 50% his effort and 50% Jesus. He needed to transfer all of his trust (100%) to Jesus.
By transferring your trust from yourself to the Person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ, you pass from death (eternal separation) to (eternal life). (John 5:24) You receive the benefit of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. You no longer have a sin debt to pay, and you gain spiritual life (eternal), which you can never lose. ‘Tetelestai!’
Back in the 1950s, there was a TV show called the millionaire. In this series, an anonymous millionaire would give away a million dollars to someone he had never met.
If you were a recipient, it could enable you to pay off car loans, a house mortgage, and/or significant medical bills. How much joy would there be knowing that you were able to pay off all your debt due to the benevolence of an unknown individual!
‘Tetelestai’ – Debt Cancellation in the Bible
In Biblical times when someone paid off a debt, the creditor would mark the bill with the word, ‘tetelestai.’ This is a Greek word that literally means, ‘bring to an end.’ A servant who finished his task would tell his master that he had completed the work, ‘tetelestai.’ When a priest would find the perfect lamb for sacrifice, he would exclaim, ‘tetelestai.’ In regard to the payment of a debt, ‘tetelestai’ would communicate that ‘the debt has been paid.
The Last Words of Jesus
In John 19:30, the word is used in the perfect tense and is translated, ‘It is finished.’ “So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.” It was the final words of Jesus on the cross. In other words, the debt has been paid. The certificate of debt has been canceled. (Colossians 2:14 NASB)
What Debt Did Jesus Pay?
His death satisfied the Father’s holy wrath toward sin. Every person has a sin debt that they cannot pay. “The wages of sin is death (eternal separation from God).” That’s what our sin earns – eternal death, being separated from God forever in the place the Bible calls the Lake of Fire.
But JESUS’ DEATH PAID OUR SIN DEBT! If Jesus paid our sin debt, do we have any debt to pay? No! He paid it all. For example, if I was found guilty of speeding and the judge was about to fine me $100. But someone else, out of the kindness of their heart, stepped up and paid my fine of $100. Would I have a fine to pay? No, because someone else paid my fine for me. On a much grandeur and infinite scale, Jesus’ death paid our fine, our sin debt. Therefore, we have no debt to pay.
A Transfer of Trust
Most people think they will get to heaven based on their own personal goodness. Recently, I had a young man tell me that he believed it was 50% his effort and 50% Jesus. He needed to transfer all of his trust (100%) to Jesus.
By transferring your trust from yourself to the Person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ, you pass from death (eternal separation) to (eternal life). (John 5:24) You receive the benefit of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. You no longer have a sin debt to pay, and you gain spiritual life (eternal), which you can never lose. ‘Tetelestai!’
Content
“Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.” (Philippians 4:11, 12)
This time of the year is great for sinking into the warmth of home and hearth, a soft seat, and an excellent book. “Ahh, feels great, doesn’t it?” Now that is what we call “content.” All is right with the world - for a while at least. Eventually, we must leave that delightful place and venture into a cold, challenging, and not-so-good world. That most often leads us to what we call “discontent.” The Apostle Paul says he learned to be content, whether warm and safe or bitter and dangerous. Sign me up for that lesson.
When commiserating with a brother-in-the-Lord concerning my burdens at the time, he challenged me with the above scripture. Paul wrote those words from prison; he reminded me. And the prisons of that day didn’t have weight rooms, air-conditioning, and cable TV. They were dungeons with barely enough room to stand up straight for the most part. Although Paul’s imprisonment during the writing of this epistle was most likely in a locked-down house (1:13), he was not happy there. He did not want to be there. But he realized that Christ had him there for whatever reasons and whatever seasons. He declares, “I want you to know, brethren, that things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel.” (1:12)
“Have the things you’re going through been used by you for the furtherance of the gospel?” inquired my dear brother. “Have you learned how to be abased, and how to abound, how to be full or hungry, to have and have not, as a witness to others? No. My answer was – no. “Then you need to learn to be content,” he said.
I appreciated his counsel. “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17) Brothers and sisters in the Lord who hold us accountable and give us correction and direction are invaluable.
Of learning contentment, the Apostle Paul tells us the key: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (4:13) In an overarching sense, our discontent in life comes from the fact that this world is not our home, and we are but pilgrims passing through. (See Hebrews 11:13-16) In the smaller daily living out of that, we face the hair-pulling, teeth-gritting, stress-causing frustrations of dysfunctional families, communities, workplaces, and you name it. These things capture our attention and waylay our focus.
In Christ, through Christ, we can find contentment within the big picture by knowing He has secured our future. In the smaller frame, though perhaps the most difficult to deal with, we can understand and accept that our daily life is about His plan, not ours, not someone else’s. The surrender of our weaknesses and vulnerabilities, our circumstances and happenstances, allows His strength to calm us and refocus us – and enable us to be content.
“Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.” (Philippians 4:11, 12)
This time of the year is great for sinking into the warmth of home and hearth, a soft seat, and an excellent book. “Ahh, feels great, doesn’t it?” Now that is what we call “content.” All is right with the world - for a while at least. Eventually, we must leave that delightful place and venture into a cold, challenging, and not-so-good world. That most often leads us to what we call “discontent.” The Apostle Paul says he learned to be content, whether warm and safe or bitter and dangerous. Sign me up for that lesson.
When commiserating with a brother-in-the-Lord concerning my burdens at the time, he challenged me with the above scripture. Paul wrote those words from prison; he reminded me. And the prisons of that day didn’t have weight rooms, air-conditioning, and cable TV. They were dungeons with barely enough room to stand up straight for the most part. Although Paul’s imprisonment during the writing of this epistle was most likely in a locked-down house (1:13), he was not happy there. He did not want to be there. But he realized that Christ had him there for whatever reasons and whatever seasons. He declares, “I want you to know, brethren, that things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel.” (1:12)
“Have the things you’re going through been used by you for the furtherance of the gospel?” inquired my dear brother. “Have you learned how to be abased, and how to abound, how to be full or hungry, to have and have not, as a witness to others? No. My answer was – no. “Then you need to learn to be content,” he said.
I appreciated his counsel. “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17) Brothers and sisters in the Lord who hold us accountable and give us correction and direction are invaluable.
Of learning contentment, the Apostle Paul tells us the key: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (4:13) In an overarching sense, our discontent in life comes from the fact that this world is not our home, and we are but pilgrims passing through. (See Hebrews 11:13-16) In the smaller daily living out of that, we face the hair-pulling, teeth-gritting, stress-causing frustrations of dysfunctional families, communities, workplaces, and you name it. These things capture our attention and waylay our focus.
In Christ, through Christ, we can find contentment within the big picture by knowing He has secured our future. In the smaller frame, though perhaps the most difficult to deal with, we can understand and accept that our daily life is about His plan, not ours, not someone else’s. The surrender of our weaknesses and vulnerabilities, our circumstances and happenstances, allows His strength to calm us and refocus us – and enable us to be content.
God Bless the Child
Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.” (Mark 10:13-16)
Years ago, I wrote a poem entitled “The Leaf from who knows where.” The story behind the verse occurred on a walk with my toddling son. I held his hand as we began yet another journey through our backyard. Suddenly he stopped and pointed at the ground. Then he bent down and picked up his find. With big bright eyes and his mouth shaped in a “Wow!” he held up the treasure for me to see. It was a dead brown leaf from the year previous. Yeah, wow, I thought. My eyes were the eyes of a somber agnostic cynic. I saw yawn, but he saw a wonder. And it hit me right there right then; the vast difference between that precious innocent little child and his wretched jaded father. So I smiled a big smile while he shared his great discovery with me. The last line in the poem is: “I looked at his shining eyes, and we sat down right there, And we “Ohh’d and Ahh’d” at the leaf from who knows where.”
No one can teach spiritual truths and realities like little kids. They receive the kingdom of God with nary a doubt or objection. Their faith is simple, helpless, and trusting. They have neither pretense nor temperament, which makes them dependent on their own resources or achievements. How refreshing it is to witness such faith.
Jesus flat out tells us wretched jaded adults: “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt 18:3) Without the kind of faith children possess, we will always try to work our way into God’s favor. We cannot. But that doesn’t seem to stop us from trying, hence the eyes of sad, doubting cynicism.
When was the last time you and I “Ohh’d and Ahh’d” at God’s creation, God’s word, and God’s gift of His beloved Son? God bless the children among us – and may we be found as one of them.
Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.” (Mark 10:13-16)
Years ago, I wrote a poem entitled “The Leaf from who knows where.” The story behind the verse occurred on a walk with my toddling son. I held his hand as we began yet another journey through our backyard. Suddenly he stopped and pointed at the ground. Then he bent down and picked up his find. With big bright eyes and his mouth shaped in a “Wow!” he held up the treasure for me to see. It was a dead brown leaf from the year previous. Yeah, wow, I thought. My eyes were the eyes of a somber agnostic cynic. I saw yawn, but he saw a wonder. And it hit me right there right then; the vast difference between that precious innocent little child and his wretched jaded father. So I smiled a big smile while he shared his great discovery with me. The last line in the poem is: “I looked at his shining eyes, and we sat down right there, And we “Ohh’d and Ahh’d” at the leaf from who knows where.”
No one can teach spiritual truths and realities like little kids. They receive the kingdom of God with nary a doubt or objection. Their faith is simple, helpless, and trusting. They have neither pretense nor temperament, which makes them dependent on their own resources or achievements. How refreshing it is to witness such faith.
Jesus flat out tells us wretched jaded adults: “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt 18:3) Without the kind of faith children possess, we will always try to work our way into God’s favor. We cannot. But that doesn’t seem to stop us from trying, hence the eyes of sad, doubting cynicism.
When was the last time you and I “Ohh’d and Ahh’d” at God’s creation, God’s word, and God’s gift of His beloved Son? God bless the children among us – and may we be found as one of them.
God has a Plan for You
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
For years the prophet Jeremiah pleaded with Judah to repent and return to the Lord. His words fell on deaf ears. The Babylonians laid siege to the tiny nation. Judah fell. A few poor Jews were left in the land as caretakers. Others would flee to Egypt, despite the Lord’s command not to go there. They eventually perished in Egypt. The remainder was carried away captive to Babylon.
Sometime later, Jeremiah sent a letter to the exiles in Babylon. It contained the Lord God’s instructions on how to conduct themselves in captivity. Would their deaf ears listen now? The Lord told them to build houses, plant and harvest, have families, and increase in number. He said to seek peace in Babylon, not trouble. He reminded them to ignore the false prophets among them, for they did not speak for Him. Then the Lord said, “After seventy years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform My good word toward you and cause you to return to this place.” (v.10)
Readers of scripture must be contextually mindful that the letter to the exiles was for the Jews in a specific time and place. But can we not clutch verse 11 to our own hearts? For therein, we find yet again the mind and the heart of our God. And this verse stands amongst the greatest in scripture for beckoning exiles homeward. It certainly had a sledgehammer effect on this exile at first reading.
Thank God!
These verses that follow show forth a burgeoning relationship with the Lord:
· “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.” (v.12). The former exile calls and prays - God listens.
· “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” (v.13). The former exile has no division in the heart but intently pursues God.
· “I will be found by you, says the Lord, and will bring you back from your captivity.” (v.14a). The former exile becomes redeemed, regenerated, reconciled, and restored. Thank God!
Seventy years later, just as He promised, the Lord God brought the Jewish people in Babylon back to Judah and Jerusalem. He had a future and a hope for the exiles. Through them, the march to the fullness of time went on with the eventual coming of YESHUA HAMASHIACH. Jesus the Christ came and declared of Himself: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” (Luke 4:18-19)
The Lord God has a peace that passes all understanding for you, a future for you, and a hope for you. Come home and receive all that He has promised from wherever you are.
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
For years the prophet Jeremiah pleaded with Judah to repent and return to the Lord. His words fell on deaf ears. The Babylonians laid siege to the tiny nation. Judah fell. A few poor Jews were left in the land as caretakers. Others would flee to Egypt, despite the Lord’s command not to go there. They eventually perished in Egypt. The remainder was carried away captive to Babylon.
Sometime later, Jeremiah sent a letter to the exiles in Babylon. It contained the Lord God’s instructions on how to conduct themselves in captivity. Would their deaf ears listen now? The Lord told them to build houses, plant and harvest, have families, and increase in number. He said to seek peace in Babylon, not trouble. He reminded them to ignore the false prophets among them, for they did not speak for Him. Then the Lord said, “After seventy years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform My good word toward you and cause you to return to this place.” (v.10)
Readers of scripture must be contextually mindful that the letter to the exiles was for the Jews in a specific time and place. But can we not clutch verse 11 to our own hearts? For therein, we find yet again the mind and the heart of our God. And this verse stands amongst the greatest in scripture for beckoning exiles homeward. It certainly had a sledgehammer effect on this exile at first reading.
Thank God!
These verses that follow show forth a burgeoning relationship with the Lord:
· “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.” (v.12). The former exile calls and prays - God listens.
· “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” (v.13). The former exile has no division in the heart but intently pursues God.
· “I will be found by you, says the Lord, and will bring you back from your captivity.” (v.14a). The former exile becomes redeemed, regenerated, reconciled, and restored. Thank God!
Seventy years later, just as He promised, the Lord God brought the Jewish people in Babylon back to Judah and Jerusalem. He had a future and a hope for the exiles. Through them, the march to the fullness of time went on with the eventual coming of YESHUA HAMASHIACH. Jesus the Christ came and declared of Himself: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” (Luke 4:18-19)
The Lord God has a peace that passes all understanding for you, a future for you, and a hope for you. Come home and receive all that He has promised from wherever you are.
Which race, which crown?
“Do you know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.” (1 Corinthians 9: 24-25)
There are two bodies lying side by side in the county morgue. One was a Christian; the other was not. What is the difference between the two bodies lying side by side in the county morgue? I say there is no difference. It’s two vacated bodies. They are folded tents. They have no breath and no animation. The races both of them ran are over.
But then again, while dead bodies have a definite commonality, we are provided with one additional piece of information. We know who won their race. We know who took home the prize. And we know the prize was that person being taken home—a home-prepared from the foundation of the world with their name on the mailbox. And sadly, we know who lost their race. Their intended residence will sit empty forever.
Have you ever been still long enough to observe all the racing and running in this world? This man bowls over everyone in his path to grab hold of power and promotion. This lady trots by looking for popularity and prominence. People push and shove, hustling to obtain position, prestige, possessions, and property. Yes, he who dies with the most toys wins. Life is NASCAR, and we’ve all got our eyes fixed on the checkered flag.
Everyone starts running from birth until death. Most go frantically rushing off with the mob in one direction; a few choose a very different way. The “most” ignore the fact that “we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out…” (1 Timothy 6:7). The “most” spend their whole racing life chasing perishing crowns that turn to dust at the finish line. The “few” sincerely aspire to join the Apostle Paul and make his words our own: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
We all run in a race. We all get a crown. The eternal question is, “Which race, which crown?”
“Do you know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.” (1 Corinthians 9: 24-25)
There are two bodies lying side by side in the county morgue. One was a Christian; the other was not. What is the difference between the two bodies lying side by side in the county morgue? I say there is no difference. It’s two vacated bodies. They are folded tents. They have no breath and no animation. The races both of them ran are over.
But then again, while dead bodies have a definite commonality, we are provided with one additional piece of information. We know who won their race. We know who took home the prize. And we know the prize was that person being taken home—a home-prepared from the foundation of the world with their name on the mailbox. And sadly, we know who lost their race. Their intended residence will sit empty forever.
Have you ever been still long enough to observe all the racing and running in this world? This man bowls over everyone in his path to grab hold of power and promotion. This lady trots by looking for popularity and prominence. People push and shove, hustling to obtain position, prestige, possessions, and property. Yes, he who dies with the most toys wins. Life is NASCAR, and we’ve all got our eyes fixed on the checkered flag.
Everyone starts running from birth until death. Most go frantically rushing off with the mob in one direction; a few choose a very different way. The “most” ignore the fact that “we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out…” (1 Timothy 6:7). The “most” spend their whole racing life chasing perishing crowns that turn to dust at the finish line. The “few” sincerely aspire to join the Apostle Paul and make his words our own: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
We all run in a race. We all get a crown. The eternal question is, “Which race, which crown?”
He who has The Son
When our pastor preached a series on the end times, he touched on the different views within the church concerning the times and events of the last days. A literal interpretation (highly recommended) leads us to this perspective right here; another type of interpretation heads us over there, and so on. There are other matters within the Body where the debate is more the norm than agreement. The reason for this is not found in infallible Scripture but rather within fallible man.
Unfortunately, nearly everything (including the absolute essentials of the Faith) has been tossed on the table as fair game in these last days. As a result, false teachers producing fraudulent disciples permeate the church. The Apostle Paul warned the Ephesians and us of this very thing: “For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also, from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things to draw away disciples after themselves.” (Acts 20:29-30)
Later, Paul instructs the faithful to “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2Tim 2:15) Paul told us to become so familiar with the truth that we can spot a liar and a lie in a heartbeat.
The Apostle John also speaks much of this in his epistles. He encourages us to “not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God.” (1 John 4:1) The false teachers then and now preach and teach a different Jesus than the inspired Scriptures. Jesus is a goody-two-shoes which we need to emulate. Jesus is a sloppy agape purveyor of – if it makes you feel good, do it – love. Jesus is the manifestation of the ultimate social worker, the champion of social justice. Jesus is the spirit guide of the new age. Jesus is a ticket to be healthy and wealthy. Jesus is the poised hammer of whatever brand of legalism touted. John tells us these “…are of the world. Therefore, they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.” (1 John 4:5-6)
The Apostle John then gives us a further description as he explains “many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist…” and “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son.” (2 John vs. 7, 9)
Yes, folks, there are some issues and subjects we can contend over in Christendom - but the doctrine of the nature and deity of Jesus Christ is not among them. “If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this is the witness of God which he testified of His Son. He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe God, has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given of His Son. And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.” (1 John 5: 9-12)
That is as clear as a cloudless sunny sky. There is no debate. Those who have the Son have life - is that you? Those who do not have the Son of God do not have life - or is that you? It’s one or the other.
When our pastor preached a series on the end times, he touched on the different views within the church concerning the times and events of the last days. A literal interpretation (highly recommended) leads us to this perspective right here; another type of interpretation heads us over there, and so on. There are other matters within the Body where the debate is more the norm than agreement. The reason for this is not found in infallible Scripture but rather within fallible man.
Unfortunately, nearly everything (including the absolute essentials of the Faith) has been tossed on the table as fair game in these last days. As a result, false teachers producing fraudulent disciples permeate the church. The Apostle Paul warned the Ephesians and us of this very thing: “For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also, from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things to draw away disciples after themselves.” (Acts 20:29-30)
Later, Paul instructs the faithful to “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2Tim 2:15) Paul told us to become so familiar with the truth that we can spot a liar and a lie in a heartbeat.
The Apostle John also speaks much of this in his epistles. He encourages us to “not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God.” (1 John 4:1) The false teachers then and now preach and teach a different Jesus than the inspired Scriptures. Jesus is a goody-two-shoes which we need to emulate. Jesus is a sloppy agape purveyor of – if it makes you feel good, do it – love. Jesus is the manifestation of the ultimate social worker, the champion of social justice. Jesus is the spirit guide of the new age. Jesus is a ticket to be healthy and wealthy. Jesus is the poised hammer of whatever brand of legalism touted. John tells us these “…are of the world. Therefore, they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.” (1 John 4:5-6)
The Apostle John then gives us a further description as he explains “many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist…” and “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son.” (2 John vs. 7, 9)
Yes, folks, there are some issues and subjects we can contend over in Christendom - but the doctrine of the nature and deity of Jesus Christ is not among them. “If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this is the witness of God which he testified of His Son. He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe God, has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given of His Son. And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.” (1 John 5: 9-12)
That is as clear as a cloudless sunny sky. There is no debate. Those who have the Son have life - is that you? Those who do not have the Son of God do not have life - or is that you? It’s one or the other.
God’s Life Insurance Policy
The first aspect of salvation, being delivered from the penalty of sin, is similar to life insurance. Because of Adam’s disobedience, we inherit his nature at birth. We are born physically alive but spiritually dead, separated from our Creator.
To receive true life, one must first recognize that they are a helpless sinner separated from their Creator and then believe the gospel. At that moment, one becomes a child of God and has everlasting life that can never be lost. That’s the best life insurance!
God is infinitely Holy!
If you are growing in your understanding of your sin nature and the holiness of God, you begin to realize the infinite gap there is between the Lord and us. My heart is “deceitful above all things and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9). I am learning that “in me (that is in my flesh [old nature]) nothing good dwells” (Romans 7:18). The closer I get to the light of God’s holiness, I cry out like Isaiah, “Woe is me, for I am undone!” (Isaiah 6:4)
Growing requires time
However, did I understand the depths of my depravity the moment I received Jesus as my Savior? Does anyone ever understand the depths of their depravity at that moment? I don’t think so. Children or teenagers don’t understand the depth of their sinfulness. Neither do new converts. It requires time and spiritual growth. The closer I become in my relationship with Christ, the more rubbish I see in myself. If He dumped that all on you and me at one time, it would be devastating.
What motivates you?
Yet, in seeing more and more of my depravity, I am able to grow to understand more and more of His mercy and grace. The deeper I dig into justification, the more compelled I am to live a life that glorifies Him and is good for me and those around me. His life insurance has given me what I don’t deserve (Spiritual life) and has withheld from me that which I do deserve (Spiritual death). When I understand that, it motivates me to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (II Peter 3:18, II Corinthians 5:14-15).
God’s Policy promotes godliness
Understanding the comprehensive coverage of God’s Life Insurance actually promotes godliness and service. The grace of God teaches me to deny ungodliness and worldly lust; to live righteously and soberly (Titus 2:11). Grace never gives us the green light to sin more so grace may abound (Romans 6:1). That is a significant misunderstanding of God’s grace.
God’s grace always leads in paths of righteousness. If I am learning to develop my relationship with Him, His grace saves me from the penalty of sin and saves me from the daily power of sin. Living by His grace and power glorifies Him and is good for me. Am I growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ?
For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. II Samuel 16:7
The first aspect of salvation, being delivered from the penalty of sin, is similar to life insurance. Because of Adam’s disobedience, we inherit his nature at birth. We are born physically alive but spiritually dead, separated from our Creator.
To receive true life, one must first recognize that they are a helpless sinner separated from their Creator and then believe the gospel. At that moment, one becomes a child of God and has everlasting life that can never be lost. That’s the best life insurance!
God is infinitely Holy!
If you are growing in your understanding of your sin nature and the holiness of God, you begin to realize the infinite gap there is between the Lord and us. My heart is “deceitful above all things and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9). I am learning that “in me (that is in my flesh [old nature]) nothing good dwells” (Romans 7:18). The closer I get to the light of God’s holiness, I cry out like Isaiah, “Woe is me, for I am undone!” (Isaiah 6:4)
Growing requires time
However, did I understand the depths of my depravity the moment I received Jesus as my Savior? Does anyone ever understand the depths of their depravity at that moment? I don’t think so. Children or teenagers don’t understand the depth of their sinfulness. Neither do new converts. It requires time and spiritual growth. The closer I become in my relationship with Christ, the more rubbish I see in myself. If He dumped that all on you and me at one time, it would be devastating.
What motivates you?
Yet, in seeing more and more of my depravity, I am able to grow to understand more and more of His mercy and grace. The deeper I dig into justification, the more compelled I am to live a life that glorifies Him and is good for me and those around me. His life insurance has given me what I don’t deserve (Spiritual life) and has withheld from me that which I do deserve (Spiritual death). When I understand that, it motivates me to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (II Peter 3:18, II Corinthians 5:14-15).
God’s Policy promotes godliness
Understanding the comprehensive coverage of God’s Life Insurance actually promotes godliness and service. The grace of God teaches me to deny ungodliness and worldly lust; to live righteously and soberly (Titus 2:11). Grace never gives us the green light to sin more so grace may abound (Romans 6:1). That is a significant misunderstanding of God’s grace.
God’s grace always leads in paths of righteousness. If I am learning to develop my relationship with Him, His grace saves me from the penalty of sin and saves me from the daily power of sin. Living by His grace and power glorifies Him and is good for me. Am I growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ?
For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. II Samuel 16:7
Does God offer us Fire Insurance or Life Insurance?
Most people have insurance on their homes. It would be pretty ridiculous not to have it. My eldest son almost burned down the house once when frying hamburgers on the stove. He went to do something in his room, forgot about them, and filled most of the house with burnt burger smoke. He yelled for me, and I dashed into the house, grabbed the skillet, and tossed it outside. That’s probably the closest we ever came to using insurance. There is only one time when you will absolutely need fire insurance, and that is when your house catches on fire. Thankfully, most never have to use it.
Is Salvation fire insurance?
Often some criticize those who ‘claim’ to be saved but show no visible fruit. Some will judge that such a person only wanted ‘fire insurance.’ In other words, such a person doesn’t want to go to hell, but his life doesn’t seem to change much. It fails to show outward fruit or interest in going to church, reading the Bible, etc. Their conclusion usually is that those people are on thin ice when it comes to salvation. They just want ‘fire insurance.’
Although I do not like referring to salvation as fire insurance, it will actually prevent you from even having a fire. But to me, salvation is better described as life insurance since that is what we really need. “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son does not have life.” (I John 5:12).
Salvation is Life Insurance!
Every human is born physically alive but spiritually dead, separated from God. We need spiritual life. We only get that life by being born again, born from above.
When a person believes the gospel, they become a child of God by faith in Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:26). That’s called being justified by faith. You are declared ‘not guilty’ in the courtroom of God Almighty! You have passed from death to life (John 5:24). That happens instantaneously when you believed the gospel. You are born again (spiritually) as God’s child. It is a one-time act of hearing (understanding the gospel) and believing it, which causes an irreversible change in your final destination.
The truth is that if we have God’s life insurance, we don’t need fire insurance. Receiving spiritual life will keep you from needing fire insurance. Those who receive spiritual life by faith in Christ will never end up in the Lake of Fire.
All Policyholders have everlasting life
Once you are God’s child, you are always His child. You may be a disobedient one. You may be a child that wanders off, but you remain His child. No one can snatch you out of His hand, including yourself. You shall not come into judgment. You receive everlasting life, the forgiveness of sins, and have been made accepted in the Beloved (Jesus). The Holy Spirit seals you until the day of redemption. You will never perish in the Lake of Fire. And it’s not based on anything you do, good or bad. It’s based entirely on the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who promised that whoever believes in Him has everlasting life (John 3:16; 6:47).
God’s Insurance Policy is Free!
Salvation is more of a life insurance policy than fire insurance because it gives you spiritual life that cannot be lost. It’s full coverage from the day you believed the gospel until the day you stand before the Lord. There’s no premium in this policy. He offers this policy as a free gift to whosoever will believe on the Lord Jesus Christ!
Next Time: Understanding the comprehensive coverage of God’s Life insurance program actually promotes godliness and service.
Most people have insurance on their homes. It would be pretty ridiculous not to have it. My eldest son almost burned down the house once when frying hamburgers on the stove. He went to do something in his room, forgot about them, and filled most of the house with burnt burger smoke. He yelled for me, and I dashed into the house, grabbed the skillet, and tossed it outside. That’s probably the closest we ever came to using insurance. There is only one time when you will absolutely need fire insurance, and that is when your house catches on fire. Thankfully, most never have to use it.
Is Salvation fire insurance?
Often some criticize those who ‘claim’ to be saved but show no visible fruit. Some will judge that such a person only wanted ‘fire insurance.’ In other words, such a person doesn’t want to go to hell, but his life doesn’t seem to change much. It fails to show outward fruit or interest in going to church, reading the Bible, etc. Their conclusion usually is that those people are on thin ice when it comes to salvation. They just want ‘fire insurance.’
Although I do not like referring to salvation as fire insurance, it will actually prevent you from even having a fire. But to me, salvation is better described as life insurance since that is what we really need. “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son does not have life.” (I John 5:12).
Salvation is Life Insurance!
Every human is born physically alive but spiritually dead, separated from God. We need spiritual life. We only get that life by being born again, born from above.
When a person believes the gospel, they become a child of God by faith in Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:26). That’s called being justified by faith. You are declared ‘not guilty’ in the courtroom of God Almighty! You have passed from death to life (John 5:24). That happens instantaneously when you believed the gospel. You are born again (spiritually) as God’s child. It is a one-time act of hearing (understanding the gospel) and believing it, which causes an irreversible change in your final destination.
The truth is that if we have God’s life insurance, we don’t need fire insurance. Receiving spiritual life will keep you from needing fire insurance. Those who receive spiritual life by faith in Christ will never end up in the Lake of Fire.
All Policyholders have everlasting life
Once you are God’s child, you are always His child. You may be a disobedient one. You may be a child that wanders off, but you remain His child. No one can snatch you out of His hand, including yourself. You shall not come into judgment. You receive everlasting life, the forgiveness of sins, and have been made accepted in the Beloved (Jesus). The Holy Spirit seals you until the day of redemption. You will never perish in the Lake of Fire. And it’s not based on anything you do, good or bad. It’s based entirely on the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who promised that whoever believes in Him has everlasting life (John 3:16; 6:47).
God’s Insurance Policy is Free!
Salvation is more of a life insurance policy than fire insurance because it gives you spiritual life that cannot be lost. It’s full coverage from the day you believed the gospel until the day you stand before the Lord. There’s no premium in this policy. He offers this policy as a free gift to whosoever will believe on the Lord Jesus Christ!
Next Time: Understanding the comprehensive coverage of God’s Life insurance program actually promotes godliness and service.
Words have Meaning and Context Matters
How would you respond if you were outside working and saw a man dressed in camouflage with a gun slung over his shoulder, heading in your direction? Today you likely would immediately head inside and call 911.
Several years ago, my good friend got lost turkey hunting in central Pennsylvania's large public hunting land. Heading toward the main road, he encountered a farmer in the valley working on a fence. He explained to the man he was lost and where he needed to go. The farmer gave him directions, and after a mile detour, he found his way back to camp, sweaty and tired.
The context of the situation dictates our understanding and reaction. With my friend, it was hunting season, and not uncommon to see people in this area dressed in camo and carrying a gun. Not only that, but the farm boundary line adjoined the 17,000 acres of public hunting land. Had this happened in an urban area, then things would have been quite different.
Understanding the context in reading your Bible is equally important. It may be the most important concept for understanding Scripture.
To illustrate the principle, I will often joke and say that the Bible says, “There is no God.” Usually, I get a blank, confused look. Then I quote Psalm 14 verse 1; ‘THE FOOL has said in his heart, “There is no God.”’ Although it is an absurd example, it demonstrates the importance of understanding Biblical context.
Sometimes a lack of assurance of salvation results from a misunderstanding of a few verses taken out of context.
What are the nuts and bolts to understand words and context? Here are a few suggestions:
1. Who – Who wrote the book? Who is it written to? Who is speaking? Who is being spoken to?
2. What – What is the purpose(s) for the letter or the word?
3. Words are defined by the words around them. What would you say if I asked you what the word ‘trunk’ means? Until I use it in a sentence in a particular situation, you can’t be sure. But if I just came home from the grocery store and asked you to help me get the groceries out of the trunk, then you would understand what I meant.
4. Words carry a range of meanings. For example, the word ‘save’ can have up to 8 different meaning variations in the New Testament. But often, we think of being saved from hell when we read that word. We have been conditioned to think this way. Again, the context should define the meaning.
5. Understanding any passage must be in agreement with the broader context of the Bible. A word is in a sentence. A sentence is in a paragraph. A paragraph is in a chapter. A chapter is in a book. And the book is in the Bible. The Bible does not contradict itself.
6. The Bible was written in a different time and culture. Learning about Jewish cultures and customs of the time can give you better insight into some passages.
7. Difficult verses must harmonize with the plain and main teaching of Scripture.
When it comes to assurance of salvation, do not allow yourself to be clouded by the many voices out there. The words of Jesus and the context are clear; “For God so loved the world (you and me) that He gave His only begotten Son, that WHOEVER believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Everlasting life lasts f-o-r-e-v-e-r! The moment one trusts in Him, understanding who He is and what He did, that individual has everlasting life. If it could be taken away, it wouldn’t be everlasting. It would be temporary life. Words have meaning, and context matters.
How would you respond if you were outside working and saw a man dressed in camouflage with a gun slung over his shoulder, heading in your direction? Today you likely would immediately head inside and call 911.
Several years ago, my good friend got lost turkey hunting in central Pennsylvania's large public hunting land. Heading toward the main road, he encountered a farmer in the valley working on a fence. He explained to the man he was lost and where he needed to go. The farmer gave him directions, and after a mile detour, he found his way back to camp, sweaty and tired.
The context of the situation dictates our understanding and reaction. With my friend, it was hunting season, and not uncommon to see people in this area dressed in camo and carrying a gun. Not only that, but the farm boundary line adjoined the 17,000 acres of public hunting land. Had this happened in an urban area, then things would have been quite different.
Understanding the context in reading your Bible is equally important. It may be the most important concept for understanding Scripture.
To illustrate the principle, I will often joke and say that the Bible says, “There is no God.” Usually, I get a blank, confused look. Then I quote Psalm 14 verse 1; ‘THE FOOL has said in his heart, “There is no God.”’ Although it is an absurd example, it demonstrates the importance of understanding Biblical context.
Sometimes a lack of assurance of salvation results from a misunderstanding of a few verses taken out of context.
What are the nuts and bolts to understand words and context? Here are a few suggestions:
1. Who – Who wrote the book? Who is it written to? Who is speaking? Who is being spoken to?
2. What – What is the purpose(s) for the letter or the word?
3. Words are defined by the words around them. What would you say if I asked you what the word ‘trunk’ means? Until I use it in a sentence in a particular situation, you can’t be sure. But if I just came home from the grocery store and asked you to help me get the groceries out of the trunk, then you would understand what I meant.
4. Words carry a range of meanings. For example, the word ‘save’ can have up to 8 different meaning variations in the New Testament. But often, we think of being saved from hell when we read that word. We have been conditioned to think this way. Again, the context should define the meaning.
5. Understanding any passage must be in agreement with the broader context of the Bible. A word is in a sentence. A sentence is in a paragraph. A paragraph is in a chapter. A chapter is in a book. And the book is in the Bible. The Bible does not contradict itself.
6. The Bible was written in a different time and culture. Learning about Jewish cultures and customs of the time can give you better insight into some passages.
7. Difficult verses must harmonize with the plain and main teaching of Scripture.
When it comes to assurance of salvation, do not allow yourself to be clouded by the many voices out there. The words of Jesus and the context are clear; “For God so loved the world (you and me) that He gave His only begotten Son, that WHOEVER believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Everlasting life lasts f-o-r-e-v-e-r! The moment one trusts in Him, understanding who He is and what He did, that individual has everlasting life. If it could be taken away, it wouldn’t be everlasting. It would be temporary life. Words have meaning, and context matters.
Are You a Good Person?
Most of us think that we are good. I’ve talked to hundreds of people over the last few years at outreach events, and about 95% respond in the affirmative to the question, “Are you a good person?” Almost all people believe God will accept them into heaven based on their personal goodness.
Some reason, “Well, I’ve never murdered anyone or committed any kind of heinous crime.” They think God will weigh their good against their bad. And most conclude that they are basically good.
A Few Questions
God is good and the ultimate author of good. This is what He says about it; “There is none who does good, no, not one” (Romans 3:12). Jesus told a certain ruler, “No one is good but One, that is God” (Luke 18:19).
Is Our Heart Good or Bad?
When comparing yourself to others, you might conclude that you’re better than them. But comparing yourself to God, who is holy (spiritually clean), should cause you to realize how unholy (spiritually unclean) you really are. We come into the world having inherited the sinful nature of our very first parent, Adam. (Romans 5:12) Therefore, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. “(Jeremiah 17:9)
Because our heart is wicked and deceitful, we sin in thought, word, and deed. Did you ever disobey your parents? Have you ever stolen anything, no matter how small? How many lies have you told? Jesus tells us that out of the heart proceeds adulteries, thefts, covetousness, lewdness, an evil eye (envy), pride, foolishness, etc. (Mark 7:21-22) If you have even thought about doing evil, it is considered sin in the eyes of the Lord. One sin is an infinite offense against a holy God, and we have committed many!
The closer you grow in your relationship with God, the more wickedness you see in your heart if you are a believer. The nearer you get to the light, the more dirt you see, even if it is just bad thoughts. We are not good; that’s why we must teach little children to be good. The bad things they figure out on their own.
Who Did Jesus Die for?
Jesus didn’t die for good people. He said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance” (Mark 2:17). All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) Why not agree with what God says about you; that you’re not good and receive forgiveness and the free gift of everlasting life by faith in the person and work of our Lord Jesus Christ?
Who is Worthy?
JESUS ALONE IS WORTHY!
“You are worthy to take the scroll,
And to open its seals;
For You were slain,
And have redeemed us to God by Your blood
Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation,
And have made us kings and priests to our God;
And we shall reign on the earth.” Revelation 5:9-10
Most of us think that we are good. I’ve talked to hundreds of people over the last few years at outreach events, and about 95% respond in the affirmative to the question, “Are you a good person?” Almost all people believe God will accept them into heaven based on their personal goodness.
Some reason, “Well, I’ve never murdered anyone or committed any kind of heinous crime.” They think God will weigh their good against their bad. And most conclude that they are basically good.
A Few Questions
- How do you determine what is good or bad?
- How do you measure the good and bad?
- How much good do you need; how much bad is permissible?
- Where do you find this theology of good vs. bad?
- Does this mean that an atheist can make it to heaven if they are good enough?
- If humans are basically good, why do we have to teach young children to be good?
- If you can be good enough for God, why then did Jesus have to die on the cross?
God is good and the ultimate author of good. This is what He says about it; “There is none who does good, no, not one” (Romans 3:12). Jesus told a certain ruler, “No one is good but One, that is God” (Luke 18:19).
Is Our Heart Good or Bad?
When comparing yourself to others, you might conclude that you’re better than them. But comparing yourself to God, who is holy (spiritually clean), should cause you to realize how unholy (spiritually unclean) you really are. We come into the world having inherited the sinful nature of our very first parent, Adam. (Romans 5:12) Therefore, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. “(Jeremiah 17:9)
Because our heart is wicked and deceitful, we sin in thought, word, and deed. Did you ever disobey your parents? Have you ever stolen anything, no matter how small? How many lies have you told? Jesus tells us that out of the heart proceeds adulteries, thefts, covetousness, lewdness, an evil eye (envy), pride, foolishness, etc. (Mark 7:21-22) If you have even thought about doing evil, it is considered sin in the eyes of the Lord. One sin is an infinite offense against a holy God, and we have committed many!
The closer you grow in your relationship with God, the more wickedness you see in your heart if you are a believer. The nearer you get to the light, the more dirt you see, even if it is just bad thoughts. We are not good; that’s why we must teach little children to be good. The bad things they figure out on their own.
Who Did Jesus Die for?
Jesus didn’t die for good people. He said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance” (Mark 2:17). All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) Why not agree with what God says about you; that you’re not good and receive forgiveness and the free gift of everlasting life by faith in the person and work of our Lord Jesus Christ?
Who is Worthy?
JESUS ALONE IS WORTHY!
“You are worthy to take the scroll,
And to open its seals;
For You were slain,
And have redeemed us to God by Your blood
Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation,
And have made us kings and priests to our God;
And we shall reign on the earth.” Revelation 5:9-10
What about the Person that Never Heard the Gospel?
That’s a question that has come up often over the years. It’s a good question. It was a question that I had in my mind at one time. Often the person is trying to reconcile the character of God in his mind. Sometimes they question their need for a Savior; “If some people in a faraway land gets a free ride to heaven because they never heard, then why do I need a Savior?
But the Bible tells the reader that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. (Rom. 3:23) And that there is only one way to the Father through Jesus Christ (John 14:6).
Five Ways God reaches people
FIRST of all, creation testifies to the existence of God. His Divine nature and power are revealed in the creation. Because of this, every person is without excuse of knowing that God exists; “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse”
(Rom. 1:20).
SECONDLY, the Spirit of God ministers to the unbelieving world. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin as the problem, judgment as the consequence, and the righteousness of Jesus as the answer; “And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment…” (John 16:8).
THIRDLY, Jesus said that if He was lifted up (on the cross), He would draw all to Himself: “And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself. This He said, signifying by what death He would die” (John 12:32, 33). He doesn’t force people to come, but He does draw them.
FOURTHLY, God uses messengers or, as we call them, missionaries. For example, the Spirit prevented Paul from going to Asia and directed him to go to Macedonia. There he met a woman named Lydia who worshipped God. The Lord opened her eyes to the gospel, and she believed. “Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul” (Acts 16:14-15).
FIFTHLY, the Lord always uses His word as a specific revelation, either written or verbally. “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).
God responds to those who respond to His light
Not everyone in the world has a copy of the Bible available to them. But if a person responds to the light that they do have, God will ultimately provide them with what they need, just like Lydia.
Two examples
In a gospel tract, From the Jungle to Jesus, Dikkie Ekiai tells his story of how he came out of tribal paganism living in Borneo to faith in Jesus Christ. It didn’t happen overnight. But it did start with a search for truth inspired by observing the intricacies of a spider web. He wrote, “One day while walking through the jungle; I came across a big spider weaving its web. Observing how this spider could weave a perfect symmetry and angle every time, I concluded that someone must have designed this creature with its unique ability.”
A friend of mine ministers in a county jail: One day, he encountered a prisoner who had read the graffiti in a cell that said, “Trust in God.” He told my friend that little phrase caused him to pray for the first time in his life. His seeking prayer was answered, for God sent my friend to Him to share the grace of the Lord Jesus with him.
God is not limited
We cannot limit the arm of God. The question doesn’t challenge the character of God. He can reach anyone anywhere in the world. But it does require a seeking and humble heart to respond to the light that they have. “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).
Everyone must come to God on His terms. He has given everyone the opportunity. He is a just and righteous Ruler. Some have more opportunities to hear about Christ than others. But even many of those reject that truth because of their desire to remain in darkness (John 3:18). Like the religious rulers of Israel, many are not willing to come to Him to be saved (John 5:40).
That’s a question that has come up often over the years. It’s a good question. It was a question that I had in my mind at one time. Often the person is trying to reconcile the character of God in his mind. Sometimes they question their need for a Savior; “If some people in a faraway land gets a free ride to heaven because they never heard, then why do I need a Savior?
But the Bible tells the reader that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. (Rom. 3:23) And that there is only one way to the Father through Jesus Christ (John 14:6).
Five Ways God reaches people
FIRST of all, creation testifies to the existence of God. His Divine nature and power are revealed in the creation. Because of this, every person is without excuse of knowing that God exists; “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse”
(Rom. 1:20).
SECONDLY, the Spirit of God ministers to the unbelieving world. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin as the problem, judgment as the consequence, and the righteousness of Jesus as the answer; “And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment…” (John 16:8).
THIRDLY, Jesus said that if He was lifted up (on the cross), He would draw all to Himself: “And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself. This He said, signifying by what death He would die” (John 12:32, 33). He doesn’t force people to come, but He does draw them.
FOURTHLY, God uses messengers or, as we call them, missionaries. For example, the Spirit prevented Paul from going to Asia and directed him to go to Macedonia. There he met a woman named Lydia who worshipped God. The Lord opened her eyes to the gospel, and she believed. “Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul” (Acts 16:14-15).
FIFTHLY, the Lord always uses His word as a specific revelation, either written or verbally. “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).
God responds to those who respond to His light
Not everyone in the world has a copy of the Bible available to them. But if a person responds to the light that they do have, God will ultimately provide them with what they need, just like Lydia.
Two examples
In a gospel tract, From the Jungle to Jesus, Dikkie Ekiai tells his story of how he came out of tribal paganism living in Borneo to faith in Jesus Christ. It didn’t happen overnight. But it did start with a search for truth inspired by observing the intricacies of a spider web. He wrote, “One day while walking through the jungle; I came across a big spider weaving its web. Observing how this spider could weave a perfect symmetry and angle every time, I concluded that someone must have designed this creature with its unique ability.”
A friend of mine ministers in a county jail: One day, he encountered a prisoner who had read the graffiti in a cell that said, “Trust in God.” He told my friend that little phrase caused him to pray for the first time in his life. His seeking prayer was answered, for God sent my friend to Him to share the grace of the Lord Jesus with him.
God is not limited
We cannot limit the arm of God. The question doesn’t challenge the character of God. He can reach anyone anywhere in the world. But it does require a seeking and humble heart to respond to the light that they have. “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).
Everyone must come to God on His terms. He has given everyone the opportunity. He is a just and righteous Ruler. Some have more opportunities to hear about Christ than others. But even many of those reject that truth because of their desire to remain in darkness (John 3:18). Like the religious rulers of Israel, many are not willing to come to Him to be saved (John 5:40).
Are You able or unable to see? (2 Corinthians 4:1-7 TLB)
"It is God himself, in his mercy, who has given us this wonderful work of telling his Good News to others, and so we never give up. We do not try to trick people into believing—we are not interested in fooling anyone. We never try to get anyone to believe that the Bible teaches what it doesn’t. All such shameful methods we forego. We stand in the presence of God as we speak and so we tell the truth, as all who know us will agree.
If the Good News we preach is hidden to anyone, it is hidden from the one who is on the road to eternal death. Satan, who is the god of this evil world, has made him blind, unable to see the glorious light of the Gospel that is shining upon him or to understand the amazing message we preach about the glory of Christ, who is God. We don’t go around preaching about ourselves but about Christ Jesus as Lord. All we say of ourselves is that we are your slaves because of what Jesus has done for us. For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made us understand that it is the brightness of his glory that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ.
But this precious treasure—this light and power that now shine within us—is held in a perishable container, that is, in our weak bodies. Everyone can see that the glorious power within must be from God and is not our own."
"It is God himself, in his mercy, who has given us this wonderful work of telling his Good News to others, and so we never give up. We do not try to trick people into believing—we are not interested in fooling anyone. We never try to get anyone to believe that the Bible teaches what it doesn’t. All such shameful methods we forego. We stand in the presence of God as we speak and so we tell the truth, as all who know us will agree.
If the Good News we preach is hidden to anyone, it is hidden from the one who is on the road to eternal death. Satan, who is the god of this evil world, has made him blind, unable to see the glorious light of the Gospel that is shining upon him or to understand the amazing message we preach about the glory of Christ, who is God. We don’t go around preaching about ourselves but about Christ Jesus as Lord. All we say of ourselves is that we are your slaves because of what Jesus has done for us. For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made us understand that it is the brightness of his glory that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ.
But this precious treasure—this light and power that now shine within us—is held in a perishable container, that is, in our weak bodies. Everyone can see that the glorious power within must be from God and is not our own."
The Greatest Sacrifice of ALL!
November 11th is Veteran’s day. My dad and six of my uncles served in WW II. My father-in-law was shot down and captured, spending 15 months as a prisoner of war in Stalag 17. One of his brothers was killed in action. My father, who served on a five-inch gun on the battleship, Nevada, was credited for shooting down a Japanese kamikaze plane, saving the ship's command structure. One of his brothers received a purple heart at the battle of the Bulge. There are numerous stories of heroic acts of those in every war. Sergeant Alvin York was one of the most decorated soldiers of WW I. He attacked a German machine gun nest, killed 25 of the enemy, and captured 132.
Medal of Honor Recipients
Jason Dunham, a corporal in the U.S. Marine Corp, while fighting with his unit in Karabilah, Iraq, dove on top of a grenade to save fellow Marines. When it exploded, Dunham was seriously injured and died eight days later.
Michael Anthony Monsoor, a U.S. Navy SEAL, quickly smothered a grenade with his body, absorbing the resulting explosion and saving his comrades from serious injury or death. Monsoor died 30 minutes later from serious wounds caused by the grenade explosion.
William T. Perkins, a Marine Corp Vietnam War Photographer, saved three of his fellow Marines when he dove on a hand grenade, completely covering it with his body. He is the only war photographer to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor.
Gratitude for those who sacrificed all!
You can only imagine the lifelong gratitude that those who survived because of the self-sacrifice of the one covering the grenade with his body. You live because another has died for you.
As I researched a few of these amazing acts of courage, it brought tears to my eyes with gratitude for their service and selfless acts of heroism. Our freedom has been purchased with much blood and sacrifice by many of our citizens who have served in our military.
The Greatest Sacrifice of ALL!
But there is one sacrifice that is the greatest of all. It’s the story of God’s sacrifice. Jesus Christ, fully God and fully Man, came down to earth to offer Himself as the all-sufficient substitutionary sacrifice for sin.
Jesus jumped on your Spiritual Hand Grenade
Jesus’ death on the cross was the payment for sin, the sins of the world. “He tasted death for everyone” (Heb. 2:9). Our sin debt has been PAID IN FULL by Jesus Christ. We have no debt to pay because He paid it for us! In His resurrection, He proved that He has the power over sin and death.
Like the soldiers in the fox hole, JESUS JUMPED ON YOUR SPIRITUAL HAND GRENADE. And like a surviving solder’s gratitude for the sacrifice of his brother in arms, aren’t you forever grateful to Jesus for His sacrifice? He died in our place and saved us eternally. How will you now respond to the One who has saved you from the eternal lake of fire where the devil and his angels will be?
“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15)
November 11th is Veteran’s day. My dad and six of my uncles served in WW II. My father-in-law was shot down and captured, spending 15 months as a prisoner of war in Stalag 17. One of his brothers was killed in action. My father, who served on a five-inch gun on the battleship, Nevada, was credited for shooting down a Japanese kamikaze plane, saving the ship's command structure. One of his brothers received a purple heart at the battle of the Bulge. There are numerous stories of heroic acts of those in every war. Sergeant Alvin York was one of the most decorated soldiers of WW I. He attacked a German machine gun nest, killed 25 of the enemy, and captured 132.
Medal of Honor Recipients
Jason Dunham, a corporal in the U.S. Marine Corp, while fighting with his unit in Karabilah, Iraq, dove on top of a grenade to save fellow Marines. When it exploded, Dunham was seriously injured and died eight days later.
Michael Anthony Monsoor, a U.S. Navy SEAL, quickly smothered a grenade with his body, absorbing the resulting explosion and saving his comrades from serious injury or death. Monsoor died 30 minutes later from serious wounds caused by the grenade explosion.
William T. Perkins, a Marine Corp Vietnam War Photographer, saved three of his fellow Marines when he dove on a hand grenade, completely covering it with his body. He is the only war photographer to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor.
Gratitude for those who sacrificed all!
You can only imagine the lifelong gratitude that those who survived because of the self-sacrifice of the one covering the grenade with his body. You live because another has died for you.
As I researched a few of these amazing acts of courage, it brought tears to my eyes with gratitude for their service and selfless acts of heroism. Our freedom has been purchased with much blood and sacrifice by many of our citizens who have served in our military.
The Greatest Sacrifice of ALL!
But there is one sacrifice that is the greatest of all. It’s the story of God’s sacrifice. Jesus Christ, fully God and fully Man, came down to earth to offer Himself as the all-sufficient substitutionary sacrifice for sin.
Jesus jumped on your Spiritual Hand Grenade
Jesus’ death on the cross was the payment for sin, the sins of the world. “He tasted death for everyone” (Heb. 2:9). Our sin debt has been PAID IN FULL by Jesus Christ. We have no debt to pay because He paid it for us! In His resurrection, He proved that He has the power over sin and death.
Like the soldiers in the fox hole, JESUS JUMPED ON YOUR SPIRITUAL HAND GRENADE. And like a surviving solder’s gratitude for the sacrifice of his brother in arms, aren’t you forever grateful to Jesus for His sacrifice? He died in our place and saved us eternally. How will you now respond to the One who has saved you from the eternal lake of fire where the devil and his angels will be?
“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15)
Scary Bible Verses
Often when we read the Bible, we come across verses that cause us to fear. It may be that we have listened to someone who wrongly explained the verse. Typically a wrong understanding comes from misunderstanding the context. This month I am going to write about some that have caused me angst in the past.
Many will say to Me in that day, “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?” And then I will declare to them, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!” (Matt. 7:22, 23)
This verse used to scare me, thinking I could hear, “I never knew you.” Was I doing enough? Was I good enough? I mean, these guys had done great things – prophesied, cast out demons, and did many wonders, all in the name of Jesus. They even acknowledged Jesus as Lord! But He never knew them. The word for ‘knew’ implies relationship. Jesus had no relationship with them though they thought they had one with Him.
They were denied entrance because they had not done the will of the Father. “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” (Matt. 7:21)
Jesus makes the will of Father very clear: “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day ”(John 6:40). The one who has believed (relied on) Jesus to save them is the one who enters the kingdom of God. At the moment of faith in Jesus, you are born again. Like natural birth, you are spiritually born once, and you can never be unborn.
The ones in Matthew 7 were trying to enter into the kingdom according to their good works, their good deeds. They had never entered into a faith relationship with Him. They thought that everlasting life and entering the kingdom was by self-effort, by doing things for Jesus.
When you understand the context of this verse in light of the rest of Scripture, no one ever enters the kingdom because of the great things they do. There is only one way. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him (John 14:6). Any other way is the way to perish. I have talked with many that believe they will get in because they are good. But Jesus will say to them that He never knew them if they continue in unbelief. You can never do enough, and you can never be good enough.
This verse should not scare you if you have trusted in Jesus to save you. He is our sufficient Substitute. He took our place. He paid our sin debt and offers everlasting life to all who believe in Him (John 6:47). He promises that no one can snatch you out of His hand (John 10:28). He will never leave you or forsake you (Heb. 13:4). He is faithful even when we are not (2 Tim 2:13). By faith, learn to rest in the security that you have in Him.
God made it simple. Jesus did all that is necessary to enter the kingdom. There is nothing for us to do. He died to pay our sin debt, so we have no debt to pay. He rose from the grave, offering us everlasting life as a free gift to anyone who will trust in Him alone. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved (Acts 16:31); and then will you never have to be fearful of hearing those words, “I never knew you.”
Often when we read the Bible, we come across verses that cause us to fear. It may be that we have listened to someone who wrongly explained the verse. Typically a wrong understanding comes from misunderstanding the context. This month I am going to write about some that have caused me angst in the past.
Many will say to Me in that day, “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?” And then I will declare to them, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!” (Matt. 7:22, 23)
This verse used to scare me, thinking I could hear, “I never knew you.” Was I doing enough? Was I good enough? I mean, these guys had done great things – prophesied, cast out demons, and did many wonders, all in the name of Jesus. They even acknowledged Jesus as Lord! But He never knew them. The word for ‘knew’ implies relationship. Jesus had no relationship with them though they thought they had one with Him.
They were denied entrance because they had not done the will of the Father. “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” (Matt. 7:21)
Jesus makes the will of Father very clear: “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day ”(John 6:40). The one who has believed (relied on) Jesus to save them is the one who enters the kingdom of God. At the moment of faith in Jesus, you are born again. Like natural birth, you are spiritually born once, and you can never be unborn.
The ones in Matthew 7 were trying to enter into the kingdom according to their good works, their good deeds. They had never entered into a faith relationship with Him. They thought that everlasting life and entering the kingdom was by self-effort, by doing things for Jesus.
When you understand the context of this verse in light of the rest of Scripture, no one ever enters the kingdom because of the great things they do. There is only one way. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him (John 14:6). Any other way is the way to perish. I have talked with many that believe they will get in because they are good. But Jesus will say to them that He never knew them if they continue in unbelief. You can never do enough, and you can never be good enough.
This verse should not scare you if you have trusted in Jesus to save you. He is our sufficient Substitute. He took our place. He paid our sin debt and offers everlasting life to all who believe in Him (John 6:47). He promises that no one can snatch you out of His hand (John 10:28). He will never leave you or forsake you (Heb. 13:4). He is faithful even when we are not (2 Tim 2:13). By faith, learn to rest in the security that you have in Him.
God made it simple. Jesus did all that is necessary to enter the kingdom. There is nothing for us to do. He died to pay our sin debt, so we have no debt to pay. He rose from the grave, offering us everlasting life as a free gift to anyone who will trust in Him alone. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved (Acts 16:31); and then will you never have to be fearful of hearing those words, “I never knew you.”
Are You Being Fruitful?
My aunt would have a basket of fruit on her dining room table for decoration. It looked genuine, but you would break your teeth if you tried to eat it. It was artificial. It looked like a genuine thing, but it was fake. If I were to be honest, I spent a lot of time in my life trying to produce spiritual fruit. It can look like real fruit, but it’s only an imitation.
Jesus used a vivid illustration to demonstrate this truth to His disciples (John 15:1-6). He said He was the vine, and the Father was the vinedresser. His disciples were the branches. They would not bear fruit unless they abide (remained) in the vine (v. 4). In fact, without Him, they could do nothing (v.5).
It’s impossible to live the Christian life in the power of the old nature. The old nature (flesh) is incapable of bearing spiritual fruit. It drives my emotions to make me feel good about the religious things I do. It’s the mentality that I gain God’s favor by doing things for God. The sin nature (flesh) can do a lot of good for the wrong reasons. You can go to church, pray, give, and even read your Bible with the wrong motivation. Those can actually be self-serving activities that you are producing in the flesh. They can make you ‘feel’ accepted by God.
But if a believer is abiding in Christ, the motivation is different. Now I am resting in Him by faith, and the motivation is to serve Him, not because I have to but because I want to. It originates from a thankful heart (internal control center) that is energized by God's word through the Spirit of God out of love for God in the new nature. It’s walking in the Spirit. Then and only then will you bear fruit because He is producing the fruit in you and through you. Like a branch, you bear the fruit. You don’t produce the fruit. Branches cannot bear acceptable fruit when not connected to the vine (Jesus).
As believers, we must understand that when we believed in Jesus, He “made you accepted in the Beloved” (Eph. 1:6). Jesus did everything. You and I cannot gain any more of God’s favor. That should be the primary motivational factor of abiding in Christ. The more you and I realize how wretched we are before a holy God, how gracious He is, and that He accepts us in Christ, the more likely I will want to follow and serve Him. It doesn’t mean that I’ll stop sinning. It simply means I can rest and know I am secure in Him. He produces the fruit, and we bear His fruit when abiding in Him. This is the only way we can live the Christian life – it’s by God’s grace through faith.
So may I ask, are you bearing fruit or producing fruit? Are you working to gain His favor? Or are you resting in Him, knowing that you are accepted in the Beloved? If you are resting in Him, you will bear fruit.
Jesus said, “Come to Me, all of you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matt. 11:28-30).
My aunt would have a basket of fruit on her dining room table for decoration. It looked genuine, but you would break your teeth if you tried to eat it. It was artificial. It looked like a genuine thing, but it was fake. If I were to be honest, I spent a lot of time in my life trying to produce spiritual fruit. It can look like real fruit, but it’s only an imitation.
Jesus used a vivid illustration to demonstrate this truth to His disciples (John 15:1-6). He said He was the vine, and the Father was the vinedresser. His disciples were the branches. They would not bear fruit unless they abide (remained) in the vine (v. 4). In fact, without Him, they could do nothing (v.5).
It’s impossible to live the Christian life in the power of the old nature. The old nature (flesh) is incapable of bearing spiritual fruit. It drives my emotions to make me feel good about the religious things I do. It’s the mentality that I gain God’s favor by doing things for God. The sin nature (flesh) can do a lot of good for the wrong reasons. You can go to church, pray, give, and even read your Bible with the wrong motivation. Those can actually be self-serving activities that you are producing in the flesh. They can make you ‘feel’ accepted by God.
But if a believer is abiding in Christ, the motivation is different. Now I am resting in Him by faith, and the motivation is to serve Him, not because I have to but because I want to. It originates from a thankful heart (internal control center) that is energized by God's word through the Spirit of God out of love for God in the new nature. It’s walking in the Spirit. Then and only then will you bear fruit because He is producing the fruit in you and through you. Like a branch, you bear the fruit. You don’t produce the fruit. Branches cannot bear acceptable fruit when not connected to the vine (Jesus).
As believers, we must understand that when we believed in Jesus, He “made you accepted in the Beloved” (Eph. 1:6). Jesus did everything. You and I cannot gain any more of God’s favor. That should be the primary motivational factor of abiding in Christ. The more you and I realize how wretched we are before a holy God, how gracious He is, and that He accepts us in Christ, the more likely I will want to follow and serve Him. It doesn’t mean that I’ll stop sinning. It simply means I can rest and know I am secure in Him. He produces the fruit, and we bear His fruit when abiding in Him. This is the only way we can live the Christian life – it’s by God’s grace through faith.
So may I ask, are you bearing fruit or producing fruit? Are you working to gain His favor? Or are you resting in Him, knowing that you are accepted in the Beloved? If you are resting in Him, you will bear fruit.
Jesus said, “Come to Me, all of you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matt. 11:28-30).
How Long O’ Lord?
It’s interesting how many Christians ‘feel’ the Lord’s return for His church is soon. When so many people are talking about something, you start to think they might be right. Christians, who believe in the Rapture, base their belief on several things. Certainly, their belief is based on scripture, the world's condition with the pandemic, the increasing amount of evil, and all the corruption we see in our government.
And though I agree with their assessment to some extent, the Bible teaches us that the Rapture is imminent. In other words, it can happen at any time. Usually, we think more about it when things are bad or aren’t going our way.
The Rapture is a Mystery
The apostle Paul spoke of it as a mystery (1 Cor. 15:51). In the Bible, a mystery was a truth that hadn’t been clearly revealed before. It was new information. It is something that is made known in a manner and time appointed by God. I have written before about the difference between the Second Coming and the Rapture. https://assuranceofheaven.com/2020/07/17/the-end-of-days/
The Spanish Flu, WW I, & the End of the World
I shared with my friends what Christians might have been thinking in 1918. The Spanish flu began that year, killing millions, while World War I lasted for four years (1914-1918). One writer commented, “War, famine, disease, and death occurred on a worldwide stage and on a scale that truly was unprecedented.” Although the Rapture was not a prevalent teaching then, I’m sure many thought the end was near.
The Expectation of the Early Church
Because the Rapture is imminent, meaning there are no signs that precede it, it could have occurred anytime since the ascension of our Lord back to heaven. Jesus could have come back in the first century. The early church expected Jesus to return in their lifetime. The book of James is one of the earliest New Testament books. Guided by the Spirit of God, he stated that “the coming of the Lord is at hand” (James 5:8). He also said, “Behold, the judge is standing at the door” (James 5:9). He told them to “be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord (James 5:7).
Dr. Renald Showers, in his book, Maranatha, Our Lord Come, cites Greek scholars that show “draws near” (v. 8) and “is standing” (v. 9) are in the perfect tense and indicative mood. This means that the action was completed before James wrote his epistle and continues on in that completed state. It suggests that Jesus coming is still near and He continues standing at the door.
2000 years Later!
In the first century, some decried, “Where is the promise of His coming?” (2 Peter 3:4). And now it is almost 2000 years later. Today people are saying the same thing. But what is often overlooked is that God’s love delays His justice. The Lord is longsuffering, not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9). We all should be thankful for that!
It’s been a long time since His promise. But, “God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. HAS HE SAID, AND WILL HE NOT DO? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” (Num 23:19) He has promised that He is coming for His church. We just don’t know when. Are you looking for the Blessed Hope and the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ? (Titus 2:13) It could be sooner than soon. It could be today!
You can know you have EVERLASTING LIFE and will go to be with the Lord at the Rapture.
It’s interesting how many Christians ‘feel’ the Lord’s return for His church is soon. When so many people are talking about something, you start to think they might be right. Christians, who believe in the Rapture, base their belief on several things. Certainly, their belief is based on scripture, the world's condition with the pandemic, the increasing amount of evil, and all the corruption we see in our government.
And though I agree with their assessment to some extent, the Bible teaches us that the Rapture is imminent. In other words, it can happen at any time. Usually, we think more about it when things are bad or aren’t going our way.
The Rapture is a Mystery
The apostle Paul spoke of it as a mystery (1 Cor. 15:51). In the Bible, a mystery was a truth that hadn’t been clearly revealed before. It was new information. It is something that is made known in a manner and time appointed by God. I have written before about the difference between the Second Coming and the Rapture. https://assuranceofheaven.com/2020/07/17/the-end-of-days/
The Spanish Flu, WW I, & the End of the World
I shared with my friends what Christians might have been thinking in 1918. The Spanish flu began that year, killing millions, while World War I lasted for four years (1914-1918). One writer commented, “War, famine, disease, and death occurred on a worldwide stage and on a scale that truly was unprecedented.” Although the Rapture was not a prevalent teaching then, I’m sure many thought the end was near.
The Expectation of the Early Church
Because the Rapture is imminent, meaning there are no signs that precede it, it could have occurred anytime since the ascension of our Lord back to heaven. Jesus could have come back in the first century. The early church expected Jesus to return in their lifetime. The book of James is one of the earliest New Testament books. Guided by the Spirit of God, he stated that “the coming of the Lord is at hand” (James 5:8). He also said, “Behold, the judge is standing at the door” (James 5:9). He told them to “be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord (James 5:7).
Dr. Renald Showers, in his book, Maranatha, Our Lord Come, cites Greek scholars that show “draws near” (v. 8) and “is standing” (v. 9) are in the perfect tense and indicative mood. This means that the action was completed before James wrote his epistle and continues on in that completed state. It suggests that Jesus coming is still near and He continues standing at the door.
2000 years Later!
In the first century, some decried, “Where is the promise of His coming?” (2 Peter 3:4). And now it is almost 2000 years later. Today people are saying the same thing. But what is often overlooked is that God’s love delays His justice. The Lord is longsuffering, not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9). We all should be thankful for that!
It’s been a long time since His promise. But, “God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. HAS HE SAID, AND WILL HE NOT DO? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” (Num 23:19) He has promised that He is coming for His church. We just don’t know when. Are you looking for the Blessed Hope and the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ? (Titus 2:13) It could be sooner than soon. It could be today!
You can know you have EVERLASTING LIFE and will go to be with the Lord at the Rapture.
Transformed
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:1, 2)
When we see the word “therefore,” we recognize it as a bridge between what was just stated and that to follow. Here we see, in perhaps the most pivotal verses of Scripture, a, therefore, bridge that is between all the previous dispensations of history and the following expected result. The expected outcome of our redemption is no longer conformity to the world, but conformity to the image of Jesus Christ (Rom 8:29) and a daily outward manifesting of our inward transformation: Christ living in us and through us, and therefore our lives should look like this:
We do not think of ourselves more highly than we ought to think.
We let our love be without hypocrisy.
We abhor what is evil.
We cling to what is good.
We are kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love.
We, in honor, give preference to one another.
We are diligent.
We are fervent in spirit.
We serve the Lord.
We rejoice in hope.
We are patient in tribulation.
We continue steadfastly in prayer.
We distribute to the needs of the saints.
We are hospitable.
We bless those who persecute us.
We bless and do not curse.
We rejoice with those who rejoice.
We weep with those who weep.
We are of the same mind toward one another.
We do not set our minds on high things.
We associate with the humble.
We are not to be wise in our own opinion.
We repay no one evil for evil.
We have regard for good things in the sight of all men.
We, when possible, live peaceably with all men.
We do not avenge ourselves.
We overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:3-21)
That is quite a list and worth spending our time studying and using to inventory our daily living. It is an excellent picture of a meaningful and abundant life - a Christ in us life. It is a fantastic picture of who we are to be in body, mind, and spirit while being conformed and transformed.
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:1, 2)
When we see the word “therefore,” we recognize it as a bridge between what was just stated and that to follow. Here we see, in perhaps the most pivotal verses of Scripture, a, therefore, bridge that is between all the previous dispensations of history and the following expected result. The expected outcome of our redemption is no longer conformity to the world, but conformity to the image of Jesus Christ (Rom 8:29) and a daily outward manifesting of our inward transformation: Christ living in us and through us, and therefore our lives should look like this:
We do not think of ourselves more highly than we ought to think.
We let our love be without hypocrisy.
We abhor what is evil.
We cling to what is good.
We are kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love.
We, in honor, give preference to one another.
We are diligent.
We are fervent in spirit.
We serve the Lord.
We rejoice in hope.
We are patient in tribulation.
We continue steadfastly in prayer.
We distribute to the needs of the saints.
We are hospitable.
We bless those who persecute us.
We bless and do not curse.
We rejoice with those who rejoice.
We weep with those who weep.
We are of the same mind toward one another.
We do not set our minds on high things.
We associate with the humble.
We are not to be wise in our own opinion.
We repay no one evil for evil.
We have regard for good things in the sight of all men.
We, when possible, live peaceably with all men.
We do not avenge ourselves.
We overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:3-21)
That is quite a list and worth spending our time studying and using to inventory our daily living. It is an excellent picture of a meaningful and abundant life - a Christ in us life. It is a fantastic picture of who we are to be in body, mind, and spirit while being conformed and transformed.
The Golden Age
The Bible tells us the rapture will happen and then the return of Jesus Christ to the earth several years later. One thing that seems to indicate His soon return to earth will be establishing a one-world government ruled by one person. Much of humanity believes that government is our answer to the problems of the world. Dr. Renald Showers aptly states in his book, The Most High God, “Ironically, the more man tries to establish Utopia through self-rule, the more his situation worsens. Instead of ruling the world in an orderly, meaningful way, he brings disorder, instability, and chaos. He is haunted by the prospect of death and the fear that life has no ultimate purpose or meaning.”
Things appear to be aligning for this future conflict of two competing world kingdoms on earth. One has meaning and purpose, and one doesn’t. Neither can exist at the same time. One will be ruled by a ruthless dictator, commonly known as the antichrist. The other will be ruled by the King of kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ. Obviously, Jesus wins.
Which one do you want to be part of?
Two Kingdoms
Since the beginning of creation, people have been aligning with one kingdom or the other. Those who have by faith decided to believe on the Lord for salvation will be part of His future kingdom on earth. They will be with Him as He reigns on the earth for one thousand years. Afterward, He will make a new heaven and new earth.
The Antichrist’s Kingdom
The antichrist’s kingdom will last for a short time, about seven years. It will be destroyed, and he will be cast into the Lake of Fire with the false prophet and those who received the mark, his followers. In addition, those in Hades and the devil will also be cast into the Lake of Fire with them. (Rev. 19:20; 20:10, 14)
A Choice to be made
Whose government do you want to be a part of? When you add it all up, the choice doesn’t seem that difficult. Everlasting life and peace come with the decision to trust God’s way (John 3:16; 14:6). Everlasting death and destruction come with the decision not to. The ‘Golden Age’ will truly be when Jesus returns to rule and reign on earth!
The Bible tells us the rapture will happen and then the return of Jesus Christ to the earth several years later. One thing that seems to indicate His soon return to earth will be establishing a one-world government ruled by one person. Much of humanity believes that government is our answer to the problems of the world. Dr. Renald Showers aptly states in his book, The Most High God, “Ironically, the more man tries to establish Utopia through self-rule, the more his situation worsens. Instead of ruling the world in an orderly, meaningful way, he brings disorder, instability, and chaos. He is haunted by the prospect of death and the fear that life has no ultimate purpose or meaning.”
Things appear to be aligning for this future conflict of two competing world kingdoms on earth. One has meaning and purpose, and one doesn’t. Neither can exist at the same time. One will be ruled by a ruthless dictator, commonly known as the antichrist. The other will be ruled by the King of kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ. Obviously, Jesus wins.
Which one do you want to be part of?
Two Kingdoms
Since the beginning of creation, people have been aligning with one kingdom or the other. Those who have by faith decided to believe on the Lord for salvation will be part of His future kingdom on earth. They will be with Him as He reigns on the earth for one thousand years. Afterward, He will make a new heaven and new earth.
The Antichrist’s Kingdom
The antichrist’s kingdom will last for a short time, about seven years. It will be destroyed, and he will be cast into the Lake of Fire with the false prophet and those who received the mark, his followers. In addition, those in Hades and the devil will also be cast into the Lake of Fire with them. (Rev. 19:20; 20:10, 14)
A Choice to be made
Whose government do you want to be a part of? When you add it all up, the choice doesn’t seem that difficult. Everlasting life and peace come with the decision to trust God’s way (John 3:16; 14:6). Everlasting death and destruction come with the decision not to. The ‘Golden Age’ will truly be when Jesus returns to rule and reign on earth!
Who Says the Crowd is Right?
When growing up, my parents cautioned me about crowd mentality. They warned me not to follow the crowd. I took their advice. Following the crowd will take you places you may not want to go.
A pastor gave me the same advice, although couched a little differently. He would say, “Who says the crowd’s right?” He would say this in regards to Christian teaching. A majority view of something doesn’t mean it’s the correct view.
In reality, God rarely uses the crowd or the strong to accomplish His work on earth. He uses people who are willing to be faithful and obedient. “For my grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Cor. 12:9)
One Faithful Servant + God = a Majority
1. He used Noah to build an ark; one man out of millions who was faithful for the task. “By faith Noah being warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear…” (Hebrews 11:7)
2. He selected one man, Abraham, as the progenitor of the nation of Israel, through whom the Savior would come. (Genesis 12:1-3) “By faith Abraham obeyed. “ (Hebrews 11:8)
3. He used Sarah, who was past the age of childbearing, to bring Isaac, the son of promise, into the world. (Hebrews 11:11) “By faith, Sarah herself also received strength to conceive…” (Hebrews 11:11)
4. He picked one faithful man, Moses, to lead the nation of Israel to the Promised Land. (Ex. 3) “By faith he forsook Egypt… “(Hebrews 11:27)
5. He selected Gideon, from the weakest clan and the least in his family, to go up against an innumerable Midianite army with only three hundred men. “The Lord said to him, surely I will be with you…” (Judges 6:16)
6. He empowered Samson to defeat the Philistines. (Judges 16:28-31) “The Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him…” (Judges 14:6)
7. He used David, a young man of faith, to defeat Goliath, the 9-foot giant. (1Samuel 17) David said to the giant, “This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand…” (1 Samuel 17:46)
8. Because of the faithfulness of King Hezekiah, God fought the battle. He sent the Angel of the Lord, who killed 185,000 men of the Assyrian army, saving the southern kingdom of Judah from defeat. (II Kings 19) “He trusted in the Lord God of Israel. “ (2 Kings 18:5)
9. Because King Asa sought the Lord by faith, God won another victory for Judah by defeating a million-man Ethiopian army. “Asa cried out to the Lord his God... it is nothing for You to help, whether with many or with those who have no power; help us, O Lord our God” (2 Chronicles 14)
10. God used the prophet Elijah to rid the northern kingdom of Israel of Baal worship. (1 Kings 18) “Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly… (James 5:17)
11. He rescued Daniel, who refused to worship the king, from the lion’s den, causing Daniel to prosper in the reigns of Darius and Cyrus, Gentile world rulers. (Daniel 5:29-6:28)
12. God called the greatest single persecutor of the church, Saul, to become the greatest evangelist of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, the apostle Paul. (Acts 9)
They weren’t perfect people. They had sin issues like the rest of us. But they placed their faith in the Lord, and He used them. One man or woman plus God is a majority. Jesus asked His disciples, “when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8) His question implied not much. Are you following the crowd? Or are you being a faithful child of God?
“Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, but who can find a faithful man?” Proverbs 20:6
When growing up, my parents cautioned me about crowd mentality. They warned me not to follow the crowd. I took their advice. Following the crowd will take you places you may not want to go.
A pastor gave me the same advice, although couched a little differently. He would say, “Who says the crowd’s right?” He would say this in regards to Christian teaching. A majority view of something doesn’t mean it’s the correct view.
In reality, God rarely uses the crowd or the strong to accomplish His work on earth. He uses people who are willing to be faithful and obedient. “For my grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Cor. 12:9)
One Faithful Servant + God = a Majority
1. He used Noah to build an ark; one man out of millions who was faithful for the task. “By faith Noah being warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear…” (Hebrews 11:7)
2. He selected one man, Abraham, as the progenitor of the nation of Israel, through whom the Savior would come. (Genesis 12:1-3) “By faith Abraham obeyed. “ (Hebrews 11:8)
3. He used Sarah, who was past the age of childbearing, to bring Isaac, the son of promise, into the world. (Hebrews 11:11) “By faith, Sarah herself also received strength to conceive…” (Hebrews 11:11)
4. He picked one faithful man, Moses, to lead the nation of Israel to the Promised Land. (Ex. 3) “By faith he forsook Egypt… “(Hebrews 11:27)
5. He selected Gideon, from the weakest clan and the least in his family, to go up against an innumerable Midianite army with only three hundred men. “The Lord said to him, surely I will be with you…” (Judges 6:16)
6. He empowered Samson to defeat the Philistines. (Judges 16:28-31) “The Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him…” (Judges 14:6)
7. He used David, a young man of faith, to defeat Goliath, the 9-foot giant. (1Samuel 17) David said to the giant, “This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand…” (1 Samuel 17:46)
8. Because of the faithfulness of King Hezekiah, God fought the battle. He sent the Angel of the Lord, who killed 185,000 men of the Assyrian army, saving the southern kingdom of Judah from defeat. (II Kings 19) “He trusted in the Lord God of Israel. “ (2 Kings 18:5)
9. Because King Asa sought the Lord by faith, God won another victory for Judah by defeating a million-man Ethiopian army. “Asa cried out to the Lord his God... it is nothing for You to help, whether with many or with those who have no power; help us, O Lord our God” (2 Chronicles 14)
10. God used the prophet Elijah to rid the northern kingdom of Israel of Baal worship. (1 Kings 18) “Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly… (James 5:17)
11. He rescued Daniel, who refused to worship the king, from the lion’s den, causing Daniel to prosper in the reigns of Darius and Cyrus, Gentile world rulers. (Daniel 5:29-6:28)
12. God called the greatest single persecutor of the church, Saul, to become the greatest evangelist of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, the apostle Paul. (Acts 9)
They weren’t perfect people. They had sin issues like the rest of us. But they placed their faith in the Lord, and He used them. One man or woman plus God is a majority. Jesus asked His disciples, “when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8) His question implied not much. Are you following the crowd? Or are you being a faithful child of God?
“Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, but who can find a faithful man?” Proverbs 20:6
Prepared by His Grace
The Apostle Paul considered all the religion in his past to be worthless regarding being saved and living his faith day by day. For Paul and us, gaining Christ and following Christ through faith is of God. All else is of the flesh. We must understand that truth.
I would like us to consider another aspect of the Apostle Paul’s past. His life B.C. - before Christ - including his religious training, was quite instrumental in his ministry - for Christ - and his “turning of the world upside down.” (Acts 17:6)
Paul tells us that “it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles…” (Gal 1:15-16)
In fact, Paul’s preparation did begin at birth. He was born a Roman citizen in Tarsus of Cilicia. This saved Paul on more than one occasion during his missionary journeys. One instance occurred in Jerusalem when he was bound and about to be scourged. Paul said to a nearby centurion: “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?” The commander was summoned and inquired about Paul’s citizenship, stating that his own had to be purchased. Paul told him, “I was born a citizen.” and the Romans were scurrying to unbind him and provide protection. (See Acts 22:22-29)
The apostle was also a learned man. Paul was taught at the feet of Gamaliel, who was known as Judaism’s master teacher. The student became a shining star as Paul zealously learned the law and the prophets. Like his teacher, he became a Pharisee. (Acts 22:3, 26:4-5) Paul spoke Hebrew and Aramaic, which was common to his Jewish audience. (Acts 22:2) He most likely knew Latin and became proficient in the Greek language, which was considered the language of the educated. (Acts 21:37-39) Being multilingual opened many doors for the “Son’s revealer” from homes to synagogues to palaces.
Whenever Paul arrived in the next town, his custom was to go to the synagogue of the Jews. There he would reason with them from the Scriptures concerning the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Acts 17:1-4) Using today’s modern vernacular - Paul would blow them out of the water. And just as easily, he could stand upon Mars Hill reasoning with the philosophical Athenians, even quoting their own poets and convincing some to believe. (Acts 17:16-34)
When we observe the life of Saul of Tarsus, we see providential hands busy preparing him to become Paul the Apostle. And Paul humbly states: “For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” (1Cor 15:10)
The same providential hands have been busy preparing me and preparing you. From the womb, our divine destiny is to gain Christ and follow Christ through faith. God has given me and given you the ministry of revealing His Son in us. We certainly may not feel worthy at times. We might even question whether the Lord has prepared us in vain? But remember, by the grace of God, I am what I am, and you am what you am - prepared. Let us live by His grace.
The Apostle Paul considered all the religion in his past to be worthless regarding being saved and living his faith day by day. For Paul and us, gaining Christ and following Christ through faith is of God. All else is of the flesh. We must understand that truth.
I would like us to consider another aspect of the Apostle Paul’s past. His life B.C. - before Christ - including his religious training, was quite instrumental in his ministry - for Christ - and his “turning of the world upside down.” (Acts 17:6)
Paul tells us that “it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles…” (Gal 1:15-16)
In fact, Paul’s preparation did begin at birth. He was born a Roman citizen in Tarsus of Cilicia. This saved Paul on more than one occasion during his missionary journeys. One instance occurred in Jerusalem when he was bound and about to be scourged. Paul said to a nearby centurion: “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?” The commander was summoned and inquired about Paul’s citizenship, stating that his own had to be purchased. Paul told him, “I was born a citizen.” and the Romans were scurrying to unbind him and provide protection. (See Acts 22:22-29)
The apostle was also a learned man. Paul was taught at the feet of Gamaliel, who was known as Judaism’s master teacher. The student became a shining star as Paul zealously learned the law and the prophets. Like his teacher, he became a Pharisee. (Acts 22:3, 26:4-5) Paul spoke Hebrew and Aramaic, which was common to his Jewish audience. (Acts 22:2) He most likely knew Latin and became proficient in the Greek language, which was considered the language of the educated. (Acts 21:37-39) Being multilingual opened many doors for the “Son’s revealer” from homes to synagogues to palaces.
Whenever Paul arrived in the next town, his custom was to go to the synagogue of the Jews. There he would reason with them from the Scriptures concerning the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Acts 17:1-4) Using today’s modern vernacular - Paul would blow them out of the water. And just as easily, he could stand upon Mars Hill reasoning with the philosophical Athenians, even quoting their own poets and convincing some to believe. (Acts 17:16-34)
When we observe the life of Saul of Tarsus, we see providential hands busy preparing him to become Paul the Apostle. And Paul humbly states: “For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” (1Cor 15:10)
The same providential hands have been busy preparing me and preparing you. From the womb, our divine destiny is to gain Christ and follow Christ through faith. God has given me and given you the ministry of revealing His Son in us. We certainly may not feel worthy at times. We might even question whether the Lord has prepared us in vain? But remember, by the grace of God, I am what I am, and you am what you am - prepared. Let us live by His grace.
Shepherds
We hear a great deal about sheep nowadays. Everywhere you look, there are sheep. We call each other sheep across the political divides, the covid divides, and where we gather our news: MSNBC, CNN, the alphabet networks, or that dreaded Fox News.
Rams and ewes and lambs, oh my!!! The Bible includes these words written 2700 years ago, “All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, everyone, to his own way; And the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” There is nothing new under the sun; that is another quote from the old Book.
So we see sheep all around us in our day, the Bible confirms, we ARE sheep; Jesus looked on the crowds and saw them as sheep without a shepherd. There it is, is it not, the crux of it? The shepherd. Or should I say the shepherds with an s? Sheep, we may be, but who are the shepherds? Who is your shepherd? Perhaps it is the person in your mirror. It very well might be a scientist or doctor or celebrity featured a hundred times a day on the mainstream media. For many rams and ewes, their shepherds are politicians, and they love to gather in the government’s folds.
Now, I chose the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, many years ago. I most certainly have never regretted that decision. I have found what Jesus says to be TRUE: “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them. The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep. I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd. (John 10:7-16)
You know, friend, it might behoove you (pun intended) to consider just who your shepherd or shepherds are and if your good and best interests are being served. Are you safe with your shepherd(s)? Are you being led in the right direction?
We hear a great deal about sheep nowadays. Everywhere you look, there are sheep. We call each other sheep across the political divides, the covid divides, and where we gather our news: MSNBC, CNN, the alphabet networks, or that dreaded Fox News.
Rams and ewes and lambs, oh my!!! The Bible includes these words written 2700 years ago, “All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, everyone, to his own way; And the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” There is nothing new under the sun; that is another quote from the old Book.
So we see sheep all around us in our day, the Bible confirms, we ARE sheep; Jesus looked on the crowds and saw them as sheep without a shepherd. There it is, is it not, the crux of it? The shepherd. Or should I say the shepherds with an s? Sheep, we may be, but who are the shepherds? Who is your shepherd? Perhaps it is the person in your mirror. It very well might be a scientist or doctor or celebrity featured a hundred times a day on the mainstream media. For many rams and ewes, their shepherds are politicians, and they love to gather in the government’s folds.
Now, I chose the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, many years ago. I most certainly have never regretted that decision. I have found what Jesus says to be TRUE: “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them. The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep. I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd. (John 10:7-16)
You know, friend, it might behoove you (pun intended) to consider just who your shepherd or shepherds are and if your good and best interests are being served. Are you safe with your shepherd(s)? Are you being led in the right direction?
Obed
“Do not call me Naomi; call me, Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord brought me home again empty. Why do you call me Naomi, since the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me.” (Ruth 1:20, 21)
In the days of the Judges, Elimelech, his wife, Naomi, and their sons, Mahlon and Chilion, moved to the land of Moab to escape a famine in Judah. Sadly, Elimelech died there soon after. Mahlon and Chilion took wives from Moab and lived in the land for about ten years. Then they too passed away. A grieving Naomi prepared to return to Judah and bid farewell to her daughters-in-law, Orpah, and Ruth. Both desired to go with Naomi, but she told them to return to their mother’s house. Orpah did so, but Ruth clung to Naomi, and they went to Bethlehem.
The Scripture above describes Naomi’s state of mind and heart upon her homecoming. Have you had occasions where you felt the same way? I certainly have. Life in this fallen world does tend to chew us up and spit us out at times. And God seems to be like an unkind friend, an unnatural father, an unjust judge during some of those times. Just call us Mara, which means “bitter.”
However, the rest of the story trends differently. Ruth “just happens” to meet Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband. Boaz and Ruth marry and have a son. It is then Naomi’s neighbor woman declares to her - “Blessed be the Lord, who has not left you this day without a close relative; and may his name be famous in Israel! And may he be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age; for your daughter-in-law, who loves you, who is better to you than seven sons, has borne him.”
Then Naomi took the child and laid him on her bosom and became a nurse to him. Also, the neighbor woman gave him a name, saying, “There is a son born to Naomi.” (Ruth 4:14-17a) And they called his name Obed. He is the father of Jesse, the father of David.” (v. 17b)
Her name was “Naomi,” not “Mara” after all. Are you in the midst of a “Mara” time? Remember the Lord’s blessings. Do not overlook the love of the Ruth’s in your life - and look ahead with faith and hope for Obed.
“Do not call me Naomi; call me, Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord brought me home again empty. Why do you call me Naomi, since the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me.” (Ruth 1:20, 21)
In the days of the Judges, Elimelech, his wife, Naomi, and their sons, Mahlon and Chilion, moved to the land of Moab to escape a famine in Judah. Sadly, Elimelech died there soon after. Mahlon and Chilion took wives from Moab and lived in the land for about ten years. Then they too passed away. A grieving Naomi prepared to return to Judah and bid farewell to her daughters-in-law, Orpah, and Ruth. Both desired to go with Naomi, but she told them to return to their mother’s house. Orpah did so, but Ruth clung to Naomi, and they went to Bethlehem.
The Scripture above describes Naomi’s state of mind and heart upon her homecoming. Have you had occasions where you felt the same way? I certainly have. Life in this fallen world does tend to chew us up and spit us out at times. And God seems to be like an unkind friend, an unnatural father, an unjust judge during some of those times. Just call us Mara, which means “bitter.”
However, the rest of the story trends differently. Ruth “just happens” to meet Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband. Boaz and Ruth marry and have a son. It is then Naomi’s neighbor woman declares to her - “Blessed be the Lord, who has not left you this day without a close relative; and may his name be famous in Israel! And may he be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age; for your daughter-in-law, who loves you, who is better to you than seven sons, has borne him.”
Then Naomi took the child and laid him on her bosom and became a nurse to him. Also, the neighbor woman gave him a name, saying, “There is a son born to Naomi.” (Ruth 4:14-17a) And they called his name Obed. He is the father of Jesse, the father of David.” (v. 17b)
Her name was “Naomi,” not “Mara” after all. Are you in the midst of a “Mara” time? Remember the Lord’s blessings. Do not overlook the love of the Ruth’s in your life - and look ahead with faith and hope for Obed.
Do You Gain Assurance by Persevering to the End? Part 2
A person who believes the gospel is immediately delivered from the penalty of sin. He is justified by faith; declared righteous in his positional standing with God. But justification never guarantees that a believer will persevere to the end of life in faith and good works. People teach that; the Bible doesn’t.
The Bible does encourage believers to persevere so that they won’t be barren and unfruitful (2 Peter 1:5-8). The writer of Hebrews encouraged them to “not cast away your confidence which has great reward” (Heb. 10:35). They needed to endure the trial, which would result in a great reward.
A reward is distinct from a gift. Everlasting life is a gift (Rom 3:23). A gift is not earned; it is freely offered with no strings attached. If there are qualifiers to a gift, it is no longer a gift but an exchange. For example, if I gave you a car and in return required you to give me a ride whenever I need it, the car would not be a gift but an exchange for a service. Gifts cost nothing. However, reward is earned by faithfully following the Lord. Reward is only possible for believers. Unbelievers cannot earn rewards because they do not have a relationship with God.
The Hebrew Christians already had “an enduring possession in heaven” that could not be lost (Heb. 10:34). They needed to hang in there to receive a great reward. It would glorify God and be good for them. Since they were already citizens of heaven, they were not being encouraged to persevere so they would go to heaven.
Everlasting life is not a reward for faithfulness. It’s a gift offered freely by God to anyone who believes the gospel. It is received by faith and lasts forever. If everlasting life could be taken away, it wouldn’t be everlasting, would it? It would be temporary until you did something that caused God to remove it. And it also wouldn’t be a gift then if it could be taken away.
As Christians, we should encourage one another to hang in there. Life is difficult. God allows trials in our life. We can never grow to spiritual maturity if we give up and quit. You and I can never lose everlasting life, but in the end, we will have failed to glorify God if we fail to persevere in the trials of life by faith.
A person who believes the gospel is immediately delivered from the penalty of sin. He is justified by faith; declared righteous in his positional standing with God. But justification never guarantees that a believer will persevere to the end of life in faith and good works. People teach that; the Bible doesn’t.
The Bible does encourage believers to persevere so that they won’t be barren and unfruitful (2 Peter 1:5-8). The writer of Hebrews encouraged them to “not cast away your confidence which has great reward” (Heb. 10:35). They needed to endure the trial, which would result in a great reward.
A reward is distinct from a gift. Everlasting life is a gift (Rom 3:23). A gift is not earned; it is freely offered with no strings attached. If there are qualifiers to a gift, it is no longer a gift but an exchange. For example, if I gave you a car and in return required you to give me a ride whenever I need it, the car would not be a gift but an exchange for a service. Gifts cost nothing. However, reward is earned by faithfully following the Lord. Reward is only possible for believers. Unbelievers cannot earn rewards because they do not have a relationship with God.
The Hebrew Christians already had “an enduring possession in heaven” that could not be lost (Heb. 10:34). They needed to hang in there to receive a great reward. It would glorify God and be good for them. Since they were already citizens of heaven, they were not being encouraged to persevere so they would go to heaven.
Everlasting life is not a reward for faithfulness. It’s a gift offered freely by God to anyone who believes the gospel. It is received by faith and lasts forever. If everlasting life could be taken away, it wouldn’t be everlasting, would it? It would be temporary until you did something that caused God to remove it. And it also wouldn’t be a gift then if it could be taken away.
As Christians, we should encourage one another to hang in there. Life is difficult. God allows trials in our life. We can never grow to spiritual maturity if we give up and quit. You and I can never lose everlasting life, but in the end, we will have failed to glorify God if we fail to persevere in the trials of life by faith.
Do You Gain Assurance by Persevering to the End? Part 1
Many well-meaning teachers proclaim that a true believer will persevere in faith and good works to the end of life. But if one must persevere in faith and good works, then it would be impossible to know that we will end up in heaven. You could never know until the day you died if you did enough or were faithful enough. And that violates Scripture that tells us we can know (1 John 5:13).
This teaching often comes from incorrectly understanding the distinction between justification and sanctification. A person who understands the gospel and believes it is saved immediately from the penalty of sin (Eternal separation from God). Their destiny has changed. They are now destined for heaven. Justification occurs in the courtroom of God, where He pronounces a guilty sinner, not guilty. You can never perish once you are saved, and no one can snatch you out of God’s hand (John 10:28).
There are numerous examples of people in the Bible who believed and were saved immediately. Someone heard the gospel, they believed it, and they immediately became a citizen of heaven. The Philippian jailer is one example (Acts 16:30, 31). Cornelius, a Gentile, is another example (Acts 10:34-48). At the preaching of Peter, “The Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47).
Sanctification requires perseverance, not justification. If one is to grow spiritually, it will require perseverance. Believers should persevere and not give up. But that is different for every believer. And there are consequences for failing to persevere in faith and good works. But a lack of perseverance will never prevent a born-again believer from entering into God’s presence. Learn to discern the distinction and rest entirely in the assurance of your salvation by faith alone in Christ alone!
Many well-meaning teachers proclaim that a true believer will persevere in faith and good works to the end of life. But if one must persevere in faith and good works, then it would be impossible to know that we will end up in heaven. You could never know until the day you died if you did enough or were faithful enough. And that violates Scripture that tells us we can know (1 John 5:13).
This teaching often comes from incorrectly understanding the distinction between justification and sanctification. A person who understands the gospel and believes it is saved immediately from the penalty of sin (Eternal separation from God). Their destiny has changed. They are now destined for heaven. Justification occurs in the courtroom of God, where He pronounces a guilty sinner, not guilty. You can never perish once you are saved, and no one can snatch you out of God’s hand (John 10:28).
There are numerous examples of people in the Bible who believed and were saved immediately. Someone heard the gospel, they believed it, and they immediately became a citizen of heaven. The Philippian jailer is one example (Acts 16:30, 31). Cornelius, a Gentile, is another example (Acts 10:34-48). At the preaching of Peter, “The Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47).
Sanctification requires perseverance, not justification. If one is to grow spiritually, it will require perseverance. Believers should persevere and not give up. But that is different for every believer. And there are consequences for failing to persevere in faith and good works. But a lack of perseverance will never prevent a born-again believer from entering into God’s presence. Learn to discern the distinction and rest entirely in the assurance of your salvation by faith alone in Christ alone!
Assurance in the Message of the Prophet
In the last post, Abel was identified as the very first prophet. He prophesied a coming Messiah (Christ) who would die for sin and rise from the dead. The purpose was to fulfill God’s promise to Adam and Eve of a Deliverer who would crush the head of the serpent (Gen. 3).
God immediately taught Adam and Eve that an innocent victim would have to die for the guilty. That was a consequence of disobedience, often referred to as sin. The result of Adam’s sin was death. Death in the Bible refers to separation. In Adam and Eve’s case, they immediately experienced relational death with God. Their disobedience resulted in fear, guilt, and shame, causing them to hide from Him. They had lost their relationship with God. They were no longer righteous in their standing with Him.
But God, in His infinite mercy and grace, came looking for them. They had sewn fig leaves together to cover themselves. It was the works of their hands. But God offered them skins of an animal, picturing a future substitutionary, sacrificial Victim. The ultimate substitutionary Victim would be the Lord Jesus Christ, the sinless Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). It would be His work on their behalf because He is the only acceptable covering – His robe of righteousness (Is. 61:10).
Anyone from the beginning of time could be restored to fellowship with God by faith in His provision. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son (Jesus), that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16).
Scripture assures us how simple God made it to be restored to fellowship with Himself. It’s people that make it complicated and convoluted by adding to the gospel. In the following posts, we’ll look at some wrong gospels that cause Christians to lack assurance.
In the last post, Abel was identified as the very first prophet. He prophesied a coming Messiah (Christ) who would die for sin and rise from the dead. The purpose was to fulfill God’s promise to Adam and Eve of a Deliverer who would crush the head of the serpent (Gen. 3).
God immediately taught Adam and Eve that an innocent victim would have to die for the guilty. That was a consequence of disobedience, often referred to as sin. The result of Adam’s sin was death. Death in the Bible refers to separation. In Adam and Eve’s case, they immediately experienced relational death with God. Their disobedience resulted in fear, guilt, and shame, causing them to hide from Him. They had lost their relationship with God. They were no longer righteous in their standing with Him.
But God, in His infinite mercy and grace, came looking for them. They had sewn fig leaves together to cover themselves. It was the works of their hands. But God offered them skins of an animal, picturing a future substitutionary, sacrificial Victim. The ultimate substitutionary Victim would be the Lord Jesus Christ, the sinless Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). It would be His work on their behalf because He is the only acceptable covering – His robe of righteousness (Is. 61:10).
Anyone from the beginning of time could be restored to fellowship with God by faith in His provision. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son (Jesus), that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16).
Scripture assures us how simple God made it to be restored to fellowship with Himself. It’s people that make it complicated and convoluted by adding to the gospel. In the following posts, we’ll look at some wrong gospels that cause Christians to lack assurance.
The First Prophet
The very first prophet mentioned in the Bible was Abel, the son of our first parents, Adam and Eve (Luke 11:50, 51). And according to the same writer, Luke, all the prophets foretold of the future suffering of the Messiah [Christ] (Acts 3:18). In a conversation with King Agrippa, the apostle Paul said that he testified of the same things that the prophets foretold. The prophets said that the Christ would suffer and be the first to rise from the dead (Acts 26:23). It seems as though the Old Testament saints knew more than we give them credit. The grace of our God was there, communicating the truth of restoration and salvation from the very beginning. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).The Old Testament saints look forward by faith to the coming of the Christ, understanding that He would die for sin and rise again. New Testament saints look backward to the death and resurrection of Christ by faith. Salvation is the same for all people. It’s always been by God’s grace through faith in the substitutionary sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The very first prophet mentioned in the Bible was Abel, the son of our first parents, Adam and Eve (Luke 11:50, 51). And according to the same writer, Luke, all the prophets foretold of the future suffering of the Messiah [Christ] (Acts 3:18). In a conversation with King Agrippa, the apostle Paul said that he testified of the same things that the prophets foretold. The prophets said that the Christ would suffer and be the first to rise from the dead (Acts 26:23). It seems as though the Old Testament saints knew more than we give them credit. The grace of our God was there, communicating the truth of restoration and salvation from the very beginning. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).The Old Testament saints look forward by faith to the coming of the Christ, understanding that He would die for sin and rise again. New Testament saints look backward to the death and resurrection of Christ by faith. Salvation is the same for all people. It’s always been by God’s grace through faith in the substitutionary sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Observations from the Book of Malachi
(PART EIGHT - Conclusion)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and strike
the earth with a curse.” (4:5-6) And so the conclusion of the Old Testament. Then silence.
At Malachi’s final pronouncement, “the four hundred silent years” begin. Although God still directed the course of events during this time, He zipped a-lip. He said nothing to Israel. Meanwhile, Daniel’s prophecies played out as the land of Israel went from the hands of the Medes and Persians to the Greeks and then to the Romans. All the while - silence from the heavens.
Then over 400 years later, “There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.” (Luke 1:5) The couple was childless and advanced in years. But an angel appeared to Zacharias and told him their prayers had been heard. They would have a son and were to name him John.
This son would be filled with the Holy Spirit even from the womb, “And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” (Luke 1:16-17)
And so comes the beginning of the New Testament.
“This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matt 3:17) No more silence.
And almost twenty-five hundred years since Malachi laid down his pen, we on this side of the New have hopefully learned or been reminded of some crucial things in observing the old. We have made these observations from the Book of Malachi and then pondered:
[Love] - Are we in a perpetual backslide that deadens our love for Him, or are we living for Him, deepening our love every step of the way?
[Offering] - God does not require of us our best sheep; no, He wants us, body, mind, and will. He wants all of who we are and every bit of our time, treasure, and talent. Is He receiving those things from you, from me? In love, He gives; in love, do we then return? What are we laying on the altar? Anything less than our very lives is not enough.
[Priest] - Are we like the faithful Levites, or are we like the priests of Malachi’s day? You, me, all believers, are priests. But what kind of priests?
[Fidelity] -You, me, is our cross on our shoulder or just lying around? Are our hands on the plow yet still looking back? Do we have complete fidelity to God, or are we entangled and unevenly yoked with foreign things?
[Refiner] -Jesus Christ, the Refiner, tells us that “He who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matt 10:38-39) In light of this which side of the line have we chosen? Standing before the Refiner, what have we done with our life - keep it and lose it or lose it and find it?
[Robbers] -What of us, today? If we are not wrapped up in a relationship with Him, if we are not in fellowship with Him, if we are not cooperating with Him in reaching out to a world He loves, then we, too, are robbers.
[Remnant] -Until that Day, you, me, we must determine whether we are one who serves God or one who does not serve Him. Do our names appear in the Lamb’s Book of Life?
The late preacher/teacher Ron Hembree, in his book entitled “Know & Grow,” says, “The Old Testament opened with man in the garden, free from sin and happy in his Creator. It closes with fallen man, miserable, unhappy, under a curse. Had the Bible closed on that scene, we would be living in a dark and despairing world. However, thank God, there is a New Testament that tells of a Savior who redeems mankind unto Himself. The miserable failures of man are erased by a loving Christ. Thank God our Bible does not end at Malachi!”
Yes, yes indeed, thank God our Bible does not end at Malachi! But instead, it ends with a new heaven and a new earth and all things made new. “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quickly.’ Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” (Rev 22:20-21)
(PART EIGHT - Conclusion)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and strike
the earth with a curse.” (4:5-6) And so the conclusion of the Old Testament. Then silence.
At Malachi’s final pronouncement, “the four hundred silent years” begin. Although God still directed the course of events during this time, He zipped a-lip. He said nothing to Israel. Meanwhile, Daniel’s prophecies played out as the land of Israel went from the hands of the Medes and Persians to the Greeks and then to the Romans. All the while - silence from the heavens.
Then over 400 years later, “There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.” (Luke 1:5) The couple was childless and advanced in years. But an angel appeared to Zacharias and told him their prayers had been heard. They would have a son and were to name him John.
This son would be filled with the Holy Spirit even from the womb, “And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” (Luke 1:16-17)
And so comes the beginning of the New Testament.
“This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matt 3:17) No more silence.
And almost twenty-five hundred years since Malachi laid down his pen, we on this side of the New have hopefully learned or been reminded of some crucial things in observing the old. We have made these observations from the Book of Malachi and then pondered:
[Love] - Are we in a perpetual backslide that deadens our love for Him, or are we living for Him, deepening our love every step of the way?
[Offering] - God does not require of us our best sheep; no, He wants us, body, mind, and will. He wants all of who we are and every bit of our time, treasure, and talent. Is He receiving those things from you, from me? In love, He gives; in love, do we then return? What are we laying on the altar? Anything less than our very lives is not enough.
[Priest] - Are we like the faithful Levites, or are we like the priests of Malachi’s day? You, me, all believers, are priests. But what kind of priests?
[Fidelity] -You, me, is our cross on our shoulder or just lying around? Are our hands on the plow yet still looking back? Do we have complete fidelity to God, or are we entangled and unevenly yoked with foreign things?
[Refiner] -Jesus Christ, the Refiner, tells us that “He who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matt 10:38-39) In light of this which side of the line have we chosen? Standing before the Refiner, what have we done with our life - keep it and lose it or lose it and find it?
[Robbers] -What of us, today? If we are not wrapped up in a relationship with Him, if we are not in fellowship with Him, if we are not cooperating with Him in reaching out to a world He loves, then we, too, are robbers.
[Remnant] -Until that Day, you, me, we must determine whether we are one who serves God or one who does not serve Him. Do our names appear in the Lamb’s Book of Life?
The late preacher/teacher Ron Hembree, in his book entitled “Know & Grow,” says, “The Old Testament opened with man in the garden, free from sin and happy in his Creator. It closes with fallen man, miserable, unhappy, under a curse. Had the Bible closed on that scene, we would be living in a dark and despairing world. However, thank God, there is a New Testament that tells of a Savior who redeems mankind unto Himself. The miserable failures of man are erased by a loving Christ. Thank God our Bible does not end at Malachi!”
Yes, yes indeed, thank God our Bible does not end at Malachi! But instead, it ends with a new heaven and a new earth and all things made new. “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quickly.’ Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” (Rev 22:20-21)
Observations from the Book of Malachi
(PART SEVEN - Remnant)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another, and the Lord listened and heard them; So a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and meditate on His name.” (3:16)
In the time of the Kings, the prophet Elijah was in flight from the murderous Jezebel. God questioned his fleeing. Elijah defended himself, saying evil Israel had killed all God’s servants and “I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.” (1 Kings 19:14c) The Lord responds with another assignment for the prophet and then assures him: “I have reserved seven thousand in Israel, all whose knees have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him.” (19:18)
Moving forward to the time of Malachi, the believers in the land of Israel were concerned about their fate in light of the prophet’s pronouncements. Again, as we observed in Part 5, God pauses in announcing judgment to offer hope, hope to the faithful remnant. Just as in Elijah’s time, God always keeps a remnant of people who serve Him alone. He says, “They shall be Mine,” says the Lord of hosts, “On the day that I make them My jewels. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him. Then you shall again discern between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.” (3:17-18)
The Lord of Hosts then promises His jewels “the day is coming” when all will be made right: The proud will be made stubble. “But to you who fear My name the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings…” (4:2a). He indeed has risen and made many His jewels. He will indeed come again, not only to a remnant but the entire nation of Israel, and “pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.” (Zech 12:10)
Until that Day, you, me, we must determine whether we are one who serves God or one who does not serve Him. Do our names appear in the Lamb’s Book of Life? (Rev 20:11-15) While it often seems we are but a small remnant in a big world of Baal, we must persevere and be about His work, His way, and His word as long as we draw breath. May it be so.
Next time: (PART 8 - Conclusion)
(PART SEVEN - Remnant)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another, and the Lord listened and heard them; So a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and meditate on His name.” (3:16)
In the time of the Kings, the prophet Elijah was in flight from the murderous Jezebel. God questioned his fleeing. Elijah defended himself, saying evil Israel had killed all God’s servants and “I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.” (1 Kings 19:14c) The Lord responds with another assignment for the prophet and then assures him: “I have reserved seven thousand in Israel, all whose knees have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him.” (19:18)
Moving forward to the time of Malachi, the believers in the land of Israel were concerned about their fate in light of the prophet’s pronouncements. Again, as we observed in Part 5, God pauses in announcing judgment to offer hope, hope to the faithful remnant. Just as in Elijah’s time, God always keeps a remnant of people who serve Him alone. He says, “They shall be Mine,” says the Lord of hosts, “On the day that I make them My jewels. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him. Then you shall again discern between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.” (3:17-18)
The Lord of Hosts then promises His jewels “the day is coming” when all will be made right: The proud will be made stubble. “But to you who fear My name the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings…” (4:2a). He indeed has risen and made many His jewels. He will indeed come again, not only to a remnant but the entire nation of Israel, and “pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.” (Zech 12:10)
Until that Day, you, me, we must determine whether we are one who serves God or one who does not serve Him. Do our names appear in the Lamb’s Book of Life? (Rev 20:11-15) While it often seems we are but a small remnant in a big world of Baal, we must persevere and be about His work, His way, and His word as long as we draw breath. May it be so.
Next time: (PART 8 - Conclusion)
Observations from the Book of Malachi
(PART SIX - Robbers)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what way have
we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings.” (3:8)
The New King James Study Bible provides a good description of what Israel was doing at this time to provoke God’s charge of robbery: “They had not brought the required tithes and offerings, those used to fund the theocracy by sustaining the Levites (cf. Lev. 27:30-33; Num. 18:8-28; Deut. 12:18; Neh. 13:10), the religious festivals (Deut. 12:6-17; 14:22-27), and the poor (Deut. 14:28). Therefore, they were robbing God, and had thusly robbed themselves, for God had withheld His blessing.”
Not surprisingly, Israel, in their downward spiral, had turned their noses upward as the collection plate was passed. Once again, they ignored their responsibilities to God and man. Once again, they looked past the fact that all things belong to God in the first place. In the time of David, as the nation gave bountifully to build the temple, the king declared, “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power and the glory, the victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours…both riches and honor come from You, and You reign over all…for all things come from You, and of Your own we have given You.” (I Chr 29:11, 12a, 14c)
The people had come a long way from the time of David to Malachi, a long way down! Through the prophet, God issues a challenge to try Him by bringing what was required and then see, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.” (3:10) The late preacher/teacher Ron Hembree used to say of this scripture: “Man says, ‘Prove it, and I’ll believe it.’ while God says, ‘Believe it, and I’ll prove it.’” And so He has, and so He does, and so He will.
What of us today? God demands of us a cross on our shoulder, a life laid down, and a vessel useful for the Master (2 Tim 2:20, 21). He seeks out such to pour His blessings through to bless others and to receive the glory and honor due Him. If we are not wrapped up in a relationship with Him, if we are not in fellowship with Him, if we are not cooperating with Him in reaching out to a world He loves, then we, too, are robbers.
Next time: (PART 7 - Remnant)
(PART SIX - Robbers)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what way have
we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings.” (3:8)
The New King James Study Bible provides a good description of what Israel was doing at this time to provoke God’s charge of robbery: “They had not brought the required tithes and offerings, those used to fund the theocracy by sustaining the Levites (cf. Lev. 27:30-33; Num. 18:8-28; Deut. 12:18; Neh. 13:10), the religious festivals (Deut. 12:6-17; 14:22-27), and the poor (Deut. 14:28). Therefore, they were robbing God, and had thusly robbed themselves, for God had withheld His blessing.”
Not surprisingly, Israel, in their downward spiral, had turned their noses upward as the collection plate was passed. Once again, they ignored their responsibilities to God and man. Once again, they looked past the fact that all things belong to God in the first place. In the time of David, as the nation gave bountifully to build the temple, the king declared, “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power and the glory, the victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours…both riches and honor come from You, and You reign over all…for all things come from You, and of Your own we have given You.” (I Chr 29:11, 12a, 14c)
The people had come a long way from the time of David to Malachi, a long way down! Through the prophet, God issues a challenge to try Him by bringing what was required and then see, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.” (3:10) The late preacher/teacher Ron Hembree used to say of this scripture: “Man says, ‘Prove it, and I’ll believe it.’ while God says, ‘Believe it, and I’ll prove it.’” And so He has, and so He does, and so He will.
What of us today? God demands of us a cross on our shoulder, a life laid down, and a vessel useful for the Master (2 Tim 2:20, 21). He seeks out such to pour His blessings through to bless others and to receive the glory and honor due Him. If we are not wrapped up in a relationship with Him, if we are not in fellowship with Him, if we are not cooperating with Him in reaching out to a world He loves, then we, too, are robbers.
Next time: (PART 7 - Remnant)
Observations from the Book of Malachi
(PART FIVE - Refiner)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire and like a launders’ soap. He will sit as
a refiner and a purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer to the Lord an offering in righteousness.”
(3:2-3)
The prophets had two main objectives as sent by the Lord to the people of Israel. One role of the prophet was to address the present-day situation - most often to confront aberrant behavior and beliefs, and turn the people back to the correct behavior and beliefs. The other role was to reveal future events either as a warning of coming judgment or encouragement to look forward and live in hope. We see this in Malachi as suddenly God turns from the present to the future. “Behold, I send My messenger, and he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to His temple.” (v.1)
What will happen when He comes? Separation. Righteousness on one side, unrighteousness on the other. The line is drawn in the sand. Which side will He find you on O’ Israel? You do not know when He will appear: Choose now before the Refiner comes to burn the dross, to purge the sin, to scrub the filth. “I will come near you for judgment.” declares the Lord. If you remain where you currently are, will you be able to stand when I come? “For I am the Lord,” I do not change.” (v.6) The God of their fathers had not moved as these people claimed; the people had moved away from Him. Repent; change your mind and your heart and “Return to Me.” (v.7)
As we know, one did come to prepare the way before Him. And the Lord did come as promised. He said this, “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother…and a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.” (Matt 10:34-36)
Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah, is the line drawn in the sand; there is no other. The line does not move. It does not change; in fact, it has never moved nor changed. Only mankind can move, only can mankind change by exercising the free will God has given to us.
Jesus Christ, the Refiner, tells us that “He who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matt 10:38-39) In light of this which side of the line have we chosen? Standing before the Refiner, what have we done with our life - keep it and lose it or lose it and find it?
Next time: (PART 6 - Robbers)
(PART FIVE - Refiner)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire and like a launders’ soap. He will sit as
a refiner and a purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer to the Lord an offering in righteousness.”
(3:2-3)
The prophets had two main objectives as sent by the Lord to the people of Israel. One role of the prophet was to address the present-day situation - most often to confront aberrant behavior and beliefs, and turn the people back to the correct behavior and beliefs. The other role was to reveal future events either as a warning of coming judgment or encouragement to look forward and live in hope. We see this in Malachi as suddenly God turns from the present to the future. “Behold, I send My messenger, and he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to His temple.” (v.1)
What will happen when He comes? Separation. Righteousness on one side, unrighteousness on the other. The line is drawn in the sand. Which side will He find you on O’ Israel? You do not know when He will appear: Choose now before the Refiner comes to burn the dross, to purge the sin, to scrub the filth. “I will come near you for judgment.” declares the Lord. If you remain where you currently are, will you be able to stand when I come? “For I am the Lord,” I do not change.” (v.6) The God of their fathers had not moved as these people claimed; the people had moved away from Him. Repent; change your mind and your heart and “Return to Me.” (v.7)
As we know, one did come to prepare the way before Him. And the Lord did come as promised. He said this, “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother…and a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.” (Matt 10:34-36)
Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah, is the line drawn in the sand; there is no other. The line does not move. It does not change; in fact, it has never moved nor changed. Only mankind can move, only can mankind change by exercising the free will God has given to us.
Jesus Christ, the Refiner, tells us that “He who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matt 10:38-39) In light of this which side of the line have we chosen? Standing before the Refiner, what have we done with our life - keep it and lose it or lose it and find it?
Next time: (PART 6 - Robbers)
Observations from the Book of Malachi
(PART FOUR - Fidelity)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“For Judah has profaned The Lord’s holy institution which He loves; He has married the daughter of a foreign god.” (2:11b)
Fidelity: 1] the quality or state of being faithful 2] accuracy syn - allegiance, loyalty, devotion. {Webster’s Dictionary}
As we have seen, the nation of Israel during the time of Malachi had a real problem with fidelity to God - as in they had none. They displayed no love for God. They threw their leftovers on His altar. They were profane and poor witnesses to the other nations around them. And their spiritual leaders were duplicitous in the whole mess. Is it any surprise that they would also engage in a direct assault on the Lord’s holy institution of marriage? The men were frivolously divorcing their wives and marrying foreign women and their foreign gods.
Through Malachi, the Lord of hosts takes the witness stand as a “witness between you and the wife of your youth, with whom you have dealt treacherously; yet she is your companion and wife by covenant.” (v.14)
The people’s response again was a dim-witted dull-hearted, “WHAT!?” God thunders, “Did (I) not make them one, having a remnant of the Spirit? And why one? (I seek) godly offspring. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously with the wife of his youth.” (v.15)
God’s purpose for marriage is to give mankind a daily experiential exercise in fidelity and intimacy as intended between the Creator and the created. Also, from the covenant of marriage comes procreation, not only for physical extension but with a spiritual result, aka, “godly offspring.” Cast off wives and yokes to foreign women, and their gods abdicated this process.
Jesus tells us, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” He also says, “no one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:23, 62)
Jesus Christ demands absolute fidelity to Himself. We are not to be yoked to anyone or anything other than Him and His own. There is no foreign anything, only complete faithfulness, allegiance, loyalty, and devotion to the Lord God. This intimate “marriage” will indeed produce godly offspring.
You, me, is our cross on our shoulder or just lying around? Are our hands on the plow yet still looking back? Do we have complete fidelity to God, or are we entangled and unevenly yoked with foreign things?
Next time: (PART 5 - Refiner)
(PART FOUR - Fidelity)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“For Judah has profaned The Lord’s holy institution which He loves; He has married the daughter of a foreign god.” (2:11b)
Fidelity: 1] the quality or state of being faithful 2] accuracy syn - allegiance, loyalty, devotion. {Webster’s Dictionary}
As we have seen, the nation of Israel during the time of Malachi had a real problem with fidelity to God - as in they had none. They displayed no love for God. They threw their leftovers on His altar. They were profane and poor witnesses to the other nations around them. And their spiritual leaders were duplicitous in the whole mess. Is it any surprise that they would also engage in a direct assault on the Lord’s holy institution of marriage? The men were frivolously divorcing their wives and marrying foreign women and their foreign gods.
Through Malachi, the Lord of hosts takes the witness stand as a “witness between you and the wife of your youth, with whom you have dealt treacherously; yet she is your companion and wife by covenant.” (v.14)
The people’s response again was a dim-witted dull-hearted, “WHAT!?” God thunders, “Did (I) not make them one, having a remnant of the Spirit? And why one? (I seek) godly offspring. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously with the wife of his youth.” (v.15)
God’s purpose for marriage is to give mankind a daily experiential exercise in fidelity and intimacy as intended between the Creator and the created. Also, from the covenant of marriage comes procreation, not only for physical extension but with a spiritual result, aka, “godly offspring.” Cast off wives and yokes to foreign women, and their gods abdicated this process.
Jesus tells us, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” He also says, “no one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:23, 62)
Jesus Christ demands absolute fidelity to Himself. We are not to be yoked to anyone or anything other than Him and His own. There is no foreign anything, only complete faithfulness, allegiance, loyalty, and devotion to the Lord God. This intimate “marriage” will indeed produce godly offspring.
You, me, is our cross on our shoulder or just lying around? Are our hands on the plow yet still looking back? Do we have complete fidelity to God, or are we entangled and unevenly yoked with foreign things?
Next time: (PART 5 - Refiner)
Observations from the Book of Malachi
(PART THREE - Priest)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“But you have departed from the way; You have caused many to stumble at the law.” (2:8a) The people of Israel had lost their first love for the Lord.
The offerings they brought were corrupt and lacking. And the spiritual leaders of the land not only permitted these things but led the parade away from God. With the principle in mind of “to whom much is given, from him much will be required” (Luke 12:48), the Lord sharply confronts the priests. He tells them He will curse them and their blessings, rebuke their descendants, and even spread refuse on their faces. (How’s that for sloppy agape?)
The Lord reminds the priest of that day of His covenant with Levi. “My covenant was with him, one of life and peace…” (2:5). In return, Levi was fearful and respectful of the Lord. “The law of truth was in his mouth, and injustice was not found on his lips. He walked with Me in peace and equity, and turned many away from iniquity.” (v.6). Those priests taught the people the word of God as they were the messengers of the Lord of hosts. (v.7) But here, these priests were teaching corruptible words and causing many to stumble. (v.8)
The Apostle Peter tells believers “…you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” (1 Peter 2:9-10) The law of truth is now in our mouths. Justice is now to be on our lips. Peace and equity are now how we walk. We are now the messengers of the Lord of hosts. We now lead people from stumbling to the sure foundation. But are we doing these things? Are we like the faithful Levites, or are we like the priests of Malachi’s day?
Much of the church in our day has departed from the Way and caused many to stumble. Apostasy is rife, and our culture and world are suffering greatly because it is so. Compromise and blind tolerance, and deliberate ambiguity are the refuse of our day to the harm of so many who desperately need the inspiration, the inerrancy, the absolutes, and the authority of God’s word.
You, me, all believers, are priests. But what kind of priests?
Next time: (PART 4 - Fidelity)
(PART THREE - Priest)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“But you have departed from the way; You have caused many to stumble at the law.” (2:8a) The people of Israel had lost their first love for the Lord.
The offerings they brought were corrupt and lacking. And the spiritual leaders of the land not only permitted these things but led the parade away from God. With the principle in mind of “to whom much is given, from him much will be required” (Luke 12:48), the Lord sharply confronts the priests. He tells them He will curse them and their blessings, rebuke their descendants, and even spread refuse on their faces. (How’s that for sloppy agape?)
The Lord reminds the priest of that day of His covenant with Levi. “My covenant was with him, one of life and peace…” (2:5). In return, Levi was fearful and respectful of the Lord. “The law of truth was in his mouth, and injustice was not found on his lips. He walked with Me in peace and equity, and turned many away from iniquity.” (v.6). Those priests taught the people the word of God as they were the messengers of the Lord of hosts. (v.7) But here, these priests were teaching corruptible words and causing many to stumble. (v.8)
The Apostle Peter tells believers “…you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” (1 Peter 2:9-10) The law of truth is now in our mouths. Justice is now to be on our lips. Peace and equity are now how we walk. We are now the messengers of the Lord of hosts. We now lead people from stumbling to the sure foundation. But are we doing these things? Are we like the faithful Levites, or are we like the priests of Malachi’s day?
Much of the church in our day has departed from the Way and caused many to stumble. Apostasy is rife, and our culture and world are suffering greatly because it is so. Compromise and blind tolerance, and deliberate ambiguity are the refuse of our day to the harm of so many who desperately need the inspiration, the inerrancy, the absolutes, and the authority of God’s word.
You, me, all believers, are priests. But what kind of priests?
Next time: (PART 4 - Fidelity)
Observations from the Book of Malachi
(PART TWO - Offering)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“You offer defiled food on My altar, but say, ‘In what way have we defiled You?’”
(v.7a) As we saw in Part 1, Israel’s love for God had nearly died out in backsliding and the resultant distance. Here we observe one of the manifestations of this lack of love. The people were bringing their leftovers for offerings, and the priests were accepting such. In Leviticus, chapters 21 thru 24, the Lord’s instructions were plainly stated to the people and the priests how they were to conduct themselves in this matter. While the sacrificial system had other significant aspects of teaching the people, one was the recognition that we have nothing apart from God. God owns all things. By bringing our best to offer, we are learning and being reminded of this - in love He gives, and we in love then return.
Here in Malachi, God rebukes Israel: “When you offer the blind as a sacrifice, is it not evil? And when you offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? Offer it then to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you favorably?” (v. 8) How often and how easily many will bow before human authority yet lock their knees unwilling and defiant before the Lord of Hosts. The Lord then told Israel that He had no pleasure in them, nor would He accept their dregs.
What of us on this side of the cross? What are we to bring for offerings? The book of Romans tells us, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Rom 12: 1, 2) God does not require our best sheep; no, He wants us, body, mind, and will. He wants all of who we are and every bit of our time, treasure, and talent. Is God receiving those things from you, from me? In love, He gives; in love, do we then return?
What are we laying on the altar? Anything less than our very lives are not enough.
Next time: (PART 3 - Priests)
(PART TWO - Offering)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“You offer defiled food on My altar, but say, ‘In what way have we defiled You?’”
(v.7a) As we saw in Part 1, Israel’s love for God had nearly died out in backsliding and the resultant distance. Here we observe one of the manifestations of this lack of love. The people were bringing their leftovers for offerings, and the priests were accepting such. In Leviticus, chapters 21 thru 24, the Lord’s instructions were plainly stated to the people and the priests how they were to conduct themselves in this matter. While the sacrificial system had other significant aspects of teaching the people, one was the recognition that we have nothing apart from God. God owns all things. By bringing our best to offer, we are learning and being reminded of this - in love He gives, and we in love then return.
Here in Malachi, God rebukes Israel: “When you offer the blind as a sacrifice, is it not evil? And when you offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? Offer it then to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you favorably?” (v. 8) How often and how easily many will bow before human authority yet lock their knees unwilling and defiant before the Lord of Hosts. The Lord then told Israel that He had no pleasure in them, nor would He accept their dregs.
What of us on this side of the cross? What are we to bring for offerings? The book of Romans tells us, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Rom 12: 1, 2) God does not require our best sheep; no, He wants us, body, mind, and will. He wants all of who we are and every bit of our time, treasure, and talent. Is God receiving those things from you, from me? In love, He gives; in love, do we then return?
What are we laying on the altar? Anything less than our very lives are not enough.
Next time: (PART 3 - Priests)
Observations from the Book of Malachi (PART ONE - Love)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“I have loved you,” says the Lord. Yet you say, ‘In what way have You loved us?’” (v. 2a)
The golden age of Israel under David and Solomon had long since passed. This is the post-exilic period, and enough time has gone by that the nation has already begun to spiral back into old habits. God confronts His people through the prophet Malachi. He reminds them of His love. “Ahh, we’re not feeling it,” they insolently scoff, “what love are You referring to?”
Here is just a portion of the love to which Yahweh had shown Israel: “For you are a holy people to the Lord your God; the Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth. The Lord did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any other people, for you were the least of all peoples; but because the Lord loves you, and because He would keep the oath which He swore to your fathers, the Lord has brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you from the house of bondage, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.” (Deuteronomy 7:6-8)
Years removed from those words given to the nation in the desert, the Lord again spoke to His people: “For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in your place. Since you were precious in My sight, you have been honored, and I have loved you; Therefore I will give men for you, and people for your life.” (Isaiah 43:3, 4) And with a “heart churn(ing) within (Him), (His) sympathy stirred” the Lord recounts - “I taught Ephraim (Israel) to walk, taking them by the arms; But they did not know that I healed them, I drew them with gentle cords, with bands of love, and I was to them as those who take the yoke from their neck. I stooped and fed them.” (Hosea 11:8c, 3-4)
In the exchange between Malachi and the people concerning His love, God again points to His choosing them and His sure promises to give them “a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11) Putting this all together, we can make an honest assessment that God unconditionally loves His people.
It is said that perception is nine-tenths of reality. Israel had the perception that God did not love them. But as we just determined, that is not true. Where is the disconnect? Maybe the people had moved so far away from God they could no longer perceive His love. Perhaps it was their love and their hearts that had become distant and cold and hard. It could be that they, in their constant backsliding, lacked love for God.
And today, at your house, my house, God’s love for us is a surety - but where is our love for Him? Are we so far off “we’re not experiencing” His love, or so close we are awash in it? In what state is our heart found - soft and open and giving and receiving or hard and closed and giving and receiving nothing? Are we in a perpetual backslide that deadens our love for Him, or are we living for Him, deepening our love every step of the way?
Next time: (PART 2 - Offering)
The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi (v.1) -
“I have loved you,” says the Lord. Yet you say, ‘In what way have You loved us?’” (v. 2a)
The golden age of Israel under David and Solomon had long since passed. This is the post-exilic period, and enough time has gone by that the nation has already begun to spiral back into old habits. God confronts His people through the prophet Malachi. He reminds them of His love. “Ahh, we’re not feeling it,” they insolently scoff, “what love are You referring to?”
Here is just a portion of the love to which Yahweh had shown Israel: “For you are a holy people to the Lord your God; the Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth. The Lord did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any other people, for you were the least of all peoples; but because the Lord loves you, and because He would keep the oath which He swore to your fathers, the Lord has brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you from the house of bondage, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.” (Deuteronomy 7:6-8)
Years removed from those words given to the nation in the desert, the Lord again spoke to His people: “For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in your place. Since you were precious in My sight, you have been honored, and I have loved you; Therefore I will give men for you, and people for your life.” (Isaiah 43:3, 4) And with a “heart churn(ing) within (Him), (His) sympathy stirred” the Lord recounts - “I taught Ephraim (Israel) to walk, taking them by the arms; But they did not know that I healed them, I drew them with gentle cords, with bands of love, and I was to them as those who take the yoke from their neck. I stooped and fed them.” (Hosea 11:8c, 3-4)
In the exchange between Malachi and the people concerning His love, God again points to His choosing them and His sure promises to give them “a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11) Putting this all together, we can make an honest assessment that God unconditionally loves His people.
It is said that perception is nine-tenths of reality. Israel had the perception that God did not love them. But as we just determined, that is not true. Where is the disconnect? Maybe the people had moved so far away from God they could no longer perceive His love. Perhaps it was their love and their hearts that had become distant and cold and hard. It could be that they, in their constant backsliding, lacked love for God.
And today, at your house, my house, God’s love for us is a surety - but where is our love for Him? Are we so far off “we’re not experiencing” His love, or so close we are awash in it? In what state is our heart found - soft and open and giving and receiving or hard and closed and giving and receiving nothing? Are we in a perpetual backslide that deadens our love for Him, or are we living for Him, deepening our love every step of the way?
Next time: (PART 2 - Offering)
According to…?
“Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Colossians 2:8)
In the days of long, long ago, we neighbor boys were quite the explorers—up hills and down hills, over here, over there, and yonder. We were the Lewis and Clark’s of the local creeks, woods, fields, and meadows. We covered a lot of ground in our valley and the surrounding high country.
One day we ventured into an old barn. Bonanza! A ladder went up to a broad beam overlooking a near-empty hayloft. Upon further inspection, we concluded there was enough loose hay to make a nice cushion. Soon one boy after the other ascended the ladder and then descended with a joyous shout, leaping into the air and falling to the hay far below. All had a great time.
Then we got thirsty. That was a problem. Nobody wanted to make the trek home. But, of course, being the explorers we were, we soon discovered water coming from an underground pipe in the field below the barn. We reached down and cupped our hands and drank. The spring-fed water was cold and tasted excellent. With our thirst satisfyingly quenched, a return to the hayloft was at the ready. Then, for whatever reason, I got down low and looked inside the pipe. That brought instantaneous horror. It contained every color of scum and filth one could imagine hanging in grotesque shapes from the top and all around its surface. I sounded the alarm. Everyone took a turn peering into our water conduit. Then, convinced we would all be dead by nightfall, we went, each to his home, to say goodbye to our families and wait for the inevitable.
Though we all survived that day with nary a tummy ache, I have never forgotten the dichotomy of that cold sweet water and that filthy disgusting pipe. I am reminded of it every time I witness our world system disgorging its philosophies and principles. The dispensations of political speak, political correctness, progressivism, and tolerance of anything but decency, pseudo-social justice, and on and on flow like the water from that ghastly pipe. It is deceptively made to look and sound good and right and fair. Of course, who doesn’t want good and the right and fair? But be warned, brothers and sisters, we must carefully inspect and discern who is talking to us and what is truly meant.
The fact is: we see many professing Christians cheated by such deceptions. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” (Matt 5:6) There is another channel available to us, and it has no resemblance to that filthy pipe. It is the clean, pure, sweet word of God, illuminated by the Holy Spirit, and within, is no deceit. It addresses all the issues of life and living, and death and dying. And it does so with the perfection of truth and wisdom from the One who fashioned it all.
Indeed, Beware brethren, from where and from what you cup your hands and drink. If it is not according to Christ, it is according to…?
“Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Colossians 2:8)
In the days of long, long ago, we neighbor boys were quite the explorers—up hills and down hills, over here, over there, and yonder. We were the Lewis and Clark’s of the local creeks, woods, fields, and meadows. We covered a lot of ground in our valley and the surrounding high country.
One day we ventured into an old barn. Bonanza! A ladder went up to a broad beam overlooking a near-empty hayloft. Upon further inspection, we concluded there was enough loose hay to make a nice cushion. Soon one boy after the other ascended the ladder and then descended with a joyous shout, leaping into the air and falling to the hay far below. All had a great time.
Then we got thirsty. That was a problem. Nobody wanted to make the trek home. But, of course, being the explorers we were, we soon discovered water coming from an underground pipe in the field below the barn. We reached down and cupped our hands and drank. The spring-fed water was cold and tasted excellent. With our thirst satisfyingly quenched, a return to the hayloft was at the ready. Then, for whatever reason, I got down low and looked inside the pipe. That brought instantaneous horror. It contained every color of scum and filth one could imagine hanging in grotesque shapes from the top and all around its surface. I sounded the alarm. Everyone took a turn peering into our water conduit. Then, convinced we would all be dead by nightfall, we went, each to his home, to say goodbye to our families and wait for the inevitable.
Though we all survived that day with nary a tummy ache, I have never forgotten the dichotomy of that cold sweet water and that filthy disgusting pipe. I am reminded of it every time I witness our world system disgorging its philosophies and principles. The dispensations of political speak, political correctness, progressivism, and tolerance of anything but decency, pseudo-social justice, and on and on flow like the water from that ghastly pipe. It is deceptively made to look and sound good and right and fair. Of course, who doesn’t want good and the right and fair? But be warned, brothers and sisters, we must carefully inspect and discern who is talking to us and what is truly meant.
The fact is: we see many professing Christians cheated by such deceptions. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” (Matt 5:6) There is another channel available to us, and it has no resemblance to that filthy pipe. It is the clean, pure, sweet word of God, illuminated by the Holy Spirit, and within, is no deceit. It addresses all the issues of life and living, and death and dying. And it does so with the perfection of truth and wisdom from the One who fashioned it all.
Indeed, Beware brethren, from where and from what you cup your hands and drink. If it is not according to Christ, it is according to…?
The Same
“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! … They have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.” (Isaiah 5:20-21, 24)
Okay, hold on a minute. Did we lose 2700 years somewhere? I know those words were written that long ago, but surely they are a spot-on description of our current world.
“In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” (Judges 21:25) Hey, what happened to the last 3000 plus years? Here are more words from three millennia past that paint a perfect picture of our contemporary world.
“Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of men was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” (Gen 6:5) Okay, get us out of this time machine - we’re like 6,000 years or so since Noah and his culture unmistakably reflects the direction we are heading in our present world.
King Solomon hit the nail on the head - “That which has been is what will be, that which is done is what is done, and there is nothing new under the sun.” (Eccl 1:9)
From the beginning to now and beyond, man’s depraved heart is indeed the same. The sons of men have not changed since Adam and will not until after the final rebellion. (See Rev 20:7-10) The footprints of fallen mankind are the same. There is no evolvement, as some suggest – just sameness.
Overarching the treadmill existence of humanity is One who also does not change. The Lord spoke to habitually wayward Israel: “For I am the Lord, I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob. Yet from the days of your fathers you have gone away from My ordinances and have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return you…” (Mal 3:7)
The great Redeemer is always seeking to redeem. He called out to Adam, “Where are you?” (Gen 3:9) The great Hound of Heaven has never ceased to pursue and endeavor to reconcile every soul unto Himself.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” (Heb 13:8) And God be praised - His steadfast truth is the same. His agape love is the same. His deep well of mercy is the same. His marvelous gift of grace is the same. His great offer of salvation is the same. His remarkable work of redemption is the same.
He calls out today, “Where are you?”
And indeed, where are you? Do you call evil good and good evil? Do you do what is right in your own eyes? Do you permit your heart to follow the ways of the world? Stop! Today return to God and be reconciled to Him. He will make you a new creation in Christ; old things will pass away; all things will become new. (See 2 Cor 5:12-21)
And I promise you will never be the same.
“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! … They have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.” (Isaiah 5:20-21, 24)
Okay, hold on a minute. Did we lose 2700 years somewhere? I know those words were written that long ago, but surely they are a spot-on description of our current world.
“In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” (Judges 21:25) Hey, what happened to the last 3000 plus years? Here are more words from three millennia past that paint a perfect picture of our contemporary world.
“Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of men was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” (Gen 6:5) Okay, get us out of this time machine - we’re like 6,000 years or so since Noah and his culture unmistakably reflects the direction we are heading in our present world.
King Solomon hit the nail on the head - “That which has been is what will be, that which is done is what is done, and there is nothing new under the sun.” (Eccl 1:9)
From the beginning to now and beyond, man’s depraved heart is indeed the same. The sons of men have not changed since Adam and will not until after the final rebellion. (See Rev 20:7-10) The footprints of fallen mankind are the same. There is no evolvement, as some suggest – just sameness.
Overarching the treadmill existence of humanity is One who also does not change. The Lord spoke to habitually wayward Israel: “For I am the Lord, I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob. Yet from the days of your fathers you have gone away from My ordinances and have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return you…” (Mal 3:7)
The great Redeemer is always seeking to redeem. He called out to Adam, “Where are you?” (Gen 3:9) The great Hound of Heaven has never ceased to pursue and endeavor to reconcile every soul unto Himself.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” (Heb 13:8) And God be praised - His steadfast truth is the same. His agape love is the same. His deep well of mercy is the same. His marvelous gift of grace is the same. His great offer of salvation is the same. His remarkable work of redemption is the same.
He calls out today, “Where are you?”
And indeed, where are you? Do you call evil good and good evil? Do you do what is right in your own eyes? Do you permit your heart to follow the ways of the world? Stop! Today return to God and be reconciled to Him. He will make you a new creation in Christ; old things will pass away; all things will become new. (See 2 Cor 5:12-21)
And I promise you will never be the same.
Which Vessel Shall I (We) Be?
“But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.” (2 Timothy 2:20-21)
The early morning sun streamed through the window and shook me awake. Sitting up slowly and rubbing my eyes, I suddenly remembered what day it was. With a burst of energy only kids can muster, I bounded out of bed. My Dad had an important job for me to do!
Every spring, Dad would buy a dozen White Leghorn hens. We kept them for a year laying eggs for our family. The hens would then be dressed out for meat. Before the next flock arrived, the chicken house got a thorough cleaning. Dad always painted the wooden floor with old oil to preserve and protect it. Once the oil soaked in, we would scatter fresh straw and bring in the new chickens.
One year, Dad informed me, “I’ll be working tomorrow. I want you to oil the chicken house floor.”
“All by myself?” my eyes popping with disbelief, “Without you there with me?”
“You’ve helped me before. I’ve taught you how. It’s not that difficult. I’ll have everything ready for you in the morning.” Then he grinned, “Just make sure you don’t paint yourself into a corner.”
After breakfast, I happily strutted with a grown-up swagger to the chicken house. Dad expected me to do a good job, and I had no intention of disappointing him. The oil and brushes sat there, awaiting me. That floor got oiled with the utmost care. In my zeal, the foul smell of old oil and the arduous crawling around the chicken house went unnoticed. I did struggle a bit to keep from painting myself into a corner. I had plenty of zeal but ran a little light on common sense. When finished, I stood for a long time, admiring my oil-soaked masterpiece. I so much wanted Dad to know I did not take his trust in me lightly.
Later that day, I observed my Dad as he inspected my work. His quiet nods of approval rewarded me and spoke much louder than any words.
The Apostle Paul rejoiced in “the glorious gospel of the blessed God which was committed to my trust.” (1Tim 1:11) Paul awoke each day, determined to do the work assigned to him. He loved his Heavenly Father and desired only to please Him. Many times, Paul found himself immersed in the stench of life, crawling about in the unpleasantness of the sinful human condition. Nevertheless, he remained zealous in his devotion to completing the task with the utmost care.
Despite the numerous difficulties the Apostle Paul encountered, he humbly declared, “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry.” (1Tim 1:12) The former Pharisee and hate-filled persecutor of the church had become a vessel for honor.
We, as individuals and within the Body, need to ask ourselves, “Which vessel shall I (we) be?” Let us work diligently for our Master with love, joy, and the expectation of His approving nod and words of affirmation, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matt 25:21) Let us be vessels set apart for the filling of the Holy Spirit and always available for His use. Let us be a prepared, obedient people unto every good work. Let us awaken from our sleep with great excitement and exclaim, “Today, my Father has an important work for me to do!”
“But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.” (2 Timothy 2:20-21)
The early morning sun streamed through the window and shook me awake. Sitting up slowly and rubbing my eyes, I suddenly remembered what day it was. With a burst of energy only kids can muster, I bounded out of bed. My Dad had an important job for me to do!
Every spring, Dad would buy a dozen White Leghorn hens. We kept them for a year laying eggs for our family. The hens would then be dressed out for meat. Before the next flock arrived, the chicken house got a thorough cleaning. Dad always painted the wooden floor with old oil to preserve and protect it. Once the oil soaked in, we would scatter fresh straw and bring in the new chickens.
One year, Dad informed me, “I’ll be working tomorrow. I want you to oil the chicken house floor.”
“All by myself?” my eyes popping with disbelief, “Without you there with me?”
“You’ve helped me before. I’ve taught you how. It’s not that difficult. I’ll have everything ready for you in the morning.” Then he grinned, “Just make sure you don’t paint yourself into a corner.”
After breakfast, I happily strutted with a grown-up swagger to the chicken house. Dad expected me to do a good job, and I had no intention of disappointing him. The oil and brushes sat there, awaiting me. That floor got oiled with the utmost care. In my zeal, the foul smell of old oil and the arduous crawling around the chicken house went unnoticed. I did struggle a bit to keep from painting myself into a corner. I had plenty of zeal but ran a little light on common sense. When finished, I stood for a long time, admiring my oil-soaked masterpiece. I so much wanted Dad to know I did not take his trust in me lightly.
Later that day, I observed my Dad as he inspected my work. His quiet nods of approval rewarded me and spoke much louder than any words.
The Apostle Paul rejoiced in “the glorious gospel of the blessed God which was committed to my trust.” (1Tim 1:11) Paul awoke each day, determined to do the work assigned to him. He loved his Heavenly Father and desired only to please Him. Many times, Paul found himself immersed in the stench of life, crawling about in the unpleasantness of the sinful human condition. Nevertheless, he remained zealous in his devotion to completing the task with the utmost care.
Despite the numerous difficulties the Apostle Paul encountered, he humbly declared, “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry.” (1Tim 1:12) The former Pharisee and hate-filled persecutor of the church had become a vessel for honor.
We, as individuals and within the Body, need to ask ourselves, “Which vessel shall I (we) be?” Let us work diligently for our Master with love, joy, and the expectation of His approving nod and words of affirmation, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matt 25:21) Let us be vessels set apart for the filling of the Holy Spirit and always available for His use. Let us be a prepared, obedient people unto every good work. Let us awaken from our sleep with great excitement and exclaim, “Today, my Father has an important work for me to do!”
The Last will be First
“So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen.” (Matthew 20:16)
Several times in the Gospels, Jesus makes the statement: “The last will be first, and the first last.” Do you know what always comes to my mind when I read or hear those words? Gym class. “All right, kids, line up! Anthony Athletic, you’re a captain!” the gym teacher barks. “Billy Buff Body, you’re the other captain. Billy, call it heads or tails? It’s tails; Anthony, you get the first choice!”
You remember that, don’t you? The outstanding athletes got chosen first, and then any remaining popular kids followed by the predictable descending order of the so-so’s (this was me), the less than’s, and ended with the last two humiliated scarred-for-life kids (who I always felt bad for).
That is the way of the world. Those with power, position, and the most possessions are first. So too, the best and the brightest; the shiny and the pretty. The world despises weak and ordinary things, weak and ordinary people.
The way of God is different. “For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence.”
(1 Cor 1:26-29)
God chose a manger. God chose Nazareth and the carpenter’s tools. God chose little Israel’s dusty roads. God chose twelve very weak and ordinary men to accompany Him. God chose a cross, a cursed tree. All appear weak and ordinary. “But to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ [is] the power of God and the wisdom of God.” (1 Cor 1:24)
There is a day coming when He will choose the teams – and the last will be first, and the first last, for “God shows no favoritism.” (Acts 10:34)
“So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen.” (Matthew 20:16)
Several times in the Gospels, Jesus makes the statement: “The last will be first, and the first last.” Do you know what always comes to my mind when I read or hear those words? Gym class. “All right, kids, line up! Anthony Athletic, you’re a captain!” the gym teacher barks. “Billy Buff Body, you’re the other captain. Billy, call it heads or tails? It’s tails; Anthony, you get the first choice!”
You remember that, don’t you? The outstanding athletes got chosen first, and then any remaining popular kids followed by the predictable descending order of the so-so’s (this was me), the less than’s, and ended with the last two humiliated scarred-for-life kids (who I always felt bad for).
That is the way of the world. Those with power, position, and the most possessions are first. So too, the best and the brightest; the shiny and the pretty. The world despises weak and ordinary things, weak and ordinary people.
The way of God is different. “For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence.”
(1 Cor 1:26-29)
God chose a manger. God chose Nazareth and the carpenter’s tools. God chose little Israel’s dusty roads. God chose twelve very weak and ordinary men to accompany Him. God chose a cross, a cursed tree. All appear weak and ordinary. “But to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ [is] the power of God and the wisdom of God.” (1 Cor 1:24)
There is a day coming when He will choose the teams – and the last will be first, and the first last, for “God shows no favoritism.” (Acts 10:34)
A Grafted Branch – Part 2
From the Word of God: Romans 11:19-27 – You will say then, “Branches were broken off that I might be grafted in.” Well said. Because of unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Do not be haughty, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare you either. Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off. And they also, if they do not continue in unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. For if you were cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and were grafted contrary to nature into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these,
who are natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: “The Deliverer will come out of Zion, And He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob; For this is My covenant with them, When I take away their sins.”
Where has the antipathy for Israel and the Jews come from throughout church history? Did we just read where and why it has reared its ugly head? Is this the undercurrent that feeds covenant/replacement theology? God knows human nature all too well. This is why Paul, under the inspiration of the Spirit, addressed this and why some have, by and large, ignored it. PRIDE!!! {“Naa, naa, naa, naa, naa, you Jews were broken off so we could be put in your place, naa, naa, naa, naa, naa!”} Stop that!!! You have no boast, but only humility and fear. There have been too many occasions where puffed-up unnatural branches have jeered the natural branches. What does the scripture say about not being ignorant of this mystery now revealed?… About not being wise in our own opinion?
A Christian radio talk show host stated that the miraculous rebirth of the nation of Israel was merely a series of coincidences. This from a man who continually teaches his listeners daily that God is involved in the simplest aspects of our lives and our world. Ohh, but not the Jewish people returning to their homeland after nineteen hundred years. God had nothing to do with that. What prideful unnatural branches some are! These are living examples of just what the apostle speaks of and warns against in the scripture above.
Our generation is witnessing the miraculous workings of God, as revealed in the 37th chapter of Ezekiel. We have seen the dry bones come together, and we have seen life enter into them. Now we await the Spirit to be put in which the Lord promises to do through the prophet, Zechariah: “I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.” And the natural branches will be grafted in again through the Lord Jesus Christ. Halleluiah, what an awesome God we have!
From the Word of God: Romans 11:19-27 – You will say then, “Branches were broken off that I might be grafted in.” Well said. Because of unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Do not be haughty, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare you either. Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off. And they also, if they do not continue in unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. For if you were cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and were grafted contrary to nature into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these,
who are natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: “The Deliverer will come out of Zion, And He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob; For this is My covenant with them, When I take away their sins.”
Where has the antipathy for Israel and the Jews come from throughout church history? Did we just read where and why it has reared its ugly head? Is this the undercurrent that feeds covenant/replacement theology? God knows human nature all too well. This is why Paul, under the inspiration of the Spirit, addressed this and why some have, by and large, ignored it. PRIDE!!! {“Naa, naa, naa, naa, naa, you Jews were broken off so we could be put in your place, naa, naa, naa, naa, naa!”} Stop that!!! You have no boast, but only humility and fear. There have been too many occasions where puffed-up unnatural branches have jeered the natural branches. What does the scripture say about not being ignorant of this mystery now revealed?… About not being wise in our own opinion?
A Christian radio talk show host stated that the miraculous rebirth of the nation of Israel was merely a series of coincidences. This from a man who continually teaches his listeners daily that God is involved in the simplest aspects of our lives and our world. Ohh, but not the Jewish people returning to their homeland after nineteen hundred years. God had nothing to do with that. What prideful unnatural branches some are! These are living examples of just what the apostle speaks of and warns against in the scripture above.
Our generation is witnessing the miraculous workings of God, as revealed in the 37th chapter of Ezekiel. We have seen the dry bones come together, and we have seen life enter into them. Now we await the Spirit to be put in which the Lord promises to do through the prophet, Zechariah: “I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.” And the natural branches will be grafted in again through the Lord Jesus Christ. Halleluiah, what an awesome God we have!
A Grafted Branch – Part 1
“I say then, have they (Israel) stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles. Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure rich for the Gentiles, how much more their fullness!” (Romans 11:11-12)
In the history of the world, has there ever been a group of people more hated, despised, persecuted, and war-torn than the Jewish people and the nation of Israel? In our day, the vitriol against them seems inconceivable. Why? One reason is the ongoing battle with the spirit of Amalek. (Exodus 17:16) The devil hates them. Another reason is the descendants of Ishmael hate them. The Lord told Abraham, “Sarah, your wife shall bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac; I will establish My covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his descendants after him. And as for Ishmael, I have heard you. Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly. He shall begat twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation. But My covenant I will establish with Isaac…” (Gen 17:19-21) Jealousy seethes from the soul of Ishmael against the children of the promise.
The devil and all his followers hate the Jews. The other son and his descendants described as “wild men whose hand shall be against every other man” (Gen 16:12) hate the Jews. What about the church? You know the followers of the Jewish carpenter? Through the last two thousand years, how much hatred has been poured out on the Jews by the supposed church? The obvious answer to that question should stop us in our tracks. Why has this occurred?
I think the answer to that last question can be found in the 11th chapter of the Apostle Paul’s epistle to the church at Rome. Paul explains that Israel’s fall brought occasion for salvation to the Gentiles. If their stumble created this positive outcome, how much more will Israel be blessed when they come to Messiah Jesus. (vs. 12, 15) Paul then uses the olive tree to expand his point. Israel is the olive tree, the Gentiles a wild olive tree. Some of the branches were broken off the olive tree at the rejection of Christ. (Others remained as those who accepted Christ at His first coming). Then God grafted branches from the wild tree onto the olive tree. God did the grafting Paul reminds us, and not ourselves. We have no boast of any kind. We also have no boast against the branches broken off.
We will look at this essential aspect in Part 2.
“I say then, have they (Israel) stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles. Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure rich for the Gentiles, how much more their fullness!” (Romans 11:11-12)
In the history of the world, has there ever been a group of people more hated, despised, persecuted, and war-torn than the Jewish people and the nation of Israel? In our day, the vitriol against them seems inconceivable. Why? One reason is the ongoing battle with the spirit of Amalek. (Exodus 17:16) The devil hates them. Another reason is the descendants of Ishmael hate them. The Lord told Abraham, “Sarah, your wife shall bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac; I will establish My covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his descendants after him. And as for Ishmael, I have heard you. Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly. He shall begat twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation. But My covenant I will establish with Isaac…” (Gen 17:19-21) Jealousy seethes from the soul of Ishmael against the children of the promise.
The devil and all his followers hate the Jews. The other son and his descendants described as “wild men whose hand shall be against every other man” (Gen 16:12) hate the Jews. What about the church? You know the followers of the Jewish carpenter? Through the last two thousand years, how much hatred has been poured out on the Jews by the supposed church? The obvious answer to that question should stop us in our tracks. Why has this occurred?
I think the answer to that last question can be found in the 11th chapter of the Apostle Paul’s epistle to the church at Rome. Paul explains that Israel’s fall brought occasion for salvation to the Gentiles. If their stumble created this positive outcome, how much more will Israel be blessed when they come to Messiah Jesus. (vs. 12, 15) Paul then uses the olive tree to expand his point. Israel is the olive tree, the Gentiles a wild olive tree. Some of the branches were broken off the olive tree at the rejection of Christ. (Others remained as those who accepted Christ at His first coming). Then God grafted branches from the wild tree onto the olive tree. God did the grafting Paul reminds us, and not ourselves. We have no boast of any kind. We also have no boast against the branches broken off.
We will look at this essential aspect in Part 2.
Can Do
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
I am a “to do” person. I make “to do” lists daily. It helps me stay organized and focused on the tasks at hand. The grass needs to be mowed, check; take out the garbage, check; go to the bank, check; water the flowers, check. There is nothing wrong with such lists, provided they do not place us in a tunnel vision mode where we can’t see our way out. Life does have a way of disrupting any plans we may have and, therefore, requires mobility, adjustments, and proper priorities. The grass will not get mowed as scheduled because someone needs help. That letter will not get written today due to sickness, and so on. But, I have to admit, I am a pretty good “can do” guy when following my “to do” lists.
What about following the Lord ? How well do I abide in Him? Am I a real “can do” fruit-bearing guy or a withered branch? I don’t know about you, but pondering the answers to those questions makes me squirm. The fact is when we do not abide in the Lord (wrapped up in Him), we can do nothing!
That is a far cry from my “to do” successes. Jesus promises us, “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.” (John 15:7) He tells us we will bear much fruit, be loved fully in Him, and have a life filled with joy. (John 15:8-11)
Are we “can do” or “can do nothing” people? It all depends on where we abide.
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
I am a “to do” person. I make “to do” lists daily. It helps me stay organized and focused on the tasks at hand. The grass needs to be mowed, check; take out the garbage, check; go to the bank, check; water the flowers, check. There is nothing wrong with such lists, provided they do not place us in a tunnel vision mode where we can’t see our way out. Life does have a way of disrupting any plans we may have and, therefore, requires mobility, adjustments, and proper priorities. The grass will not get mowed as scheduled because someone needs help. That letter will not get written today due to sickness, and so on. But, I have to admit, I am a pretty good “can do” guy when following my “to do” lists.
What about following the Lord ? How well do I abide in Him? Am I a real “can do” fruit-bearing guy or a withered branch? I don’t know about you, but pondering the answers to those questions makes me squirm. The fact is when we do not abide in the Lord (wrapped up in Him), we can do nothing!
That is a far cry from my “to do” successes. Jesus promises us, “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.” (John 15:7) He tells us we will bear much fruit, be loved fully in Him, and have a life filled with joy. (John 15:8-11)
Are we “can do” or “can do nothing” people? It all depends on where we abide.
Are You Close-Minded?
“Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Colossians 2:8)
Our culture believes in the great virtues one can have; being open-minded is near the top of the list. If you ask most anyone if they are open-minded, they will probably respond with a definitive yes or at least “I hope I am…I try to be”. And we all know that trying to deal with a stubborn, close-minded individual can be quite a frustrating experience. But, having said all this, is there any virtue in being close-minded? Well, in fact, for the Christian, it is not only an admirable quality but a must-have necessity.
How is a Christian to view the world? We should see the world through the lenses of Scripture. Well, what about this subject or this problem or this modern-day occurrence and so on? The timeless word of God instructs us either by direct teaching or by principle about anything life has to offer. Any lack of answers or correct viewpoints lies in our lack and not that of the Holy Scriptures. The world has many answers and perspectives, but are they according to Christ? If not, why would we have an open mind to them?
The Apostle Paul spells this out to the Corinthians: “For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” (1 Cor 2:11-12). He then adds that the natural man does not know the things of God, but the spiritual man can, and should, know the things of God because “we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Cor 2:16)
Finally, we are instructed thusly, “…do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Rom 12:2)
So, let me ask you when it comes to the philosophies and principles of the world – are you open-minded, or are you close-minded?
“Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Colossians 2:8)
Our culture believes in the great virtues one can have; being open-minded is near the top of the list. If you ask most anyone if they are open-minded, they will probably respond with a definitive yes or at least “I hope I am…I try to be”. And we all know that trying to deal with a stubborn, close-minded individual can be quite a frustrating experience. But, having said all this, is there any virtue in being close-minded? Well, in fact, for the Christian, it is not only an admirable quality but a must-have necessity.
How is a Christian to view the world? We should see the world through the lenses of Scripture. Well, what about this subject or this problem or this modern-day occurrence and so on? The timeless word of God instructs us either by direct teaching or by principle about anything life has to offer. Any lack of answers or correct viewpoints lies in our lack and not that of the Holy Scriptures. The world has many answers and perspectives, but are they according to Christ? If not, why would we have an open mind to them?
The Apostle Paul spells this out to the Corinthians: “For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” (1 Cor 2:11-12). He then adds that the natural man does not know the things of God, but the spiritual man can, and should, know the things of God because “we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Cor 2:16)
Finally, we are instructed thusly, “…do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Rom 12:2)
So, let me ask you when it comes to the philosophies and principles of the world – are you open-minded, or are you close-minded?
Looking Unto Jesus
“…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1, 2)
When our grandson was a baby there were two ways to get him to calm down in his – “I’m hungry, I’m gassy, I’m in need of a diaper change, I’m hot, I’m cold, I’m sleepy” – world. The first was his mother. No matter the disturbance in his life, when placed in his mommy’s arms he would immediately quiet and just look and look at her. The second way was rather odd and somewhat hilarious. My son and daughter-in-law had one of those abstract painting in their living room. It wasn’t my cup of tea, but the colors went well with their decor. And the odd looking picture was just fascinating to the baby.
“Whahhh, whahhh, whahhh!”
“Look at the picture. Look at the picture.”
“Whahhh, whah……..”
Quiet. Staring. Quiet.
It reminds me of the Scripture above, one of my favorites. How often I neglect to look unto Jesus when the world is all gas bubbles and dirty diapers, and I’m weighed down with heavy burdens. When my sins catch, hold, and I will not let them let go. Whenever the finish line is way out there, far past my endurance. When I’m at the point of “Whahhh, whahhh, whahhh!” – “Look unto Jesus, the author, and finisher of our faith! Look unto Jesus, who endured the cross! Look unto Jesus, who despised the shame in light of the joy to come! Look unto Jesus, who sits at the right hand of the throne of God!”
Is that where you are today? Weighed down. Caught up in the net of sin. Struggling. Tired. Sick. Dying. These are all universal realities of the human condition. What a sorry lot we would be without mommy’s arms and abstract paintings – and far above all, without Jesus. Jesus is the author, the source, the originator, the initiator of our faith, and has led the way into heaven as our forerunner. He is the finisher, the perfecter, the completer of our faith that He may present us to the Father, perfect in Him. And glory hallelujah, our Savior Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the throne of God!
Let us be looking unto Jesus always and forever.
“…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1, 2)
When our grandson was a baby there were two ways to get him to calm down in his – “I’m hungry, I’m gassy, I’m in need of a diaper change, I’m hot, I’m cold, I’m sleepy” – world. The first was his mother. No matter the disturbance in his life, when placed in his mommy’s arms he would immediately quiet and just look and look at her. The second way was rather odd and somewhat hilarious. My son and daughter-in-law had one of those abstract painting in their living room. It wasn’t my cup of tea, but the colors went well with their decor. And the odd looking picture was just fascinating to the baby.
“Whahhh, whahhh, whahhh!”
“Look at the picture. Look at the picture.”
“Whahhh, whah……..”
Quiet. Staring. Quiet.
It reminds me of the Scripture above, one of my favorites. How often I neglect to look unto Jesus when the world is all gas bubbles and dirty diapers, and I’m weighed down with heavy burdens. When my sins catch, hold, and I will not let them let go. Whenever the finish line is way out there, far past my endurance. When I’m at the point of “Whahhh, whahhh, whahhh!” – “Look unto Jesus, the author, and finisher of our faith! Look unto Jesus, who endured the cross! Look unto Jesus, who despised the shame in light of the joy to come! Look unto Jesus, who sits at the right hand of the throne of God!”
Is that where you are today? Weighed down. Caught up in the net of sin. Struggling. Tired. Sick. Dying. These are all universal realities of the human condition. What a sorry lot we would be without mommy’s arms and abstract paintings – and far above all, without Jesus. Jesus is the author, the source, the originator, the initiator of our faith, and has led the way into heaven as our forerunner. He is the finisher, the perfecter, the completer of our faith that He may present us to the Father, perfect in Him. And glory hallelujah, our Savior Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the throne of God!
Let us be looking unto Jesus always and forever.
He is Risen
From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day. Matthew 16:21
The death of Jesus Christ on the cross and His bodily resurrection is the event that separates the Christian faith from religions. Many people accept that He was a real person and that He died a horrific death on a Roman cross. However, not everyone willingly accepts His resurrection.
But, without the bodily resurrection of Christ, there would be no Christianity. The apostle Paul made this very clear in his letter to the Corinthian church.
The prophets foretold the resurrection of Christ. (Ps 16:10; Ps 2:7; Is 53:10) It was necessary to fulfill the Scriptures. (Luke 24:45, 46) It was proof that God accepted the sacrifice of His Son. (Rom 4:25) And it is His life that saves those who believe. “Hence, also He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” (Heb 7:25) And one day, every believer has this hope of bodily resurrection. (1 Cor 15:35-38) “For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.” (Rom 10:11)
He is risen. He is risen indeed!
From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day. Matthew 16:21
The death of Jesus Christ on the cross and His bodily resurrection is the event that separates the Christian faith from religions. Many people accept that He was a real person and that He died a horrific death on a Roman cross. However, not everyone willingly accepts His resurrection.
But, without the bodily resurrection of Christ, there would be no Christianity. The apostle Paul made this very clear in his letter to the Corinthian church.
- First of all, if Christ has not been raised, you are still dead in your sins. (15:17) There is no forgiveness.
- Secondly, those who have died in Christ have perished. (15:18) They are lost and separated from God.
- Thirdly, the apostles are false witnesses of God because they have been teaching a lie. (15:15) And everyone who has been teaching concerning His resurrection is a false witness as well.
- Fourthly, everyone who has hoped in Christ is to be pitied because they have believed in vain and have no hope for the future. (15:14,19)
The prophets foretold the resurrection of Christ. (Ps 16:10; Ps 2:7; Is 53:10) It was necessary to fulfill the Scriptures. (Luke 24:45, 46) It was proof that God accepted the sacrifice of His Son. (Rom 4:25) And it is His life that saves those who believe. “Hence, also He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” (Heb 7:25) And one day, every believer has this hope of bodily resurrection. (1 Cor 15:35-38) “For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.” (Rom 10:11)
He is risen. He is risen indeed!
Who’s Your Daddy?
“But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, ‘Abba, Father’!” (Galatians 4:4-6)
(Abba: An informal Aramaic term for Father that conveys a sense of intimacy. Like the English words “Daddy” or “Papa.”)
From presidents to popes, Hollywood performers to politically correct preachers, we hear this statement often: “We are all God’s children.” It does sound nice; why it even sounds like a real Bible kind of thing. However, is what they’re saying valid? What does the Bible tell us?
The Bible tells us, “God created [Adam] in His own image; in the image of God He created him.” (1) Then what happened? Adam fell. Adam died spiritually. Adam fell, and Adam died, and every one of his progeny has been born in the same condition. All of us have been born in the tainted image of the man of dust, not in the intended image of God.” (2)
But, “when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son.” Then what happened? A Cross. Someone died. Someone was raised up. Jesus Christ, “the image of the invisible God” (3), lives and calls all of Adam’s condemned dust kids to receive a new spiritual birth into “the image of the heavenly Man.” (2)
Those who choose to remain in Adam are “dead in trespasses and sins.” Adam’s offspring “walk according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air.” Adam’s image-bearers “fulfill the desires of the flesh and the mind.” Adam’s descendants are “sons of disobedience” and “by nature children of wrath.” (4)
“You, He made alive.” (4) Who is you? “As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” (5) that is who, you, is, “if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His…for as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God.” (6)
There is the man of dust, and there is the heavenly Man. There is birth by the flesh, and there is birth by Spirit. There is the child of wrath, and there is the child of God. There is the color black, and there is the color white, and while the world prefers the color gray, God uses black and white to paint this picture. Those who have not received Christ nor believe in His name serve gods “which by nature are not gods.” (7) Those who have accepted Christ and believe in His name become the adopted sons and daughters of God, and “the Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” (8)
The children still living in Adam are heading for destruction. God loves each one of those dust kids, “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” (9) He wants to adopt them – all of them. He sent His Son to make possible their adoption. They can receive Him, trust in Him, and enter into a relationship with Him that is free of fear and anxiety. They can call out, “Daddy!” when the Lord gathers them into His family forever. His sons and daughters are assured of this, for we have “received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” (10)
So, if I may, let me ask you, “Who’s your Daddy?”
*** (1) Genesis 1:27 (2) ref. I Corinthians 15:45-49 (3) Colossians 1:15 (4) Ephesians 2:1-3 (5) John 1:12-13 (6) Romans 8:9, 8:14 (7) Galatians 4:8 (8) Romans 8:16 (9) 2 Peter 3:9 (10) Romans 8:15
“But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, ‘Abba, Father’!” (Galatians 4:4-6)
(Abba: An informal Aramaic term for Father that conveys a sense of intimacy. Like the English words “Daddy” or “Papa.”)
From presidents to popes, Hollywood performers to politically correct preachers, we hear this statement often: “We are all God’s children.” It does sound nice; why it even sounds like a real Bible kind of thing. However, is what they’re saying valid? What does the Bible tell us?
The Bible tells us, “God created [Adam] in His own image; in the image of God He created him.” (1) Then what happened? Adam fell. Adam died spiritually. Adam fell, and Adam died, and every one of his progeny has been born in the same condition. All of us have been born in the tainted image of the man of dust, not in the intended image of God.” (2)
But, “when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son.” Then what happened? A Cross. Someone died. Someone was raised up. Jesus Christ, “the image of the invisible God” (3), lives and calls all of Adam’s condemned dust kids to receive a new spiritual birth into “the image of the heavenly Man.” (2)
Those who choose to remain in Adam are “dead in trespasses and sins.” Adam’s offspring “walk according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air.” Adam’s image-bearers “fulfill the desires of the flesh and the mind.” Adam’s descendants are “sons of disobedience” and “by nature children of wrath.” (4)
“You, He made alive.” (4) Who is you? “As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” (5) that is who, you, is, “if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His…for as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God.” (6)
There is the man of dust, and there is the heavenly Man. There is birth by the flesh, and there is birth by Spirit. There is the child of wrath, and there is the child of God. There is the color black, and there is the color white, and while the world prefers the color gray, God uses black and white to paint this picture. Those who have not received Christ nor believe in His name serve gods “which by nature are not gods.” (7) Those who have accepted Christ and believe in His name become the adopted sons and daughters of God, and “the Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” (8)
The children still living in Adam are heading for destruction. God loves each one of those dust kids, “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” (9) He wants to adopt them – all of them. He sent His Son to make possible their adoption. They can receive Him, trust in Him, and enter into a relationship with Him that is free of fear and anxiety. They can call out, “Daddy!” when the Lord gathers them into His family forever. His sons and daughters are assured of this, for we have “received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” (10)
So, if I may, let me ask you, “Who’s your Daddy?”
*** (1) Genesis 1:27 (2) ref. I Corinthians 15:45-49 (3) Colossians 1:15 (4) Ephesians 2:1-3 (5) John 1:12-13 (6) Romans 8:9, 8:14 (7) Galatians 4:8 (8) Romans 8:16 (9) 2 Peter 3:9 (10) Romans 8:15
What is Man?
The audacity of these Christians, to believe the universe was created for us! What an unbelievable, arrogant way of thinking!” I smiled as the debate intensified between two scholars, one Christian, and a devout atheist. I am confident the atheist would be very disturbed to know he was preaching from the book of Genesis. The entire creative process detailed in Genesis culminated with the creation of mankind. It was then that God declared His work to be complete and very good.
As the debate continued, 1 Corinthians 2:14 kept coming to mind: “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” One example was the atheist contention that science had disproved the ascension of Christ. How might you ask? Well, it is known that oxygen levels are depleted in the atmosphere, making it impossible to breathe; therefore, Jesus could not have survived His ascension. Now that is the “wisdom” of a natural man, devoid of spiritual discernment. God’s word is indeed correct when it says, “Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?” (1 Cor 1:20)
Though the atheist spoke sarcastically, he is stating an age-old question: “What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? And the son of man that You visit him?” (Psalm 8:4) Are there not times when we stand amid creation marveling at God’s majesty and inquire the very same of the Lord? For some people – praise and awesome wonder draw the soul to God when life’s mysteries are considered. Yet, these same searching questions can lead others to doubt, even to complete denial.
We seem so small, insignificant, a grain of sand in a sea of humanity, lost in the vastness of the universe. How can God be mindful of every human being? God responds to those who honestly wrestle and seek answers. He declares, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways…For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Is 55:8-9) Faith is our portion; omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence are His.
Job sought the truths of God within the wisdom of man but was not satisfied. When confronted with the power and the glory of his Creator, he was left to cry, “Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me; which I did not know.” (Job 42:3) Beautiful things – such as being perfectly loved by the everlasting Heavenly Father – and the opportunity to return His love for all of eternity.
The audacity of these Christians, to believe the universe was created for us! What an unbelievable, arrogant way of thinking!” I smiled as the debate intensified between two scholars, one Christian, and a devout atheist. I am confident the atheist would be very disturbed to know he was preaching from the book of Genesis. The entire creative process detailed in Genesis culminated with the creation of mankind. It was then that God declared His work to be complete and very good.
As the debate continued, 1 Corinthians 2:14 kept coming to mind: “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” One example was the atheist contention that science had disproved the ascension of Christ. How might you ask? Well, it is known that oxygen levels are depleted in the atmosphere, making it impossible to breathe; therefore, Jesus could not have survived His ascension. Now that is the “wisdom” of a natural man, devoid of spiritual discernment. God’s word is indeed correct when it says, “Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?” (1 Cor 1:20)
Though the atheist spoke sarcastically, he is stating an age-old question: “What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? And the son of man that You visit him?” (Psalm 8:4) Are there not times when we stand amid creation marveling at God’s majesty and inquire the very same of the Lord? For some people – praise and awesome wonder draw the soul to God when life’s mysteries are considered. Yet, these same searching questions can lead others to doubt, even to complete denial.
We seem so small, insignificant, a grain of sand in a sea of humanity, lost in the vastness of the universe. How can God be mindful of every human being? God responds to those who honestly wrestle and seek answers. He declares, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways…For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Is 55:8-9) Faith is our portion; omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence are His.
Job sought the truths of God within the wisdom of man but was not satisfied. When confronted with the power and the glory of his Creator, he was left to cry, “Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me; which I did not know.” (Job 42:3) Beautiful things – such as being perfectly loved by the everlasting Heavenly Father – and the opportunity to return His love for all of eternity.
Signs
Spring is the time of year I look for signs. You know, the signs that spring is here or real close to making an appearance.
The daylight lasts longer - Sign.
The trees and flowers are budding - Sign.
The warmer days here and there - Sign.
The Dairy Queens start opening up - Sign.
The spring training baseball games - Sign.
The college basketball tournaments - Sign.
But for me, the ultimate and necessary, sure sign that spring will indeed return and is just on the doorstep - the robins! I saw my first a week ago. Other people had already seen them, but until I see one, spring just may not come, and winter may not end! Thank God for robins and spring and signs!
The Bible tells us of the signs of the end times. The prophets speak a good deal about the end times. Jesus gave quite a sermon on the last days in the book of Matthew. The books of Daniel and Revelation spell it out in great detail. In fact, there are over 100 chapters in the Bible that have the end times as their central theme. Something tells me God thinks our knowledge about the end times is essential. What are some of the signs of the end times that we’re witnessing?
The nation of Israel is reformed after nearly 2000 years - Sign.
The one-world global system is moving full steam ahead - Sign.
The astounding ease of deceivers to deceive the multitudes - Sign.
The moral bankruptcy is seen as normal, like in Noah’s day- Sign.
The increasing apostasy in the church is decreasing its influence - Sign.
The rapid rise in knowledge and wide proclamation of the Gospel - Sign.
Signs. If we know the signs of the coming seasons and a myriad of signs concerning other issues in everyday life, we should indeed know the signs of the End Times.
Let’s face it; spring was coming whether I saw a robin or not, and the appointed time of the End is coming as well. Are you ready?
Spring is the time of year I look for signs. You know, the signs that spring is here or real close to making an appearance.
The daylight lasts longer - Sign.
The trees and flowers are budding - Sign.
The warmer days here and there - Sign.
The Dairy Queens start opening up - Sign.
The spring training baseball games - Sign.
The college basketball tournaments - Sign.
But for me, the ultimate and necessary, sure sign that spring will indeed return and is just on the doorstep - the robins! I saw my first a week ago. Other people had already seen them, but until I see one, spring just may not come, and winter may not end! Thank God for robins and spring and signs!
The Bible tells us of the signs of the end times. The prophets speak a good deal about the end times. Jesus gave quite a sermon on the last days in the book of Matthew. The books of Daniel and Revelation spell it out in great detail. In fact, there are over 100 chapters in the Bible that have the end times as their central theme. Something tells me God thinks our knowledge about the end times is essential. What are some of the signs of the end times that we’re witnessing?
The nation of Israel is reformed after nearly 2000 years - Sign.
The one-world global system is moving full steam ahead - Sign.
The astounding ease of deceivers to deceive the multitudes - Sign.
The moral bankruptcy is seen as normal, like in Noah’s day- Sign.
The increasing apostasy in the church is decreasing its influence - Sign.
The rapid rise in knowledge and wide proclamation of the Gospel - Sign.
Signs. If we know the signs of the coming seasons and a myriad of signs concerning other issues in everyday life, we should indeed know the signs of the End Times.
Let’s face it; spring was coming whether I saw a robin or not, and the appointed time of the End is coming as well. Are you ready?
The Number Seven
To anyone who has ever read the Bible, the number seven often stands out by representing something significant. In the beginning, God created six days and rested on the seventh. It signified that creation was finished and complete. God established the Sabbath day or the seventh day as a perpetual covenant and sign between Himself and Israel forever. (Exodus 31:16, 17)
The seventh year was considered a Sabbath year for Israel. The land was not to be cultivated. God would provide enough for the sixth year so that Israel would have plenty for the seventh year. Furthermore, at the end of the seventh year, Israelite creditors were required to release any other Israelite from their debt so there would be no poor among them. (Lev 25:1-4; Deut. 15:1-4) And after seven periods of seven years, God declared the 50th year, the year of Jubilee. All land was to be returned to the original tenant, and slaves were reunited with their families. (Lev 25:10)
In their relationship with the Lord, obedience was crucial. Concerning blessing and cursing, if Israel obeyed the Lord, He would cause their enemies to flee seven ways before them. However, if they disobeyed Him, He would cause them to be defeated and flee seven ways from their enemy. (Deut. 28:7, 25)
When the nation of Israel crossed the Jordan into Canaan, they went to battle with the city of Jericho. God commanded Joshua to have seven priests with seven horns march around the city each day. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times and blow the trumpet. When they did, God gave the city over the Israelites. (Joshua 6)
All these sevens and many more in the Old Testament establish that the number seven represents perfection and fullness. So when we read in Revelation chapter one verse four of the seven Spirits before the throne, it must be understood in this context. The Scripture is clear that there is one God and one Spirit, “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord,…” (Eph 1:4,5) Thus, the number seven accompanied with the Spirit is a most significant picture.
As for the rest of the book of Revelation, there are seven stars, seven golden lampstands, and seven churches in chapter one. A lamb as though slain is described as having seven horns and seven eyes. (5:6) There is a scroll with seven seals. (5:1) Seven angels are given seven trumpets (8:2) and seven last plagues. (15:1)
In chapter 10, John saw a mighty angel that cried out, and seven thunders uttered their voices. Seven thousand people are killed in an earthquake. (11:13) A dragon appears in chapter 12 with seven heads and seven diadems. In chapter 13, John has a vision of a beast with seven heads and ten horns. And in chapter 17, he sees a woman sitting on a scarlet beast with seven heads and ten horns. The number seven seems to reach its pinnacle in Revelation. It occurs more times here than in any other book of the Bible.
To anyone who has ever read the Bible, the number seven often stands out by representing something significant. In the beginning, God created six days and rested on the seventh. It signified that creation was finished and complete. God established the Sabbath day or the seventh day as a perpetual covenant and sign between Himself and Israel forever. (Exodus 31:16, 17)
The seventh year was considered a Sabbath year for Israel. The land was not to be cultivated. God would provide enough for the sixth year so that Israel would have plenty for the seventh year. Furthermore, at the end of the seventh year, Israelite creditors were required to release any other Israelite from their debt so there would be no poor among them. (Lev 25:1-4; Deut. 15:1-4) And after seven periods of seven years, God declared the 50th year, the year of Jubilee. All land was to be returned to the original tenant, and slaves were reunited with their families. (Lev 25:10)
In their relationship with the Lord, obedience was crucial. Concerning blessing and cursing, if Israel obeyed the Lord, He would cause their enemies to flee seven ways before them. However, if they disobeyed Him, He would cause them to be defeated and flee seven ways from their enemy. (Deut. 28:7, 25)
When the nation of Israel crossed the Jordan into Canaan, they went to battle with the city of Jericho. God commanded Joshua to have seven priests with seven horns march around the city each day. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times and blow the trumpet. When they did, God gave the city over the Israelites. (Joshua 6)
All these sevens and many more in the Old Testament establish that the number seven represents perfection and fullness. So when we read in Revelation chapter one verse four of the seven Spirits before the throne, it must be understood in this context. The Scripture is clear that there is one God and one Spirit, “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord,…” (Eph 1:4,5) Thus, the number seven accompanied with the Spirit is a most significant picture.
As for the rest of the book of Revelation, there are seven stars, seven golden lampstands, and seven churches in chapter one. A lamb as though slain is described as having seven horns and seven eyes. (5:6) There is a scroll with seven seals. (5:1) Seven angels are given seven trumpets (8:2) and seven last plagues. (15:1)
In chapter 10, John saw a mighty angel that cried out, and seven thunders uttered their voices. Seven thousand people are killed in an earthquake. (11:13) A dragon appears in chapter 12 with seven heads and seven diadems. In chapter 13, John has a vision of a beast with seven heads and ten horns. And in chapter 17, he sees a woman sitting on a scarlet beast with seven heads and ten horns. The number seven seems to reach its pinnacle in Revelation. It occurs more times here than in any other book of the Bible.
Second Coming
"Now the whole earth had one language and one speech. And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar, and they dwelt there…And they said, "Come let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth." (Genesis 11:1-2, 4)
At Noah's time, mankind had become so wicked on the earth the Bible says God was sorry He had made man. Therefore, the flood was, in a sense, a big old Saturday night bath for the world. Saving Noah and his family gave man a new day and another chance to trust and obey God and go forth and "be fruitful and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth and multiply in it." (Gen 9:7) And of course, what did man do? They found the plain of Shinar and agreed it would be a great place to build a big old dream house. Human pride fed the people's refusal to disperse and spread out upon the earth with God's oracles in addition to producing godly offspring.
Notice also that the people wanted to make a name for themselves. Were they not to be named the people of the Most High God? Once again, we witness a manifestation of humanity's continual rebellion against their Creator.
The Tower of Babel was mankind's first attempt at Globalism. A One-World Government let us build ourselves a city and let us make a name for ourselves. Therefore, establishing a complete alliance and reliance on fallible and sinful man rather than on the perfect and righteous Rock of Ages. The Lord put a quick stop to it, knowing a people united to do their will and not His would consume the world with evil just as in the pre-flood days.
After many centuries a "second coming" of one worldism is now with us. Biblical prophecy assures those on whom the last days will come that this will be so. In our day, work in every composition of life is being laid to build the City and the Tower. One crisis after another places one more brick in man's yellow brick road.
The Bible speaks to this: "Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure" (Psalm. 2:1-5).
The powers that be amongst the nations have long since cast God aside, determined to bring the world back to Babel. Globalism didn't work then, and God guarantees in His prophetic Word that it won't work this time.
One day the Most High will crush once and for all the adversaries of Psalm 2:1-5. Until then, the Spirit-led, Spirit-filled church of the Lord Jesus Christ is instructed thusly: "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is." (Eph 5:15-17)
Are we obedient to these instructions? Many are deceived to the point of laying brick and mortar in the construction of the second coming of the Tower. The remainder of us, especially those who profess Christ, must faithfully be tearing down the bricks and mortar.
Are you stacking or unstacking bricks?
"Now the whole earth had one language and one speech. And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar, and they dwelt there…And they said, "Come let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth." (Genesis 11:1-2, 4)
At Noah's time, mankind had become so wicked on the earth the Bible says God was sorry He had made man. Therefore, the flood was, in a sense, a big old Saturday night bath for the world. Saving Noah and his family gave man a new day and another chance to trust and obey God and go forth and "be fruitful and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth and multiply in it." (Gen 9:7) And of course, what did man do? They found the plain of Shinar and agreed it would be a great place to build a big old dream house. Human pride fed the people's refusal to disperse and spread out upon the earth with God's oracles in addition to producing godly offspring.
Notice also that the people wanted to make a name for themselves. Were they not to be named the people of the Most High God? Once again, we witness a manifestation of humanity's continual rebellion against their Creator.
The Tower of Babel was mankind's first attempt at Globalism. A One-World Government let us build ourselves a city and let us make a name for ourselves. Therefore, establishing a complete alliance and reliance on fallible and sinful man rather than on the perfect and righteous Rock of Ages. The Lord put a quick stop to it, knowing a people united to do their will and not His would consume the world with evil just as in the pre-flood days.
After many centuries a "second coming" of one worldism is now with us. Biblical prophecy assures those on whom the last days will come that this will be so. In our day, work in every composition of life is being laid to build the City and the Tower. One crisis after another places one more brick in man's yellow brick road.
The Bible speaks to this: "Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure" (Psalm. 2:1-5).
The powers that be amongst the nations have long since cast God aside, determined to bring the world back to Babel. Globalism didn't work then, and God guarantees in His prophetic Word that it won't work this time.
One day the Most High will crush once and for all the adversaries of Psalm 2:1-5. Until then, the Spirit-led, Spirit-filled church of the Lord Jesus Christ is instructed thusly: "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is." (Eph 5:15-17)
Are we obedient to these instructions? Many are deceived to the point of laying brick and mortar in the construction of the second coming of the Tower. The remainder of us, especially those who profess Christ, must faithfully be tearing down the bricks and mortar.
Are you stacking or unstacking bricks?
His Second Coming
The first chapter of Revelation introduces the second coming of Christ to earth. His coming “will be with the clouds, and every eye will see Him.”(Rev 1:7) He will return after the tribulation, according to Matthew (24:29). In doing so, He will rescue Israel from total destruction (Matt 24:22; Jer 30:11; Zech 13:9) and will remove the wicked and unbelieving from the earth. “For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah.” (Matt 24:37) In Noah’s day, God brought judgment upon the whole world through the floodwaters. The wicked were taken away to judgment while the righteous remnant was left to repopulate the earth.
His second coming will follow the same pattern. Jesus said there would be two women grinding at the same place, and one would be taken, and one would be left. (Luke 17:35) The significance of this illustration is that His disciples asked, “Where Lord?” They certainly weren’t asking about the ones being left on earth but wanted to know where were the ones going who were taken. He answered, “Where the body is, there also will the vultures be gathered. ” (Luke 17:37) Matthew refers to the bodies as corpses (24:28). Since vultures gather to eat carrion, the ones taken have been physically killed, and their soul has been confined to Hades until the Great White Throne judgment.
Just as in Noah’s day, the righteous will be left on the earth. Then they will enter into the Millennial Kingdom, the 1000 year reign of Christ. Thus at His Second Coming, Christ will have subjects to rule and reign over when He establishes His throne in Jerusalem (Is 9:7; Ezek 43:7).
The first chapter of Revelation introduces the second coming of Christ to earth. His coming “will be with the clouds, and every eye will see Him.”(Rev 1:7) He will return after the tribulation, according to Matthew (24:29). In doing so, He will rescue Israel from total destruction (Matt 24:22; Jer 30:11; Zech 13:9) and will remove the wicked and unbelieving from the earth. “For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah.” (Matt 24:37) In Noah’s day, God brought judgment upon the whole world through the floodwaters. The wicked were taken away to judgment while the righteous remnant was left to repopulate the earth.
His second coming will follow the same pattern. Jesus said there would be two women grinding at the same place, and one would be taken, and one would be left. (Luke 17:35) The significance of this illustration is that His disciples asked, “Where Lord?” They certainly weren’t asking about the ones being left on earth but wanted to know where were the ones going who were taken. He answered, “Where the body is, there also will the vultures be gathered. ” (Luke 17:37) Matthew refers to the bodies as corpses (24:28). Since vultures gather to eat carrion, the ones taken have been physically killed, and their soul has been confined to Hades until the Great White Throne judgment.
Just as in Noah’s day, the righteous will be left on the earth. Then they will enter into the Millennial Kingdom, the 1000 year reign of Christ. Thus at His Second Coming, Christ will have subjects to rule and reign over when He establishes His throne in Jerusalem (Is 9:7; Ezek 43:7).
The True Bread
To each of the seven churches of Revelation the Lord offers varying rewards to “him who overcomes.” The apostle John clarifies the one who overcomes as the one who is born of God and believes that Jesus is the Son of God. (I John 5:4, 5) In other words, true believers are those who overcome. They overcome because Jesus overcame the barrier of sin between God and us.
To those who would overcome in the church at Pergamus, Jesus says that He would give them “some of the hidden manna.” (2:17) Manna was what God provided to sustain the Israelites during their sojourn through the wilderness for forty years. The provision of manna stopped the day the Israelites entered the Promised Land when they had eaten of its produce. (Joshua 5:12)
Similarly, Jesus provided physical food supernaturally for those who were following Him and listening to His teachings. He took five loaves of bread and two fish and fed over five thousand, not including the women and children. When the disciples gathered up the leftovers, they filled twelve baskets. (John 6:8-14) The result was that on the next day, the crowd followed Him, “because they ate of the loaves and were filled.” (6:26) They were still looking to satisfy their physical need but Jesus admonishes them, “Do not labor for food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life…” (v.27)
The food that they really needed they could not see. It was hidden because they were looking with their physical eyes – “What sign will You perform then, that we may see it and believe You?” (v. 30) Their true need required spiritual eyes to see the hidden manna, “…the bread which came down from heaven,” for “…he who eats this bread will live forever.” (6:58)
Jesus is the true bread. He told the crowd, “I am the Bread of Life.” (6:35) But, it requires spiritual eyes to see Him, the hidden manna. To those at Pergamus, Jesus offers the hidden manna to he who overcomes. And unlike the manna in the wilderness, His sustaining power will never cease. For all who come to Him will never hunger and he who believes in Him shall never thirst. (v. 35)
To each of the seven churches of Revelation the Lord offers varying rewards to “him who overcomes.” The apostle John clarifies the one who overcomes as the one who is born of God and believes that Jesus is the Son of God. (I John 5:4, 5) In other words, true believers are those who overcome. They overcome because Jesus overcame the barrier of sin between God and us.
To those who would overcome in the church at Pergamus, Jesus says that He would give them “some of the hidden manna.” (2:17) Manna was what God provided to sustain the Israelites during their sojourn through the wilderness for forty years. The provision of manna stopped the day the Israelites entered the Promised Land when they had eaten of its produce. (Joshua 5:12)
Similarly, Jesus provided physical food supernaturally for those who were following Him and listening to His teachings. He took five loaves of bread and two fish and fed over five thousand, not including the women and children. When the disciples gathered up the leftovers, they filled twelve baskets. (John 6:8-14) The result was that on the next day, the crowd followed Him, “because they ate of the loaves and were filled.” (6:26) They were still looking to satisfy their physical need but Jesus admonishes them, “Do not labor for food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life…” (v.27)
The food that they really needed they could not see. It was hidden because they were looking with their physical eyes – “What sign will You perform then, that we may see it and believe You?” (v. 30) Their true need required spiritual eyes to see the hidden manna, “…the bread which came down from heaven,” for “…he who eats this bread will live forever.” (6:58)
Jesus is the true bread. He told the crowd, “I am the Bread of Life.” (6:35) But, it requires spiritual eyes to see Him, the hidden manna. To those at Pergamus, Jesus offers the hidden manna to he who overcomes. And unlike the manna in the wilderness, His sustaining power will never cease. For all who come to Him will never hunger and he who believes in Him shall never thirst. (v. 35)
Whatever State
“…for I have learned whatever state I am, to be content.” (The Apostle Paul)
In the late 7th century B.C., the prophet Habakkuk had a dilemma. His dilemma was God. The prophet wanted justice done in the land of Judah. The nation had fallen hard and fast after King Josiah had died in battle. Habakkuk pleaded, “O Lord, how long shall I cry, and You will not hear… why do You show me iniquity, and cause me to see trouble?” (Hab 1: 2-3)
And what was God’s reply to the desperate prophet? “I am raising up the Chaldeans…” (Hab 1:6). That is akin to saying the evilest beings in this wicked world would arrive soon to judge the Lord’s people. Huh? That was pretty much Habakkuk’s rejoinder. I think most of us would have that same reaction.
The Lord God then reminds the struggling prophet that He uses time and all things to accomplish His perfect purpose and plan. “The just shall live by his faith,” the Lord exhorts Habakkuk and each one of us. (Hab 2:4) We are to be patient, strong and faithful, and trust God and His sovereign ways.
Habakkuk responds to the Lord his God as we should – with prayer. (Hab 3:1-16) Then he concludes his message with this beautiful hymn of faith: “Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls – yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills.” (Hab 3:17-19)
Asaph the Levite was a choir director in the temple. In penning the 73rd Psalm, he sounds much like Habakkuk. Asaph’s turmoil centered on the prosperity of the wicked. He tells the Lord: “They are not in trouble like other men, nor are they plagued like other men. Therefore pride serves as their necklace; violence covers them like a garment. Their eyes bulge with abundance; they have more than heart could wish.” (vs. 5-7)
Asaph explains to God that if life is like a schoolhouse playground, the unbelievers push the believers off the swings; pull the girl’s pigtails; tease the overweight kids and knock down the smaller ones. They take our lunch money, and if we bring a lunch, they eat it. Then they walk away secure in their strength and defiant against God and man. So what good is it to be good? What does the believer get out of this life – a black eye at the hand of a bully and our lunch swiped!?
Asaph says, “When I thought how to understand this, it was too painful for me – Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood their end.” (vs. 16-17) Asaph went to church. He came before the Lord his God to worship Him. Then and there, God revealed to Asaph the terrible end of the unbelieving. God reminded him that life does not end here or ever. The believer is eternally safe in the Father’s hand. Not so, the God-defiant schoolyard tyrant.
Like Habakkuk finding his way in prayer and writing, Asaph finds his in worship and singing. He sings: “You guide me with Your counsel, and afterwards receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon the earth that I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. For indeed, those who are far from You shall perish; You have destroyed all those who desert You for harlotry. But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all Your works.” (vs. 24-28)
The Lord Jesus said of the Apostle Paul: “…he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” (Acts 9:15-16)
Later the man to whom Christ referred recounted his life in the ministry: “I labored more abundantly, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times, I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fasting often, in cold and nakedness – besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.” (2 Cor 11:23-28)
He also said, “Therefore I take pleasure in my infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Cor 12:10) Finally, sitting alone in a cold dark prison cell, men came and led him out and took off his head. It was the end of the many things he suffered for Christ’s sake.
He is the one who said: “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Phil 4:11-13)
The Apostle Paul learned to live in the reality of Jesus Christ’s sufficiency. Habakkuk learned to live in the reality of His sovereignty. Asaph learned to live in the reality of His salvation. These are all of infinite value to us as we live in the reality of our sanctification through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In Him alone is our contentment.
“…for I have learned whatever state I am, to be content.” (The Apostle Paul)
In the late 7th century B.C., the prophet Habakkuk had a dilemma. His dilemma was God. The prophet wanted justice done in the land of Judah. The nation had fallen hard and fast after King Josiah had died in battle. Habakkuk pleaded, “O Lord, how long shall I cry, and You will not hear… why do You show me iniquity, and cause me to see trouble?” (Hab 1: 2-3)
And what was God’s reply to the desperate prophet? “I am raising up the Chaldeans…” (Hab 1:6). That is akin to saying the evilest beings in this wicked world would arrive soon to judge the Lord’s people. Huh? That was pretty much Habakkuk’s rejoinder. I think most of us would have that same reaction.
The Lord God then reminds the struggling prophet that He uses time and all things to accomplish His perfect purpose and plan. “The just shall live by his faith,” the Lord exhorts Habakkuk and each one of us. (Hab 2:4) We are to be patient, strong and faithful, and trust God and His sovereign ways.
Habakkuk responds to the Lord his God as we should – with prayer. (Hab 3:1-16) Then he concludes his message with this beautiful hymn of faith: “Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls – yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills.” (Hab 3:17-19)
Asaph the Levite was a choir director in the temple. In penning the 73rd Psalm, he sounds much like Habakkuk. Asaph’s turmoil centered on the prosperity of the wicked. He tells the Lord: “They are not in trouble like other men, nor are they plagued like other men. Therefore pride serves as their necklace; violence covers them like a garment. Their eyes bulge with abundance; they have more than heart could wish.” (vs. 5-7)
Asaph explains to God that if life is like a schoolhouse playground, the unbelievers push the believers off the swings; pull the girl’s pigtails; tease the overweight kids and knock down the smaller ones. They take our lunch money, and if we bring a lunch, they eat it. Then they walk away secure in their strength and defiant against God and man. So what good is it to be good? What does the believer get out of this life – a black eye at the hand of a bully and our lunch swiped!?
Asaph says, “When I thought how to understand this, it was too painful for me – Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood their end.” (vs. 16-17) Asaph went to church. He came before the Lord his God to worship Him. Then and there, God revealed to Asaph the terrible end of the unbelieving. God reminded him that life does not end here or ever. The believer is eternally safe in the Father’s hand. Not so, the God-defiant schoolyard tyrant.
Like Habakkuk finding his way in prayer and writing, Asaph finds his in worship and singing. He sings: “You guide me with Your counsel, and afterwards receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon the earth that I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. For indeed, those who are far from You shall perish; You have destroyed all those who desert You for harlotry. But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all Your works.” (vs. 24-28)
The Lord Jesus said of the Apostle Paul: “…he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” (Acts 9:15-16)
Later the man to whom Christ referred recounted his life in the ministry: “I labored more abundantly, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times, I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fasting often, in cold and nakedness – besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.” (2 Cor 11:23-28)
He also said, “Therefore I take pleasure in my infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Cor 12:10) Finally, sitting alone in a cold dark prison cell, men came and led him out and took off his head. It was the end of the many things he suffered for Christ’s sake.
He is the one who said: “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Phil 4:11-13)
The Apostle Paul learned to live in the reality of Jesus Christ’s sufficiency. Habakkuk learned to live in the reality of His sovereignty. Asaph learned to live in the reality of His salvation. These are all of infinite value to us as we live in the reality of our sanctification through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In Him alone is our contentment.
Under Construction
“…You are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.” (Ephesians 2:19-22)
Time snatched me from my mother’s comforting apron. It chased me from my father’s protecting shadow. Time hoisted me up and pitched me over the backyard fence into the mean streets. I have been in the construction business ever since. I have built a lot of walls. Brick on brick, higher, longer, thicker, more. A soul surrounded by rings of walls seeing only strangers and foreigners threatening an invasion. One eye watches warily for assault, the other searches in vain for a way back to warm aprons, sentinel shadows, and safekeeping fences.
Isolation inevitably crowns a king named Self. Within the rings of walls, adorned in hideous robes, sitting upon a lonely throne, one will find “Self” centered. A melancholy, fearful king estranged from others, ruling over his lone subject with only self-protection on each day’s venue. A royal on a constant vigil, peering suspiciously from behind the walls of a household of one.
Until His love, His mercy, His grace breached my defenses. Little morose king, meet the King of Kings! There is but one Throne, who will sit upon it? I want Him to sit there. The dismantling began. It continues. It is extensive. The new Master of the house walks with a purposeful gait, pointing yet to another wall and directing the Holy Spirit, “Tear it down! Do not leave one stone upon another!” I am sure to be swept away by my tormenting fears, the shame of my awful nakedness!
Painful as the demolishing may be, I am under construction, and the new house I am being made a part of is a masterpiece. I am in the process of being made a fellow citizen with the saints as we grow together into a holy temple in the Lord. I am in the process of learning and living in the benefits and blessings of this newfound citizenship.
What about you, brethren? Are you, too, learning and living as saints and members of the household of God? Do we love one another? Do we forgive one another? Are we having patience and empathy for the “In Process.” of one another? Are we willing to be reconciled one to another? Are we rejoicing with one another? Are we mourning with one another? Are we encouraging one another? Are we holding one another accountable? Are we sharpening one another? Are we valuing and enjoying being a family built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit?
Day by day, from one degree of glory to another, we are under construction, being fitted together on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets and Jesus Christ Himself the chief Cornerstone.
What a privilege! What a blessing!
“…You are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.” (Ephesians 2:19-22)
Time snatched me from my mother’s comforting apron. It chased me from my father’s protecting shadow. Time hoisted me up and pitched me over the backyard fence into the mean streets. I have been in the construction business ever since. I have built a lot of walls. Brick on brick, higher, longer, thicker, more. A soul surrounded by rings of walls seeing only strangers and foreigners threatening an invasion. One eye watches warily for assault, the other searches in vain for a way back to warm aprons, sentinel shadows, and safekeeping fences.
Isolation inevitably crowns a king named Self. Within the rings of walls, adorned in hideous robes, sitting upon a lonely throne, one will find “Self” centered. A melancholy, fearful king estranged from others, ruling over his lone subject with only self-protection on each day’s venue. A royal on a constant vigil, peering suspiciously from behind the walls of a household of one.
Until His love, His mercy, His grace breached my defenses. Little morose king, meet the King of Kings! There is but one Throne, who will sit upon it? I want Him to sit there. The dismantling began. It continues. It is extensive. The new Master of the house walks with a purposeful gait, pointing yet to another wall and directing the Holy Spirit, “Tear it down! Do not leave one stone upon another!” I am sure to be swept away by my tormenting fears, the shame of my awful nakedness!
Painful as the demolishing may be, I am under construction, and the new house I am being made a part of is a masterpiece. I am in the process of being made a fellow citizen with the saints as we grow together into a holy temple in the Lord. I am in the process of learning and living in the benefits and blessings of this newfound citizenship.
What about you, brethren? Are you, too, learning and living as saints and members of the household of God? Do we love one another? Do we forgive one another? Are we having patience and empathy for the “In Process.” of one another? Are we willing to be reconciled one to another? Are we rejoicing with one another? Are we mourning with one another? Are we encouraging one another? Are we holding one another accountable? Are we sharpening one another? Are we valuing and enjoying being a family built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit?
Day by day, from one degree of glory to another, we are under construction, being fitted together on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets and Jesus Christ Himself the chief Cornerstone.
What a privilege! What a blessing!
Which Government are you Trusting?
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9:6-7)
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9:6-7)
Eye on the Sky
“And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming…and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is, and everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 2:28, 3: 2b-3)
I once described my job in a hazardous coffin-like building on the graveyard shift. I will not include the details here but take my word - it was not meant for the faint-hearted. The word “dawn” took on a whole new grand meaning to us. What a soothing word it became on the long night watches. Have you ever waited for that glimmer of gray on the eastern horizon? In the first part of the night, we kept an eye on the clock. Eventually, we would begin glancing out the windows that faced east. Even amid our duties, we always kept an eye on the sky. It promised our deliverance. It provided our hope.
That horrible job taught some useful lessons about hope, and faith, and love. We learned a great deal about walking by faith and trusting God. We also learned something about selfless love, as well. We all understood and accepted that if there were an accident, we would not leave alone. We would come out together or not at all. We fed on the sustenance of hope, the surety of dawn, and the passing of the graveyard shift.
Life on this minefield called earth is often hazardous and heavy laden. It compels us to look for that glimmer of gray on the eastern horizon. Mankind was not made for dark nights and coffins. No, we were made for perpetual light and everlasting life.
“Even amid our duties, we always kept an eye on the sky.”
Throughout history, the Church has been most effective when it has lived that sentence out with one hand reaching into a dying world and the other into His realm - when we have looked with one eye upon earth’s golden harvest fields and the other eye on the golden streets of heaven. When we “are working the works, He has prepared beforehand for us to do” while “looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” (Eph. 2:10; Titus 2:13)
Are we doing business until He comes? (Luke 19:13)
Are we eagerly waiting for Him to come again? (Heb 9:28)
Are we moved by this assured hope to purify ourselves? Are we living in unceasing anticipation that “we shall be like Him?”
Jesus Christ declares, “Surely I am coming quickly.” Are we responding? - “Amen, Even so, come Lord Jesus!” (Rev 22:20)
May we always live out this sentence: “Even amid our duties, we always kept an eye on the sky.”
“And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming…and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is, and everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 2:28, 3: 2b-3)
I once described my job in a hazardous coffin-like building on the graveyard shift. I will not include the details here but take my word - it was not meant for the faint-hearted. The word “dawn” took on a whole new grand meaning to us. What a soothing word it became on the long night watches. Have you ever waited for that glimmer of gray on the eastern horizon? In the first part of the night, we kept an eye on the clock. Eventually, we would begin glancing out the windows that faced east. Even amid our duties, we always kept an eye on the sky. It promised our deliverance. It provided our hope.
That horrible job taught some useful lessons about hope, and faith, and love. We learned a great deal about walking by faith and trusting God. We also learned something about selfless love, as well. We all understood and accepted that if there were an accident, we would not leave alone. We would come out together or not at all. We fed on the sustenance of hope, the surety of dawn, and the passing of the graveyard shift.
Life on this minefield called earth is often hazardous and heavy laden. It compels us to look for that glimmer of gray on the eastern horizon. Mankind was not made for dark nights and coffins. No, we were made for perpetual light and everlasting life.
“Even amid our duties, we always kept an eye on the sky.”
Throughout history, the Church has been most effective when it has lived that sentence out with one hand reaching into a dying world and the other into His realm - when we have looked with one eye upon earth’s golden harvest fields and the other eye on the golden streets of heaven. When we “are working the works, He has prepared beforehand for us to do” while “looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” (Eph. 2:10; Titus 2:13)
Are we doing business until He comes? (Luke 19:13)
Are we eagerly waiting for Him to come again? (Heb 9:28)
Are we moved by this assured hope to purify ourselves? Are we living in unceasing anticipation that “we shall be like Him?”
Jesus Christ declares, “Surely I am coming quickly.” Are we responding? - “Amen, Even so, come Lord Jesus!” (Rev 22:20)
May we always live out this sentence: “Even amid our duties, we always kept an eye on the sky.”
Who's Plan?
How often do you find yourself committed to an undetermined plan? When friends mention doing something over the weekend but never say what or when do you fully commit your entire weekend to your friends? Even if no plans happen? How about with God? How committed are you to His plans for you? Are you spending your time seeking what He has in store for you, or are you making your plans because it is what you want to do, or it's more convenient? I know Christ was fully committed to us when He carried out the promises foretold about Him in the Old Testament. So again, how committed are you to God's plan for you?
How often do you find yourself committed to an undetermined plan? When friends mention doing something over the weekend but never say what or when do you fully commit your entire weekend to your friends? Even if no plans happen? How about with God? How committed are you to His plans for you? Are you spending your time seeking what He has in store for you, or are you making your plans because it is what you want to do, or it's more convenient? I know Christ was fully committed to us when He carried out the promises foretold about Him in the Old Testament. So again, how committed are you to God's plan for you?
How rich are you?
"Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Matthew 6:31-33
We have heard a lot the last few years about the one-percenters in the United States. Those are people with quite a bit of wealth. They have way too much of it, according to some. They are greedy! Some people think it best to have government confiscate some of those riches and "spread it around."
I wonder if those same citizens would still agree if we thought globally on the subject? In that case, (and chances are if you're reading this) – you (and I) are one-percenters! The numbers vary by source, but a yearly take-home pay of around $35,000 exceeds 99% of the world's remaining people. Even if you make a wisp over $100.00 a month, that means you are in the top 50% of the world's wealthiest people. Do we still want to throw the words "greed" and "confiscation" and "redistribution" around?
The Bible tells us we came into this world with nothing, and we will leave this world with nothing. (1Tim 6:7) We also have the assurance that while we are here, God will provide for our needs. In light of these truths, we are to be about the things of God and His Kingdom. When we do so, God will often provide the meal, the cup of water, and others' covering through us. God can and will do this because He is a one hundred-percenter! God owns it ALL! (Psalm 50)
God owns it all, and we all own nothing except our free will. WILL we humble ourselves before Him? WILL we come in His Way and on His terms and be redeemed, reconciled, and regenerated in Christ Jesus? Therein is life eternal beginning right here, right now. WILL we?
We need not give a thought to who owns what percent in this brief life. If we WILL, all that is His becomes ours. I like the perspective the late Dr.M.R.DeHaan shares about this in his book, Broken Things: "In the Lord Jesus Christ, every believer has a treasure that cannot be described in terms of material wealth and possessions. We are members of the wealthiest and happiest family in all the universe, for God is our Father. He is the Creator of all things. The gold and the silver and the cattle on a thousand hills are His. He is the Father of every believer, and we are heirs of all things that are His."
So here's the question: "How rich are you?"
"Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Matthew 6:31-33
We have heard a lot the last few years about the one-percenters in the United States. Those are people with quite a bit of wealth. They have way too much of it, according to some. They are greedy! Some people think it best to have government confiscate some of those riches and "spread it around."
I wonder if those same citizens would still agree if we thought globally on the subject? In that case, (and chances are if you're reading this) – you (and I) are one-percenters! The numbers vary by source, but a yearly take-home pay of around $35,000 exceeds 99% of the world's remaining people. Even if you make a wisp over $100.00 a month, that means you are in the top 50% of the world's wealthiest people. Do we still want to throw the words "greed" and "confiscation" and "redistribution" around?
The Bible tells us we came into this world with nothing, and we will leave this world with nothing. (1Tim 6:7) We also have the assurance that while we are here, God will provide for our needs. In light of these truths, we are to be about the things of God and His Kingdom. When we do so, God will often provide the meal, the cup of water, and others' covering through us. God can and will do this because He is a one hundred-percenter! God owns it ALL! (Psalm 50)
God owns it all, and we all own nothing except our free will. WILL we humble ourselves before Him? WILL we come in His Way and on His terms and be redeemed, reconciled, and regenerated in Christ Jesus? Therein is life eternal beginning right here, right now. WILL we?
We need not give a thought to who owns what percent in this brief life. If we WILL, all that is His becomes ours. I like the perspective the late Dr.M.R.DeHaan shares about this in his book, Broken Things: "In the Lord Jesus Christ, every believer has a treasure that cannot be described in terms of material wealth and possessions. We are members of the wealthiest and happiest family in all the universe, for God is our Father. He is the Creator of all things. The gold and the silver and the cattle on a thousand hills are His. He is the Father of every believer, and we are heirs of all things that are His."
So here's the question: "How rich are you?"
First Loved
God first loved us while we were yet sinners. I do not know about you, but I find that astounding. Especially when we consider that He knows us better than we can even know ourselves. (See Psalm 139)
God first loved us. He set the sun and moon in the heavens, flung the stars far and wide, and created a world just for us. He breathed into us the breath of life. God walked with our fathers of faith and gave the Law and the Prophets as our guide. There is a great measure of love shown in all these, but an even greater measure of His LOVE is this:
Herein is love – He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish. (John 3:16)
Herein is love – He gave His life as a ransom. (Mark 10:45)
Herein is love – He sent His Son to be a propitiation for our sins. (1 John 4:10)
Herein is love – He redeemed us with the precious blood of Christ. (1 Peter 1:18)
Herein is love – He died for us. (Romans 5:8)
God first loved us. That is fantastic news. However, being first loved inescapably places us in a position from which we must react. Will we return that love? Will we return that love on His terms? The proverbial ball is in our court. How shall you and I respond to His love? I pray we share in the same declaration: “We love Him, because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)
God first loved us while we were yet sinners. I do not know about you, but I find that astounding. Especially when we consider that He knows us better than we can even know ourselves. (See Psalm 139)
God first loved us. He set the sun and moon in the heavens, flung the stars far and wide, and created a world just for us. He breathed into us the breath of life. God walked with our fathers of faith and gave the Law and the Prophets as our guide. There is a great measure of love shown in all these, but an even greater measure of His LOVE is this:
Herein is love – He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish. (John 3:16)
Herein is love – He gave His life as a ransom. (Mark 10:45)
Herein is love – He sent His Son to be a propitiation for our sins. (1 John 4:10)
Herein is love – He redeemed us with the precious blood of Christ. (1 Peter 1:18)
Herein is love – He died for us. (Romans 5:8)
God first loved us. That is fantastic news. However, being first loved inescapably places us in a position from which we must react. Will we return that love? Will we return that love on His terms? The proverbial ball is in our court. How shall you and I respond to His love? I pray we share in the same declaration: “We love Him, because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)
White as Snow
Is that snow out there? I like snow, but I don’t have to drive in it much. (All you warm weather fans, please forgive me!) It beautifies the landscape and makes things clean, looking again. It covers up a lot of litter along the road as well as other unpleasant sights.
Interestingly God uses snow as an illustration of the wayward nation of Israel. Isaiah called them a “sinful nation. …They have forsaken the Lord. …The whole head is sick.” (Is 1:4, 5) However, if they would repent, “Though their sins be like scarlet, they shall be white as snow.” (Is 1:8)
Do you remember your life before Christ? Before Christ, we were a bleak, dark winter landscape – dead…not dead physically but dead spiritually in trespasses and sins. But when we received Him by faith, our landscape was changed permanently as one covered with pure white snow. It required the blood of the Lamb to cleanse us from our sin and make us snow-white. And just as the snow makes the landscape clean, it also makes it new. And we, too, are a new creation (2 Cor 5:17) with the opportunity to have a relationship with Him. What will I do with this opportunity?
Is that snow out there? I like snow, but I don’t have to drive in it much. (All you warm weather fans, please forgive me!) It beautifies the landscape and makes things clean, looking again. It covers up a lot of litter along the road as well as other unpleasant sights.
Interestingly God uses snow as an illustration of the wayward nation of Israel. Isaiah called them a “sinful nation. …They have forsaken the Lord. …The whole head is sick.” (Is 1:4, 5) However, if they would repent, “Though their sins be like scarlet, they shall be white as snow.” (Is 1:8)
Do you remember your life before Christ? Before Christ, we were a bleak, dark winter landscape – dead…not dead physically but dead spiritually in trespasses and sins. But when we received Him by faith, our landscape was changed permanently as one covered with pure white snow. It required the blood of the Lamb to cleanse us from our sin and make us snow-white. And just as the snow makes the landscape clean, it also makes it new. And we, too, are a new creation (2 Cor 5:17) with the opportunity to have a relationship with Him. What will I do with this opportunity?
Assured Hope
“But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For, if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14)
The Apostle Paul says Christians should not mourn the death of their loved ones in Christ the same way those without Christ mourn their loss. What does that mean? Does it mean the whites of our eyes not be turned red with tears? Does it say we put on a brave front and a good show for the world? Does it mean we go about like rocks, unemotional and unbreakable? When the doctor offers his condolences and informs you your parent or spouse has died, what is a Christian to do? When your baby never lives to be born or lies still in the crib, never to awaken, does being a Christian steel you to the body blows of loss and emptiness? If you sit up waiting to hear your teenager’s key in the front door, and instead, the phone rings and the voice on the other end shatters your life…..
Christians feel. Christians feel things deeply in their quickened spirits. Christians mourn. Christians grieve over the death, sin, suffering, injustice, perversion, and the rampant evil in this world. So what IS Paul telling you and me? He is telling us to cry away the whites of our eyes, but do so with the assured hope that Jesus will wipe away our tears. He is telling us to endure the body blows of loss and that painful empty feeling deep inside, but do so with the assured hope that Jesus will comfort us and fill us with His love amid our pain. Be breakable, vulnerable, and honest in our grief before the world, but do so with the assured hope that Jesus will ultimately heal our broken hearts.
The citizens of this world wander about in confusion when faced with mortality and seek an unknown higher power or one of the earth’s thousand and one religions in a vain attempt to find answers. They say of the dead, with a vague hopeless hope, “Well, they’re in a better place now.” Not so for Christians, citizens of heaven; we see life and death in Christ-illuminated clarity. We have an assured hope in Jesus Christ, who died, was buried, and rose again. Our loved ones who have died in Christ are with Him, and when He comes again, they will accompany Him.
What glorious reunions await us when our temporal earthly mourning gives way to a fantastic new spring-fresh eternal heavenly morning. That is the assured hope of the believer. Thank You, Lord Jesus!
“But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For, if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14)
The Apostle Paul says Christians should not mourn the death of their loved ones in Christ the same way those without Christ mourn their loss. What does that mean? Does it mean the whites of our eyes not be turned red with tears? Does it say we put on a brave front and a good show for the world? Does it mean we go about like rocks, unemotional and unbreakable? When the doctor offers his condolences and informs you your parent or spouse has died, what is a Christian to do? When your baby never lives to be born or lies still in the crib, never to awaken, does being a Christian steel you to the body blows of loss and emptiness? If you sit up waiting to hear your teenager’s key in the front door, and instead, the phone rings and the voice on the other end shatters your life…..
Christians feel. Christians feel things deeply in their quickened spirits. Christians mourn. Christians grieve over the death, sin, suffering, injustice, perversion, and the rampant evil in this world. So what IS Paul telling you and me? He is telling us to cry away the whites of our eyes, but do so with the assured hope that Jesus will wipe away our tears. He is telling us to endure the body blows of loss and that painful empty feeling deep inside, but do so with the assured hope that Jesus will comfort us and fill us with His love amid our pain. Be breakable, vulnerable, and honest in our grief before the world, but do so with the assured hope that Jesus will ultimately heal our broken hearts.
The citizens of this world wander about in confusion when faced with mortality and seek an unknown higher power or one of the earth’s thousand and one religions in a vain attempt to find answers. They say of the dead, with a vague hopeless hope, “Well, they’re in a better place now.” Not so for Christians, citizens of heaven; we see life and death in Christ-illuminated clarity. We have an assured hope in Jesus Christ, who died, was buried, and rose again. Our loved ones who have died in Christ are with Him, and when He comes again, they will accompany Him.
What glorious reunions await us when our temporal earthly mourning gives way to a fantastic new spring-fresh eternal heavenly morning. That is the assured hope of the believer. Thank You, Lord Jesus!
Mighty
“God is wise in heart and mighty in strength…He removes the mountains …He shakes the earth…He commands the sun…He alone spreads out the heavens…He does great things past finding out, yes wonders without number.” (From Job, chapter 9)
After another difficult day, one man walked up the lane going home. He was drained. His heavy eyes struggled to look up ahead. Then he saw it - immense, beautiful, mysterious, uplifting - the moon full, the moon illuminated, the moon declaring God’s glory, the moon showing God’s handiwork, the moon speaking with God’s might, the moon ordained a universal minister. The man reminded himself of the “One who is glorious in His apparel, traveling in the garments of His strength, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save.” (Isaiah 63:1)
Far too often in this strength-sapping hum-drum world, we lose sight of His might, His awesomeness, His immensity. We grow discouraged, distressed, even disillusioned. Our heavy eyes watch our feet. Our perception of God grows small and then smaller and still smaller. He then becomes small and then smaller and even smaller to us. We lose sight of the might of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We lose sight of God’s purpose, plan, power, and providence in our lives.
Will you remind yourself today and tomorrow and every day that our God is wise in heart and mighty in strength? Look up, look out, look behind, look ahead and “…according to the riches of His glory, be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height - to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Eph 3:16-19)
Anyway, that’s what one man got to thinking about when he looked at the moon this evening.
“God is wise in heart and mighty in strength…He removes the mountains …He shakes the earth…He commands the sun…He alone spreads out the heavens…He does great things past finding out, yes wonders without number.” (From Job, chapter 9)
After another difficult day, one man walked up the lane going home. He was drained. His heavy eyes struggled to look up ahead. Then he saw it - immense, beautiful, mysterious, uplifting - the moon full, the moon illuminated, the moon declaring God’s glory, the moon showing God’s handiwork, the moon speaking with God’s might, the moon ordained a universal minister. The man reminded himself of the “One who is glorious in His apparel, traveling in the garments of His strength, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save.” (Isaiah 63:1)
Far too often in this strength-sapping hum-drum world, we lose sight of His might, His awesomeness, His immensity. We grow discouraged, distressed, even disillusioned. Our heavy eyes watch our feet. Our perception of God grows small and then smaller and still smaller. He then becomes small and then smaller and even smaller to us. We lose sight of the might of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We lose sight of God’s purpose, plan, power, and providence in our lives.
Will you remind yourself today and tomorrow and every day that our God is wise in heart and mighty in strength? Look up, look out, look behind, look ahead and “…according to the riches of His glory, be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height - to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Eph 3:16-19)
Anyway, that’s what one man got to thinking about when he looked at the moon this evening.
Where is Your Treasure?
Several years ago, I decided to clean out the basement. Well, after a couple of days of carrying and pitching, I almost filled a huge dumpster. Most of the possessions that I threw away were pretty much musty, old, or of little value. I wondered how we had got to the point where we had so much ‘stuff.’ As I pitched, it was also interesting to notice some of the things we once had valued and now could care less about. Cars are a lot like that. We get excited to get a new car or one that is different, and then four or five years down the road, we can’t wait to get rid of it.
In case you haven’t noticed, we live in a world that values stuff. They value it because that is what the world does. It is the stuff, the things in the world that catches their attention and fulfills their immediate desires. And we as Christians get caught up in this pursuit of stuff now and then as well.
Jesus taught, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven where neither moth or rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is there your heart will be also.” (Matt 6:19-21) Why do we sometimes pursue the things that wear out, break down, have a temporary pleasure or use and ignore that which is most important – our relationship with the Lord?
Jesus concluded, “You cannot serve God and mammon (riches). (Matt 6:24) Being wealthy is not a sin. However, what you do with it determines where your heart is. Job said, “If I have made gold my hope, or said to fine gold, ‘you are my confidence’; If I have rejoiced because my wealth was great and because my hand had gained much;…This would be an iniquity deserving judgment, for I would have denied God who is above. (Job 31:24, 25, 28)
Where are you storing your treasures?
Several years ago, I decided to clean out the basement. Well, after a couple of days of carrying and pitching, I almost filled a huge dumpster. Most of the possessions that I threw away were pretty much musty, old, or of little value. I wondered how we had got to the point where we had so much ‘stuff.’ As I pitched, it was also interesting to notice some of the things we once had valued and now could care less about. Cars are a lot like that. We get excited to get a new car or one that is different, and then four or five years down the road, we can’t wait to get rid of it.
In case you haven’t noticed, we live in a world that values stuff. They value it because that is what the world does. It is the stuff, the things in the world that catches their attention and fulfills their immediate desires. And we as Christians get caught up in this pursuit of stuff now and then as well.
Jesus taught, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven where neither moth or rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is there your heart will be also.” (Matt 6:19-21) Why do we sometimes pursue the things that wear out, break down, have a temporary pleasure or use and ignore that which is most important – our relationship with the Lord?
Jesus concluded, “You cannot serve God and mammon (riches). (Matt 6:24) Being wealthy is not a sin. However, what you do with it determines where your heart is. Job said, “If I have made gold my hope, or said to fine gold, ‘you are my confidence’; If I have rejoiced because my wealth was great and because my hand had gained much;…This would be an iniquity deserving judgment, for I would have denied God who is above. (Job 31:24, 25, 28)
Where are you storing your treasures?
We Win!
I have been a fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins for several years. My wife, on the other hand, had no interest in pucks and goalies and Crosbys. That is until I dragged her to a game. Instant fan! Rabid fan! We’ve been to a few more games, and every game on television is a must-watch. She tapes the games we will miss to watch later. The challenge is to avoid the final score before the taped game is viewed. My wife can usually do this, but more times than not, I know the outcome before taking our positions on the couch.
I must say, already knowing the final result, especially a good result, does change my demeanor during the game. A penalty taken, a soft goal allowed, or missing a wide-open net by the Pens barely gets a grunt from me. Meanwhile, the wife has no peace until the game ends and the Pens win. I’m no different from watching a live contest. The ups and downs, ebbs and flows, have my emotions roller-coasting right there in the living room. Not knowing what the final score will be sure makes life tough for us Pens-followers.
What about Christ-followers? Don’t we way too often act like my wife and I punching sofa pillows and anguishing when it appears we’re losing the game? Life is just full of ups and downs and ebbs and flows, and we’re winning, and then the Enemy is winning, and our faith falters, and our peace steals away, and we despair unto uselessness and…“oh, woe is we!”
What if we already knew how things turn out in the end and – we win? Is that not the assured state of the Christian? Jesus told His disciples and us – “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
We are over-comers in Christ Jesus and can stand steadfast on God‘s word: “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son.” (Rev 21:5c-7)
Christians can walk by faith, live in peace, be useful to God and man, and be of good cheer. Read the end of the book – We Win!
I have been a fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins for several years. My wife, on the other hand, had no interest in pucks and goalies and Crosbys. That is until I dragged her to a game. Instant fan! Rabid fan! We’ve been to a few more games, and every game on television is a must-watch. She tapes the games we will miss to watch later. The challenge is to avoid the final score before the taped game is viewed. My wife can usually do this, but more times than not, I know the outcome before taking our positions on the couch.
I must say, already knowing the final result, especially a good result, does change my demeanor during the game. A penalty taken, a soft goal allowed, or missing a wide-open net by the Pens barely gets a grunt from me. Meanwhile, the wife has no peace until the game ends and the Pens win. I’m no different from watching a live contest. The ups and downs, ebbs and flows, have my emotions roller-coasting right there in the living room. Not knowing what the final score will be sure makes life tough for us Pens-followers.
What about Christ-followers? Don’t we way too often act like my wife and I punching sofa pillows and anguishing when it appears we’re losing the game? Life is just full of ups and downs and ebbs and flows, and we’re winning, and then the Enemy is winning, and our faith falters, and our peace steals away, and we despair unto uselessness and…“oh, woe is we!”
What if we already knew how things turn out in the end and – we win? Is that not the assured state of the Christian? Jesus told His disciples and us – “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
We are over-comers in Christ Jesus and can stand steadfast on God‘s word: “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son.” (Rev 21:5c-7)
Christians can walk by faith, live in peace, be useful to God and man, and be of good cheer. Read the end of the book – We Win!
One Blood
“And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and boundaries of their dwellings.” (Acts 17:26)
“Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world, red and yellow, black and white; they are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world.” Hey, great tune. I remember singing it as one of them, little children, myself. I was a white child. I didn’t know any of those other colors of children at the time, but I was learning a tremendous Biblical concept that Jesus loves all people.
Of course, we multi-hued children had no idea we were also learning a very unbiblical concept—the Bible - it says nothing about skin color other than a few benign references. (Jer 13:23; Song of Solomon 1:5, 6) God could care less about the color of a person’s skin. So why do we?
Melanin – what atrocities and injustice have been wrought throughout history over melanin! Melanin is the dark brownish pigment produced in different amounts in individual cells in our skin. If we have none, we will be albino, a great deal dark black, in between, well, we will be in between. So around something as insignificant as melanin, which is no more significant than eye or hair color, humankind has found yet another excuse for pushing, shoving, abusing, oppressing, and killing others − Melanin.
The fact is we can say there is only one race - the human race. And even in that, the word race is a misnomer. The word race used to denote skin color is a human construct and an awful one at that. On the other hand, Scripture refers only to differences in people by tribe or nation, people groups, or language. (Rev 5:9) These all came from one blood, all created in God’s image and all loved as part of a world that God so loves. (John 3:16)
You might say, “Okay, hold on, way too simplistic when considering such a layered and complex subject.” I get that. Nevertheless, until we “get that” foundational truth that we are all made from one blood, nothing will change. We are One – it really is that simple.
We (you and me; the church) need to be at the forefront with God’s revealed truth - from one blood we are all made - One.
“And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and boundaries of their dwellings.” (Acts 17:26)
“Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world, red and yellow, black and white; they are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world.” Hey, great tune. I remember singing it as one of them, little children, myself. I was a white child. I didn’t know any of those other colors of children at the time, but I was learning a tremendous Biblical concept that Jesus loves all people.
Of course, we multi-hued children had no idea we were also learning a very unbiblical concept—the Bible - it says nothing about skin color other than a few benign references. (Jer 13:23; Song of Solomon 1:5, 6) God could care less about the color of a person’s skin. So why do we?
Melanin – what atrocities and injustice have been wrought throughout history over melanin! Melanin is the dark brownish pigment produced in different amounts in individual cells in our skin. If we have none, we will be albino, a great deal dark black, in between, well, we will be in between. So around something as insignificant as melanin, which is no more significant than eye or hair color, humankind has found yet another excuse for pushing, shoving, abusing, oppressing, and killing others − Melanin.
The fact is we can say there is only one race - the human race. And even in that, the word race is a misnomer. The word race used to denote skin color is a human construct and an awful one at that. On the other hand, Scripture refers only to differences in people by tribe or nation, people groups, or language. (Rev 5:9) These all came from one blood, all created in God’s image and all loved as part of a world that God so loves. (John 3:16)
You might say, “Okay, hold on, way too simplistic when considering such a layered and complex subject.” I get that. Nevertheless, until we “get that” foundational truth that we are all made from one blood, nothing will change. We are One – it really is that simple.
We (you and me; the church) need to be at the forefront with God’s revealed truth - from one blood we are all made - One.
True Colors
Fall is a beautiful time of the year. Living in a valley tucked within a rim of hills sure makes looking unto the hills an extra special exercise. I lived for a long time before really grasping that the actual color of leaves is not green. In fact, it is in autumn that the natural tincture of the forests and glades is displayed. While many factors influence the hues of fall, such as the trees' health, the amount of sunlight received, available moisture, and temperature, the most significant factor is the trees' species. Each species has its genetic palette of possible colors.
I don't know about you, but the Fall season always takes me on a winding ride turning one way to pensive melancholy, then another to breathless joy. There is something about this time of year that seems to heighten my sense of the spiritual. Perhaps it is the powerful draw of designed nature bursting everywhere like fireworks lighting a summer night sky. Or maybe the dark grayness of some days that speak reminders to the soul of summer's gone and our lifetimes passing by as well. There comes a staring in the looking glass that tells us where we've been, where we're going, and who we are.
For me, I see too many of my days colored by the flesh, and I'm cloudy and gray and brown and dull. When walking in the Spirit, my genetic palette has mellow yellow and muted rust that helps accent those in the Kingdom who are bold gold's, burnt oranges, and fiery reds. It is more than evident to me that I need to color my world to honor God and bless others.
What about you? It is something to consider when perusing the fall foliage: "Who am I when the green is gone, and I am left with my true colors?"
Fall is a beautiful time of the year. Living in a valley tucked within a rim of hills sure makes looking unto the hills an extra special exercise. I lived for a long time before really grasping that the actual color of leaves is not green. In fact, it is in autumn that the natural tincture of the forests and glades is displayed. While many factors influence the hues of fall, such as the trees' health, the amount of sunlight received, available moisture, and temperature, the most significant factor is the trees' species. Each species has its genetic palette of possible colors.
I don't know about you, but the Fall season always takes me on a winding ride turning one way to pensive melancholy, then another to breathless joy. There is something about this time of year that seems to heighten my sense of the spiritual. Perhaps it is the powerful draw of designed nature bursting everywhere like fireworks lighting a summer night sky. Or maybe the dark grayness of some days that speak reminders to the soul of summer's gone and our lifetimes passing by as well. There comes a staring in the looking glass that tells us where we've been, where we're going, and who we are.
For me, I see too many of my days colored by the flesh, and I'm cloudy and gray and brown and dull. When walking in the Spirit, my genetic palette has mellow yellow and muted rust that helps accent those in the Kingdom who are bold gold's, burnt oranges, and fiery reds. It is more than evident to me that I need to color my world to honor God and bless others.
What about you? It is something to consider when perusing the fall foliage: "Who am I when the green is gone, and I am left with my true colors?"
Led Away by Riches
The final church in the book of Revelation is the church of Laodicea. According to the Lord, they were neither hot nor cold, and for this reason, He would vomit them out of His mouth. Our culture has made it fashionable to walk the middle of the road, to be non-committal, but not so with the Lord. You are either with Him or against Him.(Matt 12:30)
The problem of the Laodiceans was that they were materially rich. Riches usually lead to self-sufficiency. More often than not, they lead people away from faith rather than to faith in the Lord. They blind people from seeing their need for God, which leads to failing to see their need for a Savior.
The world system has been created to focus us on material things. It defines success according to your house’s size, the kind of car you drive, and where you go on vacation. It never ceases to feed the flesh. The more you have, the more you want. The vicious cycle never ends, unless……unless you realize your created purpose. Our purpose is not to serve ourselves but to serve God. He created us for a relationship with Him. He desires us to walk with Him, follow Him, and obey Him. Jesus said that you cannot serve both God and riches because you will be loyal to one and despise the other. (Matt 6:24) If you seek wealth, you’ll never see God; if you’re seeking after God, wealth becomes unimportant.
Jesus told a parable of a rich man whose ground yielded many crops. Because he had no room to store them, he built another barn to store them so his future would be financially secure. But God said to him, “Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided? So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:16-21)
The final church in the book of Revelation is the church of Laodicea. According to the Lord, they were neither hot nor cold, and for this reason, He would vomit them out of His mouth. Our culture has made it fashionable to walk the middle of the road, to be non-committal, but not so with the Lord. You are either with Him or against Him.(Matt 12:30)
The problem of the Laodiceans was that they were materially rich. Riches usually lead to self-sufficiency. More often than not, they lead people away from faith rather than to faith in the Lord. They blind people from seeing their need for God, which leads to failing to see their need for a Savior.
The world system has been created to focus us on material things. It defines success according to your house’s size, the kind of car you drive, and where you go on vacation. It never ceases to feed the flesh. The more you have, the more you want. The vicious cycle never ends, unless……unless you realize your created purpose. Our purpose is not to serve ourselves but to serve God. He created us for a relationship with Him. He desires us to walk with Him, follow Him, and obey Him. Jesus said that you cannot serve both God and riches because you will be loyal to one and despise the other. (Matt 6:24) If you seek wealth, you’ll never see God; if you’re seeking after God, wealth becomes unimportant.
Jesus told a parable of a rich man whose ground yielded many crops. Because he had no room to store them, he built another barn to store them so his future would be financially secure. But God said to him, “Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided? So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:16-21)
Forgotten War
"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 6:10-12)
The Korean War has often been referred to as the "Forgotten War." I submit another conflict in the annals of history, which has gone mostly unnoticed: the "Clark War." The Clark war was fought a little over five decades ago. The family down in the hollow, that'd be the Clarks, had a whole pack of kids. Mean kids. Some of them had red hair, which made em even meaner, although I don't know why. Well, us, hill kids, got in a disagreement with the Clark brood, though I haven't a clue about what, and it escalated into a prearranged confrontation to be held in the middle of town. When the day arrived, us hill troops gathered at a neighbor's garage. I was full of bravado while awaiting the skirmish. "We'll get em!" I assured everyone. Then we waited and stared down the road, and here came the Clarks. They had sticks. We didn't have sticks. My heart began to pitter-patter, my knees shook, butterflies were doing cartwheels in my stomach, and my mouth went straight-line shut. I did not want to get hit over the head with a stick! The brave gathered to ascend the hill, and then our leaders told me to stay at the garage with the littler kids to guard them. I did not know why I was picked to stay behind; perhaps it was the shade of yellow I had turned.
I watched nervously as the two sides advanced toward one another. I kept thinking, hold the line, boys, because if the Clarks break through, these poor little kids will have a hard time keeping up with me running in the other direction. The lines stopped ten feet apart. Words were exchanged, a couple of sticks did a threatening swoosh through the air, more verbiage flew…and then…both foes turned and walked back to the hollow and up the hill. The Clark war had ended. It took longer to get to the war than it took to fight. Maybe that is why the history books fail to mention the Clark war. Our side congratulated each other, and even I received some pats on the back for bravely watching over the little ones.
I miss the Clark war. It was short and done. Unlike the spiritual war, we face every second of every day. And look who we're fighting – principalities, powers, rulers of the dark, and hosts of wickedness for crying out loud! I'd rather get hit by a stick swung in anger by a redhead than fight the devil!
Spiritual warfare requires us to line up for battle all the time. But we would just as soon make it another forgotten war. We like to act as though this world is a playground rather than a battleground. Meanwhile, spiritual realities tend to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the flesh life. We also get sidetracked, believing it is flesh and blood we must overcome. It's a bit hard to win a war when you do not know who your real enemy happens to be. Then, we attempt to fight in our strength, which is a losing proposition every time.
In light of all this, the Bible commands us to "…take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…" (Ephesians 6:13-18a)
We must stand, therefore, and fight the good fight. Eternal destinies and consequences hang in the balance. We cannot abide with another forgotten war.
"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 6:10-12)
The Korean War has often been referred to as the "Forgotten War." I submit another conflict in the annals of history, which has gone mostly unnoticed: the "Clark War." The Clark war was fought a little over five decades ago. The family down in the hollow, that'd be the Clarks, had a whole pack of kids. Mean kids. Some of them had red hair, which made em even meaner, although I don't know why. Well, us, hill kids, got in a disagreement with the Clark brood, though I haven't a clue about what, and it escalated into a prearranged confrontation to be held in the middle of town. When the day arrived, us hill troops gathered at a neighbor's garage. I was full of bravado while awaiting the skirmish. "We'll get em!" I assured everyone. Then we waited and stared down the road, and here came the Clarks. They had sticks. We didn't have sticks. My heart began to pitter-patter, my knees shook, butterflies were doing cartwheels in my stomach, and my mouth went straight-line shut. I did not want to get hit over the head with a stick! The brave gathered to ascend the hill, and then our leaders told me to stay at the garage with the littler kids to guard them. I did not know why I was picked to stay behind; perhaps it was the shade of yellow I had turned.
I watched nervously as the two sides advanced toward one another. I kept thinking, hold the line, boys, because if the Clarks break through, these poor little kids will have a hard time keeping up with me running in the other direction. The lines stopped ten feet apart. Words were exchanged, a couple of sticks did a threatening swoosh through the air, more verbiage flew…and then…both foes turned and walked back to the hollow and up the hill. The Clark war had ended. It took longer to get to the war than it took to fight. Maybe that is why the history books fail to mention the Clark war. Our side congratulated each other, and even I received some pats on the back for bravely watching over the little ones.
I miss the Clark war. It was short and done. Unlike the spiritual war, we face every second of every day. And look who we're fighting – principalities, powers, rulers of the dark, and hosts of wickedness for crying out loud! I'd rather get hit by a stick swung in anger by a redhead than fight the devil!
Spiritual warfare requires us to line up for battle all the time. But we would just as soon make it another forgotten war. We like to act as though this world is a playground rather than a battleground. Meanwhile, spiritual realities tend to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the flesh life. We also get sidetracked, believing it is flesh and blood we must overcome. It's a bit hard to win a war when you do not know who your real enemy happens to be. Then, we attempt to fight in our strength, which is a losing proposition every time.
In light of all this, the Bible commands us to "…take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…" (Ephesians 6:13-18a)
We must stand, therefore, and fight the good fight. Eternal destinies and consequences hang in the balance. We cannot abide with another forgotten war.
Diligence
“But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.” 2 Peter 1:5-9
The strange-looking football spiraled through the chilled evening air before slapping against my nearly frozen hands. Shifting the ball to my stinging right hand, I fired it back into the darkness. The dim glow of a streetlight revealed white, adhesive tape wrapped around the specially adapted football. One of my friends reached high, attempting to snag the long pass, only to have his brother leap and bat the ball to the pavement. Another game of night-time football was underway.
My friends and I loved playing football. We adopted the mail carrier’s motto: “Neither rain nor snow…or whatever will halt our football games.” Darkness? Just add adhesive tape and a streetlight. Rain? The more mud, the better. Snow? The white powder made an excellent cushion on the wrong end of a hard tackle. Even if the weather became impossible, we were not deterred. With a nerf football in tow, we would descend into their grandparent’s basement and deftly jump laundry baskets and dodge support beams. We just loved playing football!
I guess you could say the three of us were quite diligent when it came to football. How diligent am I all these years later in pursuing those things in our scripture above? The Bible uses the word diligence or its equivalent over fifty times. Why? Focus. Diligence says, “Fix your attention on what is of the utmost importance and pursue it with all your heart.”
Where are the biblical instructions to express diligence in having a dream home? A driveway lined with new cars? What about closets full of expensive clothes? Or those Country Club memberships? And we must not forget premium season tickets, stock portfolios, and elaborate vacations. Where is the command to focus our efforts on attaining power, position, possessions, and popularity? These things are not bad in and of themselves, but our attention becomes fixed on them far too often. Then if we are not careful, we can be consumed by them.
The prophet, Haggai, observed the same misplaced priorities in Israel after the people returned from captivity. The Temple lay in ruins while the people built and lived in fancy houses. (1:4) Christian hearts are the Lord’s Temple. How many lie in ruins while we pursue the things of this world? Jesus tells us to seek Him first. (Matt 6:33) What might the world be like if the Body of Christ did just that?
A person might take up such a challenge with rolled-up sleeves and an earnest “work hard for God” resolve. How effective do you think that person will be? Recall my football playing days? What if our parents demanded we leave a warm, comfortable house to play cold streetlight football? Or if they turned off the television and told us to get out in the pouring rain and score some touchdowns? How diligent would we have been? Not very!!! So what produced our diligence? Yes, you have been paying attention – we LOVED playing football.
Do we LOVE Jesus Christ? If we do, we can leave our sleeves down and forget about working really hard. Jesus explained that we can do nothing apart from Him. (John 15:5) But with Him living His very life in and through our yielded hearts, we can do all things – with diligence. With that in mind, let us fix our full attention, not on being religious, but on being filled with the Holy Spirit and growing in a loving relationship with the Lord of life. And brethren, always, “Keep your heart with all diligence; for out of it spring the issues of life.” (Prov 4:23)
“But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.” 2 Peter 1:5-9
The strange-looking football spiraled through the chilled evening air before slapping against my nearly frozen hands. Shifting the ball to my stinging right hand, I fired it back into the darkness. The dim glow of a streetlight revealed white, adhesive tape wrapped around the specially adapted football. One of my friends reached high, attempting to snag the long pass, only to have his brother leap and bat the ball to the pavement. Another game of night-time football was underway.
My friends and I loved playing football. We adopted the mail carrier’s motto: “Neither rain nor snow…or whatever will halt our football games.” Darkness? Just add adhesive tape and a streetlight. Rain? The more mud, the better. Snow? The white powder made an excellent cushion on the wrong end of a hard tackle. Even if the weather became impossible, we were not deterred. With a nerf football in tow, we would descend into their grandparent’s basement and deftly jump laundry baskets and dodge support beams. We just loved playing football!
I guess you could say the three of us were quite diligent when it came to football. How diligent am I all these years later in pursuing those things in our scripture above? The Bible uses the word diligence or its equivalent over fifty times. Why? Focus. Diligence says, “Fix your attention on what is of the utmost importance and pursue it with all your heart.”
Where are the biblical instructions to express diligence in having a dream home? A driveway lined with new cars? What about closets full of expensive clothes? Or those Country Club memberships? And we must not forget premium season tickets, stock portfolios, and elaborate vacations. Where is the command to focus our efforts on attaining power, position, possessions, and popularity? These things are not bad in and of themselves, but our attention becomes fixed on them far too often. Then if we are not careful, we can be consumed by them.
The prophet, Haggai, observed the same misplaced priorities in Israel after the people returned from captivity. The Temple lay in ruins while the people built and lived in fancy houses. (1:4) Christian hearts are the Lord’s Temple. How many lie in ruins while we pursue the things of this world? Jesus tells us to seek Him first. (Matt 6:33) What might the world be like if the Body of Christ did just that?
A person might take up such a challenge with rolled-up sleeves and an earnest “work hard for God” resolve. How effective do you think that person will be? Recall my football playing days? What if our parents demanded we leave a warm, comfortable house to play cold streetlight football? Or if they turned off the television and told us to get out in the pouring rain and score some touchdowns? How diligent would we have been? Not very!!! So what produced our diligence? Yes, you have been paying attention – we LOVED playing football.
Do we LOVE Jesus Christ? If we do, we can leave our sleeves down and forget about working really hard. Jesus explained that we can do nothing apart from Him. (John 15:5) But with Him living His very life in and through our yielded hearts, we can do all things – with diligence. With that in mind, let us fix our full attention, not on being religious, but on being filled with the Holy Spirit and growing in a loving relationship with the Lord of life. And brethren, always, “Keep your heart with all diligence; for out of it spring the issues of life.” (Prov 4:23)
Enough
“From the rising of the sun to its going down the Lord’s name is to be praised. The Lord is high above all nations, His glory above the heavens. Who is like the Lord our God, Who dwells on high, Who humbles Himself to behold the things that are in the heavens and in the earth? He raises the poor out of the dust, and lifts the needy out of the ash heap…” (Psalm 113:3-7)
Does the Lord God live in your heart? Yeah. Mine too. Our brethren from all around the globe are His abode as well. How does He do that? The Bible tells us that God is above and beyond all things. He has named the seemingly uncountable stars. The universe sits in His hands. How does He do that? If our finite minds could explain these things, would God be GOD? Would such a god even be worth our time?
What we do know by observing the creation is that God is indeed GOD. Immense. Awesome. Mighty. Majestic. And so much more. What we do know by personal experience is that God does live within us. Small. Quiet. Meek. Humble. And so much more. He is a God who is worth all our time, treasure, talent, life, and everything.
The heavens cannot contain Him. He dwarfs the nations. Still, He humbles Himself right down to our dirt, where He raises the poor out of the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap. Who is like the Lord our God?
The late great hymn-writer, Stuart Hamblen expressed these things so well in his song, “How big is God?” Here it is:
“Though men may strive to go beyond the reach of space
To crawl beyond the distant shining stars
This world’s a room so small within my Master’s house
The open sky’s but a portion of his yard.
How big is God, how big and wide is His domain
To try to tell these lips can only start
He’s big enough to rule his mighty universe
Yet small enough to live within my heart.
As winter chill may cause the tiny seed to fall
To lie asleep till waked by summer’s rain
The heart grown cold will warm and trod with life anew
The Master’s touch will bring the glow again.
How big is God, how big and wide is His domain
To try to tell these lips can only start
He’s big enough to rule his mighty universe
Yet small enough to live within my heart.
God’s small enough to live within my heart…”
Yes, with the psalmist we declare: “Praise the Lord! Praise, O servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord! Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and forevermore!” (Psalm 113:1-2)
Our God is enough. He is big enough. He is small enough. He is enough to meet all our needs.
“From the rising of the sun to its going down the Lord’s name is to be praised. The Lord is high above all nations, His glory above the heavens. Who is like the Lord our God, Who dwells on high, Who humbles Himself to behold the things that are in the heavens and in the earth? He raises the poor out of the dust, and lifts the needy out of the ash heap…” (Psalm 113:3-7)
Does the Lord God live in your heart? Yeah. Mine too. Our brethren from all around the globe are His abode as well. How does He do that? The Bible tells us that God is above and beyond all things. He has named the seemingly uncountable stars. The universe sits in His hands. How does He do that? If our finite minds could explain these things, would God be GOD? Would such a god even be worth our time?
What we do know by observing the creation is that God is indeed GOD. Immense. Awesome. Mighty. Majestic. And so much more. What we do know by personal experience is that God does live within us. Small. Quiet. Meek. Humble. And so much more. He is a God who is worth all our time, treasure, talent, life, and everything.
The heavens cannot contain Him. He dwarfs the nations. Still, He humbles Himself right down to our dirt, where He raises the poor out of the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap. Who is like the Lord our God?
The late great hymn-writer, Stuart Hamblen expressed these things so well in his song, “How big is God?” Here it is:
“Though men may strive to go beyond the reach of space
To crawl beyond the distant shining stars
This world’s a room so small within my Master’s house
The open sky’s but a portion of his yard.
How big is God, how big and wide is His domain
To try to tell these lips can only start
He’s big enough to rule his mighty universe
Yet small enough to live within my heart.
As winter chill may cause the tiny seed to fall
To lie asleep till waked by summer’s rain
The heart grown cold will warm and trod with life anew
The Master’s touch will bring the glow again.
How big is God, how big and wide is His domain
To try to tell these lips can only start
He’s big enough to rule his mighty universe
Yet small enough to live within my heart.
God’s small enough to live within my heart…”
Yes, with the psalmist we declare: “Praise the Lord! Praise, O servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord! Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and forevermore!” (Psalm 113:1-2)
Our God is enough. He is big enough. He is small enough. He is enough to meet all our needs.
Have You Ever Been Locked Out?
We all have at least one experience when we’ve been locked out of something. Over the years, I have been locked out of our home and out of my car. Recently on vacation, we rented a cabin in Utah. My wife and I went out on the deck to observe the night sky. You guessed it – we locked ourselves out at 10 PM. Fortunately, we only had to wait about a half-hour when our son and daughter-in-law returned to get back inside. In every case, there is an immediate sense of panic. But once the door is closed, you’re outside and can’t get in is a pretty helpless condition.
Jesus told a parable about ten virgins, five foolish and five wise, who were waiting for the bridegroom to come for his bride. The Jewish wedding custom was that when the bride was betrothed, there was a considerable amount of time between the betrothal and the marriage, around one year. The groom would depart after the betrothal to build a house for his bride to be. When the home was prepared, the groom would return with a shout to let her know that he was coming. A procession would follow the couple through the streets.
The foolish virgins were unprepared. Since it was night-time, they failed to have sufficient oil for their lamps. The Scripture explains, “those who were ready went in with him to the wedding and the door was shut.” (Matt 25:10) The foolish virgins returned crying out, “Lord, Lord open to us!” But the answer came, “Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.” (25:11, 12)
The point of the parable is that you need to be ready to enter His kingdom. Being ready is acknowledging that you are a sinner and trust in God that His Son Jesus, the God-Man, paid the price on the cross through the shedding of His blood and rose from the dead to impart spiritual life to you. The wise virgins picture those who are saved. The foolish are the unbelieving for they have failed to trust in God and His Son.
We experience situations now where we’re locked out temporarily. However, when the Master shuts the door to His kingdom, those who are not ready will be locked out forever.
Are you ready? What group are you in – the wise or the foolish? Don’t be locked out! For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom 6:23)
We all have at least one experience when we’ve been locked out of something. Over the years, I have been locked out of our home and out of my car. Recently on vacation, we rented a cabin in Utah. My wife and I went out on the deck to observe the night sky. You guessed it – we locked ourselves out at 10 PM. Fortunately, we only had to wait about a half-hour when our son and daughter-in-law returned to get back inside. In every case, there is an immediate sense of panic. But once the door is closed, you’re outside and can’t get in is a pretty helpless condition.
Jesus told a parable about ten virgins, five foolish and five wise, who were waiting for the bridegroom to come for his bride. The Jewish wedding custom was that when the bride was betrothed, there was a considerable amount of time between the betrothal and the marriage, around one year. The groom would depart after the betrothal to build a house for his bride to be. When the home was prepared, the groom would return with a shout to let her know that he was coming. A procession would follow the couple through the streets.
The foolish virgins were unprepared. Since it was night-time, they failed to have sufficient oil for their lamps. The Scripture explains, “those who were ready went in with him to the wedding and the door was shut.” (Matt 25:10) The foolish virgins returned crying out, “Lord, Lord open to us!” But the answer came, “Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.” (25:11, 12)
The point of the parable is that you need to be ready to enter His kingdom. Being ready is acknowledging that you are a sinner and trust in God that His Son Jesus, the God-Man, paid the price on the cross through the shedding of His blood and rose from the dead to impart spiritual life to you. The wise virgins picture those who are saved. The foolish are the unbelieving for they have failed to trust in God and His Son.
We experience situations now where we’re locked out temporarily. However, when the Master shuts the door to His kingdom, those who are not ready will be locked out forever.
Are you ready? What group are you in – the wise or the foolish? Don’t be locked out! For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom 6:23)
Stuck in Romans, Chapter 7
“For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice…For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man. But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.” (Romans 7:19, 22-23)
“Help, I’m stuck in Romans, chapter 7!”
Have you ever felt that way? Sick and tired of not doing what you know you should and doing instead what you know you shouldn’t.
I keep complaining to the pastor about this daily fight. He reminds me to stay focused on the Lord. “Press on.” he encourages me, “Press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 3:14) The pastor says it is a daily struggle. And I keep telling him I want it to be over. I don‘t want to fight and flail and win a few and lose a lot. I’m not too fond of this daily stuff. I want “Bada bing, bada boom,” and Romans 7 is in the rearview mirror. Say, bye, bye, but for some reason, that makes the pastor shake his head and smile.
I guess it reminds me of an old preacher I heard say, “This world is a battleground, not a playground!” We’re all in a fight. No one is immune to temptation in this temptation-around-every-corner-world.
I know what the pastor and the old preacher say is true. I know life is torpedoes and landmines, not water parks and swing sets. I know the daily fight exercises our spiritual muscles. I know us wretched folks have been delivered - “Thank God - through Jesus Christ, our Lord!” (Romans 7: 24-25)
The pastor continues to teach me, to remind me, to encourage me that Romans, chapter 8, is there for the taking. But, I cannot leave chapter seven behind and live in chapter eight by my efforts: I must surrender all to Christ, walk moment by moment in the Spirit, and know with surety that it takes God to be Godly and I can do nothing apart from Him doing it in me.
That is the only way to get unstuck from Romans, chapter 7.
“For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice…For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man. But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.” (Romans 7:19, 22-23)
“Help, I’m stuck in Romans, chapter 7!”
Have you ever felt that way? Sick and tired of not doing what you know you should and doing instead what you know you shouldn’t.
I keep complaining to the pastor about this daily fight. He reminds me to stay focused on the Lord. “Press on.” he encourages me, “Press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 3:14) The pastor says it is a daily struggle. And I keep telling him I want it to be over. I don‘t want to fight and flail and win a few and lose a lot. I’m not too fond of this daily stuff. I want “Bada bing, bada boom,” and Romans 7 is in the rearview mirror. Say, bye, bye, but for some reason, that makes the pastor shake his head and smile.
I guess it reminds me of an old preacher I heard say, “This world is a battleground, not a playground!” We’re all in a fight. No one is immune to temptation in this temptation-around-every-corner-world.
I know what the pastor and the old preacher say is true. I know life is torpedoes and landmines, not water parks and swing sets. I know the daily fight exercises our spiritual muscles. I know us wretched folks have been delivered - “Thank God - through Jesus Christ, our Lord!” (Romans 7: 24-25)
The pastor continues to teach me, to remind me, to encourage me that Romans, chapter 8, is there for the taking. But, I cannot leave chapter seven behind and live in chapter eight by my efforts: I must surrender all to Christ, walk moment by moment in the Spirit, and know with surety that it takes God to be Godly and I can do nothing apart from Him doing it in me.
That is the only way to get unstuck from Romans, chapter 7.
Who's Influence?
In an issue of a study guide published by the American Bible Society, author Mary Evans lists some things as examples of the church being influenced and misled by our culture as were God's people in the days of the prophet, Malachi. The last mentioned is − those in the church who agree with depriving the government of its revenue, "thus depriving widows and orphans supported by the government." Ahh, excuse me, but where in the Bible's teaching is the "government" responsible for widows and orphans? Has Ms. Evans, herself, been influenced and misled?
Nowhere in the scriptures is the responsibility of caring for the widow and orphan, the poor and the vulnerable, directed to Caesar. We have looked at this issue here before and will again in the future. The Bible has over 5,000 verses concerning the needy and not one with instruction for government involvement. You and I are responsible before God to help those who cannot help themselves.
Those who see the world through secular glasses see government as the best tool in which to accomplish these things (and perhaps to divert their responsibility elsewhere). However, this can only be done through the confiscation of other's wealth and goods and not freely given as God commands. Also, as we have seen, this creates a dependence upon Caesar, which in turn empowers him to use such dependence to extort votes and even greater power while continually limiting the freedom and liberty of the dependent.
Biblically, the proper view of government is − "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes." (Prov 21:1) For "there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God." (Rom 13:1b), Caesar is to be God's minister. (v. 4) As God's minister, Caesar's role is to restrain evil, punish wrongdoers, and keep order in society. (Yes, that is pretty much the scope of it). In so doing, ALL people have the opportunity to express their God-given talents and gifts to the benefit of themselves and others. In so doing, ALL people are free to live in liberty without the oppression of thought, creativity, work, and worship. Therefore, you and I are to make "supplications, prayers, intercessions, and give thanks...for kings and all in authority, that (we) may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence." (1 Tim 2:1-2)
This is but one of many examples of worldviews in conflict within our culture. But are we as individual Christians and as the Body of Christ being an influence on our world, or is the world being an influence on us in these matters? That is a question that begs for an answer. Do we have one?
In an issue of a study guide published by the American Bible Society, author Mary Evans lists some things as examples of the church being influenced and misled by our culture as were God's people in the days of the prophet, Malachi. The last mentioned is − those in the church who agree with depriving the government of its revenue, "thus depriving widows and orphans supported by the government." Ahh, excuse me, but where in the Bible's teaching is the "government" responsible for widows and orphans? Has Ms. Evans, herself, been influenced and misled?
Nowhere in the scriptures is the responsibility of caring for the widow and orphan, the poor and the vulnerable, directed to Caesar. We have looked at this issue here before and will again in the future. The Bible has over 5,000 verses concerning the needy and not one with instruction for government involvement. You and I are responsible before God to help those who cannot help themselves.
Those who see the world through secular glasses see government as the best tool in which to accomplish these things (and perhaps to divert their responsibility elsewhere). However, this can only be done through the confiscation of other's wealth and goods and not freely given as God commands. Also, as we have seen, this creates a dependence upon Caesar, which in turn empowers him to use such dependence to extort votes and even greater power while continually limiting the freedom and liberty of the dependent.
Biblically, the proper view of government is − "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes." (Prov 21:1) For "there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God." (Rom 13:1b), Caesar is to be God's minister. (v. 4) As God's minister, Caesar's role is to restrain evil, punish wrongdoers, and keep order in society. (Yes, that is pretty much the scope of it). In so doing, ALL people have the opportunity to express their God-given talents and gifts to the benefit of themselves and others. In so doing, ALL people are free to live in liberty without the oppression of thought, creativity, work, and worship. Therefore, you and I are to make "supplications, prayers, intercessions, and give thanks...for kings and all in authority, that (we) may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence." (1 Tim 2:1-2)
This is but one of many examples of worldviews in conflict within our culture. But are we as individual Christians and as the Body of Christ being an influence on our world, or is the world being an influence on us in these matters? That is a question that begs for an answer. Do we have one?
Two Birds of a Different Feather
A few years back, I recall sitting motionless in a chair on the screened-in porch of our cabin on Tussey Mountain; a hen turkey pecked her way closer and closer. She would scratch in the leaves and then peck for the insects and vegetation under them. Not too long before this, I had watched a robin land in the yard. It hopped around a little and quickly grabbed a worm. Both of these birds were feasting on the ‘nuggets’ in the yard.
These two little episodes reminded me of the words of our Lord. “Do not worry about your life…what you will eat…what you will put on. Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them.” (Matt 6:25, 26) That scenario was being played out right in front of me.
Yet we often do worry about these things. Some right now are worried about their financial situations. Losing a job or dwindling retirement savings can be a significant concern. And those worries compound one’s thoughts into a variety of other anxieties.
At times of stress, we are so apt to take matters into our own hands. We forget or choose not to consult God. Often we search for answers among the wisdom of this world. But the Psalmist instructs, “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” (Psalms 118:8)
What are you worrying about today? If God provided insects for the turkey and a worm for the robin, will He not take care of you? “Are you not of more value than they?” (Matt 6:26)
A few years back, I recall sitting motionless in a chair on the screened-in porch of our cabin on Tussey Mountain; a hen turkey pecked her way closer and closer. She would scratch in the leaves and then peck for the insects and vegetation under them. Not too long before this, I had watched a robin land in the yard. It hopped around a little and quickly grabbed a worm. Both of these birds were feasting on the ‘nuggets’ in the yard.
These two little episodes reminded me of the words of our Lord. “Do not worry about your life…what you will eat…what you will put on. Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them.” (Matt 6:25, 26) That scenario was being played out right in front of me.
Yet we often do worry about these things. Some right now are worried about their financial situations. Losing a job or dwindling retirement savings can be a significant concern. And those worries compound one’s thoughts into a variety of other anxieties.
At times of stress, we are so apt to take matters into our own hands. We forget or choose not to consult God. Often we search for answers among the wisdom of this world. But the Psalmist instructs, “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” (Psalms 118:8)
What are you worrying about today? If God provided insects for the turkey and a worm for the robin, will He not take care of you? “Are you not of more value than they?” (Matt 6:26)
Open His Eyes
“And when the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, ‘Alas, my master! What shall we do?’ So he answered, ‘Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’ And Elisha prayed, and said, ‘Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.’ Then the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.” (2 Kings 6:15-17)
When my son was a youngster, he had a problem common for many kids – a bully – the neighborhood bully. It seems there is a bully on every block of the world. My boy managed to avoid this one or at least had other people around for the most part. The danger came when the bully would get him alone. One day I was working in the garage when I happened to step out and glance around the corner. Right timing – my son was in flight, ascending our hill with the bully on his tail. The first boy had real anguish on his face, the second boy an arrogant, “You are mine now!” I waited until my son got near, and then I appeared seemingly out of nowhere. That first boy’s face immediately exchanged its anguished expression for one of relief and confidence. The second boy, his expression changed too, or at least what little I saw of his face before he took to flight back down the hill. It turned out there were more of us than there was of him.
The king of Syria was the bully on the block. Elisha, the prophet of God, was his intended target. All around the city of Dothan, where Elisha was staying, the bully huffed and puffed. His great power was evident. He had an arrogant “You are mine now!” look on his face. Elisha could have, and perhaps should have, been in anguish, as was his faithful servant. Yet his eyes were open to the spiritual realities around him. Elisha lived in the will of God. He knew his times were in the guiding hands of YAHWEH. Whether the bully would have his way or would be sent a-running, God was there. Elisha’s servant needed to know this. God opened his eyes. The Syrians ended up blind and in Israel’s custody. When we live in the will of our God, there are always more of us than there are of them.
This event, at least to me, begs the questions – do I have open eyes to the spiritual realities around me, as did Elisha? Or am I, as was his servant, not seeing such realities? Am I smack dab in the middle of God’s will, where nothing can harm me, even unto death? Or am I outside of His will where all is harm? Do I have open eyes? Do you?
“And when the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, ‘Alas, my master! What shall we do?’ So he answered, ‘Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’ And Elisha prayed, and said, ‘Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.’ Then the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.” (2 Kings 6:15-17)
When my son was a youngster, he had a problem common for many kids – a bully – the neighborhood bully. It seems there is a bully on every block of the world. My boy managed to avoid this one or at least had other people around for the most part. The danger came when the bully would get him alone. One day I was working in the garage when I happened to step out and glance around the corner. Right timing – my son was in flight, ascending our hill with the bully on his tail. The first boy had real anguish on his face, the second boy an arrogant, “You are mine now!” I waited until my son got near, and then I appeared seemingly out of nowhere. That first boy’s face immediately exchanged its anguished expression for one of relief and confidence. The second boy, his expression changed too, or at least what little I saw of his face before he took to flight back down the hill. It turned out there were more of us than there was of him.
The king of Syria was the bully on the block. Elisha, the prophet of God, was his intended target. All around the city of Dothan, where Elisha was staying, the bully huffed and puffed. His great power was evident. He had an arrogant “You are mine now!” look on his face. Elisha could have, and perhaps should have, been in anguish, as was his faithful servant. Yet his eyes were open to the spiritual realities around him. Elisha lived in the will of God. He knew his times were in the guiding hands of YAHWEH. Whether the bully would have his way or would be sent a-running, God was there. Elisha’s servant needed to know this. God opened his eyes. The Syrians ended up blind and in Israel’s custody. When we live in the will of our God, there are always more of us than there are of them.
This event, at least to me, begs the questions – do I have open eyes to the spiritual realities around me, as did Elisha? Or am I, as was his servant, not seeing such realities? Am I smack dab in the middle of God’s will, where nothing can harm me, even unto death? Or am I outside of His will where all is harm? Do I have open eyes? Do you?
Rise Up and Live
“Now Peter and John went up together to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple; who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms.” (Acts 3:1-3)
When the crippled man saw Peter and John, he only saw the possibility of another meal or perhaps a new cloak. The whole of his life was contingent upon the number of coins he collected. He had no way of knowing an opportunity for a brand new life stood before him.
“And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, “Look at us.” So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them - walking, leaping, and praising God.” (Acts 3:4-7)
Crippled people blanket the landscape of this sin-infected world: mentally crippled, emotionally crippled, spiritually crippled, crippled in myriad ways by their own poor choices, the cruel hand of others, or bad circumstance. Many have violated God’s prohibition: “Ye shall not make…gods of silver, neither shall ye make unto you gods of gold.” (Exodus 20:23) God warns us about the enslaving debilitating power of those shiny deities and their trappings.
What if the lame man by the temple gate had slapped Peter’s hand away? He would have continued to exist day to day, dependent upon the life-draining promises of silver and gold. We see it all the time. People set themselves against the Lord of heaven. Nevertheless, we who follow Him must be the Peter and John for those around us, reaching out to them, not with silver and gold, but with the Gospel. Yes, we still have a limp ourselves, and yes, our hands will get slapped more often than not, but we “know we weren’t redeemed by corruptible things like silver and gold, but with the precious blood of Christ.” (1 Peter 1:18-19)
We need to share with others that Jesus Christ of Nazareth is lovingly reaching out to all of us “lame from our mother’s womb” folks, and He is saying, “Take My hand, rise up and walk - rise up and live.”
“Now Peter and John went up together to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple; who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms.” (Acts 3:1-3)
When the crippled man saw Peter and John, he only saw the possibility of another meal or perhaps a new cloak. The whole of his life was contingent upon the number of coins he collected. He had no way of knowing an opportunity for a brand new life stood before him.
“And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, “Look at us.” So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them - walking, leaping, and praising God.” (Acts 3:4-7)
Crippled people blanket the landscape of this sin-infected world: mentally crippled, emotionally crippled, spiritually crippled, crippled in myriad ways by their own poor choices, the cruel hand of others, or bad circumstance. Many have violated God’s prohibition: “Ye shall not make…gods of silver, neither shall ye make unto you gods of gold.” (Exodus 20:23) God warns us about the enslaving debilitating power of those shiny deities and their trappings.
What if the lame man by the temple gate had slapped Peter’s hand away? He would have continued to exist day to day, dependent upon the life-draining promises of silver and gold. We see it all the time. People set themselves against the Lord of heaven. Nevertheless, we who follow Him must be the Peter and John for those around us, reaching out to them, not with silver and gold, but with the Gospel. Yes, we still have a limp ourselves, and yes, our hands will get slapped more often than not, but we “know we weren’t redeemed by corruptible things like silver and gold, but with the precious blood of Christ.” (1 Peter 1:18-19)
We need to share with others that Jesus Christ of Nazareth is lovingly reaching out to all of us “lame from our mother’s womb” folks, and He is saying, “Take My hand, rise up and walk - rise up and live.”
Grand Canyon Part 2 (Where did all the dirt go?)
Rivers form deltas. A delta is when sediment (rock material) erodes and is transported by the river and deposited as the flowing water slows down. Maybe the best-known delta is the Mississippi River delta, which covers an area of 2400 square kilometers.
When coming to the Grand Canyon, one of the most frequently asked questions is, how did this occur? Consider the answer given by John Hance. In 1883, Hance became the first person of European descent to live at the Canyon. He was one of the Canyon’s most colorful personalities, tour guides, and explorers.
Children loved John Hance, and to them, he always explained how the Canyon came into being. “I dug it,” he would say. This story worked well for years until one little four-year-old girl asked seriously, “And where did you put the dirt?”
That question of the dirt bothered him apparently because the dirt from the Canyon should have formed a vast delta when the Colorado River enters the Gulf of California, but it has not. Sure there are a variety of evolutionary explanations of how this could have occurred over many millions of years, but they all discount a worldwide catastrophic flood. But with the evidence everywhere of the presence of water, it makes perfect sense that it was covered totally with water at one time, and that is precisely what the Scriptures tell us.
Well, you might ask, does it really matter? In fact, it does because the millions of year’s idea discount the truth of the worldwide flood. Thus, it declares the Bible to be wrong and makes God out to be a liar! Furthermore, it causes people to doubt God’s word and leads them on the path to everlasting destruction. Do not be taken captive in your thinking by some seemingly educated men, but trust in God and His word.
The apostle Peter warned of scoffers in the end times who would say, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” These scoffers willingly forget the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. (2 Peter 3:4-6) You do not need a P.H.D. to understand the destructive forces of a flood. You only need to believe that one occurred, and then you’ll understand where all the dirt went.
“It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes.” (Psalm 118:9)
Rivers form deltas. A delta is when sediment (rock material) erodes and is transported by the river and deposited as the flowing water slows down. Maybe the best-known delta is the Mississippi River delta, which covers an area of 2400 square kilometers.
When coming to the Grand Canyon, one of the most frequently asked questions is, how did this occur? Consider the answer given by John Hance. In 1883, Hance became the first person of European descent to live at the Canyon. He was one of the Canyon’s most colorful personalities, tour guides, and explorers.
Children loved John Hance, and to them, he always explained how the Canyon came into being. “I dug it,” he would say. This story worked well for years until one little four-year-old girl asked seriously, “And where did you put the dirt?”
That question of the dirt bothered him apparently because the dirt from the Canyon should have formed a vast delta when the Colorado River enters the Gulf of California, but it has not. Sure there are a variety of evolutionary explanations of how this could have occurred over many millions of years, but they all discount a worldwide catastrophic flood. But with the evidence everywhere of the presence of water, it makes perfect sense that it was covered totally with water at one time, and that is precisely what the Scriptures tell us.
Well, you might ask, does it really matter? In fact, it does because the millions of year’s idea discount the truth of the worldwide flood. Thus, it declares the Bible to be wrong and makes God out to be a liar! Furthermore, it causes people to doubt God’s word and leads them on the path to everlasting destruction. Do not be taken captive in your thinking by some seemingly educated men, but trust in God and His word.
The apostle Peter warned of scoffers in the end times who would say, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” These scoffers willingly forget the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. (2 Peter 3:4-6) You do not need a P.H.D. to understand the destructive forces of a flood. You only need to believe that one occurred, and then you’ll understand where all the dirt went.
“It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes.” (Psalm 118:9)
The Grand Canyon Part 1
A few years ago, my wife and I, along with my son and daughter-in-law, arrived at the Grand Canyon. I was the only one out of the four who had seen it before, and that was about 45 years ago. A local fellow in nearby Flagstaff had told us about a trail that would lead us to the “best’ view of the canyon. We took him at his word and followed the gated trail about one mile to the canyon. We did so with a little trepidation because of the mountain lion road sign nearby that warned of their presence in the area. However, the hike was worth it. The view was awesome. The quietness was deafening. For several moments there was no sound to the human ear. It was an amazing moment- No wind, no birds calling, no planes overhead, no automobiles, and no people. Other than our occasional hushed conversation, it was the perfect moment for the Scripture, “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
In my opinion, it is impossible to look down and across that magnificent canyon without humbling your heart before an omnipotent Creator God. “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.” (Psalm 90:2)
We spent the day exploring the different vantage points on the south rim of the canyon. You cannot miss the in-your-face matter of fact statements at the many information stations, telling the reader of how many millions of years that it took to form the magnificent 200 + mile long canyon. They (and I’m not sure who they are) continue to perpetuate the unbelievable theory that the Colorado River has carved out that humongous gorge over the last 5 or 6 million years. The brochures concerning the canyon date have the oldest part of the chasm at 2 billion years. One pamphlet recommends, ‘take time to pause on the rim and enjoy the work of the ages.’
Well, we certainly did enjoy the work of the ages as we viewed the varied sizes, colors, and forms. But we refused to see it from an unknown cause which miraculously produced an awe-inspiring landscape. We chose to see it by faith from the vantage point of God’s word. And His word tells us that about 4,500 years ago that the wickedness of man was great and that every thought of his heart was evil continuously. (Gen 6:5) Therefore, God would bring judgment on man, and that came in the form of a flood. The water covered all the high hills of the earth by at least 20 feet. (Gen 7:19, 20) The Bible then states that the water receded continually from the earth. (Gen 8:3) It is this receding water at a voluminous rate that carved out the canyon after the flood. But to acknowledge this, one would have to acknowledge a Creator. The same One who judged sin in the past and will do so again in the future. And that is something that the world is not willing to accept.
“In His hand are the deep places of the earth; the heights of the hills are His also. The sea is His for He made it, and His hand formed the dry land. …Today, if you will hear His voice: Do not harden your heart…” (Psalm 95:4, 5, &7)
A few years ago, my wife and I, along with my son and daughter-in-law, arrived at the Grand Canyon. I was the only one out of the four who had seen it before, and that was about 45 years ago. A local fellow in nearby Flagstaff had told us about a trail that would lead us to the “best’ view of the canyon. We took him at his word and followed the gated trail about one mile to the canyon. We did so with a little trepidation because of the mountain lion road sign nearby that warned of their presence in the area. However, the hike was worth it. The view was awesome. The quietness was deafening. For several moments there was no sound to the human ear. It was an amazing moment- No wind, no birds calling, no planes overhead, no automobiles, and no people. Other than our occasional hushed conversation, it was the perfect moment for the Scripture, “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
In my opinion, it is impossible to look down and across that magnificent canyon without humbling your heart before an omnipotent Creator God. “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.” (Psalm 90:2)
We spent the day exploring the different vantage points on the south rim of the canyon. You cannot miss the in-your-face matter of fact statements at the many information stations, telling the reader of how many millions of years that it took to form the magnificent 200 + mile long canyon. They (and I’m not sure who they are) continue to perpetuate the unbelievable theory that the Colorado River has carved out that humongous gorge over the last 5 or 6 million years. The brochures concerning the canyon date have the oldest part of the chasm at 2 billion years. One pamphlet recommends, ‘take time to pause on the rim and enjoy the work of the ages.’
Well, we certainly did enjoy the work of the ages as we viewed the varied sizes, colors, and forms. But we refused to see it from an unknown cause which miraculously produced an awe-inspiring landscape. We chose to see it by faith from the vantage point of God’s word. And His word tells us that about 4,500 years ago that the wickedness of man was great and that every thought of his heart was evil continuously. (Gen 6:5) Therefore, God would bring judgment on man, and that came in the form of a flood. The water covered all the high hills of the earth by at least 20 feet. (Gen 7:19, 20) The Bible then states that the water receded continually from the earth. (Gen 8:3) It is this receding water at a voluminous rate that carved out the canyon after the flood. But to acknowledge this, one would have to acknowledge a Creator. The same One who judged sin in the past and will do so again in the future. And that is something that the world is not willing to accept.
“In His hand are the deep places of the earth; the heights of the hills are His also. The sea is His for He made it, and His hand formed the dry land. …Today, if you will hear His voice: Do not harden your heart…” (Psalm 95:4, 5, &7)
Weary
“For He who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. (Galatians 6:8, 9)
The man placed his open Bible upon his lap and turned his head to the wall. He had just read the scripture above. He was weary. But not in the way one might guess. He understood what the Word was teaching here. A believer lives a counter-culture life. The world swims incessantly one way - pulled by the flesh downstream. But the child of God must battle against the current, up, up, always up through the torrent. Keep swimming the apostle urges. Keep running. Stay the course. Reap the reward. Win the prize. Live in the Spirit all the way to glory!
The man sighed. His thoughts bounced off the wall and returned inward. “I’m not so much weary of doing good as I am of doing bad. I give into the wants of my flesh with little more than a whimper. I’m two, maybe three strokes up, and then float back down with the crowd. How easily I jump away from the Holy Spirit - sure the rapids will sink me this time. I corrupt my day, my week, my year, my life. I’m so weary from losing the battles. Everyone that I care about is hurt in one way or another. And I will never become the man God created me to be. When is this struggle going to end? I know the answer to that, but…” Tears rimmed his eyes. Then as he had done the day before and no doubt would do tomorrow, he turned his head, picked up his Bible, and started upstream again.
“For He who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. (Galatians 6:8, 9)
The man placed his open Bible upon his lap and turned his head to the wall. He had just read the scripture above. He was weary. But not in the way one might guess. He understood what the Word was teaching here. A believer lives a counter-culture life. The world swims incessantly one way - pulled by the flesh downstream. But the child of God must battle against the current, up, up, always up through the torrent. Keep swimming the apostle urges. Keep running. Stay the course. Reap the reward. Win the prize. Live in the Spirit all the way to glory!
The man sighed. His thoughts bounced off the wall and returned inward. “I’m not so much weary of doing good as I am of doing bad. I give into the wants of my flesh with little more than a whimper. I’m two, maybe three strokes up, and then float back down with the crowd. How easily I jump away from the Holy Spirit - sure the rapids will sink me this time. I corrupt my day, my week, my year, my life. I’m so weary from losing the battles. Everyone that I care about is hurt in one way or another. And I will never become the man God created me to be. When is this struggle going to end? I know the answer to that, but…” Tears rimmed his eyes. Then as he had done the day before and no doubt would do tomorrow, he turned his head, picked up his Bible, and started upstream again.
Hearing God
Now the Lord came and stood and called as at other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel answered, "Speak, Lord, for your servant hears." (1 Samuel 3:10)
How does God speak to us? He spoke to Samuel from the foot of the lad's bed. God spoke to Moses from a burning bush. He spoke again from fire and smoke at Mount Sinai. Elijah listened for God in the wind, an earthquake, a fire, but no, He spoke in none of these. Instead, God spoke in a still small voice. He spoke to some as the Angel of the Lord (the pre-incarnate Christ), by His heavenly messengers, the angels, and to others in dreams. He spoke through the Law and the Prophets. He even used a donkey to speak to a wayward prophet. God spoke audibly at the baptism of Christ and on the Mount of Transfiguration. We know that our God has spoken in many different ways.
When the holy writ became complete at Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21, God does His speaking to us through His Word. Yes, the Holy Spirit can impress His will upon our mind and heart in such a way that we know that we know, God has spoken to us. Yet, even in this, the Spirit's message will be aligned with scripture and never in contradiction to it. How often do we hear people say, "God spoke to me and told me…" followed by a stream of off the wall gobbledygook? Our God speaks to us, bottom-line through His Word.
We're to "be doers of the word, and not hearers only..." (James 1:22) Yet, in a world (including the Christian one) that has seemingly lost the art of listening, really listening, as in not hearing, as in not really hearing God, the doer often has empty hands.
There is a saying that silence is golden. It is precious like that metal because it is so hard to find in our (screaming) world.
Therefore we must be intentional in having quiet times with Him every day: For "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God." (Matt 4:4) And as the man, Job declared, "I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food." (Job 23:12)
Our God speaks when His Word is open in our laps. When we say, "Speak, Lord, for your servant hears."
Now the Lord came and stood and called as at other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel answered, "Speak, Lord, for your servant hears." (1 Samuel 3:10)
How does God speak to us? He spoke to Samuel from the foot of the lad's bed. God spoke to Moses from a burning bush. He spoke again from fire and smoke at Mount Sinai. Elijah listened for God in the wind, an earthquake, a fire, but no, He spoke in none of these. Instead, God spoke in a still small voice. He spoke to some as the Angel of the Lord (the pre-incarnate Christ), by His heavenly messengers, the angels, and to others in dreams. He spoke through the Law and the Prophets. He even used a donkey to speak to a wayward prophet. God spoke audibly at the baptism of Christ and on the Mount of Transfiguration. We know that our God has spoken in many different ways.
When the holy writ became complete at Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21, God does His speaking to us through His Word. Yes, the Holy Spirit can impress His will upon our mind and heart in such a way that we know that we know, God has spoken to us. Yet, even in this, the Spirit's message will be aligned with scripture and never in contradiction to it. How often do we hear people say, "God spoke to me and told me…" followed by a stream of off the wall gobbledygook? Our God speaks to us, bottom-line through His Word.
We're to "be doers of the word, and not hearers only..." (James 1:22) Yet, in a world (including the Christian one) that has seemingly lost the art of listening, really listening, as in not hearing, as in not really hearing God, the doer often has empty hands.
There is a saying that silence is golden. It is precious like that metal because it is so hard to find in our (screaming) world.
Therefore we must be intentional in having quiet times with Him every day: For "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God." (Matt 4:4) And as the man, Job declared, "I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food." (Job 23:12)
Our God speaks when His Word is open in our laps. When we say, "Speak, Lord, for your servant hears."
The Influence of Jeroboam
After King Solomon’s death, his son, Rehoboam, became king. Ten of the twelve tribes rebelled against his rule and formed the northern kingdom of Israel under the leadership of Jeroboam. To keep the people of the northern kingdom from returning to worship at Jerusalem, Jeroboam had two calves of gold made. One he set up in Bethel and the other in Dan. The Bible says that the people went as far as Dan to worship. The Scriptures also state that he made priests from every class of people who were not Levites and built shrines on high places. (1 Kings 12) All this was a clear violation of God’s commands.
After Jeroboam died, his son, Nadab, became king. He walked in the way of his father and in his sin by which he made Israel sin. (1 Kings 15:26) Baasha assassinated him and became king. He walked in the way of Jeroboam and in his sin by which he made Israel sin. (1 Kings 15:33) Omri, Ahab, Ahaziah, Jehoram, Jehu, Jehoahaz, Jehoash, Jeroboam II, Zechariah, Menahem, Pekahiah, and Pekah, were all kings of Israel and all who walked in the way of Jeroboam who made Israel sin. For almost 200 years, the northern kingdom of Israel was influenced by the sin of one man. It came to an end when God brought the Assyrian army against them and carried them captive to Assyria.
Scripture says that God had warned them by sending prophets to turn them from their evils ways and to keep His commandments. But “they would not hear, but stiffened their necks like the neck of their fathers, who did not believe in the Lord their God.” (2 Kings 17:14)
The incredible hold that sin can have! It ruins lives and can ruin a nation. And in the future, it is going to ruin the whole world. (Is 13:17) In Jeroboam’s case, he outright rejected the Lord, and because of his position as king, he had a significant impact on the lives of many people in a very negative way. If Jeroboam had obeyed God, his influence would have made a significant difference in the nation of Israel and the lives of people. In light of the two possibilities − what kind of influence are we having on the lives of those around us?
After King Solomon’s death, his son, Rehoboam, became king. Ten of the twelve tribes rebelled against his rule and formed the northern kingdom of Israel under the leadership of Jeroboam. To keep the people of the northern kingdom from returning to worship at Jerusalem, Jeroboam had two calves of gold made. One he set up in Bethel and the other in Dan. The Bible says that the people went as far as Dan to worship. The Scriptures also state that he made priests from every class of people who were not Levites and built shrines on high places. (1 Kings 12) All this was a clear violation of God’s commands.
After Jeroboam died, his son, Nadab, became king. He walked in the way of his father and in his sin by which he made Israel sin. (1 Kings 15:26) Baasha assassinated him and became king. He walked in the way of Jeroboam and in his sin by which he made Israel sin. (1 Kings 15:33) Omri, Ahab, Ahaziah, Jehoram, Jehu, Jehoahaz, Jehoash, Jeroboam II, Zechariah, Menahem, Pekahiah, and Pekah, were all kings of Israel and all who walked in the way of Jeroboam who made Israel sin. For almost 200 years, the northern kingdom of Israel was influenced by the sin of one man. It came to an end when God brought the Assyrian army against them and carried them captive to Assyria.
Scripture says that God had warned them by sending prophets to turn them from their evils ways and to keep His commandments. But “they would not hear, but stiffened their necks like the neck of their fathers, who did not believe in the Lord their God.” (2 Kings 17:14)
The incredible hold that sin can have! It ruins lives and can ruin a nation. And in the future, it is going to ruin the whole world. (Is 13:17) In Jeroboam’s case, he outright rejected the Lord, and because of his position as king, he had a significant impact on the lives of many people in a very negative way. If Jeroboam had obeyed God, his influence would have made a significant difference in the nation of Israel and the lives of people. In light of the two possibilities − what kind of influence are we having on the lives of those around us?
Dead Seas
On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. (John 7:37-39)
The Dead Sea is quite a unique place. At almost 1400 feet below sea level, it is the lowest elevation on land. It is also called the “Salt Sea” or the “Sea of Death.” It is very salty and very deep. The Jordan River is its primary source of inflow. Its outflow is…well…there is no outflow. The Dead Sea takes in but does not give out. Evaporation is the only means of dispersing any of its water.
The Dead Sea has been used to describe fallen mankind’s relationship with our Creator. He pours into us His image, His love, His mercy, His grace, His salvation, His abundance, His purposes, and His plans, and we take, and we take, and we neglect. We ignore, and we refuse our call and our responsibility (and privilege) to give anything out. And all that He intended for us evaporates into nothing but wasted lives - A bunch of dead seas. A pretty bleak picture. But……With us in Christ and Christ in us, we can receive all He has for us and be amazed as it flows through us out into the world. When we believe in Him and receive His Spirit, we become flowing rivers of living water. That is awesome. That is the abundant life. That is Life! No more lack of dispersion; no more Sea of Death.
Where are we today? Are we rivers of living waters or just dead seas?
On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. (John 7:37-39)
The Dead Sea is quite a unique place. At almost 1400 feet below sea level, it is the lowest elevation on land. It is also called the “Salt Sea” or the “Sea of Death.” It is very salty and very deep. The Jordan River is its primary source of inflow. Its outflow is…well…there is no outflow. The Dead Sea takes in but does not give out. Evaporation is the only means of dispersing any of its water.
The Dead Sea has been used to describe fallen mankind’s relationship with our Creator. He pours into us His image, His love, His mercy, His grace, His salvation, His abundance, His purposes, and His plans, and we take, and we take, and we neglect. We ignore, and we refuse our call and our responsibility (and privilege) to give anything out. And all that He intended for us evaporates into nothing but wasted lives - A bunch of dead seas. A pretty bleak picture. But……With us in Christ and Christ in us, we can receive all He has for us and be amazed as it flows through us out into the world. When we believe in Him and receive His Spirit, we become flowing rivers of living water. That is awesome. That is the abundant life. That is Life! No more lack of dispersion; no more Sea of Death.
Where are we today? Are we rivers of living waters or just dead seas?
God the Creator
In chapter 4 of Revelation, we see a remarkable scene of worship. The four living creatures continue to say, “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.” (v. 8) The twenty-four elders who are around the throne fall down before Him and worship, casting their crowns before the throne. Their worship focuses on God as Creator. “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.” (v. 11)
In the ‘modern’ world, the idea of being created is foreign to many, especially those in the scientific community. According to modern scientific thought, you have evolved from some lifeless muck that was hit by lightning just at the right time that produced the simplest of organisms. Life appears suddenly from lifelessness. Then over billions of years, this simple one cell organism (By the way it is not very simple) evolves into highly functional beings we call man and woman.
The sad story behind this is that many Christians buy into this thinking. They try to merge the evolutionary theory with the creation account. Even the evolutionist recognizes that the Bible teaches instantaneous creation and that the creation account is in direct opposition to the theory of evolution.
When God told Moses that the Sabbath was a sign between Him and Israel forever, He added, “for in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.” (Ex 31:17) The Psalmist wrote, “By the word of the LORD the heavens were made. And all the host of them by the breath of His mouth.” (Psalm 33:6) This does not sound like God is an evolutionist!
Revelation chapter 4 establishes the fact that God is sovereign. He rules the universe because He made it. He should be worshipped for that reason alone. But evolutionary ideas have caused men to be ignorant of Him and even caused some to blatantly outright deny Him. But the book of Revelation reveals that this will soon change. God will intervene in human history in a way He has never done before. Will you be ready to meet Him, who made you?
In chapter 4 of Revelation, we see a remarkable scene of worship. The four living creatures continue to say, “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.” (v. 8) The twenty-four elders who are around the throne fall down before Him and worship, casting their crowns before the throne. Their worship focuses on God as Creator. “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.” (v. 11)
In the ‘modern’ world, the idea of being created is foreign to many, especially those in the scientific community. According to modern scientific thought, you have evolved from some lifeless muck that was hit by lightning just at the right time that produced the simplest of organisms. Life appears suddenly from lifelessness. Then over billions of years, this simple one cell organism (By the way it is not very simple) evolves into highly functional beings we call man and woman.
The sad story behind this is that many Christians buy into this thinking. They try to merge the evolutionary theory with the creation account. Even the evolutionist recognizes that the Bible teaches instantaneous creation and that the creation account is in direct opposition to the theory of evolution.
When God told Moses that the Sabbath was a sign between Him and Israel forever, He added, “for in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.” (Ex 31:17) The Psalmist wrote, “By the word of the LORD the heavens were made. And all the host of them by the breath of His mouth.” (Psalm 33:6) This does not sound like God is an evolutionist!
Revelation chapter 4 establishes the fact that God is sovereign. He rules the universe because He made it. He should be worshipped for that reason alone. But evolutionary ideas have caused men to be ignorant of Him and even caused some to blatantly outright deny Him. But the book of Revelation reveals that this will soon change. God will intervene in human history in a way He has never done before. Will you be ready to meet Him, who made you?
Declaration of Independence
[Jesus] said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:15- 16)
In April 1775, members of the British Army went to Concord, Massachusetts, to seize a weapons cache. When confronted by the local militia, a running battle ensued. This would be the start of the Revolutionary War between Great Britain and the American colonies. Nearly fifteen months later, the Americans declared their independence on July 4th, 1776. The colonists were determined to throw off the shackles of King George and the tyranny of the British throne. Despite their declaration in 76, the war would continue through 1782 until the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783.
In the year 1812, Britain and the United States were at war yet again. It might be safe to say that those who seek to be free of men’s chains, and the tyranny of the State must always be at war. This world is the domain of the Evil One, and clanking links and slavery to all sorts of vice and violence, power and persuasion, is his modus operandi. He is Amalek, who wars against the Lord from generation to generation. (Ex 17:16)
Many yearn for real freedom and liberty. Millions and millions of history’s citizens have come to a day when they have made their own declaration of independence – a declaration just as Simon Peter made in the above scripture. Therein is our justification before God. Therein is found true freedom and liberty that will not cease. Nevertheless, just as the war continued for America long after the declaration of 1776 (and even today), warfare against the enemy of our souls will go on as long as we live upon the earth. It went on for Peter just as it will for us.
In Jesus Christ, the chains of whatever kind lay undone at our feet. We are the only ones able to reattach them. Are you and I living today in true freedom and liberty? Are we living that out in our sanctified life? Remember, “Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (2 Cor 3:17)
Have we begun with the declaration, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God!?”
[Jesus] said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:15- 16)
In April 1775, members of the British Army went to Concord, Massachusetts, to seize a weapons cache. When confronted by the local militia, a running battle ensued. This would be the start of the Revolutionary War between Great Britain and the American colonies. Nearly fifteen months later, the Americans declared their independence on July 4th, 1776. The colonists were determined to throw off the shackles of King George and the tyranny of the British throne. Despite their declaration in 76, the war would continue through 1782 until the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783.
In the year 1812, Britain and the United States were at war yet again. It might be safe to say that those who seek to be free of men’s chains, and the tyranny of the State must always be at war. This world is the domain of the Evil One, and clanking links and slavery to all sorts of vice and violence, power and persuasion, is his modus operandi. He is Amalek, who wars against the Lord from generation to generation. (Ex 17:16)
Many yearn for real freedom and liberty. Millions and millions of history’s citizens have come to a day when they have made their own declaration of independence – a declaration just as Simon Peter made in the above scripture. Therein is our justification before God. Therein is found true freedom and liberty that will not cease. Nevertheless, just as the war continued for America long after the declaration of 1776 (and even today), warfare against the enemy of our souls will go on as long as we live upon the earth. It went on for Peter just as it will for us.
In Jesus Christ, the chains of whatever kind lay undone at our feet. We are the only ones able to reattach them. Are you and I living today in true freedom and liberty? Are we living that out in our sanctified life? Remember, “Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (2 Cor 3:17)
Have we begun with the declaration, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God!?”
Desired Haven
Years ago, the wife and I decided we had a place in our home for another cat. We already adopted two kitties from a shelter previously. Looking at an area shelter's website, I found a young cat that would fit our situation. I did notice another described as Shelby: seven years old, the owner placed in a nursing home, adopted once and returned, very scared and hiding.
At the shelter, we went into the "cat room," and one of the staff introduced us to the young cat we had come to see. Being cat people, before too long other cats lined up to rub on our legs, and we got busy petting a smorgasbord of felines. When we made it to the far corner, a large stand held some more fur purrs. While scratching chins there, a motley thing stepped out from behind the stand and meowed at us, then disappeared again. It was Shelby. You probably already figured the rest of the story: we brought home a dirty poodle-like haired creature resembling a raccoon crossed with a jackrabbit and bred back to a cat.
Shelby quickly had her blanket and her spot on the back of the couch. She rolled over to get a tummy brushing with her brush. She would sit a spell on the screened-in-porch watching the local critters and spent the remainder of her time eating, getting fat, snoozing, and watching the other two cats play. She'd play, but it would use up so much energy and well...
Shelby's life became very different from when she was in the shelter; she stepped out of that corner, cried out in fear, and found peace. She went from homeless and hidden − to her blanket, spot, brush, and abundant abiding.
Maybe today you're where Shelby was back then. Step out when you hear His voice. He already knows your name, your circumstances, your need, and He has your desired haven prepared. How do I know this? Listen, "Then they cry out to the Lord in their trouble, and He brings them out of their distresses. He calms the storm, so the waves are still. Then they are glad because they are quiet, so He guides them to their desired haven." (Psalm 107:28-30)
Life will have storms; Jesus calms storms. The waves are going to roll; Jesus makes them still and quiet. He's our blanket, couch, and screened-in-porch. He is our home, our hiding place, and our desired haven.
Shelby talked in cat, but no doubt would agree with the Psalmist: "Oh that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! Let them exalt Him also in the assembly of the people, and praise Him in the company of the elders." (Vs. 31-32)
Perhaps He is guiding you to Calvary Baptist Church, where the Bible is taught, and disciples are made. Join our assembly and company of elders. This church is indeed a desired haven for those who want truly to know Jesus Christ and the abundant life He promises.
Years ago, the wife and I decided we had a place in our home for another cat. We already adopted two kitties from a shelter previously. Looking at an area shelter's website, I found a young cat that would fit our situation. I did notice another described as Shelby: seven years old, the owner placed in a nursing home, adopted once and returned, very scared and hiding.
At the shelter, we went into the "cat room," and one of the staff introduced us to the young cat we had come to see. Being cat people, before too long other cats lined up to rub on our legs, and we got busy petting a smorgasbord of felines. When we made it to the far corner, a large stand held some more fur purrs. While scratching chins there, a motley thing stepped out from behind the stand and meowed at us, then disappeared again. It was Shelby. You probably already figured the rest of the story: we brought home a dirty poodle-like haired creature resembling a raccoon crossed with a jackrabbit and bred back to a cat.
Shelby quickly had her blanket and her spot on the back of the couch. She rolled over to get a tummy brushing with her brush. She would sit a spell on the screened-in-porch watching the local critters and spent the remainder of her time eating, getting fat, snoozing, and watching the other two cats play. She'd play, but it would use up so much energy and well...
Shelby's life became very different from when she was in the shelter; she stepped out of that corner, cried out in fear, and found peace. She went from homeless and hidden − to her blanket, spot, brush, and abundant abiding.
Maybe today you're where Shelby was back then. Step out when you hear His voice. He already knows your name, your circumstances, your need, and He has your desired haven prepared. How do I know this? Listen, "Then they cry out to the Lord in their trouble, and He brings them out of their distresses. He calms the storm, so the waves are still. Then they are glad because they are quiet, so He guides them to their desired haven." (Psalm 107:28-30)
Life will have storms; Jesus calms storms. The waves are going to roll; Jesus makes them still and quiet. He's our blanket, couch, and screened-in-porch. He is our home, our hiding place, and our desired haven.
Shelby talked in cat, but no doubt would agree with the Psalmist: "Oh that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! Let them exalt Him also in the assembly of the people, and praise Him in the company of the elders." (Vs. 31-32)
Perhaps He is guiding you to Calvary Baptist Church, where the Bible is taught, and disciples are made. Join our assembly and company of elders. This church is indeed a desired haven for those who want truly to know Jesus Christ and the abundant life He promises.
Right-Side Up
During the Apostle Paul’s second missionary trip, he and Silas traveled to Thessalonica. Paul first went into the synagogue as was his custom to reason with the Jews and demonstrate to them using the Scriptures that Jesus was indeed the Christ. The apostle said, flat out, “This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ.” (Acts 17:3) As a result, “some of them were persuaded; and a great multitude of the devout Greeks, and not a few of the leading women, joined Paul and Silas.” (v. 4)
Uh-oh! The Jews that were not persuaded got all riled up. They recruited a mob and attacked Jason’s house because they thought the missionaries were staying there. Paul and Silas weren’t there, but they dragged Jason and some of the brethren to the city rulers and cried out: “These who have turned the world upside down have come here too.” (Vs. 5-6)
Is that right? Is that what Paul and Silas were doing in Thessalonica? Were they turning the world upside down? Or were they turning the world right-side up? The world got turned upside down in Eden. It was there the ground was cursed and the cattle and every beast of the field. It was there the woman received pain in childbirth – a reminder of sin passing to the children instead of the blessings of Eden. There the woman and the man lost their intended harmony, trading it for contentions and self-will. There the man lost the ease to gather food from the trees and vine and gained sweat-soaked toil, thorns, thistles, and a return to the ground from which he came. It was there mankind exchanged walks with God in the cool of the day for self-determination and, therefore, separation. (Gen, from chp.3)
And there the Gospel was first made known: “And I (God) will put enmity between you (Satan) and the woman, and between your seed (Devil and his children – John 8:44; Eph 2:2-3) and her Seed (Christ); He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.” (Gen 3:15) Those in the woman’s Seed (God’s children – John 1:12-13; Rom 8:14-16) are enjoined to “overcome him (Satan) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…and have been given the ministry and word of reconciliation.” (Rev 12:11; 2 Cor 5:18-19) We are ambassadors for Christ (v. 20) called to engage with Him, represent Him, and cooperate with Him in the redemption of humanity and all of creation.
What an awesome calling! Herein is the abundant life, the adventurous life – not the accumulation of toys and trinkets and stuff and self-love – but instead being “workers together with Him” (2 Cor 6:1) turning this world right side up and declaring to the fields white for harvest, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (v. 2)
During the Apostle Paul’s second missionary trip, he and Silas traveled to Thessalonica. Paul first went into the synagogue as was his custom to reason with the Jews and demonstrate to them using the Scriptures that Jesus was indeed the Christ. The apostle said, flat out, “This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ.” (Acts 17:3) As a result, “some of them were persuaded; and a great multitude of the devout Greeks, and not a few of the leading women, joined Paul and Silas.” (v. 4)
Uh-oh! The Jews that were not persuaded got all riled up. They recruited a mob and attacked Jason’s house because they thought the missionaries were staying there. Paul and Silas weren’t there, but they dragged Jason and some of the brethren to the city rulers and cried out: “These who have turned the world upside down have come here too.” (Vs. 5-6)
Is that right? Is that what Paul and Silas were doing in Thessalonica? Were they turning the world upside down? Or were they turning the world right-side up? The world got turned upside down in Eden. It was there the ground was cursed and the cattle and every beast of the field. It was there the woman received pain in childbirth – a reminder of sin passing to the children instead of the blessings of Eden. There the woman and the man lost their intended harmony, trading it for contentions and self-will. There the man lost the ease to gather food from the trees and vine and gained sweat-soaked toil, thorns, thistles, and a return to the ground from which he came. It was there mankind exchanged walks with God in the cool of the day for self-determination and, therefore, separation. (Gen, from chp.3)
And there the Gospel was first made known: “And I (God) will put enmity between you (Satan) and the woman, and between your seed (Devil and his children – John 8:44; Eph 2:2-3) and her Seed (Christ); He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.” (Gen 3:15) Those in the woman’s Seed (God’s children – John 1:12-13; Rom 8:14-16) are enjoined to “overcome him (Satan) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…and have been given the ministry and word of reconciliation.” (Rev 12:11; 2 Cor 5:18-19) We are ambassadors for Christ (v. 20) called to engage with Him, represent Him, and cooperate with Him in the redemption of humanity and all of creation.
What an awesome calling! Herein is the abundant life, the adventurous life – not the accumulation of toys and trinkets and stuff and self-love – but instead being “workers together with Him” (2 Cor 6:1) turning this world right side up and declaring to the fields white for harvest, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (v. 2)
Fishers of Men
And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking…When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!” And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” (Luke 5:6, 8, 10)
I have two fish stories for you, the first when I visited relatives in Michigan many moons ago. They put a pole in my young hands and sat me at the end of their dock. I caught nothing and got bored. I sauntered up the dock near the shore. Looking into the shallow water, I saw a school of fish. I dropped my line in and quickly hooked one, then a second. It made no difference to me; they were just sunfish. It didn’t take them long to get wise to my expertise and then yawn.
My friends and I got permission from a neighbor to fish in their pond. I put a worm on my hook, cast into the water, and bam, got a hit, and that fast I held up - a sunfish. No one, including me, could believe how quick I hooked that fish. I didn’t catch another fish for the rest of the day. My fishing career ended with a lifetime total of three sunfish.
Three sunfish caught and how many men? A lifetime total, Master, of three sunfish, and even then, I threw them back into the water. I fed no one. I led no one. Heaven forbid I give such a report of nothing gained to the One who gained everything for me!
Are you saved? Have you realized you are a helpless sinner and then by faith believed in Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection on your behalf? Have you experienced “the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit… having been justified by His grace becoming heirs according to the hope of eternal life?” (Titus 3:5, 7) Wonderful! Henceforth thou shalt catch men. Caught any? Or are you too afraid? Or are you too busy? Or are you too indifferent? Or are you too satisfied with “my” salvation?
“The Son of Man has come to seek and save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10) Has not His purpose become ours?
“Come ye after Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Mark 1:17 KJV) Has not His commission been given to us?
“Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter.” (Prov 24:11) Has not His desire that none perish make us go to those who still need salvation?
We need to reach out and help the lost and dying be found and live. And in so doing, share in the Apostle Paul’s abundant joy when he said of those to whom he reached for Christ: “For what is our hope, or joy or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For you are our glory and joy.” (1 Thess 2:19-20)
And that - is worth a whole lot more than three sunfish!
And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking…When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!” And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” (Luke 5:6, 8, 10)
I have two fish stories for you, the first when I visited relatives in Michigan many moons ago. They put a pole in my young hands and sat me at the end of their dock. I caught nothing and got bored. I sauntered up the dock near the shore. Looking into the shallow water, I saw a school of fish. I dropped my line in and quickly hooked one, then a second. It made no difference to me; they were just sunfish. It didn’t take them long to get wise to my expertise and then yawn.
My friends and I got permission from a neighbor to fish in their pond. I put a worm on my hook, cast into the water, and bam, got a hit, and that fast I held up - a sunfish. No one, including me, could believe how quick I hooked that fish. I didn’t catch another fish for the rest of the day. My fishing career ended with a lifetime total of three sunfish.
Three sunfish caught and how many men? A lifetime total, Master, of three sunfish, and even then, I threw them back into the water. I fed no one. I led no one. Heaven forbid I give such a report of nothing gained to the One who gained everything for me!
Are you saved? Have you realized you are a helpless sinner and then by faith believed in Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection on your behalf? Have you experienced “the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit… having been justified by His grace becoming heirs according to the hope of eternal life?” (Titus 3:5, 7) Wonderful! Henceforth thou shalt catch men. Caught any? Or are you too afraid? Or are you too busy? Or are you too indifferent? Or are you too satisfied with “my” salvation?
“The Son of Man has come to seek and save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10) Has not His purpose become ours?
“Come ye after Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Mark 1:17 KJV) Has not His commission been given to us?
“Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter.” (Prov 24:11) Has not His desire that none perish make us go to those who still need salvation?
We need to reach out and help the lost and dying be found and live. And in so doing, share in the Apostle Paul’s abundant joy when he said of those to whom he reached for Christ: “For what is our hope, or joy or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For you are our glory and joy.” (1 Thess 2:19-20)
And that - is worth a whole lot more than three sunfish!
This is the Day
The religious leaders of Israel rejected Jesus and His claim that He was the Messiah. They accused Him of blasphemy and desired to stone Him according to the law, “because You, being a Man, make Yourself God.” (John 10:33) When they could not immediately kill Him, “the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take Him by trickery and put Him to death.” (Mark 14:1) They brought Him before Pilate, the governor of Judea, and he found no fault in Him, saying, “nothing deserving of death has been done by Him.” (Luke 23:14) However, because of the fear of the people, Pilate pardoned Barabbas, a murderer, and handed Jesus over to be crucified. Jesus was crucified at the third hour (9 am). At approximately the ninth hour (3 pm), Jesus cried out with a loud voice and yielded up His spirit.
In Matthew 21, Jesus told a parable about a landowner who owned a vineyard and leased it to vinedressers. At harvest, the landowner sent his servants to receive his produce. The vinedressers killed his servants. The landowner then sent his son, believing they would respect him. But they killed him as well. Jesus related this to the religious leaders of Israel. They had rejected over many years the prophets of God, and now they were about to kill His Son.
In killing God’s Son, the religious leaders of Israel fulfilled the predestined plan of God. They were rejecting the very stone that would become the chief cornerstone. When Peter addressed the rulers and elders of Israel, he explained that Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead…He is the stone which was rejected by you, the builders, but which became the very cornerstone. (Acts 4:10, 11) Israel’s rejection was prophesied, and it opened the door of salvation for the Gentiles. Paul addressed the issue this way, “But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles.” (Rom 11:1) “For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.” (Rom 10:12, 13)
This is the day of which Psalm 118 speaks; when Jesus Christ was crucified and then rose from the dead, becoming the chief cornerstone. “This was the Lord’s doing; It is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day which the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)
The religious leaders of Israel rejected Jesus and His claim that He was the Messiah. They accused Him of blasphemy and desired to stone Him according to the law, “because You, being a Man, make Yourself God.” (John 10:33) When they could not immediately kill Him, “the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take Him by trickery and put Him to death.” (Mark 14:1) They brought Him before Pilate, the governor of Judea, and he found no fault in Him, saying, “nothing deserving of death has been done by Him.” (Luke 23:14) However, because of the fear of the people, Pilate pardoned Barabbas, a murderer, and handed Jesus over to be crucified. Jesus was crucified at the third hour (9 am). At approximately the ninth hour (3 pm), Jesus cried out with a loud voice and yielded up His spirit.
In Matthew 21, Jesus told a parable about a landowner who owned a vineyard and leased it to vinedressers. At harvest, the landowner sent his servants to receive his produce. The vinedressers killed his servants. The landowner then sent his son, believing they would respect him. But they killed him as well. Jesus related this to the religious leaders of Israel. They had rejected over many years the prophets of God, and now they were about to kill His Son.
In killing God’s Son, the religious leaders of Israel fulfilled the predestined plan of God. They were rejecting the very stone that would become the chief cornerstone. When Peter addressed the rulers and elders of Israel, he explained that Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead…He is the stone which was rejected by you, the builders, but which became the very cornerstone. (Acts 4:10, 11) Israel’s rejection was prophesied, and it opened the door of salvation for the Gentiles. Paul addressed the issue this way, “But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles.” (Rom 11:1) “For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.” (Rom 10:12, 13)
This is the day of which Psalm 118 speaks; when Jesus Christ was crucified and then rose from the dead, becoming the chief cornerstone. “This was the Lord’s doing; It is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day which the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)
The Man I Want To Be
Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments. His descendants will be mighty on earth; the generation of the upright will be blessed.” (Psalm 112:1-2)
The man was speaking of his father: “I worked with him every summer when I was young. After graduating from high school, I joined him full time on his delivery truck. Occasionally, my father had to deal with very difficult people, but he always responded with gentleness and kindness. He handled stressful situations with calm, trusting faith in the Lord. He was a fair and generous man. I have tried to live the same way, and pray my children will be blessed by my life, as I was my father’s.”
Listening to his testimony, I thought, “He’s describing the man in the 112th Psalm.” A man of influence and honor, whose life and deeds will never be forgotten, a man whose Godly example will pass down through the generations, providing a rich heritage for those who follow: a faithful, obedient, merciful man, who shines like a light in the darkness. He trusts in God’s protection and provision remaining calm in the storms of life. He is given to good deeds, a man whose righteousness endures forever. Praise the Lord for such a man!
I’m quite familiar with this uplifting Psalm. Many years ago, I fell from my agnostic perch like a burned-out star falling from the heavens. I crashed into the realization that I was an empty soul without a measure of integrity. Though I had nothing to give, I gave myself to Christ, trusting His promise to make something of my life. He began leading me upward on the path of righteousness, and we stopped to read the 112th Psalm. My heart, my whole being, soared within – “Lord, that’s the man I want to be!”
I am not the man in the 112th Psalm. I’m more like somewhere around “the chief of sinners.” But, the Apostle Paul says, “…He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6) Our strength is wholly insufficient to produce the fruit of the Spirit, which we need to live a Godly life. The believer’s Christ-likeness aspirations will never be realized and manifested apart from Him. (John 15:1-11)
No matter your age, gender, or place on the Godly path, read Psalm 112 and fill your heart and mind with its message of hope and encouragement. And remember this, “Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 3:2-3)
The man in the 112th Psalm is the man I want to be!
Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments. His descendants will be mighty on earth; the generation of the upright will be blessed.” (Psalm 112:1-2)
The man was speaking of his father: “I worked with him every summer when I was young. After graduating from high school, I joined him full time on his delivery truck. Occasionally, my father had to deal with very difficult people, but he always responded with gentleness and kindness. He handled stressful situations with calm, trusting faith in the Lord. He was a fair and generous man. I have tried to live the same way, and pray my children will be blessed by my life, as I was my father’s.”
Listening to his testimony, I thought, “He’s describing the man in the 112th Psalm.” A man of influence and honor, whose life and deeds will never be forgotten, a man whose Godly example will pass down through the generations, providing a rich heritage for those who follow: a faithful, obedient, merciful man, who shines like a light in the darkness. He trusts in God’s protection and provision remaining calm in the storms of life. He is given to good deeds, a man whose righteousness endures forever. Praise the Lord for such a man!
I’m quite familiar with this uplifting Psalm. Many years ago, I fell from my agnostic perch like a burned-out star falling from the heavens. I crashed into the realization that I was an empty soul without a measure of integrity. Though I had nothing to give, I gave myself to Christ, trusting His promise to make something of my life. He began leading me upward on the path of righteousness, and we stopped to read the 112th Psalm. My heart, my whole being, soared within – “Lord, that’s the man I want to be!”
I am not the man in the 112th Psalm. I’m more like somewhere around “the chief of sinners.” But, the Apostle Paul says, “…He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6) Our strength is wholly insufficient to produce the fruit of the Spirit, which we need to live a Godly life. The believer’s Christ-likeness aspirations will never be realized and manifested apart from Him. (John 15:1-11)
No matter your age, gender, or place on the Godly path, read Psalm 112 and fill your heart and mind with its message of hope and encouragement. And remember this, “Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 3:2-3)
The man in the 112th Psalm is the man I want to be!
Miracles, Signs, and Wonders – Part 2
Jesus’ and the apostles’ ministry were attested to by signs, wonders, and miracles; the Scripture cautioned His followers not to be deceived. Jesus warned that “…false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” (Matt 24:24)
He cautioned His followers against false prophets who would come in sheep’s clothing, but inside they were ravenous wolves. (Matt 7:15) They would give every appearance as a follower and prophet of God. Some would even prophesy in His name. Some would cast out demons. Others will have performed miracles. But Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord shall enter the kingdom of heaven...” Even many who did seemingly supernatural things in His name will not enter because He never knew them. (Matt 7:21-23)
In the book of Revelation, the apostle John wrote, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon.” (Rev 13:11) This beast is identified as the false prophet (Rev 16:13) and becomes a spokesman for Antichrist. He has the appearance of a lamb - gentle, docile, and non-threatening. However, in his speech, he will speak spiritual lies and lead people away from the true shepherd, Jesus Christ. The Bible says that “He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.” (Rev 13:13) This is suggestive of the prophet Elijah when God brought fire down upon his sacrifice in the view of the false prophets of Baal. (1 Kings 18:20-40) However, in this case, it appears that the false prophet can do what a true prophet of God did. For this reason, the false prophet “deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast…” (Rev 13:14)
The last sign mentioned in Scripture is the sign of the Son of Man. “Then the sign of the Son of man will appear in heaven and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory…” (Matt 24:30)
In contrast to the star in the sky announcing His first coming, Jesus said that His second coming shall be compared to lightning flashing from the east to the west. (Matt 24:27) When He comes the second time, He, Himself, is the sign declaring the spiritual truth predicted throughout the Scriptures that he would return and set up His kingdom on the earth.
In part 1 of this series, it was demonstrated that signs, wonders, and miracles confirmed that Jesus was fully Divine and that He was Israel’s Messiah. Furthermore, after His ascension into heaven, powers were given to the apostles to distinguish them from false apostles and to confirm that the message of the true apostles came from God.
The church is being built upon the foundation of the apostles and Old Testament prophets. (Eph 2:19, 20) For this reason, there is no longer any need for miracles, signs, and wonders to confirm the message from a self- proclaimed prophet of God. As New Testament believers, we have the completed canon of Scripture with which to compare the teaching of any person who claims to be speaking for God. (Acts 17:11; 2 Peter 1:19-21) Therefore, once these powers served their intended purpose, the New Testament warns of false signs and lying wonders so that people are not deceived and directed away from the true Messiah, Jesus.
Jesus’ and the apostles’ ministry were attested to by signs, wonders, and miracles; the Scripture cautioned His followers not to be deceived. Jesus warned that “…false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” (Matt 24:24)
He cautioned His followers against false prophets who would come in sheep’s clothing, but inside they were ravenous wolves. (Matt 7:15) They would give every appearance as a follower and prophet of God. Some would even prophesy in His name. Some would cast out demons. Others will have performed miracles. But Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord shall enter the kingdom of heaven...” Even many who did seemingly supernatural things in His name will not enter because He never knew them. (Matt 7:21-23)
In the book of Revelation, the apostle John wrote, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon.” (Rev 13:11) This beast is identified as the false prophet (Rev 16:13) and becomes a spokesman for Antichrist. He has the appearance of a lamb - gentle, docile, and non-threatening. However, in his speech, he will speak spiritual lies and lead people away from the true shepherd, Jesus Christ. The Bible says that “He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.” (Rev 13:13) This is suggestive of the prophet Elijah when God brought fire down upon his sacrifice in the view of the false prophets of Baal. (1 Kings 18:20-40) However, in this case, it appears that the false prophet can do what a true prophet of God did. For this reason, the false prophet “deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast…” (Rev 13:14)
The last sign mentioned in Scripture is the sign of the Son of Man. “Then the sign of the Son of man will appear in heaven and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory…” (Matt 24:30)
In contrast to the star in the sky announcing His first coming, Jesus said that His second coming shall be compared to lightning flashing from the east to the west. (Matt 24:27) When He comes the second time, He, Himself, is the sign declaring the spiritual truth predicted throughout the Scriptures that he would return and set up His kingdom on the earth.
In part 1 of this series, it was demonstrated that signs, wonders, and miracles confirmed that Jesus was fully Divine and that He was Israel’s Messiah. Furthermore, after His ascension into heaven, powers were given to the apostles to distinguish them from false apostles and to confirm that the message of the true apostles came from God.
The church is being built upon the foundation of the apostles and Old Testament prophets. (Eph 2:19, 20) For this reason, there is no longer any need for miracles, signs, and wonders to confirm the message from a self- proclaimed prophet of God. As New Testament believers, we have the completed canon of Scripture with which to compare the teaching of any person who claims to be speaking for God. (Acts 17:11; 2 Peter 1:19-21) Therefore, once these powers served their intended purpose, the New Testament warns of false signs and lying wonders so that people are not deceived and directed away from the true Messiah, Jesus.
Miracles, Signs, and Wonders – Part 1
In the first-century church, there was an increase in supernatural works. They fell into three major categories: 1) miracles (dunamis, Gk.) or literally “works of power”; 2) wonders (teras, Gk.) in the sense of phenomena which compel one’s attention or cause one to “look again”; and 3) signs (semeion, Gk.) which may or may not always be supernatural like the first two. They are “signs” in the sense of being comparable to prophecies or spiritual truths. Semeion stresses the spiritual truth embodied in the miracle. (John 20:30, 31).
Jesus performed His first sign at a wedding in Cana when He changed water into wine. He then moved onto Capernaum where he healed the centurion’s servant who was paralyzed (Matt 8:5-13), cast out demons (Matt 8:16-17), stilled the sea (Matt 8:23-27), and restored life to the daughter of a ruler (Matt 9:18-25). He gave sight to the blind, hearing to the deaf (Mark 7:35), and fed five thousand from five loaves of bread and two fish (Mark 6:39-45). Therefore, when Peter addressed the men of Israel during Pentecost, he proclaimed concerning Jesus, “Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know…” (Acts 2:22)
The miracles, signs, and wonders demonstrated at least four things. First of all, they confirmed His claim that He was Israel’s promised Messiah. John the Baptist, while imprisoned, sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he was the Expected One. Jesus simply replied by referring to Old Testament prophecy, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: The blind see and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them.” (Matt 11:4, 5 and Isaiah 35:5, 6 and 61:1) {The raising of the dead was not prophesied of the Messiah in the O.T.} Jesus reasoned that He is the Messiah since He is doing the things that are characteristic of the future Messianic Kingdom prophesied in the Old Testament Scriptures.
Secondly, they confirmed His Deity, that he is the Son of God. Jesus told the unbelieving Jews, “If I do not the works of My Father, do not believe Me; but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him.” (John 10:38) The miraculous should have convinced them that Jesus was who He claimed to be.
Thirdly, since these signs and wonders demonstrated that He was the Messiah and God in the flesh, then what He had to say was true. “Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, ‘If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.’” (John 8:31, 32)
Lastly, they were done to encourage faith in Him. “And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:30, 31)
The signs, miracles, and wonders did not stop after Jesus ascended into heaven. These powers were passed on to His Apostles when the Holy Spirit came upon them on the day of Pentecost. This began when they spoke in tongues (known languages) as they were filled with the Holy Spirit. The Scriptures record that “many wonders and signs were done through the apostles.” (Acts 2:43) The purpose of these powers, which the apostles demonstrated, was evidence that the Lord was working with them and confirmed that the words, which they were speaking, came from God. (Mark 16:20; Heb 2:3, 4) It was also a way for the people to identify a true apostle (2 Cor 12:12) since there were those claiming to be apostles, but were not. (2 Cor 11:13) Because an apostle was one who went in and out with Jesus from the beginning of His ministry and also witnessed His resurrection (Acts 1:20, 21), it thus can be concluded that the signs, wonders, and miracles ceased with the death of the last apostle.
In the first-century church, there was an increase in supernatural works. They fell into three major categories: 1) miracles (dunamis, Gk.) or literally “works of power”; 2) wonders (teras, Gk.) in the sense of phenomena which compel one’s attention or cause one to “look again”; and 3) signs (semeion, Gk.) which may or may not always be supernatural like the first two. They are “signs” in the sense of being comparable to prophecies or spiritual truths. Semeion stresses the spiritual truth embodied in the miracle. (John 20:30, 31).
Jesus performed His first sign at a wedding in Cana when He changed water into wine. He then moved onto Capernaum where he healed the centurion’s servant who was paralyzed (Matt 8:5-13), cast out demons (Matt 8:16-17), stilled the sea (Matt 8:23-27), and restored life to the daughter of a ruler (Matt 9:18-25). He gave sight to the blind, hearing to the deaf (Mark 7:35), and fed five thousand from five loaves of bread and two fish (Mark 6:39-45). Therefore, when Peter addressed the men of Israel during Pentecost, he proclaimed concerning Jesus, “Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know…” (Acts 2:22)
The miracles, signs, and wonders demonstrated at least four things. First of all, they confirmed His claim that He was Israel’s promised Messiah. John the Baptist, while imprisoned, sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he was the Expected One. Jesus simply replied by referring to Old Testament prophecy, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: The blind see and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them.” (Matt 11:4, 5 and Isaiah 35:5, 6 and 61:1) {The raising of the dead was not prophesied of the Messiah in the O.T.} Jesus reasoned that He is the Messiah since He is doing the things that are characteristic of the future Messianic Kingdom prophesied in the Old Testament Scriptures.
Secondly, they confirmed His Deity, that he is the Son of God. Jesus told the unbelieving Jews, “If I do not the works of My Father, do not believe Me; but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him.” (John 10:38) The miraculous should have convinced them that Jesus was who He claimed to be.
Thirdly, since these signs and wonders demonstrated that He was the Messiah and God in the flesh, then what He had to say was true. “Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, ‘If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.’” (John 8:31, 32)
Lastly, they were done to encourage faith in Him. “And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:30, 31)
The signs, miracles, and wonders did not stop after Jesus ascended into heaven. These powers were passed on to His Apostles when the Holy Spirit came upon them on the day of Pentecost. This began when they spoke in tongues (known languages) as they were filled with the Holy Spirit. The Scriptures record that “many wonders and signs were done through the apostles.” (Acts 2:43) The purpose of these powers, which the apostles demonstrated, was evidence that the Lord was working with them and confirmed that the words, which they were speaking, came from God. (Mark 16:20; Heb 2:3, 4) It was also a way for the people to identify a true apostle (2 Cor 12:12) since there were those claiming to be apostles, but were not. (2 Cor 11:13) Because an apostle was one who went in and out with Jesus from the beginning of His ministry and also witnessed His resurrection (Acts 1:20, 21), it thus can be concluded that the signs, wonders, and miracles ceased with the death of the last apostle.
Discovered
“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)
A few years back, came the announcement of a previously undiscovered massive cave in Vietnam. The country of Vietnam is known for some of the world’s most amazing caves. This cave called Hang Son Doong is large enough to hold a block of New York City skyscrapers and has its own river, jungle, and clouds. At least that is what explorers know so far as the end of this particular underground world remains to be seen.
Perhaps the biggest marvel in these kinds of discoveries is that they have gone so long unknown to the world. Mankind has run all about the planet, and there doesn’t seem to be a whole lot that hasn’t been found. But in fact, there is much left to be discovered in many different areas of science, health, the humanities, and so on. Even as important as all these are, they are dwarfed by our need to discover evermore, the great heart and love of God.
How do we come to find such things of God? The willingness to explore opens the door. We can begin by observing the marvels and design and realities of the Creation. These speak in a voluminous roar of His greatness and love. We can continue by unfolding the Map (The Bible), which details His plans and purposes in the greatest love story ever told. We can invite the Guide (The Holy Spirit) to lead us on, further and still further into the vastness of His uncontainable love. (See Rom 8:31-39)
The Bible says of all these mysteries and revelations - “God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” (1 Cor 2:10-12) We need what God has given us to discover what He wants to reveal to us.
Hang Son Doong, as spectacular as it may be, is just a small parable of how much there is that can be known of God, and how much more there is to be discovered. And another exciting aspect for you and me is that with our heart and life offered up to Him, how much more He can make Himself known to us, in us, and through us. Our influence on our world could be much larger than that cave. That puts us smack dab in the middle of a great adventure, but do we realize that?
The Apostle Paul prays thusly: “For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height - to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge: that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:14-19) ……………Have you discovered the great heart and love of God?
“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)
A few years back, came the announcement of a previously undiscovered massive cave in Vietnam. The country of Vietnam is known for some of the world’s most amazing caves. This cave called Hang Son Doong is large enough to hold a block of New York City skyscrapers and has its own river, jungle, and clouds. At least that is what explorers know so far as the end of this particular underground world remains to be seen.
Perhaps the biggest marvel in these kinds of discoveries is that they have gone so long unknown to the world. Mankind has run all about the planet, and there doesn’t seem to be a whole lot that hasn’t been found. But in fact, there is much left to be discovered in many different areas of science, health, the humanities, and so on. Even as important as all these are, they are dwarfed by our need to discover evermore, the great heart and love of God.
How do we come to find such things of God? The willingness to explore opens the door. We can begin by observing the marvels and design and realities of the Creation. These speak in a voluminous roar of His greatness and love. We can continue by unfolding the Map (The Bible), which details His plans and purposes in the greatest love story ever told. We can invite the Guide (The Holy Spirit) to lead us on, further and still further into the vastness of His uncontainable love. (See Rom 8:31-39)
The Bible says of all these mysteries and revelations - “God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” (1 Cor 2:10-12) We need what God has given us to discover what He wants to reveal to us.
Hang Son Doong, as spectacular as it may be, is just a small parable of how much there is that can be known of God, and how much more there is to be discovered. And another exciting aspect for you and me is that with our heart and life offered up to Him, how much more He can make Himself known to us, in us, and through us. Our influence on our world could be much larger than that cave. That puts us smack dab in the middle of a great adventure, but do we realize that?
The Apostle Paul prays thusly: “For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height - to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge: that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:14-19) ……………Have you discovered the great heart and love of God?
Daily Load
Have you ever felt like the donkey in this picture? When you read the title of this blog, what first comes to mind? Probably most of us would respond in the same way: “I think of all the stuff in this life that I have to carry around every day.” Most would agree that this world sure is a burden maker. Sometimes it is hard to tell whether we’re people or burros? But this blog isn’t about what the world loads on us, but instead what God loads us with.
The Psalmist declares, “Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits, the God of our salvation! Our God is the God of salvation; and to God the Lord belong escapes from death.” (Psalm 68:19, 20) How often do we consider the daily benefits loaded on us? Sure, there is food and water and clothing and shelter and all the necessaries for living, and when we’re not taking such things for granted, we acknowledge the provisions of God. We watch all of life’s ominous storm clouds boiling around us and cry out in silent prayer, and once they pass, we thank God for His protection. But there is so much more He dispenses every day!
His mercy and compassion and great faithfulness are new every morning. (Lam 3:22, 23) Yes indeed, He is “rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,” and He gives us “exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” (Eph 2:4, 7) God brings peace to us, “for He Himself is our peace.” (Eph 2:14-18) Each day proclaims the beautiful reality that “in Him we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17:28) He brings us hope and is “our hope.” (1 Tim 1:1) He will even carry our stuff, for He cares for us. (See I Pet 5:7; Matt 11:25-30) And above all - Our God is the God of salvation!
These great blessings and benefits and so much more are piled on us every day. But we tend to lose sight of this amid our burro imitations. Maybe this little epistle will help remind us to bless the Lord - who daily loads us with benefits.
Have you ever felt like the donkey in this picture? When you read the title of this blog, what first comes to mind? Probably most of us would respond in the same way: “I think of all the stuff in this life that I have to carry around every day.” Most would agree that this world sure is a burden maker. Sometimes it is hard to tell whether we’re people or burros? But this blog isn’t about what the world loads on us, but instead what God loads us with.
The Psalmist declares, “Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits, the God of our salvation! Our God is the God of salvation; and to God the Lord belong escapes from death.” (Psalm 68:19, 20) How often do we consider the daily benefits loaded on us? Sure, there is food and water and clothing and shelter and all the necessaries for living, and when we’re not taking such things for granted, we acknowledge the provisions of God. We watch all of life’s ominous storm clouds boiling around us and cry out in silent prayer, and once they pass, we thank God for His protection. But there is so much more He dispenses every day!
His mercy and compassion and great faithfulness are new every morning. (Lam 3:22, 23) Yes indeed, He is “rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,” and He gives us “exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” (Eph 2:4, 7) God brings peace to us, “for He Himself is our peace.” (Eph 2:14-18) Each day proclaims the beautiful reality that “in Him we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17:28) He brings us hope and is “our hope.” (1 Tim 1:1) He will even carry our stuff, for He cares for us. (See I Pet 5:7; Matt 11:25-30) And above all - Our God is the God of salvation!
These great blessings and benefits and so much more are piled on us every day. But we tend to lose sight of this amid our burro imitations. Maybe this little epistle will help remind us to bless the Lord - who daily loads us with benefits.
Do Babies Go to Heaven if They Die?
Have you ever wondered, even struggled with this question? Let's take a real look at this issue, and I know we will all be blessed and comforted in doing so.
(1) Romans 1:18-20 Man is held accountable for their unbelief when they fail to respond to God's general revelation of creation… "They are without excuse." The implication is that at some point early in life, they had an excuse. They could not cognitively recognize the truth of God as Creator.
(2) David fasted and wept for the child while he was alive. However, when the child dies, he responded, "Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me." (2 Sam 12:23) David did not exhibit the same behavior when his son Absalom was killed. He wept and stated, "O my son Absalom – my son, my son Absalom – if only I had died in your place!" Why the difference in response? David believed in life after death – Psalm 23:6 – "And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Was it possible that he knew he would see the young child again, but not wicked Absalom?
(3) Abijah, the son of Jeroboam, the king, became sick. The king sent his wife to Ahijah, the prophet, to see what would become of his son. The prophet tells her that he will die when she enters the city. Yet the prophet tells her, "And all Israel will mourn for him…for he is the only one of Jeroboam who shall be buried, because in him there is found something good toward the Lord God of Israel in the house of Jeroboam." (1 Kings 14:13)
(4) Moses in retelling Israel their recent history and failure to obey God which kept them out of the Promised Land – Yet their descendants would go in – "your little ones and your children, who you say will be victims, who today have no knowledge of good and evil, they shall go in there…" (Duet 1:39) If they have no knowledge of good and evil, can they be held accountable? Apparently, not, for God is permitting them to enter the Promised Land.
(5) Furthermore, only those 20 years old and older would die in the wilderness. Those younger were not held accountable. Why were not all of them held responsible? (Num 14:29)
(6) Job lamented, "Why did I not die at birth? Why did I not perish when I came from the womb?"…Then I would have been at rest." (Job 3:11, 13) He also believed in resurrection – "For I know My Redeemer lives, and after my skin is destroyed this I know that in my flesh I shall see God." (Job 19:25, 26) Doesn't it seem like either way he believed he was assured of eternity with God? If he believed that infants go to hell, would he have said that he wished that he died at birth? He described the place that stillborn children go in Job 3:16-19. "The wicked cease from troubling, and there the weary are at rest. …The small and the great are there…" Doesn't it sound like a place of peace – heaven?
(7) Ezekiel 16:21 Jerusalem's harlotry was that they were sacrificing their children to pagan gods. The Lord indicts them, "you have slain My children and offered them up…" He doesn't say your children. Is He not implying at least that they are His until they can consciously oppose His way?
(8) Isaiah 7:16, "For before the Child shall know to refuse evil and choose good…" Doesn't that imply that small children are unable to make moral choices?
(9) Duet 24:16 "…nor shall children be put to death for their father's; a person shall be put to death for his own sin." Children of wicked parents have a good chance of turning out wicked themselves. But if the child dies as an infant, he will not be punished for the father's sin.
(10) Ezekiel 18:23 "Do I have any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? says the Lord God, and not that he should turn from his ways and live?" How does an infant or a little child turn from their wicked ways?
(11) Jesus' ministry began with Him preaching repentance to the nation of Israel. "Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matt 4:17) But later in His ministry, at the most three years, then, when they brought infants to Him He said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for such is the kingdom of heaven." (Luke 18:15, 16) "And He took them up in His arms, laid hands on them, and blessed them." (Mark 10:16) Did they repent?
(12) Jesus said, "…you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins." (John 8:24) What about the infants in Luke 18:15. Could they understand who He is?
(13) Jesus never seemed too concerned about little children as far as warning them. He said …for of such (little children) is the kingdom of God. (Luke 18:16) Interestingly, Jesus did not differentiate by saying believing children. In the only accounts in Scripture, He received them openly and blessed them—something He never did of adult pagans.
(14) Judgment would come upon Israel because they forsook God…and have filled the place with "blood of the innocents." They have also built high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings to Baal…" (Jer 19:4) How is anyone innocent unless they're very young and have no awareness of moral choices before God?
(15) Under the Old Testament law, there was a sacrifice for unintentional sins. A female goat sacrifice was the necessary offering if committed by the common people. (Lev 4:27) Why was there no provisions for infants or young children?
(16) Under the Old Testament law, why didn't the parents need to offer a sacrifice for a child when it is born? An atoning sacrifice was necessary for the mother, but not the child. (Lev 12)
(17) Jesus said that men are condemned because they refuse to believe in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (John 3:18) How are infants or little ones capable of believing and understanding?
(18) The wrath of God abides on the one who does not believe. (John 3:36)
How can infants and very young children believe or not believe?
(19) People go to hell for actively sinning against God and rejecting the truth of the gospel. Babies and young children sin but do not knowingly sin against God or deny the truth of the gospel. That's why it says in Revelation 21:8 that it is the unbelieving that practice such acts that children cannot do who end up in the lake of fire.
(20) Are not children a heritage from the Lord and the fruit of the womb a reward? (Psalm 127:3) What if the child dies early or at birth? Losing the child is enough, but believing God will send him/her on to hell would be devastating, would it not? How is that a reward?
(21) The character of God and the nature of God. Psalm 145; 9 says that "the Lord is good to all…" If a baby dies a couple of days after childbirth and goes to hell for all eternity, where's the good in that? Certainly, an infant is included in 'all,' right? Or what about someone who is significantly mentally impaired? A mentally impaired person can live into adulthood. Can you imagine the pain being a Christian parent believing that he could never come to a cognitive understanding of who Jesus is and what He has done – knowing that he will die and go to hell for all eternity?
(22) Salvation comes by grace through faith. Must Faith be exercised in Christ for life to be received? Infants and young children do not have the capacity to exercise Faith? Will God hold them accountable for something that they are incapable of doing? Shall not the Judge of the earth do right?
(23) Luke 12:43 "Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. The parable goes on to say that the servant who knew what to do and doesn't do it receives greater condemnation. The servant who doesn't know his will, but commits acts worthy of punishment will receive a smaller degree of punishment. Again the illustration appropriately is showing servants, people who are old enough to commit acts and who are responsible for knowing or not knowing. Infants and young children do not fall into this category.
(24) I believe that all infants are born separated from God because of Adam's sin. I believe at some point in time, and only God knows that every person becomes responsible before Him for his sin. In other words, we sin knowingly and willfully. Infants and young children do not sin knowingly and willfully against God. Although they do sin, it is only apparent to us because, as adults, we can discern it. Under the Old Testament law, the high priest made atonement upon the altar once every year for the people of Israel. (Lev 16:24) The people would have included infants and young children. All the sacrifices pointed forward to Christ and covered sin up until that point. So wouldn't infants or young children who died be covered by that sacrifice until Christ, Who then would take away their sin? And if an infant or young child would be covered under the O.T. covenant, could not God apply the His blood similarly to those who could not understand because of age or mental capacity now – during the age of grace – those who could not consciously or knowingly accept or reject Him? Would that not fit with the character of God Who is "gracious and full of compassion, great in mercy, righteous in all His ways, Whose greatness is unsearchable, Who is good to all, Who blessed the little children; who is kind to the unloving and unthankful; Whose faithfulness reaches the clouds; Whose judgments are unsearchable and His ways past finding out? (Psalm 145; Mark 10:16; Luke 6:35; Psalm 36:5: Romans 11:36)
Have you ever wondered, even struggled with this question? Let's take a real look at this issue, and I know we will all be blessed and comforted in doing so.
(1) Romans 1:18-20 Man is held accountable for their unbelief when they fail to respond to God's general revelation of creation… "They are without excuse." The implication is that at some point early in life, they had an excuse. They could not cognitively recognize the truth of God as Creator.
(2) David fasted and wept for the child while he was alive. However, when the child dies, he responded, "Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me." (2 Sam 12:23) David did not exhibit the same behavior when his son Absalom was killed. He wept and stated, "O my son Absalom – my son, my son Absalom – if only I had died in your place!" Why the difference in response? David believed in life after death – Psalm 23:6 – "And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Was it possible that he knew he would see the young child again, but not wicked Absalom?
(3) Abijah, the son of Jeroboam, the king, became sick. The king sent his wife to Ahijah, the prophet, to see what would become of his son. The prophet tells her that he will die when she enters the city. Yet the prophet tells her, "And all Israel will mourn for him…for he is the only one of Jeroboam who shall be buried, because in him there is found something good toward the Lord God of Israel in the house of Jeroboam." (1 Kings 14:13)
(4) Moses in retelling Israel their recent history and failure to obey God which kept them out of the Promised Land – Yet their descendants would go in – "your little ones and your children, who you say will be victims, who today have no knowledge of good and evil, they shall go in there…" (Duet 1:39) If they have no knowledge of good and evil, can they be held accountable? Apparently, not, for God is permitting them to enter the Promised Land.
(5) Furthermore, only those 20 years old and older would die in the wilderness. Those younger were not held accountable. Why were not all of them held responsible? (Num 14:29)
(6) Job lamented, "Why did I not die at birth? Why did I not perish when I came from the womb?"…Then I would have been at rest." (Job 3:11, 13) He also believed in resurrection – "For I know My Redeemer lives, and after my skin is destroyed this I know that in my flesh I shall see God." (Job 19:25, 26) Doesn't it seem like either way he believed he was assured of eternity with God? If he believed that infants go to hell, would he have said that he wished that he died at birth? He described the place that stillborn children go in Job 3:16-19. "The wicked cease from troubling, and there the weary are at rest. …The small and the great are there…" Doesn't it sound like a place of peace – heaven?
(7) Ezekiel 16:21 Jerusalem's harlotry was that they were sacrificing their children to pagan gods. The Lord indicts them, "you have slain My children and offered them up…" He doesn't say your children. Is He not implying at least that they are His until they can consciously oppose His way?
(8) Isaiah 7:16, "For before the Child shall know to refuse evil and choose good…" Doesn't that imply that small children are unable to make moral choices?
(9) Duet 24:16 "…nor shall children be put to death for their father's; a person shall be put to death for his own sin." Children of wicked parents have a good chance of turning out wicked themselves. But if the child dies as an infant, he will not be punished for the father's sin.
(10) Ezekiel 18:23 "Do I have any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? says the Lord God, and not that he should turn from his ways and live?" How does an infant or a little child turn from their wicked ways?
(11) Jesus' ministry began with Him preaching repentance to the nation of Israel. "Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matt 4:17) But later in His ministry, at the most three years, then, when they brought infants to Him He said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for such is the kingdom of heaven." (Luke 18:15, 16) "And He took them up in His arms, laid hands on them, and blessed them." (Mark 10:16) Did they repent?
(12) Jesus said, "…you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins." (John 8:24) What about the infants in Luke 18:15. Could they understand who He is?
(13) Jesus never seemed too concerned about little children as far as warning them. He said …for of such (little children) is the kingdom of God. (Luke 18:16) Interestingly, Jesus did not differentiate by saying believing children. In the only accounts in Scripture, He received them openly and blessed them—something He never did of adult pagans.
(14) Judgment would come upon Israel because they forsook God…and have filled the place with "blood of the innocents." They have also built high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings to Baal…" (Jer 19:4) How is anyone innocent unless they're very young and have no awareness of moral choices before God?
(15) Under the Old Testament law, there was a sacrifice for unintentional sins. A female goat sacrifice was the necessary offering if committed by the common people. (Lev 4:27) Why was there no provisions for infants or young children?
(16) Under the Old Testament law, why didn't the parents need to offer a sacrifice for a child when it is born? An atoning sacrifice was necessary for the mother, but not the child. (Lev 12)
(17) Jesus said that men are condemned because they refuse to believe in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (John 3:18) How are infants or little ones capable of believing and understanding?
(18) The wrath of God abides on the one who does not believe. (John 3:36)
How can infants and very young children believe or not believe?
(19) People go to hell for actively sinning against God and rejecting the truth of the gospel. Babies and young children sin but do not knowingly sin against God or deny the truth of the gospel. That's why it says in Revelation 21:8 that it is the unbelieving that practice such acts that children cannot do who end up in the lake of fire.
(20) Are not children a heritage from the Lord and the fruit of the womb a reward? (Psalm 127:3) What if the child dies early or at birth? Losing the child is enough, but believing God will send him/her on to hell would be devastating, would it not? How is that a reward?
(21) The character of God and the nature of God. Psalm 145; 9 says that "the Lord is good to all…" If a baby dies a couple of days after childbirth and goes to hell for all eternity, where's the good in that? Certainly, an infant is included in 'all,' right? Or what about someone who is significantly mentally impaired? A mentally impaired person can live into adulthood. Can you imagine the pain being a Christian parent believing that he could never come to a cognitive understanding of who Jesus is and what He has done – knowing that he will die and go to hell for all eternity?
(22) Salvation comes by grace through faith. Must Faith be exercised in Christ for life to be received? Infants and young children do not have the capacity to exercise Faith? Will God hold them accountable for something that they are incapable of doing? Shall not the Judge of the earth do right?
(23) Luke 12:43 "Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. The parable goes on to say that the servant who knew what to do and doesn't do it receives greater condemnation. The servant who doesn't know his will, but commits acts worthy of punishment will receive a smaller degree of punishment. Again the illustration appropriately is showing servants, people who are old enough to commit acts and who are responsible for knowing or not knowing. Infants and young children do not fall into this category.
(24) I believe that all infants are born separated from God because of Adam's sin. I believe at some point in time, and only God knows that every person becomes responsible before Him for his sin. In other words, we sin knowingly and willfully. Infants and young children do not sin knowingly and willfully against God. Although they do sin, it is only apparent to us because, as adults, we can discern it. Under the Old Testament law, the high priest made atonement upon the altar once every year for the people of Israel. (Lev 16:24) The people would have included infants and young children. All the sacrifices pointed forward to Christ and covered sin up until that point. So wouldn't infants or young children who died be covered by that sacrifice until Christ, Who then would take away their sin? And if an infant or young child would be covered under the O.T. covenant, could not God apply the His blood similarly to those who could not understand because of age or mental capacity now – during the age of grace – those who could not consciously or knowingly accept or reject Him? Would that not fit with the character of God Who is "gracious and full of compassion, great in mercy, righteous in all His ways, Whose greatness is unsearchable, Who is good to all, Who blessed the little children; who is kind to the unloving and unthankful; Whose faithfulness reaches the clouds; Whose judgments are unsearchable and His ways past finding out? (Psalm 145; Mark 10:16; Luke 6:35; Psalm 36:5: Romans 11:36)
Redeem the Time
As I walked at a nearby park, I remembered a similar day several years ago walking with a friend. It was a day if I recall correctly, in the spring. A man on a motorcycle rode past us on the entrance road and promptly made a U-turn exiting the park. He was clearly on a joy ride on a beautiful spring day. As we continued to walk, about fifteen to twenty minutes later, a fire whistle began to blow in the distance. It wasn’t until a couple of days later that I learned that the man on the bike was involved in an accident and fatally injured only a few minutes after we had seen him.
All of us have had experiences such as this. It brings us into focus with our mortality – as the world might say, “Here today and gone tomorrow.” But we must be careful not to adopt the world’s philosophy about life.
The Scriptures are very clear that this life is brief. James describes it as a “vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.” (4:14) David asked of the Lord, “…make me to know my end, and what is the extent of my days, let me know how transient I am. Behold, Thou hast made my days as handbreadths, and my lifetime as nothing in Thy sight.” (Ps 39:4,5) And again in Psalm 144, David describes man’s days “like a mere breath; His days are like a passing shadow.”(v. 4)
Yet, in our brevity, the Lord expects us to do something of spiritual value and for eternity. Jesus did not save us so that we might live life for ourselves. He saved us so that we should serve Him in the newness of life. “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (Col 3:17) Whether you’re ministering, teaching, working, cooking, vacationing, etc. do it for the Lord. Serve Him by serving others in love. (Gal 5:13, 14) Not one of us knows the number of our days, and we could be in His presence sooner than we think.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)
As I walked at a nearby park, I remembered a similar day several years ago walking with a friend. It was a day if I recall correctly, in the spring. A man on a motorcycle rode past us on the entrance road and promptly made a U-turn exiting the park. He was clearly on a joy ride on a beautiful spring day. As we continued to walk, about fifteen to twenty minutes later, a fire whistle began to blow in the distance. It wasn’t until a couple of days later that I learned that the man on the bike was involved in an accident and fatally injured only a few minutes after we had seen him.
All of us have had experiences such as this. It brings us into focus with our mortality – as the world might say, “Here today and gone tomorrow.” But we must be careful not to adopt the world’s philosophy about life.
The Scriptures are very clear that this life is brief. James describes it as a “vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.” (4:14) David asked of the Lord, “…make me to know my end, and what is the extent of my days, let me know how transient I am. Behold, Thou hast made my days as handbreadths, and my lifetime as nothing in Thy sight.” (Ps 39:4,5) And again in Psalm 144, David describes man’s days “like a mere breath; His days are like a passing shadow.”(v. 4)
Yet, in our brevity, the Lord expects us to do something of spiritual value and for eternity. Jesus did not save us so that we might live life for ourselves. He saved us so that we should serve Him in the newness of life. “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (Col 3:17) Whether you’re ministering, teaching, working, cooking, vacationing, etc. do it for the Lord. Serve Him by serving others in love. (Gal 5:13, 14) Not one of us knows the number of our days, and we could be in His presence sooner than we think.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)
Remember Me
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:16-18)
Three prisoners sat chained in a gloomy, dank dungeon, waiting, waiting to die. I was there with them. So were you. Everyone ever born in this fallen world shared their shackles. One’s experience on his execution day would become our experience. The other two death-row inmates made choices on their execution day that would become our choices as well. Many centuries separate us from that dark jail cell, but not from those three convicts.
We know the name of one prisoner: Barabbas. The Bible says Barabbas was a “notorious prisoner.” He was a murderer, an insurrectionist, and a robber. Barabbas. Those words seem to fit him perfectly. He was notorious indeed. A Roman cross eagerly awaited him. The nails lay ready. The scourging whip was coiled. Barabbas was a dead man.
At dawn, Roman guards came and wordlessly led Barabbas from his cell. He felt little fear. So full of hatred and rebellion, he had scarce room for any other emotions. Suddenly, Barabbas was thrust before a mob. They screamed his name, “Barabbas! Barabbas! Give us Barabbas!” His chains were removed and cast aside. The Roman guards shoved him from the courtyard into the street. They left him there. He was free and unchained. Barabbas was alive.
How did this incredible thing happen? Someone else took Barabbas’ place. Someone else endured the scourging whip. Someone else screamed in pain as the spikes pierced his flesh. Someone else died a horrible death on that Roman cross. Barabbas lived. Jesus of Nazareth died: The righteous for the unrighteous. The holy for the unholy. The perfect for the flawed. The sinless for the sinful. For God so loved Barabbas, me, you, the world, that He gave His only begotten Son. That “notorious prisoner” represents all of humankind whom the Son came to save and set free by taking our penalty upon Himself.
God wove many fulfilled prophecies and word pictures into Calvary’s tapestry. Barabbas was painted into the picture of Christ dying a substitutionary death for humanity. The other two condemned men became illustrations of the world’s response to God’s offer of redemption and pardon. We meet them at Golgotha. “Then were two thieves crucified with Him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.” (Matt 27:28)
The gospels of Matthew and Mark tell us both of these criminals verbally abused Jesus along with the crowd. The Apostle Paul’s words ring so true: “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing…” (1 Cor 1:18) The Cross, foolish to the perishing, then, just as it is now. Even nailed to a cross, the rebelliousness of man railed in the face of God.
The Gospel of Luke, however, reveals a very significant event that took place on that horrific hill. Luke tells us one of the criminals continued to insult Jesus, “If thou be the Christ, save thyself and us.” (Luke 23:39 KJV) Save him from what? If Christ supernaturally released this man from his cross, how would he react? How long would it be until Rome was nailing him to another cross? This fellow knew he had a problem, but he didn’t understand it was a problem far more significant than his impending death. His real trouble was “…the unrighteous shall not inherit the Kingdom of God.” (1 Cor 6:9)
Luke continued, “But the other [criminal] answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And indeed we justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this man hath done nothing amiss.” (Luke 23: 40-41KJV) As death, fast approaches; this criminal came to realize the real problem. “I am a sinner. I am condemned and dead in my sinful state. My punishment of death is just. I have but one hope and only one hope.”
“And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy Kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily, I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.” (Vs. 42-43)
We are called to make the same decision as these two men. It is the decision that decides our eternal destiny. We are hanging on His right, and His left and God is waiting. Do we want to be reconciled to God or remain apart from Him? The first thief did not accept God’s pardon. It was foolishness to him. He did not believe in the name of the only begotten Son of God. His condemnation remained.
Then, “The Jews…besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. Then came the soldiers and brake the legs of the first…” (John 19:31-32), and the unrepentant criminal snarled and cursed as the soldiers smashed his legs. He could no longer push himself up to breathe. Darkness, even darker than that in which he lived his life, swallowed him and stilled his growling curses.
Then the soldiers came to the other criminal. He turned his head and fixed his eyes on the Lamb of God. His legs snapped from the heavy blows, and he gasped for air but found none. His mouth moved silently and formed his last words, “Remember me… remember me…remember…me…..” And he slipped away from that hellish hill into the Kingdom of God.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:16-18)
Three prisoners sat chained in a gloomy, dank dungeon, waiting, waiting to die. I was there with them. So were you. Everyone ever born in this fallen world shared their shackles. One’s experience on his execution day would become our experience. The other two death-row inmates made choices on their execution day that would become our choices as well. Many centuries separate us from that dark jail cell, but not from those three convicts.
We know the name of one prisoner: Barabbas. The Bible says Barabbas was a “notorious prisoner.” He was a murderer, an insurrectionist, and a robber. Barabbas. Those words seem to fit him perfectly. He was notorious indeed. A Roman cross eagerly awaited him. The nails lay ready. The scourging whip was coiled. Barabbas was a dead man.
At dawn, Roman guards came and wordlessly led Barabbas from his cell. He felt little fear. So full of hatred and rebellion, he had scarce room for any other emotions. Suddenly, Barabbas was thrust before a mob. They screamed his name, “Barabbas! Barabbas! Give us Barabbas!” His chains were removed and cast aside. The Roman guards shoved him from the courtyard into the street. They left him there. He was free and unchained. Barabbas was alive.
How did this incredible thing happen? Someone else took Barabbas’ place. Someone else endured the scourging whip. Someone else screamed in pain as the spikes pierced his flesh. Someone else died a horrible death on that Roman cross. Barabbas lived. Jesus of Nazareth died: The righteous for the unrighteous. The holy for the unholy. The perfect for the flawed. The sinless for the sinful. For God so loved Barabbas, me, you, the world, that He gave His only begotten Son. That “notorious prisoner” represents all of humankind whom the Son came to save and set free by taking our penalty upon Himself.
God wove many fulfilled prophecies and word pictures into Calvary’s tapestry. Barabbas was painted into the picture of Christ dying a substitutionary death for humanity. The other two condemned men became illustrations of the world’s response to God’s offer of redemption and pardon. We meet them at Golgotha. “Then were two thieves crucified with Him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.” (Matt 27:28)
The gospels of Matthew and Mark tell us both of these criminals verbally abused Jesus along with the crowd. The Apostle Paul’s words ring so true: “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing…” (1 Cor 1:18) The Cross, foolish to the perishing, then, just as it is now. Even nailed to a cross, the rebelliousness of man railed in the face of God.
The Gospel of Luke, however, reveals a very significant event that took place on that horrific hill. Luke tells us one of the criminals continued to insult Jesus, “If thou be the Christ, save thyself and us.” (Luke 23:39 KJV) Save him from what? If Christ supernaturally released this man from his cross, how would he react? How long would it be until Rome was nailing him to another cross? This fellow knew he had a problem, but he didn’t understand it was a problem far more significant than his impending death. His real trouble was “…the unrighteous shall not inherit the Kingdom of God.” (1 Cor 6:9)
Luke continued, “But the other [criminal] answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And indeed we justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this man hath done nothing amiss.” (Luke 23: 40-41KJV) As death, fast approaches; this criminal came to realize the real problem. “I am a sinner. I am condemned and dead in my sinful state. My punishment of death is just. I have but one hope and only one hope.”
“And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy Kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily, I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.” (Vs. 42-43)
We are called to make the same decision as these two men. It is the decision that decides our eternal destiny. We are hanging on His right, and His left and God is waiting. Do we want to be reconciled to God or remain apart from Him? The first thief did not accept God’s pardon. It was foolishness to him. He did not believe in the name of the only begotten Son of God. His condemnation remained.
Then, “The Jews…besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. Then came the soldiers and brake the legs of the first…” (John 19:31-32), and the unrepentant criminal snarled and cursed as the soldiers smashed his legs. He could no longer push himself up to breathe. Darkness, even darker than that in which he lived his life, swallowed him and stilled his growling curses.
Then the soldiers came to the other criminal. He turned his head and fixed his eyes on the Lamb of God. His legs snapped from the heavy blows, and he gasped for air but found none. His mouth moved silently and formed his last words, “Remember me… remember me…remember…me…..” And he slipped away from that hellish hill into the Kingdom of God.
Repentance: Is it for Believers? Part 4
What about believers? Should believers repent? Absolutely! It is the only way to
grow as a Christian.
There’s a story of a Christian man who had anger management issues. He was prone to outbursts of wrath when the situations of life didn’t go the way he anticipated. One particular Christmas, he took his family on an outing to cut down a Christmas tree. Well, nothing seemed to go right. The kids were disinterested and fighting, the tree turned out to be crooked, and it would just not stand perfectly straight after they brought it home. Being a perfectionist, he worked up quite a sweat on a twenty-degree day in December, trying to make that crooked tree stand straight. Finally, in total frustration, he chucked that tree out through the door and into the yard. He had for years condoned his outbursts because of his genealogy of hot-headed people that came before him. He reasoned that he could not escape the personality trait since it ran in the ‘family.’ In some ways, he reasoned that God had made him that way.
The young father needed to repent. He needed to change his mind that his outbursts were sinful and that he was responsible for them, not God. Outbursts of wrath are the works of the flesh. (Galatians 5:20) Secondly, he needed to confess that to the Lord. (1 John 1:9) Thirdly, he needed to understand that through the indwelling Spirit of God, he had all the power necessary to effect change in his life. Fourthly, as he by faith, learned to depend on the Spirit of God to transform him through the word of God, his actions began to change. The change is the intended result of repentance in a believer’s life so that one is being transformed into the image of Christ, and thus God is glorified. The change of action is the fruit of repentance. (Luke 3:8-14)
The apostle Paul had a concern that some in the Corinthian church had not repented. Although they had come to faith in Christ, he feared they were still practicing the same sinful lifestyle before they were saved. Since we can’t see a change of mind, the only proof of repentance is a change of action. (2 Corinthians 12:21) Either they chose not to or by ignorance failed to appropriate the power of the Spirit dwelling in them to help them overcome the power of sin in their life. This would only result in a barren and unfruitful life. (2 Peter 1:8) Furthermore, failing to repent will eventually bring discipline from the Lord, “for whom the Lord loves He chastens.” (Hebrews 12:5-11) Paul himself warned that he would not spare if he came to them again. (2 Corinthians 13:2)
It is clear from Scripture that whenever a believer takes a forward step in growing in Christ, it usually, if not always, begins with repentance of some kind. Know of anything in your life that needs to be changed for God’s glory? Repent! Then learn to cooperate with the Spirit of God through the word of God to produce the godly results, the fruit of repentance.
What about believers? Should believers repent? Absolutely! It is the only way to
grow as a Christian.
There’s a story of a Christian man who had anger management issues. He was prone to outbursts of wrath when the situations of life didn’t go the way he anticipated. One particular Christmas, he took his family on an outing to cut down a Christmas tree. Well, nothing seemed to go right. The kids were disinterested and fighting, the tree turned out to be crooked, and it would just not stand perfectly straight after they brought it home. Being a perfectionist, he worked up quite a sweat on a twenty-degree day in December, trying to make that crooked tree stand straight. Finally, in total frustration, he chucked that tree out through the door and into the yard. He had for years condoned his outbursts because of his genealogy of hot-headed people that came before him. He reasoned that he could not escape the personality trait since it ran in the ‘family.’ In some ways, he reasoned that God had made him that way.
The young father needed to repent. He needed to change his mind that his outbursts were sinful and that he was responsible for them, not God. Outbursts of wrath are the works of the flesh. (Galatians 5:20) Secondly, he needed to confess that to the Lord. (1 John 1:9) Thirdly, he needed to understand that through the indwelling Spirit of God, he had all the power necessary to effect change in his life. Fourthly, as he by faith, learned to depend on the Spirit of God to transform him through the word of God, his actions began to change. The change is the intended result of repentance in a believer’s life so that one is being transformed into the image of Christ, and thus God is glorified. The change of action is the fruit of repentance. (Luke 3:8-14)
The apostle Paul had a concern that some in the Corinthian church had not repented. Although they had come to faith in Christ, he feared they were still practicing the same sinful lifestyle before they were saved. Since we can’t see a change of mind, the only proof of repentance is a change of action. (2 Corinthians 12:21) Either they chose not to or by ignorance failed to appropriate the power of the Spirit dwelling in them to help them overcome the power of sin in their life. This would only result in a barren and unfruitful life. (2 Peter 1:8) Furthermore, failing to repent will eventually bring discipline from the Lord, “for whom the Lord loves He chastens.” (Hebrews 12:5-11) Paul himself warned that he would not spare if he came to them again. (2 Corinthians 13:2)
It is clear from Scripture that whenever a believer takes a forward step in growing in Christ, it usually, if not always, begins with repentance of some kind. Know of anything in your life that needs to be changed for God’s glory? Repent! Then learn to cooperate with the Spirit of God through the word of God to produce the godly results, the fruit of repentance.
Repentance: An Example Part 3
When John the Baptist began his ministry, he preached, saying, “Repent for the kingdom of God is at hand.” (Matthew 3:2) What was his audience supposed to change their minds about? Luke gives us insight into the belief system of the Jewish people at that time. See Luke 3:7-9
John the Baptist warned the Religious leaders, “…do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our Father.’” (Matthew 2:9) In other words, they needed to think differently about themselves. Just because they were physical descendants of Abraham did not automatically mean they were spiritual children of Abraham. They needed to have a faith relationship with the Father through the Son, who would be coming after John.
The apostle Paul verifies John’s message when he found some Jewish men who had only been baptized by John. He told them that John’s message was that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Jesus Christ. (Acts 19:4)
The Jews, especially the religious leadership, needed to repent of their spiritual arrogance, believing they were God’s favored people simply because they were physical descendants of Abraham. They, in fact, searched the Scriptures, for, in them, they thought that they had eternal life. Yet, they would reject the very One of which the Scriptures testified, Jesus Christ. (John 5:39)
And even though Jesus had said many things to them, so that they would come to salvation, they rejected Him. They were not willing to come to Him so that they would receive eternal life. (John 5:33, 39) They had refused at that time to change their thinking about themselves; that they had a need, a need of a Savior. And therefore, they refused to believe in Jesus as Messiah, God, and ultimately their Savior. They refused to repent.
How about you? Have you repented, changed your mind? Have you realized that you can’t help the Lord Jesus save you? Your baptism, your good works, or simply trying to be a ‘good’ person will never justify you before a holy God. There is not one thing you or I can do to earn it. We must trust in Christ and His work alone to save us.
Through His death, burial, and resurrection, He conquered sin and death and offers eternal life as a free gift to anyone who comes to Him by faith. (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8, 9) If you have been trusting in something you can do, why not repent and trust solely in Jesus Christ today to save you? Jesus said, “Most assuredly, I say to you he who believes in Me has everlasting life.” (John 6:47)
When John the Baptist began his ministry, he preached, saying, “Repent for the kingdom of God is at hand.” (Matthew 3:2) What was his audience supposed to change their minds about? Luke gives us insight into the belief system of the Jewish people at that time. See Luke 3:7-9
John the Baptist warned the Religious leaders, “…do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our Father.’” (Matthew 2:9) In other words, they needed to think differently about themselves. Just because they were physical descendants of Abraham did not automatically mean they were spiritual children of Abraham. They needed to have a faith relationship with the Father through the Son, who would be coming after John.
The apostle Paul verifies John’s message when he found some Jewish men who had only been baptized by John. He told them that John’s message was that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Jesus Christ. (Acts 19:4)
The Jews, especially the religious leadership, needed to repent of their spiritual arrogance, believing they were God’s favored people simply because they were physical descendants of Abraham. They, in fact, searched the Scriptures, for, in them, they thought that they had eternal life. Yet, they would reject the very One of which the Scriptures testified, Jesus Christ. (John 5:39)
And even though Jesus had said many things to them, so that they would come to salvation, they rejected Him. They were not willing to come to Him so that they would receive eternal life. (John 5:33, 39) They had refused at that time to change their thinking about themselves; that they had a need, a need of a Savior. And therefore, they refused to believe in Jesus as Messiah, God, and ultimately their Savior. They refused to repent.
How about you? Have you repented, changed your mind? Have you realized that you can’t help the Lord Jesus save you? Your baptism, your good works, or simply trying to be a ‘good’ person will never justify you before a holy God. There is not one thing you or I can do to earn it. We must trust in Christ and His work alone to save us.
Through His death, burial, and resurrection, He conquered sin and death and offers eternal life as a free gift to anyone who comes to Him by faith. (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8, 9) If you have been trusting in something you can do, why not repent and trust solely in Jesus Christ today to save you? Jesus said, “Most assuredly, I say to you he who believes in Me has everlasting life.” (John 6:47)
Repentance: Do you repent to receive salvation? Part 2
So how does repentance fit in with the message of salvation?
A person, after hearing the gospel, changes his mind. They change their mind from believing a variety of possibilities. For example, many believe that they are a ‘good person.’ Some believe their baptism will save them. Others may believe confessing their sins will get them to heaven or promising to turn from sin. Still, others may believe a church affiliation will provide them entrance into God’s presence. Some participate in communion, believing that particular graces are afforded the one taking the bread and cup. And many believe that if their good outweighs their bad, they will be accepted by God. The Jewish community of Jesus’ day thought they were okay with God simply because they were Jewish and followed the law, or so they thought.
Whatever one believes he or she must do to receive forgiveness of sins and everlasting life is just merely human effort, even promising to stop doing certain sins. And no human merit or works can justify (meaning to declare righteous) a person before the Lord God who is perfect and holy. (Romans 4:4; Galatians 3:16)
Biblical repentance unto salvation starts with a change of mind about the ‘good works’ that I am trying to do to earn my way and admit that I am a helpless condemned sinner. If one is attempting to be saved by good works or religious duties, then one must repent, change one’s mind, realizing that those things cannot save or earn favor with God.
Interestingly the gospel of John was written for the purpose of bringing people to salvation through faith in Christ. Jesus did many signs, “but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:31) Yet the word ‘repent’ is not used one time in the entire gospel of John. The reason I believe it is not there is that when one believes in Christ, he has repented, changed his mind.
It is a change of mind from trusting in myself to trusting in God’s provision for my sin and separation from God, Jesus Christ. Jesus came as the God-Man shed His blood on the cross, was buried, and rose the third day. When one changes his mind about his own goodness or works and trust solely in Christ and His work, he has repented and received everlasting life as a gift. “He who has the Son has life.” (1 John 5:11) The very moment you believe your sins are forgiven through His atoning work, you have been restored to a relationship with God.
So how does repentance fit in with the message of salvation?
A person, after hearing the gospel, changes his mind. They change their mind from believing a variety of possibilities. For example, many believe that they are a ‘good person.’ Some believe their baptism will save them. Others may believe confessing their sins will get them to heaven or promising to turn from sin. Still, others may believe a church affiliation will provide them entrance into God’s presence. Some participate in communion, believing that particular graces are afforded the one taking the bread and cup. And many believe that if their good outweighs their bad, they will be accepted by God. The Jewish community of Jesus’ day thought they were okay with God simply because they were Jewish and followed the law, or so they thought.
Whatever one believes he or she must do to receive forgiveness of sins and everlasting life is just merely human effort, even promising to stop doing certain sins. And no human merit or works can justify (meaning to declare righteous) a person before the Lord God who is perfect and holy. (Romans 4:4; Galatians 3:16)
Biblical repentance unto salvation starts with a change of mind about the ‘good works’ that I am trying to do to earn my way and admit that I am a helpless condemned sinner. If one is attempting to be saved by good works or religious duties, then one must repent, change one’s mind, realizing that those things cannot save or earn favor with God.
Interestingly the gospel of John was written for the purpose of bringing people to salvation through faith in Christ. Jesus did many signs, “but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:31) Yet the word ‘repent’ is not used one time in the entire gospel of John. The reason I believe it is not there is that when one believes in Christ, he has repented, changed his mind.
It is a change of mind from trusting in myself to trusting in God’s provision for my sin and separation from God, Jesus Christ. Jesus came as the God-Man shed His blood on the cross, was buried, and rose the third day. When one changes his mind about his own goodness or works and trust solely in Christ and His work, he has repented and received everlasting life as a gift. “He who has the Son has life.” (1 John 5:11) The very moment you believe your sins are forgiven through His atoning work, you have been restored to a relationship with God.
Repentance: What is it? Part 1
There are various definitions out there for the word ‘repent.’ Webster’s 1968 College edition defines it this way; “to feel sorry or self-reproachful for what one has done or not done.” But that does not meet the definition of Biblical repentance. One modern-day popular pastor defines repentance “as a radical turning from sin that inevitably became manifest in the fruit of righteousness.” He adds that “true repentance cannot occur apart from such a feeling of sorrow over one’s sin. Repentance is at the very heart of and proves one’s salvation…” If the latter definition is accurate, then it is my turning from sin that assures my salvation… it depends on me. I’m afraid I’m doomed if this is the case.
Fortunately, when it comes to salvation, the phrase ‘to repent of sins’ is not found in the New Testament. To many, it comes as a surprise that it just is not there. It is alluded to for believers to repent in regards to sin. However, it is misleading when one tells a person that he must repent of sins (meaning turning from sins, feeling sorry for sins, etc.) to receive salvation.
According to Strong’s Greek dictionary, the meaning of the word repent literally means ‘to think differently.’ The word in the Greek for repentance is “metanoia’. It has a different meaning than our English dictionaries. It means to change one’s mind.
To receive Christ as Savior does not require one to stop sinning or even promising to stop sinning. That would be impossible. Salvation is not an exchange – my promise to be better for God’s gift. Sin does have consequences, but it doesn’t keep us from receiving the free gift of God, eternal life in Christ Jesus, our Lord. Eternal life is obtained when one believes (trusts) in the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior. (Romans 6:23)
Certainly, one must recognize himself as a sinner, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) However, promising to sin less, to turn from sin, and/or even to feel sorry for one’s sin has nothing to do with saving you from the penalty of sin. What ultimately condemns a person is one’s rejection of Jesus Christ. “He who does not believe is condemned already; because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:17)
So how does repentance fit in with the message of salvation? More on this next time.
There are various definitions out there for the word ‘repent.’ Webster’s 1968 College edition defines it this way; “to feel sorry or self-reproachful for what one has done or not done.” But that does not meet the definition of Biblical repentance. One modern-day popular pastor defines repentance “as a radical turning from sin that inevitably became manifest in the fruit of righteousness.” He adds that “true repentance cannot occur apart from such a feeling of sorrow over one’s sin. Repentance is at the very heart of and proves one’s salvation…” If the latter definition is accurate, then it is my turning from sin that assures my salvation… it depends on me. I’m afraid I’m doomed if this is the case.
Fortunately, when it comes to salvation, the phrase ‘to repent of sins’ is not found in the New Testament. To many, it comes as a surprise that it just is not there. It is alluded to for believers to repent in regards to sin. However, it is misleading when one tells a person that he must repent of sins (meaning turning from sins, feeling sorry for sins, etc.) to receive salvation.
According to Strong’s Greek dictionary, the meaning of the word repent literally means ‘to think differently.’ The word in the Greek for repentance is “metanoia’. It has a different meaning than our English dictionaries. It means to change one’s mind.
To receive Christ as Savior does not require one to stop sinning or even promising to stop sinning. That would be impossible. Salvation is not an exchange – my promise to be better for God’s gift. Sin does have consequences, but it doesn’t keep us from receiving the free gift of God, eternal life in Christ Jesus, our Lord. Eternal life is obtained when one believes (trusts) in the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior. (Romans 6:23)
Certainly, one must recognize himself as a sinner, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) However, promising to sin less, to turn from sin, and/or even to feel sorry for one’s sin has nothing to do with saving you from the penalty of sin. What ultimately condemns a person is one’s rejection of Jesus Christ. “He who does not believe is condemned already; because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:17)
So how does repentance fit in with the message of salvation? More on this next time.
The Four Horsemen of Revelation – Part 2
In Part 1, we saw that the four horsemen will affect the people on earth in several devastating ways. Through war, famine, pestilence, and wild beasts, over one-fourth of the earth’s population will die. That would equate to almost 2 billion people based upon the current world population. In the Old Testament, God had warned Israel, “For thus says the Lord GOD: “How much more it shall be when I send My four severe judgments on Jerusalem; the sword and famine and wild beasts and pestilence; to cut off man and beast from it?” (Ezekiel 14:21)
When comparing what Jesus said to His disciples concerning the end, these events take place during the first part of the seven years of tribulation. In Matthew 24, verses 4-8, He told them that many would be deceived through false prophets. He said that there would be wars and rumors of wars.
Furthermore, He said there would be famines, pestilence, and earthquakes. And then He said that these were only the beginning of sorrows. The word for sorrow can be translated as birth pang. In other words, the events come suddenly and are only the beginning of a sequence of many more terrible events that will come upon the world.
The irony of these events is that the unbelieving will be saying “peace and safety.” They will believe that the world is about to experience a great time of peace when the Bible says that “sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.” (1 Thess 5:3)
For those of faith, the Bible teaches that we should be looking for “the blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:13) We are to “wait for His Son from heaven whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.” (1 Thess 1:10) We are not to be in fear of what is about to come upon the world. We are not instructed to look for antichrist or to worry about Armageddon. Jesus said, “…do not worry about tomorrow. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matt 6:34)
The Bible is very clear. This world will come to an end. No one knows when. If the beginning of the end starts today, are you ready? Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be ready – not just for the end of the world, but for all eternity!
In Part 1, we saw that the four horsemen will affect the people on earth in several devastating ways. Through war, famine, pestilence, and wild beasts, over one-fourth of the earth’s population will die. That would equate to almost 2 billion people based upon the current world population. In the Old Testament, God had warned Israel, “For thus says the Lord GOD: “How much more it shall be when I send My four severe judgments on Jerusalem; the sword and famine and wild beasts and pestilence; to cut off man and beast from it?” (Ezekiel 14:21)
When comparing what Jesus said to His disciples concerning the end, these events take place during the first part of the seven years of tribulation. In Matthew 24, verses 4-8, He told them that many would be deceived through false prophets. He said that there would be wars and rumors of wars.
Furthermore, He said there would be famines, pestilence, and earthquakes. And then He said that these were only the beginning of sorrows. The word for sorrow can be translated as birth pang. In other words, the events come suddenly and are only the beginning of a sequence of many more terrible events that will come upon the world.
The irony of these events is that the unbelieving will be saying “peace and safety.” They will believe that the world is about to experience a great time of peace when the Bible says that “sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.” (1 Thess 5:3)
For those of faith, the Bible teaches that we should be looking for “the blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:13) We are to “wait for His Son from heaven whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.” (1 Thess 1:10) We are not to be in fear of what is about to come upon the world. We are not instructed to look for antichrist or to worry about Armageddon. Jesus said, “…do not worry about tomorrow. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matt 6:34)
The Bible is very clear. This world will come to an end. No one knows when. If the beginning of the end starts today, are you ready? Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be ready – not just for the end of the world, but for all eternity!
The Four Horsemen of Revelation – Part 1
The four horses of Revelation are similar to Zechariah’s vision (6:1-6) and parallels Matthew’s account of end-time events as told by Jesus when His disciples ask Him, “What will be the sign of Your coming and the end of the age?” (24:1-7).
To understand this, it is important to note that it is Christ who breaks the seals to the scroll. He alone is worthy. No one else was capable of doing it. The breaking of the seals unleashes the events in the rest of the book of Revelation. Therefore, it is God who sets these events in motion to accomplish His plan for planet earth. The Bible refers to this time as the Day of the Lord.
The first rider is on a white horse. Because it is a white horse, it is often thought of as Christ. However, the crown that this rider wears is a crown of triumph. (Gk. ‘stephanos’) Jesus wears a diadem (Gk. ‘diadema’). A diadem is a crown that is associated with kingly or imperial dignity. This rider also has a bow, but Jesus has a two-edged sword from His mouth with which He strikes the nations (Rev 19:15).
Secondly, Matthew 24 warns of false messiahs who will mislead many. (vs. 4, 5, 24) The fact that the second rider takes peace from the earth implies that the first rider creates a sense of peace. This fits perfectly in Scripture with the person referred to as the Antichrist or beast who initially confirms a peace agreement with Israel at the beginning of the seven years of tribulation. (Daniel 9:27) Thus the conclusion is that the first rider is the Antichrist, who God allows to go out to deceive the world and who ultimately demands worship as God. (2 Thess 2:4)
As stated above, the second rider is granted to take peace from the world. Again we see the sovereignty of God because these events are all taking place under His control. God grants these events to unfold. This rider is on a red horse, which pictures bloodshed. This is exactly what occurs since he is given a great sword, and men slay one another. Matthew also warns that there will be wars and rumor of wars, but that is not yet the end (24:6) The rider of the second horse is a picture of the world condition after the Antichrist has risen to power.
The third horse is black and has a rider with a set of scales in his hand. This is a picture of the world condition as a result of war. The scales were used to weigh out grain just as we weigh meats and price them accordingly. In this picture, a denarius would only buy one quart of wheat or three quarts of barley. The normal purchasing power of one denarius was 8 quarts of wheat or 24 quarts of barley. The high price for these grains indicates their extreme shortage. The implication is that famine conditions exist as a result of war when the second rider went out to take peace from the earth. Matthew wrote, “… in various places there will be famines and earthquakes” (24:7) Black most likely symbolizes the affliction and death that result from war and famine.
The fourth horse is ashen (pale) and has a rider who had the name Death and Hades. The first three seals result in a tremendous amount of death. One-fourth of the people on earth die. When a person dies without having trusted Jesus as their personal Savior, his/her soul is consigned to Hades, a place of torment (Luke 16:23). They remain there until the Great White Throne judgment, where they will be judged according to their works. (Rev 20:11-12) Then Hades, which includes everyone there, will be cast into the lake of fire (Rev 20:14). The idea behind this fourth rider then is that many will die, and their soul will be relegated to Hades with their final destination being the lake of fire.
More on this next time.
The four horses of Revelation are similar to Zechariah’s vision (6:1-6) and parallels Matthew’s account of end-time events as told by Jesus when His disciples ask Him, “What will be the sign of Your coming and the end of the age?” (24:1-7).
To understand this, it is important to note that it is Christ who breaks the seals to the scroll. He alone is worthy. No one else was capable of doing it. The breaking of the seals unleashes the events in the rest of the book of Revelation. Therefore, it is God who sets these events in motion to accomplish His plan for planet earth. The Bible refers to this time as the Day of the Lord.
The first rider is on a white horse. Because it is a white horse, it is often thought of as Christ. However, the crown that this rider wears is a crown of triumph. (Gk. ‘stephanos’) Jesus wears a diadem (Gk. ‘diadema’). A diadem is a crown that is associated with kingly or imperial dignity. This rider also has a bow, but Jesus has a two-edged sword from His mouth with which He strikes the nations (Rev 19:15).
Secondly, Matthew 24 warns of false messiahs who will mislead many. (vs. 4, 5, 24) The fact that the second rider takes peace from the earth implies that the first rider creates a sense of peace. This fits perfectly in Scripture with the person referred to as the Antichrist or beast who initially confirms a peace agreement with Israel at the beginning of the seven years of tribulation. (Daniel 9:27) Thus the conclusion is that the first rider is the Antichrist, who God allows to go out to deceive the world and who ultimately demands worship as God. (2 Thess 2:4)
As stated above, the second rider is granted to take peace from the world. Again we see the sovereignty of God because these events are all taking place under His control. God grants these events to unfold. This rider is on a red horse, which pictures bloodshed. This is exactly what occurs since he is given a great sword, and men slay one another. Matthew also warns that there will be wars and rumor of wars, but that is not yet the end (24:6) The rider of the second horse is a picture of the world condition after the Antichrist has risen to power.
The third horse is black and has a rider with a set of scales in his hand. This is a picture of the world condition as a result of war. The scales were used to weigh out grain just as we weigh meats and price them accordingly. In this picture, a denarius would only buy one quart of wheat or three quarts of barley. The normal purchasing power of one denarius was 8 quarts of wheat or 24 quarts of barley. The high price for these grains indicates their extreme shortage. The implication is that famine conditions exist as a result of war when the second rider went out to take peace from the earth. Matthew wrote, “… in various places there will be famines and earthquakes” (24:7) Black most likely symbolizes the affliction and death that result from war and famine.
The fourth horse is ashen (pale) and has a rider who had the name Death and Hades. The first three seals result in a tremendous amount of death. One-fourth of the people on earth die. When a person dies without having trusted Jesus as their personal Savior, his/her soul is consigned to Hades, a place of torment (Luke 16:23). They remain there until the Great White Throne judgment, where they will be judged according to their works. (Rev 20:11-12) Then Hades, which includes everyone there, will be cast into the lake of fire (Rev 20:14). The idea behind this fourth rider then is that many will die, and their soul will be relegated to Hades with their final destination being the lake of fire.
More on this next time.
His Imminent Return
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave to show His servants – things which must shortly take place.” (Rev 1:1) And in the third verse of the chapter, John writes, “the time is near.” Some have taken this to mean that the prophecies of the book of Revelation have all taken place. One would then have to conclude that even the Second Coming of the Messiah would have taken place because similar phrases occur in the 22nd chapter after the Second Coming has occurred and the 1000 year reign of Christ on earth is past. Concerning the phrase, “must shortly take place,” it is also used in Revelation 22:6 after the Second Coming and the 1000 year reign of Christ on earth. This word, shortly, is translated ‘quickly’ in Acts 12:7 and 22:18. In Luke 18:8 it is translated speedily. According to Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, the meaning of this phrase in Revelation 1:1 and 22:6 is most likely ‘with speed.’ In other words, when the events of the book of Revelation begin to unfold, they will do so rapidly. Also, the book of James sheds light on the phrase “is at hand (near).” He wrote that the “coming of the Lord is at hand.” (James 5:8) That was more than 1900 years ago. He obviously did not mean that it would take place soon. What he did mean is that the return of the Messiah was imminent. In other words, it could happen at any time. For in the following verse, he wrote, “Behold the Judge is standing at the door!” The image is of one who has left and is about to return. He is standing on the other side of the door. All that is necessary is for Him to open the door. As mere creatures, we do not know when that will be. However, Scripture exhorts us to be ready and to be looking for “the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:13) Both these phrases indicate the certainty and the immanency of the events. Jesus is coming again, and it can happen at any time! This is not to put us in panic mode, but it should motivate us to become productive servants focused on opportunities that will have an impact for eternity. For “the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” (I John 2:17)
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave to show His servants – things which must shortly take place.” (Rev 1:1) And in the third verse of the chapter, John writes, “the time is near.” Some have taken this to mean that the prophecies of the book of Revelation have all taken place. One would then have to conclude that even the Second Coming of the Messiah would have taken place because similar phrases occur in the 22nd chapter after the Second Coming has occurred and the 1000 year reign of Christ on earth is past. Concerning the phrase, “must shortly take place,” it is also used in Revelation 22:6 after the Second Coming and the 1000 year reign of Christ on earth. This word, shortly, is translated ‘quickly’ in Acts 12:7 and 22:18. In Luke 18:8 it is translated speedily. According to Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, the meaning of this phrase in Revelation 1:1 and 22:6 is most likely ‘with speed.’ In other words, when the events of the book of Revelation begin to unfold, they will do so rapidly. Also, the book of James sheds light on the phrase “is at hand (near).” He wrote that the “coming of the Lord is at hand.” (James 5:8) That was more than 1900 years ago. He obviously did not mean that it would take place soon. What he did mean is that the return of the Messiah was imminent. In other words, it could happen at any time. For in the following verse, he wrote, “Behold the Judge is standing at the door!” The image is of one who has left and is about to return. He is standing on the other side of the door. All that is necessary is for Him to open the door. As mere creatures, we do not know when that will be. However, Scripture exhorts us to be ready and to be looking for “the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:13) Both these phrases indicate the certainty and the immanency of the events. Jesus is coming again, and it can happen at any time! This is not to put us in panic mode, but it should motivate us to become productive servants focused on opportunities that will have an impact for eternity. For “the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” (I John 2:17)
Ambassadors
“Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, and to God. For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:20, 21)
In a quick review of the last few articles, we have examined being ready to “give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you…” (1 Peter 3:15) An important part of that is, upon receiving Christ, we study and learn to rightly divide the word of truth. (1 Tim 2:15) We then go forth as seekers of the lost on His behalf. (Matt 28:18-20)
Remember, prayer leads the way. We pray for open doors, open hearts, and our open mouths to “fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.” (Eph 6:19-20) We were reminded the need for discernment is essential in understanding who, what, when, and how to present Christ to the souls He places in our lives. We observed how vitally important it is for us to be real. We mentioned being transparent, honest, humble, and approachable always. We are to love, to listen, and to live with integrity. And we’re to “gladly spend and be spent for (other) souls.” (2 Cor 12:15) We also stressed the indispensable requirement of our love moving both vertically (loving God) and horizontally (loving man). We are ambassadors for Christ. God speaks through us to the unbelieving, urging them to stop hiding from their Creator and believe in Jesus.
What a high and holy calling! Our pastor reminds us all the time - what an adventure we are undertaking. We are representatives of the King of heaven, cooperating with God’s great plan and mission upon the earth of dispensing His revelation, which leads men, women, and children to redemption. Now that is exciting! That is something to live for, even to die for as have the many martyrs. What of this lowly earthly stuff in light of such glory and grandeur!
“Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest.” (John 4:35) Jesus also tells us: “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” (Matthew 9:37, 38) Let’s get out in those fields.
Author, Ron Hutchcraft adds, “We need - A Jesus Heart - ask God for such a heart - “Go ahead, God - break my heart for the lost and dying people around me.”
Amen to that.
“Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, and to God. For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:20, 21)
In a quick review of the last few articles, we have examined being ready to “give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you…” (1 Peter 3:15) An important part of that is, upon receiving Christ, we study and learn to rightly divide the word of truth. (1 Tim 2:15) We then go forth as seekers of the lost on His behalf. (Matt 28:18-20)
Remember, prayer leads the way. We pray for open doors, open hearts, and our open mouths to “fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.” (Eph 6:19-20) We were reminded the need for discernment is essential in understanding who, what, when, and how to present Christ to the souls He places in our lives. We observed how vitally important it is for us to be real. We mentioned being transparent, honest, humble, and approachable always. We are to love, to listen, and to live with integrity. And we’re to “gladly spend and be spent for (other) souls.” (2 Cor 12:15) We also stressed the indispensable requirement of our love moving both vertically (loving God) and horizontally (loving man). We are ambassadors for Christ. God speaks through us to the unbelieving, urging them to stop hiding from their Creator and believe in Jesus.
What a high and holy calling! Our pastor reminds us all the time - what an adventure we are undertaking. We are representatives of the King of heaven, cooperating with God’s great plan and mission upon the earth of dispensing His revelation, which leads men, women, and children to redemption. Now that is exciting! That is something to live for, even to die for as have the many martyrs. What of this lowly earthly stuff in light of such glory and grandeur!
“Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest.” (John 4:35) Jesus also tells us: “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” (Matthew 9:37, 38) Let’s get out in those fields.
Author, Ron Hutchcraft adds, “We need - A Jesus Heart - ask God for such a heart - “Go ahead, God - break my heart for the lost and dying people around me.”
Amen to that.
Being Real
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” (Matt 22:37-39)
Previously, we said discernment is vital to Christians. We need to be growing in Christ. We need to understand our ministry with insight into whom, what, when, and how to present Christ to the souls He places in our lives. We also need at least some insight into where each person is in their relationship with God. We need to have the ability to read people and meet and love them where they are. And we need to truly understand the “why” of doing so in order to be sincere and real with people.
Being real comes when we fully grasp our opening scripture: Jesus says, “Love God, love man.” Why do we love God? “We love Him because He first loved us.” (I John 4:19) We pretty much get that. We were drowning, and He plucked us from the waves. We were rescued, redeemed, and regenerated. We are saved! Hallelujah! We respond by loving Him. The vertical relationship between He and us is established.
But how then is our love for Him to manifest itself? It is demonstrated in the realness of the horizontal: We love our neighbors. That is why God has us here. We’re not here to passively wait for our mansion in the by and by and then goodbye. There are dying people all around us.
Our being real means: “I will very gladly spend and be spent for your souls.” (2 Cor 12:15) It means being transparent before them and honest about our own multiplicity of failings and frailties. It means consistent integrity and being humble and approachable always, wherever we may be. It means loving them in their language, not (to them) obscure Christianese. It means being there for them in the bad times and the good times. It means praying with and for them. It means employing the lost art and gift of LISTENING.
Ron Hutchcraft adds, “It’s easy to hang out with other believers - it’s hard work to build relationships with someone outside of Christ: But your relationship with a lost person may be the only road that will take that person to the cross. He or she will most likely get to the cross because he or she was loved there - by a friend of Jesus.”
Are you and I being that friend?
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” (Matt 22:37-39)
Previously, we said discernment is vital to Christians. We need to be growing in Christ. We need to understand our ministry with insight into whom, what, when, and how to present Christ to the souls He places in our lives. We also need at least some insight into where each person is in their relationship with God. We need to have the ability to read people and meet and love them where they are. And we need to truly understand the “why” of doing so in order to be sincere and real with people.
Being real comes when we fully grasp our opening scripture: Jesus says, “Love God, love man.” Why do we love God? “We love Him because He first loved us.” (I John 4:19) We pretty much get that. We were drowning, and He plucked us from the waves. We were rescued, redeemed, and regenerated. We are saved! Hallelujah! We respond by loving Him. The vertical relationship between He and us is established.
But how then is our love for Him to manifest itself? It is demonstrated in the realness of the horizontal: We love our neighbors. That is why God has us here. We’re not here to passively wait for our mansion in the by and by and then goodbye. There are dying people all around us.
Our being real means: “I will very gladly spend and be spent for your souls.” (2 Cor 12:15) It means being transparent before them and honest about our own multiplicity of failings and frailties. It means consistent integrity and being humble and approachable always, wherever we may be. It means loving them in their language, not (to them) obscure Christianese. It means being there for them in the bad times and the good times. It means praying with and for them. It means employing the lost art and gift of LISTENING.
Ron Hutchcraft adds, “It’s easy to hang out with other believers - it’s hard work to build relationships with someone outside of Christ: But your relationship with a lost person may be the only road that will take that person to the cross. He or she will most likely get to the cross because he or she was loved there - by a friend of Jesus.”
Are you and I being that friend?
Discernment
“But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth.” (2 Timothy 2:23-25)
I have a story for you. Many…that’s many…years ago, when I was a lad, I worked at our neighbor’s dairy farm. In the evening, I’d go up to help with the milking chores. One job I had was to bring the cows up to the barn if they weren’t already there at milking time. So off to the meadow I went one sunny eve to urge the Bossies to get on home. These usually consisted of a few words, a pat on a couple of flanks, a love tap on a rump or two, and follow me, ladies — not this time. I don’t know if they found an extra sweet spot of grass or what, but cooperation got lost from their dictionary. This led the “cowboy” to start yelling, and pushing, and chasing, and more hollering. Finally, they begrudging started meandering toward the barn with a few kicks and snorts. I took my place in front to lead them onward.
They had me right where they wanted me. “Huh, what’s that thundering noise?” I asked myself. What did they yell in the old westerns? “Stampede!” My little kid legs took to churning real fast as I looked back at a bunch of bovines that seemed intent on love-tapping my posterior. I surmised they were going to do just that and peeled off to the right. They went straight. And the farmer was watching the whole episode. Not A Happy Farmer! He took me to task for putting myself in danger and getting the cows all upset at milking time. Oh yeah, and my favorite hat flew off my head and got squished in the “stampede.” I loved that hat!
I wanted to share that tale as an illustration of how many of us Christians approach evangelism. We move in and talk and pat and tap, and when that gets less than hoped for results, we take to quarreling and pushing and chasing, and we get to “Huh, what’s that thundering noise?” That be what they call a stampede as our listeners run in the other direction. Can you relate to that? Years ago, I was one of those stampeding away; years later, the one who caused the running of the bulls. I lacked discernment. We often lack discernment. We fail to discern whether God has opened the door for us; prepared a heart for us. Have you ever witnessed another Christian playing the part of the proverbial bull in a china shop? Cringe!
Peter tells us when someone asks about our faith (when they’re open), be ready to share. How? With meekness and fear. The Apostle Paul says to avoid disputes, strife, and quarrels. Instead, we’re to be gentle, instructive, patient, and humble — no hollering in the meadow, no breaking china, no stampedes.
Be ready. Pray for open doors, open hearts, and our open mouths. Allow the Spirit and our God-given sense to gain and grow in discernment.
“But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth.” (2 Timothy 2:23-25)
I have a story for you. Many…that’s many…years ago, when I was a lad, I worked at our neighbor’s dairy farm. In the evening, I’d go up to help with the milking chores. One job I had was to bring the cows up to the barn if they weren’t already there at milking time. So off to the meadow I went one sunny eve to urge the Bossies to get on home. These usually consisted of a few words, a pat on a couple of flanks, a love tap on a rump or two, and follow me, ladies — not this time. I don’t know if they found an extra sweet spot of grass or what, but cooperation got lost from their dictionary. This led the “cowboy” to start yelling, and pushing, and chasing, and more hollering. Finally, they begrudging started meandering toward the barn with a few kicks and snorts. I took my place in front to lead them onward.
They had me right where they wanted me. “Huh, what’s that thundering noise?” I asked myself. What did they yell in the old westerns? “Stampede!” My little kid legs took to churning real fast as I looked back at a bunch of bovines that seemed intent on love-tapping my posterior. I surmised they were going to do just that and peeled off to the right. They went straight. And the farmer was watching the whole episode. Not A Happy Farmer! He took me to task for putting myself in danger and getting the cows all upset at milking time. Oh yeah, and my favorite hat flew off my head and got squished in the “stampede.” I loved that hat!
I wanted to share that tale as an illustration of how many of us Christians approach evangelism. We move in and talk and pat and tap, and when that gets less than hoped for results, we take to quarreling and pushing and chasing, and we get to “Huh, what’s that thundering noise?” That be what they call a stampede as our listeners run in the other direction. Can you relate to that? Years ago, I was one of those stampeding away; years later, the one who caused the running of the bulls. I lacked discernment. We often lack discernment. We fail to discern whether God has opened the door for us; prepared a heart for us. Have you ever witnessed another Christian playing the part of the proverbial bull in a china shop? Cringe!
Peter tells us when someone asks about our faith (when they’re open), be ready to share. How? With meekness and fear. The Apostle Paul says to avoid disputes, strife, and quarrels. Instead, we’re to be gentle, instructive, patient, and humble — no hollering in the meadow, no breaking china, no stampedes.
Be ready. Pray for open doors, open hearts, and our open mouths. Allow the Spirit and our God-given sense to gain and grow in discernment.
Three Open Prayer
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” (1 Peter 3:15)
Ever since our parents Adam and Eve took off for the woods to elude God, mankind has been playing a game of hide and seek. We hide, God seeks. But for those who have been found by God, our role has changed as we become the seekers on His behalf. “Go therefore and make disciples…” (Matt 28:18-20)
Peter says, “Be ready.” How do we get ready? How do we start sharing Christ with others? In his book, “Called to Greatness: Becoming a Lifeline for Those Who Need Hope,” Ron Hutchcraft suggests beginning with the Three-Open Prayer. The Apostle Paul made this request of the believers at Colosse: “Pray for us too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.” (Col 4:3-4) Even the great apostle understood the gospel only flows through us as open vessels by the will and ways of the Lord. Therefore:
1) Open the Door, Lord.
2) Open His/Her Heart, Lord.
3) Open My Mouth, Lord.
Each day we need to pray: “Lord, give me Your wisdom and a witness. Allow me to witness to someone.” We need an open door. The news headlines give occasion to talk about man’s fallen nature and faith in the face of disaster and despair. Family or health issues and times of hurting can provide a chance to share God’s directions and His Answer to all things - Christ Jesus.
Pray for a prepared someone. We need an open heart drawn to Christ by the Father. (John 6:44) We cannot force another’s heart to open. I have tried that and what a debacle! I then had to pray that God would send other much wiser Christians to those individuals with the right approach to undo my wrong.
And certainly, in my case, I pray that my little chicken mouth will open and speak the words of God. We need to open our mouths. Paul himself admitted, “I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling…” (1 Cor 2:3) And again, “Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel…Pray that I may declare it fearlessly as I should.” (Eph 6:19-20)
God will answer such prayers. He will open doors of opportunity, the hearts of people, and our mouths for the presentation of the Gospel.
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” (1 Peter 3:15)
Ever since our parents Adam and Eve took off for the woods to elude God, mankind has been playing a game of hide and seek. We hide, God seeks. But for those who have been found by God, our role has changed as we become the seekers on His behalf. “Go therefore and make disciples…” (Matt 28:18-20)
Peter says, “Be ready.” How do we get ready? How do we start sharing Christ with others? In his book, “Called to Greatness: Becoming a Lifeline for Those Who Need Hope,” Ron Hutchcraft suggests beginning with the Three-Open Prayer. The Apostle Paul made this request of the believers at Colosse: “Pray for us too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.” (Col 4:3-4) Even the great apostle understood the gospel only flows through us as open vessels by the will and ways of the Lord. Therefore:
1) Open the Door, Lord.
2) Open His/Her Heart, Lord.
3) Open My Mouth, Lord.
Each day we need to pray: “Lord, give me Your wisdom and a witness. Allow me to witness to someone.” We need an open door. The news headlines give occasion to talk about man’s fallen nature and faith in the face of disaster and despair. Family or health issues and times of hurting can provide a chance to share God’s directions and His Answer to all things - Christ Jesus.
Pray for a prepared someone. We need an open heart drawn to Christ by the Father. (John 6:44) We cannot force another’s heart to open. I have tried that and what a debacle! I then had to pray that God would send other much wiser Christians to those individuals with the right approach to undo my wrong.
And certainly, in my case, I pray that my little chicken mouth will open and speak the words of God. We need to open our mouths. Paul himself admitted, “I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling…” (1 Cor 2:3) And again, “Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel…Pray that I may declare it fearlessly as I should.” (Eph 6:19-20)
God will answer such prayers. He will open doors of opportunity, the hearts of people, and our mouths for the presentation of the Gospel.
An Open Door
“I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” (Revelation 3:8)
In the case of each church, Jesus tells them that He knows their works. And in the case of the church of Philadelphia, knowing their work, He sets before them an open door that only He opens or shuts.
They had an open door because they trusted in Him. They had little strength. They realized that they could not serve God and accomplish His will in their own strength. Much of modern Christianity puts great effort into attempting to live the life of faith through human effort. It fails to understand that it is Christ in you and living through you that results in faithful living and accomplishing God’s will on earth. When the Apostle Paul asked the Lord three times to remove a thorn in the flesh, Jesus answered him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) His grace and strength always appear when we recognize our weakness and our need for Him.
King Asa ruled Judah for 41 years, and the Scriptures described him as being loyal to the Lord all of his days. (I Kings 15:14) Yet at the end of his reign, he made a treaty with the king of Syria for protection against Israel, the northern kingdom, and even though God had protected them in the past, Asa failed by trusting in the flesh. In his weakness, he trusted man rather than God. The prophet told him, For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. In this, you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars.” (2 Chronicles 16:9) Asa’s failure resulted in God’s judgment, the removal of Divine protection. Unlike those in Philadelphia, he no longer had an open door.
God is always searching for loyal hearts. He is searching for hearts that will trust in Him and not in self or man-made effort. I have to admit that this is a constant battle. Every day and every moment as the circumstances of life occur, the conflict arises. Who am I going to trust, myself, or God?
“I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” (Revelation 3:8)
In the case of each church, Jesus tells them that He knows their works. And in the case of the church of Philadelphia, knowing their work, He sets before them an open door that only He opens or shuts.
They had an open door because they trusted in Him. They had little strength. They realized that they could not serve God and accomplish His will in their own strength. Much of modern Christianity puts great effort into attempting to live the life of faith through human effort. It fails to understand that it is Christ in you and living through you that results in faithful living and accomplishing God’s will on earth. When the Apostle Paul asked the Lord three times to remove a thorn in the flesh, Jesus answered him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) His grace and strength always appear when we recognize our weakness and our need for Him.
King Asa ruled Judah for 41 years, and the Scriptures described him as being loyal to the Lord all of his days. (I Kings 15:14) Yet at the end of his reign, he made a treaty with the king of Syria for protection against Israel, the northern kingdom, and even though God had protected them in the past, Asa failed by trusting in the flesh. In his weakness, he trusted man rather than God. The prophet told him, For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. In this, you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars.” (2 Chronicles 16:9) Asa’s failure resulted in God’s judgment, the removal of Divine protection. Unlike those in Philadelphia, he no longer had an open door.
God is always searching for loyal hearts. He is searching for hearts that will trust in Him and not in self or man-made effort. I have to admit that this is a constant battle. Every day and every moment as the circumstances of life occur, the conflict arises. Who am I going to trust, myself, or God?
Spiritually Dead People
In our ongoing look at the seven churches of Revelation, Jesus said to the church at Sardis, “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.” (3:1) It is amazing that the spiritually dead there would be those who would prophesy, cast out demons, and do many wonders all in His name. But He never knew them! (Matt 7:22, 23) They can appear very Christian like, yet fail to have a personal relationship with Him.
Even more puzzling about this church is that there were a small number of true believers – those “who have not defiled their garments.” (v. 4) They were in the midst of this body of people who believed that they were living for God, but had deceived themselves.
The encouraging truth concerning the Sardis church is that Jesus says that their work is not yet complete. He desires more for them to do, to walk in the works that He prepared beforehand that they should walk in them. (Eph 2:10) But they must repent and turn back to that which they had received and heard. Like each and every one of us, He gives them time to change.
There are many out there today, like those in Sardis who believe they are spiritually alive because they are involved in works. They may be good church attendees. They may be helping in a soup kitchen or volunteering for good causes. They may even be teaching Sunday School. But they have failed to change their minds about sin and salvation. Instead, they continue to hold at arm’s length God’s offer of redemption and reconciliation through Jesus Christ. They lack the true relationship that God desires through His Son. “Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace but as debt. But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness…” (Rom 4:4, 5)
In our ongoing look at the seven churches of Revelation, Jesus said to the church at Sardis, “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.” (3:1) It is amazing that the spiritually dead there would be those who would prophesy, cast out demons, and do many wonders all in His name. But He never knew them! (Matt 7:22, 23) They can appear very Christian like, yet fail to have a personal relationship with Him.
Even more puzzling about this church is that there were a small number of true believers – those “who have not defiled their garments.” (v. 4) They were in the midst of this body of people who believed that they were living for God, but had deceived themselves.
The encouraging truth concerning the Sardis church is that Jesus says that their work is not yet complete. He desires more for them to do, to walk in the works that He prepared beforehand that they should walk in them. (Eph 2:10) But they must repent and turn back to that which they had received and heard. Like each and every one of us, He gives them time to change.
There are many out there today, like those in Sardis who believe they are spiritually alive because they are involved in works. They may be good church attendees. They may be helping in a soup kitchen or volunteering for good causes. They may even be teaching Sunday School. But they have failed to change their minds about sin and salvation. Instead, they continue to hold at arm’s length God’s offer of redemption and reconciliation through Jesus Christ. They lack the true relationship that God desires through His Son. “Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace but as debt. But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness…” (Rom 4:4, 5)
First Love
Jesus said in the first chapter of Revelation, the apostle John was instructed to write concerning “the things which are.” (v. 19) This resulted in the messages to the churches as recorded in chapters two and three. Although this message was to seven actual churches of his day, they are also relevant for today and representative of churches in every age. The message is to the “churches.” (2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22)
Ephesus is the first church John writes about. As you read his messages to them, it initially appears that they have it all together. First of all, they do not tolerate evil men or false apostles. This is exactly what the apostle Paul warned the Ephesian elders about over 30 years earlier. He told them, “…after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.” (Acts 20:29, 30) They were to be on guard. Apparently, they took his admonitions to heart, for they remained vigilant in this matter. No false teachings or deceptive person would gain a foothold.
Secondly, they persevered and had patience and labored for His name’s sake and did not become weary. (2:3) They were very busy, laboring for Christ. As we all know, results from our spiritual labor often take time. Usually, people and situations do not change overnight. Yet the church at Ephesus persevered and continued to work. And even as John wrote to them, they had not grown tired of laboring and continued in patience.
Since the seven churches are descriptive of present-day churches, let’s consider how the church of Ephesus might look today? To begin, such a church would not affirm sinful lifestyles. It would teach that the grace of God leads to Godly living. This church would not bear with evil men in their midst.
As the church at Ephesus exposed false apostles, such a church today would not allow false teachers to infiltrate the flock. The elders would guard the flock. It would affirm the doctrines of the Christian faith – the Trinity, the Deity of Christ, Salvation by grace through faith, the Bodily Resurrection of Christ, heaven and hell, the inerrancy and infallibility of Scripture, etc. It would be a place where you would not be misled doctrinally. You would have heard the truth in Ephesus and you would hear the truth in such a church today.
Observing the activities, one might see Sunday Schools, Sunday morning and evening worship services, Wednesday night services, and outreach programs to the community. People would seem to be serving. They would have energy and would be involved in the ministry of the church. Outwardly, it would be a church that appears to be on the move for Christ. Without looking too deeply, it might be a church that you and I would join.
But then Jesus says to them, “…I have this against you that you have left your first love.” (2:4) What a disturbing appraisal! How could a church that is apparently faithful and actively working have left their first love?
When the apostle Paul met with the Ephesian elders on his third missionary trip, he told them that they would not see him again. They began to weep aloud and embraced Paul and repeatedly kissed him. (Acts 20:37, 38) Paul had spent three years in Ephesus and had not shunned from declaring the whole counsel of God. (20:27; 31) For this reason, they certainly had a spiritual and emotional connection with him. They loved him and all the saints. (Ephesians 1:15)
The love that they had at their inception stemmed from their faith in the Lord Jesus. (Ephesians 1:15) That is where all Christian love begins and ends. “God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. We love Him because He first loved us.” (I John 4:16, 18) Humans are unable to exhibit Biblical love if we are without Christ. If what we are doing, accomplishing, and/or experiencing does not have its roots in the love we have for God, then it has no value. It may look good on the outside, but it is only bringing glory and praise to ourselves.
The church at Ephesus had become service-oriented. They were doing many of the right things but from the wrong motivation. It is amazing how the flesh can seem to produce good fruit! The Lord admonishes them to “do the deeds you did at first.” (v.5) They were to do those things that they had done at first – those deeds that were motivated because of their love for Him.
The alarming point about this is that each one of us must safeguard our hearts from falling to the same place as those of Ephesus. We need to ask ourselves continually; why are we doing what we are doing? Has our service lost its meaning or purpose? Do we relish adulation and praise rather than offering our thanks to Him? Are we just going through the motions of Christianity? Do we still desire that ‘quality’ time with Him in prayer and study? Have we forgotten that we have been bought with a price?!
No matter where you have fallen, you can be restored to that intimate fellowship with the Lord. Like the church at Ephesus, He gives all the opportunity to repent and to do the deeds done at first. In His grace, He gives everyone a chance to return to his first love!
Jesus said in the first chapter of Revelation, the apostle John was instructed to write concerning “the things which are.” (v. 19) This resulted in the messages to the churches as recorded in chapters two and three. Although this message was to seven actual churches of his day, they are also relevant for today and representative of churches in every age. The message is to the “churches.” (2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22)
Ephesus is the first church John writes about. As you read his messages to them, it initially appears that they have it all together. First of all, they do not tolerate evil men or false apostles. This is exactly what the apostle Paul warned the Ephesian elders about over 30 years earlier. He told them, “…after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.” (Acts 20:29, 30) They were to be on guard. Apparently, they took his admonitions to heart, for they remained vigilant in this matter. No false teachings or deceptive person would gain a foothold.
Secondly, they persevered and had patience and labored for His name’s sake and did not become weary. (2:3) They were very busy, laboring for Christ. As we all know, results from our spiritual labor often take time. Usually, people and situations do not change overnight. Yet the church at Ephesus persevered and continued to work. And even as John wrote to them, they had not grown tired of laboring and continued in patience.
Since the seven churches are descriptive of present-day churches, let’s consider how the church of Ephesus might look today? To begin, such a church would not affirm sinful lifestyles. It would teach that the grace of God leads to Godly living. This church would not bear with evil men in their midst.
As the church at Ephesus exposed false apostles, such a church today would not allow false teachers to infiltrate the flock. The elders would guard the flock. It would affirm the doctrines of the Christian faith – the Trinity, the Deity of Christ, Salvation by grace through faith, the Bodily Resurrection of Christ, heaven and hell, the inerrancy and infallibility of Scripture, etc. It would be a place where you would not be misled doctrinally. You would have heard the truth in Ephesus and you would hear the truth in such a church today.
Observing the activities, one might see Sunday Schools, Sunday morning and evening worship services, Wednesday night services, and outreach programs to the community. People would seem to be serving. They would have energy and would be involved in the ministry of the church. Outwardly, it would be a church that appears to be on the move for Christ. Without looking too deeply, it might be a church that you and I would join.
But then Jesus says to them, “…I have this against you that you have left your first love.” (2:4) What a disturbing appraisal! How could a church that is apparently faithful and actively working have left their first love?
When the apostle Paul met with the Ephesian elders on his third missionary trip, he told them that they would not see him again. They began to weep aloud and embraced Paul and repeatedly kissed him. (Acts 20:37, 38) Paul had spent three years in Ephesus and had not shunned from declaring the whole counsel of God. (20:27; 31) For this reason, they certainly had a spiritual and emotional connection with him. They loved him and all the saints. (Ephesians 1:15)
The love that they had at their inception stemmed from their faith in the Lord Jesus. (Ephesians 1:15) That is where all Christian love begins and ends. “God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. We love Him because He first loved us.” (I John 4:16, 18) Humans are unable to exhibit Biblical love if we are without Christ. If what we are doing, accomplishing, and/or experiencing does not have its roots in the love we have for God, then it has no value. It may look good on the outside, but it is only bringing glory and praise to ourselves.
The church at Ephesus had become service-oriented. They were doing many of the right things but from the wrong motivation. It is amazing how the flesh can seem to produce good fruit! The Lord admonishes them to “do the deeds you did at first.” (v.5) They were to do those things that they had done at first – those deeds that were motivated because of their love for Him.
The alarming point about this is that each one of us must safeguard our hearts from falling to the same place as those of Ephesus. We need to ask ourselves continually; why are we doing what we are doing? Has our service lost its meaning or purpose? Do we relish adulation and praise rather than offering our thanks to Him? Are we just going through the motions of Christianity? Do we still desire that ‘quality’ time with Him in prayer and study? Have we forgotten that we have been bought with a price?!
No matter where you have fallen, you can be restored to that intimate fellowship with the Lord. Like the church at Ephesus, He gives all the opportunity to repent and to do the deeds done at first. In His grace, He gives everyone a chance to return to his first love!
The True Bread
To each of the seven churches of Revelation the Lord offers varying rewards to “him who overcomes.” The apostle John clarifies the one who overcomes as the one who is born of God and believes that Jesus is the Son of God. (I John 5:4, 5) In other words, true believers are those who overcome. They overcome because Jesus overcame the barrier of sin between God and us.
To those who would overcome in the church at Pergamus, Jesus says that He would give them “some of the hidden manna.” (2:17) Manna was what God provided to sustain the Israelites during their sojourn through the wilderness for forty years. The provision of manna stopped the day the Israelites entered the Promised Land when they had eaten of its produce. (Joshua 5:12)
Similarly, Jesus provided physical food supernaturally for those who were following Him and listening to His teachings. He took five loaves of bread and two fish and fed over five thousand, not including the women and children. When the disciples gathered up the leftovers, they filled twelve baskets. (John 6:8-14) The result was that on the next day, the crowd followed Him, “because they ate of the loaves and were filled.” (6:26) They were still looking to satisfy their physical need but Jesus admonishes them, “Do not labor for food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life…” (v.27)
The food that they really needed they could not see. It was hidden because they were looking with their physical eyes – “What sign will You perform then, that we may see it and believe You?” (v. 30) Their true need required spiritual eyes to see the hidden manna, “…the bread which came down from heaven,” for “…he who eats this bread will live forever.” (6:58)
Jesus is the true bread. He told the crowd, “I am the Bread of Life.” (6:35) But, it requires spiritual eyes to see Him, the hidden manna. To those at Pergamus, Jesus offers the hidden manna to he who overcomes. And unlike the manna in the wilderness, His sustaining power will never cease. For all who come to Him will never hunger and he who believes in Him shall never thirst. (v. 35)
To each of the seven churches of Revelation the Lord offers varying rewards to “him who overcomes.” The apostle John clarifies the one who overcomes as the one who is born of God and believes that Jesus is the Son of God. (I John 5:4, 5) In other words, true believers are those who overcome. They overcome because Jesus overcame the barrier of sin between God and us.
To those who would overcome in the church at Pergamus, Jesus says that He would give them “some of the hidden manna.” (2:17) Manna was what God provided to sustain the Israelites during their sojourn through the wilderness for forty years. The provision of manna stopped the day the Israelites entered the Promised Land when they had eaten of its produce. (Joshua 5:12)
Similarly, Jesus provided physical food supernaturally for those who were following Him and listening to His teachings. He took five loaves of bread and two fish and fed over five thousand, not including the women and children. When the disciples gathered up the leftovers, they filled twelve baskets. (John 6:8-14) The result was that on the next day, the crowd followed Him, “because they ate of the loaves and were filled.” (6:26) They were still looking to satisfy their physical need but Jesus admonishes them, “Do not labor for food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life…” (v.27)
The food that they really needed they could not see. It was hidden because they were looking with their physical eyes – “What sign will You perform then, that we may see it and believe You?” (v. 30) Their true need required spiritual eyes to see the hidden manna, “…the bread which came down from heaven,” for “…he who eats this bread will live forever.” (6:58)
Jesus is the true bread. He told the crowd, “I am the Bread of Life.” (6:35) But, it requires spiritual eyes to see Him, the hidden manna. To those at Pergamus, Jesus offers the hidden manna to he who overcomes. And unlike the manna in the wilderness, His sustaining power will never cease. For all who come to Him will never hunger and he who believes in Him shall never thirst. (v. 35)
LOVE BROUGHT HIM
He made the clouds. His chariot riding throughout the endless expanse of the universe. He walked on the wings of the wind among the stars calling each by name. He existed outside the confines of time and space. All power was in His hands. Then in a chosen moment of eternity …“(He) made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.” (Philippians 2:7)
He became a squalling baby, a child with skinned knees and the son of a poor man’s town. He grew in years and then became the object of scorn and rejection when He stepped into His preordained purpose. Nevertheless, His words lifted a fallen people. His hands healed a sick and dying multitude. The light remained wherever He had been. In Him was life. Yet, His destination bid Him come, to come and die.
Why, beloved? Why did He come to die? Love brought Him. A love too big for us to understand, yet so wonderful it wraps us in its arms, and grandma hugs the rebellion right out of us. And this love picks us up and carries us to the Father and leaves our condemnation lying in the dust to be blown away and forgotten. Yes, He came to pay off and close our bank account full of condemnation. He is more than a prophet, far more than just another road to heaven; He alone is God’s way of redemption.
He gave Himself for you, for me, for us. His vast Kingdom is now established in our hearts, and we see Him exalted and glorified, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! We see Him riding on the chariots of clouds, walking on the wings of the wind amongst the stars, speaking life into His creation. All power is in His hands. All glory belongs to Him. And we join the Heavenly Host bowing at His feet singing choruses of praise to the One called “Faithful and True.”
He made the clouds. His chariot riding throughout the endless expanse of the universe. He walked on the wings of the wind among the stars calling each by name. He existed outside the confines of time and space. All power was in His hands. Then in a chosen moment of eternity …“(He) made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.” (Philippians 2:7)
He became a squalling baby, a child with skinned knees and the son of a poor man’s town. He grew in years and then became the object of scorn and rejection when He stepped into His preordained purpose. Nevertheless, His words lifted a fallen people. His hands healed a sick and dying multitude. The light remained wherever He had been. In Him was life. Yet, His destination bid Him come, to come and die.
Why, beloved? Why did He come to die? Love brought Him. A love too big for us to understand, yet so wonderful it wraps us in its arms, and grandma hugs the rebellion right out of us. And this love picks us up and carries us to the Father and leaves our condemnation lying in the dust to be blown away and forgotten. Yes, He came to pay off and close our bank account full of condemnation. He is more than a prophet, far more than just another road to heaven; He alone is God’s way of redemption.
He gave Himself for you, for me, for us. His vast Kingdom is now established in our hearts, and we see Him exalted and glorified, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! We see Him riding on the chariots of clouds, walking on the wings of the wind amongst the stars, speaking life into His creation. All power is in His hands. All glory belongs to Him. And we join the Heavenly Host bowing at His feet singing choruses of praise to the One called “Faithful and True.”
Isaac
“Then He said, “Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you. (Genesis 22:2)
One day a very wealthy young man approached Jesus with a question. He wanted to know what was required of him to gain eternal life. Jesus told him to keep the commandments. He had kept all the commandments; he assured the Good Teacher. Jesus blew right past that fallacy and went straight for the man’s Isaac. “Then give up your wealth. Come be poor with Me.” (Luke 18:22) The rich ruler walked away, clutching his Isaac tightly.
“Man,” we reason to ourselves, “that young fellow kept so little [transient earthly goods] and gave up so much [treasures in heaven].” But what of our Isaacs? When the Lord says, “Cast that habit away; give up that temporal thing you so cherish; walk away from that and that and don’t look back.” – How do you and I respond? Honestly??? I know I still have pockets full of Isaacs even after all these years as a Christian. The clutching hands of a fool. And the attempts to bargain. “Not Isaac, Lord. But, this or this, instead.”
Francois Fenelon brings it right on home for us: “Often what you offer God is not what He wants. He usually wants that which you dread giving Him. It is Isaac, the well-beloved, that He wants you to give up. What He is after is what comes between you and Him. He will not rest, and neither will you, I might add until you have given Him everything. If you want to prosper and enjoy God’s blessing, don’t hold anything back from Him. What comfort, freedom, and strength there is when nothing stands between you and God.” (The Seeking Heart)
Abraham laid Isaac on the altar and became the purveyor of blessings for all the nations of the earth. The rich young ruler kept Isaac to himself and became a sad object lesson of failure. What a difference!
God wants our Isaacs. Is He getting them?
“Then He said, “Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you. (Genesis 22:2)
One day a very wealthy young man approached Jesus with a question. He wanted to know what was required of him to gain eternal life. Jesus told him to keep the commandments. He had kept all the commandments; he assured the Good Teacher. Jesus blew right past that fallacy and went straight for the man’s Isaac. “Then give up your wealth. Come be poor with Me.” (Luke 18:22) The rich ruler walked away, clutching his Isaac tightly.
“Man,” we reason to ourselves, “that young fellow kept so little [transient earthly goods] and gave up so much [treasures in heaven].” But what of our Isaacs? When the Lord says, “Cast that habit away; give up that temporal thing you so cherish; walk away from that and that and don’t look back.” – How do you and I respond? Honestly??? I know I still have pockets full of Isaacs even after all these years as a Christian. The clutching hands of a fool. And the attempts to bargain. “Not Isaac, Lord. But, this or this, instead.”
Francois Fenelon brings it right on home for us: “Often what you offer God is not what He wants. He usually wants that which you dread giving Him. It is Isaac, the well-beloved, that He wants you to give up. What He is after is what comes between you and Him. He will not rest, and neither will you, I might add until you have given Him everything. If you want to prosper and enjoy God’s blessing, don’t hold anything back from Him. What comfort, freedom, and strength there is when nothing stands between you and God.” (The Seeking Heart)
Abraham laid Isaac on the altar and became the purveyor of blessings for all the nations of the earth. The rich young ruler kept Isaac to himself and became a sad object lesson of failure. What a difference!
God wants our Isaacs. Is He getting them?
Heart of the People
Uzziah reigned for 52 years and was considered a good king, although he failed to tear down the high places. And toward the end of his leadership, he became proud in his heart and acted corruptly by entering the temple to perform the duty of the priest.
His son, Jotham, became king after him and did what was right in the sight of the Lord, except he also failed to tear down the high places. And though Jotham did order his way before the Lord, the Scriptures state that the people still acted corruptly. (2 Chr 27: 2, 6) Ahaz, Jotham’s son, became king and he did not walk in the ways of the Lord. He brought about a lack of restraint in Judah and was very unfaithful to the Lord. (2 Chr 28:19) In fact, King Ahaz replaced the Lord’s altar in Jerusalem with a design from the pagan worship system in Damascus! Ahaz’s son, Hezekiah, reversed much of the damage that his father had done. He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and tore down the high places of pagan worship as God had commanded. He even destroyed the bronze serpent that Moses had made because the Israelites were burning incense to it! (2 Kings 18:4) The people had turned the true worship of God into a ritualistic act of their own choosing.
Isaiah spoke to the people during the end of Uzziah’s reign and throughout the reigns of the other three kings. Initially, he warned them that God was not pleased with their observances and sacrifices, the very things He had commanded them to do. God said that their sacrifices were futile. Their appointed feasts His soul hated. And though they would make many prayers, He would not hear them. (Is 1: 12-15) They had an outward observance of the commands of God, but their hearts were far from Him. The Lord said that “their reverence for Me consisted of traditions learned by rote.” (Is 29: 13, 14) It was the very same words Jesus spoke concerning the religious leaders of His time. (Mark 7: 6, 7)
Three of the four kings made successful attempts at stopping the pagan religious system that had infiltrated the nation. The only thing they could not do was change the hearts of the people. Where is your heart today? Is it caught up in a religious system that requires adherence to the commandments of men? Or is your heart engaging with God daily, seeking Him by faith, and being guided by the Spirit through His word?
Uzziah reigned for 52 years and was considered a good king, although he failed to tear down the high places. And toward the end of his leadership, he became proud in his heart and acted corruptly by entering the temple to perform the duty of the priest.
His son, Jotham, became king after him and did what was right in the sight of the Lord, except he also failed to tear down the high places. And though Jotham did order his way before the Lord, the Scriptures state that the people still acted corruptly. (2 Chr 27: 2, 6) Ahaz, Jotham’s son, became king and he did not walk in the ways of the Lord. He brought about a lack of restraint in Judah and was very unfaithful to the Lord. (2 Chr 28:19) In fact, King Ahaz replaced the Lord’s altar in Jerusalem with a design from the pagan worship system in Damascus! Ahaz’s son, Hezekiah, reversed much of the damage that his father had done. He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and tore down the high places of pagan worship as God had commanded. He even destroyed the bronze serpent that Moses had made because the Israelites were burning incense to it! (2 Kings 18:4) The people had turned the true worship of God into a ritualistic act of their own choosing.
Isaiah spoke to the people during the end of Uzziah’s reign and throughout the reigns of the other three kings. Initially, he warned them that God was not pleased with their observances and sacrifices, the very things He had commanded them to do. God said that their sacrifices were futile. Their appointed feasts His soul hated. And though they would make many prayers, He would not hear them. (Is 1: 12-15) They had an outward observance of the commands of God, but their hearts were far from Him. The Lord said that “their reverence for Me consisted of traditions learned by rote.” (Is 29: 13, 14) It was the very same words Jesus spoke concerning the religious leaders of His time. (Mark 7: 6, 7)
Three of the four kings made successful attempts at stopping the pagan religious system that had infiltrated the nation. The only thing they could not do was change the hearts of the people. Where is your heart today? Is it caught up in a religious system that requires adherence to the commandments of men? Or is your heart engaging with God daily, seeking Him by faith, and being guided by the Spirit through His word?
A Little Into ALOT
“When it was evening, His disciples came to Him, saying, “This is a deserted place, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy themselves food.” But Jesus said to them, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” And they said to Him, “We have here only five loaves and two fish.” He said, “Bring them here to Me.” (Matthew 14:15-18)
Years ago, a popular entertainer spent time in Africa during a severe famine. On his way home, he found himself asking God, “How can You sit by and let these awful things happen? Why don’t You do something?” He then shared that, as clear as a bell, the Lord spoke the words came right back to him, “Why don’t you do something?”
The Lord is always saying to us: “You give them something to eat.” And all too often our response is we only have a few loaves and a couple of fish. What we have is too little while what is needed is too big. And we are spot on about that. But He says, “Bring your little here to Me.” We serve a big God. “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” (Jeremiah 32:27) He takes our widow’s two mites (Mark 12:41-44) and turns them into bricks of gold.
We can indeed marvel at His multiplication skills feeding the five thousand, including having leftovers, yet to me, the most exciting aspect of all is that whatever we have to offer - a song, a word, a Bible, a tract, a note, a smile, a prayer - our small pittances, our little, becomes a lot in His hands. Most often, we have no idea of what our two mites accomplish.
Many of you may be familiar with Ray Boltz’s song “Thank You” recorded back in 1995. In the song, a man walks through heaven and is overwhelmed by people coming to him, thanking him for all he did on their behalf. He had no idea the little things he had done for God in his life were being multiplied many times over in the Savior’s hands.
The world is big; the needs are even bigger. The Lord tells us to meet their needs. We stand bewildered with a loaf, a fish, a song, a prayer, a testimony, a little of this, of that. “I have only…” we respond. “Bring them here to Me,” He says. And lo and behold - He takes them and makes our little into a lot.
What an Awesome God we serve!
“When it was evening, His disciples came to Him, saying, “This is a deserted place, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy themselves food.” But Jesus said to them, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” And they said to Him, “We have here only five loaves and two fish.” He said, “Bring them here to Me.” (Matthew 14:15-18)
Years ago, a popular entertainer spent time in Africa during a severe famine. On his way home, he found himself asking God, “How can You sit by and let these awful things happen? Why don’t You do something?” He then shared that, as clear as a bell, the Lord spoke the words came right back to him, “Why don’t you do something?”
The Lord is always saying to us: “You give them something to eat.” And all too often our response is we only have a few loaves and a couple of fish. What we have is too little while what is needed is too big. And we are spot on about that. But He says, “Bring your little here to Me.” We serve a big God. “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” (Jeremiah 32:27) He takes our widow’s two mites (Mark 12:41-44) and turns them into bricks of gold.
We can indeed marvel at His multiplication skills feeding the five thousand, including having leftovers, yet to me, the most exciting aspect of all is that whatever we have to offer - a song, a word, a Bible, a tract, a note, a smile, a prayer - our small pittances, our little, becomes a lot in His hands. Most often, we have no idea of what our two mites accomplish.
Many of you may be familiar with Ray Boltz’s song “Thank You” recorded back in 1995. In the song, a man walks through heaven and is overwhelmed by people coming to him, thanking him for all he did on their behalf. He had no idea the little things he had done for God in his life were being multiplied many times over in the Savior’s hands.
The world is big; the needs are even bigger. The Lord tells us to meet their needs. We stand bewildered with a loaf, a fish, a song, a prayer, a testimony, a little of this, of that. “I have only…” we respond. “Bring them here to Me,” He says. And lo and behold - He takes them and makes our little into a lot.
What an Awesome God we serve!
How long is a Day?
That seems like a ridiculous question! Most of us learned when we were very young that a day is 24 hours. A day is determined by the amount of time it takes the earth to make one rotation, which requires it to spin approximately 1,000 miles per hour. However, the concept of a day is often questioned when it comes to the Bible, especially during the creation week.
The evolutionary idea of billions of years has infiltrated the church and has led many to believe that the day in Genesis 1 must have been long periods of time. They accept that science must be correct and that the Bible must be figurative or wrong in the creation account in an attempt to harmonize scientific theory with Biblical truth. The problem is that this idea has undermined the faith of many and has caused some to deny outright that the Scriptures are the inerrant word of God.
The Bible gives the account of the first day, “And God called the light day, and the darkness night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.” (Gen 1:5). The very first day was part night and part day. For approximately 3500 years the nation of Israel patterned their day after the Biblical account of evening and then morning. Even now their days begin and end at 6 PM. If this day were a long period of time, (Some suggest thousands of years), then it would have been light for several thousand years and then became dark for several thousand years. Without light, it is impossible for life to exist. Therefore, this idea of a long day is immediately incorrect.
Israel not only patterns their day, but they also model the week after the creation account by resting on the seventh day. God commanded the Israelites, “Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God…For in six days the Lord made the heaven and earth, the sea and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day…” (Ex 20:11,12 KJV) The Lord instructed the people of Israel to follow the pattern of a week that He had established during creation. They were to rest one day, a literal 24 hour period, after working six days just as the Lord had created for six days and rested on the seventh day. If these days were not literal 24 hour periods, but long spans of time, then God was instructing Israel to work for many years without a break and then to observe a Sabbath day that would have lasted for years as well.
In the Old Testament Scriptures, the Hebrew word for day is yom. It is used to represent the daylight part of the day. (Gen 8:22) In rare cases, it is used as an indefinite amount of time. Biblical scholars note that it always refers to a literal day when it accompanied by an ordinal (number). For example, Joshua and the army of Israel marched around the city of Jericho seven days. “But the seventh day you shall march around the city seven times, and the priests shall blow the trumpets.” (Josh 6:4) The number ’seven’ with ’day’ indicated that the passage is referring to a literal day consisting of 24 hours. When you read the creation account, this is exactly how it is recorded; “the evening and the morning were the first day…second day…third day…etc.” (Gen 1:5, 8,13,19,23, and 31 KJV)
The Genesis account records that each day has an evening and a morning: It states that God made two great lights, one to rule the day and one to rule the night. (v. 16) The lights in the heavens would be for signs and seasons and days and years. (v 14) It distinguishes time in a way that has been consistent throughout human history. Therefore, any unbiased reader of the first chapter of Genesis would come to the obvious conclusion that the Bible account refers to a day as a literal twenty-four hour period of time and that the Bible depiction of the creation week is accurate.
That seems like a ridiculous question! Most of us learned when we were very young that a day is 24 hours. A day is determined by the amount of time it takes the earth to make one rotation, which requires it to spin approximately 1,000 miles per hour. However, the concept of a day is often questioned when it comes to the Bible, especially during the creation week.
The evolutionary idea of billions of years has infiltrated the church and has led many to believe that the day in Genesis 1 must have been long periods of time. They accept that science must be correct and that the Bible must be figurative or wrong in the creation account in an attempt to harmonize scientific theory with Biblical truth. The problem is that this idea has undermined the faith of many and has caused some to deny outright that the Scriptures are the inerrant word of God.
The Bible gives the account of the first day, “And God called the light day, and the darkness night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.” (Gen 1:5). The very first day was part night and part day. For approximately 3500 years the nation of Israel patterned their day after the Biblical account of evening and then morning. Even now their days begin and end at 6 PM. If this day were a long period of time, (Some suggest thousands of years), then it would have been light for several thousand years and then became dark for several thousand years. Without light, it is impossible for life to exist. Therefore, this idea of a long day is immediately incorrect.
Israel not only patterns their day, but they also model the week after the creation account by resting on the seventh day. God commanded the Israelites, “Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God…For in six days the Lord made the heaven and earth, the sea and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day…” (Ex 20:11,12 KJV) The Lord instructed the people of Israel to follow the pattern of a week that He had established during creation. They were to rest one day, a literal 24 hour period, after working six days just as the Lord had created for six days and rested on the seventh day. If these days were not literal 24 hour periods, but long spans of time, then God was instructing Israel to work for many years without a break and then to observe a Sabbath day that would have lasted for years as well.
In the Old Testament Scriptures, the Hebrew word for day is yom. It is used to represent the daylight part of the day. (Gen 8:22) In rare cases, it is used as an indefinite amount of time. Biblical scholars note that it always refers to a literal day when it accompanied by an ordinal (number). For example, Joshua and the army of Israel marched around the city of Jericho seven days. “But the seventh day you shall march around the city seven times, and the priests shall blow the trumpets.” (Josh 6:4) The number ’seven’ with ’day’ indicated that the passage is referring to a literal day consisting of 24 hours. When you read the creation account, this is exactly how it is recorded; “the evening and the morning were the first day…second day…third day…etc.” (Gen 1:5, 8,13,19,23, and 31 KJV)
The Genesis account records that each day has an evening and a morning: It states that God made two great lights, one to rule the day and one to rule the night. (v. 16) The lights in the heavens would be for signs and seasons and days and years. (v 14) It distinguishes time in a way that has been consistent throughout human history. Therefore, any unbiased reader of the first chapter of Genesis would come to the obvious conclusion that the Bible account refers to a day as a literal twenty-four hour period of time and that the Bible depiction of the creation week is accurate.
That’s Our Father
Jesus (said): “There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living…When he came to his senses, he said…‘I will set out and go back to my father…’” (Luke 15:11-13, 17a, 18a NIV)
Although the parable of the Prodigal Son appears in the 11th through 32nd verses of Luke chapter 15, the previous ten verses help us in understanding Jesus’ teaching here. The first two verses read like this: “Then all the tax collectors and sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes complained saying, ‘This Man receives sinners and eats with them.’” Jesus responds to their grievance surrounded by His dinner companions. He tells them about a lost sheep, a lost coin, and the exhaustive search for both. When they are found, the man and woman rejoice. His point is that everyone, including the tax collector and sinner, has infinite value to God, and He seeks after them and truly rejoices when they are found and saved. Jesus then tells them about a lost son.
Here is some of what we learn about the Prodigal Son:
*The younger son requests his independence. He wants his freedom to do his own thing and live by his own rules. The father grants his petition. He always does. It is called free will.
*The son left for freedom and ended up in bondage. He traded the palace for the pigpen, Eden, for thorny cursed ground. Sound familiar?
*He comes to his senses. He finally recognizes that sin takes you where you don’t want to go, keeps you longer than you want to stay, and cost more than you want to pay. I can relate: “Been there, done that!”
*He heads back home, but not before determining self-imposed conditions that will make him acceptable to his father. “Father, I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.” Though he is the one who rejected his father, he decides how they’ll be reconciled. Hmm, really? Once again, sound familiar?
*The condition of the son on his own - he was dead, lost, and dressed in rags. With his father - he was alive, found, and dressed in robes. Why anyone would choose the former over the latter could only be explained by our voluminous depravity.
Mark Twain said, “Having spent considerable time with good people, I can understand why Jesus liked to be with tax collectors and sinners.” That best introduces the older stay-at-home brother. He appears to be a hardworking, respectable, dutiful, good, and righteous son devoted to his father. He is none of these things. He is an angry, resentful, prideful person who stores up grievances and cares nothing about what his father cares about. He has no real relationship with his father and certainly wants nothing to do with a brother that smells of pigs and prostitutes.
Jesus made His point. The younger son represents the tax collectors and sinners. The older son is a picture of the Pharisees and the scribes. To the first, the wasteful vagabond, the father goes out to meet him and says, “Come home.” To the second, the near yet so far away religionist, the father goes out to meet him and says, “Come in.”
These three parables aren’t about lost sheep, lost coins, or lost sons. They are about our Heavenly Father. They are in fact about our Prodigal God. While one definition of the word prodigal means wasteful and hence the title of the younger son, the other definitions are extravagant, luxuriant and lavish. And hence they describe the extravagant, luxuriant, and lavish love, mercy, grace, and joy of our Father. “And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” That’s our Father!
Gary Inrig, in his book, The Parables, says, “This running rejoicing celebrating God of love, mercy and grace is the God the Pharisees do not know.” The tax collectors and sinners didn’t know this God either. And wherever we are - we need to come to know our running rejoicing celebrating prodigal God. That’s our Father!
Jesus (said): “There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living…When he came to his senses, he said…‘I will set out and go back to my father…’” (Luke 15:11-13, 17a, 18a NIV)
Although the parable of the Prodigal Son appears in the 11th through 32nd verses of Luke chapter 15, the previous ten verses help us in understanding Jesus’ teaching here. The first two verses read like this: “Then all the tax collectors and sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes complained saying, ‘This Man receives sinners and eats with them.’” Jesus responds to their grievance surrounded by His dinner companions. He tells them about a lost sheep, a lost coin, and the exhaustive search for both. When they are found, the man and woman rejoice. His point is that everyone, including the tax collector and sinner, has infinite value to God, and He seeks after them and truly rejoices when they are found and saved. Jesus then tells them about a lost son.
Here is some of what we learn about the Prodigal Son:
*The younger son requests his independence. He wants his freedom to do his own thing and live by his own rules. The father grants his petition. He always does. It is called free will.
*The son left for freedom and ended up in bondage. He traded the palace for the pigpen, Eden, for thorny cursed ground. Sound familiar?
*He comes to his senses. He finally recognizes that sin takes you where you don’t want to go, keeps you longer than you want to stay, and cost more than you want to pay. I can relate: “Been there, done that!”
*He heads back home, but not before determining self-imposed conditions that will make him acceptable to his father. “Father, I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.” Though he is the one who rejected his father, he decides how they’ll be reconciled. Hmm, really? Once again, sound familiar?
*The condition of the son on his own - he was dead, lost, and dressed in rags. With his father - he was alive, found, and dressed in robes. Why anyone would choose the former over the latter could only be explained by our voluminous depravity.
Mark Twain said, “Having spent considerable time with good people, I can understand why Jesus liked to be with tax collectors and sinners.” That best introduces the older stay-at-home brother. He appears to be a hardworking, respectable, dutiful, good, and righteous son devoted to his father. He is none of these things. He is an angry, resentful, prideful person who stores up grievances and cares nothing about what his father cares about. He has no real relationship with his father and certainly wants nothing to do with a brother that smells of pigs and prostitutes.
Jesus made His point. The younger son represents the tax collectors and sinners. The older son is a picture of the Pharisees and the scribes. To the first, the wasteful vagabond, the father goes out to meet him and says, “Come home.” To the second, the near yet so far away religionist, the father goes out to meet him and says, “Come in.”
These three parables aren’t about lost sheep, lost coins, or lost sons. They are about our Heavenly Father. They are in fact about our Prodigal God. While one definition of the word prodigal means wasteful and hence the title of the younger son, the other definitions are extravagant, luxuriant and lavish. And hence they describe the extravagant, luxuriant, and lavish love, mercy, grace, and joy of our Father. “And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” That’s our Father!
Gary Inrig, in his book, The Parables, says, “This running rejoicing celebrating God of love, mercy and grace is the God the Pharisees do not know.” The tax collectors and sinners didn’t know this God either. And wherever we are - we need to come to know our running rejoicing celebrating prodigal God. That’s our Father!
Puddles
“On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’ But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.” (John 7:37, 38)
Our house was the first on a dead-end lane. Every so often the neighbors would put a little cash together and purchase red dog slag to cover the road. Red dog made learning to ride a bike a bit tough (ouch!) Another thing about our slag lane was the sooner-or-later holes that appeared due to the wear-and-tear of the traffic. Those craters would then become mud puddles after a rain. Drivers (grownups) didn’t appreciate the puddles, but we kids did. They were good for stomping in, splashing a bicycle through, or even floating homemade boats across. But in truth, those puddles served little purpose. They just held a bit of water for a time and then dried up.
Christians and puddles don’t go together. Christians are to be streams that flow into the crooks and crannies of our world and bring forth life where there is only barrenness. The Lord says, “The poor and the needy seek water, but there is none, their tongues fail for thirst. I the Lord, will hear them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.” (Isa 41:17) He then promises to make rivers, fountains, pools, and springs in desolate places. If physical thirst is satisfied by His hand, how much more is He willing to satiate spiritual thirst? And by what means does He do so? Us. “He who believes in Me, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”
Oswald Chambers says, “If we believe in Jesus, it is not what we gain, but what He pours through us that counts. It is not that God makes us beautifully rounded grapes, but that He squeezes the sweetness out of us. Spiritually, we cannot measure our life by success, but only by what God pours through us, and we cannot measure that at all.” (My Utmost for His Highest)
We speak often and think much regarding our being servants of the Most High who serve Him in word and deed. But an even better picture is one where we appear as rivers, fountains, pools, and springs from where the Holy Spirit flows freely to others. And indeed, that we are to be and do. Our call is to always be available to God so that He can pour His Spirit through us and give ‘living water’ to the thirsty. And as Chambers tells us, when we do so – “hundreds of other lives will be continually refreshed. It is time now to break the life, to cease craving for satisfaction, and to spill the thing out. Our Lord is asking who of us will do it for Him?”
Far too many of us Christians spend far too much time being puddles, taking in, holding, then drying up. Let this not be so. Instead, let us be those rivers of living water.
“On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’ But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.” (John 7:37, 38)
Our house was the first on a dead-end lane. Every so often the neighbors would put a little cash together and purchase red dog slag to cover the road. Red dog made learning to ride a bike a bit tough (ouch!) Another thing about our slag lane was the sooner-or-later holes that appeared due to the wear-and-tear of the traffic. Those craters would then become mud puddles after a rain. Drivers (grownups) didn’t appreciate the puddles, but we kids did. They were good for stomping in, splashing a bicycle through, or even floating homemade boats across. But in truth, those puddles served little purpose. They just held a bit of water for a time and then dried up.
Christians and puddles don’t go together. Christians are to be streams that flow into the crooks and crannies of our world and bring forth life where there is only barrenness. The Lord says, “The poor and the needy seek water, but there is none, their tongues fail for thirst. I the Lord, will hear them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.” (Isa 41:17) He then promises to make rivers, fountains, pools, and springs in desolate places. If physical thirst is satisfied by His hand, how much more is He willing to satiate spiritual thirst? And by what means does He do so? Us. “He who believes in Me, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”
Oswald Chambers says, “If we believe in Jesus, it is not what we gain, but what He pours through us that counts. It is not that God makes us beautifully rounded grapes, but that He squeezes the sweetness out of us. Spiritually, we cannot measure our life by success, but only by what God pours through us, and we cannot measure that at all.” (My Utmost for His Highest)
We speak often and think much regarding our being servants of the Most High who serve Him in word and deed. But an even better picture is one where we appear as rivers, fountains, pools, and springs from where the Holy Spirit flows freely to others. And indeed, that we are to be and do. Our call is to always be available to God so that He can pour His Spirit through us and give ‘living water’ to the thirsty. And as Chambers tells us, when we do so – “hundreds of other lives will be continually refreshed. It is time now to break the life, to cease craving for satisfaction, and to spill the thing out. Our Lord is asking who of us will do it for Him?”
Far too many of us Christians spend far too much time being puddles, taking in, holding, then drying up. Let this not be so. Instead, let us be those rivers of living water.
Which Way?
The people came near “and said to Jeremiah the prophet, ‘Please, let our petition be acceptable to you, and pray for us to the Lord your God…that the Lord your God may show us the way which we should walk and the thing we should do.’” (Jeremiah 42:2-3)
Following the Babylonian conquest of Judah, some of the Jews were left in the land. King Nebuchadnezzar appointed Gedaliah to be the governor over these people. As is often the case in such situations, intrigue and insurrection came to pass. Ishmael and his band assassinated Gedaliah at Mizpah. They also killed some of the Jews who were with Gedaliah as well as some Chaldeans. The assassins took the rest of the people of Mizpah captive and fled. Johanan and his band chased Ishmael to take retribution against them. They freed the captive people, but the murderers escaped to the Ammonites.
After these things took place, Johanan and all the people came to Jeremiah. We see what they said to him in the scripture above. It was good that they came seeking to know and do God’s will. But, red flag, notice they said to Jeremiah, your Lord, and God, not, ours? The Bible also tells us that these people had their minds made up to go to the land of Egypt. The intent was to avoid more violence and possible famine if they remained in Judah. Does that not seem reasonable? Surely, that was the best way to go, and the best thing to do.
Jeremiah met with them ten days later with the Lord’s answer: “If you will still remain in this land, then I will build you and not pull you down, and I will plant you and not pluck you up.” (v.10) The prophet also told the people that God promised them protection from the king of Babylon, “…for I am with you, to save you and deliver you from his hand. And I will show you mercy, that he may have mercy on you and cause you to return to your own land.” (vs.11b, 12) Jeremiah continued - “If you wholly set your faces to enter Egypt, and go to dwell there, then it shall be that the sword which you feared shall overtake you there in the land of Egypt; the famine of which you were afraid shall follow close after you there in Egypt; and there you shall die.” (vs.15, 16)
What was the people’s response? “You speak falsely! The Lord God has not sent you to say, 'Do not go to Egypt to dwell there.’” (43:2b)
The people went to Egypt. They intended to do so from the very beginning. The show of inquiring of the Lord occurred because the people convinced themselves God would rubber-stamp their way. Sadly, the sword and the famine did track them to Egypt – they died there.
This is a cautionary episode for us. We may determine the best way for us to go. We are sure it is the best thing to do. We might even make a show of conferring with God on the matter. All the while, we are determined to go to our Egypt. What will our outcome be? I think we know the answer.
The people came near “and said to Jeremiah the prophet, ‘Please, let our petition be acceptable to you, and pray for us to the Lord your God…that the Lord your God may show us the way which we should walk and the thing we should do.’” (Jeremiah 42:2-3)
Following the Babylonian conquest of Judah, some of the Jews were left in the land. King Nebuchadnezzar appointed Gedaliah to be the governor over these people. As is often the case in such situations, intrigue and insurrection came to pass. Ishmael and his band assassinated Gedaliah at Mizpah. They also killed some of the Jews who were with Gedaliah as well as some Chaldeans. The assassins took the rest of the people of Mizpah captive and fled. Johanan and his band chased Ishmael to take retribution against them. They freed the captive people, but the murderers escaped to the Ammonites.
After these things took place, Johanan and all the people came to Jeremiah. We see what they said to him in the scripture above. It was good that they came seeking to know and do God’s will. But, red flag, notice they said to Jeremiah, your Lord, and God, not, ours? The Bible also tells us that these people had their minds made up to go to the land of Egypt. The intent was to avoid more violence and possible famine if they remained in Judah. Does that not seem reasonable? Surely, that was the best way to go, and the best thing to do.
Jeremiah met with them ten days later with the Lord’s answer: “If you will still remain in this land, then I will build you and not pull you down, and I will plant you and not pluck you up.” (v.10) The prophet also told the people that God promised them protection from the king of Babylon, “…for I am with you, to save you and deliver you from his hand. And I will show you mercy, that he may have mercy on you and cause you to return to your own land.” (vs.11b, 12) Jeremiah continued - “If you wholly set your faces to enter Egypt, and go to dwell there, then it shall be that the sword which you feared shall overtake you there in the land of Egypt; the famine of which you were afraid shall follow close after you there in Egypt; and there you shall die.” (vs.15, 16)
What was the people’s response? “You speak falsely! The Lord God has not sent you to say, 'Do not go to Egypt to dwell there.’” (43:2b)
The people went to Egypt. They intended to do so from the very beginning. The show of inquiring of the Lord occurred because the people convinced themselves God would rubber-stamp their way. Sadly, the sword and the famine did track them to Egypt – they died there.
This is a cautionary episode for us. We may determine the best way for us to go. We are sure it is the best thing to do. We might even make a show of conferring with God on the matter. All the while, we are determined to go to our Egypt. What will our outcome be? I think we know the answer.
The Jezebel Spirit
When reading the message to the churches in Revelation, it becomes apparent that things have not changed much over time. That is the reason the message to the seven churches is as relevant today as it was almost 2,000 years ago.
Consider the female, Jezebel, who is associated with the church of Thyatira. In the Old Testament, Jezebel was married to Ahab, king of Israel. She was a Gentile and the daughter of Ethbaal, which means “Baal is alive.” Baal was a false god worshiped by the Canaanites. Thus Ahab not only married a gentile in violation of God’s command, but he also married into a family that worshiped a false deity.
Jezebel killed the prophets of God and stirred up Ahab to act wickedly before the Lord. (1 Kings 18:4; 21:25) She was involved in harlotries that were part of Canaanite worship and participated in witchcraft. (2 King 9:22) She was integral in influencing the entire nation of Israel to false worship through her husband, Ahab.
The Jezebel in Revelation similarly led the church of Thyatira astray. She led God’s servants to commit acts of immorality and to eat things sacrificed to idols. This may refer to meals held by guilds at the time for the craftsman. Eating meat offered to idols and sexual immorality was common to these meetings. These were the very things that the Jerusalem council cautioned the Gentile believers to avoid. (Acts 15) They were activities associated with pagan worship. But she invented a way to bring the world into the church just as Jezebel did to Israel.
When the church strays from the clear teaching of God’s word and overlooks ‘minor’ things to appease people, it opens the door for such evil as this. Most of the time, it is a gradual process, a slow decay, which leads to such behavior. In the last fifty-plus years, many churches have drifted in their thinking. Within the church, living together (the Bible calls it fornication) has become almost as acceptable as marriage. And homosexual relationships are slowly being accepted as God ordained unions. It is obvious that this type of Jezebel spirit is just as alive today as it was in Thyatira. There are many in churches today seducing God’s servants to commit acts of immorality. To he/she involved in such activity, God says “repent.”
Repent is a change of mind. God graciously gave her time to repent, but she did not. This Jezebel in the church did not change her mind about what she was teaching and doing. The Jezebel in the Old Testament met her demise just as God said she would.
This New Testament Jezebel will fall into a similar judgment. According to Hebrews 13 verse 4, fornicators and adulterers, God will judge. She will be cast into a sickbed – metaphorically to be inflicted with a disease. Good Biblical teaching is good for us and glorifies God. Bad teaching does just the opposite. Neither one goes unnoticed by God. (James 3:1) “He who has an ear let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Rev. 2:29)
When reading the message to the churches in Revelation, it becomes apparent that things have not changed much over time. That is the reason the message to the seven churches is as relevant today as it was almost 2,000 years ago.
Consider the female, Jezebel, who is associated with the church of Thyatira. In the Old Testament, Jezebel was married to Ahab, king of Israel. She was a Gentile and the daughter of Ethbaal, which means “Baal is alive.” Baal was a false god worshiped by the Canaanites. Thus Ahab not only married a gentile in violation of God’s command, but he also married into a family that worshiped a false deity.
Jezebel killed the prophets of God and stirred up Ahab to act wickedly before the Lord. (1 Kings 18:4; 21:25) She was involved in harlotries that were part of Canaanite worship and participated in witchcraft. (2 King 9:22) She was integral in influencing the entire nation of Israel to false worship through her husband, Ahab.
The Jezebel in Revelation similarly led the church of Thyatira astray. She led God’s servants to commit acts of immorality and to eat things sacrificed to idols. This may refer to meals held by guilds at the time for the craftsman. Eating meat offered to idols and sexual immorality was common to these meetings. These were the very things that the Jerusalem council cautioned the Gentile believers to avoid. (Acts 15) They were activities associated with pagan worship. But she invented a way to bring the world into the church just as Jezebel did to Israel.
When the church strays from the clear teaching of God’s word and overlooks ‘minor’ things to appease people, it opens the door for such evil as this. Most of the time, it is a gradual process, a slow decay, which leads to such behavior. In the last fifty-plus years, many churches have drifted in their thinking. Within the church, living together (the Bible calls it fornication) has become almost as acceptable as marriage. And homosexual relationships are slowly being accepted as God ordained unions. It is obvious that this type of Jezebel spirit is just as alive today as it was in Thyatira. There are many in churches today seducing God’s servants to commit acts of immorality. To he/she involved in such activity, God says “repent.”
Repent is a change of mind. God graciously gave her time to repent, but she did not. This Jezebel in the church did not change her mind about what she was teaching and doing. The Jezebel in the Old Testament met her demise just as God said she would.
This New Testament Jezebel will fall into a similar judgment. According to Hebrews 13 verse 4, fornicators and adulterers, God will judge. She will be cast into a sickbed – metaphorically to be inflicted with a disease. Good Biblical teaching is good for us and glorifies God. Bad teaching does just the opposite. Neither one goes unnoticed by God. (James 3:1) “He who has an ear let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Rev. 2:29)
“Seventy times Seven” People
Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:21-22)
F-O-R-G-I-V-E is not that big of a word if you count it as seven letters, but the whole of its meaning is way, way big. We will not attempt to wrap our hands around the entire girth here, just a small portion that might be helpful to some of us.
When the Lord tells Peter and us to forgive others seventy times seven, we are not to come up with 490. Instead, we are to realize the scope of His expectations for us in this area of life. We are to forgive over and over because we are forgiven endlessly in Christ Jesus. How can we receive that beautiful, liberating remarkable truth into our lives, and then fail to extend it to others? I encourage you to read Matthew 18:23-35 as the Lord shares the parable that demonstrates this so clearly.
What we need is a disposition of forgiveness. We are by nature (our new nature) to be disposed to forgive those who trespass against us. Then when particular trespasses occur, we are already bent toward forbearance and pardon. Yes, from there, we run into the big things of forgiving involving the processes of repentance and restitution and justice, and boundaries. (We are not punching bags). But before we arrive there, our hearts must be right and ready. We humbly (keyword) forgive for we have been forgiven.
The Apostle Paul puts it plain and pretty and perfect for us: “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” (Colossians 3:12-15)
Now that is exactly the kind of person we should all aspire to be. I am sure you agree.
Well, are we getting there? Are we becoming “seventy times seven” people?
Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:21-22)
F-O-R-G-I-V-E is not that big of a word if you count it as seven letters, but the whole of its meaning is way, way big. We will not attempt to wrap our hands around the entire girth here, just a small portion that might be helpful to some of us.
When the Lord tells Peter and us to forgive others seventy times seven, we are not to come up with 490. Instead, we are to realize the scope of His expectations for us in this area of life. We are to forgive over and over because we are forgiven endlessly in Christ Jesus. How can we receive that beautiful, liberating remarkable truth into our lives, and then fail to extend it to others? I encourage you to read Matthew 18:23-35 as the Lord shares the parable that demonstrates this so clearly.
What we need is a disposition of forgiveness. We are by nature (our new nature) to be disposed to forgive those who trespass against us. Then when particular trespasses occur, we are already bent toward forbearance and pardon. Yes, from there, we run into the big things of forgiving involving the processes of repentance and restitution and justice, and boundaries. (We are not punching bags). But before we arrive there, our hearts must be right and ready. We humbly (keyword) forgive for we have been forgiven.
The Apostle Paul puts it plain and pretty and perfect for us: “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” (Colossians 3:12-15)
Now that is exactly the kind of person we should all aspire to be. I am sure you agree.
Well, are we getting there? Are we becoming “seventy times seven” people?
Done For Us
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.” Eph. 1:3
The 1st chapter of the Apostle Paul’s epistle to the believers at Ephesus packs a wallop. It is here we can (should) be bowled over before the interminable mosaic of what God has done for us in Christ. Verse by verse we see He blessed us, chose us, predestined us, adopted us, accepted us, redeemed us, forgave us, made Himself known to us and sealed us with the Holy Spirit of promise. He has also guaranteed us an inheritance in the Son.
We learn that God has done for us these things, “according to the good pleasure of His will.” (v.5) Three recurrent outworkings of God in this chapter are His grace, His glory, and His power. By the glory of His grace and the riches of His grace we “have redemption through His blood” and “the forgiveness of sin.” (vs.6, 7) The immensity of what He has done for us is to the praise of His glory. (vs.12, 14) And He accomplished this with “the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power.” (v.19) Ephesians, chapter one, emphasizes the doctrines of the Gospel. Perhaps that is why this portion of scripture talks only of what God has done for us. Our justification, our salvation is wholly His work, not ours. We get tripped up on that quite a bit. Either in thinking, we have to attain or retain it by our works. No. “In Him, you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise.” (v.13) Our portion is to believe and trust in what He has done for us in Christ.
Oh, to the praise of the glory of His grace! Oh, to the praise of the glory of His Son! Oh, to the praise of His glory in our guaranteed inheritance! Yes, praise God for all He has DONE FOR US!
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.” Eph. 1:3
The 1st chapter of the Apostle Paul’s epistle to the believers at Ephesus packs a wallop. It is here we can (should) be bowled over before the interminable mosaic of what God has done for us in Christ. Verse by verse we see He blessed us, chose us, predestined us, adopted us, accepted us, redeemed us, forgave us, made Himself known to us and sealed us with the Holy Spirit of promise. He has also guaranteed us an inheritance in the Son.
We learn that God has done for us these things, “according to the good pleasure of His will.” (v.5) Three recurrent outworkings of God in this chapter are His grace, His glory, and His power. By the glory of His grace and the riches of His grace we “have redemption through His blood” and “the forgiveness of sin.” (vs.6, 7) The immensity of what He has done for us is to the praise of His glory. (vs.12, 14) And He accomplished this with “the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power.” (v.19) Ephesians, chapter one, emphasizes the doctrines of the Gospel. Perhaps that is why this portion of scripture talks only of what God has done for us. Our justification, our salvation is wholly His work, not ours. We get tripped up on that quite a bit. Either in thinking, we have to attain or retain it by our works. No. “In Him, you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise.” (v.13) Our portion is to believe and trust in what He has done for us in Christ.
Oh, to the praise of the glory of His grace! Oh, to the praise of the glory of His Son! Oh, to the praise of His glory in our guaranteed inheritance! Yes, praise God for all He has DONE FOR US!
On Which Mountain do you Worship?
Samaria was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel. The Samaritans built a temple on Mt. Gerizim. It was the mountain from which the blessings of the law were proclaimed. (Deut 11:29) The temple was later destroyed, but the people still esteemed that location. God had commanded the Israelites to bring their offerings and sacrifices to a place prescribed by Him. (Deut 12:5, 11) Jerusalem became that place, but the Samaritans chose Mt. Gerizim instead.
With that thought in mind, recall the event when Jesus went through Samaria on His way to Galilee. (John 4) He met a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. She had come to draw water. He confronts her with her most pressing need, the need for spiritual water. After revealing information about her past, she acknowledged that He was a prophet. And then she commented, “Our fathers worshipped on this mountain, and you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one ought to worship.”(4:20) Was she being convicted? Did she want to do the right thing? Where should she worship God?
Jesus responded, “Women, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. …But the hour is coming and now is, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.”(4:22, 24)
The true worship of God had nothing to do with a place, a mountain, a building. Indeed, their outward expression of worship required the Jewish people to obey certain requirements at the temple. However, true worship was and is always an expression of the heart. Jesus said of His generation, “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me.” (Matt 15:8) Outwardly they were doing all the ‘right’ things, but on the inside, they were not right with God.
Is your ‘mountain’ showing up on Sunday morning at a church building and then living the rest of the week by the dictates of your own heart? Even the Pharisees and Scribes looked great on the outside – Jesus said of them, “…you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.” (Matt 23:28) Or is your mountain in the heart, seeking day by day to walk with Him, worshipping Him in spirit and in truth?
Samaria was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel. The Samaritans built a temple on Mt. Gerizim. It was the mountain from which the blessings of the law were proclaimed. (Deut 11:29) The temple was later destroyed, but the people still esteemed that location. God had commanded the Israelites to bring their offerings and sacrifices to a place prescribed by Him. (Deut 12:5, 11) Jerusalem became that place, but the Samaritans chose Mt. Gerizim instead.
With that thought in mind, recall the event when Jesus went through Samaria on His way to Galilee. (John 4) He met a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. She had come to draw water. He confronts her with her most pressing need, the need for spiritual water. After revealing information about her past, she acknowledged that He was a prophet. And then she commented, “Our fathers worshipped on this mountain, and you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one ought to worship.”(4:20) Was she being convicted? Did she want to do the right thing? Where should she worship God?
Jesus responded, “Women, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. …But the hour is coming and now is, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.”(4:22, 24)
The true worship of God had nothing to do with a place, a mountain, a building. Indeed, their outward expression of worship required the Jewish people to obey certain requirements at the temple. However, true worship was and is always an expression of the heart. Jesus said of His generation, “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me.” (Matt 15:8) Outwardly they were doing all the ‘right’ things, but on the inside, they were not right with God.
Is your ‘mountain’ showing up on Sunday morning at a church building and then living the rest of the week by the dictates of your own heart? Even the Pharisees and Scribes looked great on the outside – Jesus said of them, “…you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.” (Matt 23:28) Or is your mountain in the heart, seeking day by day to walk with Him, worshipping Him in spirit and in truth?
Who do you follow?
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12
My little grandson looked up at me and declared, “Pappy, I’m going to follow you wherever you go!” Wow! I thought does he mean room to room or anywhere? I know I’m not nearly as tall as he thinks I am. Where will I lead him? Should I attempt to lead him in the way of Christ? Do I always go the way of Christ? That way is narrow and arduous. You have to swim upstream. You have to walk into the wind. Maybe we should settle for room to room.
When I take him outside, he will enter a culture that calls evil good and good evil. It makes dark light and light-dark. It puts bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter. (Isa. 5:20) At least, the Bible describes it that way. I could play it safe and teach him to acquiesce to the cultural norms. Then he can spend his life walking downhill. He can float downstream with the crowd. It may seem like the right way, but is it? Again, the Bible says no, it ends in death.
Who I want to follow is the biblical Jesus. Hopefully, my little sidekick will tag along and then pursue the same. The Jesus of the Bible died for our sin, was buried and rose the third day, having finished the work of justification on our behalf. That is the Gospel, the good news. “The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rom 6:23)
Speaking of a gift, I once gave a friend a gift of two pairs of socks. They had the fish and cross symbols on them. He handed them back, informing me he would not wear them. The socks were his, bought and paid for, but he refused to accept the gift. God allows people to do the same with the much greater gift He purchased for them. Who is then responsible for their end?
Another actuality I want my grandson to learn concerns the wondrous things of God’s love, grace, and mercy. God loves us. We’re good with that. Even our culture is down with “God is love.” (1 John 4:16) Grace is His unmerited favor given to us; His goodness we do not deserve. Mercy is His withholding what we do deserve, which is instantaneous judgment. We like those as well. But here is the rub: God’s love, grace, and mercy are never, not ever, divorced from God’s Truth. “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” (Gal 6:7) We cannot jump over, crawl under, dodge around nor declare ambiguity in regards to His truth. “Thy Word is truth,” Jesus said that. (John 17:17)
I hope to impart to the little follower these things: We are not to sideline God’s truth in our interactions with the world, and at the same time we are not to neglect loving other people, and generously giving grace and mercy to them as well. We miss that a lot of the time. The Father did not send the Son to condemn the world, and neither should we. We tend to do that also. For God so loved He sent His Son. And now He sends His Son through us. Love your brethren. Love your neighbors. Love your enemies. Hands raised to God and hands extended to others. “Love God, Love man” – the Bible in four words. Yes, but we can’t do that; only Christ in us can do these things through us. We need a whole lot more Jesus and a whole lot less us. Right?
The man of the world follows after his own reflection and ends in destruction. The man of God says, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all day.” (Psalm 25:5)
Who do you follow?
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12
My little grandson looked up at me and declared, “Pappy, I’m going to follow you wherever you go!” Wow! I thought does he mean room to room or anywhere? I know I’m not nearly as tall as he thinks I am. Where will I lead him? Should I attempt to lead him in the way of Christ? Do I always go the way of Christ? That way is narrow and arduous. You have to swim upstream. You have to walk into the wind. Maybe we should settle for room to room.
When I take him outside, he will enter a culture that calls evil good and good evil. It makes dark light and light-dark. It puts bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter. (Isa. 5:20) At least, the Bible describes it that way. I could play it safe and teach him to acquiesce to the cultural norms. Then he can spend his life walking downhill. He can float downstream with the crowd. It may seem like the right way, but is it? Again, the Bible says no, it ends in death.
Who I want to follow is the biblical Jesus. Hopefully, my little sidekick will tag along and then pursue the same. The Jesus of the Bible died for our sin, was buried and rose the third day, having finished the work of justification on our behalf. That is the Gospel, the good news. “The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rom 6:23)
Speaking of a gift, I once gave a friend a gift of two pairs of socks. They had the fish and cross symbols on them. He handed them back, informing me he would not wear them. The socks were his, bought and paid for, but he refused to accept the gift. God allows people to do the same with the much greater gift He purchased for them. Who is then responsible for their end?
Another actuality I want my grandson to learn concerns the wondrous things of God’s love, grace, and mercy. God loves us. We’re good with that. Even our culture is down with “God is love.” (1 John 4:16) Grace is His unmerited favor given to us; His goodness we do not deserve. Mercy is His withholding what we do deserve, which is instantaneous judgment. We like those as well. But here is the rub: God’s love, grace, and mercy are never, not ever, divorced from God’s Truth. “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” (Gal 6:7) We cannot jump over, crawl under, dodge around nor declare ambiguity in regards to His truth. “Thy Word is truth,” Jesus said that. (John 17:17)
I hope to impart to the little follower these things: We are not to sideline God’s truth in our interactions with the world, and at the same time we are not to neglect loving other people, and generously giving grace and mercy to them as well. We miss that a lot of the time. The Father did not send the Son to condemn the world, and neither should we. We tend to do that also. For God so loved He sent His Son. And now He sends His Son through us. Love your brethren. Love your neighbors. Love your enemies. Hands raised to God and hands extended to others. “Love God, Love man” – the Bible in four words. Yes, but we can’t do that; only Christ in us can do these things through us. We need a whole lot more Jesus and a whole lot less us. Right?
The man of the world follows after his own reflection and ends in destruction. The man of God says, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all day.” (Psalm 25:5)
Who do you follow?
A Grizzly Look at Nature
My interest has always been in the outdoors with the summer being the one exception. I’m the opposite of bears. I hibernate inside in the summer as much as possible –can’t take the heat. Recently I read a book about the life of a fishing/hunting guide in Alaska. When I was younger, I often thought that Alaska would have been a great place to live. Being older, I’m sure that I would not like the long cold winter nights.
In the book, the author related an experience about a moose, her calf, and a grizzly bear in hot pursuit. A healthy moose minus the calf usually has a good chance against a grizzly. However, since there was a calf involved, the odds were somewhat different. After a long, arduous escape attempt down the ridge and across a lake, the calf had no more energy. On the shore of the lake, the grizzly overtook the calf where it met its demise.
From a distance, nature appears beautiful and serene. Up close it’s another story. Even in our back yards hawks prey on songbirds. Small critters have numerous dangers including coyotes, foxes, owls and more. In the bigger woods of Pennsylvania, black bears will prey on fawns. It is a never-ending cycle of life and death.
The Bible tells us that the whole creation was subject to futility at the fall. (Romans 8:20) The effect of sin was not just on humans, but the whole creation. In the beginning, God gave the beast of the earth, only green plants for food. (Gen 1:30) There were no carnivores. However, sin affected every part of this world, as we know it.
There is a time in the future when all this will change. According to the Bible Jesus, the Messiah is going to return to earth and set up His kingdom. When He does, there will not only be righteousness on earth and peace among the nations, but there will also be harmony in the animal kingdom. “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall graze; their young ones shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. The nursing child shall play by the cobra’s hole, and the weaned child shall put his hand in the viper’s den. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain, For the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD As the waters cover the sea.” (Is 11:6-9) Man cannot bring about real peace on earth. Only Jesus the Messiah can and will. It will be a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, and all dominions shall serve and obey Him. (Dan 2:44; 7:27)
Are you prepared to be a part of His kingdom?
My interest has always been in the outdoors with the summer being the one exception. I’m the opposite of bears. I hibernate inside in the summer as much as possible –can’t take the heat. Recently I read a book about the life of a fishing/hunting guide in Alaska. When I was younger, I often thought that Alaska would have been a great place to live. Being older, I’m sure that I would not like the long cold winter nights.
In the book, the author related an experience about a moose, her calf, and a grizzly bear in hot pursuit. A healthy moose minus the calf usually has a good chance against a grizzly. However, since there was a calf involved, the odds were somewhat different. After a long, arduous escape attempt down the ridge and across a lake, the calf had no more energy. On the shore of the lake, the grizzly overtook the calf where it met its demise.
From a distance, nature appears beautiful and serene. Up close it’s another story. Even in our back yards hawks prey on songbirds. Small critters have numerous dangers including coyotes, foxes, owls and more. In the bigger woods of Pennsylvania, black bears will prey on fawns. It is a never-ending cycle of life and death.
The Bible tells us that the whole creation was subject to futility at the fall. (Romans 8:20) The effect of sin was not just on humans, but the whole creation. In the beginning, God gave the beast of the earth, only green plants for food. (Gen 1:30) There were no carnivores. However, sin affected every part of this world, as we know it.
There is a time in the future when all this will change. According to the Bible Jesus, the Messiah is going to return to earth and set up His kingdom. When He does, there will not only be righteousness on earth and peace among the nations, but there will also be harmony in the animal kingdom. “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall graze; their young ones shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. The nursing child shall play by the cobra’s hole, and the weaned child shall put his hand in the viper’s den. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain, For the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD As the waters cover the sea.” (Is 11:6-9) Man cannot bring about real peace on earth. Only Jesus the Messiah can and will. It will be a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, and all dominions shall serve and obey Him. (Dan 2:44; 7:27)
Are you prepared to be a part of His kingdom?
Monsters
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)
Every so often, my little grandson would come a running sounding the alarm that monsters were after him. Sometimes he was told there are no such things as monsters. Other times, Pappy assured him that if there are any monsters, Pappy will beat them up. Pappy then demonstrated some really sad karate moves unique to old out-of-shape Pappies who know nothing about karate moves.
Nonetheless, my minimalist dexterity seemed quite enough to impress a two-year-old. The monsters did not stand a chance against his Pappy. He felt safe. Monsters do exist — not the kind a toddler mind conjures up, no, far, far worse. Our fallen sphere is under the sway of powers, rulers, and hosts of the worst kind. These minions of the Darkness influence and capture and use people to kill and steal and destroy anything that God loves. Despite some who pretend this world is a playground (no monsters), it is in fact, a battleground (lots of monsters). It has been this way since Cain killed Abel. We see the travail and suffering and carnage daily across the globe. We see the deceptions and confusion and resultant brokenness in people everywhere. Monsters are real. What are we to do?
We first must come a running to the Savior and Lord of the world, Jesus Christ; to Him, who says, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matt 11:28) To Him who created all things and in Him, all things are held together. (Col 1:15-18) Yes, run to Jesus, who speaks of the monsters, then assures us, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer. I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) And, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Eph 6:10, 11)
My precious grandson is learning that Jesus loves him for the Bible tells him so. That Jesus loves all the children of the world. That Jesus reaches out to the little Zacchaeus’ of the world. That Jesus can calm the storms of life. And one day, my grandson will know in his heart of hearts, that it isn’t Pappy’s lame karate moves that keep him safe in a monster-laden world, but rather a faithful and loving God. He will know to the core of his being that there is a God who has his time and his purpose already prepared, here and now, and beyond and forever. God has the same for you, as well. Do you know Him in your heart of hearts?
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)
Every so often, my little grandson would come a running sounding the alarm that monsters were after him. Sometimes he was told there are no such things as monsters. Other times, Pappy assured him that if there are any monsters, Pappy will beat them up. Pappy then demonstrated some really sad karate moves unique to old out-of-shape Pappies who know nothing about karate moves.
Nonetheless, my minimalist dexterity seemed quite enough to impress a two-year-old. The monsters did not stand a chance against his Pappy. He felt safe. Monsters do exist — not the kind a toddler mind conjures up, no, far, far worse. Our fallen sphere is under the sway of powers, rulers, and hosts of the worst kind. These minions of the Darkness influence and capture and use people to kill and steal and destroy anything that God loves. Despite some who pretend this world is a playground (no monsters), it is in fact, a battleground (lots of monsters). It has been this way since Cain killed Abel. We see the travail and suffering and carnage daily across the globe. We see the deceptions and confusion and resultant brokenness in people everywhere. Monsters are real. What are we to do?
We first must come a running to the Savior and Lord of the world, Jesus Christ; to Him, who says, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matt 11:28) To Him who created all things and in Him, all things are held together. (Col 1:15-18) Yes, run to Jesus, who speaks of the monsters, then assures us, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer. I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) And, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Eph 6:10, 11)
My precious grandson is learning that Jesus loves him for the Bible tells him so. That Jesus loves all the children of the world. That Jesus reaches out to the little Zacchaeus’ of the world. That Jesus can calm the storms of life. And one day, my grandson will know in his heart of hearts, that it isn’t Pappy’s lame karate moves that keep him safe in a monster-laden world, but rather a faithful and loving God. He will know to the core of his being that there is a God who has his time and his purpose already prepared, here and now, and beyond and forever. God has the same for you, as well. Do you know Him in your heart of hearts?
What, Not Why
“There were present at that season some who told Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than other Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. Or those eighteen on whom the tower of Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will likewise perish.’” (Luke 13:1-5)
A peaceful September sky carried USAir Flight 427 from Chicago to Pittsburgh on its way to West Palm Beach, Florida. There were one hundred and thirty-two souls on board. They came from various places and backgrounds. Each had a destination. They had plans for the present and dreams for the future. Somebody loved them, and they loved somebody. The aircraft rolled and plunged into a hillside. That peaceful September sky witnessed another tragic demonstration of life’s vaporous fragility. All those plans and dreams perished in a brief moment.
It happened within a few terrifying seconds on an October morning. A school bus forced to stop at a red light was not sitting clear of the railroad tracks. Noisy teenagers helped to drown out the oncoming train’s pleading whistle. A horrific collision occurred, and several students were injured and five killed. At the scene of the accident, a nurse rushed to assist the victims. Later, she choked back frustrated tears and attempted to comfort the parents of a boy named, Jeff. “He did everything I told him to, but he just couldn’t breathe. He didn’t die alone. I held him in my arms.”
Just before noon on an April day, darkness moved into a Colorado high school. With little warning, guns and homemade bombs flung destruction in every direction. Two figures in black trench coats moved quickly with deadly intent. Innocence screamed in agony. Evil laughed, savoring the murderous rampage. Then like a dog chasing its tail, evil turned on its agents and devoured them as well. Broken bodies, broken hearts, and broken lives were all that remained.
They were folks just like you and me. It was another Tuesday morning in another September in another year on the calendar. And those folks just like you and I went to work. Suddenly, they were thrust into sheer unimaginable terror. What went through their minds? How did those in the towers feel as they made the choice between certain death by fire or by leaping into that pristine blue sky? The horror of that ‘just another day’ for those folks, just like you and me, will surely haunt all of us till the day we die.
Why? Why do planes fall from the sky? Why do children die in our arms? Why do innocent people get murdered? Why do ordinary folks get killed and maimed by terrorists?
Well, Flight 427 had a rudder problem; perhaps it was poorly designed by someone. Somebody else didn’t anticipate traffic backing up at a red light and causing a bus to sit on railroad tracks, or the bus driver missed the danger. A couple spiritually destitute kids, depressed and angry, and seemingly unsupervised decided to get even for perceived abuses at school. Some religious fanatics wanting to rid the Holy Land of “Zionists and Infidels” believed blowing up a bunch of people in business suits would do the trick or something to that effect.
How’s that for answers? Are you satisfied with my observations? Maybe you might want to ask other people a whole lot smarter and more insightful than me. I can tell you this - God isn’t going to tell you why. He didn’t tell Job why. Jesus didn’t tell His audience why Pilate butchered those particular folks or why the tower happened to fall on those eighteen individuals.
The fact is He has already told us the whys. He has already told us as soon as the doctor smacks our fanny and we take our first breath, we’re heading on the way to our last. He has made it known we’re fallen sin-filled creatures living in a fallen sin-filled world. He has also assured us that the rain falls on the just and the unjust, just like the sun shines on the same, and harm and death play no favorites. And He has certainly clued us in on our Adversary without and that insidious adversary within. There are the whys.
God is interested in “the what” and we need to be as well. What are we going to do about that last breath we’re destined to take? What are we going to do about being sin-filled creatures that want to run our own lives? What are we going to do about living in a world system that is at enmity with Him? What are we going to do about all the deception from without and within us?
Why? No - what, not why.
“There were present at that season some who told Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than other Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. Or those eighteen on whom the tower of Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will likewise perish.’” (Luke 13:1-5)
A peaceful September sky carried USAir Flight 427 from Chicago to Pittsburgh on its way to West Palm Beach, Florida. There were one hundred and thirty-two souls on board. They came from various places and backgrounds. Each had a destination. They had plans for the present and dreams for the future. Somebody loved them, and they loved somebody. The aircraft rolled and plunged into a hillside. That peaceful September sky witnessed another tragic demonstration of life’s vaporous fragility. All those plans and dreams perished in a brief moment.
It happened within a few terrifying seconds on an October morning. A school bus forced to stop at a red light was not sitting clear of the railroad tracks. Noisy teenagers helped to drown out the oncoming train’s pleading whistle. A horrific collision occurred, and several students were injured and five killed. At the scene of the accident, a nurse rushed to assist the victims. Later, she choked back frustrated tears and attempted to comfort the parents of a boy named, Jeff. “He did everything I told him to, but he just couldn’t breathe. He didn’t die alone. I held him in my arms.”
Just before noon on an April day, darkness moved into a Colorado high school. With little warning, guns and homemade bombs flung destruction in every direction. Two figures in black trench coats moved quickly with deadly intent. Innocence screamed in agony. Evil laughed, savoring the murderous rampage. Then like a dog chasing its tail, evil turned on its agents and devoured them as well. Broken bodies, broken hearts, and broken lives were all that remained.
They were folks just like you and me. It was another Tuesday morning in another September in another year on the calendar. And those folks just like you and I went to work. Suddenly, they were thrust into sheer unimaginable terror. What went through their minds? How did those in the towers feel as they made the choice between certain death by fire or by leaping into that pristine blue sky? The horror of that ‘just another day’ for those folks, just like you and me, will surely haunt all of us till the day we die.
Why? Why do planes fall from the sky? Why do children die in our arms? Why do innocent people get murdered? Why do ordinary folks get killed and maimed by terrorists?
Well, Flight 427 had a rudder problem; perhaps it was poorly designed by someone. Somebody else didn’t anticipate traffic backing up at a red light and causing a bus to sit on railroad tracks, or the bus driver missed the danger. A couple spiritually destitute kids, depressed and angry, and seemingly unsupervised decided to get even for perceived abuses at school. Some religious fanatics wanting to rid the Holy Land of “Zionists and Infidels” believed blowing up a bunch of people in business suits would do the trick or something to that effect.
How’s that for answers? Are you satisfied with my observations? Maybe you might want to ask other people a whole lot smarter and more insightful than me. I can tell you this - God isn’t going to tell you why. He didn’t tell Job why. Jesus didn’t tell His audience why Pilate butchered those particular folks or why the tower happened to fall on those eighteen individuals.
The fact is He has already told us the whys. He has already told us as soon as the doctor smacks our fanny and we take our first breath, we’re heading on the way to our last. He has made it known we’re fallen sin-filled creatures living in a fallen sin-filled world. He has also assured us that the rain falls on the just and the unjust, just like the sun shines on the same, and harm and death play no favorites. And He has certainly clued us in on our Adversary without and that insidious adversary within. There are the whys.
God is interested in “the what” and we need to be as well. What are we going to do about that last breath we’re destined to take? What are we going to do about being sin-filled creatures that want to run our own lives? What are we going to do about living in a world system that is at enmity with Him? What are we going to do about all the deception from without and within us?
Why? No - what, not why.
James 2:14 (Part 5)
Failure to walk by faith as a believer will result in a number of negative consequences. A continuous lack of faithfulness and obedience to the word of God will result in a ruined life that is lacking in fruitfulness and works. Peter exhorted believers to add to faith – virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. (II Peter 1:5-7) Without the development of these qualities, one can be barren and unfruitful. (II Peter 1:8) Even to the point that he has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. (II Peter 1:9) Secondly, one risks the possibility of discipline from the Lord. “For who the Lord loves He chastens. (Hebrews 12:6) Many in the Corinthian church had become weak, sick, and died, because of the Lord’s chastening. (II Cor. 11:30, 32)
Thirdly, when faith does not result in works, one will lose reward at the judgment seat of Christ. Not everyone will hear well done good and faithful servant. (Luke 19:22) The way we choose to live this life will impact our eternal life in the kingdom of God.
A faith that does not produce works cannot save (deliver) from God’s discipline, from the power of sin, nor loss of reward at the judgment seat of Christ. However, faith alone in Christ alone apart from any works prior to salvation and afterward will absolutely save one from sin’s penalty – eternal separation from the Lord in the Lake of fire. James audience was saved from eternal destruction, but they were not being delivered from the other consequences that resulted from their failure to walk by faith in obedience to the word of God. We should learn from their failures, so we can experience the abundant life that the Lord desires for all believers, and in doing so we will glorify Him.
Failure to walk by faith as a believer will result in a number of negative consequences. A continuous lack of faithfulness and obedience to the word of God will result in a ruined life that is lacking in fruitfulness and works. Peter exhorted believers to add to faith – virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. (II Peter 1:5-7) Without the development of these qualities, one can be barren and unfruitful. (II Peter 1:8) Even to the point that he has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. (II Peter 1:9) Secondly, one risks the possibility of discipline from the Lord. “For who the Lord loves He chastens. (Hebrews 12:6) Many in the Corinthian church had become weak, sick, and died, because of the Lord’s chastening. (II Cor. 11:30, 32)
Thirdly, when faith does not result in works, one will lose reward at the judgment seat of Christ. Not everyone will hear well done good and faithful servant. (Luke 19:22) The way we choose to live this life will impact our eternal life in the kingdom of God.
A faith that does not produce works cannot save (deliver) from God’s discipline, from the power of sin, nor loss of reward at the judgment seat of Christ. However, faith alone in Christ alone apart from any works prior to salvation and afterward will absolutely save one from sin’s penalty – eternal separation from the Lord in the Lake of fire. James audience was saved from eternal destruction, but they were not being delivered from the other consequences that resulted from their failure to walk by faith in obedience to the word of God. We should learn from their failures, so we can experience the abundant life that the Lord desires for all believers, and in doing so we will glorify Him.
James 2:14 (Part 4)
Therefore James writes, “even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.”(KJV 2:17) This supports the claim that believers can live without producing works for two reasons. First, dead faith is not non-existence faith or no faith. We err when we use words like saving faith. ‘Saving’ faith implies that there is another type of faith that does not save. The Bible speaks to little faith, great faith, full of faith, and no faith, but not saving faith. A person either has faith unto salvation or does not have faith. One either rejects Jesus Christ and His work or receives Him and His work. When one receives, one has believed. When one believes (trusts) that person has exercised faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ and receives at that very moment forgiveness of all sins (past, present, and future) and the free gift of everlasting life. (Hebrews 9:12; 9:28; I John 2:2; John 3:16; 3:36; 6:47; Romans 6:23)
Secondly, dead is used as a metaphor describing faith that is separate from works –‘being alone’. Faith is present but is not being demonstrated by works, in this case, showing love toward a brother/sister in need.
Death in the Bible does not mean non-existent. Physical death is the separation of the soul from the body. So James aptly compares faith that is dead to a body that is dead. (2:26) A body that is dead still exists as a body, but it is separated from the soul. It ceases to perform its intended function. As a body it becomes useless, of no profit. Likewise faith is useless (dead metaphorically) when it produces no works. They were not being doers of the word, only hearing it, thus deceiving themselves. (1:22) Hearers only of the word will not be blessed in what one does. (1:25; Psalm 1)
The prodigal son in the book of Luke “was dead and is alive again.” (Luke 15:24) Although he was ‘dead,’ he did not cease being a son. He had made decisions that resulted in him being unproductive and was out of fellowship with the father because of it. He was not doing the things that a son should have been doing, but he was still alive and still a son nonetheless.
To show a faith that is working properly, James gave us the illustration of two people – Abraham and Rahab.
Abraham’s faith was working together with his works, and his faith was perfected or made mature. (2:22) Had he refused to offer his son on the altar, would that have proved that he was not saved? Would it have proved that he was not justified by faith? No, it would have only shown that his faith had not completely matured. He had come into a faith relationship with God many years before this. (Genesis 15:6) But his obedience to the command demonstrated that he was trusting in God to fulfill His promise even if he sacrificed Isaac. He concluded that God could raise him from the dead. (Hebrews 11:19) The first time Abraham was justified before God. The second time he is justified before man that he was a doer of the word. In other words Abraham showed to man his faithfulness to God, and because he followed through with this great act of faith, he has the awesome privilege of being called ‘the friend of God.’
It justified him as the friend of God because he was proved faithful. "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you." (John 15:14) Abraham's claim to trust God was justified by offering up Isaac at His command. And thus, Abraham became a superior example of one who was faithful by doing what God commanded. Because of Abraham’s obedience to the command, through his seed (the Messiah) all the nations of the earth shall be blessed. (Genesis 22:18; 26:4, 5)
Rahab, like Abraham, demonstrated that her faith was real when she received the messengers and sent them out another way. She could have done that to save her own life as well. But God knew her heart and had James record for us that she did it in faith. Had she not hid the spies, she still had believed, but she would probably have lost her life in the Israeli assault on Jericho. By hiding the spies she demonstrated to them that her faith was genuine. Her work of hiding the spies justified her before men. Her faith produced action that was helpful to Israel’s army. Because of her obedience she survived the attack and became part of the genealogy of Christ. (Matthew 1:5) What a blessing –a Gentile harlot included in the Jewish lineage of the Messiah! She was rewarded for her faithfulness.
Both Abraham and Rahab demonstrated their faith through their action. In Abraham’s case, he demonstrated that his faith had grown to maturity (perfected) in contrast to sin that brings forth death when it is full-grown. (1:15) In both cases it was proof of their faithfulness, not their salvation.
Therefore James writes, “even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.”(KJV 2:17) This supports the claim that believers can live without producing works for two reasons. First, dead faith is not non-existence faith or no faith. We err when we use words like saving faith. ‘Saving’ faith implies that there is another type of faith that does not save. The Bible speaks to little faith, great faith, full of faith, and no faith, but not saving faith. A person either has faith unto salvation or does not have faith. One either rejects Jesus Christ and His work or receives Him and His work. When one receives, one has believed. When one believes (trusts) that person has exercised faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ and receives at that very moment forgiveness of all sins (past, present, and future) and the free gift of everlasting life. (Hebrews 9:12; 9:28; I John 2:2; John 3:16; 3:36; 6:47; Romans 6:23)
Secondly, dead is used as a metaphor describing faith that is separate from works –‘being alone’. Faith is present but is not being demonstrated by works, in this case, showing love toward a brother/sister in need.
Death in the Bible does not mean non-existent. Physical death is the separation of the soul from the body. So James aptly compares faith that is dead to a body that is dead. (2:26) A body that is dead still exists as a body, but it is separated from the soul. It ceases to perform its intended function. As a body it becomes useless, of no profit. Likewise faith is useless (dead metaphorically) when it produces no works. They were not being doers of the word, only hearing it, thus deceiving themselves. (1:22) Hearers only of the word will not be blessed in what one does. (1:25; Psalm 1)
The prodigal son in the book of Luke “was dead and is alive again.” (Luke 15:24) Although he was ‘dead,’ he did not cease being a son. He had made decisions that resulted in him being unproductive and was out of fellowship with the father because of it. He was not doing the things that a son should have been doing, but he was still alive and still a son nonetheless.
To show a faith that is working properly, James gave us the illustration of two people – Abraham and Rahab.
Abraham’s faith was working together with his works, and his faith was perfected or made mature. (2:22) Had he refused to offer his son on the altar, would that have proved that he was not saved? Would it have proved that he was not justified by faith? No, it would have only shown that his faith had not completely matured. He had come into a faith relationship with God many years before this. (Genesis 15:6) But his obedience to the command demonstrated that he was trusting in God to fulfill His promise even if he sacrificed Isaac. He concluded that God could raise him from the dead. (Hebrews 11:19) The first time Abraham was justified before God. The second time he is justified before man that he was a doer of the word. In other words Abraham showed to man his faithfulness to God, and because he followed through with this great act of faith, he has the awesome privilege of being called ‘the friend of God.’
It justified him as the friend of God because he was proved faithful. "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you." (John 15:14) Abraham's claim to trust God was justified by offering up Isaac at His command. And thus, Abraham became a superior example of one who was faithful by doing what God commanded. Because of Abraham’s obedience to the command, through his seed (the Messiah) all the nations of the earth shall be blessed. (Genesis 22:18; 26:4, 5)
Rahab, like Abraham, demonstrated that her faith was real when she received the messengers and sent them out another way. She could have done that to save her own life as well. But God knew her heart and had James record for us that she did it in faith. Had she not hid the spies, she still had believed, but she would probably have lost her life in the Israeli assault on Jericho. By hiding the spies she demonstrated to them that her faith was genuine. Her work of hiding the spies justified her before men. Her faith produced action that was helpful to Israel’s army. Because of her obedience she survived the attack and became part of the genealogy of Christ. (Matthew 1:5) What a blessing –a Gentile harlot included in the Jewish lineage of the Messiah! She was rewarded for her faithfulness.
Both Abraham and Rahab demonstrated their faith through their action. In Abraham’s case, he demonstrated that his faith had grown to maturity (perfected) in contrast to sin that brings forth death when it is full-grown. (1:15) In both cases it was proof of their faithfulness, not their salvation.
James 2:14 (Part 3)
Faith alone in Christ alone will not save one from God’s discipline (I Cor. 11:30; I John 5:16; James 5:19-20; Hebrews 12:5-11) nor from an unfavorable judgment at the bema seat of Christ (II Cor. 5:10) And faith alone in Christ alone does not automatically save one from the power of sin (sanctification) when the believers fail to cooperate with the Spirit of God through the word of God – fails to be a doer of the word. (1:21, 22)
If one refuses to help with the physical needs of a genuinely needy brother/sister, he is showing no mercy and violating the royal law. “But whoever has the world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?” (I John 3:17) This does not profit the needy brother/sister. Meeting a need for another proves that works are good and profitable to men (Titus 3:8) Good works of meeting urgent needs will make one fruitful as well. In this case, the lack of physical provision on the part of the brother shows that he is unfruitful. (Titus 3:14) Being unfruitful is being unfaithful. And since faithfulness of service is judged by Christ, it can be concluded that ongoing unfruitfulness may result in a poor commendation by our Lord (I Cor. 4:5) and loss of reward but will never affect salvation.
There are several individuals in Scripture that appear to be unfruitful for much of their lives, yet God sees them as redeemed. Lot is an example. The Bible calls him righteous, although much of his life was spent participating in the world system of Sodom. (II Peter 2:7) Solomon was turned away from the Lord by his many wives and concubines and did not fully follow the Lord. (I Kings 11:6) Jesus taught the parable of the sower. The seed that fell on the rocky ground was an illustration of those who believe for a while and in time of temptation (testing) fall away. (Luke 8:13) The seed that fell among the thorns represented ones who are distracted with the cares of the world and pleasures of life and bring no fruit to maturity. (Luke 8:14) And the only one that is not saved is the first one, the seed by the wayside, “lest they should believe and be saved.” (Like 8:12) One of Paul’s companion, Demas, forsook him having loved this present world. (II Timothy 4:10) Paul delivered Hymenaeus and Alexander to Satan so that they would learn not to blasphemy. (I Timothy 1:20) He did the same thing to a Corinthian man who had a sexual relationship with his father’s wife. The purpose was for the destruction of the flesh that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. (I Cor. 5:5) He admonished the church for not disciplining this man for his sexual immorality. And since church discipline is designed only for believers, then one must conclude that the apostle saw him as one who had trusted in the Lord as his Savior.
Furthermore, the fact that James refers to them as brother and sister in verse fourteen indicates that he is speaking of believers. Many believers fail miserably throughout their lifetime. All of us fail to one extent or another. How many works does it take then to ‘prove’ I am saved? How much lack of works and unfruitfulness does it take to prove that I am not saved? Those are questions that the Bible does not answer. The reason I believe is that it does not take any works or fruitfulness to prove that one is saved. The only proof is based on the word of God that one has believed on the Lord Jesus as Savior. (Acts 16:31; John 6:47; I John 5:13)
Faith alone in Christ alone will not save one from God’s discipline (I Cor. 11:30; I John 5:16; James 5:19-20; Hebrews 12:5-11) nor from an unfavorable judgment at the bema seat of Christ (II Cor. 5:10) And faith alone in Christ alone does not automatically save one from the power of sin (sanctification) when the believers fail to cooperate with the Spirit of God through the word of God – fails to be a doer of the word. (1:21, 22)
If one refuses to help with the physical needs of a genuinely needy brother/sister, he is showing no mercy and violating the royal law. “But whoever has the world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?” (I John 3:17) This does not profit the needy brother/sister. Meeting a need for another proves that works are good and profitable to men (Titus 3:8) Good works of meeting urgent needs will make one fruitful as well. In this case, the lack of physical provision on the part of the brother shows that he is unfruitful. (Titus 3:14) Being unfruitful is being unfaithful. And since faithfulness of service is judged by Christ, it can be concluded that ongoing unfruitfulness may result in a poor commendation by our Lord (I Cor. 4:5) and loss of reward but will never affect salvation.
There are several individuals in Scripture that appear to be unfruitful for much of their lives, yet God sees them as redeemed. Lot is an example. The Bible calls him righteous, although much of his life was spent participating in the world system of Sodom. (II Peter 2:7) Solomon was turned away from the Lord by his many wives and concubines and did not fully follow the Lord. (I Kings 11:6) Jesus taught the parable of the sower. The seed that fell on the rocky ground was an illustration of those who believe for a while and in time of temptation (testing) fall away. (Luke 8:13) The seed that fell among the thorns represented ones who are distracted with the cares of the world and pleasures of life and bring no fruit to maturity. (Luke 8:14) And the only one that is not saved is the first one, the seed by the wayside, “lest they should believe and be saved.” (Like 8:12) One of Paul’s companion, Demas, forsook him having loved this present world. (II Timothy 4:10) Paul delivered Hymenaeus and Alexander to Satan so that they would learn not to blasphemy. (I Timothy 1:20) He did the same thing to a Corinthian man who had a sexual relationship with his father’s wife. The purpose was for the destruction of the flesh that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. (I Cor. 5:5) He admonished the church for not disciplining this man for his sexual immorality. And since church discipline is designed only for believers, then one must conclude that the apostle saw him as one who had trusted in the Lord as his Savior.
Furthermore, the fact that James refers to them as brother and sister in verse fourteen indicates that he is speaking of believers. Many believers fail miserably throughout their lifetime. All of us fail to one extent or another. How many works does it take then to ‘prove’ I am saved? How much lack of works and unfruitfulness does it take to prove that I am not saved? Those are questions that the Bible does not answer. The reason I believe is that it does not take any works or fruitfulness to prove that one is saved. The only proof is based on the word of God that one has believed on the Lord Jesus as Savior. (Acts 16:31; John 6:47; I John 5:13)
James 2:14 (Part 2)
James warned that they are deceiving themselves when they are hearers only and not doers of the word. (1:22) He also warned that judging others without mercy will result in no mercy when it comes to God judging them. (2:13) Remember, he is not speaking to unbelievers but believers. He has addressed them fifteen times as brethren in five chapters. So the logical conclusion would be that he is saying to them that 'faith' that does not produce mercy toward others will result in judgment without mercy.
This judgment is in reference to believers. How is a believer judged? First of all, one can be judged in this life, according to God’s discipline. (I Cor. 11:32) Did they want mercy in judgment or no mercy? They were risking no mercy in the disciplinary department for they were showing no mercy. He could treat them like the Corinthians, ‘many sleep’ or like Ananias and Sapphira who died immediately when their sin was exposed. (Acts 5:1-10)
Can a faith that does not produce works (in this case mercy toward fellow believers) save one from judgment (discipline) without mercy? The answer is ‘no’!
Because they are believers, their sin has been judged at the cross. Christ paid for all their sins once for all. Yet all believers also must stand before the judgment seat of Christ. (Romans 14:10) The apostle exhorted the Roman believers not to judge their brothers or show contempt for their brothers. The connection appears to be that when they wrongfully judge another brother, they were “no longer walking in love.” (Romans 14:15) The implication is that this continuous unconfessed attitude and treatment of other brothers will negatively affect their reward at the judgment seat of Christ. (I Cor. 3:13)
A believer’s sin is forgiven, but the consequence of sin’s effect in this life has not been removed. For example, a believer that struggles with drunkenness will not produce the works that God intended for him. One might cut his own life short because of this kind of behavior. In this way, sin can affect one’s service and works. Consequentially, the believer’s walk will result in reward or loss of reward. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” (II Corinthians 5:10) Again it’s not the sins being judged, but faithful service. Was it good or bad? Faithful service will be affected by ongoing disobedience.
Similarly, those to whom James was warning were brothers in the Lord. They were judging with partiality showing favoritism to the rich (2:1-3). In doing so, they were showing no mercy to the poorer brothers and dishonoring them. They were acting as judges with evil thoughts (2: 4). Those believers were not fulfilling the royal law of loving your neighbor as yourself (2: 8).
Rather than acting as evil judges, they should speak and do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty (2:12). If they show no mercy, they may risk being judged by the same standard at the judgment seat of Christ (2:13). “Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned (judged). Behold the Judge is standing at the door!” (James 5:9) In other words, when Jesus comes back will He find you as a faithful or unfaithful steward? (Luke 19: 12-27)
James warned that they are deceiving themselves when they are hearers only and not doers of the word. (1:22) He also warned that judging others without mercy will result in no mercy when it comes to God judging them. (2:13) Remember, he is not speaking to unbelievers but believers. He has addressed them fifteen times as brethren in five chapters. So the logical conclusion would be that he is saying to them that 'faith' that does not produce mercy toward others will result in judgment without mercy.
This judgment is in reference to believers. How is a believer judged? First of all, one can be judged in this life, according to God’s discipline. (I Cor. 11:32) Did they want mercy in judgment or no mercy? They were risking no mercy in the disciplinary department for they were showing no mercy. He could treat them like the Corinthians, ‘many sleep’ or like Ananias and Sapphira who died immediately when their sin was exposed. (Acts 5:1-10)
Can a faith that does not produce works (in this case mercy toward fellow believers) save one from judgment (discipline) without mercy? The answer is ‘no’!
Because they are believers, their sin has been judged at the cross. Christ paid for all their sins once for all. Yet all believers also must stand before the judgment seat of Christ. (Romans 14:10) The apostle exhorted the Roman believers not to judge their brothers or show contempt for their brothers. The connection appears to be that when they wrongfully judge another brother, they were “no longer walking in love.” (Romans 14:15) The implication is that this continuous unconfessed attitude and treatment of other brothers will negatively affect their reward at the judgment seat of Christ. (I Cor. 3:13)
A believer’s sin is forgiven, but the consequence of sin’s effect in this life has not been removed. For example, a believer that struggles with drunkenness will not produce the works that God intended for him. One might cut his own life short because of this kind of behavior. In this way, sin can affect one’s service and works. Consequentially, the believer’s walk will result in reward or loss of reward. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” (II Corinthians 5:10) Again it’s not the sins being judged, but faithful service. Was it good or bad? Faithful service will be affected by ongoing disobedience.
Similarly, those to whom James was warning were brothers in the Lord. They were judging with partiality showing favoritism to the rich (2:1-3). In doing so, they were showing no mercy to the poorer brothers and dishonoring them. They were acting as judges with evil thoughts (2: 4). Those believers were not fulfilling the royal law of loving your neighbor as yourself (2: 8).
Rather than acting as evil judges, they should speak and do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty (2:12). If they show no mercy, they may risk being judged by the same standard at the judgment seat of Christ (2:13). “Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned (judged). Behold the Judge is standing at the door!” (James 5:9) In other words, when Jesus comes back will He find you as a faithful or unfaithful steward? (Luke 19: 12-27)
James 2:14 (Part 1)
The Bible is clear that justification is by faith alone in the Lord Jesus. (Gen 15:6; John 3:36; Rom 3:28; 4:5; 5:1; Gal 3:8, 24; Phil 3:9) The Apostle Paul stated that those who are saved are saved apart from works. (Rom 4:5, 6) So how could works ever save someone from the lake of fire? James cannot be teaching faith in Jesus plus good works since that would contradict the rest of Scripture. No one earns eternal life by doing any good work. It simply requires faith on the part of each individual in the complete and finished work of Jesus Christ. (Rom 4:5) Nothing can be added to it. It is the gift of God. (Ephesians 2:8)
When it comes to works, they are to be a result of faith. We are saved unto good works, "which God prepared beforehand that we SHOULD walk in them." (Eph 2:10) The grace of God teaches us that we SHOULD live godly ... and to be zealous for good works. (Titus 2:14) He also instructed Titus that believers SHOULD be careful to maintain good works. (Titus 3:8) They needed to LEARN to maintain good works.... that THEY MAY NOT BE UNFRUITFUL. (Titus 3:14) Good works are not automatic. They are learned. And the writer to the Hebrew believers exhorted them to "consider one another in order to stir up love and good works." (Hebrews 10:24)
The apostle Paul writing to Timothy commanded those that are rich, "... not to be haughty nor to trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God... Let them do good, that they may be rich in good works." Why exhort the rich to be rich in good works if good works are an inevitable outcome of salvation?
Another human can't judge a person's salvation based upon his/her good works. Jesus addressed individuals who look very much like one of His believers. They prophesied in His name. They cast out demons in His name. They did wonders in His name. They even call Him Lord. But Jesus says that He never knew them. (Matt 7:22, 23) They did not enter through the narrow gate. (7:13, 14) These men had done great and wonderful works, but they were not saved. Why? Because they were basing their entrance into the kingdom upon the good things that they did - their good works!
Judas deceived his fellow disciples for three years. When Jesus told them that one of them would betray Him, they didn't have a clue of whom he was speaking. Each of them asked, "Lord is it I?" (Matt 26:22) If works are proof of salvation, some believers may appear not to be saved while some unbelievers may appear to be saved because of all the 'good' things they do. Some people live morally. They don’t lie, cheat, or steal. They remain faithful to their spouses. They go to church religiously. They might look saved because of it, but they may be just as lost as the worst unbelieving sinner. That is why one’s salvation cannot be judged according to their ‘good’ works.
Only a believer can produce works that glorify God. But the genuineness of works comes from the heart with the proper motivation which must be empowered by the Holy Spirit in us. And only God can discern that for only He can see the heart of the individual. (II Sam 16:7) The word of God is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
The point of this is to say that James is not speaking of a faith that saves a person from the lake of fire. He is not speaking about believing unto salvation. He is speaking about faith that is alone, that is not accompanied by works. If he had been uncertain about the salvation of some, would he have exhorted them to do good works to prove they were saved? Or would he have said something like ‘believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved’?
So he asks, ‘Can faith save him?’ Save him from what? Save doesn't always mean saved from the lake of fire. It can mean deliverance from a dangerous situation, a disease, even physical death. James has already warned them not to be deceived concerning sin. Full-grown sin will lead to death (1:15) but receiving the implanted word would save them from the power of sin, in other words, save them from a ruined unproductive life and possibly from premature physical death. (1:21)
Physical death can be the consequence of sinful actions by a believer. Many of the Corinthians died as a result of God’s judgment on them. (I Cor. 11:30, 32) Physical death and spiritual death are distinct. God has used physical death to discipline disobedient children.
The Bible is clear that justification is by faith alone in the Lord Jesus. (Gen 15:6; John 3:36; Rom 3:28; 4:5; 5:1; Gal 3:8, 24; Phil 3:9) The Apostle Paul stated that those who are saved are saved apart from works. (Rom 4:5, 6) So how could works ever save someone from the lake of fire? James cannot be teaching faith in Jesus plus good works since that would contradict the rest of Scripture. No one earns eternal life by doing any good work. It simply requires faith on the part of each individual in the complete and finished work of Jesus Christ. (Rom 4:5) Nothing can be added to it. It is the gift of God. (Ephesians 2:8)
When it comes to works, they are to be a result of faith. We are saved unto good works, "which God prepared beforehand that we SHOULD walk in them." (Eph 2:10) The grace of God teaches us that we SHOULD live godly ... and to be zealous for good works. (Titus 2:14) He also instructed Titus that believers SHOULD be careful to maintain good works. (Titus 3:8) They needed to LEARN to maintain good works.... that THEY MAY NOT BE UNFRUITFUL. (Titus 3:14) Good works are not automatic. They are learned. And the writer to the Hebrew believers exhorted them to "consider one another in order to stir up love and good works." (Hebrews 10:24)
The apostle Paul writing to Timothy commanded those that are rich, "... not to be haughty nor to trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God... Let them do good, that they may be rich in good works." Why exhort the rich to be rich in good works if good works are an inevitable outcome of salvation?
Another human can't judge a person's salvation based upon his/her good works. Jesus addressed individuals who look very much like one of His believers. They prophesied in His name. They cast out demons in His name. They did wonders in His name. They even call Him Lord. But Jesus says that He never knew them. (Matt 7:22, 23) They did not enter through the narrow gate. (7:13, 14) These men had done great and wonderful works, but they were not saved. Why? Because they were basing their entrance into the kingdom upon the good things that they did - their good works!
Judas deceived his fellow disciples for three years. When Jesus told them that one of them would betray Him, they didn't have a clue of whom he was speaking. Each of them asked, "Lord is it I?" (Matt 26:22) If works are proof of salvation, some believers may appear not to be saved while some unbelievers may appear to be saved because of all the 'good' things they do. Some people live morally. They don’t lie, cheat, or steal. They remain faithful to their spouses. They go to church religiously. They might look saved because of it, but they may be just as lost as the worst unbelieving sinner. That is why one’s salvation cannot be judged according to their ‘good’ works.
Only a believer can produce works that glorify God. But the genuineness of works comes from the heart with the proper motivation which must be empowered by the Holy Spirit in us. And only God can discern that for only He can see the heart of the individual. (II Sam 16:7) The word of God is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
The point of this is to say that James is not speaking of a faith that saves a person from the lake of fire. He is not speaking about believing unto salvation. He is speaking about faith that is alone, that is not accompanied by works. If he had been uncertain about the salvation of some, would he have exhorted them to do good works to prove they were saved? Or would he have said something like ‘believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved’?
So he asks, ‘Can faith save him?’ Save him from what? Save doesn't always mean saved from the lake of fire. It can mean deliverance from a dangerous situation, a disease, even physical death. James has already warned them not to be deceived concerning sin. Full-grown sin will lead to death (1:15) but receiving the implanted word would save them from the power of sin, in other words, save them from a ruined unproductive life and possibly from premature physical death. (1:21)
Physical death can be the consequence of sinful actions by a believer. Many of the Corinthians died as a result of God’s judgment on them. (I Cor. 11:30, 32) Physical death and spiritual death are distinct. God has used physical death to discipline disobedient children.
Hidden Treasure
“…My heart stands in awe of Your word. I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure.” (Psalm 119:161-162)
Years ago, the kids in our little community spent a lot of time at the creek, or crick, as we called it. The main branch ran east to west just below our neighborhood and in the younger years that was the hangout. We caught minnows, flipped rocks to find salamanders, and if feeling a bit brave looked for snakes. Eventually, we traveled farther from home to the crick on our neighbor’s farm. It ran between hills and fields north to south and joined up with the main body in the valley. We knew all the good “finding stuff” spots in the cricks, including the twists and bends and depths. Or at least we thought we did. One day someone pointed to a little trickle stream that ran down a hill to our north to south crick on the farm. “Let’s go up there and check it out.” Why we hadn’t before, I don’t know, but off we went. Over hill and dale, through forest and glade traversed the lads.
“Whoa!!!” That came from the first kid upon the scene. He was soon joined by a chorus of “Whoa’s!!!” as we gathered. We had found the reason for the trickle of this tributary. There before us lay a small dam which formed a small pond and swimming to and fro were several beautiful goldfish. We just sat down and stared. We marveled at this hidden treasure. How long had this picture-perfect scene in the woods been there? Who made it? We were awe-struck. In fact, when I went home, I convinced my mom she needed to see the treasure we had discovered hidden on the backside of the farm. So my dear mom went over hill and dale, through forest and glade until we stood at the pond. She agreed it was a special place.
You know God’s Word is a treasure. For many, it’s a treasure for which they have never looked. Others know the “cricks” and the right finding stuff spots, the twists, bends, and depths, but even for them, there is still unfound hidden treasure. Like us boys decades back, we knew about the trickling stream but left it unexplored. Hey, here is a challenge for us: Set off over hill and dale, forest and glade and maybe find treasure in Ecclesiastes or Habakkuk, or if you have been shy leap into the book of Revelation.
Think about where you haven’t done much exploring, head off, find His treasure, and start digging. And guaranteed – your heart will stand in awe of His Word. And you will come “to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:2-3)
“…My heart stands in awe of Your word. I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure.” (Psalm 119:161-162)
Years ago, the kids in our little community spent a lot of time at the creek, or crick, as we called it. The main branch ran east to west just below our neighborhood and in the younger years that was the hangout. We caught minnows, flipped rocks to find salamanders, and if feeling a bit brave looked for snakes. Eventually, we traveled farther from home to the crick on our neighbor’s farm. It ran between hills and fields north to south and joined up with the main body in the valley. We knew all the good “finding stuff” spots in the cricks, including the twists and bends and depths. Or at least we thought we did. One day someone pointed to a little trickle stream that ran down a hill to our north to south crick on the farm. “Let’s go up there and check it out.” Why we hadn’t before, I don’t know, but off we went. Over hill and dale, through forest and glade traversed the lads.
“Whoa!!!” That came from the first kid upon the scene. He was soon joined by a chorus of “Whoa’s!!!” as we gathered. We had found the reason for the trickle of this tributary. There before us lay a small dam which formed a small pond and swimming to and fro were several beautiful goldfish. We just sat down and stared. We marveled at this hidden treasure. How long had this picture-perfect scene in the woods been there? Who made it? We were awe-struck. In fact, when I went home, I convinced my mom she needed to see the treasure we had discovered hidden on the backside of the farm. So my dear mom went over hill and dale, through forest and glade until we stood at the pond. She agreed it was a special place.
You know God’s Word is a treasure. For many, it’s a treasure for which they have never looked. Others know the “cricks” and the right finding stuff spots, the twists, bends, and depths, but even for them, there is still unfound hidden treasure. Like us boys decades back, we knew about the trickling stream but left it unexplored. Hey, here is a challenge for us: Set off over hill and dale, forest and glade and maybe find treasure in Ecclesiastes or Habakkuk, or if you have been shy leap into the book of Revelation.
Think about where you haven’t done much exploring, head off, find His treasure, and start digging. And guaranteed – your heart will stand in awe of His Word. And you will come “to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:2-3)
Let’s talk Jesus
“Now it happened, as Jesus sat at the table in the house, that behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Him and His disciples.” Matthew 9:10
A friend shared this post on Facebook. It speaks for itself. I take no offense to such things. I see them as opportunities to share the whole counsel of God rather than the politically correct Jesus snippets so common in our day. You want to talk Jesus then let’s talk Jesus. Right?
We could chase after this post as to its contextual and biblical inaccuracy, but I’m sure the creators of it weren’t looking to teach a Bible lesson. We’ll just say it has some flaws. Do you think the proponents of this meme care about its faulty paradigm? Should they?
My initial reaction came in the form of a question: Why? Why did Jesus have dinner with (thieves and whores) tax collectors and sinners? Having dinner with someone was no small deal in that culture. Maybe Jesus sat with them to condone, affirm, and celebrate their extortion and promiscuity. That would be the loving thing to do, would it not? Jesus being winky, winky with sin.
The religious folks saw what was going on and asked the disciples, “Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” (v.11) When Jesus heard what they said, He responded, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.” (v.12) What does Jesus mean when he says His dinner companions aren’t well but sick? Where’s the love in that? Then THIS Jesus declares, “I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” (v.13) And if they chose NOT to respond to His call – then what? What becomes of those thieves and whores?
Jesus shared dinner with other people too. He ate with those religious folks. They considered themselves to be righteous. Jesus told them, “You are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness.” (Matt 23:27) Ouch! They were sinners as well. Jesus came to call sinners. And if they chose NOT to respond to His call – then what? What becomes of those whitewashed tombs?
The 1st chapter of Romans tells us about the “first table” of sinners (thieves and whores and yes, homosexuals, and much more). The 2nd chapter of Romans tells us about the “second table” of sinners (self-righteous moralists and hypocrites). In the third chapter, we’re told, “ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (v.23)
It matters not which table you sit at; ALL of us are sinners, and Jesus came to save sinners. Jesus told another tax collector by the name of Zacchaeus, “The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:1-10) Have you been found? Have you been saved? You want to talk Jesus, let’s start with that.
“Now it happened, as Jesus sat at the table in the house, that behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Him and His disciples.” Matthew 9:10
A friend shared this post on Facebook. It speaks for itself. I take no offense to such things. I see them as opportunities to share the whole counsel of God rather than the politically correct Jesus snippets so common in our day. You want to talk Jesus then let’s talk Jesus. Right?
We could chase after this post as to its contextual and biblical inaccuracy, but I’m sure the creators of it weren’t looking to teach a Bible lesson. We’ll just say it has some flaws. Do you think the proponents of this meme care about its faulty paradigm? Should they?
My initial reaction came in the form of a question: Why? Why did Jesus have dinner with (thieves and whores) tax collectors and sinners? Having dinner with someone was no small deal in that culture. Maybe Jesus sat with them to condone, affirm, and celebrate their extortion and promiscuity. That would be the loving thing to do, would it not? Jesus being winky, winky with sin.
The religious folks saw what was going on and asked the disciples, “Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” (v.11) When Jesus heard what they said, He responded, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.” (v.12) What does Jesus mean when he says His dinner companions aren’t well but sick? Where’s the love in that? Then THIS Jesus declares, “I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” (v.13) And if they chose NOT to respond to His call – then what? What becomes of those thieves and whores?
Jesus shared dinner with other people too. He ate with those religious folks. They considered themselves to be righteous. Jesus told them, “You are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness.” (Matt 23:27) Ouch! They were sinners as well. Jesus came to call sinners. And if they chose NOT to respond to His call – then what? What becomes of those whitewashed tombs?
The 1st chapter of Romans tells us about the “first table” of sinners (thieves and whores and yes, homosexuals, and much more). The 2nd chapter of Romans tells us about the “second table” of sinners (self-righteous moralists and hypocrites). In the third chapter, we’re told, “ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (v.23)
It matters not which table you sit at; ALL of us are sinners, and Jesus came to save sinners. Jesus told another tax collector by the name of Zacchaeus, “The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:1-10) Have you been found? Have you been saved? You want to talk Jesus, let’s start with that.
Romans 10:9
This verse is often used to say that a person must verbally and publicly confess Jesus as Lord to be saved. It also is used to say the one must make Jesus Lord to be saved? Is that really what God is trying to communicate?
First of all, Jesus is Lord. You cannot make Him Lord. Once saved it is wise to learn to submit to Him in every area of your life allowing Him to direct and guide you as you yield to His Spirit rather than following the dictates of your own heart. But that takes time and no one ever fully arrives in this lifetime. (Phil. 3:12)
Secondly, there are those who would say that you must outwardly confess Him as Lord to be saved. That’s why ‘walking an aisle’ or ‘saying a prayer’ in some churches is part of the salvation process. But we will see that is not what the verse is teaching.
In chapter one, the apostle makes it very clear that the gospel is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek (1:16). God always has two groups of people in mind – Jews and Gentiles (Greeks). He intended Israel to be His witness to the world (Is 43:10; 12; 44:8). But the gospel does not exclude the Gentile. Whoever believes will be saved. “There is no partiality with God (Rom 2:11). He is not just the God of the Jews but also the Gentiles (3:29).
Two great men, Abraham, and David were declared righteous by faith – justified apart from the deeds of the law (Rom. 3:28, 4:1-8) “For by the works of the flesh no man will be justified (Gal 2:16)”. Abraham was not under the law. David was. Regardless they both were declared righteous by faith looking forward to the cross.
The Jewish nation as a whole missed the significance of justification by faith even though they were God’s chosen people. All the sacrificial system pointed them to Christ. The law should have made them realize their need for a Savior. Because of the hardness of their heart as a whole, they missed the significance. “Israel pursuing the law of righteousness has not attained to righteousness. Why? Because they did not seek it by faith, but as it were, by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone (Rom 9:31, 32)” – faith in Jesus their Messiah and Savior.
Why did the apostle choose to inject three chapters concerning Israel at this point (9-11)?
I believe that the Spirit is addressing questions in the mind of Jewish and Gentile believers as to why Israel, God’s chosen people, have not gotten saved and become part of the church as promised by God. Furthermore, has God nullified His promises because of their rejection of the Messiah? Will God keep His promises to us?
The apostle wished that he could be accursed for his countrymen (9:2). He desires that they would be saved (10:1). Because most are not being saved, he explicitly acknowledges that God has not cast them away as His people (11:1)! In fact, he goes on to say that one day, “all Israel willed be saved” (11:26). Due to their rejection of Messiah, blindness has in part happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in (11:25).
Much of the subject of chapters 9 -11 is regarding the Jewish people as a whole, as a nation. God is speaking of them as a group and not as individuals so to help them understand why most Jewish people are not being saved. National blessing was dependent upon their obedience (Deut. 28:1-14; Jer. 31:31-34). Concerning the nation of Israel God says, “All day long I have stretched out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people (10:21).
With this in mind, let us examine chapter 10. The apostle states that Israel had a zeal for God but not according to knowledge (10:2). Israel sought to establish their own righteousness and did not submit to the righteousness of God (10:3). The law requires perfect obedience (James 2:10) – “the man who does those things shall live by them” (10:5). They did not because they could not. It is impossible for anyone to do.
In verses 6, 7, and 8 of chapter 10, the apostle quotes from the Old Testament. After Moses had presented the blessings for obedience and the curses for disobedience to the nation, he stated that the commandment was “not too mysterious for you, nor is it afar off’ (Deut. 30:11) It was in their mouth and their heart that “you may do it.”
The Spirit uses these verses to say to Israel that the word of faith that the apostle Paul was preaching was near them and in their hearts just as the law was in Moses’ day. Jesus had come “to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matt. 15:24). He said to Jerusalem that He had wanted to gather her children together as a hen gathers her chicks, but they were not willing (Matt. 23:38). As a nation, they had rejected Him as their God, Messiah, and Savior. At Pentecost Peter preached to the Jews, “…let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36)
How was it possible for Israel, God’s chosen people:
• who had received through their prophets the oracles of God
• who were promised everlasting blessings
• who were witnesses to the miracles of the Messiah and apostles
• who saw the Messiah face to face,
and in spite of all that revelation continued to reject Him and his spokesmen the prophets and apostles? It was due to their unbelief.
But if you (Israel) confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus (they had rejected Him as Lord – “You being a Man make yourself equal with God” John 10:33) and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead (they denied his resurrection – “Sir remember while He was still alive, how that deceiver said, After three days I will rise’ (Matt. 27:63) you (Israel) will be saved.
The national salvation of Israel is an example for any individual (whoever). All Israel will be saved when they confess or acknowledge that Jesus is Lord (God) and believe in their heart that God raised Him from the dead. It is through confessing with the mouth that others hear, “How shall they hear without a preacher (10:14)? And it is by believing the message – Christ died for sinners, was buried, and rose from the dead – that one is saved, and perfect righteousness is received.
Confessing Jesus as Lord outwardly has nothing to do with saving one from the penalty of sin – eternal separation from God in the lake of fire. There will be those who confess Jesus as Lord yet will be cast out. “Many will say to me in that day Lord, Lord… and then I will declare to them I never knew you. Depart from Me…” (Matt. 7:22, 23) Although they acknowledged Him as Lord, they had tried to enter in by their good works – have we not prophesied in Your name… cast out demons in Your name… done many wonders in Your name?” (Matt 7:22)
Romans 10 verse 9 is teaching that Israel (as a whole) can be saved by believing in the gospel and confessing that Jesus is Lord (God who died for them and rose) as a witness to their countrymen. One day this will happen. The prophet Hosea spoke concerning that day:
“I will return again to My place till they acknowledge their offense (singular – the nation’s rejection of the Messiah). They (Israel) will seek my face; in their affliction (tribulation) they will earnestly seek Me.” (Hosea 5:15) God will use the seven years of tribulation to get through to them that He is the Messiah and Savior and Lord. “Alas! For that day is great, so none is like it; and it is the time of Jacob’s trouble, but he shall be saved out of it.” (Jeremiah 30:7; also see Daniel 12:1)
Israel’s future confession – Notice the past tense of the verbs about events that would not happen for hundreds of years. Isaiah, the prophet spoke concerning this day:
“He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. As we (Israel) hid, as if it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we (Israel) did not esteem Him.” (Isaiah 53:3)
“Surely He has bore our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we (Israel) esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.” (Isaiah 53:4)
“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was on Him, and by His stripes we (Israel) are healed. All we (Israel) like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone, to His own way; but the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:5-6)
“Come let us return to the Lord; for He has torn, but He will heal us (Israel); He has stricken, but He will bind us up. After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up, that we may live in His sight.” (Hosea 6:1-3)
All Israel will be saved –
“And it shall come to pass in all the land, says the Lord, that two thirds in it shall be cut off and die, but one third shall be left in it. I will bring the one third through the fire, will refine them as silver is refined, and test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name (confess), and I will answer them. I will say, this is My people; and each one will say, The Lord is My God.” (Zechariah 13:8-9)
“In that day a fountain shall be opened for the house of David and for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, for sin and for uncleanness.” (Zechariah 13:1)
“No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother saying ‘know the Lord’, for they all shall know Me from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.” (Jeremiah 31:34)
God will use the seven years of tribulation to bring about the salvation of many Jews and will judge many who continue to reject Him (Zechariah 13:8, 9). All the nations of the earth shall be gathered against Jerusalem in that day (Zech. 12:3). When Jerusalem is on the brink of destruction, God will defend Jerusalem by empowering the feeble to be like David and the house of David shall be like God (Zech. 12:7). He will then pour out on the house of David and Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication, and they will look on Jesus whom they pierced (Zech. 12:10) They will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son.
The apostle has grief in his heart because most of his countrymen are rejecting Christ, even though God chose them and was merciful to them. However, through the prophet, Isaiah, God spoke concerning Israel that a remnant would be saved. A remnant will be saved because salvation is individual. However, with Israel, there is an additional blessing that will be bestowed on them when they corporately believe the gospel.
The apostle desires them to be saved. In the same way, any individual Jew or Gentile can be saved the same way. As a group, they have rejected righteousness through faith and have embraced works. There is a remnant of Israel according to the election of grace. But one day at the end of the tribulation when the armies of Antichrist are attacking Israel, many survivors of Israel will be saved by faith in the Lord Jesus expressed by their confessing Him as their Messiah, God, and Savior. The rebellious Jews will be purged and shall not enter the land. (Ezekiel 20:37- 38; Zechariah 13:9), but this remaining remnant of Jewish believers will live on into the 1,000 reign of Christ on earth. They will have trusted Christ as their Savior and will be saved from the penalty of sin and will as well be saved from physical death. “And so all Israel will be saved…” (Rom. 11:26)
The Jews always knew that Jesus was crucified and buried. However, they denied He was crucified for them, denied that He rose from the dead, and denied that He was God in the flesh. The day that they believe that in their heart, they will be saved. The confession with their mouth will only be the evidence of the inward reality of their belief, which will also become a witness to other Jewish men and women as well as too many Gentiles during the tribulation. (Rev. 7:1-9, 14; 11:3)
This verse is often used to say that a person must verbally and publicly confess Jesus as Lord to be saved. It also is used to say the one must make Jesus Lord to be saved? Is that really what God is trying to communicate?
First of all, Jesus is Lord. You cannot make Him Lord. Once saved it is wise to learn to submit to Him in every area of your life allowing Him to direct and guide you as you yield to His Spirit rather than following the dictates of your own heart. But that takes time and no one ever fully arrives in this lifetime. (Phil. 3:12)
Secondly, there are those who would say that you must outwardly confess Him as Lord to be saved. That’s why ‘walking an aisle’ or ‘saying a prayer’ in some churches is part of the salvation process. But we will see that is not what the verse is teaching.
In chapter one, the apostle makes it very clear that the gospel is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek (1:16). God always has two groups of people in mind – Jews and Gentiles (Greeks). He intended Israel to be His witness to the world (Is 43:10; 12; 44:8). But the gospel does not exclude the Gentile. Whoever believes will be saved. “There is no partiality with God (Rom 2:11). He is not just the God of the Jews but also the Gentiles (3:29).
Two great men, Abraham, and David were declared righteous by faith – justified apart from the deeds of the law (Rom. 3:28, 4:1-8) “For by the works of the flesh no man will be justified (Gal 2:16)”. Abraham was not under the law. David was. Regardless they both were declared righteous by faith looking forward to the cross.
The Jewish nation as a whole missed the significance of justification by faith even though they were God’s chosen people. All the sacrificial system pointed them to Christ. The law should have made them realize their need for a Savior. Because of the hardness of their heart as a whole, they missed the significance. “Israel pursuing the law of righteousness has not attained to righteousness. Why? Because they did not seek it by faith, but as it were, by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone (Rom 9:31, 32)” – faith in Jesus their Messiah and Savior.
Why did the apostle choose to inject three chapters concerning Israel at this point (9-11)?
I believe that the Spirit is addressing questions in the mind of Jewish and Gentile believers as to why Israel, God’s chosen people, have not gotten saved and become part of the church as promised by God. Furthermore, has God nullified His promises because of their rejection of the Messiah? Will God keep His promises to us?
The apostle wished that he could be accursed for his countrymen (9:2). He desires that they would be saved (10:1). Because most are not being saved, he explicitly acknowledges that God has not cast them away as His people (11:1)! In fact, he goes on to say that one day, “all Israel willed be saved” (11:26). Due to their rejection of Messiah, blindness has in part happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in (11:25).
Much of the subject of chapters 9 -11 is regarding the Jewish people as a whole, as a nation. God is speaking of them as a group and not as individuals so to help them understand why most Jewish people are not being saved. National blessing was dependent upon their obedience (Deut. 28:1-14; Jer. 31:31-34). Concerning the nation of Israel God says, “All day long I have stretched out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people (10:21).
With this in mind, let us examine chapter 10. The apostle states that Israel had a zeal for God but not according to knowledge (10:2). Israel sought to establish their own righteousness and did not submit to the righteousness of God (10:3). The law requires perfect obedience (James 2:10) – “the man who does those things shall live by them” (10:5). They did not because they could not. It is impossible for anyone to do.
In verses 6, 7, and 8 of chapter 10, the apostle quotes from the Old Testament. After Moses had presented the blessings for obedience and the curses for disobedience to the nation, he stated that the commandment was “not too mysterious for you, nor is it afar off’ (Deut. 30:11) It was in their mouth and their heart that “you may do it.”
The Spirit uses these verses to say to Israel that the word of faith that the apostle Paul was preaching was near them and in their hearts just as the law was in Moses’ day. Jesus had come “to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matt. 15:24). He said to Jerusalem that He had wanted to gather her children together as a hen gathers her chicks, but they were not willing (Matt. 23:38). As a nation, they had rejected Him as their God, Messiah, and Savior. At Pentecost Peter preached to the Jews, “…let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36)
How was it possible for Israel, God’s chosen people:
• who had received through their prophets the oracles of God
• who were promised everlasting blessings
• who were witnesses to the miracles of the Messiah and apostles
• who saw the Messiah face to face,
and in spite of all that revelation continued to reject Him and his spokesmen the prophets and apostles? It was due to their unbelief.
But if you (Israel) confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus (they had rejected Him as Lord – “You being a Man make yourself equal with God” John 10:33) and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead (they denied his resurrection – “Sir remember while He was still alive, how that deceiver said, After three days I will rise’ (Matt. 27:63) you (Israel) will be saved.
The national salvation of Israel is an example for any individual (whoever). All Israel will be saved when they confess or acknowledge that Jesus is Lord (God) and believe in their heart that God raised Him from the dead. It is through confessing with the mouth that others hear, “How shall they hear without a preacher (10:14)? And it is by believing the message – Christ died for sinners, was buried, and rose from the dead – that one is saved, and perfect righteousness is received.
Confessing Jesus as Lord outwardly has nothing to do with saving one from the penalty of sin – eternal separation from God in the lake of fire. There will be those who confess Jesus as Lord yet will be cast out. “Many will say to me in that day Lord, Lord… and then I will declare to them I never knew you. Depart from Me…” (Matt. 7:22, 23) Although they acknowledged Him as Lord, they had tried to enter in by their good works – have we not prophesied in Your name… cast out demons in Your name… done many wonders in Your name?” (Matt 7:22)
Romans 10 verse 9 is teaching that Israel (as a whole) can be saved by believing in the gospel and confessing that Jesus is Lord (God who died for them and rose) as a witness to their countrymen. One day this will happen. The prophet Hosea spoke concerning that day:
“I will return again to My place till they acknowledge their offense (singular – the nation’s rejection of the Messiah). They (Israel) will seek my face; in their affliction (tribulation) they will earnestly seek Me.” (Hosea 5:15) God will use the seven years of tribulation to get through to them that He is the Messiah and Savior and Lord. “Alas! For that day is great, so none is like it; and it is the time of Jacob’s trouble, but he shall be saved out of it.” (Jeremiah 30:7; also see Daniel 12:1)
Israel’s future confession – Notice the past tense of the verbs about events that would not happen for hundreds of years. Isaiah, the prophet spoke concerning this day:
“He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. As we (Israel) hid, as if it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we (Israel) did not esteem Him.” (Isaiah 53:3)
“Surely He has bore our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we (Israel) esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.” (Isaiah 53:4)
“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was on Him, and by His stripes we (Israel) are healed. All we (Israel) like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone, to His own way; but the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:5-6)
“Come let us return to the Lord; for He has torn, but He will heal us (Israel); He has stricken, but He will bind us up. After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up, that we may live in His sight.” (Hosea 6:1-3)
All Israel will be saved –
“And it shall come to pass in all the land, says the Lord, that two thirds in it shall be cut off and die, but one third shall be left in it. I will bring the one third through the fire, will refine them as silver is refined, and test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name (confess), and I will answer them. I will say, this is My people; and each one will say, The Lord is My God.” (Zechariah 13:8-9)
“In that day a fountain shall be opened for the house of David and for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, for sin and for uncleanness.” (Zechariah 13:1)
“No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother saying ‘know the Lord’, for they all shall know Me from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.” (Jeremiah 31:34)
God will use the seven years of tribulation to bring about the salvation of many Jews and will judge many who continue to reject Him (Zechariah 13:8, 9). All the nations of the earth shall be gathered against Jerusalem in that day (Zech. 12:3). When Jerusalem is on the brink of destruction, God will defend Jerusalem by empowering the feeble to be like David and the house of David shall be like God (Zech. 12:7). He will then pour out on the house of David and Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication, and they will look on Jesus whom they pierced (Zech. 12:10) They will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son.
The apostle has grief in his heart because most of his countrymen are rejecting Christ, even though God chose them and was merciful to them. However, through the prophet, Isaiah, God spoke concerning Israel that a remnant would be saved. A remnant will be saved because salvation is individual. However, with Israel, there is an additional blessing that will be bestowed on them when they corporately believe the gospel.
The apostle desires them to be saved. In the same way, any individual Jew or Gentile can be saved the same way. As a group, they have rejected righteousness through faith and have embraced works. There is a remnant of Israel according to the election of grace. But one day at the end of the tribulation when the armies of Antichrist are attacking Israel, many survivors of Israel will be saved by faith in the Lord Jesus expressed by their confessing Him as their Messiah, God, and Savior. The rebellious Jews will be purged and shall not enter the land. (Ezekiel 20:37- 38; Zechariah 13:9), but this remaining remnant of Jewish believers will live on into the 1,000 reign of Christ on earth. They will have trusted Christ as their Savior and will be saved from the penalty of sin and will as well be saved from physical death. “And so all Israel will be saved…” (Rom. 11:26)
The Jews always knew that Jesus was crucified and buried. However, they denied He was crucified for them, denied that He rose from the dead, and denied that He was God in the flesh. The day that they believe that in their heart, they will be saved. The confession with their mouth will only be the evidence of the inward reality of their belief, which will also become a witness to other Jewish men and women as well as too many Gentiles during the tribulation. (Rev. 7:1-9, 14; 11:3)
Who Wrote the Bible?
Let me ask you some questions: Is the Bible just a book ABOUT God, or is the Bible a book FROM God? Did the men who wrote Scripture write it from their personal opinions about God? Or were they uniquely chosen, equipped, and inspired to write a perfect, inerrant revelation from God? Did the Bible come by way of opinion or revelation? Our answer to these questions is the difference between having 20/20 vision or total blindness in this life. Our response either leads us down the road of lies and ruin or to the holy highway of a restored, fruitful, and purposeful relationship with our Creator.
Well, what say you? Better yet, what does the Bible say?
The Bible says, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God…” [1] and the prophetic scriptures “…never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” [2] Also, the Bible says the writers spoke: “…not in the words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” [3]
The book “Theology for Today” explains that the inspiration of Scripture “…is the guidance or influence of the Holy Spirit on the human writers…so that God controlled the human writers in such a way that what they wrote was just what God wanted them to write without error.” This inspiration was supernatural, and, therefore, the accuracy and endurance of the Scriptures are guaranteed. Jesus Christ confirms this when He declares: “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” [4]
God spoke through the Apostle Paul concerning the origin of the Gospel message itself: “But I make known to you, brethren that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.” [5] The Apostle Peter adds, “…the word of the Lord endures forever. Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you.” [6]
Again “Theology for Today” states: “God communicated His revelation to the world in an accurate and reliable Book. Every word was written by the moving of the Holy Spirit of God, yet every word (was) chosen and expressed through the personality of the human author. Since God has given us a message, it is only natural to expect that He will guarantee the accuracy of His message.”
God is the Author of Scripture, and His word has complete authority over every aspect of our lives. And right there is the rub - especially, surprisingly, distressingly, for a whole lot of people who profess to be Christians. Many reject God’s authorship of the Bible, and, therefore, its ultimate authority.
A Christian should always bring the issues of life and culture to the Scriptures and see if the issues and culture line-up. If they do not line up, a Christian should always stand on the authority of God’s Word. More so than ever, that is where the line in the sand is drawn today within the Church.
Those on the other side of the line, without fail, take the Scriptures to the culture and its current opinions on the issues of life to see if the Scriptures line up. If the Scriptures do not line up, they stand with the culture and our “what is-happening-now-world.” However, we are not to mold and shape and change God’s word. God’s word is to mold and shape and change us.
On which side of the line are you? Where do you stand – on God’s Word or man’s opinions?
[1] 2 Timothy 3:16-17 [2] 2 Peter 1:20-21 [3] 1 Corinthians 2:13 [4] Mark 13:31 [5] Galatians 1:11-12 [6] 1 Peter 1:25 (All NKJV)
Let me ask you some questions: Is the Bible just a book ABOUT God, or is the Bible a book FROM God? Did the men who wrote Scripture write it from their personal opinions about God? Or were they uniquely chosen, equipped, and inspired to write a perfect, inerrant revelation from God? Did the Bible come by way of opinion or revelation? Our answer to these questions is the difference between having 20/20 vision or total blindness in this life. Our response either leads us down the road of lies and ruin or to the holy highway of a restored, fruitful, and purposeful relationship with our Creator.
Well, what say you? Better yet, what does the Bible say?
The Bible says, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God…” [1] and the prophetic scriptures “…never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” [2] Also, the Bible says the writers spoke: “…not in the words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” [3]
The book “Theology for Today” explains that the inspiration of Scripture “…is the guidance or influence of the Holy Spirit on the human writers…so that God controlled the human writers in such a way that what they wrote was just what God wanted them to write without error.” This inspiration was supernatural, and, therefore, the accuracy and endurance of the Scriptures are guaranteed. Jesus Christ confirms this when He declares: “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” [4]
God spoke through the Apostle Paul concerning the origin of the Gospel message itself: “But I make known to you, brethren that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.” [5] The Apostle Peter adds, “…the word of the Lord endures forever. Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you.” [6]
Again “Theology for Today” states: “God communicated His revelation to the world in an accurate and reliable Book. Every word was written by the moving of the Holy Spirit of God, yet every word (was) chosen and expressed through the personality of the human author. Since God has given us a message, it is only natural to expect that He will guarantee the accuracy of His message.”
God is the Author of Scripture, and His word has complete authority over every aspect of our lives. And right there is the rub - especially, surprisingly, distressingly, for a whole lot of people who profess to be Christians. Many reject God’s authorship of the Bible, and, therefore, its ultimate authority.
A Christian should always bring the issues of life and culture to the Scriptures and see if the issues and culture line-up. If they do not line up, a Christian should always stand on the authority of God’s Word. More so than ever, that is where the line in the sand is drawn today within the Church.
Those on the other side of the line, without fail, take the Scriptures to the culture and its current opinions on the issues of life to see if the Scriptures line up. If the Scriptures do not line up, they stand with the culture and our “what is-happening-now-world.” However, we are not to mold and shape and change God’s word. God’s word is to mold and shape and change us.
On which side of the line are you? Where do you stand – on God’s Word or man’s opinions?
[1] 2 Timothy 3:16-17 [2] 2 Peter 1:20-21 [3] 1 Corinthians 2:13 [4] Mark 13:31 [5] Galatians 1:11-12 [6] 1 Peter 1:25 (All NKJV)
THE Question??
When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” Matthew 16:13
The disciples told Him that some were saying He was John the Baptist, or Elijah, maybe Jeremiah or one of the other prophets. (v.14) What answers might He hear today? Well, if you spend any time on social media, you know the list is mighty long! And mighty wrong if we don’t agree with Simon Peter: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (v.16)
What does that answer mean to you? Jesus declared it to be the correct response. Are you in agreement with Jesus or no? Reading the entire Bible; the oracles of God might be a tall order for you right now. So with a humble heart and a searching mind, why not concentrate on the book of Romans? This key portion of scripture is a mini-New Testament.
You see, Jesus inevitably asks each one of us, THE Question (really with life and death hanging in the balance), “But who do YOU say that I am?” (v.15) After reading God’s Word, I came to believe, as Simon Peter did. Why not go for it?
When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” Matthew 16:13
The disciples told Him that some were saying He was John the Baptist, or Elijah, maybe Jeremiah or one of the other prophets. (v.14) What answers might He hear today? Well, if you spend any time on social media, you know the list is mighty long! And mighty wrong if we don’t agree with Simon Peter: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (v.16)
What does that answer mean to you? Jesus declared it to be the correct response. Are you in agreement with Jesus or no? Reading the entire Bible; the oracles of God might be a tall order for you right now. So with a humble heart and a searching mind, why not concentrate on the book of Romans? This key portion of scripture is a mini-New Testament.
You see, Jesus inevitably asks each one of us, THE Question (really with life and death hanging in the balance), “But who do YOU say that I am?” (v.15) After reading God’s Word, I came to believe, as Simon Peter did. Why not go for it?
Just WHAT must we do to be Saved?
Then Peter said to them, “Repent and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38
There are two principles taken from this verse by some. To be saved from the penalty of sin, one must turn from their sins (repent) and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. A companion verse is Acts 22 verse 16 when Paul was recounting his conversion experience when Ananias said to him, “Now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”
To begin with repent, according to Strong’s Dictionary of New Testament Words means literally ‘to think differently.’ Souter’s Pocket Lexicon defines the word similarly, ‘I change my mind, particularly with reference to acceptance to the will of God by the mind.’ Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon defines it ‘to perceive afterward or too late’ and secondly to change one’s mind or purpose.’
About salvation, one must repent, change his mind. Dr. Renald Showers aptly explains, {“Certainly, the unsaved person who insists he is not a condemned sinner must experience a radical change of mind. To be saved, that person must genuinely admit he is a condemned sinner in need of salvation.}
Also, if, after such repentance, a person attempts to be saved through his own works or false religion, then he needs another change of mind. There must be a genuine acceptance that his works and false religion cannot save him.
…There is another kind of repentance that is absolutely essential for salvation…This repentance is the change of mind that rejects wrong beliefs concerning Jesus Christ, accepts as truth what the I Corinthians 15 gospel says about Him and His redemptive work, and trusts Him personally as Savior for sin.”
This exactly what Peter was expressing in Acts chapter 2. It was the day of Pentecost, and they spoke to the crowd with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. (2:4) He explained that the supernatural event was from Jesus, who had risen from the dead and was now exalted to the right hand of God. (2:33)
Peter proclaimed that they were guilty of crucifying Jesus, the Lord, and Messiah. When they heard this, they were cut to the heart and immediately wanted to know what shall we do? (2:37) Man always wants to know what he can do. But we can do nothing to be made right with God.
He told them to repent. If repenting means to turn from sin, then how could they turn from something already completed – their killing of Jesus? Secondly, how could turning from their other sins make them right with God? Sin demands a payment, and if one could just stop doing them, it still does not pay for the ones already committed. Thirdly, if turning from sin means to stop sinning, how could anyone ever say they have repented? All people continue to struggle with sin after they ‘repent’ to one degree or another – in thought, word, or deed.
Peter indicated that they needed a change of mind about who Jesus is and what He did on their behalf. He exhorted them by saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” Before Peter’s sermon, they had rejected Jesus. But now some of them changed their minds and believed in Him. Then those who gladly received his word were baptized, and that day, about three thousand souls were added to them.” (2:40, 41) “Now all who believed were together…” (2:42)
If turning from sin for salvation is part of the requirement, numerous questions require answers. Do I need to turn from all of them or just those I am aware? How could I turn from what I am not aware? If I turned from all of them, did I turn from them if I still commit them? If I attempted to turn from them, does that count? Is continual turning from sin necessary to keep my salvation?
Turning from one’s sins (meaning to stop sinning or to promise to do so) to receive forgiveness is impossible for the sinner. Secondly, that makes salvation an exchange – my turning from my sins for forgiveness. Then my salvation is somewhat dependent on my performance and no longer a gift. For that reason, it is adding works and making salvation a process. And finally, there is no assurance in this teaching because it focuses on what the sinner must do rather than on what Jesus has done on the sinners’ behalf.
Likewise, baptism focuses on what the sinner must do. When the Philippian jailer asked what must I do to be saved, the apostle didn’t say turn from all your sins and be baptized. What he did say was, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved…” (Acts 16:31) Then after having believed he and his household were baptized. (v. 33, 34)
Baptism follows after one is saved. The gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Gentile converts when they believed, but prior to them being baptized. (Acts 10:45, 47; 11:17) The Lord included the Gentile believers as part of His church before being water baptized. The thief on the cross was saved, and not water baptized. (Luke 23:43)
The apostle Paul said that he was not sent to baptize, “but to preach the gospel.” (I Cor. 1:17) In fact, he stated that he thanked God that he had not baptized many in the Corinthian church except for Crispus and Gaius. (I Cor. 1:14) That would be very odd if he believed it was necessary for converts to be baptized to be saved. He would have been preaching a message that did not save if baptism is necessary for salvation.
There are over a hundred verses in the New Testament that teach that one is saved by faith alone in Christ alone. (For example: John 1:12; 3:16; 3:36; 6:29, 40, 47; 7:39; 9:35; 10:9; 11:25; 20:31; Acts 4:4; 8:12; 11:21; 13:39; 15:7; 16:31; 20:21; 26:18; Romans 1:16; 3:24, 26; 4:5; 5:16; I Corinthians 2:2; 15:3, 4; II Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 2:16; 3:8; 3:26; Ephesians 2:8; Philippians 3:9)
In light of the central teaching of the word, Peter uses repent to exhort them to change their wrong thinking about Jesus to the right thinking about Jesus. He instructed them to believe in the name of Jesus Christ, which represents who He is and what He did. It is the object of our faith, Jesus, who provided the remission of sin through the shedding of His blood. Baptism should follow belief as an outward expression of inward truth as a witness and testimony. Verse 41 of Chapter 2 expresses the order – “they received the word gladly and were baptized.
It is important to note that a doctrine should not be taught from a single verse or two. Seemingly contradictory verses must fit the main and plain teaching of the entire Scripture. Baptism should follow belief but has nothing to do with saving a person from the penalty of their sins. “But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.” (Romans 4:5)
Peter exhorted the Jewish audience to change their thinking about Jesus. They believed he was a mere man and had rejected Him as Messiah and Lord. (John 10:33) They crucified Him, but He rose from the dead and sits at the right hand of God. By being baptized in the name of Jesus, they were outwardly testifying to a change of belief concerning Him (repented). They were now trusting in Him as their Messiah and Lord – in His name. By faith in Him, they received forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Their baptisms were a public testimony to other Jews as well that they were now trusting in Christ. This would have caused great risk to their physical welfare. In making a deliberate choice to leave the Jewish religious system, their baptisms identified them with being a believer in and a follower of Jesus Christ, thus subjecting them to persecution from the religious Jews. But the forgiveness of sins came only as the result of belief in His name, not baptism. The same can be said of Acts 22, verse 16.
Peter was following the exact commands of Jesus. He was a witness immediately in Jerusalem to his Jewish countrymen. (Acts 1:8) He preached the gospel to them. (Mark 16:15) The gospel is clearly spelled out in first Corinthians 15: 1 – 4 as the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. That’s what the Apostle Paul preached and by which they were saved (v. 2). And Jesus commanded the ones who believed to be baptized. (Acts 28:19)
Every Jewish person had to make a personal decision – “let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.” It was faith in Jesus as the resurrected Messiah and Lord that saved them – in His name. Neither verse has anything to do with the necessity of baptism for salvation.
Then Peter said to them, “Repent and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38
There are two principles taken from this verse by some. To be saved from the penalty of sin, one must turn from their sins (repent) and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. A companion verse is Acts 22 verse 16 when Paul was recounting his conversion experience when Ananias said to him, “Now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”
To begin with repent, according to Strong’s Dictionary of New Testament Words means literally ‘to think differently.’ Souter’s Pocket Lexicon defines the word similarly, ‘I change my mind, particularly with reference to acceptance to the will of God by the mind.’ Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon defines it ‘to perceive afterward or too late’ and secondly to change one’s mind or purpose.’
About salvation, one must repent, change his mind. Dr. Renald Showers aptly explains, {“Certainly, the unsaved person who insists he is not a condemned sinner must experience a radical change of mind. To be saved, that person must genuinely admit he is a condemned sinner in need of salvation.}
Also, if, after such repentance, a person attempts to be saved through his own works or false religion, then he needs another change of mind. There must be a genuine acceptance that his works and false religion cannot save him.
…There is another kind of repentance that is absolutely essential for salvation…This repentance is the change of mind that rejects wrong beliefs concerning Jesus Christ, accepts as truth what the I Corinthians 15 gospel says about Him and His redemptive work, and trusts Him personally as Savior for sin.”
This exactly what Peter was expressing in Acts chapter 2. It was the day of Pentecost, and they spoke to the crowd with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. (2:4) He explained that the supernatural event was from Jesus, who had risen from the dead and was now exalted to the right hand of God. (2:33)
Peter proclaimed that they were guilty of crucifying Jesus, the Lord, and Messiah. When they heard this, they were cut to the heart and immediately wanted to know what shall we do? (2:37) Man always wants to know what he can do. But we can do nothing to be made right with God.
He told them to repent. If repenting means to turn from sin, then how could they turn from something already completed – their killing of Jesus? Secondly, how could turning from their other sins make them right with God? Sin demands a payment, and if one could just stop doing them, it still does not pay for the ones already committed. Thirdly, if turning from sin means to stop sinning, how could anyone ever say they have repented? All people continue to struggle with sin after they ‘repent’ to one degree or another – in thought, word, or deed.
Peter indicated that they needed a change of mind about who Jesus is and what He did on their behalf. He exhorted them by saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” Before Peter’s sermon, they had rejected Jesus. But now some of them changed their minds and believed in Him. Then those who gladly received his word were baptized, and that day, about three thousand souls were added to them.” (2:40, 41) “Now all who believed were together…” (2:42)
If turning from sin for salvation is part of the requirement, numerous questions require answers. Do I need to turn from all of them or just those I am aware? How could I turn from what I am not aware? If I turned from all of them, did I turn from them if I still commit them? If I attempted to turn from them, does that count? Is continual turning from sin necessary to keep my salvation?
Turning from one’s sins (meaning to stop sinning or to promise to do so) to receive forgiveness is impossible for the sinner. Secondly, that makes salvation an exchange – my turning from my sins for forgiveness. Then my salvation is somewhat dependent on my performance and no longer a gift. For that reason, it is adding works and making salvation a process. And finally, there is no assurance in this teaching because it focuses on what the sinner must do rather than on what Jesus has done on the sinners’ behalf.
Likewise, baptism focuses on what the sinner must do. When the Philippian jailer asked what must I do to be saved, the apostle didn’t say turn from all your sins and be baptized. What he did say was, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved…” (Acts 16:31) Then after having believed he and his household were baptized. (v. 33, 34)
Baptism follows after one is saved. The gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Gentile converts when they believed, but prior to them being baptized. (Acts 10:45, 47; 11:17) The Lord included the Gentile believers as part of His church before being water baptized. The thief on the cross was saved, and not water baptized. (Luke 23:43)
The apostle Paul said that he was not sent to baptize, “but to preach the gospel.” (I Cor. 1:17) In fact, he stated that he thanked God that he had not baptized many in the Corinthian church except for Crispus and Gaius. (I Cor. 1:14) That would be very odd if he believed it was necessary for converts to be baptized to be saved. He would have been preaching a message that did not save if baptism is necessary for salvation.
There are over a hundred verses in the New Testament that teach that one is saved by faith alone in Christ alone. (For example: John 1:12; 3:16; 3:36; 6:29, 40, 47; 7:39; 9:35; 10:9; 11:25; 20:31; Acts 4:4; 8:12; 11:21; 13:39; 15:7; 16:31; 20:21; 26:18; Romans 1:16; 3:24, 26; 4:5; 5:16; I Corinthians 2:2; 15:3, 4; II Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 2:16; 3:8; 3:26; Ephesians 2:8; Philippians 3:9)
In light of the central teaching of the word, Peter uses repent to exhort them to change their wrong thinking about Jesus to the right thinking about Jesus. He instructed them to believe in the name of Jesus Christ, which represents who He is and what He did. It is the object of our faith, Jesus, who provided the remission of sin through the shedding of His blood. Baptism should follow belief as an outward expression of inward truth as a witness and testimony. Verse 41 of Chapter 2 expresses the order – “they received the word gladly and were baptized.
It is important to note that a doctrine should not be taught from a single verse or two. Seemingly contradictory verses must fit the main and plain teaching of the entire Scripture. Baptism should follow belief but has nothing to do with saving a person from the penalty of their sins. “But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.” (Romans 4:5)
Peter exhorted the Jewish audience to change their thinking about Jesus. They believed he was a mere man and had rejected Him as Messiah and Lord. (John 10:33) They crucified Him, but He rose from the dead and sits at the right hand of God. By being baptized in the name of Jesus, they were outwardly testifying to a change of belief concerning Him (repented). They were now trusting in Him as their Messiah and Lord – in His name. By faith in Him, they received forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Their baptisms were a public testimony to other Jews as well that they were now trusting in Christ. This would have caused great risk to their physical welfare. In making a deliberate choice to leave the Jewish religious system, their baptisms identified them with being a believer in and a follower of Jesus Christ, thus subjecting them to persecution from the religious Jews. But the forgiveness of sins came only as the result of belief in His name, not baptism. The same can be said of Acts 22, verse 16.
Peter was following the exact commands of Jesus. He was a witness immediately in Jerusalem to his Jewish countrymen. (Acts 1:8) He preached the gospel to them. (Mark 16:15) The gospel is clearly spelled out in first Corinthians 15: 1 – 4 as the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. That’s what the Apostle Paul preached and by which they were saved (v. 2). And Jesus commanded the ones who believed to be baptized. (Acts 28:19)
Every Jewish person had to make a personal decision – “let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.” It was faith in Jesus as the resurrected Messiah and Lord that saved them – in His name. Neither verse has anything to do with the necessity of baptism for salvation.
Proverbs: Chapter 5 (Wisdom Speaks)
THE CALL:
My son, pay attention to my wisdom;
Lend your ear to my understanding,
That you may preserve discretion,
And your lips may keep knowledge.
THE CULPRIT: (HANDS OFF!)
For the lips of an immoral woman drip honey,
And her mouth is smoother than oil;
But in the end she is bitter as wormwood,
Sharp as a two-edged sword.
Her feet go down to death,
Her steps lay hold of hell.
Lest you ponder her path of life –
Her ways are unstable;
You do not know them.
THE COUNCIL:
Therefore hear me now, my children,
And do not depart from the words of my mouth.
Remove your way far from her,
And do not go near the door of her house,
THE CONSEQUENCES: (REGRET and RUIN!)
Lest you give your honor to others,
And your years to the cruel one;
Lest aliens be filled with your wealth,
And your labors go to the house of a foreigner;
And you mourn at last,
When your flesh and your body are consumed,
THE CONTEMPT:
And say:
“How I have hated instruction,
And my heart despised correction!
I have not obeyed the voice of my teachers,
Nor inclined my ear to those who instructed me!
I was on the verge of total ruin,
In the midst of the assembly and congregation.”
THE CONTRAST: (HANDS ON!)
Drink water from your own cistern,
And running water from your own well.
Should your fountains be dispersed abroad,
Streams of water in the streets?
Let them be only your own,
And not for strangers with you.
Let your fountain be blessed,
And rejoice with the wife of your youth.
As a loving deer and a graceful doe,
Let her breasts satisfy you at all times;
And always be enraptured with her love.
For why should you, my son, be enraptured by an immoral woman,
And be embraced in the arms of a seductress?
THE CONCLUSION:
For the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord,
And He ponders all his paths.
His own iniquities entrap the wicked man,
And he is caught in the cords of his sin,
He shall die for lack of instruction,
And in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray.
THE CHOICE: GOD’S WAY or our way?
Galatians 5:19-21
A Scripture passage that has troubled some is Galatians chapter five, verses 19 through 21. Especially the conclusion, “that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. What does it mean to practice a particular sin? And will that keep you from going to heaven? In other words, if you sin too much is that an indication that you were never actually saved?
For example, how many murders do you have to commit to being a practicing murderer? How many acts of adultery before you are considered a practicing adulterer? And remember that Jesus said that if you look with lust in your heart, you have already committed adultery? Does that count toward the practice? What about selfish ambitions? …Envy? …Hatred? …Jealousies? ...Outbursts of wrath? …Dissensions? …Heresies? What does practicing these look like? How many times a day or week or month or year does it take before I am practicing one of these? How often can one commit any of these actions and still be saved?
The problem with defining practice is that it is undefinable except for the most extreme cases. If you do something every day that certainly would be a practice - but what about once a week, once a month, or once a year? Wouldn’t we consider someone who murders once a year as a practicing murderer? How about one who had an outburst of wrath each year? Is that a practice? Many of us might be in trouble if that is the case. And what about one who struggles with envy? How do you gauge the practice of envy and what constitutes the practice of being envious? Will none of these go to heaven even if they have trusted Christ? Or does the practice of sin indicate that a person was never saved? So how do we understand this passage?
The context of any passage must fit the overall context of the entire Scripture. Salvation is received the moment one believes (trusts) in the person and work of Jesus Christ plus nothing else. It’s not dependent on good behaviors before or after. If it were, it would be an exchange (my promise of being good for salvation) and not a free gift. A gift requires nothing of the recipient. Sanctification (being set apart for God; becoming more holy) does not come automatically after one’s salvation. Old habits die hard. Habitual thought patterns need to change, and this does not often come easily when one comes to faith, especially as an adult.
The apostle exhorts them to walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the desires of the flesh. (5:16) Believers have two natures. The old nature which is prone to sin does not leave when one is born again. So now there is a conflict that ensues until the day we die. The one that we feed is the one that grows.
He states that because of this conflict, the flesh lust against the Spirit and the Spirit against the flesh. Paul had the same struggle. Almost twenty-five years after being saved, he presented this fight in the present tense, “For the good that I will to do, I do not do, but the evil I will not to do that I practice. …O wretched man that I am! (Romans 7:19, 24) How could the great apostle practice sin?Paul’s sin problem was covetousness. That’s what he practiced according to his own testimony. (Romans 7:10) Yet he writes to the Ephesians, “For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.” (Eph. 5:5)
So did Paul go to hell for practicing covetousness?
Well, of course not. Paul is in heaven. (Phil 1:21, 23; 3:20; Col. 3:4; 2 Tim. 4:6-8) He like every person is not kept out of heaven because of sin, but because of rejection (unbelief) of Jesus Christ as Savior.
He warned the Ephesians not to be partakers with the sons of disobedience. (Eph. 5:7) Why, because they might end up being partakers with them if they do not guard their hearts. He warned them not to have fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. (5:11) Why warn them of this, if it was not possible for them to participate in works of darkness?
To the Corinthians, he wrote that the unrighteous would not inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Cor. 6:9) Who are the unrighteous? Is there anyone righteous enough to enter the kingdom apart from Christ? Absolutely not! “There is none righteous, no, not one.” (Romans 3:10)The unrighteous are the unsaved. In verse one of chapter six in Corinthians, he warned them not to “go to law before the unrighteous, and not before the saints.” Here he clearly distinguishes between believers (saints) and unbelievers (unrighteous).
In position, all believers are righteous and completely sanctified (holy). To the Corinthians, he wrote, “But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.” (1 Cor. 6:11) Yet as they lived life they experienced failure, “For I fear lest, when I come, I shall not find you as I wish... lest there be contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions… I shall mourn for many who have sinned before and have not repented of the uncleanness, fornication, and the lewdness which they have practiced.” (2 Cor. 12:20-21) The practice of sins will cause significant negative consequences in this life, will prevent one from being fruitful and will affect rewards at the judgment seat of Christ, but it will never change the eternal destination of the one who has believed on the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior.
If a believer does not heed the warnings of Scripture and develop godly thinking, he is capable of acting and appearing like unbelievers who commit such acts of sin. (1 Cor. 3:3) It is because the sin nature still exists in every believer, and we are very susceptible to responding to the situations of life in the flesh rather than in the Spirit.
Therefore the apostle exhorts the Galatian believers to walk in the Spirit, and they will not fulfill the desires of the flesh. (Gal. 5:16) To the Ephesian believers, he exhorts to walk as children of light. (5:8) As a believer is learning to walk in the Spirit, he will be less likely to fulfill the lusts of the flesh and practice the things that unbelievers practice. In other words, why do you act like the unbelieving world when you have the Spirit of God in you who will help you have the power over sin? “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25) Walking in the Spirit is not automatic. It must be an intentional decision by each individual as one cooperates with the Spirit of God through the word of God to transform him moment by moment.
Galatians 5:21 is an exhortation to Christians to live in a manner worthy of their position in Christ. It is not telling believers that if they practiced certain sins, they were not really saved, nor is it saying that good behavior is a sign of a true believer. As believers, we are… ‘called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:16) That is Spirit-led living!
A Scripture passage that has troubled some is Galatians chapter five, verses 19 through 21. Especially the conclusion, “that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. What does it mean to practice a particular sin? And will that keep you from going to heaven? In other words, if you sin too much is that an indication that you were never actually saved?
For example, how many murders do you have to commit to being a practicing murderer? How many acts of adultery before you are considered a practicing adulterer? And remember that Jesus said that if you look with lust in your heart, you have already committed adultery? Does that count toward the practice? What about selfish ambitions? …Envy? …Hatred? …Jealousies? ...Outbursts of wrath? …Dissensions? …Heresies? What does practicing these look like? How many times a day or week or month or year does it take before I am practicing one of these? How often can one commit any of these actions and still be saved?
The problem with defining practice is that it is undefinable except for the most extreme cases. If you do something every day that certainly would be a practice - but what about once a week, once a month, or once a year? Wouldn’t we consider someone who murders once a year as a practicing murderer? How about one who had an outburst of wrath each year? Is that a practice? Many of us might be in trouble if that is the case. And what about one who struggles with envy? How do you gauge the practice of envy and what constitutes the practice of being envious? Will none of these go to heaven even if they have trusted Christ? Or does the practice of sin indicate that a person was never saved? So how do we understand this passage?
The context of any passage must fit the overall context of the entire Scripture. Salvation is received the moment one believes (trusts) in the person and work of Jesus Christ plus nothing else. It’s not dependent on good behaviors before or after. If it were, it would be an exchange (my promise of being good for salvation) and not a free gift. A gift requires nothing of the recipient. Sanctification (being set apart for God; becoming more holy) does not come automatically after one’s salvation. Old habits die hard. Habitual thought patterns need to change, and this does not often come easily when one comes to faith, especially as an adult.
The apostle exhorts them to walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the desires of the flesh. (5:16) Believers have two natures. The old nature which is prone to sin does not leave when one is born again. So now there is a conflict that ensues until the day we die. The one that we feed is the one that grows.
He states that because of this conflict, the flesh lust against the Spirit and the Spirit against the flesh. Paul had the same struggle. Almost twenty-five years after being saved, he presented this fight in the present tense, “For the good that I will to do, I do not do, but the evil I will not to do that I practice. …O wretched man that I am! (Romans 7:19, 24) How could the great apostle practice sin?Paul’s sin problem was covetousness. That’s what he practiced according to his own testimony. (Romans 7:10) Yet he writes to the Ephesians, “For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.” (Eph. 5:5)
So did Paul go to hell for practicing covetousness?
Well, of course not. Paul is in heaven. (Phil 1:21, 23; 3:20; Col. 3:4; 2 Tim. 4:6-8) He like every person is not kept out of heaven because of sin, but because of rejection (unbelief) of Jesus Christ as Savior.
He warned the Ephesians not to be partakers with the sons of disobedience. (Eph. 5:7) Why, because they might end up being partakers with them if they do not guard their hearts. He warned them not to have fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. (5:11) Why warn them of this, if it was not possible for them to participate in works of darkness?
To the Corinthians, he wrote that the unrighteous would not inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Cor. 6:9) Who are the unrighteous? Is there anyone righteous enough to enter the kingdom apart from Christ? Absolutely not! “There is none righteous, no, not one.” (Romans 3:10)The unrighteous are the unsaved. In verse one of chapter six in Corinthians, he warned them not to “go to law before the unrighteous, and not before the saints.” Here he clearly distinguishes between believers (saints) and unbelievers (unrighteous).
In position, all believers are righteous and completely sanctified (holy). To the Corinthians, he wrote, “But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.” (1 Cor. 6:11) Yet as they lived life they experienced failure, “For I fear lest, when I come, I shall not find you as I wish... lest there be contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions… I shall mourn for many who have sinned before and have not repented of the uncleanness, fornication, and the lewdness which they have practiced.” (2 Cor. 12:20-21) The practice of sins will cause significant negative consequences in this life, will prevent one from being fruitful and will affect rewards at the judgment seat of Christ, but it will never change the eternal destination of the one who has believed on the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior.
If a believer does not heed the warnings of Scripture and develop godly thinking, he is capable of acting and appearing like unbelievers who commit such acts of sin. (1 Cor. 3:3) It is because the sin nature still exists in every believer, and we are very susceptible to responding to the situations of life in the flesh rather than in the Spirit.
Therefore the apostle exhorts the Galatian believers to walk in the Spirit, and they will not fulfill the desires of the flesh. (Gal. 5:16) To the Ephesian believers, he exhorts to walk as children of light. (5:8) As a believer is learning to walk in the Spirit, he will be less likely to fulfill the lusts of the flesh and practice the things that unbelievers practice. In other words, why do you act like the unbelieving world when you have the Spirit of God in you who will help you have the power over sin? “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25) Walking in the Spirit is not automatic. It must be an intentional decision by each individual as one cooperates with the Spirit of God through the word of God to transform him moment by moment.
Galatians 5:21 is an exhortation to Christians to live in a manner worthy of their position in Christ. It is not telling believers that if they practiced certain sins, they were not really saved, nor is it saying that good behavior is a sign of a true believer. As believers, we are… ‘called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:16) That is Spirit-led living!
The Shower
When I stepped into the shower earlier this evening, it sure felt good. Do you know how sometimes that water brings a spontaneous sigh of relief? Physically I’ve been battling an upper respiratory infection. Emotionally I’ve been carrying some pretty heavy burdens. Spiritually I’ve been wandering about in a self-created arid place. That is no doubt what made me utter, “Wash it all away, Lord.”
Of course, the water from our well is in no way able to “wash it all away.” Yeah it eased some of the physical discomforts, and that gave a small boost to the emotions, but my actual need is common to all. We need to “draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.” (Heb. 10:22)
We must come to Jesus to be healed or receive the grace to endure. We must come to Jesus to be relieved of our burdens or receive the help to carry them. We must come to Jesus to be washed and renewed by the Holy Spirit. He invites us to “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly of heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matt 11:28-30)
The next time you step into the shower and the hot water begins its cleansing work, think of the ultimate washing done on your behalf. Consider “Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (Rev 1:5b)
When I stepped into the shower earlier this evening, it sure felt good. Do you know how sometimes that water brings a spontaneous sigh of relief? Physically I’ve been battling an upper respiratory infection. Emotionally I’ve been carrying some pretty heavy burdens. Spiritually I’ve been wandering about in a self-created arid place. That is no doubt what made me utter, “Wash it all away, Lord.”
Of course, the water from our well is in no way able to “wash it all away.” Yeah it eased some of the physical discomforts, and that gave a small boost to the emotions, but my actual need is common to all. We need to “draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.” (Heb. 10:22)
We must come to Jesus to be healed or receive the grace to endure. We must come to Jesus to be relieved of our burdens or receive the help to carry them. We must come to Jesus to be washed and renewed by the Holy Spirit. He invites us to “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly of heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matt 11:28-30)
The next time you step into the shower and the hot water begins its cleansing work, think of the ultimate washing done on your behalf. Consider “Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (Rev 1:5b)
Is it time for a change?
Did you ever think of the importance of time? And where did time originate? Well, in school, you probably learned that some of the ancient civilizations initiated the recording of time by the use of sundials and the like. Certainly just by the position of the sun they as well as we could discern the approximate time of day.
Time is an important factor in life. You get up and go to work at a particular time. You’re off work at a certain time. The bus comes at a given time, and the airplane takes off at a certain time. Without time, the world would be chaos. How would you set up a meeting or know when to leave for an appointment. Imagine the wait you might have at the doctor’s office or the airport.
God, in His infinite wisdom created time from the very fact that the Bible says “in the beginning.” There was a beginning, and that certainly implies time. He made the week seven days – 7 literal twenty-four periods. (Gen 1) God commanded the Israelites to cease from work on the seventh day to keep it holy. (Ex 20:8) So time was necessary for them to obey the commands of God. They were also required to maintain track of the years because they were commanded to “neither sow your field nor prune your vineyard’’ as a Sabbath rest for the land in the seventh year. (Lev 25:3, 4)
The first coming of our Lord was not a random event in the plan of God. He had a plan and timing for it. According to Paul in his writing to the church in Galatia, “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” (4:4, 5) When Jesus came to Galilee, He preached, “The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand.” (Mark 1:15)
Some people think that this world is going to continue forever and forever. Others believe that the human race may destroy itself. But God has an appointed time to end it. Jesus responded to the question of the disciples concerning the time of the end by stating, “But of that day and hour no one knows…but My Father only.” (Matt 24:36)
And that leads me to my point, what am I doing with my time? What are you doing with your time? God has given each one of us so much time. He has a schedule and our time could end abruptly at the coming of Christ for His church. If He came today, would you be satisfied with how you have spent your time? Or is it time for a change?
“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:16
Did you ever think of the importance of time? And where did time originate? Well, in school, you probably learned that some of the ancient civilizations initiated the recording of time by the use of sundials and the like. Certainly just by the position of the sun they as well as we could discern the approximate time of day.
Time is an important factor in life. You get up and go to work at a particular time. You’re off work at a certain time. The bus comes at a given time, and the airplane takes off at a certain time. Without time, the world would be chaos. How would you set up a meeting or know when to leave for an appointment. Imagine the wait you might have at the doctor’s office or the airport.
God, in His infinite wisdom created time from the very fact that the Bible says “in the beginning.” There was a beginning, and that certainly implies time. He made the week seven days – 7 literal twenty-four periods. (Gen 1) God commanded the Israelites to cease from work on the seventh day to keep it holy. (Ex 20:8) So time was necessary for them to obey the commands of God. They were also required to maintain track of the years because they were commanded to “neither sow your field nor prune your vineyard’’ as a Sabbath rest for the land in the seventh year. (Lev 25:3, 4)
The first coming of our Lord was not a random event in the plan of God. He had a plan and timing for it. According to Paul in his writing to the church in Galatia, “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” (4:4, 5) When Jesus came to Galilee, He preached, “The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand.” (Mark 1:15)
Some people think that this world is going to continue forever and forever. Others believe that the human race may destroy itself. But God has an appointed time to end it. Jesus responded to the question of the disciples concerning the time of the end by stating, “But of that day and hour no one knows…but My Father only.” (Matt 24:36)
And that leads me to my point, what am I doing with my time? What are you doing with your time? God has given each one of us so much time. He has a schedule and our time could end abruptly at the coming of Christ for His church. If He came today, would you be satisfied with how you have spent your time? Or is it time for a change?
“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:16
By Appointment Only
Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Phillip, saying, “Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is the desert. So, he arose and went. And behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace the queen of the Ethiopians who had charge of all her treasury and had come to Jerusalem to worship, was returning. And sitting in his chariot, he was reading Isaiah the prophet. The Spirit said to Phillip, “Go near and overtake the chariot.” (Acts 8:26-29)
In the 4th chapter of the Gospel of John, we are witness to Jesus’ meeting with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. What took place there was indeed a divine appointment. That encounter turned out to be enormously fruitful as the woman, and many in the city became believers in the Messiah.
We can also see in the scripture above that Phillip had a very specific spiritual direction about where to go and who to meet. This encounter brought salvation to Candace’s treasurer, and the Christian faith rode home to another land in that chariot.
The Apostle Peter had a vision of animals riding upon a heavenly blanket when staying at Simon the tanner’s house. “While Peter thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him, ‘Behold, three men are seeking you. Arise therefore, go down and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them.’” (Acts 10:19-20) The result of Peter accompanying these men was the Gentiles believing in Christ and receiving the Holy Spirit.
The Pharisee, Saul of Tarsus, ran right smack dab into a divine appointment on the Damascus road. From that moment on, the Apostle Paul’s life became a succession of divine appointments. Scripture confirms this time and time again throughout Acts and Paul’s epistles. For example, Paul and Timothy “were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia. After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them.” (Acts 16:6-7) Then by a vision, Paul heard the call to Macedonia to preach the gospel to them.
How about you? Have you had any visions or angelic visits instructing you where and who to engage in the things of God? How about after Phillip preached Jesus to the Ethiopian and baptized him, and the Spirit of the Lord caught Phillip away and set him down in Azotus – ahh, you been caught away lately and found over yonder? Just think we could get a whole lot of evangelism done and solve the energy crisis at the same time.
Although we may not experience such dramatic and direct manifestations since the apostolic age ended, the Spirit-led walk continues to be by appointment only. We do not just happen to be in another person’s life. We do not just accidentally bump into that old acquaintance when they’re going through a tough time. God does not do “just happens,” nor does He ever do “just accidents.”
The Spirit is still saying, “Go near…go with them…go to…do not go there.” Are we listening to His directions? Are we ready to “preach Jesus” to our Ethiopian, our Gentiles, our Macedonians? We must be perceptive, prepared, and present for our daily appointments.
Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Phillip, saying, “Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is the desert. So, he arose and went. And behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace the queen of the Ethiopians who had charge of all her treasury and had come to Jerusalem to worship, was returning. And sitting in his chariot, he was reading Isaiah the prophet. The Spirit said to Phillip, “Go near and overtake the chariot.” (Acts 8:26-29)
In the 4th chapter of the Gospel of John, we are witness to Jesus’ meeting with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. What took place there was indeed a divine appointment. That encounter turned out to be enormously fruitful as the woman, and many in the city became believers in the Messiah.
We can also see in the scripture above that Phillip had a very specific spiritual direction about where to go and who to meet. This encounter brought salvation to Candace’s treasurer, and the Christian faith rode home to another land in that chariot.
The Apostle Peter had a vision of animals riding upon a heavenly blanket when staying at Simon the tanner’s house. “While Peter thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him, ‘Behold, three men are seeking you. Arise therefore, go down and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them.’” (Acts 10:19-20) The result of Peter accompanying these men was the Gentiles believing in Christ and receiving the Holy Spirit.
The Pharisee, Saul of Tarsus, ran right smack dab into a divine appointment on the Damascus road. From that moment on, the Apostle Paul’s life became a succession of divine appointments. Scripture confirms this time and time again throughout Acts and Paul’s epistles. For example, Paul and Timothy “were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia. After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them.” (Acts 16:6-7) Then by a vision, Paul heard the call to Macedonia to preach the gospel to them.
How about you? Have you had any visions or angelic visits instructing you where and who to engage in the things of God? How about after Phillip preached Jesus to the Ethiopian and baptized him, and the Spirit of the Lord caught Phillip away and set him down in Azotus – ahh, you been caught away lately and found over yonder? Just think we could get a whole lot of evangelism done and solve the energy crisis at the same time.
Although we may not experience such dramatic and direct manifestations since the apostolic age ended, the Spirit-led walk continues to be by appointment only. We do not just happen to be in another person’s life. We do not just accidentally bump into that old acquaintance when they’re going through a tough time. God does not do “just happens,” nor does He ever do “just accidents.”
The Spirit is still saying, “Go near…go with them…go to…do not go there.” Are we listening to His directions? Are we ready to “preach Jesus” to our Ethiopian, our Gentiles, our Macedonians? We must be perceptive, prepared, and present for our daily appointments.
Which Book?
“…and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books…And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:12, 15)
We often hear in the news of someone suspected of committing nefarious activities having their computer seized by law enforcement. The hard drive is checked for content that might incriminate the suspect. Even though the person may have attempted to delete website histories and such, the hard drive still has a record. This hard drive file can be used as evidence against the person before a judge and jury.
We can find an illustration in this concerning a much bigger picture of life. We all come with a hard drive, a recorded book if you will. Every action, reaction, word, thought and deed we have done in our lifetime is stamped on that hard drive, written in the book. We may think we’re getting away with deleting the bad stuff, with covering our sin, erasing the words, but we are not. When we come to the end of our life, the hard drive is examined. The evidence is still all there. The books will be opened, and God Himself is our judge and jury. “The wages of sin is death…” (Rom 6:23a) This death is a forever “guilty” sentence.
Such is not so for everyone. But what about the hard drives, the bad stuff, and sin? How do some escape the penalty of a forever death? They have put their faith and trust in Jesus Christ. When their hard drives, their books, are examined His blood has expunged their sin. Their names have been written in, transferred to, the Lamb’s Book of Life. (Rev 21:27) In contrast to the wages of sin being death – “the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rom 6:23b) This life is a forever “pardoned” prize.
If you were to stand before The Judge today, what will be found on your hard drive, written of you in the books? What if things you thought were deleted in fact remain? Then what? Or will you have a clean record with the sin and evil stuff forever removed by the blood of the Lamb? In which book will your name be found?
“…and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books…And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:12, 15)
We often hear in the news of someone suspected of committing nefarious activities having their computer seized by law enforcement. The hard drive is checked for content that might incriminate the suspect. Even though the person may have attempted to delete website histories and such, the hard drive still has a record. This hard drive file can be used as evidence against the person before a judge and jury.
We can find an illustration in this concerning a much bigger picture of life. We all come with a hard drive, a recorded book if you will. Every action, reaction, word, thought and deed we have done in our lifetime is stamped on that hard drive, written in the book. We may think we’re getting away with deleting the bad stuff, with covering our sin, erasing the words, but we are not. When we come to the end of our life, the hard drive is examined. The evidence is still all there. The books will be opened, and God Himself is our judge and jury. “The wages of sin is death…” (Rom 6:23a) This death is a forever “guilty” sentence.
Such is not so for everyone. But what about the hard drives, the bad stuff, and sin? How do some escape the penalty of a forever death? They have put their faith and trust in Jesus Christ. When their hard drives, their books, are examined His blood has expunged their sin. Their names have been written in, transferred to, the Lamb’s Book of Life. (Rev 21:27) In contrast to the wages of sin being death – “the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rom 6:23b) This life is a forever “pardoned” prize.
If you were to stand before The Judge today, what will be found on your hard drive, written of you in the books? What if things you thought were deleted in fact remain? Then what? Or will you have a clean record with the sin and evil stuff forever removed by the blood of the Lamb? In which book will your name be found?
A Catch of a Lifetime
Peter, Andrew, James, and John were fishermen, not as a pastime but as a profession. They had been fishing all night and had caught nothing. They were in the process of cleaning their nets, calling it a day. Can you imagine how tired they were and how disgusted they may have been because of their lack of success? Then Jesus arrives. He asks Peter to push his boat a little way out into the water. He then begins to preach to the multitudes that came to hear the word of God. What was Peter thinking? Was he excited to hear the word? Or was he thinking, how much longer? I’m tired and want to get some sleep!
When Jesus finishes preaching, he instructs Peter to launch out into the deep and to let his nets down for a catch. Peter responds, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at your word, I will let down the net.” (5:5) When considering his circumstance, how optimistic do you think he is at this point? The catch was so large that it almost sank two boats. Peter’s heart condition is revealed, and he responds, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
Now God had men he could use, men that recognized their condition and their need. He didn’t rebuke Peter. He only called Him and the others to “follow Me and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matt 4:19)
Peter may have made the catch of his lifetime, but it was he who was caught. When they came back to shore, they forsook all and followed Him. Who or what has captured your passion and life? Is it a beautiful house, cars, sports, education, or even family? Or is it Him who calls out to you, “Follow Me?”
Peter, Andrew, James, and John were fishermen, not as a pastime but as a profession. They had been fishing all night and had caught nothing. They were in the process of cleaning their nets, calling it a day. Can you imagine how tired they were and how disgusted they may have been because of their lack of success? Then Jesus arrives. He asks Peter to push his boat a little way out into the water. He then begins to preach to the multitudes that came to hear the word of God. What was Peter thinking? Was he excited to hear the word? Or was he thinking, how much longer? I’m tired and want to get some sleep!
When Jesus finishes preaching, he instructs Peter to launch out into the deep and to let his nets down for a catch. Peter responds, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at your word, I will let down the net.” (5:5) When considering his circumstance, how optimistic do you think he is at this point? The catch was so large that it almost sank two boats. Peter’s heart condition is revealed, and he responds, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
Now God had men he could use, men that recognized their condition and their need. He didn’t rebuke Peter. He only called Him and the others to “follow Me and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matt 4:19)
Peter may have made the catch of his lifetime, but it was he who was caught. When they came back to shore, they forsook all and followed Him. Who or what has captured your passion and life? Is it a beautiful house, cars, sports, education, or even family? Or is it Him who calls out to you, “Follow Me?”
Fulfill All
“Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power, that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Thessalonians 1:11-12)
“Awww, you poor little thing,” I said after rounding the corner in the Auxiliary Building at work. I knelt, “I’m sorry, little bird.” A baby bird had fallen from a nest high up in the rafters. It labored with the last breaths of such a brief life. I thought of the stark reality of Romans, chapter 8, verses 18 through 25, and the words, “For we know that the whole creation groans and labors” awaiting deliverance from the corruption and curse of this world.
Though sad, I drew some comfort knowing that even a bird does not “fall to the ground apart from the Father’s will.” (Matthew 10:29) Still, I could not help but think of what never came to be in the life of that bird. It would never launch anxiously from the nest in its initial attempt to fly nor realize the thrill when successful. There would be no soaring in the blue sky beneath a golden sun. No comfort of a full belly. No refreshing splash in a birdbath. It would know nothing of resting in a tree filled with green leaves while cool gentle breezes swayed it to and fro. It would never sing a happy tune; there would be no lovely songs to brighten the day of passersby.
Sadder still? – What about all those people who have lived, who do live, yet never fulfill the destiny and expectancy God had/has for them! They live in ignorance, or worse, rebellion against His true calling on their lives. They suppress the truth while denying His creation, presence, and power. They turn from His goodness and place their faith in anything or anyone but Him. They refuse to glorify God nor thank Him for His abundant provision, protection, excellence, and majesty. They reject His love. (See Romans 1)
The fact is that innocent little bird that tumbled into the Father’s hands lived above and beyond even people who live contrary to His will and His way. They have the opportunity that baby bird did not receive but do nothing with it. They never launch out and learn the flight of faith. They never bask in the beauty of His creation. They have no comfort of full abundance, always seeking, scratching for more. They never splash in the Living Water and come forth actually clean. Rest and cool breezes are forever just out of their reach. Their songs are dirges; their shadows cast long and darken the path of those who pass by.
Hey, I spent some time there, I was like that, but praise God, He bought me, and He sought me, and by His grace, I was found. Now, I want to be worthy of His calling. I want to fulfill all that He has for me to be and to do. And I want to glorify Him all the rest of the days of my life.
I guess you could say a little birdie told me that.
“Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power, that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Thessalonians 1:11-12)
“Awww, you poor little thing,” I said after rounding the corner in the Auxiliary Building at work. I knelt, “I’m sorry, little bird.” A baby bird had fallen from a nest high up in the rafters. It labored with the last breaths of such a brief life. I thought of the stark reality of Romans, chapter 8, verses 18 through 25, and the words, “For we know that the whole creation groans and labors” awaiting deliverance from the corruption and curse of this world.
Though sad, I drew some comfort knowing that even a bird does not “fall to the ground apart from the Father’s will.” (Matthew 10:29) Still, I could not help but think of what never came to be in the life of that bird. It would never launch anxiously from the nest in its initial attempt to fly nor realize the thrill when successful. There would be no soaring in the blue sky beneath a golden sun. No comfort of a full belly. No refreshing splash in a birdbath. It would know nothing of resting in a tree filled with green leaves while cool gentle breezes swayed it to and fro. It would never sing a happy tune; there would be no lovely songs to brighten the day of passersby.
Sadder still? – What about all those people who have lived, who do live, yet never fulfill the destiny and expectancy God had/has for them! They live in ignorance, or worse, rebellion against His true calling on their lives. They suppress the truth while denying His creation, presence, and power. They turn from His goodness and place their faith in anything or anyone but Him. They refuse to glorify God nor thank Him for His abundant provision, protection, excellence, and majesty. They reject His love. (See Romans 1)
The fact is that innocent little bird that tumbled into the Father’s hands lived above and beyond even people who live contrary to His will and His way. They have the opportunity that baby bird did not receive but do nothing with it. They never launch out and learn the flight of faith. They never bask in the beauty of His creation. They have no comfort of full abundance, always seeking, scratching for more. They never splash in the Living Water and come forth actually clean. Rest and cool breezes are forever just out of their reach. Their songs are dirges; their shadows cast long and darken the path of those who pass by.
Hey, I spent some time there, I was like that, but praise God, He bought me, and He sought me, and by His grace, I was found. Now, I want to be worthy of His calling. I want to fulfill all that He has for me to be and to do. And I want to glorify Him all the rest of the days of my life.
I guess you could say a little birdie told me that.
Two-Way Street
“If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me.” (John 14:23-24) Do you see our part?
A news station gave a good bit of time on their newscast to a Gay Pride parade in their city. One participant made this statement: “God loves us whatever we do.” The initial reaction to such an assertion is head-shaking disbelief. But, on second thought, it is true, is it not? No matter whatever train wreck we make of our lives, God does not stop loving us. His love is perfect and pure and offered to all. “For God so loved the world…” (Read John 3:16-17)
The real problem with “God loves us whatever we do” is not on God’s part but ours. Love is reciprocal. That is why God gave us free will; for love cannot exist without the ability to choose to love or choose not to love. He loves us. Will we, are we, loving Him in return? It is in fact, the proverbial two-way street. The Bible tells us that our love for God is first demonstrated in our positive response to His atoning work upon the Cross. We follow that by the daily living out of John 14:21: “He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” Do you see our part?
Take note in the Psalm writer’s description of God’s wonderful love that we do have a role to play: “He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.” (Psalm 103:10-12 NIV) Do you see our part?
Those “who keep My word,” those “who keep My commandments” those “who fear Him,” are those who love Him. In the book of Proverbs, the great Lover of our souls says, “I love those who love Me, and those who seek Me diligently will find Me.” (8:17) In the excellent treatise known as the book of Romans, it is clear that His remarkable love and our love only mesh in Jesus Christ. (Chapter 8) Again, the two-way street.
The poor deceived soul in that parade has it half right which leaves the other half wrong – which leaves that individual and all those who are like-minded only willing to receive God’s love on their terms while refusing to return it on His. They are on a one-way street that only leads away from the God of love.
“If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me.” (John 14:23-24) Do you see our part?
A news station gave a good bit of time on their newscast to a Gay Pride parade in their city. One participant made this statement: “God loves us whatever we do.” The initial reaction to such an assertion is head-shaking disbelief. But, on second thought, it is true, is it not? No matter whatever train wreck we make of our lives, God does not stop loving us. His love is perfect and pure and offered to all. “For God so loved the world…” (Read John 3:16-17)
The real problem with “God loves us whatever we do” is not on God’s part but ours. Love is reciprocal. That is why God gave us free will; for love cannot exist without the ability to choose to love or choose not to love. He loves us. Will we, are we, loving Him in return? It is in fact, the proverbial two-way street. The Bible tells us that our love for God is first demonstrated in our positive response to His atoning work upon the Cross. We follow that by the daily living out of John 14:21: “He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” Do you see our part?
Take note in the Psalm writer’s description of God’s wonderful love that we do have a role to play: “He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.” (Psalm 103:10-12 NIV) Do you see our part?
Those “who keep My word,” those “who keep My commandments” those “who fear Him,” are those who love Him. In the book of Proverbs, the great Lover of our souls says, “I love those who love Me, and those who seek Me diligently will find Me.” (8:17) In the excellent treatise known as the book of Romans, it is clear that His remarkable love and our love only mesh in Jesus Christ. (Chapter 8) Again, the two-way street.
The poor deceived soul in that parade has it half right which leaves the other half wrong – which leaves that individual and all those who are like-minded only willing to receive God’s love on their terms while refusing to return it on His. They are on a one-way street that only leads away from the God of love.
Hidden Treasure
“…My heart stands in awe of Your word. I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure.” (Psalm 119:161-162)
Years ago the kids in our little community spent a lot of time at the creek, or crick, as we called it. The main branch ran east to west just below our neighborhood and in the younger years that was the hangout. We caught minnows, flipped rocks to find salamanders, and if feeling a bit brave looked for snakes. Eventually, we traveled farther from home to the crick on our neighbor’s farm. It ran between hills and fields north to south and joined up with the main body in the valley. We knew all the good “finding stuff” spots in the cricks including the twists and bends and depths. Or at least we thought we did. One day someone pointed to a little trickle stream that ran down a hill to our north to south crick on the farm. “Let’s go up there and check it out.” Why we hadn’t before, I don’t know, but off we went. Over hill and dale, through forest and glade traversed the lads.
“Whoa!!!” That came from the first kid upon the scene. He was soon joined by a chorus of “Whoa’s!!!” as we gathered. We had found the reason for the trickle of this tributary. There before us lay a small dam which formed a small pond and swimming to and fro were several beautiful goldfish. We just sat down and stared. We marveled at this hidden treasure. How long had this picture-perfect scene in the woods been there? Who made it? We were indeed awe-struck. In fact, when I went home, I convinced my mom she needed to see the treasure we had discovered hidden on the back side of the farm. So my dear mom went over hill and dale, through forest and glade until we stood at the pond. She agreed it was a special place.
You know God’s Word is a treasure. For many, it’s a treasure for which they have never looked. Others know the “cricks” and the right finding stuff spots, the twists, bends, and depths, but even for them, there is still unfound hidden treasure. Like us boys decades back, we knew about the trickling stream but left it unexplored. Hey, here is a challenge for us: Set off over hill and dale, forest and glade and maybe find treasure in Ecclesiastes or Habakkuk, or if you have been shy leap into the book of Revelation.
Think about where you haven’t done much exploring, head off, find His treasure and start digging. And guaranteed – your heart will stand in awe of His Word. And you will come “to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:2-3)
“…My heart stands in awe of Your word. I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure.” (Psalm 119:161-162)
Years ago the kids in our little community spent a lot of time at the creek, or crick, as we called it. The main branch ran east to west just below our neighborhood and in the younger years that was the hangout. We caught minnows, flipped rocks to find salamanders, and if feeling a bit brave looked for snakes. Eventually, we traveled farther from home to the crick on our neighbor’s farm. It ran between hills and fields north to south and joined up with the main body in the valley. We knew all the good “finding stuff” spots in the cricks including the twists and bends and depths. Or at least we thought we did. One day someone pointed to a little trickle stream that ran down a hill to our north to south crick on the farm. “Let’s go up there and check it out.” Why we hadn’t before, I don’t know, but off we went. Over hill and dale, through forest and glade traversed the lads.
“Whoa!!!” That came from the first kid upon the scene. He was soon joined by a chorus of “Whoa’s!!!” as we gathered. We had found the reason for the trickle of this tributary. There before us lay a small dam which formed a small pond and swimming to and fro were several beautiful goldfish. We just sat down and stared. We marveled at this hidden treasure. How long had this picture-perfect scene in the woods been there? Who made it? We were indeed awe-struck. In fact, when I went home, I convinced my mom she needed to see the treasure we had discovered hidden on the back side of the farm. So my dear mom went over hill and dale, through forest and glade until we stood at the pond. She agreed it was a special place.
You know God’s Word is a treasure. For many, it’s a treasure for which they have never looked. Others know the “cricks” and the right finding stuff spots, the twists, bends, and depths, but even for them, there is still unfound hidden treasure. Like us boys decades back, we knew about the trickling stream but left it unexplored. Hey, here is a challenge for us: Set off over hill and dale, forest and glade and maybe find treasure in Ecclesiastes or Habakkuk, or if you have been shy leap into the book of Revelation.
Think about where you haven’t done much exploring, head off, find His treasure and start digging. And guaranteed – your heart will stand in awe of His Word. And you will come “to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:2-3)
Do You Have Any Rubbish?
The apostle Paul when it came to qualifications was above all. He would have been certainly comparable to the most academic of today. He might have a couple of PhDs and be at the top of the list for Christian/ Hebrew scholars. He may have gone to Harvard or Yale and taught by the best and most well-known teachers. After all, he was taught by Gamaliel, a famous rabbi, a teacher of the law, and respected by all people. (Acts 5:34; 22:3) From man’s point of view, he would be the epitome of the best of the best. God must be pleased with all his effort and accomplishments.
The apostle said it best himself. “If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so: Circumcised the eighth day of the stock of Israel of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law a Pharisee; concerning zeal persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.” Phil 3:4-6 More than anyone else, he thought that he met all the qualifications before conversion. He certainly believed he was well on his way by working toward total acceptance from God.
But once converted he realized… “What things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord for who I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith;…” Phil 3:7-9
Both Greek words for gain and loss were accounting terms. The gain or profit that Paul had, his Jewish qualifications, were worthless. They had no value toward earning God’s acceptance. The very things he cherished he now considered rubbish in order to gain Christ!
Scripture is clear that we are saved unto good works “which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Eph 2:10 However, they do not save us or earn any merit for us toward God. Are you resting by faith in the person and work of Christ or are you still trying to earn God’s acceptance through works? Consider the apostle Paul for this is a matter of the utmost importance. Your eternal destination hinges on it.
The apostle Paul when it came to qualifications was above all. He would have been certainly comparable to the most academic of today. He might have a couple of PhDs and be at the top of the list for Christian/ Hebrew scholars. He may have gone to Harvard or Yale and taught by the best and most well-known teachers. After all, he was taught by Gamaliel, a famous rabbi, a teacher of the law, and respected by all people. (Acts 5:34; 22:3) From man’s point of view, he would be the epitome of the best of the best. God must be pleased with all his effort and accomplishments.
The apostle said it best himself. “If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so: Circumcised the eighth day of the stock of Israel of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law a Pharisee; concerning zeal persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.” Phil 3:4-6 More than anyone else, he thought that he met all the qualifications before conversion. He certainly believed he was well on his way by working toward total acceptance from God.
But once converted he realized… “What things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord for who I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith;…” Phil 3:7-9
Both Greek words for gain and loss were accounting terms. The gain or profit that Paul had, his Jewish qualifications, were worthless. They had no value toward earning God’s acceptance. The very things he cherished he now considered rubbish in order to gain Christ!
Scripture is clear that we are saved unto good works “which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Eph 2:10 However, they do not save us or earn any merit for us toward God. Are you resting by faith in the person and work of Christ or are you still trying to earn God’s acceptance through works? Consider the apostle Paul for this is a matter of the utmost importance. Your eternal destination hinges on it.
Which Camp?
“…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
Mankind believes two lies. The adherents to each of these falsehoods tend to gather in two camps. One camp is populated by those described in Romans, chapter 1:18-32. These deny the true and Triune God and in turn, seek to be their own god. The inevitable then occurs as the base nature drags them downward into the dregs. God responds in love by permitting their sink to the bottom of the barrel. Hopefully, flat on the back, they will look up and cry out. This is the only way such can be saved.
The other camp has always been home to a much larger populace. As described in Romans, chapter 2, these people acknowledge God and in turn, seek to appease God. With great zeal they engage in religious activities thought to be an acceptable means of reconciling and relating to the Creator.
If enough good is done to outweigh the bad, the Lord must respect the tipping scales. But the very laws which they attempt to keep must be maintained entirely according to the great Lawgiver. The scale only tilts against them. God responds in love by permitting their abject brokenness upon the hard surface of the Law. Hopefully, flat on their back, they will look up and cry out. This is the only way such can be saved.
In the third chapter of Romans, those who seek to be God and those who strive to appease God are thrown into one camp. All have sinned. “There is none righteous, no, not one; There is none who seeks after God. They have all turned aside; they have together become unprofitable; there is none who does good, no not one.” (3:10-12) Neither the irreligious or the religious seeks after God on His terms. Reconciling and relating to God is found only “…through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” (3:24b)
Thus, we again, have two camps – those who live outside of Christ and those who live in Christ. In which camp do you reside?
“…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
Mankind believes two lies. The adherents to each of these falsehoods tend to gather in two camps. One camp is populated by those described in Romans, chapter 1:18-32. These deny the true and Triune God and in turn, seek to be their own god. The inevitable then occurs as the base nature drags them downward into the dregs. God responds in love by permitting their sink to the bottom of the barrel. Hopefully, flat on the back, they will look up and cry out. This is the only way such can be saved.
The other camp has always been home to a much larger populace. As described in Romans, chapter 2, these people acknowledge God and in turn, seek to appease God. With great zeal they engage in religious activities thought to be an acceptable means of reconciling and relating to the Creator.
If enough good is done to outweigh the bad, the Lord must respect the tipping scales. But the very laws which they attempt to keep must be maintained entirely according to the great Lawgiver. The scale only tilts against them. God responds in love by permitting their abject brokenness upon the hard surface of the Law. Hopefully, flat on their back, they will look up and cry out. This is the only way such can be saved.
In the third chapter of Romans, those who seek to be God and those who strive to appease God are thrown into one camp. All have sinned. “There is none righteous, no, not one; There is none who seeks after God. They have all turned aside; they have together become unprofitable; there is none who does good, no not one.” (3:10-12) Neither the irreligious or the religious seeks after God on His terms. Reconciling and relating to God is found only “…through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” (3:24b)
Thus, we again, have two camps – those who live outside of Christ and those who live in Christ. In which camp do you reside?
Jeremiah 9:23 or 9:24?
“Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, let not the mighty man glory in his might, nor let the rich man glory in his riches; (Jeremiah 9:23)
But let him who glories glory in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight.” says the Lord. (Jeremiah 9:24)
He would prattle on incessantly about all the stuff he had, the places he had been, the famous elbows he had rubbed, and how insightful and wise he was because of it all. I was not impressed; not at all. A story here or there would have a twist and turn of interest; some were even half believable. My benign reactions led to an unstated rift between us. Every chance he got, he would belittle me because I did not have this, had not been there, did not know who and such. And my worst transgression of all – his “brilliance and wisdom” seemed to zoom right over the top of my head. I knew how he felt. When I would speak to him about faith and Jesus, he would instantly begin to pontificate on religious matters and the enlightened ideas of the world’s great sages – and remain purposely clueless about faith and the things of God.
In my dealings with that wise, mighty and rich man, the scripture above came to mind often. He was Jeremiah 9:23 with legs. He is not alone, though, is he? The world is full up to its neck with such people. It seems endless: the people who glory in things and the things in which people glory. Surrounded by such, the challenge becomes evident, will you, will I, be Jeremiah 9:24 with legs? Will we glory only in understanding and knowing the Lord God and all His attributes? That is, after all, our calling.
“For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God – and righteousness and sanctification and redemption – that, as is written, ‘He who glories, let him glory in the Lord.’” (1 Cor 1:26-31)
Which would best describe you, describe me? Are we Jeremiah 9:23 people or are we Jeremiah 9:24 people? There is quite a difference.
“Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, let not the mighty man glory in his might, nor let the rich man glory in his riches; (Jeremiah 9:23)
But let him who glories glory in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight.” says the Lord. (Jeremiah 9:24)
He would prattle on incessantly about all the stuff he had, the places he had been, the famous elbows he had rubbed, and how insightful and wise he was because of it all. I was not impressed; not at all. A story here or there would have a twist and turn of interest; some were even half believable. My benign reactions led to an unstated rift between us. Every chance he got, he would belittle me because I did not have this, had not been there, did not know who and such. And my worst transgression of all – his “brilliance and wisdom” seemed to zoom right over the top of my head. I knew how he felt. When I would speak to him about faith and Jesus, he would instantly begin to pontificate on religious matters and the enlightened ideas of the world’s great sages – and remain purposely clueless about faith and the things of God.
In my dealings with that wise, mighty and rich man, the scripture above came to mind often. He was Jeremiah 9:23 with legs. He is not alone, though, is he? The world is full up to its neck with such people. It seems endless: the people who glory in things and the things in which people glory. Surrounded by such, the challenge becomes evident, will you, will I, be Jeremiah 9:24 with legs? Will we glory only in understanding and knowing the Lord God and all His attributes? That is, after all, our calling.
“For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God – and righteousness and sanctification and redemption – that, as is written, ‘He who glories, let him glory in the Lord.’” (1 Cor 1:26-31)
Which would best describe you, describe me? Are we Jeremiah 9:23 people or are we Jeremiah 9:24 people? There is quite a difference.
Do All Dogs Go to Heaven?
Losing a dog is almost as painful as losing a family member especially when you had one for a long time. We develop a strong emotional connection with our canine. Our dogs love us unconditionally when treated right. For many of us, there would be a significant void in life if there were no dogs.
The Bible states that God created land animals on the sixth day of creation. Adam, the first man, was also created on the sixth day. After the sixth day, the creation was complete, and God pronounced it very good. Clearly, the Lord had a purpose in creating animals, and it was for the good of man and His creation. This certainly would include our beloved canines.
According to the Bible, Jesus Christ will come back to rule and reign on the earth for a thousand years. The prophet Isaiah proclaims that during that time of unprecedented peace, “The wolf shall also dwell with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, the calf and the young lion and the fatling together… “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain.” (Isa 11:6) Animals will revert to grass eaters and will no longer prey on one another. That was God’s initial design before the disobedient action of Adam and Eve. (Gen 1:30) And since God is bringing this world full circle when He will create “new heavens and a new earth.” (Isa 65:17), it seems logical to conclude that part of a new creation will include animals. Whether the animals will be the same ones that were here on earth is not clear. Hypothetically, God certainly could recreate the same personalities in the animals that were here during your life. The only exceptions would be that they will not get sick, die, or act in a mean way toward any other living being.
More importantly, though, will YOU go to heaven? Some believe that they can merit points with God by doing more good than bad. Others believe that they are good in comparison to other people. Some religions will tell you that you must go to church, take communion, and be baptized to enter heaven.
However, according to the Bible, none of these roads will get YOU there. First of all, in comparison to God who is perfect, the Bible says that “there is none righteous, no not one.” (Rom 3:10) The Bible also teaches that the heart (The inner control center made up of mind, will, and emotions) of man “is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.” (Jer 17:9) Even a little child figures out how to lie early in life and will take things from others that are not his/hers. That’s why children must be taught to do the right thing. They figure out how to do the wrong things all by themselves.
We all have a sin problem. To sin is to break God’s moral commands. Have you ever told a lie? Did you ever steal anything regardless of value? Have you ever lusted in your heart after another person? Have you ever been drunk or high? Have you ever hated anyone? You get the point. The truth is that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Rom 3:23) And “the wages of sin is death.” (Rom 6:23) Sin brought physical death as well as spiritual death. If a person physically dies without having their sins taken away, then that person goes into eternity separated from God in a place of torment that the Bible calls hell.
BUT, the good news is that you can have your sins forgiven and receive the gift of eternal life by putting your faith and trust in Jesus Christ. Jesus came in the flesh – fully God and fully man. “Christ died for our sins according to the Scripture, and He was buried, and rose again the third day.” (1 Cor 15:3, 4) He came so that your sins could be forgiven and that you can have life…spiritual life, eternal life, and a relationship with God. If you genuinely trust in Christ as the Son of God, believing that He died on the cross for your sin, that He was buried, and that He rose bodily on the third day, then you can be assured that He will save you from the penalty of your sins and give you eternal life. You can get to heaven because God provided the way through His Son. Why not put your faith and trust in Him today?
Losing a dog is almost as painful as losing a family member especially when you had one for a long time. We develop a strong emotional connection with our canine. Our dogs love us unconditionally when treated right. For many of us, there would be a significant void in life if there were no dogs.
The Bible states that God created land animals on the sixth day of creation. Adam, the first man, was also created on the sixth day. After the sixth day, the creation was complete, and God pronounced it very good. Clearly, the Lord had a purpose in creating animals, and it was for the good of man and His creation. This certainly would include our beloved canines.
According to the Bible, Jesus Christ will come back to rule and reign on the earth for a thousand years. The prophet Isaiah proclaims that during that time of unprecedented peace, “The wolf shall also dwell with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, the calf and the young lion and the fatling together… “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain.” (Isa 11:6) Animals will revert to grass eaters and will no longer prey on one another. That was God’s initial design before the disobedient action of Adam and Eve. (Gen 1:30) And since God is bringing this world full circle when He will create “new heavens and a new earth.” (Isa 65:17), it seems logical to conclude that part of a new creation will include animals. Whether the animals will be the same ones that were here on earth is not clear. Hypothetically, God certainly could recreate the same personalities in the animals that were here during your life. The only exceptions would be that they will not get sick, die, or act in a mean way toward any other living being.
More importantly, though, will YOU go to heaven? Some believe that they can merit points with God by doing more good than bad. Others believe that they are good in comparison to other people. Some religions will tell you that you must go to church, take communion, and be baptized to enter heaven.
However, according to the Bible, none of these roads will get YOU there. First of all, in comparison to God who is perfect, the Bible says that “there is none righteous, no not one.” (Rom 3:10) The Bible also teaches that the heart (The inner control center made up of mind, will, and emotions) of man “is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.” (Jer 17:9) Even a little child figures out how to lie early in life and will take things from others that are not his/hers. That’s why children must be taught to do the right thing. They figure out how to do the wrong things all by themselves.
We all have a sin problem. To sin is to break God’s moral commands. Have you ever told a lie? Did you ever steal anything regardless of value? Have you ever lusted in your heart after another person? Have you ever been drunk or high? Have you ever hated anyone? You get the point. The truth is that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Rom 3:23) And “the wages of sin is death.” (Rom 6:23) Sin brought physical death as well as spiritual death. If a person physically dies without having their sins taken away, then that person goes into eternity separated from God in a place of torment that the Bible calls hell.
BUT, the good news is that you can have your sins forgiven and receive the gift of eternal life by putting your faith and trust in Jesus Christ. Jesus came in the flesh – fully God and fully man. “Christ died for our sins according to the Scripture, and He was buried, and rose again the third day.” (1 Cor 15:3, 4) He came so that your sins could be forgiven and that you can have life…spiritual life, eternal life, and a relationship with God. If you genuinely trust in Christ as the Son of God, believing that He died on the cross for your sin, that He was buried, and that He rose bodily on the third day, then you can be assured that He will save you from the penalty of your sins and give you eternal life. You can get to heaven because God provided the way through His Son. Why not put your faith and trust in Him today?
How do you know?
“But how do you know Jesus is the only way to God? But how do you know the Bible is right? But how do you know God authored the Bible? But how do you know you’re right?”
Have you ever been on the receiving end of such questions? I recall having a relative and then shortly after a co-worker giving me the third degree – which, by the way, I loved and indeed welcomed. One advantage I do have (I don’t have many) is I used to ask the very same questions. As people say, “Been there, done that.” So I am rarely caught off guard by a query nor do I get frustrated. I’m just thrilled the questions are asked, and the bottom lines about life explored.
Neither my relative nor my co-worker responded wholly after talking with me. The family member promised more questions in the future. The co-worker took some reading material I provided and never brought the subject up again. Did I fail?
Did the people I quizzed thirty-five years ago when those questions were mine fail when they saw no apparent results in me? Well, here I am, and they did not fail. Even though I debated and doubted and seemingly dismissed their answers, the certitude and conviction they had about Jesus Christ left me no room for permanent retreat. As we wrote about last time - eventually I had to “Come and see.”
By the way, those questions above and others like them that people ask Christians (we who come, see and stay) – just how do you know? Is it because you went to church all your life? Is it because your grandma told you or a friend at work? Those are all great ways to get someone to come and see, but what makes one stay? Where do your certainty and conviction come from concerning the things of God – even the deep things of God? They come first and foremost through His Word, the Bible, and as the Apostle Paul tells us: “God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so, no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” (1 Cor 2:10-12)
Jesus says that no one can come to Him unless the Father draws them. (John 6:44) And there alone is found life now and forever. We who have been drawn and have come and seen and have stayed speak the things of God to others: “…not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” (1 Cor 2:13)
And verse 14 assures us that the natural man doesn’t get it because he or she lacks spiritual discernment: hence, the thousand - “How do you knows?” And thus people that are being drawn by the Father to the Son are brought to us or us to them so they too can be taught the things of God.
How do you know? Good question(s).
“But how do you know Jesus is the only way to God? But how do you know the Bible is right? But how do you know God authored the Bible? But how do you know you’re right?”
Have you ever been on the receiving end of such questions? I recall having a relative and then shortly after a co-worker giving me the third degree – which, by the way, I loved and indeed welcomed. One advantage I do have (I don’t have many) is I used to ask the very same questions. As people say, “Been there, done that.” So I am rarely caught off guard by a query nor do I get frustrated. I’m just thrilled the questions are asked, and the bottom lines about life explored.
Neither my relative nor my co-worker responded wholly after talking with me. The family member promised more questions in the future. The co-worker took some reading material I provided and never brought the subject up again. Did I fail?
Did the people I quizzed thirty-five years ago when those questions were mine fail when they saw no apparent results in me? Well, here I am, and they did not fail. Even though I debated and doubted and seemingly dismissed their answers, the certitude and conviction they had about Jesus Christ left me no room for permanent retreat. As we wrote about last time - eventually I had to “Come and see.”
By the way, those questions above and others like them that people ask Christians (we who come, see and stay) – just how do you know? Is it because you went to church all your life? Is it because your grandma told you or a friend at work? Those are all great ways to get someone to come and see, but what makes one stay? Where do your certainty and conviction come from concerning the things of God – even the deep things of God? They come first and foremost through His Word, the Bible, and as the Apostle Paul tells us: “God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so, no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” (1 Cor 2:10-12)
Jesus says that no one can come to Him unless the Father draws them. (John 6:44) And there alone is found life now and forever. We who have been drawn and have come and seen and have stayed speak the things of God to others: “…not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” (1 Cor 2:13)
And verse 14 assures us that the natural man doesn’t get it because he or she lacks spiritual discernment: hence, the thousand - “How do you knows?” And thus people that are being drawn by the Father to the Son are brought to us or us to them so they too can be taught the things of God.
How do you know? Good question(s).
“Come and see.”
John the Baptist said to two of his disciples, “Behold the Lamb of God” as Jesus walked by them. Such wondrous words coming from the Baptist inspired the two men to follow after this Lamb. Jesus asked them what they sought. “Where are You staying?” they replied. He said to them, “Come and see.”
The text (John 1:35-50) tells us they spent the evening abiding with Jesus. “One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.” Andrew made a beeline to his brother and declared, “We have found the Messiah.” And he brought Peter to Jesus. I can just see Andrew tugging on Peter’s arm and hear him pleading, “Come and see!”
The very next day Jesus found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.” Philip did just that and then made a beeline for his friend Nathanael. “We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets wrote - Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael scoffed, “Nazareth, that one-horse-town if ever there was one, producing the Christ?” (Paraphrased) Philip said to Nathanael, “Come and see.”
Moses in the law, the prophets, John the Baptist and all of the Scripture proclaim that Jesus of Nazareth is “the Messiah (which is translated, the Christ).” Such wondrous testimony coming from these Spirit-filled men of God should inspire us to follow after Him. Are you and I seeking to be where He is? Have we responded to His invitation to “Come and see?” Having come and seen, are we abiding with Him?
If the answer is no, for what do we wait? If it is yes, how can we not make a beeline to our Peter’s, our Nathanael’s, and everyone God brings to us and give the same witness: “We have found the Messiah! Come and see!”
“Come and see.”
John the Baptist said to two of his disciples, “Behold the Lamb of God” as Jesus walked by them. Such wondrous words coming from the Baptist inspired the two men to follow after this Lamb. Jesus asked them what they sought. “Where are You staying?” they replied. He said to them, “Come and see.”
The text (John 1:35-50) tells us they spent the evening abiding with Jesus. “One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.” Andrew made a beeline to his brother and declared, “We have found the Messiah.” And he brought Peter to Jesus. I can just see Andrew tugging on Peter’s arm and hear him pleading, “Come and see!”
The very next day Jesus found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.” Philip did just that and then made a beeline for his friend Nathanael. “We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets wrote - Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael scoffed, “Nazareth, that one-horse-town if ever there was one, producing the Christ?” (Paraphrased) Philip said to Nathanael, “Come and see.”
Moses in the law, the prophets, John the Baptist and all of the Scripture proclaim that Jesus of Nazareth is “the Messiah (which is translated, the Christ).” Such wondrous testimony coming from these Spirit-filled men of God should inspire us to follow after Him. Are you and I seeking to be where He is? Have we responded to His invitation to “Come and see?” Having come and seen, are we abiding with Him?
If the answer is no, for what do we wait? If it is yes, how can we not make a beeline to our Peter’s, our Nathanael’s, and everyone God brings to us and give the same witness: “We have found the Messiah! Come and see!”
“Come and see.”
A Christmas Letter
Since we have friends and relatives living in different areas of the country, it has become my responsibility to write a ‘Christmas letter.’ This often leads me to a major case of writer's block. It just seems so insignificant anymore to write about the vacations we took, about the varying success of kids, health issues, etc. etc. etc.
What I am contemplating writing about is that each year rolls around faster and faster. The Bible says, “What is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little and then vanishes away.” (James 4:14) But would that be a pleasant way to start a Christmas letter? I can hear the responses…Is he depressed or maybe he’s got a little too much religion? Some poor misunderstanding souls might say that he should have been a minister.
I guess my point is that the world just doesn’t get Christmas and I find it hard wasting my time writing about things that don’t matter a whole lot. Sure there is value with sharing our lives with others, but it is only safe because we don’t talk about the spiritual truth.
God intervened into human events in a major way over 2000 years ago. He spoke through His prophets that the Messiah would come, being born of a virgin. (Is 7:14) His name would be called Immanuel, meaning ‘God with us.’ He would be born in Bethlehem. (Mic 5:2) Furthermore, the prophets taught that He be would cut off (killed) for the transgressions of the people. (Is 53:8) He shall justify many for He shall bear their iniquities. (Is 53:11,12) Therefore, for those who have been justified by faith, “we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Rom 5:1)
How do we go about shopping for gifts and planning for parties without giving any or little thought to the truth behind the celebration? It is a joyous time of year, but not because you’re planning to give or get something nice. It should be joyous because God provided a solution to a problem that you could not solve. He provided the perfect gift the sacrifice of His Son to take away your sin as far as the east is from the west to be remembered no more! (Ps 103:12; Heb 10:17) Without the virgin birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, this would not be possible.
If we really think about what God has done for us, shouldn’t that make us joyous every day of the year? That’s the true Christmas letter!
Since we have friends and relatives living in different areas of the country, it has become my responsibility to write a ‘Christmas letter.’ This often leads me to a major case of writer's block. It just seems so insignificant anymore to write about the vacations we took, about the varying success of kids, health issues, etc. etc. etc.
What I am contemplating writing about is that each year rolls around faster and faster. The Bible says, “What is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little and then vanishes away.” (James 4:14) But would that be a pleasant way to start a Christmas letter? I can hear the responses…Is he depressed or maybe he’s got a little too much religion? Some poor misunderstanding souls might say that he should have been a minister.
I guess my point is that the world just doesn’t get Christmas and I find it hard wasting my time writing about things that don’t matter a whole lot. Sure there is value with sharing our lives with others, but it is only safe because we don’t talk about the spiritual truth.
God intervened into human events in a major way over 2000 years ago. He spoke through His prophets that the Messiah would come, being born of a virgin. (Is 7:14) His name would be called Immanuel, meaning ‘God with us.’ He would be born in Bethlehem. (Mic 5:2) Furthermore, the prophets taught that He be would cut off (killed) for the transgressions of the people. (Is 53:8) He shall justify many for He shall bear their iniquities. (Is 53:11,12) Therefore, for those who have been justified by faith, “we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Rom 5:1)
How do we go about shopping for gifts and planning for parties without giving any or little thought to the truth behind the celebration? It is a joyous time of year, but not because you’re planning to give or get something nice. It should be joyous because God provided a solution to a problem that you could not solve. He provided the perfect gift the sacrifice of His Son to take away your sin as far as the east is from the west to be remembered no more! (Ps 103:12; Heb 10:17) Without the virgin birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, this would not be possible.
If we really think about what God has done for us, shouldn’t that make us joyous every day of the year? That’s the true Christmas letter!
God with Us
“You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.” (John 15:3)
A family was making preparations for the pastor’s visit to their home. Among other things, they busied themselves with hiding risqué magazines under the couch. The teens changed t-shirts with grisly artwork and inappropriate language for nice button-downs. With final instructions for everyone to be in best behavior mode, they became a collage of smiling faces as the door opened to their guest.
In the 14th verse of Deuteronomy, chapter 23, Israel is commanded to get their house in order. “For the Lord your God walks in the midst of your camp, to deliver you and give your enemies over to you; therefore your camp shall be holy, that He may see no unclean thing among you, and turn away from you.” A Bible teacher speaking on this verse asked his students, “What if Jesus Christ was visible to you as He moves about in your life? How would you live if His words were spoken directly to you and audibly heard? What if you could feel His hand upon your shoulder? If Immanuel (God with us) was presently manifested in the flesh and always by your side how different would you be?”
Those searching and sobering questions should challenge anyone who professes Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Is our temple (I Corinthians 3:16-17), our camp, really clean, pure and holy? Our conscience compels us to be clean before the pastor, but what of the Lord whom the pastor serves? It is the Lord who declares, “Your camp shall be holy!” The Lord, our God, lives right inside of us. He knows our every thought and every motivation behind every word and action and reaction every moment of our lives. But because this earth suit and its five senses cannot get a handle on that, we often live as though He is visiting someone in the next county, and we have two whole weeks before His return to get our dirt swept under the proverbial rug.
When we live apart from the reality of God with us, our camp inevitably becomes barren, indecent and unclean. And James tells us: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinner; and purify your heart, you double-minded.” (4:8) But, how do the unclean clean? How do we exchange hypocrisy for true holiness? How do we get our hands around His constant presence?
I am sure there are good answers to those questions. Mine are found in the great chapters (14th through the 17th) of the Gospel of John. I love Jesus’ prayer for us in chapter 17 including these words - “I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.” (v. 23) This bedrock portion of Scripture speaks so much of our intertwined relationship with our triune God. Jesus tells us, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.” (John 15:3, 4)
He will continually clean our camp as His word becomes our life and breath. He will animate our every thought, word and action as we abide in Him and He in us. And we will keep our house in order because He is Lord of all our coming and going, doing and being. Therein is found the key for living out the reality of God with us.
“You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.” (John 15:3)
A family was making preparations for the pastor’s visit to their home. Among other things, they busied themselves with hiding risqué magazines under the couch. The teens changed t-shirts with grisly artwork and inappropriate language for nice button-downs. With final instructions for everyone to be in best behavior mode, they became a collage of smiling faces as the door opened to their guest.
In the 14th verse of Deuteronomy, chapter 23, Israel is commanded to get their house in order. “For the Lord your God walks in the midst of your camp, to deliver you and give your enemies over to you; therefore your camp shall be holy, that He may see no unclean thing among you, and turn away from you.” A Bible teacher speaking on this verse asked his students, “What if Jesus Christ was visible to you as He moves about in your life? How would you live if His words were spoken directly to you and audibly heard? What if you could feel His hand upon your shoulder? If Immanuel (God with us) was presently manifested in the flesh and always by your side how different would you be?”
Those searching and sobering questions should challenge anyone who professes Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Is our temple (I Corinthians 3:16-17), our camp, really clean, pure and holy? Our conscience compels us to be clean before the pastor, but what of the Lord whom the pastor serves? It is the Lord who declares, “Your camp shall be holy!” The Lord, our God, lives right inside of us. He knows our every thought and every motivation behind every word and action and reaction every moment of our lives. But because this earth suit and its five senses cannot get a handle on that, we often live as though He is visiting someone in the next county, and we have two whole weeks before His return to get our dirt swept under the proverbial rug.
When we live apart from the reality of God with us, our camp inevitably becomes barren, indecent and unclean. And James tells us: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinner; and purify your heart, you double-minded.” (4:8) But, how do the unclean clean? How do we exchange hypocrisy for true holiness? How do we get our hands around His constant presence?
I am sure there are good answers to those questions. Mine are found in the great chapters (14th through the 17th) of the Gospel of John. I love Jesus’ prayer for us in chapter 17 including these words - “I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.” (v. 23) This bedrock portion of Scripture speaks so much of our intertwined relationship with our triune God. Jesus tells us, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.” (John 15:3, 4)
He will continually clean our camp as His word becomes our life and breath. He will animate our every thought, word and action as we abide in Him and He in us. And we will keep our house in order because He is Lord of all our coming and going, doing and being. Therein is found the key for living out the reality of God with us.
What kind of eyesight do you have?
Solomon was blessed to build the first temple in Jerusalem. Early on in his reign, he had asked for “an understanding heart…that I may judge between good and evil.” (1Kings 3:9) And this pleased God and He gave him a wise and understanding heart. (v. 12) But Solomon married many foreign women who turned his heart after other gods. (11:1-3) Therefore, God would take the kingdom out of Solomon’s hand and give 10 tribes to be ruled by Jeroboam, Solomon’s servant. (11:31)
God promised to bless Jeroboam, “if you heed all that I command you…as My servant David did, then I will be with you and build for you an enduring house, as I built for David, and will give Israel to you.” (11:38) Due to this division of the nation, he was afraid that the people would return to Jerusalem to offer sacrifices which would then lead to the people returning to the king of Judah. He then asked for advice, not from God, but the people. Jeroboam set up two golden calves, one in Bethel and one in Dan. This was to keep the people from returning to Jerusalem and, thus he thought that would maintain his rule over them.
God had already promised to him that he would be king over this people. God instructed him, but Jeroboam rejected that instruction. He had no faith. The eyes of faith see the things that appear beyond our abilities while trusting in what God has said. The lack of faith only sees the things that man can do. For example, Moses “forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.” (Heb 11:27) Walking by faith depends on who you are looking.
Who will you look to today? Will you like Jeroboam only see the solutions to life through the abilities and maneuverings of man? Or will you walk by faith as Moses did, dependent on God who has promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you. So we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”(Heb 13:5, 6)
Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust… Psalm 40:4
Solomon was blessed to build the first temple in Jerusalem. Early on in his reign, he had asked for “an understanding heart…that I may judge between good and evil.” (1Kings 3:9) And this pleased God and He gave him a wise and understanding heart. (v. 12) But Solomon married many foreign women who turned his heart after other gods. (11:1-3) Therefore, God would take the kingdom out of Solomon’s hand and give 10 tribes to be ruled by Jeroboam, Solomon’s servant. (11:31)
God promised to bless Jeroboam, “if you heed all that I command you…as My servant David did, then I will be with you and build for you an enduring house, as I built for David, and will give Israel to you.” (11:38) Due to this division of the nation, he was afraid that the people would return to Jerusalem to offer sacrifices which would then lead to the people returning to the king of Judah. He then asked for advice, not from God, but the people. Jeroboam set up two golden calves, one in Bethel and one in Dan. This was to keep the people from returning to Jerusalem and, thus he thought that would maintain his rule over them.
God had already promised to him that he would be king over this people. God instructed him, but Jeroboam rejected that instruction. He had no faith. The eyes of faith see the things that appear beyond our abilities while trusting in what God has said. The lack of faith only sees the things that man can do. For example, Moses “forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.” (Heb 11:27) Walking by faith depends on who you are looking.
Who will you look to today? Will you like Jeroboam only see the solutions to life through the abilities and maneuverings of man? Or will you walk by faith as Moses did, dependent on God who has promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you. So we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”(Heb 13:5, 6)
Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust… Psalm 40:4
The Heart of God
“Adam, where are you?” (Gen 3:9)
Ever since Adam invented hide and seek, we’ve been playing the same game. We seep into the shadows of the woods. We drop out of sight in the maze of city streets. We go underground pulling camouflage over our me-me-me attitudes, bad habits and pet sins. Then we peep from behind the trees, peer around the corners, and pop our heads up to see if the coast is clear. Why are we driven to conceal ourselves? Who are we intent on avoiding?
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it? I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doing.” (Jer 17:9, 10) Our hearts are deceitful and wicked and deep down inside we know something about us is not right. We don’t know the depths of our depravity, but we are aware enough to head for the woods. Who are we ever dashing away from? The One, who knows the true state of our hearts and all the nasty junk we do. And to a lesser but still tormenting degree, we try to cover up our heart failings from others and even from ourselves. Therein is the heart of man.
The heart of God cries out: “Now, therefore,” says the Lord, “Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.” So rend your heart, and not your garments; Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm.” (Joel 2:12, 13)
The heart of God cries out: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Mat 11:22-30)
The heart of God cries out: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were not willing!” (Luke 13:3, 4)
“Adam, turn to Me with all your heart…come to Me for rest…tuck yourself under My wings.” Therein is the heart of God. Why in the world are we hiding? Let’s turn, let’s come, and let’s nestle beneath those wings. Perish the thought that it be said of us - “but you were not willing!”
“Adam, where are you?” (Gen 3:9)
Ever since Adam invented hide and seek, we’ve been playing the same game. We seep into the shadows of the woods. We drop out of sight in the maze of city streets. We go underground pulling camouflage over our me-me-me attitudes, bad habits and pet sins. Then we peep from behind the trees, peer around the corners, and pop our heads up to see if the coast is clear. Why are we driven to conceal ourselves? Who are we intent on avoiding?
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it? I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doing.” (Jer 17:9, 10) Our hearts are deceitful and wicked and deep down inside we know something about us is not right. We don’t know the depths of our depravity, but we are aware enough to head for the woods. Who are we ever dashing away from? The One, who knows the true state of our hearts and all the nasty junk we do. And to a lesser but still tormenting degree, we try to cover up our heart failings from others and even from ourselves. Therein is the heart of man.
The heart of God cries out: “Now, therefore,” says the Lord, “Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.” So rend your heart, and not your garments; Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm.” (Joel 2:12, 13)
The heart of God cries out: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Mat 11:22-30)
The heart of God cries out: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were not willing!” (Luke 13:3, 4)
“Adam, turn to Me with all your heart…come to Me for rest…tuck yourself under My wings.” Therein is the heart of God. Why in the world are we hiding? Let’s turn, let’s come, and let’s nestle beneath those wings. Perish the thought that it be said of us - “but you were not willing!”
Are we Building on the Foundation?
In Revelation, chapter 1, John saw one like a son of man yet having the qualities of Deity. The appearance of His head and hair were like that of the Ancient of Days, white like snow. (Daniel 7:9) His face was like the sun shining in its strength. Only God “dwells in unapproachable light.” (1Timothy 6:16) There is only One who could ever fit this description, and that is Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.
He is dressed in a high priestly garment. Unlike the Levitical priesthood under the old covenant, He remains a priest forever. (Hebrews 7:17) He does not need to offer up sacrifices continually, because “this He did once for all when He offered up Himself.” (Hebrews 7:27) “For Christ did not enter a holy place made with hands, a mere copy of the one true one, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us (Hebrews 9:24) …and He “shall appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him.” (Hebrews 9:28)
John describes His eyes “like a flame of fire.” He stands among His church, the seven lampstands. To the church of Thyatira, “The Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire…says this, “I know your deeds…” (Revelation 2:18, 19) He is observing and evaluating! The apostle Paul said that like a wise master builder, he laid a foundation and every man should be careful as to how he builds on it. (I Corinthians 3:10) That foundation is Jesus Christ. And one day “…every man’s work will become evident …because it is to be revealed with fire; and the fire itself will test the qualities of each man’s work.” (1 Corinthians 3:13) The question we must continually ask ourselves – Are we building on the foundation?!
Out of His mouth comes a two-edged sword. Ultimately it is His word that judges. “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword…able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight…” (Hebrews 4:12) Jesus said, “He who rejects Me, and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke will judge him at the last day.” (John 12:48)
This is an overwhelming picture of the Messiah. So overwhelming and terrifying that John fell at His feet as a dead man. Yet the Lord immediately extends grace and comfort to him, “Do not be afraid.” He extends the grace to us as well. In his commentary on Revelation John Gill wrote, “…It is always safe and comfortable falling there,” at the feet of the Messiah. It is safe there because He “upholds all who fall, and raises up all who are bowed down.” (Psalm 145:14) For the one who comes to Him, He will by no means cast out. (John 6:37)
In Revelation, chapter 1, John saw one like a son of man yet having the qualities of Deity. The appearance of His head and hair were like that of the Ancient of Days, white like snow. (Daniel 7:9) His face was like the sun shining in its strength. Only God “dwells in unapproachable light.” (1Timothy 6:16) There is only One who could ever fit this description, and that is Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.
He is dressed in a high priestly garment. Unlike the Levitical priesthood under the old covenant, He remains a priest forever. (Hebrews 7:17) He does not need to offer up sacrifices continually, because “this He did once for all when He offered up Himself.” (Hebrews 7:27) “For Christ did not enter a holy place made with hands, a mere copy of the one true one, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us (Hebrews 9:24) …and He “shall appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him.” (Hebrews 9:28)
John describes His eyes “like a flame of fire.” He stands among His church, the seven lampstands. To the church of Thyatira, “The Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire…says this, “I know your deeds…” (Revelation 2:18, 19) He is observing and evaluating! The apostle Paul said that like a wise master builder, he laid a foundation and every man should be careful as to how he builds on it. (I Corinthians 3:10) That foundation is Jesus Christ. And one day “…every man’s work will become evident …because it is to be revealed with fire; and the fire itself will test the qualities of each man’s work.” (1 Corinthians 3:13) The question we must continually ask ourselves – Are we building on the foundation?!
Out of His mouth comes a two-edged sword. Ultimately it is His word that judges. “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword…able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight…” (Hebrews 4:12) Jesus said, “He who rejects Me, and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke will judge him at the last day.” (John 12:48)
This is an overwhelming picture of the Messiah. So overwhelming and terrifying that John fell at His feet as a dead man. Yet the Lord immediately extends grace and comfort to him, “Do not be afraid.” He extends the grace to us as well. In his commentary on Revelation John Gill wrote, “…It is always safe and comfortable falling there,” at the feet of the Messiah. It is safe there because He “upholds all who fall, and raises up all who are bowed down.” (Psalm 145:14) For the one who comes to Him, He will by no means cast out. (John 6:37)
An Embarrassing Moment
“…walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh...” Galatians 5:16
I remember many years ago when my children were young that one of them said something that was somewhat insulting in nature in front of my in-laws. I don’t remember what it was, but I know that it was embarrassing to me. It was embarrassing because I had realized that he was saying something that he had heard me say and that was very apparent to everyone else as well. Like the prophet, Nathan, my young son had exposed my sin.
I learned at least two things from that incident. First of all my sons were watching me. They were learning more from what I was doing and saying instead of what I was verbally instructing them. That would change. I became much more careful about the things I said and did in front of them – no more embarrassing moments for me!
Secondly, after becoming more careful in my actions around them, I came to realize that I was like the Pharisees. “Even so you too outwardly appear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.” (Matt 23:28) I was more concerned about outward appearance than my heart attitude. I was acting one way and thinking another. My heart needed to change. When you discipline your heart to walk in the Spirit, you don’t have to worry about what you will say or do. For the fruit of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Gal 5:22, 23) You see, “…it is God who works in you to will and to do for His good pleasure.” (Phil 2:12)
Well, that was a life lesson for me. However, the struggle still goes on. Every day moments arise – Am I going to respond in the flesh or am I going to be led by the Spirit? How about you? How are you going to respond to those moments?
“…walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh...” Galatians 5:16
I remember many years ago when my children were young that one of them said something that was somewhat insulting in nature in front of my in-laws. I don’t remember what it was, but I know that it was embarrassing to me. It was embarrassing because I had realized that he was saying something that he had heard me say and that was very apparent to everyone else as well. Like the prophet, Nathan, my young son had exposed my sin.
I learned at least two things from that incident. First of all my sons were watching me. They were learning more from what I was doing and saying instead of what I was verbally instructing them. That would change. I became much more careful about the things I said and did in front of them – no more embarrassing moments for me!
Secondly, after becoming more careful in my actions around them, I came to realize that I was like the Pharisees. “Even so you too outwardly appear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.” (Matt 23:28) I was more concerned about outward appearance than my heart attitude. I was acting one way and thinking another. My heart needed to change. When you discipline your heart to walk in the Spirit, you don’t have to worry about what you will say or do. For the fruit of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Gal 5:22, 23) You see, “…it is God who works in you to will and to do for His good pleasure.” (Phil 2:12)
Well, that was a life lesson for me. However, the struggle still goes on. Every day moments arise – Am I going to respond in the flesh or am I going to be led by the Spirit? How about you? How are you going to respond to those moments?
Rotten Apples No More
“For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God, I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” (1 Corinthians 15:9-10)
The Bible says Saul of Tarsus watched with great satisfaction as Stephen died beneath a hailstorm of rocks. Following that, “Saul made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.” (Acts 8:3) Then huffing and puffing threats and murder, Saul, his mayhem escalating, screamed off to Damascus after the Christians there. Well, Saul made it to his destination, but with a sore backside and two blind eyes. (Acts 9: 3-9) And Saul of Tarsus became the great Apostle Paul, also known as the “man who turned the world upside down.” (Acts 17:6)
In meeting Christ, Paul discovered how awesome and wonderful and holy the Lord is and how not awesome, wonderful and holy he was. As the Holy Spirit turned on His searchlight and disclosed more and more to Paul, he recognized the malignancy that infected the marrow of his being. In his epistles, he often recounted where his heart had led him to before his abrupt meeting with Christ, and even the ongoing battle with it after his conversion. (See Romans 7 and 8:26, 27 for examples of the latter).
The fact is our hearts are dangerous, deceitful, deadly, devious, dishonest, duplicitous dark domains of damnable depravity. Say that ten times fast! We are rotten apples all the way to our Adamic core. Our prideful apple flesh always promises to make us delicious if we provide everything it desires. So we do, and without fail, end up useless mush on the ground. No matter how hard we try, we cannot produce good fruit from one of those hearts just described.
That is the bad news, and it is bad, but even as Paul recounted his failings and unworthiness, he added, “But by the grace of God…” – Yes, God’s grace is the game changer. God’s amazing grace unchains us from our past, present, and future. The riches of His grace in Jesus Christ and our trust in His finished work on the Cross made us acceptable in the Beloved and provided redemption and forgiveness of sins. (Eph1:6-7) That is the good news, and it is good!
Only when we truly understand that the depth of our Adamic core is nothing but a whole lot of bad adjectives, can we truly appreciate the depth of His amazing regenerating and transforming grace. Like Paul, none of us is worthy. Even so, with hearts awash in His grace, we too can declare with the great Apostle: “By the grace of God, I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain.”
“For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God, I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” (1 Corinthians 15:9-10)
The Bible says Saul of Tarsus watched with great satisfaction as Stephen died beneath a hailstorm of rocks. Following that, “Saul made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.” (Acts 8:3) Then huffing and puffing threats and murder, Saul, his mayhem escalating, screamed off to Damascus after the Christians there. Well, Saul made it to his destination, but with a sore backside and two blind eyes. (Acts 9: 3-9) And Saul of Tarsus became the great Apostle Paul, also known as the “man who turned the world upside down.” (Acts 17:6)
In meeting Christ, Paul discovered how awesome and wonderful and holy the Lord is and how not awesome, wonderful and holy he was. As the Holy Spirit turned on His searchlight and disclosed more and more to Paul, he recognized the malignancy that infected the marrow of his being. In his epistles, he often recounted where his heart had led him to before his abrupt meeting with Christ, and even the ongoing battle with it after his conversion. (See Romans 7 and 8:26, 27 for examples of the latter).
The fact is our hearts are dangerous, deceitful, deadly, devious, dishonest, duplicitous dark domains of damnable depravity. Say that ten times fast! We are rotten apples all the way to our Adamic core. Our prideful apple flesh always promises to make us delicious if we provide everything it desires. So we do, and without fail, end up useless mush on the ground. No matter how hard we try, we cannot produce good fruit from one of those hearts just described.
That is the bad news, and it is bad, but even as Paul recounted his failings and unworthiness, he added, “But by the grace of God…” – Yes, God’s grace is the game changer. God’s amazing grace unchains us from our past, present, and future. The riches of His grace in Jesus Christ and our trust in His finished work on the Cross made us acceptable in the Beloved and provided redemption and forgiveness of sins. (Eph1:6-7) That is the good news, and it is good!
Only when we truly understand that the depth of our Adamic core is nothing but a whole lot of bad adjectives, can we truly appreciate the depth of His amazing regenerating and transforming grace. Like Paul, none of us is worthy. Even so, with hearts awash in His grace, we too can declare with the great Apostle: “By the grace of God, I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain.”
What are you hoping for?
Ezra, a skilled scribe in the Law of Moses, returned to Jerusalem from Babylon to teach the statutes and ordinances of the Lord in Israel. Having returned he discovered that the people had acted wickedly in that they had not separated themselves from the foreign people. Many had intermarried with them including the leaders and rulers. This was a terrible act against God and His law. Such sin had caused severe consequences in the past. Solomon was just one example of a leader who violated God’s command by marrying many foreign women and the whole nation paid a dear price as a result of his sin. For that reason, Ezra and his fellow Israelites were fearful of similar judgment.
But a fellow named, Shechaniah, spoke up and confessed, “We have trespassed against our God….yet there is hope in Israel in spite of this.” (Ezra 10:2) Where would they have been without hope? Where would we be without hope? Through confession, and obedience Shechaniah believed that God would forgive – that there would be hope in spite of their sin. I believe that he knew that, “the LORD takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His mercy.” (Ps 147:11)
No matter what your situation, no matter what your sin, there is hope – hope in God. Jesus the Messiah, born of a virgin, lived the perfect life to be the perfect sacrifice for sin that we might be forgiven and restored to a right relationship with Him. Because of Him, we have the hope of a meaningful and purposeful life. We have the hope of life beyond this one. The apostle Peter wrote, “Rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ… (1 Pet 1:13)
Ezra, a skilled scribe in the Law of Moses, returned to Jerusalem from Babylon to teach the statutes and ordinances of the Lord in Israel. Having returned he discovered that the people had acted wickedly in that they had not separated themselves from the foreign people. Many had intermarried with them including the leaders and rulers. This was a terrible act against God and His law. Such sin had caused severe consequences in the past. Solomon was just one example of a leader who violated God’s command by marrying many foreign women and the whole nation paid a dear price as a result of his sin. For that reason, Ezra and his fellow Israelites were fearful of similar judgment.
But a fellow named, Shechaniah, spoke up and confessed, “We have trespassed against our God….yet there is hope in Israel in spite of this.” (Ezra 10:2) Where would they have been without hope? Where would we be without hope? Through confession, and obedience Shechaniah believed that God would forgive – that there would be hope in spite of their sin. I believe that he knew that, “the LORD takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His mercy.” (Ps 147:11)
No matter what your situation, no matter what your sin, there is hope – hope in God. Jesus the Messiah, born of a virgin, lived the perfect life to be the perfect sacrifice for sin that we might be forgiven and restored to a right relationship with Him. Because of Him, we have the hope of a meaningful and purposeful life. We have the hope of life beyond this one. The apostle Peter wrote, “Rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ… (1 Pet 1:13)
CONTENDER
“Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ:” (Jude vs. 3-4)
Have you ever seen one of George Barna’s survey results as to what Christians believe about their faith? They make my head itchy as in I scratch it a lot. “What??? Are you kidding me???” For example, I saw one where 50% of pastors in a well know denomination and 30% in three others do not believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. “Excuse me??? Did you say, pastors??? God help us!”
What are they reading when (or if) they turn to 1st Corinthians, chapter 15 and it reads “Now if Christ is preached that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say there is no resurrection of the dead?... And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty… For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins!” (vs. 12,14,16-17) What do these “shepherds” preach to their flocks?
“PREACH THE WORD!” “Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and teaching.” Paul instructs the young pastor, Timothy. “Do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” (2 Tim 4:2,5) He tells Titus, another pastor, to hold fast to sound doctrine, and use it to defend the truth against anyone who contradicts the Faith. (1:9)
In the same vein of combating falsehood in the Church, Jude, the half-brother of Jesus, in our opening scripture above, wanted to write to the Church about their common salvation. A feel-good letter rejoicing in what Christ did to redeem, regenerate and reconcile them to the Father and restore each to His intended purposes for them. However, Jude had to put aside the kinder, gentler Christianity because the Body faced great danger. Perverted doctrine. No doctrine. Heresy. Like our day’s “There is no truth” and there are many “paths” to God’s love and forgiveness.
Jude’s letter is now addressed to us – earnestly contend for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.
How shall the saints contend? Jesus said, “Learn of Me.” (Matt 11:29) Three small words, but an endless wonderous quest by and through His Word. Nevertheless, so many are biblically illiterate. Why? We already looked at the problems in many pulpits, but what is imparted there should only be a small part of our Bible learning. Are we in His Word every day? Are we learning how to give “a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you? (1Peter 3:15) No? Then get ready! Learn of Him! Equip yourself! Be a contender!
“We have been entrusted with the gospel.” (1Thess 2:4) What could be more important in the life of a Christian? God does not want us to be “neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ for he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.” (2 Peter 1:8-9)
“Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ:” (Jude vs. 3-4)
Have you ever seen one of George Barna’s survey results as to what Christians believe about their faith? They make my head itchy as in I scratch it a lot. “What??? Are you kidding me???” For example, I saw one where 50% of pastors in a well know denomination and 30% in three others do not believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. “Excuse me??? Did you say, pastors??? God help us!”
What are they reading when (or if) they turn to 1st Corinthians, chapter 15 and it reads “Now if Christ is preached that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say there is no resurrection of the dead?... And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty… For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins!” (vs. 12,14,16-17) What do these “shepherds” preach to their flocks?
“PREACH THE WORD!” “Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and teaching.” Paul instructs the young pastor, Timothy. “Do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” (2 Tim 4:2,5) He tells Titus, another pastor, to hold fast to sound doctrine, and use it to defend the truth against anyone who contradicts the Faith. (1:9)
In the same vein of combating falsehood in the Church, Jude, the half-brother of Jesus, in our opening scripture above, wanted to write to the Church about their common salvation. A feel-good letter rejoicing in what Christ did to redeem, regenerate and reconcile them to the Father and restore each to His intended purposes for them. However, Jude had to put aside the kinder, gentler Christianity because the Body faced great danger. Perverted doctrine. No doctrine. Heresy. Like our day’s “There is no truth” and there are many “paths” to God’s love and forgiveness.
Jude’s letter is now addressed to us – earnestly contend for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.
How shall the saints contend? Jesus said, “Learn of Me.” (Matt 11:29) Three small words, but an endless wonderous quest by and through His Word. Nevertheless, so many are biblically illiterate. Why? We already looked at the problems in many pulpits, but what is imparted there should only be a small part of our Bible learning. Are we in His Word every day? Are we learning how to give “a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you? (1Peter 3:15) No? Then get ready! Learn of Him! Equip yourself! Be a contender!
“We have been entrusted with the gospel.” (1Thess 2:4) What could be more important in the life of a Christian? God does not want us to be “neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ for he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.” (2 Peter 1:8-9)
A Day of Good News
In the time of the Kings, the Jewish nation was split between Judea in the south and Israel in the north. The Syrian, Ben-Hadad, led his forces in a siege of Israel’s capital, Samaria. This was the second time this general had besieged Israel, the first being in the time of King Ahab. The Syrians had been defeated then but had returned during King Jehoram’s reign and had a death grip on the city. The siege in addition to a severe famine resulted in the desperate people eating such things as donkey heads, dove droppings, and even their children. (2 Kings 6:24-29)
King Jehoram assumed that the famine and siege were from the Lord. It was a proper assumption as he and all the kings of the northern kingdom, previous and to come, did evil before God and man. He sought to have the prophet, Elisha, the Lord’s representative killed in retribution. It was not to be. Instead, the Lord was about to show this murderous tyrant His power to save; even to save a nation of wayward people. Elisha announced to the king and his messengers that the famine and the siege would end in one day, in fact, the very next day. Of course, this brought considerable skepticism.
That evening four lepers sat at the entrance of the gate to the city and made a decision. They were going to die there for sure, so, why not go to the Syrians and be taken: if they died so be it, if not, the enemy might feed them. At twilight, they came to the great camp. No one was there. Why??? Because “…the Lord had caused the army of the Syrians to hear the noise of chariots and the noise of horses - the noise of a great army…” and they had fled, leaving everything behind. The four lepers began with a private feast, then gathered up silver and gold and clothing and hid them. “Then they said to one another, ‘We are not doing right. This day is a day of good news, and we remain silent.’”
The besieged city and beleaguered people had salvation just as the prophet had promised. God has the power to save. Even a world wayward and lost can be saved in a day. Though surrounded by enemies those who are doomed can be saved in a day. Despite the reality of spiritual death stamped on all of us, we can be saved in a day. When we “were in bondage under the elements of the world…when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son…” to save us. (Gal 4:3, 4)
The Day of salvation occurred two thousand years ago. And each today, for every individual since, can be the day of salvation. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Cor 6:2b) In Christ, there is neither famine nor siege. Come out of the city! Come out to die and find the enemy scattered and a feast of salvation!!!
The four lepers found life and gathered it and hoarded it and then found their conscience and concern and God’s call to tell others and share their bounty. And therein the picture is complete - the saved are to tell those still in the city the “good news” that they too may be saved.
For those still in bondage, this is the day of salvation. For those who are already in Christ this day is a day of good news. Shall we remain silent? No, we must do the right thing and share with everyone what we have found.
In the time of the Kings, the Jewish nation was split between Judea in the south and Israel in the north. The Syrian, Ben-Hadad, led his forces in a siege of Israel’s capital, Samaria. This was the second time this general had besieged Israel, the first being in the time of King Ahab. The Syrians had been defeated then but had returned during King Jehoram’s reign and had a death grip on the city. The siege in addition to a severe famine resulted in the desperate people eating such things as donkey heads, dove droppings, and even their children. (2 Kings 6:24-29)
King Jehoram assumed that the famine and siege were from the Lord. It was a proper assumption as he and all the kings of the northern kingdom, previous and to come, did evil before God and man. He sought to have the prophet, Elisha, the Lord’s representative killed in retribution. It was not to be. Instead, the Lord was about to show this murderous tyrant His power to save; even to save a nation of wayward people. Elisha announced to the king and his messengers that the famine and the siege would end in one day, in fact, the very next day. Of course, this brought considerable skepticism.
That evening four lepers sat at the entrance of the gate to the city and made a decision. They were going to die there for sure, so, why not go to the Syrians and be taken: if they died so be it, if not, the enemy might feed them. At twilight, they came to the great camp. No one was there. Why??? Because “…the Lord had caused the army of the Syrians to hear the noise of chariots and the noise of horses - the noise of a great army…” and they had fled, leaving everything behind. The four lepers began with a private feast, then gathered up silver and gold and clothing and hid them. “Then they said to one another, ‘We are not doing right. This day is a day of good news, and we remain silent.’”
The besieged city and beleaguered people had salvation just as the prophet had promised. God has the power to save. Even a world wayward and lost can be saved in a day. Though surrounded by enemies those who are doomed can be saved in a day. Despite the reality of spiritual death stamped on all of us, we can be saved in a day. When we “were in bondage under the elements of the world…when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son…” to save us. (Gal 4:3, 4)
The Day of salvation occurred two thousand years ago. And each today, for every individual since, can be the day of salvation. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Cor 6:2b) In Christ, there is neither famine nor siege. Come out of the city! Come out to die and find the enemy scattered and a feast of salvation!!!
The four lepers found life and gathered it and hoarded it and then found their conscience and concern and God’s call to tell others and share their bounty. And therein the picture is complete - the saved are to tell those still in the city the “good news” that they too may be saved.
For those still in bondage, this is the day of salvation. For those who are already in Christ this day is a day of good news. Shall we remain silent? No, we must do the right thing and share with everyone what we have found.
Every Part Does Its Share
“And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-12)
Moses had a problem. From dawn to dark he ministered to the people of Israel. Upon seeing this, his father-in-law said to him, “The thing that you do is not good. Both you and these people who are with you will surely wear yourselves out. For this thing is too much for you; you are not able to perform it by yourself.” (Exodus 18:17-18) His father-in-law then provided the solution which was to equip others to share in the ministry to the people.
The early church had a problem. After Pentecost, the church was rapidly multiplying, and a distribution dispute arose concerning widows. Then the twelve summoned the multitude of disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.” (Acts 6:2) They instructed the brethren to appoint mature men in the faith to handle this business, saying, “We will give ourselves continually to prayer and the ministry of the word.” (Acts 6:3-4)
Today’s church has a problem. To venture a guess, it most likely has its roots in Catholicism. The hierarchical structure preferred by Rome appears to have bled into the Protestant branch of Christendom as well. This created an entrenched culture within the church where many consider the “man up front” with the priest, pastor, or reverend attached to his name to be the “Holy Man.” The Holy Man does the Bible studying, the praying, the visiting, the counseling, the everything, while the laity tends to lay. Many of us are content to live our faith vicariously through the “man up front.” Then when our appointed spiritual superman cannot meet all the demands of ministry, we get a might upset. This cultural reality in the church needs to change.
That “man up front” is charged with equipping the saints, the laity, for the work of the ministry. Here is the desired result:
We learn how to come to the unity of faith.
We learn how to come to the knowledge of the Son of God.
We learn how to come to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
We learn how to no longer be like ignorant children when it comes to false doctrine and false teachers.
We learn how to speak the truth in love (and understand that truth is love.)
We learn how to grow up in all things becoming like Christ.
We learn how to fit into the whole body of believers.
We learn how to embrace His calling that every part does its share in order for the body to live and grow and reproduce. (From Ephesians 4:11-16)
While we need to learn all these things, we need to unlearn our parasitic habit of expecting the “man up front” to do what we are called to do. Is he faithfully and consistently teaching and equipping and edifying us to do our ministry? If so, then praise God for such a man!
At Calvary Baptist, we most certainly can praise God for we do have such a man. We are blessed with every opportunity to learn what we need to learn, and also, just as importantly, what we need to unlearn. Are we, with thanksgiving to God, taking advantage of the teaching and equipping and edifying the body is receiving so powerfully and so passionately at Calvary? Are we thereby learning that - every part does its share?
“And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-12)
Moses had a problem. From dawn to dark he ministered to the people of Israel. Upon seeing this, his father-in-law said to him, “The thing that you do is not good. Both you and these people who are with you will surely wear yourselves out. For this thing is too much for you; you are not able to perform it by yourself.” (Exodus 18:17-18) His father-in-law then provided the solution which was to equip others to share in the ministry to the people.
The early church had a problem. After Pentecost, the church was rapidly multiplying, and a distribution dispute arose concerning widows. Then the twelve summoned the multitude of disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.” (Acts 6:2) They instructed the brethren to appoint mature men in the faith to handle this business, saying, “We will give ourselves continually to prayer and the ministry of the word.” (Acts 6:3-4)
Today’s church has a problem. To venture a guess, it most likely has its roots in Catholicism. The hierarchical structure preferred by Rome appears to have bled into the Protestant branch of Christendom as well. This created an entrenched culture within the church where many consider the “man up front” with the priest, pastor, or reverend attached to his name to be the “Holy Man.” The Holy Man does the Bible studying, the praying, the visiting, the counseling, the everything, while the laity tends to lay. Many of us are content to live our faith vicariously through the “man up front.” Then when our appointed spiritual superman cannot meet all the demands of ministry, we get a might upset. This cultural reality in the church needs to change.
That “man up front” is charged with equipping the saints, the laity, for the work of the ministry. Here is the desired result:
We learn how to come to the unity of faith.
We learn how to come to the knowledge of the Son of God.
We learn how to come to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
We learn how to no longer be like ignorant children when it comes to false doctrine and false teachers.
We learn how to speak the truth in love (and understand that truth is love.)
We learn how to grow up in all things becoming like Christ.
We learn how to fit into the whole body of believers.
We learn how to embrace His calling that every part does its share in order for the body to live and grow and reproduce. (From Ephesians 4:11-16)
While we need to learn all these things, we need to unlearn our parasitic habit of expecting the “man up front” to do what we are called to do. Is he faithfully and consistently teaching and equipping and edifying us to do our ministry? If so, then praise God for such a man!
At Calvary Baptist, we most certainly can praise God for we do have such a man. We are blessed with every opportunity to learn what we need to learn, and also, just as importantly, what we need to unlearn. Are we, with thanksgiving to God, taking advantage of the teaching and equipping and edifying the body is receiving so powerfully and so passionately at Calvary? Are we thereby learning that - every part does its share?
The Generation to Come
God commanded the Israelites to teach their children the commands given to them in the law. They were to do this diligently and often –“when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up.” (Deut 6:7) In this way, future generations would know the law and follow it. The result would be that God would continue to bless them and protect them. (Deut 28:1-14) And they would fulfill their God intended purpose of being a kingdom of priests and a Holy nation. (Ex 19:6)
After Joshua and his generation died, the next generation of Israelites began to backslide. They “did evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals.” (Judges 2:11) Why would they do this? The previous verse gives some light – After Joshua and the death of his generation, the next generation “did not know the Lord, nor yet the work which he had done for Israel.” (v. 10) How could they not know? Did not the generation before tell them as commanded?
There are undoubtedly other issues involved in them not knowing the Lord, such as their own heart conditions and the failure of the previous generation to cast out all the inhabitants of the land. But it is also apparent that the older generation failed to communicate the commandments and the faithfulness of the Lord to their sons and daughters.
There are some today that question the effectiveness of the church. Why have so many of the children of the last generation displayed so little interest in the Lord and His church? Could one reason be that we did not share with them the teachings of our Lord? At the dinner table or while riding in the car or after church on Sunday did we talk to them about Him? Where are you today? If you have young children, you can start now. Maybe you’re a grandparent – you can have a significant influence on the faith of your grandchildren. Perhaps you failed in the past, but you can change that today.
Psalm 78:5-7 “For He established a testimony in Jacob, And appointed a law in Israel, Which He commanded our fathers, That they should make them known to their children; That the generation to come might know them, The children who would be born, That they may arise and declare them to their children, That they may set their hope in God, And not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments…”
God commanded the Israelites to teach their children the commands given to them in the law. They were to do this diligently and often –“when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up.” (Deut 6:7) In this way, future generations would know the law and follow it. The result would be that God would continue to bless them and protect them. (Deut 28:1-14) And they would fulfill their God intended purpose of being a kingdom of priests and a Holy nation. (Ex 19:6)
After Joshua and his generation died, the next generation of Israelites began to backslide. They “did evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals.” (Judges 2:11) Why would they do this? The previous verse gives some light – After Joshua and the death of his generation, the next generation “did not know the Lord, nor yet the work which he had done for Israel.” (v. 10) How could they not know? Did not the generation before tell them as commanded?
There are undoubtedly other issues involved in them not knowing the Lord, such as their own heart conditions and the failure of the previous generation to cast out all the inhabitants of the land. But it is also apparent that the older generation failed to communicate the commandments and the faithfulness of the Lord to their sons and daughters.
There are some today that question the effectiveness of the church. Why have so many of the children of the last generation displayed so little interest in the Lord and His church? Could one reason be that we did not share with them the teachings of our Lord? At the dinner table or while riding in the car or after church on Sunday did we talk to them about Him? Where are you today? If you have young children, you can start now. Maybe you’re a grandparent – you can have a significant influence on the faith of your grandchildren. Perhaps you failed in the past, but you can change that today.
Psalm 78:5-7 “For He established a testimony in Jacob, And appointed a law in Israel, Which He commanded our fathers, That they should make them known to their children; That the generation to come might know them, The children who would be born, That they may arise and declare them to their children, That they may set their hope in God, And not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments…”
How many times do you circle the block?
One morning, as I was heading for the grocery store the preacher on the radio, used an interesting analogy concerning our daily struggle. He spoke of a man that had overcome a donut habit. However, on one particular day, he had a strong urge for a donut. He prayed about it and asked the Lord to supply a parking place in front of the bakery as an indication that it was all right for him to partake. Well after his fourteenth time around the block a parking place finally opened up!
I think we often toy with sin in our lives like this. We revisit the same temptation over and over until we finally yield to it. And in our minds, we blame everything under the sun except ourselves. We choose to sin, but that is something we do not readily desire to admit.
David is the best-known illustration. He went out on the roof one evening and saw a gorgeous woman bathing. Next, David sent and inquired about the woman. Then he sent messengers and took her and lay with her. (2 Sam 11) Was David not familiar with the fifth commandment, “You shall not commit adultery?” He was. Did not God give him a way to escape? He did. But David went around the block in his mind enough times until the parking place became vacant in front of the bakery.
Like David, we often dwell on the temptations of life. Oh, most of them seem much less significant than his. At least, that is what our mind is telling us right then. Sins have varying degrees of consequences, but they are sins nonetheless. God wants us to deal with them.
How will you deal with yours this week, this year? Will you keep going around the block until you get what you want? Or will you begin to “lay aside every weight and sin that ensnares …and run with endurance the race that is set before us?” (Heb 12:1)
One morning, as I was heading for the grocery store the preacher on the radio, used an interesting analogy concerning our daily struggle. He spoke of a man that had overcome a donut habit. However, on one particular day, he had a strong urge for a donut. He prayed about it and asked the Lord to supply a parking place in front of the bakery as an indication that it was all right for him to partake. Well after his fourteenth time around the block a parking place finally opened up!
I think we often toy with sin in our lives like this. We revisit the same temptation over and over until we finally yield to it. And in our minds, we blame everything under the sun except ourselves. We choose to sin, but that is something we do not readily desire to admit.
David is the best-known illustration. He went out on the roof one evening and saw a gorgeous woman bathing. Next, David sent and inquired about the woman. Then he sent messengers and took her and lay with her. (2 Sam 11) Was David not familiar with the fifth commandment, “You shall not commit adultery?” He was. Did not God give him a way to escape? He did. But David went around the block in his mind enough times until the parking place became vacant in front of the bakery.
Like David, we often dwell on the temptations of life. Oh, most of them seem much less significant than his. At least, that is what our mind is telling us right then. Sins have varying degrees of consequences, but they are sins nonetheless. God wants us to deal with them.
How will you deal with yours this week, this year? Will you keep going around the block until you get what you want? Or will you begin to “lay aside every weight and sin that ensnares …and run with endurance the race that is set before us?” (Heb 12:1)
Trinities
“Me, myself and I, the three stooges.”- Pastor Mark, Calvary Baptist Church
As Christians, we are familiar with the Holy Trinity. There is one God: “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one!” (Deut 6:4) But He exists in three persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. The scriptures do not use the word – trinity – in referring to the Godhead’s manifestation in three persons, but there are numerous references to it. It is in fact, quite fascinating to see just how many verses give witness to the “three in one” nature of our God.
We see another trinity in scripture as well – the Unholy Trinity. In the end times, known as the tribulation period, Satan, in the role of the father, will indwell the antichrist. The Antichrist, in the role of the son, like Christ, will only do the will of the father. The false prophet, in the role of the holy spirit, will draw and work to convince people to follow and worship the antichrist. This unholy union will eventually be defeated, destroyed and destined to eternal damnation.
There is a third trinity, and we knock heads with it every day. There is Satan – “the accuser of the brethren”(1), our adversary who “walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour”(2) – who uses the world system which “lies under the sway of the wicked one”(3) to entice and deceive our flesh away from God in an endless myriad of ways. The devil, the world, the flesh = big problems for us.
And now we come to another trinity, more so a tributary of the third, but still, just a real bug-a-boo in life. The terrible tri-unity of – me, myself and I. Is there anything more frustrating when sincerely pursuing the Christian walk than dealing with the self-absorbed me, me, me’s? Gosh, I can barely decide who I want to strangle first, the self-loving it’s all about – me; the insatiable indulgent – myself; or the dastardly throne seeking infuriating – I! They always babble in my ear, telling me to turn left when I should have turned right. Can you relate, brethren? Grrrr! Me, myself and I. Stooges, indeed.
Francois de Fenelon speaks to this in his book, The Seeking Heart: “Don’t listen to your self-nature. Self-love whispers in one ear and God whispers in the other. The first is restless, bold, eager, and reckless; the other is simple, peaceful, and speaks but a few words in a mild gentle voice. As soon as you listen to the loud voice of self you will not hear the soft tones of holy love. Each speaks only of one thing. Self-love speaks only of self – it never gets enough attention. Self-love talks of being well thought of. The self despairs of everything except downright flattery. God’s love, on the other hand, whispers that self should be forgotten – counted as nothing so that God might be all. God wants to completely fill you and unite Himself to you. Let the vain, complaining babble of self-love be silenced so that in the stillness of the heart you may listen to the love of God.”
We must listen to the right voice. We must recognize that self invariably points inward, it is all about me. God points us ever outward; it is all about Him and others. The vertical, then the horizontal. God wants to fill us and unite Himself to us completely. We must stay in His light and in His love – even when doing so makes us uncomfortably aware of what we are really like. He can heal the whatever’s if we do not hold on to the whatever’s.
I know that is the way to go, and go by that way I will – although I still have a real hankering for strangling me, myself and I. I just can’t decide who to choke first – Moe, Larry or Curly.
1] – Revelation 12:10 2] – 1Peter 5:8 3] – 1John 5:19
“Me, myself and I, the three stooges.”- Pastor Mark, Calvary Baptist Church
As Christians, we are familiar with the Holy Trinity. There is one God: “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one!” (Deut 6:4) But He exists in three persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. The scriptures do not use the word – trinity – in referring to the Godhead’s manifestation in three persons, but there are numerous references to it. It is in fact, quite fascinating to see just how many verses give witness to the “three in one” nature of our God.
We see another trinity in scripture as well – the Unholy Trinity. In the end times, known as the tribulation period, Satan, in the role of the father, will indwell the antichrist. The Antichrist, in the role of the son, like Christ, will only do the will of the father. The false prophet, in the role of the holy spirit, will draw and work to convince people to follow and worship the antichrist. This unholy union will eventually be defeated, destroyed and destined to eternal damnation.
There is a third trinity, and we knock heads with it every day. There is Satan – “the accuser of the brethren”(1), our adversary who “walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour”(2) – who uses the world system which “lies under the sway of the wicked one”(3) to entice and deceive our flesh away from God in an endless myriad of ways. The devil, the world, the flesh = big problems for us.
And now we come to another trinity, more so a tributary of the third, but still, just a real bug-a-boo in life. The terrible tri-unity of – me, myself and I. Is there anything more frustrating when sincerely pursuing the Christian walk than dealing with the self-absorbed me, me, me’s? Gosh, I can barely decide who I want to strangle first, the self-loving it’s all about – me; the insatiable indulgent – myself; or the dastardly throne seeking infuriating – I! They always babble in my ear, telling me to turn left when I should have turned right. Can you relate, brethren? Grrrr! Me, myself and I. Stooges, indeed.
Francois de Fenelon speaks to this in his book, The Seeking Heart: “Don’t listen to your self-nature. Self-love whispers in one ear and God whispers in the other. The first is restless, bold, eager, and reckless; the other is simple, peaceful, and speaks but a few words in a mild gentle voice. As soon as you listen to the loud voice of self you will not hear the soft tones of holy love. Each speaks only of one thing. Self-love speaks only of self – it never gets enough attention. Self-love talks of being well thought of. The self despairs of everything except downright flattery. God’s love, on the other hand, whispers that self should be forgotten – counted as nothing so that God might be all. God wants to completely fill you and unite Himself to you. Let the vain, complaining babble of self-love be silenced so that in the stillness of the heart you may listen to the love of God.”
We must listen to the right voice. We must recognize that self invariably points inward, it is all about me. God points us ever outward; it is all about Him and others. The vertical, then the horizontal. God wants to fill us and unite Himself to us completely. We must stay in His light and in His love – even when doing so makes us uncomfortably aware of what we are really like. He can heal the whatever’s if we do not hold on to the whatever’s.
I know that is the way to go, and go by that way I will – although I still have a real hankering for strangling me, myself and I. I just can’t decide who to choke first – Moe, Larry or Curly.
1] – Revelation 12:10 2] – 1Peter 5:8 3] – 1John 5:19
Salvation at the end of Main Street
“And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:14,15
Who saves us? The answer is Jesus Christ. What must WE DO to be saved? “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved…” (Acts 16:31) Yes, yes, but how do we RECEIVE IT? Must we repent, confess and be baptized in addition to belief to receive salvation? Yes? No? Only the first two? That is where the rub comes for many people. Disagreements abound.
Does salvation (justified before God) only happen internally to us or are there external actions required as well? If we place our faith and trust in Jesus Christ and believe that He alone can save us; do we have to cartwheel five times around the room to seal the deal?
Cartwheels, no, what about repentance? Many of us understand that to mean we must stop sinning; to cease and desist. Or we must turn from sin in the east and go west young man to receive salvation. If repentance is changing one’s mind, the meaning of the familiar verses most often cited, then it is, in fact, an internal action and not the commonly thought of external act of penance or cessation of sinful behavior. An inner resolve to turn from sin may be there, but it is the changing of our mind from unbelief to belief that saves us.
Do we need to announce “Jesus is Lord” loud and clear; shout it to the rooftops? Is that what it means to confess? Confession has the idea of agreeing with what God said about Jesus and what Jesus said about Himself. When we have believed in Christ unto salvation, it will spill out verbally, but are audible words necessary to turn the key in the door to salvation itself? What of the person who is mute; are such people doomed by a sealed tongue? Has the cat stolen their possibility of eternal salvation? Or is confession an internal agreeing with God about my sin and His “God so loved me” solution? The words follow as a result of not as a cause.
Do we need to be baptized to receive salvation? Some verses seem to say just that in the New Testament. Does a great belly flop from the high dive finally justify us before God? Be careful, those “water baptism for salvation” verses come up far short of a much larger body of doctrine concerning our reception of salvation/justification. What of those with no access to water? The thief on the cross died dry. Or those too infirm to enter the water? Are they doomed to perish for all eternity because they were not able to complete the final external necessity for salvation? Baptism (external) follows what has already taken place internally.
Red flag any teaching that excludes someone who sincerely seeks salvation in Christ from freely receiving such.
In our opening scripture above, Jesus is referring to the events of Numbers 21:5-9. God answered the opposition of the people to Himself and Moses by sending fiery serpents among them. That got their attention! God then instructed Moses to make a fiery serpent of bronze and place it on a pole. If one got bit, he or she were to look up at it, and they would live. Jesus likened this to the Cross. We can do NOTHING but believe in Him to be saved. Hmm…do we not have to look? That is an external action. Was it the internal belief in what God said about the serpent on the pole that saved the people or the looking that saved them? Could one look at the pole not believing and live? The text in Numbers does say anyone who looked lived. If a blind person was snake-bit did they perish?
The Son of Man was lifted up. Were we there? Did you or I look? Externally, with our eyes? No. Internally by faith? Yes.
My religious upbringing taught there is a process for receiving salvation. Step one was internal, to be followed by three external steps. 1] Believe (Internal); 2] Repent/ Meaning Turn from Sin/Stop Sinning – how does a sinner do so before having a new nature? (External); 3] Confess with the mouth (External); 4] Be Water-Baptized (External) = SAVED!!!
When I began to read the Bible myself, I questioned my pastor at the time of this “process.” It didn’t ring right. It red-flagged. Those last three steps seemed to be more post-justification than part of justification itself. They seemed to be more about what we do than what He has done for us. He assured me we must follow these steps because the Bible tells us we must. (Does it?) With great enthusiasm, he boasted that if God told him to roll a peanut down Main Street with his nose to be saved then he would roll a peanut down Main Street!
I wonder when he stands up at the end of Main Street with scraped knees, and a scuffed nose – is he any more saved than if he just merely believed and trusted in the gospel of Jesus Christ at the beginning of Main Street?
“And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:14,15
Who saves us? The answer is Jesus Christ. What must WE DO to be saved? “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved…” (Acts 16:31) Yes, yes, but how do we RECEIVE IT? Must we repent, confess and be baptized in addition to belief to receive salvation? Yes? No? Only the first two? That is where the rub comes for many people. Disagreements abound.
Does salvation (justified before God) only happen internally to us or are there external actions required as well? If we place our faith and trust in Jesus Christ and believe that He alone can save us; do we have to cartwheel five times around the room to seal the deal?
Cartwheels, no, what about repentance? Many of us understand that to mean we must stop sinning; to cease and desist. Or we must turn from sin in the east and go west young man to receive salvation. If repentance is changing one’s mind, the meaning of the familiar verses most often cited, then it is, in fact, an internal action and not the commonly thought of external act of penance or cessation of sinful behavior. An inner resolve to turn from sin may be there, but it is the changing of our mind from unbelief to belief that saves us.
Do we need to announce “Jesus is Lord” loud and clear; shout it to the rooftops? Is that what it means to confess? Confession has the idea of agreeing with what God said about Jesus and what Jesus said about Himself. When we have believed in Christ unto salvation, it will spill out verbally, but are audible words necessary to turn the key in the door to salvation itself? What of the person who is mute; are such people doomed by a sealed tongue? Has the cat stolen their possibility of eternal salvation? Or is confession an internal agreeing with God about my sin and His “God so loved me” solution? The words follow as a result of not as a cause.
Do we need to be baptized to receive salvation? Some verses seem to say just that in the New Testament. Does a great belly flop from the high dive finally justify us before God? Be careful, those “water baptism for salvation” verses come up far short of a much larger body of doctrine concerning our reception of salvation/justification. What of those with no access to water? The thief on the cross died dry. Or those too infirm to enter the water? Are they doomed to perish for all eternity because they were not able to complete the final external necessity for salvation? Baptism (external) follows what has already taken place internally.
Red flag any teaching that excludes someone who sincerely seeks salvation in Christ from freely receiving such.
In our opening scripture above, Jesus is referring to the events of Numbers 21:5-9. God answered the opposition of the people to Himself and Moses by sending fiery serpents among them. That got their attention! God then instructed Moses to make a fiery serpent of bronze and place it on a pole. If one got bit, he or she were to look up at it, and they would live. Jesus likened this to the Cross. We can do NOTHING but believe in Him to be saved. Hmm…do we not have to look? That is an external action. Was it the internal belief in what God said about the serpent on the pole that saved the people or the looking that saved them? Could one look at the pole not believing and live? The text in Numbers does say anyone who looked lived. If a blind person was snake-bit did they perish?
The Son of Man was lifted up. Were we there? Did you or I look? Externally, with our eyes? No. Internally by faith? Yes.
My religious upbringing taught there is a process for receiving salvation. Step one was internal, to be followed by three external steps. 1] Believe (Internal); 2] Repent/ Meaning Turn from Sin/Stop Sinning – how does a sinner do so before having a new nature? (External); 3] Confess with the mouth (External); 4] Be Water-Baptized (External) = SAVED!!!
When I began to read the Bible myself, I questioned my pastor at the time of this “process.” It didn’t ring right. It red-flagged. Those last three steps seemed to be more post-justification than part of justification itself. They seemed to be more about what we do than what He has done for us. He assured me we must follow these steps because the Bible tells us we must. (Does it?) With great enthusiasm, he boasted that if God told him to roll a peanut down Main Street with his nose to be saved then he would roll a peanut down Main Street!
I wonder when he stands up at the end of Main Street with scraped knees, and a scuffed nose – is he any more saved than if he just merely believed and trusted in the gospel of Jesus Christ at the beginning of Main Street?
A Disciple-Making Church
When the church began (Acts 2), they understood their purpose was to make disciples – Matthew 28:19-20. They had been the product of a disciple-making ministry, and they understood what they had been commissioned to do. They had been commissioned to cooperate with God in accomplishing His will on earth – making disciples – working with God to restore humanity to Himself and help become the functional creatures He created them to be. It is only as we are wrapped up in a relationship with God (2 Peter 3:9), and accomplishing the works that we were created for (Ephesians 2:10) – it is then, and only then, that we are functional in our created purposes. It is then that our life will bear much fruit and glorify God. – John 15:8.
With that disciple-making purpose clearly in mind, the first church made five uncompromising commitments: a commitment to the Word – Acts 2:42, a commitment to prayer – Acts 2:42, a commitment to praise and worship – Acts 2:43,47, a commitment to one another – Acts 2:42,44,46, and a commitment to outreach – Acts 2:45-47.
All five commitments were the outworking of a tangible love for God. The outworking of the greatest command… “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind…” – Matthew 22:37 and certainly the last two were a substantial commitment to the 2nd greatest command… “You shall love your neighbor as yourself…” – Matthew 22:39.
Over the last few years, Calvary Baptist has grown in understanding our purpose and in each of these five commitments. Ministry teams were created, designed, and began functioning with these as their foundations. These teams have continued to develop in their understanding and execution of effective ministry. The scope of our ministry continues to grow, but as it does, we must also provide adequately for the depth of ministry. Leadership development is, and always will be, a great need in our church.
As we move ever forward as a church, we are striving to grow based on the same purpose and commitments of the first church. At all leadership levels, we are striving to understand our purpose so we might effectively cooperate with God in accomplishing His will. Over these past years we have seen some changes in structure, some changes in methods and certainly new faces, but the foundation of what we’re aspiring to be is a healthy, functional New Testament Church, a disciple-making church.
Be encouraged for God is working at Calvary Baptist. He has promised to be with us in this endeavor!
When the church began (Acts 2), they understood their purpose was to make disciples – Matthew 28:19-20. They had been the product of a disciple-making ministry, and they understood what they had been commissioned to do. They had been commissioned to cooperate with God in accomplishing His will on earth – making disciples – working with God to restore humanity to Himself and help become the functional creatures He created them to be. It is only as we are wrapped up in a relationship with God (2 Peter 3:9), and accomplishing the works that we were created for (Ephesians 2:10) – it is then, and only then, that we are functional in our created purposes. It is then that our life will bear much fruit and glorify God. – John 15:8.
With that disciple-making purpose clearly in mind, the first church made five uncompromising commitments: a commitment to the Word – Acts 2:42, a commitment to prayer – Acts 2:42, a commitment to praise and worship – Acts 2:43,47, a commitment to one another – Acts 2:42,44,46, and a commitment to outreach – Acts 2:45-47.
All five commitments were the outworking of a tangible love for God. The outworking of the greatest command… “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind…” – Matthew 22:37 and certainly the last two were a substantial commitment to the 2nd greatest command… “You shall love your neighbor as yourself…” – Matthew 22:39.
Over the last few years, Calvary Baptist has grown in understanding our purpose and in each of these five commitments. Ministry teams were created, designed, and began functioning with these as their foundations. These teams have continued to develop in their understanding and execution of effective ministry. The scope of our ministry continues to grow, but as it does, we must also provide adequately for the depth of ministry. Leadership development is, and always will be, a great need in our church.
As we move ever forward as a church, we are striving to grow based on the same purpose and commitments of the first church. At all leadership levels, we are striving to understand our purpose so we might effectively cooperate with God in accomplishing His will. Over these past years we have seen some changes in structure, some changes in methods and certainly new faces, but the foundation of what we’re aspiring to be is a healthy, functional New Testament Church, a disciple-making church.
Be encouraged for God is working at Calvary Baptist. He has promised to be with us in this endeavor!
Is it about you or Him?
“Say to all the people of the land, and to the priests: When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months during those seventy years, did you really fast for Me- for Me? When you eat and when you drink, do you not eat and drink for yourselves? Should you not have obeyed the words which the Lord proclaimed through the former prophets…?”(Zechariah 7:5, 6)
In 586 BC the Babylonian army finished their siege on Jerusalem by breaking down the walls and burning the temple and all the houses of Jerusalem. The inhabitants were taken and carried off to Babylon to complete seventy years of captivity. During those years as captives, the peoples instituted several fasts. The fast in the fifth month commemorated the burning of the first temple. The fast in the seventh month remembered the assassination of Gedaliah, the governor of Judah. These fasts were instituted by men and not by God. If they had heeded the words of the prophets before, they would have no need for these fasts, for God would have protected them from the Babylonian army, and they would not have been taken into captivity.
Does not today man still do similar things? A relationship with the Lord is replaced by rituals or traditions initiated by man. This is called religion. These always are things believed to appease or please God when in reality they are man-centered. God said of them, “Yes they made their hearts like flint, refusing to hear the law and the words which the Lord of hosts had sent by His Spirit.” (7:12) What about you? Are you hearing His word and engaging with Him or are you trying to relate to Him through man-made rules and traditions of men? Is your relationship with God all about Him or is it about you?
“Say to all the people of the land, and to the priests: When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months during those seventy years, did you really fast for Me- for Me? When you eat and when you drink, do you not eat and drink for yourselves? Should you not have obeyed the words which the Lord proclaimed through the former prophets…?”(Zechariah 7:5, 6)
In 586 BC the Babylonian army finished their siege on Jerusalem by breaking down the walls and burning the temple and all the houses of Jerusalem. The inhabitants were taken and carried off to Babylon to complete seventy years of captivity. During those years as captives, the peoples instituted several fasts. The fast in the fifth month commemorated the burning of the first temple. The fast in the seventh month remembered the assassination of Gedaliah, the governor of Judah. These fasts were instituted by men and not by God. If they had heeded the words of the prophets before, they would have no need for these fasts, for God would have protected them from the Babylonian army, and they would not have been taken into captivity.
Does not today man still do similar things? A relationship with the Lord is replaced by rituals or traditions initiated by man. This is called religion. These always are things believed to appease or please God when in reality they are man-centered. God said of them, “Yes they made their hearts like flint, refusing to hear the law and the words which the Lord of hosts had sent by His Spirit.” (7:12) What about you? Are you hearing His word and engaging with Him or are you trying to relate to Him through man-made rules and traditions of men? Is your relationship with God all about Him or is it about you?
The Fallen Nature
A few years ago I was playing with my 2 ½-year-old grandson. He had asked his mother if he could watch a particular video. My daughter-in-law, who was sitting on the couch about six feet away from me, told him ‘no.’ In his most innocent face, he turned to me, handing me the DVD, and said, “Pappy … Boz,” meaning for me to play it. (Boz is a children’s animation character) I asked him, “What did your mother just tell you?” He responded very confidently and sincerely, “She said yes,” as if she had somehow disappeared from the room. Maybe, because he turned his head toward me and could not see her, he thought that she wasn’t there.
Sometimes we tend to think that behavior like this is funny or cute. But this was not the first time that he expressed defiance toward his parents. And thankfully they do not let it go unattended. Because it is such a clear expression of the inner workings of the sin nature that infects every human that ever comes into this world. The Scripture teaches that “there are none righteous, no, not one.”(Rom 3:10) That includes our children and our grandchildren. Even though we love them dearly, they are not exempt.
To me, this is one of the clearest evidences of the truth of the Christian faith – that we are born sinners. We sin because we are born with a nature separated from God, and it is bent on rebellion toward Him. It is evidenced in every person to varying degrees. “For by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners…” (Rom 5:19) When Adam sinned he was separated from God, and he began to begat children “in his own likeness, after his image.” (Gen 5:3) The fallen, sinful nature was and is passed on from generation to generation, from person to person.
Our children and grandchildren are a great joy in this life. God meant them to be – “Behold children are a heritage from the Lord. The fruit of the womb is a reward. Happy is the man who has a quiver full of them.” (Ps 127:3, 5) But they are a great responsibility for they are separated from God, and we must do all that we can to lead them into their own personal relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ!
A few years ago I was playing with my 2 ½-year-old grandson. He had asked his mother if he could watch a particular video. My daughter-in-law, who was sitting on the couch about six feet away from me, told him ‘no.’ In his most innocent face, he turned to me, handing me the DVD, and said, “Pappy … Boz,” meaning for me to play it. (Boz is a children’s animation character) I asked him, “What did your mother just tell you?” He responded very confidently and sincerely, “She said yes,” as if she had somehow disappeared from the room. Maybe, because he turned his head toward me and could not see her, he thought that she wasn’t there.
Sometimes we tend to think that behavior like this is funny or cute. But this was not the first time that he expressed defiance toward his parents. And thankfully they do not let it go unattended. Because it is such a clear expression of the inner workings of the sin nature that infects every human that ever comes into this world. The Scripture teaches that “there are none righteous, no, not one.”(Rom 3:10) That includes our children and our grandchildren. Even though we love them dearly, they are not exempt.
To me, this is one of the clearest evidences of the truth of the Christian faith – that we are born sinners. We sin because we are born with a nature separated from God, and it is bent on rebellion toward Him. It is evidenced in every person to varying degrees. “For by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners…” (Rom 5:19) When Adam sinned he was separated from God, and he began to begat children “in his own likeness, after his image.” (Gen 5:3) The fallen, sinful nature was and is passed on from generation to generation, from person to person.
Our children and grandchildren are a great joy in this life. God meant them to be – “Behold children are a heritage from the Lord. The fruit of the womb is a reward. Happy is the man who has a quiver full of them.” (Ps 127:3, 5) But they are a great responsibility for they are separated from God, and we must do all that we can to lead them into their own personal relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ!
What’s Your Name?
“James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder.” Mark 3:17
We name things for all kinds of reasons. Names often have a meaning or history behind them. The name of a place or person in the Bible may have a distinct meaning or purpose. It may refer to their place of birth such as Zerubbabel, ‘born in Babylon.’ The name might describe the appearance of a child such as Esau, ‘hairy.’ A village in the territory of Dan was called, Bene Berak, meaning sons of lightning. (Josh 19:42) You can only imagine how that town got its name.
In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus chose James and John as two of His disciples and gave them the name, Boanerges, meaning “Sons of Thunder.” Not much said about the name, but I think it is safe to assume that they were not timid guys. Luke sheds a little light on them. They were willing to call fire down, ‘like Elijah,’ on a Samaritan village that would not receive Jesus. (9:52–54) John also confronted someone casting out demons “because he does not follow us.” (Mark 9:38) They also asked Jesus to grant them to sit on His right and on His left in His glory. (Mark 10:38) They were passionate about being a disciple of Christ.
James was the first apostle martyred by Herod in 44 BC. (Acts 12:2) John lived a long time. Some believe almost to the age of 100. His passion as a disciple does not cease although it becomes infused with God’s grace. Jesus tempered them each time by revealing more of His will. When they wanted to call fire down, Jesus explained to them, “For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” (Luke 9:56)
When John confronted the man casting out demons, Jesus responded, “Do not forbid him, for no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me.” (Mark 9:39) And when they wanted to sit on His right and on His left, Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them…Yet it shall not be so among you…And whoever of you who desires to be first shall be slave of all.” (Mark 10:42-44)
John and James were never referred to as sons of Thunder in Scripture other than this one place. I believe that their heart became a blend of grace and truth. (John 1:17) It didn’t change their personality, but it significantly affected their thoughts and actions. If the Lord named you at the beginning of your walk, what might it have been? For me it would not have been son of thunder – maybe son of fear. Hopefully for you and me it is different now – maybe son/daughter of grace, but most importantly son/daughter of Mine. (John 1:12)
“James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder.” Mark 3:17
We name things for all kinds of reasons. Names often have a meaning or history behind them. The name of a place or person in the Bible may have a distinct meaning or purpose. It may refer to their place of birth such as Zerubbabel, ‘born in Babylon.’ The name might describe the appearance of a child such as Esau, ‘hairy.’ A village in the territory of Dan was called, Bene Berak, meaning sons of lightning. (Josh 19:42) You can only imagine how that town got its name.
In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus chose James and John as two of His disciples and gave them the name, Boanerges, meaning “Sons of Thunder.” Not much said about the name, but I think it is safe to assume that they were not timid guys. Luke sheds a little light on them. They were willing to call fire down, ‘like Elijah,’ on a Samaritan village that would not receive Jesus. (9:52–54) John also confronted someone casting out demons “because he does not follow us.” (Mark 9:38) They also asked Jesus to grant them to sit on His right and on His left in His glory. (Mark 10:38) They were passionate about being a disciple of Christ.
James was the first apostle martyred by Herod in 44 BC. (Acts 12:2) John lived a long time. Some believe almost to the age of 100. His passion as a disciple does not cease although it becomes infused with God’s grace. Jesus tempered them each time by revealing more of His will. When they wanted to call fire down, Jesus explained to them, “For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” (Luke 9:56)
When John confronted the man casting out demons, Jesus responded, “Do not forbid him, for no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me.” (Mark 9:39) And when they wanted to sit on His right and on His left, Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them…Yet it shall not be so among you…And whoever of you who desires to be first shall be slave of all.” (Mark 10:42-44)
John and James were never referred to as sons of Thunder in Scripture other than this one place. I believe that their heart became a blend of grace and truth. (John 1:17) It didn’t change their personality, but it significantly affected their thoughts and actions. If the Lord named you at the beginning of your walk, what might it have been? For me it would not have been son of thunder – maybe son of fear. Hopefully for you and me it is different now – maybe son/daughter of grace, but most importantly son/daughter of Mine. (John 1:12)
The Den of Lions
When the Medes and Persians defeated the Babylonian king and took over the kingdom, Daniel retained a high position within the government. He became one of three governors within the whole empire appointed to oversee 120 satraps. Their chief responsibility was to collect taxes for the king. Daniel distinguished himself so above the other governors that the king thought to give him the number one position.
Because Daniel was Jewish in a Gentile environment, the other governors and officials became jealous of his reputation and position and sought a way to diminish his influence. Because he was so faithful in his duties, they decided to entrap him concerning his faith.
The officials devised a scheme that tricked the king into signing a law that would force everyone to petition only the king for thirty days. In essence, they banned prayer to any deity in the kingdom for thirty days. Anyone who disobeyed would face the death penalty. At this point, Daniel was about 80 years old and continued to bow down in prayer three times each day in his upper room as was his custom, even though he knew the decree was signed.
Well, Daniel was observed praying to God and brought before the king. And though the king attempted to deliver Daniel, he could not do so. Once a law was enacted, it could not be changed -not even by the king. Most of you know the rest of the story. He was thrown into the lion’s den, and God sent His angel and shut the mouths of the lions.
God had given Daniel an excellent spirit. In His sovereignty, He protected Daniel and enabled him to prosper in a heathen society. And Daniel was faithful as well. He did all he could do for the king and his position; however, he refused to compromise his faith.
When the high priest confronted Peter and the other apostles concerning their preaching in the name of Jesus, they responded, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) And that is what Daniel did. He could have chosen to cease praying for a month. It would have been the easiest way out. But he was faithful and placed his relationship with the Lord above everything else. In the end, the lion’s den was not as perilous as the den of lions inhabited by the governmental officials. What a lesson for us!
When the Medes and Persians defeated the Babylonian king and took over the kingdom, Daniel retained a high position within the government. He became one of three governors within the whole empire appointed to oversee 120 satraps. Their chief responsibility was to collect taxes for the king. Daniel distinguished himself so above the other governors that the king thought to give him the number one position.
Because Daniel was Jewish in a Gentile environment, the other governors and officials became jealous of his reputation and position and sought a way to diminish his influence. Because he was so faithful in his duties, they decided to entrap him concerning his faith.
The officials devised a scheme that tricked the king into signing a law that would force everyone to petition only the king for thirty days. In essence, they banned prayer to any deity in the kingdom for thirty days. Anyone who disobeyed would face the death penalty. At this point, Daniel was about 80 years old and continued to bow down in prayer three times each day in his upper room as was his custom, even though he knew the decree was signed.
Well, Daniel was observed praying to God and brought before the king. And though the king attempted to deliver Daniel, he could not do so. Once a law was enacted, it could not be changed -not even by the king. Most of you know the rest of the story. He was thrown into the lion’s den, and God sent His angel and shut the mouths of the lions.
God had given Daniel an excellent spirit. In His sovereignty, He protected Daniel and enabled him to prosper in a heathen society. And Daniel was faithful as well. He did all he could do for the king and his position; however, he refused to compromise his faith.
When the high priest confronted Peter and the other apostles concerning their preaching in the name of Jesus, they responded, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) And that is what Daniel did. He could have chosen to cease praying for a month. It would have been the easiest way out. But he was faithful and placed his relationship with the Lord above everything else. In the end, the lion’s den was not as perilous as the den of lions inhabited by the governmental officials. What a lesson for us!
Be Like Daniel
One of my favorite Old Testament Books is Daniel. I guess I like it because I like Bible prophecy. But I also love Daniel. His life is a tremendous encouragement to me.
First of all, as a Jewish youth, he is taken to Babylon after King Nebuchadnezzar besieged and defeated Judah. Though he was a devout Israelite, he is immersed in a very secular culture. He is chosen to be trained in the language and literature of the Babylonians to serve this foreign king. The training will take three years! But he never responds negatively. He only “purposes in his heart that he would not defile himself with the King’s delicacies.” (1:8)
When he had completed his training, he and three of his friends were interviewed by the king. There were none found like him and his friends, and they served the king. (1:19)
It is clear that Daniel and his friends would not have had much in common with the Babylonians. In fact, God had often instructed the Jewish people to be separate from the nations around them so that they would not be tempted into following their ungodly ways. But now as punishment for their disobedience, God placed the Jewish people in the middle of such a culture.
It is kind of a picture of what God has done with the church – with you and me. We’re not here because he has punished us, but he has placed us in a world that wants to have nothing to do with Him. We live in the world but were not to be of the world. He has placed us here to testify of Him. So why do I complain of court rulings, governmental decisions, and politicians? Why do I criticize the way the world acts? Why do I moan when things don’t go right?
Like Daniel God has placed us where we are for His purpose. Daniel did his job, and he did it well in the midst of a godless culture. I believe he saw past his momentary conflicts and problems and saw a divine eternal purpose for his situation. Because of Daniel’s faithfulness, God blessed him and brought Daniel “into the favor and goodwill of the chief of eunuchs.”(1:9) Eventually, the king promoted him and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon and chief administrator over all the wise men of Babylon. (2:48) We may not rise to such a height. However, we can be faithful where we are and set a godly example for those around us. We must see our life in the purpose and plan of God.
One of my favorite Old Testament Books is Daniel. I guess I like it because I like Bible prophecy. But I also love Daniel. His life is a tremendous encouragement to me.
First of all, as a Jewish youth, he is taken to Babylon after King Nebuchadnezzar besieged and defeated Judah. Though he was a devout Israelite, he is immersed in a very secular culture. He is chosen to be trained in the language and literature of the Babylonians to serve this foreign king. The training will take three years! But he never responds negatively. He only “purposes in his heart that he would not defile himself with the King’s delicacies.” (1:8)
When he had completed his training, he and three of his friends were interviewed by the king. There were none found like him and his friends, and they served the king. (1:19)
It is clear that Daniel and his friends would not have had much in common with the Babylonians. In fact, God had often instructed the Jewish people to be separate from the nations around them so that they would not be tempted into following their ungodly ways. But now as punishment for their disobedience, God placed the Jewish people in the middle of such a culture.
It is kind of a picture of what God has done with the church – with you and me. We’re not here because he has punished us, but he has placed us in a world that wants to have nothing to do with Him. We live in the world but were not to be of the world. He has placed us here to testify of Him. So why do I complain of court rulings, governmental decisions, and politicians? Why do I criticize the way the world acts? Why do I moan when things don’t go right?
Like Daniel God has placed us where we are for His purpose. Daniel did his job, and he did it well in the midst of a godless culture. I believe he saw past his momentary conflicts and problems and saw a divine eternal purpose for his situation. Because of Daniel’s faithfulness, God blessed him and brought Daniel “into the favor and goodwill of the chief of eunuchs.”(1:9) Eventually, the king promoted him and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon and chief administrator over all the wise men of Babylon. (2:48) We may not rise to such a height. However, we can be faithful where we are and set a godly example for those around us. We must see our life in the purpose and plan of God.
Spider Webs
“So are the paths of all that forget God; and the hypocrite’s hope shall perish: Whose hope shall be cut off. And whose trust shall be a spider’s web. He shall lean upon his house, but it shall not stand: he shall hold it fast, but it shall not endure.” (Job 8:13-15 KJV)
Do you rely on crutches to get around? Some folks say Christians do. They claim our faith, our belief, our trust in Jesus Christ is just our way of crutching and hobbling weakly through life. Christians are weak-minded and cannot think for themselves. Christians are weak-willed and cannot stand on their own two feet.
Are Christians weak-minded lobotomy brains, or do we just have a different “mindset” than the self-proclaimed “strong-minded”? The Apostle Paul speaks to this in his letter to the Romans: “For those who live according to the flesh set their mind on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.” (Rom 8: 5-6)
Sadly, many people in this fallen world live with a mindset that “only the strong survive” and “life is a jungle” where the strong take and the weak get taken. Their mindset is on getting. Even when in a position to give they only do so to get something in return. Christians are not to think this way. We are to exchange our once futile minds and take upon us His mind. (Eph 4:17-24) Our minds are to be set on giving our very lives to God. He will then give provision, peace, and the proclamation of the Gospel to this “lost in the jungle” world through us.
Are Christians weak-willed spaghetti bodies, or do we just have a different kind of crutch than the self-proclaimed strong-willed? The Apostle Peter speaks to this in his letter to the Church: “(We) no longer should live the rest of (our) time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For we have spent enough of our lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles – when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you.” (1 Pet 4:2-4)
Tragically, many people in this fallen world live an “eat, drink, and be merry-go-round” existence. They lean on alcohol, drugs, sexual promiscuity and perversions, revelries, and idols made in numerous forms. That is hardly crutch free! They trust in spider web houses that will not stand, will not hold fast, and shall not endure. Christians are not to live this way. We’re to exchange our once self-gratifying wills and take upon us His will. Our crutch is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ, and He will always stand, continually hold fast, and forever endure.
We all, every one of us, believer and unbeliever, have someone or something we lean on in this life. Someone or something we trust to get us through each day. Unfortunately, for the unbeliever, again and again, it is spider webs. But as for the believer, we need to lean on and trust only in “… Jesus Christ and Him crucified…that (our) faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” (1 Cor 2:2b, 5 KJV)
“So are the paths of all that forget God; and the hypocrite’s hope shall perish: Whose hope shall be cut off. And whose trust shall be a spider’s web. He shall lean upon his house, but it shall not stand: he shall hold it fast, but it shall not endure.” (Job 8:13-15 KJV)
Do you rely on crutches to get around? Some folks say Christians do. They claim our faith, our belief, our trust in Jesus Christ is just our way of crutching and hobbling weakly through life. Christians are weak-minded and cannot think for themselves. Christians are weak-willed and cannot stand on their own two feet.
Are Christians weak-minded lobotomy brains, or do we just have a different “mindset” than the self-proclaimed “strong-minded”? The Apostle Paul speaks to this in his letter to the Romans: “For those who live according to the flesh set their mind on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.” (Rom 8: 5-6)
Sadly, many people in this fallen world live with a mindset that “only the strong survive” and “life is a jungle” where the strong take and the weak get taken. Their mindset is on getting. Even when in a position to give they only do so to get something in return. Christians are not to think this way. We are to exchange our once futile minds and take upon us His mind. (Eph 4:17-24) Our minds are to be set on giving our very lives to God. He will then give provision, peace, and the proclamation of the Gospel to this “lost in the jungle” world through us.
Are Christians weak-willed spaghetti bodies, or do we just have a different kind of crutch than the self-proclaimed strong-willed? The Apostle Peter speaks to this in his letter to the Church: “(We) no longer should live the rest of (our) time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For we have spent enough of our lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles – when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you.” (1 Pet 4:2-4)
Tragically, many people in this fallen world live an “eat, drink, and be merry-go-round” existence. They lean on alcohol, drugs, sexual promiscuity and perversions, revelries, and idols made in numerous forms. That is hardly crutch free! They trust in spider web houses that will not stand, will not hold fast, and shall not endure. Christians are not to live this way. We’re to exchange our once self-gratifying wills and take upon us His will. Our crutch is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ, and He will always stand, continually hold fast, and forever endure.
We all, every one of us, believer and unbeliever, have someone or something we lean on in this life. Someone or something we trust to get us through each day. Unfortunately, for the unbeliever, again and again, it is spider webs. But as for the believer, we need to lean on and trust only in “… Jesus Christ and Him crucified…that (our) faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” (1 Cor 2:2b, 5 KJV)
Therefore…
At Bible study last week it was brought up that sometimes we read the Scriptures, but we often overlook the meaning of words. For this reason, we fail to comprehend the full meaning of the passage.
One of those particular words, I believe, is the word, therefore. The meaning of therefore is, ‘as a result of this.’ It is used many, many times in the Bible. For example, the first use of the word is in Genesis 2:24. God had taken a rib from Adam and made Eve and brought her to Adam. Therefore (as a result of this), a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife. Based on God’s creative act of making woman from the side of man, one man, and one woman is to respond by being joined together as a result of what God did.
In the book of Romans, the apostle Paul writes, “I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” (12:1) In the preceding chapters, he spelled out the mercy that God has shown to both Jews and Gentiles. The book of Romans states that all have sinned and are deserving of the wrath of God. But God provided the way to be reconciled to Him, and that is through the death of His Son, Jesus. (5:9) We are free from wrath through Him. We are set free from sin. (6:22) We have the free gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (6:23) There is no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. (8:1) Nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (8:37) And whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (10:13)
Therefore (as a result of the provision of God for our forgiveness), present your bodies a living sacrifice. A sacrifice is the offering of the life of a person or animal. Here it is the picture of a life being offered to God, not in death but in living. It is a life dedicated to serving God as a result of what God has done for you. Have you dedicated your life to God as your reasonable service? If you haven’t won’t, you consider responding to God today? If you have but have gotten off track, confess that to Him and get back on the track – not at the beginning of the journey but the place of the derailment. For “God is faithful by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Cor 1:9)
At Bible study last week it was brought up that sometimes we read the Scriptures, but we often overlook the meaning of words. For this reason, we fail to comprehend the full meaning of the passage.
One of those particular words, I believe, is the word, therefore. The meaning of therefore is, ‘as a result of this.’ It is used many, many times in the Bible. For example, the first use of the word is in Genesis 2:24. God had taken a rib from Adam and made Eve and brought her to Adam. Therefore (as a result of this), a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife. Based on God’s creative act of making woman from the side of man, one man, and one woman is to respond by being joined together as a result of what God did.
In the book of Romans, the apostle Paul writes, “I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” (12:1) In the preceding chapters, he spelled out the mercy that God has shown to both Jews and Gentiles. The book of Romans states that all have sinned and are deserving of the wrath of God. But God provided the way to be reconciled to Him, and that is through the death of His Son, Jesus. (5:9) We are free from wrath through Him. We are set free from sin. (6:22) We have the free gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (6:23) There is no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. (8:1) Nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (8:37) And whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (10:13)
Therefore (as a result of the provision of God for our forgiveness), present your bodies a living sacrifice. A sacrifice is the offering of the life of a person or animal. Here it is the picture of a life being offered to God, not in death but in living. It is a life dedicated to serving God as a result of what God has done for you. Have you dedicated your life to God as your reasonable service? If you haven’t won’t, you consider responding to God today? If you have but have gotten off track, confess that to Him and get back on the track – not at the beginning of the journey but the place of the derailment. For “God is faithful by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Cor 1:9)
Hole in the Wall
So He brought me to the door of the court; and when I looked there was a hole in the wall. Then He said to me, “Son of man, dig into the wall”; and when I dug into the wall, there was a door. (Ezekiel 8:7, 8)
Calvary Baptist’s “Around Town Team” has amongst their local community outreach materials a tool known as the “Are you a good person test?” The participant takes a metal pointer and places it at the center of a board. They then have the option of moving the pointer to either the good side or the not good side. A problem exists however for those tested: There is a magnet at the end of the pointer, another behind the not good answer, and a repelling magnet behind the good selection. No matter how hard they try to answer in the affirmative, the result comes with a not good conclusion. Though the test taker’s reactions are varied (including some becoming quite flustered and insistent that they are good people), the team then has an open door to engage folks with biblical truth through verbal witness and related tracts.
What is the truth about our goodness? The truth is – “we ain’t good.” In fact, God’s word assures us that in our fallen state: “There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none who understands; there is none who seeks after God. They have all turned aside; they have together become unprofitable; there is none who does good, no not one.” (Romans 3:10-12; ref. Psalm 14:1-3) Isaiah says, “…we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags; we all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.” (64:6) Jeremiah says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” (17:9) Jesus says, “…those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.” (Matthew 15:18, 19) The Apostle Paul says, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.” (Romans 7:18)
Now there is a gray winter day description of bleakness. We thought we were pretty good people; compared to some hand-picked others, we aren’t so bad, right? Whether in the church (stain glass masquerades) or out of the church (eat, drink and be merry masquerades), humanity can dress it up to look really nice. We become slick experts in fooling one another. But are we fooling God? Every one of us has a hole in the wall. Behind that hole in the wall is us; who we are. God took Ezekiel to the temple, had the prophet dig in the wall, find a door, and said, “Go in, and see the wicked abominations which they are doing there.” (v.9) Ezekiel did so, and he saw “every sort of creeping thing, abominable beasts, and all the idols of the house of Israel, portrayed all around on the walls.” (v.10) Through that hole in the wall, behind that door, Ezekiel found seventy elders of the house of Israel worshipping idols. Outwardly, before others, those seventy elders put forth a show of goodness, but inwardly they were far, far from good. Is that you? Is that me? In our flesh, where nothing good dwells, are all sorts of creepies and crawlies. In our flesh, idols line our walls. In our flesh, we are frauds.
BUT…
Is that the end of the story? Are we left to be forever tethered to our flesh? No, just as gray winter bleakness gives way to the beauties of spring; God stepped into the world, lived a sinless life, died for our “hole in the wall,” and rose again. He is seated at the right hand and makes intercession for those who have received His Spirit, shed abroad in our hearts. The Holy Spirit will continually bring forth goodness in us and through us as we trust and obey His will and His leading. Therefore, brethren, “Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)
Are you a good person?
So He brought me to the door of the court; and when I looked there was a hole in the wall. Then He said to me, “Son of man, dig into the wall”; and when I dug into the wall, there was a door. (Ezekiel 8:7, 8)
Calvary Baptist’s “Around Town Team” has amongst their local community outreach materials a tool known as the “Are you a good person test?” The participant takes a metal pointer and places it at the center of a board. They then have the option of moving the pointer to either the good side or the not good side. A problem exists however for those tested: There is a magnet at the end of the pointer, another behind the not good answer, and a repelling magnet behind the good selection. No matter how hard they try to answer in the affirmative, the result comes with a not good conclusion. Though the test taker’s reactions are varied (including some becoming quite flustered and insistent that they are good people), the team then has an open door to engage folks with biblical truth through verbal witness and related tracts.
What is the truth about our goodness? The truth is – “we ain’t good.” In fact, God’s word assures us that in our fallen state: “There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none who understands; there is none who seeks after God. They have all turned aside; they have together become unprofitable; there is none who does good, no not one.” (Romans 3:10-12; ref. Psalm 14:1-3) Isaiah says, “…we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags; we all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.” (64:6) Jeremiah says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” (17:9) Jesus says, “…those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.” (Matthew 15:18, 19) The Apostle Paul says, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.” (Romans 7:18)
Now there is a gray winter day description of bleakness. We thought we were pretty good people; compared to some hand-picked others, we aren’t so bad, right? Whether in the church (stain glass masquerades) or out of the church (eat, drink and be merry masquerades), humanity can dress it up to look really nice. We become slick experts in fooling one another. But are we fooling God? Every one of us has a hole in the wall. Behind that hole in the wall is us; who we are. God took Ezekiel to the temple, had the prophet dig in the wall, find a door, and said, “Go in, and see the wicked abominations which they are doing there.” (v.9) Ezekiel did so, and he saw “every sort of creeping thing, abominable beasts, and all the idols of the house of Israel, portrayed all around on the walls.” (v.10) Through that hole in the wall, behind that door, Ezekiel found seventy elders of the house of Israel worshipping idols. Outwardly, before others, those seventy elders put forth a show of goodness, but inwardly they were far, far from good. Is that you? Is that me? In our flesh, where nothing good dwells, are all sorts of creepies and crawlies. In our flesh, idols line our walls. In our flesh, we are frauds.
BUT…
Is that the end of the story? Are we left to be forever tethered to our flesh? No, just as gray winter bleakness gives way to the beauties of spring; God stepped into the world, lived a sinless life, died for our “hole in the wall,” and rose again. He is seated at the right hand and makes intercession for those who have received His Spirit, shed abroad in our hearts. The Holy Spirit will continually bring forth goodness in us and through us as we trust and obey His will and His leading. Therefore, brethren, “Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)
Are you a good person?
The Way
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6
“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12
“Excuse me, sir, pardon me miss, which way is Heaven, and how do I get there from here?”
How many different responses do you suppose such a question would bring in today’s world? Even in our day’s Church? What would your answer be?
The Atheist says there is no heaven in which to go. The Agnostic says they don’t have a clue. The Liberal says whatever way they so choose. The Religionist says by keeping God’s laws. The Moralist says by making sure my good outweighs my bad. The New Ager says by discovering the divine within. And so on and so on…
In the early days of the Church, the followers of Jesus were known by different names. They were called, “the Nazarenes” in Caesarea. In Antioch, they were first called Christians. But the name most prevalent at the time was – the Way. The Way says believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved. (Acts 16:31)
The Way…where did we lose that name? How can we get it back? Surely the Apostle Paul’s steadfast resolve in his day must become our passionate resolve in these last days: “I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” (1 Cor 2:2)
Which way is Heaven? – By way of Jesus Christ and Him crucified. By way of Jesus Christ and Him buried. By way of Jesus Christ and Him raised the third day. By way of the Gospel, which you received, by which you stand, by which you are saved. (Ref. 1 Cor 15:1-4) And there it is – the Way – the only way to get to heaven. There is no other.
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6
“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12
“Excuse me, sir, pardon me miss, which way is Heaven, and how do I get there from here?”
How many different responses do you suppose such a question would bring in today’s world? Even in our day’s Church? What would your answer be?
The Atheist says there is no heaven in which to go. The Agnostic says they don’t have a clue. The Liberal says whatever way they so choose. The Religionist says by keeping God’s laws. The Moralist says by making sure my good outweighs my bad. The New Ager says by discovering the divine within. And so on and so on…
In the early days of the Church, the followers of Jesus were known by different names. They were called, “the Nazarenes” in Caesarea. In Antioch, they were first called Christians. But the name most prevalent at the time was – the Way. The Way says believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved. (Acts 16:31)
The Way…where did we lose that name? How can we get it back? Surely the Apostle Paul’s steadfast resolve in his day must become our passionate resolve in these last days: “I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” (1 Cor 2:2)
Which way is Heaven? – By way of Jesus Christ and Him crucified. By way of Jesus Christ and Him buried. By way of Jesus Christ and Him raised the third day. By way of the Gospel, which you received, by which you stand, by which you are saved. (Ref. 1 Cor 15:1-4) And there it is – the Way – the only way to get to heaven. There is no other.
Where are you going today?
When Moses had gone up to the mountain to receive the commandments of the Lord, the people had grown anxious because he had not returned. They said, “We do not know what has become of him.” Ex 32:1 They had experienced the deliverance of God from the Egyptians in a mighty and miraculous way. They trembled as the presence of God descended on the mountain and witnessed “the thunderings, the lightning flashes, the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking.” Ex 20:18 They “heard the sound of the words, but saw no form…” they only heard a voice. Deut 4:11
Even with the absence of Moses, they knew God and had experienced His deliverance and provision. Having heard His voice, they knew what He expected; “I am the Lord your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourselves a carved image-any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them.” Ex 20:2-4
With all they experienced and knew, “in their hearts they turned back to Egypt, saying to Aaron, Make for us gods to go before us…” Acts 7:39, 40 “They had turned aside quickly out of the way which I have commanded them,” said the Lord to Moses. Ex 32:8 Had Moses died? Did he desert them? Maybe he went back to Egypt? Without him how would they get to the Promised Land? They had put their hope in the man Moses rather than God, who was directing and guiding Moses.
At this point, it would be easy for them to go back to Egypt in their mind. That’s what they knew. It wasn’t the best situation there, but they knew what to expect. Now they were entering the unknown. That’s where faith leads. Moses, “by faith forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king, for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.” Heb 11:27 They wanted to go back to the seen, what was known. They had spent their entire life in a culture that worshiped idols. That came naturally to them.
What was unnatural was following an invisible God, who, to them, had apparently deserted them. They could not get past the temporal problems and situations. They could not see the big picture. They failed to believe the promise of God, “And I will bring you into the land which I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; and I will give it to you as a heritage: I am the Lord.” Ex 6:8
Do we not respond the same way to the problems of life? Stress and challenges will either lead us toward God or away from God. It’s not neutral. Many times those things steer us back to our old ways – the place where we were once comfortable – back to Egypt. Where are you today? Are you back in Egypt or are you on your way to the Promised Land? Do you quickly turn away from Him when things become difficult? Or are you following in the faithful footsteps of Moses who said, “…for the Lord your God, He is the One, who goes with you. He will not leave you not forsake you.” Ex 31:6 It is either one or the other.
Where are you going today?
When Moses had gone up to the mountain to receive the commandments of the Lord, the people had grown anxious because he had not returned. They said, “We do not know what has become of him.” Ex 32:1 They had experienced the deliverance of God from the Egyptians in a mighty and miraculous way. They trembled as the presence of God descended on the mountain and witnessed “the thunderings, the lightning flashes, the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking.” Ex 20:18 They “heard the sound of the words, but saw no form…” they only heard a voice. Deut 4:11
Even with the absence of Moses, they knew God and had experienced His deliverance and provision. Having heard His voice, they knew what He expected; “I am the Lord your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourselves a carved image-any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them.” Ex 20:2-4
With all they experienced and knew, “in their hearts they turned back to Egypt, saying to Aaron, Make for us gods to go before us…” Acts 7:39, 40 “They had turned aside quickly out of the way which I have commanded them,” said the Lord to Moses. Ex 32:8 Had Moses died? Did he desert them? Maybe he went back to Egypt? Without him how would they get to the Promised Land? They had put their hope in the man Moses rather than God, who was directing and guiding Moses.
At this point, it would be easy for them to go back to Egypt in their mind. That’s what they knew. It wasn’t the best situation there, but they knew what to expect. Now they were entering the unknown. That’s where faith leads. Moses, “by faith forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king, for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.” Heb 11:27 They wanted to go back to the seen, what was known. They had spent their entire life in a culture that worshiped idols. That came naturally to them.
What was unnatural was following an invisible God, who, to them, had apparently deserted them. They could not get past the temporal problems and situations. They could not see the big picture. They failed to believe the promise of God, “And I will bring you into the land which I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; and I will give it to you as a heritage: I am the Lord.” Ex 6:8
Do we not respond the same way to the problems of life? Stress and challenges will either lead us toward God or away from God. It’s not neutral. Many times those things steer us back to our old ways – the place where we were once comfortable – back to Egypt. Where are you today? Are you back in Egypt or are you on your way to the Promised Land? Do you quickly turn away from Him when things become difficult? Or are you following in the faithful footsteps of Moses who said, “…for the Lord your God, He is the One, who goes with you. He will not leave you not forsake you.” Ex 31:6 It is either one or the other.
Where are you going today?
For Him
“And He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.” (2 Corinthians 5:15)
He made the clouds His chariot riding throughout the endless expanse of the universe. He walked on the wings of the wind among the stars, calling each by name. He existed outside the confines of time and space. All power was in His hands. He spoke and worlds formed at His bidding. Life awoke and stirred with His every breath. Angels served Him. The Heavenly Host bowed low at His feet. Praise for Him flowed across the reaches of every dazzling galaxy. All glory belonged to Him alone.
Then in a chosen moment of eternity…“(He) made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.” (Phil 2:7)
He became a squalling baby, a child with skinned knees and the son of a poor man’s town. He grew in years and then became the object of scorn and rejection when He stepped into His preordained purpose. Nevertheless, His words lifted up a fallen people. His hands healed a sick and dying multitude. Light remained wherever He had been. In Him was life. Yet, His destination bid Him come, to come and die.
“And being found in appearance as a man…” and with the frenzied screams of “Crucify Him, Crucify Him, Crucify Him” echoing through the ages…“ He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.” (Phil 2:8) He forlornly cried out from the place of the Skull, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani!” (Mark 15:34)
Heaven answered with silence.
The grave swallowed Him in death and held on with everything it had. But on the third day, He cast off the shackles of death and emerged to the unrestrained merriment of rejoicing angels and the utter astonishment of many witnesses. “Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Phil 2:9-11)
Why, beloved? Why did He come to die on that cursed tree? Love brought Him. Love too big for us to understand, yet so incredible it wraps us in its arms and grandma hugs the rebellion right out of us. And this love picks us up and carries us away and leaves our condemnation lying in the dust to be blown away and forgotten.
Yes, He came to pay off and close our bank account full of condemnation. He is more than a prophet, far more than just another road to heaven; He alone is God’s way of redemption. And “who (ever) believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:18)
He answers those who claim otherwise: “You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” (John 8:23-24)
His name stands above every other “nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)
What of us who do believe? How shall we live? We “live by faith in the Son of God, who loved (us) and gave Himself for (us).” (Gal 2:20) He gave Himself for you, for me, for us. His vast Kingdom is now established in our hearts, and we see Him exalted and glorified, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! We see Him riding on the chariots of clouds, walking on the wings of the wind amongst the stars, speaking life into His creation. All power is in His hands. All glory belongs to Him. And we join the Heavenly Host bowing at His feet singing choruses of praise to the One called “Faithful and True.”
And we determine to no longer live for ourselves, but only - for Him.
“And He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.” (2 Corinthians 5:15)
He made the clouds His chariot riding throughout the endless expanse of the universe. He walked on the wings of the wind among the stars, calling each by name. He existed outside the confines of time and space. All power was in His hands. He spoke and worlds formed at His bidding. Life awoke and stirred with His every breath. Angels served Him. The Heavenly Host bowed low at His feet. Praise for Him flowed across the reaches of every dazzling galaxy. All glory belonged to Him alone.
Then in a chosen moment of eternity…“(He) made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.” (Phil 2:7)
He became a squalling baby, a child with skinned knees and the son of a poor man’s town. He grew in years and then became the object of scorn and rejection when He stepped into His preordained purpose. Nevertheless, His words lifted up a fallen people. His hands healed a sick and dying multitude. Light remained wherever He had been. In Him was life. Yet, His destination bid Him come, to come and die.
“And being found in appearance as a man…” and with the frenzied screams of “Crucify Him, Crucify Him, Crucify Him” echoing through the ages…“ He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.” (Phil 2:8) He forlornly cried out from the place of the Skull, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani!” (Mark 15:34)
Heaven answered with silence.
The grave swallowed Him in death and held on with everything it had. But on the third day, He cast off the shackles of death and emerged to the unrestrained merriment of rejoicing angels and the utter astonishment of many witnesses. “Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Phil 2:9-11)
Why, beloved? Why did He come to die on that cursed tree? Love brought Him. Love too big for us to understand, yet so incredible it wraps us in its arms and grandma hugs the rebellion right out of us. And this love picks us up and carries us away and leaves our condemnation lying in the dust to be blown away and forgotten.
Yes, He came to pay off and close our bank account full of condemnation. He is more than a prophet, far more than just another road to heaven; He alone is God’s way of redemption. And “who (ever) believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:18)
He answers those who claim otherwise: “You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” (John 8:23-24)
His name stands above every other “nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)
What of us who do believe? How shall we live? We “live by faith in the Son of God, who loved (us) and gave Himself for (us).” (Gal 2:20) He gave Himself for you, for me, for us. His vast Kingdom is now established in our hearts, and we see Him exalted and glorified, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! We see Him riding on the chariots of clouds, walking on the wings of the wind amongst the stars, speaking life into His creation. All power is in His hands. All glory belongs to Him. And we join the Heavenly Host bowing at His feet singing choruses of praise to the One called “Faithful and True.”
And we determine to no longer live for ourselves, but only - for Him.
Then why the Cross?
“For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself…whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.” (Colossians 1:19-20)
How can a perfectly holy and just and righteous God welcome sinners into His presence?
Our world has a few answers for us: New Age and Spiritualist devotees tell us our greatest need is not forgiveness of sin, but to discover the divine within. One website explains: “Jesus is our example, not our savior. Jesus was divine, but only in the sense that we are all divine.” They believe climbing levels of spiritual knowledge is the doorway to harmony with the Divine essence.
And how often do we hear whatever one thinks about God and whatever name one uses to refer to God - as long as the person is sincere, that is all that matters? Therefore, we have a thousand and one ways and religions to get right with God. We’re the potter, and He becomes the clay molded and made to think and act our way.
My former coworker believed “niceness” is the atoning factor. Blessed are the nice.
Then there is the fallacious “I follow the teachings of Jesus.” This favorite mantra is code for He was a good moral teacher, nothing more. And as long as I haven’t killed anyone or kicked the neighbor’s dog, I’m a shoe-in with the man upstairs.
Another familiar concept is - God is love. He just has so many oodles and oodles of love He just can’t help but run roughshod over His own holy, just and righteous character. After all, we humans are quite a lovely lot.
Well, did you find anything that works for you? Some niceness in addition to following the teachings of Jesus sounds good. Surely that would compel our omnipotent God to hug the stuffing out of us and drool all over our necks.
Sad, all these notions, though often heartfelt, they are pitiful. To anyone touting such paltry expenditures by our Heavenly Father to be reconciled with us, I beg the question, “Then why the Cross?” If it is true that we can be like God or appease God by following some religious teachings or be perfect models of nice moral men and women that enthrall our Creator - then why the bloody Cross?
Ah, but God is love. Therefore, He is bound to forgive and accept us on our terms. Isn’t that right?
To such drivel, Oswald Chambers responds, “God does forgive, but it cost the rending of His heart in the death of Christ to enable Him to do so. The great miracle of the grace of God is that He forgives sin, and it is the death of Jesus Christ alone that enables the Divine nature to forgive and remain true to itself in doing so. It is shallow nonsense to say God forgives us because He is love. When we have been convicted of sin, we will never say this again. The love of God means Calvary, and nothing less; the love of God is spelt on the Cross and nowhere else. The only ground on which God can forgive me is through the Cross of my Lord. There, His conscience is satisfied.” (My Utmost for His Highest)
Yes, there and there exclusively…“ you, being dead in your trespasses, and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.” (Colossians 2:13-14)
The Cross is the stumbling block to the Jew (those attempting to appease God through religion and morality) and foolishness to the Greek (those trying to be like God through philosophy and higher knowledge), yet there is no way to get around Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. There is no reconciliation, no peace and no life with the Heavenly Father, here or hereafter, apart from the Cross.
For Christians (those trusting in Jesus Christ and Him alone for salvation and life) we must join with the Apostle Paul declaring, “God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” (Galatians 6:14)
In our families, amongst our friends, neighbors, and coworkers, and in some cases next to us in church, we will find people who believe in one or more of these pitiful notions described earlier. Are we prepared and able to engage them with God’s truth? And when they offer up any of their “other ways” to be reconciled and have peace with the Father, are we ready to ask them - “Then why the Cross?”
“For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself…whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.” (Colossians 1:19-20)
How can a perfectly holy and just and righteous God welcome sinners into His presence?
Our world has a few answers for us: New Age and Spiritualist devotees tell us our greatest need is not forgiveness of sin, but to discover the divine within. One website explains: “Jesus is our example, not our savior. Jesus was divine, but only in the sense that we are all divine.” They believe climbing levels of spiritual knowledge is the doorway to harmony with the Divine essence.
And how often do we hear whatever one thinks about God and whatever name one uses to refer to God - as long as the person is sincere, that is all that matters? Therefore, we have a thousand and one ways and religions to get right with God. We’re the potter, and He becomes the clay molded and made to think and act our way.
My former coworker believed “niceness” is the atoning factor. Blessed are the nice.
Then there is the fallacious “I follow the teachings of Jesus.” This favorite mantra is code for He was a good moral teacher, nothing more. And as long as I haven’t killed anyone or kicked the neighbor’s dog, I’m a shoe-in with the man upstairs.
Another familiar concept is - God is love. He just has so many oodles and oodles of love He just can’t help but run roughshod over His own holy, just and righteous character. After all, we humans are quite a lovely lot.
Well, did you find anything that works for you? Some niceness in addition to following the teachings of Jesus sounds good. Surely that would compel our omnipotent God to hug the stuffing out of us and drool all over our necks.
Sad, all these notions, though often heartfelt, they are pitiful. To anyone touting such paltry expenditures by our Heavenly Father to be reconciled with us, I beg the question, “Then why the Cross?” If it is true that we can be like God or appease God by following some religious teachings or be perfect models of nice moral men and women that enthrall our Creator - then why the bloody Cross?
Ah, but God is love. Therefore, He is bound to forgive and accept us on our terms. Isn’t that right?
To such drivel, Oswald Chambers responds, “God does forgive, but it cost the rending of His heart in the death of Christ to enable Him to do so. The great miracle of the grace of God is that He forgives sin, and it is the death of Jesus Christ alone that enables the Divine nature to forgive and remain true to itself in doing so. It is shallow nonsense to say God forgives us because He is love. When we have been convicted of sin, we will never say this again. The love of God means Calvary, and nothing less; the love of God is spelt on the Cross and nowhere else. The only ground on which God can forgive me is through the Cross of my Lord. There, His conscience is satisfied.” (My Utmost for His Highest)
Yes, there and there exclusively…“ you, being dead in your trespasses, and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.” (Colossians 2:13-14)
The Cross is the stumbling block to the Jew (those attempting to appease God through religion and morality) and foolishness to the Greek (those trying to be like God through philosophy and higher knowledge), yet there is no way to get around Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. There is no reconciliation, no peace and no life with the Heavenly Father, here or hereafter, apart from the Cross.
For Christians (those trusting in Jesus Christ and Him alone for salvation and life) we must join with the Apostle Paul declaring, “God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” (Galatians 6:14)
In our families, amongst our friends, neighbors, and coworkers, and in some cases next to us in church, we will find people who believe in one or more of these pitiful notions described earlier. Are we prepared and able to engage them with God’s truth? And when they offer up any of their “other ways” to be reconciled and have peace with the Father, are we ready to ask them - “Then why the Cross?”
Wait on the Lord
The view from my front window has not changed much over the years. Several years ago a power line was cut up over the wooded hill. Not too long ago the government planned to develop a magnetic train line that would have traversed my line of sight. However, that never came to fruition. I’m glad it didn’t. The view remains mostly wooded, and wildlife sightings are frequent from that window.
One sighting I often see is red tail hawks. They are a relatively large bird with a reddish tail. Often they perch on top of the towers of the power line surveying the valley below. They launch into the air and sail smoothly in the thermal updrafts without beating a wing. They seem effortless as they cruise around the sky. It reminds of the verse in Isaiah, “But for those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not be faint.” (40:31)
The life of faith like that hawk sailing should be effortless …if we wait upon the Lord! That’s the problem – waiting! I never liked to wait. In fact, I trained myself not to like to wait. But in the Christian life, it is a necessity to wait – to wait on the Lord. Waiting on Him means that He is in control; not waiting on Him means that I’m in control, and that is the heart of the issue.
King David was a man after God’s own heart. His life was challenged continuously with difficulties and problems. But he had developed through these tribulations a strong faith in the Lord. His life experiences taught him that waiting on the Lord was much better than acting according to his own will. In Psalm 25 he wrote, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day.” (Ps 25: 4, 5)
It’s absurd to think that we will never have to wait. Waiting is a fact of life. Waiting on the Lord is an act of faith. What is currently on your heart that you are waiting for? Let us not be like the Israelites in the wilderness who forgot His works and did not wait for His counsel.” (Ps 106:13)
The view from my front window has not changed much over the years. Several years ago a power line was cut up over the wooded hill. Not too long ago the government planned to develop a magnetic train line that would have traversed my line of sight. However, that never came to fruition. I’m glad it didn’t. The view remains mostly wooded, and wildlife sightings are frequent from that window.
One sighting I often see is red tail hawks. They are a relatively large bird with a reddish tail. Often they perch on top of the towers of the power line surveying the valley below. They launch into the air and sail smoothly in the thermal updrafts without beating a wing. They seem effortless as they cruise around the sky. It reminds of the verse in Isaiah, “But for those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not be faint.” (40:31)
The life of faith like that hawk sailing should be effortless …if we wait upon the Lord! That’s the problem – waiting! I never liked to wait. In fact, I trained myself not to like to wait. But in the Christian life, it is a necessity to wait – to wait on the Lord. Waiting on Him means that He is in control; not waiting on Him means that I’m in control, and that is the heart of the issue.
King David was a man after God’s own heart. His life was challenged continuously with difficulties and problems. But he had developed through these tribulations a strong faith in the Lord. His life experiences taught him that waiting on the Lord was much better than acting according to his own will. In Psalm 25 he wrote, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day.” (Ps 25: 4, 5)
It’s absurd to think that we will never have to wait. Waiting is a fact of life. Waiting on the Lord is an act of faith. What is currently on your heart that you are waiting for? Let us not be like the Israelites in the wilderness who forgot His works and did not wait for His counsel.” (Ps 106:13)
Who Do You Trust?
“It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes.” Psalm 118:8-9
Where do you fall in the preceding verses? We know that our Creator intended us to be God-dependent creatures. Instead, our first parents chose independence and here we are. Trust in ourselves (man) comes quite naturally to us. How has that worked out in our world? Perhaps the Lord is on to something when He continually calls us to trust Him, to be God-dependent.
How do we change the object of our trust? First, “he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” (Heb 11:6) We then engage with Him in the Word and learn His wisdom, His will, and His ways. In these, we will come to the desire to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Prov 3:5-6) Yes, the Lord will lead us by His Word and by His Spirit. Are we willing?
You might be one who puts your confidence in princes. In Biblical times the nation of Israel would forsake God and go their own way. When the inevitable consequences came knocking at the door, the people expected their king to deliver them. Or sometimes even foreign pagan nations would be summoned for help. They would put their trust in government.
Since the cultural revolution in 1960’s, our country has witnessed a steady march away from trusting in the Lord to an almost maniacal, even worshipful confidence in princes. As God has become ever smaller, in the hearts of the people, the government has grown exponentially. And so many are too deceived to recognize such. But then, the surest and most destructive fact about deception is that it is so deceiving.
Who do you trust?
I can tell you this:
Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help,
Whose hope is in the Lord his God,
Who made heaven and earth,
The sea, and all that is in them;
Who keeps truth forever,
Who executes justice for the oppressed,
Who gives food to the hungry.
The Lord gives freedom to the prisoners.
The Lord opens the eyes of the blind;
The Lord raises those who are bowed down;
The Lord loves the righteous.
The Lord watches over the strangers;
He relieves the fatherless and widow;
But the way of the wicked He turns upside down.
The Lord shall reign forever--
Your God, O Zion, to all generations.
Praise the Lord! (Psalm 146:5-10)
“It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes.” Psalm 118:8-9
Where do you fall in the preceding verses? We know that our Creator intended us to be God-dependent creatures. Instead, our first parents chose independence and here we are. Trust in ourselves (man) comes quite naturally to us. How has that worked out in our world? Perhaps the Lord is on to something when He continually calls us to trust Him, to be God-dependent.
How do we change the object of our trust? First, “he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” (Heb 11:6) We then engage with Him in the Word and learn His wisdom, His will, and His ways. In these, we will come to the desire to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Prov 3:5-6) Yes, the Lord will lead us by His Word and by His Spirit. Are we willing?
You might be one who puts your confidence in princes. In Biblical times the nation of Israel would forsake God and go their own way. When the inevitable consequences came knocking at the door, the people expected their king to deliver them. Or sometimes even foreign pagan nations would be summoned for help. They would put their trust in government.
Since the cultural revolution in 1960’s, our country has witnessed a steady march away from trusting in the Lord to an almost maniacal, even worshipful confidence in princes. As God has become ever smaller, in the hearts of the people, the government has grown exponentially. And so many are too deceived to recognize such. But then, the surest and most destructive fact about deception is that it is so deceiving.
Who do you trust?
I can tell you this:
Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help,
Whose hope is in the Lord his God,
Who made heaven and earth,
The sea, and all that is in them;
Who keeps truth forever,
Who executes justice for the oppressed,
Who gives food to the hungry.
The Lord gives freedom to the prisoners.
The Lord opens the eyes of the blind;
The Lord raises those who are bowed down;
The Lord loves the righteous.
The Lord watches over the strangers;
He relieves the fatherless and widow;
But the way of the wicked He turns upside down.
The Lord shall reign forever--
Your God, O Zion, to all generations.
Praise the Lord! (Psalm 146:5-10)
Created By God
“In the Beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1)
That statement meets with much opposition today. Didn’t the earth just evolve and form from a cosmic big bang billions of years ago? Or even if God was involved, couldn’t He have just let things develop on their own over an extended period? For those who believe the Scriptures, we must see what they reveal.
The word used in the first verse, to create, is the word ‘bara’ in the original Hebrew. According to Vine’s Expository Dictionary, it has profound theological significance. The word expresses creation out of nothing. It indicates that God made material substances from nothing. God said, “Let there be light and there was light.” (Gen 1:3)
Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields fruit according to its kind…and it was so.” (Gen 1:11) “So God created great sea creatures and every living thing that moves, with which the waters abound.” (Gen 1:21) All this and more He did in a literal six-day period.
God spoke, and the universe came into existence. The Psalmist so realized the greatness of God in creation that he wrote, “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, And all the host of them by the breath of His mouth. Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.” (Psalm 33:6)
To view the world we live in as having formed through an evolutionary process takes away from the greatness of God.
Anything other than a belief in an instantaneous creation directed by an all-powerful God takes away from His purpose. The Lord speaking to the prophet Isaiah, stated, “I have made the earth and created man on it. I – My hands – stretched out the heavens and all their hosts I have commanded.” (Is 45:12) Furthermore, He states that He is God, “…who formed the earth and made it, …who did not create it in vain, who formed it to be inhabited.” (Is 45:18)
The Lord intended to create us and designed a beautiful place for us to live. According to the Scriptures, we are not here because of random chance brought about by an evolutionary process but because of a Creator, who desired it.
To take away from the creative process of God is to diminish one of His strongest revelations to man: “For since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” (Rom 1:20 NIV)
The created universe is intended to draw us toward the Lord. Every person can look into the sky on a clear night, see the twinkling of hundreds of stars along with the silvery moon and realize there is a Creator God. In Psalm 19 David concluded that “the heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork. …There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their line has gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world…” (Ps 19: 1,3,4)
The Bible is clear about how our world came into existence. The Creator called into existence, from nothing, a world that can be seen. Over hundreds of years, many scientists have concluded that our world is complexly and intricately designed. For all their years of study and work, no one has been able to make something from nothing. Not one has been able to bring forth life from non-living materials.
For those who are still searching for the mystery of life and where it came from, it is still a mystery. For those who honestly assess the evidence, we humbly bow before our Lord and proclaim, “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.” (Rev 4:11)
“In the Beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1)
That statement meets with much opposition today. Didn’t the earth just evolve and form from a cosmic big bang billions of years ago? Or even if God was involved, couldn’t He have just let things develop on their own over an extended period? For those who believe the Scriptures, we must see what they reveal.
The word used in the first verse, to create, is the word ‘bara’ in the original Hebrew. According to Vine’s Expository Dictionary, it has profound theological significance. The word expresses creation out of nothing. It indicates that God made material substances from nothing. God said, “Let there be light and there was light.” (Gen 1:3)
Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields fruit according to its kind…and it was so.” (Gen 1:11) “So God created great sea creatures and every living thing that moves, with which the waters abound.” (Gen 1:21) All this and more He did in a literal six-day period.
God spoke, and the universe came into existence. The Psalmist so realized the greatness of God in creation that he wrote, “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, And all the host of them by the breath of His mouth. Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.” (Psalm 33:6)
To view the world we live in as having formed through an evolutionary process takes away from the greatness of God.
Anything other than a belief in an instantaneous creation directed by an all-powerful God takes away from His purpose. The Lord speaking to the prophet Isaiah, stated, “I have made the earth and created man on it. I – My hands – stretched out the heavens and all their hosts I have commanded.” (Is 45:12) Furthermore, He states that He is God, “…who formed the earth and made it, …who did not create it in vain, who formed it to be inhabited.” (Is 45:18)
The Lord intended to create us and designed a beautiful place for us to live. According to the Scriptures, we are not here because of random chance brought about by an evolutionary process but because of a Creator, who desired it.
To take away from the creative process of God is to diminish one of His strongest revelations to man: “For since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” (Rom 1:20 NIV)
The created universe is intended to draw us toward the Lord. Every person can look into the sky on a clear night, see the twinkling of hundreds of stars along with the silvery moon and realize there is a Creator God. In Psalm 19 David concluded that “the heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork. …There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their line has gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world…” (Ps 19: 1,3,4)
The Bible is clear about how our world came into existence. The Creator called into existence, from nothing, a world that can be seen. Over hundreds of years, many scientists have concluded that our world is complexly and intricately designed. For all their years of study and work, no one has been able to make something from nothing. Not one has been able to bring forth life from non-living materials.
For those who are still searching for the mystery of life and where it came from, it is still a mystery. For those who honestly assess the evidence, we humbly bow before our Lord and proclaim, “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.” (Rev 4:11)
Which Master?
No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (money). Matthew 6:24
Which master are you going to serve?
Although Jesus is talking about trying to live for God or money, the Spirit just keeps saying old man, new man. And how true! Such is my life when I try to serve two masters – the old man and the new man. But I cannot for if I serve the one I despise the other.
Therefore I need Ephesians 4:22-24 "That you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness."
But then I'm like, Romans 7:19 "For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice."
Then I remember, 1 Corinthians 10:13 "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."
And THANK GOD THAT "In Him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His Grace." Ephesians 1:7
Every one of our days, our minutes, our moments begs the question – Which master are you going to serve?
No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (money). Matthew 6:24
Which master are you going to serve?
Although Jesus is talking about trying to live for God or money, the Spirit just keeps saying old man, new man. And how true! Such is my life when I try to serve two masters – the old man and the new man. But I cannot for if I serve the one I despise the other.
Therefore I need Ephesians 4:22-24 "That you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness."
But then I'm like, Romans 7:19 "For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice."
Then I remember, 1 Corinthians 10:13 "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."
And THANK GOD THAT "In Him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His Grace." Ephesians 1:7
Every one of our days, our minutes, our moments begs the question – Which master are you going to serve?
When is the Rapture?
There’s much disagreement over the timing of the rapture of the church. There are even many who do not believe in a rapture. The Bible clearly teaches two distinct movements of people in the end times. (Matt 24:36-43; Luke 17:34-37 & 1 Thess 4:15-18; John 14:1-3)
Unlike the Second Coming, at the rapture, the righteous will be removed from the earth to meet the Lord in the air. (1 Thess 4:17) The unbelieving will be left on the earth and will live into the seven years of tribulation.
We have discussed in the past that the Bible indicates that this is an imminent event. In other words, it can happen at any time. By placing it sometime during the tribulation, the concept of immanency is removed. It can’t happen today. It will only happen at some set time in the future according to that particular view. Such is contrary to what the Bible teaches. (Phil 3:20, 4:5; Titus 2:13; James 5:7-9; Rev 3:11)
Another factor in determining the timing of the rapture is the truth that Jesus has delivered us from the wrath to come. (1 Thess 1:10) According to this verse, the Thessalonians were awaiting Jesus who would deliver them from a specific wrath. The word, deliver, has the idea ‘to rescue from’. And in the same epistle Paul wrote, “For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ…” (5:9)
The people experiencing the tribulation period recognize what is happening. They realize that it is wrath from God for they say, “…hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” (Rev 6:16, 17) If we have not been appointed to wrath and have been delivered from the wrath to come, then how can the true believer be present during this period of time?
There’s much disagreement over the timing of the rapture of the church. There are even many who do not believe in a rapture. The Bible clearly teaches two distinct movements of people in the end times. (Matt 24:36-43; Luke 17:34-37 & 1 Thess 4:15-18; John 14:1-3)
Unlike the Second Coming, at the rapture, the righteous will be removed from the earth to meet the Lord in the air. (1 Thess 4:17) The unbelieving will be left on the earth and will live into the seven years of tribulation.
We have discussed in the past that the Bible indicates that this is an imminent event. In other words, it can happen at any time. By placing it sometime during the tribulation, the concept of immanency is removed. It can’t happen today. It will only happen at some set time in the future according to that particular view. Such is contrary to what the Bible teaches. (Phil 3:20, 4:5; Titus 2:13; James 5:7-9; Rev 3:11)
Another factor in determining the timing of the rapture is the truth that Jesus has delivered us from the wrath to come. (1 Thess 1:10) According to this verse, the Thessalonians were awaiting Jesus who would deliver them from a specific wrath. The word, deliver, has the idea ‘to rescue from’. And in the same epistle Paul wrote, “For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ…” (5:9)
The people experiencing the tribulation period recognize what is happening. They realize that it is wrath from God for they say, “…hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” (Rev 6:16, 17) If we have not been appointed to wrath and have been delivered from the wrath to come, then how can the true believer be present during this period of time?
Two Men Arose
–then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” And he arose and departed to his house. Matthew 9:6-7
It was quite a dramatic scene. Jesus was preaching the word at a house in Capernaum. Four men came carrying a paralyzed friend on a bed. The crowd made their entrance into the house impossible. So they attached ropes to the bed and ascended to the roof. The men dug a hole in the roof and lowered their friend down to Jesus.
What happened next caused a considerable commotion. When Jesus saw the faith of these four men, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.” (v.2) Oh boy! There were scribes in attendance. They were reeling, “Hey, that is blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!”
Jesus knew their thoughts. He responded by telling them the Son of Man (a Messianic title) had the authority to forgive sins. Then by merely speaking to the paralyzed man the Lord healed him and the man arose. The scribes were correct – only God can do these things.
Seeing the man who was carried there on a bed now walking home, the crowd pretty much lost it and with amazement glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!” (Mark 2:12) It was miraculous to say the least.
The Bible tells us Jesus left there and soon met another man. This man collected taxes for the Romans. A hated tax collector! These men were despised as traitors and extortioners. They typically overcharged their fellow Jews and kept the money for themselves. Jesus saw him sitting at the tax office, and He said, “Follow Me.” No drama here. No crowds. No beds, no ropes, no holes in the roof, no scribes, no fuss here. Just another sin-sick person, this one lounging in a chair paralyzed by the faulty notion that life is all about attaining riches and the here and now.
And then, in response to Jesus’ invitation, the tax collector “arose and followed Him.” (v.9) That tax collector would eventually write the book we have been reading from here – the Gospel of Matthew.
Two men arose at the words of Jesus, the first to great fanfare and astonishment, the second to neither. In both men, we are witnessing the miraculous power and life-changing realities of an encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ.
He says, “Arise!” He says, “Follow Me.” Have you done that in your life?
–then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” And he arose and departed to his house. Matthew 9:6-7
It was quite a dramatic scene. Jesus was preaching the word at a house in Capernaum. Four men came carrying a paralyzed friend on a bed. The crowd made their entrance into the house impossible. So they attached ropes to the bed and ascended to the roof. The men dug a hole in the roof and lowered their friend down to Jesus.
What happened next caused a considerable commotion. When Jesus saw the faith of these four men, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.” (v.2) Oh boy! There were scribes in attendance. They were reeling, “Hey, that is blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!”
Jesus knew their thoughts. He responded by telling them the Son of Man (a Messianic title) had the authority to forgive sins. Then by merely speaking to the paralyzed man the Lord healed him and the man arose. The scribes were correct – only God can do these things.
Seeing the man who was carried there on a bed now walking home, the crowd pretty much lost it and with amazement glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!” (Mark 2:12) It was miraculous to say the least.
The Bible tells us Jesus left there and soon met another man. This man collected taxes for the Romans. A hated tax collector! These men were despised as traitors and extortioners. They typically overcharged their fellow Jews and kept the money for themselves. Jesus saw him sitting at the tax office, and He said, “Follow Me.” No drama here. No crowds. No beds, no ropes, no holes in the roof, no scribes, no fuss here. Just another sin-sick person, this one lounging in a chair paralyzed by the faulty notion that life is all about attaining riches and the here and now.
And then, in response to Jesus’ invitation, the tax collector “arose and followed Him.” (v.9) That tax collector would eventually write the book we have been reading from here – the Gospel of Matthew.
Two men arose at the words of Jesus, the first to great fanfare and astonishment, the second to neither. In both men, we are witnessing the miraculous power and life-changing realities of an encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ.
He says, “Arise!” He says, “Follow Me.” Have you done that in your life?
Is it time for a change?
Did you ever think of the importance of time? And where did time originate? Well in school you probably learned that some of the ancient civilizations initiated the recording of time by the use of sundials and the like. Certainly just by the position of the sun they as well as we could discern the approximate time of day.
Time is an important factor of life. You get up and go to work at a particular time. You’re off work at a certain time. The bus comes at a given time, and the airplane takes off at a certain time. Without time, the world would be chaos. How would you set up a meeting or know when to leave for an appointment. Imagine the wait you might have at the doctor’s office or the airport.
God in His infinite wisdom created time from the very fact that the Bible says “in the beginning.” There was a beginning and that certainly implies time. He made the week seven days – 7 literal twenty-four periods. (Gen 1) God commanded the Israelites to cease from work on the seventh day to keep it holy. (Ex 20:8) So time was necessary for them to obey the commands of God. They were also required to maintain track of the years because they were commanded to “neither sow your field nor prune your vineyard’’ as a Sabbath rest for the land in the seventh year. (Lev 25:3,4)
The first coming of our Lord was not a random event in the plan of God. He had a plan and timing for it. According to Paul in his writing to the church in Galatia, “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” (4:4,5) When Jesus came to Galilee, He preached, “The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand.” (Mark 1:15)
Some people think that this world is going to continue forever and forever. Others believe that the human race may destroy itself. But God has an appointed time to end it. Jesus responded to the question of the disciples concerning the time of the end by stating, “But of that day and hour no one knows…but My Father only.” ( Matt 24:36)
And that leads me to my point, what am I doing with my time? What are you doing with your time? God has given each one of us so much time. He has a schedule and our time could end abruptly at the coming of Christ for His church. If He came today, would you be satisfied with how you have spent your time? Or is it time for a change?
“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:16
Did you ever think of the importance of time? And where did time originate? Well in school you probably learned that some of the ancient civilizations initiated the recording of time by the use of sundials and the like. Certainly just by the position of the sun they as well as we could discern the approximate time of day.
Time is an important factor of life. You get up and go to work at a particular time. You’re off work at a certain time. The bus comes at a given time, and the airplane takes off at a certain time. Without time, the world would be chaos. How would you set up a meeting or know when to leave for an appointment. Imagine the wait you might have at the doctor’s office or the airport.
God in His infinite wisdom created time from the very fact that the Bible says “in the beginning.” There was a beginning and that certainly implies time. He made the week seven days – 7 literal twenty-four periods. (Gen 1) God commanded the Israelites to cease from work on the seventh day to keep it holy. (Ex 20:8) So time was necessary for them to obey the commands of God. They were also required to maintain track of the years because they were commanded to “neither sow your field nor prune your vineyard’’ as a Sabbath rest for the land in the seventh year. (Lev 25:3,4)
The first coming of our Lord was not a random event in the plan of God. He had a plan and timing for it. According to Paul in his writing to the church in Galatia, “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” (4:4,5) When Jesus came to Galilee, He preached, “The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand.” (Mark 1:15)
Some people think that this world is going to continue forever and forever. Others believe that the human race may destroy itself. But God has an appointed time to end it. Jesus responded to the question of the disciples concerning the time of the end by stating, “But of that day and hour no one knows…but My Father only.” ( Matt 24:36)
And that leads me to my point, what am I doing with my time? What are you doing with your time? God has given each one of us so much time. He has a schedule and our time could end abruptly at the coming of Christ for His church. If He came today, would you be satisfied with how you have spent your time? Or is it time for a change?
“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:16
Which Window?
“He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth – Praise to our God; Many will see it and fear, and will trust in the Lord.” Psalm 40:2-3
I was sitting in the exam room at the doctor’s office. The nurse had already been in and out. Two small windows each about 2’ by 2’ separated by a little partition sat up high on the wall opposite from me. They bordered the ceiling of the room. Then I noticed the strangest thing. From my exact viewpoint, the window on the right boiled with nasty gray and black clouds. The window on the left, just inches away, showed me a crystal clear blue sky bathed in perfection. It created a “Wow!” moment for me.
I continued to think about the contrasting window scenes after my appointment. My mind conjured up different word pictures to associate with the dreary clouds and the cheerful clarity side by side. The Psalms kept popping up their heads. The pastor had just preached on Psalm 73. Asaph begins by looking outward at the world. What did he see? – Injustice, inequality, unfairness, lack of reward for his faith, and, well, clouds, lots of dismal wretched clouds. Then what did Asaph do? He went into the sanctuary of God. Those dispiriting clouds were still in the sky, but now, in the presence of God, his attention became fixed on the other window. Asaph regained clarity. He declared, “Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You.” (v.25)
In Psalm 40 David finds himself in a very hard place. He says, “For innumerable evils have surrounded me; my iniquities have overtaken me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of my head; therefore my heart fails me.” (v.12) Here we find the shepherd/king looking mostly inward and seeing only joyless depressive clouds. Then what did David do? He cried out to God. We see the results in our opening Scripture. God brought him up from his muddled bed, set his feet on firm ground and redirected David’s gaze to the other window. David regained clarity. In his new song he sang, “Many, O Lord God, are Your wonderful works which You have done; And Your thoughts toward us cannot be recounted to You in order; If I would declare and speak them, they are more than can be numbered.” (v. 5)
The book of Psalms teaches us about those two windows. They repeatedly speak of the real-world’s oppressive cheerless clouds in this fallen-down life. We can look outward and see them everywhere. We can look inward and find them there as well. But these Hebrew songs sing of another reality too. When we look to the Lord, keeping our focus on Him; when we come into His presence, there is only blue. It is there we can find His perspective and can walk in clarity.
The choice is ours to make. Day by day. Moment to moment. Which window will be our focus; where will we set our minds?
“He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth – Praise to our God; Many will see it and fear, and will trust in the Lord.” Psalm 40:2-3
I was sitting in the exam room at the doctor’s office. The nurse had already been in and out. Two small windows each about 2’ by 2’ separated by a little partition sat up high on the wall opposite from me. They bordered the ceiling of the room. Then I noticed the strangest thing. From my exact viewpoint, the window on the right boiled with nasty gray and black clouds. The window on the left, just inches away, showed me a crystal clear blue sky bathed in perfection. It created a “Wow!” moment for me.
I continued to think about the contrasting window scenes after my appointment. My mind conjured up different word pictures to associate with the dreary clouds and the cheerful clarity side by side. The Psalms kept popping up their heads. The pastor had just preached on Psalm 73. Asaph begins by looking outward at the world. What did he see? – Injustice, inequality, unfairness, lack of reward for his faith, and, well, clouds, lots of dismal wretched clouds. Then what did Asaph do? He went into the sanctuary of God. Those dispiriting clouds were still in the sky, but now, in the presence of God, his attention became fixed on the other window. Asaph regained clarity. He declared, “Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You.” (v.25)
In Psalm 40 David finds himself in a very hard place. He says, “For innumerable evils have surrounded me; my iniquities have overtaken me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of my head; therefore my heart fails me.” (v.12) Here we find the shepherd/king looking mostly inward and seeing only joyless depressive clouds. Then what did David do? He cried out to God. We see the results in our opening Scripture. God brought him up from his muddled bed, set his feet on firm ground and redirected David’s gaze to the other window. David regained clarity. In his new song he sang, “Many, O Lord God, are Your wonderful works which You have done; And Your thoughts toward us cannot be recounted to You in order; If I would declare and speak them, they are more than can be numbered.” (v. 5)
The book of Psalms teaches us about those two windows. They repeatedly speak of the real-world’s oppressive cheerless clouds in this fallen-down life. We can look outward and see them everywhere. We can look inward and find them there as well. But these Hebrew songs sing of another reality too. When we look to the Lord, keeping our focus on Him; when we come into His presence, there is only blue. It is there we can find His perspective and can walk in clarity.
The choice is ours to make. Day by day. Moment to moment. Which window will be our focus; where will we set our minds?
Read the Directions
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Yes!!! “What a great Christmas this is going to be!” I thought. A few years back I had somehow convinced the wife that we should stop buying presents for each other. Instead, we were going to purchase something bigger and for both of us. That meant no more holding up nightgowns and cluelessly trying to figure if they were the right size. That meant no more standing like a dolt in ladies underwear wishing I was a million somewhere else’s. That meant no more pointing to rings and bracelets while busy salesladies asked me questions to which I had no answers. We decided to get a television. A cable-ready TV, just hook it up and sit down and watch.
On a cold, dreary day, soon to be a rain-drenched day, we ventured out to purchase our Christmas present. We brought it home, and boy was it heavy and awkward to carry into the house. But my excitement of being done shopping gave me superhuman strength.
The wife headed back out in Noah’s rain to shop for other folks. I unhooked our old TV and carried it to the basement. It was no feather either. Then I wrestled the new set in place, hooked her up and turned her on. “Great picture!” I chirped. Then I started up through the channels, 2, 4, 6, and up to 13. But from that point, I only got a blank screen on the other channels. Cable ready, my foot! After poking and jiggling this and that, I boiled over in frustration. I called my wife and told her to come home immediately. The new television was not working, and it needed to be returned along with some harsh words for the salespeople.
While I awaited my befuddled wife’s homecoming, I unhooked the new set and fought to get it and all its useless parts back in the big box. Then I carried, dragged and pushed it (my super humanness had left me) to her vehicle in the downpour. We stomped into the store and demanded a return and refund. An employee came and loaded the big box on a cart, and we went to the electronics department. I turned my wife loose on them and stood in the background looking real mean.
My wife didn’t pick up on it, but I did. Had I just heard the salesman say something about setting the other channels with the remote? Have you ever felt like you were really small, or at least wanted to be, really bad? Like that commercial – “Wanna get away???" And I wanted to become the invisible man when my wife realized her hubby was a dolt whether he was in ladies underwear or not. She glared daggers at me as we accompanied our new old television back out to the car for another trip to our house. Fear of a redhead inspired my carrying that time. I hooked it up, and ten minutes later with the directions in her hand, all our channels were there. At least that is what she announced to me while I hid in a corner.
Gee whiz, reading and following the directions just seems like so much trouble. Surely, we can do things ourselves a whole lot easier. For example, God’s word, the Bible is our direction manual for living a successful, full and abundant life, and we so often ignore it, and that turns out just fine. Doesn’t it? Right? We’re great freelancers, are we not? Right? Directions? We don’t need no stinking directions - do we? Ahh, yes we do. God has given us His instructions “that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped” for right living and we need to read them and follow them.
Read the directions! Gee whiz, even this dolt knows that……now.
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Yes!!! “What a great Christmas this is going to be!” I thought. A few years back I had somehow convinced the wife that we should stop buying presents for each other. Instead, we were going to purchase something bigger and for both of us. That meant no more holding up nightgowns and cluelessly trying to figure if they were the right size. That meant no more standing like a dolt in ladies underwear wishing I was a million somewhere else’s. That meant no more pointing to rings and bracelets while busy salesladies asked me questions to which I had no answers. We decided to get a television. A cable-ready TV, just hook it up and sit down and watch.
On a cold, dreary day, soon to be a rain-drenched day, we ventured out to purchase our Christmas present. We brought it home, and boy was it heavy and awkward to carry into the house. But my excitement of being done shopping gave me superhuman strength.
The wife headed back out in Noah’s rain to shop for other folks. I unhooked our old TV and carried it to the basement. It was no feather either. Then I wrestled the new set in place, hooked her up and turned her on. “Great picture!” I chirped. Then I started up through the channels, 2, 4, 6, and up to 13. But from that point, I only got a blank screen on the other channels. Cable ready, my foot! After poking and jiggling this and that, I boiled over in frustration. I called my wife and told her to come home immediately. The new television was not working, and it needed to be returned along with some harsh words for the salespeople.
While I awaited my befuddled wife’s homecoming, I unhooked the new set and fought to get it and all its useless parts back in the big box. Then I carried, dragged and pushed it (my super humanness had left me) to her vehicle in the downpour. We stomped into the store and demanded a return and refund. An employee came and loaded the big box on a cart, and we went to the electronics department. I turned my wife loose on them and stood in the background looking real mean.
My wife didn’t pick up on it, but I did. Had I just heard the salesman say something about setting the other channels with the remote? Have you ever felt like you were really small, or at least wanted to be, really bad? Like that commercial – “Wanna get away???" And I wanted to become the invisible man when my wife realized her hubby was a dolt whether he was in ladies underwear or not. She glared daggers at me as we accompanied our new old television back out to the car for another trip to our house. Fear of a redhead inspired my carrying that time. I hooked it up, and ten minutes later with the directions in her hand, all our channels were there. At least that is what she announced to me while I hid in a corner.
Gee whiz, reading and following the directions just seems like so much trouble. Surely, we can do things ourselves a whole lot easier. For example, God’s word, the Bible is our direction manual for living a successful, full and abundant life, and we so often ignore it, and that turns out just fine. Doesn’t it? Right? We’re great freelancers, are we not? Right? Directions? We don’t need no stinking directions - do we? Ahh, yes we do. God has given us His instructions “that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped” for right living and we need to read them and follow them.
Read the directions! Gee whiz, even this dolt knows that……now.
Where?
A Christian man was apprehensive as he considered what lay before him. A close friend had lost his teenage daughter in a tragic car accident. He planned a visit. Knowing his friend, he knew the question would come - “Where was God?” How do I answer him, he pondered.
In the 42nd Psalm, the writer speaks of the inner turmoil he wrestled with day and night. His tears continually spat out the question: “Where is your God?” (v 3). Not only did his inward life torment him, but from the world around came the caterwauling, “Where is your God?” (v 10). From within, from without, there are times in our lives when that question begs an answer we’re not sure we have.
Where WAS God? Where IS God?
Where IS the answer for those pleading tears from within, for those condescending voices from without…even for a grieving father? Scripture asks where, but in a different way: “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?” and then answers, “If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.” (Psalm 139:7-10)
The Apostle Paul tells us men seek and grope about in hopes of finding the whereabouts of the Lord, but in fact, “…He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17: 27-28)
God is “Where-ever.”
I like what Oswald Chambers brings to this: “Notion your mind with the idea that God is there. If once the mind is notioned along that line, then when you are in difficulties it is easy as breathing to remember - Why, my Father knows all about this!…There are times, says Jesus, when God cannot lift the darkness from you, but trust Him. God will appear like an unkind friend, but He is not; He will appear like an unnatural Father, but He is not; He will appear like an unjust judge, but He is not. Keep the notion of the mind of God behind all things strong and growing. Nothing happens in any particular unless God’s will is behind it, therefore you can rest in perfect confidence in Him.” (My Utmost for His Highest)
Where??? God WAS there. God IS there. And God will BE there. Honestly, I think the more challenging question each of us needs to be asking is “Where am I in my relationship with Him?”
A Christian man was apprehensive as he considered what lay before him. A close friend had lost his teenage daughter in a tragic car accident. He planned a visit. Knowing his friend, he knew the question would come - “Where was God?” How do I answer him, he pondered.
In the 42nd Psalm, the writer speaks of the inner turmoil he wrestled with day and night. His tears continually spat out the question: “Where is your God?” (v 3). Not only did his inward life torment him, but from the world around came the caterwauling, “Where is your God?” (v 10). From within, from without, there are times in our lives when that question begs an answer we’re not sure we have.
Where WAS God? Where IS God?
Where IS the answer for those pleading tears from within, for those condescending voices from without…even for a grieving father? Scripture asks where, but in a different way: “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?” and then answers, “If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.” (Psalm 139:7-10)
The Apostle Paul tells us men seek and grope about in hopes of finding the whereabouts of the Lord, but in fact, “…He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17: 27-28)
God is “Where-ever.”
I like what Oswald Chambers brings to this: “Notion your mind with the idea that God is there. If once the mind is notioned along that line, then when you are in difficulties it is easy as breathing to remember - Why, my Father knows all about this!…There are times, says Jesus, when God cannot lift the darkness from you, but trust Him. God will appear like an unkind friend, but He is not; He will appear like an unnatural Father, but He is not; He will appear like an unjust judge, but He is not. Keep the notion of the mind of God behind all things strong and growing. Nothing happens in any particular unless God’s will is behind it, therefore you can rest in perfect confidence in Him.” (My Utmost for His Highest)
Where??? God WAS there. God IS there. And God will BE there. Honestly, I think the more challenging question each of us needs to be asking is “Where am I in my relationship with Him?”
Where does your help come from?
I have written before about my fondness for the hills and mountains. One of my favorite hikes is to climb the path behind our cabin to the top of the mountain. On a clear day, the view is tremendous as you can see for many miles. The mountains just pour out the presence of an all-powerful mighty God.
I guess that’s why Psalm 121 is one of my favorites. “I will lift my eyes unto the hills – From whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.” Psalm 121 was a Song of Ascents. The Jewish people sang them as they went up to Jerusalem. And being that the city sat on a mountain and was the place where God had dwelt (the temple), they probably lifted their eyes as if looking unto the very God who created that hill.
What an awesome thought – the very One who made the hills and mountains…heaven and earth is the very One who is there to help you and I. The writer of Hebrews stated it this way, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)
I have written before about my fondness for the hills and mountains. One of my favorite hikes is to climb the path behind our cabin to the top of the mountain. On a clear day, the view is tremendous as you can see for many miles. The mountains just pour out the presence of an all-powerful mighty God.
I guess that’s why Psalm 121 is one of my favorites. “I will lift my eyes unto the hills – From whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.” Psalm 121 was a Song of Ascents. The Jewish people sang them as they went up to Jerusalem. And being that the city sat on a mountain and was the place where God had dwelt (the temple), they probably lifted their eyes as if looking unto the very God who created that hill.
What an awesome thought – the very One who made the hills and mountains…heaven and earth is the very One who is there to help you and I. The writer of Hebrews stated it this way, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)
Out of the Mire
“So they took Jeremiah and cast him into the dungeon of Malchiah the king’s son, which was in the court of the prison, and they let Jeremiah down with ropes. And in the dungeon, there was no water, but mire. So Jeremiah sank in the mire.” (Jeremiah 38:6)
Have you ever spent time in the mire? The first thing to learn about mire is the more struggle, the more sink. That leads to the second fact about mire: help is needed to escape. Lastly, mire is not always made of mud – life itself can be the bog. The Psalmist rejoiced: “I waited patiently for the Lord; and He inclined to me, and heard my cry. He brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps.” (40:1-2)
The Lord can undoubtedly reach right down and remove us from any sinking condition, but the norm is He sends human arms and hands and/or words and wisdom to the rescue. As described above, the prophet Jeremiah needed all four. They came from an unlikely source: Ebed-Melech, an Ethiopian eunuch in the king’s house – the same king that was responsible for the prophet’s mud bath.
When Ebed-Melech found out about the prophet’s plight, he went right to the king and pleaded for Jeremiah’s life. The eunuch’s words and wisdom and perhaps a king’s guilty conscience provoked permission for deliverance. Then with arms and hands “Ebed-Melech the Ethiopian said to Jeremiah, ‘Please put these old clothes and rags under your armpits, under the ropes.’ And Jeremiah did so. So they pulled Jeremiah up with ropes and lifted him out of the dungeon.” (Jeremiah 38:12, 13)
There are times we are in the mire and need help. Let’s take hold of the extended arm and hand; the words and wisdom sent to the rescue. Other times we are the help of someone else; perhaps even an unlikely source like Ebed-Melech.
Years later as the besieged city of Jerusalem was about to fall to the Babylonians (the prophecy that got Jeremiah thrown into that miry pit), a particular man in the city felt his own life sinking into the mire. God summoned Jeremiah: “Go and speak to Ebed-Melech the Ethiopian, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: “Behold, I will bring My words upon this city for adversity and not for good, and they shall be performed in that day before you. But I will deliver you in that day,” says the Lord, “and you shall not be given into the hand of the men whom you are afraid. For I will surely deliver you, and you shall not fall by the sword; but your life shall be as a prize to you, because you have put your trust in Me,” says the Lord.’” (Jer 39:15-18)
Ebed-Melech was lifted out of the mire.
“So they took Jeremiah and cast him into the dungeon of Malchiah the king’s son, which was in the court of the prison, and they let Jeremiah down with ropes. And in the dungeon, there was no water, but mire. So Jeremiah sank in the mire.” (Jeremiah 38:6)
Have you ever spent time in the mire? The first thing to learn about mire is the more struggle, the more sink. That leads to the second fact about mire: help is needed to escape. Lastly, mire is not always made of mud – life itself can be the bog. The Psalmist rejoiced: “I waited patiently for the Lord; and He inclined to me, and heard my cry. He brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps.” (40:1-2)
The Lord can undoubtedly reach right down and remove us from any sinking condition, but the norm is He sends human arms and hands and/or words and wisdom to the rescue. As described above, the prophet Jeremiah needed all four. They came from an unlikely source: Ebed-Melech, an Ethiopian eunuch in the king’s house – the same king that was responsible for the prophet’s mud bath.
When Ebed-Melech found out about the prophet’s plight, he went right to the king and pleaded for Jeremiah’s life. The eunuch’s words and wisdom and perhaps a king’s guilty conscience provoked permission for deliverance. Then with arms and hands “Ebed-Melech the Ethiopian said to Jeremiah, ‘Please put these old clothes and rags under your armpits, under the ropes.’ And Jeremiah did so. So they pulled Jeremiah up with ropes and lifted him out of the dungeon.” (Jeremiah 38:12, 13)
There are times we are in the mire and need help. Let’s take hold of the extended arm and hand; the words and wisdom sent to the rescue. Other times we are the help of someone else; perhaps even an unlikely source like Ebed-Melech.
Years later as the besieged city of Jerusalem was about to fall to the Babylonians (the prophecy that got Jeremiah thrown into that miry pit), a particular man in the city felt his own life sinking into the mire. God summoned Jeremiah: “Go and speak to Ebed-Melech the Ethiopian, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: “Behold, I will bring My words upon this city for adversity and not for good, and they shall be performed in that day before you. But I will deliver you in that day,” says the Lord, “and you shall not be given into the hand of the men whom you are afraid. For I will surely deliver you, and you shall not fall by the sword; but your life shall be as a prize to you, because you have put your trust in Me,” says the Lord.’” (Jer 39:15-18)
Ebed-Melech was lifted out of the mire.
Are you astonished?
Has anything ever astonished you? It means to fill with wonder or surprise. Our English word comes from the Latin, ‘extonare.' Extonare literally means ‘out + to thunder.' It is equivalent to “strike with lightning.” When I was in seventh grade, my favorite teacher taught Geography. I liked many of my teachers, but I liked him the best of all. He was interesting. He related to his students. And he maintained firm control of his class. Something you must do with Junior High students!
There were at least two things that astonished me during that class. The first one came later when I became an adult and reflected on his disciplinary method. When he would leave the room, he would tell the class that there would be no talking. Of course, there would be consequences if you were caught, but most would obey out respect and fear. The astonishing thing to me was that no one would talk (other than a rare whisper from the back). The room would be totally quiet. It never happened that way in any of my other classes.
The other astonishment moment came one particular day. He would often joke with us and interact with the class. On that day in November, he came back from the office and announced to the class that the president had been shot. At first, some thought that he was joking, but he quickly made it very clear that he was not. When I think of being astonished, that it is what comes to my mind – it was like we were struck by lightning, but lived. There were shock and disbelief on the faces of everyone in that room.
One day Jesus encountered a rich young man. The man wanted to know how to inherit eternal life. Jesus told him to obey the commandments. He told Jesus that he had kept them from his youth. Then Jesus told him to sell all that had and to give to the poor, and to come and take up his cross and follow Him. He went away sad for he had great possessions. Jesus then looked at His disciples and said, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” (Mark 10:25) Because they believed that wealth was a sign of God’s blessing, His disciples were “greatly astonished” saying among themselves, “Who then can be saved?”(v 27)
Just as my teacher astonished the class with the news of the shooting of the president, Jesus astonished His followers. And as I clearly remember the events of that day in November in1963, I’m sure Jesus’ disciples remembered this incident and His comforting words to their question, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible;” – even the ability to save a wretch like me. And to me, that is truly astonishing!
Has anything ever astonished you? It means to fill with wonder or surprise. Our English word comes from the Latin, ‘extonare.' Extonare literally means ‘out + to thunder.' It is equivalent to “strike with lightning.” When I was in seventh grade, my favorite teacher taught Geography. I liked many of my teachers, but I liked him the best of all. He was interesting. He related to his students. And he maintained firm control of his class. Something you must do with Junior High students!
There were at least two things that astonished me during that class. The first one came later when I became an adult and reflected on his disciplinary method. When he would leave the room, he would tell the class that there would be no talking. Of course, there would be consequences if you were caught, but most would obey out respect and fear. The astonishing thing to me was that no one would talk (other than a rare whisper from the back). The room would be totally quiet. It never happened that way in any of my other classes.
The other astonishment moment came one particular day. He would often joke with us and interact with the class. On that day in November, he came back from the office and announced to the class that the president had been shot. At first, some thought that he was joking, but he quickly made it very clear that he was not. When I think of being astonished, that it is what comes to my mind – it was like we were struck by lightning, but lived. There were shock and disbelief on the faces of everyone in that room.
One day Jesus encountered a rich young man. The man wanted to know how to inherit eternal life. Jesus told him to obey the commandments. He told Jesus that he had kept them from his youth. Then Jesus told him to sell all that had and to give to the poor, and to come and take up his cross and follow Him. He went away sad for he had great possessions. Jesus then looked at His disciples and said, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” (Mark 10:25) Because they believed that wealth was a sign of God’s blessing, His disciples were “greatly astonished” saying among themselves, “Who then can be saved?”(v 27)
Just as my teacher astonished the class with the news of the shooting of the president, Jesus astonished His followers. And as I clearly remember the events of that day in November in1963, I’m sure Jesus’ disciples remembered this incident and His comforting words to their question, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible;” – even the ability to save a wretch like me. And to me, that is truly astonishing!
In Everything Give Thanks???
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
How two-stepping happy we are bounding out the door when feeling healthy, wealthy and wise. We take a delighted skip through nature, kissing cute chubby-cheeked babies, petting pets and singing in the sunshine. We’re rejoicing, praising and shouting thanks with attitudes of gratitudes. Life is good.
What happens when life isn’t good? What do we do when there’s “no fruit on the vines, the fields yield no food, and there is no herd in the stalls?” (Hab 3:17) When our leprosy remains, and death plays no favorites? When nature’s wind blows out the shine of the sun and drops destruction in our laps? Rejoice always? Pray without ceasing? In everything give thanks? These are the will of God in Christ Jesus for you and me. But how are we to live those things out when “every man at his best state is but vapor?” (Psalm 39:5)
Is not the answer found in the example of the patriarchs? “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.” (Heb 11:13) The Bible says they left the country they came from because they desired a better, heavenly country. “Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.” (vs.16)
Folks, we’re strangers, pilgrims, sojourners, and tent-dwellers. This is no place to build houses, to construct cities. The reality of life isn’t cement; it’s pegs to pound in and pull out. We leave things here. We lose things here. Childhoods and innocence, precious times and precious people, are right here…and then…they are gone. Today is the day we weep over the losses of yesterday unless faith opens our eyes to things afar off: To the promises. To the joy of the journey. To the pilgrimage where precious times eventually become precious monuments, and precious people become precious memories. To a better country where houses and cities stand forever. To eternal gain. To everlasting reunions to the steadfast: “I go to prepare a place for you…and where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:1-4) The always, the without ceasing, the in everything can only be realized when we are assured of the promises of God, embrace them, and sojourn in them.
Citizens of the world have no vision beyond the right here and right now and remorsefully watch time take everything away. They curse the heavens and bewail the brevity of life as it slips from their grasp. How can one rejoice, pray in faith or be thankful with hands once full and now empty? At the very end, empty hands are all they have left.
Do you have empty hands today? Please allow God to fill them with His promises. Then, and only then, can you rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and yes, in everything give thanks.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
How two-stepping happy we are bounding out the door when feeling healthy, wealthy and wise. We take a delighted skip through nature, kissing cute chubby-cheeked babies, petting pets and singing in the sunshine. We’re rejoicing, praising and shouting thanks with attitudes of gratitudes. Life is good.
What happens when life isn’t good? What do we do when there’s “no fruit on the vines, the fields yield no food, and there is no herd in the stalls?” (Hab 3:17) When our leprosy remains, and death plays no favorites? When nature’s wind blows out the shine of the sun and drops destruction in our laps? Rejoice always? Pray without ceasing? In everything give thanks? These are the will of God in Christ Jesus for you and me. But how are we to live those things out when “every man at his best state is but vapor?” (Psalm 39:5)
Is not the answer found in the example of the patriarchs? “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.” (Heb 11:13) The Bible says they left the country they came from because they desired a better, heavenly country. “Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.” (vs.16)
Folks, we’re strangers, pilgrims, sojourners, and tent-dwellers. This is no place to build houses, to construct cities. The reality of life isn’t cement; it’s pegs to pound in and pull out. We leave things here. We lose things here. Childhoods and innocence, precious times and precious people, are right here…and then…they are gone. Today is the day we weep over the losses of yesterday unless faith opens our eyes to things afar off: To the promises. To the joy of the journey. To the pilgrimage where precious times eventually become precious monuments, and precious people become precious memories. To a better country where houses and cities stand forever. To eternal gain. To everlasting reunions to the steadfast: “I go to prepare a place for you…and where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:1-4) The always, the without ceasing, the in everything can only be realized when we are assured of the promises of God, embrace them, and sojourn in them.
Citizens of the world have no vision beyond the right here and right now and remorsefully watch time take everything away. They curse the heavens and bewail the brevity of life as it slips from their grasp. How can one rejoice, pray in faith or be thankful with hands once full and now empty? At the very end, empty hands are all they have left.
Do you have empty hands today? Please allow God to fill them with His promises. Then, and only then, can you rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and yes, in everything give thanks.
How Beautiful!
“How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tiding of good things!” (Romans 10:15)
A few years back I asked the wife if she noticed how beautiful a day we were having: The sky was cloudless and deep blue, the leaves a palette of exploding colors with gold and red and orange and bright yellows. The sun was shining glory all over the place…and she casually replied, “No, I didn’t notice.” Didn’t notice!!! Perhaps she was distracted by busyness or loaded down with too many thoughts as is common in our gotta-rush-world. Ahh, no, she revealed…she just really didn’t pay attention to stuff like that. What!!! I told her: “Hon, you’re missing so much, you have got to open your eyes and stop and look around you. Come here. Look how beautiful everything is! Look over there at the hills. Take a deep breath of fresh air…ahh, is that great or what? Listen to the leaves rustle in the woods. Feel that breeze and its touch of coolness. Taste life!!!”
We live in a world surrounded by scores of people who just really don’t pay attention to that which is most beautiful of all – the Gospel. The feet of Christians are to come into these lives and say, “Look how beautiful the Gospel is! Come here:
Yesterday my wife asked me if I noticed the leaves on our road. She told me how beautiful they were and that there’s a lot of red leaves this year which she loves the best.
“How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tiding of good things!” (Romans 10:15)
A few years back I asked the wife if she noticed how beautiful a day we were having: The sky was cloudless and deep blue, the leaves a palette of exploding colors with gold and red and orange and bright yellows. The sun was shining glory all over the place…and she casually replied, “No, I didn’t notice.” Didn’t notice!!! Perhaps she was distracted by busyness or loaded down with too many thoughts as is common in our gotta-rush-world. Ahh, no, she revealed…she just really didn’t pay attention to stuff like that. What!!! I told her: “Hon, you’re missing so much, you have got to open your eyes and stop and look around you. Come here. Look how beautiful everything is! Look over there at the hills. Take a deep breath of fresh air…ahh, is that great or what? Listen to the leaves rustle in the woods. Feel that breeze and its touch of coolness. Taste life!!!”
We live in a world surrounded by scores of people who just really don’t pay attention to that which is most beautiful of all – the Gospel. The feet of Christians are to come into these lives and say, “Look how beautiful the Gospel is! Come here:
- Look at our wondrous Savior who “humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even death on the cross.” (Philippians 2:8)
- Breathe in deep “as God demonstrated His own love towards us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
- Listen carefully as He explains “you, who were once alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless and above reproach in His sight.” (Colossians 1:21,22)
- Feel His peaceful touch “for He Himself is our peace.” (Ephesians 2:14)
- Taste and “be filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” (Philippians 1:11)
Yesterday my wife asked me if I noticed the leaves on our road. She told me how beautiful they were and that there’s a lot of red leaves this year which she loves the best.
The Tender Mercies of God
The other day I went for a walk at Bushy Run. I would have to say that it is one of my favorite places to walk. As you dip down past the museum on the main trail, you go through a small patch of hemlocks and pines. It is always a little cooler through there. Starting up the hill and around the bend, you break out into an area that is more open woods. In the fall this spot bursts forth upon you with a spectrum of yellows and oranges from the variety of deciduous trees. This day I saw several people who were trying to capture the beauty of the park on film.
It amazes me how God has designed His universe to speak to us about Himself, yet so many never see the Designer behind His design. The creation is admired and worshipped rather than the Creator who is blessed forever. (Rom 1:25)
The many events that take place in the natural realm are designed to draw us to Him. (Rom 1:20) The color of the fall leaves, the frost on the morning grass, the fog in the valley, the snow on the mountaintops, the awesomeness of an approaching summer storm are only a few of the innumerable ways in which God has declared Himself to us. David in a Psalm of praise announced, “The Lord is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works.” (Ps 145:9) The painted landscape is just one of those tender mercies, kindnesses, that God puts in our path.
God is good to us in countless ways even to those who ignore and reject Him. If we follow those tender mercies as they are revealed to us, they ultimately lead us to His Son. Like Jeremiah realized after the destruction of Jerusalem, “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness.” (Lam 3:22,23)
Think of all how His creation declares His tender mercies toward us. Even greater we see through His written word, the great mercy extended to us in His Son, for “God demonstrated His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Rom 5:8) Therefore Peter exclaims, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,…” (1 Peter 1:3) It was through the tender mercy of God that He sent His Son. (Luke 1:78) Have you responded to the mercy God has offered you in His Son? Can you proclaim with Jeremiah concerning His tender mercies… that they are new every morning?
Bless the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,… Psalm 103:1-4
The other day I went for a walk at Bushy Run. I would have to say that it is one of my favorite places to walk. As you dip down past the museum on the main trail, you go through a small patch of hemlocks and pines. It is always a little cooler through there. Starting up the hill and around the bend, you break out into an area that is more open woods. In the fall this spot bursts forth upon you with a spectrum of yellows and oranges from the variety of deciduous trees. This day I saw several people who were trying to capture the beauty of the park on film.
It amazes me how God has designed His universe to speak to us about Himself, yet so many never see the Designer behind His design. The creation is admired and worshipped rather than the Creator who is blessed forever. (Rom 1:25)
The many events that take place in the natural realm are designed to draw us to Him. (Rom 1:20) The color of the fall leaves, the frost on the morning grass, the fog in the valley, the snow on the mountaintops, the awesomeness of an approaching summer storm are only a few of the innumerable ways in which God has declared Himself to us. David in a Psalm of praise announced, “The Lord is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works.” (Ps 145:9) The painted landscape is just one of those tender mercies, kindnesses, that God puts in our path.
God is good to us in countless ways even to those who ignore and reject Him. If we follow those tender mercies as they are revealed to us, they ultimately lead us to His Son. Like Jeremiah realized after the destruction of Jerusalem, “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness.” (Lam 3:22,23)
Think of all how His creation declares His tender mercies toward us. Even greater we see through His written word, the great mercy extended to us in His Son, for “God demonstrated His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Rom 5:8) Therefore Peter exclaims, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,…” (1 Peter 1:3) It was through the tender mercy of God that He sent His Son. (Luke 1:78) Have you responded to the mercy God has offered you in His Son? Can you proclaim with Jeremiah concerning His tender mercies… that they are new every morning?
Bless the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,… Psalm 103:1-4
How good are you?
My mother told me that the most significant hurdle of her coming to faith was the truth that no one is good. – “There’s no one who does good, no, not one. (Rom 3:12) In fact, in her words, she said, “I knew people that would give you the shirt off their back, and they’re not good?” She almost decided not to go back to church for that reason. Fortunately for her and me and my brother and our children, the Holy Spirit worked in her heart and enabled her to see that truth.
The world makes excuses all the time for bad behavior. He or she had an absentee father…their mother disciplined them too much…their parents were too permissive…their teacher abused them… etc. The world will never call it sin. That’s because, from the world’s point of view, people are inherently good. It’s the things in their environment that cause them to do bad things. And furthermore in today’s world more and more evil things are not even considered evil anymore. It doesn’t take much to live up to the standard of the world.
But God said, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” (1 Pet 1:16) Compare yourself to God and see how you look? Isaiah the prophet did and responded, “Woe to me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips… (Is 6:5) Peter realized the wickedness of his heart after a miraculous catch of fish. “…he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord. (Luke 5:8) The great apostle Paul stated that he counted all his work as rubbish that he might gain Christ and “be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith.” (Phil 3:8, 9)
The world, though, never compares itself to a holy righteous God. People usually compare themselves with other people. And we can always find someone that’s worse than we are. Hopefully, you realize that compared to God you aren’t good because ultimately…it's His standard that counts!
My mother told me that the most significant hurdle of her coming to faith was the truth that no one is good. – “There’s no one who does good, no, not one. (Rom 3:12) In fact, in her words, she said, “I knew people that would give you the shirt off their back, and they’re not good?” She almost decided not to go back to church for that reason. Fortunately for her and me and my brother and our children, the Holy Spirit worked in her heart and enabled her to see that truth.
The world makes excuses all the time for bad behavior. He or she had an absentee father…their mother disciplined them too much…their parents were too permissive…their teacher abused them… etc. The world will never call it sin. That’s because, from the world’s point of view, people are inherently good. It’s the things in their environment that cause them to do bad things. And furthermore in today’s world more and more evil things are not even considered evil anymore. It doesn’t take much to live up to the standard of the world.
But God said, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” (1 Pet 1:16) Compare yourself to God and see how you look? Isaiah the prophet did and responded, “Woe to me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips… (Is 6:5) Peter realized the wickedness of his heart after a miraculous catch of fish. “…he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord. (Luke 5:8) The great apostle Paul stated that he counted all his work as rubbish that he might gain Christ and “be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith.” (Phil 3:8, 9)
The world, though, never compares itself to a holy righteous God. People usually compare themselves with other people. And we can always find someone that’s worse than we are. Hopefully, you realize that compared to God you aren’t good because ultimately…it's His standard that counts!
Silence is Golden
“When You said, ‘seek My face,’ My heart said to You, ‘Your face, Lord, I will seek.” (Psalm 34:8)
There is a saying that silence is golden. However, most of us cannot stand to be home alone without the television or radio playing. Also, text messages and cell phone calls seem to disrupt much of the day for some. I have noticed that some folks cannot go through an entire meal without getting a call or a message. And if it’s not a friend calling, often it is a telemarketer annoying us.
In Sunday school we discussed the fact that sometimes we can read a whole chapter and not remember what we read. Our minds are off on some distant problem, and our focus is not on God. The events and redundancies of life have a profound way of filling our minds.
If you were asked, ‘what do you have to do this week?’ How would you answer? Most of us would list a number of things. Many of them would be good. Some would be helpful to others. Some things might be frivolous. Would that list include a time set aside to spend with the Lord? … “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) If not, why not try fifteen minutes without interruption or interference this week? You may find that the quietness and silence with Him is indeed golden!
“When You said, ‘seek My face,’ My heart said to You, ‘Your face, Lord, I will seek.” (Psalm 34:8)
There is a saying that silence is golden. However, most of us cannot stand to be home alone without the television or radio playing. Also, text messages and cell phone calls seem to disrupt much of the day for some. I have noticed that some folks cannot go through an entire meal without getting a call or a message. And if it’s not a friend calling, often it is a telemarketer annoying us.
In Sunday school we discussed the fact that sometimes we can read a whole chapter and not remember what we read. Our minds are off on some distant problem, and our focus is not on God. The events and redundancies of life have a profound way of filling our minds.
If you were asked, ‘what do you have to do this week?’ How would you answer? Most of us would list a number of things. Many of them would be good. Some would be helpful to others. Some things might be frivolous. Would that list include a time set aside to spend with the Lord? … “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) If not, why not try fifteen minutes without interruption or interference this week? You may find that the quietness and silence with Him is indeed golden!
Retirement
“And I will say to my soul, ‘Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you.’” (Luke 12:19, 20)
We take our plans for retirement quite seriously, do we not? And well we should. But a friend of mine points out, “Isn’t it something how much planning and preparation we put into our retirement, but how little planning and preparation we put into our eternity?” Bang! That’s the sound of the head hitting the nail. How much of our focus is on the here and now and getting stuff stored up for then and when – yet we are but pilgrims briefly passing by with forever waiting up ahead. For most, the things of the earth matter, the things of eternity, not so much.
It is wise, and it is prudent to plan for the future, but, how much more so to prepare for eternity. The Bible says there are those “who lay up treasure for [themselves] and [are] not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:21) That is the foolish one. The Bible also says, “Seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Luke 12:31) That is the wise one. One ends up with nothing, the other with all.
Where are you today? Pursuing nothing or pursuing all? “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Luke 12:34)
“And I will say to my soul, ‘Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you.’” (Luke 12:19, 20)
We take our plans for retirement quite seriously, do we not? And well we should. But a friend of mine points out, “Isn’t it something how much planning and preparation we put into our retirement, but how little planning and preparation we put into our eternity?” Bang! That’s the sound of the head hitting the nail. How much of our focus is on the here and now and getting stuff stored up for then and when – yet we are but pilgrims briefly passing by with forever waiting up ahead. For most, the things of the earth matter, the things of eternity, not so much.
It is wise, and it is prudent to plan for the future, but, how much more so to prepare for eternity. The Bible says there are those “who lay up treasure for [themselves] and [are] not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:21) That is the foolish one. The Bible also says, “Seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Luke 12:31) That is the wise one. One ends up with nothing, the other with all.
Where are you today? Pursuing nothing or pursuing all? “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Luke 12:34)
God’s Final Warning
A lot of Christians tend to shy away from the book of Revelation. Some think that it cannot be understood. For others, it creates fear – out of sight out of mind sort of thing. They just don’t want to think about it. Others seem to think since it has been almost 2,000 years and it hasn’t happened; then it’s not going to happen. And still others do not see God as judgmental – He loves everyone except maybe for Hitler, Stalin, Saddam, and a few other really ‘bad’ people.
Writing about the judgment of God is difficult. I believe it's hard because none of us deserve His mercy and grace. Thus none of us have any authority to expound on it except that the Bible speaks of it. It is only because of His word that it must be brought to light. God spoke of it. Therefore, we must. How loving would God be if He had never told us that He would judge us if we choose to ignore Him; that there are no consequences for rejecting His Son? When we recognize what we deserve, we begin to realize the extent of His love for us. We become infinitely thankful for His warnings.
God has warned numerous times about judgment for disobedience and unbelief. Enoch, the seventh generation from Adam, prophesied that the Lord would come to execute judgment on the ungodly. (Jude 14, 15) Noah was a preacher of righteousness before the flood came as judgment upon the world. (2 Peter 2:5) God decreed to Israel over and over that they would be judged for their disobedience. (Deut 28:15-68; Lev 26:18-39; Josh 23:16; Jer 11:1-5) God forewarned through the prophet Isaiah that He will punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity. (Isa 13:11) Jesus warned that those who reject Him would be subject to the wrath of God. (John 3:36) And the last book of the Bible gives us a detailed account of His final judgment, a final warning. God has warned mankind. But if you reject His warning you risk entering the most terrible time earth has ever experienced. You may be one of those hiding in the rocks and caves from “the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb.” (Rev 6:15, 16) Worse yet if you were to die today, you will “be punished with an everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the power of His glory…” (I Thess 1:9)
But the good news is that God loves you and has provided a way for you to avoid the judgment that is coming upon man. He demonstrated His love toward us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. (Rom 5:8) Jesus Christ paid the penalty for your sin and mine. By placing your faith in Christ as your personal Savior, you are justified (declared righteous) by His blood and shall be saved from wrath through Him. (Rom 5:9) And because He lives you will also live. (John 14:19) In the end, every person will either be with Him or against Him. God has given us a final warning!
A lot of Christians tend to shy away from the book of Revelation. Some think that it cannot be understood. For others, it creates fear – out of sight out of mind sort of thing. They just don’t want to think about it. Others seem to think since it has been almost 2,000 years and it hasn’t happened; then it’s not going to happen. And still others do not see God as judgmental – He loves everyone except maybe for Hitler, Stalin, Saddam, and a few other really ‘bad’ people.
Writing about the judgment of God is difficult. I believe it's hard because none of us deserve His mercy and grace. Thus none of us have any authority to expound on it except that the Bible speaks of it. It is only because of His word that it must be brought to light. God spoke of it. Therefore, we must. How loving would God be if He had never told us that He would judge us if we choose to ignore Him; that there are no consequences for rejecting His Son? When we recognize what we deserve, we begin to realize the extent of His love for us. We become infinitely thankful for His warnings.
God has warned numerous times about judgment for disobedience and unbelief. Enoch, the seventh generation from Adam, prophesied that the Lord would come to execute judgment on the ungodly. (Jude 14, 15) Noah was a preacher of righteousness before the flood came as judgment upon the world. (2 Peter 2:5) God decreed to Israel over and over that they would be judged for their disobedience. (Deut 28:15-68; Lev 26:18-39; Josh 23:16; Jer 11:1-5) God forewarned through the prophet Isaiah that He will punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity. (Isa 13:11) Jesus warned that those who reject Him would be subject to the wrath of God. (John 3:36) And the last book of the Bible gives us a detailed account of His final judgment, a final warning. God has warned mankind. But if you reject His warning you risk entering the most terrible time earth has ever experienced. You may be one of those hiding in the rocks and caves from “the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb.” (Rev 6:15, 16) Worse yet if you were to die today, you will “be punished with an everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the power of His glory…” (I Thess 1:9)
But the good news is that God loves you and has provided a way for you to avoid the judgment that is coming upon man. He demonstrated His love toward us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. (Rom 5:8) Jesus Christ paid the penalty for your sin and mine. By placing your faith in Christ as your personal Savior, you are justified (declared righteous) by His blood and shall be saved from wrath through Him. (Rom 5:9) And because He lives you will also live. (John 14:19) In the end, every person will either be with Him or against Him. God has given us a final warning!
How successful are you?
Barnes and Noble started emailing me coupons and advertisements over a year ago. I usually just delete them, but this last time I decided to check out their offering. As usual, I was not interested, but it spurred a thought – how many books do they have about success. Well, I searched ‘success’ on their site, and over 30,000 items came up. People are interested in being successful and succeeding in all areas of life. What about you? Do you want to be successful?
Webster’s dictionary defines success as a favorable outcome. A secondary meaning is to gain wealth, fame, or rank. It is this definition that most people use when speaking about success. In our culture, if you have acquired wealth and status then you are successful.
The Bible only uses the word success one time. The Lord was speaking to Joshua after the death of Moses. He was going to lead them into the promised land of Canaan. God commanded Joshua, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (Joshua 1:8) Success, as defined by God, is one who lives life depending on Him and trusting in His Word. It is precisely the opposite of the world’s definition, which emphasizes human potential and accomplishment apart from God.
Real success is rooted in God and His word. For “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (II Tim 3:16, 17) If you desire success do not be conformed to the world’s way of thinking. Look to God and His word. All the things that the world defines as success will one day be destroyed, “… But he who does the will of God abides forever.” (I John 2:17)
Barnes and Noble started emailing me coupons and advertisements over a year ago. I usually just delete them, but this last time I decided to check out their offering. As usual, I was not interested, but it spurred a thought – how many books do they have about success. Well, I searched ‘success’ on their site, and over 30,000 items came up. People are interested in being successful and succeeding in all areas of life. What about you? Do you want to be successful?
Webster’s dictionary defines success as a favorable outcome. A secondary meaning is to gain wealth, fame, or rank. It is this definition that most people use when speaking about success. In our culture, if you have acquired wealth and status then you are successful.
The Bible only uses the word success one time. The Lord was speaking to Joshua after the death of Moses. He was going to lead them into the promised land of Canaan. God commanded Joshua, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (Joshua 1:8) Success, as defined by God, is one who lives life depending on Him and trusting in His Word. It is precisely the opposite of the world’s definition, which emphasizes human potential and accomplishment apart from God.
Real success is rooted in God and His word. For “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (II Tim 3:16, 17) If you desire success do not be conformed to the world’s way of thinking. Look to God and His word. All the things that the world defines as success will one day be destroyed, “… But he who does the will of God abides forever.” (I John 2:17)
SAVED: Past, Present & Future
This graph is an enormous help in understanding the realities of living the Christian life. The mixing up of justification and sanctification has done much to waylay Christians and the Church over the years.
Many believe we have to “work” to be saved (justified). They think we have to “be good” and “be (doing) good” (works) to be saved. But the work was done by Christ on the Cross. It was a one and done. “It is finished!” The penalty for sin has been paid in full.
What must we do? “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31) We believe and trust in what He has done for us that we could never do for ourselves. Then the truth of Ephesians 2:8 immediately comes to pass: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Verse nine assures us our works do not play a part. BUT we like works. We want to earn our salvation; we want to justify ourselves. What is that saying? “NO CAN DO!”
Many bring that same approach to the post-justification life-long process of sanctification (being progressively transformed by the Lord into His likeness). Rather than cooperating with the Lord in the course of being made like Him; we try instead to “work” to STAY saved. But again, we can do nothing apart from Him. He must do the work in us and through us. Our part is to cooperate as vessels for the Master’s use.
I think the following verse (2:10) trips some up further – “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus FOR good works, which God prepared beforehand that we SHOULD walk in them.” I capitalized the word “for” because I believe a lot of folks replace it with “and” – seeing it as Christ Jesus “and” good works. They want to add works to the equation because again, we like works. It’s about us and what we do in our power (egocentric), not what He does in and through us in His Power (Theocentric).
I also capitalized the word “should” because it says we should walk in them. What if we don’t walk in them as we should? There will be consequences, some being: We will not experience the abundant life He promises. We will not be fruitful nor useful to our and other’s loss. We will not have the level of relationship nor fellowship with Him that we could possess. We will suffer the loss of reward at the Bema seat. BUT we will not lose our salvation. Our justification will not get tossed on the scrap heap along with us.
When we “back-flush” sanctification into justification, we tend to judge other believers, and even ourselves, as to whether we are saved or not. That can get us onto the slippery slope of grace lost, and legalism found. That is a slope we want to avoid.
This graph is an enormous help in understanding the realities of living the Christian life. The mixing up of justification and sanctification has done much to waylay Christians and the Church over the years.
Many believe we have to “work” to be saved (justified). They think we have to “be good” and “be (doing) good” (works) to be saved. But the work was done by Christ on the Cross. It was a one and done. “It is finished!” The penalty for sin has been paid in full.
What must we do? “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31) We believe and trust in what He has done for us that we could never do for ourselves. Then the truth of Ephesians 2:8 immediately comes to pass: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Verse nine assures us our works do not play a part. BUT we like works. We want to earn our salvation; we want to justify ourselves. What is that saying? “NO CAN DO!”
Many bring that same approach to the post-justification life-long process of sanctification (being progressively transformed by the Lord into His likeness). Rather than cooperating with the Lord in the course of being made like Him; we try instead to “work” to STAY saved. But again, we can do nothing apart from Him. He must do the work in us and through us. Our part is to cooperate as vessels for the Master’s use.
I think the following verse (2:10) trips some up further – “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus FOR good works, which God prepared beforehand that we SHOULD walk in them.” I capitalized the word “for” because I believe a lot of folks replace it with “and” – seeing it as Christ Jesus “and” good works. They want to add works to the equation because again, we like works. It’s about us and what we do in our power (egocentric), not what He does in and through us in His Power (Theocentric).
I also capitalized the word “should” because it says we should walk in them. What if we don’t walk in them as we should? There will be consequences, some being: We will not experience the abundant life He promises. We will not be fruitful nor useful to our and other’s loss. We will not have the level of relationship nor fellowship with Him that we could possess. We will suffer the loss of reward at the Bema seat. BUT we will not lose our salvation. Our justification will not get tossed on the scrap heap along with us.
When we “back-flush” sanctification into justification, we tend to judge other believers, and even ourselves, as to whether we are saved or not. That can get us onto the slippery slope of grace lost, and legalism found. That is a slope we want to avoid.
Would You Like to Know the Truth?
That was the title of a pamphlet that I found inside a Gideon Bible while on vacation this summer. Can you guess who published the booklet? It was the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, the publishing arm of the Jehovah Witnesses. The little-folded tract sounded good. For example, on the front page, it states, “There is…one book that contains reliable answers. …Today we know that Word as the Holy Bible.” However, the information contained within was far from the truth.
For example one of the six segments asks, “What happens to us when we die?” The Watch Tower answers, “What the Bible teaches: At death, humans cease to exist” The article also strongly implies that the wicked are not punished in an everlasting hell.
The Bible never teaches that life ceases to exist. Death in the Bible refers to the separation of the body and soul. The body dies (ceases to function), but the soul lives on into eternity, either with God or away from the presence of God in Hell.
Death also means to be separated from God. Every person is born in such a spiritual condition. (Rom 5:12, 14, 17, 21) Each one is spiritually dead until he or she turns to God by placing his/her faith in the Lord Jesus believing that He died for them and rose from the dead.
The apostle Paul saw death as gain for the saved. “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Phil 1:21) To me, ceasing to exist is not gain.
According to Corinthians 5 verses 6 thru 9, the apostle indicates that we are either absent from the Lord while in the body or present with Him when we are no longer in this body. It is either one or the other.
Lastly, who are the souls under the altar in Revelation 6 verse 9? According to this verse, they are individuals who have been martyred for their faith. And even though their body has died, they speak out and are told to rest with their fellow servants. Clearly they did not cease to exist.
Would you like to know the truth? The truth is you will never cease to exist. The Bible states, “It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.”(Heb 9:27) And this judgment will be based on Whom you have placed your faith. “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:17) However, “…he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him. (John 3:36) As you live on after physical death, where will you spend your eternity?
That was the title of a pamphlet that I found inside a Gideon Bible while on vacation this summer. Can you guess who published the booklet? It was the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, the publishing arm of the Jehovah Witnesses. The little-folded tract sounded good. For example, on the front page, it states, “There is…one book that contains reliable answers. …Today we know that Word as the Holy Bible.” However, the information contained within was far from the truth.
For example one of the six segments asks, “What happens to us when we die?” The Watch Tower answers, “What the Bible teaches: At death, humans cease to exist” The article also strongly implies that the wicked are not punished in an everlasting hell.
The Bible never teaches that life ceases to exist. Death in the Bible refers to the separation of the body and soul. The body dies (ceases to function), but the soul lives on into eternity, either with God or away from the presence of God in Hell.
Death also means to be separated from God. Every person is born in such a spiritual condition. (Rom 5:12, 14, 17, 21) Each one is spiritually dead until he or she turns to God by placing his/her faith in the Lord Jesus believing that He died for them and rose from the dead.
The apostle Paul saw death as gain for the saved. “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Phil 1:21) To me, ceasing to exist is not gain.
According to Corinthians 5 verses 6 thru 9, the apostle indicates that we are either absent from the Lord while in the body or present with Him when we are no longer in this body. It is either one or the other.
Lastly, who are the souls under the altar in Revelation 6 verse 9? According to this verse, they are individuals who have been martyred for their faith. And even though their body has died, they speak out and are told to rest with their fellow servants. Clearly they did not cease to exist.
Would you like to know the truth? The truth is you will never cease to exist. The Bible states, “It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.”(Heb 9:27) And this judgment will be based on Whom you have placed your faith. “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:17) However, “…he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him. (John 3:36) As you live on after physical death, where will you spend your eternity?
Pain’s Way
“…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us…” (Hebrews 12:1b)
Anyone who knows me knows my little grandson is the apple of my eye. We are close buds. That might explain why Pappy occasionally endures a bit of pain at the hands of the young lad. Like when he sat on my lap playing with the plastic pliers from his workbench. He got my thumb in the pliers and did a squeeze experiment. Hey, he’s learning things. Well, my thumb survived as we shared a giggle. Then he decided to place the pliers on my nose. My thumb was no worse for the wear, so I felt my snout would be okay as well. “Ouch…ouch…ouch, let go, honey, ahh…let go!” I managed to get my hands on the pliers and relieved the little nose crusher’s grip. At that point, you figure Pappy has learned some things too. No. It seems Pap is a bit slow. The pliers were next affixed to Pappy’s neck. “Not so bad…just a slight pinch…Yeowwww!…let go honey…are those stars I see?…Ohhh!” Finally, Pappy brought the little tool wielder’s exercise to a close…
It may be somewhat difficult to imagine us purposely putting ourselves in pain’s way, yet many of us do on a regular basis. How so? We choose to sin. Sin hurts us. Even if sin dresses up and masquerades as pleasure, the weight and consequences will bring pain into our lives. Our relationship with God will suffer. That hurts us. It hurts Him. And that may hurt most of all. Our relationships with others will be affected as well. Sin weighs everything in life down. King David in the aftermath of the Bathsheba debacle describes, “For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into the drought of summer.” (Psalm 32:4)
When we indulge in sin, especially in our pet sins which so easily ensnare us, we can be assured of an upcoming appointment with another kind of pain – the pain of God’s chastening. The Bible tells us: “…God deals with (us) as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?” (Hebrews 12:7) In fact, if we discover God’s chastening is absent, we best take notice, for again, we are told, this gives evidence that we are not sons and daughters at all. (v.8)
“Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” (v.11) You see, sin’s way is pain’s way. The pain of sin. The pain of correction. I’m not a big fan of pain – how about you?
…I’m lying in the yard on my stomach waiting for my rider to climb on. He likes to ride on the Pappy horsey. Suddenly, “thwack, thwack, thwack” on my back. I quickly turn sideways to discover another experiment: Hit Pappy with his plastic golf club, in this case, his putter. I carefully and firmly explain we do not hit people with golf clubs. “Okay!” he cheerfully responds, scurrying off. I resume my horse position and wait. “WHACK, WHACK, WHACK” on my back. Again, I whirl sideways. This time he has his driver. Hey, he’s learning things!
“…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us…” (Hebrews 12:1b)
Anyone who knows me knows my little grandson is the apple of my eye. We are close buds. That might explain why Pappy occasionally endures a bit of pain at the hands of the young lad. Like when he sat on my lap playing with the plastic pliers from his workbench. He got my thumb in the pliers and did a squeeze experiment. Hey, he’s learning things. Well, my thumb survived as we shared a giggle. Then he decided to place the pliers on my nose. My thumb was no worse for the wear, so I felt my snout would be okay as well. “Ouch…ouch…ouch, let go, honey, ahh…let go!” I managed to get my hands on the pliers and relieved the little nose crusher’s grip. At that point, you figure Pappy has learned some things too. No. It seems Pap is a bit slow. The pliers were next affixed to Pappy’s neck. “Not so bad…just a slight pinch…Yeowwww!…let go honey…are those stars I see?…Ohhh!” Finally, Pappy brought the little tool wielder’s exercise to a close…
It may be somewhat difficult to imagine us purposely putting ourselves in pain’s way, yet many of us do on a regular basis. How so? We choose to sin. Sin hurts us. Even if sin dresses up and masquerades as pleasure, the weight and consequences will bring pain into our lives. Our relationship with God will suffer. That hurts us. It hurts Him. And that may hurt most of all. Our relationships with others will be affected as well. Sin weighs everything in life down. King David in the aftermath of the Bathsheba debacle describes, “For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into the drought of summer.” (Psalm 32:4)
When we indulge in sin, especially in our pet sins which so easily ensnare us, we can be assured of an upcoming appointment with another kind of pain – the pain of God’s chastening. The Bible tells us: “…God deals with (us) as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?” (Hebrews 12:7) In fact, if we discover God’s chastening is absent, we best take notice, for again, we are told, this gives evidence that we are not sons and daughters at all. (v.8)
“Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” (v.11) You see, sin’s way is pain’s way. The pain of sin. The pain of correction. I’m not a big fan of pain – how about you?
…I’m lying in the yard on my stomach waiting for my rider to climb on. He likes to ride on the Pappy horsey. Suddenly, “thwack, thwack, thwack” on my back. I quickly turn sideways to discover another experiment: Hit Pappy with his plastic golf club, in this case, his putter. I carefully and firmly explain we do not hit people with golf clubs. “Okay!” he cheerfully responds, scurrying off. I resume my horse position and wait. “WHACK, WHACK, WHACK” on my back. Again, I whirl sideways. This time he has his driver. Hey, he’s learning things!
Midst of the Ashes
“And (Job) took for himself a potsherd with which to scrape himself while he sat in the midst of the ashes.” (Job 2:8)
Job lost his oxen and donkeys and servants tending them. Job lost his sheep and the servants tending them. Job lost his camels and the servants tending them. Job lost all ten of his children. Job tore his robe. Job shaved his head. Job fell to the ground and worshiped while crafting an image of faith unequaled: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” (1:20-21)
Job lost his health. His grieving wife remained, not a comfort, but a thorn, and said, “Curse God and die.” But Job responded, “Shall we accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” (2:9-10)
Job suffered. Job crafting an image of this fallen world unequaled said, “May the day perish on which I was born…” (3:3) He added, “For the thing I greatly feared has come upon me, and what I dreaded has happened to me.” (3:25)
Job did not understand. “Cause me to understand wherein I have erred.” (6:24) “Have I sinned? What have I done to You, O watcher of men?” (7:20)
Job was angry. Of God, he says, “He crushes me with a tempest, and multiplies my wounds without cause.” (9:17)
Job was frustrated. Of his supposed friends, he says, “No doubt you are the people, and wisdom will die with you…“You are all worthless physicians.” (12:2; 13:4)
Job briefly rallies. “Though He slays me, yet will I trust Him. Even so, I will defend my own ways before Him. He also shall be my salvation…” (13:15-16)
Job reflects on the brevity of life. “Man who is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble. He comes forth like a flower and fades away…” (14:1-2)
Job acknowledges the boundaries of life. “Since (man’s) days are determined, the number of his months is with You; You have appointed his limits, so that he cannot pass.” (14:5)
Job blames God for his present lot in life. “I was at ease, but He has shattered me…” (16:12)
Job stands up; Job man’s up: “For I know that my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth; and after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God.” (19:25-26) and “He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.” (23:10)
And so goes the life of Job in the land of Uz centuries past. We observe him on top of the world and the bottom of the world, much of which took place in the midst of the ashes. We see him suffering, confused, angry, frustrated, hopeful, reflective, realistic, wrong and right. Job was a man of faith; a faith that was rewarded battered, tested, and finally made as gold.
Can we relate? We may point out Job’s experiences were far more extreme than our own. Still, ours ultimately require the same measure of faith in God if we are to live full and abundant lives as well. Like God’s servant, Job, faith does not always come to us or grow within us because all is good with us. Faith many times will come to us and grow within us in the midst of the ashes.
“And (Job) took for himself a potsherd with which to scrape himself while he sat in the midst of the ashes.” (Job 2:8)
Job lost his oxen and donkeys and servants tending them. Job lost his sheep and the servants tending them. Job lost his camels and the servants tending them. Job lost all ten of his children. Job tore his robe. Job shaved his head. Job fell to the ground and worshiped while crafting an image of faith unequaled: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” (1:20-21)
Job lost his health. His grieving wife remained, not a comfort, but a thorn, and said, “Curse God and die.” But Job responded, “Shall we accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” (2:9-10)
Job suffered. Job crafting an image of this fallen world unequaled said, “May the day perish on which I was born…” (3:3) He added, “For the thing I greatly feared has come upon me, and what I dreaded has happened to me.” (3:25)
Job did not understand. “Cause me to understand wherein I have erred.” (6:24) “Have I sinned? What have I done to You, O watcher of men?” (7:20)
Job was angry. Of God, he says, “He crushes me with a tempest, and multiplies my wounds without cause.” (9:17)
Job was frustrated. Of his supposed friends, he says, “No doubt you are the people, and wisdom will die with you…“You are all worthless physicians.” (12:2; 13:4)
Job briefly rallies. “Though He slays me, yet will I trust Him. Even so, I will defend my own ways before Him. He also shall be my salvation…” (13:15-16)
Job reflects on the brevity of life. “Man who is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble. He comes forth like a flower and fades away…” (14:1-2)
Job acknowledges the boundaries of life. “Since (man’s) days are determined, the number of his months is with You; You have appointed his limits, so that he cannot pass.” (14:5)
Job blames God for his present lot in life. “I was at ease, but He has shattered me…” (16:12)
Job stands up; Job man’s up: “For I know that my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth; and after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God.” (19:25-26) and “He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.” (23:10)
And so goes the life of Job in the land of Uz centuries past. We observe him on top of the world and the bottom of the world, much of which took place in the midst of the ashes. We see him suffering, confused, angry, frustrated, hopeful, reflective, realistic, wrong and right. Job was a man of faith; a faith that was rewarded battered, tested, and finally made as gold.
Can we relate? We may point out Job’s experiences were far more extreme than our own. Still, ours ultimately require the same measure of faith in God if we are to live full and abundant lives as well. Like God’s servant, Job, faith does not always come to us or grow within us because all is good with us. Faith many times will come to us and grow within us in the midst of the ashes.
A Cry for Help
The disciples were on a ship being tossed about on the sea. It was in the middle of the night so you can imagine the peril of their situation. And Jesus came to them walking on the sea. They cried out because of fear, but Jesus immediately calmed them saying, “It is I; do not be afraid.”
In response, Peter was willing to get out of the boat at the Lord’s command and began to walk to Him on the water. As he did the wind caused him to fear, and he began to sink.
Peter often receives much criticism for his rash decisions and failures. However, he was the only one willing to get out of the boat. He took a risk. But his decision to ‘risk it’ was rooted in the Lord and not in chance. And even when his doubts caused him to fail, his cry for help was to the right place. He could have attempted to swim back to the boat or to call to his mates for help. But he cried out, “Lord save me!”
Who do you seek when your faith fails, or the circumstances of life become difficult? You see when Peter cried out, “Jesus immediately stretched out his hand and caught him.” Even in the moments when we fail, He wants us to call out to him, and he will help us. The Psalmist wrote, “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He will also hear their cry and save them.” (Psalm 145:17, 18)
The disciples were on a ship being tossed about on the sea. It was in the middle of the night so you can imagine the peril of their situation. And Jesus came to them walking on the sea. They cried out because of fear, but Jesus immediately calmed them saying, “It is I; do not be afraid.”
In response, Peter was willing to get out of the boat at the Lord’s command and began to walk to Him on the water. As he did the wind caused him to fear, and he began to sink.
Peter often receives much criticism for his rash decisions and failures. However, he was the only one willing to get out of the boat. He took a risk. But his decision to ‘risk it’ was rooted in the Lord and not in chance. And even when his doubts caused him to fail, his cry for help was to the right place. He could have attempted to swim back to the boat or to call to his mates for help. But he cried out, “Lord save me!”
Who do you seek when your faith fails, or the circumstances of life become difficult? You see when Peter cried out, “Jesus immediately stretched out his hand and caught him.” Even in the moments when we fail, He wants us to call out to him, and he will help us. The Psalmist wrote, “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He will also hear their cry and save them.” (Psalm 145:17, 18)
Which King?
“When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him?” (Psalm 8: 3, 4)
David, the shepherd of the sheep, often gazed at the vast world and sky and marveled. The creative power of Almighty God is overwhelming when considered. When a man stands before the glory and majesty of God and His creation with eyes wide open, he cannot help but prostrate fall. Such a man can only breathlessly exclaim, “What is man that You are mindful of him; that You visit him?”
It is the most humbling experience to be naked before our Creator. Fig leaves do not suffice. Perhaps that is the reason so many insist on dismissing Him from the creative process and even refuse the considering. They keep their eyes wide shut. Proud hates humble.
Later, we find King David nearing the end of his life. He has made the final preparations for the temple to be built. The grand old king asks once more, “But who am I, and who are my people that we should be able to offer so willingly as this? For all things come from You, and of Your own, we have given You.” (1 Chr 29:14)
Who David was, was a man after God’s own heart. Upon rejecting the prideful Saul from being king over Israel, the Lord said, “I have found David, the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.” (Acts 13:22) David was not a perfect person, but he was a humble person. Even on the journey from lowly shepherd to the exalted king, he remained humble.
King Saul started small as well and did well when he was small. He did not stay that way. As he grew in position and power, he became proud. “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) Saul fell. His life has become a sad object lesson.
Another King would later arise to rule the then known world in Babylon. His name was Nebuchadnezzar. This pagan king “was walking about the royal palace of Babylon. The king spoke, saying, ‘Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?’” (Dan 4:28-30) The Bible says while Nebuchadnezzar was still speaking those words, “a voice fell from heaven: ‘King Nebuchadnezzar, to you it is spoken: the kingdom has departed from you!’” (v. 31) God resists the proud.
Our present day world has grown more and more inundated with Saul’s and Nebuchadnezzar’s, in the political arena, academia, the media, the entertainment industry, many in the sciences (what passes for science nowadays), and certainly scads of such in the workplace. Even the church has some of these type kings. The Apostle Paul told us in the last days this would occur. (See 2 Tim 3:1-9)
The fact is, folks; the David’s are becoming harder and harder to find. I guess the best question to ask ourselves is – is there a David in my mirror? Yes? Really? One of the first things pride does is blind the proud. Maybe we should look again. No fig leaves. Just God’s splendor and our squalor. Two knees and a floor. Considering. “Who am I?” Which king am I like?
“When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him?” (Psalm 8: 3, 4)
David, the shepherd of the sheep, often gazed at the vast world and sky and marveled. The creative power of Almighty God is overwhelming when considered. When a man stands before the glory and majesty of God and His creation with eyes wide open, he cannot help but prostrate fall. Such a man can only breathlessly exclaim, “What is man that You are mindful of him; that You visit him?”
It is the most humbling experience to be naked before our Creator. Fig leaves do not suffice. Perhaps that is the reason so many insist on dismissing Him from the creative process and even refuse the considering. They keep their eyes wide shut. Proud hates humble.
Later, we find King David nearing the end of his life. He has made the final preparations for the temple to be built. The grand old king asks once more, “But who am I, and who are my people that we should be able to offer so willingly as this? For all things come from You, and of Your own, we have given You.” (1 Chr 29:14)
Who David was, was a man after God’s own heart. Upon rejecting the prideful Saul from being king over Israel, the Lord said, “I have found David, the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.” (Acts 13:22) David was not a perfect person, but he was a humble person. Even on the journey from lowly shepherd to the exalted king, he remained humble.
King Saul started small as well and did well when he was small. He did not stay that way. As he grew in position and power, he became proud. “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) Saul fell. His life has become a sad object lesson.
Another King would later arise to rule the then known world in Babylon. His name was Nebuchadnezzar. This pagan king “was walking about the royal palace of Babylon. The king spoke, saying, ‘Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?’” (Dan 4:28-30) The Bible says while Nebuchadnezzar was still speaking those words, “a voice fell from heaven: ‘King Nebuchadnezzar, to you it is spoken: the kingdom has departed from you!’” (v. 31) God resists the proud.
Our present day world has grown more and more inundated with Saul’s and Nebuchadnezzar’s, in the political arena, academia, the media, the entertainment industry, many in the sciences (what passes for science nowadays), and certainly scads of such in the workplace. Even the church has some of these type kings. The Apostle Paul told us in the last days this would occur. (See 2 Tim 3:1-9)
The fact is, folks; the David’s are becoming harder and harder to find. I guess the best question to ask ourselves is – is there a David in my mirror? Yes? Really? One of the first things pride does is blind the proud. Maybe we should look again. No fig leaves. Just God’s splendor and our squalor. Two knees and a floor. Considering. “Who am I?” Which king am I like?
Inside Out
I enjoy reading the Bible, God’s word. I remember asking myself a long time ago, “If God wrote a book, wouldn’t I want to read it?” When I answered myself in the affirmative, I had no choice but to start reading and I’m glad I did. And because His word is living and active it begins to change you from the inside out.
Yet sometimes I wondered how much has it changed me? Do I just read the words and agree with it, but fail to do what it says? For example, when Paul wrote the Philippians and said, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (1:21) Do I really believe that? Am I living my life totally for Christ? Am I looking at death as gain?
In chapter two Paul writes “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” (v. 5) In his letter to the Corinthians, he told them that we have the mind of Christ. (I Cor 2:16) Well, how often do I approach difficulties in life with this attitude? If I have the mind of Christ, then I certainly ought to act like Him!
And again to the Philippians he wrote, “God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (4:19) If God will provide for all my needs then why do I worry about financial issues? Do I have enough to retire? What will happen if the stock market tanks? Can we afford to send our kids to college? Do I really believe God will meet all my needs?
Reading and studying the Scriptures can be very encouraging. It can sometimes be very convicting. But if you read and study it for all its worth, it will change you from the inside out.
I enjoy reading the Bible, God’s word. I remember asking myself a long time ago, “If God wrote a book, wouldn’t I want to read it?” When I answered myself in the affirmative, I had no choice but to start reading and I’m glad I did. And because His word is living and active it begins to change you from the inside out.
Yet sometimes I wondered how much has it changed me? Do I just read the words and agree with it, but fail to do what it says? For example, when Paul wrote the Philippians and said, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (1:21) Do I really believe that? Am I living my life totally for Christ? Am I looking at death as gain?
In chapter two Paul writes “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” (v. 5) In his letter to the Corinthians, he told them that we have the mind of Christ. (I Cor 2:16) Well, how often do I approach difficulties in life with this attitude? If I have the mind of Christ, then I certainly ought to act like Him!
And again to the Philippians he wrote, “God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (4:19) If God will provide for all my needs then why do I worry about financial issues? Do I have enough to retire? What will happen if the stock market tanks? Can we afford to send our kids to college? Do I really believe God will meet all my needs?
Reading and studying the Scriptures can be very encouraging. It can sometimes be very convicting. But if you read and study it for all its worth, it will change you from the inside out.
The Precepts of Man or the Precepts of God
Ephraim was one of the tribes of Israel and is often used as a representative term for the whole northern kingdom of Israel. Hosea said of Ephraim that they were “oppressed and broken in judgment because he willingly walked by human precept.” (5:11) In their case, they had relied on Assyria for help rather than the Lord.
How many times do we walk by human precept rather than according to the precept of God? Jesus said of the religious leaders, “This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me …teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’(Mark 7:6, 7) The precepts of man come in many different colors. Sometimes we develop a religious system that replaces the relationship that God desires to have with us. Sometimes we walk the way of the world, trusting in the wisdom of man and their philosophies.
Man says that we should pursue wealth. God says “do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth. You cannot serve God and mammon (riches).” (Matt 6:19, 21) Man says that you need to worry about the economy. God says “Do not worry saying what shall we eat or what shall we drink or what shall we wear? …Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matt 6:31-34) Man says that we need to dress in style and look good. God says He “does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (I Sam 16:7) Man says that there are many ways to God. God says there is ONE way. (John 14:6)
What about you? Whose precepts will you walk in today?
Ephraim was one of the tribes of Israel and is often used as a representative term for the whole northern kingdom of Israel. Hosea said of Ephraim that they were “oppressed and broken in judgment because he willingly walked by human precept.” (5:11) In their case, they had relied on Assyria for help rather than the Lord.
How many times do we walk by human precept rather than according to the precept of God? Jesus said of the religious leaders, “This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me …teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’(Mark 7:6, 7) The precepts of man come in many different colors. Sometimes we develop a religious system that replaces the relationship that God desires to have with us. Sometimes we walk the way of the world, trusting in the wisdom of man and their philosophies.
Man says that we should pursue wealth. God says “do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth. You cannot serve God and mammon (riches).” (Matt 6:19, 21) Man says that you need to worry about the economy. God says “Do not worry saying what shall we eat or what shall we drink or what shall we wear? …Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matt 6:31-34) Man says that we need to dress in style and look good. God says He “does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (I Sam 16:7) Man says that there are many ways to God. God says there is ONE way. (John 14:6)
What about you? Whose precepts will you walk in today?
Hope
“Hope is a desire for something to happen while expecting or being confident it will come true. Hope also implies a certain amount of perseverance, believing that something is possible even when there is some evidence to the contrary. Hope may be directed toward something minor to something hugely significant. “False hope” is hoping for something that is extremely unlikely or unrealistic.” (Word IQ)
I wanted, to begin with, a definition of the word - hope - and grabbed this one off the internet. It is a suitable explanation. We can see that hope is not wishful thinking driven along by mere fate, but rather hope is a convinced expectation in something or someone to bring about the desired end. There is also a challenge to our hopes in that it is possible they may be dashed. Nevertheless, we persist, we remain hopeful. We also observe a rather straightforward and obvious fact that hope can be put toward anything from finding a parking place to finding a pot o’ gold. And finally, there is false hope that is indeed wishful thinking and fate based. Hope is a small word with a huge meaning.
Here we will not get into minor hopes, although those little hopes are very common to us all, kind of bind us together. Who among us doesn’t hope to find that parking place at the Mall during the Christmas season? Or hopes the car starts on a bitterly cold morning? Even hopes the wife remembers to get my favorites at the grocery store when she forgot and left my list on the kitchen table - AGAIN! Well, maybe that last one is unique to me.
Bigger hopes span the world. Who doesn’t hope for a better life for their children and grandchildren? Who does not hope for a peaceful and prosperous existence? From the four corners of the globe, universal hopes like these are shared by all people. What if all our hopes in this life came to pass? Not only is there a parking place, but its right next to the store. The wife remembers my grocery list, and brings home everything on it - Woooohoooo!!! What if the generations after us have more than us, and what if our everyday lives here on this earth have a Hawaiian-likeness? Even if all our hopes are realized in this life – what of hope beyond? Is there any? Most people will answer in the affirmative, but fleshed out we find they believe and speak of a false hope. “Well, they’re in a better place now.” Based on what? - Our wishes? – On some nebulous purveyor of fate?
There is a better way: A sure way. The Apostle Peter declares, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Pet 1:3-5) The Apostle Paul tells those in Christ “…you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance…” (Eph 1:13, 14) And Paul reminds us that if we have His Spirit in us, He will “…give life to our mortal bodies through His Spirit…” (Rom 8:11)
Christ dwelling in us is our hope of glory. (Col 1:27) Does He dwell in you today? Do you have a living hope? Do you know for certain that your hope beyond this life will be realized? Hope, real hope, true hope, is in “…our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ, our hope.” (1 Tim 1:1)
“Hope is a desire for something to happen while expecting or being confident it will come true. Hope also implies a certain amount of perseverance, believing that something is possible even when there is some evidence to the contrary. Hope may be directed toward something minor to something hugely significant. “False hope” is hoping for something that is extremely unlikely or unrealistic.” (Word IQ)
I wanted, to begin with, a definition of the word - hope - and grabbed this one off the internet. It is a suitable explanation. We can see that hope is not wishful thinking driven along by mere fate, but rather hope is a convinced expectation in something or someone to bring about the desired end. There is also a challenge to our hopes in that it is possible they may be dashed. Nevertheless, we persist, we remain hopeful. We also observe a rather straightforward and obvious fact that hope can be put toward anything from finding a parking place to finding a pot o’ gold. And finally, there is false hope that is indeed wishful thinking and fate based. Hope is a small word with a huge meaning.
Here we will not get into minor hopes, although those little hopes are very common to us all, kind of bind us together. Who among us doesn’t hope to find that parking place at the Mall during the Christmas season? Or hopes the car starts on a bitterly cold morning? Even hopes the wife remembers to get my favorites at the grocery store when she forgot and left my list on the kitchen table - AGAIN! Well, maybe that last one is unique to me.
Bigger hopes span the world. Who doesn’t hope for a better life for their children and grandchildren? Who does not hope for a peaceful and prosperous existence? From the four corners of the globe, universal hopes like these are shared by all people. What if all our hopes in this life came to pass? Not only is there a parking place, but its right next to the store. The wife remembers my grocery list, and brings home everything on it - Woooohoooo!!! What if the generations after us have more than us, and what if our everyday lives here on this earth have a Hawaiian-likeness? Even if all our hopes are realized in this life – what of hope beyond? Is there any? Most people will answer in the affirmative, but fleshed out we find they believe and speak of a false hope. “Well, they’re in a better place now.” Based on what? - Our wishes? – On some nebulous purveyor of fate?
There is a better way: A sure way. The Apostle Peter declares, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Pet 1:3-5) The Apostle Paul tells those in Christ “…you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance…” (Eph 1:13, 14) And Paul reminds us that if we have His Spirit in us, He will “…give life to our mortal bodies through His Spirit…” (Rom 8:11)
Christ dwelling in us is our hope of glory. (Col 1:27) Does He dwell in you today? Do you have a living hope? Do you know for certain that your hope beyond this life will be realized? Hope, real hope, true hope, is in “…our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ, our hope.” (1 Tim 1:1)
Broken
And He answered and said to them, “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” (Matthew 19:4-6)
It has arrived as expected. The popular culture has officially endorsed same-sex marriage. Nevertheless, the issue of what is marriage is far beyond ambiguity. Jesus states it above, for all those “Jesus never said that” folks. Marriage is between a man and a woman. God designed the institution. He brought forth a companion for Adam perfectly made for union. (Gen 2:18) Within this covenant of intended intimacy and sexual expression, the human race would be propagated upon the earth. (Gen 1:28; 9:1) Godly offspring would be the result. (Mal 2:15) And the proper boundaries for sexuality established and fornication prevented. (1 Cor 7:2)
Now folks can attempt to change the meaning all they want. They can say up is down and down is up ad nauseam. But if you drop Newton’s apple it isn’t going up; it’s going down. No surprise though, all this redefining of seemingly everything in the world that trips all over itself to say that evil is good and good is evil. However, what God says is good is good, and what God says is evil is evil. That last sentence will get a dismissive wave of the hand from our secular friends, “God who?” We can expect that. But more than a few professing Christians are joining with those who are only too willing to redraw things such as the definition of marriage. Are they not also giving a dismissive wave of the hand and a “God who?” That is just what they are doing!!! Are we able and willing to engage them on these crucial issues?
Lastly, you know what is so sad and so tragic and so often overlooked in all the hype and politics and emotional fervor in reaction to the homosexual movement; in all the clamor to be “tolerant and open-minded”? Every step seen as moving upward is, in reality, moving downward. (See Romans 1:24-27) These poor people who are held captive by their broken sexuality spiral further and further away from the life God intended for them. The movement’s real aspiration is to have somebody, anybody, and finally, everybody, declaring, “What you are doing is okay.” Their God-given consciences demand such in a feeble attempt to assuage the guilt and the shame.
But are we not all broken people in many ways? And doesn’t that brokenness touch your sexuality and my sexuality as well? (See Matthew 5:27-30) Yes, yes it does. But we should not, we need not, get the world to tell us “What you are doing is okay.” Instead, we need to come to Jesus with our sexual brokenness, with ALL our brokenness, and let Him make us new in heart and mind and spirit and purpose.
No one needs to spiral further and further downward. Not when we have a wonderful God and Savior, who is so willing to heal and make whole that which is broken.
And He answered and said to them, “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” (Matthew 19:4-6)
It has arrived as expected. The popular culture has officially endorsed same-sex marriage. Nevertheless, the issue of what is marriage is far beyond ambiguity. Jesus states it above, for all those “Jesus never said that” folks. Marriage is between a man and a woman. God designed the institution. He brought forth a companion for Adam perfectly made for union. (Gen 2:18) Within this covenant of intended intimacy and sexual expression, the human race would be propagated upon the earth. (Gen 1:28; 9:1) Godly offspring would be the result. (Mal 2:15) And the proper boundaries for sexuality established and fornication prevented. (1 Cor 7:2)
Now folks can attempt to change the meaning all they want. They can say up is down and down is up ad nauseam. But if you drop Newton’s apple it isn’t going up; it’s going down. No surprise though, all this redefining of seemingly everything in the world that trips all over itself to say that evil is good and good is evil. However, what God says is good is good, and what God says is evil is evil. That last sentence will get a dismissive wave of the hand from our secular friends, “God who?” We can expect that. But more than a few professing Christians are joining with those who are only too willing to redraw things such as the definition of marriage. Are they not also giving a dismissive wave of the hand and a “God who?” That is just what they are doing!!! Are we able and willing to engage them on these crucial issues?
Lastly, you know what is so sad and so tragic and so often overlooked in all the hype and politics and emotional fervor in reaction to the homosexual movement; in all the clamor to be “tolerant and open-minded”? Every step seen as moving upward is, in reality, moving downward. (See Romans 1:24-27) These poor people who are held captive by their broken sexuality spiral further and further away from the life God intended for them. The movement’s real aspiration is to have somebody, anybody, and finally, everybody, declaring, “What you are doing is okay.” Their God-given consciences demand such in a feeble attempt to assuage the guilt and the shame.
But are we not all broken people in many ways? And doesn’t that brokenness touch your sexuality and my sexuality as well? (See Matthew 5:27-30) Yes, yes it does. But we should not, we need not, get the world to tell us “What you are doing is okay.” Instead, we need to come to Jesus with our sexual brokenness, with ALL our brokenness, and let Him make us new in heart and mind and spirit and purpose.
No one needs to spiral further and further downward. Not when we have a wonderful God and Savior, who is so willing to heal and make whole that which is broken.
The Blood of Christ Mountains
While on vacation a few summers back, we decided to visit Pike’s Peak. As we were traveling north on Interstate 25, Pike’s Peak became visible in the distance from 50 miles away. It’s not the tallest mountain in Colorado, but it stands with the 50 or so that are over 14,000 feet. As we got closer and closer, that peak loomed larger and larger. We had three options to get to the top – hike up it, drive the 19 miles of a mountain road and hairpins turns, or take the cog train. We decided to go by train.
The ride is a breathtaking hour and twenty minutes of amazing scenery. As you break out of the tree line, you can see for miles. From the top of Pike’s Peak, we were told you could see Kansas on a clear day. To the south, you could see the partially snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Christos Mountains, the Blood of Christ Mountains, named by the Spanish for the reddish tone during sunrise and sunset.
The Bible speaks a lot of mountains, literally and figuratively. Psalm 121 came immediately to mind, “I lift my eyes unto the mountains, from whence shall my help come? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.” (NASV) The Creator of these majestic mountain grandeurs will be my helper! How amazing!
And though you can drive to the top of Pike’s Peak, you must turn around and go back the same way. There is no way down the other side. Well, there may be a few expert climbers that could traverse it, but ultimately they will reach a time in their life that they must go back down the same way.
Pike’s Peak and the Sangre de Christos Mountains reminded me of my sin. There’s no way over, under, or around. I must keep going back the same way and trying again. However, thanks be to God I can trust in His mountain. The mountain of the Lord is greater that the mountain of my sin. Maybe that’s the real reason they named them the Blood of Christ Mountains. For it is “in Him we have redemption through His blood the forgiveness of sin…” (Eph 1:7) These mountains will pass away, but he who trusts in the Lord will have “an everlasting Rock.” (Is 26:4)
While on vacation a few summers back, we decided to visit Pike’s Peak. As we were traveling north on Interstate 25, Pike’s Peak became visible in the distance from 50 miles away. It’s not the tallest mountain in Colorado, but it stands with the 50 or so that are over 14,000 feet. As we got closer and closer, that peak loomed larger and larger. We had three options to get to the top – hike up it, drive the 19 miles of a mountain road and hairpins turns, or take the cog train. We decided to go by train.
The ride is a breathtaking hour and twenty minutes of amazing scenery. As you break out of the tree line, you can see for miles. From the top of Pike’s Peak, we were told you could see Kansas on a clear day. To the south, you could see the partially snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Christos Mountains, the Blood of Christ Mountains, named by the Spanish for the reddish tone during sunrise and sunset.
The Bible speaks a lot of mountains, literally and figuratively. Psalm 121 came immediately to mind, “I lift my eyes unto the mountains, from whence shall my help come? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.” (NASV) The Creator of these majestic mountain grandeurs will be my helper! How amazing!
And though you can drive to the top of Pike’s Peak, you must turn around and go back the same way. There is no way down the other side. Well, there may be a few expert climbers that could traverse it, but ultimately they will reach a time in their life that they must go back down the same way.
Pike’s Peak and the Sangre de Christos Mountains reminded me of my sin. There’s no way over, under, or around. I must keep going back the same way and trying again. However, thanks be to God I can trust in His mountain. The mountain of the Lord is greater that the mountain of my sin. Maybe that’s the real reason they named them the Blood of Christ Mountains. For it is “in Him we have redemption through His blood the forgiveness of sin…” (Eph 1:7) These mountains will pass away, but he who trusts in the Lord will have “an everlasting Rock.” (Is 26:4)
Replacement Theology
“Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You. My heart and my flesh fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:25-26)
I have become a big proponent of replacement theology. I am sure it is the only way to go. No, no, wait, not that replacement theology. Not the false belief system that has bewitched many to believe the church has replaced Israel as God’s people. Not the replacement theology with strong undercurrents of anti-Semitism and boastful sinful pride. (See Romans, chapter 11)
The replacement theology to which I refer has to do with replacing:
• Our thousand and one idols.
• Our fuzzy pet sins we so easily let ensnare us.
• Our constant penchant for self-enthronement.
• Our empty religion.
• Our other multitude of “stuff.”
These things keep us from living and being entirely wrapped up in a relationship with Jesus Christ. He offers us His glory, His worthiness, His Majesty, His salvation and eternal life. He shares His beauty, wonder, abundance and adventure in this life and the life to come. What we must do is cooperate in His increase and our subsequent decrease. He grows bigger and bigger to us and in us, and simultaneously, we become smaller and smaller and smaller.
Yes, I am becoming convinced that fussing and fretting about with the devil and the world and the flesh are futile. Our hearts are indeed deceitful and desperately wicked. (Jeremiah 17:9) The truth is we are dupes even to ourselves. Most often we choose to ignore this fact and endlessly flail about in a vain preoccupation against our sinful desires. We fail to put and keep our focus on the right desire: Being filled with the Spirit! We must have a willingness to live moment by moment in the light, liberty, and wonderment of a risen Christ here and now, as well as in the future and forever.
The Psalm writer came to recognize and testify that his heart failed to stay in the right place. He admitted his flesh failed (it always does). It was this acknowledgment and acceptance that opened the way for him to refocus, and then stay focused, on the only desire in life that matters – having Jesus Christ in our hearts; our portion forever.
Proverbs 4:18 tells us “the path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.” When we walk the path with Jesus ever illuminated before us and abide in Him, we will little by little, leave all else behind us. Our evil desires will become strewn about like unwanted, needless discards, replaced by the right desires – the things of God and His Christ.
“Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You. My heart and my flesh fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:25-26)
I have become a big proponent of replacement theology. I am sure it is the only way to go. No, no, wait, not that replacement theology. Not the false belief system that has bewitched many to believe the church has replaced Israel as God’s people. Not the replacement theology with strong undercurrents of anti-Semitism and boastful sinful pride. (See Romans, chapter 11)
The replacement theology to which I refer has to do with replacing:
• Our thousand and one idols.
• Our fuzzy pet sins we so easily let ensnare us.
• Our constant penchant for self-enthronement.
• Our empty religion.
• Our other multitude of “stuff.”
These things keep us from living and being entirely wrapped up in a relationship with Jesus Christ. He offers us His glory, His worthiness, His Majesty, His salvation and eternal life. He shares His beauty, wonder, abundance and adventure in this life and the life to come. What we must do is cooperate in His increase and our subsequent decrease. He grows bigger and bigger to us and in us, and simultaneously, we become smaller and smaller and smaller.
Yes, I am becoming convinced that fussing and fretting about with the devil and the world and the flesh are futile. Our hearts are indeed deceitful and desperately wicked. (Jeremiah 17:9) The truth is we are dupes even to ourselves. Most often we choose to ignore this fact and endlessly flail about in a vain preoccupation against our sinful desires. We fail to put and keep our focus on the right desire: Being filled with the Spirit! We must have a willingness to live moment by moment in the light, liberty, and wonderment of a risen Christ here and now, as well as in the future and forever.
The Psalm writer came to recognize and testify that his heart failed to stay in the right place. He admitted his flesh failed (it always does). It was this acknowledgment and acceptance that opened the way for him to refocus, and then stay focused, on the only desire in life that matters – having Jesus Christ in our hearts; our portion forever.
Proverbs 4:18 tells us “the path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.” When we walk the path with Jesus ever illuminated before us and abide in Him, we will little by little, leave all else behind us. Our evil desires will become strewn about like unwanted, needless discards, replaced by the right desires – the things of God and His Christ.
To Jerusalem
“If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall also My servant be.” (John 12:26, KJV)
Every day we make thousands of decisions. Life is a constant exercise in decision making. Many believe the most important choices we make are: where we will live, who we’ll marry, what vocation we will pursue and how we will spend our leisure time. Certainly, those are all significant aspects of living and significantly affect the content of life, yet, all pale in comparison to the ultimate decision we face – will we follow Jesus?
Oswald Chambers tells us, “In our Lord’s life, Jerusalem was the place where He reached the climax of His Father’s Will upon the Cross; and unless we go with Jesus there, we will have no companionship with Him. Nothing ever discouraged Our Lord on His way to Jerusalem. He never hurried through certain villages where He was persecuted, or lingered in others where He was blessed. Neither gratitude nor ingratitude turned Our Lord one hair’s breadth away from His purpose to go up to Jerusalem. The same things will happen to us on our way to our Jerusalem. There will be the works of God manifested through us, people will get blessed, and one or two will show gratitude and the rest will show ingratitude, but nothing must deflect us from going up to our Jerusalem.” (My Utmost for His Highest)
Some do choose to follow Him from one degree of glory to another, and where He is, they are. Many are satisfied to engage in religious rituals and behaviors, choosing law over grace and avoiding a personal relationship with the Lord. Others give only a cursory glance at His open arms and embrace apathy instead. Most simply continue their vain pursuit of false gods, running after them on their trek away from Jerusalem to destruction.
Following Jesus, all the way to Jerusalem is death to our self-centered life. Temporal things no longer dominate our time and attention. Christ and eternity and serving God and serving others become our center. We find true fulfillment in giving rather than taking. The world’s alluring promises are perceived for what they truly are – deceitful empty lies! Nevertheless, there are times of great discouragement for the Christ follower. Those times when all seems hopeless when we feel so alone on the narrow road up when we wrestle with our flesh and its desires and lose. There are times when His way seems too hard; we do not understand and turning back looks to be our best option. But, even if all others choose to walk no more with Him, we must press on and finish our journey to Jerusalem.
Where are you today? Are you willing to accept the loss of the things of this world for the gain of the Cross? Are you willing to follow Jesus – even to Jerusalem?
“If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall also My servant be.” (John 12:26, KJV)
Every day we make thousands of decisions. Life is a constant exercise in decision making. Many believe the most important choices we make are: where we will live, who we’ll marry, what vocation we will pursue and how we will spend our leisure time. Certainly, those are all significant aspects of living and significantly affect the content of life, yet, all pale in comparison to the ultimate decision we face – will we follow Jesus?
Oswald Chambers tells us, “In our Lord’s life, Jerusalem was the place where He reached the climax of His Father’s Will upon the Cross; and unless we go with Jesus there, we will have no companionship with Him. Nothing ever discouraged Our Lord on His way to Jerusalem. He never hurried through certain villages where He was persecuted, or lingered in others where He was blessed. Neither gratitude nor ingratitude turned Our Lord one hair’s breadth away from His purpose to go up to Jerusalem. The same things will happen to us on our way to our Jerusalem. There will be the works of God manifested through us, people will get blessed, and one or two will show gratitude and the rest will show ingratitude, but nothing must deflect us from going up to our Jerusalem.” (My Utmost for His Highest)
Some do choose to follow Him from one degree of glory to another, and where He is, they are. Many are satisfied to engage in religious rituals and behaviors, choosing law over grace and avoiding a personal relationship with the Lord. Others give only a cursory glance at His open arms and embrace apathy instead. Most simply continue their vain pursuit of false gods, running after them on their trek away from Jerusalem to destruction.
Following Jesus, all the way to Jerusalem is death to our self-centered life. Temporal things no longer dominate our time and attention. Christ and eternity and serving God and serving others become our center. We find true fulfillment in giving rather than taking. The world’s alluring promises are perceived for what they truly are – deceitful empty lies! Nevertheless, there are times of great discouragement for the Christ follower. Those times when all seems hopeless when we feel so alone on the narrow road up when we wrestle with our flesh and its desires and lose. There are times when His way seems too hard; we do not understand and turning back looks to be our best option. But, even if all others choose to walk no more with Him, we must press on and finish our journey to Jerusalem.
Where are you today? Are you willing to accept the loss of the things of this world for the gain of the Cross? Are you willing to follow Jesus – even to Jerusalem?
Epaphroditus: What’s in a name?
Philippians 2:25-30
How would you have liked to been named Epaphroditus? A lot of folks name their children after Biblical characters, but I have never heard one named after him. Have you?
There is not a whole lot in the Scriptures about the man. But what it does say about him speaks volumes to us today. Paul speaks to him as a brother in the Lord. That’s a good place to start. The man has a relationship with God.
Secondly, he calls him a fellow worker. Well, there are certainly various degrees of workers out there – Right? What kind of worker was he? He was the kind of worker that was willing to travel about 600 miles to minister to the apostle, and it was not a two-hour airplane ride! Furthermore, he was willing to disregard his life for the work of Christ! The words in Scripture say, “Not regarding his life” which was a gambler’s term meaning ‘to throw down a stake.' He wasn’t gambling with his life, but the idea is that he was willing to do for Christ whatever it took to further the gospel and if his life was endangered, so be it.
Thirdly Paul calls him a fellow soldier. A good soldier does what his commander commands him to do. A soldier deals with conflict and opposition. Epaphroditus was now marching to the order of his King – Jesus, “Go you therefore and make disciples.” In fact, he almost died from the trip for “he was sick almost unto death.” Yet he willingly went back to them to encourage them until Paul could make it.
So I ask, are you a brother/sister in the Lord? As a believer what kind of worker are you? What kind of soldier are you? Have you gone AWOL? Or are you marching to the orders of the KING?
Epaphroditus literally meant, ‘devoted to Venus.' That’s the transformation that took place in him. He went from ‘devoted to Venus’ to being ‘devoted to Jesus’! Who or what are you devoting your life to?
Philippians 2:25-30
How would you have liked to been named Epaphroditus? A lot of folks name their children after Biblical characters, but I have never heard one named after him. Have you?
There is not a whole lot in the Scriptures about the man. But what it does say about him speaks volumes to us today. Paul speaks to him as a brother in the Lord. That’s a good place to start. The man has a relationship with God.
Secondly, he calls him a fellow worker. Well, there are certainly various degrees of workers out there – Right? What kind of worker was he? He was the kind of worker that was willing to travel about 600 miles to minister to the apostle, and it was not a two-hour airplane ride! Furthermore, he was willing to disregard his life for the work of Christ! The words in Scripture say, “Not regarding his life” which was a gambler’s term meaning ‘to throw down a stake.' He wasn’t gambling with his life, but the idea is that he was willing to do for Christ whatever it took to further the gospel and if his life was endangered, so be it.
Thirdly Paul calls him a fellow soldier. A good soldier does what his commander commands him to do. A soldier deals with conflict and opposition. Epaphroditus was now marching to the order of his King – Jesus, “Go you therefore and make disciples.” In fact, he almost died from the trip for “he was sick almost unto death.” Yet he willingly went back to them to encourage them until Paul could make it.
So I ask, are you a brother/sister in the Lord? As a believer what kind of worker are you? What kind of soldier are you? Have you gone AWOL? Or are you marching to the orders of the KING?
Epaphroditus literally meant, ‘devoted to Venus.' That’s the transformation that took place in him. He went from ‘devoted to Venus’ to being ‘devoted to Jesus’! Who or what are you devoting your life to?
Cancer
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23)
Cancer. The very word sends chills down the spine. It immediately conjures up the impression of death. It shakes and rattles the very core of the one it strikes. It terrifies their loved ones. It shrinks life and the future to myopic proportions. It consumes days and dreams and delights. It becomes a prison from which escape seems far too elusive. Even so, mankind’s God-given ingenuity, inventiveness, intelligence, and creativity have pushed back at cancer. Cancer no longer means death for many of the stricken. The cure rate for many types of cancer continues to climb steadily. There are hopes and years and dreams and delights ahead. The doors of the prison can be opened to fullness and freedom.
The cancer that invades our bodies is nothing in comparison to the sin which indwells our entire being. Cancer does not come to everyone, and it can be cured. Sin does come to all, and does stay, and has a one hundred percent death rate. “For the wages of sin is death…” (Rom 6:23a) Sin. The very word should send chills down the spine. It should immediately conjure up the image of mortality. Nevertheless, we trifle with it and play about with it, or ignore it and even deny it. If we reacted to cancer, in the same way, the disease would eat us until nothing remained except a corpse. Sin is far worse and much more far-reaching.
Like cancers up trending cure rate, there is some good news about sin and its cure. In fact, the cure rate for sin, like the death rate, is one hundred percent. All we need to do is reach out to the Balm of Gilead. Jesus Christ is that balm. And “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath through Him.” (Rom 5:8-9) Those who believe and trust in Jesus Christ are saved from eternal death (the wages of sin) and instead receive eternal life (the gift of God). Those who trifle with sin, play about in sin, ignore sin, deny sin, and refuse the only cure for sin -will die forever in sin.
The diagnosis of cancer is cold water in the face. We wake up, sit up, and get up real quick to confront and pursue a cure for this deadly disease. How much more the eternal deadliness of sin should grab our attention. How quick we should be to receive the healing unto eternal life. If you have not done so, will you do so today?
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23)
Cancer. The very word sends chills down the spine. It immediately conjures up the impression of death. It shakes and rattles the very core of the one it strikes. It terrifies their loved ones. It shrinks life and the future to myopic proportions. It consumes days and dreams and delights. It becomes a prison from which escape seems far too elusive. Even so, mankind’s God-given ingenuity, inventiveness, intelligence, and creativity have pushed back at cancer. Cancer no longer means death for many of the stricken. The cure rate for many types of cancer continues to climb steadily. There are hopes and years and dreams and delights ahead. The doors of the prison can be opened to fullness and freedom.
The cancer that invades our bodies is nothing in comparison to the sin which indwells our entire being. Cancer does not come to everyone, and it can be cured. Sin does come to all, and does stay, and has a one hundred percent death rate. “For the wages of sin is death…” (Rom 6:23a) Sin. The very word should send chills down the spine. It should immediately conjure up the image of mortality. Nevertheless, we trifle with it and play about with it, or ignore it and even deny it. If we reacted to cancer, in the same way, the disease would eat us until nothing remained except a corpse. Sin is far worse and much more far-reaching.
Like cancers up trending cure rate, there is some good news about sin and its cure. In fact, the cure rate for sin, like the death rate, is one hundred percent. All we need to do is reach out to the Balm of Gilead. Jesus Christ is that balm. And “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath through Him.” (Rom 5:8-9) Those who believe and trust in Jesus Christ are saved from eternal death (the wages of sin) and instead receive eternal life (the gift of God). Those who trifle with sin, play about in sin, ignore sin, deny sin, and refuse the only cure for sin -will die forever in sin.
The diagnosis of cancer is cold water in the face. We wake up, sit up, and get up real quick to confront and pursue a cure for this deadly disease. How much more the eternal deadliness of sin should grab our attention. How quick we should be to receive the healing unto eternal life. If you have not done so, will you do so today?
Covered
“Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.” (Ps. 32:1-2)
Years ago in my workplace, I would often be assigned to accompany our truck driver and deliver a load of plant trash to the local dump. While it had perks such as a road trip away from the plant, the actual job left much to be desired. Have you ever spent an hour or two in a dump? The smell invades your nostrils and remains much longer than one can imagine. Even as we tossed our refuse onto the huge mounds, the dozers ground around covering the waste with earth. All day they crawled, covering that day’s rot before the sun went down.
You know - the Enemy of our souls, the deceptive world system, and our narcissistic flesh - produce a steady flow of rubbish in us. And how often we try to play dump and dozer in our lives: the stench, the waste, the rot of sin - covered, day by day. The result? - “When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long. For day and night, Your hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into a drought of summer.” (vs.3, 4)
Many people live such a life today and just keep the dozers rolling, covering and covering. But this should not be, for there is a way out of this buried alive existence. The way? - “I acknowledged my sin to You, and my iniquity I have not hidden. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,’ and You forgave the iniquity of my sin.” (v.5; see also 1 John 1:5-10)
There is only one way we can cover our sin – by bringing our transgressions continually before the Lord with a contrite spirit and give them over to Him. He has covered them with His blood shed upon the Cross for us. And we in turn - can leave the dozers parked.
“Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.” (Ps. 32:1-2)
Years ago in my workplace, I would often be assigned to accompany our truck driver and deliver a load of plant trash to the local dump. While it had perks such as a road trip away from the plant, the actual job left much to be desired. Have you ever spent an hour or two in a dump? The smell invades your nostrils and remains much longer than one can imagine. Even as we tossed our refuse onto the huge mounds, the dozers ground around covering the waste with earth. All day they crawled, covering that day’s rot before the sun went down.
You know - the Enemy of our souls, the deceptive world system, and our narcissistic flesh - produce a steady flow of rubbish in us. And how often we try to play dump and dozer in our lives: the stench, the waste, the rot of sin - covered, day by day. The result? - “When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long. For day and night, Your hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into a drought of summer.” (vs.3, 4)
Many people live such a life today and just keep the dozers rolling, covering and covering. But this should not be, for there is a way out of this buried alive existence. The way? - “I acknowledged my sin to You, and my iniquity I have not hidden. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,’ and You forgave the iniquity of my sin.” (v.5; see also 1 John 1:5-10)
There is only one way we can cover our sin – by bringing our transgressions continually before the Lord with a contrite spirit and give them over to Him. He has covered them with His blood shed upon the Cross for us. And we in turn - can leave the dozers parked.
Is That in There?
I remember reading a Peanut comic strip back in college. Charlie Brown had experienced some difficulty and ended the episode by saying, “Man is born to trouble as the spark flies upward.” At that time it gave us all a good chuckle. What a sage Charlie Brown was! At the wise old age of eighteen weren’t we so aware of the troubles that relationships and life could bring? Years later it wasn’t the meaning of those words in that cartoon that struck me. It was the fact that they were words directly from the Scriptures. Eliphaz, one of Job’s friends, spoke them to Job in an attempt to help Job understand his plight. (Job 5:7)
There are a large number of people out there who are happy to tell you what the Bible says. Some are preachers. Some are university professors. Some are self-proclaimed experts. Some are bloggers! But it is amazing what you find out when you read and study it for yourself. Paul exhorted Timothy to “be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth.” (2 Tim 2:15)
The Psalmist wrote, “Forever, O Lord Your word is settled in Heaven...Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path…The entirety of Your word is truth.” (119: 89, 105, 160) Be teachable but find out for yourself if that is in there!
I remember reading a Peanut comic strip back in college. Charlie Brown had experienced some difficulty and ended the episode by saying, “Man is born to trouble as the spark flies upward.” At that time it gave us all a good chuckle. What a sage Charlie Brown was! At the wise old age of eighteen weren’t we so aware of the troubles that relationships and life could bring? Years later it wasn’t the meaning of those words in that cartoon that struck me. It was the fact that they were words directly from the Scriptures. Eliphaz, one of Job’s friends, spoke them to Job in an attempt to help Job understand his plight. (Job 5:7)
There are a large number of people out there who are happy to tell you what the Bible says. Some are preachers. Some are university professors. Some are self-proclaimed experts. Some are bloggers! But it is amazing what you find out when you read and study it for yourself. Paul exhorted Timothy to “be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth.” (2 Tim 2:15)
The Psalmist wrote, “Forever, O Lord Your word is settled in Heaven...Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path…The entirety of Your word is truth.” (119: 89, 105, 160) Be teachable but find out for yourself if that is in there!
Open and Shut
These things says, He who is holy, He who is true, He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens: “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” (Revelation 3:7-8)
A few years ago we thought our little one-year-old grandson has already chosen his profession in life: {“I know, isn’t that amazing!? His mother is not happy about it, but a dream is a dream. He is going to be a doorman. This busy tyke spends most of his waking hours opening and shutting whatever door on which he can get his hands. Open. Shut. Open. Shut. Open. Shut. Open….. Shut….. Once he can stand without falling on his behind, he’s going places. Someday he’ll be greeting people as he opens the doors of the finest hotels and theaters. Have you ever held the door open for someone and received their thanks? Didn’t it feel good? I think it could be a very satisfying career.”}
There is One who stands over all creation. He too is a doorman. In fact, He is the Door. (See John 10:1-21)) Jesus Christ says, “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.” (v.9) Those who try to get into the sheepfold (heaven) any other way but Christ will do so in vain. He alone opens the door to allow entrance. We alone choose His way, or we alone choose our way. His way is Life. Our way is Death. It is that open and shut.
In our opening scripture, the Lord speaks to the faithful church in the city of Philadelphia. This congregation kept the faith, kept His word, and kept His name front and center no matter what came against them. Because of this, they possessed an open door into His presence upon the earth and in heaven.
Are you like those at Philadelphia? Is the door open? Then show others where to find the Door that they too may be saved and enter in and out and find pasture.
I think my grandson is on to something!
These things says, He who is holy, He who is true, He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens: “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” (Revelation 3:7-8)
A few years ago we thought our little one-year-old grandson has already chosen his profession in life: {“I know, isn’t that amazing!? His mother is not happy about it, but a dream is a dream. He is going to be a doorman. This busy tyke spends most of his waking hours opening and shutting whatever door on which he can get his hands. Open. Shut. Open. Shut. Open. Shut. Open….. Shut….. Once he can stand without falling on his behind, he’s going places. Someday he’ll be greeting people as he opens the doors of the finest hotels and theaters. Have you ever held the door open for someone and received their thanks? Didn’t it feel good? I think it could be a very satisfying career.”}
There is One who stands over all creation. He too is a doorman. In fact, He is the Door. (See John 10:1-21)) Jesus Christ says, “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.” (v.9) Those who try to get into the sheepfold (heaven) any other way but Christ will do so in vain. He alone opens the door to allow entrance. We alone choose His way, or we alone choose our way. His way is Life. Our way is Death. It is that open and shut.
In our opening scripture, the Lord speaks to the faithful church in the city of Philadelphia. This congregation kept the faith, kept His word, and kept His name front and center no matter what came against them. Because of this, they possessed an open door into His presence upon the earth and in heaven.
Are you like those at Philadelphia? Is the door open? Then show others where to find the Door that they too may be saved and enter in and out and find pasture.
I think my grandson is on to something!
Which Master?
No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (money). Matthew 6:24
Which master are you going to serve?
Although Jesus is talking about trying to live for God or money, the Spirit just keeps saying old man, new man. And how true! Such is my life when I try to serve two masters – the old man and the new man. But I cannot for if I serve the one I despise the other.
Therefore I need Ephesians 4:22-24 "That you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness."
But then I'm like, Romans 7:19 "For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice."
Then I remember, 1 Corinthians 10:13 "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."
And THANK GOD THAT "In Him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His Grace." Ephesians 1:7
Every one of our days, our minutes, our moments begs the question – Which master are you going to serve?
No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (money). Matthew 6:24
Which master are you going to serve?
Although Jesus is talking about trying to live for God or money, the Spirit just keeps saying old man, new man. And how true! Such is my life when I try to serve two masters – the old man and the new man. But I cannot for if I serve the one I despise the other.
Therefore I need Ephesians 4:22-24 "That you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness."
But then I'm like, Romans 7:19 "For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice."
Then I remember, 1 Corinthians 10:13 "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."
And THANK GOD THAT "In Him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His Grace." Ephesians 1:7
Every one of our days, our minutes, our moments begs the question – Which master are you going to serve?
Jesus is our Passover
Did you make a New Year's resolution? Let’s face it most of them are never kept. Whether it’s to eat better, to lose weight, or to start to exercise, we just don’t have the drive to maintain them throughout the year.
I would like to suggest something different, something God established for the New Year for the Israelites many years ago. They were in the stranglehold of the Egyptian dynasty forced to do manual labor. But in God’s great love for them, He would deliver them from their bondage of slavery and misery. “This month shall be…the first month of the year to you.” God set the calendar – He would free them the first month of the year. They would have to set aside a lamb without blemish, sacrifice it, and apply the blood to the doorposts of their dwellings. In doing so, they would ensure their life and their independence from Egypt. The death angel would pass over them. Here we have a picture of what Jesus the Messiah did for us. He is called our Passover - (1 Corinthians 5:7).
Peter says that we have been redeemed “with precious blood as of a lamb, unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.” Not only are we forgiven, but we now can walk in newness of life. (Rom 6:4) In Christ, we are a new creation. (2 Corinthians 5:17) In the first month of the Hebrew calendar, the Israelites were freed to serve and to live for Him. As we begin a new year, could there be a better desire of our heart than to “fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfector of our faith?” (Hebrews 12:2)
Did you make a New Year's resolution? Let’s face it most of them are never kept. Whether it’s to eat better, to lose weight, or to start to exercise, we just don’t have the drive to maintain them throughout the year.
I would like to suggest something different, something God established for the New Year for the Israelites many years ago. They were in the stranglehold of the Egyptian dynasty forced to do manual labor. But in God’s great love for them, He would deliver them from their bondage of slavery and misery. “This month shall be…the first month of the year to you.” God set the calendar – He would free them the first month of the year. They would have to set aside a lamb without blemish, sacrifice it, and apply the blood to the doorposts of their dwellings. In doing so, they would ensure their life and their independence from Egypt. The death angel would pass over them. Here we have a picture of what Jesus the Messiah did for us. He is called our Passover - (1 Corinthians 5:7).
Peter says that we have been redeemed “with precious blood as of a lamb, unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.” Not only are we forgiven, but we now can walk in newness of life. (Rom 6:4) In Christ, we are a new creation. (2 Corinthians 5:17) In the first month of the Hebrew calendar, the Israelites were freed to serve and to live for Him. As we begin a new year, could there be a better desire of our heart than to “fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfector of our faith?” (Hebrews 12:2)
He Must Increase
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30)
The pastor was stressing to us a great essential for our walk of faith. Jesus must increase in us as we press forward, and we must decrease. A few years back I wrote about this:
“When I was younger I so wanted to be a muscular six-foot-two hunk. I dreamed of having straight hair, being Hollywood handsome and popular in every quarter. I’m forty-three now, and I’ve come up a half a foot short. I’m almost ready to admit I’m done growing. I’m not quite a hunk, more like a blob. I can flex just enough muscles to stand upright. I have curly hair with a wild will of its own. I’m three thousand miles from Hollywood and even further away from popularity. My outward man is much less than I wanted. Far more troublesome - my inward man is much more than I want.”
I recognized back then what I am even more certain of now: There is too much of me left in my inner man: far too much me and far too little Jesus. I also wrote this:
“In the third chapter of John’s Gospel, we read about the disciples of John the Baptist complaining that Jesus was stealing the Baptist’s thunder and influence. John the Baptist tells his followers, concerning Jesus, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” The Baptist was referring to his ministry, but I see a foundational principle at work in his words for all of us. Our inward man is to relinquish all to Jesus. We’re to decrease and become less and less. Jesus is to increase and become more and more.”
Is this what we see in our lives? Or are we still wrestling with way too much us, not near enough Him? I imagine most would admit, maybe even frustratingly so that yes the wrestling match continues. Hopefully, the good news is we are aware of the need to relinquish all to Him, and that we are determined to experience His increase and our decrease.
For many of us, committing Scripture to memory is a challenge. Well, here is a verse that is only seven words, and yet contains the key to living the Christian life. Surely we can recall it many times throughout each day and in so doing live more often in the reality of “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30)
The pastor was stressing to us a great essential for our walk of faith. Jesus must increase in us as we press forward, and we must decrease. A few years back I wrote about this:
“When I was younger I so wanted to be a muscular six-foot-two hunk. I dreamed of having straight hair, being Hollywood handsome and popular in every quarter. I’m forty-three now, and I’ve come up a half a foot short. I’m almost ready to admit I’m done growing. I’m not quite a hunk, more like a blob. I can flex just enough muscles to stand upright. I have curly hair with a wild will of its own. I’m three thousand miles from Hollywood and even further away from popularity. My outward man is much less than I wanted. Far more troublesome - my inward man is much more than I want.”
I recognized back then what I am even more certain of now: There is too much of me left in my inner man: far too much me and far too little Jesus. I also wrote this:
“In the third chapter of John’s Gospel, we read about the disciples of John the Baptist complaining that Jesus was stealing the Baptist’s thunder and influence. John the Baptist tells his followers, concerning Jesus, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” The Baptist was referring to his ministry, but I see a foundational principle at work in his words for all of us. Our inward man is to relinquish all to Jesus. We’re to decrease and become less and less. Jesus is to increase and become more and more.”
Is this what we see in our lives? Or are we still wrestling with way too much us, not near enough Him? I imagine most would admit, maybe even frustratingly so that yes the wrestling match continues. Hopefully, the good news is we are aware of the need to relinquish all to Him, and that we are determined to experience His increase and our decrease.
For many of us, committing Scripture to memory is a challenge. Well, here is a verse that is only seven words, and yet contains the key to living the Christian life. Surely we can recall it many times throughout each day and in so doing live more often in the reality of “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
The Day After
“For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:17)
There is a large wooden box in my basement with various toys piled about two feet in depth. There are little animals, wild and domestic, hundreds of soldiers from different armies and wars mixed in with cars and trucks, blocks and balls. My little grandson finds it quite enjoyable to sort through the plethora of toys. It is interesting to me as well, finding old treasures. There are wooden blocks my father played with as a child, making them over three-quarters of a century old. Many of my toys are there with a half century on them. The rest would belong to my son from a quarter century past. Just the other day, I found a plastic bear from a set of wild animals my brother gifted me with at Christmas when I was four years old. Also, I found two little horses with cowboys still attached that came from a bag of cowboys and Indians that were in my stocking on my sixth Christmas. I took a minute to sit there, holding these finds in my adult hands and sweetly reminiscing.
Do you remember the weeks leading up to Christmas as a kid? Especially that last week with the excitement and anticipation just bursting when the holiday itself finally arrived? And the pure joy of opening all your presents? Do you also remember, even if you got everything you wanted, the day after Christmas? It could be a bit of a downer. Yes, the new toys were fun, the new record album great to listen to, the new book intoxicating, the new clothes looked great, but still, the BIG day was over, and it would be a whole year till the next one.
Where are those toys now? Gone? Maybe there are a few remnants in a wooden box in the basement. What of the record albums; the books; the clothes from some part of a century ago? What have we to hold the day after Christmas that will not eventually be gone? There is but one gift, one present given to us that lasts forever – the gift of God’s dear Son. If we miss that, if we do not receive and open that, we have nothing.
The Bible tells us that “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:18) After Adam, every person ever born has been under condemnation. The first Christmas was our just and loving God’s solution to save us from our hopeless state. Immanuel (God with us) was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, was crucified unto death on a cross in our place, rose bodily from the grave, ascended to the right hand of God, sent the Holy Spirit to whosoever receives Him, and makes intercession to the Heavenly Father on the believer’s behalf. He is the resurrection and the life to all who believe and place their trust in Him. (John 11:25-27)
It is the day after Christmas. What do you have – the only thing that matters – or nothing?
“For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:17)
There is a large wooden box in my basement with various toys piled about two feet in depth. There are little animals, wild and domestic, hundreds of soldiers from different armies and wars mixed in with cars and trucks, blocks and balls. My little grandson finds it quite enjoyable to sort through the plethora of toys. It is interesting to me as well, finding old treasures. There are wooden blocks my father played with as a child, making them over three-quarters of a century old. Many of my toys are there with a half century on them. The rest would belong to my son from a quarter century past. Just the other day, I found a plastic bear from a set of wild animals my brother gifted me with at Christmas when I was four years old. Also, I found two little horses with cowboys still attached that came from a bag of cowboys and Indians that were in my stocking on my sixth Christmas. I took a minute to sit there, holding these finds in my adult hands and sweetly reminiscing.
Do you remember the weeks leading up to Christmas as a kid? Especially that last week with the excitement and anticipation just bursting when the holiday itself finally arrived? And the pure joy of opening all your presents? Do you also remember, even if you got everything you wanted, the day after Christmas? It could be a bit of a downer. Yes, the new toys were fun, the new record album great to listen to, the new book intoxicating, the new clothes looked great, but still, the BIG day was over, and it would be a whole year till the next one.
Where are those toys now? Gone? Maybe there are a few remnants in a wooden box in the basement. What of the record albums; the books; the clothes from some part of a century ago? What have we to hold the day after Christmas that will not eventually be gone? There is but one gift, one present given to us that lasts forever – the gift of God’s dear Son. If we miss that, if we do not receive and open that, we have nothing.
The Bible tells us that “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:18) After Adam, every person ever born has been under condemnation. The first Christmas was our just and loving God’s solution to save us from our hopeless state. Immanuel (God with us) was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, was crucified unto death on a cross in our place, rose bodily from the grave, ascended to the right hand of God, sent the Holy Spirit to whosoever receives Him, and makes intercession to the Heavenly Father on the believer’s behalf. He is the resurrection and the life to all who believe and place their trust in Him. (John 11:25-27)
It is the day after Christmas. What do you have – the only thing that matters – or nothing?
No Room: A Glorious Exchange
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7
That firstborn Son has been knocking on doors ever since. He looks for a place to dwell. He seeks an intimate fellowship with the resident. A few open their door and invite Him in. Some make a small effort at hospitality but never intend to let Him stay. Most turn Him away irritated at the interruption.
Still, He knocks, and says, “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:2)
When He came to us, all we had to offer was a stable. He, on the other hand, makes ready a mansion for us. That firstborn Son “who knew no sin {became} sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” He died in our place so we could live. (2 Cor 5:14-21) How can anyone refuse such a glorious exchange?
Have you made room in your heart for that firstborn Son?
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7
That firstborn Son has been knocking on doors ever since. He looks for a place to dwell. He seeks an intimate fellowship with the resident. A few open their door and invite Him in. Some make a small effort at hospitality but never intend to let Him stay. Most turn Him away irritated at the interruption.
Still, He knocks, and says, “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:2)
When He came to us, all we had to offer was a stable. He, on the other hand, makes ready a mansion for us. That firstborn Son “who knew no sin {became} sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” He died in our place so we could live. (2 Cor 5:14-21) How can anyone refuse such a glorious exchange?
Have you made room in your heart for that firstborn Son?
Why was Jesus Born of a Virgin?
In conversation with my mother, she reminisced about a time when she was a teenager asking her father how a virgin could have a baby. My grandfather answered her by saying, “I don’t know.” Several years transpired before she finally received the answer. Lots of people today are still asking the same question, referring to the birth of Jesus the Messiah, “How can a virgin have a baby?
More importantly, the question is not how but why? Why was it necessary for Jesus to be born of a virgin? You see the first question is simple. The Holy Spirit came upon Mary and overshadowed her. God is the Author of life, and so it was a supernatural act on His part to create a life within her womb. In the creation account, God formed Adam from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. Immediately he was a fully functionally adult human being. The virgin birth is no more extraordinary than that.
More importantly, though, why did He do it? Adam and Eve lived in a perfect relationship with God until they sinned. Through their sin, they fell into an unfavorable disposition toward God. This new hostile nature toward God was passed on to his offspring so that the entire human race has been afflicted with it. (This is why you have to teach children to be good. The bad they learn automatically.) Immediately after the fall, God promised a Deliverer from this horrible situation. This Deliverer would come in the Person of Jesus the Messiah. You see, being born of a virgin, He did not inherit the sinful nature through birth as every human does. Unlike Adam, Jesus lived a life in perfect obedience to God the Father. For this reason, He is the perfect Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! His sinless life provided the necessary sacrifice for sin required by God. This was only attainable through the virgin birth. As the angel told Mary, “For nothing will be impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)
In conversation with my mother, she reminisced about a time when she was a teenager asking her father how a virgin could have a baby. My grandfather answered her by saying, “I don’t know.” Several years transpired before she finally received the answer. Lots of people today are still asking the same question, referring to the birth of Jesus the Messiah, “How can a virgin have a baby?
More importantly, the question is not how but why? Why was it necessary for Jesus to be born of a virgin? You see the first question is simple. The Holy Spirit came upon Mary and overshadowed her. God is the Author of life, and so it was a supernatural act on His part to create a life within her womb. In the creation account, God formed Adam from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. Immediately he was a fully functionally adult human being. The virgin birth is no more extraordinary than that.
More importantly, though, why did He do it? Adam and Eve lived in a perfect relationship with God until they sinned. Through their sin, they fell into an unfavorable disposition toward God. This new hostile nature toward God was passed on to his offspring so that the entire human race has been afflicted with it. (This is why you have to teach children to be good. The bad they learn automatically.) Immediately after the fall, God promised a Deliverer from this horrible situation. This Deliverer would come in the Person of Jesus the Messiah. You see, being born of a virgin, He did not inherit the sinful nature through birth as every human does. Unlike Adam, Jesus lived a life in perfect obedience to God the Father. For this reason, He is the perfect Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! His sinless life provided the necessary sacrifice for sin required by God. This was only attainable through the virgin birth. As the angel told Mary, “For nothing will be impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)
Be On Guard
“But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God. And now, behold, I know that all of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will no longer see my face. Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God. Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. 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 perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be on the alert, remembering that night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears. And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified.” Acts 20:24-32
We have been sent not only as ambassadors of Christ, to share the gospel with all of the nations, but we also have responsibilities in our homes and among our families. There will be times where false teachers will come among our friends and relatives sowing seeds of evil and wrong teaching. These are the wolves causing discord among the church, leading the sheep astray. To combat this, we must be in God’s Word every day.
I remember being asked, “How can I know when I’m dealing with a false teacher; or who is a false teacher?” My answer was we have different options we can turn to know the truth from lies: We have our pastors who regularly study the Scripture and are consistently focused on Christ to avoid being led astray. We should turn to them. Another would be trusted leaders who are in God’s Word, walking with Him, leaning on His words, and gaining in understanding. The most important are that you are consistently in God’s Word, studying for yourself. Then you will not be led astray by the wolves and these false teachers. Instead, you can face them resting wholly upon the word of God. Having the knowledge of what it says will enable you to protect the flock from being devoured by the world in sin and lies.
My challenge, even to myself, is to be in God’s Word daily, meditating on His words and learning discernment. I desire to be a guardian of His truth and stand between the wolves and the flock.
“But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God. And now, behold, I know that all of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will no longer see my face. Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God. Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. 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 perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be on the alert, remembering that night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears. And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified.” Acts 20:24-32
We have been sent not only as ambassadors of Christ, to share the gospel with all of the nations, but we also have responsibilities in our homes and among our families. There will be times where false teachers will come among our friends and relatives sowing seeds of evil and wrong teaching. These are the wolves causing discord among the church, leading the sheep astray. To combat this, we must be in God’s Word every day.
I remember being asked, “How can I know when I’m dealing with a false teacher; or who is a false teacher?” My answer was we have different options we can turn to know the truth from lies: We have our pastors who regularly study the Scripture and are consistently focused on Christ to avoid being led astray. We should turn to them. Another would be trusted leaders who are in God’s Word, walking with Him, leaning on His words, and gaining in understanding. The most important are that you are consistently in God’s Word, studying for yourself. Then you will not be led astray by the wolves and these false teachers. Instead, you can face them resting wholly upon the word of God. Having the knowledge of what it says will enable you to protect the flock from being devoured by the world in sin and lies.
My challenge, even to myself, is to be in God’s Word daily, meditating on His words and learning discernment. I desire to be a guardian of His truth and stand between the wolves and the flock.
To Know, To Make Known
As “ambassadors for Christ” – 2 Cor 5:20, we have two major priorities – to know Him and to make Him known.
Once we are effective in the first, we are in a position to be effective in the second. Once we know Him, we begin to share His value system. God values people! People are eternal! Look around you, your spouse, your children, your family, your friends, your co-workers, your neighbors; those people are the only thing of eternal value in this world. The people all around you will spend eternity somewhere – for God so loved people that He gave His only begotten Son so that they should not perish but have everlasting life.
The Pharisees didn’t value people. In fact, in Luke 15, Jesus uses three parables to teach them what counts: the Lost Sheep 15:3-7; the Lost Coin 15:8-10; the Lost Son 15:11-32. In each of these three parables, something valuable was lost that mattered a whole lot to the one who lost it, and upon finding it, there was a great celebration. In each case, God communicates the great value and the great rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who is found – 15:7, 10 & 24.
The brother of the prodigal son was exhibiting the Pharisees’ attitude, “he was angry…” – 15:28, he thought life was about him – 15:29-30. Religion often traps a person into self-righteous living. Legalism always leads to being critical of people rather than loving people where they are at and helping them to the next level. For instance, I’ve read of a man who has sworn off going to church at Christmas time because – “I can’t stand all those oncers. You know, all those people who only come around once a year. They get themselves all dressed up to make their appearance, and then they mess everything up at my church, especially the parking lot. This has bothered me so much over the years that I quit going to church during Christmas. I have no use for the ‘oncers.’”
Can you see how dangerous this type of thinking is?
Let’s always remember – it’s not about us! God redeems us, makes us new creatures in Christ, gifts us and sends us out into the world to live a life focused on others, not ourselves. It’s about God first and others second! Joy is to be found in Jesus, Others, You.
As “ambassadors for Christ” – 2 Cor 5:20, we have two major priorities – to know Him and to make Him known.
Once we are effective in the first, we are in a position to be effective in the second. Once we know Him, we begin to share His value system. God values people! People are eternal! Look around you, your spouse, your children, your family, your friends, your co-workers, your neighbors; those people are the only thing of eternal value in this world. The people all around you will spend eternity somewhere – for God so loved people that He gave His only begotten Son so that they should not perish but have everlasting life.
The Pharisees didn’t value people. In fact, in Luke 15, Jesus uses three parables to teach them what counts: the Lost Sheep 15:3-7; the Lost Coin 15:8-10; the Lost Son 15:11-32. In each of these three parables, something valuable was lost that mattered a whole lot to the one who lost it, and upon finding it, there was a great celebration. In each case, God communicates the great value and the great rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who is found – 15:7, 10 & 24.
The brother of the prodigal son was exhibiting the Pharisees’ attitude, “he was angry…” – 15:28, he thought life was about him – 15:29-30. Religion often traps a person into self-righteous living. Legalism always leads to being critical of people rather than loving people where they are at and helping them to the next level. For instance, I’ve read of a man who has sworn off going to church at Christmas time because – “I can’t stand all those oncers. You know, all those people who only come around once a year. They get themselves all dressed up to make their appearance, and then they mess everything up at my church, especially the parking lot. This has bothered me so much over the years that I quit going to church during Christmas. I have no use for the ‘oncers.’”
Can you see how dangerous this type of thinking is?
Let’s always remember – it’s not about us! God redeems us, makes us new creatures in Christ, gifts us and sends us out into the world to live a life focused on others, not ourselves. It’s about God first and others second! Joy is to be found in Jesus, Others, You.
Upstairs, Downstairs
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” Joshua 1:8
It happened last Friday. After weeks or was it months of procrastination, I descended into the dungeon of all dungeons. With the dread of a thousand men accompanying their wife on a shopping trip, I went forth. Or make that down. I went down to my basement with the vacuum cleaner. Then I stood there like always and whimpered, “Where do I even start?” Perhaps it would be prudent to move this clutter over there and move that clutter over here next to this clutter. Hmm…what to do, what to do?
We have a long-haired white cat that spends most of his time in the basement. His fur mimics clingy cotton. The whole area is a big cotton ball. Even a casual stroll through his domain makes a person resemble a small Yeti upon exit. Then there are the spider webs and cobwebs and yikes, “what is that???” I turned the sweeper tool thingy loose until it plugged up, emptied it and repeat, repeat, repeat. I finished Saturday vowing for the umpteenth time not to let my “man cave” minus the man part get so out-of-hand filthy.
The upstairs of our house is a little different story. I am not a “scrub it with a toothbrush” kind of guy and my well-known motto of “What’s under the fridge stays under the fridge” works fine for me. However, the upstairs is cleaned weekly and kept neat and orderly on a daily basis. That is, except when our grandson is present and does his cyclone imitation. Nevertheless, very soon after his departure, the tidy is quickly regained.
There is quite a difference between our upstairs and downstairs.
You know, when we treat the word of God like I treat the basement of my house the results will be similar. It takes but a slight amount of time absent from God’s word to create the cluttery, creepy, crawly, cottony, collection of yikes, “what is that’s???” in our life. Apart from His Word our fallen nature just naturally degenerates into the condition of my basement. Trust me, I do not want that, and you do not want that!
We can, and we should choose my upstairs practice. Daily attention and attendance in His Book will allow us to prosper and succeed in this one life we are called to live by faith. Let us spend a daily quiet time with our lap filled with an open Bible and our minds and hearts filled with the Holy Spirit. We are to meditate, observe and then do in accordance to what He has written. And that will make for a clean house upstairs and downstairs.
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” Joshua 1:8
It happened last Friday. After weeks or was it months of procrastination, I descended into the dungeon of all dungeons. With the dread of a thousand men accompanying their wife on a shopping trip, I went forth. Or make that down. I went down to my basement with the vacuum cleaner. Then I stood there like always and whimpered, “Where do I even start?” Perhaps it would be prudent to move this clutter over there and move that clutter over here next to this clutter. Hmm…what to do, what to do?
We have a long-haired white cat that spends most of his time in the basement. His fur mimics clingy cotton. The whole area is a big cotton ball. Even a casual stroll through his domain makes a person resemble a small Yeti upon exit. Then there are the spider webs and cobwebs and yikes, “what is that???” I turned the sweeper tool thingy loose until it plugged up, emptied it and repeat, repeat, repeat. I finished Saturday vowing for the umpteenth time not to let my “man cave” minus the man part get so out-of-hand filthy.
The upstairs of our house is a little different story. I am not a “scrub it with a toothbrush” kind of guy and my well-known motto of “What’s under the fridge stays under the fridge” works fine for me. However, the upstairs is cleaned weekly and kept neat and orderly on a daily basis. That is, except when our grandson is present and does his cyclone imitation. Nevertheless, very soon after his departure, the tidy is quickly regained.
There is quite a difference between our upstairs and downstairs.
You know, when we treat the word of God like I treat the basement of my house the results will be similar. It takes but a slight amount of time absent from God’s word to create the cluttery, creepy, crawly, cottony, collection of yikes, “what is that’s???” in our life. Apart from His Word our fallen nature just naturally degenerates into the condition of my basement. Trust me, I do not want that, and you do not want that!
We can, and we should choose my upstairs practice. Daily attention and attendance in His Book will allow us to prosper and succeed in this one life we are called to live by faith. Let us spend a daily quiet time with our lap filled with an open Bible and our minds and hearts filled with the Holy Spirit. We are to meditate, observe and then do in accordance to what He has written. And that will make for a clean house upstairs and downstairs.
Photo Shopped
“Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” Colossians 2:8
I’m a retired guy. I’m a night owl. I have a Facebook account. No good can come of that. Nonetheless, I try to make good come of it. I want to share my faith in Christ whenever, however. My being a bit light in the gifts and talents department means I have to be creative. One idea I came up with was while my Facebook friends were sleeping I’d post pictures that glorified God in some way. Or write something that might be an encouragement to them when they got up in the morning. I’d include humorous posts as well to bless them with a smile or chuckle. And, of course, post a lot of pictures and videos of cats. Let’s face it; there wouldn’t even be an Internet without cats.
I am fortunate to have more than a few FB friends who are excellent photographers. I get to enjoy their talent and artistry with a camera. One is not a professional shutterbug, but he certainly could be. He lets me know if there has been photo-shopping in any of the pictures I post. Photo-shopping can be an art form all its own, but when giving God the glory for His beautiful creation, I want the real thing, not Memorex. My friend knows the real thing when it comes to photography. He also knows what is not real. I do not. I can be cheated. I can be deceived.
The Apostle Paul warns us in the Scripture above that the same thing can happen concerning the word of God and the things of His Christ. If we do not know the real thing, we can be easily photoshopped. We don’t want to be photo-shopped! Paul says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Tim 2:15)
Do we know the real thing when it comes to God’s Word and the Word made Flesh? Do we know what is not real?
“Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” Colossians 2:8
I’m a retired guy. I’m a night owl. I have a Facebook account. No good can come of that. Nonetheless, I try to make good come of it. I want to share my faith in Christ whenever, however. My being a bit light in the gifts and talents department means I have to be creative. One idea I came up with was while my Facebook friends were sleeping I’d post pictures that glorified God in some way. Or write something that might be an encouragement to them when they got up in the morning. I’d include humorous posts as well to bless them with a smile or chuckle. And, of course, post a lot of pictures and videos of cats. Let’s face it; there wouldn’t even be an Internet without cats.
I am fortunate to have more than a few FB friends who are excellent photographers. I get to enjoy their talent and artistry with a camera. One is not a professional shutterbug, but he certainly could be. He lets me know if there has been photo-shopping in any of the pictures I post. Photo-shopping can be an art form all its own, but when giving God the glory for His beautiful creation, I want the real thing, not Memorex. My friend knows the real thing when it comes to photography. He also knows what is not real. I do not. I can be cheated. I can be deceived.
The Apostle Paul warns us in the Scripture above that the same thing can happen concerning the word of God and the things of His Christ. If we do not know the real thing, we can be easily photoshopped. We don’t want to be photo-shopped! Paul says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Tim 2:15)
Do we know the real thing when it comes to God’s Word and the Word made Flesh? Do we know what is not real?
The King’s Table
“So Mephibosheth dwelt in Jerusalem, for he ate continually at the king’s table. And he was lame in both his feet.” 2 Samuel 9:13
Whew! King David could finally catch his breath. He survived the attacks of the lion and the bear. He won the dust-up against Goliath. David managed to outmaneuver the murderous persistence of King Saul. He tight-roped through one adventure and misadventure after another. David prevailed in battles and more battles. He deeply grieved the loss of Jonathan, his BFF, and the son of King Saul. He witnessed intrigue, betrayal, and murder within his administration. But finally, “David reigned over all Israel; and David administered judgment and justice to all his people.” (2 Sam 8:15)
Now David said, “Is there still anyone who is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” (2 Sam 9:1) Upon investigation, the king found a son of Jonathan in Lo Debar. His name was Mephibosheth, who was lame in his feet. A brief look into his back-story revealed when this young man was five years old news of Saul and Jonathan’s death came, and his nurse picked him up and fled. But she dropped the boy, and he became lame in both feet. She took flight to protect the child because she thought the new king – David – would seek to kill him. (2 Sam 4:4)
For the same reason, Mephibosheth had remained in hiding for years. Now Mephibosheth had to appear before the great King of Israel, no doubt sure of his imminent demise. He lay prostrate, trembling in fear. So David said to him, “Do not fear, for I will surely show you kindness for Jonathan your father’s sake, and will restore to you all the land of Saul your grandfather; and you shall eat bread at my table continually.” (9:7) The lame man then asked the mighty king, “Why should you look upon such a dead dog as I?”
Our pastor reminds us when reading scripture to identify the author and audience, and the overview and background of the text. We also must adhere to contextual accuracy and proper exegesis. He will often encourage us to inquire as to why God included a particular portion or verse or even a word within His great revelation to us. “Why is this here?” he asks.
When I inject “Why is this here?” to this story, one answer is it’s historical. There is a lot of history incorporated in the Bible’s pages. God wants us to know certain events on His timeline. Another would be this episode gives evidence to the kind of heart David possessed. Remember “I have found David, the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.” (Acts 13:22; cf. 1 Sam 13:13-14) That is quite a compliment, and a characteristic we should all seek to emulate. God is saying in this story of David and Mephibosheth; this is a picture of My Grace, My Heart.
Might there possibly be another portrait here? Are we not Mephibosheth? Lame from the Fall, hiding from the King; sought out by Him, found by Him. Provided with a regular place at His table, not because of anything we have done for Him, but because of what He has done for us in the Son. Will we accept His generous offer? Those who do sit as sons and daughters at the King’s table. We have access to the King and fellowship with the King now and forever.
Mephibosheth asked, “Why should you look upon such a dead dog as I?” Perhaps we are most like Mephibosheth right there. Nevertheless, the King pulls out a chair for us. I marvel at that. I just marvel.
“So Mephibosheth dwelt in Jerusalem, for he ate continually at the king’s table. And he was lame in both his feet.” 2 Samuel 9:13
Whew! King David could finally catch his breath. He survived the attacks of the lion and the bear. He won the dust-up against Goliath. David managed to outmaneuver the murderous persistence of King Saul. He tight-roped through one adventure and misadventure after another. David prevailed in battles and more battles. He deeply grieved the loss of Jonathan, his BFF, and the son of King Saul. He witnessed intrigue, betrayal, and murder within his administration. But finally, “David reigned over all Israel; and David administered judgment and justice to all his people.” (2 Sam 8:15)
Now David said, “Is there still anyone who is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” (2 Sam 9:1) Upon investigation, the king found a son of Jonathan in Lo Debar. His name was Mephibosheth, who was lame in his feet. A brief look into his back-story revealed when this young man was five years old news of Saul and Jonathan’s death came, and his nurse picked him up and fled. But she dropped the boy, and he became lame in both feet. She took flight to protect the child because she thought the new king – David – would seek to kill him. (2 Sam 4:4)
For the same reason, Mephibosheth had remained in hiding for years. Now Mephibosheth had to appear before the great King of Israel, no doubt sure of his imminent demise. He lay prostrate, trembling in fear. So David said to him, “Do not fear, for I will surely show you kindness for Jonathan your father’s sake, and will restore to you all the land of Saul your grandfather; and you shall eat bread at my table continually.” (9:7) The lame man then asked the mighty king, “Why should you look upon such a dead dog as I?”
Our pastor reminds us when reading scripture to identify the author and audience, and the overview and background of the text. We also must adhere to contextual accuracy and proper exegesis. He will often encourage us to inquire as to why God included a particular portion or verse or even a word within His great revelation to us. “Why is this here?” he asks.
When I inject “Why is this here?” to this story, one answer is it’s historical. There is a lot of history incorporated in the Bible’s pages. God wants us to know certain events on His timeline. Another would be this episode gives evidence to the kind of heart David possessed. Remember “I have found David, the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.” (Acts 13:22; cf. 1 Sam 13:13-14) That is quite a compliment, and a characteristic we should all seek to emulate. God is saying in this story of David and Mephibosheth; this is a picture of My Grace, My Heart.
Might there possibly be another portrait here? Are we not Mephibosheth? Lame from the Fall, hiding from the King; sought out by Him, found by Him. Provided with a regular place at His table, not because of anything we have done for Him, but because of what He has done for us in the Son. Will we accept His generous offer? Those who do sit as sons and daughters at the King’s table. We have access to the King and fellowship with the King now and forever.
Mephibosheth asked, “Why should you look upon such a dead dog as I?” Perhaps we are most like Mephibosheth right there. Nevertheless, the King pulls out a chair for us. I marvel at that. I just marvel.
Don’t Settle for Playland
“Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.” (Psalm 107: 8, 9)
We live in a harsh world. Bad things happen. Many of our wants go unmet. Or many of our wants get met, and we regretfully wish they hadn’t. We do not have, and then have, only to lose what we have. These realities begin to hit with a cold splash across the face even from toddlerhood. The toy gets snatched away. The longer we live, the more we experience the getting, the having, and then the departing of the things and the people in our lives. It is rather easy to become jaded; to get accustomed to seeing through the glass darkly. And we lose sight of one of God’s great attributes – His goodness.
When our awareness of God’s goodness fades to black, inevitably a self-led pursuit of the so-called good things of life will ensue. God cannot bless what He does not possess. Our quest will instead lead to futility and the eventual settling for far less than God has intended. Only God is good, and He alone can satisfy a longing and hungry soul with goodness.
I just read a story by a pastor that provides an illustration of settling for “what we think we want” while oblivious to the immensity of what our good God has instead for us.
Here is a summation: The pastor and his wife decided to surprise their young granddaughter with a trip to Disney World. On the way, they stopped at a McDonald’s drive-through for some breakfast sandwiches. That is when the trouble started. The granddaughter spied a “Playland” attached to the restaurant and wanted to stop and play. She was sure a good time could be had there. No, her grandparents insisted, they must go. She pleaded. She complained about their robbery of her fun. She fussed and then pouted until they pulled into Disney World. Her grandfather then told her this was their destination all along. He reminded her, if she had her way, she would have settled for Playland.
Our God is a good God. His plans for us are far better than any we might pursue. This pastor concludes his story with the admonition not to be like his granddaughter that day. “Don’t settle for McDonald’s Playland when God has Disney World in mind!”
“Oh, how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men!” (Psalm 31:19)
Let us draw ever nearer to Him with the reverence due Him. Let us trust in Him even when the glass seems dark. Let us daily thank Him for His wonderful works and His goodness.
Hey, let’s go to Disney World!
“Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.” (Psalm 107: 8, 9)
We live in a harsh world. Bad things happen. Many of our wants go unmet. Or many of our wants get met, and we regretfully wish they hadn’t. We do not have, and then have, only to lose what we have. These realities begin to hit with a cold splash across the face even from toddlerhood. The toy gets snatched away. The longer we live, the more we experience the getting, the having, and then the departing of the things and the people in our lives. It is rather easy to become jaded; to get accustomed to seeing through the glass darkly. And we lose sight of one of God’s great attributes – His goodness.
When our awareness of God’s goodness fades to black, inevitably a self-led pursuit of the so-called good things of life will ensue. God cannot bless what He does not possess. Our quest will instead lead to futility and the eventual settling for far less than God has intended. Only God is good, and He alone can satisfy a longing and hungry soul with goodness.
I just read a story by a pastor that provides an illustration of settling for “what we think we want” while oblivious to the immensity of what our good God has instead for us.
Here is a summation: The pastor and his wife decided to surprise their young granddaughter with a trip to Disney World. On the way, they stopped at a McDonald’s drive-through for some breakfast sandwiches. That is when the trouble started. The granddaughter spied a “Playland” attached to the restaurant and wanted to stop and play. She was sure a good time could be had there. No, her grandparents insisted, they must go. She pleaded. She complained about their robbery of her fun. She fussed and then pouted until they pulled into Disney World. Her grandfather then told her this was their destination all along. He reminded her, if she had her way, she would have settled for Playland.
Our God is a good God. His plans for us are far better than any we might pursue. This pastor concludes his story with the admonition not to be like his granddaughter that day. “Don’t settle for McDonald’s Playland when God has Disney World in mind!”
“Oh, how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men!” (Psalm 31:19)
Let us draw ever nearer to Him with the reverence due Him. Let us trust in Him even when the glass seems dark. Let us daily thank Him for His wonderful works and His goodness.
Hey, let’s go to Disney World!
Three Kings
Some of my favorite Biblical characters go back to the time of Judah's kings. Hands down for me is King Hezekiah. The Bible sums up Hezekiah's life this way: "He trusted in the Lord God of Israel so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor who were before him. For he held fast to the Lord; he did not depart from following Him, but kept His commandments which the Lord commanded Moses. The Lord was with him; he prospered wherever he went." (2 Kings 18:5-7) This man was set apart by his steadfast trust, obedience and complete reliance on God in every situation.
Then there is Hezekiah's great-grandson, Josiah, who received the same kind of accolades as did his great-grandfather. Josiah… “ did not turn aside to the right hand or to the left...(he) turned to the Lord with all his heart, with all his soul, and with all his might." (2 Kings 22:2, 23:25). Josiah led Judah to a stupendous revival. He restored the Word of God which had been dust-covered and forgotten for too long. He led the people away from idolatry to worship the Lord God. Josiah had such an impact on so many that when he died in battle "...all Judah and Jerusalem mourned for Josiah. Jeremiah also lamented for Josiah. And to this day all the singing men and singing women speak of Josiah in their lamentations." (2 Chron 35:24-25)
And finally, there is the son of Hezekiah and grandfather of Josiah. What a great man he must have been! He reigned the longest of any King – 55 years. He no doubt had a tremendous effect on the populace of Judah. His name is Manasseh. The Bible (2 Chron 33:2-9) describes him in this way:
· He did evil in the sight of the Lord, according to the abominations of the nations whom the Lord had cast out before the children of Israel.
· He rebuilt the high places Hezekiah had torn down. He put up altars for the Baal's, set up a carved idol of a Canaanite goddess in the temple, and put up other altars to worship the sun and moon and stars.
· He sacrificed some of his sons, burning them alive in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom.
· He practiced soothsaying, witchcraft, sorcery and consulted mediums and spiritualists.
· He seduced Judah to do great evil, and he shed innocent blood all over the land.
Decades later God was still pouring out judgment on Judah for the sins of Manasseh. When the time of Judah's seventy-year captivity in Babylon approached, God told the prophet, Jeremiah: "I will hand them over to trouble, to all the kingdoms of the earth, because of Manasseh the son of Hezekiah, the king of Judah, for what he did in Jerusalem." (Jer 15:4)
“Hey, wait a minute!” you say to me. “At the beginning of this article you're talking about your favorite Biblical characters – okay, Hezekiah and Josiah I can see, but Manasseh, why on earth would you include – Manasseh?”
Ahhh, yes, Manasseh, what a career description this guy had! How would you like to stand before a holy and righteous God with his resume? Is there any evil this guy didn't do? Manasseh committed one atrocity after another. As pointed out previously, the consequences for the Jews (God's witnesses to all the nations) were terrible and went on for generations, even long past Manasseh's lifetime.
One big question is why did God allow this monster to reign longer than any other king? A smaller question is why is this man one of my favorite Biblical characters?
I think the answers to those two questions run on the same track. In the 33rd chapter of 2nd Chronicles, we find the answers. Here is what happened:
"The Lord spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they would not listen. Therefore, the Lord brought upon them the captains of the army of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh with hooks, bound him with bronze fetters, and carried him off to Babylon. Now when he was in affliction, he implored the Lord his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers, and prayed to Him; and He received his entreaty, heard his supplication, and brought him back to Jerusalem into his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord was God." (Vs. 10-13)
When Manasseh arrived back in Judah, "He took away the foreign gods and the idol from the house of the Lord, and all the altars that he had built in the mount of the house of the Lord and in Jerusalem; and he cast them out of the city. He also repaired the altar of the Lord, sacrificed peace offerings and thank offerings on it, and commanded Judah to serve the Lord God of Israel." (Vs. 15-16) There was much written down about the conversion experience of King Manasseh and his life afterward according to verses 18 through 20. The last mention of him in Scripture is in the gospel of Matthew amongst the genealogy of Jesus Christ. (Matthew 1:10)
In Manasseh, we see once again, the worst in man, and once again, the best in God. The Lord our God's patience and grace are certainly on display here. The last person on earth you would ever imagine would become a child and man of God – wicked Manasseh – did just that. Yes, the consequences of his sinful sowing still had to be reaped, even by many innocent people. But his life is a picture of hope to all of us sin sowers, including those "last persons on earth" that we all know and in many cases love.
Three Kings: Manasseh speaks of man's repentance and God's redemption. Josiah speaks of man's revival and God's reward. Hezekiah speaks of man's reliance and God's reliability. And they all speak of God's infinite goodness and amazing grace.
Some of my favorite Biblical characters go back to the time of Judah's kings. Hands down for me is King Hezekiah. The Bible sums up Hezekiah's life this way: "He trusted in the Lord God of Israel so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor who were before him. For he held fast to the Lord; he did not depart from following Him, but kept His commandments which the Lord commanded Moses. The Lord was with him; he prospered wherever he went." (2 Kings 18:5-7) This man was set apart by his steadfast trust, obedience and complete reliance on God in every situation.
Then there is Hezekiah's great-grandson, Josiah, who received the same kind of accolades as did his great-grandfather. Josiah… “ did not turn aside to the right hand or to the left...(he) turned to the Lord with all his heart, with all his soul, and with all his might." (2 Kings 22:2, 23:25). Josiah led Judah to a stupendous revival. He restored the Word of God which had been dust-covered and forgotten for too long. He led the people away from idolatry to worship the Lord God. Josiah had such an impact on so many that when he died in battle "...all Judah and Jerusalem mourned for Josiah. Jeremiah also lamented for Josiah. And to this day all the singing men and singing women speak of Josiah in their lamentations." (2 Chron 35:24-25)
And finally, there is the son of Hezekiah and grandfather of Josiah. What a great man he must have been! He reigned the longest of any King – 55 years. He no doubt had a tremendous effect on the populace of Judah. His name is Manasseh. The Bible (2 Chron 33:2-9) describes him in this way:
· He did evil in the sight of the Lord, according to the abominations of the nations whom the Lord had cast out before the children of Israel.
· He rebuilt the high places Hezekiah had torn down. He put up altars for the Baal's, set up a carved idol of a Canaanite goddess in the temple, and put up other altars to worship the sun and moon and stars.
· He sacrificed some of his sons, burning them alive in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom.
· He practiced soothsaying, witchcraft, sorcery and consulted mediums and spiritualists.
· He seduced Judah to do great evil, and he shed innocent blood all over the land.
Decades later God was still pouring out judgment on Judah for the sins of Manasseh. When the time of Judah's seventy-year captivity in Babylon approached, God told the prophet, Jeremiah: "I will hand them over to trouble, to all the kingdoms of the earth, because of Manasseh the son of Hezekiah, the king of Judah, for what he did in Jerusalem." (Jer 15:4)
“Hey, wait a minute!” you say to me. “At the beginning of this article you're talking about your favorite Biblical characters – okay, Hezekiah and Josiah I can see, but Manasseh, why on earth would you include – Manasseh?”
Ahhh, yes, Manasseh, what a career description this guy had! How would you like to stand before a holy and righteous God with his resume? Is there any evil this guy didn't do? Manasseh committed one atrocity after another. As pointed out previously, the consequences for the Jews (God's witnesses to all the nations) were terrible and went on for generations, even long past Manasseh's lifetime.
One big question is why did God allow this monster to reign longer than any other king? A smaller question is why is this man one of my favorite Biblical characters?
I think the answers to those two questions run on the same track. In the 33rd chapter of 2nd Chronicles, we find the answers. Here is what happened:
"The Lord spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they would not listen. Therefore, the Lord brought upon them the captains of the army of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh with hooks, bound him with bronze fetters, and carried him off to Babylon. Now when he was in affliction, he implored the Lord his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers, and prayed to Him; and He received his entreaty, heard his supplication, and brought him back to Jerusalem into his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord was God." (Vs. 10-13)
When Manasseh arrived back in Judah, "He took away the foreign gods and the idol from the house of the Lord, and all the altars that he had built in the mount of the house of the Lord and in Jerusalem; and he cast them out of the city. He also repaired the altar of the Lord, sacrificed peace offerings and thank offerings on it, and commanded Judah to serve the Lord God of Israel." (Vs. 15-16) There was much written down about the conversion experience of King Manasseh and his life afterward according to verses 18 through 20. The last mention of him in Scripture is in the gospel of Matthew amongst the genealogy of Jesus Christ. (Matthew 1:10)
In Manasseh, we see once again, the worst in man, and once again, the best in God. The Lord our God's patience and grace are certainly on display here. The last person on earth you would ever imagine would become a child and man of God – wicked Manasseh – did just that. Yes, the consequences of his sinful sowing still had to be reaped, even by many innocent people. But his life is a picture of hope to all of us sin sowers, including those "last persons on earth" that we all know and in many cases love.
Three Kings: Manasseh speaks of man's repentance and God's redemption. Josiah speaks of man's revival and God's reward. Hezekiah speaks of man's reliance and God's reliability. And they all speak of God's infinite goodness and amazing grace.
One Signature
“And it came to pass, when the sun went down and it was dark, that behold, there appeared a smoking oven and a burning torch that passed between those pieces.” Genesis 15:17
God promised to make Abram a great nation. He assured Abram, “In you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” (Gen 12:2-3) The Lord said his offspring would be as numerous as the dust of the earth. Time passed, and Abram still had no sons. He and the Lord engaged in another discussion. This time God brought him outside and said, “Look now toward heaven and count the stars if you are able to number them…so shall your descendants be.” (Gen 15:5) One of those “stars” is the Bright and Morning Star. (Rev. 22:16)
“Abram believed the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” (V.6 NIV)
It was at this point the Lord arranged a covenant between them. At that time, a contract was entered into by sacrificing animals, cutting the carcasses in two, and laying them on the ground with a path in the midst. Both parties would then walk through the animal parts together and speak the contractual terms. Per the Lord’s instructions, Abram made these things ready.
When the sun was going down, Abram fell into a deep sleep. Apparently, in a dream, the Lord tells Abram of the long affliction awaiting his descendants in Egypt, their misery endured there, and the exodus back to the Promised Land. He assures Abram that prior to this he would die in peace at a good old age. (Vs.12-16)
Later that night, when it was dark, our opening verse above takes place. God Himself, represented by the smoking oven and burning torch passed between the animal parts. Abram did not pass through them. Come morning the contract had only one signature. God signed for both Him and Abram. The covenant was sure because it depended on God alone to fulfill it and not on Abram. God did it all, and by faith, Abram believed Him.
Another covenant came many years later. In this, the Lord God would pass through the body and blood of Jesus to enact a new covenant. It too has only one signature. God signed for both Him and us. This covenant is also sure for it depends on God alone to fulfill it and not on us. God did it all, and by faith, we believe Him. “But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.” (Rom 4:5)
Have you put your faith in that Bright and Morning Star? The contract is signed, sealed, and assured based on who He is and what He has done, not on who we are and what we have done. Our part is to believe Him and receive Him by faith. Will you do that today?
“And it came to pass, when the sun went down and it was dark, that behold, there appeared a smoking oven and a burning torch that passed between those pieces.” Genesis 15:17
God promised to make Abram a great nation. He assured Abram, “In you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” (Gen 12:2-3) The Lord said his offspring would be as numerous as the dust of the earth. Time passed, and Abram still had no sons. He and the Lord engaged in another discussion. This time God brought him outside and said, “Look now toward heaven and count the stars if you are able to number them…so shall your descendants be.” (Gen 15:5) One of those “stars” is the Bright and Morning Star. (Rev. 22:16)
“Abram believed the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” (V.6 NIV)
It was at this point the Lord arranged a covenant between them. At that time, a contract was entered into by sacrificing animals, cutting the carcasses in two, and laying them on the ground with a path in the midst. Both parties would then walk through the animal parts together and speak the contractual terms. Per the Lord’s instructions, Abram made these things ready.
When the sun was going down, Abram fell into a deep sleep. Apparently, in a dream, the Lord tells Abram of the long affliction awaiting his descendants in Egypt, their misery endured there, and the exodus back to the Promised Land. He assures Abram that prior to this he would die in peace at a good old age. (Vs.12-16)
Later that night, when it was dark, our opening verse above takes place. God Himself, represented by the smoking oven and burning torch passed between the animal parts. Abram did not pass through them. Come morning the contract had only one signature. God signed for both Him and Abram. The covenant was sure because it depended on God alone to fulfill it and not on Abram. God did it all, and by faith, Abram believed Him.
Another covenant came many years later. In this, the Lord God would pass through the body and blood of Jesus to enact a new covenant. It too has only one signature. God signed for both Him and us. This covenant is also sure for it depends on God alone to fulfill it and not on us. God did it all, and by faith, we believe Him. “But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.” (Rom 4:5)
Have you put your faith in that Bright and Morning Star? The contract is signed, sealed, and assured based on who He is and what He has done, not on who we are and what we have done. Our part is to believe Him and receive Him by faith. Will you do that today?
Two Trees, Same Decision
“Who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness – by whose stripes you were healed. For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” 1 Peter 2:24-25
The Bible tells us that the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden and put Adam and Eve there. The trees in Eden were pleasant to look at and good for food. The tree of life was in the garden. God told our first parents to chow down. The tree of the knowledge of good and evil grew there also. Even though, it was as delightful as the others; it was strictly off the menu. Eat from it and die. We know the outcome. They got banished from Eden and the access to the tree of life.
Why did God stick that “knowing good and evil” tree in Paradise? Have you asked that question at some point in your life? I sure did. He was aware that they would taste its fruit. The fact is the tree of knowledge of good and evil was necessary for God’s ultimate purpose and plan for mankind. He chose to have children, not automatons. God gave us a free will. The Father loves, and is love, and determined we must have the capacity to love as well. Love requires a choice: To love or not to love. That forbidden fruit tree was a place of decision. Mankind could choose to love God and be dependent on Him or decide to love self and live a life independent of Him.
Just as the Lord had foreknowledge of what the decision would be, He had a blueprint for redemption at the ready. All those sheep gone astray would have a Way home. But wait, the blueprint must have the option for the sheep to come back or continue to wander to keep the principles of free will and love intact, hence, the second tree.
The second tree is where God Himself bore our sins in His body. The Shepherd gave His life for the sheep, so they can choose to come home; that they once again will have access to the tree of life. Will we love Him because He first loved us? The “come back to Me” tree on Calvary Hill leads us to the same decision as the “stay away from” tree in the Garden. Will we choose to love God and be dependent on Him or decide to love self and live a life independent of Him?
Two trees, same decision. O the power and wisdom of our God!
“Who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness – by whose stripes you were healed. For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” 1 Peter 2:24-25
The Bible tells us that the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden and put Adam and Eve there. The trees in Eden were pleasant to look at and good for food. The tree of life was in the garden. God told our first parents to chow down. The tree of the knowledge of good and evil grew there also. Even though, it was as delightful as the others; it was strictly off the menu. Eat from it and die. We know the outcome. They got banished from Eden and the access to the tree of life.
Why did God stick that “knowing good and evil” tree in Paradise? Have you asked that question at some point in your life? I sure did. He was aware that they would taste its fruit. The fact is the tree of knowledge of good and evil was necessary for God’s ultimate purpose and plan for mankind. He chose to have children, not automatons. God gave us a free will. The Father loves, and is love, and determined we must have the capacity to love as well. Love requires a choice: To love or not to love. That forbidden fruit tree was a place of decision. Mankind could choose to love God and be dependent on Him or decide to love self and live a life independent of Him.
Just as the Lord had foreknowledge of what the decision would be, He had a blueprint for redemption at the ready. All those sheep gone astray would have a Way home. But wait, the blueprint must have the option for the sheep to come back or continue to wander to keep the principles of free will and love intact, hence, the second tree.
The second tree is where God Himself bore our sins in His body. The Shepherd gave His life for the sheep, so they can choose to come home; that they once again will have access to the tree of life. Will we love Him because He first loved us? The “come back to Me” tree on Calvary Hill leads us to the same decision as the “stay away from” tree in the Garden. Will we choose to love God and be dependent on Him or decide to love self and live a life independent of Him?
Two trees, same decision. O the power and wisdom of our God!
Whose spirit…Whose mind?
“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” 1Corinthians 2:12
Everyone has a worldview. Webster’s defines worldview as the way someone thinks about the world. That is succinct. Simple. How we arrive at our various views is a bit more complicated. Background experiences and life situations play a part in what we come to believe. Our acquired values, attitudes, and habits in the formative years help set the table. Indeed inherited characteristics and individual temperament hold sway. The result: our worldviews are like snowflakes; no two exactly alike.
However, the Bible tells us there are only two. The natural man holds the first. We are all born in this state. “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” (v.14) This person has the spirit of the world and a mind given to the things of this world. Folks in this condition may seem to view life with the variance of those snowflakes, but the sum of it is – man’s wisdom is their teacher. The natural man sees and thinks about the world differently than God does. Here our need is to be born again.
The spiritual man employs the second worldview. At his or her rebirth, the Spirit of God is given and received. We can then know the things of God. His wisdom becomes our teacher. He teaches us: “…do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Rom 12:2) The spiritual man is learning to think about the world as God does. The Bible says of us, “…we have the mind of Christ…” (v.16) Here our need is to be continually renewed in our mind by the Spirit through His word.
The natural man thinks and acts from his inherent nature. It is just, well, natural to him. The spiritual man, however, has a choice to make. With every thought, every act, the decision must be made to follow his reborn nature or revert to the inherent nature. That is the prompt for our title above. Do we as Christians think about the world and the myriad issues of life as God does? Is our worldview the same as His worldview? He most surely has one. Whose spirit are we following? With whose mind are we thinking?
Everyone has a worldview. We have the Spirit, who is from God. We have the mind of Christ. We have a worldview. Is it His?
“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” 1Corinthians 2:12
Everyone has a worldview. Webster’s defines worldview as the way someone thinks about the world. That is succinct. Simple. How we arrive at our various views is a bit more complicated. Background experiences and life situations play a part in what we come to believe. Our acquired values, attitudes, and habits in the formative years help set the table. Indeed inherited characteristics and individual temperament hold sway. The result: our worldviews are like snowflakes; no two exactly alike.
However, the Bible tells us there are only two. The natural man holds the first. We are all born in this state. “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” (v.14) This person has the spirit of the world and a mind given to the things of this world. Folks in this condition may seem to view life with the variance of those snowflakes, but the sum of it is – man’s wisdom is their teacher. The natural man sees and thinks about the world differently than God does. Here our need is to be born again.
The spiritual man employs the second worldview. At his or her rebirth, the Spirit of God is given and received. We can then know the things of God. His wisdom becomes our teacher. He teaches us: “…do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Rom 12:2) The spiritual man is learning to think about the world as God does. The Bible says of us, “…we have the mind of Christ…” (v.16) Here our need is to be continually renewed in our mind by the Spirit through His word.
The natural man thinks and acts from his inherent nature. It is just, well, natural to him. The spiritual man, however, has a choice to make. With every thought, every act, the decision must be made to follow his reborn nature or revert to the inherent nature. That is the prompt for our title above. Do we as Christians think about the world and the myriad issues of life as God does? Is our worldview the same as His worldview? He most surely has one. Whose spirit are we following? With whose mind are we thinking?
Everyone has a worldview. We have the Spirit, who is from God. We have the mind of Christ. We have a worldview. Is it His?
Unclean Lips
So I said, “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, The Lord of hosts.” Isaiah 6:5
He walked up to me during the meet and greet at church. He put his hand on my shoulder and said, “Brother, this is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners.” Now, I am pitiful at memorizing scripture, not because I am unable; but because I’m lazy. However, in this case, I finished his stated verse, “Of whom I am chief.” He paused. “Well, maybe chief at one time,” he replied, “but I’m beyond that now.”
That exchange didn’t sit well with me. Perhaps for him it is true. My experience has been far different. Oh, sure I do not sin in bushels and a peck like I used to sin. Maybe I have left “chief” behind as well. Then again, the closer I have come to the King, the perfect One, the awareness of my “unclean lips” has increased exponentially.
It has been noted that the Apostle Paul, the “original” chief of sinners might have found that to be true also. Paul often identified himself as an apostle of Christ Jesus. To the Corinthian church, he added, “I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.” (15:9) In his letter to the Romans, chapter 7, he announced his ongoing struggle with sin. Later he described himself as “the least of all the saints.” (Eph 3:8) And it was near the end of his life that Paul used the chief of sinner's description. The great apostle seemed to get smaller and more flawed in his own eyes the nearer he drew to the Lord of hosts.
There are those who believe any references the Apostle Paul made to sin in his life were B.C., before Christ. He did not have a problem with sin as a Christian. They might be right. But again, that doesn’t paint my picture. I like what Francois Fenelon shares concerning this: “The closer you get to God, the more miserable things you will find in your heart. This is not a negative thing – God allows it to let you lose confidence in yourself. You will have accomplished something when you can look at your inner corruptness without anxiety or discouragement and simply trust God. But you should try to not let yourself fall into temptation.” [1] To that last sentence, we certainly should, but are we always successful?
The great prophet, Isaiah, “saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple.” Isaiah got real up close and could only say, “Woe is me!” The Apostle Paul got real up close and cried out, “O wretched man that I am! (Rom 7:24) The brother at church said, “I’m beyond that now.” How close is he, I wonder?
[1] The Seeking Heart
So I said, “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, The Lord of hosts.” Isaiah 6:5
He walked up to me during the meet and greet at church. He put his hand on my shoulder and said, “Brother, this is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners.” Now, I am pitiful at memorizing scripture, not because I am unable; but because I’m lazy. However, in this case, I finished his stated verse, “Of whom I am chief.” He paused. “Well, maybe chief at one time,” he replied, “but I’m beyond that now.”
That exchange didn’t sit well with me. Perhaps for him it is true. My experience has been far different. Oh, sure I do not sin in bushels and a peck like I used to sin. Maybe I have left “chief” behind as well. Then again, the closer I have come to the King, the perfect One, the awareness of my “unclean lips” has increased exponentially.
It has been noted that the Apostle Paul, the “original” chief of sinners might have found that to be true also. Paul often identified himself as an apostle of Christ Jesus. To the Corinthian church, he added, “I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.” (15:9) In his letter to the Romans, chapter 7, he announced his ongoing struggle with sin. Later he described himself as “the least of all the saints.” (Eph 3:8) And it was near the end of his life that Paul used the chief of sinner's description. The great apostle seemed to get smaller and more flawed in his own eyes the nearer he drew to the Lord of hosts.
There are those who believe any references the Apostle Paul made to sin in his life were B.C., before Christ. He did not have a problem with sin as a Christian. They might be right. But again, that doesn’t paint my picture. I like what Francois Fenelon shares concerning this: “The closer you get to God, the more miserable things you will find in your heart. This is not a negative thing – God allows it to let you lose confidence in yourself. You will have accomplished something when you can look at your inner corruptness without anxiety or discouragement and simply trust God. But you should try to not let yourself fall into temptation.” [1] To that last sentence, we certainly should, but are we always successful?
The great prophet, Isaiah, “saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple.” Isaiah got real up close and could only say, “Woe is me!” The Apostle Paul got real up close and cried out, “O wretched man that I am! (Rom 7:24) The brother at church said, “I’m beyond that now.” How close is he, I wonder?
[1] The Seeking Heart
Love AND Truth
“Sanctify them by Your truth, Your word is truth.” John 17:17
Previously we looked at our need for both grace and truth as Christians. Recall Jesus was full of grace and truth. We noted that truth void of grace generated legalism and judgmentalism. Conversely, grace minus truth leads to toleration and even denial of the reality of sin in our world, and in us. We need grace and truth together. That means we need Jesus. The pastor reminds us often, “Who does it take to live a Godly life? It takes God to live a Godly life. We can do nothing apart from Him.” Jesus dwelling in us can beget a life full of grace and truth when we cooperate with Him.
This time we’ll talk about love and truth. We can mishandle these two as well. In the Apostle Paul’s 1st letter to the Corinthians, we find chapter 13. The love chapter. It may be the one place in scripture where we have no doubt we need God to live it because we surely cannot. Am I right? Love suffers long. Love is kind. Love does not envy or parade itself nor is it puffed up with pride. Love does not behave rudely. It doesn’t seek its own. It is not provoked and thinks no evil. Love bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things. Love never fails. (From verses 4,5,7,8)
That is quite a list of love attributes. God’s kind of love is expansive. When we declare, and rightly so, God’s grace is “Amazing”, my goodness, what adjective can we use to describe the enormity of His love?
There is one verse I left out in the description of love. Verse 6 tells us, “(Love) does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth.” God’s love does not walk alone. It always walks in the company of His truth. They are inseparable. A lot of people struggle with that.
Three of the most quoted words from the Bible are these: “God is love.” (1 John 4:8) They often are used as a precursor to acceptance of sinful behavior. “Well, God is love. Therefore, it is okay for me (us) to do whatever feels good. God just wants me (us) to be happy.” How many times do we hear that nowadays? Even those not in Christ keep it in their holster. While their misuse is unfortunate and sad, the greater problem is the numerous misapplications we see from professing Christians.
The Apostle John wrote those three words and repeatedly stressed God’s love never, ever uncouples from the truth. John writes to the church “whom I love in the TRUTH” and “all those who have known the TRUTH, because of the TRUTH, which abides in us and will be with us forever.” He says a blessing over his audience “in TRUTH and love.” (2 John 1-3) He writes to Gaius and the beloved: “I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the TRUTH that is in you…I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in TRUTH.” (3 John 2-4)
To what TRUTH is John referring? Jesus Himself tells us in His prayer to the Father the night of His betrayal. “Your word is truth.” What God has said is SIN – in our world, our culture, the people we know, and in us – is SIN! LOVE demands we see it and call it as such.
“Sanctify them by Your truth, Your word is truth.” John 17:17
Previously we looked at our need for both grace and truth as Christians. Recall Jesus was full of grace and truth. We noted that truth void of grace generated legalism and judgmentalism. Conversely, grace minus truth leads to toleration and even denial of the reality of sin in our world, and in us. We need grace and truth together. That means we need Jesus. The pastor reminds us often, “Who does it take to live a Godly life? It takes God to live a Godly life. We can do nothing apart from Him.” Jesus dwelling in us can beget a life full of grace and truth when we cooperate with Him.
This time we’ll talk about love and truth. We can mishandle these two as well. In the Apostle Paul’s 1st letter to the Corinthians, we find chapter 13. The love chapter. It may be the one place in scripture where we have no doubt we need God to live it because we surely cannot. Am I right? Love suffers long. Love is kind. Love does not envy or parade itself nor is it puffed up with pride. Love does not behave rudely. It doesn’t seek its own. It is not provoked and thinks no evil. Love bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things. Love never fails. (From verses 4,5,7,8)
That is quite a list of love attributes. God’s kind of love is expansive. When we declare, and rightly so, God’s grace is “Amazing”, my goodness, what adjective can we use to describe the enormity of His love?
There is one verse I left out in the description of love. Verse 6 tells us, “(Love) does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth.” God’s love does not walk alone. It always walks in the company of His truth. They are inseparable. A lot of people struggle with that.
Three of the most quoted words from the Bible are these: “God is love.” (1 John 4:8) They often are used as a precursor to acceptance of sinful behavior. “Well, God is love. Therefore, it is okay for me (us) to do whatever feels good. God just wants me (us) to be happy.” How many times do we hear that nowadays? Even those not in Christ keep it in their holster. While their misuse is unfortunate and sad, the greater problem is the numerous misapplications we see from professing Christians.
The Apostle John wrote those three words and repeatedly stressed God’s love never, ever uncouples from the truth. John writes to the church “whom I love in the TRUTH” and “all those who have known the TRUTH, because of the TRUTH, which abides in us and will be with us forever.” He says a blessing over his audience “in TRUTH and love.” (2 John 1-3) He writes to Gaius and the beloved: “I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the TRUTH that is in you…I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in TRUTH.” (3 John 2-4)
To what TRUTH is John referring? Jesus Himself tells us in His prayer to the Father the night of His betrayal. “Your word is truth.” What God has said is SIN – in our world, our culture, the people we know, and in us – is SIN! LOVE demands we see it and call it as such.
Grace AND Truth
"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." -Eph. 2:8
Isn’t Grace amazing? God's unmerited favor! Let me ask you something – Are you a GRACE carrier? Do you bring grace to the people around you and the problems you face? Do you receive grace AND do you extend grace?
Jesus was "full of grace and truth" -Jn. 1:14. I like that! Jesus was FULL of grace and truth. We have a problem with that, but Jesus didn't. There is no conflict between grace and truth in Jesus. But, to be honest, we struggle with that – don't we?
Watch this, (this is horrible but true) one of the first casualties in the church is often grace. Let's face it; honesty and transparency are dangerous in a church full of church people. It's hard to extend grace to people who don’t seem to need it. AND, it's hard to admit you need it when you aren't sure you will receive it! So many churches breed this legalistic, critical atmosphere. Honestly, who wants to bring a friend to that?
Of course, the church can go the other way too. The casualty can be the truth. Our culture is weary of truth. We don't want absolutes! So in some churches openness, tolerance, and acceptance (of just about anything) is valued above truth. In those churches, no one is a sinner in need of the Savior.
Jesus didn't have either of those problems. Jesus was "full of grace AND truth"! Jesus didn't' come to strike a balance between the two. He did not come to apply one and then the other. Jesus applied them both completely and consistently. Jesus came to embody both! That's why sinners felt safe with Him and that's also why the religious people did not.
Is Jesus indwelling me in a way that brings grace and truth to every relationship and every problem I face?
Am I full of grace and truth or just full of myself?
"Father please deliver me from myself and allow me to be a grace carrier in this life! Allow Christ in me to extend grace & truth to others through me."
"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." -Eph. 2:8
Isn’t Grace amazing? God's unmerited favor! Let me ask you something – Are you a GRACE carrier? Do you bring grace to the people around you and the problems you face? Do you receive grace AND do you extend grace?
Jesus was "full of grace and truth" -Jn. 1:14. I like that! Jesus was FULL of grace and truth. We have a problem with that, but Jesus didn't. There is no conflict between grace and truth in Jesus. But, to be honest, we struggle with that – don't we?
Watch this, (this is horrible but true) one of the first casualties in the church is often grace. Let's face it; honesty and transparency are dangerous in a church full of church people. It's hard to extend grace to people who don’t seem to need it. AND, it's hard to admit you need it when you aren't sure you will receive it! So many churches breed this legalistic, critical atmosphere. Honestly, who wants to bring a friend to that?
Of course, the church can go the other way too. The casualty can be the truth. Our culture is weary of truth. We don't want absolutes! So in some churches openness, tolerance, and acceptance (of just about anything) is valued above truth. In those churches, no one is a sinner in need of the Savior.
Jesus didn't have either of those problems. Jesus was "full of grace AND truth"! Jesus didn't' come to strike a balance between the two. He did not come to apply one and then the other. Jesus applied them both completely and consistently. Jesus came to embody both! That's why sinners felt safe with Him and that's also why the religious people did not.
Is Jesus indwelling me in a way that brings grace and truth to every relationship and every problem I face?
Am I full of grace and truth or just full of myself?
"Father please deliver me from myself and allow me to be a grace carrier in this life! Allow Christ in me to extend grace & truth to others through me."
Good Natured
“For I know that in me (that is in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.” Romans 7:18
Do you like good natured people? I highly doubt there are any negative answers to that inquiry. Who doesn’t enjoy the company of someone with a consistently amiable and cheerful disposition? During my work years spending a shift with such a person made a night and day difference in comparison to sharing it with a cantankerous curmudgeon.
Perhaps knowing enough good-natured people contributed to the results of last October’s Lifeway Research and Ligonier Ministries survey. When asked if humans by nature are good, 67% of Americans said yes. If you find that a bit troubling, how about these three numbers: 79% of Catholics, 76% of mainline Protestants, and 51% of evangelicals agreed that humanity is inherently good. Even allowing for confusion and some misunderstanding of the question those results are alarming.
The Bible tells us that we enter this world with an Adamic nature. We are born in the image of the man of dust. (1 Cor 15:45-49) Nothing good dwells in our flesh. We are by nature children of wrath. (Eph 2:3) Our inherent nature is fallen, depraved, corrupt, rebellious and separated from our Creator. We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Rom 3:23) Jeremiah declares, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it?” (17:9) We are degenerates and in desperate need of being regenerated.
If indeed our inherent nature is good there is no need for redemption, regeneration or reconciliation with God. Throw the Bible, the Nazarene, the Cross, the Blood and such foolishness on the scrap heap. Toss propitiation, the atonement, and the absolute need to be born again on there as well. Strike a match!
Our secular and liberal friends, neighbors, family members, and fellow citizens would certainly welcome that bonfire! Their yes answer to the inherent goodness of humanity and a dismissive wave of the hand concerning our sin nature is entirely understandable. It is foundational and consistent with their beliefs and resultant lifestyle choices. But the eight out of ten Catholics and over six out of ten Protestants who agree, what does one say to that? One can only say we have a huge problem, and the problem appears to be us.
The Bible tells us, “Through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned. (Rom 5:12) We then learn that while one man’s disobedience brought death to all, “so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.” (v.19) The fact is our inherent nature is only fit for hell. Jesus Christ is the only One, who can make us fit for heaven. Shouldn’t all those professing Christians in that survey know this? Would they believe it if they did?
“For I know that in me (that is in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.” Romans 7:18
Do you like good natured people? I highly doubt there are any negative answers to that inquiry. Who doesn’t enjoy the company of someone with a consistently amiable and cheerful disposition? During my work years spending a shift with such a person made a night and day difference in comparison to sharing it with a cantankerous curmudgeon.
Perhaps knowing enough good-natured people contributed to the results of last October’s Lifeway Research and Ligonier Ministries survey. When asked if humans by nature are good, 67% of Americans said yes. If you find that a bit troubling, how about these three numbers: 79% of Catholics, 76% of mainline Protestants, and 51% of evangelicals agreed that humanity is inherently good. Even allowing for confusion and some misunderstanding of the question those results are alarming.
The Bible tells us that we enter this world with an Adamic nature. We are born in the image of the man of dust. (1 Cor 15:45-49) Nothing good dwells in our flesh. We are by nature children of wrath. (Eph 2:3) Our inherent nature is fallen, depraved, corrupt, rebellious and separated from our Creator. We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Rom 3:23) Jeremiah declares, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it?” (17:9) We are degenerates and in desperate need of being regenerated.
If indeed our inherent nature is good there is no need for redemption, regeneration or reconciliation with God. Throw the Bible, the Nazarene, the Cross, the Blood and such foolishness on the scrap heap. Toss propitiation, the atonement, and the absolute need to be born again on there as well. Strike a match!
Our secular and liberal friends, neighbors, family members, and fellow citizens would certainly welcome that bonfire! Their yes answer to the inherent goodness of humanity and a dismissive wave of the hand concerning our sin nature is entirely understandable. It is foundational and consistent with their beliefs and resultant lifestyle choices. But the eight out of ten Catholics and over six out of ten Protestants who agree, what does one say to that? One can only say we have a huge problem, and the problem appears to be us.
The Bible tells us, “Through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned. (Rom 5:12) We then learn that while one man’s disobedience brought death to all, “so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.” (v.19) The fact is our inherent nature is only fit for hell. Jesus Christ is the only One, who can make us fit for heaven. Shouldn’t all those professing Christians in that survey know this? Would they believe it if they did?