Have you ever had a conversation where you look back with disgust upon yourself? Many times I have looked back and prayed my foolishness would somehow be forgotten! When we trust in Christ and repent, God forgives and remembers our sin no more. But the same cannot be said for most people! I remember one conversation I had with a friend during my high school days I would love to revise. I was a professing follower of Jesus Christ, and I knew in my flesh no good thing dwelt. But during a conversation, she demanded I admit I was a good person. At first I resisted. Then she insisted. "Alright, fine!" I said. Those are words I would love to take back, being in direct violation of scriptural truth. Psalm 14:3 reads, "They have all turned aside, they have together become corrupt; there is none who does good, no, not one." Jesus once told a man, "There is none good but God." God is right, I was wrong.
Compliments are always difficult for me to receive. It is not that I despise compliments: no, the difficulty is that my flesh LOVES compliments. The real struggle lies in receiving the compliment in humility but taking no glory in it. All glory is to be directed towards Jesus Christ. We are not to make people feel awkward because of a compliment, or to chastise them for sharing their appreciative heart. We are to receive the person graciously and gently direct their focus to the goodness of God. When I was about 12 we had a guest singer at our church who showed me how not to handle compliments. She was complimented on her beautiful singing and said, "Well, I was off on some of my notes." She might as well have slapped this poor woman who complimented her. To the woman in the pew the singing was lovely. The singer could have said, "Thank you very much. Isn't it a joy to sing to our great God?" Instead she critically pointed out her own flaws in false humility and in so many words said, "You're too stupid to know good singing when you hear it. I can do better than the garbage you just heard." Ouch.
As a Christian, I have come to the conclusion that I am an absolute wretch. Like the song "Amazing Grace" says, "Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see." Any redeeming qualities in me exist only because of my Redeemer, Jesus Christ. When I sin it is because of sin in me, and when I do what is right it is because of the Holy Spirit's work within me. I praise God that sometimes, despite all my tendencies towards wickedness, pride, deceit, and judgments, the light of Jesus Christ shines through. It makes me very sad if people think I am a good person. I am not a good person. I want people to recognize that what they perceive as "goodness" is actually Christ living through me. I strive to live a life pleasing unto God. But it is only by God's grace, mercy, and love that I can do so. Even then it is not I who live, but Christ in me.
The next time someone compliments you, I encourage you to give all the glory to Jesus Christ. Take none of His glory for yourself. When we do this it robs God and stunts our witness. A man who swallows compliments and does not give glory to God is like a dog who feasts on sweet chocolate. Chocolate will kill a dog, even as praise and worship will corrupt and destroy a man. Reserve no glory for yourself. Jesus says in Matthew 23:12, "And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." To God be the glory, both now and forever, for wisdom and might are His!
27 September 2011
26 September 2011
Vanity Fair (in the palm of your hand)
I spent a portion of Monday on the train to and from the Sydney domestic terminal visiting friends. As I waited on the platform for the stage to arrive, I surveyed the people to my right and left. The closest three people on each side of me had their mobile phones in their hands and white earbuds in. Seemingly without a clue of all around them, these six people were captivated in their own little worlds. As we entered the train, some people picked up books or newspapers, while the young man who shared my seat played Street Fighter II on his mobile, earbuds blasting. Taking my cue from my fellow passenger, I pulled out my Kindle to read Bunyan's classic, Pilgrim's Progress.
As I read, I came across the passage where Christian and Faithful come to Vanity Fair (not just a magazine!), a place of debauchery and worldliness. Bunyan describes in the book: "And, moreover, at this fair there are at all times to be seen juggling, cheats, games, plays, fools, apes, knaves, and rogues, and that of every kind." Technology has made it possible that we do not need to go to Vanity Fair anymore to partake in the vain pleasures therein. We have the potential to hold Vanity Fair in the palm of our hands. This is not to knock modern technology, or even our reliance upon it. But in wisdom we must soberly consider the risks technology presents.
I have a degree of control over how I use my mobile and my Kindle. I can choose to use them as a tool for wholesome communication or for evil. The same mobile that can alert authorities of an emergency can be used to view pornography. Technology provides valuable tools when used in their proper place, but I must be willing to ask myself the question: do modern technological conveniences and the "social networking" of today have control over me? It used to be that a mobile was only used for work or emergencies, but now they are common among young children! Mobiles, too often, are the equivalent of a "dummy" (Nuk, pacifier) for a teenager. Take their phone away or ban them from Facebook and see the tantrums and tears! Like a junkie looking for a fix, it is common for youngsters to sneak phones from siblings, borrow a mobile from a friend at school or use library computers to update their status. They say one telltale sign of being an alcoholic is having at least one drink every day. How hard is it to put down that mobile? How impossible is it for you to turn off the computer? Vanity Fair is still around, and the danger remains very real.
Like King Solomon the preacher said, there is nothing new under the sun. The flesh tends towards every kind of excess to its own destruction. Sin's high-definition graphics and Dolby surround sound are better than ever. Be sober and watchful, for your enemy knows your weakness. Praise God He has provided a Saviour, Jesus Chris,t and the light of the Holy Spirit to shine truth upon our often darkened consciences. If you children are spending their days in Vanity Fair, may your actions say: "Not on my watch!" 1 Corinthians 6:12 reads, "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any." May we all yield to the Holy Spirit's power for the glory of God!
As I read, I came across the passage where Christian and Faithful come to Vanity Fair (not just a magazine!), a place of debauchery and worldliness. Bunyan describes in the book: "And, moreover, at this fair there are at all times to be seen juggling, cheats, games, plays, fools, apes, knaves, and rogues, and that of every kind." Technology has made it possible that we do not need to go to Vanity Fair anymore to partake in the vain pleasures therein. We have the potential to hold Vanity Fair in the palm of our hands. This is not to knock modern technology, or even our reliance upon it. But in wisdom we must soberly consider the risks technology presents.
I have a degree of control over how I use my mobile and my Kindle. I can choose to use them as a tool for wholesome communication or for evil. The same mobile that can alert authorities of an emergency can be used to view pornography. Technology provides valuable tools when used in their proper place, but I must be willing to ask myself the question: do modern technological conveniences and the "social networking" of today have control over me? It used to be that a mobile was only used for work or emergencies, but now they are common among young children! Mobiles, too often, are the equivalent of a "dummy" (Nuk, pacifier) for a teenager. Take their phone away or ban them from Facebook and see the tantrums and tears! Like a junkie looking for a fix, it is common for youngsters to sneak phones from siblings, borrow a mobile from a friend at school or use library computers to update their status. They say one telltale sign of being an alcoholic is having at least one drink every day. How hard is it to put down that mobile? How impossible is it for you to turn off the computer? Vanity Fair is still around, and the danger remains very real.
Like King Solomon the preacher said, there is nothing new under the sun. The flesh tends towards every kind of excess to its own destruction. Sin's high-definition graphics and Dolby surround sound are better than ever. Be sober and watchful, for your enemy knows your weakness. Praise God He has provided a Saviour, Jesus Chris,t and the light of the Holy Spirit to shine truth upon our often darkened consciences. If you children are spending their days in Vanity Fair, may your actions say: "Not on my watch!" 1 Corinthians 6:12 reads, "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any." May we all yield to the Holy Spirit's power for the glory of God!
24 September 2011
Separated upon Death
This morning a group of us from Calvary Chapel Sydney pitched in at the Castle Hill Cemetery "working bee." Three times a year, a group of volunteers give their Saturday morning to pick up rubbish, toss dead flowers and broken vases, and remove any debris from the turf around the tombstones. It was wonderful to share the love of Jesus through a simple act of kindness.
Long mounds of red dirt heaved from the turf over freshly dug graves. As I walked down the rows of headstones amid the cackles of kookaburras, I noticed something I have never seen in a cemetery before. The burial plots were segregated based upon different faiths. There was a Catholic section, an area for Muslims, Jews, Baptists, and Independents. Many more groups were represented in this graveyard surrounded by tall gum trees on the edge of Fred Caterson Reserve.
The thought occurred to me: though these deceased folks are in separated in rows according to denominational persuasion, they all have one thing in common. Every one of those bodies is a vacant husk, which used to contain a living soul. They have all "gone the way of the earth." One lived for two years, another for 27, and many for much longer. That one thing they have in common - death of the body - is a greater similarity than the sum of their unique personalities, talents, and gifts in life. The only reason why their bodies rest underground in a cemetery is because their bodies are dead - a permanent, irreversible state of corruption all people face.
The fact a body is buried in a certain section of the cemetery has no bearing on the eternal destination of each soul. No one is guaranteed passage to heaven because a cross or a scripture adorns their tomb. Everyone must face the grim reality of death, but for those who repent and trust in Jesus understand death is the entrance to eternal glory. John 11:25-26 reads, "Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?" Being Immanuel (God with us), Jesus is the only one who can say this. He proved His worthiness through His own resurrection. John 3:16 also confirms: "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." The Bible teaches that if we repent and trust in Christ, we have assurance through the promises of scripture that if we were to die this very moment, we will be in the presence of Jesus Christ.
All those folks in the cemetery were created in the image of God for the purpose of knowing Him and glorifying God forever. On the day of judgment those who during their lives believed in Christ and those who refused Him will be separated, even as a shepherd divides the sheep from the goats. That moment will define our eternal destiny: heaven or hell. Are you afraid to die? Are you ready to die? Those who are afraid are not ready, and unless I knew Christ and the promises of God's Word I would not be able to sleep at night! Death looms ever closer, and it is only through Jesus we can overcome death!
I could care less where my physical body laid to rest. But the eternal destination of my soul? That is of utmost importance. Jesus says in Mark 8:36, "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?" Jesus is a Savior who redeems souls from death. All who come to Him in humble faith He will by no means cast out!
Long mounds of red dirt heaved from the turf over freshly dug graves. As I walked down the rows of headstones amid the cackles of kookaburras, I noticed something I have never seen in a cemetery before. The burial plots were segregated based upon different faiths. There was a Catholic section, an area for Muslims, Jews, Baptists, and Independents. Many more groups were represented in this graveyard surrounded by tall gum trees on the edge of Fred Caterson Reserve.
The thought occurred to me: though these deceased folks are in separated in rows according to denominational persuasion, they all have one thing in common. Every one of those bodies is a vacant husk, which used to contain a living soul. They have all "gone the way of the earth." One lived for two years, another for 27, and many for much longer. That one thing they have in common - death of the body - is a greater similarity than the sum of their unique personalities, talents, and gifts in life. The only reason why their bodies rest underground in a cemetery is because their bodies are dead - a permanent, irreversible state of corruption all people face.
The fact a body is buried in a certain section of the cemetery has no bearing on the eternal destination of each soul. No one is guaranteed passage to heaven because a cross or a scripture adorns their tomb. Everyone must face the grim reality of death, but for those who repent and trust in Jesus understand death is the entrance to eternal glory. John 11:25-26 reads, "Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?" Being Immanuel (God with us), Jesus is the only one who can say this. He proved His worthiness through His own resurrection. John 3:16 also confirms: "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." The Bible teaches that if we repent and trust in Christ, we have assurance through the promises of scripture that if we were to die this very moment, we will be in the presence of Jesus Christ.
All those folks in the cemetery were created in the image of God for the purpose of knowing Him and glorifying God forever. On the day of judgment those who during their lives believed in Christ and those who refused Him will be separated, even as a shepherd divides the sheep from the goats. That moment will define our eternal destiny: heaven or hell. Are you afraid to die? Are you ready to die? Those who are afraid are not ready, and unless I knew Christ and the promises of God's Word I would not be able to sleep at night! Death looms ever closer, and it is only through Jesus we can overcome death!
I could care less where my physical body laid to rest. But the eternal destination of my soul? That is of utmost importance. Jesus says in Mark 8:36, "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?" Jesus is a Savior who redeems souls from death. All who come to Him in humble faith He will by no means cast out!
22 September 2011
Stay in the Yard!
Life has been a blur of late. Between meetings, sermon/study preparation, and the fact that baseball is in full-swing in addition to daily duties and family stuff, time is certainly short! And then things happen which make the day more interesting, like when Zed's bunny Oreo escaped from our back yard the other day! As soon as I saw the hole under the fence, I knew finding that rabbit would be an act of God. There is a large area of bush in front of our house, and greenery all around our neighborhood. I prayed, "In the name of Jesus Christ, God help me to find that dumb bunny!" You know what? Within five minutes, I did!
After Laura helped me return the bunny to the confines of her cage, I thought about how dumb that bunny was. We provide for all her needs, make sure she has good food and clean water, protection from danger, and a secure place to romp around. Why would she potentially throw away her life by burrowing under the fence? For what? During the day, the bunnies like the freedom of being outside their cage. They like to nibble on grass, hide behind bushes and under the BBQ, and kick up their heels in freedom. But because Oreo dug her way out of the yard, for her protection she must stay in the cage unless she is under direct supervision. As much as we want to let her run around, it simply isn't safe to do so because of her recently discovered burrowing skills.
When we repent and are born again through faith in Jesus Christ, Christians are released from the bondage of sin and death. We have absolute freedom to serve the LORD and honor Him. But sometimes, like Oreo, we can cross the bounds God has provided for our protection. A good owner doesn't let his rabbits run off into the deadly bush if he can help it, even as a good shepherd is careful to monitor the wandering of his sheep. A pasture doesn't always have clearly defined boundaries, and sometimes we wonder how far we can take liberty before we are in sin. Liberty in Christ is good, but it must be handled prayerfully and responsibly. Otherwise God will remove that liberty from us completely and perhaps even permanently because of our natural appetite to pursue it to our own destruction.
A personal example from my own life: I love football, especially the NFL. Since the age of 10, there is no game I love to watch or play more. For many years, my schedule was dictated by the NFL. I would go to the early Sunday service to watch the Charger's games. Not only that, but in my late teens and early 20's my attitude and outlook (perhaps for hours or even a day) was directly affected positively or negatively (but usually negatively with those 4-12 seasons!) by the outcome of a game. More and more of my time and metal energy began to be required. In recent years I played Fantasy Football, joined pools at work, entered free competitions online picking winners and losers, and I watched all the games I could. To put it simply, I burrowed under the fence. I went overboard. Last week I was in the cage, so to speak. God led me to deny myself to watch even a single play. God taught me a valuable lesson. I must honor Him above even the freedoms He graciously grants. If I abuse my freedoms, He is wise and right to take them from me so I might honor Him above all.
I'm blessed and privileged to serve a gracious, loving God who is full of compassion. Instead of condemning me, He seeks to restore. Use your freedoms wisely, and don't abuse them. The conviction of transgression is a far heavier weight for our souls to bear than to deny yourself for the glory of God. This is the mark of a disciple. Matthew 16:24-26 reads, "Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?"
After Laura helped me return the bunny to the confines of her cage, I thought about how dumb that bunny was. We provide for all her needs, make sure she has good food and clean water, protection from danger, and a secure place to romp around. Why would she potentially throw away her life by burrowing under the fence? For what? During the day, the bunnies like the freedom of being outside their cage. They like to nibble on grass, hide behind bushes and under the BBQ, and kick up their heels in freedom. But because Oreo dug her way out of the yard, for her protection she must stay in the cage unless she is under direct supervision. As much as we want to let her run around, it simply isn't safe to do so because of her recently discovered burrowing skills.
When we repent and are born again through faith in Jesus Christ, Christians are released from the bondage of sin and death. We have absolute freedom to serve the LORD and honor Him. But sometimes, like Oreo, we can cross the bounds God has provided for our protection. A good owner doesn't let his rabbits run off into the deadly bush if he can help it, even as a good shepherd is careful to monitor the wandering of his sheep. A pasture doesn't always have clearly defined boundaries, and sometimes we wonder how far we can take liberty before we are in sin. Liberty in Christ is good, but it must be handled prayerfully and responsibly. Otherwise God will remove that liberty from us completely and perhaps even permanently because of our natural appetite to pursue it to our own destruction.
A personal example from my own life: I love football, especially the NFL. Since the age of 10, there is no game I love to watch or play more. For many years, my schedule was dictated by the NFL. I would go to the early Sunday service to watch the Charger's games. Not only that, but in my late teens and early 20's my attitude and outlook (perhaps for hours or even a day) was directly affected positively or negatively (but usually negatively with those 4-12 seasons!) by the outcome of a game. More and more of my time and metal energy began to be required. In recent years I played Fantasy Football, joined pools at work, entered free competitions online picking winners and losers, and I watched all the games I could. To put it simply, I burrowed under the fence. I went overboard. Last week I was in the cage, so to speak. God led me to deny myself to watch even a single play. God taught me a valuable lesson. I must honor Him above even the freedoms He graciously grants. If I abuse my freedoms, He is wise and right to take them from me so I might honor Him above all.
I'm blessed and privileged to serve a gracious, loving God who is full of compassion. Instead of condemning me, He seeks to restore. Use your freedoms wisely, and don't abuse them. The conviction of transgression is a far heavier weight for our souls to bear than to deny yourself for the glory of God. This is the mark of a disciple. Matthew 16:24-26 reads, "Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?"
18 September 2011
Gracious Privilege
Last night I saw a portion of a "60 Minutes" segment which detailed the lives of some young girls in the Middle East. They were shown driving, eating at a restaurant, riding horses, and speeding around on motorboats. Over and over they were referred to as a "privileged" class based upon their financial wealth. It is not the first time I have heard the rich referred to as "privileged." In a worldly sense I understand the point being made. Those who are wealthy have worldly benefits. But spiritually speaking, the Bible presents a conflicting perspective. I would contend that with the privilege of wealth comes the probability of spiritual bankruptcy.
There is nothing wrong with financial wealth, providing it is used for the glory of God. Many people, however, are driven by strong desires to be wealthy. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 reads, "Now godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." The desire to be rich has caused many people to fall into temptation, traps, and foolish and harmful lusts which destroy. Even people who have trusted in Christ are not immune to the tendency towards greed. Those who seek after riches instead of God impale themselves with many sorrows. Because of our inherited sin nature, both poor and rich alike tend towards greed, envy, and contentiousness.
Jesus said something in Matthew 19:23-26 which bears careful examination: "Then Jesus said to His disciples, "Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 And again I say to you, 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." 25 When His disciples heard it, they were greatly astonished, saying, "Who then can be saved?" 26 But Jesus looked at them and said to them, "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." A rich man tends to trust in his riches, while that is hardly the issue for the "less privileged." Jesus says it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a sewing needle than for a rich man to enter into heaven. Through hyperbole Jesus was illustrating the fact that men trust their money more than God. But just like poverty does not keep a man out of heaven, nor does the abundance of riches. What is impossible with men is possible with God.
No matter how much money you have in your account, it is certain that it will not follow you into eternity. The mummified corpses of Egyptian Pharaohs were discovered thousands of years later surrounded by riches which could not help them in the afterlife. Salvation and an eternal home in the heavens is priceless, and cannot be purchased with money, platinum, silver, gold, stocks, bonds, or gemstones. The only way into heaven is absolute perfection. The Bible tells us what we already know: all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, and the wages of sin is death. All people who walk this earth have one thing in common. Every human body will eventually be corrupted and perish. Because the wages of sin is death, eternity in hell is the wage we have earned for our sins. But Jesus was sent as Messiah to shed His blood as payment for our sins, the perfect Lamb of God. 1 John 4:10 says, "In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins." Proved through His resurrection after three days, Jesus has atoned for the sins of all who will repent and trust in Him - no matter how "unprivileged" you may feel. Jesus states in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."
The poor look at the rich as if they have a great privilege, and some rich are convinced they are not privileged at all. When a man believes he is entitled or deserves more than he has, he cannot appreciate his privileges. There are few liabilities more spiritually disastrous to a man or woman than great wealth. But what is not possible for any man is possible with God. To trust in dollars makes no sense. Trust in Jesus Christ and give all your resources into His hands. There is no greater privilege than being a child of God. Malachi 3:17 reads, "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." The best investment of your life is to repent and trust in Jesus Christ. This conscious choice to enter into a relationship with God pays eternal dividends! Salvation is a privilege no man can earn: it is received by God's grace. It is a privilege only those who humble themselves may obtain. There is no privilege greater than spending eternity with Jesus!
There is nothing wrong with financial wealth, providing it is used for the glory of God. Many people, however, are driven by strong desires to be wealthy. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 reads, "Now godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." The desire to be rich has caused many people to fall into temptation, traps, and foolish and harmful lusts which destroy. Even people who have trusted in Christ are not immune to the tendency towards greed. Those who seek after riches instead of God impale themselves with many sorrows. Because of our inherited sin nature, both poor and rich alike tend towards greed, envy, and contentiousness.
Jesus said something in Matthew 19:23-26 which bears careful examination: "Then Jesus said to His disciples, "Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 And again I say to you, 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." 25 When His disciples heard it, they were greatly astonished, saying, "Who then can be saved?" 26 But Jesus looked at them and said to them, "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." A rich man tends to trust in his riches, while that is hardly the issue for the "less privileged." Jesus says it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a sewing needle than for a rich man to enter into heaven. Through hyperbole Jesus was illustrating the fact that men trust their money more than God. But just like poverty does not keep a man out of heaven, nor does the abundance of riches. What is impossible with men is possible with God.
No matter how much money you have in your account, it is certain that it will not follow you into eternity. The mummified corpses of Egyptian Pharaohs were discovered thousands of years later surrounded by riches which could not help them in the afterlife. Salvation and an eternal home in the heavens is priceless, and cannot be purchased with money, platinum, silver, gold, stocks, bonds, or gemstones. The only way into heaven is absolute perfection. The Bible tells us what we already know: all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, and the wages of sin is death. All people who walk this earth have one thing in common. Every human body will eventually be corrupted and perish. Because the wages of sin is death, eternity in hell is the wage we have earned for our sins. But Jesus was sent as Messiah to shed His blood as payment for our sins, the perfect Lamb of God. 1 John 4:10 says, "In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins." Proved through His resurrection after three days, Jesus has atoned for the sins of all who will repent and trust in Him - no matter how "unprivileged" you may feel. Jesus states in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."
The poor look at the rich as if they have a great privilege, and some rich are convinced they are not privileged at all. When a man believes he is entitled or deserves more than he has, he cannot appreciate his privileges. There are few liabilities more spiritually disastrous to a man or woman than great wealth. But what is not possible for any man is possible with God. To trust in dollars makes no sense. Trust in Jesus Christ and give all your resources into His hands. There is no greater privilege than being a child of God. Malachi 3:17 reads, "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." The best investment of your life is to repent and trust in Jesus Christ. This conscious choice to enter into a relationship with God pays eternal dividends! Salvation is a privilege no man can earn: it is received by God's grace. It is a privilege only those who humble themselves may obtain. There is no privilege greater than spending eternity with Jesus!
14 September 2011
Today: A New Beginning!
The length of time we have formally followed Christ is a source of pride for some. I wonder, dear professing follower of Christ, if you are closer to Him now than you were at the first? Has your love and passion for Him grown? Or has your love become familiar and cold? Are you as excited now to pray as you once were? Do you have an almost ravenous desire to consume the Word of God like at the beginning when you know you knew nothing? Have you become cynical about church and Christianity because of some bruises you've experienced over the years? This line of thought will not apply to all, but it certainly applies to some.
Are you willing to admit that up until now you have really played at Christianity? Are you willing to sacrifice your honorable badge of years following Jesus to say that you have never known Him as you ought? Are you ready to disown all works previous to now as done in the power of your flesh? Are you willing to say that today is the day of your true conversion, when you were filled with the Holy Spirit for the first time through faith and total abandonment to Christ because God loves you, you love Him, and trust Him completely? Consider a quote from G. Campbell Morgan which rings true:
Are you willing to admit that up until now you have really played at Christianity? Are you willing to sacrifice your honorable badge of years following Jesus to say that you have never known Him as you ought? Are you ready to disown all works previous to now as done in the power of your flesh? Are you willing to say that today is the day of your true conversion, when you were filled with the Holy Spirit for the first time through faith and total abandonment to Christ because God loves you, you love Him, and trust Him completely? Consider a quote from G. Campbell Morgan which rings true:
You have been for years on the confines of Emmanuel's land. You are familiar with all the songs, but you cannot sing them and feel the rapture of them. You are familiar with all the phrasing of Christianity, but it has never become the phrasing which beats your heart into infinite music. You need that faith which abandons itself absolutely and wholly, not to an ideal you would like to realize, but to a Person who will realize in you every ideal after which your heart is seeking. In order to receive the Holy Ghost we have to add to our conviction, confidence; to our repentance, faith; to our hope, appropriation, and all these things in relation to Jesus Christ. The living Christ has come. The Spirit has been poured out. Westminster Chapel, London, tonight is as full in every part of the Holy Spirit of God as was the upper room on the day of Pentecost. The mistake you have been making for years is that you have been waiting for Him to come in nights of prayer and lonely vigil, in speculative inquiry; waiting while you have been attending conventions and reading books about the Holy Ghost. The Spirit has come. He is here. Every man, woman, and little child in this house is surrendered by the beneficent Spirit of God, waiting to come in, waiting to teach you the deeper music of life, its vision and glory. "How is it that I do not feel the thrill and do not see the light?" you ask. Because you have never believed in Jesus Christ. Convinced of the perfection of His ideal, put confidence in Him, and rank yourself by His side and under His banner. Repenting of sin, changing your mind about it, trust Him to give you victory in every department of life. Hoping for a better day, appropriate the day that has come. Wishing that you could be delivered, be delivered now by trusting Jesus Christ. Just where you sit, hoping, wishing, wondering, cast yourself upon Jesus Christ and say, "Here I am, now, just as I am." The Spirit of God will bring the living Christ into your own inner experience. That will end your infidelity, your skepticism, your wonder. You will pass into the realm of life, and all the signs following will be granted to you." (The Westminster Chapel, Morgan, Vol. 1, pages 236-237)It is not until we are wearied and utterly finished with a knock-off brand of Christianity devoid of all power, strength, victory, and new life before we can taste the real thing. Some have never known Christ, some only think they know Christ, and some truly know Him. No matter where you stand, meet and follow Jesus today for the first time!
Supernatural Resource
The earth is abundant with natural resources. The perfectly tuned atmosphere exists on earth which promotes health of plant, animal, and human life. Fruits and vegetables are grown in abundance on farms, and living animals both in the sea and on land provide food to support life. Beneath the surface of the earth, vast reserves of oil and coal are collected to supply fuel for heating, transportation, and manufacturing. Precious metals and gems are mined throughout the world for both industrial and cosmetic use. The more plentiful the natural resources, the more profitable the enterprise. When rarity of a resource is coupled with high demand, the value of that resource skyrockets.
From a worldly perspective, limited resources means limited success. The ultimate resource for business and people is money. Unfortunately, many churches these days also perceive money to be either the catalyst or great limiter for "ministry." I recently read a quote from an Australian pastor which I paraphrase: "Little money, little chance for ministry. Lots of money, enormous opportunity for ministry." This sentiment could not be further from the actual truth. Are money, manpower, and positive thinking the natural resources of the church?
Let us turn our attention upon Jesus Christ, the Founder and Head of the church of God. He did not attract followers with programs or large amounts of money. He did not have a worship team comprised of young, stylish people who were skilled musicians and singers. Jesus did not build a modern church campus and market Himself on the TV or internet. And think of all the real ministry He was able to do through the power of the Holy Spirit! Think of all the souls saved under His teaching, the people delivered from demonic power, the forgiveness, hope, peace, and joy which has been perpetuated to this day! What is the resource of the church? It is none other than the supernatural resource of God's love. Big buildings, cutting-edge media presentations, dynamic preaching personalities, and thousands of euphoric people singing uplifting songs in unison are absolutely impotent for ministry without the love of Jesus Christ.
This is clearly seen in scripture: the question is, do we believe it is true today? Is the love of Jesus Christ all we need to reach this dying, decadent, world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ? 1 Corinthians 13:1-2 reads, "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing." I thank God He has abundantly supplied the needs of His people, both spiritually and physically. Let us couple every resource God has provided with the supernatural resource of His love. May our gaze be fixed upon our Saviour Jesus Christ, the model and source of such love!
From a worldly perspective, limited resources means limited success. The ultimate resource for business and people is money. Unfortunately, many churches these days also perceive money to be either the catalyst or great limiter for "ministry." I recently read a quote from an Australian pastor which I paraphrase: "Little money, little chance for ministry. Lots of money, enormous opportunity for ministry." This sentiment could not be further from the actual truth. Are money, manpower, and positive thinking the natural resources of the church?
Let us turn our attention upon Jesus Christ, the Founder and Head of the church of God. He did not attract followers with programs or large amounts of money. He did not have a worship team comprised of young, stylish people who were skilled musicians and singers. Jesus did not build a modern church campus and market Himself on the TV or internet. And think of all the real ministry He was able to do through the power of the Holy Spirit! Think of all the souls saved under His teaching, the people delivered from demonic power, the forgiveness, hope, peace, and joy which has been perpetuated to this day! What is the resource of the church? It is none other than the supernatural resource of God's love. Big buildings, cutting-edge media presentations, dynamic preaching personalities, and thousands of euphoric people singing uplifting songs in unison are absolutely impotent for ministry without the love of Jesus Christ.
This is clearly seen in scripture: the question is, do we believe it is true today? Is the love of Jesus Christ all we need to reach this dying, decadent, world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ? 1 Corinthians 13:1-2 reads, "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing." I thank God He has abundantly supplied the needs of His people, both spiritually and physically. Let us couple every resource God has provided with the supernatural resource of His love. May our gaze be fixed upon our Saviour Jesus Christ, the model and source of such love!
13 September 2011
Does Life Matter?
The other day I picked up a biography on Heath Ledger, an Australian-born actor who made it big in Hollywood until his untimely demise at the age of 28. My greatest interest in reading the book is learning about the man behind the masks. As I read the book, however, I find that the author doesn't have insights into Mr. Ledger on a deep, personal level. It is more of a chronology of events, a timeline sprinkled with quotes. Heath's own words open a small window to his heart.
Heath had a unique perspective of the world and his place in it, as illustrated by this quote: "I've always been very big on self-exploration and answering my own questions...I look up at the stars and go, 'There's no explanation for us to be here.' When anything is blocking my head or there's worry in my life, I just - whoosh! - go sit on Mars or something and look back here at Earth. All you see is this tiny speck; you don't see the fear, you don't see the pain, you don't see the movie industry, you don't see this interview, you don't see thought...It's just one solid speck. Then nothing really matters, it just doesn't." (Heath Ledger, McShane, John Blake Publishing Ltd., 2008, pg. 67)
As I read that quote, the only word I can think to describe it is "tragic!" It may be artistic from a worldly point of view, but the philosophy found within one's own heart is desperately lacking and often misleading. When I look at the stars, I say just the opposite: "There is a reason we are here." It is impossible to maintain proper perspective in life apart from a relationship with the Creator and Giver of life: Jesus Christ. Jesus experienced first-hand the effects of sin man brought upon himself through rebellion against God. He answered questions, shared the wisdom of God, cast out fear with perfect love, and experienced pain for us. He knew what it was like to be hounded by the paparazzi of His day. What God does matters, and the fact that He loves us makes all the difference.
I can't answer my own questions, but I'm thankful God answers.. I would have really loved to sit down with Heath and have a discussion about the development of his philosophy over the years. I wouldn't speak to him in an attempt to prove him wrong or tell him the right way to live. It would simply be to listen, to hear where he's coming from. He believed there is no explanation behind why human beings walk this earth. Yet for 28 years, Heath walked this earth and distinguished himself from others due to his skill in the art of acting. He was very careful in choosing roles. How can you say your roles or actions matter when in the big picture nothing matters? My heart breaks for the guy. The trip back and forth to Mars seems to have been tiring and unsatisfying. Mars seemed more and more attractive as a permanent home over the camera flashes, money, fame, drugs, voyeurs, and realizing that his life was not his own: he was a product that had an expiration date. The man never came back from his last trip. But Mars isn't where souls stay after their body dies. I only know what the Bible says: Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Him. He created Heath, knows Him, and I hope Heath knew Christ as LORD too. Rest in peace, mate.
Life does matter. We exist to glorify God, even as the stars which shine brightly in the heavens. Psalm 19:1-3 reads, "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork. 2 Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night reveals knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard." Whether you are are a star which shines in space or a movie star in Hollywood, our existence is intended to shine for the glory of God. Let all we do be to this end. Isaiah 55:6-9 says, "Seek the LORD while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. 8 "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," says the LORD. 9 "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." We matter to God, and pleasing Him should matter to us.
Heath had a unique perspective of the world and his place in it, as illustrated by this quote: "I've always been very big on self-exploration and answering my own questions...I look up at the stars and go, 'There's no explanation for us to be here.' When anything is blocking my head or there's worry in my life, I just - whoosh! - go sit on Mars or something and look back here at Earth. All you see is this tiny speck; you don't see the fear, you don't see the pain, you don't see the movie industry, you don't see this interview, you don't see thought...It's just one solid speck. Then nothing really matters, it just doesn't." (Heath Ledger, McShane, John Blake Publishing Ltd., 2008, pg. 67)
As I read that quote, the only word I can think to describe it is "tragic!" It may be artistic from a worldly point of view, but the philosophy found within one's own heart is desperately lacking and often misleading. When I look at the stars, I say just the opposite: "There is a reason we are here." It is impossible to maintain proper perspective in life apart from a relationship with the Creator and Giver of life: Jesus Christ. Jesus experienced first-hand the effects of sin man brought upon himself through rebellion against God. He answered questions, shared the wisdom of God, cast out fear with perfect love, and experienced pain for us. He knew what it was like to be hounded by the paparazzi of His day. What God does matters, and the fact that He loves us makes all the difference.
I can't answer my own questions, but I'm thankful God answers.. I would have really loved to sit down with Heath and have a discussion about the development of his philosophy over the years. I wouldn't speak to him in an attempt to prove him wrong or tell him the right way to live. It would simply be to listen, to hear where he's coming from. He believed there is no explanation behind why human beings walk this earth. Yet for 28 years, Heath walked this earth and distinguished himself from others due to his skill in the art of acting. He was very careful in choosing roles. How can you say your roles or actions matter when in the big picture nothing matters? My heart breaks for the guy. The trip back and forth to Mars seems to have been tiring and unsatisfying. Mars seemed more and more attractive as a permanent home over the camera flashes, money, fame, drugs, voyeurs, and realizing that his life was not his own: he was a product that had an expiration date. The man never came back from his last trip. But Mars isn't where souls stay after their body dies. I only know what the Bible says: Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Him. He created Heath, knows Him, and I hope Heath knew Christ as LORD too. Rest in peace, mate.
Life does matter. We exist to glorify God, even as the stars which shine brightly in the heavens. Psalm 19:1-3 reads, "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork. 2 Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night reveals knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard." Whether you are are a star which shines in space or a movie star in Hollywood, our existence is intended to shine for the glory of God. Let all we do be to this end. Isaiah 55:6-9 says, "Seek the LORD while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. 8 "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," says the LORD. 9 "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." We matter to God, and pleasing Him should matter to us.
12 September 2011
God's Lovingkindness
"Thus says the LORD: "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; 24 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 9:23-24
Last night during our family devotions we read through this passage. What a wonderful reminder it is of the loving, gracious, and holy character of God. How easy it is for our ideas of God to be warped by the opinions of those who do not know Him or through our own prejudice! People's ideas of God range from imaginary to real, a benevolent "Santa Claus" or Genie contrasted with the fire-breathing destroyer and hater of men. To magnify a single aspect of God's character at the expense of ignoring another contorts our perception of God.
In the Jeremiah passage, God entreats the wise not to glory in his wisdom, nor the mighty man in his might, or the rich man in his riches. Instead, whoever who glories should glory in the fact he understands and knows God. This is a wonderful truth, that God has revealed Himself to man primarily through His Word and the person of Jesus Christ. Man can understand and know His Creator in a personal way, even as a man knows a close friend. The character of God is revealed through His righteous law, perfect justice, and gracious lovingkindness. The automatic spell-checker does not believe that "lovingkindness" is a real word, and most people have no idea of the incredible lovingkindness of God.
For many of those who do believe and affirm there is a "God," He is a strictly impersonal, judgmental, passive, and potentially volatile god. They would nod their heads if I described Him as just and righteous. But does He exercise lovingkindness and actually delight in it? The transliteration of this Hebrew word is "hesed," meaning "kindness, favour, mercy, pity." God is a loving, gracious God. He is loving to punish wickedness, and His lovingkindness is evident through His correction, grace, and mercy towards us. Romans 5:8 reads, "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
This morning I read two incredible messages by G. Campbell Morgan titled "The Sifting of Peter" and "The Turning Again of Peter" (The Westminster Pulpit, Vol. 1, Chapters 15 & 16). He details how Peter denied Jesus after boasting he would not. Instead of being angry or offended at Peter upon meeting with him again, Jesus was compassionate and filled with love. Peter was deeply ashamed because of his failure and cried bitterly. He was broken over the fact he had denied Christ on the night He was betrayed in public, and for the fact that Jesus knew it. Jesus did not confront Peter as many of us would have if we had been betrayed. Jesus did not say, "I told you so," glare at Peter, or make cynical comments aimed at belittling him in front of others. He asked Peter a simple, direct question: "Do you love me?" The fact that Jesus loved Peter was undeniable. Jesus had chosen, called, and taught Peter, and even saved him from drowning. Jesus had washed Peter's feet, showed His undying love through the cross, and had risen from the dead. At that moment Jesus had just fed Peter and the disciples breakfast. He asked Peter, "Do you love me?"
Jesus asks you today: "Do you love me?" Instead of "keeping us in line" through threats of judgment or the risk of our sin being found out by others, it is Christ's lovingkindness which draws us to repentance. Jeremiah 31:3 shows us clearly the heart of God towards all flesh: "The LORD has appeared of old to me, saying: "Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you." It should not be the threat of God's wrath that keeps us from sin, but the love of Christ. When we struggle between right and wrong Jesus Himself stands with us, places His arm around our shoulders, looks us in the eyes (and we cannot hold that penetrating gaze of compassion, being ashamed of our sin and continual failure), and says with love: "Do you love me?" What a weighty question to which everyone must respond. Our words carry little weight: it is our life that will provide our answer.
Perhaps your dad related to you by fear, an imposing figure of terror or violence. Maybe you have suffered much through men who abused their authority or position. You could be deeply wounded by a pastor or a priest who claimed to be a man of God! But I implore you in the name of Jesus, never allow the sins of men to poison your perceptions of God. Go to scripture and read of this God, the Creator of All Things, the One who delights in exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness. Instead of trying to balance your beliefs through the opinions of others or negative experiences, seek the truth from the Source. Forget all your bias, admit your ignorance, and seek God with your whole heart. You will see that He created and knows you, and He desires to be understood and known by you.
I close with the words of Psalm 103:1-18. Read and believe, if you dare! "Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! 2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: 3 who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, 4 who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, 5 who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's. 6 The LORD executes righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed. 7 He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the children of Israel. 8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. 9 He will not always strive with us, nor will He keep His anger forever. 10 He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor punished us according to our iniquities. 11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. 13 As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him. 14 For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust. 15 As for man, his days are like grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. 16 For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. 17 But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children's children, 18 to such as keep His covenant, and to those who remember His commandments to do them."
11 September 2011
Trust God's Healing Hands
Yesterday marked the first day of baseball season for the Grisez boys, and it was nostalgic for me to be back on the field as a third base coach. Both boys had two hits and scored a run, so it was a great boost to their confidence. One thing that is different about playing baseball in Australia is the absence of the Pledge of Allegiance and the Little League Pledge. Near the scoreboard of Little League fields all over America, the American flag flies. After stating the Pledge of Allegiance, the players recite: "I trust in God, I love my country, and will respect its laws. I will play fair, and strive to win, but win or lose, I will always do my best." Play ball!
I am happy to say the Pledge is still around, even after all these years - just like God! For me, saying that pledge is still a statement of fact. I do trust in God, I do love my country (currently Australia). I will play fair and do my best to win. When two teams show up to play no matter the sport, either team can win. One team could be better in every statistical category, have the best talent and equipment, and still lose. That is why the game is played and what makes it exciting: you never know exactly how things will play out. That's one of the amazing things about God. He does not operate in the way we would expect. He doesn't often tell us what He's planning to do. But if we trust Him, it will always be for the best.
An illustration to confirm this is still a vivid memory for me. A young man I knew dislocated his knee and experienced incredible pain. After he was given medication, he was taken by ambulance to the hospital. Upon seeing him, the doctor nonchalantly began to examine the leg and - snap! He quickly manipulated the leg back into place, causing excruciating pain for an instant. When the young man asked the doctor why he didn't warn him, the doctor explained that if he had told him what he planned to do, he would have resisted him. He used the tactic of surprise to quickly put the limb back into place safely so the healing could begin.
This is what God so often does with us. We experience pain and wonder, what is God thinking! How could he allow me to have such deep, excruciating, gut-wrenching pain? Trust the Good Shepherd, little lamb. He knows what parts of your life must be manipulated so the healing can begin. He will bring the relief and healing you desire. If the doctor did not adjust the leg, the young man would have remained a cripple. It was love and desire for restoration that motivated the doctor to cause a little pain. The young man now serves in the armed forces and the injury is only a distant memory.
No matter what you're going through, no matter how deep the searing pain, trust God. He never changes, and His thoughts are good towards us, to give us a future and a hope.
I am happy to say the Pledge is still around, even after all these years - just like God! For me, saying that pledge is still a statement of fact. I do trust in God, I do love my country (currently Australia). I will play fair and do my best to win. When two teams show up to play no matter the sport, either team can win. One team could be better in every statistical category, have the best talent and equipment, and still lose. That is why the game is played and what makes it exciting: you never know exactly how things will play out. That's one of the amazing things about God. He does not operate in the way we would expect. He doesn't often tell us what He's planning to do. But if we trust Him, it will always be for the best.
An illustration to confirm this is still a vivid memory for me. A young man I knew dislocated his knee and experienced incredible pain. After he was given medication, he was taken by ambulance to the hospital. Upon seeing him, the doctor nonchalantly began to examine the leg and - snap! He quickly manipulated the leg back into place, causing excruciating pain for an instant. When the young man asked the doctor why he didn't warn him, the doctor explained that if he had told him what he planned to do, he would have resisted him. He used the tactic of surprise to quickly put the limb back into place safely so the healing could begin.
This is what God so often does with us. We experience pain and wonder, what is God thinking! How could he allow me to have such deep, excruciating, gut-wrenching pain? Trust the Good Shepherd, little lamb. He knows what parts of your life must be manipulated so the healing can begin. He will bring the relief and healing you desire. If the doctor did not adjust the leg, the young man would have remained a cripple. It was love and desire for restoration that motivated the doctor to cause a little pain. The young man now serves in the armed forces and the injury is only a distant memory.
No matter what you're going through, no matter how deep the searing pain, trust God. He never changes, and His thoughts are good towards us, to give us a future and a hope.
08 September 2011
A milestone...and still miles to go!
Blogs are interesting animals. I suppose the motivation for regularly maintaining blogs are endless. For some it might be strictly cathartic, for others it might be the opportunity for self-revelation. Though an avid reader, I spend virtually no time reading blogs. Some are chronological family reports, while others are dedicated to political rant. I have the feeling that some blogs scream, "Look at me!" in a frantic attempt for significance in the vast yet cluttered cyberspace.
I am convinced people write blogs so people will read them. I write because I believe it is what God wants me to do. With the amount of writing I do in study and sermon preparation, it seems unnecessary for me to write more. This blog is a medium which allows me to share the truth He teaches me with others who care to hear it. Today this blog has notched over 10,000 page views from all over the world, and to me that is a significant milestone. Tack on another zero and that will be another milestone. If you are curious, the most views have come from these countries: United States, Australia, Malaysia, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. As great as it is to see people browsing the blog, my prayer (and yes, I pray that God uses this thing) is that through reading people would come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and be encouraged in their faith. One page-view God uses to this end is worth a billion views to me. In the end, I can take no credit because I have only done (and sometimes left undone) what is my joyful duty to do.
Thank you for taking the time to read. Just because someone puts in effort to write does not mean it is worth reading. I am humbled and blessed to have a LORD and Saviour Jesus Christ who gives us gifts which we can give back to Him for His glory. What gifts has God given you? How can you use them to bring honor and glory to His name? Whatever God has gifted you to do, do that thing. Do it well, seek to improve, and keep doing it. In a parable Jesus told, He illustrated the benefits of simple faithfulness. Matthew 25:21 says, "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'" You don't need to wait until heaven to hear well done. You don't need to physically die before you enter into the joy of the LORD. If you are obedient and faithful, you do well to enter into the joy of the LORD today!
I am convinced people write blogs so people will read them. I write because I believe it is what God wants me to do. With the amount of writing I do in study and sermon preparation, it seems unnecessary for me to write more. This blog is a medium which allows me to share the truth He teaches me with others who care to hear it. Today this blog has notched over 10,000 page views from all over the world, and to me that is a significant milestone. Tack on another zero and that will be another milestone. If you are curious, the most views have come from these countries: United States, Australia, Malaysia, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. As great as it is to see people browsing the blog, my prayer (and yes, I pray that God uses this thing) is that through reading people would come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and be encouraged in their faith. One page-view God uses to this end is worth a billion views to me. In the end, I can take no credit because I have only done (and sometimes left undone) what is my joyful duty to do.
Thank you for taking the time to read. Just because someone puts in effort to write does not mean it is worth reading. I am humbled and blessed to have a LORD and Saviour Jesus Christ who gives us gifts which we can give back to Him for His glory. What gifts has God given you? How can you use them to bring honor and glory to His name? Whatever God has gifted you to do, do that thing. Do it well, seek to improve, and keep doing it. In a parable Jesus told, He illustrated the benefits of simple faithfulness. Matthew 25:21 says, "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'" You don't need to wait until heaven to hear well done. You don't need to physically die before you enter into the joy of the LORD. If you are obedient and faithful, you do well to enter into the joy of the LORD today!
07 September 2011
Independence through Dependence?
I am about halfway through reading the memoirs of A.E. Wilder-Smith called Fulfilled Journey. He concisely describes his observations as to the cause of the "disintegration" of the modern education system. A couple of sentences stood out to me: "School is too often no more than a means for the manipulation of opinions and the leveling of society for ideological reasons. It is no longer for training in independent thought and the formation of one's own opinions based on facts and data. In such a school system the development of an independent personality is neither possible nor desired." (Fulfilled Journey, Wilder-Smith, pg. 202) I heartily endorse and agree with this observation as being true to my experience. In my university days it seemed the focus was more on freedom of speech and expression rather than freedom of thought.
I appreciate A.E. Wilder-Smith's perspective because he is a scholar, scientist, an intellectual, and also a Christian. A common misconception in the world today is this breed cannot possibly exist. If someone confesses belief in God and that the Bible is the inspired Word of God in some people's minds is the equivalent of a complete lobotomy. But history shows that the exact opposite is true: some of the most independent and intelligent minds believed in the existence of God and the veracity of scripture. Jesus is the prime example of independent thinking. Have you read the Sermon on the Mount? Jesus Christ, the man who claimed to be God-made-flesh, trumped the Law based upon His own authority, and rightly so. He dashed the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees with supernatural wisdom. He did not come from their schools of theology, but Jesus crushed them over and over until they were afraid even to question Him. When Jesus was crucified, rose from the dead, and ascended into heavenly glory, even then the light of truth did not pierce the darkness of their hearts and minds.
The idea that schools once were "for training in independent thought and the formation of one's own opinions based on facts and data" was almost a startling revelation. When I attended university, it was elementary for me to deduce between what was taught and what was believed. It was not long before philosophy teachers no longer taught philosophy, but proudly displayed their own philosophy as the standard. Biology and geology presented a similar experience: we were never taught how to think scientifically or do the work of a scientist, but to accept as fact only what actual scientists had already discovered. To pass the course, one only needed to regurgitate information. Ironically, every year or so the books were reprinted as new editions with changes and adjustments to accommodate recent scientific discoveries which rendered old facts obsolete. Our knowledge was limited to textbooks written according to the consensus of scientists much smarter than us or even our professors. Are professors allowed to teach independently of material they believe inaccurate based on facts - the same facts which will be rendered obsolete in mere months? Not if they want to keep their jobs.
Should we desire to develop an "independent personality?" The answer will differ based upon your worldview. If you believe that God has created all human beings in His own image individually with unique talents, gifts, and insights, the cultivation of an independent personality should be expected. But if you believe that we exist based on the random activity of chemicals, energy, from data that somehow appeared and assembled itself over time, an independent personality does nothing to aid evolutionary progress. I am convinced that the most independent people are those most dependent on God. They do not need to fear the consequences of being fired for their insolence to oppose the status quo, for these people do not even fear death! Christians are those who historically have joyfully faced the prospects of deprivation, loss of all things, even loss of life, for the excellency of the knowledge of our God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Paul states in Philippians 3:8-9, "Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 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..."
Man manipulates, but God convinces. He does not shout from the heavens, "Believe me or else!" In Isaiah 1:18 He says through the prophet, "Come now, and let us reason together," says the LORD, "though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Jesus came to earth and allowed the best and brightest of the world to take their shots: He overcame every one. God does not force, but He draws us by His lovingkindness. He does not burden us with rules or ideology (though man is only too happy to oblige!) so we might stay in His favour, and will not crush us if we have questions or struggle to understand. John 8:31-36 says, "Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." 33 They answered Him, "We are Abraham's descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can you say, 'You will be made free'?" 34 Jesus answered them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. 35 And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. 36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed." Praise God for allowing us to be free: free to think and speak, free to act, and free to live for His glory. You will never know freedom until you are freed by Christ.
I appreciate A.E. Wilder-Smith's perspective because he is a scholar, scientist, an intellectual, and also a Christian. A common misconception in the world today is this breed cannot possibly exist. If someone confesses belief in God and that the Bible is the inspired Word of God in some people's minds is the equivalent of a complete lobotomy. But history shows that the exact opposite is true: some of the most independent and intelligent minds believed in the existence of God and the veracity of scripture. Jesus is the prime example of independent thinking. Have you read the Sermon on the Mount? Jesus Christ, the man who claimed to be God-made-flesh, trumped the Law based upon His own authority, and rightly so. He dashed the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees with supernatural wisdom. He did not come from their schools of theology, but Jesus crushed them over and over until they were afraid even to question Him. When Jesus was crucified, rose from the dead, and ascended into heavenly glory, even then the light of truth did not pierce the darkness of their hearts and minds.
The idea that schools once were "for training in independent thought and the formation of one's own opinions based on facts and data" was almost a startling revelation. When I attended university, it was elementary for me to deduce between what was taught and what was believed. It was not long before philosophy teachers no longer taught philosophy, but proudly displayed their own philosophy as the standard. Biology and geology presented a similar experience: we were never taught how to think scientifically or do the work of a scientist, but to accept as fact only what actual scientists had already discovered. To pass the course, one only needed to regurgitate information. Ironically, every year or so the books were reprinted as new editions with changes and adjustments to accommodate recent scientific discoveries which rendered old facts obsolete. Our knowledge was limited to textbooks written according to the consensus of scientists much smarter than us or even our professors. Are professors allowed to teach independently of material they believe inaccurate based on facts - the same facts which will be rendered obsolete in mere months? Not if they want to keep their jobs.
Should we desire to develop an "independent personality?" The answer will differ based upon your worldview. If you believe that God has created all human beings in His own image individually with unique talents, gifts, and insights, the cultivation of an independent personality should be expected. But if you believe that we exist based on the random activity of chemicals, energy, from data that somehow appeared and assembled itself over time, an independent personality does nothing to aid evolutionary progress. I am convinced that the most independent people are those most dependent on God. They do not need to fear the consequences of being fired for their insolence to oppose the status quo, for these people do not even fear death! Christians are those who historically have joyfully faced the prospects of deprivation, loss of all things, even loss of life, for the excellency of the knowledge of our God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Paul states in Philippians 3:8-9, "Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 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..."
Man manipulates, but God convinces. He does not shout from the heavens, "Believe me or else!" In Isaiah 1:18 He says through the prophet, "Come now, and let us reason together," says the LORD, "though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Jesus came to earth and allowed the best and brightest of the world to take their shots: He overcame every one. God does not force, but He draws us by His lovingkindness. He does not burden us with rules or ideology (though man is only too happy to oblige!) so we might stay in His favour, and will not crush us if we have questions or struggle to understand. John 8:31-36 says, "Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." 33 They answered Him, "We are Abraham's descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can you say, 'You will be made free'?" 34 Jesus answered them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. 35 And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. 36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed." Praise God for allowing us to be free: free to think and speak, free to act, and free to live for His glory. You will never know freedom until you are freed by Christ.
06 September 2011
Somebody to Love?
Love is the ultimate pop-culture icon. The word and associated baggage are tramped around on a global stage, saturating music, movies, and all media. In the English language, "love" is a word so generic that the meaning has been diluted and virtually lost. "Love" has been reduced to the vague description of a feeling or a sexual act, a complete abandonment of the biblical description. Forget God, sing musicians: love is all you need. But what is love without God? What is our basis of love? Is it really nothing more than a casual excitement of glands? How does the world's idea of love differ from God's?
The Yardbirds sang long ago, "For your love I would give the stars above...For your love I would give you all I could." It is hard for us to detach love from sex, something which stunts our concept of love greatly. On one hand the Yardbirds were vying for physical intimacy, while at the same time petitioning for the affection and loyalty. Is it honorable to offer a bribe for love, even as money is offered to a prostitute for services rendered? How different from Christ is this offer! Jesus did not offer things He could not give (though He owns the stars and calls them all by name!). Romans 5:8 says, "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Love sacrifices without guarantee. Love is not contractual. Real love is not, "You give me your love, and I will then give you diamond rings and things brought to your door." Love is free and of grace.
Justin Bieber's hit "Somebody to Love" runs in a similar vein. He pleads over and over again, "I just need somebody to love." Playing on the natural desire on doting fans to BE loved, he tantalizingly portrays himself as one who longs to love - but hasn't found someone to lavish his love upon. "I need somebody...I don't need nothing else, I promise girl, I swear, I just need somebody to love." What rings hollow about this love is that it is an impersonal, false counterfeit. Justin is looking for "somebody" - not you and definitely not me! But will anyone do? We are left uncertain. Real love doesn't hold back for approval. God's love is unlimited and infinite, not solely for "someone," but offered freely to all! John 3:16 reads, "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." Justin sings about needing somebody to love: I wonder if he needs someone to love him? Do you need someone to love you?
Queen's song sums up the feelings of many people, but misses the forest for the trees. The first verse goes, "Can anybody find me somebody to love? Each morning I get up I die a little, can barely stand on my feet. Take a look in the mirror and cry, Lord what you're doing to me! I have spent all my years in believing you. But I just can't get no relief, Lord! Somebody, somebody! Can anybody find me somebody to love?" (punctuation mine) The longing to love and be loved go hand in hand. While Queen's focus is on the physical aspects of love, there is a clear ignorance of God's love! Jesus is somebody to love who loves us with an everlasting love, and through lovingkindness has drawn us to Himself (Jer. 31:3)! Man does not need more love than God can give. God's love satisfies completely, surpassing the love of men and women. All God has done is lavish His love upon unworthy, sinful, ignorant men like myself. "Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so."
God is not waiting to prove His love to us: Jesus did that on the cross. God is not waiting for us to accept His love before He offers it to us: it has been offered already to all. We cannot earn His favor, nor gain the worthiness to receive it through the bribes of "good works," because God's love is a gift to be received. We can only reciprocate. How does the Bible describe this active, sacrificial love? 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 says, "Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." Love never fails. Unless you know Jesus Christ personally, you cannot comprehend this love. You have never experienced it, and you cannot give it. But you may have it! If you will submit to receiving the love of God through repentance and faith in Christ, your life will then be marked by this transforming love.
Are you looking for somebody to love? More importantly, are you willing to receive God's love through faith in Jesus Christ? It is only through the power of God that we can love how we were designed and intended to. 1 John 3:16 states, "By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." Instead of giving you stars, flowers, diamonds, God saw fit to shed His own blood for you (Acts 20:28). That's real love, and it's really awesome! Receive His love today!
The Yardbirds sang long ago, "For your love I would give the stars above...For your love I would give you all I could." It is hard for us to detach love from sex, something which stunts our concept of love greatly. On one hand the Yardbirds were vying for physical intimacy, while at the same time petitioning for the affection and loyalty. Is it honorable to offer a bribe for love, even as money is offered to a prostitute for services rendered? How different from Christ is this offer! Jesus did not offer things He could not give (though He owns the stars and calls them all by name!). Romans 5:8 says, "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Love sacrifices without guarantee. Love is not contractual. Real love is not, "You give me your love, and I will then give you diamond rings and things brought to your door." Love is free and of grace.
Justin Bieber's hit "Somebody to Love" runs in a similar vein. He pleads over and over again, "I just need somebody to love." Playing on the natural desire on doting fans to BE loved, he tantalizingly portrays himself as one who longs to love - but hasn't found someone to lavish his love upon. "I need somebody...I don't need nothing else, I promise girl, I swear, I just need somebody to love." What rings hollow about this love is that it is an impersonal, false counterfeit. Justin is looking for "somebody" - not you and definitely not me! But will anyone do? We are left uncertain. Real love doesn't hold back for approval. God's love is unlimited and infinite, not solely for "someone," but offered freely to all! John 3:16 reads, "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." Justin sings about needing somebody to love: I wonder if he needs someone to love him? Do you need someone to love you?
Queen's song sums up the feelings of many people, but misses the forest for the trees. The first verse goes, "Can anybody find me somebody to love? Each morning I get up I die a little, can barely stand on my feet. Take a look in the mirror and cry, Lord what you're doing to me! I have spent all my years in believing you. But I just can't get no relief, Lord! Somebody, somebody! Can anybody find me somebody to love?" (punctuation mine) The longing to love and be loved go hand in hand. While Queen's focus is on the physical aspects of love, there is a clear ignorance of God's love! Jesus is somebody to love who loves us with an everlasting love, and through lovingkindness has drawn us to Himself (Jer. 31:3)! Man does not need more love than God can give. God's love satisfies completely, surpassing the love of men and women. All God has done is lavish His love upon unworthy, sinful, ignorant men like myself. "Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so."
God is not waiting to prove His love to us: Jesus did that on the cross. God is not waiting for us to accept His love before He offers it to us: it has been offered already to all. We cannot earn His favor, nor gain the worthiness to receive it through the bribes of "good works," because God's love is a gift to be received. We can only reciprocate. How does the Bible describe this active, sacrificial love? 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 says, "Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." Love never fails. Unless you know Jesus Christ personally, you cannot comprehend this love. You have never experienced it, and you cannot give it. But you may have it! If you will submit to receiving the love of God through repentance and faith in Christ, your life will then be marked by this transforming love.
Are you looking for somebody to love? More importantly, are you willing to receive God's love through faith in Jesus Christ? It is only through the power of God that we can love how we were designed and intended to. 1 John 3:16 states, "By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." Instead of giving you stars, flowers, diamonds, God saw fit to shed His own blood for you (Acts 20:28). That's real love, and it's really awesome! Receive His love today!
05 September 2011
Give All to God
When driving yesterday I saw a bumper sticker which read, "Yes, this is my truck. No, I will not help you move." Everyone who has owned a truck or ute knows well the high demand of friends and acquaintances to use it! I once had a friend who was so tired of people asking to borrow his truck to help them move that he bought a fiberglass cover for the bed! The usefulness and practicality of moving greatly reduced, he rarely had to deal with requests. When he wanted to move something, it was no trouble for the top to be removed again! Most people don't buy a truck hoping every weekend someone will borrow and load it with sand, bricks, or furniture. The bumper sticker emphasizes the perspective that my things are for me, not for you.
This is the common philosophy of the world: my things are mine. In the Russian fable of the Little Red Hen, she planted, watered, tended, harvested, threshed, milled, and used the wheat to make flour into bread that only she ate because only she had worked on it. My grain, my bread. But the Christian perspective is to be completely different. We are called to recognize that all things we have - even our own lives - are not our own but a gift from God to be willingly, joyfully, given back to Him. Did the little red hen create the earth, provide the sun, and engineer the water to cause her wheat to grow? Did she give herself life? Did the ability to work originate in herself? Was she instrumental in the creation of the wheat to cause it to bear seed so it might produce more wheat? All along God provided and created the means for bread to be baked to satisfy her hunger. Your life is a gift from God not to be used for yourself, but for the glory of God.
When God gives you a gift or talent, it is not primarily for you. God did not gift me to write and teach so I could become a famous millionaire: He has gifted me so others will come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ to the glory of God. We Christians are to make God's name famous! He has given me life and a certain amount of time on this earth not for me, but for Him to work in and through me for His glory. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reads, "Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's." Our ability to see, hear, speak, think, work, and do is intended by God to be used with Him and others in mind.
Has God granted you spiritual gifts? See that you use them faithfully for the glorification of God and the edification of the Body of Christ, the church. Has God committed time, finances, talents, and abilities to your trust? These were never intended to bolster your self-esteem or give you confidence in yourself, but that you might commit them completely to the use of your Heavenly Father. Instead of using your talents to draw attention to yourself, all talents are to be invested to bring glory to God. If God has given you a truck, be open to helping people move. If God has given you skill in fixing computers, baking, cleaning, writing, singing, running, tutoring, being a good listener or anything else, commit what you have into the hands of Jesus for Him to use. It may cost you a little petrol or a scratch here or there, but using what you have to glorify God is better than hiding it in a garage and only gathering dust! What good will a shiny ute be on the Day of Judgment?
This is the common philosophy of the world: my things are mine. In the Russian fable of the Little Red Hen, she planted, watered, tended, harvested, threshed, milled, and used the wheat to make flour into bread that only she ate because only she had worked on it. My grain, my bread. But the Christian perspective is to be completely different. We are called to recognize that all things we have - even our own lives - are not our own but a gift from God to be willingly, joyfully, given back to Him. Did the little red hen create the earth, provide the sun, and engineer the water to cause her wheat to grow? Did she give herself life? Did the ability to work originate in herself? Was she instrumental in the creation of the wheat to cause it to bear seed so it might produce more wheat? All along God provided and created the means for bread to be baked to satisfy her hunger. Your life is a gift from God not to be used for yourself, but for the glory of God.
When God gives you a gift or talent, it is not primarily for you. God did not gift me to write and teach so I could become a famous millionaire: He has gifted me so others will come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ to the glory of God. We Christians are to make God's name famous! He has given me life and a certain amount of time on this earth not for me, but for Him to work in and through me for His glory. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reads, "Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's." Our ability to see, hear, speak, think, work, and do is intended by God to be used with Him and others in mind.
Has God granted you spiritual gifts? See that you use them faithfully for the glorification of God and the edification of the Body of Christ, the church. Has God committed time, finances, talents, and abilities to your trust? These were never intended to bolster your self-esteem or give you confidence in yourself, but that you might commit them completely to the use of your Heavenly Father. Instead of using your talents to draw attention to yourself, all talents are to be invested to bring glory to God. If God has given you a truck, be open to helping people move. If God has given you skill in fixing computers, baking, cleaning, writing, singing, running, tutoring, being a good listener or anything else, commit what you have into the hands of Jesus for Him to use. It may cost you a little petrol or a scratch here or there, but using what you have to glorify God is better than hiding it in a garage and only gathering dust! What good will a shiny ute be on the Day of Judgment?
Can you imagine if Jesus had the philosophy of the Little Red Hen? "I planted the seed, I cut the corn, I took it to the mill to be made into flour, and I made the bread, all by myself. I shall now eat the loaf all by myself." The pig, the duck and the cat all stood and watched as the little red hen ate the loaf all by herself. It was delicious and she enjoyed it, right to the very last crumb." Jesus is the Bread of Life. He could have kept Himself all to Himself. He could have denied us because of our sin, faithlessness, and open rebellion against God. Instead, Jesus operated in love and grace. He is not willing that any should perish, and takes no pleasure in those who are starving in soul and heading for eternal destruction because of sin. Jesus did nothing of Himself (John 8:28), but acted and spoke according to the will of the Father. If Jesus should so willingly give His life for us sinners, shouldn't we freely give ourselves for His use?
Commit your life to God today. God has given you all that you have, and has made you all that you are. It may seem as insignificant as five loaves and two fish, but think of how many thousands were fed when that little bit was committed to the hands of Jesus! The results are not your responsibility. He will do the work. Be open and allow God to use all He has given you for His glory.
04 September 2011
G. Campbell Morgan Quote
Reading is something I do every day. I am always in the middle of several books in addition to the Bible. Over the years I have either purchased or acquired books that I have yet to read. There are some books I read every couple years of so, like Charles Spurgeon's Lectures to My Students, Foxes Book of Martyrs, and a 1st edition copy of J. Oswald Sander's book Spiritual Leadership. I also have some large sets which were purchased as an investment because of the incredible price I am still working through. One of these is a 10-volume set titled The Westminster Pulpit which feature the preaching of G. Campbell Morgan. Slowly and surely I intend to read through the thousands of pages still unread in my library.
I read a passage this morning I thought was very beneficial. G. Campbell Morgan was preaching on the conversation of Jesus Christ with two distraught, disillusioned disciples on the road to Emmaus. It is my pleasure to share a portion of this illuminating message with you.
I read a passage this morning I thought was very beneficial. G. Campbell Morgan was preaching on the conversation of Jesus Christ with two distraught, disillusioned disciples on the road to Emmaus. It is my pleasure to share a portion of this illuminating message with you.
What were the things that He said? Nothing new. I am increasingly impressed with this. He did not bring to them any new message. It was the old, so said as they had never heard it said before. "Beginning at Moses and all the prophets He interpreted to them in the scriptures the things concerning Himself..."
...Then when He took their prophets one by one, how wonderful to hear Him explain, and how marvelous the rapture of their heart as they heard Him tell how all the prophets led up to the Messiah Who died just as they had seen that Man die, of Whom they had been speaking so kindly. As they listened to Him they would find out that he was David's King, "fairer than the children of men"; and in the days of Solomon's well-doing He it was that was "altogether lovely." He was Isaiah's child-king, with a shoulder strong enough to bear the government, and a name Emmanuel gathering within itself all excellencies. He was Jeremiah's "Branch of Righteousness, executing judgment and righteousness in the land"; Ezekiel's "Plant of renoun," giving shade and shedding fragrance; Daniel's stone cut without hands, smiting the image, becoming a mountain, and filling the whole earth; the ideal Israel of Hosea "growing as the lily," "casting out his roots as Lebanon; to Joel "the hope of His people and the strength of the children of Israel"; the usherer in of the great vision of Amos of "the plowman overtaking the reaper, and the treader of grapes him that soweth seed"; and of Obadiah the "deliverance upon Mount Zion and holiness"; the fulfillment of that of which Jonah was but a sign; the "turning again" of God of which Micah spoke; the One Whom Nahum saw upon the mountains publishing peace; the Anointed of Whom Habakkuk sang as "going forth for salvation"; He Who brought to the people the pure language of Zephaniah's message, the true Zerubbabel of Haggai's word rebuilding forever the house and the city of God; Himself the dawn of the day when "holiness unto the Lord shall be upon the bells of the horses" as Zechariah foretold; He the "refiner's fire," "the fuller's soap," "The Sun of righteousness" of Malachi's vision. All these things passed in rapid survey as He talked. He was taking their own prophets and unlocking them, flinging back the shutters and letting the light stream in. He talked of them, and they were silent; and there broke upon them a new vision of the truth, a new understanding of things which they were perfectly familiar, and in this new vision they found new understanding of all the things which they long had known.
Their burning heart, what was it? The thrill of a new discovery of their Lord and the shame of the past failure to appreciate Him, and the passion of a new endeavor which should set their feet in the pathway which led to ultimate victory. (The Westminster Pulpit, G. Campbell Morgan, Vol. 1, pg. 92-94)What treasures lay dusty in your library? What truth lies hidden in your Bible yet to be discovered! What an amazing, life-giving resource we have available in God's Word when illuminated through the Holy Spirit! Read on, read on - but not alone: invite Jesus to walk with you as you read. No longer will it be dry dull passages, but words bursting with life and meaning! It is Christ who will sustain our souls! It is Jesus who makes all things new!
02 September 2011
Be Like Baruch
"After him Baruch the son of Zabbai earnestly repaired the other piece, from the turning of the wall unto the door of the house of Eliashib the high priest."
Nehemiah 3:20
As I read the Bible this morning, this verse stood out from all the others. Thirty-one times in chapter 3 of Nehemiah (KJV), children of Israel are named as ones who laboured to "repair" Jerusalem. The wall had been broken down, the gates were burnt with fire, and the city had been desolate for a long time. What grabbed my attention is that Baruch was the only one with a descriptive word included to show how he repaired: "earnestly." The NKJV translates the word "carefully," but it is not as close a translation as the KJV in this instance.
I wondered, what did Baruch do that distinguished him from all the rest? Many repaired the city, but Baruch repaired earnestly. The transliteration of the original Hebrew is "hara," and this is the only time in scripture this particular word is translated as "earnestly." Most of the time it is translated "kindled" (44 times), "wroth" (13 times), "hot" (10 times), and "angry" (9 times). Copying the definition from the Strong's concordance in the Word Search Bible program, it means: "to glow or grow warm; figurative (usually) to blaze up, of anger, zeal, jealousy :- be angry, burn, be displeased, × earnestly, fret self, grieve, be (wax) hot, be incensed, kindle, × very, be wroth." In my own words, I would say Baruch was fired up! He literally attacked this building and repairing project with such fervor and violence that it seemed like he was angry. Baruch had an attitude of great intensity and a singular ferocity which made an impression as he worked.
I would love to meet Baruch, the violent builder that he was! He funneled all his aggression to labour for God's glory by rebuilding the city in which God had placed His name. Baruch had a limited role, but the bit committed to him he did with all his might. Without knowing it, Baruch was heeding the exhortation Paul gave in Colossians 3:22-24: "Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. 23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." Whatever we do should be done for the glory of God, and we are told to do it heartily. Christians are called to love God and serve him heartily, vehemently, with all our heart, mind, and soul.
Jesus says in Revelation 3:15-16 to the church in Laodicea, "I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth." Baruch was not lukewarm, but boiling hot. God would rather us be boiling hot than cold or lukewarm. Jesus also worked earnestly. He knew time was short and He needed to expend His energy fully in glorifying God. Jesus says in John 9:4-5: "I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. 5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." Work was not an option: it was an imperative. Whatever Jesus did, He did it heartily. Jesus did what needed to be done.
Let us be like Baruch, a man wholly on fire to do the job set before Him. May the same divine power and intensity which marked Jesus Christ mark all Christians as we are baptized with the Holy Spirit and fire!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)