At Bible study last night we read Proverbs 17:28 which says, "Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive." As we discussed the meaning and personal application, it dawned on me yet again the common tendency to make Christianity more about behaviour than the condition of our hearts. A superficial application of this passage would be, "I want to be wise, or at least appear wise to others. Speaking less is the key to other perceiving me as wise!"
The meaning of the phrase "holds his peace" basically means to remain silent. But there is a deeper meaning revealed in scripture. Ephesians 2:13-14 says, "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
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For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation..." Understanding that Jesus IS our peace puts a completely different spin on this verse. Because Jesus is our peace, "holding our peace" is more than the discipline of keeping our mouths closed. Having been born again through faith in Him, the Holy Spirit has provided self-control we rejoice to walk in. Holding Jesus as our dearest treasure, clinging to His promises, even in silence Christians can take a conscious step of faith.
What do you treasure most in life? What do you hold dear? Jesus is the Prince of Peace, and when we hold Him close we can hear clearly the small, still voice of the Spirit. Whether we speak or are silent, we can faithfully do so for God's glory. Forever we are to hold our Peace, the One who upholds us and with a word calms the storms we face. Our tongues ought to confess Jesus as LORD, and even our silence can proclaim the same! No matter what occurs, let us hold our Peace!
31 October 2014
28 October 2014
God Has Already Revealed Himself
"Wisdom is in the sight of him who has understanding, but the eyes of a fool are on the ends of the earth."
Proverbs 17:24
The book of Proverbs is packed with verses which compare and contrast wise and foolish. Jesus said a wise man hears His words and puts them into practice, but the foolish man hears His words and ignores them. A fool says in his heart, "There is not God" and lives accordingly - as if he is god. According to the biblical description, a wise man is one who has humbled himself before God and has chosen to adopt His ways. He is circumspect, conscious of God's sovereignty, provision, and love. He seeks, heeds, and obeys God's guidance. A fool may be wise in the wisdom of the world, but it is foundation of shifting sand. Jesus said those who build upon man's "wisdom" embrace certain destruction.
Once a person is born again through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit takes up residence inside them. An inner transformation takes place which opens up man's understanding to receive and apply spiritual truth. God's wisdom is revealed in everything He has made. The Bible is a treasury of God's wisdom. Those who are in Christ have had the bonds of sin and unbelief broken, the fog cleared from their minds, and their eyes opened to the reality of God and eternity. Those of understanding do not know everything, but they are convinced God has spoken, is speaking, and is the true source of all wisdom. Our identity as a new creation is in Christ, for the old has passed away and all has become new.
A fool, having rejected the Word of God, is on a never-ending search for truth, purpose, and satisfaction. The eyes of those who know not God look to the ends of the earth seeking greater understanding. Some lift their eyes even higher and monitor sound in space, hoping to discover the secrets of our origins from unknown extra-terrestrial beings when the first sentence of the Bible expressly, objectively states the truth! Genesis 1:1 says, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." Those who reject that statement must keep looking for alternatives. The unseeing eyes of unbelievers scan distant horizons when God has revealed Himself already! For instance, the SETI (Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence) institute has been “listening,” scanning the far reaches of space for decades with telescopes and high-powered aerials, seeking to receive communication from extra-terrestrial aliens. Foolish man scans the dark void of space hoping to discover intelligent beings out there, whilst the eternal God who created all things has given us His Word, became a man, and spoke to us as a man in Jesus Christ who walked among us. Ironic, isn’t it? The intelligence of God is revealed in the designs in creation right here on earth, even by DNA and complex processes within the cells of our human bodies - yet for most these days that is not admissible evidence of an intelligent Creator. More time is spent by some theorising on how we will deal with aliens we might encounter than how to rightly relate and respond to the God who created all things, loves us and has already revealed Himself to us.
I am in no way suggesting there is not value in scientific exploration, or that such efforts have not been worthwhile. The fact is, men have been listening for "pings" in space since 1959 and have not perceived anything that qualifies as scientific proof of intelligent extra-terrestrial beings. God has already provided us with more than faint unintelligible pings, hissing gibberish, or mechanical whirring. God's Word says in Psalm 19:1-3, "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." Talk about seeing but not perceiving! We can be looking and listening in a vacuum when God has already revealed Himself, has spoken, and is speaking. Both simple folks and those with multiple doctorates marvel over the beauty and order in the cosmos. The well-educated scientific researcher researches because he or she realises there is much still to be learned. Instead of fields of research being exhausted, more and more potential areas of research could be pioneered with exciting new discoveries being made all the time. The more we know the more we discover there is more to know than we ever imagined. Scientific study and research teaches the believing more of the Creator and enlightens us to His phenomenal creativity, power, and beauty.
Jesus Christ has become for us wisdom, and those with eyes to see and ears to hear will believe and understand. Through God common fishermen confounded the doctors of the Law of Moses, and the humble Son of a carpenter put to silence the questions of unbelieving lawyers. Simple plants, animals, and insects defy any naturalistic explanation. Single-celled organisms, more efficient than engines - which are actually crude in comparison even after decades of development by experts - continue to reproduce after their own kind. As it is written in 1 Corinthians 1:26-31: "For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. 27 But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; 28 and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, 29 that no flesh should glory in His presence. 30 But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God--and righteousness and sanctification and redemption-- 31 that, as it is written, "He who glories, let him glory in the LORD."
27 October 2014
Pour Out Complaints to God
As we trek along in our walk with Jesus Christ, through the Holy Spirit our eyes are opened to see aspects of our lives that are contrary to God's ways. In our flesh dwells no good thing, and it is only natural to persist in fleshly attitudes, thoughts, words, and deeds in varying degrees. The fact it is natural does not mean it is beneficial or permissible. In this body of flesh we need to be supernaturally transformed, and only through the Holy Spirit with our full cooperation is it possible.
I have been teaching through 1 Corinthians at Calvary Chapel Sydney, and much of the epistle addressed and sought to correct sin in the Corinthian church. Paul affirmed the Law was written for our sakes as well as the Jews (1 Cor. 9:10). He cited many examples of sinful behaviour in the children of Israel that lead to their destruction, despite being blessed and privileged by God. One of the sins was particularly impressed upon my heart was that of complaining. The million corpses which fell in the desert are absolute proof we ought not to lust sinfully, embrace idolatry, fornicate, tempt God, "...nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer." I don't know about you, but complaining is a common part of life. A definition of complain is, "to express dissatisfaction or annoyance about something." Have you ever expressed dissatisfaction or annoyance about something? This is common to humanity - fallen, self-focused, judgmental, foolish, and often deluded beings that we are.
Complaining reveals we are self-focused and not trusting in God's sovereignty, provision, or control. Even as anger is not evil in itself, neither is complaining. It is entirely biblical to pour out our complaints to the LORD in faith, believing He hears and will answer our prayers. The psalmist wrote in Psalm 77:3, "I remembered God, and was troubled; I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah." Paul wrote in Romans 14:23 that whatsoever is not of faith in God is sin. We are exhorted in 1 Peter 5:6-7 to humble ourselves before God and be casting our cares upon Him because He cares for us. Unless our complaints are yoked with trust in God and sincere humility, our complaints are sinful. Habitual complaining is a window to pride-darkened spots in our hearts which only God can cleanse. Thankfully, if we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
We don't see complaining as a big deal, but the fallen corpses of God's people in the wilderness say otherwise. I exhort all to examine yourselves in this matter: what annoys you? How do you express your feelings when annoyed? Do you bring your complaints before the Father who can do something about them or do they spill out on others? How desperate is our condition apart from God, unable to do good and persistent in evil, unbelief, and selfishness! We cannot hardly begin to fathom how deep our need for deliverance and forgiveness goes. When God opens your eyes through His Word to see the depth of your sin, immediately confess it and take practical steps to correct it. As you fellowship with other believers, ask others to keep you accountable and pray for one another. Encourage family members to do the same. May our complaints be turned to trusting praise in the God who loves us and gave Himself for us.
I have been teaching through 1 Corinthians at Calvary Chapel Sydney, and much of the epistle addressed and sought to correct sin in the Corinthian church. Paul affirmed the Law was written for our sakes as well as the Jews (1 Cor. 9:10). He cited many examples of sinful behaviour in the children of Israel that lead to their destruction, despite being blessed and privileged by God. One of the sins was particularly impressed upon my heart was that of complaining. The million corpses which fell in the desert are absolute proof we ought not to lust sinfully, embrace idolatry, fornicate, tempt God, "...nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer." I don't know about you, but complaining is a common part of life. A definition of complain is, "to express dissatisfaction or annoyance about something." Have you ever expressed dissatisfaction or annoyance about something? This is common to humanity - fallen, self-focused, judgmental, foolish, and often deluded beings that we are.
Complaining reveals we are self-focused and not trusting in God's sovereignty, provision, or control. Even as anger is not evil in itself, neither is complaining. It is entirely biblical to pour out our complaints to the LORD in faith, believing He hears and will answer our prayers. The psalmist wrote in Psalm 77:3, "I remembered God, and was troubled; I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah." Paul wrote in Romans 14:23 that whatsoever is not of faith in God is sin. We are exhorted in 1 Peter 5:6-7 to humble ourselves before God and be casting our cares upon Him because He cares for us. Unless our complaints are yoked with trust in God and sincere humility, our complaints are sinful. Habitual complaining is a window to pride-darkened spots in our hearts which only God can cleanse. Thankfully, if we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
We don't see complaining as a big deal, but the fallen corpses of God's people in the wilderness say otherwise. I exhort all to examine yourselves in this matter: what annoys you? How do you express your feelings when annoyed? Do you bring your complaints before the Father who can do something about them or do they spill out on others? How desperate is our condition apart from God, unable to do good and persistent in evil, unbelief, and selfishness! We cannot hardly begin to fathom how deep our need for deliverance and forgiveness goes. When God opens your eyes through His Word to see the depth of your sin, immediately confess it and take practical steps to correct it. As you fellowship with other believers, ask others to keep you accountable and pray for one another. Encourage family members to do the same. May our complaints be turned to trusting praise in the God who loves us and gave Himself for us.
24 October 2014
A Cut Above
Whilst driving, I saw the name of a local company written on a truck: "A Cut Above Constructions." Immediately I began chewing on an idea: isn't that what everyone is looking for in anything? We are always open to a better deal, and nothing is better than the best deal! We want the best prices, service, quality, and value for money. This same approach can be brought to the search for a home church. There are people seemingly doomed to be church vagabonds, never connecting, always open to a better deal. Wouldn't you want your church to be "a cut above?" Who wouldn't?
I started thinking about my home growing up. The idea of looking for a better deal doesn't work when it comes to "home." I didn't have a choice who my parents or siblings were, where we lived, the design of our house, menu, what appliances we owned, or if the lawn mower had a bag attachment. Now that would have been nice! But seriously, I never thought of looking for a "better" family, house, or toys. My parents loved me and I loved them. I loved my brother and sister. Even though we ate a lot of oatmeal for breakfast, there were always special mornings where we had waffles or pancakes. It was only after planning to be married and to live with my future wife that I gave the thought of moving any earnest thought. My motive in moving wasn't because I wasn't happy with my parents, siblings, or the food. I had arrived at the time of life when God was giving me a wonderful wife and the responsibilities that come with starting a new family.
It occurred to me that I approached my home church in a similar way. Since I was a child, I attended the same church my parents did. After marriage, there was a season of change at the church and a new pastor came. Some of our friends in the following years left for other churches, and there was a real temptation to go where they went. But my wife and I were in agreement. Until God specifically directed us to leave, we were called to stay. Was everything perfect at our church? Not hardly - just like at every church! Wherever people are, problems are there too. Were there some youth programs that were bigger or could boast more "dynamic" worship? Sure. There were churches with better floor plans, located closer to home, with stronger emphasis on a particular ministry or doctrine which may have seemed important at the time. Had I checked in with you 5 or 10 years ago, I suspect what was important to you then was different than now!
Looking at church from a home perspective, how ridiculous it seems for people to leave their home church - the fellowship of believers with whom they worship and serve - seeking a cut above! That would be like leaving your home because it does not have a pool or the TV is a bit small. You might as well give up now if you are looking for perfection. "Better" can always be found - that is until you discover better still! Like those who are ever learning but never coming to the truth, people who are ever looking for a church to tick their arbitrary boxes never seem to land anywhere for long. I am humbled and privileged to say I grew up in a home where people loved me, and I can say the same about church. Yet even if your home situation is rough, God still loves you. Instead of bailing from a tough situation, God would have you faithfully share His love right where you are until He specifically directs you to move - and the same is true of church.
No matter where God has you, as a Christian God has a divine purpose and plan concerning you right there. Say your church has issues - what family doesn't have them? Through the Holy Spirit you have the ability to endure and be part of what is vital, healthy, and strong in the church. You cannot blame the pastor, people, or anything for your lack of growth or usefulness. Those supernaturally occur when we submit ourselves to God and the authority He has placed over us, choosing to love even our enemies in obedience to His Word. As Christians, we are not to have a "consumer" mentality always on the lookout for "a cut above," but seek to give, forgive, and love others even as God loves us.
1 Corinthians 4:1-2 says, "Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful." I encourage you to show yourself faithful in attending and serving at your home church. Regardless of what others are doing or how you feel, remain faithful to Jesus. Trust and obey Him, praying for each other. What joy God gives those who obey Him in not forsaking the assembling with other believers! It is in Christ - not in a ministry or different church - where we discover the life that is a cut above all others. It's not even close.
I started thinking about my home growing up. The idea of looking for a better deal doesn't work when it comes to "home." I didn't have a choice who my parents or siblings were, where we lived, the design of our house, menu, what appliances we owned, or if the lawn mower had a bag attachment. Now that would have been nice! But seriously, I never thought of looking for a "better" family, house, or toys. My parents loved me and I loved them. I loved my brother and sister. Even though we ate a lot of oatmeal for breakfast, there were always special mornings where we had waffles or pancakes. It was only after planning to be married and to live with my future wife that I gave the thought of moving any earnest thought. My motive in moving wasn't because I wasn't happy with my parents, siblings, or the food. I had arrived at the time of life when God was giving me a wonderful wife and the responsibilities that come with starting a new family.
It occurred to me that I approached my home church in a similar way. Since I was a child, I attended the same church my parents did. After marriage, there was a season of change at the church and a new pastor came. Some of our friends in the following years left for other churches, and there was a real temptation to go where they went. But my wife and I were in agreement. Until God specifically directed us to leave, we were called to stay. Was everything perfect at our church? Not hardly - just like at every church! Wherever people are, problems are there too. Were there some youth programs that were bigger or could boast more "dynamic" worship? Sure. There were churches with better floor plans, located closer to home, with stronger emphasis on a particular ministry or doctrine which may have seemed important at the time. Had I checked in with you 5 or 10 years ago, I suspect what was important to you then was different than now!
Looking at church from a home perspective, how ridiculous it seems for people to leave their home church - the fellowship of believers with whom they worship and serve - seeking a cut above! That would be like leaving your home because it does not have a pool or the TV is a bit small. You might as well give up now if you are looking for perfection. "Better" can always be found - that is until you discover better still! Like those who are ever learning but never coming to the truth, people who are ever looking for a church to tick their arbitrary boxes never seem to land anywhere for long. I am humbled and privileged to say I grew up in a home where people loved me, and I can say the same about church. Yet even if your home situation is rough, God still loves you. Instead of bailing from a tough situation, God would have you faithfully share His love right where you are until He specifically directs you to move - and the same is true of church.
No matter where God has you, as a Christian God has a divine purpose and plan concerning you right there. Say your church has issues - what family doesn't have them? Through the Holy Spirit you have the ability to endure and be part of what is vital, healthy, and strong in the church. You cannot blame the pastor, people, or anything for your lack of growth or usefulness. Those supernaturally occur when we submit ourselves to God and the authority He has placed over us, choosing to love even our enemies in obedience to His Word. As Christians, we are not to have a "consumer" mentality always on the lookout for "a cut above," but seek to give, forgive, and love others even as God loves us.
1 Corinthians 4:1-2 says, "Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful." I encourage you to show yourself faithful in attending and serving at your home church. Regardless of what others are doing or how you feel, remain faithful to Jesus. Trust and obey Him, praying for each other. What joy God gives those who obey Him in not forsaking the assembling with other believers! It is in Christ - not in a ministry or different church - where we discover the life that is a cut above all others. It's not even close.
22 October 2014
Law Written for Our Sakes
Do you realise God gave the Law to His people and also to you? Because it is often said "we are not under the Law," a devaluing of it has occurred. Whilst it is true those who are in Christ Jesus have entered into a New Covenant in Christ's blood through faith, the Law is completely relevant to us today. We are not obligated to "keep" the letter of the Law, but the principles are just as true and righteous today as ever. We are no longer under the authority of the "schoolmaster" of the Law (Galatians 3:24-25), but we can still learn much from that teacher. The Law focused on external righteousness, but Jesus came to establish righteousness within us through faith in Him. Instead of outward conformity, God desires inner transformation leading to outward godliness through the Holy Spirit.
Jesus said in Matthew 5:17-18, "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled." Jesus did not come to destroy the Law or lessen its relevance to us, but to fulfil it. To fulfil means to "complete." Comprehension of the Law works to increase our appreciation of God's grace. Righteousness was never intended to be obtained through external acts, but through faith. The Law proved the complete inability of man to keep the Law, and exposed the perverse nature of his heart which denies the spirit of the law whilst creating a facade of keeping it. Romans 3:19 says, "Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God." The Law reveals our sinfulness, and therefore is still righteous and good. Perhaps some have diminished the value of God's Law in these last days, but Jesus never did. His commands extended beyond the reach of the Law, and are only accomplished through the power of the Holy Spirit.
When you realise the Law was not only for the Israelites way back when but for you, what wonderful truths open up to us! Did you know verses in the Law actually address the days in which we live specifically. In the New Testament, Hebrews 1:1-2 tells us we are in the last days: "God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, 2 has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds..." Last night I read in the Old Testament Law a message to Jews living in these last days in Deuteronomy 4:30-31: "When you are in distress, and all these things come upon you in the latter days, when you turn to the LORD your God and obey His voice 31 (for the LORD your God is a merciful God), He will not forsake you nor destroy you, nor forget the covenant of your fathers which He swore to them." If God only intended this passage for the Jews who were under the Law in Moses' day, why would God mention the trouble they would face in the "latter days?" It is clear God wanted people in the last days to read and believe them. The verses were for the people in Moses' day, but they are also for people in the latter days - even after Jesus established a New Covenant with His own blood. Until Jesus returns in power, God extends a gracious opportunity for all people to turn to the LORD and obey His voice.
The New Testament also confirms the valid application of principles in the Law for our lives today. Paul quoted from the Law in his epistle to the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 9:8-10: "Do I say these things as a mere man? Or does not the law say the same also? 9 For it is written in the law of Moses, "You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain." Is it oxen God is concerned about? 10 Or does He say it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written, that he who plows should plow in hope, and he who threshes in hope should be partaker of his hope." Without a doubt, Paul says the command in Deuteronomy 25:4 was written for the church, for us today. As Warren Wiersbe used to say, that command was obviously not written down for oxen, because they can't read! It is for men! God certainly cares about oxen, but He cares about people most of all. In the Law, God laid down a righteous, eternal principle which involved oxen which remains applicable today.
The Law is filled with principles, examples, warnings, and truth completely relevant to our lives today. Don't be put off by genealogies, words tricky to pronounce, or look at the Law as less important than other scripture. It has been written for our sakes, and it will endure forever!
Jesus said in Matthew 5:17-18, "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled." Jesus did not come to destroy the Law or lessen its relevance to us, but to fulfil it. To fulfil means to "complete." Comprehension of the Law works to increase our appreciation of God's grace. Righteousness was never intended to be obtained through external acts, but through faith. The Law proved the complete inability of man to keep the Law, and exposed the perverse nature of his heart which denies the spirit of the law whilst creating a facade of keeping it. Romans 3:19 says, "Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God." The Law reveals our sinfulness, and therefore is still righteous and good. Perhaps some have diminished the value of God's Law in these last days, but Jesus never did. His commands extended beyond the reach of the Law, and are only accomplished through the power of the Holy Spirit.
When you realise the Law was not only for the Israelites way back when but for you, what wonderful truths open up to us! Did you know verses in the Law actually address the days in which we live specifically. In the New Testament, Hebrews 1:1-2 tells us we are in the last days: "God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, 2 has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds..." Last night I read in the Old Testament Law a message to Jews living in these last days in Deuteronomy 4:30-31: "When you are in distress, and all these things come upon you in the latter days, when you turn to the LORD your God and obey His voice 31 (for the LORD your God is a merciful God), He will not forsake you nor destroy you, nor forget the covenant of your fathers which He swore to them." If God only intended this passage for the Jews who were under the Law in Moses' day, why would God mention the trouble they would face in the "latter days?" It is clear God wanted people in the last days to read and believe them. The verses were for the people in Moses' day, but they are also for people in the latter days - even after Jesus established a New Covenant with His own blood. Until Jesus returns in power, God extends a gracious opportunity for all people to turn to the LORD and obey His voice.
The New Testament also confirms the valid application of principles in the Law for our lives today. Paul quoted from the Law in his epistle to the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 9:8-10: "Do I say these things as a mere man? Or does not the law say the same also? 9 For it is written in the law of Moses, "You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain." Is it oxen God is concerned about? 10 Or does He say it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written, that he who plows should plow in hope, and he who threshes in hope should be partaker of his hope." Without a doubt, Paul says the command in Deuteronomy 25:4 was written for the church, for us today. As Warren Wiersbe used to say, that command was obviously not written down for oxen, because they can't read! It is for men! God certainly cares about oxen, but He cares about people most of all. In the Law, God laid down a righteous, eternal principle which involved oxen which remains applicable today.
The Law is filled with principles, examples, warnings, and truth completely relevant to our lives today. Don't be put off by genealogies, words tricky to pronounce, or look at the Law as less important than other scripture. It has been written for our sakes, and it will endure forever!
21 October 2014
Osmosis or On Purpose?
I was raised in a generation of Christian believers who emphasised the grace of God and I am most grateful. Looking back, perhaps this strong emphasis was in response to legalism and the error of a works-based salvation. I remember many times being taught the fruit of the Spirit is a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit within a born-again follower of Jesus Christ. This is true. Whilst it is true that striving to do through the flesh what only God can do through the Spirit is futile, the opposite error can creep into the hearts and minds of Christians: we do not need to be intentional or sometimes take drastic steps in obedience to the Holy Spirit or God's Word. Paul subjected his flesh under the Holy Spirit as a slave driver, and then he disciplined himself to live a holy life of obedience to God. I see in Paul an intentional approach that for much of my early walk might be better described as "passive carelessness." I suspect I'm not the only one.
Inner transformation does not occur without being intentional. No one is "born-again" by their proximity to Christians, but through an identity received by a conscious decision made to repent and believe in Jesus Christ as LORD and Saviour. If this is true of our justification, then also our sanctification progresses through intentionally humbling ourselves before God, repenting, obeying, and putting into practice what God is teaching us through His Word. As convenient as it might be, it is folly to think I will bear fruit for God's glory without any intentional action or effort on my part. I suppose you could say in my youth I unwittingly ascribed to an "osmosis" model of Christian living. The New Websters College Dictionary defines osmosis in these ways: "1) the tendency of a solvent to pass through a semipermeable membrane, as the wall of a living cell, into a solution of higher concentration, so as to equalize concentrations on both sides of the membrane; 2) the diffusion of fluids through a membrane or porous partition; 3) an apparently effortless absorption of ideas, feelings, attitudes, etc."
The concept of "Christian osmosis" (though only through looking back can I see it) basically goes like this: the Holy Spirit living inside of me will make me so holy, loving, and kind that the world will notice a difference. Into the void of their empty lives the power of the Holy Spirit will flow from my life, and they will be drawn to salvation in Jesus - without me needing to do or say anything practical or intentional. After all, it is God's work, right? The problem with the "osmotic" approach to fruitfulness is it is unbiblical. There is nothing effortless about the Christian walk. It is a narrow path, an upward call, a battle, something we must intentionally discipline ourselves to faithfully continue. In 2 Timothy 2, Paul compared the walk of a Christian to a soldier, an athlete competing for the prize, and a farmer who labours in the sun. It takes time and effort to examine our lives and motives according to scripture. It is work to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Jesus. It's true we can only do these things through the power of the Holy Spirit, for in our flesh dwells no good thing. But it's also true that we will not be changed or be fruitful until we make sacrifices and take practical steps to put off the old man, be renewed in the Spirit of our minds, and put on the new man (Ephesians 4:20-24). If you have any doubts concerning this, read the New Testament. The fact God has given us grace does not mean He is unworthy of our labour! There are countless exhortations for us to do things which only God can do, but they won't be done unless we agree and take practical steps to cooperate in submission to the Holy Spirit.
I went to Awanas as a kid and memorised Ephesians 2:8-9. Because the verses were printed in our workbooks separate from the Bible, it was not until adulthood that I learned and began to put verse 10 into practice! Many Christians hold fast to an Ephesians 2:8-9 theology, but have not fully embraced an Ephesians 2:8-10 lifestyle. Ephesians 2:8-10 says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." Salvation is a free gift from God Christians receive. Yet we have been saved for a purpose, created in Christ Jesus for good works. These works are done only when we submit ourselves to God and walk in them. Walking (aside from the odd sleepwalker here or there!) is an intentional action. It involves us struggling to our feet, deciding where we will go, and then putting one foot in front of the other until we reach our destination. Blessed are those who endure to the end and purposefully perform the good works God has created people to do.
There is nothing passive or osmotic about the Christian walk. It is a life defined by identity in Christ, intentionality in obedience, and persistence in discipline. It is a labour of love that is the most fulfilling existence, satisfying beyond comprehension. Have you entered into the good works God has prepared beforehand for you to walk in? By His grace and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can!
Inner transformation does not occur without being intentional. No one is "born-again" by their proximity to Christians, but through an identity received by a conscious decision made to repent and believe in Jesus Christ as LORD and Saviour. If this is true of our justification, then also our sanctification progresses through intentionally humbling ourselves before God, repenting, obeying, and putting into practice what God is teaching us through His Word. As convenient as it might be, it is folly to think I will bear fruit for God's glory without any intentional action or effort on my part. I suppose you could say in my youth I unwittingly ascribed to an "osmosis" model of Christian living. The New Websters College Dictionary defines osmosis in these ways: "1) the tendency of a solvent to pass through a semipermeable membrane, as the wall of a living cell, into a solution of higher concentration, so as to equalize concentrations on both sides of the membrane; 2) the diffusion of fluids through a membrane or porous partition; 3) an apparently effortless absorption of ideas, feelings, attitudes, etc."
The concept of "Christian osmosis" (though only through looking back can I see it) basically goes like this: the Holy Spirit living inside of me will make me so holy, loving, and kind that the world will notice a difference. Into the void of their empty lives the power of the Holy Spirit will flow from my life, and they will be drawn to salvation in Jesus - without me needing to do or say anything practical or intentional. After all, it is God's work, right? The problem with the "osmotic" approach to fruitfulness is it is unbiblical. There is nothing effortless about the Christian walk. It is a narrow path, an upward call, a battle, something we must intentionally discipline ourselves to faithfully continue. In 2 Timothy 2, Paul compared the walk of a Christian to a soldier, an athlete competing for the prize, and a farmer who labours in the sun. It takes time and effort to examine our lives and motives according to scripture. It is work to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Jesus. It's true we can only do these things through the power of the Holy Spirit, for in our flesh dwells no good thing. But it's also true that we will not be changed or be fruitful until we make sacrifices and take practical steps to put off the old man, be renewed in the Spirit of our minds, and put on the new man (Ephesians 4:20-24). If you have any doubts concerning this, read the New Testament. The fact God has given us grace does not mean He is unworthy of our labour! There are countless exhortations for us to do things which only God can do, but they won't be done unless we agree and take practical steps to cooperate in submission to the Holy Spirit.
I went to Awanas as a kid and memorised Ephesians 2:8-9. Because the verses were printed in our workbooks separate from the Bible, it was not until adulthood that I learned and began to put verse 10 into practice! Many Christians hold fast to an Ephesians 2:8-9 theology, but have not fully embraced an Ephesians 2:8-10 lifestyle. Ephesians 2:8-10 says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." Salvation is a free gift from God Christians receive. Yet we have been saved for a purpose, created in Christ Jesus for good works. These works are done only when we submit ourselves to God and walk in them. Walking (aside from the odd sleepwalker here or there!) is an intentional action. It involves us struggling to our feet, deciding where we will go, and then putting one foot in front of the other until we reach our destination. Blessed are those who endure to the end and purposefully perform the good works God has created people to do.
There is nothing passive or osmotic about the Christian walk. It is a life defined by identity in Christ, intentionality in obedience, and persistence in discipline. It is a labour of love that is the most fulfilling existence, satisfying beyond comprehension. Have you entered into the good works God has prepared beforehand for you to walk in? By His grace and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can!
20 October 2014
Explorer or Pioneer?
I have always been impressed with pioneers who embraced the risk of the unknown and uprooted their family in the hope of a better life. Many sold their land, packed everything into a wagon, and started a new living from scratch. It was a hard life, and many of the early pioneers in the States were on their own. They faced dangers from wild animals, prairie fires, freezing winters, and hacked an existence out of the bush. I enjoyed reading the Little House on the Prairie book set as a kid, amazed by the diligence of the hard-working Ingalls family.
Something I have been thinking about lately is the relatively recent emphasis on "church planting." I believe being led by the Spirit is a critical factor in seeking to fulfill your calling. It is important to examine our personal motives through the lens of scripture. It is interesting all Christians are called to make disciples, yet I do not see any specific call in the Bible to plant churches. Paul went spreading the Gospel, sowing the good seed of God's Word, and churches grew out of those divinely inspired efforts. I do not think his motive was to "plant churches," but individual fellowships grew from disciples being made. Jesus is the foundation upon whom the church is built.
Sometimes efforts to plant a church before making disciples can presumptuously place the cart before the horse. The church is in need of pioneers who are willing to invest themselves making disciples in an existing church, family, friends, co-workers, or in people they meet. I think some church planting could be compared to explorers who are keen to go to distant lands and claim territory for their denomination, church, or even themselves. Like explorers who land on a beach and claimed territory with a flag pushed into the sand, people can approach starting a church in the same fashion. They fire up a website, develop a vision statement, establish a meeting place and schedule, have a faithful few, but after a short while head off for a new conquest. History is filled with explorers who became famous, but it is countless unknown men and women who committed themselves to settle who did an enduring work. Explorers and pioneers had different motives, and so do Christians today. God can use both, and only God knows our hearts.
Are you willing to be a pioneer for Christ? You don't even need to leave your church to do so. Every Christian can follow Jesus make disciples right where we are, and to that end we all ought to labour until God moves us to a new claim. It won't be our claim, but His. God will build His church, and what a blessing it is to serve and be part of it.
Something I have been thinking about lately is the relatively recent emphasis on "church planting." I believe being led by the Spirit is a critical factor in seeking to fulfill your calling. It is important to examine our personal motives through the lens of scripture. It is interesting all Christians are called to make disciples, yet I do not see any specific call in the Bible to plant churches. Paul went spreading the Gospel, sowing the good seed of God's Word, and churches grew out of those divinely inspired efforts. I do not think his motive was to "plant churches," but individual fellowships grew from disciples being made. Jesus is the foundation upon whom the church is built.
Sometimes efforts to plant a church before making disciples can presumptuously place the cart before the horse. The church is in need of pioneers who are willing to invest themselves making disciples in an existing church, family, friends, co-workers, or in people they meet. I think some church planting could be compared to explorers who are keen to go to distant lands and claim territory for their denomination, church, or even themselves. Like explorers who land on a beach and claimed territory with a flag pushed into the sand, people can approach starting a church in the same fashion. They fire up a website, develop a vision statement, establish a meeting place and schedule, have a faithful few, but after a short while head off for a new conquest. History is filled with explorers who became famous, but it is countless unknown men and women who committed themselves to settle who did an enduring work. Explorers and pioneers had different motives, and so do Christians today. God can use both, and only God knows our hearts.
Are you willing to be a pioneer for Christ? You don't even need to leave your church to do so. Every Christian can follow Jesus make disciples right where we are, and to that end we all ought to labour until God moves us to a new claim. It won't be our claim, but His. God will build His church, and what a blessing it is to serve and be part of it.
19 October 2014
Doing Concealed Work
I worked in mechanical insulation for over a decade and have experience in commercial, marine, and industrial applications. My career was spread across three San Diego companies, and I enjoyed working with many fine men and women of various backgrounds and skill-sets. As I continued to mature and develop as a skilled tradesman and began running work as a foreman, there were basic qualities I looked for in my crew. It was pretty simple: I wanted people to show up on time ready to work, be teachable, work diligently, and finish each task before moving on to the next one. One of my "pet peeves" was when people started a job - choosing the exposed, easy parts of the task - and leave the difficult or concealed parts unfinished for others to do. It was never fun discovering I was given a job to complete where someone only partially completed the chilled water or steam. The pipes were live and far more difficult (and hot and painful if steam!) than if it had been done completely the first time. Some journeymen relished the job-starting role, and some were the finishers. For whatever reason, I finished way more jobs than I started!
Every job I have done has parts which are harder than others. In my trade, there was a phrase to describe people who jumped on the easiest work first: "gravy grabbers." Thinking about their own comfort and ease, they quickly took for themselves the easiest jobs and left the hot, tricky, or undesirable spots for others. I believe serving God is hard work we must work hard at, and a kind of "gravy grabbing" mentality can exist even within the church. There is certain aspects of ministry or authority which seem to have an appeal - like being a pastor. Many people all over the world aspire to pulpit ministry, not realising there is a huge difference between preaching and pastoring. A preacher preaches, but a pastor preaches and also ministers to people as a shepherd does the flock. A pastor must be hands-on, and much of the role requires dealing with hungry, wayward, sickly, parasite stricken or obstinate sheep - and he has his own faults to reckon with as well!
Being a shepherd is hard work, and to those who are called is a great joy. It is a great shame when a pastor decides to move on to another flock because people do not seem to be flourishing under his care as he hoped. People love to see progress. It makes them feel good about themselves and validates the amount of labour they are doing. Just like an insulator who loves those long, clear runs of pipe-covering from the convenience of a scissor lift, Christian workers love to see more people coming to the church, more people committing their lives to Christ, physical healings, and expansion of ministry. Yet when people don't see much "fruit" from their efforts, they grow discourage, even disillusioned. They decide it's time to "go in a new direction" or "take a new step of faith." Whilst God may direct you to work in a field for a short or long season, sometimes I believe there is another way to put it when you leave for the wrong reasons: you are a quitter. You aren't interested in moving rocks so the ground can be tilled, planted, and harvested years from now. Some people have itching ears, and others have longing eyes. They want to see immediate results. People don't seem to be willing to invest their entire life in working the soil in tough conditions so the next generation will be fruitful. It may take decades to simply lay a foundation. Are there any willing to do this? Or are we a bunch of gravy-grabbers who give up when things are hard? It was a shame in Jesus' day when a man began planting a vineyard and building a wall only to leave it derelict. The same tragedy happens in churches all the time.
This morning I read Psalm 66:8-12: "Oh, bless our God, you peoples! And make the voice of His praise to be heard, 9 Who keeps our soul among the living, and does not allow our feet to be moved. 10 For You, O God, have tested us; You have refined us as silver is refined. 11 You brought us into the net; You laid affliction on our backs. 12 You have caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water; but You brought us out to rich fulfillment." Our circumstances are often the crucible God uses both to test and refine us. Look at what God chooses to do to His people: he brings them into the net, lays affliction of their backs, causes them to be trampled, puts them through fire and water. Yet the consolation God brings is greater than any trial or suffering we endure for Christ's sake. Our human tendency is to try to jump out of the crucible when the fire is put to it. We won't even go in water because it is too cold, but God throws us in the deep end.
Think about this: God causes men to ride over our heads! I have never been trampled by a horse, but it is not at all pleasant. It is an experience one could describe as shocking, sudden, painful, and something which leaves lasting scars, memories, and injuries. It is something no sensible person would ever want to happen to them, much less repeat. God causes men to ride over our heads because it provides Him an opportunity to lift us up, restore and heal us, and make us whole - more whole than we were before! Sometimes injury, tragedy, even deformity or mutilation is the strange ingredient God uses to complete a person so they might be usable. We are always looking for an easier test. We don't want to do the concealed work, but it must be done first. Jumping from the crucible when the heat is applied means we have failed the test and failed to be completely refined as God desires.
There is a great blessing to those who endure: Psalm 66:12: "Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place." No matter the difficulty or suffering we face in ministry or in this life, God will ultimately bring us through into a wealthy place and rewards. Those who endure will be richer for it. There is no place more fulfilling than remaining in the place God and role where He has called you. Some people think they will be fulfilled when they have a spouse, more money, or a different career. Some Christians think they will be fulfilled or more satisfied at a different church or to even be the pastor of a church. But true fulfillment and wealth is not found in any of these things: it is found only in Jesus Christ and obedience to Him. Bless our God, you people! He puts us through fire and water - even causes men to ride over our heads - but brings us forth as refined gold. How great is the consolation, joy, and peace found in our God Let's not just start the job, but remain diligent to finish!
Every job I have done has parts which are harder than others. In my trade, there was a phrase to describe people who jumped on the easiest work first: "gravy grabbers." Thinking about their own comfort and ease, they quickly took for themselves the easiest jobs and left the hot, tricky, or undesirable spots for others. I believe serving God is hard work we must work hard at, and a kind of "gravy grabbing" mentality can exist even within the church. There is certain aspects of ministry or authority which seem to have an appeal - like being a pastor. Many people all over the world aspire to pulpit ministry, not realising there is a huge difference between preaching and pastoring. A preacher preaches, but a pastor preaches and also ministers to people as a shepherd does the flock. A pastor must be hands-on, and much of the role requires dealing with hungry, wayward, sickly, parasite stricken or obstinate sheep - and he has his own faults to reckon with as well!
Being a shepherd is hard work, and to those who are called is a great joy. It is a great shame when a pastor decides to move on to another flock because people do not seem to be flourishing under his care as he hoped. People love to see progress. It makes them feel good about themselves and validates the amount of labour they are doing. Just like an insulator who loves those long, clear runs of pipe-covering from the convenience of a scissor lift, Christian workers love to see more people coming to the church, more people committing their lives to Christ, physical healings, and expansion of ministry. Yet when people don't see much "fruit" from their efforts, they grow discourage, even disillusioned. They decide it's time to "go in a new direction" or "take a new step of faith." Whilst God may direct you to work in a field for a short or long season, sometimes I believe there is another way to put it when you leave for the wrong reasons: you are a quitter. You aren't interested in moving rocks so the ground can be tilled, planted, and harvested years from now. Some people have itching ears, and others have longing eyes. They want to see immediate results. People don't seem to be willing to invest their entire life in working the soil in tough conditions so the next generation will be fruitful. It may take decades to simply lay a foundation. Are there any willing to do this? Or are we a bunch of gravy-grabbers who give up when things are hard? It was a shame in Jesus' day when a man began planting a vineyard and building a wall only to leave it derelict. The same tragedy happens in churches all the time.
This morning I read Psalm 66:8-12: "Oh, bless our God, you peoples! And make the voice of His praise to be heard, 9 Who keeps our soul among the living, and does not allow our feet to be moved. 10 For You, O God, have tested us; You have refined us as silver is refined. 11 You brought us into the net; You laid affliction on our backs. 12 You have caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water; but You brought us out to rich fulfillment." Our circumstances are often the crucible God uses both to test and refine us. Look at what God chooses to do to His people: he brings them into the net, lays affliction of their backs, causes them to be trampled, puts them through fire and water. Yet the consolation God brings is greater than any trial or suffering we endure for Christ's sake. Our human tendency is to try to jump out of the crucible when the fire is put to it. We won't even go in water because it is too cold, but God throws us in the deep end.
Think about this: God causes men to ride over our heads! I have never been trampled by a horse, but it is not at all pleasant. It is an experience one could describe as shocking, sudden, painful, and something which leaves lasting scars, memories, and injuries. It is something no sensible person would ever want to happen to them, much less repeat. God causes men to ride over our heads because it provides Him an opportunity to lift us up, restore and heal us, and make us whole - more whole than we were before! Sometimes injury, tragedy, even deformity or mutilation is the strange ingredient God uses to complete a person so they might be usable. We are always looking for an easier test. We don't want to do the concealed work, but it must be done first. Jumping from the crucible when the heat is applied means we have failed the test and failed to be completely refined as God desires.
There is a great blessing to those who endure: Psalm 66:12: "Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place." No matter the difficulty or suffering we face in ministry or in this life, God will ultimately bring us through into a wealthy place and rewards. Those who endure will be richer for it. There is no place more fulfilling than remaining in the place God and role where He has called you. Some people think they will be fulfilled when they have a spouse, more money, or a different career. Some Christians think they will be fulfilled or more satisfied at a different church or to even be the pastor of a church. But true fulfillment and wealth is not found in any of these things: it is found only in Jesus Christ and obedience to Him. Bless our God, you people! He puts us through fire and water - even causes men to ride over our heads - but brings us forth as refined gold. How great is the consolation, joy, and peace found in our God Let's not just start the job, but remain diligent to finish!
15 October 2014
Confess Your Faults to One Another
This morning I read a Bleacher Report article about Ken Caminiti, a baseball player I cheered for growing up as a San Diego Padres supporter. The article spoke of how after finishing his career Ken was transparent and confessed steroid use and drug abuse. There is little doubt his candor cost him dearly. Instead of cheers for his honesty, he was ostracised by many both in and outside of baseball circles. Some of his fellow players felt betrayed, and fans were angry their hero had been a cheat. The fallout from his admission freely provided created a fire-storm of controversy. Quoting the article:
One reason why I found this article so compelling is the tendency of people in church to hide their struggles and cover up their sins because they fear what happened to Ken will happen to them. Maybe it has already happened so they have told themselves, "Never again!" Every church where people gather in Christ's name has people who are hurting and struggling. More are mired in sinful habits than you know. Some are afraid they will be punished and pushed away if they admit they had an affair. People are scared to be transparent or vulnerable because they have exposed their issues and others were offended or spread the word behind their backs. There are people in ministry right now - in full-time service to God and the church - who know if they reveal they are not perfect and struggling with sin in some area, they will be rejected, fired, or hated. A culture can exist in a church that a cry for help through confessing sin is cause for hypocritical indignation and punishment. My brothers and sisters, this ought not to be!
Should a church deal firmly with fellow Christians who are overtaken by sin? Yes. But a sinner who freely admits their guilt should be loved and shown grace and mercy - not ostracised. Should a sinner walk into church off the street and confess his sins and receive Christ, his admission of sinfulness and repentance would be celebrated. But if a professing Christian or leader should admit struggles with sins, man's judgmental streak flashes brilliantly. We feel we need to "teach them a lesson," thinking that conviction and consequences God allows are not enough! Or we feel compelled to "protect the ministry" by making a statement through harsh discipline that we do not in any way condone such behaviour. How common is our tendency to see the sins of others as personal betrayal! If we are personally offended and angered by the revelation of sins of others beyond the initial shock, and not grieved for the sake of God and the glory He has been robbed of through sin, our hearts are likely not pure before God. In love we are to seek the restoration of such a one who has fallen. Galatians 6:1 says, "Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted." James 5:16 says we ought to confess our faults to one another and pray for each other that we may be healed. When is the last time you obeyed this command to confess your faults to someone at church? I'm talking to you, Christian, ministry leader, fellow servant. Likely it's been quite some time, but hopefully this will change.
In all things, Christians are called to live according to God's Word. If we are in sin, we must confess our sin before God and those we have wronged. When someone confesses sin to us, we are to pray with them, bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. We are called to give mercy and grace to sinners, to those downcast souls who have wandered. Let us not forget that the social or church culture we might despise or criticise has been at least partially formed by our own hands. God has given all people the power to be an influence for good or evil. Will you go on the record as someone who will speak the truth, even if it costs you something? In obedience to God, are you willing to confess your sins to a brother or sister so you might pray and be healed? God isn't asking us to air our issues in national publications or on a blog that reaches across the globe: He tells us to confess our faults to one another - personally, discretely, and honestly. Then we can have true accountability and discipleship. Then we will begin to grow in love and grace. Then there will be healing and deliverance. Then we will become a church that promotes health, growth, fitness, and victory - not one that cuts off its own hands, fingers, toes, and feet whilst ignoring the fact we have cancer, heart disease, and we are dying.
Two years later, in 2007, Caminiti appeared on the baseball Hall of Fame ballot for the first and only time. A record 545 voters cast ballots. Two people voted for Caminiti. "I took a lot of crap for that vote," says Gwen Knapp, then a sports columnist for the San Francisco Chronicle and, of course, one of the two who voted for him. "I think he did a service to the game. I had covered so many doping scandals in the Olympics. Everyone doesn't tell the truth until they get caught. And people who do tell the truth are ostracized, as I believe Ken was. I don't know if he did it for noble reasons. But I'm sure baseball wouldn't have implemented testing that quickly without him. I think that was a big motivating factor. He went on the record, which maybe wasn't the wisest thing for him to do for himself."I wonder: why do people sometimes feel the need to punish others for simply being honest? Some might say Ken was ostracised because of his poor decisions, but then he made another mistake to admit it. You know what? I am more a fan of the late Ken Caminiti for his honesty than the fact he switch-hit homeruns in a single game, or the fact he was the league MVP. When Ken passed away from a drug overdose, I was deeply saddened. As I read the article, I again grieved for him and his family. Like everyone, Ken had his flaws. The fact that he freely admitted them publically should not provide cause for his memory to be tarnished. No one knows how many baseball players are in the Hall of Fame who cheated and said nothing, happy to receive praise, millions of dollars, lifetime status, and job security with a smile. Men hate to see their idols come crashing down.
One reason why I found this article so compelling is the tendency of people in church to hide their struggles and cover up their sins because they fear what happened to Ken will happen to them. Maybe it has already happened so they have told themselves, "Never again!" Every church where people gather in Christ's name has people who are hurting and struggling. More are mired in sinful habits than you know. Some are afraid they will be punished and pushed away if they admit they had an affair. People are scared to be transparent or vulnerable because they have exposed their issues and others were offended or spread the word behind their backs. There are people in ministry right now - in full-time service to God and the church - who know if they reveal they are not perfect and struggling with sin in some area, they will be rejected, fired, or hated. A culture can exist in a church that a cry for help through confessing sin is cause for hypocritical indignation and punishment. My brothers and sisters, this ought not to be!
Should a church deal firmly with fellow Christians who are overtaken by sin? Yes. But a sinner who freely admits their guilt should be loved and shown grace and mercy - not ostracised. Should a sinner walk into church off the street and confess his sins and receive Christ, his admission of sinfulness and repentance would be celebrated. But if a professing Christian or leader should admit struggles with sins, man's judgmental streak flashes brilliantly. We feel we need to "teach them a lesson," thinking that conviction and consequences God allows are not enough! Or we feel compelled to "protect the ministry" by making a statement through harsh discipline that we do not in any way condone such behaviour. How common is our tendency to see the sins of others as personal betrayal! If we are personally offended and angered by the revelation of sins of others beyond the initial shock, and not grieved for the sake of God and the glory He has been robbed of through sin, our hearts are likely not pure before God. In love we are to seek the restoration of such a one who has fallen. Galatians 6:1 says, "Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted." James 5:16 says we ought to confess our faults to one another and pray for each other that we may be healed. When is the last time you obeyed this command to confess your faults to someone at church? I'm talking to you, Christian, ministry leader, fellow servant. Likely it's been quite some time, but hopefully this will change.
In all things, Christians are called to live according to God's Word. If we are in sin, we must confess our sin before God and those we have wronged. When someone confesses sin to us, we are to pray with them, bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. We are called to give mercy and grace to sinners, to those downcast souls who have wandered. Let us not forget that the social or church culture we might despise or criticise has been at least partially formed by our own hands. God has given all people the power to be an influence for good or evil. Will you go on the record as someone who will speak the truth, even if it costs you something? In obedience to God, are you willing to confess your sins to a brother or sister so you might pray and be healed? God isn't asking us to air our issues in national publications or on a blog that reaches across the globe: He tells us to confess our faults to one another - personally, discretely, and honestly. Then we can have true accountability and discipleship. Then we will begin to grow in love and grace. Then there will be healing and deliverance. Then we will become a church that promotes health, growth, fitness, and victory - not one that cuts off its own hands, fingers, toes, and feet whilst ignoring the fact we have cancer, heart disease, and we are dying.
14 October 2014
The Peril of Misrepresentation
Sometimes the biblical knowledge of a Christian can inhibit growth. This may seem strange, but it is a common malady. Our familiarity with a passage may lead us to gloss over key details which could greatly broaden our understanding. For instance, I have heard people describe God's love with the word "unconditional." Whilst it is true God's love is freely given according to His grace - no one deserves or could earn such love extended to all - I believe people can love unconditionally without God. I suggest there are people in the world who are die-hard, loyal until death supporters of sports teams which have never won! If our understanding of God's love is merely as "unconditional", we miss the richness of the depths of the knowledge of how deep God's love goes. I remember well my attempts to find the word "unconditional" in the Bible and was surprised I could not. I discovered God's "agapao" and "agape" love is unconditional, but that is an incomplete definition. Agapao is "the
active love of God for His Son and His people, and the active love His
people are to have for God, each other, and even enemies" (Strong's Concordance). 1 Corininthians 13 contains a great passage which describes God's love in detail. It is unconditional, but much more still!
Last night I read the passage where Moses struck the rock in Meribah. I thought about times I heard people limit their interpretation and application to how Moses "misrepresented" God. Because that is what some have taught, perhaps this is also what you think too. Did Moses "misrepresent" God? Frankly, I don't know that Moses ever intended to be a "representation" of God to the people. He was God's representative, but there is a difference. Anyways, I have always scratched my head over that interpretation of his actions because God lists several faults of Moses as reasons for him and Aaron being denied entrance to the Promised Land - and "misrepresentation" is not one of them. Moses was not denied the Promised Land because of losing his temper. As convenient as this application may be, the scriptures do not support it. I assure you my aim is not to take shots at anyone who has taught this (for no doubt I did at one time too) but to encourage all to be good students of scripture. We should not bring our oversimplifications, generalisations, or neatly bundled theology to the Bible and miss what the Bible says! If the Bible only exists to confirm our prior beliefs, we will not learn anything. Generalisations can be comfortable or convenient, but they are not always accurate.
Numbers 20 tells of how the people complained and murmured against God for their lack of water. They claimed they had been misled, expressed their distrust, and questioned God's wisdom. Moses and Aaron went to the tabernacle, fell on their faces, and God spoke with them. Numbers 20:7-12 reads, "Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 8 "Take the rod; you and your brother Aaron gather the congregation together. Speak to the rock before their eyes, and it will yield its water; thus you shall bring water for them out of the rock, and give drink to the congregation and their animals." 9 So Moses took the rod from before the LORD as He commanded him. 10 And Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly together before the rock; and he said to them, "Hear now, you rebels! Must we bring water for you out of this rock?" 11 Then Moses lifted his hand and struck the rock twice with his rod; and water came out abundantly, and the congregation and their animals drank. 12 Then the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron, "Because you did not believe Me, to hallow Me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land which I have given them." Moses disobeyed God by striking the rock as he had once before (Exodus 17:6). His disobedience was a product of unbelief, as God said in verse 12. In addition to unbelief, God rebuked Moses and Aaron because they did not "hallow Me in the eyes of the children of Israel." If we look Exodus 17:6-7 passage at Massah, water from the rock was undeniable evidence God was among the people. In the Numbers 20 passage, Moses did not hallow God. He did not even mention God directly. One might think the power was within him: "Must we (Moses and Aaron) bring water for you out of this rock?" It would be preposterous to suggest Moses included God in "we."
If you were to read in other portions of scripture, more light is shed on the specific reasons God refused to allow Moses and Aaron to enter the Promised Land. Numbers 20:23-24 says, "And the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron in Mount Hor by the border of the land of Edom, saying: 24 "Aaron shall be gathered to his people, for he shall not enter the land which I have given to the children of Israel, because you rebelled against My word at the water of Meribah." This is the third reason given for Moses and Aaron being denied entrance: rebellion and disobedience. God repeated this to Moses when he was told of his death by God in Numbers 27:12-14: "Now the LORD said to Moses: "Go up into this Mount Abarim, and see the land which I have given to the children of Israel. 13 And when you have seen it, you also shall be gathered to your people, as Aaron your brother was gathered. 14 For in the Wilderness of Zin, during the strife of the congregation, you rebelled against My command to hallow Me at the waters before their eyes." (These are the waters of Meribah, at Kadesh in the Wilderness of Zin.)" Again, the rebellion of Moses was the issue God cited - not misrepresentation. The Bible never says God punished Moses because he messed up His typology. Moses affirmed in Deuteronomy 1:37 and 4:21 that God was angry with him for the sake of the people and he would die and not cross over the Jordan. God deserves glory, and Moses did not sanctify Him in the eyes of the people.
Moses was a faithful servant of God, but to whom much is given much is required. In Hebrews 11, Moses was not remembered by his faults but according to his faith in God. In Acts 7, Stephen compared Moses with Christ in his statement before the Jewish rulers and high priest. The grave of Moses has never been found, but God spelled out his offense clearly for us: unbelief, he did not sanctify God in the eyes of the people, and rebellion. God made Moses great and used him mightily, despite his flaws. In this I find great comfort. Should we relegate the sins of Moses to misrepresentation, we generalise something God clearly spelled out again and again. Let us be cautious to ensure we open the scriptures with minds ready to be changed, hearts willing to be confronted, and theology longing to grow. Instead of the sweet candy of catchphrases or oversimplification, let us feed on the milk and meat of the word. The Bible ought to be our authority, not a means of bias confirmation!
Last night I read the passage where Moses struck the rock in Meribah. I thought about times I heard people limit their interpretation and application to how Moses "misrepresented" God. Because that is what some have taught, perhaps this is also what you think too. Did Moses "misrepresent" God? Frankly, I don't know that Moses ever intended to be a "representation" of God to the people. He was God's representative, but there is a difference. Anyways, I have always scratched my head over that interpretation of his actions because God lists several faults of Moses as reasons for him and Aaron being denied entrance to the Promised Land - and "misrepresentation" is not one of them. Moses was not denied the Promised Land because of losing his temper. As convenient as this application may be, the scriptures do not support it. I assure you my aim is not to take shots at anyone who has taught this (for no doubt I did at one time too) but to encourage all to be good students of scripture. We should not bring our oversimplifications, generalisations, or neatly bundled theology to the Bible and miss what the Bible says! If the Bible only exists to confirm our prior beliefs, we will not learn anything. Generalisations can be comfortable or convenient, but they are not always accurate.
Numbers 20 tells of how the people complained and murmured against God for their lack of water. They claimed they had been misled, expressed their distrust, and questioned God's wisdom. Moses and Aaron went to the tabernacle, fell on their faces, and God spoke with them. Numbers 20:7-12 reads, "Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 8 "Take the rod; you and your brother Aaron gather the congregation together. Speak to the rock before their eyes, and it will yield its water; thus you shall bring water for them out of the rock, and give drink to the congregation and their animals." 9 So Moses took the rod from before the LORD as He commanded him. 10 And Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly together before the rock; and he said to them, "Hear now, you rebels! Must we bring water for you out of this rock?" 11 Then Moses lifted his hand and struck the rock twice with his rod; and water came out abundantly, and the congregation and their animals drank. 12 Then the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron, "Because you did not believe Me, to hallow Me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land which I have given them." Moses disobeyed God by striking the rock as he had once before (Exodus 17:6). His disobedience was a product of unbelief, as God said in verse 12. In addition to unbelief, God rebuked Moses and Aaron because they did not "hallow Me in the eyes of the children of Israel." If we look Exodus 17:6-7 passage at Massah, water from the rock was undeniable evidence God was among the people. In the Numbers 20 passage, Moses did not hallow God. He did not even mention God directly. One might think the power was within him: "Must we (Moses and Aaron) bring water for you out of this rock?" It would be preposterous to suggest Moses included God in "we."
If you were to read in other portions of scripture, more light is shed on the specific reasons God refused to allow Moses and Aaron to enter the Promised Land. Numbers 20:23-24 says, "And the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron in Mount Hor by the border of the land of Edom, saying: 24 "Aaron shall be gathered to his people, for he shall not enter the land which I have given to the children of Israel, because you rebelled against My word at the water of Meribah." This is the third reason given for Moses and Aaron being denied entrance: rebellion and disobedience. God repeated this to Moses when he was told of his death by God in Numbers 27:12-14: "Now the LORD said to Moses: "Go up into this Mount Abarim, and see the land which I have given to the children of Israel. 13 And when you have seen it, you also shall be gathered to your people, as Aaron your brother was gathered. 14 For in the Wilderness of Zin, during the strife of the congregation, you rebelled against My command to hallow Me at the waters before their eyes." (These are the waters of Meribah, at Kadesh in the Wilderness of Zin.)" Again, the rebellion of Moses was the issue God cited - not misrepresentation. The Bible never says God punished Moses because he messed up His typology. Moses affirmed in Deuteronomy 1:37 and 4:21 that God was angry with him for the sake of the people and he would die and not cross over the Jordan. God deserves glory, and Moses did not sanctify Him in the eyes of the people.
Moses was a faithful servant of God, but to whom much is given much is required. In Hebrews 11, Moses was not remembered by his faults but according to his faith in God. In Acts 7, Stephen compared Moses with Christ in his statement before the Jewish rulers and high priest. The grave of Moses has never been found, but God spelled out his offense clearly for us: unbelief, he did not sanctify God in the eyes of the people, and rebellion. God made Moses great and used him mightily, despite his flaws. In this I find great comfort. Should we relegate the sins of Moses to misrepresentation, we generalise something God clearly spelled out again and again. Let us be cautious to ensure we open the scriptures with minds ready to be changed, hearts willing to be confronted, and theology longing to grow. Instead of the sweet candy of catchphrases or oversimplification, let us feed on the milk and meat of the word. The Bible ought to be our authority, not a means of bias confirmation!
13 October 2014
Help for Cast Souls
"Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God."
Psalm 43:5
Have you ever wondered why a good shepherd will leave 99 sheep in the wilderness to seek one sheep that is lost? In Philip Keller's classic, A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, this is explained in detail. A sheep missing from the flock could be lost, injured, trapped, or cast. A cast sheep is one that has fallen over and is unable to stand back up. All sheep are susceptible to being cast, and factors such as heavy wool, uneven terrain, and pregnancy can play a role. What looks funny or pathetic to us is a dire condition for a sheep! When a sheep is cast and wildly struggles to regain its footing, gasses quickly build in the stomach which cuts off the blood supply to the limbs. A cast sheep can die in a matter of hours.
A good shepherd, seeing a sheep he loves is missing from the flock, will set out on an urgent search to find the wayward sheep. Should he discover the sheep is cast, he will roll the sheep to its stomach and gently lift from the ground. Because the blood supply is cut off to the legs and rendered them useless, he is patient to massage the legs, support the sheep, and wait until the sheep can stand on its own. Before too long the sheep will be feeling good and grazing, likely not even realising minutes before it was perilously close to death. Jesus spoke of how a shepherd would gather his friends and urge them to rejoice, for he had found the sheep that was lost.
The Bible compares people to sheep. All we like sheep have gone astray, and the LORD has laid on Jesus the iniquity of us all (Is. 53:6). Jesus came to seek and save the lost, and rejoiced to redeem our lost souls from hell. Jesus has promised us fullness of joy and peace that passes understanding, but like sheep there are many factors which can easily lay us low. We can be depressed and down, physically drained and without the spiritual ability to lift ourselves up. Sickness, circumstances, trials, persecution, sin, and our fleshly nature can throw us off our feet. A sheep needs a shepherd to keep watch over him to be healthy and strong, and Christians are those who have answered the call for Jesus Christ to be their good shepherd. David was a man who experienced perilous trouble and severe tests of faith, but God was with him. There were many days where David resembled a cast sheep in spirit, flailing around and becoming increasingly numb. Always the Good Shepherd found Him, put him on his feet again, and saved him from his enemies - even when that enemy was himself.
After David fled from Absalom his usurping son, he penned Psalm 3:1-8: "LORD, how they have increased who trouble me! Many are they who rise up against me. 2 Many are they who say of me, "There is no help for him in God." Selah 3 But You, O LORD, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head. 4 I cried to the LORD with my voice, and He heard me from His holy hill. Selah 5 I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the LORD sustained me. 6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around. 7 Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God! For You have struck all my enemies on the cheekbone; You have broken the teeth of the ungodly. 8 Salvation belongs to the LORD. Your blessing is upon Your people. Selah." God is the lifter of our heads when we cry out to Him. When our souls are cast He will support us and lead us into good pasture. Even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death we will fear no evil, for He will remain with us. Surely goodness and mercy will follow God's people all the days of their lives, and they will dwell in the house of the LORD forever!
12 October 2014
Joy in Death?
Last night I turned on a random music mix as our family washed up after dinner. As a song by the band Third Day played, I was reminded of a friend named Mark Peters who has already passed into eternity. Thinking of Mark caused me to think of Mark Rawn who also has gone been to be with the LORD while I have been living in Australia. We used to attend Calvary Chapel El Cajon together, and I was always blessed to serve alongside them.
It was a unique experience as I washed dishes and listened to the song. It was like Mark Peters and Mark Rawn were together, and they were laughing. Try as I might, in my mind I could only see them smiling broadly in supreme comfort. They were rejoicing! Could I mourn for them now, seeing they had entered into the presence of the LORD for eternity? In a strange way I almost envied them. "You don't need to cry for me when my body dies," I told my son who was in the room. Thinking about it now, that's a strange thing to say out of the blue, but I suppose my kids are fairly used to such things! He wasn't worried at all. I kept going. "I am looking forward to it. It will be my coronation day, my boy." And according to God's grace, it will be the greatest day I will have ever experienced or imagined.
Thinking about the day of my death is an emotionally moving experience for me, but perhaps not in the way you might think. There is not a shred of fear or uncertainty in my soul, but sheer joy wells up within me. I tremble not in fear but in ecstatic anticipation! Whether the day of my decease comes unexpectedly or with warning, regardless if I am in a hospital or by myself somewhere, I know I will not be alone in that moment. God will be with me, and I need not fear. Jesus is my Good Shepherd, and He is able to present me faultless before the Father with exceeding joy. He holds the keys to death and hell. It was fear of death which caused John Wesley to realise he had never been born again. It is complete rest in the prospect of death - knowing both heaven and hell are real and an eternity in hell is what I deserve - that is strong evidence of the genuineness of my salvation. Fear of God has swallowed up fear of death, for God has conquered death and given me victory through Jesus Christ. The resurrection of Jesus Christ provides ample evidence of this reality.
Are you afraid to die? Is there any niggle of doubt in your heart or mind faced with the prospect of passing into eternity today? If you are in Christ, you need not fear. I am blessed to know God's work shall continue without me, and His provision for my family does not depend upon me either. All our needs are met in Him, and what peace and rest are available in Jesus Christ. Moses wrote in Psalm 90:12, "So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." We only have so many days left, so may we use every one of them wisely: hearing God's Word and putting it into practice!
It was a unique experience as I washed dishes and listened to the song. It was like Mark Peters and Mark Rawn were together, and they were laughing. Try as I might, in my mind I could only see them smiling broadly in supreme comfort. They were rejoicing! Could I mourn for them now, seeing they had entered into the presence of the LORD for eternity? In a strange way I almost envied them. "You don't need to cry for me when my body dies," I told my son who was in the room. Thinking about it now, that's a strange thing to say out of the blue, but I suppose my kids are fairly used to such things! He wasn't worried at all. I kept going. "I am looking forward to it. It will be my coronation day, my boy." And according to God's grace, it will be the greatest day I will have ever experienced or imagined.
Thinking about the day of my death is an emotionally moving experience for me, but perhaps not in the way you might think. There is not a shred of fear or uncertainty in my soul, but sheer joy wells up within me. I tremble not in fear but in ecstatic anticipation! Whether the day of my decease comes unexpectedly or with warning, regardless if I am in a hospital or by myself somewhere, I know I will not be alone in that moment. God will be with me, and I need not fear. Jesus is my Good Shepherd, and He is able to present me faultless before the Father with exceeding joy. He holds the keys to death and hell. It was fear of death which caused John Wesley to realise he had never been born again. It is complete rest in the prospect of death - knowing both heaven and hell are real and an eternity in hell is what I deserve - that is strong evidence of the genuineness of my salvation. Fear of God has swallowed up fear of death, for God has conquered death and given me victory through Jesus Christ. The resurrection of Jesus Christ provides ample evidence of this reality.
Are you afraid to die? Is there any niggle of doubt in your heart or mind faced with the prospect of passing into eternity today? If you are in Christ, you need not fear. I am blessed to know God's work shall continue without me, and His provision for my family does not depend upon me either. All our needs are met in Him, and what peace and rest are available in Jesus Christ. Moses wrote in Psalm 90:12, "So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." We only have so many days left, so may we use every one of them wisely: hearing God's Word and putting it into practice!
Run to Win
Jesus told a parable about servants who were given a portion of money by their master before he left on a journey. They were entrusted to invest and use what their master entrusted to them wisely. Luke 19:15-17 reads, "And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.
16
Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.
17
And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities." Jesus is coming quickly, and His reward is with Him to give to every servant according to their work (Rev. 22:12). It is God's good pleasure to give us the kingdom, and He graciously has rewards reserved for us. Should we show ourselves faithful in this life on earth, God has eternal rewards He will delight to bestow.
The thought occurred to me: if it is God's will to graciously give us rewards according to our works, it would be sinful not to earnestly desire and labour for them. We pray, "Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." It is God's will to give, and our negligence could deny Him this glory. God is a generous, gracious Giver. Should we be slack and slothful concerning His business, we will miss out on eternal reward God would have joyfully given. Our obedience, sacrifices, and labours of love for Christ and the Gospel will never be forgotten by God, even if ignored or despised by men. Hebrews 6:10-12 tells us, "For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises."
Warren Wiersbe said that heaven is not only a destination, but a motivation. Christians are beyond blessed to receive the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Yet there is also promised eternal rewards for every believer who runs the race set before them with faithful tenacity as led by the Holy Spirit. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 9:24, "Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it." We should not care for a participation award, but run to win the reward. It is good to start the race, but let's finish well! For most of us the finish line is closer than we think!
The thought occurred to me: if it is God's will to graciously give us rewards according to our works, it would be sinful not to earnestly desire and labour for them. We pray, "Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." It is God's will to give, and our negligence could deny Him this glory. God is a generous, gracious Giver. Should we be slack and slothful concerning His business, we will miss out on eternal reward God would have joyfully given. Our obedience, sacrifices, and labours of love for Christ and the Gospel will never be forgotten by God, even if ignored or despised by men. Hebrews 6:10-12 tells us, "For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises."
Warren Wiersbe said that heaven is not only a destination, but a motivation. Christians are beyond blessed to receive the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Yet there is also promised eternal rewards for every believer who runs the race set before them with faithful tenacity as led by the Holy Spirit. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 9:24, "Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it." We should not care for a participation award, but run to win the reward. It is good to start the race, but let's finish well! For most of us the finish line is closer than we think!
08 October 2014
Sin's Horrors and Christ's Hope
During camp last week, I was asked many times about what the Bible says about hell. There were questions like, "If God is so powerful, why doesn't He destroy hell?" Well, the Bible says someday He will (Rev. 20:14). Another question was, "If God loves people so much, why did He create hell?" The Bible reveals that hell was originally created for the devil and his angels (Matt. 25:41). When man chooses to be a devil and rebel against God, he chooses his own destruction. God has demonstrated His love for man by sending Jesus Christ to atone for the sins of all who repent and trust in Him in the world. God has made a way of escape available to all. It is folly to blame God for allowing eternal destruction when He has not only warned all, but given us the means to be saved through faith.
Hell is a real place of eternal torment, even as heaven is a place where Jesus shall wipe every tear from our eyes. Hell is described as a place of outer darkness where people are bound, weeping in anguish (Matt. 25:30). Jesus again and again and again spoke of how those in torment will have worms feeding on them that die not and their fire is not quenched (Mark 9:44, 46, 48). It is a place of eternal suffering, pain, regret, and sorrow. All of us have had a share of physical and emotional pain and suffering in this life, but those who die in sin will have it multiplied beyond imagination - and forever.
The knowledge of the terrors of hell ought to have a singular effect on us who still walk this planet: it provides insight of how detestable, destructive, and evil sin truly is. An eternity in the fires of hell is the only just punishment for a single lie. Think about it! We might lie and think nothing of it, just like a habitual shoplifter with sticky fingers. When the thief is caught he must return the item, pay a fine, and perhaps spend time in jail. Many legal systems declare this a just punishment for the crime. Hell is a just penalty for a single sin: that's how awful sin is! The trouble is, we often don't see the punishment of hell as fit for the crime. People complain God is too severe. That is because we do not recognise the horror of sin. Looking at the description of hell given us by Jesus shows us with crystal clarity how bad sin is. A good judge ensures justice is satisfied, and God is righteous and good to judge the wicked. Man's pathetic excuses to justify his sin before God will not stand, for the Law shuts the mouth of the most self-righteous and reveals our guilt (Rom. 3:19).
The Bible gives man the true facts concerning the nature of suffering, pain, sickness, and death in this world: they are all results of sin entering the world. These are merely symptoms of sin's infection. The pain and suffering in this world is a direct result of man's rebellion from God and passed down every generation until now. There was no death in this world until sin entered in (Romans 5:12). This world has been forever polluted by sin and will someday be dissolved (2 Peter 3:10). God will make a new heaven and new earth founded upon His righteousness where no sin can enter. Praise God He has made a way of salvation for all who repent and trust in Him! God demonstrated His love for us that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Rom. 5:8). The existence of hell is not evidence of God's wickedness or weakness, but His justice. The fact Christians will be brought faultless before the Father with joy reveals His love, grace, and mercy. God is compassionate and patient, not willing that any should perish but all should come to repentance (2 Pet. 3:9).
It is reasonable all men deserve hell for their sins, and impossible that a sinner should be ushered into heaven's glory. Yet what is impossible with men is possible with God. Man through sin brought suffering into the the world, but through Christ's death this can be reversed. Someday we will put off these bodies of flesh and be raised incorruptible with Christ forever. Revelation 21:3-8 says, "And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. 4 And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." 5 Then He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And He said to me, "Write, for these words are true and faithful." 6 And He said to me, "It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. 7 He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. 8 But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."
Our days spent on this earth in a sense is a little slice of both hell and heaven. For Christians it is the closest we will ever be to hell, and for unbelievers it is the closest they will ever be to heaven. Which side of that line are you on? Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." God did not send His Son to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. John 3:36 says, "He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him."
Hell is a real place of eternal torment, even as heaven is a place where Jesus shall wipe every tear from our eyes. Hell is described as a place of outer darkness where people are bound, weeping in anguish (Matt. 25:30). Jesus again and again and again spoke of how those in torment will have worms feeding on them that die not and their fire is not quenched (Mark 9:44, 46, 48). It is a place of eternal suffering, pain, regret, and sorrow. All of us have had a share of physical and emotional pain and suffering in this life, but those who die in sin will have it multiplied beyond imagination - and forever.
The knowledge of the terrors of hell ought to have a singular effect on us who still walk this planet: it provides insight of how detestable, destructive, and evil sin truly is. An eternity in the fires of hell is the only just punishment for a single lie. Think about it! We might lie and think nothing of it, just like a habitual shoplifter with sticky fingers. When the thief is caught he must return the item, pay a fine, and perhaps spend time in jail. Many legal systems declare this a just punishment for the crime. Hell is a just penalty for a single sin: that's how awful sin is! The trouble is, we often don't see the punishment of hell as fit for the crime. People complain God is too severe. That is because we do not recognise the horror of sin. Looking at the description of hell given us by Jesus shows us with crystal clarity how bad sin is. A good judge ensures justice is satisfied, and God is righteous and good to judge the wicked. Man's pathetic excuses to justify his sin before God will not stand, for the Law shuts the mouth of the most self-righteous and reveals our guilt (Rom. 3:19).
The Bible gives man the true facts concerning the nature of suffering, pain, sickness, and death in this world: they are all results of sin entering the world. These are merely symptoms of sin's infection. The pain and suffering in this world is a direct result of man's rebellion from God and passed down every generation until now. There was no death in this world until sin entered in (Romans 5:12). This world has been forever polluted by sin and will someday be dissolved (2 Peter 3:10). God will make a new heaven and new earth founded upon His righteousness where no sin can enter. Praise God He has made a way of salvation for all who repent and trust in Him! God demonstrated His love for us that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Rom. 5:8). The existence of hell is not evidence of God's wickedness or weakness, but His justice. The fact Christians will be brought faultless before the Father with joy reveals His love, grace, and mercy. God is compassionate and patient, not willing that any should perish but all should come to repentance (2 Pet. 3:9).
It is reasonable all men deserve hell for their sins, and impossible that a sinner should be ushered into heaven's glory. Yet what is impossible with men is possible with God. Man through sin brought suffering into the the world, but through Christ's death this can be reversed. Someday we will put off these bodies of flesh and be raised incorruptible with Christ forever. Revelation 21:3-8 says, "And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. 4 And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." 5 Then He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And He said to me, "Write, for these words are true and faithful." 6 And He said to me, "It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. 7 He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. 8 But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."
Our days spent on this earth in a sense is a little slice of both hell and heaven. For Christians it is the closest we will ever be to hell, and for unbelievers it is the closest they will ever be to heaven. Which side of that line are you on? Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." God did not send His Son to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. John 3:36 says, "He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him."
07 October 2014
Be Still and Know God
"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!
11
The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah"
Psalm 46:10-11
The world is moving at a frenetic pace. The advance of technology and transport has changed the way we live, work, and play. Leisurely trips which at one time took weeks now are finished in hours. It used to be people could go on a holiday and take a break from the intrusions of the office, but now mobile devices and internet connections carry the office with them. It profits us nothing to lament the days gone by, wishing we had lived in a simpler, less technologically-savvy day. What does profit us, however, is to consider the simple command of God today: "Be still, and know that I am God."
We spend a lot of time pursuing our interests. For instance, at the moment I am trying to resolve an issue with a local company. In good faith I paid for a product which was supposed to be shipped to my address. Weeks have passed and still no delivery. I have called, emailed, and called again - without response. I found the issue was not only taking up my time but occupying my mind. God's Word this morning spoke to my heart wonderfully. "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah." As I was scrambling around trying to control my unfortunate situation, God remained in complete control. Using the world's way of dealing with problems is our natural tendency. We can look to our legal rights to give us a sense of security. We can assure ourselves that we have a right to take the fight to the next level without trusting God at all.
As long as I seek to press my interests, I will never know God's peace, power, and deliverance as I should. Is God's arm shortened that He cannot save? Is He ignorant of injustice? Is He powerless to act righteously in trials we face? Our part in coordination with God is to be still. Allow Him to speak. Grant Him through your stillness the permission to perform miraculously. Realise the rest we have in Jesus Christ. Jesus was unjustly crucified and felt intense pain, yet He opened not His mouth to threaten those who did so. He spoke forth forgiveness. The refuge offered by the world is temporary and ultimately useless, for this world and the memory of it are passing away. When you are treated unfairly, how do you respond? Who is your refuge?
Be still, and know that God is God. This is not an excuse for apathy or complacency. Rather than promoting, defending, or seeking our own interests we are to purposefully seek and find rest in God. The LORD is with us, and He is our refuge. Instead of seeking to exalt ourselves, may we live to exalt Him according to His will. He will do it! May we learn to ever be casting our cares upon the LORD, for He cares for us.
06 October 2014
Open Book Exams
Have you ever faced a "pop quiz" you were unprepared for? I remember many times groaning inside as my delighted teacher instructed all pupils to stow our books for an unexpected test - without notes. Even when I had a fair grasp of the material I didn't appreciate "surprise" exams. I often felt unprepared and anxious because I hadn't carefully studied the material. As uncomfortable as a surprise quiz made me feel, what relief was mine when we had an "open-book exam." The freedom to reference all our notes and textbooks was a great consolation. I cannot remember any nervousness facing an "open book test" because I felt assured of a strong showing.
As we live out our days on earth following Jesus Christ, God allows many tests and trials. Most of these tests come suddenly and unexpectedly. When tragedy or trials come, it is natural for us to feel uncertain about the future. We feel uncomfortable because we were not given the opportunity to adequately prepare for what we are facing. But it is a great comfort to know that all tests we face are "open book exams." God has given us the scripture, faith, and the Holy Spirit who indwells and empowers all followers of Jesus Christ. We are free at any time to seek guidance and recall the promises of God through scripture. Boldly we can approach Christ in the throne room of grace seeking mercy and grace to help (Heb. 4:16). We do not need to be afraid, for Jesus is the Good Shepherd who will not leave or forsake us in our time of need.
1 Peter 4:12-13 says, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy." The greater we suffer, the greater consolation God provides. When the trial hits people ask, "If God was so loving and kind, why does He allow suffering?" This is a question asked from a position of doubt in God's character as revealed through scripture. The scriptures teach because God is loving and kind, He allows suffering. God demonstrated His love for us that while we were yet sinners, He allowed His only Son Jesus Christ to suffer and die for our sakes and to pay the penalty for our sin. God allows us to face suffering and pain as well, and we can know God will accomplish His divine purposes for our good and His glory.
God does not test us for His benefit, like a teacher who is not certain his students have mastered their lessons. Unpleasant as surprise tests are, they are for our good. God tests us so we might recognise our helplessness, our need for transformation, and the sufficiency of His love and promises. Should the test cause us to be angry with God or run from Him, it opens our eyes to see our hearts are not as loyal to Him as we have assumed. God is good and loving to open our eyes to our hypocrisy so we might repent and trust, and uncertainty and trials are effective tools to do so. Praise God every test we face is an "open book exam," and He gives us more than mere answers: He has provided Himself!
As we live out our days on earth following Jesus Christ, God allows many tests and trials. Most of these tests come suddenly and unexpectedly. When tragedy or trials come, it is natural for us to feel uncertain about the future. We feel uncomfortable because we were not given the opportunity to adequately prepare for what we are facing. But it is a great comfort to know that all tests we face are "open book exams." God has given us the scripture, faith, and the Holy Spirit who indwells and empowers all followers of Jesus Christ. We are free at any time to seek guidance and recall the promises of God through scripture. Boldly we can approach Christ in the throne room of grace seeking mercy and grace to help (Heb. 4:16). We do not need to be afraid, for Jesus is the Good Shepherd who will not leave or forsake us in our time of need.
1 Peter 4:12-13 says, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy." The greater we suffer, the greater consolation God provides. When the trial hits people ask, "If God was so loving and kind, why does He allow suffering?" This is a question asked from a position of doubt in God's character as revealed through scripture. The scriptures teach because God is loving and kind, He allows suffering. God demonstrated His love for us that while we were yet sinners, He allowed His only Son Jesus Christ to suffer and die for our sakes and to pay the penalty for our sin. God allows us to face suffering and pain as well, and we can know God will accomplish His divine purposes for our good and His glory.
God does not test us for His benefit, like a teacher who is not certain his students have mastered their lessons. Unpleasant as surprise tests are, they are for our good. God tests us so we might recognise our helplessness, our need for transformation, and the sufficiency of His love and promises. Should the test cause us to be angry with God or run from Him, it opens our eyes to see our hearts are not as loyal to Him as we have assumed. God is good and loving to open our eyes to our hypocrisy so we might repent and trust, and uncertainty and trials are effective tools to do so. Praise God every test we face is an "open book exam," and He gives us more than mere answers: He has provided Himself!
05 October 2014
Affinity in Christ
After a week speaking at a teen camp, I am ready to jump back into the fray of the ever-demanding blog. I find it is a most useful exercise in better developing thoughts of a spiritual nature I have throughout the day. The fact others can also benefit from these musings is a wonderful secondary benefit. I pray that through these musings all who read them may be encouraged, challenged, and seek to apply biblical truth to their personal lives. Until the LORD directs me to apply my efforts elsewhere for His glory, it is a joy and privilege to continue writing in this format: free of charge, open and transparent, instructive, and frequent when possible - all to the glory of God!
As I spent time becoming acquainted with the teens at camp, many things became apparent. Kids today are growing up in an era of great confusion, both in society and within themselves. They have many questions, but most seem to only accept answers which agree with their prior knowledge. I encountered Christians who did not have a high regard to the Word of God as being absolutely true and do not necessarily believe the scriptures are the sole basis for knowing God. In fact, I met with some non-believers not far from the kingdom of God who seemed to believe the truth of the Bible with greater conviction. Though not limited to youth, I noticed how many sought to discover their own identity through worldly things! This is not all bad news, for Jesus came to seek and save the lost, set the captives free, give sight to the blind, and raise the dead to life. The hypocrites who think they see are those whose blindness remains. I once was one of those hypocrites, and God saved me by His grace.
It is an interesting study to observe the many things people seek to find identity in: style of dress, preferred music, the shows or movies one enjoys, sexuality, career choice, political views, gender, age group, hobbies, support of sport or teams, diet, living in a particular suburb, hometown, country of origin, attending a school or youth group. The list could stretch on forever. How important it is for Christians to realise our identity is found in Christ! There are many followers of Jesus who identify themselves as "Christians" instead of identifying with Jesus Christ. There is a difference. When we derive our identity from a group of people, we look to them to set the pace and parameters for how we fit in and how we ought to live. The bar is often set far too low. Affinity with Jesus Christ transcends all else. After we become new creations through the Gospel, our identity is not found in a denomination, particular church, pastor, or youth group. These points of reference will someday be dissolved, as will our blood relations. Finding our identity in Christ goes beyond culture, behaviour, gender, or calling. Jesus Christ deserves to be our all in all.
Sometimes I am asked a question prefaced with, "As a pastor, what would you...?" I am careful not to answer this question without clarification, because I do not primarily find my identity in the fact God has called me as a pastor. My aim is to answer all questions from my identity in Jesus Christ. We can answer questions as "a pastor," "a man," "a father or mother," "husband or wife," "an American or Australian," but all these limited perspectives are passing away. I am not saying it is wrong to acknowledge you are a pastor, man, father, or husband. But we are to seek to discover our identity in Christ through those roles, not in the role itself. Because I am a child of God, purchased and redeemed with the blood of Jesus by grace, that should directly affect the way I live as a pastor, man, father, and husband. If my identity is in Christ according to God's Word, I will not be led astray by vain philosophies of the world. The world is happy to volunteer how a man, father, and husband should act. But I will never be the man, father, or husband God created me to be until my identity is found in Christ alone through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Having affinity in Christ removes the identity confusion that is rife in the world and even among believers. The last part of Acts 11:26 tells us, "And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch." The followers of Jesus had such an affinity and resemblance to Jesus Christ Himself they were called Christians. Our prime affinity is not to be with other followers of Christ, but with Christ Himself. This brings us to a place of intimacy and closeness with God where we begin to resemble Christ, not resorting to copying those who might only claim to know Him. "Telephone" is a interesting and fun party game where a sentence is whispered around the circle and even with a small group inevitably is quite divergent from the original statement. What a tragedy, to run circles with sheep when we can follow the shepherd. If we only follow other sheep around, how can we know they are heading in the right direction? Praise God Jesus is for us the Good Shepherd, and we can follow Him!
As I spent time becoming acquainted with the teens at camp, many things became apparent. Kids today are growing up in an era of great confusion, both in society and within themselves. They have many questions, but most seem to only accept answers which agree with their prior knowledge. I encountered Christians who did not have a high regard to the Word of God as being absolutely true and do not necessarily believe the scriptures are the sole basis for knowing God. In fact, I met with some non-believers not far from the kingdom of God who seemed to believe the truth of the Bible with greater conviction. Though not limited to youth, I noticed how many sought to discover their own identity through worldly things! This is not all bad news, for Jesus came to seek and save the lost, set the captives free, give sight to the blind, and raise the dead to life. The hypocrites who think they see are those whose blindness remains. I once was one of those hypocrites, and God saved me by His grace.
It is an interesting study to observe the many things people seek to find identity in: style of dress, preferred music, the shows or movies one enjoys, sexuality, career choice, political views, gender, age group, hobbies, support of sport or teams, diet, living in a particular suburb, hometown, country of origin, attending a school or youth group. The list could stretch on forever. How important it is for Christians to realise our identity is found in Christ! There are many followers of Jesus who identify themselves as "Christians" instead of identifying with Jesus Christ. There is a difference. When we derive our identity from a group of people, we look to them to set the pace and parameters for how we fit in and how we ought to live. The bar is often set far too low. Affinity with Jesus Christ transcends all else. After we become new creations through the Gospel, our identity is not found in a denomination, particular church, pastor, or youth group. These points of reference will someday be dissolved, as will our blood relations. Finding our identity in Christ goes beyond culture, behaviour, gender, or calling. Jesus Christ deserves to be our all in all.
Sometimes I am asked a question prefaced with, "As a pastor, what would you...?" I am careful not to answer this question without clarification, because I do not primarily find my identity in the fact God has called me as a pastor. My aim is to answer all questions from my identity in Jesus Christ. We can answer questions as "a pastor," "a man," "a father or mother," "husband or wife," "an American or Australian," but all these limited perspectives are passing away. I am not saying it is wrong to acknowledge you are a pastor, man, father, or husband. But we are to seek to discover our identity in Christ through those roles, not in the role itself. Because I am a child of God, purchased and redeemed with the blood of Jesus by grace, that should directly affect the way I live as a pastor, man, father, and husband. If my identity is in Christ according to God's Word, I will not be led astray by vain philosophies of the world. The world is happy to volunteer how a man, father, and husband should act. But I will never be the man, father, or husband God created me to be until my identity is found in Christ alone through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Having affinity in Christ removes the identity confusion that is rife in the world and even among believers. The last part of Acts 11:26 tells us, "And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch." The followers of Jesus had such an affinity and resemblance to Jesus Christ Himself they were called Christians. Our prime affinity is not to be with other followers of Christ, but with Christ Himself. This brings us to a place of intimacy and closeness with God where we begin to resemble Christ, not resorting to copying those who might only claim to know Him. "Telephone" is a interesting and fun party game where a sentence is whispered around the circle and even with a small group inevitably is quite divergent from the original statement. What a tragedy, to run circles with sheep when we can follow the shepherd. If we only follow other sheep around, how can we know they are heading in the right direction? Praise God Jesus is for us the Good Shepherd, and we can follow Him!
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