As I rode the train yesterday, I paused as I read the Bible to consider the battle between the Holy Spirit and our flesh. The most common battle we face is resisting or rejecting the desires of the flesh to sin. Though our hearts have been regenerated and filled with the Holy Spirit, our flesh still longs to satisfy itself apart from the will of God according to holiness and righteousness. As difficult as it is to always flee from temptation, there is a battle of a different kind which can be more difficult to recognize. Sometimes we feel led to do or say something for God and we are not sure if it is a work of the flesh or the Spirit. We struggle and choose not to act because we would not want our efforts to be a work of the flesh. Many times, I am realizing, this in itself allows the flesh to claim another victory.
The thought occurred to me as I sat surrounded by silent people on the train. Everyone was reading the paper, using mobile phones, or music with ear buds in. Only a couple of people who clearly knew each other were talking in quiet voices. I thought, perhaps I should stand up on the train and say, "Good morning! I just wanted to let you know that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He is the only way to heaven!" I recall a time in Seattle where a man stood up on a bus and told the people that all people are sinners and heading for hell and that all must repent and trust in Jesus Christ to be saved. I was a Christian and I felt the uncomfortable tension. True words were spoken on that bus, but people were clearly irritated by the interruption. The response, of course, should not sway us from the presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. That day many social norms were unapologetically broken and personal airspace had been commandeered by a terse Gospel presentation. Was that the right thing to do or not? Was it a work of the flesh or of the Spirit?
I am convinced that if the man on that bus spoke motivated by the love of Jesus for the glory of God, what he did in breaking the unwritten rules of public decorum were the right thing to do. He spoke not to make a name for himself but to bring attention to Jesus Christ. He certainly didn't become more popular on the bus with his fellow travelers! The opposite became true: people scowled and looked at him with disgust - something the flesh really hates. The flesh wants to be accepted and to fit in. Today it seems that in general the church is so conflicted about the flavour of the Gospel presentation that the Gospel is not shared as it ought to be. That is like withholding good meat from starving people because you are unsure if they would prefer a teriyaki marinade or a dry rub. Can you imagine hoarding bread from dying children because of the fear they might complain because the bread is wholemeal and not white? Consequently we choose inaction and justify ourselves with the fact that our motivation to give the bread and Living Water of the Gospel might be of the flesh - which is exactly contrary to the truth. The Spirit of God always wants to glorify Jesus Christ, while our flesh is much more concerned with social customs and fitting in with others.
I wish I could report to you that I did stand up on the train and boldly proclaim the Gospel - but I didn't. Thank God that He gives us opportunities all the time to glorify Him and not make the same mistake again, sitting down and remaining silent when God gives words He desires us speak. It was a great benefit to me to have that discussion with the LORD and once for all clear up that dangerous lie, that the opening of my mouth for the glory of God would be an act of the flesh. 1 Corinthians 12:3 states, "Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit." If I open up my mouth to glorify Jesus Christ in public, I do so empowered by the Holy Spirit. Love, mercy, grace, and compassion ought to mark my words and deeds. It is time to stand up and be numbered among those who are not just open about their faith but boldly proclaim it. We will prevail and have overcome already, for He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world!
04 January 2012
01 January 2012
As a Root out of Dry Ground
Our family enjoyed a beautiful walk at Wentworth Falls in the Blue Mountains this morning. We started early, beat the traffic, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the sights and sounds of the National Pass. The waterfalls, lush green ferns and gums, gorgeous panoramic views, majestic rock formations, and squawks of sulfur-crested cockatoos made it an amazing setting I heartily recommend and never grow weary of. Not to say it was an easy walk, though: by the end of the walking track we were all ready for a well-deserved rest and light lunch at the Conservation Hut.
As we walked along the National Pass, I frequently observed gum trees which appeared to be growing out of the rock and sandstone. Gnarled roots heaved across dry stone, seeking after a water source. It reminded me of a scripture which speaks of the Messiah, who is Jesus Christ. Isaiah 53:1-2 reads, "Who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? 2 For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of dry ground. He has no form or comeliness; and when we see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him." As I saw roots growing out of dusty, dry sandstone, my mind hearkened back to the Isaiah passage. Jesus did not attract people because of His physical beauty, bulging muscles, light which emanated from His face, or a magnetic speaking voice. In appearance Jesus appeared like a normal person. The thing which Jesus possessed which set Him apart from all others was life. John 1:4 tells us, "In Him was life, and the life was the light of men."
Dry ground does not promote life. Grass does not grow on the dry footpath of the National Pass. But some trees do! Many of the roots of healthy, green gum trees are exposed along the path. The primary difference between the dust and the root is that the tree is alive. Jesus is distinct from all others because in Him is spiritual life. Jesus did not reserve life only for Himself, but offered the unfailing promise of eternal life to all who repent and trust in Him. The great irony is that Jesus embraced death on the cross so all people who place their faith in Him will be washed in His blood and live forever with Him. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." The Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the World. Spiritually speaking, men are born dead in sins. But Jesus came as a tender shoot, like a root out of dry ground, bringing life to all who believe through His death and resurrection.
Jesus says in John 12:24-26: "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. 25 He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor." Though there was nothing desirable in Christ's appearance which set Him apart, it is His love and grace which draws men to follow Him. He is glorious in the beauty of His holiness. While we were yet sinners, Jesus demonstrated His love for us on the cross. God has raised my soul from hell, and has brought life to these dead bones by His grace. He will do the same for you because God's Word teaches us He is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).
Just like I wish everyone could experience the beauty and splendour of the National Pass, I desire more still that all would experience the love and life found in the person of Jesus Christ. The National Pass will someday pass away, but those who trust in Jesus Christ will rejoice in new life for eternity. You will need to take a plane, train, or car to the National Pass and walk it yourself to experience it, but no camera or video can contain the beauty you behold there. No man can discover the wonder of God alone. But Jesus has come to us! He has walked this earth, performed signs and wonders, died for us, and rose from the dead in victory over death. No article, blog, or sermon can adequately portray the beauty of the One who is likened to a root out of dry ground, Jesus Christ. You will never know what life is until you give your life to Him.
As we walked along the National Pass, I frequently observed gum trees which appeared to be growing out of the rock and sandstone. Gnarled roots heaved across dry stone, seeking after a water source. It reminded me of a scripture which speaks of the Messiah, who is Jesus Christ. Isaiah 53:1-2 reads, "Who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? 2 For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of dry ground. He has no form or comeliness; and when we see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him." As I saw roots growing out of dusty, dry sandstone, my mind hearkened back to the Isaiah passage. Jesus did not attract people because of His physical beauty, bulging muscles, light which emanated from His face, or a magnetic speaking voice. In appearance Jesus appeared like a normal person. The thing which Jesus possessed which set Him apart from all others was life. John 1:4 tells us, "In Him was life, and the life was the light of men."
Dry ground does not promote life. Grass does not grow on the dry footpath of the National Pass. But some trees do! Many of the roots of healthy, green gum trees are exposed along the path. The primary difference between the dust and the root is that the tree is alive. Jesus is distinct from all others because in Him is spiritual life. Jesus did not reserve life only for Himself, but offered the unfailing promise of eternal life to all who repent and trust in Him. The great irony is that Jesus embraced death on the cross so all people who place their faith in Him will be washed in His blood and live forever with Him. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." The Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the World. Spiritually speaking, men are born dead in sins. But Jesus came as a tender shoot, like a root out of dry ground, bringing life to all who believe through His death and resurrection.
Jesus says in John 12:24-26: "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. 25 He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor." Though there was nothing desirable in Christ's appearance which set Him apart, it is His love and grace which draws men to follow Him. He is glorious in the beauty of His holiness. While we were yet sinners, Jesus demonstrated His love for us on the cross. God has raised my soul from hell, and has brought life to these dead bones by His grace. He will do the same for you because God's Word teaches us He is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).
Just like I wish everyone could experience the beauty and splendour of the National Pass, I desire more still that all would experience the love and life found in the person of Jesus Christ. The National Pass will someday pass away, but those who trust in Jesus Christ will rejoice in new life for eternity. You will need to take a plane, train, or car to the National Pass and walk it yourself to experience it, but no camera or video can contain the beauty you behold there. No man can discover the wonder of God alone. But Jesus has come to us! He has walked this earth, performed signs and wonders, died for us, and rose from the dead in victory over death. No article, blog, or sermon can adequately portray the beauty of the One who is likened to a root out of dry ground, Jesus Christ. You will never know what life is until you give your life to Him.
30 December 2011
Make a Difference with Jesus
Our family is enjoying the privilege of hosting my parents who are visiting us from the United States. It has been great to chat at length, share delicious food, and show them around our area. Though we have been able to stay in touch via phone calls, skype, and email over the past year we've been in Australia, there's nothing like spending time in person. Even while I type this, I can hear my folks singing praise songs to the LORD. That's something I haven't heard in a while!
Today I went to wash my hands in the upstairs sink, the same place where my sons brush their teeth morning and night. The sink was clean and sparkling. I thought to myself, no doubt my mom has been here. My boys are not slobs, but they are boys. They still at times need to be told when sinks, toilets, and even their bodies need some attention with soap and scrubbing! After they clean the sink, it is not long before it needs to be cleaned again of the ever-present toothpaste residue. Seeing that sink my mom left cleaner than she found it was a good object lesson of how Christians ought to impact this dirty world through the influence of Christ.
Christians are called by Jesus Christ to go the extra mile, not just doing the bare minimum. If our job is to put away the knives and forks and we notice the container is a bit grubby, we can wipe it clean before we put them away. In a spiritual sense, we should seek to bless others with a joyful countenance and a good attitude. If the conversation begins to drop into the gutter, let us speak wholesome words. When we are treated unfairly or with animosity, we can respond with meekness, humility, and love. If someone feels left out, we can greet them with a smile and engage them in meaningful conversation. Christ is the reason why we serve and we rejoice in following His example of giving and giving some more - even doing menial, thankless tasks like washing feet or removing toothpaste residue.
No matter our situation, through Christ we can perform good deeds to bring glory and honour to God. When my kids forget to clean their toilet I can grit my teeth and mutter in frustration: "Those lazy kids! When will they ever learn?" Or I can use it as a moment to demonstrate the love and patience of God and use it as a teaching opportunity. People think serving the LORD is when you volunteer at church, preach sermons, or hand out tracts. Serving God is doing all things unto Him right where you are, meeting even the smallest needs around you as God leads. There is nothing more fun or satisfying than labouring for the glory of God! God wants to make a difference with His positive influence through you today!
Today I went to wash my hands in the upstairs sink, the same place where my sons brush their teeth morning and night. The sink was clean and sparkling. I thought to myself, no doubt my mom has been here. My boys are not slobs, but they are boys. They still at times need to be told when sinks, toilets, and even their bodies need some attention with soap and scrubbing! After they clean the sink, it is not long before it needs to be cleaned again of the ever-present toothpaste residue. Seeing that sink my mom left cleaner than she found it was a good object lesson of how Christians ought to impact this dirty world through the influence of Christ.
Christians are called by Jesus Christ to go the extra mile, not just doing the bare minimum. If our job is to put away the knives and forks and we notice the container is a bit grubby, we can wipe it clean before we put them away. In a spiritual sense, we should seek to bless others with a joyful countenance and a good attitude. If the conversation begins to drop into the gutter, let us speak wholesome words. When we are treated unfairly or with animosity, we can respond with meekness, humility, and love. If someone feels left out, we can greet them with a smile and engage them in meaningful conversation. Christ is the reason why we serve and we rejoice in following His example of giving and giving some more - even doing menial, thankless tasks like washing feet or removing toothpaste residue.
No matter our situation, through Christ we can perform good deeds to bring glory and honour to God. When my kids forget to clean their toilet I can grit my teeth and mutter in frustration: "Those lazy kids! When will they ever learn?" Or I can use it as a moment to demonstrate the love and patience of God and use it as a teaching opportunity. People think serving the LORD is when you volunteer at church, preach sermons, or hand out tracts. Serving God is doing all things unto Him right where you are, meeting even the smallest needs around you as God leads. There is nothing more fun or satisfying than labouring for the glory of God! God wants to make a difference with His positive influence through you today!
26 December 2011
Christ: Giver and Gift
My first Christmas in Australia was memorable. I can't remember the last time I had a fever on Christmas Eve and Christmas! I am now feeling better after a bout of "gastro," which involved chills, fever, nausea, and overall feeling lousy. At a point I was wondering if I would be able to deliver the Sunday message. But I figured God had given me a message to deliver, and He wouldn't have given me the message without the strength to deliver it. Preaching was very much an act of faith on a different level, and that's how I ought to live every day!
This morning in prayer I was struck by the truth of Psalm 23:6: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." God does not grant goodness and mercy to men because some are more deserving than others. It is all through the riches of His grace. Goodness and mercy were granted me both on a sickbed and in health. Not only do born-again Christians have this promise in life, but also lay hold of the ultimate promise of living forever in the presence of God. Wherever a person goes, the goodness and mercy of God follows them. Christians are simply the ones who receive this goodness and mercy through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. It is Jesus who opens our eyes to see.
Christ is both Giver and Gift. He is life for all who trust in Him. In the days following Christmas, millions of people will return unwanted gifts back to retailers for money or store credit. For many, Jesus is tragically one of the most often returned, unopened gifts. Yet there is no gift more valuable! The story of Christ's birth, death, and resurrection is more than a curious legend we tolerate for one day of the year: it is the miracle of love come down from heaven so all sinners could be saved. God has given the greatest gift in Christ. To think that some people keep their trinkets, games, and digital devices but return unopened the love, redemption, and reconciliation with God afforded man through Jesus!
Let us celebrate the joy of Jesus every day, regardless of the season. Every day is the season of celebrating our Saviour!
This morning in prayer I was struck by the truth of Psalm 23:6: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." God does not grant goodness and mercy to men because some are more deserving than others. It is all through the riches of His grace. Goodness and mercy were granted me both on a sickbed and in health. Not only do born-again Christians have this promise in life, but also lay hold of the ultimate promise of living forever in the presence of God. Wherever a person goes, the goodness and mercy of God follows them. Christians are simply the ones who receive this goodness and mercy through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. It is Jesus who opens our eyes to see.
Christ is both Giver and Gift. He is life for all who trust in Him. In the days following Christmas, millions of people will return unwanted gifts back to retailers for money or store credit. For many, Jesus is tragically one of the most often returned, unopened gifts. Yet there is no gift more valuable! The story of Christ's birth, death, and resurrection is more than a curious legend we tolerate for one day of the year: it is the miracle of love come down from heaven so all sinners could be saved. God has given the greatest gift in Christ. To think that some people keep their trinkets, games, and digital devices but return unopened the love, redemption, and reconciliation with God afforded man through Jesus!
Let us celebrate the joy of Jesus every day, regardless of the season. Every day is the season of celebrating our Saviour!
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