I have two young daughters, one is four years old, the other is three. As they get older, they start to wonder about what we do at church, who Jesus is, why did He die, and other things like that. About two months ago we were talking about God, and I told them that Jesus is God. My three year old's eyes got huge as she repeated "Jesus is God?" over and over. We would be in a store, and out of nowhere she would loudly announce that Jesus is God.
Last week, we held a thanksgiving meal in church, for the public. A single mother came in with several children who played with our girls for a while. During the course of their play one of the kids told our girls that Jesus is not God, God made Him. We did not hear this until our three year old announced it in a store!
I quickly told her that Jesus is God, and the other little girl was wrong. I told her I knew because I read it in the Bible. Now my kids don't believe me! They are both set on believing one of their own peers.
I realize that my girls are very young, and do not fully comprehend spiritual things yet, but this has made me think about what happens to our kids. Too many times we "let them go", we send them off to school where they hear everything but biblical truth, we send them off to play with other kids who fill their minds full of junk, sadly even many church youth groups are there to entertain more than build spiritual young people.
We are told in the Word of God to teach our Children about God, about what He has done in the past, about what He continues to do, about His commands, about pleasing Him, and when the time comes, about His grace and mercy and the need to follow Him (Deut. 6:6-9).
We can not depend on sunday school teachers, and youth pastors to watch over our kids. It is not their job! I thank God for every faithful Christian worker, and appreciate the hard work they do as they work with our kids, but in the end the battle is won or lost in the home! Parents, it is our job to teach our kids! It is our job to train them up. It is our job to watch over them, and protect them from outside influence! Even "kids" movies are full of new age concepts, magic, witchcraft, sensuality etc. If we want to see our children grow up and serve Christ, we must begin now to immerse them in the Word of God! We cannot afford not to!
To earnestly contend for the faith, that was once for all entrusted to the saints, to promote the full gospel of Jesus Christ, who gave Himself to deliver us from this wicked generation.
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Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
God's written revelation.
We have the word of the prophets made more certain...
2 peter 1:19a
God has revealed Himself to us through His word. He spoke to men through His prophets (2 Peter 1:21b, Heb 1:1), and through His apostles (Eph 2:20, 2 Tim 1:13, 2 Peter 3:16), and through Jesus Christ (Heb 1:2). God used men like Moses, Samuel, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel etc. in the Old Testament, and Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, Peter, in the New. Much of what was communicated through them was written down, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and forms what we call the Holy Bible.
We have the biblical account of creation, sin and the fall of man, the unfolding of the story of redemption, the birth, teachings, miracles, death and ressurection of Jesus, the instructions of the apostles, in short, everything that we need for life and godliness (2Peter 1:3).
God's word reveals to us our utter sinfulness, the utter depth of the depravity that dwells in our hearts. His word shows us that He hates sin, that sin cannot dwell in His presence. We also find that He has made a way for us to be forgiven and set free from sin's power, free to live a life full of the Spirit, as we are poured out for others.
The scriptures are the very words of God Himself (2 Tim3:16, 2 Peter 1:21). To believe them for what they really are, the words of God who cannot lie, to act upon them and put our lives in line with them, brings life and peace. To reject them, distort them, or neglect them leads one to ruin (Matt 7:26,27 2 Peter 3:16; Rev 22:18,19).
We must be careful as christians that we test all we see and hear by the word of God. There always has been deception in the world, and it will only get worse, but there is safety found in God's word.
2 peter 1:19a
God has revealed Himself to us through His word. He spoke to men through His prophets (2 Peter 1:21b, Heb 1:1), and through His apostles (Eph 2:20, 2 Tim 1:13, 2 Peter 3:16), and through Jesus Christ (Heb 1:2). God used men like Moses, Samuel, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel etc. in the Old Testament, and Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, Peter, in the New. Much of what was communicated through them was written down, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and forms what we call the Holy Bible.
We have the biblical account of creation, sin and the fall of man, the unfolding of the story of redemption, the birth, teachings, miracles, death and ressurection of Jesus, the instructions of the apostles, in short, everything that we need for life and godliness (2Peter 1:3).
God's word reveals to us our utter sinfulness, the utter depth of the depravity that dwells in our hearts. His word shows us that He hates sin, that sin cannot dwell in His presence. We also find that He has made a way for us to be forgiven and set free from sin's power, free to live a life full of the Spirit, as we are poured out for others.
The scriptures are the very words of God Himself (2 Tim3:16, 2 Peter 1:21). To believe them for what they really are, the words of God who cannot lie, to act upon them and put our lives in line with them, brings life and peace. To reject them, distort them, or neglect them leads one to ruin (Matt 7:26,27 2 Peter 3:16; Rev 22:18,19).
We must be careful as christians that we test all we see and hear by the word of God. There always has been deception in the world, and it will only get worse, but there is safety found in God's word.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
God's revelation in His law.
The law of the Lord is perfect.....
Psalm 19:7a
We find that God has made a fuller revelation to man through the law. The holiness of God can be seen in the moral law, as found in the ten commandments.(Romans 7:12). In Psalm 119, the writer reflects upon the law and how wonderful it is. The goodness of the law is a direct reflection of the righteousness of the lawgiver Himself (vs.137).
The law also reveals to us the fact that God alone is to be worshiped, and that is to be done in spirit and truth, not through the making of images. The one and only God is not to be made in the image of our vain invention.
We can also see that He is love, and desires us to love each other. The law can be summed up in two commands, to love God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love our nieghbor as ourself. The golden rule sums it up well; treat others as you want them to treat you. Love is the fulfillment of the law.
The law is what shows us our fallen state, as it is through the law that the knowledge of sin becomes evident. Romans 7 is an excellent example of how the law works to drive us to Christ. We are made aware of what the law requires, and in our attempts to conform to it we become painfully aware that we have fallen short of it. The harder we try, the more we can see that we have failed. In fact we find ourselves sinning all the more! Our only hope is Christ!
The moral law can be found throughout the scriptures, old testament, as well as the new. Just like the Jewish people of old, we who have the advantage of the Bible in our homes, and attending church where the word is proclaimed, are held accountable to the law, as we have seen it and heard it. Those who have never heard, are still accountable however, as the law has been written on their hearts(Romans 2:14-15). God has made sure that He is revealed to all, in one way or another, and has put a conscience into each one of us, that knows right from wrong. It is intereting to find out that people living in remote areas who have never seen a Bible, or heard the gospel message, still base the laws governing their communities on the ten commandments.
Next post, I would like to discuss the written revelation of God.
Psalm 19:7a
We find that God has made a fuller revelation to man through the law. The holiness of God can be seen in the moral law, as found in the ten commandments.(Romans 7:12). In Psalm 119, the writer reflects upon the law and how wonderful it is. The goodness of the law is a direct reflection of the righteousness of the lawgiver Himself (vs.137).
The law also reveals to us the fact that God alone is to be worshiped, and that is to be done in spirit and truth, not through the making of images. The one and only God is not to be made in the image of our vain invention.
We can also see that He is love, and desires us to love each other. The law can be summed up in two commands, to love God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love our nieghbor as ourself. The golden rule sums it up well; treat others as you want them to treat you. Love is the fulfillment of the law.
The law is what shows us our fallen state, as it is through the law that the knowledge of sin becomes evident. Romans 7 is an excellent example of how the law works to drive us to Christ. We are made aware of what the law requires, and in our attempts to conform to it we become painfully aware that we have fallen short of it. The harder we try, the more we can see that we have failed. In fact we find ourselves sinning all the more! Our only hope is Christ!
The moral law can be found throughout the scriptures, old testament, as well as the new. Just like the Jewish people of old, we who have the advantage of the Bible in our homes, and attending church where the word is proclaimed, are held accountable to the law, as we have seen it and heard it. Those who have never heard, are still accountable however, as the law has been written on their hearts(Romans 2:14-15). God has made sure that He is revealed to all, in one way or another, and has put a conscience into each one of us, that knows right from wrong. It is intereting to find out that people living in remote areas who have never seen a Bible, or heard the gospel message, still base the laws governing their communities on the ten commandments.
Next post, I would like to discuss the written revelation of God.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
The revelation of God.
The heavens declare the glory of God.........
(Psalm 19:1a)
From the very beginning God has desired to have an intimate relationship with man. This can be seen from the very beginning of the world's history, when God used to walk with Adam and Eve in the cool of the evening. Sin , of course destroyed the intimacy that they shared. However that does not alter the fact that God desires that all mankind would come to know Him.
We are told in Psalm 19, that the very creation itself shows us that there is a God. Paul expands on this theme in Romans 1:19, 20. He states that what may be known about God has been made plain to mankind through creation.God's invisible attributes, His eternal power, and divine nature are clearly seen in what He has created. The only right response to this revelation is to worship God with grateful hearts for who He is, the only, all powerful God. Sadly what man has chosen to worship is the creation instead, inventing a God of their own thinking, made to satisfy their own idea of what God should be like. This is what makes belief in the biblical account of creation so vital. The Bible says it is by faith we believe that God created the universe out of nothing (Heb 11:3). To reject this in favor of evolution or the big bang theory is to reject the revelation of God, in effect God himself. It is to elevate the creature above the creator (Romans 1:25).
In my next post, I will discuss another aspect of God's revelation of Himself to man, the moral law.
(Psalm 19:1a)
From the very beginning God has desired to have an intimate relationship with man. This can be seen from the very beginning of the world's history, when God used to walk with Adam and Eve in the cool of the evening. Sin , of course destroyed the intimacy that they shared. However that does not alter the fact that God desires that all mankind would come to know Him.
We are told in Psalm 19, that the very creation itself shows us that there is a God. Paul expands on this theme in Romans 1:19, 20. He states that what may be known about God has been made plain to mankind through creation.God's invisible attributes, His eternal power, and divine nature are clearly seen in what He has created. The only right response to this revelation is to worship God with grateful hearts for who He is, the only, all powerful God. Sadly what man has chosen to worship is the creation instead, inventing a God of their own thinking, made to satisfy their own idea of what God should be like. This is what makes belief in the biblical account of creation so vital. The Bible says it is by faith we believe that God created the universe out of nothing (Heb 11:3). To reject this in favor of evolution or the big bang theory is to reject the revelation of God, in effect God himself. It is to elevate the creature above the creator (Romans 1:25).
In my next post, I will discuss another aspect of God's revelation of Himself to man, the moral law.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Living sacrifices.
In sunday shool yesterday, we were discussing some of the individuals who God has used in mighty ways in times past. Men like the Wesleys, Finney, Smith Wigglesworth etc. The question was posed, " Why don't we see God moving like that in our churches today?" The same individual who posed it, answered it by asking " Is it because we have gotten so busy in our daily lives? Our days have become so cluttered with everything we get involved in." As she was commenting on this, I was reminded of what the Apostle Paul said to Timothy, "No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs-he wants to please his commanding officer (2Tim 2:4 NIV). As born again individuals, we are in an army, God's army! We are to be about His business, advancing His kingdom, fighting the good fight in His name and strength! What these men had in common was this. They lived for God and God alone. Everything they did was for Him and His glory. Nothing else mattered to them, only that God would be exalted. It is said that Smith Wigglesworth read nothing but the Bible, and never talked about anything but spiritual things. Many would say that he was so heavenly minded that he was no earthly good, but take a look at what God did through him!
The comment was made that if we truly chose to live for God and do everything for His glory, and in His name, it would change much of what we did, eliminating much of the clutter in our lives. This is what Paul urges in Romans 12:1, the giving of ourselves entirely to God and His service. This is the crucified life that Paul speaks of in Galatians 2:20. This surrendured life is where the power of God is found. We may not all be called to be a Finney, Moody, Wesley, or Wigglesworth, but we are all called to something in Christ Jesus! Let's get uncluttered!
The comment was made that if we truly chose to live for God and do everything for His glory, and in His name, it would change much of what we did, eliminating much of the clutter in our lives. This is what Paul urges in Romans 12:1, the giving of ourselves entirely to God and His service. This is the crucified life that Paul speaks of in Galatians 2:20. This surrendured life is where the power of God is found. We may not all be called to be a Finney, Moody, Wesley, or Wigglesworth, but we are all called to something in Christ Jesus! Let's get uncluttered!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
The fear of the Lord.
Throughout the Bible, God is portrayed as a holy God. He is eternal, all powerful, knows all and sees all. He is perfect in every way, He is perfect in His love and mercy, as well as in His wrath and judgement. He is free from all sin, in fact sin cannot dwell in His presence. We see in the Old Testament how He prescribed the way in which He was to be worshiped. He was to be approached with awe, a reverent fear. It was no small thing to be a priest in the temple. There were cleansing rituals, and sacrifices to be offered, nothing could be done in a haphazard way, it was serious for God was Holy!
The coming of Jesus ushered in the gospel age, and with it a better way to approach God. Through Christ we have forgiveness, and reconciliation with this same holy God. We can now approach Him with bold confidence, we don't need to offer sacrifices or go through a priest, It is through Christ that we come to worship.
Some have taken the idea of freedom in Christ,as a licence to cast off what we would call reverence, the fear of the Lord. They call it legalism, saying that since Christ paid it all we can come to Him in any way. It is true that Christ is our only way to God, nothing we can do in ourselves can add to that, or better that. It also is true that God is still HOLY! Grace never changed His holiness! In Hebrews 12:28 we see the exhortation to worship God in the acceptable way, with reverance and awe! That is New Testament, not under law, but under grace.
I have recently seen some things that shocked me. Worship services called sloshfests where the people are "toking the Holy Ghost", "smokin' baby Jesus", invitations are given for a "free buzz." Those who respond to the offer to "get high on the Most High" are considered saved. This is considered christianity by many! The individual who leads this church has written books that are sold and read by Christians!
I understand that Paul became all things to all men to reach them, but I believe this crosses the line of finding ways to reach the lost, to disrespect of God and Holy things.
The Bible warns us of false teachers, and people who will not accept sound teaching. We must be careful to test what we see and hear by the Word that God has given us! If we Love God, and are truly grateful for the ultimate sacrifice He gave for us, we will not find it a burden to respect Him with reverent fear, it will flow naturally from loving hearts.
The coming of Jesus ushered in the gospel age, and with it a better way to approach God. Through Christ we have forgiveness, and reconciliation with this same holy God. We can now approach Him with bold confidence, we don't need to offer sacrifices or go through a priest, It is through Christ that we come to worship.
Some have taken the idea of freedom in Christ,as a licence to cast off what we would call reverence, the fear of the Lord. They call it legalism, saying that since Christ paid it all we can come to Him in any way. It is true that Christ is our only way to God, nothing we can do in ourselves can add to that, or better that. It also is true that God is still HOLY! Grace never changed His holiness! In Hebrews 12:28 we see the exhortation to worship God in the acceptable way, with reverance and awe! That is New Testament, not under law, but under grace.
I have recently seen some things that shocked me. Worship services called sloshfests where the people are "toking the Holy Ghost", "smokin' baby Jesus", invitations are given for a "free buzz." Those who respond to the offer to "get high on the Most High" are considered saved. This is considered christianity by many! The individual who leads this church has written books that are sold and read by Christians!
I understand that Paul became all things to all men to reach them, but I believe this crosses the line of finding ways to reach the lost, to disrespect of God and Holy things.
The Bible warns us of false teachers, and people who will not accept sound teaching. We must be careful to test what we see and hear by the Word that God has given us! If we Love God, and are truly grateful for the ultimate sacrifice He gave for us, we will not find it a burden to respect Him with reverent fear, it will flow naturally from loving hearts.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Let your light shine.
Matthew 5:13-16.
There are several things that can be derived from this section of Christ's sermon on the mount.
1. God has chosen to use people. Jesus said YOU are the salt, YOU are the light. It is through human beings in whom His spirit dwells, that God reaches out to the world.
2. This light is not intended to be hidden. There is no such thing as a closet Christian. If God's spirit is active in our lives it will be evident to all around us. If we truly love Christ with all of our hearts, we will not be ashamed to let others know! In fact it will burn within us. We will let it out!
3. Don't let fear of persecution stop you. Jesus just got done speaking about being persecuted for the sake of righteousness, and then He says to shine! Just before He was crucified he warned His disciples about coming persecution that they would face. He warned them so that they would know ahead of time, and not give up (John 16:1). Persecution has never been able to stop the spread of the Gospel. In fact the reverse is true, it spreads with more power and conviction.
4. We must be consistent with our witness. Our walk must match our talk. Many individuals may say much about Christ and Christianity, but do not obey His word. Their witness has no power, and people are turned off to the message. We must not only be hearers of the word, but doers (James 5:22)!
Others live good moral lives,but keep silent. They obey the word but do not tell others about Christ and what He can do for them. They think that their lives will be a witness, therefore they do not need to speak! Jesus said to let others see our good deeds so that they will glorify God! An alcoholic who has been delivered by Christ and no longer desires to drink, says no when asked to go out and party. When asked why not, he says " I don't feel like it" or " I don't like to do that any more". Where is the witness to the grace and saving power of Christ? When asked why we do what we do, and live the way we live, we should come out and say that it is because of Jesus Christ and what He has done for me! The world needs to know!
Let's be encouraged today, to stand up wherever we are and shine. Live a life filled with the Spirit, and boldly proclaim the truth to a needy world.
There are several things that can be derived from this section of Christ's sermon on the mount.
1. God has chosen to use people. Jesus said YOU are the salt, YOU are the light. It is through human beings in whom His spirit dwells, that God reaches out to the world.
2. This light is not intended to be hidden. There is no such thing as a closet Christian. If God's spirit is active in our lives it will be evident to all around us. If we truly love Christ with all of our hearts, we will not be ashamed to let others know! In fact it will burn within us. We will let it out!
3. Don't let fear of persecution stop you. Jesus just got done speaking about being persecuted for the sake of righteousness, and then He says to shine! Just before He was crucified he warned His disciples about coming persecution that they would face. He warned them so that they would know ahead of time, and not give up (John 16:1). Persecution has never been able to stop the spread of the Gospel. In fact the reverse is true, it spreads with more power and conviction.
4. We must be consistent with our witness. Our walk must match our talk. Many individuals may say much about Christ and Christianity, but do not obey His word. Their witness has no power, and people are turned off to the message. We must not only be hearers of the word, but doers (James 5:22)!
Others live good moral lives,but keep silent. They obey the word but do not tell others about Christ and what He can do for them. They think that their lives will be a witness, therefore they do not need to speak! Jesus said to let others see our good deeds so that they will glorify God! An alcoholic who has been delivered by Christ and no longer desires to drink, says no when asked to go out and party. When asked why not, he says " I don't feel like it" or " I don't like to do that any more". Where is the witness to the grace and saving power of Christ? When asked why we do what we do, and live the way we live, we should come out and say that it is because of Jesus Christ and what He has done for me! The world needs to know!
Let's be encouraged today, to stand up wherever we are and shine. Live a life filled with the Spirit, and boldly proclaim the truth to a needy world.
Friday, November 12, 2010
The seen, and the unseen.
By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured, as seeing Him who is invisible.
Hebrews 11:23-27(KJV)
This passage of scripture shows us what motivated Moses. He had his eye on spiritual things instead of earthly things. He was willing to leave his life in Egypt, with all the adavantages he had, to join himself with the Israelites, who were slaves there. His faith caused Him to boldly confront Pharaoh, time and time again, until the slaves were freed. He was able to do this because he did not look at the world around him. The good life of Egyptian royalty meant nothing to him, because he knew that it was only temporary, and did not count for anything of spiritual good. what he looked to was eternity. Any loss he suffered here, was more than compensated for by what he would gain in the future. More than that he knew God. Though unseen, he knew that God existed, that God was more than enough for anything that he faced.
This same faith is what moved the other Old Testament saints as well. They followed God with the understanding that this world was not there home, they were strangers in it. They had their eyes on a heavenly home (Hebrews 11:13-16).
The Christians to whom this epistle was written were also reminded that they had suffered the loss of their posessions as a result of their faith. They had gladly endured this, because they knew that what awaited them in heaven was far better than anything they posessed on this earth (10:32-34).
The Apostle Paul is also an example of one who had his eye on the unseen. He endured much in his Christian life, beatings, imprisonment, and hardships of every kind, however he calls them light, and momentary afflictions. He endured all this because he looked not at what was seen, the things of this earth, the trials and problems around him, but he looked at what he could not see (2 Cor. 4:16-18).
This world will throw every thing it possibly can at us, to try to get us to turn back from following Christ. Wealth and material goods can steal our hearts, persecution can cause us to turn back to the world. What we must remember that this world is pasing away, and eternity awaits. We too are strangers here. We belong to the kingdom of heaven, we have a far better inheritance, God Himself. Fix your eyes on Jesus and run the race with endurance!
Hebrews 11:23-27(KJV)
This passage of scripture shows us what motivated Moses. He had his eye on spiritual things instead of earthly things. He was willing to leave his life in Egypt, with all the adavantages he had, to join himself with the Israelites, who were slaves there. His faith caused Him to boldly confront Pharaoh, time and time again, until the slaves were freed. He was able to do this because he did not look at the world around him. The good life of Egyptian royalty meant nothing to him, because he knew that it was only temporary, and did not count for anything of spiritual good. what he looked to was eternity. Any loss he suffered here, was more than compensated for by what he would gain in the future. More than that he knew God. Though unseen, he knew that God existed, that God was more than enough for anything that he faced.
This same faith is what moved the other Old Testament saints as well. They followed God with the understanding that this world was not there home, they were strangers in it. They had their eyes on a heavenly home (Hebrews 11:13-16).
The Christians to whom this epistle was written were also reminded that they had suffered the loss of their posessions as a result of their faith. They had gladly endured this, because they knew that what awaited them in heaven was far better than anything they posessed on this earth (10:32-34).
The Apostle Paul is also an example of one who had his eye on the unseen. He endured much in his Christian life, beatings, imprisonment, and hardships of every kind, however he calls them light, and momentary afflictions. He endured all this because he looked not at what was seen, the things of this earth, the trials and problems around him, but he looked at what he could not see (2 Cor. 4:16-18).
This world will throw every thing it possibly can at us, to try to get us to turn back from following Christ. Wealth and material goods can steal our hearts, persecution can cause us to turn back to the world. What we must remember that this world is pasing away, and eternity awaits. We too are strangers here. We belong to the kingdom of heaven, we have a far better inheritance, God Himself. Fix your eyes on Jesus and run the race with endurance!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
The persecuted.
In His sermon on the mount, Jesus calls those who are persecuted blessed. When, for the sake of righteousness, we are reviled, persecuted, and slandered, we are to rejoice and be exceedingly happy!
This can be seen in Acts 5:41, when the disciples were beaten for preaching in the temple. They rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer for Christ. I read something that Richard Wurmbrand wrote. He was in prison for his faith, in communist controlled Romania. He told of how they would have Bible studies in prison. This of course was forbidden, and if caught, the offender recieved a beating. He said we were happy teaching the word, the guards were happy beating us, so every one was happy!
It is a fact that all who desire to live a Godly life will be persecuted (2 Tim. 3:12). Jesus told His followes that they would be persecuted (John 15:17-16:4). If we belonged to the world we would be accepted by the world. But as it is we are no longer of this world, we are a called out, peculiar people. There is a line drawn in the sand that we will not cross. Our life and witness will be offensive, will bring conviction, and invite persecution. Just the simple act of Jesus healing on the sabbath caused turmoil among the religious leaders of His day. It was His message that stepped on toes, people set in their ways do not like to be challenged to repent and follow God. Likewise we can expect the same as we let our lights shine in the world today. We may not go to prison, or be martyered for our faith, but if we stand for Christ we will face the scorn of this world. There is no flowery bed of ease this side of eternity. We are either for Christ or against Him, either boldly siding with Him, or ashamed of Him and His words. Far too often the easy path is chosen out of fear, but whenever fear has been cast aside, and Christianity boldly lived out, Scripture and history has shown the fruit born!
This can be seen in Acts 5:41, when the disciples were beaten for preaching in the temple. They rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer for Christ. I read something that Richard Wurmbrand wrote. He was in prison for his faith, in communist controlled Romania. He told of how they would have Bible studies in prison. This of course was forbidden, and if caught, the offender recieved a beating. He said we were happy teaching the word, the guards were happy beating us, so every one was happy!
It is a fact that all who desire to live a Godly life will be persecuted (2 Tim. 3:12). Jesus told His followes that they would be persecuted (John 15:17-16:4). If we belonged to the world we would be accepted by the world. But as it is we are no longer of this world, we are a called out, peculiar people. There is a line drawn in the sand that we will not cross. Our life and witness will be offensive, will bring conviction, and invite persecution. Just the simple act of Jesus healing on the sabbath caused turmoil among the religious leaders of His day. It was His message that stepped on toes, people set in their ways do not like to be challenged to repent and follow God. Likewise we can expect the same as we let our lights shine in the world today. We may not go to prison, or be martyered for our faith, but if we stand for Christ we will face the scorn of this world. There is no flowery bed of ease this side of eternity. We are either for Christ or against Him, either boldly siding with Him, or ashamed of Him and His words. Far too often the easy path is chosen out of fear, but whenever fear has been cast aside, and Christianity boldly lived out, Scripture and history has shown the fruit born!
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Peace,and holiness
In looking up verses on peace, I found two that kind of jumped out at me. Hebrews 12:14, and 1 Thess. 5:23. What struck me was how holiness and peace are linked together in these verses.
In 1 thessalonians, we see God as the one who sanctifies. Many other passages bring out this fact as well. It is the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, to draw them and teach them how to walk in holiness. In simple terms, holiness is separation from living for oneself, to living for God. The Holy Spirit works in us to produce this life. We also see verses that tell us to separate ourselves, command us to be holy, verses that call to obedience. We must, on our part, yield to the will of God. As the Spirit teaches us how to live, we must obey. Without a sincere yielding on our part there is no walking in holiness, no holy life being lived, in short we are not holy.
The thought that came to me as I contemplated these verses was this. If God, who here is called the God of peace, is the one who sanctifies us, and if we are pursuing a holy life, shouldn't our lives be filled with peace? The peace that I am thinking of here is the peace that comes from getting along with one another. God is not going to lead us into quarreling, envy, strife, dishonesty, etc. instead He leads us in the path of love, forgiveness, self sacrifice. If we are living selfishly, at odds with our neighbors, mad at each other, not getting along with one another at church, then we are not holy! We are selfish! We are on the throne instead of God! This idea is brought out in Galatians 5:16-25. Two lifeslyles are contrasted. The life lived for self, and the life lived for God. One is full of sin and destruction, the other full of love and life! Let's follow the God of peace, as He perfects us!
In 1 thessalonians, we see God as the one who sanctifies. Many other passages bring out this fact as well. It is the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, to draw them and teach them how to walk in holiness. In simple terms, holiness is separation from living for oneself, to living for God. The Holy Spirit works in us to produce this life. We also see verses that tell us to separate ourselves, command us to be holy, verses that call to obedience. We must, on our part, yield to the will of God. As the Spirit teaches us how to live, we must obey. Without a sincere yielding on our part there is no walking in holiness, no holy life being lived, in short we are not holy.
The thought that came to me as I contemplated these verses was this. If God, who here is called the God of peace, is the one who sanctifies us, and if we are pursuing a holy life, shouldn't our lives be filled with peace? The peace that I am thinking of here is the peace that comes from getting along with one another. God is not going to lead us into quarreling, envy, strife, dishonesty, etc. instead He leads us in the path of love, forgiveness, self sacrifice. If we are living selfishly, at odds with our neighbors, mad at each other, not getting along with one another at church, then we are not holy! We are selfish! We are on the throne instead of God! This idea is brought out in Galatians 5:16-25. Two lifeslyles are contrasted. The life lived for self, and the life lived for God. One is full of sin and destruction, the other full of love and life! Let's follow the God of peace, as He perfects us!
Friday, November 5, 2010
The peacemakers.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
Matt. 5:9 (KJV).
In the world today there is very little peace. Nations are at war with one another, racism exists everywhere, there is political unrest, divided families, anger, suspicion, envy, and strife of every kind. As a result, few are truly happy, instead most people are filled with knotted up tension.
In contrast however, Jesus says that those who strive to live in peace are blessed (happy). As Christians, we are to pursue peace. As the KJV puts it, "Make every effort to live in peace with all men" (Heb. 12:14). We are the ones to take the initiative. Paul puts it this way, " As much as it depends upon you" (Romans 12:18). If someone has wronged us, we are to go to them to seek reconciliation. Don't wait for them to come and apologize first, it might never happen. If we are at fault, we must once again go first to apologize and make it right. We must do our part first, the rest depends upon the other party. Far too often we wait for the other person to move first, then we will forgive, then we will have restoration, then we will have peace, but that is not how a true peacemaker works for peace. Peacemakers take the iniative, they do whatever lies within their power, they make a diligent effort, to promote peace.
This should be especially true within the church. Far to often we see churches weakened, and even destroyed, by discord and bitterness over things that truly have no bearing on the Kingdom of God. We are to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the BOND OF PEACE (Eph 4:3). Throughout the New Testament we see that as Christians we are to put others first, look out for each other, love each other from the heart, encourage each other, all of this, while we pursue God. We are brothers and sisters in Christ, with a common goal!
Paul, in his letter to Timothy, desired that the Church would pray for those in authority, with the result that they would be able to live peaceful lives (1 Tim 2:1,2). In the same way we should still pray for our leaders, no matter who they are.
If we follow after peace, we will be just like Christ who is our peacemaker (Eph 2:14-18). He gave the ultimate sacrifice to ensure peace between us and God. Let us follow His example as we seek peace with all men.
Matt. 5:9 (KJV).
In the world today there is very little peace. Nations are at war with one another, racism exists everywhere, there is political unrest, divided families, anger, suspicion, envy, and strife of every kind. As a result, few are truly happy, instead most people are filled with knotted up tension.
In contrast however, Jesus says that those who strive to live in peace are blessed (happy). As Christians, we are to pursue peace. As the KJV puts it, "Make every effort to live in peace with all men" (Heb. 12:14). We are the ones to take the initiative. Paul puts it this way, " As much as it depends upon you" (Romans 12:18). If someone has wronged us, we are to go to them to seek reconciliation. Don't wait for them to come and apologize first, it might never happen. If we are at fault, we must once again go first to apologize and make it right. We must do our part first, the rest depends upon the other party. Far too often we wait for the other person to move first, then we will forgive, then we will have restoration, then we will have peace, but that is not how a true peacemaker works for peace. Peacemakers take the iniative, they do whatever lies within their power, they make a diligent effort, to promote peace.
This should be especially true within the church. Far to often we see churches weakened, and even destroyed, by discord and bitterness over things that truly have no bearing on the Kingdom of God. We are to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the BOND OF PEACE (Eph 4:3). Throughout the New Testament we see that as Christians we are to put others first, look out for each other, love each other from the heart, encourage each other, all of this, while we pursue God. We are brothers and sisters in Christ, with a common goal!
Paul, in his letter to Timothy, desired that the Church would pray for those in authority, with the result that they would be able to live peaceful lives (1 Tim 2:1,2). In the same way we should still pray for our leaders, no matter who they are.
If we follow after peace, we will be just like Christ who is our peacemaker (Eph 2:14-18). He gave the ultimate sacrifice to ensure peace between us and God. Let us follow His example as we seek peace with all men.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
The pure in Heart.
Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to and idol or swear by what is false. He will recieve blessing from the Lord and vindication from God his Savior. Such is the generation of those who seek Him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob. Psalm 24:3-6 (NIV)
Jesus said the pure in heart would see God (Matt. 5:8). Who are the pure in heart, and how did they get that way? The Bible portrays humanity as depraved, dead in sin with hearts bent on evil (Rom. 3:10-18, Eph 2:1-3). This is true. From birth, we are selfish individuals. As we grow it gets worse and worse, just watch a child go through the "terrible twos." That may sound funny, but it is really the selfish nature within working itself out. At some point we all reach a place where we become morally accountable for our actions, a point of rebellion against God. This is the mind set on the flesh, the mind that is hostile towards God, the mind that will not submit to the law of God (Rom 8:7). Such an individual cannot see God, not now nor in the age to come.
What is needed is a complete change. Not a change of actions, but a change of heart. A change from selfishness, and rebellion, to submission to God and His law. A mind that is now set on pleasing God, and following Him.
God, through the working of the Holy Spirit does His part in convicting us of sin, showing us our lost state, the depth of our depravity, and our total inability to do anything about it apart from Him. By His Spirit, He leads us to the cross of Christ, where we repent of our sin and look to Him with eyes of faith, receiving His forgiveness and being adopted as sons of God. Without repentance, there is no saving faith, and no forgiveness. We remain dead in sin. However if we repent, and surrender ourselves to Christ we are regenerated, or born again. There is now a new principle active in our lives. Instead of being hostile towards God we now long for Him. We desire to please Him. We love Him with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength. We follow Him with a faith that works by love. We are indeed a new creation, the old is gone, the new is come. We no longer live as we used to, we are ruled by a new nature that subjects itself to the law of God. We can truly say that our hearts are pure, we are not just forgiven, but truly changed from within. These are the people who see God. They see Him now with eyes of faith, they experience fellowship with Him now, and will see Him face to face on that great day. Such is the generation who seek Him!
Jesus said the pure in heart would see God (Matt. 5:8). Who are the pure in heart, and how did they get that way? The Bible portrays humanity as depraved, dead in sin with hearts bent on evil (Rom. 3:10-18, Eph 2:1-3). This is true. From birth, we are selfish individuals. As we grow it gets worse and worse, just watch a child go through the "terrible twos." That may sound funny, but it is really the selfish nature within working itself out. At some point we all reach a place where we become morally accountable for our actions, a point of rebellion against God. This is the mind set on the flesh, the mind that is hostile towards God, the mind that will not submit to the law of God (Rom 8:7). Such an individual cannot see God, not now nor in the age to come.
What is needed is a complete change. Not a change of actions, but a change of heart. A change from selfishness, and rebellion, to submission to God and His law. A mind that is now set on pleasing God, and following Him.
God, through the working of the Holy Spirit does His part in convicting us of sin, showing us our lost state, the depth of our depravity, and our total inability to do anything about it apart from Him. By His Spirit, He leads us to the cross of Christ, where we repent of our sin and look to Him with eyes of faith, receiving His forgiveness and being adopted as sons of God. Without repentance, there is no saving faith, and no forgiveness. We remain dead in sin. However if we repent, and surrender ourselves to Christ we are regenerated, or born again. There is now a new principle active in our lives. Instead of being hostile towards God we now long for Him. We desire to please Him. We love Him with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength. We follow Him with a faith that works by love. We are indeed a new creation, the old is gone, the new is come. We no longer live as we used to, we are ruled by a new nature that subjects itself to the law of God. We can truly say that our hearts are pure, we are not just forgiven, but truly changed from within. These are the people who see God. They see Him now with eyes of faith, they experience fellowship with Him now, and will see Him face to face on that great day. Such is the generation who seek Him!
Blessed are the merciful.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall recieve mercy.
Matt 5:7 (NASB)
Love for one another is the characteristic that sets Christians apart from those around them. This love is shown in many ways, by bearing one anothers burdens, looking out for one anothers needs, forgiving one another, encouragement, etc. Christian love will go to extremes to help others. It is not stopped by race or color, social status, or poverty. Those who reach out with love and compassion are called blessed here, by our Lord.
This verse poses the question; How can our reception of mercy depend upon our being merciful? Two portions of scripture come to mind. One is found in Matthew 25:31-46, the separation of the sheep and goats at the judgement. The point of separation was the love shown to others! Those who fed the hungry, clothed the naked, visited the sick and those in prison were told that they had done it unto the Lord. Those who failed to do these things were told that they had neglected the Lord. As much as they had neglected the least, most insignificant or unloveable person, they had neglected the Lord (vs 45). Our true devotion to Christ is seen in how we treat others! If we are truly born again, led by the Spirit Christians it will be shown in how we love the UNLOVEABLE!
The other passage is found in James chapter 2, the chapter on faith and works. James is dealing with christians who were showing partiality. They treated the rich and well to do with honor and respect, but shunned the poor. In the following verses James shows them that by doing this they were actually breaking the law. He goes on to show that even though we may keep all the law, if we fail at one point we are guilty as lawbreakers. James was showing his readers that by showing partiality they were breaking the moral law, or the law of love, by which they would be judged (vs. 12). He tells them that if they do not show mercy, they will not be shown mercy, but mercy triumphs over judgement.
Just like the warning lights in a car, the law (ten commandments) shows us what is inside of us. Are we really right with God or not. While it is only through faith in Christ that we are forgiven and brought into relationship with God, It is also true that we are then a new creation, created to love God and each other. When we stand before God our lives will be judged by the standards set forth in His word. Thank God that He does forgive, but remember that His grace also will change our lives from the inside out!
Matt 5:7 (NASB)
Love for one another is the characteristic that sets Christians apart from those around them. This love is shown in many ways, by bearing one anothers burdens, looking out for one anothers needs, forgiving one another, encouragement, etc. Christian love will go to extremes to help others. It is not stopped by race or color, social status, or poverty. Those who reach out with love and compassion are called blessed here, by our Lord.
This verse poses the question; How can our reception of mercy depend upon our being merciful? Two portions of scripture come to mind. One is found in Matthew 25:31-46, the separation of the sheep and goats at the judgement. The point of separation was the love shown to others! Those who fed the hungry, clothed the naked, visited the sick and those in prison were told that they had done it unto the Lord. Those who failed to do these things were told that they had neglected the Lord. As much as they had neglected the least, most insignificant or unloveable person, they had neglected the Lord (vs 45). Our true devotion to Christ is seen in how we treat others! If we are truly born again, led by the Spirit Christians it will be shown in how we love the UNLOVEABLE!
The other passage is found in James chapter 2, the chapter on faith and works. James is dealing with christians who were showing partiality. They treated the rich and well to do with honor and respect, but shunned the poor. In the following verses James shows them that by doing this they were actually breaking the law. He goes on to show that even though we may keep all the law, if we fail at one point we are guilty as lawbreakers. James was showing his readers that by showing partiality they were breaking the moral law, or the law of love, by which they would be judged (vs. 12). He tells them that if they do not show mercy, they will not be shown mercy, but mercy triumphs over judgement.
Just like the warning lights in a car, the law (ten commandments) shows us what is inside of us. Are we really right with God or not. While it is only through faith in Christ that we are forgiven and brought into relationship with God, It is also true that we are then a new creation, created to love God and each other. When we stand before God our lives will be judged by the standards set forth in His word. Thank God that He does forgive, but remember that His grace also will change our lives from the inside out!