~ Must You Leave All? ~
Within Christian circles there is much confusion about the meaning of discipleship. At the heart of this confusion is a misunderstanding of Luke 14:26-27: “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.”
Analysis ~ Any look at discipleship should begin with the most basic of fundamentals. The word “disciple” simply means pupil or learner. It is rather startling to some when they realize there is nothing in the word that implies sacrifice.
The word “disciple” occurs in the four Gospels 240 times in both singular and plural forms. In the book of Acts it occurs 32 times. Interestingly, the word “disciple” is not found at all in any of the epistles. We should keep this point in mind.
The four Gospel writers use the term in both a broad sense and a narrow sense. In the broad sense it is used of those who in varying degrees became Jesus’ followers—followers of His teaching and of His miracles (Luke 6:12-18). For examples, consider Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus (John 19:38-39).
In a narrow sense, the term is used of those who followed Jesus physically (Mark 1:17-18). In other words they were disciples who literally and physically left their families and possessions in order to follow Jesus. The twelve disciples are the clearest illustration of this group.
Certain conditions had to be met in order to follow Jesus in this narrow way. We read, for example, that one must hate his family and bear his own cross (Luke 14:26-27). The word “hate” denotes a relative term—to love Christ even more than family. “His cross” in this context carries the idea of willingness to bear whatever comes as a consequence—even death if necessary—for Christ’s sake. This high-intensity level of discipleship was not unique to Jesus’ followers since we know it was practiced by others as well. Examples would include John the Baptist and the Pharisees—they had disciples who literally followed them through Palestine (John 1:35; Matthew 22:16).
In the book of Acts, the word “disciple” is primarily used to mean a member of the local Christian church. In Acts 14:21 the verb form is used in reference to making converts. There is no occurrence in the book of Acts that indicates a disciple was one who must sacrifice family, or finances, or bear his cross in order to be called a disciple. This coupled with the fact that the word “disciple” doesn’t occur in any of the epistles strongly suggests that “forsaking all” in order to be a true disciple was limited to the days of the historical Jesus.
Lessons ~ In Biblical times there were disciples who followed Jesus in the narrow sense of the term—who were uniquely related to Jesus’ earthly life. To follow Christ in this way meant one would leave family, home, friends, occupation, and possessions. These “disciples” literally followed Jesus on an itinerant ministry. To follow Him in that sense Jesus stated they must forsake everything. The disciples of Jesus knew very well what the expectations were. They knew that it could cost them their lives. They were prepared to take up their cross and follow Jesus. These expectations were conditions for following the literal and historical Jesus.
To impose this kind of expectations on Christians today is to have a misconception of discipleship and to distort what it means to follow Christ.
Application ~ Consideration of the above does not change the Christian’s responsibility for following Christ. It simply shifts the emphasis from a physical following type of discipleship to a mental, emotional, and spiritual following of Jesus and His commands. When we understand this vital difference, it reduces the gap between some false expectations and Christ’s desire for us today.
Today we do not have a literal physical Jesus to follow. Therefore, there isn’t the same demand to physically leave home, loved ones, occupations, and possessions. Today, there is a spiritual demand to follow Christ—in some cases that is more difficult than physical separation. But we are not called to separate ourselves from our family, occupations, or possessions. We are called to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:1-2) as we live with our families, carry on our occupations, and in the use of our possessions. We are called to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind.
Here is the paradox, while we are in the process of loving the Lord as transformed people, it is quite possible our love for God will cause our family and friends to leave us, or for us to change our occupation, or to forsake our possessions. However, if we do this, it will not be a condition for discipleship but rather a result of discipleship.
Summary ~ Discipleship today involves seeking God’s rule and righteousness in all aspects of our life (Matthew 6:33). Jesus is not reigning physically in the world today. But we are assured that one day we will be able to witness a great event when every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11). Until then, Jesus reigns spiritually in the hearts of those who love and obey Him. The rule of discipleship today is “if you love Me keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Our response to what God has done for us through Christ on the Cross is to make a presentation of our life to God (Romans 12:1).
A point not to be missed is that this presentation is not a decision to leave family and friends or to forsake all. It is a presentation of a life. It is a presentation to be. Discipleship therefore is a process. This process includes a negative struggle with the world, “do not be conformed to the world” and a positive experience of transformation, “be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will” (Romans 12:2).
CONTEMPLATE: “The mystery in a nutshell is just this: Christ is in you, therefore you can look forward to sharing in God's glory. It's that simple. That is the substance of our Message. We preach Christ, warning people not to add to the Message. We teach in a spirit of profound common sense so that we can bring each person to maturity. To be mature is to be basic. Christ! No more, no less. That's what I'm working so hard at day after day, year after year, doing my best with the energy God so generously gives me” (Colossians 1:27-29, The Message).
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Can’t Find a Good Church?
~ If You Find a Perfect Church, Please Don’t Join It! ~
Many sincere Christians in North America and other “developed” countries are having a difficult time finding a local church which meets not only their needs but more importantly fits the New Testament pattern of what a church should be! They are not seeking a perfect church but rather an acceptable church.
This subject received national attention recently when well-known Roman Catholic novelist Anne Rice announced on Facebook (July 2010) that she had given up on organized Christianity—but maintained her Christian beliefs. Her decision mirrors a national trend in North America. Does the Bible speak to our current situation? I believe it clearly does.
First, God designed Christians and the local church as being interdependent and needing one another. This is a key element of the Biblical teaching that the Church is made up of one body (Colossians 1:18), one building (1 Corinthians 3:9), and one bride (2 Corinthians 11:2). Each is incomplete without all its components. Anyone who is serious about following God’s will (God’s desires) will earnestly seek to find a local church of which they can be a meaningful participant.
The church is a gift from God for which assembly is required. “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:23-25, emphasis added). In other words during the end-times, just prior to the Second Coming, the Word of God says that it is all the more important that individual believers be a part of a local church.
Second, the Word of God recognizes the decline of the local churches prior to the end of this day of grace in which we live. That is the message to the last of the seven churches in Revelation 2-3. "And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, 'These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: "I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing' — and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked — I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. … To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches"'" (Revelation 3:14-22).
It is my conviction that given these two passages of Scripture (and the whole of the Word of God) it is the responsibility of every Christian to make every possible effort to find a local assembly of believers where they can fellowship, pray, worship, and serve together. If you are having trouble finding a local church, pray earnestly and keep searching—God may be teaching you something special during this time.
Many sincere Christians in North America and other “developed” countries are having a difficult time finding a local church which meets not only their needs but more importantly fits the New Testament pattern of what a church should be! They are not seeking a perfect church but rather an acceptable church.
This subject received national attention recently when well-known Roman Catholic novelist Anne Rice announced on Facebook (July 2010) that she had given up on organized Christianity—but maintained her Christian beliefs. Her decision mirrors a national trend in North America. Does the Bible speak to our current situation? I believe it clearly does.
First, God designed Christians and the local church as being interdependent and needing one another. This is a key element of the Biblical teaching that the Church is made up of one body (Colossians 1:18), one building (1 Corinthians 3:9), and one bride (2 Corinthians 11:2). Each is incomplete without all its components. Anyone who is serious about following God’s will (God’s desires) will earnestly seek to find a local church of which they can be a meaningful participant.
The church is a gift from God for which assembly is required. “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:23-25, emphasis added). In other words during the end-times, just prior to the Second Coming, the Word of God says that it is all the more important that individual believers be a part of a local church.
Second, the Word of God recognizes the decline of the local churches prior to the end of this day of grace in which we live. That is the message to the last of the seven churches in Revelation 2-3. "And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, 'These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: "I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing' — and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked — I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. … To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches"'" (Revelation 3:14-22).
It is my conviction that given these two passages of Scripture (and the whole of the Word of God) it is the responsibility of every Christian to make every possible effort to find a local assembly of believers where they can fellowship, pray, worship, and serve together. If you are having trouble finding a local church, pray earnestly and keep searching—God may be teaching you something special during this time.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
7 Consequences of Sin
~ Lessons from Genesis 3 & 4 ~
Man’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden upset his relationship with God, and today a Christian’s disobedience interferes with the joy of his fellowship with the Lord. Sin also disrupts peace in society by breaking human relationships. A common example in our society is sin in the life of a husband or wife, destroying the atmosphere of mutual trust and confidence that is so essential in making a truly happy home.
You and I were born with a propensity to sin because of the original sin of Adam and Eve. Sin always has devastating results in one form or another—sometimes the results are not evident immediately. Below are seven consequences of sin found in Genesis chapters three and four.
Shame (Genesis 3:7) ~ “And as Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, suddenly they became aware of their nakedness, and were embarrassed and ashamed of what they had done. So they strung fig leaves together to cover themselves around the hips.” Prior to sin there was no shame.
Fear (3:10) ~ “Adam answered God by saying, ‘I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.’” Suddenly, a great relationship had deteriorated and a barrier existed. Today our fellowship with God is broken by unconfessed sin (see 1 John 1:9).
Buck Passing (3:12) ~ “Then Adam said, ‘The woman You put here with me—she is the one who gave me some fruit from the tree, and so I ate it.’” Adam is not only blaming Eve but indirectly blaming God for giving him a partner! Sin has a very real way of distorting our thinking.
Pain and Sorrow (3:16) ~ “To Eve God replied: ‘I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; in pain you shall bring forth children; your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you.’” Sin has consequences! One day the results of Calvary will be complete and sin and its effects will be forever gone.
Pride (4:3) ~ “After the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the LORD.” Cain’s pride is seen in offering his gift to God. One of the distinctions between the offerings of Cain and Abel is that Cain did not come by faith but rather in his own strength. Cain came to God on the basis of his own works—he came on the basis of his accomplishments. (Abel’s offering was a sacrifice which looked forward to the coming sacrifice of the Lamb of God.) Pride is one of the roots of all sin and pride is what keeps man from confessing sin.
Anger and Depression (4:5) ~ “But God had no respect for Cain’s offering. So Cain was exceedingly angry and indignant, and became sad and depressed.” Cain throws a pity party and becomes distraught. His shenanigans were not successful. Instead of learning at this point and making corrections, his sin continued to carry him into even greater sin.
Murder (4:8) ~ “Now Cain said to his brother Abel, ‘Let's go out to the field.’ And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and murdered him there.” Unconfessed sin leads to greater sin.
Do you understand why bad things happen to good people? Do you know why our society has so much crime, unjust suffering, and pain? God’s Word has a one-word answer: sin!
Man’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden upset his relationship with God, and today a Christian’s disobedience interferes with the joy of his fellowship with the Lord. Sin also disrupts peace in society by breaking human relationships. A common example in our society is sin in the life of a husband or wife, destroying the atmosphere of mutual trust and confidence that is so essential in making a truly happy home.
You and I were born with a propensity to sin because of the original sin of Adam and Eve. Sin always has devastating results in one form or another—sometimes the results are not evident immediately. Below are seven consequences of sin found in Genesis chapters three and four.
Shame (Genesis 3:7) ~ “And as Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, suddenly they became aware of their nakedness, and were embarrassed and ashamed of what they had done. So they strung fig leaves together to cover themselves around the hips.” Prior to sin there was no shame.
Fear (3:10) ~ “Adam answered God by saying, ‘I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.’” Suddenly, a great relationship had deteriorated and a barrier existed. Today our fellowship with God is broken by unconfessed sin (see 1 John 1:9).
Buck Passing (3:12) ~ “Then Adam said, ‘The woman You put here with me—she is the one who gave me some fruit from the tree, and so I ate it.’” Adam is not only blaming Eve but indirectly blaming God for giving him a partner! Sin has a very real way of distorting our thinking.
Pain and Sorrow (3:16) ~ “To Eve God replied: ‘I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; in pain you shall bring forth children; your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you.’” Sin has consequences! One day the results of Calvary will be complete and sin and its effects will be forever gone.
Pride (4:3) ~ “After the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the LORD.” Cain’s pride is seen in offering his gift to God. One of the distinctions between the offerings of Cain and Abel is that Cain did not come by faith but rather in his own strength. Cain came to God on the basis of his own works—he came on the basis of his accomplishments. (Abel’s offering was a sacrifice which looked forward to the coming sacrifice of the Lamb of God.) Pride is one of the roots of all sin and pride is what keeps man from confessing sin.
Anger and Depression (4:5) ~ “But God had no respect for Cain’s offering. So Cain was exceedingly angry and indignant, and became sad and depressed.” Cain throws a pity party and becomes distraught. His shenanigans were not successful. Instead of learning at this point and making corrections, his sin continued to carry him into even greater sin.
Murder (4:8) ~ “Now Cain said to his brother Abel, ‘Let's go out to the field.’ And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and murdered him there.” Unconfessed sin leads to greater sin.
Do you understand why bad things happen to good people? Do you know why our society has so much crime, unjust suffering, and pain? God’s Word has a one-word answer: sin!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Sin and You
~ Sin Effects Your Body, Your Soul, and Your Spirit ~
Comment: The following was spoken by Jim Elliot prior to his leaving for the mission field, and is quoted from the book “JIM ELLIOT: A Christian Martyr Speaks to You” edited by myself.
Background: In early 1956 Christian missionaries Roger Youderian, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Pete Fleming, and Jim Elliot lost their lives on “Palm Beach” on the banks of the Curaray River in a steamy jungle in Ecuador. They were brutally killed by an unreached tribe they had worked long and hard to reach with God’s love.
Many thousands of individuals have come to know Christ in a personal and living way and thousands of others have altered the direction of their lives as a result of the shocking massacre and the many articles and books written about it. Even the Auca Indians (Waoni) who thrust those fatal spears have seen a significant portion of their number come to know Jesus Christ.
“Well, what does sin do to your spirit? Just as sin is a cancer in the body, so it is corrosion to the soul, and to the spirit it is a callus. Sin makes us callous. Sin solidifies our attitudes.
“The book of Hebrews provides insight. Notice verse twelve of Hebrews chapter three. ‘Take heed, brethren, lest there shall be in any one of you an evil heart of unbelief and falling away from the living God. But exhort one another, day by day, so long as it is called today.’ Catch this. ‘Lest any one of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.’
“Hardened. Your spirit will become solidified. In other words, it won’t be pliable to the will of God. The will of God will have no effect upon your spirit. God’s desire for you will just bounce off your spirit like a rock. Sin can do that to your spirit, so that your mind can’t apprehend the truths of God. It will harden your spirit. It solidifies your thinking.
“Sin will just make you go out and grit your teeth against everything that is righteous. Sin can do that in a Christian. Therefore, Paul tells us, brethren, exhort one another while it is called today, lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
“Notice ‘the deceitfulness of sin.’ Sin is deceitful, that is it fools you. When you think you haven’t got any sin, mark it down, you’re sinning.
“You say, ‘I have no need to fight sin.’ Be careful, sin is a deceiver. Sin is an awful deceiver, a great deceiver. He’ll tell you he’s not there, and reside in your heart. He’ll harden your heart and say you’re becoming well-balanced and well-rounded. Sin will stifle your affections for Christ, and tell you that you’re growing up and maturing and getting away from kids’ stuff such as being sentimental about God. Sin will take your body and ruin it!”
To find out more about this significant book – JIM ELLIOT: A Christian Martyr Speaks To You – click here. To acquire a copy from Amazon click here.
Comment: The following was spoken by Jim Elliot prior to his leaving for the mission field, and is quoted from the book “JIM ELLIOT: A Christian Martyr Speaks to You” edited by myself.
Background: In early 1956 Christian missionaries Roger Youderian, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Pete Fleming, and Jim Elliot lost their lives on “Palm Beach” on the banks of the Curaray River in a steamy jungle in Ecuador. They were brutally killed by an unreached tribe they had worked long and hard to reach with God’s love.
Many thousands of individuals have come to know Christ in a personal and living way and thousands of others have altered the direction of their lives as a result of the shocking massacre and the many articles and books written about it. Even the Auca Indians (Waoni) who thrust those fatal spears have seen a significant portion of their number come to know Jesus Christ.
“Well, what does sin do to your spirit? Just as sin is a cancer in the body, so it is corrosion to the soul, and to the spirit it is a callus. Sin makes us callous. Sin solidifies our attitudes.
“The book of Hebrews provides insight. Notice verse twelve of Hebrews chapter three. ‘Take heed, brethren, lest there shall be in any one of you an evil heart of unbelief and falling away from the living God. But exhort one another, day by day, so long as it is called today.’ Catch this. ‘Lest any one of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.’
“Hardened. Your spirit will become solidified. In other words, it won’t be pliable to the will of God. The will of God will have no effect upon your spirit. God’s desire for you will just bounce off your spirit like a rock. Sin can do that to your spirit, so that your mind can’t apprehend the truths of God. It will harden your spirit. It solidifies your thinking.
“Sin will just make you go out and grit your teeth against everything that is righteous. Sin can do that in a Christian. Therefore, Paul tells us, brethren, exhort one another while it is called today, lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
“Notice ‘the deceitfulness of sin.’ Sin is deceitful, that is it fools you. When you think you haven’t got any sin, mark it down, you’re sinning.
“You say, ‘I have no need to fight sin.’ Be careful, sin is a deceiver. Sin is an awful deceiver, a great deceiver. He’ll tell you he’s not there, and reside in your heart. He’ll harden your heart and say you’re becoming well-balanced and well-rounded. Sin will stifle your affections for Christ, and tell you that you’re growing up and maturing and getting away from kids’ stuff such as being sentimental about God. Sin will take your body and ruin it!”
To find out more about this significant book – JIM ELLIOT: A Christian Martyr Speaks To You – click here. To acquire a copy from Amazon click here.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Fragrance or Stench?
~ As an Obedient Christian You Will Give Off Both! ~
Our society uses many phrases which imply two opposites at once. Examples include: black and white, salt and pepper, sweet and sour, give and take, through thick and thin, and others.
The Word of God tells us that Christians who are fulfilling their calling emit both a lovely fragrance and an awful smell. An obedient Christian has a dual odor? We emit both a fragrance to our fellow pilgrims and a stench to some of those who oppose Christ. Putting it differently, there is a divine dissidence in the life of an obedient Christian! We are both inviting and repulsive! There is a built-in tension in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For example, someone has remarked that a good preacher should “comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”
Fragrance ~ As Christians we are to become increasingly like Christ. “And the Lord—Who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image” (2 Corinthians 3:18). As we become like Christ in first our thinking and later our consistent actions, we are a pleasing sweet-smelling offering to God Himself. “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Stench ~ As Christians we are to live in the world but not be of the world (1 John 2:15-17). Spiritually we are pilgrims passing through—not tourists! The world today is a place of great spiritual warfare where some find salvation in the name of Jesus Christ—the name which is above all other names! Others find the name of Christ and His work on the Cross as offensive—they do not want to accept the reality of their sinful nature. “For the message of the Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
Summary ~ “In the Messiah, that is in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory after another. Through us, He brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite scent of Christ. And because of Christ, we give off a sweet fragrance rising to God, which is recognized by our fellow Christians—an aroma teaming with life. But some of those headed for destruction treat us more like the stench from a rotting corpse. What a great responsibility we have!” (2 Corinthians 2:14-16, emphasis added).
Our society uses many phrases which imply two opposites at once. Examples include: black and white, salt and pepper, sweet and sour, give and take, through thick and thin, and others.
The Word of God tells us that Christians who are fulfilling their calling emit both a lovely fragrance and an awful smell. An obedient Christian has a dual odor? We emit both a fragrance to our fellow pilgrims and a stench to some of those who oppose Christ. Putting it differently, there is a divine dissidence in the life of an obedient Christian! We are both inviting and repulsive! There is a built-in tension in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For example, someone has remarked that a good preacher should “comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”
Fragrance ~ As Christians we are to become increasingly like Christ. “And the Lord—Who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image” (2 Corinthians 3:18). As we become like Christ in first our thinking and later our consistent actions, we are a pleasing sweet-smelling offering to God Himself. “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Stench ~ As Christians we are to live in the world but not be of the world (1 John 2:15-17). Spiritually we are pilgrims passing through—not tourists! The world today is a place of great spiritual warfare where some find salvation in the name of Jesus Christ—the name which is above all other names! Others find the name of Christ and His work on the Cross as offensive—they do not want to accept the reality of their sinful nature. “For the message of the Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
Summary ~ “In the Messiah, that is in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory after another. Through us, He brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite scent of Christ. And because of Christ, we give off a sweet fragrance rising to God, which is recognized by our fellow Christians—an aroma teaming with life. But some of those headed for destruction treat us more like the stench from a rotting corpse. What a great responsibility we have!” (2 Corinthians 2:14-16, emphasis added).
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Learn from Moses
~ Isaiah 40:31 Points the Way for Seniors ~
Have you ever noticed that the progression of activity in Isaiah 40:31 seems to be backward?
“But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31, emphasis added). The movement is from flying to running to walking! Normally we would think in terms of learning to walk followed by running. Flying comes later yet.
The passage can be thought of as a picture of the senior saints within the body of Christ. When they were younger they were actively “flying” on missions for their Lord. Over time their activities shifted to a run. As their bodies further wear down many are slowed to a walk—but that does not mean they are not useful. In fact much of the flying which is done in early life has little lasting value and many significant eternal accomplishments come with the wisdom of a slower pace later in life.
We often see this pattern around us. The Bible also provides examples of this progression.
Consider the life of Moses.
The Bible paints Moses in very human terms as he spends the first two-thirds of his life wrestling with his calling. Many are aware of the common summary of his life:
Moses spent his first 40 years thinking he was somebody—while the Lord kept him safe.
The next 40 years realizing he was a nobody—while the Lord humbled him.
Finally, he spent his last 40 years being used to benefit everybody—as he had become obedient to the Lord.
God used Moses in his final days as he served in at least three vital roles:
He was Commander-In-Chief of Israel’s army.
He was an Administrator of the nation’s internal affairs.
Finally, he was a Travel Guide as he brought the people to the plains of Moab.
Each of these roles in his later life required the wisdom that comes with experience.
Moses’ greatest accomplishments were late in life. Moses was Israel’s lawgiver. He was the first great prophet (Acts 7:37) and a type (picture) of the Lord Jesus Christ. Moses was Israel’s great deliverer.
Many would say that even today Moses stands out as the foremost man of the pre-Christian world. An anonymous writer put it this way, “Moses was one of the most colossal and majestic characters in the history of the world.”
There is much empirical evidence to conclude that God also considered Moses very highly. For example, consider that his life and work constitute about one-seventh of the whole Bible, or equal to about two-thirds of the New Testament.
CONTEMPLATE: God prepared Moses prior to using him. How has God prepared you? For what purpose?
Have you ever noticed that the progression of activity in Isaiah 40:31 seems to be backward?
“But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31, emphasis added). The movement is from flying to running to walking! Normally we would think in terms of learning to walk followed by running. Flying comes later yet.
The passage can be thought of as a picture of the senior saints within the body of Christ. When they were younger they were actively “flying” on missions for their Lord. Over time their activities shifted to a run. As their bodies further wear down many are slowed to a walk—but that does not mean they are not useful. In fact much of the flying which is done in early life has little lasting value and many significant eternal accomplishments come with the wisdom of a slower pace later in life.
We often see this pattern around us. The Bible also provides examples of this progression.
Consider the life of Moses.
The Bible paints Moses in very human terms as he spends the first two-thirds of his life wrestling with his calling. Many are aware of the common summary of his life:
Moses spent his first 40 years thinking he was somebody—while the Lord kept him safe.
The next 40 years realizing he was a nobody—while the Lord humbled him.
Finally, he spent his last 40 years being used to benefit everybody—as he had become obedient to the Lord.
God used Moses in his final days as he served in at least three vital roles:
He was Commander-In-Chief of Israel’s army.
He was an Administrator of the nation’s internal affairs.
Finally, he was a Travel Guide as he brought the people to the plains of Moab.
Each of these roles in his later life required the wisdom that comes with experience.
Moses’ greatest accomplishments were late in life. Moses was Israel’s lawgiver. He was the first great prophet (Acts 7:37) and a type (picture) of the Lord Jesus Christ. Moses was Israel’s great deliverer.
Many would say that even today Moses stands out as the foremost man of the pre-Christian world. An anonymous writer put it this way, “Moses was one of the most colossal and majestic characters in the history of the world.”
There is much empirical evidence to conclude that God also considered Moses very highly. For example, consider that his life and work constitute about one-seventh of the whole Bible, or equal to about two-thirds of the New Testament.
CONTEMPLATE: God prepared Moses prior to using him. How has God prepared you? For what purpose?
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
7 Word Pictures of the Word
The Bible is unique among all books and it describes itself in a variety of interesting ways.
Mirror ~ Mirrors reflect what is in front of them. They show what is there. They show us as we really are! “If you listen to the Word and don't obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it” (James 1:23 NLT).
Hammer ~ Hammers are used to pound and sometimes to break. The Word not only shows us who we really are but breaks our self-sufficiency. “Is not My Word … like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?” (Jeremiah 23:29)
Fire ~ A fire not only burns but melts. As the Words shows us as we really are, and as we have our self-content crushed, we find our heart melting. “Is not My Word like as a fire? says the LORD” (Jeremiah 23:29). “But who can live when He appears? Who can endure His coming? For He is like a blazing fire refining precious metal, and He can bleach the dirtiest garments! Like a refiner of silver He will sit and closely watch as the dross is burned away. He will purify …” (Malachi 3:2-3).
Sword ~ Swords are sharp and the Word of God is able to pierce our conscience. “For the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).
Seed ~ Seeds are inanimate—dead things—which are resurrected into new life. The Word of God brings a new kind of life to the human soul. “You have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring Word of God” (1 Peter 1:23).
Water ~ Water is not only essential for life, but it cleanses and purifies. The Word of God cleanses the individual Christian and the Church of God. “Christ loved the Church and gave Himself for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the Word, in order to present her to Himself as a radiant Church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless”(Ephesians 5:25-27).
Light ~ Light not only dispels darkness but also exposes things. The Word of God exposes the darkness of sin and shows the path of salvation and source of abundant life. “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). “There is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we all will eventually have to give account” (Hebrews 4:13).
Mirror ~ Mirrors reflect what is in front of them. They show what is there. They show us as we really are! “If you listen to the Word and don't obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it” (James 1:23 NLT).
Hammer ~ Hammers are used to pound and sometimes to break. The Word not only shows us who we really are but breaks our self-sufficiency. “Is not My Word … like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?” (Jeremiah 23:29)
Fire ~ A fire not only burns but melts. As the Words shows us as we really are, and as we have our self-content crushed, we find our heart melting. “Is not My Word like as a fire? says the LORD” (Jeremiah 23:29). “But who can live when He appears? Who can endure His coming? For He is like a blazing fire refining precious metal, and He can bleach the dirtiest garments! Like a refiner of silver He will sit and closely watch as the dross is burned away. He will purify …” (Malachi 3:2-3).
Sword ~ Swords are sharp and the Word of God is able to pierce our conscience. “For the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).
Seed ~ Seeds are inanimate—dead things—which are resurrected into new life. The Word of God brings a new kind of life to the human soul. “You have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring Word of God” (1 Peter 1:23).
Water ~ Water is not only essential for life, but it cleanses and purifies. The Word of God cleanses the individual Christian and the Church of God. “Christ loved the Church and gave Himself for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the Word, in order to present her to Himself as a radiant Church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless”(Ephesians 5:25-27).
Light ~ Light not only dispels darkness but also exposes things. The Word of God exposes the darkness of sin and shows the path of salvation and source of abundant life. “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). “There is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we all will eventually have to give account” (Hebrews 4:13).
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Law versus Grace
~ What a contrast! ~
Compare the law with the grace of God.
In summary, we find the law curses, while grace blesses.
The law kills; grace saves.
The law slays the sinner; grace makes him alive.
The law says “the wages of sin is death”; grace says “the gift of God is eternal life.”
The law prohibits; grace invites.
The law condemns; grace redeems.
The law says “do”; grace says “it is done!”
The law condemns the best; grace saves the worst!
The law says “do to live”; grace says “live to do.”
The law shuts every mouth; grace opens the mouth.
The law reveals sin; grace atones for sin.
The law says “the soul that sins shall die”; grace says “believe and live.”
The law proclaims “pay what you owe”; grace states “I freely forgive all.”
The law says “do or die”; grace says “look and live.”
The law provides knowledge of sin; grace provides redemption from sin.
“The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” (John 1:17).
The law demands obedience; with grace comes the power to obey.
The law was written on tablets of stone; grace is written in the human heart.
The law puts mankind under bondage; grace sets us free in wonderful liberty as children of God.
An example of the effects of the law is found in Exodus 32:28 where we find Moses coming down from Mt. Sinai to deliver the law. He found the people worshipping the golden calf. Scripture records that 3,000 individuals lost their lives at that time.
On the other hand, we find an example of grace in Acts 2:41 when Peter stood up on the Day of Pentecost to declare the message of salvation for the first time. At that time 3,000 individuals found new life through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
CONTEMPLATE: You and I live in the period of time labeled by many as the “Day of Grace.”
Grace is “unmerited favor” or getting something positive which is undeserved.
GRACE = “God’s Riches (given to us) At Christ’s Expense”
Compare the law with the grace of God.
In summary, we find the law curses, while grace blesses.
The law kills; grace saves.
The law slays the sinner; grace makes him alive.
The law says “the wages of sin is death”; grace says “the gift of God is eternal life.”
The law prohibits; grace invites.
The law condemns; grace redeems.
The law says “do”; grace says “it is done!”
The law condemns the best; grace saves the worst!
The law says “do to live”; grace says “live to do.”
The law shuts every mouth; grace opens the mouth.
The law reveals sin; grace atones for sin.
The law says “the soul that sins shall die”; grace says “believe and live.”
The law proclaims “pay what you owe”; grace states “I freely forgive all.”
The law says “do or die”; grace says “look and live.”
The law provides knowledge of sin; grace provides redemption from sin.
“The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” (John 1:17).
The law demands obedience; with grace comes the power to obey.
The law was written on tablets of stone; grace is written in the human heart.
The law puts mankind under bondage; grace sets us free in wonderful liberty as children of God.
An example of the effects of the law is found in Exodus 32:28 where we find Moses coming down from Mt. Sinai to deliver the law. He found the people worshipping the golden calf. Scripture records that 3,000 individuals lost their lives at that time.
On the other hand, we find an example of grace in Acts 2:41 when Peter stood up on the Day of Pentecost to declare the message of salvation for the first time. At that time 3,000 individuals found new life through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
CONTEMPLATE: You and I live in the period of time labeled by many as the “Day of Grace.”
Grace is “unmerited favor” or getting something positive which is undeserved.
GRACE = “God’s Riches (given to us) At Christ’s Expense”
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Follow Me
~ The Patch of the USAIC ~
The "Follow Me" patch is the emblem of the U.S. Army Infantry Center (USAIC).
Notice a few things about the emblem:
First, the familiar wording which our Lord used so often, such as in Matthew 4:19, where we read, "And He said unto them, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." This is a most basic message of the Word of God; that men ought to follow Christ.
Second, notice the sword - a two-edged sword, recalling to mind Hebrews 4:12, "For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword ..." Just as the Word of God should have a central position in any believer's life, so too the sword occupies the center portion of this emblem.
Third, notice the colors. First we have the blue background - blue is often used to represent the heavens. White is the other color, commonly associated with purity, a tradition which clearly has its origins in Scripture.
Fourth, we notice the only thing left is the emblem's unusual shape. This shape is only possible by the use of an unusual number of sides - seven. Seven can be clearly shown to be the Scripture's number for completeness, perfection, or more accurately "spiritual perfection."
The "Follow Me" patch is the emblem of the U.S. Army infantry headquarters. The Army is clearly the most fundamental branch of any country's armed forces! The infantry is the most basic component of any army! And this emblem belongs to the headquarters of the infantry! Isn't it amazing - the same nation whose motto is "In God We Trust" possesses the "Follow Me" patch at the very heart of its military forces.
NOTE: This short article was Robert Lloyd Russell’s first published Christian content. It was originally published in the April 1982 issue of At Ease magazine – a publication for military personnel.
The "Follow Me" patch is the emblem of the U.S. Army Infantry Center (USAIC).
Notice a few things about the emblem: First, the familiar wording which our Lord used so often, such as in Matthew 4:19, where we read, "And He said unto them, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." This is a most basic message of the Word of God; that men ought to follow Christ.
Second, notice the sword - a two-edged sword, recalling to mind Hebrews 4:12, "For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword ..." Just as the Word of God should have a central position in any believer's life, so too the sword occupies the center portion of this emblem.
Third, notice the colors. First we have the blue background - blue is often used to represent the heavens. White is the other color, commonly associated with purity, a tradition which clearly has its origins in Scripture.
Fourth, we notice the only thing left is the emblem's unusual shape. This shape is only possible by the use of an unusual number of sides - seven. Seven can be clearly shown to be the Scripture's number for completeness, perfection, or more accurately "spiritual perfection."
The "Follow Me" patch is the emblem of the U.S. Army infantry headquarters. The Army is clearly the most fundamental branch of any country's armed forces! The infantry is the most basic component of any army! And this emblem belongs to the headquarters of the infantry! Isn't it amazing - the same nation whose motto is "In God We Trust" possesses the "Follow Me" patch at the very heart of its military forces.
NOTE: This short article was Robert Lloyd Russell’s first published Christian content. It was originally published in the April 1982 issue of At Ease magazine – a publication for military personnel.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
God’s 4 Responses to Prayer
~ All of God’s Responses are Answers! ~
~ The following four terms used to describe God’s answers to prayer are from an unknown source and have been around for decades. ~
In this view of looking at God’s answers to prayer, an examination is made of three factors: the request, the petitioner, and the timing. Based on those three factors, God replies in one of four ways.
Situation One
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is not right from God’s perspective.
“SLOW” is the answer!
“Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end” (Ecclesiastes 3:11-12).
Situation Two
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is not acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“GROW” is the answer!
“He who isn’t listening to God finds that even his prayers are an abomination to God” (Proverbs 28:9).
Situation Three
The request is not acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“NO” is the answer!
“This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14).
Situation Four
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“GO” is the answer!
“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you” (John 15:7).
COMMENT: There is more about prayer in the book “Thy Will Be Done On Earth: Understanding God’s Will for You” written by myself.
~ The following four terms used to describe God’s answers to prayer are from an unknown source and have been around for decades. ~
In this view of looking at God’s answers to prayer, an examination is made of three factors: the request, the petitioner, and the timing. Based on those three factors, God replies in one of four ways.
Situation One
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is not right from God’s perspective.
“SLOW” is the answer!
“Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end” (Ecclesiastes 3:11-12).
Situation Two
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is not acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“GROW” is the answer!
“He who isn’t listening to God finds that even his prayers are an abomination to God” (Proverbs 28:9).
Situation Three
The request is not acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“NO” is the answer!
“This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14).
Situation Four
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“GO” is the answer!
“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you” (John 15:7).
COMMENT: There is more about prayer in the book “Thy Will Be Done On Earth: Understanding God’s Will for You” written by myself.
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