~ Matthew 1 – Like Reading a Phone Book? ~
The Old Testament begins with Creation—an immensely important foundation for what follows. The New Testament begins with the genealogy of Jesus Christ—an equally important foundation for all that follows.
Is the first chapter of Matthew dull, boring, and unimportant? Absolutely not! Matthew 1:1-17 provides the blood line of Jesus Christ. (Luke 3:23-38 provides the blood line of His mother Mary.)
The “begats” (King James Version) of Matthew are one of the most important parts of the Bible. One could define the Old Testament as “the family history of Jesus Christ.” The historic blood line from Adam to Jesus Christ is documented in Matthew 1. The New Testament credibility stands or falls on the accuracy of this genealogy.
The genealogy can be divided into three groups of fourteen. The first group, Abraham through King David, was a period of theocratic rule (God was considered the supreme authority). The next group following David until the Babylonian captivity (King Solomon into the time of Jechonias) was a period monarchial rule (authority was in an individual). The final group, Jechonias through Jesus Christ, was a time of hierarchical rule (multiple levels of rule determined by rank / level and topic).
From a historical standpoint it is helpful to realize that the genealogies were kept in the temple, and when Titus destroyed the temple in 70 A.D., the genealogies were lost. However, when Jesus was making His claim of being a descendant of David and a descendant of Abraham, the genealogies were still there, and although His enemies questioned just about everything else, they never questioned Jesus’ genealogy. The reason is obvious—the genealogies proved that the Lord Jesus was who He claimed to be as a far as His ancestry was concerned. He is the son of David, and He is also the son of Abraham. He came in that line which God said would produce the Messiah. Matthew begins by declaring this fact in the very first verse of his Gospel.
The Jews of the period never questioned that Jesus Christ was the son of David and therefore could be the Messiah. They did question whether or not He was God in the flesh dwelling among mankind.
CONTEMPLATE: Why are four women listed in Matthew’s genealogy of Jesus Christ?
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
EXTRA: 6-month Feedback
~ A BIG Thank You to All ALN Readers! ~
First Post: October 21, 2009
Blog Existence: 6-months
Number of Posts: 33
U.S. States with Readers: 42
Countries with Readers: 35 – Included are readers on all six of the inhabited continents as well as a number of island nations.
Languages Read In: 10
Summary: God is blessing beyond our imagination.
(1) The readership noted above.
(2) Two individuals have inquired about salvation.
(3) Another Christian blog site requested permission to post one of my blogs in entirety.
(4) Several other blogs have added ALN to their favorite blog lists.
Thank you!
First Post: October 21, 2009
Blog Existence: 6-months
Number of Posts: 33
U.S. States with Readers: 42
Countries with Readers: 35 – Included are readers on all six of the inhabited continents as well as a number of island nations.
Languages Read In: 10
Summary: God is blessing beyond our imagination.
(1) The readership noted above.
(2) Two individuals have inquired about salvation.
(3) Another Christian blog site requested permission to post one of my blogs in entirety.
(4) Several other blogs have added ALN to their favorite blog lists.
Thank you!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
“Evangelist” vs. “Witness” - 2of2
~ All Christians Are Witnesses ~
Last week we looked at the three New Testament references related to “evangelism.” This time we summarize the numerous New Testament references regarding “witnessing.”
First, consider a clear statement: “You [all Christians] will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you [all Christians]; and you [all Christians] will be My witnesses” (Acts 1:8). All Christians are His witnesses whether they intend to be or not! In other words, you cannot change God’s character—but you can sure damage His reputation!
Throughout the Bible all saints are repeatedly exhorted to be witnesses, and by implication all are exhorted to speak forth. But as we have seen, there is a difference between witnessing and evangelizing. There are many places in Scripture where witnessing is a clear command to all Christians.
In the Old Testament we find that “witness” is always a singular term because it referred to a single entity, the nation of Israel. Just as CHRISTians bear CHRIST's name today, in the Old Testament Israel carried God's name. For example, we listen to Solomon's great prayer of dedication, “... so that all the peoples of the earth may know Your name and fear You, as do Your own people Israel, and may know that this house I have built bears Your Name” (1 Kings 8:43b). In those days the unbelievers sought out the Israelites, who were God's witnesses.
In the New Testament we find that the Church is to go to the unbelievers, such as in the passage previously quoted (Acts 1:8). We cannot expect the unbeliever to come to us today, any more than a business with a better mousetrap can expect customers to beat down their doors. In the New Testament we find that “witnesses” are often plural. This is because individual Christians are all to be witnesses.
What is a witness? A witness tells about something which they have personally experienced! To witness about Christ one does not have to be a theologian. “One thing I know, once I was blind but now I can see” (John 9:25). You can do that! You already have everything you need to witness. Monday coffee breaks often find people witnessing about what they did over the weekend, whether attending a sports event, a concert, a party, or an outdoor activity. It is natural to witness about that which one is excited about. The key question then becomes: “Are you excited about Christ and what He has done for you?” If not, the problem is an issue of the heart rather than the intellect!
When your faith has vitality, witnessing becomes as natural as breathing. What the Church needs is Christians who are growing and maturing in such a way that their lives are marked by “life abundant” and true joy.
The disciples never claimed to be evangelists for Christ; however, we frequently read that they considered themselves to be God's witnesses on earth. For example, Peter says “we are witnesses” in Acts 10:39. God has always had His representatives on earth.
The great paradox is that the excitement of the early Christians for witnessing resulted in their communities being evangelized! Evangelism and witnessing go hand-in-hand but they are distinguished from each other. Be bold in your witness about Christ and what He has done for you, and God will bless you.
CONTEMPLATE: All Christians are witnesses, and sometimes they use words! You cannot change God’s character—but you can damage His reputation.
Last week we looked at the three New Testament references related to “evangelism.” This time we summarize the numerous New Testament references regarding “witnessing.”
First, consider a clear statement: “You [all Christians] will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you [all Christians]; and you [all Christians] will be My witnesses” (Acts 1:8). All Christians are His witnesses whether they intend to be or not! In other words, you cannot change God’s character—but you can sure damage His reputation!
Throughout the Bible all saints are repeatedly exhorted to be witnesses, and by implication all are exhorted to speak forth. But as we have seen, there is a difference between witnessing and evangelizing. There are many places in Scripture where witnessing is a clear command to all Christians.
In the Old Testament we find that “witness” is always a singular term because it referred to a single entity, the nation of Israel. Just as CHRISTians bear CHRIST's name today, in the Old Testament Israel carried God's name. For example, we listen to Solomon's great prayer of dedication, “... so that all the peoples of the earth may know Your name and fear You, as do Your own people Israel, and may know that this house I have built bears Your Name” (1 Kings 8:43b). In those days the unbelievers sought out the Israelites, who were God's witnesses.
In the New Testament we find that the Church is to go to the unbelievers, such as in the passage previously quoted (Acts 1:8). We cannot expect the unbeliever to come to us today, any more than a business with a better mousetrap can expect customers to beat down their doors. In the New Testament we find that “witnesses” are often plural. This is because individual Christians are all to be witnesses.
What is a witness? A witness tells about something which they have personally experienced! To witness about Christ one does not have to be a theologian. “One thing I know, once I was blind but now I can see” (John 9:25). You can do that! You already have everything you need to witness. Monday coffee breaks often find people witnessing about what they did over the weekend, whether attending a sports event, a concert, a party, or an outdoor activity. It is natural to witness about that which one is excited about. The key question then becomes: “Are you excited about Christ and what He has done for you?” If not, the problem is an issue of the heart rather than the intellect!
When your faith has vitality, witnessing becomes as natural as breathing. What the Church needs is Christians who are growing and maturing in such a way that their lives are marked by “life abundant” and true joy.
The disciples never claimed to be evangelists for Christ; however, we frequently read that they considered themselves to be God's witnesses on earth. For example, Peter says “we are witnesses” in Acts 10:39. God has always had His representatives on earth.
The great paradox is that the excitement of the early Christians for witnessing resulted in their communities being evangelized! Evangelism and witnessing go hand-in-hand but they are distinguished from each other. Be bold in your witness about Christ and what He has done for you, and God will bless you.
CONTEMPLATE: All Christians are witnesses, and sometimes they use words! You cannot change God’s character—but you can damage His reputation.
“Evangelist” vs. “Witness” - 1of2
~ Only 3 References to Evangelism in the NT ~
Throughout my decades as a Christian I have often observed Christians with a guilt complex about their lack of evangelistic effort. I believe a key reason for this is a major misunderstanding of the Biblical concept of evangelism. In particular Christians need to differentiate between evangelism and witnessing.
The New Testament contains a total of three references to evangelism. Good hermeneutic (Biblical interpretation) principles need to be used rather than accepting what has often been taught. Look at the three references and what they clearly tell us.
The first reference to an evangelist in the Word of God is in Acts 21:8, where we read: “Leaving the next day, we reached Caesarea and stayed at the house of Philip the evangelist, one of the Seven.” Notice the clear use of the word as a title, similar to the way in which one today might say “Billy Graham the evangelist.” Incidentally, Philip—the evangelist is to be distinguished from Philip—the apostle.
The second reference is in Ephesians 4:11, dealing with spiritual gifts in the church: “It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers.” The context clearly speaks for itself.
The third time the word evangelist is used in the Word of God is in 2 Timothy 4:5, where we read Paul's charge to Timothy: “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” Here we see the term used as a specific instruction to a specific individual. “Do the work of an evangelist” again connotes a specific type of calling. How Christians exercise the gift of evangelism may vary. Some may conduct mass crusades while others are skilled in one-to-one evangelistic efforts.
The word “evangelist” appears in Scripture in only three locations. It seems clear from these references that not all Christians are called to be evangelists and therefore are not necessarily commanded to do the work of an evangelist (or to feel guilty about not doing so).
In summary, the word is a title similar to teacher, prophet, and so forth. The title evangelist refers to one who has the particular spiritual gift of effectively pointing unbelievers to Christ. As in the case of the gift of “teaching,” an “evangelist” is called and equipped for a particular type of ministry. No one should make another Christian feel guilty about not being an evangelist.
An important word of caution. I am not suggesting that Christians should avoid doing the work of an evangelist when opportunity presents itself. For example, Christians should not avoid teaching because they do not have the spiritual gift of teaching. Parents for example are to instruct their children and there are many other examples of ordinary Christians teaching others. Likewise, every Christian should be sensitive to the Spirit of God and use whatever evangelistic gift God has given them—little becomes much when God leads you! We are to be sensitive to the leading of the Spirit at all times.
Stay tuned! Next week we will look at “the rest of the story” and the topic of being a witness for Christ—something closely related to, but different from, being an evangelist.
Throughout my decades as a Christian I have often observed Christians with a guilt complex about their lack of evangelistic effort. I believe a key reason for this is a major misunderstanding of the Biblical concept of evangelism. In particular Christians need to differentiate between evangelism and witnessing.
The New Testament contains a total of three references to evangelism. Good hermeneutic (Biblical interpretation) principles need to be used rather than accepting what has often been taught. Look at the three references and what they clearly tell us.
The first reference to an evangelist in the Word of God is in Acts 21:8, where we read: “Leaving the next day, we reached Caesarea and stayed at the house of Philip the evangelist, one of the Seven.” Notice the clear use of the word as a title, similar to the way in which one today might say “Billy Graham the evangelist.” Incidentally, Philip—the evangelist is to be distinguished from Philip—the apostle.
The second reference is in Ephesians 4:11, dealing with spiritual gifts in the church: “It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers.” The context clearly speaks for itself.
The third time the word evangelist is used in the Word of God is in 2 Timothy 4:5, where we read Paul's charge to Timothy: “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” Here we see the term used as a specific instruction to a specific individual. “Do the work of an evangelist” again connotes a specific type of calling. How Christians exercise the gift of evangelism may vary. Some may conduct mass crusades while others are skilled in one-to-one evangelistic efforts.
The word “evangelist” appears in Scripture in only three locations. It seems clear from these references that not all Christians are called to be evangelists and therefore are not necessarily commanded to do the work of an evangelist (or to feel guilty about not doing so).
In summary, the word is a title similar to teacher, prophet, and so forth. The title evangelist refers to one who has the particular spiritual gift of effectively pointing unbelievers to Christ. As in the case of the gift of “teaching,” an “evangelist” is called and equipped for a particular type of ministry. No one should make another Christian feel guilty about not being an evangelist.
An important word of caution. I am not suggesting that Christians should avoid doing the work of an evangelist when opportunity presents itself. For example, Christians should not avoid teaching because they do not have the spiritual gift of teaching. Parents for example are to instruct their children and there are many other examples of ordinary Christians teaching others. Likewise, every Christian should be sensitive to the Spirit of God and use whatever evangelistic gift God has given them—little becomes much when God leads you! We are to be sensitive to the leading of the Spirit at all times.
Stay tuned! Next week we will look at “the rest of the story” and the topic of being a witness for Christ—something closely related to, but different from, being an evangelist.
Monday, April 5, 2010
7 New Things
~ A Christian Is New—Not Modified! ~
When a person becomes a Christian, all things become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). Seven closely related factors which each Christian possesses are listed below.
A new mind about God / repentance ~ To become a Christian requires repenting of one’s sins. Repentance involves an abrupt change in thinking about sin and about God (Acts 20:21).
A new attitude toward God / conversion ~ Closely related to repentance, conversion is actually the result of genuine repentance (Matthew 18:3). The individual literally becomes new as he is born spiritually (John 3:3). Previously he was born physically—now born again this time spiritually—literally “born from above.”
A new status before God / justification ~ A Christian is justified. This means that justice has been accomplished—their sins have been paid for in full on the Cross (Romans 4:25). God has not dismissed their sins, rather the full price of their sins has been paid by Jesus Christ. Because of the Cross it is “just as if they had never sinned” in God’s eyes.
A new relationship before God / a son of God ~ The believer is now is part of the family of God (1 John 3:1). All creatures belong to God as a result of creation—those who have acknowledged God for who He is and what He says have been adopted into the family of God. As part of God’s family they are entitled to full rights and have a full inheritance (Galatians 4:7).
A new life from God / regeneration ~ A Christian has been regenerated (Titus 3:5). This is not a fixed-up old life but a new spiritual life which coexists with the natural life. “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.” (1 John 5:12-13) A key word in this verse is “know.” There is no uncertainty about the future for the Christian who understands the Word of God!
A new position before God / sanctification ~ The Christian has been sanctified, literally set apart, by God for a new and glorious life, ministry, and future home in heaven (Jude 1). The God who created the universe has set you apart for His glory!
A new place with God / glorification ~ While there is a sense of glory from the time of conversion (Romans 8:30), the ultimate glorification of the believer occurs in the future at the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. At that time we shall be changed and shall be with God for eternity future.
When a person becomes a Christian, all things become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). Seven closely related factors which each Christian possesses are listed below.
A new mind about God / repentance ~ To become a Christian requires repenting of one’s sins. Repentance involves an abrupt change in thinking about sin and about God (Acts 20:21).
A new attitude toward God / conversion ~ Closely related to repentance, conversion is actually the result of genuine repentance (Matthew 18:3). The individual literally becomes new as he is born spiritually (John 3:3). Previously he was born physically—now born again this time spiritually—literally “born from above.”
A new status before God / justification ~ A Christian is justified. This means that justice has been accomplished—their sins have been paid for in full on the Cross (Romans 4:25). God has not dismissed their sins, rather the full price of their sins has been paid by Jesus Christ. Because of the Cross it is “just as if they had never sinned” in God’s eyes.
A new relationship before God / a son of God ~ The believer is now is part of the family of God (1 John 3:1). All creatures belong to God as a result of creation—those who have acknowledged God for who He is and what He says have been adopted into the family of God. As part of God’s family they are entitled to full rights and have a full inheritance (Galatians 4:7).
A new life from God / regeneration ~ A Christian has been regenerated (Titus 3:5). This is not a fixed-up old life but a new spiritual life which coexists with the natural life. “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.” (1 John 5:12-13) A key word in this verse is “know.” There is no uncertainty about the future for the Christian who understands the Word of God!
A new position before God / sanctification ~ The Christian has been sanctified, literally set apart, by God for a new and glorious life, ministry, and future home in heaven (Jude 1). The God who created the universe has set you apart for His glory!
A new place with God / glorification ~ While there is a sense of glory from the time of conversion (Romans 8:30), the ultimate glorification of the believer occurs in the future at the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. At that time we shall be changed and shall be with God for eternity future.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
The Incomparable Christ
~ The original source of the following is unknown. ~
Over 2000 years ago a man was born contrary to the laws of life.
He lived in poverty.
He was raised in obscurity.
He did not travel extensively (only once leaving His native country—during exile in childhood).
He had no wealth or wide-spread influence.
His relatives were inconspicuous.
He had no formal training or formal education.
But this Man’s life changed the course of history!
In infancy He startled a king.
In childhood He puzzled doctors.
In manhood He ruled the course of nature.
He walked on water and He hushed the sea.
He healed multitudes without medicine and He made no charge for His services.
He never wrote a book.
His life has inspired more books than any other man.
He never wrote a song.
Yet He has furnished the theme for more songs than all the songwriters combined.
He never founded a college.
But all the schools put together cannot boast of having as many students.
He never marshaled an army, or drafted a soldier, or fired a gun.
Yet no leader ever had more volunteers, who have under His orders, made more rebels stack arms and surrender without a shot fired.
He never practiced psychiatry.
Yet He has healed more broken hearts than all the doctors far and near.
Every seventh day the wheels of commerce cease their turning and multitudes wend their way to worshipping assemblies to pay homage and respect to Him.
Though time has spread 2000 years between the people of our generation and His birth, He still lives. His enemies could not destroy Him, and the grave could not hold Him.
The names of past proud statesmen of Greece and Rome have come and gone. The names of past scientists, philosophers, and theologians have come and gone.
But the name of this Man abounds more and more!
Herod could not destroy Him.
The grave could not hold Him.
He stands forth on the highest pinnacle of heavenly glory!
Proclaimed of God, acknowledged by angels, adored by saints, and feared by devils, our risen, living Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
We will be either forever with Him or forever without Him.
~~~~
“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:9-11).
“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9).
Over 2000 years ago a man was born contrary to the laws of life.
He lived in poverty.
He was raised in obscurity.
He did not travel extensively (only once leaving His native country—during exile in childhood).
He had no wealth or wide-spread influence.
His relatives were inconspicuous.
He had no formal training or formal education.
But this Man’s life changed the course of history!
In infancy He startled a king.
In childhood He puzzled doctors.
In manhood He ruled the course of nature.
He walked on water and He hushed the sea.
He healed multitudes without medicine and He made no charge for His services.
He never wrote a book.
His life has inspired more books than any other man.
He never wrote a song.
Yet He has furnished the theme for more songs than all the songwriters combined.
He never founded a college.
But all the schools put together cannot boast of having as many students.
He never marshaled an army, or drafted a soldier, or fired a gun.
Yet no leader ever had more volunteers, who have under His orders, made more rebels stack arms and surrender without a shot fired.
He never practiced psychiatry.
Yet He has healed more broken hearts than all the doctors far and near.
Every seventh day the wheels of commerce cease their turning and multitudes wend their way to worshipping assemblies to pay homage and respect to Him.
Though time has spread 2000 years between the people of our generation and His birth, He still lives. His enemies could not destroy Him, and the grave could not hold Him.
The names of past proud statesmen of Greece and Rome have come and gone. The names of past scientists, philosophers, and theologians have come and gone.
But the name of this Man abounds more and more!
Herod could not destroy Him.
The grave could not hold Him.
He stands forth on the highest pinnacle of heavenly glory!
Proclaimed of God, acknowledged by angels, adored by saints, and feared by devils, our risen, living Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
We will be either forever with Him or forever without Him.
~~~~
“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:9-11).
“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9).
Saturday, March 27, 2010
EXTRA: New Look
~ We Hope You Like the Changes ~
Over the last couple of days Abundant Life Now has morphed into a new look with improved functionality. Our change goal was to have a more pleasant appearance with better grouping of peripheral items. You will notice that we have added a second sidebar on the left (which includes an Index to past blogs). We also strived to maintain the simplicity of navigation of the prior site design. We hope you like the changes.
The goal of this blog remains the same: to uplift our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and His saving work. We want to provide inspiration, encouragement, and hope for all readers. We welcome suggestions that might help us accomplish those goals.
Over the last couple of days Abundant Life Now has morphed into a new look with improved functionality. Our change goal was to have a more pleasant appearance with better grouping of peripheral items. You will notice that we have added a second sidebar on the left (which includes an Index to past blogs). We also strived to maintain the simplicity of navigation of the prior site design. We hope you like the changes.
The goal of this blog remains the same: to uplift our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and His saving work. We want to provide inspiration, encouragement, and hope for all readers. We welcome suggestions that might help us accomplish those goals.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
The Christian’s 3 Choices
~ 3 Options from Romans 12:1-2 ~
The Christian makes daily choices as to whether he will be transformed into a Christ-like person, conformed into the mold of society around him, or a third option—become deformed!
“Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:1-2).
Transformed ~ This option is clearly what our Lord desires for us. We are transformed as we study the Word of God, spend in time in prayer, and train ourselves in spiritual disciplines. As we sincerely try to do the will of God, He transforms us.
The Hebrew word translated “transformed” is the same word translated “changed” in 2 Corinthians 3:18. This word is only used twice in Scripture in reference to Christians.
One of the many reasons that consistent transformation is difficult is that, as our passage says, we are “living sacrifices,” we have the ability to keep crawling off the altar.
Jim Elliot, a well-known martyred missionary, wrote: “One does not surrender a life in an instant—that which is lifelong can only be surrendered in a lifetime.”
Conformed ~ A second option comes easily as we “go with the flow” around us and become conformed to the pattern of the world around us. Sadly, this is often the case even within Christian groups. Sometimes this situation exists because there was never a decision to make Jesus Christ the Lord of one’s life. The free gift of salvation was received but then life goes on as if nothing significant happened.
When I was young I often heard someone described as a “spiritual giant.” I believe that is a completely erroneous term. To be transformed is “normal Christianity” as viewed from God’s eyes. To be conformed is “average Christianity” as we view the situation around us in developed countries. In other words, those who are truly transformed are approaching true Christianity and the rest of us are “spiritual pigmies” with regard to our Christian growth.
Deformed ~ The third and final option which is not specifically mentioned in these two verses is not good—we become deformed by trying to be transformed while we are willing to be conformed to the world in areas of our interests. Past generations referred to this a “carnal Christianity”—which is really an oxymoron! Entire local churches can be deformed and such is the case of the Laodicean church in Revelation 3:14-19 which God describes as lukewarm. In a stern warning He says He will spit them out of His mouth.
God grant us all the desire, perseverance, and grace to be transformed into His likeness that we should not be ashamed when He returns for us. Repentance is a requirement for salvation—transformation is our calling!
CONTEMPLATE: If Romans 12:1-2 is true for your heart and you make Proverbs 3:5-6 real in your life and use Colossians 3:17 for every decision, you can be guaranteed a happy, successful, and fruitful Christian life.
The Christian makes daily choices as to whether he will be transformed into a Christ-like person, conformed into the mold of society around him, or a third option—become deformed!
“Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:1-2).
Transformed ~ This option is clearly what our Lord desires for us. We are transformed as we study the Word of God, spend in time in prayer, and train ourselves in spiritual disciplines. As we sincerely try to do the will of God, He transforms us.
The Hebrew word translated “transformed” is the same word translated “changed” in 2 Corinthians 3:18. This word is only used twice in Scripture in reference to Christians.
One of the many reasons that consistent transformation is difficult is that, as our passage says, we are “living sacrifices,” we have the ability to keep crawling off the altar.
Jim Elliot, a well-known martyred missionary, wrote: “One does not surrender a life in an instant—that which is lifelong can only be surrendered in a lifetime.”
Conformed ~ A second option comes easily as we “go with the flow” around us and become conformed to the pattern of the world around us. Sadly, this is often the case even within Christian groups. Sometimes this situation exists because there was never a decision to make Jesus Christ the Lord of one’s life. The free gift of salvation was received but then life goes on as if nothing significant happened.
When I was young I often heard someone described as a “spiritual giant.” I believe that is a completely erroneous term. To be transformed is “normal Christianity” as viewed from God’s eyes. To be conformed is “average Christianity” as we view the situation around us in developed countries. In other words, those who are truly transformed are approaching true Christianity and the rest of us are “spiritual pigmies” with regard to our Christian growth.
Deformed ~ The third and final option which is not specifically mentioned in these two verses is not good—we become deformed by trying to be transformed while we are willing to be conformed to the world in areas of our interests. Past generations referred to this a “carnal Christianity”—which is really an oxymoron! Entire local churches can be deformed and such is the case of the Laodicean church in Revelation 3:14-19 which God describes as lukewarm. In a stern warning He says He will spit them out of His mouth.
God grant us all the desire, perseverance, and grace to be transformed into His likeness that we should not be ashamed when He returns for us. Repentance is a requirement for salvation—transformation is our calling!
CONTEMPLATE: If Romans 12:1-2 is true for your heart and you make Proverbs 3:5-6 real in your life and use Colossians 3:17 for every decision, you can be guaranteed a happy, successful, and fruitful Christian life.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Salvation – 3 of 3
~ Future Reality – Glorification ~
Last time we considered salvation from the aspect of sanctification. Sanctification is marked by the bookends of “justification” and “glorification.” At some future point—perhaps today—Christians will be changed into new glorious bodies and we shall be like Him (1 John 3:2). Perhaps very soon the process of “sanctification” will end. When Jesus Christ returns to take His sanctified saints home to live with Him forever, they will be glorified!
Glorification is really all about joy! Our joy of glory is the final result of our salvation (Jude 24). Our glorification also causes great joy for our God.
Salvation is past tense, Christians have been saved from the penalty of sin. They have a new position in Christ—positional salvation and positional sanctification.
Salvation is present tense, Christians are being saved from the power of sin. They have a new condition as their new spiritual nature allows them to become more and more like Christ. This is present salvation and present sanctification.
Salvation is future tense, Christians will be saved from the presence of sin. They have an expectation of becoming just like Christ. At that time they will have perfect salvation and perfect sanctification.
Salvation past, justification, is a free gift and results from trusting Jesus Christ.
Salvation present, sanctification, is a process of ongoing growth and maturity.
Salvation future, glorification, includes evaluation to determine rewards for our life on earth.
Past justification is a one-time event—it is a birth process bringing spiritual life (the germ).
Present sanctification is a life-long process—it involves a new kind of life (growth).
Future glorification includes a one-time event at the Judgment Seat of Christ—it ushers in eternal life with God (harvest).
The Christian was translated at conversion (Colossians 1:13; Acts 26:18).
The Christian is being transformed by contemplation (Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 3:18).
The Christian will be transfigured at glorification (Romans 8:17, 29-30; 1 Corinthians 15:49-53).
The eternal God is the source of all!
Our eternal salvation is God’s greatest work!
Our eternal life is God’s richest gift!
Our eternal inheritance is guaranteed now!
God has offered such a wonderful free gift! But we must claim it. “How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation” (Hebrews 2:3).
Last time we considered salvation from the aspect of sanctification. Sanctification is marked by the bookends of “justification” and “glorification.” At some future point—perhaps today—Christians will be changed into new glorious bodies and we shall be like Him (1 John 3:2). Perhaps very soon the process of “sanctification” will end. When Jesus Christ returns to take His sanctified saints home to live with Him forever, they will be glorified!
Glorification is really all about joy! Our joy of glory is the final result of our salvation (Jude 24). Our glorification also causes great joy for our God.
Salvation is past tense, Christians have been saved from the penalty of sin. They have a new position in Christ—positional salvation and positional sanctification.
Salvation is present tense, Christians are being saved from the power of sin. They have a new condition as their new spiritual nature allows them to become more and more like Christ. This is present salvation and present sanctification.
Salvation is future tense, Christians will be saved from the presence of sin. They have an expectation of becoming just like Christ. At that time they will have perfect salvation and perfect sanctification.
Salvation past, justification, is a free gift and results from trusting Jesus Christ.
Salvation present, sanctification, is a process of ongoing growth and maturity.
Salvation future, glorification, includes evaluation to determine rewards for our life on earth.
Past justification is a one-time event—it is a birth process bringing spiritual life (the germ).
Present sanctification is a life-long process—it involves a new kind of life (growth).
Future glorification includes a one-time event at the Judgment Seat of Christ—it ushers in eternal life with God (harvest).
The Christian was translated at conversion (Colossians 1:13; Acts 26:18).
The Christian is being transformed by contemplation (Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 3:18).
The Christian will be transfigured at glorification (Romans 8:17, 29-30; 1 Corinthians 15:49-53).
The eternal God is the source of all!
Our eternal salvation is God’s greatest work!
Our eternal life is God’s richest gift!
Our eternal inheritance is guaranteed now!
God has offered such a wonderful free gift! But we must claim it. “How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation” (Hebrews 2:3).
Monday, March 15, 2010
EXTRA: Seeking God?
~ Response to a Comment ~
A recent comment posted by Jay to my blog states: “I am a muslim and am interested to know about the Christian way to God.” As a blogger I am taking this comment at face value and assume it has great sincerity. Before providing my answer I would like to remark that the five Christians who gave their lives and were the subject of the post you replied to possessed guns with live ammunition. They could have easily saved themselves but they had previously determined not to use their weapons against these native people. Their reasoning was that they knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that when they died they would be with God. On the other hand, they feared for the eternal future of the natives they were trying to reach with God’s love. Here is my two-fold answer to your question:
(1) I highly recommend that you obtain a Bible and begin by reading the Gospel of John. The Bible is divided into two major portions—the Old Testament takes up the first two-thirds of the book and is followed by the New Testament. The Gospel of John is the fourth book in the New Testament. As you read, please be open. You might say a prayer in your own words, something to the effect of “God, if You are really God, will You show me the way with no uncertainty—that I might know the true and living God.” If you do these things, I believe God will reveal Himself to you in no uncertain terms.
(2) What follows is an appendix to my next book which is due to be released in the second quarter of this year:
There was a time when I collected prints of scenes from the Pacific Northwest. I remember the time that I was looking through a hardware store in a small town along the Columbia River. I always enjoy hardware stores, especially in small towns, and in this case the anticipation of a bargain was high due to the “going out of business” signs in the windows. It wasn’t long before I spotted something I had not anticipated. It was a large discarded painting in the back room—in the “Employees Only” area. It was extremely dirty and dusty but I thought I could make out that it was a painting of Crater Lake, Oregon. The painting had no future and was headed for the dump when the store closed for the last time.
I found the owner of the store and asked about it. He was surprised that I had spotted it and amazed that I showed an interest in it. He brought it out and we blew off some of the dust. I quickly discovered some prior do-it-yourself efforts to clean the painting—which were clearly unsuccessful. Apparently someone had used gasoline or other solvent, smearing the oils—the painting looked beyond repair. But since my wife and I had honeymooned at Crater Lake and we returned to that special spot regularly, to his delight I gave the store owner a few dollars and then left with an original oil painting. My intention was to restore the painting.
At home I briefly cleaned it the best I could and hung it in our basement, but it was clearly damaged goods. The painting hung in our basement for a number of years.
One day through a business contact I learned of a local oil painting restoration expert. His services turned out to be far more reasonable than I expected and the beauty of the original creation was brought back to life. The vibrant colors were amazing. It turned out to be a painting from the late 1800s by a well-known painter. Some years later we took it for a formal valuation and confirmed that the painting which had been headed to the trash was indeed valuable.
The painting now occupies a prominent spot in our dining room—it is on display for others to see and admire.
Just like that painting, many lives have been wasted and now exist in back rooms missing out on the purpose for which they were created. Many others appear very successful on the outside, but inside they are empty and missing the most important thing in life. Like the painting, they are covered with dirt from past experiences, circumstances, and wrong decisions.
When the surface is cleaned up and a deeper analysis is made, the evidence of past do-it-yourself improvement projects is evident. No lasting success was achieved; in fact, often they are worse off than before their “pulling up by bootstraps” efforts were completed.
I have some good news for you. Jesus Christ is the Master Restorer. He restores broken and cast-off lives. He also brings clarity and brilliance to all who come to Him. Bringing your past to Jesus Christ and trusting Him for the future is the only effective answer. He has already paid for your restoration at the Cross. You only need to deliver yourself to the Master Restorer. When He restores, all your stains are removed and vibrancy is restored. Like my painting, you can be restored to what you were intended to be.
As you grow in your knowledge of Him, you take on His character. Like the painting, you can now fulfill the role for which you were created. Your life will have meaning and purpose, and like the painting, you will bring joy and pleasure to others. You will no longer be headed for the trash bin, rather now you have a secure home. Others looking on will admire what they see.
That painting is a picture of many individuals today. Because of Adam’s original sin all of mankind is doomed to sin, suffering, and death. The just and righteous Creator of the universe cannot overlook crime against His holy nature—the price must be paid!
The Good News is that your penalty has been paid by Jesus Christ.
The sin of man grieved the heart of God so much that He sent His only Son to die at Calvary to pay the penalty of your sin. However, there is a simple requirement in order for you to escape the ultimate judgment and corresponding eternal suffering. You must make a decision to accept the gift of salvation that the death of Jesus Christ provided for you.
But please do not take my word for it—take God at His Word. Consider the following quotations from the Word of God. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one” (Romans 3:10).
“But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23). “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:8-9).
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20 NKJV). “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13).
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because He has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son” (John 3:16-18).
Please now understand the significance of that word “whoever.” That last paragraph may be correctly read as follows: “For God so loved [your name] that He gave His one and only Son, so that if [your name] believes in Him [your name] shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn [your name], but that [your name] might be saved through Him. If [your name] believes in Him [your name] will not be condemned, but if [your name] does not believe [your name] stands condemned already because [your name] has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.”
“For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). The fact that Jesus Christ overcame death proves He was God. Over 500 eyewitnesses saw the resurrected Christ at one time. There were also numerous other appearances in His resurrected state including appearances to those who knew Him very well. He not only has power over death but also the power to give you a never-ending life of great joy and happiness in the world to come.
“Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God” (John 1:12-13). However, this world may be at 11:59 p.m. on the dial of the “earth’s history” clock, and when the hour strikes midnight it will be too late.
“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire” (2 Peter 3:9-10).
God has promised that if you come to Him in faith He will save you for all time and provide you with a deep inner assurance of the reality of your salvation. “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13, emphasis added). Once you have accepted the free gift of having your sins paid for by the death of Jesus Christ, the way to confidence and assurance of your future is to regularly read the Word of God and to pray to God.
As you follow God you will gain complete confidence in your future. If you have made the decision to accept the death of Jesus Christ on your behalf, welcome to the kingdom of God! I am so happy to have you as my new brother. (I would welcome contact with you.)
A recent comment posted by Jay to my blog states: “I am a muslim and am interested to know about the Christian way to God.” As a blogger I am taking this comment at face value and assume it has great sincerity. Before providing my answer I would like to remark that the five Christians who gave their lives and were the subject of the post you replied to possessed guns with live ammunition. They could have easily saved themselves but they had previously determined not to use their weapons against these native people. Their reasoning was that they knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that when they died they would be with God. On the other hand, they feared for the eternal future of the natives they were trying to reach with God’s love. Here is my two-fold answer to your question:
(1) I highly recommend that you obtain a Bible and begin by reading the Gospel of John. The Bible is divided into two major portions—the Old Testament takes up the first two-thirds of the book and is followed by the New Testament. The Gospel of John is the fourth book in the New Testament. As you read, please be open. You might say a prayer in your own words, something to the effect of “God, if You are really God, will You show me the way with no uncertainty—that I might know the true and living God.” If you do these things, I believe God will reveal Himself to you in no uncertain terms.
(2) What follows is an appendix to my next book which is due to be released in the second quarter of this year:
There was a time when I collected prints of scenes from the Pacific Northwest. I remember the time that I was looking through a hardware store in a small town along the Columbia River. I always enjoy hardware stores, especially in small towns, and in this case the anticipation of a bargain was high due to the “going out of business” signs in the windows. It wasn’t long before I spotted something I had not anticipated. It was a large discarded painting in the back room—in the “Employees Only” area. It was extremely dirty and dusty but I thought I could make out that it was a painting of Crater Lake, Oregon. The painting had no future and was headed for the dump when the store closed for the last time.
I found the owner of the store and asked about it. He was surprised that I had spotted it and amazed that I showed an interest in it. He brought it out and we blew off some of the dust. I quickly discovered some prior do-it-yourself efforts to clean the painting—which were clearly unsuccessful. Apparently someone had used gasoline or other solvent, smearing the oils—the painting looked beyond repair. But since my wife and I had honeymooned at Crater Lake and we returned to that special spot regularly, to his delight I gave the store owner a few dollars and then left with an original oil painting. My intention was to restore the painting.
At home I briefly cleaned it the best I could and hung it in our basement, but it was clearly damaged goods. The painting hung in our basement for a number of years.
One day through a business contact I learned of a local oil painting restoration expert. His services turned out to be far more reasonable than I expected and the beauty of the original creation was brought back to life. The vibrant colors were amazing. It turned out to be a painting from the late 1800s by a well-known painter. Some years later we took it for a formal valuation and confirmed that the painting which had been headed to the trash was indeed valuable.
The painting now occupies a prominent spot in our dining room—it is on display for others to see and admire.
Just like that painting, many lives have been wasted and now exist in back rooms missing out on the purpose for which they were created. Many others appear very successful on the outside, but inside they are empty and missing the most important thing in life. Like the painting, they are covered with dirt from past experiences, circumstances, and wrong decisions.
When the surface is cleaned up and a deeper analysis is made, the evidence of past do-it-yourself improvement projects is evident. No lasting success was achieved; in fact, often they are worse off than before their “pulling up by bootstraps” efforts were completed.
I have some good news for you. Jesus Christ is the Master Restorer. He restores broken and cast-off lives. He also brings clarity and brilliance to all who come to Him. Bringing your past to Jesus Christ and trusting Him for the future is the only effective answer. He has already paid for your restoration at the Cross. You only need to deliver yourself to the Master Restorer. When He restores, all your stains are removed and vibrancy is restored. Like my painting, you can be restored to what you were intended to be.
As you grow in your knowledge of Him, you take on His character. Like the painting, you can now fulfill the role for which you were created. Your life will have meaning and purpose, and like the painting, you will bring joy and pleasure to others. You will no longer be headed for the trash bin, rather now you have a secure home. Others looking on will admire what they see.
That painting is a picture of many individuals today. Because of Adam’s original sin all of mankind is doomed to sin, suffering, and death. The just and righteous Creator of the universe cannot overlook crime against His holy nature—the price must be paid!
The Good News is that your penalty has been paid by Jesus Christ.
The sin of man grieved the heart of God so much that He sent His only Son to die at Calvary to pay the penalty of your sin. However, there is a simple requirement in order for you to escape the ultimate judgment and corresponding eternal suffering. You must make a decision to accept the gift of salvation that the death of Jesus Christ provided for you.
But please do not take my word for it—take God at His Word. Consider the following quotations from the Word of God. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one” (Romans 3:10).
“But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23). “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:8-9).
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20 NKJV). “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13).
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because He has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son” (John 3:16-18).
Please now understand the significance of that word “whoever.” That last paragraph may be correctly read as follows: “For God so loved [your name] that He gave His one and only Son, so that if [your name] believes in Him [your name] shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn [your name], but that [your name] might be saved through Him. If [your name] believes in Him [your name] will not be condemned, but if [your name] does not believe [your name] stands condemned already because [your name] has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.”
“For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). The fact that Jesus Christ overcame death proves He was God. Over 500 eyewitnesses saw the resurrected Christ at one time. There were also numerous other appearances in His resurrected state including appearances to those who knew Him very well. He not only has power over death but also the power to give you a never-ending life of great joy and happiness in the world to come.
“Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God” (John 1:12-13). However, this world may be at 11:59 p.m. on the dial of the “earth’s history” clock, and when the hour strikes midnight it will be too late.
“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire” (2 Peter 3:9-10).
God has promised that if you come to Him in faith He will save you for all time and provide you with a deep inner assurance of the reality of your salvation. “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13, emphasis added). Once you have accepted the free gift of having your sins paid for by the death of Jesus Christ, the way to confidence and assurance of your future is to regularly read the Word of God and to pray to God.
As you follow God you will gain complete confidence in your future. If you have made the decision to accept the death of Jesus Christ on your behalf, welcome to the kingdom of God! I am so happy to have you as my new brother. (I would welcome contact with you.)
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