Each year at Christmas, we return to the manger.
The simple image of the Messiah surrounded by livestock and shepherds is for many an archetype of the Incarnation and a recurring theme in our hymns and traditions.
We are right to put Christ’s infancy at the forefront of our celebrations because God chose to put it at the forefront of the symbolism surrounding His coming.
As if the Creator of the universe taking human form wasn’t mind blowing enough, He chose to arrive on the scene naked and helpless, completely dependent upon his parents for nourishment and protection.
In divine paradox, He was both Father and child to them.
In spite of His authority and ability to do so, Christ did not depart from these humble beginnings.
Isaiah 53:2 says “For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground; He hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him.”
He never aspired to “greatness” in the human sense, content to quietly work the will of the Father and withdrawing from the praise of the masses, God become man demonstrated His identity precisely by not trumpeting it (Philippians 2:6); those who met Him at the manger were awed at the very ordinariness of His human form.
Equally significant is the location of His birth.
While there is confusion as to the exact placement of the manger (whether in a stable, on the lower floor of a house, or in a cave), it is a place not befitting human residence, let alone Gods. But it was there in a dishonorable, unsanitary space that Christ entered His world.
British author and philosopher G.K. Chesterton capitalizes on this in The Everlasting Man.
Seizing on the image of the cave, he writes, “It was here that a homeless couple had crept underground with the cattle when the doors……..had been shut in their faces; and it was here beneath the very feet of the passersby, in a cellar under the floor of the world, that Jesus Christ was born.”
Indeed, His birth as an outcast foreshadowed the life of extreme poverty that He and His disciples led (Matthew 8:20).
The lowly birth of Christ, as Chesterton goes on to state, is the central event of all history, the end of mythology’s dreams and philosophy’s search, and the trumpet call of victory over Satan.
He says, “It is nothing less than the loud assertion that this mysterious Maker of the world has visited this world in person. It declares that really…..right in the middle of historic times, there did walk into this world this original invisible being about whom the thinkers make theories and the mythologists hand down myths; the Man Who Made the World.”
The manger turns the world on its ear.
Gods entry into the world serves a larger purpose than simply flying in the face of human conventions, however.
His arrival was the ultimate demonstration both of His authority over creation (in being born of a virgin) and His love and concern for man. Because He “showed up” in the person of Christ, His character has been demonstrated for all to see.
He cannot be ignorant of poverty, for He was poor.
He has ultimate sympathy for the suffering because He was tortured and gave His life.
No man can accuse Him of being distant or uncaring because He is “God with us.”
By healing the sick and rebuking the proud, He reminds us that He has entered the world to “set it to rights”, He will bring His justice.
He came as a man to redeem the world.
He had to take part in birth and death to defeat the power of Satan over men (Hebrews 2:14).
As Athanasius of Alexandria put it, He came “to renew men according to His image.” Because of the manger, birth and life are honored with the presence of the King.
In lowering Himself, he gave significance to the daily tasks and struggles of life.
He came to set a standard by which we should also live.
This then is the mystery of the Incarnation--through all these things, He commands us to follow Him.
From the manger, he bids us to follow into a life of lowliness, wandering, sacrifice, and submission to the Father.
The irony of Gods destruction of earths status quo is that it simultaneously frees us from slavery under the law and calls us to a higher road.
The very Word of God, by whom all things were made and are held together, has shown us the way, and we are called to be imitators of Him.
Such is the gift of Christmas.
Justin Lonas
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
GOD IS FAITHFULL AT ALL TIMES
“And He said unto me. My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities….therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9,10
Great is Thy faithfulness O God My Father / There is no shadow of turning with Thee,
Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not / As Thou hast been Thou forever will be.
Great is Thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness / Morning by Morning new mercies I see
All I have needed, Thy Hand hath provided / Great is thy Faithfulness, Lord unto Me.
Summer and Winter, springtime and harvest / Sun, moon and stars in their courses above,
Join with all nature in manifest witness / To Thy great Faithfulness, mercy and love.
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth / Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide,
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow / Blessings all mine with ten thousands beside.
Great is Thy Faithfulness, Great is Thy Faithfulness /Morning by Morning new mercies I see
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided /Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto me.
The author of the hymn, Thomas Obediah Chisholm was born in a log cabin in Franklin, Kentucky in July of 1866.
At the age of 16 he began teaching school despite the paucity of his own education, when at the age of 27 under the ministry of Evangelist H.C. Morrison he came to know the Lord.
It was the persuasion of Morrison that Chisholm moved to Louisville and became editor of the Pentecostal Herald. He was ordained a Methodist minister in 1903 and served a brief pastorate at Scottsville, Kentucky.
However because of poor health, Thomas alternated between bouts of illness and gainful employment in which he did everything from journalism to insurance to evangelistic work. Through all the ups and downs though he discovered new blessings from God every morning.
The third chapter of Lamentations became precious to him--”His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness.”
Thomas spent his retirement years in a Methodist Home for the Aged in Ocean Park, New Jersey, where he was frequently seen walking by the ocean and along town streets.
He passed away on February 29 1960.
How many of us find that we discover new blessings from God every morning-even when circumstances dare to differ.
I read a analogy about resting in our God, and basically it read, “All of us by nature are murmurers and complainers. We question every act of God and man. In our arrogance and self-will, we secretly think that we could do much better if things were in OUR CONTROL."
I’m sure you have asked yourself as to why there are Christians that seem to be living that peaceful life.
They have simply conquered the pain and the bitterness that comes into each of their lives, by simply keeping STILL.
They are so sure of His love and wisdom, that they are pained by no doubt, no fear, no uncertainty. Peace is their pillow, because they have learned to just BE STILL.
Their quietness robs trials of its sharpness, sorrow of its bitterness, death of its sting, and the grave of its victory.”
I think this is one issue that we as Christians struggle with every day.
And that is “How are we to be at peace and rejoicing in the Lord every day, especially when trials come our way.”
Does Christianity mean that we are NEVER to question, NEVER to be discouraged, NEVER to cry out when disease is raging throughout our body. We are only human and these are basic human instincts that we all feel at times.
When death of a loved one comes our way or when we have just been diagnosed with a terminal disease, when one has lost their job, our first inclination is to ask WHY?
Didn’t our Lord cry out to His Father when He was on the Cross, by saying “Why hast thou forsaken Me?”
Yes, I truly think that we might go through some anger, we might even get down, we might ask Why, for these are our human emotions screaming out at us, but when we get past the Whys, what do we have left.
We have our FAITH to lean on!
We can only believe, and only rest in the Knowledge that our lord WILL never forsake us and that HE WILL see us through no matter what is before us.
Gods GRACE is SUFFICIENT!
May we all rest in the compassionate and tender hands of our Lord.
today and every day after let us all declare that Great is Thy Faithfulness
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpRCClg8pEY
Great is Thy faithfulness O God My Father / There is no shadow of turning with Thee,
Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not / As Thou hast been Thou forever will be.
Great is Thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness / Morning by Morning new mercies I see
All I have needed, Thy Hand hath provided / Great is thy Faithfulness, Lord unto Me.
Summer and Winter, springtime and harvest / Sun, moon and stars in their courses above,
Join with all nature in manifest witness / To Thy great Faithfulness, mercy and love.
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth / Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide,
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow / Blessings all mine with ten thousands beside.
Great is Thy Faithfulness, Great is Thy Faithfulness /Morning by Morning new mercies I see
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided /Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto me.
The author of the hymn, Thomas Obediah Chisholm was born in a log cabin in Franklin, Kentucky in July of 1866.
At the age of 16 he began teaching school despite the paucity of his own education, when at the age of 27 under the ministry of Evangelist H.C. Morrison he came to know the Lord.
It was the persuasion of Morrison that Chisholm moved to Louisville and became editor of the Pentecostal Herald. He was ordained a Methodist minister in 1903 and served a brief pastorate at Scottsville, Kentucky.
However because of poor health, Thomas alternated between bouts of illness and gainful employment in which he did everything from journalism to insurance to evangelistic work. Through all the ups and downs though he discovered new blessings from God every morning.
The third chapter of Lamentations became precious to him--”His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness.”
Thomas spent his retirement years in a Methodist Home for the Aged in Ocean Park, New Jersey, where he was frequently seen walking by the ocean and along town streets.
He passed away on February 29 1960.
How many of us find that we discover new blessings from God every morning-even when circumstances dare to differ.
I read a analogy about resting in our God, and basically it read, “All of us by nature are murmurers and complainers. We question every act of God and man. In our arrogance and self-will, we secretly think that we could do much better if things were in OUR CONTROL."
I’m sure you have asked yourself as to why there are Christians that seem to be living that peaceful life.
They have simply conquered the pain and the bitterness that comes into each of their lives, by simply keeping STILL.
They are so sure of His love and wisdom, that they are pained by no doubt, no fear, no uncertainty. Peace is their pillow, because they have learned to just BE STILL.
Their quietness robs trials of its sharpness, sorrow of its bitterness, death of its sting, and the grave of its victory.”
I think this is one issue that we as Christians struggle with every day.
And that is “How are we to be at peace and rejoicing in the Lord every day, especially when trials come our way.”
Does Christianity mean that we are NEVER to question, NEVER to be discouraged, NEVER to cry out when disease is raging throughout our body. We are only human and these are basic human instincts that we all feel at times.
When death of a loved one comes our way or when we have just been diagnosed with a terminal disease, when one has lost their job, our first inclination is to ask WHY?
Didn’t our Lord cry out to His Father when He was on the Cross, by saying “Why hast thou forsaken Me?”
Yes, I truly think that we might go through some anger, we might even get down, we might ask Why, for these are our human emotions screaming out at us, but when we get past the Whys, what do we have left.
We have our FAITH to lean on!
We can only believe, and only rest in the Knowledge that our lord WILL never forsake us and that HE WILL see us through no matter what is before us.
Gods GRACE is SUFFICIENT!
May we all rest in the compassionate and tender hands of our Lord.
today and every day after let us all declare that Great is Thy Faithfulness
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpRCClg8pEY
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Throughout the Church Age, confessing Christ has been a vital issue.
The Apostle Paul deemed it as essential to release full salvation in the soul who by grace alone has received saving faith: “If thou confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God has raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9).
Jesus stated the full expectation that those who have placed their faith in Him would then confess Him to others: “Whosoever..shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father” (Matthew 10:32).
The message is quite simple.
Jesus wants us to say publicly that we believe in Him and in His work to save us---He is Gods Son, He died for our sins, He rose for our justification--and that, to put it in in modern terms, He is our personal Lord and Savior.
That is the act of confessing Christ by mouth.
While this is enough to confirm our salvation, there are other ways we may confess Christ. Every time we do the following, our actions declare that Jesus is living and having His way in us.
And it is deeply pleasing to Him.
We confess Christ whenever we leave or voluntarily abandon the places, associations, and relationships in which we formerly practiced sin.
We confess Him by lifestyle, by not conforming to the worlds values and ways of living but by transforming our life-goals and living habits to live humble, holy, spiritually (not materialistically) driven, Christ-centered, Word -loving, Spirit-led lives.
We confess Him whenever we cultivate a loving affection for Jesus by spending time alone with Him daily in devotional Bible reading, unpretentious prayer, and adoring worship, and by loving and comforting others as He has commanded us.
We confess Him by hating sin (first in our self) while maintaining mercy for sinners, “Ye who love the Lord, hate evil” (Psalm 97:10)----knowing fully well that apathy toward sin is apathy toward Him.
We confess Him by our labor, or by working whole heartedly and steadily “as to the Lord” (Colossians 3:23), without regard to honor from people.
We confess Him by lending, or by reliving His life mission, “not to be ministered unto, but to minister and to give” (Matthew 20:28), as we strive to first give, share, or lend, rather than to receive, take or hold.
We confess Him by promoting Him above all purported deities or great men as being the only God, the only Savior, and the only hope.
We confess Him by lingering, or waiting patiently for the Fathers appointed time to fulfill His plans, bless our efforts, answer our prayers, or release us from difficulties, hindrances or enemies.
We confess Him when we desire above all else to know Him more deeply, fellowship with Him more closely, do His will more consistently and fervently strive to see “thy kingdom come, thy will be done” (Matthew 6:10)
Practice daily to confess Him, by mouth and by life style.
The Apostle Paul deemed it as essential to release full salvation in the soul who by grace alone has received saving faith: “If thou confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God has raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9).
Jesus stated the full expectation that those who have placed their faith in Him would then confess Him to others: “Whosoever..shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father” (Matthew 10:32).
The message is quite simple.
Jesus wants us to say publicly that we believe in Him and in His work to save us---He is Gods Son, He died for our sins, He rose for our justification--and that, to put it in in modern terms, He is our personal Lord and Savior.
That is the act of confessing Christ by mouth.
While this is enough to confirm our salvation, there are other ways we may confess Christ. Every time we do the following, our actions declare that Jesus is living and having His way in us.
And it is deeply pleasing to Him.
We confess Christ whenever we leave or voluntarily abandon the places, associations, and relationships in which we formerly practiced sin.
We confess Him by lifestyle, by not conforming to the worlds values and ways of living but by transforming our life-goals and living habits to live humble, holy, spiritually (not materialistically) driven, Christ-centered, Word -loving, Spirit-led lives.
We confess Him whenever we cultivate a loving affection for Jesus by spending time alone with Him daily in devotional Bible reading, unpretentious prayer, and adoring worship, and by loving and comforting others as He has commanded us.
We confess Him by hating sin (first in our self) while maintaining mercy for sinners, “Ye who love the Lord, hate evil” (Psalm 97:10)----knowing fully well that apathy toward sin is apathy toward Him.
We confess Him by our labor, or by working whole heartedly and steadily “as to the Lord” (Colossians 3:23), without regard to honor from people.
We confess Him by lending, or by reliving His life mission, “not to be ministered unto, but to minister and to give” (Matthew 20:28), as we strive to first give, share, or lend, rather than to receive, take or hold.
We confess Him by promoting Him above all purported deities or great men as being the only God, the only Savior, and the only hope.
We confess Him by lingering, or waiting patiently for the Fathers appointed time to fulfill His plans, bless our efforts, answer our prayers, or release us from difficulties, hindrances or enemies.
We confess Him when we desire above all else to know Him more deeply, fellowship with Him more closely, do His will more consistently and fervently strive to see “thy kingdom come, thy will be done” (Matthew 6:10)
Practice daily to confess Him, by mouth and by life style.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
WHO IS JESUS
I make it my business to ask people a certain question.
Most of the people I do not know and have not asked them the question before.
In the month of August, I changed things up a little by asking the question to 90 people that I know profess to be Christians.
The results of the survey may come as a shock to many of you, but the answers given are consistent in this age when most pulpit sermons have little or nothing to do with exalting the One who is the Head of the New Testament Church.
1. Seven of the respondents could not verbalize as to just who was Jesus.
2. Forty One of the individuals questioned claimed without doubt that Jesus was Gods Son but other than that, were at a loss to commit to any other real knowledge of Him.
3. Twelve made the testimony of Jesus as personal Savior and as Gods only Son, who came to earth as the only worthy sacrifice for sin. ( Good testimony on their part)
4. Twenty Two of the Christians interviewed saw Jesus as someone who makes their lives more comfortable, in various fashion, and could not really describe anymore of His reality.
5. Eight of those questioned, were able to describe Him in terms that indicated a deep understanding of His sovereignty, over all of creation, including His authority over them in a personal relationship.
NONE OF THE ANSWERS ARE WRONG
The answers do however give us a good insight into the depth of the understanding of how Christians view Him, whom they have chosen to entrust their eternal future to.
The following is a very good audio/video posting of a sermon by Rev. S.M. Lockeridge.
View it and enjoy as we all need to be reminded daily, just who is MY KING
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yX_7j32zgNw
Most of the people I do not know and have not asked them the question before.
In the month of August, I changed things up a little by asking the question to 90 people that I know profess to be Christians.
The results of the survey may come as a shock to many of you, but the answers given are consistent in this age when most pulpit sermons have little or nothing to do with exalting the One who is the Head of the New Testament Church.
1. Seven of the respondents could not verbalize as to just who was Jesus.
2. Forty One of the individuals questioned claimed without doubt that Jesus was Gods Son but other than that, were at a loss to commit to any other real knowledge of Him.
3. Twelve made the testimony of Jesus as personal Savior and as Gods only Son, who came to earth as the only worthy sacrifice for sin. ( Good testimony on their part)
4. Twenty Two of the Christians interviewed saw Jesus as someone who makes their lives more comfortable, in various fashion, and could not really describe anymore of His reality.
5. Eight of those questioned, were able to describe Him in terms that indicated a deep understanding of His sovereignty, over all of creation, including His authority over them in a personal relationship.
NONE OF THE ANSWERS ARE WRONG
The answers do however give us a good insight into the depth of the understanding of how Christians view Him, whom they have chosen to entrust their eternal future to.
The following is a very good audio/video posting of a sermon by Rev. S.M. Lockeridge.
View it and enjoy as we all need to be reminded daily, just who is MY KING
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yX_7j32zgNw
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Decide on Faith
DECIDING TO RELY UPON FAITH
So Abram departed as the Lord had spoken……Genesis 12:4
Abraham is not only one of the greatest names in history, he is one of the greatest of the great.
No man ever marked a greater turning point in history. No man ever became father to greater posterity.
No man ever received greater personal promises from God.
More than being a great historical figure, he can be measured as great because of his personal character.
Because of certain distinguishing qualities he can distinctively be called the “friend of God.” Isaiah 41:8
It is with the spiritual significance of Abraham that we are concerned at this moment.
He moves before us in a typical and representative way as the man of faith.
Whatever else he may or may not be, Abraham is outstandingly representative of the man “who believed God.” Romans 4:3.
Some of the most precious and vital lessons of the faith life can be learned by studying his personal history.
Let us examine the twelfth and thirteenth chapters of Genesis, where we have the call of Abraham and his first stepping forth into the walk of faith.
Three verses become key 12:5 “Abram went forth” 12:10 “Abram went down” ; 13:1 “Abram went up.”
In the first of these we see that Abram went forth into Canaan.
In the second we are told that Abram went down into Egypt.
And in the third Abram went “up back into Canaan.
Why was it that Abram went forth into Canaan?
He went in response to a divine call.
Why was it that Abram went down into Egypt?
He went as a result of a decision based upon his own mind.
Why was it then that “Abram went up out of Egypt?
He went back because he learned the lesson that faith in God is better than trusting in our own human reasoning.
In this we have a great example of three lessons in one.
In the first part we see that “Abram went forth into Canaan” which is faith responding.
In the second part we learn that “Abram went down into Egypt” (because of famine) we see faith receding.
In the third part of the lesson we learn that “Abram went up out of Egypt” back to “the place of the altar which he had made there (in Canaan) at the first”, we are seeing faith returning.
Let us think on the first of these FAITH RESPONDING
Chapter 12:4 reads, “So Abram departed, as Jehovah had spoken.”
Faith is always a response to the word of God.
Therefore faith is not a presumption, or a believing without a reason.
Nor, is it ever against reason, thought it is sometimes above reason.
Suppose for a moment, please, that someone reading these very lines has been aroused, by the Spirit of God to consider a sense of personal sin and the need of salvation.
The first thing for one to ask is, “Has God spoken any word for me?”
Then if convinced that the Bible is without doubt the Word of God, the next step is to accept passages such as Hebrews 1:1-3 “( God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by his Son, whom he has appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high) or John 5:24 (Truly, truly, I say to you, He that hears my word, and believes on him that sent me, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death to life.)
Knowing that the words are spoken directly without waiver to the reader who says in his heart that I believe those are for me, and is then able declare that I am now saved, will see that it is not unreasonable to accept the assurances of Gods Word, and to say that I am now a Child of the Living God.
And it is no longer presumptuous for me to accept and to act upon the promises of Gods Word for that very Word itself tells me that they are all “yeah and amen” to me, in Christ Jesus.
So Abram departed as the Lord had spoken……Genesis 12:4
Abraham is not only one of the greatest names in history, he is one of the greatest of the great.
No man ever marked a greater turning point in history. No man ever became father to greater posterity.
No man ever received greater personal promises from God.
More than being a great historical figure, he can be measured as great because of his personal character.
Because of certain distinguishing qualities he can distinctively be called the “friend of God.” Isaiah 41:8
It is with the spiritual significance of Abraham that we are concerned at this moment.
He moves before us in a typical and representative way as the man of faith.
Whatever else he may or may not be, Abraham is outstandingly representative of the man “who believed God.” Romans 4:3.
Some of the most precious and vital lessons of the faith life can be learned by studying his personal history.
Let us examine the twelfth and thirteenth chapters of Genesis, where we have the call of Abraham and his first stepping forth into the walk of faith.
Three verses become key 12:5 “Abram went forth” 12:10 “Abram went down” ; 13:1 “Abram went up.”
In the first of these we see that Abram went forth into Canaan.
In the second we are told that Abram went down into Egypt.
And in the third Abram went “up back into Canaan.
Why was it that Abram went forth into Canaan?
He went in response to a divine call.
Why was it that Abram went down into Egypt?
He went as a result of a decision based upon his own mind.
Why was it then that “Abram went up out of Egypt?
He went back because he learned the lesson that faith in God is better than trusting in our own human reasoning.
In this we have a great example of three lessons in one.
In the first part we see that “Abram went forth into Canaan” which is faith responding.
In the second part we learn that “Abram went down into Egypt” (because of famine) we see faith receding.
In the third part of the lesson we learn that “Abram went up out of Egypt” back to “the place of the altar which he had made there (in Canaan) at the first”, we are seeing faith returning.
Let us think on the first of these FAITH RESPONDING
Chapter 12:4 reads, “So Abram departed, as Jehovah had spoken.”
Faith is always a response to the word of God.
Therefore faith is not a presumption, or a believing without a reason.
Nor, is it ever against reason, thought it is sometimes above reason.
Suppose for a moment, please, that someone reading these very lines has been aroused, by the Spirit of God to consider a sense of personal sin and the need of salvation.
The first thing for one to ask is, “Has God spoken any word for me?”
Then if convinced that the Bible is without doubt the Word of God, the next step is to accept passages such as Hebrews 1:1-3 “( God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by his Son, whom he has appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high) or John 5:24 (Truly, truly, I say to you, He that hears my word, and believes on him that sent me, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death to life.)
Knowing that the words are spoken directly without waiver to the reader who says in his heart that I believe those are for me, and is then able declare that I am now saved, will see that it is not unreasonable to accept the assurances of Gods Word, and to say that I am now a Child of the Living God.
And it is no longer presumptuous for me to accept and to act upon the promises of Gods Word for that very Word itself tells me that they are all “yeah and amen” to me, in Christ Jesus.
Friday, August 7, 2009
We live in a day and time when people in and out of the church cannot define what Sin is.
This is a horrible problem in any society.
God has said in Isaiah 5:20 “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil: that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”
Whenever a people or a nation can no longer distinguish between good and evil, those people are quickly on their way to destruction.
History is full of nation after nation that fell from global influence to that of no consequence, and even into the pages of non-existence, when their standards of good and evil were changed.
We must have a way to determine right from wrong, good from evil.
We must have a rule that we live by, a standard, else we become no more than “blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both, shall fall into a ditch.” (Matthew 15:14)
In the spiritual realm there must be a standard for good and evil, or else we have no standard at all.
If good is an arbitrary standard based only on how I feel or think, then what about the person who believes theft is acceptable?
What then about the murderer, or the adulterer, or the abortionist?
How can any of us judge what is right or wrong based only upon what satisfies humanity?
The Bible tells us “that all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
Our spiritual compass is broken.
We are all sold into sin.
We must have a standard outside ourselves for right and wrong if morality is to be anything more than just a word.
The only true standard exists in Jesus Christ and the written Word of God.
Many are the souls who have been led to believe that salvation by faith in Christ does not require a changed life.
There is no truth in that belief according to Holy Scripture.
There were two thieves hanging next to Jesus as He suffered for us on the cross.
One of the thieves railed against the Son of God and said “ if you are the Son of God, then get yourself and us down from these crosses.” While the other thief said, “Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom…”(Luke 23:42).
The one thief who repented of his deed and had a change of heart was saved at that moment.
The other thief who had mockery in his heart, and who was unrepentant and loved his iniquitous lifestyle, was lost …….forever.
Scripture reveals abundant examples of lives who underwent a change of heart and were saved.
The woman caught in the act of adultery called Jesus, “Lord” and was saved.
The leper came to Jesus in Matthew ch 8 vs. 2 “Lord if Thou wilt, Thou canst make me clean.”
Upon the foundational statement of “Lord” he was healed by Jesus.
The centurion who called Jesus, “Lord“ in Matthew ch 8 saw his servant healed.
The blind men who said “yes Lord” to Jesus in Matthew ch 9 were healed.
Over and over again in Scripture we see that those who accepted Jesus as Savior and named Him as “Lord” and placed their very lives and souls to Him were saved.
It is absolutely false for someone to claim Jesus Christ as Savior, and yet reject Him as Lord.
It is absolutely false and completely unbiblical for a person to claim that he is a child of God, and yet wallow in the mud of sin, unwilling to take the steps to flee iniquity and to deny a life of self.
Those who are truly Christ’s become new creatures, children of God by faith in Christ and by the supernatural empowerment of the Holy Spirit of God.
If you can claim the name of Jesus , then live like the one who bears the name that you claim.
This is a horrible problem in any society.
God has said in Isaiah 5:20 “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil: that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”
Whenever a people or a nation can no longer distinguish between good and evil, those people are quickly on their way to destruction.
History is full of nation after nation that fell from global influence to that of no consequence, and even into the pages of non-existence, when their standards of good and evil were changed.
We must have a way to determine right from wrong, good from evil.
We must have a rule that we live by, a standard, else we become no more than “blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both, shall fall into a ditch.” (Matthew 15:14)
In the spiritual realm there must be a standard for good and evil, or else we have no standard at all.
If good is an arbitrary standard based only on how I feel or think, then what about the person who believes theft is acceptable?
What then about the murderer, or the adulterer, or the abortionist?
How can any of us judge what is right or wrong based only upon what satisfies humanity?
The Bible tells us “that all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
Our spiritual compass is broken.
We are all sold into sin.
We must have a standard outside ourselves for right and wrong if morality is to be anything more than just a word.
The only true standard exists in Jesus Christ and the written Word of God.
Many are the souls who have been led to believe that salvation by faith in Christ does not require a changed life.
There is no truth in that belief according to Holy Scripture.
There were two thieves hanging next to Jesus as He suffered for us on the cross.
One of the thieves railed against the Son of God and said “ if you are the Son of God, then get yourself and us down from these crosses.” While the other thief said, “Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom…”(Luke 23:42).
The one thief who repented of his deed and had a change of heart was saved at that moment.
The other thief who had mockery in his heart, and who was unrepentant and loved his iniquitous lifestyle, was lost …….forever.
Scripture reveals abundant examples of lives who underwent a change of heart and were saved.
The woman caught in the act of adultery called Jesus, “Lord” and was saved.
The leper came to Jesus in Matthew ch 8 vs. 2 “Lord if Thou wilt, Thou canst make me clean.”
Upon the foundational statement of “Lord” he was healed by Jesus.
The centurion who called Jesus, “Lord“ in Matthew ch 8 saw his servant healed.
The blind men who said “yes Lord” to Jesus in Matthew ch 9 were healed.
Over and over again in Scripture we see that those who accepted Jesus as Savior and named Him as “Lord” and placed their very lives and souls to Him were saved.
It is absolutely false for someone to claim Jesus Christ as Savior, and yet reject Him as Lord.
It is absolutely false and completely unbiblical for a person to claim that he is a child of God, and yet wallow in the mud of sin, unwilling to take the steps to flee iniquity and to deny a life of self.
Those who are truly Christ’s become new creatures, children of God by faith in Christ and by the supernatural empowerment of the Holy Spirit of God.
If you can claim the name of Jesus , then live like the one who bears the name that you claim.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Prepare in advance for the Trials to Come
Jeremiah 12:3-5
“But thou, O LORD, knowest me: thou hast seen me, and tried mine heart toward thee: pull them out like sheep for the slaughter, and prepare them for the day of slaughter.
How long shall the land mourn, and the herbs of every field wither, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein? the beasts are consumed, and the birds; because they said, He shall not see our last end.
If thou hast run with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? and if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?”
I pray that the Lord will lead me not into temptation but will deliver me from all evil, almost daily.
But if and when I must walk thru violent raging waters, I must be prepared for the test ahead.
James 1:12 Blessed is a man who endures trials, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that He has promised to those who love Him.
I don’t normally do well with tests, but I know that Gods tests reveal the true state of my heart.
Jeremiah understood this, as is evident when he says, ”If thou hast ran with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, how canst thou contend with horses?” Jeremiah 12:5
One way of looking at that is if the people that we know and love are getting under our skin, how will we be able to handle the truly difficult tests, when they come?
If we are coasting comfortably during the smooth times of life, what will we do when the waters of life begin to swallow us?
The good news is, we can be prepared to face the days testing.
We can be prepared to compete.
Here is ample guidance,
Psalm 119:9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping Your word.
How shall we compete?
By taking up the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God!
It is Gods Word that will keep us from sin, as we read: I have treasured Your word in my heart so that I may not sin against You. Psalm 119:11
During the days of Nehemiah, Gods people would read the Word of God for six hours, and then they would confess their sins for another six hours!
They were prepared to take the test; they were prepared to run the race; they were prepared to compete.
But in today’s fast paced culture, our lives are pulled in many directions that are contrary to a life that is steeped in the study and understanding of Gods Word.
We are continually digesting information, from newspapers, magazines, the TV the internet, a never ending stream of email, to fidgeting endlessly with electronic devices that lumped together so pre-occupy us to the point that we have failed to prepare for the test that is coming.
The accumulated distractions keep us from focusing on that which alone will make us ready for the overflowing of the Jordan----Gods Word.
Preparing to run with horses, to survive when the waters of life overflow, requires serious devotion to God and to His Word.
God will test us.
For whom He loves, He disciplines, David, who was prepared by God through the harshest of tests, says in Psalm 119:71 “It was good for me to be afflicted so that I could learn Your statutes.” He goes on in verse 91 to say “If Your instruction had not been my delight, I would have died in my affliction.”
When I consider that God has by interest in mind---that God really does forgive me when I repent of my all too frequent sins--that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that I could ask or think--then these motivations renew my resolve to serve Christ and not myself.
Psalm 66:10-12 “For You, God, tested us; You refined us as silver is refined. You lured us into a trap; You placed burdens on our backs. You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but You brought us out to abundance.”
Be prepared, study the Word, spend time in His presence, embrace the King.
He will bring you to a place of abundance, and ultimately to the reward of the crown of life.
“But thou, O LORD, knowest me: thou hast seen me, and tried mine heart toward thee: pull them out like sheep for the slaughter, and prepare them for the day of slaughter.
How long shall the land mourn, and the herbs of every field wither, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein? the beasts are consumed, and the birds; because they said, He shall not see our last end.
If thou hast run with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? and if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?”
I pray that the Lord will lead me not into temptation but will deliver me from all evil, almost daily.
But if and when I must walk thru violent raging waters, I must be prepared for the test ahead.
James 1:12 Blessed is a man who endures trials, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that He has promised to those who love Him.
I don’t normally do well with tests, but I know that Gods tests reveal the true state of my heart.
Jeremiah understood this, as is evident when he says, ”If thou hast ran with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, how canst thou contend with horses?” Jeremiah 12:5
One way of looking at that is if the people that we know and love are getting under our skin, how will we be able to handle the truly difficult tests, when they come?
If we are coasting comfortably during the smooth times of life, what will we do when the waters of life begin to swallow us?
The good news is, we can be prepared to face the days testing.
We can be prepared to compete.
Here is ample guidance,
Psalm 119:9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping Your word.
How shall we compete?
By taking up the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God!
It is Gods Word that will keep us from sin, as we read: I have treasured Your word in my heart so that I may not sin against You. Psalm 119:11
During the days of Nehemiah, Gods people would read the Word of God for six hours, and then they would confess their sins for another six hours!
They were prepared to take the test; they were prepared to run the race; they were prepared to compete.
But in today’s fast paced culture, our lives are pulled in many directions that are contrary to a life that is steeped in the study and understanding of Gods Word.
We are continually digesting information, from newspapers, magazines, the TV the internet, a never ending stream of email, to fidgeting endlessly with electronic devices that lumped together so pre-occupy us to the point that we have failed to prepare for the test that is coming.
The accumulated distractions keep us from focusing on that which alone will make us ready for the overflowing of the Jordan----Gods Word.
Preparing to run with horses, to survive when the waters of life overflow, requires serious devotion to God and to His Word.
God will test us.
For whom He loves, He disciplines, David, who was prepared by God through the harshest of tests, says in Psalm 119:71 “It was good for me to be afflicted so that I could learn Your statutes.” He goes on in verse 91 to say “If Your instruction had not been my delight, I would have died in my affliction.”
When I consider that God has by interest in mind---that God really does forgive me when I repent of my all too frequent sins--that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that I could ask or think--then these motivations renew my resolve to serve Christ and not myself.
Psalm 66:10-12 “For You, God, tested us; You refined us as silver is refined. You lured us into a trap; You placed burdens on our backs. You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but You brought us out to abundance.”
Be prepared, study the Word, spend time in His presence, embrace the King.
He will bring you to a place of abundance, and ultimately to the reward of the crown of life.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Fathers Day 2009
A man came by to see me the other day and to pick up some materials to be distributed to those that he met along his journeys.
He mentioned a survey that was taken to prison inmates and the observation made by their actions.
When Mothers Day was approaching, the prison wardens, and guards and other staff bought from their own pockets , hundreds of cards to be sent to Mother, honoring her on that day.
The prisoners were told that whom ever desired a card, could have one or several, totally without obligation, if only they were mailed to the one that they called Mother.
The postage would be paid by those making the offer.
ALMOST EVERY prisoner came forward to take a card.
When Fathers Day was approaching the same prison staff made the decision to extend the same offer to a similar group of men, but the results were not what they had expected.
NONE of the prisoners came forward.
What does this say about the state of our Fathers?
A song by Harry Chapin may just give us something to think about:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pk_eCI19RIs
My child arrived just the other day
He came into the world in the usual way.
But there were planes to catch, and bills to pay
He learned to walk while I was away.
And he was talking before I knew it and as he grew,
He said, “I’m gonna be like you, Dad,
You know I’m gonna be like you”
And in the cats in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy ran off with the man in the moon
When you coming home, dad, I don’t know when
But well get together then, Son
You know well have a good time then.
My son turned ten just the other day
He said thanks for the ball, Dad, come on lets play
Can you teach me to throw?
I said not today, I got a lot to do
He said “That’s O.K.”
And then He walked away, but his smile never dimmed
And said “I’m gonna be like him,
Yeah
You know I’m gonna be like him.
Well he came home from college just the other day
So much like a man I just had to say
“Son, I’m proud of you, can you sit for a while?”
He shook his head and he said with a smile,
“What I’d really like, Dad, is to borrow the car keys
“See you later can I have them please?”
I’ve long since retired, my sons moved away
I called him up just the other day
I said “I’d like to see you if you don’t mind”
He said I’d love to Dad, if I could find the time.
You see my new jobs a hassle, and the kids have the flu.
But its sure nice talking to you, Dad.
Its been sure nice talking to you…………
And as I hung up the phone it occurred to me,
He’d grown up just like me, My boy was just like me…….
At d2lifeministries our prayers go out to all the fathers as we continue to raise, guide and instruct our children.
I don’t know what phase of fatherhood that you may be in, but we always remember that we do have a Heavenly Father to help us along the way.
When we make mistakes, as we will, may we humbly go to our Father and confess our shortcomings, and look to Him for wisdom.
Luke 1:17 And he will go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to make ready for the Lord a prepared people.
Fathers, don’t fail your children.
Repent of self
Repent of pride
Be for you son or daughter as our Heavenly Father is for you.
AVAILABLE and READY
CLOSE AND NOT FAR AWAY
He mentioned a survey that was taken to prison inmates and the observation made by their actions.
When Mothers Day was approaching, the prison wardens, and guards and other staff bought from their own pockets , hundreds of cards to be sent to Mother, honoring her on that day.
The prisoners were told that whom ever desired a card, could have one or several, totally without obligation, if only they were mailed to the one that they called Mother.
The postage would be paid by those making the offer.
ALMOST EVERY prisoner came forward to take a card.
When Fathers Day was approaching the same prison staff made the decision to extend the same offer to a similar group of men, but the results were not what they had expected.
NONE of the prisoners came forward.
What does this say about the state of our Fathers?
A song by Harry Chapin may just give us something to think about:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pk_eCI19RIs
My child arrived just the other day
He came into the world in the usual way.
But there were planes to catch, and bills to pay
He learned to walk while I was away.
And he was talking before I knew it and as he grew,
He said, “I’m gonna be like you, Dad,
You know I’m gonna be like you”
And in the cats in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy ran off with the man in the moon
When you coming home, dad, I don’t know when
But well get together then, Son
You know well have a good time then.
My son turned ten just the other day
He said thanks for the ball, Dad, come on lets play
Can you teach me to throw?
I said not today, I got a lot to do
He said “That’s O.K.”
And then He walked away, but his smile never dimmed
And said “I’m gonna be like him,
Yeah
You know I’m gonna be like him.
Well he came home from college just the other day
So much like a man I just had to say
“Son, I’m proud of you, can you sit for a while?”
He shook his head and he said with a smile,
“What I’d really like, Dad, is to borrow the car keys
“See you later can I have them please?”
I’ve long since retired, my sons moved away
I called him up just the other day
I said “I’d like to see you if you don’t mind”
He said I’d love to Dad, if I could find the time.
You see my new jobs a hassle, and the kids have the flu.
But its sure nice talking to you, Dad.
Its been sure nice talking to you…………
And as I hung up the phone it occurred to me,
He’d grown up just like me, My boy was just like me…….
At d2lifeministries our prayers go out to all the fathers as we continue to raise, guide and instruct our children.
I don’t know what phase of fatherhood that you may be in, but we always remember that we do have a Heavenly Father to help us along the way.
When we make mistakes, as we will, may we humbly go to our Father and confess our shortcomings, and look to Him for wisdom.
Luke 1:17 And he will go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to make ready for the Lord a prepared people.
Fathers, don’t fail your children.
Repent of self
Repent of pride
Be for you son or daughter as our Heavenly Father is for you.
AVAILABLE and READY
CLOSE AND NOT FAR AWAY
Monday, May 18, 2009
DISCLESHIP SERIES 1
LESSON 6
HOW TO SHARE YOUR FAITH
1. How Do You Know God Wants You To Share Your Faith?
A. We are called to be like Jesus.
He came to reconcile the world to Himself.
He has committed to us the Word and ministry of
reconciliation, making us His ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:19-20).
B. We are called to be “a light” to this world (Matthew 5:14).
We are to proclaim the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into
“His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9).
C. Jesus sent the disciples into the world to preach the gospel to every
creature. (Mark 16:15).
Jesus made it clear whatever He said to them,He said to all. (Mark 13:37).
D. Paul told the Roman believers that their preaching to others was a key
ingredient to others being saved. “How shall they call on Him if they
haven’t believed? How shall they believe on Him if they have never
heard? How shall they hear without a preacher?” (Romans 10:14)
All believers must confess Christ before others, this is a key ingredient in
your own salvation (Matthew 10:32-33).
E. Jesus said He would make His Disciples, “become fishers of men” (Mark
1:17).
2. Why Don’t Christians Share Their Faith More?
A. Fear of rejection (Luke 10:16) (Matthew10:26).
B. Fear of bodily harm (Matthew 10:28).
C. Being more concerned about the approval of men than the approval
of God ((John 12:42) (John 7:13).
D. Feeling inadequate (Exodus 3:11) (Exodus 4:10).
3. How Do You Become A Fisher Of Men?
If we take the analogy Jesus used we will be able to understand this better.
What does it take to become a good fisherman? A fishing pole, good
equipment, bait, and the experience to use the equipment at the right place and the right time. Immediately you realize you don’t become an expert fisherman over-night. The same is true with fishers of men.
A. First, you need a pole. Without a fishing pole you have no ability to
fish at all.
Your Spiritual ability comes from the power of the HolySpirit.
The Holy Spirit gives you power, boldness, and love (Acts 1:8)
(Acts 4:31) (Galatians 5:22).
B. Next, you need good equipment to use with your pole.
The Word of Godis the equipment you can have to answer peoples questions (2 Timothy
3:16-17).
You must study the Word diligently because people want to know Gods opinion on a subject, not yours or mine.
C. Next, you need bait.
What is someone interested in or what question dothey want an answer for?
The Holy Spirit takes His Word, gives you boldness, and then applies it to the specific need of an individual.
He does this by bringing a passage to your remembrance that fit’s the problem.
Now you know exactly what to say (John 4:1-14) (Acts 2:14-21) (Acts 7:1-54).
D. Last you need experience.
Those who catch a lot of fish know where to fish, and how to use their equipment to present the bait to the fish.
To become a good fisher of men takes time.
The more you share the Gospelthe better you will get at it.
4. How Do You Approach Someone?
A. First, sometimes people approach you.
This is usually because your life has been a witness to them and they want to know why you are different(John 3:2) (Acts 2:12-16).
Make sure that you take these opportunitiesbecause the person has an obvious immediate interest!
These are Divinely ordained situations!!!!
B. The passive approach.
1. From a normal conversation a person may share a problem they are
having in their marriage, job, or personal life; they may be talking
about a current event in the news, or their concern with world affairs.
Ask them if they are interested in Spiritual things.
Ask them if they have ever considered what the Bible says about that issue. Ask if you
could give them a book or a tape on the subject (John 4:14-24).
2. Share your testimony with them if the issues they are concerned about
were the same as your experiences.
Share how Christ has answered your questions and given you peace(Mark 5:19).
3. Invite someone to lunch or dinner to establish these opportunities for
conversation (Luke 19:5).
C. The direct approach.
1. This is where you simply ask the person if you could share the Gospel
with them. The Holy Spirit may open your eyes to someone who seems
interested in Spiritual thing as He did with Phillip(Acts 8:29).
Anotherexample is Paul and Lydia (Acts 16:13).
2. This can be done on the street, door to door, or on your break times in
your workplace(Acts 17:17).
5. What Do You Say Once You Start Talking ?
A. For a new Christian , just share your testimony.
Tell them what the Lord Jesus has done for you personally.
It is very hard for someone to disagreewith you because, it happened to you!
This is where Jesus told the demonpossessed man to start (Mark 5:19), and used the same method with the Samaritan woman at the well of Jacob (John 4:7-28)
B. Make sure you share the primary facts!
1. Who is Jesus (John 1:1,14)?
God come in human flesh(John 14:9).
2. What has He done for them?
He paid the penalty for Mans sin(Romans 5:6,9,10,19).
He was raised from the dead, that He mightlive as proof that He was the Son of God (Romans 1:4).
He came to give each of us real life (John 10:10) and eternal life(John 17:3).
3. Why did He have to do this?
Because we are sinners and there is a penalty for our sins (Romans 3:23) (Romans 6:23).
4. How can they receive this?
By asking for His forgiveness(Matthew 7:7)(1 John 1:9); calling on His name (Romans 10:13) (Acts 4:12);and receiving Him personally into their hearts (John 1:12).
C. Also make sure there is point of decision.
Ask them, “What’s stopping you from receiving Christ right now into your heart?”.
You haven’t fully shared the Gospel if you don’t ask for a decision (Joshua 24:15)
(1 Kings 18:21) (Acts 26:27) (Acts 13:44-46) (Acts 17:30-34).
LESSON 6
HOW TO SHARE YOUR FAITH
1. How Do You Know God Wants You To Share Your Faith?
A. We are called to be like Jesus.
He came to reconcile the world to Himself.
He has committed to us the Word and ministry of
reconciliation, making us His ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:19-20).
B. We are called to be “a light” to this world (Matthew 5:14).
We are to proclaim the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into
“His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9).
C. Jesus sent the disciples into the world to preach the gospel to every
creature. (Mark 16:15).
Jesus made it clear whatever He said to them,He said to all. (Mark 13:37).
D. Paul told the Roman believers that their preaching to others was a key
ingredient to others being saved. “How shall they call on Him if they
haven’t believed? How shall they believe on Him if they have never
heard? How shall they hear without a preacher?” (Romans 10:14)
All believers must confess Christ before others, this is a key ingredient in
your own salvation (Matthew 10:32-33).
E. Jesus said He would make His Disciples, “become fishers of men” (Mark
1:17).
2. Why Don’t Christians Share Their Faith More?
A. Fear of rejection (Luke 10:16) (Matthew10:26).
B. Fear of bodily harm (Matthew 10:28).
C. Being more concerned about the approval of men than the approval
of God ((John 12:42) (John 7:13).
D. Feeling inadequate (Exodus 3:11) (Exodus 4:10).
3. How Do You Become A Fisher Of Men?
If we take the analogy Jesus used we will be able to understand this better.
What does it take to become a good fisherman? A fishing pole, good
equipment, bait, and the experience to use the equipment at the right place and the right time. Immediately you realize you don’t become an expert fisherman over-night. The same is true with fishers of men.
A. First, you need a pole. Without a fishing pole you have no ability to
fish at all.
Your Spiritual ability comes from the power of the HolySpirit.
The Holy Spirit gives you power, boldness, and love (Acts 1:8)
(Acts 4:31) (Galatians 5:22).
B. Next, you need good equipment to use with your pole.
The Word of Godis the equipment you can have to answer peoples questions (2 Timothy
3:16-17).
You must study the Word diligently because people want to know Gods opinion on a subject, not yours or mine.
C. Next, you need bait.
What is someone interested in or what question dothey want an answer for?
The Holy Spirit takes His Word, gives you boldness, and then applies it to the specific need of an individual.
He does this by bringing a passage to your remembrance that fit’s the problem.
Now you know exactly what to say (John 4:1-14) (Acts 2:14-21) (Acts 7:1-54).
D. Last you need experience.
Those who catch a lot of fish know where to fish, and how to use their equipment to present the bait to the fish.
To become a good fisher of men takes time.
The more you share the Gospelthe better you will get at it.
4. How Do You Approach Someone?
A. First, sometimes people approach you.
This is usually because your life has been a witness to them and they want to know why you are different(John 3:2) (Acts 2:12-16).
Make sure that you take these opportunitiesbecause the person has an obvious immediate interest!
These are Divinely ordained situations!!!!
B. The passive approach.
1. From a normal conversation a person may share a problem they are
having in their marriage, job, or personal life; they may be talking
about a current event in the news, or their concern with world affairs.
Ask them if they are interested in Spiritual things.
Ask them if they have ever considered what the Bible says about that issue. Ask if you
could give them a book or a tape on the subject (John 4:14-24).
2. Share your testimony with them if the issues they are concerned about
were the same as your experiences.
Share how Christ has answered your questions and given you peace(Mark 5:19).
3. Invite someone to lunch or dinner to establish these opportunities for
conversation (Luke 19:5).
C. The direct approach.
1. This is where you simply ask the person if you could share the Gospel
with them. The Holy Spirit may open your eyes to someone who seems
interested in Spiritual thing as He did with Phillip(Acts 8:29).
Anotherexample is Paul and Lydia (Acts 16:13).
2. This can be done on the street, door to door, or on your break times in
your workplace(Acts 17:17).
5. What Do You Say Once You Start Talking ?
A. For a new Christian , just share your testimony.
Tell them what the Lord Jesus has done for you personally.
It is very hard for someone to disagreewith you because, it happened to you!
This is where Jesus told the demonpossessed man to start (Mark 5:19), and used the same method with the Samaritan woman at the well of Jacob (John 4:7-28)
B. Make sure you share the primary facts!
1. Who is Jesus (John 1:1,14)?
God come in human flesh(John 14:9).
2. What has He done for them?
He paid the penalty for Mans sin(Romans 5:6,9,10,19).
He was raised from the dead, that He mightlive as proof that He was the Son of God (Romans 1:4).
He came to give each of us real life (John 10:10) and eternal life(John 17:3).
3. Why did He have to do this?
Because we are sinners and there is a penalty for our sins (Romans 3:23) (Romans 6:23).
4. How can they receive this?
By asking for His forgiveness(Matthew 7:7)(1 John 1:9); calling on His name (Romans 10:13) (Acts 4:12);and receiving Him personally into their hearts (John 1:12).
C. Also make sure there is point of decision.
Ask them, “What’s stopping you from receiving Christ right now into your heart?”.
You haven’t fully shared the Gospel if you don’t ask for a decision (Joshua 24:15)
(1 Kings 18:21) (Acts 26:27) (Acts 13:44-46) (Acts 17:30-34).
Sunday, April 26, 2009
“The Mystery Flu” The day is over and you are driving home.
You tune in your radio.
You hear a little news blurb about a remote village in India where some villagers have died suddenly, strangely, of a type of flu that has never been seen before.
It is not your typical influenza, but several are dead and many more are desperately ill.
The symptoms are severe, and they are sending a team from the Center for Disease Control to conduct an investigation.
In the whirl of moment you do not think much of it, as your only concern is to return home to those who await you.
On the ride home from church on Sunday, you hear another story on the radio news that rivets your attention, only this time the death toll is not a few, but there are multiple thousands in a remote spot in India that are dying.
On a cable news service that you are viewing the story goes major with wall to wall coverage.
Governments the world over are pouring aid and investigators into the area to ease the suffering, but more importantly to identify the illness and to develop a strategy to contain the growing circle of exposure.
On Monday morning, it is the Headline Story in your area newspaper.
It is no longer contained in India, but has spread regionally to Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran and is beginning to appear in even more distant areas, and is becoming so discussed that the name of “the mystery flu” is coined and used by everyone.
The President has mentioned that he and everyone within his sphere of influence are praying and hoping that all will turn out all right “over there”.
But everyone we speak to is concerned, what is it, will it be contained, will it just mutate and go away, or will it attack me, and those who are mine?
Then we hear that the President of France has just made an announcement that rattles the continent of Europe.
He will close the borders of France with no air travel allowed from, or into any area where “the mystery flu” is suspected of having a foothold.
Later that day when you again visit the cable news feed you are appalled when an interview is ran and is being translated from French with English captions of a weeping woman who states “There is a man being treated in a hospital in Paris that is dying from “the mystery flu.”
It has now officially spread to Europe and panic in a personal and global reality begins to set in.
The symptoms stated as simply as possibly are beginning to be made known, first there is an incubation period of about a week, and then the early onset begins to resemble flu, with a fever and aches and pains, and then four days later you are desperately ill with a majority of your internal organs going through varying degrees of failure, and no one who exhibits any of the later symptoms will survive.
Borders of many nations all over the world are closed in an attempt to slow down the infection rate.
Finally the President makes his proclamation “Due to a national security risk, all flights to and from Europe and Asia have been cancelled. There will be no exceptions. No one moves into or out of the country until there is a resolution of this thing called “the mystery flu.”
Within a week the world has been thrust into an unbelievable fear.
In the market places, items are being sold that are promoted as a preventative or even a cure, and people are snapping them up at rates that will not allow the shelf inventory to be maintained.
“The mystery flu” is the only topic of discussion, at your workplace, at your health club, at your beauty shop, and in the media.
Television stations are interviewing ministers, both local and national, and there are lines being drawn between those who represent the church.
Some are stating that the problem is overblown, some that it will pass, some that it is just a testing, and some state that it is a judgment being poured out on humanity.
While others are stating that there are some who will escape the taint of death.
On Wednesday night across the nation, church doors are open, some that would normally be closed, as a matter of business decision.
It doesn’t matter now, times are desperate, and the houses are full.
Suddenly some one bursts in and shouts for someone to turn on a radio, as the news is out that now the horror, of “the mystery flu’ has arrived.
In a hospital on the east coast of the U.S.of A., several people have been hospitalized and are in the final life stages of “the mystery flu.”
Within hours the news media is reporting that nationwide people are exhibiting symptoms that can have only one cause, “the mystery flu.”
Doctors, Scientists, Immunologist, all are working around the clock to find an antidote, a vaccine, or a cure.
Just as suddenly as the appearance of the disease, the discovery is made, and yes, there is a cure for the dreaded disease.
It will take only one thing. The uninfected blood of the innocent and undefiled. Someone who even though exposed, has not become infected.
In every community, in every state in the nation, the call goes out , martial law is imposed, and it is required of all people no matter the age or life status, to report to centers that have been setup, for immediate blood testing.
It is urgent!
All of humanity will be doomed if the blood of the perfect one is not identified.
The order is given on Friday that all of the people on your side of town will report to the parking lot of the local hospital.
As you arrive you are met by a long line of folks and by many doctors, nurses and volunteers, dressed in hospital garb, and running to and fro.
There are stations set up where blood is being drawn from each individual, with no exceptions being made.
After you and your family have had your turn at the mandatory donation area, you are informed to go to a staging area to wait until your name is called, at which time you will in all probability be allowed to return to your home.
You wait idly, scared, uncertain of the future, and thinking that surely the world is coming to an end, and that there likely is no hope.
Suddenly a young man charges through the crowd yelling at the top of his lungs a name that sounds like it could be yours.
He approaches your staging area yelling louder and frantically waving a sheet of paper.
Your small son tugs at your pants, saying, “Daddy, that man is calling my name.”
Before you can gather your thoughts they have laid hold upon your son.
“Wait just a minute” you protest. “What is happening here?”
The medical representatives say “Its O.K., his blood is clean. His blood is pure. We want to make certain that he does not have the disease. We think he has the right type.”
Five minutes later the doctors and nurses come out of the building, all of them laughing and crying and hugging one another.
It is the first time you have seen anyone laugh in over a week, and an old doctor approaches you and says, “Thank you sir, Your sons blood is perfect and pure, and it will allow us to make the necessary vaccine.”
The word ripples across the parking lot slowly at first and then like a wave that is crashing upon a beach. The celebration starts with people singing, praying and giving thanks that there will be a vaccination and any who will take it will be saved from the death brought on by “the mystery flu.”
Your celebration is short lived as the same old doctor pulls you aside and states to you that “We really did not expect the donor to be a minor……and that we need you to sign a consent form.”
“No problem” you agree, until you see the amount of blood that is required.
You soon realize that it is too much.
You see the doctors smile fade as he watches you grow pale with dread.
Through a numb mind, you hear him say, “We need it all, it will cost him his life, but we are talking about the entirety of humanity, after all.”
Please agree and sign quickly, there is not a moment to waste as many perish each moment that we delay.
“Can you not just give him a transfusion?” You ask.
You are given a choice. “Would you like to be present as we take the blood?”
Could you walk back to the room where he is and answer his questions?
“Daddy, Momma, what is going on, why cant we just go home, I’m scared!”
Would you be able to take his hand and explain to him that you would never let anything happen to him that was unnecessary?
How would you feel as he cried out for you to help him escape those he realized were his captors.
Would you cringe as he yelled out “DADDY!!!!”
“WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME”
The cure is given and offered freely to all who would accept it.
Many do.
Many more do not and will suffer the consequences of refusing the blood that heals.
It is a choice that they have been allowed to make for themselves.
The next Sunday, a community wide celebration honoring your son is planned, the emphasis will be on the extreme price that he paid to keep humanity from “the mystery flu.”
Sunday comes, and the building where the celebration is to take place is almost empty.
Would you be heart sick and angered that so many who have benefited from your sons ultimate sacrifice have so quickly forgotten what happened.
Would you be glad that in their new freedom that they prefer to sleep off a hangover, or to spend time at the lake, to go shopping, or to a movie , or just to sit at home with no care at all that a seat that only they can fill is empty and the celebration is less without them.
Would you yell out “My son died, why don’t you care?’
Can you hear God yell out, “My Son died for you. Don’t you know how much I care?”
Author is currently unknown
………………………………............................................................................................................................................
1 John 1:5-10 “This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and the word is not in us.”
All of us who are washed in the blood of the perfect sacrifice, should attempt to be in the house of celebration at every possible chance; what a great chance to honor our King and Savior with the saints of God.
Please read in the book for yourself; all of Revelation chapter 5, and we will see a worthy celebration that is being thrown for the One who gave Himself so that we could live, in eternity.
There is no GOD like JEHOVAH who alone would give himself as a ransom for those whom HE loves.
You tune in your radio.
You hear a little news blurb about a remote village in India where some villagers have died suddenly, strangely, of a type of flu that has never been seen before.
It is not your typical influenza, but several are dead and many more are desperately ill.
The symptoms are severe, and they are sending a team from the Center for Disease Control to conduct an investigation.
In the whirl of moment you do not think much of it, as your only concern is to return home to those who await you.
On the ride home from church on Sunday, you hear another story on the radio news that rivets your attention, only this time the death toll is not a few, but there are multiple thousands in a remote spot in India that are dying.
On a cable news service that you are viewing the story goes major with wall to wall coverage.
Governments the world over are pouring aid and investigators into the area to ease the suffering, but more importantly to identify the illness and to develop a strategy to contain the growing circle of exposure.
On Monday morning, it is the Headline Story in your area newspaper.
It is no longer contained in India, but has spread regionally to Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran and is beginning to appear in even more distant areas, and is becoming so discussed that the name of “the mystery flu” is coined and used by everyone.
The President has mentioned that he and everyone within his sphere of influence are praying and hoping that all will turn out all right “over there”.
But everyone we speak to is concerned, what is it, will it be contained, will it just mutate and go away, or will it attack me, and those who are mine?
Then we hear that the President of France has just made an announcement that rattles the continent of Europe.
He will close the borders of France with no air travel allowed from, or into any area where “the mystery flu” is suspected of having a foothold.
Later that day when you again visit the cable news feed you are appalled when an interview is ran and is being translated from French with English captions of a weeping woman who states “There is a man being treated in a hospital in Paris that is dying from “the mystery flu.”
It has now officially spread to Europe and panic in a personal and global reality begins to set in.
The symptoms stated as simply as possibly are beginning to be made known, first there is an incubation period of about a week, and then the early onset begins to resemble flu, with a fever and aches and pains, and then four days later you are desperately ill with a majority of your internal organs going through varying degrees of failure, and no one who exhibits any of the later symptoms will survive.
Borders of many nations all over the world are closed in an attempt to slow down the infection rate.
Finally the President makes his proclamation “Due to a national security risk, all flights to and from Europe and Asia have been cancelled. There will be no exceptions. No one moves into or out of the country until there is a resolution of this thing called “the mystery flu.”
Within a week the world has been thrust into an unbelievable fear.
In the market places, items are being sold that are promoted as a preventative or even a cure, and people are snapping them up at rates that will not allow the shelf inventory to be maintained.
“The mystery flu” is the only topic of discussion, at your workplace, at your health club, at your beauty shop, and in the media.
Television stations are interviewing ministers, both local and national, and there are lines being drawn between those who represent the church.
Some are stating that the problem is overblown, some that it will pass, some that it is just a testing, and some state that it is a judgment being poured out on humanity.
While others are stating that there are some who will escape the taint of death.
On Wednesday night across the nation, church doors are open, some that would normally be closed, as a matter of business decision.
It doesn’t matter now, times are desperate, and the houses are full.
Suddenly some one bursts in and shouts for someone to turn on a radio, as the news is out that now the horror, of “the mystery flu’ has arrived.
In a hospital on the east coast of the U.S.of A., several people have been hospitalized and are in the final life stages of “the mystery flu.”
Within hours the news media is reporting that nationwide people are exhibiting symptoms that can have only one cause, “the mystery flu.”
Doctors, Scientists, Immunologist, all are working around the clock to find an antidote, a vaccine, or a cure.
Just as suddenly as the appearance of the disease, the discovery is made, and yes, there is a cure for the dreaded disease.
It will take only one thing. The uninfected blood of the innocent and undefiled. Someone who even though exposed, has not become infected.
In every community, in every state in the nation, the call goes out , martial law is imposed, and it is required of all people no matter the age or life status, to report to centers that have been setup, for immediate blood testing.
It is urgent!
All of humanity will be doomed if the blood of the perfect one is not identified.
The order is given on Friday that all of the people on your side of town will report to the parking lot of the local hospital.
As you arrive you are met by a long line of folks and by many doctors, nurses and volunteers, dressed in hospital garb, and running to and fro.
There are stations set up where blood is being drawn from each individual, with no exceptions being made.
After you and your family have had your turn at the mandatory donation area, you are informed to go to a staging area to wait until your name is called, at which time you will in all probability be allowed to return to your home.
You wait idly, scared, uncertain of the future, and thinking that surely the world is coming to an end, and that there likely is no hope.
Suddenly a young man charges through the crowd yelling at the top of his lungs a name that sounds like it could be yours.
He approaches your staging area yelling louder and frantically waving a sheet of paper.
Your small son tugs at your pants, saying, “Daddy, that man is calling my name.”
Before you can gather your thoughts they have laid hold upon your son.
“Wait just a minute” you protest. “What is happening here?”
The medical representatives say “Its O.K., his blood is clean. His blood is pure. We want to make certain that he does not have the disease. We think he has the right type.”
Five minutes later the doctors and nurses come out of the building, all of them laughing and crying and hugging one another.
It is the first time you have seen anyone laugh in over a week, and an old doctor approaches you and says, “Thank you sir, Your sons blood is perfect and pure, and it will allow us to make the necessary vaccine.”
The word ripples across the parking lot slowly at first and then like a wave that is crashing upon a beach. The celebration starts with people singing, praying and giving thanks that there will be a vaccination and any who will take it will be saved from the death brought on by “the mystery flu.”
Your celebration is short lived as the same old doctor pulls you aside and states to you that “We really did not expect the donor to be a minor……and that we need you to sign a consent form.”
“No problem” you agree, until you see the amount of blood that is required.
You soon realize that it is too much.
You see the doctors smile fade as he watches you grow pale with dread.
Through a numb mind, you hear him say, “We need it all, it will cost him his life, but we are talking about the entirety of humanity, after all.”
Please agree and sign quickly, there is not a moment to waste as many perish each moment that we delay.
“Can you not just give him a transfusion?” You ask.
You are given a choice. “Would you like to be present as we take the blood?”
Could you walk back to the room where he is and answer his questions?
“Daddy, Momma, what is going on, why cant we just go home, I’m scared!”
Would you be able to take his hand and explain to him that you would never let anything happen to him that was unnecessary?
How would you feel as he cried out for you to help him escape those he realized were his captors.
Would you cringe as he yelled out “DADDY!!!!”
“WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME”
The cure is given and offered freely to all who would accept it.
Many do.
Many more do not and will suffer the consequences of refusing the blood that heals.
It is a choice that they have been allowed to make for themselves.
The next Sunday, a community wide celebration honoring your son is planned, the emphasis will be on the extreme price that he paid to keep humanity from “the mystery flu.”
Sunday comes, and the building where the celebration is to take place is almost empty.
Would you be heart sick and angered that so many who have benefited from your sons ultimate sacrifice have so quickly forgotten what happened.
Would you be glad that in their new freedom that they prefer to sleep off a hangover, or to spend time at the lake, to go shopping, or to a movie , or just to sit at home with no care at all that a seat that only they can fill is empty and the celebration is less without them.
Would you yell out “My son died, why don’t you care?’
Can you hear God yell out, “My Son died for you. Don’t you know how much I care?”
Author is currently unknown
………………………………............................................................................................................................................
1 John 1:5-10 “This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and the word is not in us.”
All of us who are washed in the blood of the perfect sacrifice, should attempt to be in the house of celebration at every possible chance; what a great chance to honor our King and Savior with the saints of God.
Please read in the book for yourself; all of Revelation chapter 5, and we will see a worthy celebration that is being thrown for the One who gave Himself so that we could live, in eternity.
There is no GOD like JEHOVAH who alone would give himself as a ransom for those whom HE loves.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
WHAT IS THE PASSION WEEK AND WHY ARE ITS EVENTS IMPORTANT TO ME TODAY ? Discipleship Series One
Added Lesson
1. What is Passion Week ?
Passion Week is the time described in, Matthew ch21-27 and Mark ch 11-15 and Luke ch 19-23 and John ch 12-19
Passion Week includes the triumphant entry, Jesus cleansing the temple for the 2nd time, Jesus giving the Olivet Discourse, Jesus and the disciples celebrating the Passover, Jesus arrest scourging , trial, mockery, beatings, crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection.
It is considered Passion Week because of what Jesus willingly went through on our behalf.
How should we celebrate Passion Week ?
We should be passionate in our worship our service and our proclamation of the Gospel of Christ.
2. What is Palm Sunday ?
Palm Sunday is the day we remember Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem, exactly one week before His resurrection. (Matthew 21:1-11)
450 years earlier the Prophet Zechariah had prophesied (Zechariah 9:9)
(Matthew 21:7-9 ) records the fullfillment of that prophecy.
It is known as Palm Sunday because of the Palm branches that were laid on the road as Jesus entered Jerusalem.
Palm Sunday was the fullfillment of Prophet Daniels “seventy weeks of seven” prophecy. (Daniel 9:25)
(John 1:11) tells us that His own knew Him not.
Five days later they chose Barrabas, (Matthew 27:22-23).
3. What Is Maundy Thursday ?
It is that day that Jesus celebrated the last Passover and instituted what we know as the Lords Supper.
Two important events are the focus of Maundy Thursday.
1. Jesus celebrated the Last Supper with His disciples and thereby instituted the Lords Supper/Communion (Luke 22:19-20).
2. Jesus washed the disciples feet as an act of humility and service, thereby setting an example that we should serve one another in humility (John 13:3-17). Some churches still observe foot washing ceremonies.
The word Maundy comes from the Latin word for command. Jesus commanded that His disciples should love one another.
Should Christians observe Maundy Thursday ?
It is a good thing to remember the Last Supper and it is good to remember the humility that Christ exhibited toward his disciples, we should however be careful to avoid ritualistic observances unless they are truly focused on our relationship with Messiah.
4. WHAT IS GOOD FRIDAY ?
It is the traditional day of Christs crucifixion .
Are Christians commanded to celebrate Good Friday ?
(Romans 14:5)
The Bible does instruct us to remember Christ death by observing the Lords Supper (1 Corinthians 11:26).
Why is this day referred to as good when the deed that the Roman soldiers performed on the body of the Christ definitely was not good.
(Romans 5:8) (1 Peter 3:18)
5. WHY DID JESUS HAVE TO DIE ?
God is all powerful and forgiving.
At the same time God is Holy just and righteous.
God in His Holiness demands that all sin be punished. (Romans 3:23and 6:23)
God is infinite and eternal.
Since all sin is against God (Psalm 51:4) the only just punishment for sin is eternal punishment.
The only way we can personally pay for our sin it to spend eternity in hell, in the lake of fire,(Revelation 20:14-15)
The good news is that God provided payment for our punishment.
Jesus was God in the flesh. (John 1:1,and 14).
When Jesus died on the cross it was payment enough for all the sin that had ever been or ever would be committed. (2 Corinthians 5:21)
Our only obligation is to place all of our faith in that one act and our sins will be forgiven (John 3:16, Romans 10:9-10).
His death was the only way our sins could be forgiven.
6.WHERE WAS JESUS IN THE DAYS BETWEEN HIS DEATH AND RESURRECTION ?
(1Peter 3:18-19)
What did Jesus preach to the spirits in captivity ?
(1 Peter 3:22, Colossians 2:15)
After that (Ephesians 4:8-10) and also (Luke 16:20, and 23:43).
Jesus was not giving the lost a second chance, but declaring that He was who He said He was and proclaiming His victory over death all the while revealing Himself to those who through faith looked forward to Him.
7. WHY IS THE RESSURECTION OF THE CHRIST IMPORTANT ?
Read (1 Corinthians ch 15)
The resurrection is the triumphant and glorious victory for every believer in Jesus Christ who, died, was buried and rose again of the third day according to scripture and is coming again, The dead in Christ will be raised up and those who remain and are alive at His coming will be changed and receive new glorified bodies.
THAT IS OUR BLESSED HOPE !
Added Lesson
1. What is Passion Week ?
Passion Week is the time described in, Matthew ch21-27 and Mark ch 11-15 and Luke ch 19-23 and John ch 12-19
Passion Week includes the triumphant entry, Jesus cleansing the temple for the 2nd time, Jesus giving the Olivet Discourse, Jesus and the disciples celebrating the Passover, Jesus arrest scourging , trial, mockery, beatings, crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection.
It is considered Passion Week because of what Jesus willingly went through on our behalf.
How should we celebrate Passion Week ?
We should be passionate in our worship our service and our proclamation of the Gospel of Christ.
2. What is Palm Sunday ?
Palm Sunday is the day we remember Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem, exactly one week before His resurrection. (Matthew 21:1-11)
450 years earlier the Prophet Zechariah had prophesied (Zechariah 9:9)
(Matthew 21:7-9 ) records the fullfillment of that prophecy.
It is known as Palm Sunday because of the Palm branches that were laid on the road as Jesus entered Jerusalem.
Palm Sunday was the fullfillment of Prophet Daniels “seventy weeks of seven” prophecy. (Daniel 9:25)
(John 1:11) tells us that His own knew Him not.
Five days later they chose Barrabas, (Matthew 27:22-23).
3. What Is Maundy Thursday ?
It is that day that Jesus celebrated the last Passover and instituted what we know as the Lords Supper.
Two important events are the focus of Maundy Thursday.
1. Jesus celebrated the Last Supper with His disciples and thereby instituted the Lords Supper/Communion (Luke 22:19-20).
2. Jesus washed the disciples feet as an act of humility and service, thereby setting an example that we should serve one another in humility (John 13:3-17). Some churches still observe foot washing ceremonies.
The word Maundy comes from the Latin word for command. Jesus commanded that His disciples should love one another.
Should Christians observe Maundy Thursday ?
It is a good thing to remember the Last Supper and it is good to remember the humility that Christ exhibited toward his disciples, we should however be careful to avoid ritualistic observances unless they are truly focused on our relationship with Messiah.
4. WHAT IS GOOD FRIDAY ?
It is the traditional day of Christs crucifixion .
Are Christians commanded to celebrate Good Friday ?
(Romans 14:5)
The Bible does instruct us to remember Christ death by observing the Lords Supper (1 Corinthians 11:26).
Why is this day referred to as good when the deed that the Roman soldiers performed on the body of the Christ definitely was not good.
(Romans 5:8) (1 Peter 3:18)
5. WHY DID JESUS HAVE TO DIE ?
God is all powerful and forgiving.
At the same time God is Holy just and righteous.
God in His Holiness demands that all sin be punished. (Romans 3:23and 6:23)
God is infinite and eternal.
Since all sin is against God (Psalm 51:4) the only just punishment for sin is eternal punishment.
The only way we can personally pay for our sin it to spend eternity in hell, in the lake of fire,(Revelation 20:14-15)
The good news is that God provided payment for our punishment.
Jesus was God in the flesh. (John 1:1,and 14).
When Jesus died on the cross it was payment enough for all the sin that had ever been or ever would be committed. (2 Corinthians 5:21)
Our only obligation is to place all of our faith in that one act and our sins will be forgiven (John 3:16, Romans 10:9-10).
His death was the only way our sins could be forgiven.
6.WHERE WAS JESUS IN THE DAYS BETWEEN HIS DEATH AND RESURRECTION ?
(1Peter 3:18-19)
What did Jesus preach to the spirits in captivity ?
(1 Peter 3:22, Colossians 2:15)
After that (Ephesians 4:8-10) and also (Luke 16:20, and 23:43).
Jesus was not giving the lost a second chance, but declaring that He was who He said He was and proclaiming His victory over death all the while revealing Himself to those who through faith looked forward to Him.
7. WHY IS THE RESSURECTION OF THE CHRIST IMPORTANT ?
Read (1 Corinthians ch 15)
The resurrection is the triumphant and glorious victory for every believer in Jesus Christ who, died, was buried and rose again of the third day according to scripture and is coming again, The dead in Christ will be raised up and those who remain and are alive at His coming will be changed and receive new glorified bodies.
THAT IS OUR BLESSED HOPE !
Sunday, March 29, 2009
EMOTION vs. EMOTIONALISM
To emote or not to emote, that is the question……………….and the reason for the confusion.
Many will decry the lack of emotion in a worship service and in the lives of Christians and others.
Others then will warn against emotionalism of any sort as they look down an any display of emotion.
Is there emotion without the display of emotionalism? I believe that there is.
There are emotions that have a scriptural role in the life of a Christian.
There is also a danger of the emotion becoming a form of emotionalism, or fleshly attitude and conduct.
How then can a person know the difference and have one without the other?
Let us consider the extremes.
Emotionalism….
Tends to become that better felt than told occurrence, where people tend to depend more upon what they feel in their hearts, rather than what they read in the word of God.
Such emotionalism tends to disobey the scriptural admonition of worship conducted in a decent and orderly manner (1 Corinthians 14:40)
It leads the participant to overlook the warning of Proverbs 28:26 “He who trusts in his own heart is a fool…”
Formalism…
In which there is a complete lack of emotion in worship and in service.
Perhaps the lack of emotion then is a reaction against emotionalism, which results in a “dead pan” attitude
Often causes those who lead songs and preach to do so with little reaction by those who should be engaged.
Such lack of “heartfelt” religion is contrary to the teachings of Jesus
Condemning a religion in which ones heart is far removed far from Him (Matthew 15:7-8)
Condemning a love for God that involves the whole heart (Matthew 22:37-40)
The tendency of formalism is to swing from one extreme to another, yet can be avoided by remembering…
Emotion has a proper place…
There is to be the emotion of love (1 Peter 4:8, 1 Corinthians 16:22)
There is to be the emotion of hope (Romans 12:12)
There is to be the emotion of joy (Philippians 4:4)
There is to be the emotion of sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10)
There is to be the emotion of hate (Proverbs 8:13)
There is to be the emotion of fear (Matthew 10:28)
In the life of all Christians there is a place for emotion!
Emotion must be grounded in the word of God…
Scriptural faith comes by hearing the word of God
Scriptural faith requires the use of our intellectual faculties
Take notice how the Word of God is designed to stimulate emotion:
Reading of Gods love we should be moved to love (1 John 4:11)
Told of the promises awaiting us, we are motivated to hope (1 Peter 1:3-4,and 13)
Informed of Jesus reconciling work of the cross, we are moved to rejoice (Romans 5:10-11)
When rebuked by the Word, it will produce sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:8)
Filled with the knowledge of truth, we come to hate certain things (Proverbs 1:7, and ch8:13)
Reading of the warnings in scripture, we are moved to fear (Hebrews 10:25-27)
Scriptural emotions are directed by the Word of God, and are not a matter of flesh
Emotion must produce fruit…
Scriptural emotions must produce fruit
The emotions evoked by Scripture are there for a purpose
Unless the proper fruit is born, it is simply emotionalism
The fruits born of purposeful emotion are evidenced in the fact the following
The emotion of love bears the fruit of obedience (John 14:15 1 John 5:3)
The emotion of hope bears its fruit in act of patience (Romans 8:24-25)
The emotion of joys bears the fruit of sacrifice (2 Corinthians 8:25)
The emotion of sorrow bears the fruit of repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10)
The emotion of hate bears fruit in rejecting the spirit of error (Psalms 119:127-128)
The emotion of fear will bear the fruit of departing from evil (Proverbs 16:6)
According to the Scriptures then, emotion produces active, living, visible fruits in the life of Christians
Formalism can be avoided by a conscious choice to understand the difference between worship based upon rote, and worship under the guidance of spirit and truth.
When does emotion become emotionalism?
When people stress emotion for emotions sake alone,
Whenever people forget that emotions are a means to an end, to motivate one to produce proper fruit.
The goal should never be the emotion, but the fruit they are intended to produce.
If all we display is emotion, not bearing the proper fruit, then we are guilty of emotionalism.
If our emotions are based upon anything other than the Word of God, we are guilty of emotionalism.
Emotion becomes emotionalism, when the emotion becomes the basis for our faith…
Whenever we allow feelings alone to dictate what we believe
Such as when a person…
Refuses to obey what can be read in Scripture, only because he “feels” that it should be different.
Tries to change the meaning of a passage of Scripture to support what he “feels” is right.
If our faith is based upon emotions, we are guilty of emotionalism.
God has given each of us the wonderful gift of the capacity to feel and express our emotions,
And by doing so
It allows us to respond to the wonderful truths found in Gods Word
It motivates us to higher levels of service in response to Gods Will
However, like all good things, the capacity of emotion must be properly used
To avoid extremes, both of emotionalism and formalism…
To let our hearts be deeply moved by the Word of God
To allow our emotion to provoke us to bear the proper fruit God desires
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” Romans 15:13
To emote or not to emote, that is the question……………….and the reason for the confusion.
Many will decry the lack of emotion in a worship service and in the lives of Christians and others.
Others then will warn against emotionalism of any sort as they look down an any display of emotion.
Is there emotion without the display of emotionalism? I believe that there is.
There are emotions that have a scriptural role in the life of a Christian.
There is also a danger of the emotion becoming a form of emotionalism, or fleshly attitude and conduct.
How then can a person know the difference and have one without the other?
Let us consider the extremes.
Emotionalism….
Tends to become that better felt than told occurrence, where people tend to depend more upon what they feel in their hearts, rather than what they read in the word of God.
Such emotionalism tends to disobey the scriptural admonition of worship conducted in a decent and orderly manner (1 Corinthians 14:40)
It leads the participant to overlook the warning of Proverbs 28:26 “He who trusts in his own heart is a fool…”
Formalism…
In which there is a complete lack of emotion in worship and in service.
Perhaps the lack of emotion then is a reaction against emotionalism, which results in a “dead pan” attitude
Often causes those who lead songs and preach to do so with little reaction by those who should be engaged.
Such lack of “heartfelt” religion is contrary to the teachings of Jesus
Condemning a religion in which ones heart is far removed far from Him (Matthew 15:7-8)
Condemning a love for God that involves the whole heart (Matthew 22:37-40)
The tendency of formalism is to swing from one extreme to another, yet can be avoided by remembering…
Emotion has a proper place…
There is to be the emotion of love (1 Peter 4:8, 1 Corinthians 16:22)
There is to be the emotion of hope (Romans 12:12)
There is to be the emotion of joy (Philippians 4:4)
There is to be the emotion of sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10)
There is to be the emotion of hate (Proverbs 8:13)
There is to be the emotion of fear (Matthew 10:28)
In the life of all Christians there is a place for emotion!
Emotion must be grounded in the word of God…
Scriptural faith comes by hearing the word of God
Scriptural faith requires the use of our intellectual faculties
Take notice how the Word of God is designed to stimulate emotion:
Reading of Gods love we should be moved to love (1 John 4:11)
Told of the promises awaiting us, we are motivated to hope (1 Peter 1:3-4,and 13)
Informed of Jesus reconciling work of the cross, we are moved to rejoice (Romans 5:10-11)
When rebuked by the Word, it will produce sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:8)
Filled with the knowledge of truth, we come to hate certain things (Proverbs 1:7, and ch8:13)
Reading of the warnings in scripture, we are moved to fear (Hebrews 10:25-27)
Scriptural emotions are directed by the Word of God, and are not a matter of flesh
Emotion must produce fruit…
Scriptural emotions must produce fruit
The emotions evoked by Scripture are there for a purpose
Unless the proper fruit is born, it is simply emotionalism
The fruits born of purposeful emotion are evidenced in the fact the following
The emotion of love bears the fruit of obedience (John 14:15 1 John 5:3)
The emotion of hope bears its fruit in act of patience (Romans 8:24-25)
The emotion of joys bears the fruit of sacrifice (2 Corinthians 8:25)
The emotion of sorrow bears the fruit of repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10)
The emotion of hate bears fruit in rejecting the spirit of error (Psalms 119:127-128)
The emotion of fear will bear the fruit of departing from evil (Proverbs 16:6)
According to the Scriptures then, emotion produces active, living, visible fruits in the life of Christians
Formalism can be avoided by a conscious choice to understand the difference between worship based upon rote, and worship under the guidance of spirit and truth.
When does emotion become emotionalism?
When people stress emotion for emotions sake alone,
Whenever people forget that emotions are a means to an end, to motivate one to produce proper fruit.
The goal should never be the emotion, but the fruit they are intended to produce.
If all we display is emotion, not bearing the proper fruit, then we are guilty of emotionalism.
If our emotions are based upon anything other than the Word of God, we are guilty of emotionalism.
Emotion becomes emotionalism, when the emotion becomes the basis for our faith…
Whenever we allow feelings alone to dictate what we believe
Such as when a person…
Refuses to obey what can be read in Scripture, only because he “feels” that it should be different.
Tries to change the meaning of a passage of Scripture to support what he “feels” is right.
If our faith is based upon emotions, we are guilty of emotionalism.
God has given each of us the wonderful gift of the capacity to feel and express our emotions,
And by doing so
It allows us to respond to the wonderful truths found in Gods Word
It motivates us to higher levels of service in response to Gods Will
However, like all good things, the capacity of emotion must be properly used
To avoid extremes, both of emotionalism and formalism…
To let our hearts be deeply moved by the Word of God
To allow our emotion to provoke us to bear the proper fruit God desires
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” Romans 15:13
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
What ? Me Worry? Pt two
Have you ever fully committed yourself to Gods safekeeping?
In order to conquer the human frailty of worry, we must do exactly that, as there is no plan and no method that can be successful for the Christian short of the full surrender to the knowledge of Gods will and plan for every area of you life.
Committing to Gods safekeeping requires that we grow in the knowledge of God and our love for Him.
The only way that we can truly accomplish that purpose is to study the Scriptures, pray and meditate upon Gods promises to His faithful people. (Romans 15:4)
We must be realistic.
True peace of mind does not depend on solving all the problems, righting all the wrongs, removing all of the imperfections, or in getting all that we want. (Ecclesiastes 8:16-17)
Some things just will not change and we need to be realistic enough to accept that.
There are real problems that have no solutions
There are situations that must simply be lived through
The art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook (Proverbs 19:11)
Realistic knowledge of our own limitations ought to cause us to relax and slow down
There is an art to getting things done and an equally noble art of leaving things undone.
The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of nonessentials (Gladstone)
We must learn to let go of some problems and allow the Lord to be in charge of them (1 Peter 5:7, Proverbs 3:5-6)
Be flexible
Change is inevitable: we must learn to be resilient, adaptable, adjustable (Philippians 4:11-12)
Under stress, if we cannot learn to bend, we will surely break.
Our faith must remain only in Him who changes not.
While there are some things that we must resist without compromise, wisdom can tell us when to change and when to hold our ground.
Focus on the good cares, and minimize the unnecessary ones.
We tend to become distracted by many relatively unimportant cares, and don’t care enough about the things we should. (Matthew 13:22)
Whenever the mind is distracted by many pursuits, it derives little benefit from any of them.
Really only one thing is necessary (Luke 10:41-42, Matthew 6:33-34)
Learn to live one day at a time.
Proper use of today diminishes anxiety about tomorrow (Matthew 6:34)
Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its worries and sorrows, it only empties today of its victory’s
Worry is the interest that is charged against troubles before they are eliminated
The larger part of our fear will turn out to be unfounded
Winston Churchill was credited with saying “I have had a lot of trouble in this life, most of which never happened.”
Stay busy
Anxiety and idleness accompany each other
Despair often is a form of laziness
Blessed is the person who is too busy in the daytime to fret, and too sleepy in the nighttime to worry.
Much good can be done, even in adversity, if we will only concentrate on the things that can be accomplished, and disregard the things that cannot be done.
There is no tranquilizer as effective as the knowledge that we have done our best and there is no pillow as soft as a good conscience.
Learn to be content.
Contentment is a lesson that Paul had to learn (Philippians 4:11-13)
We should learn to rejoice in the Lord, which we can easily do when we learn to continually count our blessings. (Philippians 4:4-6)
The Christian should be able to see the silver lining behind the darkest cloud.
When discontent is the rule in a life, that Christian may lose his very soul because of it.(1 Timothy 6:6-8, Hebrews 13:5-6)
Anxiety can come because of having too much, as well as having too little (Ecclesiastes 5:12)
Wealth can be measured in ways other than possessions, it can also be seen in the things that we can do without.
Whenever problem cause anxiety in us , the best thing that we can do to bathe the problems is to express a spirit of reverence and gratitude.
In all of our anxiety and cares the Christian is given the means to deal with all of it.
We are promised a peace that comes only through prayer (Philippians 4:6-7)
We are promised a reassuring confidence that can only be found in trusting in God (Psalms 23:1-6)
Whenever the feelings of insecurity, helplessness and isolation arise, we should……
Focus on trusting in the God who loves us
Read and remember the Scriptures, be realistic, be flexible, focus on the good, minimize unnecessary distractions, and learn to live one day at a time, staying busy and learning to be content.
Have you ever fully committed yourself to Gods safekeeping?
In order to conquer the human frailty of worry, we must do exactly that, as there is no plan and no method that can be successful for the Christian short of the full surrender to the knowledge of Gods will and plan for every area of you life.
Committing to Gods safekeeping requires that we grow in the knowledge of God and our love for Him.
The only way that we can truly accomplish that purpose is to study the Scriptures, pray and meditate upon Gods promises to His faithful people. (Romans 15:4)
We must be realistic.
True peace of mind does not depend on solving all the problems, righting all the wrongs, removing all of the imperfections, or in getting all that we want. (Ecclesiastes 8:16-17)
Some things just will not change and we need to be realistic enough to accept that.
There are real problems that have no solutions
There are situations that must simply be lived through
The art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook (Proverbs 19:11)
Realistic knowledge of our own limitations ought to cause us to relax and slow down
There is an art to getting things done and an equally noble art of leaving things undone.
The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of nonessentials (Gladstone)
We must learn to let go of some problems and allow the Lord to be in charge of them (1 Peter 5:7, Proverbs 3:5-6)
Be flexible
Change is inevitable: we must learn to be resilient, adaptable, adjustable (Philippians 4:11-12)
Under stress, if we cannot learn to bend, we will surely break.
Our faith must remain only in Him who changes not.
While there are some things that we must resist without compromise, wisdom can tell us when to change and when to hold our ground.
Focus on the good cares, and minimize the unnecessary ones.
We tend to become distracted by many relatively unimportant cares, and don’t care enough about the things we should. (Matthew 13:22)
Whenever the mind is distracted by many pursuits, it derives little benefit from any of them.
Really only one thing is necessary (Luke 10:41-42, Matthew 6:33-34)
Learn to live one day at a time.
Proper use of today diminishes anxiety about tomorrow (Matthew 6:34)
Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its worries and sorrows, it only empties today of its victory’s
Worry is the interest that is charged against troubles before they are eliminated
The larger part of our fear will turn out to be unfounded
Winston Churchill was credited with saying “I have had a lot of trouble in this life, most of which never happened.”
Stay busy
Anxiety and idleness accompany each other
Despair often is a form of laziness
Blessed is the person who is too busy in the daytime to fret, and too sleepy in the nighttime to worry.
Much good can be done, even in adversity, if we will only concentrate on the things that can be accomplished, and disregard the things that cannot be done.
There is no tranquilizer as effective as the knowledge that we have done our best and there is no pillow as soft as a good conscience.
Learn to be content.
Contentment is a lesson that Paul had to learn (Philippians 4:11-13)
We should learn to rejoice in the Lord, which we can easily do when we learn to continually count our blessings. (Philippians 4:4-6)
The Christian should be able to see the silver lining behind the darkest cloud.
When discontent is the rule in a life, that Christian may lose his very soul because of it.(1 Timothy 6:6-8, Hebrews 13:5-6)
Anxiety can come because of having too much, as well as having too little (Ecclesiastes 5:12)
Wealth can be measured in ways other than possessions, it can also be seen in the things that we can do without.
Whenever problem cause anxiety in us , the best thing that we can do to bathe the problems is to express a spirit of reverence and gratitude.
In all of our anxiety and cares the Christian is given the means to deal with all of it.
We are promised a peace that comes only through prayer (Philippians 4:6-7)
We are promised a reassuring confidence that can only be found in trusting in God (Psalms 23:1-6)
Whenever the feelings of insecurity, helplessness and isolation arise, we should……
Focus on trusting in the God who loves us
Read and remember the Scriptures, be realistic, be flexible, focus on the good, minimize unnecessary distractions, and learn to live one day at a time, staying busy and learning to be content.
Monday, March 9, 2009
WHAT? ME WORRY? Pt one
We can attribute that statement to a once popular social commentary comedic character, named A.E Nueman, a 53 year old icon that is familiar to most of us.
Laying aside the satire that he popularized, we can say also, What , me worry?
We are all too familiar with the problem of anxiety, and the epidemic proportion that it is reaching in our culture.
Even though the problem is prevalent, the matter of anxiety is the least productive activity that a human can undertake.
Worrying is equivalent to the movie cowboy making a fast getaway on wooden horse.
Your imagination may see it to be a valid tool, but there is no good that can come of the wasted effort.
What then is this thing that we call anxiety?
It is manifest in the matter of distress about future uncertainties.
It may be characterized by mental agitation and uneasiness, that may be mild or severe.
We allow anxiety to arise in our minds when we feel unsure or uncertain of future events, either distant or near, and our fear that we have no certainty in their outcome.
What is the cause of all this anxiety?
It can be caused by real or imagined threats to our wellbeing, as we feel vulnerable and inadequately protected against the possibility of those events being played out.
Threats in the manner of social rejection, physical injury, disease, family turmoil, death, and the reality of an impending financial collapse, in our generation.
There are three main elements to examine,
Insecurity: worry that something bad is going to happen
Helplessness: worry that there is nothing that I can do
Isolation: worry that there will be no one who will help me
These three causes may operate individually or in various combinations, all to the detriment of their victim.
In the emotional realm, these identifiers cause just as much anxiety and hopelessness as if they were real and not just imagined.
When we realize that anxiety is a form of fear then we are coming ever closer to overcoming the problem.
In order to do that we must first
Trust in God
The best remedy is to deal with the problems causes, and not just the symptoms.
We must identify the truth about insecurity, helplessness, and isolation in regards to the Christian.
Even though the Christian may feel insecure, the reality is that he is very secure Proverbs 3:21-26 and Hebrews 4:16
The Christian may feel helpless, yet the reality is that he has great help Romans 8:31
The Christian may feel that he is all alone yet the truth is that God is always at his side Hebrews 13:5-6
The only remedy for a Christians anxiety is a complete trust and confidence in Gods ability to deal with anything that threatens His own Isaiah 40:31 John 14:1 Philippians 4:13
The more that we learn of God the more we know of His infinite power and of His concern for us 1 Peter 5:6-7
Our God has promised peace of mind to those who are willing to commit all of their worries to Him John 16:33 Philippians 4:6-7 Peter 4:19
He is a God that cannot fail, and in that we can trust.
We can attribute that statement to a once popular social commentary comedic character, named A.E Nueman, a 53 year old icon that is familiar to most of us.
Laying aside the satire that he popularized, we can say also, What , me worry?
We are all too familiar with the problem of anxiety, and the epidemic proportion that it is reaching in our culture.
Even though the problem is prevalent, the matter of anxiety is the least productive activity that a human can undertake.
Worrying is equivalent to the movie cowboy making a fast getaway on wooden horse.
Your imagination may see it to be a valid tool, but there is no good that can come of the wasted effort.
What then is this thing that we call anxiety?
It is manifest in the matter of distress about future uncertainties.
It may be characterized by mental agitation and uneasiness, that may be mild or severe.
We allow anxiety to arise in our minds when we feel unsure or uncertain of future events, either distant or near, and our fear that we have no certainty in their outcome.
What is the cause of all this anxiety?
It can be caused by real or imagined threats to our wellbeing, as we feel vulnerable and inadequately protected against the possibility of those events being played out.
Threats in the manner of social rejection, physical injury, disease, family turmoil, death, and the reality of an impending financial collapse, in our generation.
There are three main elements to examine,
Insecurity: worry that something bad is going to happen
Helplessness: worry that there is nothing that I can do
Isolation: worry that there will be no one who will help me
These three causes may operate individually or in various combinations, all to the detriment of their victim.
In the emotional realm, these identifiers cause just as much anxiety and hopelessness as if they were real and not just imagined.
When we realize that anxiety is a form of fear then we are coming ever closer to overcoming the problem.
In order to do that we must first
Trust in God
The best remedy is to deal with the problems causes, and not just the symptoms.
We must identify the truth about insecurity, helplessness, and isolation in regards to the Christian.
Even though the Christian may feel insecure, the reality is that he is very secure Proverbs 3:21-26 and Hebrews 4:16
The Christian may feel helpless, yet the reality is that he has great help Romans 8:31
The Christian may feel that he is all alone yet the truth is that God is always at his side Hebrews 13:5-6
The only remedy for a Christians anxiety is a complete trust and confidence in Gods ability to deal with anything that threatens His own Isaiah 40:31 John 14:1 Philippians 4:13
The more that we learn of God the more we know of His infinite power and of His concern for us 1 Peter 5:6-7
Our God has promised peace of mind to those who are willing to commit all of their worries to Him John 16:33 Philippians 4:6-7 Peter 4:19
He is a God that cannot fail, and in that we can trust.
Friday, February 27, 2009
WHAT WERE YOU THINKING?
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. (Proverbs 4:23)
Throughout all the pages of the Bible the heart is viewed as the center of life and is always associated with our thoughts.
That is the reason that Solomon declared “ as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.” (Proverbs 23:7).
We know that the mind is the center of thought, yet the importance of what we think and the reasons behind the thoughts become the central issues of our lives.
We have all heard it said that “we are what we think” and how true it is; if our thinking creates a defeatist attitude, then we cannot succeed.
If we think that we will always be ill, then we quickly become the doctors, and the pharmacist best friends as our pocketbooks are opened to their every whim.
When we think that our bank accounts will always be reflected in a negative balance, then we will only find ways to make it so.
If we think that our loved ones will never come to the cross, then we do them no favors when we stop witnessing and encouraging them to consider the Son of God.
We must allow all of our thought to mirror what scripture says that our lives and relationships can become.
There is a centrality of thoughts that we should consider.
“Keep thy heart with all diligence for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)
The basic rendering of this is simply “keep your heart as closely guarded as possible.”
What you are today and whatever you will be tomorrow is the consequence of your thought life.
We truly have the power to become as we think and say. All of the issues of life begin and end with our thinking.
There are consequences to our thoughts.
Following the words of Proverbs 4:23; Solomon points out that our thinking affects our lips, our eyes, and our feet.
What we dwell upon in our thoughts is what we will discuss with our acquaintances and those who are close to us.
“Put away from thee a forward mouth, and perverse lips put far away from thee.(Proverbs 4:24)
It never takes long for us to discover the matters of another persons life, if we will only allow them a few moments to talk without interruption, we quickly learn of the readings that the person engages in, the hobbies that time and energy are spent upon, and the lifestyle that is embraced by the speaker.
The issues are uttered through the mouth, but are born and housed in the heart.
This is why the Lord said, “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” (Matthew 12:24)
Our thought life also affects the observational life.
“Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.” (Proverbs 4:24)
Your entire slant on life is affected by the way you think.
Whenever a person has organized their thinking to line up with Gods ideas, then they are not bothered by the peripheral issues.
The Apostle Paul said it this way. “but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before” (Philippians 3:13)
Another area of life influenced by our thinking is the operational life.
“Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.” (Proverbs 4:26)
Once our thought life is under control and measured there is no question as to the path that we should walk.
The Psalmist wrote, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.” (Psalms 37:23)
We must control our thoughts.
“Keep thy heart with all diligence.” (Proverbs 4:23)
In the New Testament the secret to such diligent guarding is divulged in this manner, by the Apostle Paul, “bringing every thought to the obedience of Christ.” ( 2 Corinthians 10:5)
No one experiences the fullness of their intended purpose until they have brought their heart, mind and thought life under the discipline of the Son of God.
Seek understanding and knowledge, wisdom will follow, and become evident in the things we say, the places we go, and the ones we associate with.
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. (Proverbs 4:23)
Throughout all the pages of the Bible the heart is viewed as the center of life and is always associated with our thoughts.
That is the reason that Solomon declared “ as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.” (Proverbs 23:7).
We know that the mind is the center of thought, yet the importance of what we think and the reasons behind the thoughts become the central issues of our lives.
We have all heard it said that “we are what we think” and how true it is; if our thinking creates a defeatist attitude, then we cannot succeed.
If we think that we will always be ill, then we quickly become the doctors, and the pharmacist best friends as our pocketbooks are opened to their every whim.
When we think that our bank accounts will always be reflected in a negative balance, then we will only find ways to make it so.
If we think that our loved ones will never come to the cross, then we do them no favors when we stop witnessing and encouraging them to consider the Son of God.
We must allow all of our thought to mirror what scripture says that our lives and relationships can become.
There is a centrality of thoughts that we should consider.
“Keep thy heart with all diligence for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)
The basic rendering of this is simply “keep your heart as closely guarded as possible.”
What you are today and whatever you will be tomorrow is the consequence of your thought life.
We truly have the power to become as we think and say. All of the issues of life begin and end with our thinking.
There are consequences to our thoughts.
Following the words of Proverbs 4:23; Solomon points out that our thinking affects our lips, our eyes, and our feet.
What we dwell upon in our thoughts is what we will discuss with our acquaintances and those who are close to us.
“Put away from thee a forward mouth, and perverse lips put far away from thee.(Proverbs 4:24)
It never takes long for us to discover the matters of another persons life, if we will only allow them a few moments to talk without interruption, we quickly learn of the readings that the person engages in, the hobbies that time and energy are spent upon, and the lifestyle that is embraced by the speaker.
The issues are uttered through the mouth, but are born and housed in the heart.
This is why the Lord said, “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” (Matthew 12:24)
Our thought life also affects the observational life.
“Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.” (Proverbs 4:24)
Your entire slant on life is affected by the way you think.
Whenever a person has organized their thinking to line up with Gods ideas, then they are not bothered by the peripheral issues.
The Apostle Paul said it this way. “but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before” (Philippians 3:13)
Another area of life influenced by our thinking is the operational life.
“Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.” (Proverbs 4:26)
Once our thought life is under control and measured there is no question as to the path that we should walk.
The Psalmist wrote, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.” (Psalms 37:23)
We must control our thoughts.
“Keep thy heart with all diligence.” (Proverbs 4:23)
In the New Testament the secret to such diligent guarding is divulged in this manner, by the Apostle Paul, “bringing every thought to the obedience of Christ.” ( 2 Corinthians 10:5)
No one experiences the fullness of their intended purpose until they have brought their heart, mind and thought life under the discipline of the Son of God.
Seek understanding and knowledge, wisdom will follow, and become evident in the things we say, the places we go, and the ones we associate with.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
CAN YOU DEFINE TRUE DISCIPLESHIP pt2
CAN YOU DEFINE TRUE DISCIPLESHIP
pt 2
Erroneously, many think that every Christian is a disciple of Christ.
It is true that every true disciple is a Christian, but not every Christian is a disciple.
Why?
Lets continue our study and let the facts reveal themselves.
A true disciple is one who continues on in Gods word.
Jesus said “If ye continue in (the study and application of) my word then you are my disciples indeed.” (John 8:31)
True disciples keep pushing on in the study of the word.
They are deeply serious, ever committed, student-followers of the Son of God, ever desiring and seeking more of Him-more study, more obedience, more conformity to His image.
Christians who are on again off again students that allow every worry, whim, and care of the world to swerve them off of the course of pursuit of His knowledge, willingly forfeit the acumen of discipleship.
A disciple is one who lives and accepts only the truth.
Jesus said “and ye shall know the truth” (John 8:32)
Disciples love truth in all forms.
They love the truth of Gods word, the sole standard of spiritual truth. They cherish honesty, or truthfulness of heart and speech. And they love the truth of reality, preferring to face actual conditions rather than pretending to trust in illusion, or unfounded, unscriptural teachings, and philosophies.
Disciples choose not to follow the trail of error.
Disciples are extraordinarily free Christians.
Jesus concluded (John 8:32) by stating “and the truth shall make you free….”
The further and deeper a Christian disciple goes in the loving and the living truth, the more he is liberated by it. Increasingly truth frees the disciple from the bonds of ignorance, error, bad attitudes, fear, anger, besetting sins, deception, hypocrites, and the tyranny of self-will always demanding its way.
Christians who will not allow truth to break bondages, and false ways of thinking can never reach the highest form of study, that of being a disciple.
A disciple understands the concept of cross bearing and presents himself to the task.
For the sake of righteousness, kingdom, call, gift, ministry, and perseverance in God’s Word, the disciple will accept at least one “cross” rejection, loss, humiliation, or grief, every day.
Any one who is unwilling to suffer in this life, is unworthy to follow the path of discipleship at the feet of Jesus.
“Whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple”. (Luke 14:27).
We have looked at the qualifying factors to become a disciple, and can define what it will cost to follow close to the One that we desire to emulate.
Who have you chosen to follow?________and we all choose to follow someone.
Choose to become a disciple of Jesus and go into the whole world with the authority that is given to one who continues on in the regimen of truth.
pt 2
Erroneously, many think that every Christian is a disciple of Christ.
It is true that every true disciple is a Christian, but not every Christian is a disciple.
Why?
Lets continue our study and let the facts reveal themselves.
A true disciple is one who continues on in Gods word.
Jesus said “If ye continue in (the study and application of) my word then you are my disciples indeed.” (John 8:31)
True disciples keep pushing on in the study of the word.
They are deeply serious, ever committed, student-followers of the Son of God, ever desiring and seeking more of Him-more study, more obedience, more conformity to His image.
Christians who are on again off again students that allow every worry, whim, and care of the world to swerve them off of the course of pursuit of His knowledge, willingly forfeit the acumen of discipleship.
A disciple is one who lives and accepts only the truth.
Jesus said “and ye shall know the truth” (John 8:32)
Disciples love truth in all forms.
They love the truth of Gods word, the sole standard of spiritual truth. They cherish honesty, or truthfulness of heart and speech. And they love the truth of reality, preferring to face actual conditions rather than pretending to trust in illusion, or unfounded, unscriptural teachings, and philosophies.
Disciples choose not to follow the trail of error.
Disciples are extraordinarily free Christians.
Jesus concluded (John 8:32) by stating “and the truth shall make you free….”
The further and deeper a Christian disciple goes in the loving and the living truth, the more he is liberated by it. Increasingly truth frees the disciple from the bonds of ignorance, error, bad attitudes, fear, anger, besetting sins, deception, hypocrites, and the tyranny of self-will always demanding its way.
Christians who will not allow truth to break bondages, and false ways of thinking can never reach the highest form of study, that of being a disciple.
A disciple understands the concept of cross bearing and presents himself to the task.
For the sake of righteousness, kingdom, call, gift, ministry, and perseverance in God’s Word, the disciple will accept at least one “cross” rejection, loss, humiliation, or grief, every day.
Any one who is unwilling to suffer in this life, is unworthy to follow the path of discipleship at the feet of Jesus.
“Whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple”. (Luke 14:27).
We have looked at the qualifying factors to become a disciple, and can define what it will cost to follow close to the One that we desire to emulate.
Who have you chosen to follow?________and we all choose to follow someone.
Choose to become a disciple of Jesus and go into the whole world with the authority that is given to one who continues on in the regimen of truth.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
CAN YOU DEFINE TRUE DISCIPLESHIP
pt one
Jesus, who just happens to be the foremost authority on Christianity, gave us the true definition of a Christian- a believer in Him saved from hell and bound for heaven-as one who is spiritually reborn.
In a discussion with Nicodemus, the Master said, “Except ye be born again, ye cannot see..(or) enter the kingdom of God.” John 3:3,5.
He stressed His point by adding “Marvel not that I say unto thee, Ye must be born again.” vs. 7.
Later on in the ministry of Jesus he described the same process of new birth as a “conversion” experience: “Except ye be converted…ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3
In the new birth, or conversion, a spiritual regeneration with eternal effect occurs.
After this eternal change takes place, the newly birthed Christian has a choice to make.
Will the new creation commit to discipleship, or remain content to merely be a saved soul?
In order to better understand the choice, let us look at the definition of being a disciple of Jesus Christ.
A disciple is a self-disciplined one.
Just as the English words, “disciple” and “discipline” are derived from very similar Latin words, (discipulus, alumno) so every disciple then must be a person of discipline.
He must enter into a regimen of life whereby all his powers, spiritual, physical, and mental are focused on a newly ordered, biblical way of living.
Why?
He wants to fully please and serve his Master.
The lazy, self-indulgent Christian will never be a disciple.
A disciple is a student of Christ.
The word used almost exclusively in the Greek writings that indicate disciple is mathetes, which means, “a learner, pupil, or student.”
Christians who refuse to study the Bible cannot be disciples.
In the first century, “disciples” were young men totally committed to learning the teachings of a particular Jewish rabbi (or Greek teacher or philosopher) and at the same time embracing his lifestyle and living in the same manner.
Why?
The student aspired to one day be like him, live like him, and teach like him.
Christians who learn Jesus teachings but refuse to live them cannot be disciples.
Who have you chosen to follow?,,,,,,,,and we all must choose.
pt one
Jesus, who just happens to be the foremost authority on Christianity, gave us the true definition of a Christian- a believer in Him saved from hell and bound for heaven-as one who is spiritually reborn.
In a discussion with Nicodemus, the Master said, “Except ye be born again, ye cannot see..(or) enter the kingdom of God.” John 3:3,5.
He stressed His point by adding “Marvel not that I say unto thee, Ye must be born again.” vs. 7.
Later on in the ministry of Jesus he described the same process of new birth as a “conversion” experience: “Except ye be converted…ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3
In the new birth, or conversion, a spiritual regeneration with eternal effect occurs.
After this eternal change takes place, the newly birthed Christian has a choice to make.
Will the new creation commit to discipleship, or remain content to merely be a saved soul?
In order to better understand the choice, let us look at the definition of being a disciple of Jesus Christ.
A disciple is a self-disciplined one.
Just as the English words, “disciple” and “discipline” are derived from very similar Latin words, (discipulus, alumno) so every disciple then must be a person of discipline.
He must enter into a regimen of life whereby all his powers, spiritual, physical, and mental are focused on a newly ordered, biblical way of living.
Why?
He wants to fully please and serve his Master.
The lazy, self-indulgent Christian will never be a disciple.
A disciple is a student of Christ.
The word used almost exclusively in the Greek writings that indicate disciple is mathetes, which means, “a learner, pupil, or student.”
Christians who refuse to study the Bible cannot be disciples.
In the first century, “disciples” were young men totally committed to learning the teachings of a particular Jewish rabbi (or Greek teacher or philosopher) and at the same time embracing his lifestyle and living in the same manner.
Why?
The student aspired to one day be like him, live like him, and teach like him.
Christians who learn Jesus teachings but refuse to live them cannot be disciples.
Who have you chosen to follow?,,,,,,,,and we all must choose.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
FRUITLESS LIMBS
Isaiah 17:6
“Yet gleanings shall be left in it, as the shaking of an olive tree, two or three berries in the top of the upper-most bough, four or five in the outermost fruitful branches thereof, saith Jehovah, God of Israel.”
In this statement the prophet is foretelling of a day of sorrow and leanness which was surely coming to the idolatrous apostates of a nation who had treated Jehovah with perverse thanklessness and abject disregard.
The prophecy stood as warning to an ancient nation and to the peoples of that nation.
The same prophecy could be a warning to a modern nation and the peoples of that nation who have embraced apostasy with a heart blinded and hardened by the deceit of self.
It shall be for them as with the olive tree after is crop of berries has been removed by the “thrashing” or beating of its boughs and branches; just “two or three berries in the top of the uppermost bough” where the sticks of the beaters had not reached, and only “four or five on the outmost branches.”
Even now some are in such a barren condition spiritually, with faith and hope and love and joy and peace and strength and prayer and testimony and service, at the very best, lean and languishing.
If this is you, then why?
And what can be done about it, when the mirror of your heart convicts of the truth?
Isaiah 17:10
“Because thou has forgotten the God of thy salvation,………” There has been a forgetfulness of God.
It is evidenced in the fact that we have allowed ourselves to become immersed in the mundane things, in business, in pleasure, in domestic concerns, in social and political affairs, in getting and spending, in working and playing, in so much “coming and going” (Mark 6:31).
Our lives have become so full of worldly concerns that we are spiritually empty!
We have forgotten the one thing which is really needful.
That is one of the reasons that we are as the lean olive tree with only “two or three berries in the top of the uppermost bough.”
“and hast not been mindful of the rock of thy strength…………..” Indeed we have developed and unspiritually minded self sufficiency.
We have been neglectful of prayer.
We have foolishly preferred to manage (or mismanage) our own affairs.
We have forgotten how truly weak we are and imagined that the unsteady little lamb is a lion instead.
And now we have become as an olive tree, without the fruit of its branches.
In verse 8 read the words “altars” and “images” things that the Israelites had made with their own hands.
Could a part of the problem be that we have allowed ourselves to become idolatrous?
Have we allowed a friendship or some other ambition to take the place of God in our hearts desire and devotion?
If so then there is judgment against our altars and idols, our olive tree is stripped clean of all but “two or three berries in the top bough.”
Is there anything that we can do to remedy our leanness?
The answer is found in verses 7 and 8 “At that day a man shall look to his Maker….”
Whenever adversity begins to strip our olive tree of all but the “two or three berries”, it is a prodding to turn us from our self-made altars and back to the true God, our gracious covenant keeping Jehovah.
How ever hard it is to believe at times, God could do nothing more unkind than to allow believers a continued prosperity when we are self-willed, wayward, prayer less and backslidden.
Adversity must beat the olive tree with hard strokes which leave only “two or three berries.”
God loves us far too much to think more of our natural pleasures than of our spiritual profit.
Brother or Sister, turn your hearts and souls back to Him.
Make those wrong things right, according to His standards.
Cast off those idols.
Get back to the joy of prayer, the heart of faith, the act of love, and the life of new consecration.
Then shall the branches of our olive trees be bent with the fullness of fruit.
“Yet gleanings shall be left in it, as the shaking of an olive tree, two or three berries in the top of the upper-most bough, four or five in the outermost fruitful branches thereof, saith Jehovah, God of Israel.”
In this statement the prophet is foretelling of a day of sorrow and leanness which was surely coming to the idolatrous apostates of a nation who had treated Jehovah with perverse thanklessness and abject disregard.
The prophecy stood as warning to an ancient nation and to the peoples of that nation.
The same prophecy could be a warning to a modern nation and the peoples of that nation who have embraced apostasy with a heart blinded and hardened by the deceit of self.
It shall be for them as with the olive tree after is crop of berries has been removed by the “thrashing” or beating of its boughs and branches; just “two or three berries in the top of the uppermost bough” where the sticks of the beaters had not reached, and only “four or five on the outmost branches.”
Even now some are in such a barren condition spiritually, with faith and hope and love and joy and peace and strength and prayer and testimony and service, at the very best, lean and languishing.
If this is you, then why?
And what can be done about it, when the mirror of your heart convicts of the truth?
Isaiah 17:10
“Because thou has forgotten the God of thy salvation,………” There has been a forgetfulness of God.
It is evidenced in the fact that we have allowed ourselves to become immersed in the mundane things, in business, in pleasure, in domestic concerns, in social and political affairs, in getting and spending, in working and playing, in so much “coming and going” (Mark 6:31).
Our lives have become so full of worldly concerns that we are spiritually empty!
We have forgotten the one thing which is really needful.
That is one of the reasons that we are as the lean olive tree with only “two or three berries in the top of the uppermost bough.”
“and hast not been mindful of the rock of thy strength…………..” Indeed we have developed and unspiritually minded self sufficiency.
We have been neglectful of prayer.
We have foolishly preferred to manage (or mismanage) our own affairs.
We have forgotten how truly weak we are and imagined that the unsteady little lamb is a lion instead.
And now we have become as an olive tree, without the fruit of its branches.
In verse 8 read the words “altars” and “images” things that the Israelites had made with their own hands.
Could a part of the problem be that we have allowed ourselves to become idolatrous?
Have we allowed a friendship or some other ambition to take the place of God in our hearts desire and devotion?
If so then there is judgment against our altars and idols, our olive tree is stripped clean of all but “two or three berries in the top bough.”
Is there anything that we can do to remedy our leanness?
The answer is found in verses 7 and 8 “At that day a man shall look to his Maker….”
Whenever adversity begins to strip our olive tree of all but the “two or three berries”, it is a prodding to turn us from our self-made altars and back to the true God, our gracious covenant keeping Jehovah.
How ever hard it is to believe at times, God could do nothing more unkind than to allow believers a continued prosperity when we are self-willed, wayward, prayer less and backslidden.
Adversity must beat the olive tree with hard strokes which leave only “two or three berries.”
God loves us far too much to think more of our natural pleasures than of our spiritual profit.
Brother or Sister, turn your hearts and souls back to Him.
Make those wrong things right, according to His standards.
Cast off those idols.
Get back to the joy of prayer, the heart of faith, the act of love, and the life of new consecration.
Then shall the branches of our olive trees be bent with the fullness of fruit.
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