Sermon Notes from Zech. 7
Setting: 518 BC - Post-exilic, i.e. back in the land. Same era as Haggai, Malachi. “In the fourth year of King Darius…” (vs. 1 - ESV)
The Delegation’s Question: Now that we are back in the land, shall we continue the Memorial Fasts from when we lost the Temple & were exiled?
2 Now the people of Bethel had sent Sharezer and Regem-melech and their men to entreat the favor of the LORD, 3 saying to the priests of the house of the LORD of hosts and the prophets, "Should I weep and abstain in the fifth month, as I have done for so many years?" (ESV)
The LORD’s Answer / Question: 4 Then the word of the LORD of hosts came to me: 5 "Say to all the people of the land and the priests, When you fasted and mourned in the fifth month and in the seventh, for these seventy years, was it for me that you fasted? 6 And when you eat and when you drink, do you not eat for yourselves and drink for yourselves? 7 Were not these the words that the LORD proclaimed by the former prophets, when Jerusalem was inhabited and prosperous, with her cities around her, and the South and the lowland were inhabited?"
The Heart of it – A Call to Repentance, Righteousness & Reminder:
8 And the word of the LORD came to Zechariah, saying, (cf. 7:1; 8:1; 18)
9 "Thus says the LORD of hosts,
Render true judgments,
show kindness and mercy to one another,
10 do not oppress the widow, the fatherless,
the sojourner, or the poor,
and let none of you devise evil against another in your heart."
11 But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder and stopped their ears that they might not hear. 12 They made their hearts diamond-hard lest they should hear the law and the words that the LORD of hosts had sent by his Spirit through the former prophets. Therefore great anger came from the LORD of hosts. 13 "As I called, and they would not hear, so they called, and I would not hear," says the LORD of hosts, 14 "and I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations that they had not known. Thus the land they left was desolate, so that no one went to and fro, and the pleasant land was made desolate." - ESV
1. Sacred acts – if empty or misguided - can be deadly in their deception
2. More important than a Fast is Obedience: Loving God & Others
3. To not repeat history, learn from it! Keep the “they” vs. 11 a they.
4. God not listening (vs. 13)? Who started it (vs. 11-14)? Repent.
5. Though God scattered, He restored. Practice righteousness (vs. 8-10)!
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Friday, May 26, 2006
Checking Your Church Connectedness
How connected to your church are you? I am not asking if you are a member, or regular in attendance or giving. But, how much are its people a part of your life and you theirs? Do you see other Christians as family or fellow attendees? Do you think of your church as a “them” or an “us, we”?
A Spiritual Utility Company is how many see church: a place that holds a service where the Pastor meets – or doesn’t meet – your needs. As the Phone, Electric and Cable companies have their role in your life, so does the church.
The Biblical descriptions of a believer’s relationship with the church are vastly different from what many (most?) experience. Many do not seem to know how deeply Jesus wants our lives to intertwine. Others are quite pleased with their comfortable, yet shallow, relationship with their spiritual family.
Few seem to see it as a blood-bought body into which we have been baptized, placed by Jesus; a body that is as interdependent as your own. Sing with me: the wrist bone’s connected to the arm bone, the leg bone… (Ephesians 4; 1 Corinthians 12, 13; Romans 12).
Here is a way to check your church connectedness. Which of these phrases sound like how you describe your church to others?
1. “I go to Pastor So-and-so’s Church.” The Pastor is the church’s main identity point. He is the Man of God that you follow, adhere to, trust, respect, stand-behind… As enviable as that may sound to us Pastors, it is a scary, vulnerable place to let people stay.
What if the Pastor leaves, shows his humanity or worse, falls into sin or serious doctrinal error? Understandably, these are hits in one’s life, but how deep a stroke would it be to you? Do you believe what you believe because a pastor seems convinced enough for both of you, or do you own your faith?
2. “I go to Such-and-such Church.” Its reputation, distinctives, denomination – or lack there of – and even its image are key. You name-drop it for spiritual credibility, clout or even to be “chic by association.” Your church identity is defined by who you are and are not: Traditional, Contemporary, Reformed, Free Will, Baptistic, Presbyterian…
There are thousands of things we own as distinctives: Pentecostal, Non Charismatic, High / Low Church, house church, Emergent, Decaf., non smoking, window seat. These can be great things. Yet, when they define us, they divide us.
We often assert that most of us agree on a few core doctrinal matters - the essentials. Still, we truck in our distinctives, put them up front, give them more weight then they deserve or can bear and start parting company.
Though we may have the Lord Jesus in common, it sure sounds like music styles,
Sunday Evening services and dress codes are a lot more important than our Crucified, buried, risen, coming again Savior. Our connectedness is not Him but our particularities, our differences.
3. “Our church offers. . .” (fill-in a list of programs). If church is primarily for you is a place to be served and catered to, then something is amiss. We have far too many pew people who claim to have known Jesus for years and are still takers, consumers. They are not ministering, using their gifts, laying down their life for others.
Satisfied customers like what their church provides. They show up for many of its offerings and even give, bring goodies and help set up / clean up. But, dare you disappoint, offend or slight them and they are suddenly no longer around, not returning calls, and arriving late and leaving early to the last few events they come.
When the novelty wears off of how well their church “serves the better burger”, and the next “First Church of the Latest and Greatest” bursts on the scenes, reporting remarkable growth (sheep shuffling), they feel the need to check out what “God is up to” there.
4. “That’s my family’s church.” You grew up in the same neighborhood as your parents, went to the same schools, and of course, attend the same church. It’s “where your family goes” since they helped start it. Like three other generations, you were dedicated, and married in that church.
This can be precious, a holy legacy of stability and commitment. There is nothing wrong with a family church, as long as your family knows it is part of a bigger Family where God is in charge, not Grandma.
5. “That is the church family I am part of… Our church…” To use an old, noble term, you are a Churchman. A committed to, serving in, making-happen, plugged-in, need-meeting, class-teaching, stranger-greeting, sick-visiting, meal-fixing, flower-buying, card-sending, family member.
You rejoice with those having babies, getting married and you weep with those facing death, divorce, unemployment or disability. You know and acknowledge birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, promotions, layoffs and major medical tests. You provide rides to the store, help cut the grass, pay the bills, fix the car, slip cash to, pass along hand me downs, watch the kids, loan the car…
Note this well: each church probably has some of each of these five types of Christians. Their disposition towards Church may or may not be produced or promoted by their church.
Take the risk – again - and be the church. Lead the way by humbly serving one an other as “inasmuchas” people. Jesus said that in as much as you did it to the least of these, you did it unto Me.
A Spiritual Utility Company is how many see church: a place that holds a service where the Pastor meets – or doesn’t meet – your needs. As the Phone, Electric and Cable companies have their role in your life, so does the church.
The Biblical descriptions of a believer’s relationship with the church are vastly different from what many (most?) experience. Many do not seem to know how deeply Jesus wants our lives to intertwine. Others are quite pleased with their comfortable, yet shallow, relationship with their spiritual family.
Few seem to see it as a blood-bought body into which we have been baptized, placed by Jesus; a body that is as interdependent as your own. Sing with me: the wrist bone’s connected to the arm bone, the leg bone… (Ephesians 4; 1 Corinthians 12, 13; Romans 12).
Here is a way to check your church connectedness. Which of these phrases sound like how you describe your church to others?
1. “I go to Pastor So-and-so’s Church.” The Pastor is the church’s main identity point. He is the Man of God that you follow, adhere to, trust, respect, stand-behind… As enviable as that may sound to us Pastors, it is a scary, vulnerable place to let people stay.
What if the Pastor leaves, shows his humanity or worse, falls into sin or serious doctrinal error? Understandably, these are hits in one’s life, but how deep a stroke would it be to you? Do you believe what you believe because a pastor seems convinced enough for both of you, or do you own your faith?
2. “I go to Such-and-such Church.” Its reputation, distinctives, denomination – or lack there of – and even its image are key. You name-drop it for spiritual credibility, clout or even to be “chic by association.” Your church identity is defined by who you are and are not: Traditional, Contemporary, Reformed, Free Will, Baptistic, Presbyterian…
There are thousands of things we own as distinctives: Pentecostal, Non Charismatic, High / Low Church, house church, Emergent, Decaf., non smoking, window seat. These can be great things. Yet, when they define us, they divide us.
We often assert that most of us agree on a few core doctrinal matters - the essentials. Still, we truck in our distinctives, put them up front, give them more weight then they deserve or can bear and start parting company.
Though we may have the Lord Jesus in common, it sure sounds like music styles,
Sunday Evening services and dress codes are a lot more important than our Crucified, buried, risen, coming again Savior. Our connectedness is not Him but our particularities, our differences.
3. “Our church offers. . .” (fill-in a list of programs). If church is primarily for you is a place to be served and catered to, then something is amiss. We have far too many pew people who claim to have known Jesus for years and are still takers, consumers. They are not ministering, using their gifts, laying down their life for others.
Satisfied customers like what their church provides. They show up for many of its offerings and even give, bring goodies and help set up / clean up. But, dare you disappoint, offend or slight them and they are suddenly no longer around, not returning calls, and arriving late and leaving early to the last few events they come.
When the novelty wears off of how well their church “serves the better burger”, and the next “First Church of the Latest and Greatest” bursts on the scenes, reporting remarkable growth (sheep shuffling), they feel the need to check out what “God is up to” there.
4. “That’s my family’s church.” You grew up in the same neighborhood as your parents, went to the same schools, and of course, attend the same church. It’s “where your family goes” since they helped start it. Like three other generations, you were dedicated, and married in that church.
This can be precious, a holy legacy of stability and commitment. There is nothing wrong with a family church, as long as your family knows it is part of a bigger Family where God is in charge, not Grandma.
5. “That is the church family I am part of… Our church…” To use an old, noble term, you are a Churchman. A committed to, serving in, making-happen, plugged-in, need-meeting, class-teaching, stranger-greeting, sick-visiting, meal-fixing, flower-buying, card-sending, family member.
You rejoice with those having babies, getting married and you weep with those facing death, divorce, unemployment or disability. You know and acknowledge birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, promotions, layoffs and major medical tests. You provide rides to the store, help cut the grass, pay the bills, fix the car, slip cash to, pass along hand me downs, watch the kids, loan the car…
Note this well: each church probably has some of each of these five types of Christians. Their disposition towards Church may or may not be produced or promoted by their church.
Take the risk – again - and be the church. Lead the way by humbly serving one an other as “inasmuchas” people. Jesus said that in as much as you did it to the least of these, you did it unto Me.
Friday, May 12, 2006
Measuring Maturity by Ministry Stages
Take the Test . . .
Years ago, I noticed an interesting way to gage the maturity or ministry development of a church or individual. I have couched these stages of growth in hypothetical comments made to one’s Pastor.
Let me back up a bit. According to Ephesians 4:11-17, a mature church is - among other things - one in which the people are trained by their leaders to do ministry and then they do it.
Such spiritually healthy saints are solid in their beliefs about and walk with Jesus, not vulnerable to the latest spiritual fads or ideas (e.g. Da Vinci Code).
They share the responsibilities of ministry according to their giftedness (read 1 Peter 4:10, 11), contributing to the church body in “which every part does its share” (Ephesians 4:16 - NKJV).
These are people who see needs, take initiative and create and do ministry, not simply follow the lead of their pastor in what, when and how. (The Reformers spoke of the Priesthood of the believers.)
With that context, here are the progressive comments of people growing into ministry maturity, and a pastor allowing and fostering it:
First, we hear: “Great job, Pastor!” This can be an encouragement from newer believers, or the intoxicating applause, of adoring, approving spectators. Sadly, such satisfied customers are fickle and unless they are growing out of this stage, they are drains on the church’s ministry and focus.
Next comes: “Pastor, may I help?” These souls have gone from watching to wanting to lend a hand. It may be from the fear that the “poor Pastor is overworked” or it may be, “I think I could be of help here.” Dare they start to think, “Hey, I can do that”? Read Romans 12:1-8.
Growing even more, we hear: “Pastor, I have an idea. May we…?” These courageous congregants are starting to see church life beyond Sunday morning worship and the sole job of the Pastor.
They may joke he only works one day a week, but know it is more like three, maybe four. No longer mere followers, these are burgeoning leaders. Either stop them while you still can, or add fuel to their holy fire.
Moving into maturity, they declare: “Pastor, we are going to…” These brazen souls have earned trust, cleaned toilets, served, led and faithfully paid their dues. Now, on their own, they see needs and opportunities that God brings before them and they act.
Out of respect and for prayer support – as well as getting first dibs on a room at church – they tell the pastor what is going to happen. Yes, tell him, not ask.
Finally, reflecting a mature ministry mindset, we overhear: “Did anyone tell the pastor that we…?” Ah, these are the heart, the life, the pulse of a healthy church. They have met a need, started a ministry, lead a charge and did not feel the need to “bother the Pastor”. The mutual trust they have developed freed them to “go for it.”
They realize – maybe after the fact - that he might want to know for his own encouragement how God used them, as well as to lighten his load, allay some guilt and prevent ministry duplication.
Truth be told, he might not even enter into their thinking. It ain’t about him, and he knows and teaches that (see 2 Timothy 2:2).
Once a pastor gets over getting “left out” by such saints, he can rejoice. This kind of ignorance is bliss and blessed. Such is the making of a ministry monster – in the best sense of the word.
Such churches blessed with such lean, mean ministry machines are not as strong or weak as their pastor. He is not the end-all. Such people are the strength of the church.
That last category may sound scary: people not running their ideas by the Pastor, Elders or Deacons. Admittedly, there are some people that need to be checking in – and frequently.
However, if at some point some people cannot be trusted to follow the Lord in using their God-given gifts, we have either done a poor job of equipping them or we are control freaks.
I close with a quandary that has haunted me for years. We applaud missionaries for bringing a church to maturity and working themselves out of a job. When the “locals,” the indigenous people are finally leading the church, the missionaries have achieved their goal.
However, that mindset, that grand ministry philosophy seems only worth exporting, not applying here at home. Why is that? Could this failure to free God’s people to serve contribute to the anemic nature of the body of Christ in America?
This quandary – call it a crisis - calls for a response on both sides of the pulpit. Are we pastors promoting people’s movement through these stages, or hindering it?
How about you “pew people” (a terrible term): In which stage do you find yourself and what are you doing to move to the next one?
Years ago, I noticed an interesting way to gage the maturity or ministry development of a church or individual. I have couched these stages of growth in hypothetical comments made to one’s Pastor.
Let me back up a bit. According to Ephesians 4:11-17, a mature church is - among other things - one in which the people are trained by their leaders to do ministry and then they do it.
Such spiritually healthy saints are solid in their beliefs about and walk with Jesus, not vulnerable to the latest spiritual fads or ideas (e.g. Da Vinci Code).
They share the responsibilities of ministry according to their giftedness (read 1 Peter 4:10, 11), contributing to the church body in “which every part does its share” (Ephesians 4:16 - NKJV).
These are people who see needs, take initiative and create and do ministry, not simply follow the lead of their pastor in what, when and how. (The Reformers spoke of the Priesthood of the believers.)
With that context, here are the progressive comments of people growing into ministry maturity, and a pastor allowing and fostering it:
First, we hear: “Great job, Pastor!” This can be an encouragement from newer believers, or the intoxicating applause, of adoring, approving spectators. Sadly, such satisfied customers are fickle and unless they are growing out of this stage, they are drains on the church’s ministry and focus.
Next comes: “Pastor, may I help?” These souls have gone from watching to wanting to lend a hand. It may be from the fear that the “poor Pastor is overworked” or it may be, “I think I could be of help here.” Dare they start to think, “Hey, I can do that”? Read Romans 12:1-8.
Growing even more, we hear: “Pastor, I have an idea. May we…?” These courageous congregants are starting to see church life beyond Sunday morning worship and the sole job of the Pastor.
They may joke he only works one day a week, but know it is more like three, maybe four. No longer mere followers, these are burgeoning leaders. Either stop them while you still can, or add fuel to their holy fire.
Moving into maturity, they declare: “Pastor, we are going to…” These brazen souls have earned trust, cleaned toilets, served, led and faithfully paid their dues. Now, on their own, they see needs and opportunities that God brings before them and they act.
Out of respect and for prayer support – as well as getting first dibs on a room at church – they tell the pastor what is going to happen. Yes, tell him, not ask.
Finally, reflecting a mature ministry mindset, we overhear: “Did anyone tell the pastor that we…?” Ah, these are the heart, the life, the pulse of a healthy church. They have met a need, started a ministry, lead a charge and did not feel the need to “bother the Pastor”. The mutual trust they have developed freed them to “go for it.”
They realize – maybe after the fact - that he might want to know for his own encouragement how God used them, as well as to lighten his load, allay some guilt and prevent ministry duplication.
Truth be told, he might not even enter into their thinking. It ain’t about him, and he knows and teaches that (see 2 Timothy 2:2).
Once a pastor gets over getting “left out” by such saints, he can rejoice. This kind of ignorance is bliss and blessed. Such is the making of a ministry monster – in the best sense of the word.
Such churches blessed with such lean, mean ministry machines are not as strong or weak as their pastor. He is not the end-all. Such people are the strength of the church.
That last category may sound scary: people not running their ideas by the Pastor, Elders or Deacons. Admittedly, there are some people that need to be checking in – and frequently.
However, if at some point some people cannot be trusted to follow the Lord in using their God-given gifts, we have either done a poor job of equipping them or we are control freaks.
I close with a quandary that has haunted me for years. We applaud missionaries for bringing a church to maturity and working themselves out of a job. When the “locals,” the indigenous people are finally leading the church, the missionaries have achieved their goal.
However, that mindset, that grand ministry philosophy seems only worth exporting, not applying here at home. Why is that? Could this failure to free God’s people to serve contribute to the anemic nature of the body of Christ in America?
This quandary – call it a crisis - calls for a response on both sides of the pulpit. Are we pastors promoting people’s movement through these stages, or hindering it?
How about you “pew people” (a terrible term): In which stage do you find yourself and what are you doing to move to the next one?
Mother Mary: a Magnificent Model
Mother Mary: a Magnificent Model
Mother's Day Sermon Notes from Luke 1:38-56
As a reaction, many Protestants shy away from much that deals with Mary, the mother of our Lord. Many reactions are over-corrections in which we rob ourselves in the good name of self-protection. A study of Mary from Luke 1:38-56 yields so many great lessons. Mary is a magnificent model for all of us, not just Moms. Her song in vs. 46-55 is called "The Magnificat", from the Latin for "glorifies". Pretty deep stuff for a teen girl (cf 1 Sam. 2:1).
Mary’s Response to Angel Gabriel’s Birth Announcement:
38 "And Mary said, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me
according to your word." And the angel departed from her." NASB
* Humbly submissive: "the bondslave of the Lord"
* Obedient: "may it be done to me…"
Cousin Elizabeth’s Description of Mary:
45 "And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment
of what had been spoken to her by the Lord."
* Mary was a woman of faith: unlike Sarah, or Zechariah
* Mary’s faith brought blessing to her & all
The Ultimate Mother’s Lullaby: 46 And Mary said:
"My soul exalts the Lord,
47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.
48 "For He has had regard for the humble state of His bondslave;
For behold, from this time on all generations will count me blessed.
49 "For the Mighty One has done great things for me;
And holy is His name.
50 "AND HIS MERCY IS UPON GENERATION AFTER GENERATION
TOWARD THOSE WHO FEAR HIM.
51 "He has done mighty deeds with His arm;
He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their heart.
52 "He has brought down rulers from their thrones,
And has exalted those who were humble.
53 "HE HAS FILLED THE HUNGRY WITH GOOD THINGS;
And sent away the rich empty-handed.
54 "He has given help to Israel His servant, In remembrance of His mercy,
55 As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and his descendants forever."
* She knew the Scriptures & the LORD of them. Note all the attributes
* A Lady of Worship: she loved & feared the LORD her God (Deut. 6:4-9)
* Knew her status was due to God’s mercy, not merit (humble)
* Saw herself as part of a People (Israel). Saw her role in its history
* She was indeed blessed of the LORD & a magnificent model for all.
Mother's Day Sermon Notes from Luke 1:38-56
As a reaction, many Protestants shy away from much that deals with Mary, the mother of our Lord. Many reactions are over-corrections in which we rob ourselves in the good name of self-protection. A study of Mary from Luke 1:38-56 yields so many great lessons. Mary is a magnificent model for all of us, not just Moms. Her song in vs. 46-55 is called "The Magnificat", from the Latin for "glorifies". Pretty deep stuff for a teen girl (cf 1 Sam. 2:1).
Mary’s Response to Angel Gabriel’s Birth Announcement:
38 "And Mary said, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me
according to your word." And the angel departed from her." NASB
* Humbly submissive: "the bondslave of the Lord"
* Obedient: "may it be done to me…"
Cousin Elizabeth’s Description of Mary:
45 "And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment
of what had been spoken to her by the Lord."
* Mary was a woman of faith: unlike Sarah, or Zechariah
* Mary’s faith brought blessing to her & all
The Ultimate Mother’s Lullaby: 46 And Mary said:
"My soul exalts the Lord,
47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.
48 "For He has had regard for the humble state of His bondslave;
For behold, from this time on all generations will count me blessed.
49 "For the Mighty One has done great things for me;
And holy is His name.
50 "AND HIS MERCY IS UPON GENERATION AFTER GENERATION
TOWARD THOSE WHO FEAR HIM.
51 "He has done mighty deeds with His arm;
He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their heart.
52 "He has brought down rulers from their thrones,
And has exalted those who were humble.
53 "HE HAS FILLED THE HUNGRY WITH GOOD THINGS;
And sent away the rich empty-handed.
54 "He has given help to Israel His servant, In remembrance of His mercy,
55 As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and his descendants forever."
* She knew the Scriptures & the LORD of them. Note all the attributes
* A Lady of Worship: she loved & feared the LORD her God (Deut. 6:4-9)
* Knew her status was due to God’s mercy, not merit (humble)
* Saw herself as part of a People (Israel). Saw her role in its history
* She was indeed blessed of the LORD & a magnificent model for all.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Confronting our Unbelief & Hard Hearts
Relying on the Reports of The Resurrected One
sermon notes from Mark 16:4-14
Firsthand reports of eyewitnesses who were contemporaries of the event! We like to think that if we had that benefit we would believe with no trouble at all & never doubt again. Yet, the first ones to hear reports of the Jesus’ resurrection – His closest followers - responded unbelief & hard hearts. Jesus rebukes such refusal to believe – it is sinful.
Do you see a pattern, any repeated words or themes in Mark 16:9-14?
“Now when He rose early on the first day of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom He had cast seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with Him, as they mourned and wept. 11 And when they heard that He was alive and had been seen by her, they did not believe.
12 After that, He appeared in another form to two of them as they walked and went into the country. 13 And they went and told it to the rest, but they did not believe them either.
14 Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen.” (NKJV)
The Resurrection reports are reliable & the facts more than sufficient, leaving all people responsible, without excuse (vs. 14; Rom. 1:18-23).
Personal turmoil and life disturbance (mourning and weeping – vs. 10) does not earn a pass before God for unbelief (Mark 6:1-6).
The problem is not our I.Q., but “I will / won’t” (Matt. 16:1-4;)
- Unbelief is a decision, NOT a result of being not persuaded (Rom. 1:18)
- A hard or resistant heart stirs a rebuke, a reproach from the Risen Lord
Unbelief is sin & faith is blessed (John 1:10-13; 3:16-18, 36; 20:24-31)
An Irony: We should hope & pray people believe our witness, but not be surprised when they do not. We are asking them to make a dead / alive-again Jewish Rabbi from 2000 years ago their life boss and God. This is no small step and the consequences are huge – submission & repentance.
Jesus has spoken to us things He wants us to believe, live and obey, yet we doubt His word & dismiss His messengers. Which of His promises would Jesus rebuke your unbelief & hard heartedness?
Feed your faith with these texts: 2 Corin. 1:20; Eph. 6:16, 17; Rom. 10; James 1:5-8 Heb. 4:1, 2; 6 :7-20; 11:1-6, 39-40; Mark 4:1-20; 9:24; Psalm 119.
sermon notes from Mark 16:4-14
Firsthand reports of eyewitnesses who were contemporaries of the event! We like to think that if we had that benefit we would believe with no trouble at all & never doubt again. Yet, the first ones to hear reports of the Jesus’ resurrection – His closest followers - responded unbelief & hard hearts. Jesus rebukes such refusal to believe – it is sinful.
Do you see a pattern, any repeated words or themes in Mark 16:9-14?
“Now when He rose early on the first day of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom He had cast seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with Him, as they mourned and wept. 11 And when they heard that He was alive and had been seen by her, they did not believe.
12 After that, He appeared in another form to two of them as they walked and went into the country. 13 And they went and told it to the rest, but they did not believe them either.
14 Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen.” (NKJV)
The Resurrection reports are reliable & the facts more than sufficient, leaving all people responsible, without excuse (vs. 14; Rom. 1:18-23).
Personal turmoil and life disturbance (mourning and weeping – vs. 10) does not earn a pass before God for unbelief (Mark 6:1-6).
The problem is not our I.Q., but “I will / won’t” (Matt. 16:1-4;)
- Unbelief is a decision, NOT a result of being not persuaded (Rom. 1:18)
- A hard or resistant heart stirs a rebuke, a reproach from the Risen Lord
Unbelief is sin & faith is blessed (John 1:10-13; 3:16-18, 36; 20:24-31)
An Irony: We should hope & pray people believe our witness, but not be surprised when they do not. We are asking them to make a dead / alive-again Jewish Rabbi from 2000 years ago their life boss and God. This is no small step and the consequences are huge – submission & repentance.
Jesus has spoken to us things He wants us to believe, live and obey, yet we doubt His word & dismiss His messengers. Which of His promises would Jesus rebuke your unbelief & hard heartedness?
Feed your faith with these texts: 2 Corin. 1:20; Eph. 6:16, 17; Rom. 10; James 1:5-8 Heb. 4:1, 2; 6 :7-20; 11:1-6, 39-40; Mark 4:1-20; 9:24; Psalm 119.
Friday, April 28, 2006
A Reminder to Be Mindful of God
"Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits at God’s right hand in the place of honor and power. Let heaven fill your thoughts.
"Do not think only about things down here on earth. For you died when Christ died, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God" Colossians 3:1-3 (New Living Translation).
You never know when or where God will remind you of an important truth. A chance encounter at a hotel continental breakfast bar reminded me of God’s passion to teach us. It also reminded me of the need to be mindful of Him.
Our family was traveling back to Kingsport when my son and I met a kind retiree from Oklahoma. Coincidentally, she too who was on her way to Kingsport, to visit a daughter and family.
By the way, it is said that a "coincidence" is when God chooses to work anonymously. Lucky for us - yes, that was a joke- He does this often.
Having noticed that she looked Hispanic or Native American and that she had on a shirt saying "Mexico," I asked if she was Mexican or Cherokee. She was in fact first generation Mexican American and she then relayed an interesting life development.
Our new friend told how she used to think in Spanish as well as she could in English. But, in the past few years, she has noticed that skill slipping. At a recent reception, she was able to speak to someone in Spanish. Yet, much to her chagrin, she got stuck in efforts to communicate.
Having no one to speak Spanish to on a regular basis has made it harder to think in Spanish as easily as she used to. What used to be natural to her now takes effort due to lack of practice, less use.
Hmmm . . . With a long drive ahead and being a person prone to parabolize, and apt to allegorize, this got me to thinking about my thinking. (I will not be offended if you need to re read that sentence.) How fluent do I stay in my thinking about God, His word, His truths, His will and ways?
Can I, with Willie Nelson, sing to my sweet Lord, "You were always on my mind?" Being on the road again, I could not outlaw that line of thinking. (Tell me ya saw the puns...)
How consistently do I meditate on Him, His word, mulling Him over? How well do I think biblically? Have my skills and habits of thinking in God’s language – the Bible – stayed strong or have they slipped?
As God’s people, we have a dual citizenship, know a second language – His. We are to love God with all our minds, as well as our hearts, soul and strength. A lack of use of our language of re-birth can lead to one dimensional living and thinking - a life that is too earthy (see Psalm 1).
To my new friend, I say "mucho gusto, mucho gracias mi amiga y Dios Te bendaga." (I hope you are duly impressed, that is half of my Spanish. nd, yes, I had it double checked.)
To my Lord, who has provided cleaner, clearer thoughts for us to think, I say thank you for the reminder. Feel free to keep me mindful to keep you in mind.
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." Joshua 1:8 (NKJV)
"And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Philippians 4:8 (NLT)
"Do not think only about things down here on earth. For you died when Christ died, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God" Colossians 3:1-3 (New Living Translation).
You never know when or where God will remind you of an important truth. A chance encounter at a hotel continental breakfast bar reminded me of God’s passion to teach us. It also reminded me of the need to be mindful of Him.
Our family was traveling back to Kingsport when my son and I met a kind retiree from Oklahoma. Coincidentally, she too who was on her way to Kingsport, to visit a daughter and family.
By the way, it is said that a "coincidence" is when God chooses to work anonymously. Lucky for us - yes, that was a joke- He does this often.
Having noticed that she looked Hispanic or Native American and that she had on a shirt saying "Mexico," I asked if she was Mexican or Cherokee. She was in fact first generation Mexican American and she then relayed an interesting life development.
Our new friend told how she used to think in Spanish as well as she could in English. But, in the past few years, she has noticed that skill slipping. At a recent reception, she was able to speak to someone in Spanish. Yet, much to her chagrin, she got stuck in efforts to communicate.
Having no one to speak Spanish to on a regular basis has made it harder to think in Spanish as easily as she used to. What used to be natural to her now takes effort due to lack of practice, less use.
Hmmm . . . With a long drive ahead and being a person prone to parabolize, and apt to allegorize, this got me to thinking about my thinking. (I will not be offended if you need to re read that sentence.) How fluent do I stay in my thinking about God, His word, His truths, His will and ways?
Can I, with Willie Nelson, sing to my sweet Lord, "You were always on my mind?" Being on the road again, I could not outlaw that line of thinking. (Tell me ya saw the puns...)
How consistently do I meditate on Him, His word, mulling Him over? How well do I think biblically? Have my skills and habits of thinking in God’s language – the Bible – stayed strong or have they slipped?
As God’s people, we have a dual citizenship, know a second language – His. We are to love God with all our minds, as well as our hearts, soul and strength. A lack of use of our language of re-birth can lead to one dimensional living and thinking - a life that is too earthy (see Psalm 1).
To my new friend, I say "mucho gusto, mucho gracias mi amiga y Dios Te bendaga." (I hope you are duly impressed, that is half of my Spanish. nd, yes, I had it double checked.)
To my Lord, who has provided cleaner, clearer thoughts for us to think, I say thank you for the reminder. Feel free to keep me mindful to keep you in mind.
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." Joshua 1:8 (NKJV)
"And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Philippians 4:8 (NLT)
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Jesus' Burial - sermon notes
Jesus’ Burial - from Mark 15:42-47
“Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you… 2 By this gospel you are saved… 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures…” (1 Corin. 15:1-4 emphasis added - NIV).
Mark 15:42 “It was Preparation Day (that is, the day before the Sabbath).
· Unburied bodies polluted the land & were a sign of God’s curse (Ezek. 39:11–16; 1 Kings 14:11; 2 Kings 9:36–37)
42b So as evening approached, 43 Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, (cf Simeon– Luke 2:25)went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body.
· “a good and upright man” (Luke 23:50) & rich (Mt. 27:57)
· A secret disciple, feared the Jews (John 19:38-42; Mt. 27:57)
· did not consent to the Council’s “decision and action” (Luke 23:51)
44 Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead. Summoning the centurion, he asked him if Jesus had already died. 45 When he learned from the centurion that it was so, he gave the body to Joseph.
· Not uncommon to stay alive on a cross 2-3 days (leg breaking)
46 So Joseph bought some linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb cut out of rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb.
· Joseph’s family tomb & unused – no family buried in it yet (Mt. 27:60)
· Nicodemus helped him & brought spices (John 19:39; 3:1-16)
· Note the honor shown to the dead.
47 Mary Magdalene (Luke 8:1-3 - delivered by Jesus of seven demons)
and Mary the mother of Joses (Matt. 27:55–61)
saw where he was laid.” (NIV)
· Potentially, the saddest words in all history.
· Is He still dead to you?
· Have you died with Him (Rom. 6; Gal. 2:20)?
“Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you… 2 By this gospel you are saved… 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures…” (1 Corin. 15:1-4 emphasis added - NIV).
Mark 15:42 “It was Preparation Day (that is, the day before the Sabbath).
· Unburied bodies polluted the land & were a sign of God’s curse (Ezek. 39:11–16; 1 Kings 14:11; 2 Kings 9:36–37)
42b So as evening approached, 43 Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, (cf Simeon– Luke 2:25)went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body.
· “a good and upright man” (Luke 23:50) & rich (Mt. 27:57)
· A secret disciple, feared the Jews (John 19:38-42; Mt. 27:57)
· did not consent to the Council’s “decision and action” (Luke 23:51)
44 Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead. Summoning the centurion, he asked him if Jesus had already died. 45 When he learned from the centurion that it was so, he gave the body to Joseph.
· Not uncommon to stay alive on a cross 2-3 days (leg breaking)
46 So Joseph bought some linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb cut out of rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb.
· Joseph’s family tomb & unused – no family buried in it yet (Mt. 27:60)
· Nicodemus helped him & brought spices (John 19:39; 3:1-16)
· Note the honor shown to the dead.
47 Mary Magdalene (Luke 8:1-3 - delivered by Jesus of seven demons)
and Mary the mother of Joses (Matt. 27:55–61)
saw where he was laid.” (NIV)
· Potentially, the saddest words in all history.
· Is He still dead to you?
· Have you died with Him (Rom. 6; Gal. 2:20)?
Monday, April 03, 2006
Back Home
Doing the wedding of two kids you saw grow up - indescribable.
Many thanks to all at GEFC who plugged holes & met needs while we were in IL
Dues to weather & lateness, we didn't drive through last night. We caught a room
in KY with a good breakfast, pool... ;-) & got in today about 3 PM. Kids missed school. Kudos to Kimsey & Karter for wanting to get home so they would NOT miss school.
A good trip: busy, encouraging & fun. Robin & I visited a critically ill dear
older friend on Thur. He went to be with the Lord Sat. AM. I was able to go and
be with the family Sat. AM as they waited for his body to be picked up (donated
to science). What an honor. He was a neat, godly, "salt of the earth"
man (a WWII vet).
Wedding went well (yes, I cried). Preached in both Sun AM services from Mark 14
- deja vu for the family - they cried ;-)
It is good to be back home.
I am proud of how GEFC (www.GetGraced.org) stepped up, owned it, did it... I am not sure I can totaly say why, or describe how, but they seemed to step up, own it in a new way. Very encouraging.
Many thanks to all at GEFC who plugged holes & met needs while we were in IL
Dues to weather & lateness, we didn't drive through last night. We caught a room
in KY with a good breakfast, pool... ;-) & got in today about 3 PM. Kids missed school. Kudos to Kimsey & Karter for wanting to get home so they would NOT miss school.
A good trip: busy, encouraging & fun. Robin & I visited a critically ill dear
older friend on Thur. He went to be with the Lord Sat. AM. I was able to go and
be with the family Sat. AM as they waited for his body to be picked up (donated
to science). What an honor. He was a neat, godly, "salt of the earth"
man (a WWII vet).
Wedding went well (yes, I cried). Preached in both Sun AM services from Mark 14
- deja vu for the family - they cried ;-)
It is good to be back home.
I am proud of how GEFC (www.GetGraced.org) stepped up, owned it, did it... I am not sure I can totaly say why, or describe how, but they seemed to step up, own it in a new way. Very encouraging.
Monday, March 27, 2006
Trust God for the Impossible (i.e. Ridiculous)
God's great desire for us, His “Grand Scheme” is to make us more like Jesus (Romans 8:28-39). One incredible way He does this is by putting us in impossible situations so He can teach us to trust Him and He can show off His greatness.
If you're not in one now, you have or will be in impossible situation that only God can handle. A pinch in which God Himself has clearly put you: family crises, financial stresses, marriage difficulties, health scares...
When God places you in faith-stretching spots, remember who He is: the LORD, the sovereign I Am. Recall what He's done in the past, has promised to do and what He is able to do since He is God. Seeing Him for who He is, helps us trust and obey (read Isaiah 40).
A great prompt towards this is an episode in the life of Prophet Jeremiah (read Jeremiah 32-33). God called him to do what seemed absurd, utter nonsense. As Jeremiah laid out his concern before Lord in prayer, we hear God ask: I'm the LORD, the God of all flesh, is anything too hard for Me?
The setting is rich and interesting. Jeremiah was a Prophet to southern kingdom – Judah. He faithfully proclaimed God's word: Judgment is coming because of the gross sin of the people & leaders. Give up your resistance, God will cause the enemy to win.
The King – for some odd reason - did not like this message, so he put the messenger, Jeremiah, under guard. While there, Jeremiah is told by the LORD that his cousin was coming to offer to sale him some land - family property he had first legal right to buy.
Small snag: it was not the best time to buy land. The nation is about to be overthrown and the people scattered to winds. Buying land before a successful invasion of an enemy is... trying to be nice here... unwise.
This was an overthrow Jeremiah had prophesied for years. Investing in real estate seems odd, at best. Yet, God called him to do just that.
Despite his own reasoning and doubts, Jeremiah faithfully obeys God. He purchases the land in a very public way and gives a copy of the deed to his scribe / helper Baruch, instructing him to seal it up for that day in future when God would bring His people back to land.
After making this odd deal, Jeremiah prays. It is a great prayer - full of faith, rich in remembering what God has done (Jeremiah 32:16-25).
Finishing his marvelous prayer, Jeremiah brings up the odd thing God's asked him to do. Lord, I know you're great, powerful, merciful and awesome. Lord, I know you have done great signs & wonders. But, the signs seem to be pointing backwards and I'm wondering what You're up to. About this land deal...
Sound familiar? Ever wondered or dared to ask God what He was up to? Lord, I know you want me to spend more time with family, but these bills, responsibilities... You want me to keep myself pure, but the temptation's too great. Besides, You put these feelings and desires in me.
I know you don't want me to marry an unbeliever, but You can't want me to stay single. I know you hate divorce, but you can't want me to stay married to this insensitive jerk. I know you want me to give, serve, forgive, love, help, but... You are expecting the impossible.
The Lord responds to us the same way He did to Jeremiah. The LORD quoted Jeremiah back to him, saying: Behold, I'm the Lord, the God of all people, is anything to hard for Me?
Yes, Jeremiah, I am asking you to do the seemingly absurd, but remember who I am, what I can do, and what I have promised. Yes, I'm going to discipline My people by sending them into captivity but, I'll re-gather them, return and replant My people in the land. They will again serve Me and I will be their God.
History tells us some 70 years later, God did restore His people to Land (see Haggai, 2 Chronicles 36 and Ezra 1, 2).
Here's the Point: if God is leading you to do what seems absurd, the most absurd thing is to forget who God is. He's the LORD, the great I AM, the God of all flesh - not a local deity, a regional god, a created idol.
He is the God who has revealed Himself to us. The God who loves and saves His people, makes and keeps His Covenants and overthrows those who oppose Him.
Yes, He is the God who sometimes calls us to invest in the impossible, trust for the ridiculous and wait for the miraculous. He says to you too: Yes, My child, I am calling you to do that which I've shown you. It seems impossible, but remember who I am - the LORD.
Take Heart! If God's calling us to do impossible, He must be in it. If our plans are do-able - who needs God? Yet, God is calling for us to call out to Him to show us the impossible (Jer. 33:3). Obeying God in seeming nonsensical acts is not dumb, but a sign of humble obedience – and its smart too!
Okay, I admit it, in the abstract, objective realm, we agree without hesitation that nothing is too hard for God. Yet, on a personal, subjective level, when it has to do with our daily lives - well, we're not always sure He can pull if off. Or that He will for us. Others maybe, but us?
A warning here: beware of a sneaky, backward pride here. We think we will be the first exception in all of history. God will think US so special – or vile - that He'll break His promises to disappoint us. Let’s not flatter ourselves! God's not going to blow His perfect record just for you.
When in impossible situations that God has orchestrated, the best place to look is not at the situation, but God. Focus is everything. God gets our attention so that we'll look at Him.
When God calls on you to do the ridiculous, realize He wants you to remember Who He is, what He's done and to trust. He is the God who does more than we think or ask (Ephesians 2:20). This is what it means to be a person of faith.
God is looking for chances to show off; to the world and us. So, He occasionally backs us into Red Seas, let’s us step out of the boat on the water. When He puts you in such binds, He can and will get you out. Why? Because He is the LORD, the God of everyone and everything, nothing is too hard for Him.
If you're not in one now, you have or will be in impossible situation that only God can handle. A pinch in which God Himself has clearly put you: family crises, financial stresses, marriage difficulties, health scares...
When God places you in faith-stretching spots, remember who He is: the LORD, the sovereign I Am. Recall what He's done in the past, has promised to do and what He is able to do since He is God. Seeing Him for who He is, helps us trust and obey (read Isaiah 40).
A great prompt towards this is an episode in the life of Prophet Jeremiah (read Jeremiah 32-33). God called him to do what seemed absurd, utter nonsense. As Jeremiah laid out his concern before Lord in prayer, we hear God ask: I'm the LORD, the God of all flesh, is anything too hard for Me?
The setting is rich and interesting. Jeremiah was a Prophet to southern kingdom – Judah. He faithfully proclaimed God's word: Judgment is coming because of the gross sin of the people & leaders. Give up your resistance, God will cause the enemy to win.
The King – for some odd reason - did not like this message, so he put the messenger, Jeremiah, under guard. While there, Jeremiah is told by the LORD that his cousin was coming to offer to sale him some land - family property he had first legal right to buy.
Small snag: it was not the best time to buy land. The nation is about to be overthrown and the people scattered to winds. Buying land before a successful invasion of an enemy is... trying to be nice here... unwise.
This was an overthrow Jeremiah had prophesied for years. Investing in real estate seems odd, at best. Yet, God called him to do just that.
Despite his own reasoning and doubts, Jeremiah faithfully obeys God. He purchases the land in a very public way and gives a copy of the deed to his scribe / helper Baruch, instructing him to seal it up for that day in future when God would bring His people back to land.
After making this odd deal, Jeremiah prays. It is a great prayer - full of faith, rich in remembering what God has done (Jeremiah 32:16-25).
Finishing his marvelous prayer, Jeremiah brings up the odd thing God's asked him to do. Lord, I know you're great, powerful, merciful and awesome. Lord, I know you have done great signs & wonders. But, the signs seem to be pointing backwards and I'm wondering what You're up to. About this land deal...
Sound familiar? Ever wondered or dared to ask God what He was up to? Lord, I know you want me to spend more time with family, but these bills, responsibilities... You want me to keep myself pure, but the temptation's too great. Besides, You put these feelings and desires in me.
I know you don't want me to marry an unbeliever, but You can't want me to stay single. I know you hate divorce, but you can't want me to stay married to this insensitive jerk. I know you want me to give, serve, forgive, love, help, but... You are expecting the impossible.
The Lord responds to us the same way He did to Jeremiah. The LORD quoted Jeremiah back to him, saying: Behold, I'm the Lord, the God of all people, is anything to hard for Me?
Yes, Jeremiah, I am asking you to do the seemingly absurd, but remember who I am, what I can do, and what I have promised. Yes, I'm going to discipline My people by sending them into captivity but, I'll re-gather them, return and replant My people in the land. They will again serve Me and I will be their God.
History tells us some 70 years later, God did restore His people to Land (see Haggai, 2 Chronicles 36 and Ezra 1, 2).
Here's the Point: if God is leading you to do what seems absurd, the most absurd thing is to forget who God is. He's the LORD, the great I AM, the God of all flesh - not a local deity, a regional god, a created idol.
He is the God who has revealed Himself to us. The God who loves and saves His people, makes and keeps His Covenants and overthrows those who oppose Him.
Yes, He is the God who sometimes calls us to invest in the impossible, trust for the ridiculous and wait for the miraculous. He says to you too: Yes, My child, I am calling you to do that which I've shown you. It seems impossible, but remember who I am - the LORD.
Take Heart! If God's calling us to do impossible, He must be in it. If our plans are do-able - who needs God? Yet, God is calling for us to call out to Him to show us the impossible (Jer. 33:3). Obeying God in seeming nonsensical acts is not dumb, but a sign of humble obedience – and its smart too!
Okay, I admit it, in the abstract, objective realm, we agree without hesitation that nothing is too hard for God. Yet, on a personal, subjective level, when it has to do with our daily lives - well, we're not always sure He can pull if off. Or that He will for us. Others maybe, but us?
A warning here: beware of a sneaky, backward pride here. We think we will be the first exception in all of history. God will think US so special – or vile - that He'll break His promises to disappoint us. Let’s not flatter ourselves! God's not going to blow His perfect record just for you.
When in impossible situations that God has orchestrated, the best place to look is not at the situation, but God. Focus is everything. God gets our attention so that we'll look at Him.
When God calls on you to do the ridiculous, realize He wants you to remember Who He is, what He's done and to trust. He is the God who does more than we think or ask (Ephesians 2:20). This is what it means to be a person of faith.
God is looking for chances to show off; to the world and us. So, He occasionally backs us into Red Seas, let’s us step out of the boat on the water. When He puts you in such binds, He can and will get you out. Why? Because He is the LORD, the God of everyone and everything, nothing is too hard for Him.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Four Foolish Factions – One for Everyone
Handing Over & Leading Away Our King – Mark 15:1-20
Who killed Jesus? This volatile question has a harsh history behind it. Yet, when one sees what God was up to in Jesus’ death and the kind of people immediately involved, the answer is easy: I did, you did, God did.
In preaching through Mark, I recently came to 15:1-20 where we find the deals made to seal Christ’s fate - on the human level. In this section of sacred script - please stop and read it - one encounters four foolish factions that facilitate Christ’s crucifixion.
Brace yourself: an honest study and meditation of the people who plotted the killing of the King will yield at least one group that each of us would fit into nicely. The “they” becomes an ugly “we,” a damning “me.”
Let us be clear about this up front: while Jesus is handed over from group to group and lead away like a lamb to slaughter (vs. 1, 10, 15, 16, 20), He is still in control – of Himself and the situation. This is a cup poured for Him by the Father that He agrees to drink.
Before looking at each group, let us note – not appreciate - the serious, though sick teamwork in this passage. The Jewish Leaders use Pilate while he uses the people. The Crowds use Barabbas as a scapegoat, and the Roman Soldiers use and abuse Jesus. Yet over it all, God uses all of them to bring us salvation (Isaiah 53; Psalm 22).
The first group culpable in Christ’s death in which we might be at home is the jealous Jewish leaders. They jury-rig justice to get Jesus. Using the Roman State via Pilate, they file false accusations against Jesus and stir the crowd to create a lynch mob. Ugly means, but – in their minds- justifiable ends: protecting the people of God.
Paranoid of losing their places of power over God’s people, they gladly chase Christ to the cross, sacrificing Him for control. Tragically, jealous power brokers are still very prominent among God’s people; those who use the By-Laws, false charges, half-truths, slander and mean mobs (congregations) to get their way. This happens from pulpits and pews.
Power truly can – does not have to – corrupt. Threaten some people’s control and it is war. While the Jewish Leaders rendered up Christ, we split up His Body – the church – over lesser issues, in the name of God. To study jealousy’s power, read Proverbs 27:4; 6:34, 35 and Genesis 37.
Pilate, our next conspirator, is shown to be a politician who panders. Read Mark’s account and note how he only asks questions: Are you the king of the Jews? (vs. 2) Aren't you going to answer? (vs. 4) Do you want me to release to you the king of the Jews? (vs. 9) What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews? (vs. 12) Why? What crime has he committed? (vs. 14).
When leaders placate or pander, someone always gets hurt. To accept leadership is to strap on a target. It is to invite criticism, second-guessing and bear the weight of tough decisions. To seek to avoid and evade such is to reject the responsibility of a leader.
Those seeking to keep peace at any price do ultimately pay one – often higher than they can imagine or control.
The final commentary on Pilate tells all: “Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them” (vs. 15 - NIV). Though he pondered, Pilate pleased the people with a political punt. Those who “go along to get along” are in close fellowship with Pilate, picking peace over the Prince of Peace.
The next group in Mark 15 sweeps in many of us. Jesus is not the only lamb being lead. How else do you explain the crazed Crowds barbarically begging for Barabbas? The Jewish leaders whip up the masses to bear down on Pilate. Both comply. “Mob think” is an oxymoron.
A few years back, someone raised Christians’ hackles by calling them mindless and easily lead. In truth, to follow Jesus takes counter-cultural courage from one with an awakened, renewed mind. Yet, alas, many of His followers too easily fall behind some leaders with little thought or discernment. Jesus demands that we test the spirits, even if they quote verses.
The last lot we might find company with is the rough and tumble Roman Guards. These base bad boys beat and blaspheme Jesus. Servants of their earthly king, even in this evil, the King of heaven fares badly in their hands. Living in the moment, this gang gives mock allegiance, while battering and spitting on the King.
Giving no thought to Who He was, no consideration for the miracles He had done, they call in the rest of the boys to have a shot at the Savior. His reputation meaningless to them, these sadistic party animals pummel Jesus with glee in game-like fashion.
Heedless hedonists, the savage Soldiers remind us of our own mindless, foolish, reckless living. Doing our own thing, heaven be damned.
Ironically, Jesus taught us to go an extra mile in helping others, even carrying a Soldier’s pack for him that second mile when pressed into service to bear it one. To be fair, these same soldiers pressed Simon into service to carry Jesus’ crossbeam when He no longer could.
Jesus would more than go a second mile in carrying their sins, our sins on His cross. “Father,” He would cry out, “forgive them, they do not know what they are doing.” How often is such grievous ignorance true of us?
How we thank God for His sovereign Substitute for such serious sinners (2 Corinthians 5:21). Praise God the King – Jesus - was handed over, lead away and killed in the place of sinners like us: jealous, power hungry, people-pleasers who mindlessly follow others into folly and in our ignorance, abuse others.
Who killed Jesus? This volatile question has a harsh history behind it. Yet, when one sees what God was up to in Jesus’ death and the kind of people immediately involved, the answer is easy: I did, you did, God did.
In preaching through Mark, I recently came to 15:1-20 where we find the deals made to seal Christ’s fate - on the human level. In this section of sacred script - please stop and read it - one encounters four foolish factions that facilitate Christ’s crucifixion.
Brace yourself: an honest study and meditation of the people who plotted the killing of the King will yield at least one group that each of us would fit into nicely. The “they” becomes an ugly “we,” a damning “me.”
Let us be clear about this up front: while Jesus is handed over from group to group and lead away like a lamb to slaughter (vs. 1, 10, 15, 16, 20), He is still in control – of Himself and the situation. This is a cup poured for Him by the Father that He agrees to drink.
Before looking at each group, let us note – not appreciate - the serious, though sick teamwork in this passage. The Jewish Leaders use Pilate while he uses the people. The Crowds use Barabbas as a scapegoat, and the Roman Soldiers use and abuse Jesus. Yet over it all, God uses all of them to bring us salvation (Isaiah 53; Psalm 22).
The first group culpable in Christ’s death in which we might be at home is the jealous Jewish leaders. They jury-rig justice to get Jesus. Using the Roman State via Pilate, they file false accusations against Jesus and stir the crowd to create a lynch mob. Ugly means, but – in their minds- justifiable ends: protecting the people of God.
Paranoid of losing their places of power over God’s people, they gladly chase Christ to the cross, sacrificing Him for control. Tragically, jealous power brokers are still very prominent among God’s people; those who use the By-Laws, false charges, half-truths, slander and mean mobs (congregations) to get their way. This happens from pulpits and pews.
Power truly can – does not have to – corrupt. Threaten some people’s control and it is war. While the Jewish Leaders rendered up Christ, we split up His Body – the church – over lesser issues, in the name of God. To study jealousy’s power, read Proverbs 27:4; 6:34, 35 and Genesis 37.
Pilate, our next conspirator, is shown to be a politician who panders. Read Mark’s account and note how he only asks questions: Are you the king of the Jews? (vs. 2) Aren't you going to answer? (vs. 4) Do you want me to release to you the king of the Jews? (vs. 9) What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews? (vs. 12) Why? What crime has he committed? (vs. 14).
When leaders placate or pander, someone always gets hurt. To accept leadership is to strap on a target. It is to invite criticism, second-guessing and bear the weight of tough decisions. To seek to avoid and evade such is to reject the responsibility of a leader.
Those seeking to keep peace at any price do ultimately pay one – often higher than they can imagine or control.
The final commentary on Pilate tells all: “Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them” (vs. 15 - NIV). Though he pondered, Pilate pleased the people with a political punt. Those who “go along to get along” are in close fellowship with Pilate, picking peace over the Prince of Peace.
The next group in Mark 15 sweeps in many of us. Jesus is not the only lamb being lead. How else do you explain the crazed Crowds barbarically begging for Barabbas? The Jewish leaders whip up the masses to bear down on Pilate. Both comply. “Mob think” is an oxymoron.
A few years back, someone raised Christians’ hackles by calling them mindless and easily lead. In truth, to follow Jesus takes counter-cultural courage from one with an awakened, renewed mind. Yet, alas, many of His followers too easily fall behind some leaders with little thought or discernment. Jesus demands that we test the spirits, even if they quote verses.
The last lot we might find company with is the rough and tumble Roman Guards. These base bad boys beat and blaspheme Jesus. Servants of their earthly king, even in this evil, the King of heaven fares badly in their hands. Living in the moment, this gang gives mock allegiance, while battering and spitting on the King.
Giving no thought to Who He was, no consideration for the miracles He had done, they call in the rest of the boys to have a shot at the Savior. His reputation meaningless to them, these sadistic party animals pummel Jesus with glee in game-like fashion.
Heedless hedonists, the savage Soldiers remind us of our own mindless, foolish, reckless living. Doing our own thing, heaven be damned.
Ironically, Jesus taught us to go an extra mile in helping others, even carrying a Soldier’s pack for him that second mile when pressed into service to bear it one. To be fair, these same soldiers pressed Simon into service to carry Jesus’ crossbeam when He no longer could.
Jesus would more than go a second mile in carrying their sins, our sins on His cross. “Father,” He would cry out, “forgive them, they do not know what they are doing.” How often is such grievous ignorance true of us?
How we thank God for His sovereign Substitute for such serious sinners (2 Corinthians 5:21). Praise God the King – Jesus - was handed over, lead away and killed in the place of sinners like us: jealous, power hungry, people-pleasers who mindlessly follow others into folly and in our ignorance, abuse others.
Monday, March 06, 2006
Final Answers + Fool Factor X 4 = The Verdict
I am preaching thru Mark. Here are Sunday's Sermon notes / outline of Mark 15:1-20. This is what I hand out to the folks at church. It may or may not make sense on it own. Some one tell me you see the three TV show allusions. . .
Final Answers + Fool Factor X 4 = The Verdict
Handing Over & Leading Away Their King – Mark 15:1-20
There is some sick teamwork in this passage, much use & abuse in this text: the Jewish Leaders use Pilate, Pilate uses the People, the People use Barabbas, and the Roman Soldiers use and abuse Jesus. YET, GOD USES ALL of it to bring us salvation (Isaiah 53; Psalm 22). Four foolish factions facilitate God’s eternal plan. While Jesus is handed over from group to group and lead away like a lamb to slaughter, He is still in control – of Himself & the situation.
I. The Jealous Jewish Leaders Jury Rig Justice
Jealousy: see Prov. 27:4; Prov. 6:34, 35; Gen.37; Acts 19
· They Use Pilate / the State
· More False Accusations against Jesus
· They Stir the Crowd & Create a lynch mob
II. Pilate Ponders Yet Placates the People with a Political Punt
2 "Are you the king of the Jews?" asked Pilate.
4 So again Pilate asked him, "Aren't you going to answer?
See how many things they are accusing you of."
5 But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed.
9 "Do you want me to release to you the king of the Jews?" asked Pilate..
12 "What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?"
Pilate asked them. 13 "Crucify him!" they shouted.
14 "Why? What crime has he committed?" asked Pilate.
15 Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them.
III. The Crazed Crowds Barbarically Beg for Barabbas
“Mob think” is an oxymoron. They were lead like lambs too.
IV. Roman Soldiers Abuse & Mock The King (16-20)
Not-to-be-Missed Mentions by Mark:
Repeated Phrases:
“Handed Him over” vs. 1, 10, 15
“Lead Him away” vs. 1, 16, 20
The Clear Confession of Kingship by Christ: vs. 2 (& Mk 14:61, 62)
"Are you the king of the Jews?"…
"Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied.” NIV
The Sovereign Substitution for a Serious Sinner: vs. 6-15; 2 Corin. 5:21
Praise God the King – JESUS - was handed over,
lead away & killed in the place of sinners like us.
Final Answers + Fool Factor X 4 = The Verdict
Handing Over & Leading Away Their King – Mark 15:1-20
There is some sick teamwork in this passage, much use & abuse in this text: the Jewish Leaders use Pilate, Pilate uses the People, the People use Barabbas, and the Roman Soldiers use and abuse Jesus. YET, GOD USES ALL of it to bring us salvation (Isaiah 53; Psalm 22). Four foolish factions facilitate God’s eternal plan. While Jesus is handed over from group to group and lead away like a lamb to slaughter, He is still in control – of Himself & the situation.
I. The Jealous Jewish Leaders Jury Rig Justice
Jealousy: see Prov. 27:4; Prov. 6:34, 35; Gen.37; Acts 19
· They Use Pilate / the State
· More False Accusations against Jesus
· They Stir the Crowd & Create a lynch mob
II. Pilate Ponders Yet Placates the People with a Political Punt
2 "Are you the king of the Jews?" asked Pilate.
4 So again Pilate asked him, "Aren't you going to answer?
See how many things they are accusing you of."
5 But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed.
9 "Do you want me to release to you the king of the Jews?" asked Pilate..
12 "What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?"
Pilate asked them. 13 "Crucify him!" they shouted.
14 "Why? What crime has he committed?" asked Pilate.
15 Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them.
III. The Crazed Crowds Barbarically Beg for Barabbas
“Mob think” is an oxymoron. They were lead like lambs too.
IV. Roman Soldiers Abuse & Mock The King (16-20)
Not-to-be-Missed Mentions by Mark:
Repeated Phrases:
“Handed Him over” vs. 1, 10, 15
“Lead Him away” vs. 1, 16, 20
The Clear Confession of Kingship by Christ: vs. 2 (& Mk 14:61, 62)
"Are you the king of the Jews?"…
"Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied.” NIV
The Sovereign Substitution for a Serious Sinner: vs. 6-15; 2 Corin. 5:21
Praise God the King – JESUS - was handed over,
lead away & killed in the place of sinners like us.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Warnings Wrapped up in the Warped Betrayer
from Mark 14:43-52
If there is a story in Scripture that should infuriate us and turn our stomach, if there is a person that should appall us, this is it, this is him: Judas.
The mention of his name should stir us more than Hitler would a Jew, worse than Muslims are angered over cartoons of Mohammed. Forget distaste, this is raw disgust, disdain & damnation. One whom, Jesus said, it would be better if he had never been born (Mark 14:21).
Judas was one of "The Twelve," an ultimate Insider. He saw miracles, heard Jesus teach and walked with Him daily for two plus years. He rubbed elbows with those who had been raised from the dead, ate with those delivered from demons and had served and feasted on fish and bread Jesus miraculously provided.
Though one of the few that had ridden in boats Jesus rescued from raging storms, on waters Jesus calmed, he gave over, betrayed the Lord of Glory, the Son of God for a few bucks. When the Disciples were to watch & pray in the Garden, Judas had watched to prey (Mark 14:1, 2, 10,11, 43-52).
As a teacher of God’s Word, I normally enjoy showing the connection between the text and our lives, making the "They" of Scripture into an "Us." Yet, this is a story and sinner I would prefer NOT to see any personal connection or application. Let’s just see it as data, historical truth and move on, ignoring any similarities with Judas and the others in this passage.
Alas, there are lessons to learn from everyone and everywhere. Some people, if nothing else, serve as bad examples to not follow, Judas being the head of the class. He is a warning to each of us, as are the cowardly conspirators & deserting disciples (see 1 Corinthians 9:27-10:14; Romans 15:4 and 2:1, 2).
What did it take to make a Judas? While Scripture never says outright why he defected, it does teach us about his life. We find various factors that contributed and combined to make Judas the son of the Devil that he was.
Warning! Pride Alert! Judas’ struggles may not sound too different than your own. For starters, Judas had unmet expectations and wrong assumptions about Jesus. Jesus let him down. He wanted the Kingdom on his terms and in his timetable. God was not fitting into his plans to his liking.
Talk about not catching on! After all the miracles Judas had seen, he and the cowardly conspirators – the Jewish leaders, Temple Guard and Roman Military - thought they could use troops and the cover of night to stop Jesus (Mark 14:1, 2, 43-49). They seemed to forget or not grasp He is the Almighty Son of God.
Greed and theft was also part of Judas’ makeup. Not trusting God to meet his needs, Judas dipped into the moneybag, which he had been entrusted as Treasurer (John 12:6).
Here is a ponder point for you: Greed is idolatry (see Colossians 3:5). The greedy have a second god, an idol. They have swapped out Jesus for their own 30 pieces of silver. God is jealous and will not share His top spot in your life. Be it a job, trinket, a relationship, a hobby or…
When Jesus allowed the extravagant nard to be poured on Him – a year’s worth of wages - that seems to be the last straw for Judas (Mk. 14:3-10). Want to test a man: touch his wallet, mess with his money. When Jesus asks much, many walk away, sell him out.
Of few is it said: "Satan entered him" (Luke 22:3, 4; John 6:70; 17:12). Yet, Judas has a Satanic involvement and partnership. Selling your soul to the Devil is no joking matter. A reminder: Unresolved anger gives Satan a spare room in your heart (Ephesians 4:26, 27). When we harbor hate, we host hell.
The damning blow to Judas must have been pride. What else would it take to walk up to Jesus in the Garden that night, call Him "Rabbi," feigning allegiance and submission, and use a Kiss as the signal?
What arrogance! What hubris! Jesus may have preferred a slap or spit, not a symbol of intimacy, respect, affection and devotion. This was the ultimate unholy kiss.
How many of us in worship services or in daily life act as if Jesus is our Rabbi, Teacher, Lord, blow kisses to Him in reverence, yet want nothing to do with His rule in our life? Amazingly, Jesus called this fiend friend (Matthew 26:50).
Mark’s account of this tragic tale ends with the Disciple’s desertion and of the young man who flees naked – maybe Mark. That scared Streaker is not comic relief, but a powerful symbol of us when we run from Jesus. Doing so, as the disciples did, leaves us barren, exposed, cold & naked (Mark 14:51, 52). May it never be said of us: "All the disciples cut and ran" (vs. 50 – The Message).
May it most especially be untrue of us that it would be better if we had not been born. Yet, it is better to never have drawn breath than go to hell. There is no good that we can experience here that can offset the eternal, conscious suffering of hell. The wise will receive these warnings wrapped up in the warped, damned Judas.
If there is a story in Scripture that should infuriate us and turn our stomach, if there is a person that should appall us, this is it, this is him: Judas.
The mention of his name should stir us more than Hitler would a Jew, worse than Muslims are angered over cartoons of Mohammed. Forget distaste, this is raw disgust, disdain & damnation. One whom, Jesus said, it would be better if he had never been born (Mark 14:21).
Judas was one of "The Twelve," an ultimate Insider. He saw miracles, heard Jesus teach and walked with Him daily for two plus years. He rubbed elbows with those who had been raised from the dead, ate with those delivered from demons and had served and feasted on fish and bread Jesus miraculously provided.
Though one of the few that had ridden in boats Jesus rescued from raging storms, on waters Jesus calmed, he gave over, betrayed the Lord of Glory, the Son of God for a few bucks. When the Disciples were to watch & pray in the Garden, Judas had watched to prey (Mark 14:1, 2, 10,11, 43-52).
As a teacher of God’s Word, I normally enjoy showing the connection between the text and our lives, making the "They" of Scripture into an "Us." Yet, this is a story and sinner I would prefer NOT to see any personal connection or application. Let’s just see it as data, historical truth and move on, ignoring any similarities with Judas and the others in this passage.
Alas, there are lessons to learn from everyone and everywhere. Some people, if nothing else, serve as bad examples to not follow, Judas being the head of the class. He is a warning to each of us, as are the cowardly conspirators & deserting disciples (see 1 Corinthians 9:27-10:14; Romans 15:4 and 2:1, 2).
What did it take to make a Judas? While Scripture never says outright why he defected, it does teach us about his life. We find various factors that contributed and combined to make Judas the son of the Devil that he was.
Warning! Pride Alert! Judas’ struggles may not sound too different than your own. For starters, Judas had unmet expectations and wrong assumptions about Jesus. Jesus let him down. He wanted the Kingdom on his terms and in his timetable. God was not fitting into his plans to his liking.
Talk about not catching on! After all the miracles Judas had seen, he and the cowardly conspirators – the Jewish leaders, Temple Guard and Roman Military - thought they could use troops and the cover of night to stop Jesus (Mark 14:1, 2, 43-49). They seemed to forget or not grasp He is the Almighty Son of God.
Greed and theft was also part of Judas’ makeup. Not trusting God to meet his needs, Judas dipped into the moneybag, which he had been entrusted as Treasurer (John 12:6).
Here is a ponder point for you: Greed is idolatry (see Colossians 3:5). The greedy have a second god, an idol. They have swapped out Jesus for their own 30 pieces of silver. God is jealous and will not share His top spot in your life. Be it a job, trinket, a relationship, a hobby or…
When Jesus allowed the extravagant nard to be poured on Him – a year’s worth of wages - that seems to be the last straw for Judas (Mk. 14:3-10). Want to test a man: touch his wallet, mess with his money. When Jesus asks much, many walk away, sell him out.
Of few is it said: "Satan entered him" (Luke 22:3, 4; John 6:70; 17:12). Yet, Judas has a Satanic involvement and partnership. Selling your soul to the Devil is no joking matter. A reminder: Unresolved anger gives Satan a spare room in your heart (Ephesians 4:26, 27). When we harbor hate, we host hell.
The damning blow to Judas must have been pride. What else would it take to walk up to Jesus in the Garden that night, call Him "Rabbi," feigning allegiance and submission, and use a Kiss as the signal?
What arrogance! What hubris! Jesus may have preferred a slap or spit, not a symbol of intimacy, respect, affection and devotion. This was the ultimate unholy kiss.
How many of us in worship services or in daily life act as if Jesus is our Rabbi, Teacher, Lord, blow kisses to Him in reverence, yet want nothing to do with His rule in our life? Amazingly, Jesus called this fiend friend (Matthew 26:50).
Mark’s account of this tragic tale ends with the Disciple’s desertion and of the young man who flees naked – maybe Mark. That scared Streaker is not comic relief, but a powerful symbol of us when we run from Jesus. Doing so, as the disciples did, leaves us barren, exposed, cold & naked (Mark 14:51, 52). May it never be said of us: "All the disciples cut and ran" (vs. 50 – The Message).
May it most especially be untrue of us that it would be better if we had not been born. Yet, it is better to never have drawn breath than go to hell. There is no good that we can experience here that can offset the eternal, conscious suffering of hell. The wise will receive these warnings wrapped up in the warped, damned Judas.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Thanking God for the Gift of Marriage & ROBIN
Thanking God for ROBIN
www.GetGraced.org
Way back in the beginning, when God surveyed His awesome handiwork of creation, He beamed with proper pride and said to Himself "good job!" (see Genesis 1-3). He rated His work as "very good", setting an example of a holy work ethic.
Yet, when God had Adam inventory and catalogue the animals, a hole was revealed. A divinely designed deficiency - not defect - was discovered. God allowed Adam to make an important discovery: perfect though he was (this was pre-Fall), Adam was nonetheless incomplete.
The animals not being a suitable companion for Adam, he and God agreed that it was not good (or safe!) for man to be alone. Our gracious Creator took surgical steps to fill in the hole to help make man whole - He formed Eve and brought her to Adam - the first arranged marriage.
Marriage was God's idea, plan and gift. One man, one woman, becoming one, "until death do they part." It is not a dead or deadening institution, but a life enhancing means of favor from God. As Scripture affirms, it is a sinful and deadly business to attempt to tear apart what God brings together.
Two events have me mulling over these matters. Valentine’s Day and a wedding I am honored to do soon for Ben & Alexis. I mention them as a tribute and so you can pray for them and all newlyweds.
For the record: If any man is half as blessed with and through his wife as I am, he too is blessed beyond what he deserves. I give testimony to God's word in Proverbs 18:22. "He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD" (NIV).
I have come to believe that as when God put Adam in a deep sleep to bring forth Eve from his side, so too God must cause women to swoon deeply to cause them to marry the likes of us. Most men marry far better than their wives. I certainly did.
Talk about the deal of the century. God must have caused a suspension of good judgment and vision for my wife to say "I do" to me. Thank you Lord for that favor. I cannot imagine life without my sweet soul mate.
As much growing up as I still have to do, it scares me and terrifies others to think of how much more immature I would be were it not for her. A guy gets past his teen years and thinks he is somewhat mature. God then allows us to marry and quickly and graciously reminds us how selfish and petty we still are.
For those blessed with children, He repeats the process through them. Though women have growing up to do as well, they usually stay a step (can you say "giant leap"?) ahead of men. Longsuffering is a trait God possesses and often develops in women through men (see James 1:1-12). No need to thank us.
God alone knows the contribution my dear wife has had to my life and ministry. While she has not been an anchor holding me back, she has kept me from drifting into dangerous waters, many shipwrecks and neglecting needed harbor time to retool and rest.
Robin, my gift from God, has willingly gone without, cheerfully made do and displayed flexibility beyond reason to her husband's - that would be me - lack of forethought or aft-thought (a new word; dedicated to her.)
Beyond laughing at my jokes, she provides my best sounding board and screening device. Many have been spared much due to her godly, timely insight. I have been protected countless times as well.
Bearing and raising five children is not conducive to the enjoyment of chocolate Bon Bons, feet up, TV remote in hand or phone under the ear. My beloved is one of the hardest workers I know.
As the old poem goes: "A man may work from dusk to dawn, but a woman's work is never done." Laundry and dishes seem to be far more fertile than we are. With four boys romping through the house- five counting me - repairs can pile up almost as fast.
The demands of ministry fall to me in the context of my family. Late night calls, emergencies that pull me away, meetings, the pressures of shepherding. Robin has and does willingly bear these with grace and maturity. She makes it possible for me to brag that we are truly a team.
I could easily go on about her tiresome efforts, incredible meals, patience, forgiveness and endurance, but I fear providing ammo for her and conviction for me if I continue.
Happy belated Valentines Day, my precious gift from God. I could never begin to repay you for who you are, what you have done, endured and overlooked. True to style, you would not demand or accept repayment anyway, for you have done these things unto the Lord.
You have lived out the verse you had inscribed inside my wedding band: "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God" 1 John 4:7 (NIV). Your love shows that you have indeed been born of and know God. What a gift you are! I love you.
www.GetGraced.org
Way back in the beginning, when God surveyed His awesome handiwork of creation, He beamed with proper pride and said to Himself "good job!" (see Genesis 1-3). He rated His work as "very good", setting an example of a holy work ethic.
Yet, when God had Adam inventory and catalogue the animals, a hole was revealed. A divinely designed deficiency - not defect - was discovered. God allowed Adam to make an important discovery: perfect though he was (this was pre-Fall), Adam was nonetheless incomplete.
The animals not being a suitable companion for Adam, he and God agreed that it was not good (or safe!) for man to be alone. Our gracious Creator took surgical steps to fill in the hole to help make man whole - He formed Eve and brought her to Adam - the first arranged marriage.
Marriage was God's idea, plan and gift. One man, one woman, becoming one, "until death do they part." It is not a dead or deadening institution, but a life enhancing means of favor from God. As Scripture affirms, it is a sinful and deadly business to attempt to tear apart what God brings together.
Two events have me mulling over these matters. Valentine’s Day and a wedding I am honored to do soon for Ben & Alexis. I mention them as a tribute and so you can pray for them and all newlyweds.
For the record: If any man is half as blessed with and through his wife as I am, he too is blessed beyond what he deserves. I give testimony to God's word in Proverbs 18:22. "He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD" (NIV).
I have come to believe that as when God put Adam in a deep sleep to bring forth Eve from his side, so too God must cause women to swoon deeply to cause them to marry the likes of us. Most men marry far better than their wives. I certainly did.
Talk about the deal of the century. God must have caused a suspension of good judgment and vision for my wife to say "I do" to me. Thank you Lord for that favor. I cannot imagine life without my sweet soul mate.
As much growing up as I still have to do, it scares me and terrifies others to think of how much more immature I would be were it not for her. A guy gets past his teen years and thinks he is somewhat mature. God then allows us to marry and quickly and graciously reminds us how selfish and petty we still are.
For those blessed with children, He repeats the process through them. Though women have growing up to do as well, they usually stay a step (can you say "giant leap"?) ahead of men. Longsuffering is a trait God possesses and often develops in women through men (see James 1:1-12). No need to thank us.
God alone knows the contribution my dear wife has had to my life and ministry. While she has not been an anchor holding me back, she has kept me from drifting into dangerous waters, many shipwrecks and neglecting needed harbor time to retool and rest.
Robin, my gift from God, has willingly gone without, cheerfully made do and displayed flexibility beyond reason to her husband's - that would be me - lack of forethought or aft-thought (a new word; dedicated to her.)
Beyond laughing at my jokes, she provides my best sounding board and screening device. Many have been spared much due to her godly, timely insight. I have been protected countless times as well.
Bearing and raising five children is not conducive to the enjoyment of chocolate Bon Bons, feet up, TV remote in hand or phone under the ear. My beloved is one of the hardest workers I know.
As the old poem goes: "A man may work from dusk to dawn, but a woman's work is never done." Laundry and dishes seem to be far more fertile than we are. With four boys romping through the house- five counting me - repairs can pile up almost as fast.
The demands of ministry fall to me in the context of my family. Late night calls, emergencies that pull me away, meetings, the pressures of shepherding. Robin has and does willingly bear these with grace and maturity. She makes it possible for me to brag that we are truly a team.
I could easily go on about her tiresome efforts, incredible meals, patience, forgiveness and endurance, but I fear providing ammo for her and conviction for me if I continue.
Happy belated Valentines Day, my precious gift from God. I could never begin to repay you for who you are, what you have done, endured and overlooked. True to style, you would not demand or accept repayment anyway, for you have done these things unto the Lord.
You have lived out the verse you had inscribed inside my wedding band: "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God" 1 John 4:7 (NIV). Your love shows that you have indeed been born of and know God. What a gift you are! I love you.
Friday, February 10, 2006
Olympic Lessons from God's Word
Olympic Lessons from God's Word
www.GetGraced.org
Sports Widows Alert: the Winter Olympics start TODAY! During the Olympics' run, we Doyals are sleep-deprived yet sudden experts in tobogganing, downhill skiing, figure skating and even curling.
To help justify all this passive television viewing - or at least quiet my conscience - I remind myself that the Bible deals with sports matters quite a bit. So, for all you sport fans, here are some Olympics inspired passages from God's word.
Some are verses that seem to have been drawn from athletic competition. Other texts have connected ideas that are fodder for meditation and prayer. Use these verses to create your own parables, analogies, and life lessons.
Does guilt creep up on you as you sit and snack, watching countless disciplined, well-conditioned creatures? Here is a further motivation to get into better shape - both physical and spiritual.
"Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Spend your time and energy in training yourself for spiritual fitness. Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important, for it promises a reward in both this life and the next." (1 Timothy 4:7 & 8 - NLT)
As you enjoy the next medal presentation, and consider the years it took for the athlete to earn it, mull over this verse: " How much better to get wisdom than gold, and understanding than silver!" (Proverbs 16:16 - NLT). While the gold and silver refer to riches, it does still help us ask: does this sound like one of my core convictions?
The Apostle Paul must have been a sports fan. See if this sports-filled passage - I count eight plus allusions - describes your commitment to the gospel and Christ.
"I do all this to spread the Good News, and in doing so I enjoy its blessings. Remember that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize. You also must run in such a way that you will win. All athletes practice strict self-control. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.
"So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step. I am not like a boxer who misses his punches. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified" (1 Corinthians 9:23-27 - NLT).
As you consider those glorious temples in Athens, built to honor their gods, check out this track / temple exhortation for purity:
"Run away from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body. Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body" (1 Corinthians 6 18-20 - NLT).
When you are amazed by speedy short track racers, and insane skiers, pray this for missionaries: "... pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith" (1 Thessalonians 3:1 & 2 - NKJV).
Seen anyone disqualified or penalized for cheating, drugs, lane violations or low blows? It is a great reminder to "...fight the good fight for what we believe..." (1 Timothy 6:12 - NLT).
Last, but not least, as medal winners are crowned with soon-to-fade laurel wreaths, consider this text, praying it can be your testimony as well: "For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
"Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing" (2 Timothy 4:6-8 - NKJV).
Let the games begin! May we be found living medal-worthy lives of discipline and diligence.
www.GetGraced.org
Sports Widows Alert: the Winter Olympics start TODAY! During the Olympics' run, we Doyals are sleep-deprived yet sudden experts in tobogganing, downhill skiing, figure skating and even curling.
To help justify all this passive television viewing - or at least quiet my conscience - I remind myself that the Bible deals with sports matters quite a bit. So, for all you sport fans, here are some Olympics inspired passages from God's word.
Some are verses that seem to have been drawn from athletic competition. Other texts have connected ideas that are fodder for meditation and prayer. Use these verses to create your own parables, analogies, and life lessons.
Does guilt creep up on you as you sit and snack, watching countless disciplined, well-conditioned creatures? Here is a further motivation to get into better shape - both physical and spiritual.
"Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Spend your time and energy in training yourself for spiritual fitness. Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important, for it promises a reward in both this life and the next." (1 Timothy 4:7 & 8 - NLT)
As you enjoy the next medal presentation, and consider the years it took for the athlete to earn it, mull over this verse: " How much better to get wisdom than gold, and understanding than silver!" (Proverbs 16:16 - NLT). While the gold and silver refer to riches, it does still help us ask: does this sound like one of my core convictions?
The Apostle Paul must have been a sports fan. See if this sports-filled passage - I count eight plus allusions - describes your commitment to the gospel and Christ.
"I do all this to spread the Good News, and in doing so I enjoy its blessings. Remember that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize. You also must run in such a way that you will win. All athletes practice strict self-control. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.
"So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step. I am not like a boxer who misses his punches. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified" (1 Corinthians 9:23-27 - NLT).
As you consider those glorious temples in Athens, built to honor their gods, check out this track / temple exhortation for purity:
"Run away from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body. Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body" (1 Corinthians 6 18-20 - NLT).
When you are amazed by speedy short track racers, and insane skiers, pray this for missionaries: "... pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith" (1 Thessalonians 3:1 & 2 - NKJV).
Seen anyone disqualified or penalized for cheating, drugs, lane violations or low blows? It is a great reminder to "...fight the good fight for what we believe..." (1 Timothy 6:12 - NLT).
Last, but not least, as medal winners are crowned with soon-to-fade laurel wreaths, consider this text, praying it can be your testimony as well: "For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
"Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing" (2 Timothy 4:6-8 - NKJV).
Let the games begin! May we be found living medal-worthy lives of discipline and diligence.
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Minding our Spiritual Manners
Minding our Spiritual Manners
– Proper Behavior for God’s Little Ladies and Gents
Let's face it, children are born little savages. Little boys and girls, as sweet as they are, do not start out fine little ladies and prim and proper gentlemen. They must be taught proper behavior: how to act, speak and conduct themselves in different social settings and situations.
For instance, they learn it is improper to bring one's picnic manners to a formal dinner. Likewise, nifty e-mail lingo and shorthand - LOL & L8OR- does not belong in Pap paw’s death notice or one’s wedding invitation.
To get along best in this world, avoiding offense as much as possible, it is important to know what is proper behavior and what is not.
Far more important though, for those of us in God's household, is the need to learn proper spiritual graces. When we are born the second time (John 3:1-16), we need to learn how God wants us to conduct ourselves – spiritual manners if you please.
Being redeemed little savages, we are ignorant of the proper expressions of our inner desires and drives. We need to know what is appropriate for fitting conversation and conduct.
As we relate to others, we must know God’s behavioral expectations of those claiming to be in His kingdom, as well as what awaits those who are not family.
These spiritual manners are most important since it is God more than anyone that we want to avoid offending and insulting. Note what this section from Ephesians has to say about proper behavior by dealing with several areas of improper behavior.
“But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.
“For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person--such a man is an idolater--has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient.” Eph. 5:3-6 (NIV)
Giving way to improper passions such as sexual immorality, moral impurity and greed are not to even be hinted at as part of the lives of God's people. It is not proper spiritual behavior (vs. 3).
Nor is conversation that is obscene, foolish, foul, demeaning or demoralizing. Rotten talk is not to be part of our lives (see Eph. 4:29).
Instead, our talk is to be filled with the giving of thanks (vs. 4). Indeed, those who consistently "walk and talk" with such crude spiritual manners show that they are not part of Christ's kingdom (vs. 5; see also 1 John 2:9-11 & 3:1-10).
Regardless of the many pleadings today for tolerance of sinful living, God's wrath will indeed come to those who live spiritually improper lives of unchecked passions (vs. 6; see also Rom. 1:16-20; John 3:36; 5:24).
In a day of slack manners, crude behavior and people ignorant of proper conduct, it would not hurt us to learn more of the social graces.
Yet, a far greater need in our day of unchecked living and unclean lips is to live proper lives of fitting conduct as God's holy people (see Isaiah 6).
While social customs change over time, God's standards are fixed and eternal. They are not determined by ever-shifting culture, changes of technology or philosophy.
Instead, His ways are rooted in His very nature, which does not change (see 1 Peter. 1:13-2:1; Heb. 12:8; Lev. 11:44, 45). God is immutable - unchanging.
As we seek to live a life of love, imitating God as His dearly loved children (Eph. 5:1, 2), let's seek to change to be more like Him in every way. His passions are always holy and controlled and His speech is always befitting of Him.
Let's behave as citizens of His kingdom, into which we gain entrance by His grace as we place our faith in His risen Son (Eph. 2:1-10).
Not being selfish – which is very bad form - let's tell others of His grace, as we warn them of the certain coming wrath of our holy and just God (Rom. 5:1-5; 8:1; 2 Thess. 1:8-10; Heb. 13:4-6; Rev. 21:8).
God wants to use His redeemed and spiritually refined ruffians to point others to our gracious God. He loves to forgive, cleanse and change each of us, even the most spiritually crude and ill mannered (read and meditate on these passages: 1 Timothy 1:9-17; 2 Timothy 1:8-12; Titus 2:11-14 & 3:3-8).
God alone can make a silk purse out of pig’s ear. If you don’t believe it, and you are one of His children, go look in the mirror. So, for Christ’s honor and other’s sake, let us keep our spiritual pinkies up, little dearies.
– Proper Behavior for God’s Little Ladies and Gents
Let's face it, children are born little savages. Little boys and girls, as sweet as they are, do not start out fine little ladies and prim and proper gentlemen. They must be taught proper behavior: how to act, speak and conduct themselves in different social settings and situations.
For instance, they learn it is improper to bring one's picnic manners to a formal dinner. Likewise, nifty e-mail lingo and shorthand - LOL & L8OR- does not belong in Pap paw’s death notice or one’s wedding invitation.
To get along best in this world, avoiding offense as much as possible, it is important to know what is proper behavior and what is not.
Far more important though, for those of us in God's household, is the need to learn proper spiritual graces. When we are born the second time (John 3:1-16), we need to learn how God wants us to conduct ourselves – spiritual manners if you please.
Being redeemed little savages, we are ignorant of the proper expressions of our inner desires and drives. We need to know what is appropriate for fitting conversation and conduct.
As we relate to others, we must know God’s behavioral expectations of those claiming to be in His kingdom, as well as what awaits those who are not family.
These spiritual manners are most important since it is God more than anyone that we want to avoid offending and insulting. Note what this section from Ephesians has to say about proper behavior by dealing with several areas of improper behavior.
“But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.
“For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person--such a man is an idolater--has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient.” Eph. 5:3-6 (NIV)
Giving way to improper passions such as sexual immorality, moral impurity and greed are not to even be hinted at as part of the lives of God's people. It is not proper spiritual behavior (vs. 3).
Nor is conversation that is obscene, foolish, foul, demeaning or demoralizing. Rotten talk is not to be part of our lives (see Eph. 4:29).
Instead, our talk is to be filled with the giving of thanks (vs. 4). Indeed, those who consistently "walk and talk" with such crude spiritual manners show that they are not part of Christ's kingdom (vs. 5; see also 1 John 2:9-11 & 3:1-10).
Regardless of the many pleadings today for tolerance of sinful living, God's wrath will indeed come to those who live spiritually improper lives of unchecked passions (vs. 6; see also Rom. 1:16-20; John 3:36; 5:24).
In a day of slack manners, crude behavior and people ignorant of proper conduct, it would not hurt us to learn more of the social graces.
Yet, a far greater need in our day of unchecked living and unclean lips is to live proper lives of fitting conduct as God's holy people (see Isaiah 6).
While social customs change over time, God's standards are fixed and eternal. They are not determined by ever-shifting culture, changes of technology or philosophy.
Instead, His ways are rooted in His very nature, which does not change (see 1 Peter. 1:13-2:1; Heb. 12:8; Lev. 11:44, 45). God is immutable - unchanging.
As we seek to live a life of love, imitating God as His dearly loved children (Eph. 5:1, 2), let's seek to change to be more like Him in every way. His passions are always holy and controlled and His speech is always befitting of Him.
Let's behave as citizens of His kingdom, into which we gain entrance by His grace as we place our faith in His risen Son (Eph. 2:1-10).
Not being selfish – which is very bad form - let's tell others of His grace, as we warn them of the certain coming wrath of our holy and just God (Rom. 5:1-5; 8:1; 2 Thess. 1:8-10; Heb. 13:4-6; Rev. 21:8).
God wants to use His redeemed and spiritually refined ruffians to point others to our gracious God. He loves to forgive, cleanse and change each of us, even the most spiritually crude and ill mannered (read and meditate on these passages: 1 Timothy 1:9-17; 2 Timothy 1:8-12; Titus 2:11-14 & 3:3-8).
God alone can make a silk purse out of pig’s ear. If you don’t believe it, and you are one of His children, go look in the mirror. So, for Christ’s honor and other’s sake, let us keep our spiritual pinkies up, little dearies.
Thursday, January 05, 2006
The Lasting Mark of Encouragement
The Lasting Mark of Encouragement
www.getgraced.org
"Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry" - 2 Timothy 4:11 (NIV).
These brief words - as all words do - have a story, a context that explains and enriches them. Written by the Apostle Paul from prison to his young disciple Timothy, Paul contemplates his life and anticipates his seemingly imminent death.
Already speaking of life in the past tense – "I have fought the good fight, I have run the race, I have kept the faith" – Paul seeks to meet some basic needs. He requests a cloak for warmth, some books to study and some companionship to fill his last hours.
Deserted by Demas and having sent off others to fulfill various ministries, Paul and Luke are alone. Paul asks Timothy to come to him and to bring Mark with him "Get Mark, Timothy. Guide him to me. He is useful to me and my ministry."
What encouraging words of respect were from the legendary Apostle for this younger servant of God. Being called on to help Paul was quite an honor. Paul too was human, with real needs and limitations. He saw Mark as someone who could meet them.
Yet, the history of Mark and Paul fill this verse with even more meaning. As Paul Harvey would tell it "and now, the rest of the story."
When a younger man, John Mark was honored to join his cousin Barnabas and Paul on what we call "Paul’s First Missionary Journey". Finishing a gospel-sharing tour of the island of Cyprus, Paul and Barnabas planned a return to the mainland to share Christ in more unreached areas.
For reasons not stated, young Mark opted out of that phase of the mission, returning home to Jerusalem. In Paul’s eyes, Mark quit.
Some time later, Paul and Barnabas itched to visit the churches they had started. Like good parents, they longed to know how their spiritual children fared. When Barnabas suggested they take Mark along with them, Paul balked.
Mark had bailed out last time, Paul was not going to risk that again. His resolve was firm. So was Barnabas’ - just like when he took a chance on Paul when he was first saved and no one believed him a genuine disciple (Acts 9:26-29; 11:19-30).
This powerful ministry team had such a sharp disagreement about Mark that they parted ways. Barnabas took his cousin Mark to encourage the churches in Cyprus; Paul took Silas and set out to nurture the other churches (Acts 15:35-41).
Back now to Paul in prison - many years and mission trips later. We do not read what transpired, but things have changed between Paul and Mark. Paul’s apparently simple request teems with life: "Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry."
This reflects humility on Paul’s part. To ask for help from someone he previously saw as untrustworthy required some pride swallowing. Yes, Mark had maturity, but so had Paul.
Sometimes we put people in neatly labeled boxes and never let them out. Yet, Paul let Mark be what he had become – no small thing.
Behind the scenes reconciliation had occurred too. We do not read of when Paul and Mark were reconciled, but it is assumed here. It is too easy to let past offenses define our present relationships. Beyond unfortunate, it is so unfair. Paul knew Mark had forgiven him.
Asking Timothy to bring Mark speaks volumes. Timothy became Paul’s helper shortly after Paul refused to take Mark along. Mark is not only not bitter towards Paul, he holds no ill will towards "his replacement." Paul also assumes Timothy will not feel jealous or threatened.
Mark refused to hold Timothy responsible for something Timothy had no control over. How many homes, work places, neighborhoods, friendships have been soured by secondhand bitterness? No immature snubbing or petty grudges here! Just mature adults serving God together. How refreshing!
Paul’s request reveals his appreciation of Mark and who he had become. Oh what it means to have a mentor, a model, a hero appreciate a younger protégé. Our kids long for it – be they 5, 15, 25 or 45. Older men, rise up to this potent ministry to the younger men in your life, your church.
Beyond mere appreciation, Paul in this pen-stroke, publicly shares his affirmation of Mark. We are all too apt to keep appreciation of others to ourselves, admire them from afar. Here, in an eternal, God-breathed letter, Paul lets Timothy and all who read it know he affirms Mark’s ability to minister.
People knew Paul had turned down Mark’s last application for service, choosing even to part ways with Barnabas rather than take him along. Now Mark has Paul’s blessing, his personal endorsement. What must this have meant to Mark?
What kept Mark from being just one more of the multitude of bench / pew sitters? Prior to Paul’s call for help, Mark had been buoyed, nurtured and mentored by Barnabas, the "Son of Encouragement." When Paul rejected Mark, Barnabas enfolded him, giving him a second chance. What a boost when Mark saw Barnabas choose him over Paul!
I think its fair to speculate that if Barnabas had not fought for him, Mark’s ministry might have ended or been serious diminished as he avoided further risk of rejection. How many people have dropped out of service to God after even lesser hurts than Mark received? Would we have the gospel of Mark?
Paul had defined Mark by his past – a quitter. Barnabas saw God’s grace at work maturing Mark. He risked a relationship and reputation for the likes of lowly Mark. How many of us have longed for that or ever offered that to another castaway?
Let us begin 2006 knowing that God gives second chances. Enrich 2006 for others by following God, Barnabus and Paul’s example. Whom can you re-enlist into service for Jesus?
www.getgraced.org
"Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry" - 2 Timothy 4:11 (NIV).
These brief words - as all words do - have a story, a context that explains and enriches them. Written by the Apostle Paul from prison to his young disciple Timothy, Paul contemplates his life and anticipates his seemingly imminent death.
Already speaking of life in the past tense – "I have fought the good fight, I have run the race, I have kept the faith" – Paul seeks to meet some basic needs. He requests a cloak for warmth, some books to study and some companionship to fill his last hours.
Deserted by Demas and having sent off others to fulfill various ministries, Paul and Luke are alone. Paul asks Timothy to come to him and to bring Mark with him "Get Mark, Timothy. Guide him to me. He is useful to me and my ministry."
What encouraging words of respect were from the legendary Apostle for this younger servant of God. Being called on to help Paul was quite an honor. Paul too was human, with real needs and limitations. He saw Mark as someone who could meet them.
Yet, the history of Mark and Paul fill this verse with even more meaning. As Paul Harvey would tell it "and now, the rest of the story."
When a younger man, John Mark was honored to join his cousin Barnabas and Paul on what we call "Paul’s First Missionary Journey". Finishing a gospel-sharing tour of the island of Cyprus, Paul and Barnabas planned a return to the mainland to share Christ in more unreached areas.
For reasons not stated, young Mark opted out of that phase of the mission, returning home to Jerusalem. In Paul’s eyes, Mark quit.
Some time later, Paul and Barnabas itched to visit the churches they had started. Like good parents, they longed to know how their spiritual children fared. When Barnabas suggested they take Mark along with them, Paul balked.
Mark had bailed out last time, Paul was not going to risk that again. His resolve was firm. So was Barnabas’ - just like when he took a chance on Paul when he was first saved and no one believed him a genuine disciple (Acts 9:26-29; 11:19-30).
This powerful ministry team had such a sharp disagreement about Mark that they parted ways. Barnabas took his cousin Mark to encourage the churches in Cyprus; Paul took Silas and set out to nurture the other churches (Acts 15:35-41).
Back now to Paul in prison - many years and mission trips later. We do not read what transpired, but things have changed between Paul and Mark. Paul’s apparently simple request teems with life: "Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry."
This reflects humility on Paul’s part. To ask for help from someone he previously saw as untrustworthy required some pride swallowing. Yes, Mark had maturity, but so had Paul.
Sometimes we put people in neatly labeled boxes and never let them out. Yet, Paul let Mark be what he had become – no small thing.
Behind the scenes reconciliation had occurred too. We do not read of when Paul and Mark were reconciled, but it is assumed here. It is too easy to let past offenses define our present relationships. Beyond unfortunate, it is so unfair. Paul knew Mark had forgiven him.
Asking Timothy to bring Mark speaks volumes. Timothy became Paul’s helper shortly after Paul refused to take Mark along. Mark is not only not bitter towards Paul, he holds no ill will towards "his replacement." Paul also assumes Timothy will not feel jealous or threatened.
Mark refused to hold Timothy responsible for something Timothy had no control over. How many homes, work places, neighborhoods, friendships have been soured by secondhand bitterness? No immature snubbing or petty grudges here! Just mature adults serving God together. How refreshing!
Paul’s request reveals his appreciation of Mark and who he had become. Oh what it means to have a mentor, a model, a hero appreciate a younger protégé. Our kids long for it – be they 5, 15, 25 or 45. Older men, rise up to this potent ministry to the younger men in your life, your church.
Beyond mere appreciation, Paul in this pen-stroke, publicly shares his affirmation of Mark. We are all too apt to keep appreciation of others to ourselves, admire them from afar. Here, in an eternal, God-breathed letter, Paul lets Timothy and all who read it know he affirms Mark’s ability to minister.
People knew Paul had turned down Mark’s last application for service, choosing even to part ways with Barnabas rather than take him along. Now Mark has Paul’s blessing, his personal endorsement. What must this have meant to Mark?
What kept Mark from being just one more of the multitude of bench / pew sitters? Prior to Paul’s call for help, Mark had been buoyed, nurtured and mentored by Barnabas, the "Son of Encouragement." When Paul rejected Mark, Barnabas enfolded him, giving him a second chance. What a boost when Mark saw Barnabas choose him over Paul!
I think its fair to speculate that if Barnabas had not fought for him, Mark’s ministry might have ended or been serious diminished as he avoided further risk of rejection. How many people have dropped out of service to God after even lesser hurts than Mark received? Would we have the gospel of Mark?
Paul had defined Mark by his past – a quitter. Barnabas saw God’s grace at work maturing Mark. He risked a relationship and reputation for the likes of lowly Mark. How many of us have longed for that or ever offered that to another castaway?
Let us begin 2006 knowing that God gives second chances. Enrich 2006 for others by following God, Barnabus and Paul’s example. Whom can you re-enlist into service for Jesus?
Thursday, December 22, 2005
What God Wants for Christmas
What God Wants for Christmas
& All Year Round
Kerry S. Doyal - www.GetGraced.org
Talk about trying to buy for Someone who truly does have everything! It is hard enough to shop for parents – if they need it, they buy it. How do you pick out something for the One who owns it all already?
Yet, God has a "Wish List," things He wants that are not yet His. Want to know what and who is on it? Want to help fulfill it?
Actually, there are lots of things on His list: His desire that we be holy, as He is holy, that we pray, love Him, love others, serve as He did… and the list goes on (see Gal. 5:18-22).
Also on His list are people: for His people to be fully committed to Him (Rom. 12:1-2), and those who are not His people to be offered to Him, by us, His priests (Rom. 15:15-16).
Priests were to present clean, acceptable offerings (gifts) to God. They represented the people to God and God to the people. We, as God’s holy nation of Priests (1 Pet. 2:4-10), are called on to present ourselves and other people to God as a gift, seeing them come to faith and maturity (Col. 1:27-29).
Find the gift "suggestions" in these two portions of Paul’s letter to the Romans: "Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship" (Rom. 12:1 - NASV).
"…Ministering as a priest the gospel of God, so that my offering of the Gentiles may become acceptable… For I will not presume to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me, resulting in the obedience of the Gentiles by word and deed…" (Rom. 15:16, 18).
First and foremost, if you are one of His, He wants all of you. Not select parts, not certain days and ways – but unreservedly, unabashedly all of you. He finds such gifts quite acceptable, in fact, pleasing. All of you to Him is the perfect gift.
Partial gifts in this arena are not nice gestures, or good starts - they are insults to the Almighty. You are –as Paul reminded the hold-out Corinthians – not your own any more. You have been bought with a price – Jesus’ blood (1 Corin. 6:18-20). We have no right to hold back on God.
Gentiles (non-Jews) were defiled outcasts, unacceptable offerings. Thankfully, God has a heart not just for His chosen people, but for outsiders as well. They – we– of all people, are on His list (Rom. 1:16, 17). Do we have a heart for the left out, over-looked, and life-losers? Do they matter to us like they matter to God?
Here are some shopping tips for presenting people to God as a priestly offering:
First, seeking to bring people to God as a gift requires a measure of pluck & passion – courage and care. Evangelism can be scary, but love conquers fear. Paul was so passionate about gifting the lost to God that he was willing to swap his own salvation for that of others – his fellow kinsmen, Jews (Rom. 9:1-5; 10:1). Oh for such concern about such eternal matters.
To have any hope of giving people to God, also requires persistent pursuit. Lost people are sometimes deep in the woods, hard to find, if I may. We need not just a desire, but a drive, one that is in gear (Rom. 1:8-17; 15:7-24). Mere wanting and whimpering does little to get ‘er done (sorry).
As missionaries reach Europeans by going to Europe, so too we reach our community by getting off our duffs. It is not the responsibility of the spiritually needy to come to us, or even come to church. "As you are going," Jesus said, "make disciples" (Matt. 28:18-20).
Pleading prayer is another part of an effective Priest’s life (Rom. 10:1-4). Funny thing, we can ask God to help us in getting Him a gift. Far from keeping this a surprise, we are to enlist His help in the process of bringing people to Jesus.
Finally, persuasive proclamation of Jesus is part of the process too (Col. 1:27-29; Rom. 10:13-5). If they do not hear about Him, they cannot believe or call out to Him. How will they hear without some one to proclaim Him? Live the gospel well, and tell it too.
Remember: "God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Col. 1:27).
Since God wants people for Christmas, and all year long, let’s make the same pledge Paul did: "We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me" (Col. 1:28-29).
For such grand and awesome gifts for God – that of ourselves and of others who need Him - we have God’s blessing to shop until we drop.
& All Year Round
Kerry S. Doyal - www.GetGraced.org
Talk about trying to buy for Someone who truly does have everything! It is hard enough to shop for parents – if they need it, they buy it. How do you pick out something for the One who owns it all already?
Yet, God has a "Wish List," things He wants that are not yet His. Want to know what and who is on it? Want to help fulfill it?
Actually, there are lots of things on His list: His desire that we be holy, as He is holy, that we pray, love Him, love others, serve as He did… and the list goes on (see Gal. 5:18-22).
Also on His list are people: for His people to be fully committed to Him (Rom. 12:1-2), and those who are not His people to be offered to Him, by us, His priests (Rom. 15:15-16).
Priests were to present clean, acceptable offerings (gifts) to God. They represented the people to God and God to the people. We, as God’s holy nation of Priests (1 Pet. 2:4-10), are called on to present ourselves and other people to God as a gift, seeing them come to faith and maturity (Col. 1:27-29).
Find the gift "suggestions" in these two portions of Paul’s letter to the Romans: "Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship" (Rom. 12:1 - NASV).
"…Ministering as a priest the gospel of God, so that my offering of the Gentiles may become acceptable… For I will not presume to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me, resulting in the obedience of the Gentiles by word and deed…" (Rom. 15:16, 18).
First and foremost, if you are one of His, He wants all of you. Not select parts, not certain days and ways – but unreservedly, unabashedly all of you. He finds such gifts quite acceptable, in fact, pleasing. All of you to Him is the perfect gift.
Partial gifts in this arena are not nice gestures, or good starts - they are insults to the Almighty. You are –as Paul reminded the hold-out Corinthians – not your own any more. You have been bought with a price – Jesus’ blood (1 Corin. 6:18-20). We have no right to hold back on God.
Gentiles (non-Jews) were defiled outcasts, unacceptable offerings. Thankfully, God has a heart not just for His chosen people, but for outsiders as well. They – we– of all people, are on His list (Rom. 1:16, 17). Do we have a heart for the left out, over-looked, and life-losers? Do they matter to us like they matter to God?
Here are some shopping tips for presenting people to God as a priestly offering:
First, seeking to bring people to God as a gift requires a measure of pluck & passion – courage and care. Evangelism can be scary, but love conquers fear. Paul was so passionate about gifting the lost to God that he was willing to swap his own salvation for that of others – his fellow kinsmen, Jews (Rom. 9:1-5; 10:1). Oh for such concern about such eternal matters.
To have any hope of giving people to God, also requires persistent pursuit. Lost people are sometimes deep in the woods, hard to find, if I may. We need not just a desire, but a drive, one that is in gear (Rom. 1:8-17; 15:7-24). Mere wanting and whimpering does little to get ‘er done (sorry).
As missionaries reach Europeans by going to Europe, so too we reach our community by getting off our duffs. It is not the responsibility of the spiritually needy to come to us, or even come to church. "As you are going," Jesus said, "make disciples" (Matt. 28:18-20).
Pleading prayer is another part of an effective Priest’s life (Rom. 10:1-4). Funny thing, we can ask God to help us in getting Him a gift. Far from keeping this a surprise, we are to enlist His help in the process of bringing people to Jesus.
Finally, persuasive proclamation of Jesus is part of the process too (Col. 1:27-29; Rom. 10:13-5). If they do not hear about Him, they cannot believe or call out to Him. How will they hear without some one to proclaim Him? Live the gospel well, and tell it too.
Remember: "God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Col. 1:27).
Since God wants people for Christmas, and all year long, let’s make the same pledge Paul did: "We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me" (Col. 1:28-29).
For such grand and awesome gifts for God – that of ourselves and of others who need Him - we have God’s blessing to shop until we drop.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Mercy or Justice? Your Druthers
Mercy or Justice? Your Druthers
- a true story -
She leaned forward against the rail, tightly clutching her purse, clearly tense, and embarrassed. Almost pale with fear and intense with earnestness, she responded to the Judge who had called her name, brought up her case.
This tired looking woman – wife and mother – was facing the Judge on drug charges. Possibly it was a pain medication that got out of hand. Maybe a party-lifestyle caught up with her. For whatever reasons, she was buying, using and being spent up by drugs.
What had been private was now all too public. Whoever happened to be in the courtroom that day – like me for instance - could hear of her woes, see her tighten in shame.
How many other places would she have rather been that day? How many "highs" would she have foregone to avoid this uncovering of her low condition? How many concealed, dark escapades would she have exchanged to prevent this in the light-of-day exposure?
The Judge was straightforward but respectful. She respectfully answered him. She did not deny her offense. She did not make excuses. She publicly confessed crime, admitted her problem.
Remarkably, several others whom the Judge summoned that session stayed seated as they seemingly chatted with the Judge. Some even saying, half mumbling, "yeah" in a culture and a setting that expects and deserves "Sir" at a minimum.
Unlike those, she stood, looked at him, spoke respectfully - reverently if you will - and owned up to her crime. Instead of concealing her sin, her problem, her law offense, she came clean.
As a result of her demeanor and decorum, she received mercy. The Judge became her Advocate. Speaking to the Prosecutor he said, "Here is a lady that has abused drugs and now they are abusing her". The one who could sentence her now himself sought mercy for her.
"Ma’am, are you in treatment now?" he asked. "No", she replied without any hesitation born of calculation. "Will you seek treatment?" he asked.
"Yes", she replied, even offering to help them catch those who sold her the drugs.
"Is your husband supportive of you in this?" the judge inquired, further displaying concern for her beyond mere satisfaction of the law. "Yes", she said, honoring a man who stood by his woman.
Turning now to her Counsel – court appointed, state funded – the Judge said "help me here. What can we do for this woman?" The next moments were spent discovering and discussing treatment options for her. Where could she go? Who would be able to take her right away?
Making his intentions and heart abundantly clear, the Judge addressed all those involved in making decisions about her future with these unforgettable words: "I don’t want jail for this lady, I want treatment."
Obviously relieved and even some what revived from having felt mercy’s sweet touch, a different woman walked out of that courtroom. It is quite likely that she was unaware that they, in that Kingsport courtroom, had just incarnated Proverbs 28:13-14.
"He who conceals his sins does not prosper,
but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD,
but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble." (NIV)
Mercy is a reprieve from deserved justice. It is available and freely offered to all who will ‘fess up and come clean with God through Christ.
If you need some courage and encouragement to come out of hiding, drink in some or all of these passages about God, His mercy and you: Romans 5:1-11; 8:1- 2; Psalms 5:1-7; 32; 51; 57:1-5; 2 Samuel 24:14; Isaiah 55:5-9; Hebrews 4:12-16; James 5:7-11; 1 Peter 1:3-7; 2 Peter 2:9-12.
- a true story -
She leaned forward against the rail, tightly clutching her purse, clearly tense, and embarrassed. Almost pale with fear and intense with earnestness, she responded to the Judge who had called her name, brought up her case.
This tired looking woman – wife and mother – was facing the Judge on drug charges. Possibly it was a pain medication that got out of hand. Maybe a party-lifestyle caught up with her. For whatever reasons, she was buying, using and being spent up by drugs.
What had been private was now all too public. Whoever happened to be in the courtroom that day – like me for instance - could hear of her woes, see her tighten in shame.
How many other places would she have rather been that day? How many "highs" would she have foregone to avoid this uncovering of her low condition? How many concealed, dark escapades would she have exchanged to prevent this in the light-of-day exposure?
The Judge was straightforward but respectful. She respectfully answered him. She did not deny her offense. She did not make excuses. She publicly confessed crime, admitted her problem.
Remarkably, several others whom the Judge summoned that session stayed seated as they seemingly chatted with the Judge. Some even saying, half mumbling, "yeah" in a culture and a setting that expects and deserves "Sir" at a minimum.
Unlike those, she stood, looked at him, spoke respectfully - reverently if you will - and owned up to her crime. Instead of concealing her sin, her problem, her law offense, she came clean.
As a result of her demeanor and decorum, she received mercy. The Judge became her Advocate. Speaking to the Prosecutor he said, "Here is a lady that has abused drugs and now they are abusing her". The one who could sentence her now himself sought mercy for her.
"Ma’am, are you in treatment now?" he asked. "No", she replied without any hesitation born of calculation. "Will you seek treatment?" he asked.
"Yes", she replied, even offering to help them catch those who sold her the drugs.
"Is your husband supportive of you in this?" the judge inquired, further displaying concern for her beyond mere satisfaction of the law. "Yes", she said, honoring a man who stood by his woman.
Turning now to her Counsel – court appointed, state funded – the Judge said "help me here. What can we do for this woman?" The next moments were spent discovering and discussing treatment options for her. Where could she go? Who would be able to take her right away?
Making his intentions and heart abundantly clear, the Judge addressed all those involved in making decisions about her future with these unforgettable words: "I don’t want jail for this lady, I want treatment."
Obviously relieved and even some what revived from having felt mercy’s sweet touch, a different woman walked out of that courtroom. It is quite likely that she was unaware that they, in that Kingsport courtroom, had just incarnated Proverbs 28:13-14.
"He who conceals his sins does not prosper,
but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD,
but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble." (NIV)
Mercy is a reprieve from deserved justice. It is available and freely offered to all who will ‘fess up and come clean with God through Christ.
If you need some courage and encouragement to come out of hiding, drink in some or all of these passages about God, His mercy and you: Romans 5:1-11; 8:1- 2; Psalms 5:1-7; 32; 51; 57:1-5; 2 Samuel 24:14; Isaiah 55:5-9; Hebrews 4:12-16; James 5:7-11; 1 Peter 1:3-7; 2 Peter 2:9-12.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Expecting and Accepting "X-mas" from the World
John 1:10-14 "He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." (NIV)
"Christmas has become too commercialized." "They’ve taken Christ out of Christmas." "It is little more than a secular event." "A Holy Day is now just another holiday."
Along with complaints about traffic and long lines at the stores, these are some of the laments we hear this time of year. Such "godly gripings" have become as traditional as exchanging gifts, caroling, watching "It’s a Wonderful Life" and downing eggnog.
Seeing Jesus excluded from His own birthday celebration naturally stirs the hearts of those who love Him. But I wonder if we have a biblical expectation of the world in this matter.
Starkly stated: of course the world has secularized Christmas. But what did we really expect? How "Buddah-filled" would a Christian’s life be if they lived in Japan?
Followers of Jesus need to quit expecting the world to be Christian-like in their beliefs or behavior. Bunnies at Easter and reindeer at Christmas are far more sensible and consistent from the unbelieving world than a genuine honoring of the risen Savior, whom they do not know, nor claim to know. Jesus is not their conquering Messiah so why should they hypocritically act as if He is?
Christians need to collectively mark and mourn the passing of our Christian heritage and seek to win a secular world (which is redundant) to Christ. We no longer live in a Christian nation (if we ever truly did). Let’s accept that and move on to reaching out to them with His love and message of salvation.
God has not left Himself without a witness (see Acts 14:17; Psalm 19), even if that is a secularized, seemingly Christ-free Christmas. The impact of the birth of the historical Son of God is seen even in the leaving of Him out. Our holiday madness begs the question: from whence does this gift giving, tree trimming, carol singing come? Pagan winter solstice celebrations hardly suffice as an answer. Jesus is indeed the reason for the season – historically even if not devotionally.
This is like replacing BC and AD (Before Christ and Anno Domini) with BCE and CE (Before Common Era). It stills begs the question: what marked the beginning of the "Common Era?" One may excise and "commonize" AD (the year of our Lord) but, as in life and history, Jesus’ imprint is still felt. No matter how you label it, Jesus split and defined history.
You find little in the gospels of Jesus’ disappointment with the world not recognizing Him. He knew what to expect. Blind people cannot see. They need sight. It was when His people did not have a clue about Him that He was stirred and grieved (see Matt. 23:37).
The world does not merely need to be Christianized or made more moral – though it does well and wise to be moral. And we are wise and good citizens to work and pray towards that end.
Nor is their greatest need to better teach or appreciate how Christian our nation’s heritage was – though history done with integrity can hardly overlook this and be honest. Civil religion leaves us civil and religious. While being civil is obviously good, being religious, well… the verdict is still out. Did not Jesus say: "what would it profit a man if he gained the whole world yet lost his soul"?
Our world’s greatest need is to encounter and bow before Christ Himself. Hopefully, they are enabled to do this as He is seen and heard in us year round. For non-Christians to commercialize Christmas is on-target, in character behavior for them. Why would they – though they should – make Jesus central on Dec. 25? He is not the other 364 days. They are being consistent. Why do we not honor their lack of pretense instead of blasting their honest omissions? Do we want them to feign fellowship with Him, furthering both their and our confusion over their identity and
need?
Instead of being grumbling, mumbling curmudgeons (Grinches?) who wonder why Christ-less people took Christ out of Christmas, let us seek to be caring, compassionate neighbors who realize they never had Christ to take Him out in the first place.
Anyone can use "X-mas" as a chance for cheap shots. Jesus might be most honored by His followers making the most of this seasonal opportunity to share and show His love to others - a love that might be deepened by confessing and repenting of unbiblical expectations of the unsaved.
Instead of griping and fuming about Christ’s absence from Christmas this year, let’s fully insert Him in our daily lives as well as our annual natal hoopla. Away with demeaning a secular world - is there any other kind? – for trying their best to honor the "spirit of Christmas."
Let us commend their efforts to show love, share and serve others – even if it is merely seasonal sentimental piety (if it is only that). Let us understand their "tip of the hat" deference to the God-man for what it is and what it cannot be. It falls to us to display and declare year-round worship of the Babe of Bethlehem, the Creator made creature.
"Christmas has become too commercialized." "They’ve taken Christ out of Christmas." "It is little more than a secular event." "A Holy Day is now just another holiday."
Along with complaints about traffic and long lines at the stores, these are some of the laments we hear this time of year. Such "godly gripings" have become as traditional as exchanging gifts, caroling, watching "It’s a Wonderful Life" and downing eggnog.
Seeing Jesus excluded from His own birthday celebration naturally stirs the hearts of those who love Him. But I wonder if we have a biblical expectation of the world in this matter.
Starkly stated: of course the world has secularized Christmas. But what did we really expect? How "Buddah-filled" would a Christian’s life be if they lived in Japan?
Followers of Jesus need to quit expecting the world to be Christian-like in their beliefs or behavior. Bunnies at Easter and reindeer at Christmas are far more sensible and consistent from the unbelieving world than a genuine honoring of the risen Savior, whom they do not know, nor claim to know. Jesus is not their conquering Messiah so why should they hypocritically act as if He is?
Christians need to collectively mark and mourn the passing of our Christian heritage and seek to win a secular world (which is redundant) to Christ. We no longer live in a Christian nation (if we ever truly did). Let’s accept that and move on to reaching out to them with His love and message of salvation.
God has not left Himself without a witness (see Acts 14:17; Psalm 19), even if that is a secularized, seemingly Christ-free Christmas. The impact of the birth of the historical Son of God is seen even in the leaving of Him out. Our holiday madness begs the question: from whence does this gift giving, tree trimming, carol singing come? Pagan winter solstice celebrations hardly suffice as an answer. Jesus is indeed the reason for the season – historically even if not devotionally.
This is like replacing BC and AD (Before Christ and Anno Domini) with BCE and CE (Before Common Era). It stills begs the question: what marked the beginning of the "Common Era?" One may excise and "commonize" AD (the year of our Lord) but, as in life and history, Jesus’ imprint is still felt. No matter how you label it, Jesus split and defined history.
You find little in the gospels of Jesus’ disappointment with the world not recognizing Him. He knew what to expect. Blind people cannot see. They need sight. It was when His people did not have a clue about Him that He was stirred and grieved (see Matt. 23:37).
The world does not merely need to be Christianized or made more moral – though it does well and wise to be moral. And we are wise and good citizens to work and pray towards that end.
Nor is their greatest need to better teach or appreciate how Christian our nation’s heritage was – though history done with integrity can hardly overlook this and be honest. Civil religion leaves us civil and religious. While being civil is obviously good, being religious, well… the verdict is still out. Did not Jesus say: "what would it profit a man if he gained the whole world yet lost his soul"?
Our world’s greatest need is to encounter and bow before Christ Himself. Hopefully, they are enabled to do this as He is seen and heard in us year round. For non-Christians to commercialize Christmas is on-target, in character behavior for them. Why would they – though they should – make Jesus central on Dec. 25? He is not the other 364 days. They are being consistent. Why do we not honor their lack of pretense instead of blasting their honest omissions? Do we want them to feign fellowship with Him, furthering both their and our confusion over their identity and
need?
Instead of being grumbling, mumbling curmudgeons (Grinches?) who wonder why Christ-less people took Christ out of Christmas, let us seek to be caring, compassionate neighbors who realize they never had Christ to take Him out in the first place.
Anyone can use "X-mas" as a chance for cheap shots. Jesus might be most honored by His followers making the most of this seasonal opportunity to share and show His love to others - a love that might be deepened by confessing and repenting of unbiblical expectations of the unsaved.
Instead of griping and fuming about Christ’s absence from Christmas this year, let’s fully insert Him in our daily lives as well as our annual natal hoopla. Away with demeaning a secular world - is there any other kind? – for trying their best to honor the "spirit of Christmas."
Let us commend their efforts to show love, share and serve others – even if it is merely seasonal sentimental piety (if it is only that). Let us understand their "tip of the hat" deference to the God-man for what it is and what it cannot be. It falls to us to display and declare year-round worship of the Babe of Bethlehem, the Creator made creature.
Thursday, November 24, 2005
How to Act Like an Atheist and Idolater
When Good Christians Act Like Atheists and Idolaters
www.GetGraced.org
Want to act and look like an unbeliever? Care to have core traits that make you indistinguishable from atheists or agnostics?
Good news! It doesn’t take becoming a serial killer, a suicide terrorist or a child abuser. According to Romans 1:21-23 all it takes is… well, read it for yourself:
"For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened."
"Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles" (NIV).
It is one small step for man yet one giant leap for mankind from not honoring and thanking God to becoming foolish and functional idolaters. To know about God and not give Him due credit (glory) or properly thank Him is to be no different than your run of the mill atheist or blatant idolater. Ouch!
Arguably, the fearful pagan sacrificing chickens to appease an unknown Creator is closer to true worship of God than we educated, technology driven, pure materialists who live without properly praising or thanking Him.
To ascribe credit for one person’s work to another is to be guilty of lying. In this case, it is bearing false witness about our Ultimate Neighbor. It is to misrepresent the one (or impersonal forces) who did not do the work – giving them undue credit.
To not laud the Lord is to strip away His deserved praise and thanks - the One who did the work. Me taking credit for the Mona Lisa or the Magna Carta is beyond funny. It is insulting to all involved.
One of the dangers of pure atheistic evolution (life came from time, chance and non-living matter) is to ascribe some of God’s best work to nothing but cosmic luck.
To assert that our beautiful mountains, that awesome sky and those humbling oceans "just happened" is to mute their testimony of their Creator.
In rejecting the work of the Creator, we become deaf to the heavens when they declare the glory of God (see Psalms 19 & 8). Nature’s songs of praise cannot be heard because there is no One to whom it would sing.
Even if it were left up to the rocks to cry out, we could not hear them if they did. Beyond sad and tragic, that is blasphemous – if not by design then by default.
It is not the loss of Adam of Eve to evolution that is most tragic – though the biblical / theological magnitude of that cannot be overstated.
It is that God is banished from the garden of our weedy hearts, leaving us less than fig-leaf clad. And we are left to turn the created into the Creator.
Seeing God for Who He is - His awesome character - is the basis of praise. We give or "ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name" (Ps. 29:2). To understate His greatness in any realm naturally limits and minimizes the rightful praise we offer Him.
Thanksgiving focuses on what God has given or provided us. It is flows from our acknowledging that every good and perfect gift has indeed come down from our heavenly Father (James 1:17). We thank Him for gifts He bestows because of Who He is, for what He has done for us, or mercifully, not done or allowed to happen to us.
Is gratitude a struggle for you? Could some of it be dealt with by remembering Who is Whom and whom is not? Do you need in any way to re-enthrone the Creator, knowing our rightfully jealous God will not share His glory with any one? Careful meditation on passages like John 1:3 and Colossians 1:16, 17 might help refocus your heart.
A focus on God – rather than mere gratitude or guilt for all our stuff, health and "blessings" – will best restore us to being people who are truly thankful in ways that give Him more glory. It is then we will do as the psalmists says:
"Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice." (Psalm 105:1-3 - NIV)
"Ascribe to the LORD, O mighty ones, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength." (Psalm 29:1)
www.GetGraced.org
Want to act and look like an unbeliever? Care to have core traits that make you indistinguishable from atheists or agnostics?
Good news! It doesn’t take becoming a serial killer, a suicide terrorist or a child abuser. According to Romans 1:21-23 all it takes is… well, read it for yourself:
"For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened."
"Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles" (NIV).
It is one small step for man yet one giant leap for mankind from not honoring and thanking God to becoming foolish and functional idolaters. To know about God and not give Him due credit (glory) or properly thank Him is to be no different than your run of the mill atheist or blatant idolater. Ouch!
Arguably, the fearful pagan sacrificing chickens to appease an unknown Creator is closer to true worship of God than we educated, technology driven, pure materialists who live without properly praising or thanking Him.
To ascribe credit for one person’s work to another is to be guilty of lying. In this case, it is bearing false witness about our Ultimate Neighbor. It is to misrepresent the one (or impersonal forces) who did not do the work – giving them undue credit.
To not laud the Lord is to strip away His deserved praise and thanks - the One who did the work. Me taking credit for the Mona Lisa or the Magna Carta is beyond funny. It is insulting to all involved.
One of the dangers of pure atheistic evolution (life came from time, chance and non-living matter) is to ascribe some of God’s best work to nothing but cosmic luck.
To assert that our beautiful mountains, that awesome sky and those humbling oceans "just happened" is to mute their testimony of their Creator.
In rejecting the work of the Creator, we become deaf to the heavens when they declare the glory of God (see Psalms 19 & 8). Nature’s songs of praise cannot be heard because there is no One to whom it would sing.
Even if it were left up to the rocks to cry out, we could not hear them if they did. Beyond sad and tragic, that is blasphemous – if not by design then by default.
It is not the loss of Adam of Eve to evolution that is most tragic – though the biblical / theological magnitude of that cannot be overstated.
It is that God is banished from the garden of our weedy hearts, leaving us less than fig-leaf clad. And we are left to turn the created into the Creator.
Seeing God for Who He is - His awesome character - is the basis of praise. We give or "ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name" (Ps. 29:2). To understate His greatness in any realm naturally limits and minimizes the rightful praise we offer Him.
Thanksgiving focuses on what God has given or provided us. It is flows from our acknowledging that every good and perfect gift has indeed come down from our heavenly Father (James 1:17). We thank Him for gifts He bestows because of Who He is, for what He has done for us, or mercifully, not done or allowed to happen to us.
Is gratitude a struggle for you? Could some of it be dealt with by remembering Who is Whom and whom is not? Do you need in any way to re-enthrone the Creator, knowing our rightfully jealous God will not share His glory with any one? Careful meditation on passages like John 1:3 and Colossians 1:16, 17 might help refocus your heart.
A focus on God – rather than mere gratitude or guilt for all our stuff, health and "blessings" – will best restore us to being people who are truly thankful in ways that give Him more glory. It is then we will do as the psalmists says:
"Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice." (Psalm 105:1-3 - NIV)
"Ascribe to the LORD, O mighty ones, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength." (Psalm 29:1)
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