The Unexpected Adventure- UE 18- "An Unfair Advantage" John 8:32
Today's reading was another one of those that made a great story, but not a likely happening for 99.9% of us. Lee and Mark organize a high-profile debate between an avowed atheist and a Christian philosopher/theologian. Over 7000 are in attendance, and the event gets a lot of news coverage. The action principle of the chapter is that while we might never get into a debate on the historicity and science of our Christian beliefs, we can have that assurance that both history and the natural world point to the existence of God and the veracity of Bible.
I find this type of information more interesting than most. I enjoy Ravi Zacharias and his apologetics' ministry. Some Christians don't feel this type of proof for the Bible and Jesus are a necessary part of the witness experience. Each to his or her own. However, I believe that a personal conversion story and a fundamental knowledge of apologetics are both necessary tools for an effective witness. Here's why.
If all a person has to share is how God has changed his life, millions of Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Mormons can point to a life-changing moment of enlightenment. In that respect, a Christian testimony might not stand out from those of other faiths. However, if, as children of the One True God, we can also point to just some of the historical, natural and philosophical truths supported by the Christian belief system, we take our testimony to a whole new level.
I must confess that I do not have the level of apologetics knowledge I would like to have. The reason is simple- laziness. I have not dedicated myself to reading about and studying the materials out there that contain that type of information. C.S. Lewis, Lee Strobel, Ravi Zacharias and Josh McDowell are four authors that write extensively in the area of apologetics.
Realistically few of us will ever reach the knowledge level of the authors mentioned above, but I feel that many Christians (me at the top of the list) are unwilling to put in the intellectual time and effort to expand our scholarship in this area. I am not discounting a person's personal faith story, but in today's world, our effectiveness as a Christian witness can be greatly strengthened with at least a foundational knowledge of the historical, natural and philosophical arguments for Christianity.
Look like I need to make a trip to the book store.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for all the evidence You have allowed us to uncover for You, Your Son and the claims of the Bible. Please give me the intellectual clarity and self-discipline to go deeper into that knowledge area.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Jan. 29- John 17:1-26
I have put off studying my Sunday School lesson until today, so whoever reads this will get to follow along with the study. Ain't you lucky?! Max Lucado's The Gospel of John the is the study guide.
John 17:1-26 is the text, and as with a lot of this type of study material there is a list of discussion questions that follow. I will not attempt to delve into all of them in the blog.
1. Who is Jesus praying for in these verses? At first blush, it would appear He is praying for the disciples. But further in the passage, Jesus "prayer is not for them (disciples) alone. I (Jesus) also pray for them who will believe in me through their message . . ." So Jesus is also praying for future converts. Here are my wonderings. Was Jesus praying for a set of specific, predetermined group of people who would be saved in the future, or was this a group prayer for all who might be saved? Was this for just those saved through the disciples actions, or for the millions who would accept Christ from then to the present day? Now that Christ is in Heaven with the Father, what is role does He play? Does He still "pray" for believers, or is that now relegated to the Holy Spirit? So many questions from just one verse. Aaarrrrggghhh!
2. What does Jesus desire for his followers? One part of the answer to this question can be bit depressing, but is realistic. In verse 15, Jesus prays, "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one." I wonder if most believers have had times where they wish they could just be caught up into heaven. No more mortgage payment. No more 5:30 a.m. dog walks to take. No more trips to the doctor to receive devastating news. But we see in verse 15, that is not the lot for Christians. The world around us is in a state of decline and, many say, past the tipping point. Think how much quicker that decline would be if not for the influence, love and charitable work of Christians. Our desire to be taken out of this world is understandable, but not God's plan.
So what thoughts, wonderings, questions do you have about Jesus' prayer in John 17?
John 17:1-26 is the text, and as with a lot of this type of study material there is a list of discussion questions that follow. I will not attempt to delve into all of them in the blog.
1. Who is Jesus praying for in these verses? At first blush, it would appear He is praying for the disciples. But further in the passage, Jesus "prayer is not for them (disciples) alone. I (Jesus) also pray for them who will believe in me through their message . . ." So Jesus is also praying for future converts. Here are my wonderings. Was Jesus praying for a set of specific, predetermined group of people who would be saved in the future, or was this a group prayer for all who might be saved? Was this for just those saved through the disciples actions, or for the millions who would accept Christ from then to the present day? Now that Christ is in Heaven with the Father, what is role does He play? Does He still "pray" for believers, or is that now relegated to the Holy Spirit? So many questions from just one verse. Aaarrrrggghhh!
2. What does Jesus desire for his followers? One part of the answer to this question can be bit depressing, but is realistic. In verse 15, Jesus prays, "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one." I wonder if most believers have had times where they wish they could just be caught up into heaven. No more mortgage payment. No more 5:30 a.m. dog walks to take. No more trips to the doctor to receive devastating news. But we see in verse 15, that is not the lot for Christians. The world around us is in a state of decline and, many say, past the tipping point. Think how much quicker that decline would be if not for the influence, love and charitable work of Christians. Our desire to be taken out of this world is understandable, but not God's plan.
So what thoughts, wonderings, questions do you have about Jesus' prayer in John 17?
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Jan. 26- UA 17
The Unexpected Adventure- UA 17- "The Cowboy Who Almost Shot Me" 2 Corinthians 11:26-27; Acts 20:24
In Day 17 of UA, Middelberg tells of a time as a young Christian he had a friend fly him up to the North Dakota badlands at night so he could find his unsaved friends on a hunting trip and witness to them. He can't find them, camps out in a field and ends up meeting the crusty landowner who invites him back to his log cabin rather than shoot him. The point of the story is that witnessing might be spontaneous and dangerous, but God will protect and provide. Neat story. Encouraging truths. But unlikely for most of us. However, his story, along with the verses from 2 Corinthians did get me to thinking.
After reading and rereading 2 Corinthians 11:26-27, I tried my hand at composing a DLM Translation.
(The DLM is in read, Paul's story in black.)
26 I have beenconstantly on the move (consistently sedentary). I have been in danger from rivers (streets with a bit too much rain to go to church), in danger from bandits (having to look at the homeless person standing at an intersection), in danger from my fellow Jews (church members who might disagree with my beliefs on pre vs post trib), in danger from Gentiles (people who don't go to church, but really are not too worried about my beliefs); in danger in the city (Yeah, like Springfield is a dangerous city.), in danger in the country (not in America), in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers (people who might snicker at my beliefs behind my back). 27I have labored and toiled (gotten up a bit early to spend 20-30 minutes a day in prayer and Bible study) and have often gone without sleep (hitting the snooze button for the fifth time); I have never known hunger and thirst and have not once often gone without food; I have been cold and naked (warm and clothed).
Sorry the above DLM translation is a bit of a mess. In my mind it was going to look much more coherent.
The point is that I have never really suffered for Christ. I know that not everyone is called to live with lepers, move to Haiti or work with inner city homeless, but shouldn't all Christians who are sold out to Christ have some physical or emotional stripes to show for our Kingdom work?
In Day 17 of UA, Middelberg tells of a time as a young Christian he had a friend fly him up to the North Dakota badlands at night so he could find his unsaved friends on a hunting trip and witness to them. He can't find them, camps out in a field and ends up meeting the crusty landowner who invites him back to his log cabin rather than shoot him. The point of the story is that witnessing might be spontaneous and dangerous, but God will protect and provide. Neat story. Encouraging truths. But unlikely for most of us. However, his story, along with the verses from 2 Corinthians did get me to thinking.
After reading and rereading 2 Corinthians 11:26-27, I tried my hand at composing a DLM Translation.
(The DLM is in read, Paul's story in black.)
26 I have been
Sorry the above DLM translation is a bit of a mess. In my mind it was going to look much more coherent.
The point is that I have never really suffered for Christ. I know that not everyone is called to live with lepers, move to Haiti or work with inner city homeless, but shouldn't all Christians who are sold out to Christ have some physical or emotional stripes to show for our Kingdom work?
Monday, January 24, 2011
Jan. 24- Old Dog, New Annoying Habit
I am not sure if this is in my future as I get older, but Lucy, our 10.5 year old poodle has developed an annoying habit as of late. Over the past couple of weeks, she has started "woofing" to go outside around 4:30 or 5:00 a.m.-- even on weekends when I could sleep in! The worry is that if I ignore or scold her for this new rise-and-shine schedule, there will be puddles and piles to clean. So right now, I am just acquiescing to her demands and letting her outside.
The problem is that I am now awake and don't want to trudge back to bed and wake Kristi. Instead I grab a blanket and lay on the couch for 30 minutes or so until I need to get up for work. I find my mind wandering to the issues and concerns of school. But this morning, I was able to discipline my mind to meditate on scripture. Philippians 4:6-9 and the 16th Psalm were the two passages of choice this morning.
Meditating on scripture is more than just saying a verse over and over. I thought about ways each part of the passages could apply to my life and what spiritual truths were present in the verses. For example: Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true. . .think about such things." I spent time thinking about what I knew was true. God loves me. His Son died for me. He will never leave or forsake me. The list went on.
And you know what? Any anxiety, angst or disquietude I felt about this world vanished. I was unable to worry about MAP scores when I pondered God's truths. When I meditating on God's love I could not also stress about the economy. I can choose to think about Kingdom truths or earthly concerns.
Heavenly Father, please help me to choose Kingdom truths over earthly concerns. Matthew 6:33- "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
What are some other wee hour ponderable verses?
The problem is that I am now awake and don't want to trudge back to bed and wake Kristi. Instead I grab a blanket and lay on the couch for 30 minutes or so until I need to get up for work. I find my mind wandering to the issues and concerns of school. But this morning, I was able to discipline my mind to meditate on scripture. Philippians 4:6-9 and the 16th Psalm were the two passages of choice this morning.
Meditating on scripture is more than just saying a verse over and over. I thought about ways each part of the passages could apply to my life and what spiritual truths were present in the verses. For example: Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true. . .think about such things." I spent time thinking about what I knew was true. God loves me. His Son died for me. He will never leave or forsake me. The list went on.
And you know what? Any anxiety, angst or disquietude I felt about this world vanished. I was unable to worry about MAP scores when I pondered God's truths. When I meditating on God's love I could not also stress about the economy. I can choose to think about Kingdom truths or earthly concerns.
Heavenly Father, please help me to choose Kingdom truths over earthly concerns. Matthew 6:33- "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
What are some other wee hour ponderable verses?
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Jan. 20- UA 16
The Unexpected Adventure- UA 16- "Linking Together" 1 Corinthians 3:7-9
Today's reading in UA was an encouragement for me. On page 113, Strobel wrote "Too often Christians feel that they have failed if they've never actually prayed with someone to receive Christ. . . .They forget that generally it takes many experiences and conversations over time before a person decides to become a Christian." Having someone kneel and pray for salvation is just the final link in the process. The author mentions several typical links in the "chain of salvation". The influence of authentic Christians, witnessing, the transformation of nonChristians, authors, kind acts of Christians, direct testimonies, faithful preaching were all links in Lee's salvation chain.
This side of heaven we won't know which link we have played in a brother's or sister's salvation chain or how many chains of which we are a part. We need to strive to be the best link we can be for someone's salvation chain.
A quick remark about the flip side of the chain of salvation. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. While God may use me as a link to bring a person closer to salvation, I can also be a break in the chain others have started. Since my coworkers, family and friends know that I am a Christian, my ability to strengthen or weaken a salvation chain is greatly enhanced. An errant word or action might just detour someone's journey to salvation. An increased presence for Christ comes with an increased responsibility to live my life according to Biblical precepts.
Today's reading in UA was an encouragement for me. On page 113, Strobel wrote "Too often Christians feel that they have failed if they've never actually prayed with someone to receive Christ. . . .They forget that generally it takes many experiences and conversations over time before a person decides to become a Christian." Having someone kneel and pray for salvation is just the final link in the process. The author mentions several typical links in the "chain of salvation". The influence of authentic Christians, witnessing, the transformation of nonChristians, authors, kind acts of Christians, direct testimonies, faithful preaching were all links in Lee's salvation chain.
This side of heaven we won't know which link we have played in a brother's or sister's salvation chain or how many chains of which we are a part. We need to strive to be the best link we can be for someone's salvation chain.
A quick remark about the flip side of the chain of salvation. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. While God may use me as a link to bring a person closer to salvation, I can also be a break in the chain others have started. Since my coworkers, family and friends know that I am a Christian, my ability to strengthen or weaken a salvation chain is greatly enhanced. An errant word or action might just detour someone's journey to salvation. An increased presence for Christ comes with an increased responsibility to live my life according to Biblical precepts.
Jan. 20- UA 16
The Unexpected Adventure- UA 16- "Linking Together" 1 Corinthians 3:7-9
Today's reading in UA was an encouragement for me. On page 113, Strobel wrote "Too often Christians feel that they have failed if they've never actually prayed to receive Christ. . . .They forget that generally it takes many experiences and conversations over time before a person decides to become a Christian." Having someone kneel and pray for salvation is just the final link in the process. The author mentions several typical links in the "chain of salvation". Influence of authentic Christians, witnessing the transformation of nonChristians, authors, kind acts of Christians, direct testimonies, faithful preaching were all links in Lee's salvation chain.
This side of heaven we won't know which link we have played in a brother's or sister's salvation chain or how many chains of which we are a part. We need to strive to be the best link we can be for someone's salvation chain.
A quick remark about the flip side of the chain of salvation. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. While God may use us as a link to bring a person closer to salvation, we can also be a break in the chain that others have started. Since my coworkers, family and friends know that I am a Christian, my ability to strengthen or weaken a salvation chain is greatly enhanced. An errant word or action might just detour someone's journey to salvation. An increased presence for Christ comes with an increased responsibility to live my life according to Biblical precepts.
Today's reading in UA was an encouragement for me. On page 113, Strobel wrote "Too often Christians feel that they have failed if they've never actually prayed to receive Christ. . . .They forget that generally it takes many experiences and conversations over time before a person decides to become a Christian." Having someone kneel and pray for salvation is just the final link in the process. The author mentions several typical links in the "chain of salvation". Influence of authentic Christians, witnessing the transformation of nonChristians, authors, kind acts of Christians, direct testimonies, faithful preaching were all links in Lee's salvation chain.
This side of heaven we won't know which link we have played in a brother's or sister's salvation chain or how many chains of which we are a part. We need to strive to be the best link we can be for someone's salvation chain.
A quick remark about the flip side of the chain of salvation. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. While God may use us as a link to bring a person closer to salvation, we can also be a break in the chain that others have started. Since my coworkers, family and friends know that I am a Christian, my ability to strengthen or weaken a salvation chain is greatly enhanced. An errant word or action might just detour someone's journey to salvation. An increased presence for Christ comes with an increased responsibility to live my life according to Biblical precepts.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Jan. 19- UA 15
The Unexpected Adventure- UA 15- "Mountaintop Experience" Luke 6:45
At first blush, many of the UA chapters appear to be repetitive in their message. However, if I allow myself time to ponder, pray and masticate on the text, subtle, yet important differences start to emerge. UE 15 is an example of that. At first reading it appeared the lesson was the same. Be ready to start a Kingdom conversation, take the opportunity when it arises and don't beat the person over the head with a leather-covered edition of the KJV. In fact after reading the chapter last night, I was a bit bummed because there was no new lesson, or so I thought.
I reread the chapter this evening, and a light bulb went on.
In chapter 15, Mark tells about a hiking/camping trip he and his wife, Heidi, took in the Beartooth Mountains. One morning they went on a day hike with a stranger, Dan. As they hiked and discussed the beauty of the flowers, Mark decided to take a Kingdom conversation chance. He mentioned that God must have had quite the imagination to create such beauty and how creative the Creator must be. Nothing more. No Bible verses. Just a mention of God in the course of the conversation.
Dan took the bait. He stated that he did not believe in God. Mark did not immediately jump on that statement, but ask some questions to get a picture of Dan's belief system. On the way back down the mountain, Mark was able to share some of the reasons why he believed in God and how God had changed hi life.
What stood out for me in this particular chapter was the way Mark had used a Kingdom neutral item (the flowers) to casually start a Kingdom conversation. Jesus modeled this witnessing approach in John 4 when he "casually" asked the Samaritan woman for a drink from a well. From this seemingly inconsequential question, "many more because believers".
God can use the insignificant to change lives.
At first blush, many of the UA chapters appear to be repetitive in their message. However, if I allow myself time to ponder, pray and masticate on the text, subtle, yet important differences start to emerge. UE 15 is an example of that. At first reading it appeared the lesson was the same. Be ready to start a Kingdom conversation, take the opportunity when it arises and don't beat the person over the head with a leather-covered edition of the KJV. In fact after reading the chapter last night, I was a bit bummed because there was no new lesson, or so I thought.
I reread the chapter this evening, and a light bulb went on.
In chapter 15, Mark tells about a hiking/camping trip he and his wife, Heidi, took in the Beartooth Mountains. One morning they went on a day hike with a stranger, Dan. As they hiked and discussed the beauty of the flowers, Mark decided to take a Kingdom conversation chance. He mentioned that God must have had quite the imagination to create such beauty and how creative the Creator must be. Nothing more. No Bible verses. Just a mention of God in the course of the conversation.
Dan took the bait. He stated that he did not believe in God. Mark did not immediately jump on that statement, but ask some questions to get a picture of Dan's belief system. On the way back down the mountain, Mark was able to share some of the reasons why he believed in God and how God had changed hi life.
What stood out for me in this particular chapter was the way Mark had used a Kingdom neutral item (the flowers) to casually start a Kingdom conversation. Jesus modeled this witnessing approach in John 4 when he "casually" asked the Samaritan woman for a drink from a well. From this seemingly inconsequential question, "many more because believers".
God can use the insignificant to change lives.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Jan. 17- UA 14
The Unexpected Adventure- UE 14- "The Influence of a Story" Acts 26:22
Lee Strobel uses the account of Paul's defense before King Agrippa as an outline of how we can share our personal testimony with seekers. He breaks the 26th chapter of Acts into these parts:
26:4-11 How your life was before Jesus?
26:12-18 How did Christ come into your life?
26:19-23 How is your life different now that Jesus has become Lord and Savior?
In his book Comes Before Winter, Charles Swindoll points out why this type of witnessing is so effective. "Because one of the most convincing, unanswerable arguments on earth regarding Christianity is one's personal experience with the Lord Jesus Christ. . . The skeptic may deny your doctrine or attack your church, but he cannot honestly ignore the fact that your life has been changed."
I know the no matter how often I listen to Ravi Zacharias or read Josh McDowell, I don't have the philosophical arguments or historical proof at my fingertips to argue with skeptics, but I do know that my relationship with Christ has made some very positive changes in my life. That is what I need to share.
This type of testimony has two lynch pins. First, has my life really been changed? If I share a verbal testimony, I had better make sure my life is backing up that testimony. Second, I need to have spent time intentionally preparing a mental outline of what I want to share. Nothing formal with points, subpoints and a day/date timeline that I have memorized. But Strobel encourages us to take time to write out our major Christ-moments and practice sharing our personal conversion experience. He suggests a 3-4 minute story that covers all the major points. (This sounds a lot like the Sunday night class at Ridgecrest.)
Who was I before Christ? How and when did Christ come into my life? What has changed in my life as a result of Christ?
P.S. If you don't have an answer to that last question, spend some time alone with God to make sure you really have accepted Christ as your personal savior.
Lee Strobel uses the account of Paul's defense before King Agrippa as an outline of how we can share our personal testimony with seekers. He breaks the 26th chapter of Acts into these parts:
26:4-11 How your life was before Jesus?
26:12-18 How did Christ come into your life?
26:19-23 How is your life different now that Jesus has become Lord and Savior?
In his book Comes Before Winter, Charles Swindoll points out why this type of witnessing is so effective. "Because one of the most convincing, unanswerable arguments on earth regarding Christianity is one's personal experience with the Lord Jesus Christ. . . The skeptic may deny your doctrine or attack your church, but he cannot honestly ignore the fact that your life has been changed."
I know the no matter how often I listen to Ravi Zacharias or read Josh McDowell, I don't have the philosophical arguments or historical proof at my fingertips to argue with skeptics, but I do know that my relationship with Christ has made some very positive changes in my life. That is what I need to share.
This type of testimony has two lynch pins. First, has my life really been changed? If I share a verbal testimony, I had better make sure my life is backing up that testimony. Second, I need to have spent time intentionally preparing a mental outline of what I want to share. Nothing formal with points, subpoints and a day/date timeline that I have memorized. But Strobel encourages us to take time to write out our major Christ-moments and practice sharing our personal conversion experience. He suggests a 3-4 minute story that covers all the major points. (This sounds a lot like the Sunday night class at Ridgecrest.)
Who was I before Christ? How and when did Christ come into my life? What has changed in my life as a result of Christ?
P.S. If you don't have an answer to that last question, spend some time alone with God to make sure you really have accepted Christ as your personal savior.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Jan. 16- Break from UA
For no particular reason, I have taken a couple of days away from the Unexpected Adventure. This evening I am finishing my study of tomorrow's Sunday School lesson. The story of Mary, Martha and Lazarus has several layers and a lot of cud to chew. John 11:17-44
While I have heard the story of Lazarus' resurrection many times before, new insights/wonderings were abundant this time through.
New Insight- When Mary and Martha are visited in Luke 10:38-44, Mary is the one attentive to Jesus and Martha was the doer of household duties. The keeper of the hearth. In Luke's story, Jesus gently rebukes Martha for not choosing spending time with Him (Jesus) over household chores. It appears that Martha took Jesus correction to heart. In John 11, we learn that it was Martha who ran to meet Jesus while Mary stayed at home this time. Many are the times that Jesus has corrected me, but I did not learn the lesson as quickly as Martha.
Wondering- Were Mary and Martha accusatory in their statements, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died," or were they just stating a fact?
New Insight- I believe that M and M were disappointed and angry with how Jesus chose to handle their brother's illness/death. And being fully God, Jesus knew this even if M and M were not completely honest with their feelings. HOWEVER, this did not cause Jesus to refuse to come to their aid. It is okay to let God know our hurts, disappoints and anger, but like Mary we must still believe, "that you (Jesus) are the Christ, the Son of God, the One coming to the world."
Wondering- What were Lazarus' first words? Was he hungry? Thirsty? Where did his soul reside during those four days of death? Was he upset to return to life on earth with its pain, suffering, mosquitoes and sand fleas?
New Insight- Lazarus' resurrection is not really the main focus of this story. I believe the important messages of this story are:
1. Wait patiently for the Lord- It took Jesus days to arrive but the wait was worth it!
2. It is okay to be 100% emotionally honest with God. Mary and Martha certainly were, and Jesus still resurrected their brother.
3. Never, never quit believing that God can do anything in your life. Martha even believed that Jesus could resurrect the dead.
4. Obey the Lord. They moved the grave stone even though Martha reminded Jesus "by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days."
5. It is easy to give verbal trust to the Lord. In verse 22 Martha tells Jesus, "But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” But by verse 39 when she has to walk the walk by moving the grave stone, that confidence in the Lord starts to wane.
More thoughts on M, M and L?
While I have heard the story of Lazarus' resurrection many times before, new insights/wonderings were abundant this time through.
New Insight- When Mary and Martha are visited in Luke 10:38-44, Mary is the one attentive to Jesus and Martha was the doer of household duties. The keeper of the hearth. In Luke's story, Jesus gently rebukes Martha for not choosing spending time with Him (Jesus) over household chores. It appears that Martha took Jesus correction to heart. In John 11, we learn that it was Martha who ran to meet Jesus while Mary stayed at home this time. Many are the times that Jesus has corrected me, but I did not learn the lesson as quickly as Martha.
Wondering- Were Mary and Martha accusatory in their statements, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died," or were they just stating a fact?
New Insight- I believe that M and M were disappointed and angry with how Jesus chose to handle their brother's illness/death. And being fully God, Jesus knew this even if M and M were not completely honest with their feelings. HOWEVER, this did not cause Jesus to refuse to come to their aid. It is okay to let God know our hurts, disappoints and anger, but like Mary we must still believe, "that you (Jesus) are the Christ, the Son of God, the One coming to the world."
Wondering- What were Lazarus' first words? Was he hungry? Thirsty? Where did his soul reside during those four days of death? Was he upset to return to life on earth with its pain, suffering, mosquitoes and sand fleas?
New Insight- Lazarus' resurrection is not really the main focus of this story. I believe the important messages of this story are:
1. Wait patiently for the Lord- It took Jesus days to arrive but the wait was worth it!
2. It is okay to be 100% emotionally honest with God. Mary and Martha certainly were, and Jesus still resurrected their brother.
3. Never, never quit believing that God can do anything in your life. Martha even believed that Jesus could resurrect the dead.
4. Obey the Lord. They moved the grave stone even though Martha reminded Jesus "by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days."
5. It is easy to give verbal trust to the Lord. In verse 22 Martha tells Jesus, "But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” But by verse 39 when she has to walk the walk by moving the grave stone, that confidence in the Lord starts to wane.
More thoughts on M, M and L?
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Jan. 15- UA 13
The Unexpected Adventure- UE 13- "Divine Interruptions" 2 Timothy 4:2, 5
If you heard a "doioioioing" this morning (that was my attempt at recreating the sound of a cartoon arrow hitting the bulls eye) it came from our house during my morning quiet time. Today's reading hit me right in the spiritual bulls eye.
Mark Mittelberg tells a story of how he and his wife were trying to have a quiet meal alone at a restaurant when a waiter seated another couple right next to them in an almost empty restaurant. (Don't you hate it when that happens?!) Near the end of the lunch, the other couple engaged Mark and his wife, Heidi, in a conversation that moved to a discussion of personal belief systems. The woman pointed out she's an avowed atheist and that all belief systems were correct for that person. There is not a lunchtime conversion, but, on the advice of Heidi, Mark does give the lady a copy of his latest book, Choosing Your Faith.
The point of the reading is that we need to be willing to allow our plans to be redirected to Kingdom work when God presents those opportunities.
That is a weakness of mine. Too often I feel that my plans, my goals, my to-do list trumps the needs of those around me. I don't take the time to really listen to Kristi's day. My hallway conversations with teachers are punctuated with glances at my watch. After church chit-chat is an interruption to my lunch plans. Many times I place cheeseburgers over Christians, emails over empathy and t.v. over tenderness.
Mittelberg mentions various times in scripture when Jesus' day or night was interrupted by the needs of others. These references are in John 3, 9 and 11.
Please pray that I will prioritize the needs of others before the me-list I have made for myself today. And also realize I need to keep that balance of getting to the things that have to be done. Fine line between the two.
If you heard a "doioioioing" this morning (that was my attempt at recreating the sound of a cartoon arrow hitting the bulls eye) it came from our house during my morning quiet time. Today's reading hit me right in the spiritual bulls eye.
Mark Mittelberg tells a story of how he and his wife were trying to have a quiet meal alone at a restaurant when a waiter seated another couple right next to them in an almost empty restaurant. (Don't you hate it when that happens?!) Near the end of the lunch, the other couple engaged Mark and his wife, Heidi, in a conversation that moved to a discussion of personal belief systems. The woman pointed out she's an avowed atheist and that all belief systems were correct for that person. There is not a lunchtime conversion, but, on the advice of Heidi, Mark does give the lady a copy of his latest book, Choosing Your Faith.
The point of the reading is that we need to be willing to allow our plans to be redirected to Kingdom work when God presents those opportunities.
That is a weakness of mine. Too often I feel that my plans, my goals, my to-do list trumps the needs of those around me. I don't take the time to really listen to Kristi's day. My hallway conversations with teachers are punctuated with glances at my watch. After church chit-chat is an interruption to my lunch plans. Many times I place cheeseburgers over Christians, emails over empathy and t.v. over tenderness.
Mittelberg mentions various times in scripture when Jesus' day or night was interrupted by the needs of others. These references are in John 3, 9 and 11.
Please pray that I will prioritize the needs of others before the me-list I have made for myself today. And also realize I need to keep that balance of getting to the things that have to be done. Fine line between the two.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Jan. 11- UA 11 (continued)
Two days on one UE chapter. Throwed ya' for a curve ball today, didn't I?
If you remember from yesterday's entry, the point was that we don't have to be a William Graham to be an effective witness. If we love God first, others second, God will reward our witnessing attempts. When I was reading Mittelberg's story I thought he was going to bring out a different point. I guess he left that up to me. :-)
The story he relates is about his being a part of a college-aged group of zealous Christians called Monday Night Bible Study and their awkward, but effective, attempts at witnessing for Christ. The main story line revolved around one young lady, Peggy, who was a song-singing, cliche-spouting, discussion-participating member of the group. Mittelberg tells how his spiritual radar told him something was not quite right in Peggy's life. The end result was that over coffee, he asked Peggy if she had ever personally accepted Christ. Her reply was, "No I haven't and nobody has told me I needed to." (p. 81)
That leads me to what I think is an important lesson of Chapter 11--not everyone in church, in Sunday School or in small group Bible study has made a personal decision to accept Christ as Lord and Savior. We need to be sensitive to the spiritual needs of our fellow church members as well. We do a pretty good job of praying for each other's job-related, health-related, kid-related needs, but if the Master is not on the throne of our hearts, all else is folly.
Take a minute to pray for those who sit beside you in a church pew.
If you remember from yesterday's entry, the point was that we don't have to be a William Graham to be an effective witness. If we love God first, others second, God will reward our witnessing attempts. When I was reading Mittelberg's story I thought he was going to bring out a different point. I guess he left that up to me. :-)
The story he relates is about his being a part of a college-aged group of zealous Christians called Monday Night Bible Study and their awkward, but effective, attempts at witnessing for Christ. The main story line revolved around one young lady, Peggy, who was a song-singing, cliche-spouting, discussion-participating member of the group. Mittelberg tells how his spiritual radar told him something was not quite right in Peggy's life. The end result was that over coffee, he asked Peggy if she had ever personally accepted Christ. Her reply was, "No I haven't and nobody has told me I needed to." (p. 81)
That leads me to what I think is an important lesson of Chapter 11--not everyone in church, in Sunday School or in small group Bible study has made a personal decision to accept Christ as Lord and Savior. We need to be sensitive to the spiritual needs of our fellow church members as well. We do a pretty good job of praying for each other's job-related, health-related, kid-related needs, but if the Master is not on the throne of our hearts, all else is folly.
Take a minute to pray for those who sit beside you in a church pew.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Jan. 10- UA 11
The Unexpected Adventure- UE 11- "Stumbling into Action" 2 Timothy 1:7-8
"God doesn't need experts so much as he needs servants. . ." (p. 82) I am starting to see a theme develop in this book. That is theme seems to be that a seminary degree, a mental catalogue of 500 memory verses and ownership of a concordance are not a prerequisite to sharing our faith. In chapter 11, the author tells a story of how in his early Christian life he was a member of a very zealous, but inept group of Christian college students. Some of the "tactics" used to witness would most likely make it to the Top 10 Don't Do List of most evangelism courses, yet people were reached for Christ. The love for God and others trumped the awkward witnessing methods.
I wonder how many of us could learn from this. Pamphlets, tickets to church concerts and the Roman Road will not have any affect on the unsaved if they are not accompanied by a genuine love for God and the unsaved. Passion before programs. Love before learning. The maxim "People won't care about what you know until they know you care" is so over used as to be almost trite, but it is so very true, especially with it comes to our influence as Christians.
Dear God, please help my love for You and others be evident and precede any attempts at a Kingdom conversation.
"God doesn't need experts so much as he needs servants. . ." (p. 82) I am starting to see a theme develop in this book. That is theme seems to be that a seminary degree, a mental catalogue of 500 memory verses and ownership of a concordance are not a prerequisite to sharing our faith. In chapter 11, the author tells a story of how in his early Christian life he was a member of a very zealous, but inept group of Christian college students. Some of the "tactics" used to witness would most likely make it to the Top 10 Don't Do List of most evangelism courses, yet people were reached for Christ. The love for God and others trumped the awkward witnessing methods.
I wonder how many of us could learn from this. Pamphlets, tickets to church concerts and the Roman Road will not have any affect on the unsaved if they are not accompanied by a genuine love for God and the unsaved. Passion before programs. Love before learning. The maxim "People won't care about what you know until they know you care" is so over used as to be almost trite, but it is so very true, especially with it comes to our influence as Christians.
Dear God, please help my love for You and others be evident and precede any attempts at a Kingdom conversation.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Jan. 8- UE 10
The Unexpected Adventure- UE 10- "Emerging from the Cocoon" Philippians 4:13 2010 NIV
I am once again side tracked from the UE daily reading. This time it is a translation of an oft quoted verse which the authors use in today's reading. Philippians is used quite often by laypeople and pastors alike. The most frequent version of the verse is, "I can do all things through Him who strengthens." (The "him" being Jesus Christ.) The 1984 edition of the NIV reads, "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." However, the 2010 edition of the NIV reads, "I can do all this through him who strengthens me." Changing "everything" to "all this" makes the reader wonder, "What is the "all this" to which the verse refers?"
In verse 12, Paul has shared with fellow believers that he has learned to be content "whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." This life of contentment is the "all this" reference in verse 12.
The more common translation would lead us to believe that no matter what, as Christians, we are capable of anything, no matter how seemingly impossible. Which in theory is true, but in application, not likely to happen. Paul is referring to a specific area of his life in verse 13. We need to be careful not to read into the verse more than was intended.
Thoughts?
I am once again side tracked from the UE daily reading. This time it is a translation of an oft quoted verse which the authors use in today's reading. Philippians is used quite often by laypeople and pastors alike. The most frequent version of the verse is, "I can do all things through Him who strengthens." (The "him" being Jesus Christ.) The 1984 edition of the NIV reads, "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." However, the 2010 edition of the NIV reads, "I can do all this through him who strengthens me." Changing "everything" to "all this" makes the reader wonder, "What is the "all this" to which the verse refers?"
In verse 12, Paul has shared with fellow believers that he has learned to be content "whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." This life of contentment is the "all this" reference in verse 12.
The more common translation would lead us to believe that no matter what, as Christians, we are capable of anything, no matter how seemingly impossible. Which in theory is true, but in application, not likely to happen. Paul is referring to a specific area of his life in verse 13. We need to be careful not to read into the verse more than was intended.
Thoughts?
Friday, January 7, 2011
Jan. 7- UE 9
The Unexpected Adventure- UE 9- "Inviting Adventure" Luke 14:23
Anything, everything and nothing are the three words lead into today's reading. Mittelberg points out that many Christians are afraid to do anything, until they know how to do everything, so they end up doing nothing. Very few of us will ever accompany a person through the entire series of steps and experiences that will lead an unsaved person to salvation. One person may plant a seed. Another believer may offer an invitation to church. Yet another person may be there to answer some burning questions. A fourth person may provide an act of Christian service that furthers the Christian witness to a particular lost person. And so on.
I am not expected to be the initiator and finisher of a person's road to salvation. What I am required to do is be there in whatever capacity and play whatever part the Lord has for me in helping an unbeliever move closer to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. For me, that is a liberating realization.
Each Christmas eve, Kristi and I go to Waffle House after the 11 p.m. service at Schweitzer Methodist. This year we went to our usual Waffle House for waffles and sausage. Sitting in the booth next to us were six young people in their late teens or early 20s. The "leader" of the group asked us what we were doing, and I was able to tell them briefly that we had just been to a Christmas eve service at church. He then went on to tell me they were, "Just eating and getting high."
Considering the lateness of the hour and the number of them packed into the booth, they were not at all boisterous or loud. However, it was obvious that their evening was just beginning. (The leader gave some money to one of the group to "go buy some cheap vodka".
When we were getting ready to leave, I quietly asked the waitress to bring their ticket to our table. She looked a bit confused, but did as we asked. Kristi and I paid the group's bill. When we were leaving I went over to the group and let them know the bill was paid and wished them a good evening. They were very thankful and the leader even said, "God bless you."
I don't know if the event had any Kingdom impact on the young people, but I do know that at least twice in their night, the words church and God had been mentioned. Perhaps it planted just seed or revived a memory of a time in one of their lives when God had been an important part.
Please say a quick prayer for the group of Waffle House diners. I don't know their names, but God does.
Make this weekend an Unexpected Adventure!
Anything, everything and nothing are the three words lead into today's reading. Mittelberg points out that many Christians are afraid to do anything, until they know how to do everything, so they end up doing nothing. Very few of us will ever accompany a person through the entire series of steps and experiences that will lead an unsaved person to salvation. One person may plant a seed. Another believer may offer an invitation to church. Yet another person may be there to answer some burning questions. A fourth person may provide an act of Christian service that furthers the Christian witness to a particular lost person. And so on.
I am not expected to be the initiator and finisher of a person's road to salvation. What I am required to do is be there in whatever capacity and play whatever part the Lord has for me in helping an unbeliever move closer to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. For me, that is a liberating realization.
Each Christmas eve, Kristi and I go to Waffle House after the 11 p.m. service at Schweitzer Methodist. This year we went to our usual Waffle House for waffles and sausage. Sitting in the booth next to us were six young people in their late teens or early 20s. The "leader" of the group asked us what we were doing, and I was able to tell them briefly that we had just been to a Christmas eve service at church. He then went on to tell me they were, "Just eating and getting high."
Considering the lateness of the hour and the number of them packed into the booth, they were not at all boisterous or loud. However, it was obvious that their evening was just beginning. (The leader gave some money to one of the group to "go buy some cheap vodka".
When we were getting ready to leave, I quietly asked the waitress to bring their ticket to our table. She looked a bit confused, but did as we asked. Kristi and I paid the group's bill. When we were leaving I went over to the group and let them know the bill was paid and wished them a good evening. They were very thankful and the leader even said, "God bless you."
I don't know if the event had any Kingdom impact on the young people, but I do know that at least twice in their night, the words church and God had been mentioned. Perhaps it planted just seed or revived a memory of a time in one of their lives when God had been an important part.
Please say a quick prayer for the group of Waffle House diners. I don't know their names, but God does.
Make this weekend an Unexpected Adventure!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Jan. 6- UE 8
The Unexpected Adventure- UE 8- "Putting Love Into Action" Matthew 5:16
On page 64 under "Action Principal", Strobel encourages us to use our "compassion radar" to determine other's needs then seek out ways to serve them. This could be shoveling the sidewalk of an elderly neighbor, providing free baby sitting for a single parent, helping the neighbor's middle school student with algebra. Anything we can do to that not only helps meet the physical needs of a person, but will hopefully lead to a Kingdom conversation.
Meeting the needs of others is a mandate of our Lord and Savior, but it is not a means unto itself. The ultimate goal of our "good deeds" should be to bring others into a saving faith in the Lord. Or should it? As I write this it almost seems as if our good deeds have an ulterior motive. That seems deceitful. Hmmm. . . Thoughts from fellow bloggers welcomed.
As I read Matthew 5:16 another section of Matthew popped into my little ol' head--Matthew 6:2-4 I would be interested in knowing your thoughts on how you reconcile Matthew 5:16 and Matthew 6:2-4.
Possible dichotomies aside, the bottom line of UE 8 is to be sensitive to the needs of those around us and do what we are called to do to help meet those needs so that it may bring glory to our Father in heaven. As Paul writes in Galatians, "against such things, there is no law." (Taken out of context, but fits here nicely.)
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Jan. 5- UE 7
Before I discuss UE7, take a minute to read the comment from yesterday's blog. Interesting timing on the comment and this morning's personal angst.
As I was getting ready for school, I had a choice of three different ties. One a polka dot tie, one a Jerry Garcia designed tie, the other a tie that was covered with crosses. The tie with crosses complimented my shirt the best, but the very issue raised by the comment from yesterday's entry plagued me. (I had not read the comment until after I had made my tie selection.)
Picture, if you will, the old angel and devil on the shoulder conversation going on. One voice was saying, "Don't be ashamed of the Gospel. Wear the cross tie." The other voice reminded, "Whoa, you are a public employee working with children. You have a duty to be religion neutral." The first voice, "You coward." Second voice, "We are admonished in the NT to follow the law of the land. Wearing the cross tie would get dangerously close to stepping over that line." Was the Holy Spirit convicting me to wear the cross tie? Or was Satan working to make me feel guilty over a nonissue? I am interested to know which tie the followers of this blog would have worn. I won't tell you what I decided until Friday. Weigh in fellow bloggers.
Now on to Unexpected Adventure- "Spur of the Moment Friendship" 1 John 3:18
I particularly enjoyed UE 7 because it touched on an age-old struggle between lifestyle Christianity and tellin' 'em about it Christianity.
James 2:15-17 and Romans 10:14 are two of the references utilized in UE 7. It reminds us that if all we do is live a Christian life, people may never know why we don't worry, or have joy, or go the extra mile. Yet, if all we do is pound people over the head with the Roman Road set of verses and don't meet people's physical needs, our words will be seen as hypocritical. Conduct and conversation are equally important parts of our witness to the world.
As I was getting ready for school, I had a choice of three different ties. One a polka dot tie, one a Jerry Garcia designed tie, the other a tie that was covered with crosses. The tie with crosses complimented my shirt the best, but the very issue raised by the comment from yesterday's entry plagued me. (I had not read the comment until after I had made my tie selection.)
Picture, if you will, the old angel and devil on the shoulder conversation going on. One voice was saying, "Don't be ashamed of the Gospel. Wear the cross tie." The other voice reminded, "Whoa, you are a public employee working with children. You have a duty to be religion neutral." The first voice, "You coward." Second voice, "We are admonished in the NT to follow the law of the land. Wearing the cross tie would get dangerously close to stepping over that line." Was the Holy Spirit convicting me to wear the cross tie? Or was Satan working to make me feel guilty over a nonissue? I am interested to know which tie the followers of this blog would have worn. I won't tell you what I decided until Friday. Weigh in fellow bloggers.
Now on to Unexpected Adventure- "Spur of the Moment Friendship" 1 John 3:18
I particularly enjoyed UE 7 because it touched on an age-old struggle between lifestyle Christianity and tellin' 'em about it Christianity.
James 2:15-17 and Romans 10:14 are two of the references utilized in UE 7. It reminds us that if all we do is live a Christian life, people may never know why we don't worry, or have joy, or go the extra mile. Yet, if all we do is pound people over the head with the Roman Road set of verses and don't meet people's physical needs, our words will be seen as hypocritical. Conduct and conversation are equally important parts of our witness to the world.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Jan. 4- UE 6 Back to Work
The Unexpected Adventure "Breaking the Pact" Colossians 4:5-6
Since Dec. 23, neither Kristi or I have had to officially go to work. Today Winter Break is over. In past years, I have slipped into a funk a day or two before returning to school after a long break. This year, I am feeling positive about returning to the daily grind. However, this whole Unexpected Adventure quest has me a wee bit apprehensive about putting into play what I have been reading about these past several days.
It is relatively easy to think and write about witnessing to others when the others you are around are family who, for the most part, have been raised with a similar belief system. But now, this Tuesday morning, I am returning to the workplace. There I will find a much wider range of world views, challenges and stresses. Will I have the courage to initiate that work-place Kingdom conversation if the Spirit opens the door? Or will I retreat out of fear and embarrassment, using a rationalization to justify disobedience?
Day 6 of the UE references several studies that point out a large percentage of "unchurched" Americans are interested in spiritual matters. Strobel writes that "the reality is that people are intrigued by spiritual stuff". I need to allow the Holy Spirit to open the door then have the courage to step through that door and engage in the conversation.
Please pray that I will have the wisdom and courage to have Kingdom conversations in the workplace.
Colossians 4:5-6 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. 5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Jan. 2- UE 5
The Unexpected Adventure "Embarrassed for God" 2 Corinthians 12:9
2 Corinthians 12:9 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
". . .for my power is made perfect in weakness." Perfect power from a perfect God. WOW! And as Christians we have access to that power in our lives to accomplish His will on earth. Why is it then that I live such a powerless life at times? Perhaps the last two words of verse 9 are the answer--"in weakness". I find that when I approach God humbly, contritely and completely dependent on His strength, those are the times I feel the "perfect power" in my life. Power to overcome anxiety. Power to conquer sin. Power to obey His direction for my life. When I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10b
I can choose to live life using the limited, faulty human resources I possess, or tap into the perfect, unlimited power of the Almighty God. Hmmm. . . Seems like a no-brainer.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Jan. 1- UE 4
The Unexpected Adventure "Those Imperfect Opportunities" Psalm 90:12
Yet another lesson reaffirmed yesterday. If I don't get on the ball and get my quiet time and blog entry done in the morning, it ain't gonna' happen. Good intentions don't get the cookies baked!
One of the things I particularly like about the UE is that the authors share their failures as well as successes. Today's reading was one of those failures. "Those Imperfect Opportunities" recounts Mark's failure to witness to a high school friend after they reconnected as adults. Mark had made plans to talk to the friend about Christ. He had prayed for the perfect timing to initiate a Kingdom conversation. His intentions were of the highest order. Yet, he never had the conversation.
Mark balances this "seize the day" attitude with the realization that we must still be discerning about choosing the place and time. While you are making a presentation at work might not be the best time to ask the boss, "Hey Stan, you going to hell or what?" Right in the middle of the delivery of your second child is probably not the opportune moment to ask the doctor "Hey doc, what do you think about John 3:4?"
My father's mother, Grandma Martin, was one of the most genuine Christian people I will ever know. The Fruit of the Spirit truly exemplified her life. I'll never forget one story she told around Christmas when I was a young man.
One cold winter evening Grandma answered her front door in the small town of Lockwood, Missouri. Standing there was a gentleman asking for a handout. I don't remember if he asked for food, money or work, but he was in a needy condition. Now back in the day, Lockwood was a place where front doors were never locked and a crime was when someone was missing three eggs out of the hen house. Most likely the person had no ulterior motives; however, for reasons all her own, grandma turned the stranger away into the cold evening without providing any assistance.
After she closed the door, she was conscience-stricken with the feeling that she should have helped the person. Immediately she opened the door to offer assistance to the stranger, but he was no where to be seen. According to grandma, there was no way he could have gotten out of sight that quickly. She was convinced she had refused to provide help to an angel. I don't remember if she quoted the verse, but she eluded to Hebrews 13:2- 2 Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.
Of course, the odds are the person at the door was a wanderer looking for a handout and might have caused great harm had he been let in, but my grandmother was convinced she had "been shown wanting" in this particular instance. To this day, I remember the sadness in her voice as she told the story. No amount of reassurance by her family could convince her she had not missed a God-given opportunity.
The point is not whether grandmother should have helped this particular person or not, but that there will be moments in our lives that cannot be reclaimed for Christ. We must be ready at all times to seize "Those Imperfect Opportunities" and initiate Christian conversation.
1 Peter 3:15 15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
Have a great New Year's Day!
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