Matthew 4 Much has been written, taught and preached about Matthew 4- the temptations of Christ in the desert. When I read this chapter, verse one (1) gave me cause for pause.
"Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil." God led his own Son into temptation?! But what about the model prayer, "Lead us not into temptation. . ." (Matthew 6:13; Luke 11:4)
So, let me get this straight. We are instructed by Jesus to pray for the very thing not to happen that God expressly did to Jesus.
Then there is James 1:13- 13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; This verse states that God does not tempt us, but does He intentionally lead us to where we will be tempted? How many of the temptations we face each day are a result of God's direct intervention vs Satan's influence vs our own human nature? Does it matter?
Not sure of the point of this ramble, but I had never noticed just how intentional God was in leading his Son to a monumental spiritual battle.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Thursday, December 27, 2012
December 27, 2012
Matthew 3
John 3 4 John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. 5 People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan.6 Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.
Gucci loafers. A Yves Saint Laurent suit. Tie by Carlo Franco. Complementary colors. Matching belt and shoes. For many this is the picture they have of a preacher. Suited up and ready to present a three-point sermon with seven subpoints all of which follow an easy-to-remember alliterative pattern. On a good Sunday perhaps one person will go to the front to accept Christ as Lord and Savior and one family will join the fellowship.
Contrast that to John the Baptist. His camel's hair suit was not Brooks Brother's. The leather belt most likely did not match is tattered sandals. His breath smelled of grasshoppers. He came from out of the desert, not the SW Theological Seminary. Yet people from "Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of Jordan" were repenting and being baptized because of this radical man of the cloth.
Little is known about what John the Baptists preached. Was it a hellfire and damnation or a theological discourse? Did he speak of God's love or God's wrath? Whatever it was I envision a long-haired, unshaven, arm-waving, passion-filled preacher quoting the Torah and telling it like it was. His message was true, his passion evident, and his ministry fruitful.
John the Baptist illustrates the importance of substance over flash. The message of Christ is the thing, not the light show, the size of the orchestra or the catchy sermon title. Whether the pastor eats locust or caviar, wears jeans or suits. The message will win people for Christ. Reconciliation. Healing. Rest. Comfort. That's what the world needs to hear delivered by a passionate, confident, loving Church.
John 3 4 John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. 5 People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan.6 Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.
Gucci loafers. A Yves Saint Laurent suit. Tie by Carlo Franco. Complementary colors. Matching belt and shoes. For many this is the picture they have of a preacher. Suited up and ready to present a three-point sermon with seven subpoints all of which follow an easy-to-remember alliterative pattern. On a good Sunday perhaps one person will go to the front to accept Christ as Lord and Savior and one family will join the fellowship.
Contrast that to John the Baptist. His camel's hair suit was not Brooks Brother's. The leather belt most likely did not match is tattered sandals. His breath smelled of grasshoppers. He came from out of the desert, not the SW Theological Seminary. Yet people from "Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of Jordan" were repenting and being baptized because of this radical man of the cloth.
Little is known about what John the Baptists preached. Was it a hellfire and damnation or a theological discourse? Did he speak of God's love or God's wrath? Whatever it was I envision a long-haired, unshaven, arm-waving, passion-filled preacher quoting the Torah and telling it like it was. His message was true, his passion evident, and his ministry fruitful.
John the Baptist illustrates the importance of substance over flash. The message of Christ is the thing, not the light show, the size of the orchestra or the catchy sermon title. Whether the pastor eats locust or caviar, wears jeans or suits. The message will win people for Christ. Reconciliation. Healing. Rest. Comfort. That's what the world needs to hear delivered by a passionate, confident, loving Church.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
December 26, 2012
Matthew 2
Depending on the source, you can find a variety of explanations as to who the wise men in the Christmas story were and their origin. Kings? Astronomers? Power hungry priests? There is not even a record as to the number of these wise men or Magi. One constant though is that they were a learned group of men who had spent years studying religious texts, prophecy and astronomy. This group of eastern travelers were PhDs. They were no dummies. Each one had shelves full of scrolls and tablets (not the Apple sort).
Because of their diligence in the study of prophecy and ancient texts, when something big was happening in the west, they were ready to investigate. They followed the star right to where God wanted them to be, the feet of the Christ Child. The Magi's grunt work of scroll reading, late night scroll discussions, reading of scroll commentaries and scroll meditation had prepared them to be a part of God's master plan. Had they not been consistent in the spiritual disciplines they could very easily have missed the celestial guide which led them to Jesus.
As Christians, do we put in the grunt work that will allow us to be guided by our celestial guide, the Holy Spirit, to where God needs us to be each day? Are we spending the time in God's Word, in prayer and meditation to develop the sensitivity to His leading? If we are not developing those Magi disciplines we might miss the star's appearance over a coworker's cubicle that needs a sympathetic ear. The star leading us to that email of encouragement to a small group member might be overlooked.
Christ came to reconcile, restore and repair. He depends on the Church to carry out His mission here on earth. Do we follow His guiding stars throughout the day to be where He wants us to be, when He wants us to be there?
Depending on the source, you can find a variety of explanations as to who the wise men in the Christmas story were and their origin. Kings? Astronomers? Power hungry priests? There is not even a record as to the number of these wise men or Magi. One constant though is that they were a learned group of men who had spent years studying religious texts, prophecy and astronomy. This group of eastern travelers were PhDs. They were no dummies. Each one had shelves full of scrolls and tablets (not the Apple sort).
Because of their diligence in the study of prophecy and ancient texts, when something big was happening in the west, they were ready to investigate. They followed the star right to where God wanted them to be, the feet of the Christ Child. The Magi's grunt work of scroll reading, late night scroll discussions, reading of scroll commentaries and scroll meditation had prepared them to be a part of God's master plan. Had they not been consistent in the spiritual disciplines they could very easily have missed the celestial guide which led them to Jesus.
As Christians, do we put in the grunt work that will allow us to be guided by our celestial guide, the Holy Spirit, to where God needs us to be each day? Are we spending the time in God's Word, in prayer and meditation to develop the sensitivity to His leading? If we are not developing those Magi disciplines we might miss the star's appearance over a coworker's cubicle that needs a sympathetic ear. The star leading us to that email of encouragement to a small group member might be overlooked.
Christ came to reconcile, restore and repair. He depends on the Church to carry out His mission here on earth. Do we follow His guiding stars throughout the day to be where He wants us to be, when He wants us to be there?
Monday, December 24, 2012
December 24, 2012
Matthew 1:1-24
So much of the Christmas story centers not just around Jesus, but also around Mary, Jesus' mother, and rightly so. She was selected to be the mother of our Savior. In the first chapter of Luke, the angels tell Mary "you have found favor with God" and "you are highly favored". We would be remiss if we did not give Mary the honor due her.
I am sure that Mary was in a state of wonder at how she could be pregant knowing she was a virgin. She knew she had not had relations with Joseph or any other man. She also knew that there was a child growing inside of her. The only explanation available to her was such a miracle as described by the angel. While abortion was practiced in ancient times, it was not condoned by the Jewish faith. Since Mary was obviously a very righteous girl, to her an abortion was most likely not an option. Therefore in practicality, Mary did not have a choice but to see the pregnancy to its fruition.
While Mary's faith was amazing, I find Joseph's obedience to and faith in God just as amazing. Take a look at the events through Joseph's eyes. Engaged to be married. Looking forward to the wedding night. All that pent up adolescence sexual energy. The longing. The anticipation. The cold showers. Then the news.
"Joseph, honey. I don't know how to tell you this, but I am pregnant."
"Who were you with?! Was it Thomas from the tent shop?"
"No, I haven't been with another man."
"Unless my Torah instructors were WAY off base, something doesn't add up here."
"Uh, well. . .I was overpowered by the Most High."
(Laughter of derision.)
"No, really. I promise."
Silence.
"Oh, by the way, my baby will 'reign over the house of David' and 'his kingdom will never end'."
Scene ends with Joseph slamming the door and taking a long, angry walk.
The scripture notes that Joseph "had in mind to divorce her quietly." You can't blame the guy. Impregnanted by the Most High. Yeah, right. Only a fool would believe such a story. Nothing in Joseph's life could have prepared him for such news. There was no precedence for such a happening. No spontaneous pregnancies as a reference point. Yet, that was what he was being asked to believe from this teenage girl. Joseph couldn't wrap his head around such a story, so divorce was certainly warranted and logical in his mind.
18 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.
20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”—which means, “God with us.”
24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.
What I find most amazing about this passage from Matthew is verse 24. "When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded. . ." No consulting with a rabbi. No conversations with a trusted friend. No wet fleece, dry fleece tests. Just immediate, complete obedience.
Did he still have lingering doubts? Did his imagination get the best of him at times? Did his commitment to Mary waver? Most likely. But the bottom line is God spoke and Joseph acted. His obedience was immediate and complete.
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 Joseph had faith in God. Not Mary. Not his own thoughts and feelings. But in God. That is where all our faith should be rooted.
What I find most amazing about this passage from Matthew is verse 24. "When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded. . ." No consulting with a rabbi. No conversations with a trusted friend. No wet fleece, dry fleece tests. Just immediate, complete obedience.
Did he still have lingering doubts? Did his imagination get the best of him at times? Did his commitment to Mary waver? Most likely. But the bottom line is God spoke and Joseph acted. His obedience was immediate and complete.
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 Joseph had faith in God. Not Mary. Not his own thoughts and feelings. But in God. That is where all our faith should be rooted.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
December 11, 2012
Ephesians 6:13 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
- • What proportion of today’s news, by your estimate, is about bad things?
- • What evidence do you see of the battle against the enemy in your life? In Springfield?
- • What would it mean for you “to stand” in these particular battlefields?
Monday, December 10, 2012
December 10, 2012 Ephesians 6:10-13
Ephesians 6:10-13 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
There will be several repeats in this week's posts. I am guest teaching in our small group on Sunday and Week 6 is the group of lessons for which I am responsible.
Day 1 Teacher Questions
Why is spiritual warfare an inevitable part of the Christian life?
Why is it so easy to underestimate our enemy? Why is that something we must never do?
How have you become more aware that our battle is not against flesh and blood? How should that awareness influence how and who we fight?
There will be several repeats in this week's posts. I am guest teaching in our small group on Sunday and Week 6 is the group of lessons for which I am responsible.
Day 1 Teacher Questions
Why is spiritual warfare an inevitable part of the Christian life?
Why is it so easy to underestimate our enemy? Why is that something we must never do?
How have you become more aware that our battle is not against flesh and blood? How should that awareness influence how and who we fight?
Friday, December 7, 2012
December 7, 2012 Ephesians 6:19-20
Ephesians 6:19-20 19 Pray also for me,that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
Sitting in prison. Deprived of liberty. Most likely beaten and hungry. Does Paul pray for freedom? Is his prayer request for an improvement in his personal situation?
Paul prays for two things during his imprisonment. Others and his ability to spread the gospel. WOW! No personal prayers other than that he "fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel."
Sitting in prison. Deprived of liberty. Most likely beaten and hungry. Does Paul pray for freedom? Is his prayer request for an improvement in his personal situation?
Paul prays for two things during his imprisonment. Others and his ability to spread the gospel. WOW! No personal prayers other than that he "fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel."
Thursday, December 6, 2012
December 6, 2012 Ephesians 6:18
Ephesians 6:18 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
Does your prayer life look like the one described in Ephesians 6:18? If not, what is a better description?
Who do you have the opportunity to intercede on behalf of in prayer? Pray for those people and the battles they are fighting today. Pray that they will put on the armor of God and feel His strength.
Does your prayer life look like the one described in Ephesians 6:18? If not, what is a better description?
Who do you have the opportunity to intercede on behalf of in prayer? Pray for those people and the battles they are fighting today. Pray that they will put on the armor of God and feel His strength.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
December 5, 2012 December 6:16-17
Ephesians 6:16-17 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Monday, December 3, 2012
December 3, 2012 Ephesians 6:10-13
Ephesians 6:10-13 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
Be strong. . .in the Lord and in his mighty power. Need I say more?
Be strong. . .in the Lord and in his mighty power. Need I say more?
Friday, November 30, 2012
November 30, 2012 Ephesians 5:25-33
Ephesians 5:25-33 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— 30 for we are members of his body. 31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” 32 This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
Several years ago I was involved in a small-group Bible study where some members became divided over the exclusive use of the male pronoun references to God in scripture. I tend to be a live-and-let-live sort of person, so I found myself scratching my head over the depth of feeling some had on the issue. However, I do think that the male-dominated history of the church has caused passages like today's reading to be less preached/taught when compared to the "wives submit/respect" verses.
Throughout scripture it is the man who has the greater duty and responsibility for how he treats his wife. Scripture teaches wives to respect and submit to their husbands, but are those husbands deserving of such? As a husband do I love Kristi as Christ loved me? Do I place as high a premium on her happiness as I do on my own? Is her welfare as important to me as my own?
Several years ago I was involved in a small-group Bible study where some members became divided over the exclusive use of the male pronoun references to God in scripture. I tend to be a live-and-let-live sort of person, so I found myself scratching my head over the depth of feeling some had on the issue. However, I do think that the male-dominated history of the church has caused passages like today's reading to be less preached/taught when compared to the "wives submit/respect" verses.
Throughout scripture it is the man who has the greater duty and responsibility for how he treats his wife. Scripture teaches wives to respect and submit to their husbands, but are those husbands deserving of such? As a husband do I love Kristi as Christ loved me? Do I place as high a premium on her happiness as I do on my own? Is her welfare as important to me as my own?
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
November 27, 2012 Ephesians 5:8-14
Ephesians 5:8-14 8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret.13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. 14 This is why it is said:
“Wake up, sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.”
"Find out what pleases the Lord". Determine. Discover. Look for. Learn. Locate. Verse 10 speaks to me of an active Christianity. One that involves study. Concordances. Bible dictionaries. Web searches.
I wonder how many Christians are of the opinion that Christian growth will come through divine revelation, church attendance and going to small group. Got will miraculously reveal all he wants us to know. The big finger on the wall. The wet/dry fleece will direct our paths.
In Ephesians 5:10, Paul reminds followers of Christ that we have a responsibility to be an active participant in our spiritual development. How can we expect to please the Lord unless we know what pleases the Lord?
This time of year millions of people around the world are asking each other, family members or friends what Christmas gifts would make a person happy. What gift would please Granny Smith? Which video game would Johnny most like to have in his stocking? But do we ask God what would make Him happy? Do we look in His Word to determine what thoughts and actions would give Him joy?
If we are to "find out what pleases the Lord" we must spend time prayerfully asking Him, quietly listening to His still small voice and searching for clues in His Word. Then, and only then, will we be able to truly bring joy to our Lord and Savior.
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.”
"Find out what pleases the Lord". Determine. Discover. Look for. Learn. Locate. Verse 10 speaks to me of an active Christianity. One that involves study. Concordances. Bible dictionaries. Web searches.
I wonder how many Christians are of the opinion that Christian growth will come through divine revelation, church attendance and going to small group. Got will miraculously reveal all he wants us to know. The big finger on the wall. The wet/dry fleece will direct our paths.
In Ephesians 5:10, Paul reminds followers of Christ that we have a responsibility to be an active participant in our spiritual development. How can we expect to please the Lord unless we know what pleases the Lord?
This time of year millions of people around the world are asking each other, family members or friends what Christmas gifts would make a person happy. What gift would please Granny Smith? Which video game would Johnny most like to have in his stocking? But do we ask God what would make Him happy? Do we look in His Word to determine what thoughts and actions would give Him joy?
If we are to "find out what pleases the Lord" we must spend time prayerfully asking Him, quietly listening to His still small voice and searching for clues in His Word. Then, and only then, will we be able to truly bring joy to our Lord and Savior.
Monday, November 26, 2012
November 26, 2012 Ephesians 5:3-7
Ephesians 5:3-7 3 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. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them.
The reading guide for today asks the question, "Why is it so important that as Christians we live above reproach? What is at risk when we act more like the world than like Christ?"
One of the most obvious answers is that those around us are influenced by our actions. Hopefully those people in my orbit know I attend church and profess Christ as my savior. So when I engage in activities listed in verses 3, 4 or 5, then several things happen.
1. Others might use my actions to justify such behavior themselves. "Well he goes to church and engages in (fill in the blank); so it must be okay for me to (fill in the blank).
2. It can be the excuse for a person say "no" to Christ. "If being a Christian means (fill in the blank), then I don't want any part of that. They are just a bunch of hypocrites."
3. Taking Christ out of the equation, the actions/attitudes listed are just not the way people should behave. Many, many atheists, Buddhists, Muslims and Mormons would all agree that the absence of the "sins" listed in verses 3, 4 and 5 are wrong. (There might be debate on how to define the various items in the list.)
Another reason such actions/attitudes are so damaging to a Christian is that, in addition to damaging one's witness, the vertical relationship with God is damaged also. When sin is in a Christian's life, the God-connection is impaired. Guilt. Missed opportunities. Joylessness. Discipline. These are all possible internal outcomes of a Christian who chooses verses 3, 4 and 5.
Horizontal witness and vertical relationship are both negatively affected by the lists in verses 3, 4 and 5.
The reading guide for today asks the question, "Why is it so important that as Christians we live above reproach? What is at risk when we act more like the world than like Christ?"
One of the most obvious answers is that those around us are influenced by our actions. Hopefully those people in my orbit know I attend church and profess Christ as my savior. So when I engage in activities listed in verses 3, 4 or 5, then several things happen.
1. Others might use my actions to justify such behavior themselves. "Well he goes to church and engages in (fill in the blank); so it must be okay for me to (fill in the blank).
2. It can be the excuse for a person say "no" to Christ. "If being a Christian means (fill in the blank), then I don't want any part of that. They are just a bunch of hypocrites."
3. Taking Christ out of the equation, the actions/attitudes listed are just not the way people should behave. Many, many atheists, Buddhists, Muslims and Mormons would all agree that the absence of the "sins" listed in verses 3, 4 and 5 are wrong. (There might be debate on how to define the various items in the list.)
Another reason such actions/attitudes are so damaging to a Christian is that, in addition to damaging one's witness, the vertical relationship with God is damaged also. When sin is in a Christian's life, the God-connection is impaired. Guilt. Missed opportunities. Joylessness. Discipline. These are all possible internal outcomes of a Christian who chooses verses 3, 4 and 5.
Horizontal witness and vertical relationship are both negatively affected by the lists in verses 3, 4 and 5.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
November 25, 2012
For me the end of Thanksgiving break is akin to the 2-minute warning at a football game. There is still some time left, but it is short. If your team is behind, there is not much time to pull out a win. The year is almost past. If there are some 2012 have-tos, then you better get busy.
As I sit here this Sunday morning after Thanksgiving, the Holy Spirit has put one troubling question in my mind. "How many people have you told about Me this year?" Not a lifestyle witness. Not serving lunch. Not a throw-away "God bless you". But a real, genuine, risky, full-on salvation conversation.
Volunteer hours for Ridgecrest ministries--check. Prayer and meditation--check. Monthly tithing--check. Jesus conversations with others--"0" Zip. Zilch. Nada.
The question is "why?" For me it is not a fear of rejection or being ridiculed, but fear of what to say next. I am comfortable bringing up Jesus and his atoning sacrifice, but at that point the Roman Road starts to crumble. What exactly must a person believe to become a child of God? Is it two things? Three? Four with two subpoints? What scripture supports these bullet points? I know that fear should not retard my witness and. . . Uh-oh. Epiphany. Light-bulb.
Lack of faith is the reason I have failed to have a Jesus conversation this year. I don't trust God enough to give me the words. I don't trust God enough to guide me through the most important conversation I will ever have with a person.
Okay, number one reason- lack of faith.
This lack of faith is compounded by my lack of preparation. For years the trend in witnessing is to encourage people just to "tell your story". Tell others what God has done for in your life. Important? Yes. Powerful? Of course. Compelling? Sure. But for me it has led to a laziness.
Many times throughout my career I have presented material to small groups and on occasion to larger gatherings. For those times I have spent many hours researching, preparing and practicing. How many hours have I spent preparing my personal testimony? None. How many times have I asked Kristi to listen and critique while I practice? None.
If one were to judge just from time spent in preparation, they one could safely assume that I consider Cooperative Learning more important than eternal salvation. The Daily Five a weightier issue than a daily walk with God.
Please pray that I will start to put time and effort into preparing my personal testimony and that God will give me opportunity and courage to speak up when the time is right.
As I sit here this Sunday morning after Thanksgiving, the Holy Spirit has put one troubling question in my mind. "How many people have you told about Me this year?" Not a lifestyle witness. Not serving lunch. Not a throw-away "God bless you". But a real, genuine, risky, full-on salvation conversation.
Volunteer hours for Ridgecrest ministries--check. Prayer and meditation--check. Monthly tithing--check. Jesus conversations with others--"0" Zip. Zilch. Nada.
The question is "why?" For me it is not a fear of rejection or being ridiculed, but fear of what to say next. I am comfortable bringing up Jesus and his atoning sacrifice, but at that point the Roman Road starts to crumble. What exactly must a person believe to become a child of God? Is it two things? Three? Four with two subpoints? What scripture supports these bullet points? I know that fear should not retard my witness and. . . Uh-oh. Epiphany. Light-bulb.
Lack of faith is the reason I have failed to have a Jesus conversation this year. I don't trust God enough to give me the words. I don't trust God enough to guide me through the most important conversation I will ever have with a person.
Okay, number one reason- lack of faith.
This lack of faith is compounded by my lack of preparation. For years the trend in witnessing is to encourage people just to "tell your story". Tell others what God has done for in your life. Important? Yes. Powerful? Of course. Compelling? Sure. But for me it has led to a laziness.
Many times throughout my career I have presented material to small groups and on occasion to larger gatherings. For those times I have spent many hours researching, preparing and practicing. How many hours have I spent preparing my personal testimony? None. How many times have I asked Kristi to listen and critique while I practice? None.
If one were to judge just from time spent in preparation, they one could safely assume that I consider Cooperative Learning more important than eternal salvation. The Daily Five a weightier issue than a daily walk with God.
Please pray that I will start to put time and effort into preparing my personal testimony and that God will give me opportunity and courage to speak up when the time is right.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
November 24, 2012 Ephesians 4:29-32
Ephesians 2:29-32 29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up others according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, as Christ forgave you.
http://www.spurgeon.org/sermons/0278.htm
http://www.spurgeon.org/sermons/0278.htm
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
November 20, 2012 Ephesians 4:7-10 and Psalm 68
November 20, 2012 Ephesians 4:7-10 and Psalm 68
7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8 This is why it says:
7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8 This is why it says:
“When he ascended on high,
he took many captives
and gave gifts to his people.”
he took many captives
and gave gifts to his people.”
9 (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? 10 He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.)
According to several commentaries I have read in regards to this set of verses from Ephesians, it points to the diversity of the Christian church. Each one has been given gifts from Christ, but these gifts are not the same and in the same proportion to each of us. While other passages from the New Testament deal with these differences in greater detail, it is important to remember that each of us has his/her own strengths and weaknesses.
The challenge for me it to celebration those who have particular strength that I don't possess. I have this warped inner sense of wanting to be the best, most knowledgeable person in the room. This often causes me to either lash out in a defensive response or discount what the person is presenting. Some of the best people I know are ones who listen to and encourage those around them who have a better skill set, knowledge base or background. This passage from Ephesians has a some real-world application for me.
Psalm 68:6 God sets the lonely in families I wonder if this is the message that would resonate with the men and women we are meeting at the Sunday lunches.
Psalm 68:7 When you, God, went out before your people God has gone before me into my work day. There are no surprises for him. If I would better seek his guidance at the start of each day, perhaps the day would be a much smoother ride.
Psalm 68:18
When you ascended on high,
you took many captives;
you received gifts from people,
even from the rebellious—
that you, Lord God, might dwell there.
According to several commentaries I have read in regards to this set of verses from Ephesians, it points to the diversity of the Christian church. Each one has been given gifts from Christ, but these gifts are not the same and in the same proportion to each of us. While other passages from the New Testament deal with these differences in greater detail, it is important to remember that each of us has his/her own strengths and weaknesses.
The challenge for me it to celebration those who have particular strength that I don't possess. I have this warped inner sense of wanting to be the best, most knowledgeable person in the room. This often causes me to either lash out in a defensive response or discount what the person is presenting. Some of the best people I know are ones who listen to and encourage those around them who have a better skill set, knowledge base or background. This passage from Ephesians has a some real-world application for me.
Psalm 68:6 God sets the lonely in families I wonder if this is the message that would resonate with the men and women we are meeting at the Sunday lunches.
Psalm 68:7 When you, God, went out before your people God has gone before me into my work day. There are no surprises for him. If I would better seek his guidance at the start of each day, perhaps the day would be a much smoother ride.
Psalm 68:18
When you ascended on high,
you took many captives;
you received gifts from people,
even from the rebellious—
that you, Lord God, might dwell there.
Paul uses this verse (18) to illustrate Christ's descending from heaven to spend time on earth. If that same application is put to God the Father, it would seem to mean that God the Father spent time out of the heavenly realms. EXPLAIN PLEASE
Psalm 68: 9 . . .you refreshed your weary inheritance
Psalm 68:19: Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens
God is majestic, omniscience and omnipotent, but he is still a comforter and restorer. He ordered the universes, but still mends hearts. He set time in motion, but still holds hands. He is not too big to be small.
God is majestic, omniscience and omnipotent, but he is still a comforter and restorer. He ordered the universes, but still mends hearts. He set time in motion, but still holds hands. He is not too big to be small.
Monday, November 19, 2012
November 19, 2012 Ephesians 4:4-6
Ephesians 4:4-6 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord,one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Perhaps it is the cold fall rain. Or maybe the Monday morning grays. But today's reading didn't give me any "ah-ha" moments. However, it does spark one question. That is, "Does God reveal separate plans to different people concerning the same issue especially if those plans are mutually exclusive?" Case in point: The downtown Sunday lunches were originally designed to feed homeless teenagers. Although homeless teens are being fed, one of the leaders of the program envisions an expansion of that ministry in a different direction. However, the church leaders want to stay true to the original design of the ministry.
Can both parties be correctly interpreting the leading of the Holy Spirit? Or is one misinterpreting God's will for the ministry? When Barnabas chose to travel to Cyprus and Paul took the overland route to Anatolia, was the resulting rift part of God's planned or permitted will? Were both men right, or did one of the two misinterpret God's leading?
Hmmm. . .
Perhaps it is the cold fall rain. Or maybe the Monday morning grays. But today's reading didn't give me any "ah-ha" moments. However, it does spark one question. That is, "Does God reveal separate plans to different people concerning the same issue especially if those plans are mutually exclusive?" Case in point: The downtown Sunday lunches were originally designed to feed homeless teenagers. Although homeless teens are being fed, one of the leaders of the program envisions an expansion of that ministry in a different direction. However, the church leaders want to stay true to the original design of the ministry.
Can both parties be correctly interpreting the leading of the Holy Spirit? Or is one misinterpreting God's will for the ministry? When Barnabas chose to travel to Cyprus and Paul took the overland route to Anatolia, was the resulting rift part of God's planned or permitted will? Were both men right, or did one of the two misinterpret God's leading?
Hmmm. . .
Friday, November 16, 2012
November 16, 2012 Ephesians 3:17B-19
Ephesians 3:17b-19 And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Larger half. Deafening silence. Rolling stop. Big shrimp. Civil war. Oxymorons are fun word plays of two words that appear to be mutually exclusive when used together. At first read, Ephesians 18 and 19 appear to fall into this category.
In verse 18, Paul prays that the believers at Ephesus can "grasp how wide and long and high and deep it the love of Christ." Then in the very next verse he states, "this love that surpasses knowledge. . ."
How can one grasp that which surpasses knowledge? What I do know is that Paul is telling his readers that the love God has for the "Lord's holy people" is far greater than any earthly love we can imagine. That love should be reason for rejoicing, thanksgiving and praise, but also motivate (or even obligate) Christians to do our best to emulate that love for those around us- friend and foe alike, both lovable and unlovable.
Larger half. Deafening silence. Rolling stop. Big shrimp. Civil war. Oxymorons are fun word plays of two words that appear to be mutually exclusive when used together. At first read, Ephesians 18 and 19 appear to fall into this category.
In verse 18, Paul prays that the believers at Ephesus can "grasp how wide and long and high and deep it the love of Christ." Then in the very next verse he states, "this love that surpasses knowledge. . ."
How can one grasp that which surpasses knowledge? What I do know is that Paul is telling his readers that the love God has for the "Lord's holy people" is far greater than any earthly love we can imagine. That love should be reason for rejoicing, thanksgiving and praise, but also motivate (or even obligate) Christians to do our best to emulate that love for those around us- friend and foe alike, both lovable and unlovable.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
November 15, 2012 Ephesians 3:14-17A
Ephesians 3:14-17a 14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.
If you ever visit the Rountree neighborhood after a strong wind or heavy freezing rain, you will notice many large limbs or possible whole trees in a horizontal, rather than vertical, position. At first glace an observer might wonder just how strong must the winds have been or how heavy the ice to have broken or toppled such large chunks of timber. But on closer inspection, the reason becomes obvious.
The Rountree neighborhood is populated with many silver maples which can look good on the outside, but may have whole sections of internal rot. It is this lack of internal strength that causes the dramatic breakage during ice or wind.
Verse 16 reminds Christians that our strength and power come through the Holy Spirit who is "in your inner being".
He is concerned that his suffering will be a source of discouragement for the young church at Ephesus. Perhaps our take-away from Ephesians 2:14-17 is twofold.
1. Our strength comes from the Holy Spirit and that strength lives within us. It is not something we have to don like Batman's suit every time the Riddler comes calling.
2. We have to be on guard that it is not only our personal suffering that can discourage us, but the suffering of others also. I have felt this at times during my work with the homeless.
One other thought. . . Paul is praying for the church members at Ephesus, but he is not praying for their physical needs. His prayers are for their spiritual needs. It would be an interesting study to see how many of Paul's letters/prayers are offered for spiritual vs physical needs of himself and others. Hmmm. . .
He is concerned that his suffering will be a source of discouragement for the young church at Ephesus. Perhaps our take-away from Ephesians 2:14-17 is twofold.
1. Our strength comes from the Holy Spirit and that strength lives within us. It is not something we have to don like Batman's suit every time the Riddler comes calling.
2. We have to be on guard that it is not only our personal suffering that can discourage us, but the suffering of others also. I have felt this at times during my work with the homeless.
One other thought. . . Paul is praying for the church members at Ephesus, but he is not praying for their physical needs. His prayers are for their spiritual needs. It would be an interesting study to see how many of Paul's letters/prayers are offered for spiritual vs physical needs of himself and others. Hmmm. . .
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
November 14, 2012 Colossians 1:15-20
Colossians 1:15-20 15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him,20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
While I seldom walk away from reading God's word without some insight or take-away, today was a bonus day. Six words of today's passage were just what I needed today and gave me the peace that has eluded me these past several days. "In him all things hold together."
Work has been especially hectic lately. Committees, district-mandated meetings, student and parent demands. But I don't have to hold it all together for "in him all things hold together".
House repairs/updates abound. Chimney caps need installed. The attic ladder needs replaced. Plaster issues in one room. Not enough time or money to do it all. But "in him all things hold together".
Even church demands can become burdensome. Volunteer hours here. Phone calls to make. Emails to answer. "In him all things hold together".
I know that some of the stress I am feeling is due to my lack of saying "no" to commitments, but there is also an element of my nature of worry and self-sufficiency. I am not the puppet master, controlling, directing and guiding things in my life. God is in control. He holds all things together. If I will just rely on him to direct, control and guide, days will be more joyful and sleep much sweeter.
My job is not to control, but be controlled by the Holy Spirit. I do not need to lead, but follow. A still quiet heart will allow me to accomplish much more than a hectic, frantic workday. God does indeed hold all things together. The heavens. The earth. My calendar.
While I seldom walk away from reading God's word without some insight or take-away, today was a bonus day. Six words of today's passage were just what I needed today and gave me the peace that has eluded me these past several days. "In him all things hold together."
Work has been especially hectic lately. Committees, district-mandated meetings, student and parent demands. But I don't have to hold it all together for "in him all things hold together".
House repairs/updates abound. Chimney caps need installed. The attic ladder needs replaced. Plaster issues in one room. Not enough time or money to do it all. But "in him all things hold together".
Even church demands can become burdensome. Volunteer hours here. Phone calls to make. Emails to answer. "In him all things hold together".
I know that some of the stress I am feeling is due to my lack of saying "no" to commitments, but there is also an element of my nature of worry and self-sufficiency. I am not the puppet master, controlling, directing and guiding things in my life. God is in control. He holds all things together. If I will just rely on him to direct, control and guide, days will be more joyful and sleep much sweeter.
My job is not to control, but be controlled by the Holy Spirit. I do not need to lead, but follow. A still quiet heart will allow me to accomplish much more than a hectic, frantic workday. God does indeed hold all things together. The heavens. The earth. My calendar.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
November 13, 2012 Ephesians 2:19-22
Ephesians 2:19-22 19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
One theme that keeps coming to mind as I read through the second chapter of Ephesians is the closeness of our relationship to God.
v. 6- We are seated with Christ in heavenly realms.
v. 13- Each believer has "been brought near by the blood of Christ".
v. 18- Because of Christ's sacrifice we "have access to the Father through the Holy Spirit".
v. 19- We have become "members of his household".
v. 22- The ultimate in closeness. . . As Christians we are "a dwelling place in which God lives by his Spirit".
Salvation is about so much more than just forgiveness of sin or an eternity in heaven. It is an intimate, personal relationship. It is about the ability to go to our Heavenly Father with our ups and downs. We can yell at God, cry out to God and sing praises to God. He is our Abba. Our Daddy. Our Companion.
Praise God for his forgiveness and eternal life he grants to those who call upon his name, but praise also to him for the relationship he has with his children.
One theme that keeps coming to mind as I read through the second chapter of Ephesians is the closeness of our relationship to God.
v. 6- We are seated with Christ in heavenly realms.
v. 13- Each believer has "been brought near by the blood of Christ".
v. 18- Because of Christ's sacrifice we "have access to the Father through the Holy Spirit".
v. 19- We have become "members of his household".
v. 22- The ultimate in closeness. . . As Christians we are "a dwelling place in which God lives by his Spirit".
Salvation is about so much more than just forgiveness of sin or an eternity in heaven. It is an intimate, personal relationship. It is about the ability to go to our Heavenly Father with our ups and downs. We can yell at God, cry out to God and sing praises to God. He is our Abba. Our Daddy. Our Companion.
Praise God for his forgiveness and eternal life he grants to those who call upon his name, but praise also to him for the relationship he has with his children.
Monday, November 12, 2012
November 12, 2012-- Ephesians 2:14-18
Only drink Fair Trade coffee. "Access denied." Give to charities. "Access denied." Better than my neighbors. "Access denied." Go to church on a regular basis. "Access denied." Accepted Christ as personal Lord and Savior. "Access granted."
In countless spy movies, the secret agent desperately needs quick access to the villain's computer. Feverish typing yields no results. Just as the evildoer is set to enter the office, the hero gains access and downloads the information necessary to thwart yet another nefarious plot against humanity.
Ephesians 2:18 reminds Christians that we don't need a secret code to access the Creator of the Universe. Our Heavenly Father has provided 24/7 access to Him through Christ via the Holy Spirit. No earthly intercessor is necessary for us to approach the throne room. Need wisdom? Go to God. Lacking peace? Access the Comforter.
Christ's death not only sealed an eternity in heaven for believers, but also guaranteed immediate, consistent access to God the Father.
For me that God-access is as awe-inspiring and wonderful as the mansion in heaven that has been prepared for us. Just think about it. No take-a-number lines. No some-one-will-be-with-you-shortly recordings. No press-one-for-Gabriel-two-for-heavenly-hosts-three-for-God messages. But immediate, on-demand audience with Yahweh. Billions of people. Untold requests. But He still has the wisdom, love and ability to meet our individual needs on a day-in and day-out basis. Amazing!
Friday, November 9, 2012
November 9, 2012
Ephesians 2:8-9 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.
Grace I get. Don't deserve it, but I understand it. My salvation is a gift, not a reward.
Faith, intellectually I understand. Faith is the "conviction of things not seen." (Heb. 11:1 ASV) It is an absolute belief in something we have not seen or touched. It is necessary for salvation. BUT. . .
Faith in what? This may sound like such a fundamental, "duh!" question, but what exactly must one have faith in/believe/confess in order to have the assurance of salvation?
Jesus- of course. But what about Jesus?
God- of course. But what about God?
Does the the Bible contain a list of necessary "have faith in's"?
Romans 10:9 tells us "if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Is this the sum total of necessary belief? But that denies a belief in Christ's divinity, virgin birth, perfect life, etc. So what exactly must one believe in order to be saved? Faith in what?
Grace I get. Don't deserve it, but I understand it. My salvation is a gift, not a reward.
Faith, intellectually I understand. Faith is the "conviction of things not seen." (Heb. 11:1 ASV) It is an absolute belief in something we have not seen or touched. It is necessary for salvation. BUT. . .
Faith in what? This may sound like such a fundamental, "duh!" question, but what exactly must one have faith in/believe/confess in order to have the assurance of salvation?
Jesus- of course. But what about Jesus?
God- of course. But what about God?
Does the the Bible contain a list of necessary "have faith in's"?
Romans 10:9 tells us "if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Is this the sum total of necessary belief? But that denies a belief in Christ's divinity, virgin birth, perfect life, etc. So what exactly must one believe in order to be saved? Faith in what?
Thursday, November 8, 2012
November 8, 2012
Ephesians 2:6-7 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.
Oops. Shouldn't have jumped ahead in the blog on November 5. Got to verse 6 too early.
On Nov. 5, I expressed my thankfulness and amazement that each believer in Christ is already seated in the heavenly realms. At the moment of our salvation, we are given a place in heaven. We don't have to earn that seat. It is not something we purchase with our good works or acts of service, but an immediate, guaranteed outcome of our acceptance of Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior.
Verse 7 is a sobering reminder of our entire purpose for existence and God's reasoning for sending His son to die for us on the cross. It is for His glory. It is to bring Him honor.
My human mind struggles with this concept. If a person were to create just to bring glory and honor to himself, we would view that person as arrogant and self-serving. The Trump Towers. Hammons Tower. Plaster Stadium. All are named to honor the benefactor, but done so at the request of those who gave the money. "Look at me and what I could do for all the little peeps out there."
So it is difficult for me to separate my human feelings toward a person who self-aggrandizes and God who created man in order to praise, fellowship with and honor Him. We are here to showcase God's love, mercy and grace. We were designed by God solely for His pleasure.
I want to be careful heading down this road. No blasphemy or mockery is intended. I am just putting forth an idea with which I struggle. I know the correct response is that God is worthy of all praise. I believe that. God created, therefore God has the right to assign purpose for that creation. But there is still some dissonance in my mind surrounding the concept.
Oops. Shouldn't have jumped ahead in the blog on November 5. Got to verse 6 too early.
On Nov. 5, I expressed my thankfulness and amazement that each believer in Christ is already seated in the heavenly realms. At the moment of our salvation, we are given a place in heaven. We don't have to earn that seat. It is not something we purchase with our good works or acts of service, but an immediate, guaranteed outcome of our acceptance of Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior.
Verse 7 is a sobering reminder of our entire purpose for existence and God's reasoning for sending His son to die for us on the cross. It is for His glory. It is to bring Him honor.
My human mind struggles with this concept. If a person were to create just to bring glory and honor to himself, we would view that person as arrogant and self-serving. The Trump Towers. Hammons Tower. Plaster Stadium. All are named to honor the benefactor, but done so at the request of those who gave the money. "Look at me and what I could do for all the little peeps out there."
So it is difficult for me to separate my human feelings toward a person who self-aggrandizes and God who created man in order to praise, fellowship with and honor Him. We are here to showcase God's love, mercy and grace. We were designed by God solely for His pleasure.
I want to be careful heading down this road. No blasphemy or mockery is intended. I am just putting forth an idea with which I struggle. I know the correct response is that God is worthy of all praise. I believe that. God created, therefore God has the right to assign purpose for that creation. But there is still some dissonance in my mind surrounding the concept.
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