In the study guide for Ephesians, the author, Tony Merida, wrote, "No differences or conflicts should divide God's church." Well, that might look good on a poster behind a pastor's desk, but I am convinced it will never happen this side of heaven. Furthermore, I am not sure God wants 100% agreement with all denominations.
Here is my reasoning. If all churches were in 100% agreement on all things of theology, eschatology, and apologetics, there would be no mysteries to plumb, no unknowns in scripture, and the possibility for an arrogance that would sow the seeds for another Tower of Babel.
God intentionally left parts of His word unclear, imprecise, and confusing. If all were clear, agreeable precepts, plans, and prophecies, where would the need be for deep Bible study and rigorous debate.
One interpretation. One church. Zero challenge. Zero growth.
Division, when kept civil, is positive. It causes one to learn to defend beliefs It creates scholars and experts.
The basic tenants of the Christian faith must be universal, but so much of the rest of the scripture is left open to personal, local, and denominational interpretation.
Strength lies in diversity.
Tuesday, January 31, 2017
Monday, January 30, 2017
Construction Site January 30, 2017
22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
Ephesians 2:22 ESV
A list of descriptors for Christians would include many phrases and adjectives. Redeemed, sanctified, adopted, cleansed, and set apart to name a few. But being built into a "dwelling place" for God would not have made my list until today.
We are proud of our homes. We landscape, paint, and updated. The furniture gets dusted, the floors swept, and the carpets vacuumed. Time, money, and effort are expended to make sure it looks nice and repairs are made in a timely manner.
Do we work as hard on God's dwelling? Am I as concerned with the appearance and upkeep on Jehovah's home? I am not talking the church building. The days of God residing in a box on an alter ended with Jesus's resurrection. I am also not referring to my physical body. (Although I do feel we have a duty to be physically healthy.)
God resides in my heart, my spirit. How well do I care for those areas? Do I update, repair, and remodel when necessary? Am I concerned with how my neighbors will view God's residence?
Our homes will be here for another 40-50 years, but our spirits live forever. Are they both in a state good repair?
Ephesians 2:22 ESV
A list of descriptors for Christians would include many phrases and adjectives. Redeemed, sanctified, adopted, cleansed, and set apart to name a few. But being built into a "dwelling place" for God would not have made my list until today.
We are proud of our homes. We landscape, paint, and updated. The furniture gets dusted, the floors swept, and the carpets vacuumed. Time, money, and effort are expended to make sure it looks nice and repairs are made in a timely manner.
Do we work as hard on God's dwelling? Am I as concerned with the appearance and upkeep on Jehovah's home? I am not talking the church building. The days of God residing in a box on an alter ended with Jesus's resurrection. I am also not referring to my physical body. (Although I do feel we have a duty to be physically healthy.)
God resides in my heart, my spirit. How well do I care for those areas? Do I update, repair, and remodel when necessary? Am I concerned with how my neighbors will view God's residence?
Our homes will be here for another 40-50 years, but our spirits live forever. Are they both in a state good repair?
Sunday, January 29, 2017
We Know the End January 29, 2017
10 Then Esther spoke to Hathach and commanded him to go to Mordecai and say, 11 “All the king's servants and the people of the king's provinces know that if any man or woman goes to the king inside the inner court without being called, there is but one law—to be put to death, except the one to
whom the king holds out the golden scepter so that he may live. But as
for me, I have not been called to come in to the king these thirty
days."
Esther 4:10-11 ESV
Imagine Esther's confusion and concern when the very person, Mordecai, who had told her to keep her Jewish ascestry and faith a secret now tells her to approach her husband, the king. Usually visiting one's spouse would not be an issue, except in this case an uninvited appearance could result in death. Not an argument. Not divorce. But death. Loss of life.
By reading further in Esther we learn that King Xerxes not only spared Esther's life, but also that her brave visit resulted in the cancellation of an order that would have resulted in the death of an untold numbers of Jews. Esther's obedience saved thousands. Yeah, Esther. You go, girl!
What we must not overlooked is the fear that Esther must have felt as she spent time in preparation for her visit. This is the king that had already disavowed his former wise for not attending a drunken orgy. He is the same man that had ordered the extermination of an entire group of people, which happened to be the very group to which Esther belonged. She did not know the outcome.
Her act was one of extreme bravery, not just as exciting story for a child's picture Bible. Her actions could have resulted in actual physical death. Not just ridicule by coworkers. Not a few negative comments on Facebook. But end of life. Cessation of physical existence.
When we read the stories presented in the Bible, we must not overlook the humanity of the people in the stories. The pain, the anxiety, the doubt, the fear were real. We know the happy endings, they didn't. Rahab, Esther, Gideon, Andrew, and Paul. Their stories were lived in real time. No crystal balls showed the end of their saga. Faith was not just a sermon for them.
We don't know the end of our lives, but are we willing to enter into that seemingly impossible situation if God calls? Is our faith complete even with incomplete knowledge?
Esther 4:10-11 ESV
Imagine Esther's confusion and concern when the very person, Mordecai, who had told her to keep her Jewish ascestry and faith a secret now tells her to approach her husband, the king. Usually visiting one's spouse would not be an issue, except in this case an uninvited appearance could result in death. Not an argument. Not divorce. But death. Loss of life.
By reading further in Esther we learn that King Xerxes not only spared Esther's life, but also that her brave visit resulted in the cancellation of an order that would have resulted in the death of an untold numbers of Jews. Esther's obedience saved thousands. Yeah, Esther. You go, girl!
What we must not overlooked is the fear that Esther must have felt as she spent time in preparation for her visit. This is the king that had already disavowed his former wise for not attending a drunken orgy. He is the same man that had ordered the extermination of an entire group of people, which happened to be the very group to which Esther belonged. She did not know the outcome.
Her act was one of extreme bravery, not just as exciting story for a child's picture Bible. Her actions could have resulted in actual physical death. Not just ridicule by coworkers. Not a few negative comments on Facebook. But end of life. Cessation of physical existence.
When we read the stories presented in the Bible, we must not overlook the humanity of the people in the stories. The pain, the anxiety, the doubt, the fear were real. We know the happy endings, they didn't. Rahab, Esther, Gideon, Andrew, and Paul. Their stories were lived in real time. No crystal balls showed the end of their saga. Faith was not just a sermon for them.
We don't know the end of our lives, but are we willing to enter into that seemingly impossible situation if God calls? Is our faith complete even with incomplete knowledge?
Thursday, January 26, 2017
Are We Esthers? January 26, 2017
10 Esther had not made known her people or kindred, for Mordecai had commanded her not to make it known.
Esther 2:10 ESV
20 Esther had not made known her kindred or her people, as Mordecai had commanded her, for Esther obeyed Mordecai just as when she was brought up by him.
Esther 2:20 ESV
The Old Testament book of Esther is an interesting read. Full of palace intrigue, love, love lost, revenge, and redemption.
Of the many story elements in the book, I find Esther's cloaking of her faith interesting and a bit disturbing. On two occasions, the writer tells the reader that Esther hid her faith from those around her based on the advice of her cousin, turned "father", Mordecai. (Esther the daughter of his uncle.) It was recorded that Esther had no mother or father. (2:7)
Early on, I cast a critical eye toward Esther for willingness to hide her faith from those around her, even King Xerxes after he had selected her for his queen. Even if Mordecai had instructed her to do so, her allegiance to Yahweh was greater than her bond with Mordecai. Then after more reflection, I began realize Esther's reaction to Mordecai's instructions was the the message God had for me and for me to get all puffed up about her deceit was the pot calling the kettle black. At least her denial of her faith was part of God's plan and served to save the Jewish nation.
How many times have I denied my faith by my actions, words, or silence? Times I have not spoken out against wrong are numerous. Things I have done or said were a public denial of my faith. Maybe not a direct denunciation, but most certainly not a witness for Jehovah.
Esther was a young lady living in a foreign land, in a hostile environment, and instructed by her "father" to keep quiet. One should not fault her for her silence. I live in a country where my right to profess my faith is guaranteed by the Constitution and I yet I still have not made known my faith on countless occasions.
Rather than feeling so superior to Esther, perhaps I need to worry more about how I can share my faith today and tomorrow and the day after.
Esther 2:10 ESV
20 Esther had not made known her kindred or her people, as Mordecai had commanded her, for Esther obeyed Mordecai just as when she was brought up by him.
Esther 2:20 ESV
The Old Testament book of Esther is an interesting read. Full of palace intrigue, love, love lost, revenge, and redemption.
Of the many story elements in the book, I find Esther's cloaking of her faith interesting and a bit disturbing. On two occasions, the writer tells the reader that Esther hid her faith from those around her based on the advice of her cousin, turned "father", Mordecai. (Esther the daughter of his uncle.) It was recorded that Esther had no mother or father. (2:7)
Early on, I cast a critical eye toward Esther for willingness to hide her faith from those around her, even King Xerxes after he had selected her for his queen. Even if Mordecai had instructed her to do so, her allegiance to Yahweh was greater than her bond with Mordecai. Then after more reflection, I began realize Esther's reaction to Mordecai's instructions was the the message God had for me and for me to get all puffed up about her deceit was the pot calling the kettle black. At least her denial of her faith was part of God's plan and served to save the Jewish nation.
How many times have I denied my faith by my actions, words, or silence? Times I have not spoken out against wrong are numerous. Things I have done or said were a public denial of my faith. Maybe not a direct denunciation, but most certainly not a witness for Jehovah.
Esther was a young lady living in a foreign land, in a hostile environment, and instructed by her "father" to keep quiet. One should not fault her for her silence. I live in a country where my right to profess my faith is guaranteed by the Constitution and I yet I still have not made known my faith on countless occasions.
Rather than feeling so superior to Esther, perhaps I need to worry more about how I can share my faith today and tomorrow and the day after.
Tuesday, January 24, 2017
Godless Book January 24, 2017
As I was studying for this week's small group lesson, I read a blog post about the Book of Esther. It "is the most “secular” of the biblical books, making no reference to God’s name, to the Temple, to prayer, or to distinctive Jewish practices. . ."
If fact this particular writer offers the theory that Esther, for several reasons, is perhaps imaginative storytelling rather than an actual set of events.
Interesting food for thought.
http://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/the-book-of-esther/
If fact this particular writer offers the theory that Esther, for several reasons, is perhaps imaginative storytelling rather than an actual set of events.
Interesting food for thought.
http://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/the-book-of-esther/
Saturday, January 21, 2017
Weariness January 21, 2017
9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
Galatians 6:9 ESV
Today's verse resounded with me. For the past 4-5 years I have been involved at various levels with a homeless ministry. From serving meals, to befriending a particular family, to working closely with an individual, God has allowed me to share time, meals, and the Gospel message with many who are very much down on their luck.
But it gets tiring. Often times periods of progress are followed by stunning relapses. A ray of hope is quickly covered by the darkness of addiction. Some are not even desirous of progress. A life of survival on the streets or in squalor has been accepted as "normal". Addiction, abuse, rebellion. Cycles repeated.
At times I think, "I have done enough. Let someone else step in. My efforts are wasted time, money, and effort." Then God speaks loudly through his word.
"Do not grow weary of doing good." My Father in heaven does not grow weary of meeting my needs. He does not tire forgiving my trespasses. His love is continuous, his protection constant.
How dare I ask of Him what I am not willing to also give. I should expect no less of myself than I receive from Him.
Galatians 6:9 ESV
Today's verse resounded with me. For the past 4-5 years I have been involved at various levels with a homeless ministry. From serving meals, to befriending a particular family, to working closely with an individual, God has allowed me to share time, meals, and the Gospel message with many who are very much down on their luck.
But it gets tiring. Often times periods of progress are followed by stunning relapses. A ray of hope is quickly covered by the darkness of addiction. Some are not even desirous of progress. A life of survival on the streets or in squalor has been accepted as "normal". Addiction, abuse, rebellion. Cycles repeated.
At times I think, "I have done enough. Let someone else step in. My efforts are wasted time, money, and effort." Then God speaks loudly through his word.
"Do not grow weary of doing good." My Father in heaven does not grow weary of meeting my needs. He does not tire forgiving my trespasses. His love is continuous, his protection constant.
How dare I ask of Him what I am not willing to also give. I should expect no less of myself than I receive from Him.
Friday, January 20, 2017
More Paul, Less Lester* January 20, 2917
2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.
James 1:2-3 ESV
Each morning before I post, I spend some time reading msn.com, the Microsoft online news outlet. Today's headlines were replete with posts about the in-coming Trump administration. From an article about Harrison, AR and its bigoted, Trump-supporting residents to a description of the second-tiered acts that performed at the Lincoln Memorial concert, there was nothing positive or encouraging to read. Regardless of your opinion of the media, the President elect, or politics in general, it is apparent our country is in for a long, decisive, possible destructive run. It started the day off on a very somber tone.
After exiting the MSN website, I opened Biblegateway.com, a useful online source for scripture verses. Each day the site posts their "Verse of the Day". Today it was James 1:2-3. These verses were exactly what I needed after the time spent reading national news. Perhaps these two verses should be our country's mantra for the next four years.
Whether you are pro-Trump, anti-Trump, or neutral-Trump, I believe this next chapter in our country's history will be replete with unrest, division, and disunity. Not only will we be put through collective trials, as individuals we will also be tested. Will we view these trials as growth opportunities or as an excuse to withdraw our voices from the public square? News headlines should drive us deeper into scripture not into despair. Our hope is in Christ, not Trump, the Republicans, or Democrats.
Perhaps this will be a season of more scripture and less MSNBC.
*Lester Holt anchors the weekday edition of NBC Nightly News.
James 1:2-3 ESV
Each morning before I post, I spend some time reading msn.com, the Microsoft online news outlet. Today's headlines were replete with posts about the in-coming Trump administration. From an article about Harrison, AR and its bigoted, Trump-supporting residents to a description of the second-tiered acts that performed at the Lincoln Memorial concert, there was nothing positive or encouraging to read. Regardless of your opinion of the media, the President elect, or politics in general, it is apparent our country is in for a long, decisive, possible destructive run. It started the day off on a very somber tone.
After exiting the MSN website, I opened Biblegateway.com, a useful online source for scripture verses. Each day the site posts their "Verse of the Day". Today it was James 1:2-3. These verses were exactly what I needed after the time spent reading national news. Perhaps these two verses should be our country's mantra for the next four years.
Whether you are pro-Trump, anti-Trump, or neutral-Trump, I believe this next chapter in our country's history will be replete with unrest, division, and disunity. Not only will we be put through collective trials, as individuals we will also be tested. Will we view these trials as growth opportunities or as an excuse to withdraw our voices from the public square? News headlines should drive us deeper into scripture not into despair. Our hope is in Christ, not Trump, the Republicans, or Democrats.
Perhaps this will be a season of more scripture and less MSNBC.
*Lester Holt anchors the weekday edition of NBC Nightly News.
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
Preescape January 18, 2017
13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he
will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the
temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able
to endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV
For many of our sins, we can trace back the mishap to temptation we have allowed to take root in our minds. The office affair starts with an excuse to work late. A false income tax report has its roots in an over-extention on a boat purchase. But what about those reaction sins? The hateful comment, an unkind reaction, or repeated gossip. The quick, reactionary sins that seem to contiually plaque so many of us. Where is the "way of escape" from those sins?
As I pondered this, I realized that the escape route for these types of sin comes before the opportunity presents itself. We pray for a changed attitude that will enable us to react with kindness to that abrasive coworker. Harmful attitudes that God has revealed to us become objectives of focused prayer before we find ourselves in the position to react negatively.
So much of life happens unplanned and unscripted. It is in that microsecond gap between stimulus and response that we with glorify God or disappoint Him. We will find ourselves continually disappointed in our responses if we are not
1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV
For many of our sins, we can trace back the mishap to temptation we have allowed to take root in our minds. The office affair starts with an excuse to work late. A false income tax report has its roots in an over-extention on a boat purchase. But what about those reaction sins? The hateful comment, an unkind reaction, or repeated gossip. The quick, reactionary sins that seem to contiually plaque so many of us. Where is the "way of escape" from those sins?
As I pondered this, I realized that the escape route for these types of sin comes before the opportunity presents itself. We pray for a changed attitude that will enable us to react with kindness to that abrasive coworker. Harmful attitudes that God has revealed to us become objectives of focused prayer before we find ourselves in the position to react negatively.
So much of life happens unplanned and unscripted. It is in that microsecond gap between stimulus and response that we with glorify God or disappoint Him. We will find ourselves continually disappointed in our responses if we are not
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Just What I Needed January 17, 2017
14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing,
Philippians 2:14 ESV
Just off a four-day weekend. Headed back to work. The Lord spoke to me this morning.
Nothing else to say. :-)
Philippians 2:14 ESV
Just off a four-day weekend. Headed back to work. The Lord spoke to me this morning.
Nothing else to say. :-)
Monday, January 16, 2017
70 January 16, 2017
7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8 which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9 making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10 as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
Ephesians 1:7-9 ESV
In high school I had an English teacher who would have us diagram sentences. If you are not familiar with sentence diagramming it is an exercise there you list the subject and verb of a sentence, then start a bunch of connected lines of prepositional phrases, adjectives, adverbs, etc. Every word of the sentence gets its place on the diagram. I recall one sentence that required multiple pieces of paper be taped together so that each word could have its proper place. (If memory serves it was some long, drawn out sentence about a bear.)
Diagramming Paul's sentences would be a daunting task.
While reading part of Ephesians in preparation for Wednesday's Grow Class, I read and reread today's verses and discovered it was all one sentence. Visions of that high school English class came rushing back. I reminded myself I did not have to diagram the sentence and the cold sweats went away.
Seventy words! Multiple promises. Deep thoughts. As I reread the verses I kept returning to the phrase "forgiveness of our trespasses". For all that salvation does for us, at its basic core is forgiveness. That is where all the other blessings start. Without that initial forgiveness, nothing else is possible.
Our sin separates us from God. With sin, no restoration. With no restoration, no Holy Spirit. With no Holy Spirit, no guidance or insight.
It is through the forgiveness of our sin that the right relationship with God is restored. All that follows comes out of a restored relationship. Forgiveness makes all else possible.
Example of a sentence diagram
Ephesians 1:7-9 ESV
In high school I had an English teacher who would have us diagram sentences. If you are not familiar with sentence diagramming it is an exercise there you list the subject and verb of a sentence, then start a bunch of connected lines of prepositional phrases, adjectives, adverbs, etc. Every word of the sentence gets its place on the diagram. I recall one sentence that required multiple pieces of paper be taped together so that each word could have its proper place. (If memory serves it was some long, drawn out sentence about a bear.)
Diagramming Paul's sentences would be a daunting task.
While reading part of Ephesians in preparation for Wednesday's Grow Class, I read and reread today's verses and discovered it was all one sentence. Visions of that high school English class came rushing back. I reminded myself I did not have to diagram the sentence and the cold sweats went away.
Seventy words! Multiple promises. Deep thoughts. As I reread the verses I kept returning to the phrase "forgiveness of our trespasses". For all that salvation does for us, at its basic core is forgiveness. That is where all the other blessings start. Without that initial forgiveness, nothing else is possible.
Our sin separates us from God. With sin, no restoration. With no restoration, no Holy Spirit. With no Holy Spirit, no guidance or insight.
It is through the forgiveness of our sin that the right relationship with God is restored. All that follows comes out of a restored relationship. Forgiveness makes all else possible.
Example of a sentence diagram
Saturday, January 14, 2017
Dig Deeper January 14, 2017
20 If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. 21 And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.
1 John 4:20-21 ESV
At first read, these two verses from 1 John appear to be an easy win for Christians.
"Sure we love all people. We hate the sin, but love the person." But it becomes more dicey when the Biblical side of love is examined.
1 Corinthians 13: Love is patient, kind, humble, forgiving, supportive, hopeful, faithful, and enduring.
Let's insert these characteristics into the following phrases.
I am patient with that coworker who constantly causes me to have extra work.
I am forgiving of my mother-in-law who tries to undermine my marriage.
I am supportive of President Obama/President-elect Trump.
I am kind toward my openly homosexual neighbor.
I am faithful in my prayers for a hypercritical spouse.
It can border on a platitude to say we love everyone, but to insert the requirements of love into that statement, most of us would have to do some soul-searching.
1 John 4:20-21 ESV
At first read, these two verses from 1 John appear to be an easy win for Christians.
"Sure we love all people. We hate the sin, but love the person." But it becomes more dicey when the Biblical side of love is examined.
1 Corinthians 13: Love is patient, kind, humble, forgiving, supportive, hopeful, faithful, and enduring.
Let's insert these characteristics into the following phrases.
I am patient with that coworker who constantly causes me to have extra work.
I am forgiving of my mother-in-law who tries to undermine my marriage.
I am supportive of President Obama/President-elect Trump.
I am kind toward my openly homosexual neighbor.
I am faithful in my prayers for a hypercritical spouse.
It can border on a platitude to say we love everyone, but to insert the requirements of love into that statement, most of us would have to do some soul-searching.
Friday, January 13, 2017
Motorcyle Messanger January 13, 2013
And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.
2 Corinthians 5:19 ESV
I recently finished reading a memoir written by Alan Cummings, a Scottish-born actor. One of the story lines than ran through the book was a search for information about his grandfather, Tommy, who had been awarded medals for bravery during the Second World War.
Near the end of the book we learn that Tommy was one of a group of dare-devil motorcyclists whose job it was to deliver messages back and forth along the front lines. In the 1940s wireless was not always the most dependable so many important messages were hand delivered, often during the thick of the battle.
Not only would this be a terrifying job, the importance of it can not be overstated. A message misdelivered, undelivered, or delivered too late could result in catastrophe. Alan writes about the bravery and bravado his grandfather must have possessed to have successfully undertaken these motorcycle message missions.
As I read today's verse I was struck with the importance and duty God has placed on each Christian. He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. The good news that we can be forgiven and a right relationship with God is our responsibility to share. God does not host a late-night talk show. He does not blog, Facebook, or Instagram. We are the communicators, the broadcasters, the sharers of this life-changing news.
If we fail to share His message, people will die in their sin. Lives will be wrecked. Potentials unfulfilled. Eternities spent in hell.
But the inverse is also true. If we do get on our spiritual motorcycles and deliver the Goods News message people will receive eternal life. Families will be saved. Futures realized. Eternities spent in heaven.
We have the message. Will we deliver it?
2 Corinthians 5:19 ESV
I recently finished reading a memoir written by Alan Cummings, a Scottish-born actor. One of the story lines than ran through the book was a search for information about his grandfather, Tommy, who had been awarded medals for bravery during the Second World War.
Near the end of the book we learn that Tommy was one of a group of dare-devil motorcyclists whose job it was to deliver messages back and forth along the front lines. In the 1940s wireless was not always the most dependable so many important messages were hand delivered, often during the thick of the battle.
Not only would this be a terrifying job, the importance of it can not be overstated. A message misdelivered, undelivered, or delivered too late could result in catastrophe. Alan writes about the bravery and bravado his grandfather must have possessed to have successfully undertaken these motorcycle message missions.
As I read today's verse I was struck with the importance and duty God has placed on each Christian. He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. The good news that we can be forgiven and a right relationship with God is our responsibility to share. God does not host a late-night talk show. He does not blog, Facebook, or Instagram. We are the communicators, the broadcasters, the sharers of this life-changing news.
If we fail to share His message, people will die in their sin. Lives will be wrecked. Potentials unfulfilled. Eternities spent in hell.
But the inverse is also true. If we do get on our spiritual motorcycles and deliver the Goods News message people will receive eternal life. Families will be saved. Futures realized. Eternities spent in heaven.
We have the message. Will we deliver it?
Thursday, January 12, 2017
Every January 12, 2017
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places,
Ephesians 1:3 ESV
Last night was the first night for a three-month small group study of Ephesians. Right before the closing prayer, the leader asked us to think of a phrase or word that struck us about the first six verses of Ephesians and make that a central point of our prayer. For me what stuck out was "every".
As Christians we have been blessed with every spiritual blessing. Not just the important ones. We don't have to earn some. We don't have to select our top three from a heavenly menu. There is not a time we get a second anointing of blessings.
When we enter into that wonderful, life-saving covenant with Jesus Christ, all possible spiritual blessings are bequeathed to us. The keys to the kingdom handed to us at that moment.
Is it that we undergo a dramatic change at the moment of salvation? In regards to our actions, words, and thoughts, perhaps not. We will still sin. We will still restoration on a daily basis. But in the eyes of God at the very moment of salvation, we are worthy of everything He has to give. Our adoption as sons of the Almighty gives us full legal standing to all that is His. Every blessing.
What a marvelous, joy-inducing reality!
Ephesians 1:3 ESV
Last night was the first night for a three-month small group study of Ephesians. Right before the closing prayer, the leader asked us to think of a phrase or word that struck us about the first six verses of Ephesians and make that a central point of our prayer. For me what stuck out was "every".
As Christians we have been blessed with every spiritual blessing. Not just the important ones. We don't have to earn some. We don't have to select our top three from a heavenly menu. There is not a time we get a second anointing of blessings.
When we enter into that wonderful, life-saving covenant with Jesus Christ, all possible spiritual blessings are bequeathed to us. The keys to the kingdom handed to us at that moment.
Is it that we undergo a dramatic change at the moment of salvation? In regards to our actions, words, and thoughts, perhaps not. We will still sin. We will still restoration on a daily basis. But in the eyes of God at the very moment of salvation, we are worthy of everything He has to give. Our adoption as sons of the Almighty gives us full legal standing to all that is His. Every blessing.
What a marvelous, joy-inducing reality!
Wednesday, January 11, 2017
God Takes Sides January 11, 2017
the Lord answered me and set me free.
6 The Lord is on my side; I will not fear.
What can man do to me?
Psalm 118:5-6 ESV
Often times for me the best way to define a word is to look at synonyms. I looked up "distress" and found a long list of synonyms. This list included ache, anguish, anxiety, misery, sadness, torment, and worry. Perhaps one of those better fit what you are feeling right now.
Regardless of the exact description there are times where for known or unknown reasons, we feel distress. Job. Finances. Finances. Spiritual. All these things and more can bring distress into our lives. That is life. But look at three promises in these two short verses.
First God hears and answers. David called out of his distress. Things were bad. He cried out and God responded. Our God is not a statue or some vague entity hovering around the heavens. He is a real, specific being who is directly involved in the lives of each of us.
Then God answered, and David was set free. Free from the circumstances? Perhaps not, but free from the distress caused by the circumstances. It is a fallacy to assume God will smite that unreasonable boss or reverse dementia every time we pray. But we can possess freedom from the mind-numbing worry and emotional turmoil that accompanies so many of life's trials.
The final promise in today's verse almost made me stand up and shout. (Since Kristi was fast asleep in the next room, I refrained from doing so.) "The LORD is on my side." Not to question the author of the Psalm, David, but an exclamation point could have been used here.
God is on my side. He is on your side. He is on the side of every person born-again Christian. Regardless of what is causing the distress. Whether it was self-inflicted, imagined, or out of our control, God is there to set us free from worry and anguish.
God is on our side! (explanation point!!)
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
Crystal January 10, 2017
15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”
1 Peter 1:15-16 ESV
One of my favorite movies is "A Few Good Men" with Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson. In one of the many famous courtroom exchanges, Col Jessup (Nicholson's character) is explaining what it is like to be in a forward area of aggression and that because of that orders are always followed or "people die".
If you have seen the movie, the last two lines from this exchange are delivered in such a was that the viewer knows Jessup has just hung himself. In Jessup's desire to make things "crystal" clear to Kaffee (Cruise's character) he has severely damaged his own defense.
1 Peter 1:15-16 ESV
One of my favorite movies is "A Few Good Men" with Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson. In one of the many famous courtroom exchanges, Col Jessup (Nicholson's character) is explaining what it is like to be in a forward area of aggression and that because of that orders are always followed or "people die".
If you have seen the movie, the last two lines from this exchange are delivered in such a was that the viewer knows Jessup has just hung himself. In Jessup's desire to make things "crystal" clear to Kaffee (Cruise's character) he has severely damaged his own defense.
- Kaffee: When Lt. Kendrick spoke to the platoon and ordered them not to touch Santiago, any chance they ignored him?
- Jessup: You ever served in an infantry unit, son?
- Kaffee: No, sir.
- Jessup: Ever served in a forward area?
- Kaffee: No, sir.
- Jessup: Ever put your life in another man's hands and asked him to put his life in yours?
- Kaffee: No, sir.
- Jessup: We follow orders, son. We follow orders or people die. It's that simple. Are we clear?
- Kaffee: Yes, sir.
- Jessup: Are we clear?!
- Kaffee: Crystal.
- Jessup: Are we clear?!
- Kaffee: Crystal.
Sunday, January 8, 2017
If Only. . . January 8, 2017
"If only. . ." Two of the saddest words I can think of. "If only" I had called a cab. "If only" I had witnessed to dad before he passed away. "If only" I had been on time to work.
This morning I read an article about the continuing tragedy involving the Jerry Sandusky case and Penn State. In addition to the damaged caused to the young men, the cost of the case has reached at least $237,000,000. There are also still several lawsuits and criminal actions pending against various people involved in the case.
As I read the article, I wondered how many times various people have asked themselves, "If only I had called the police." "If only I had investigated that rumor." "If only I had sent that email I had composed." "If only. . ."
Often times in life we are faced with an unpleasant situation where we must address an unpleasant topic with a friend, coworker, or family member. It is easy to avoid that conversation, but in doing so we might be setting in motion a series of events which will have outcomes that make any immediate discomfort pale in comparison.
To that parent who thinks they may smell marijuana on a jacket, talk about it.
To the secretary who is being harassed by a coworker, visit with someone in human resources.
To the sister who has a brother who is has not accepted Christ as Lord and Savior, make the time to share the Gospel message.
Sin is like a cavity in a tooth. It won't get better on its own. Treatment is necessary to clean out and repair the damage. There are times when God is calling us to confront sin that is damaging others. Do it prayerfully. Do it kindly. Do it in love. But do it.
This morning I read an article about the continuing tragedy involving the Jerry Sandusky case and Penn State. In addition to the damaged caused to the young men, the cost of the case has reached at least $237,000,000. There are also still several lawsuits and criminal actions pending against various people involved in the case.
As I read the article, I wondered how many times various people have asked themselves, "If only I had called the police." "If only I had investigated that rumor." "If only I had sent that email I had composed." "If only. . ."
Often times in life we are faced with an unpleasant situation where we must address an unpleasant topic with a friend, coworker, or family member. It is easy to avoid that conversation, but in doing so we might be setting in motion a series of events which will have outcomes that make any immediate discomfort pale in comparison.
To that parent who thinks they may smell marijuana on a jacket, talk about it.
To the secretary who is being harassed by a coworker, visit with someone in human resources.
To the sister who has a brother who is has not accepted Christ as Lord and Savior, make the time to share the Gospel message.
Sin is like a cavity in a tooth. It won't get better on its own. Treatment is necessary to clean out and repair the damage. There are times when God is calling us to confront sin that is damaging others. Do it prayerfully. Do it kindly. Do it in love. But do it.
Saturday, January 7, 2017
Imitate January 7, 2017
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Ephesians 5:1-2 ESV
Yesterday I observed a teacher reviewing note taking with a class of fifth graders. Before turning the students loose on their science textbooks, she modeled how to take notes on the board using the text the student would be using for their independent work. She did not simply say, "Take notes on vertebrates and invertebrates. Good luck."
As Christians we have not simply been told by God to "go forth and be Christians." We have an entire book that will help direct our lives. In Ephesians, Paul tells us that we are to be "imitators of God." Just like the fifth-grade teacher did in her classroom, God, through Jesus Christ, has modeled much of the Christian life.
A more studies review of scripture would undoubtedly reveal much more from Christ's live worthy of imitation. Jesus modeled the Christian life for us. If we strive to be "imitators of God" we will live a life pleasing to Him.
Ephesians 5:1-2 ESV
Yesterday I observed a teacher reviewing note taking with a class of fifth graders. Before turning the students loose on their science textbooks, she modeled how to take notes on the board using the text the student would be using for their independent work. She did not simply say, "Take notes on vertebrates and invertebrates. Good luck."
As Christians we have not simply been told by God to "go forth and be Christians." We have an entire book that will help direct our lives. In Ephesians, Paul tells us that we are to be "imitators of God." Just like the fifth-grade teacher did in her classroom, God, through Jesus Christ, has modeled much of the Christian life.
- While he interacted with unbelievers, his closest friends were those of like faith.
- He spent time alone in prayer and meditation.
- He read the "Bible".
- He accepted all.
- He held himself to a very high standard.
- He called on God for help and guidance.
- He shared the Gospel message with those around him.
A more studies review of scripture would undoubtedly reveal much more from Christ's live worthy of imitation. Jesus modeled the Christian life for us. If we strive to be "imitators of God" we will live a life pleasing to Him.
Thursday, January 5, 2017
Ditch the La-Z-Boy January 5, 2017
16 Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean;
remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes;
cease to do evil,
17 learn to do good;
seek justice,
correct oppression;
bring justice to the fatherless,
plead the widow's cause.
remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes;
cease to do evil,
17 learn to do good;
seek justice,
correct oppression;
bring justice to the fatherless,
plead the widow's cause.
Isaiah 1:16-17 ESV
Sometimes my blog entries take time to form, other times I kind of have to really work just to get anything down on paper, but today's verse spoke to me on first read. Christianity is NOT a passive affair.
Just look at all that God is instructing his children to do.
This verse contains a plethora of active verbs: wash, make, cease, learn, seek, bring, and plead. Sure pray, meditate, and read are also important verbs in a Christian's life, but those are quiet time words.
Isaiah is telling God's elect to be active in our relationship. Our knees are a launching pad to service. Clasped prayer hands must become dirtied and blistered. Knowledge becomes action.
Let's roll up our sleeves in 2017 and get tired for Christ!
Wednesday, January 4, 2017
It's Simple. Right? January 4, 2017
What Does the Lord Require?
8 He has told you, O man, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?
Micah 6:8 ESV
In a time long, long ago I used to golf. I picked up the nasty habit when I was in junior high and continued through my 40's. But after a particularly embarrassing round with my father-in-law at a posh country club, I was able to go cold turkey. Since that fateful day, I have never played one hole of that most frustrating of games.
In theory, the game is simple. A stationary ball is struck by a club with a large head down a wide, neatly mowed swath of grass. Eventually you get to gently strike the ball on a carpet like piece of lawn into a hole twice the size of the ball. To make the game even easier, no one is allowed to bother you or even speak when you are in the act of hitting the white, dimpled sphere. Nothing to it. Oh, how wrong you are.
One's head must remain steady. The back swing must be just so. Weight shift. Club head speed. Torso rotation. Elbow straight. Wrists cocked. Follow through. It is for all this and more that golf should be classified as a four-letter word up there with the worst of them.
To read today's verse from Micah, one could think that Christianity is also a simple affair. Just love kindness, do justice and walk humbly. Nothing to it. But just because we accept Christ as Lord and Savior doesn't mean our sin nature is banished from our lives.
Too often Christians judge themselves harshly when they sin. Questions of salvation and sincerity of commitment arise because of a hateful word, an unkind deed, or angry thought. Verses like today's taken out of context can paint too simplistic a picture of Christianity.
The preceding verses reveal Micah's real message:
6 “With what shall I come before the Lord,
and bow myself before God on high?
Shall I come before him with burnt offerings,
with calves a year old?
7 Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams,
with ten thousands of rivers of oil?
Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression,
the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?”
and bow myself before God on high?
Shall I come before him with burnt offerings,
with calves a year old?
7 Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams,
with ten thousands of rivers of oil?
Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression,
the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?”
Micah was not painting a picture of a simple, easy walk with God. He was telling his readers that it is not great sacrifices or public displays of faith that God values, but a heart committed to good. A kind, humble spirit is what God desires above grand gestures.
God is a god of the heart, not a god of the extravagant.
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
Now and Later January 3, 2017
11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, 12 training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,
Titus 2:22-12 ESV
There is a famous candy manufactured by the Ferrara Candy Company named "Now and Later". The name is meant to suggest that customers eat some of the enclosed taffy right away and save some for later. Today's verse is a Now and Later for Christians.
God's grace guarantees a place Heaven to all who accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. That is the "Later" part of salvation. But there is also a "Now" part of salvation.
The "Now" of salvation includes many things. Paul writes about training which will enable us to live a life pleasing to God and beneficial to man. That training will give us the strength, knowledge, and wisdom to avoid sin, live self-controlled and godly.
Through God's training, we are no longer a slave to sin. Passions can be redirected. Impulses controlled. Thoughts purified.
The "Later" of that heavenly home is the ultimate payoff, but the "Now" which gives us the ability to live a godly life is what will point others toward Christ.
Both halves of the Christian life are causes for joy and celebration.
Monday, January 2, 2017
Numbering Days January 2, 2017
12 So teach us to number our days
that we may get a heart of wisdom
Psalm 90:12 ESV
"by making a right use of this short, uncertain space of time allotted us here,"
Benson Commentary
"that God would instruct us to estimate our days aright: their number; the rapidity with which they pass away; the liability to be cut down; the certainty that they must soon come to an end; their bearing on the future state of being."
Barnes' Notes on the Bible
Perhaps it is the dawning of yet another new year or because I will be 54 in a few months, but these past few mornings I have been conscious of a need to make each day count for something. There is an increased sense of productivity, the need to get things done.
David gives his readers that same advice. Benson calls it "right use". Barnes comments on the "rapidity with which they pass away". I think is it a combination of the two that is coloring my mind set right now.
Our days are numbered and as I get older they do seem fleeting. Yet another school year is half over. Another Christmas break coming to an end. We are 17 years into another millennium.
Much has been written about the futility of New Year's resolutions. Their failure and lack of any sustained change. I would agree with that assessment except for those resolutions that are prompted by the Holy Spirit and strengthened by a partnership with God. Whether a call to change and action is received on January 1 or June 8, God will empower his children to become who he calls them to be.
For me this is to be more conscious of and intentional in the use of my time in 2017 and beyond.
that we may get a heart of wisdom
Psalm 90:12 ESV
"by making a right use of this short, uncertain space of time allotted us here,"
Benson Commentary
"that God would instruct us to estimate our days aright: their number; the rapidity with which they pass away; the liability to be cut down; the certainty that they must soon come to an end; their bearing on the future state of being."
Barnes' Notes on the Bible
Perhaps it is the dawning of yet another new year or because I will be 54 in a few months, but these past few mornings I have been conscious of a need to make each day count for something. There is an increased sense of productivity, the need to get things done.
David gives his readers that same advice. Benson calls it "right use". Barnes comments on the "rapidity with which they pass away". I think is it a combination of the two that is coloring my mind set right now.
Our days are numbered and as I get older they do seem fleeting. Yet another school year is half over. Another Christmas break coming to an end. We are 17 years into another millennium.
Much has been written about the futility of New Year's resolutions. Their failure and lack of any sustained change. I would agree with that assessment except for those resolutions that are prompted by the Holy Spirit and strengthened by a partnership with God. Whether a call to change and action is received on January 1 or June 8, God will empower his children to become who he calls them to be.
For me this is to be more conscious of and intentional in the use of my time in 2017 and beyond.
Sunday, January 1, 2017
One Door January 1, 2016
20 As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good,
Genesis 50:20 ESV
Many early Sunday mornings I can be found at McDonald's eating a sausage biscuit, a hash brown, and a small coffee (or large Coke, but don't tell my doctor). This morning was one of those mornings.
When I was leaving Mickey D's I noticed a sign on the door that read, "Exit". Nothing extraordinary there except that it was the same door that read "Enter" on the side. Same door but labeled with two opposite signs. One for arriving, one for leaving. The purpose of the door depended on the perspective of the person.
As I pondered this apparent oxymoron, I realized that the door represented life's situations. Whether an event is enter/exit, good/bad, beneficial/destructive depends on the perspective of the person.
A heart attack can be viewed as a debilitating medical event or as an opportunity to slow down and spend more time enjoying life.
A loss of a job can be the end of a career or an opportunity to explore exciting possibilities.
A problem child might be a growth opportunity for parenting skills rather than cause for marital duress.
2017 will be my year to view the "Enter" side of the door. Enter into the exciting possibilities that God will place before me these next 365 days. I have no idea what these will be, but He does and He wants only the best for his children. 2017 is going to be epic!!
Genesis 50:20 ESV
Many early Sunday mornings I can be found at McDonald's eating a sausage biscuit, a hash brown, and a small coffee (or large Coke, but don't tell my doctor). This morning was one of those mornings.
When I was leaving Mickey D's I noticed a sign on the door that read, "Exit". Nothing extraordinary there except that it was the same door that read "Enter" on the side. Same door but labeled with two opposite signs. One for arriving, one for leaving. The purpose of the door depended on the perspective of the person.
As I pondered this apparent oxymoron, I realized that the door represented life's situations. Whether an event is enter/exit, good/bad, beneficial/destructive depends on the perspective of the person.
A heart attack can be viewed as a debilitating medical event or as an opportunity to slow down and spend more time enjoying life.
A loss of a job can be the end of a career or an opportunity to explore exciting possibilities.
A problem child might be a growth opportunity for parenting skills rather than cause for marital duress.
2017 will be my year to view the "Enter" side of the door. Enter into the exciting possibilities that God will place before me these next 365 days. I have no idea what these will be, but He does and He wants only the best for his children. 2017 is going to be epic!!
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