Pastor Brian's Blog

Prayer

2012-02-10T07:49:00.001-05:00

Read a great quote this morning on prayer.

The principle cause of my leanness and unfruitfulness is owing to an unaccountable backwardness to pray. I can write or read or converse or hear with a ready heart; but prayer is more spiritual and inward than any of these, and the more spiritual any duty is the more my carnal heart is apt to start from it. Prayer and patience and faith are never disappointed. I have long since learned that if ever I was to be a minister faith and prayer must make me one. When I can find my heart in frame and liberty for prayer, everything else is comparitively easy.

- Richard Newton (1813-1887)

Pray, then Prayer, then finish up by Praying

2012-02-08T12:30:00.000-05:00

Spurgeon says: "Of course the preacher is above all others distinguished as a man of prayer. He prays as an ordinary Christian, else he were a hypocrite. He prays more than ordinary Christians, else he were disqualified for the office he has undertaken. If you as ministers are not very prayerful, you are to be pitied. If you become lax in sacred devotion, not only will you need to be pitied but your people also, and the day cometh in which you shall be ashamed and confounded. All our libraries and studies are mere emptiness compared with our closets. Our seasons of fasting and prayer at the Tabernacle have been high days indeed; never has heaven's gate stood wider; never have our hearts been nearer the central Glory."

Is prayer of primary concern for us who handle the Word of God? I'm finding that prayer must be entered into first and foremost and that the message is then refreshed by the breath of God. How we must labor in the Word but first we must begin in prayer, continue in prayer and to finish in prayer.

Edward Payson was an American Congregational preacher in the early 19th century and said this in regards to prayer: "Prayer is the first thing, the second thing, the third thing necessary to a minister. Pray, then, my dear brother; pray, pray, pray."

I recently got together with some pastors and the conversation went to the Wednesday night prayer service. The question was asked "what do you do in your prayer service?" Of course, most there said they did all kinds of things but prayer was certainly not the emphasis and what was done most in those services. One minister said that he used it to pray. He followed that up with, however, you might as well know that you won't have a well attended service.

In my last church I was given the Wednesday night prayer service. However, I changed the name to the Mid-week service because the name certainly did not describe what we were doing at those service. Another one of my minister friends told me that they indeed pray and it's the highlight of the service. But he also told me that he struggled with the idea that his people would think that he was just coping out and too lazy to put together a sermon.

Wow. What does that say about our attitude towards prayer. What does that say about the reality that we really don't pray. We can talk the talk but when it comes down to the rubber hitting the road, we do very little work on bended knee.

For me, one of the hardest disciplines to do, is to pray. I believe it's difficult because Satan knows that it's the most needed discipline for you and I and, of course, the church. That is if we're going to be lead by the Father, and to have His mind, direction, and power in our lives.

We see all kinds of examples of this in Scripture. Jesus, the very Son of God, often got alone to be with God to pray. "And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed" (Mark 1:35). The Psalmist said: "O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and and glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary" (Ps. 63:1-2).

When was the last time you prayed? Have you prayed yet today? We are living in a dry and thirsty land and yet we forgo entering into his sanctuary - the New Jerusalem to see and spend time with our heavenly Father. To see his power and glory and to be empowered by his holiness. To be encouraged by his grace. To take a drink of the living water that only can quench our thirst and give us a greater thirst for him.

Let's pray.

My House Shall Be a House of Prayer

2012-02-07T15:28:00.000-05:00

I have, as of late, been deeply convicted about prayer. Prayer not only for me and individuals but also for the church. Jesus said himself, "My house shall be called a house of prayer" (Matt 21:13; Mark 11:17; Luke 19:46). What exactly does that mean?

In context we know that this was when Jesus came into the temple to cleanse it. His indignation was directed toward those who had changed the character of the temple from a place of prayer into a place of corrupt commercialism. The Temple was to be a place of worship, quiet meditation, contemplation, praise, and devotion, a place where God's people could draw close to Him in worship, sacrifice, offerings and could seek His will and blessing.

I don't think that has changed for us in the New Testament. Yet how often do we gather together and fail to worship our heavenly Father? When was the last time you came to church and prayed without being lead by someone else? When was the last time you came early or stayed late to pray and worship the King of kings? When was the last time you bent your knee at an altar to pray for a lost loved one? When was the last time you came to church and lifted up your hands in prayer and adoration to the Lord of lords?   When was the last time you came to church and you prayed for God to work in your heart and mind to see the holiness of God? When was the last time you came and prayed that God through His Word and Spirit would speak to you?

Most of us don't pray and we gather together, maybe not for commercialism but what about consumerism? We come to see what we can "get" from the preacher. Can he bless me? Will he make me laugh, or cry or stroke my emotions? Do they have the right kind of music? What kind of ministries do they have for my kids? Do they have a sports program?  How about a singing group for my little one?

I believe with all my heart that we gather together for Him! Our gathering together in worship is to give honor and praise to the One that is worthy of all our praise, honor and attention.  I would submit to that if we would come to worship service in an attitude of prayer and worship we would see Him and His holiness. In seeing His holiness, we would see our sin and we would fall on our faces before Him.

The problem is we have not stood before "the throne high and lifted up" (Isa. 6:1) never "come unto Mt Zion, and unto the city of the living God, and heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels" (Heb. 12:22).

Nope. When we go to the Church, we are looking to get the most bang for our buck. Prayer and praise is stifled; worship is dead. And we'll stay for awhile or at least until we can find a better show or where we can get a little more for our money. Oh yea, we really aren't doing that either.

God help us to pray! May we be known as a people on bended knee, coming frequently and reverently before our King, Master, and Lord.

Oh, How we Need to Pray

2012-02-06T09:29:00.000-05:00

This morning as I check my email, I find again it full of new church grown methods, plans to advance the church and enlarge our congregations. However, I never find in any of these methods, plans, and ideas the need for and dependance on the LORD.

From my understanding of Scripture and in looking at the 1st century church, it's the LORD who advances and adds to the church. Luke said, "...And the LORD added to the church daily such as should be saved" (Acts 2:47). What I also find in this chapter is a model - a Scriptural model that should be followed as cloesely as possible in the 21st century.

Within that model in Acts, I find that God used people. The church today has tended to lose sight of the man God uses for His plan. Preachers today are not so concerned about themselves as they are about what new method to adopt that will guarantee their success.

However, E.M. Bounds states that "God's plan is to make much of the man, far more of him than of anything else. Men are God's method. The Church is looking for better methods; God is looing for better men" (Bounds, "Power Through Prayer). God is looking throughout the whole earth to show himself strong, however these people are to have a heart for God and His glory and not their own (see 1 Chron. 16:9).

This means that the man matters to God. The character of the preacher matters to God. Again, Bonds states in a very convincing and convicting matter, "It is not great talents nor great learning nor great preachers that God needs, but men great in holiness, great in faith, great in love, great in fidelity, great for God - men always preaching by holy sermons in the pulpit, by holy lives out of it" (Bonds, p12). "And every man that has this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure" (1 John 3:3).

So how is our churces going to grow? God is going to add to the church and he is going to do it through men who are active in the sanctification process, allowing the Holy Spirit of God to mold them into the image of his Son Jesus Christ. That means I must be dependent upon Him and the best way to know if you or I are dependent upon God is how often we are on bended knee.

Misemployment of time is injurious to the mind. In illness I have looked back with self-reproach on days spent in my study; I was wading through history and poetry and monthly journals, but I was in my study! Another man's trifling is notorious to all observers, but what am I doing? Nothing, perhaps, that has reference to the spiritual good of my congregation. Be much in retirement and prayer. Study the honor and glory of your Master."
- Richard Cecil

Do You Understand God's Grace?

2012-01-31T16:18:00.001-05:00

Romans 6:14-15 says, For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.

The word "grace" is, no doubt, a most precious truth personified by God through Christ and the work on the Cross. We sing "Amazing Grace" by John Newton and is loved by both Christians and within the secular society. However, people within and without the church have little to no concept of grace as it is greatly misunderstood.

Many Christians believe it to mean that because of grace, they can live as they please without regard to God's law - specifically the moral will or commandments of God. Christian's take Paul's words to mean they can live as they please. This has sadly resulted in what is termed "easy believism" or "cheap grace."

Theologically this is termed antinomianism, which is the conviction that believers are freed from the demands of God’s law by depending upon God’s grace for their salvation. Of course, this is not a new concept and Jude addresses it when he states For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ (Jude 4).

The difficulty as a pastor is to preach salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone and to do so without merging toward antinomianism or, at the other end of the spectrum, and to add works. Both are heretical and to combat this is for us to have a clear understanding and biblical view of the grace of God.

We often define grace as "God's unmerited favor." That's good, but only gives us half of the whole definition. Galatians 3:10 states that For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. We are all deserving the "curse" of God because we all have fallen short of the mark and have not obeyed the law. That's why Jesus came and He alone as the God-Man could and did obey the law completely and perfectly.

In Matthew 5:17 Jesus states, Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am cnot come to destroy, but to fulfill. And praise God, that is exactly what He did for you and me. Christ fulfilled the law in which we could not do.

Thus, a more complete definition is one given by Jerry Bridges where he defines it as "God's blessings through Christ to people who deserve His curse" (The Transforming Power of the Gospel p.1192). He goes on to say that a concept of grace that does not include our "ill-deservedness" and Christ's work for us will lead people down the wrong path of "easy believism" or "cheap grace." However, a concept that does include our "ill-deservedness" and Christ's work for us leads us to a place of gratitude for His gift of grace, which then leads to a loving obedience.

As Christians we need to be just as dependent on the grace of God that we received at salvation in our daily walk with the Lord. It's that same grace that is needed in all we do in and for His kingdom.

We Must Pray!

2012-01-12T06:00:00.001-05:00

There is a sweet spirit in our church as of late. However, it's presence is not without many burdens, struggles, strongholds, and outright sin. There is a war that is waging for the hearts and minds of so many people and I sense that we are having more casualties than victories.

This spiritual warfare has of late overwhelmed my soul and caused my mind to race with inability to focus and comprehend on all the specific individual needs and struggles within my congregation. How am I to meet these needs. How am I to help those whom I don't even know the battle that their facing. How am I to help the person who doesn't even recognize their sin and coolness to the things of God? What can I do?

As these questions pounded in my mind, it was answered very distintly with one word - pray. What can I do? ...I can pray. The fact is, I can do nothing outside the power of the Spirit of God. Only He can open the eyes that are blinded. Only He can heal the broken hearted. Only He can reveal and convict people of their sin. Only He can give the power to overcome struggles and strongholds. Only He can give me the strength to carry the burdens.

It is not even the amount of words that I pray, but the atitude of prayer. I see in Scripture how the great men of prayer had few words that were put on the printed page, but their wrestling with God was long. They were successful with few words but victory came in patience and in most instances a long wait. They prayed to God with fastings and mighty cries both day and night.

In reading E.M. Bounds "The Power of Prayer" I read this quote that really spoke to my heart and drove me to my knees, knowing what can and will make the difference.

"This perpetual hurry of business and company ruins me in soul if not in body. More solitude and earlier hours! I suspect I have been allotting habitually too little time to religious exercises, as private devotion and religious meditation, Scripture-reading, etc. two hours or an hour and a half daily. I have been keeping too late hours, and hence have had but a hurried half hour in morning to myself. Surely the experience of all good men confirms the proposition that without due measure of private devotions the soul will grow lean. But all may be done through prayer - almighty prayer, I am ready to say - and why not? for that it is almighty is only through the gracious ordination of the God of love and truth, O then, pray, pray, pray!"
- William Wilberforce

Our Good is Not Ever Good Enough

2012-01-09T15:02:00.001-05:00

Isaiah 64:6 tells us that all our righteousness or all of our good works has nor earns any merit from our heavenly Father. Somehow we believe that God's goodness or grace toward us is dependent on how well we perform. Not so! God's merit towards us dependent upon the sacrificial atonement that was met by His only begotten Son. The same grace that was needed for our salvation is the same grace needed for our works or fruit as His children.

John Owen, known as the prince of Puritan theologians, wrote these words way back in 1657:

"Believers obey Christ as the one by whom our obedience is accepted by God. Believers know all their duties are weak, imperfect and unable to abide in God’s presence. Therefore they look to Christ as the one who bears the iniquity of their holy things, who adds incense to their prayers, gathers out all the weeds from their duties and makes them acceptable to God."[1]

In his quote, Owen speaks of Christ bearing the iniquity of our holy things—that is, the sinfulness of even our good works. As another Puritan preacher was reputed to have said, “Even our tears of repentance need to be washed in the blood of the Lamb.” So our best works can never earn us one bit of favor with God. Let us then turn our attention from our own performance, whether it seems good or bad to us, and look to the gospel of Jesus Christ, which is God’s provision for our sin, not only on the day we trusted Christ for our salvation but every day of our Christian lives.^{^[2]}

May we continue to depend upon the grace of God for all that we are and do as believers.

[1] John Owen, Communion with God, ed. R. J. K. Law (Edinburgh, Scotland: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1991), 117.

^{^[2]} Jerry Bridges, The Discipline of Grace: God's Role and Our Role in the Pursuit of Holiness (Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 2006), 44.

Charles Haddon Spurgeon on Christ Crucified

2011-09-10T12:37:00.001-04:00

I do not believe it is preaching Christ and him crucified, to give our people a batch of philosophy every Sunday morning and evening, and neglect the truth of this Holy Book. I do not believe it is preaching Christ and him crucified, to leave out the main cardinal doctrines of the Word of God, and preach a religion which is all a mist and a haze, without any definite truths whatever. I take it that a man does not preach Christ and him crucified, who can get through a sermon without mentioning Christ’s name once; nor does that man preach Christ and him crucified who leaves out the Holy Spirit’s work, who never says a word about the Holy Ghost, so that indeed the hearers might say, “We do not so much know whether there be a Holy Ghost.”

And I have my own private opinion that there is no such thing as preaching Christ and him crucified, unless you preach what nowadays is called Calvinism. I have my own ideas, and those I always state boldly. It is a nickname to call it Calvinism; Calvinism is the gospel, and nothing else. I do not believe we can preach the gospel, if we do not preach justification by faith, without works; nor unless we preach the sovereignty of God in his dispensation of grace; nor unless we exalt the electing, unchangeable, eternal, immutable, conquering, love of Jehovah; nor do I think we can preach the gospel, unless we base it upon the peculiar redemption which Christ made for his elect and chosen people; nor can I comprehend a gospel which lets saints fall away after they are called, and suffers the children of God to be burned in the fires of damnation after having believed. Such a gospel I abhor. The gospel of the Bible is not such a gospel as that.

for meditation: To “know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2) may sound very limited. In fact it is a vast and glorious subject upon which everything else should be based and for which God should be given all the glory (1 Corinthians 1:30,31).^{^[1]}

^{^[1]} C. H. Spurgeon and Terence Peter Crosby, 365 Days With Spurgeon (Volume 1) (Leominster, UK: Day One Publications, 1998), 49.

A.W. Tozer on Worship

2011-09-08T19:16:00.006-04:00

There is much talk about worship today and I thought this quote from Tozer is something we need to think about and take heed to.

"In my opinion, the great single need of the moment is that light-hearted superficial religionists be struck down with a vision of God high and lifted up, with His train filling the temple. The holy art of worship seems to have passed away like the Shekinah glory from the tabernacle. As a result, we are left to our own devices and forced to make up the lack of spontaneous worship by bringing in countless cheap and tawdry activities to hold the attention of the church people."

A CALL TO ANGUISH

2011-08-22T09:03:00.002-04:00

I would ask you to watch the short 7 - minute video below by David Wilkerson and then maybe ask yourself some questions. I have put some of my own questions that I have asked following the video.

When was the last time I was in anguish?

When was the last time I cried out to God because of my sin?

When was the last time I prayed ALL night for God's power or for a lost soul.?

When was the last time I gave up your vacation to go on a missions trip or to serve in a ministry?

When was the last time I read God's word and would not put it down until I heard His still small voice?

When was the last time I shared my faith? When was the last time I came to church READY to worship God in spirit and in truth?

When was the last time I gave sacrificially - where it hurt and would require me to give up something?

When am I going to be willing to be broken and spilled out for my savior as he was for me?

When will I quite playing church?

When will I be willing to humble myself and stand in awe before my savior?

When? When? When?

Preaching is NOT a game

2011-07-15T09:34:00.005-04:00

How should a preacher preach? 2 Timothy 3:16 – 4:2 gives us one of the most, if not thee most lofty COMMANDS in Scripture. 2 Timothy 4:1-2 “I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word!...”

That is quite an astounding introduction to God’s command for those of us who stand up and preach the Word. This verse tells us that preaching is an exalted and serious charge to preach the word. This charge is given to us before God. AND before the Lord Jesus Christ. AND that He is coming again. AND when He comes He will judge. AND finally that He will be ruling His kingdom. That tells me that the stakes are high. That tells me it’s a serious thing to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. That tells me that what hangs in the balance is eternal life or eternal death.

This command proceeds that which is given to us in the preceding verses. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 it says, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Our preaching deals with God’s inspired words that he has preserved in what we call the Bible – not my words but his words and his voice. Thus I’m to preach his word and it is done in the sight of God and in the name of Christ Jesus, who’s coming to judge and who one day I will stand and give an account (Hebrews 13:17). Not only that, but all teachers of his word will be held accountable and to a higher standard in how they taught the Bible (James 3:1).

The profound effect that this has on me is that preaching is not a game! I must remember the seriousness of man’s proclamation and how I’m to expose the voice of God and exalt the greatness of God. I’m not to tell stories or jokes or give my ideas, or my philosophies or my wisdom. I am to be an under-shepherd and a spokesman to a flock of people. I'm to open up the revelation of God’s word and give them a glimpse of his greatness, and his mercy, and his majesty, and his holiness and to say that he is worthy of every bit of our attention and the total surrender of our lives to him.

Dear heavenly Father, raise up a people that want to see the glory of God and hear and obey your voice. May they come to hear and desire your word and may we respond with open hearts and minds, and radically changed lives.

That Dreaded Word - Cancer

2011-07-12T09:01:00.006-04:00

On Monday, June 27th, our lives at the Nulf family changed forever. To what extent that change will be is yet to be determined. This was the infamous day my wife Brenda told me that the biopsy that was done came back positive. That dreaded word that everyone fears came crashing through my mind when my wife told me that she had cancer. The technical term the doctors gave us was Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, which is a form of breast cancer.

I don't want to sound pious here, but my wife and family have been incredibly blessed. Not to say that we have not had our share of problems and issues in our lives, but for the most part, life has been pretty good - praise be to God! In fact, we often talked about that over the last few years and wondered if and when our time would come. Don't get me wrong, it's not that everyone has to go through great tragedies and deep valleys in their life, but we also understand that we were by no means exempt from it. In fact, the Bible tells us that if we are living for Christ, you will go through trials and tribulations and we are to count it all joy (James 1:2).

I have often preached that God's glory is seen greatest and clearest through the suffering of his children. That may sound strange to you, but it's not strange to the Scriptures and all anyone has to do is look at God's only begotten Son and the Cross at Calvary. I will tell you that God's glory has never been nor will be ever greater or clearer than when his Son Jesus willingly went to the Cross at Calvary and died for your sins and mine.

For whatever reason God has chosed Brenda and the Nulf family, our greatest desire is to glorify our Father as we travel this road. I will tell you that God's grace has been incredible! The following day my wife told me that she had cancer my devotion time took me to Psalm 23. What a word from the Lord. I have used that passage many times as a pastor to minister to people with the wonderful word of God. Now that verse spoke to me and my heart as never before - He is MY Shephered and 'Oh' how he has continued to restore my soul!

When I had finished my devotions, I powered up my computer where I found a church member had posted on Facebook a video - the video was the song "It is well with my soul". Most of us know the story behind that song and those wonderful words became mine - "it is well with my soul."

The following day (Wednesday), my daily Bible reading took me to Ezekiel 24. As I read, I came upon Ezekiel 24:15-24. God said that He was going to take Ezekiel’s wife; the “delight of his eyes” was going to be taken away from him as a sign to what was going to happen with the judgment and destruction of Jerusalem. What’s interesting in these verses is what’s not said. Nowhere in this text do you hear Ezekiel’s protest to God. Folks we are bought with a price, and our life is not our own (1 Cor. 6:20). In other words, there is nothing that God does not have the right to ask of you or me. And in whatever He may ask of us, we are to glorify Him. If we are to share in His glory, we must also be willingly to share in His suffering.

I would submit to you that in suffering, the temptation is the same wheter it is coming from cancer, persecution or even when you are slandered. And the temptation is always to say, "God is not good, and it is not worth serving him, and escaping from this suffering becomes the focus and this sinful way then becomes preferred and dominates our lives." My resolution and Brenda's is that we will trust him and keep trusting him; we have and will continue to experience his soverign mercy and overwhelming grace towards us. We will hold on to him as he is holding on to us.

Dear God, we thank you that we have been counted worthy to suffer for you. May we, through this bring honor and glory to your name for you are worthy!

Adoniram Judson's Advice for Missionaries

2011-06-16T09:33:00.001-04:00

Before you depart …

“I want to be a missionary. Now what?” Here, in paraphrase, is the advice Adoniram Judson gave to a missionary association in New York:

1. Be a missionary for life, not for a limited term.

2. Select a healthy and good-natured spouse.

3. Don’t be overzealous to do good on board ship and thereby get in the way.

4. Take care that you are not weakened by the hardships you will face during the preparation and travel to your destination.

5. Don’t judge the local Christians in your field of labor before you know their language and understand their culture. You will undoubtedly be disappointed when you first arrive and may regret that you came, but don’t let first impressions dishearten or embitter you.

6. Don’t let fatigue and frustration tempt you into seeking retreat or focusing on tasks that distract from real missionary work.

7. Beware of pride arising from your good reputation and guard against it by openly confessing your shortcomings.

8. Trust God in all things; don’t lay up money for yourselves.

9. Exercise to maintain your health.

10. Avoid excessive socializing with other Westerners and don’t try to keep up a fashionable lifestyle that will separate you from the people you are there to serve.

Adoniram Judson (1788-1850) Is know as the Father of Baptist Missionaries, lexicographer, and Bible translator to Burma. Born in Massachusetts in 1788. Helped form the American Baptist Missionary Union. In 1834 completed a translation of the whole Bible into the Burmese language. During the Anglo-Burmese War, he spent twenty-one months in prison. From 1845-1847, after thirty-four years in Burma, he took his only furlough to his native land. Returning to Burma, he spent his remaining years working on his English-Burmese dictionary. He died in 1850 and was buried at sea.

Bibliography:

Christian History Magazine-Issue 90: Adoniram & Anne Judson: American Mission Pioneers (Carol Stream, IL: Christianity Today, 2006).

Once Saved, Always Saved

2011-06-03T07:33:00.001-04:00

During or Mid-week service a comment was made by Pastor Bud about those whom are saved and in sin. I have talked to people on several occasions about this. On one hand, I have talked to people who see people that have professed to be saved and live like the devil. On the other hand, I have talked to the actual people who have made a profession and have told me that they have forsaken Christ and lost their salvation. To these folks, I often tell them you can’t give back what’s not theirs in the first place. Anyway, the doctrine is called Perseverance and we’ll take a quick look at it today.

If properly understood this is an incredibly comforting doctrine, but is indeed often abused, misunderstood, or both. The Bible teaches that all who are by faith united with Christ, who have been justified by God’s grace and regenerated by the Holy Spirit, will never totally nor fully and finally fall away from the state of grace, but with certainty persevere until the end. Romans 11:29 states that the “… the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.” Leon Morris comments, “It is one of the precious things about the Christian faith that our continuance in eternal life depend not on our feeble hold on Christ, buy on His firm grip on us” (Morris, “The Gospel According to John (ref. John 10:27-30)).

It’s important to remember that perseverance is not dependent on us the same way salvation is not dependent on what we do or don’t do. Jesus’ work on the Cross was accepted by the Father (Rom 1:4; 4:25). Romans 5:8-10 tells us that Christ died “while we were yet sinners.” However, Christ’s present ministry purposes to keep us saved just as much as his past work on the Cross purposed to save us in the first place. Christ at this very moment is seated next to the Father. Why? – to continue to make intercession for us (Hebrews 7:25). You see, I believe God the Father answered Jesus’ prayer in John 17, among other things that He would keep those who believe and that they might enjoy the blessings of eternal fellowship with him. And so our Savior is presently at the right hand of the Father interceding for us (Rom 8:34).

This, however, does not mean that everyone who professes to be saved is eternally saved. Furthermore, it doesn’t mean that everyone who is members of our church and even manifests certain gifts in Christian service is necessarily eternally saved. This doctrine of perseverance of eternal security is applicable only to those who have a dynamic experience in salvation. I say dynamic because, it’s a salvation that they shall never totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace. It’s dynamic because the Spirit of God has testified to their spirit that they are his child (Rom 8:16). This is not to say that they shall never backslide, never fall into sin, and never fail to show forth the praises of him who called them out of darkness into this marvelous light. It simply means that they will never totally fall away from the state of grace into which they have been brought, nor fait to return from their backsliding in the end.

The born-again Christian can no more lose his sonship to the heavenly Father than an earthly child can lose their sonship to an earthly father. Once saved, always saved!

It's Good to Be a Child of the King

2011-06-01T15:27:00.001-04:00

We have been studying the book of Galatians at Mt Zion Baptist Church, which is a wonderful book about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Within the context off salvation, Paul is the only one who mentions the word adoption. The other writers of the NT associate this word with the blessings of the doctrines of regeneration and justification. Paul uses adoption five times in the Bible (Rom 8:15, 23; 9:4; Gal 4:5; Eph 1:5). In one instance it is referenced to the nation of Israel (Rom 9:4); another time when that adoption becomes fully realized in the future coming of Christ (Rom 8:23); and then in three instances Paul declares it as a present fact in a Believers life.

The word adoption literally means “placing as a son.” I like how Evans summarizes it, “Regeneration has to do with our change in nature; justification, with our change in standing; sanctification with our change in character; adoption, with our change in position” (Evans, The Great Doctrines of the Bible, p. 161). Wow! In regeneration then we have a new life; in justification, a new standing; and in adoption, a new position.

I love Gal 4:6 “And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.” Before salvation, the Gentile (all those not Jews) was a slave and the Jew a minor. Yet through adoption, both now have legal standing as sons of God (Gal 4:1-7). Of course, our full adoption and all that comes with it is not fully realized until the coming of Christ (Rom 8:23). Then, if you can imagine, our broken sin riddled bodies will be delivered from all corruption and mortality and be make like unto his own glorious body (Phil 3:20).

Praise God that until Christ comes for his own, God has given us a down payment in the person of the Holy Spirit as I already mentioned in Gal 4:6. Because of this there is a great appreciation and desire for the believer to have fellowship with the Father. This is manifested by how we are to walk and be led by the Spirit and a conformity to the image of God’s Son (Rom 8:29).

What a glorious thing to be a child of the King!

The Question of Holiness?

2011-05-23T09:18:00.002-04:00

I have been plowing through Jonathan Edwards “Religious Affections” where Edwards writes exhaustively between what distinguishes that of true and false religion. He does this by a demonstrating the marks of the saving work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. To understand this is an imperative if there will ever be true and lasting revival in ourselves and in our churches. I find much of what he challenges us with to be quite foreign and a great challenge for our day. Below is a paraphrase of some of what Edwards challenges the believer with:

A great part of godliness is a genuine “fear of God.” Proverbs 8:13 says that the “fear of the LORD is to hate evil.” And as Believer’s we are called upon to give evidence of our sincerity by this: Ps 97:10 “Ye that love the Lord hate evil.” And the Psalmist often mentions it as an evidence of his sincerity; Ps 2, 3, “I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes; I hate the work of them that turn aside.” Ps 119:104, “I hate every false way.” Again, Ps 139:21, “Do I not hate them, O Lord, that hate thee?”

So holy desire, exercised in longings, hungerings, and thirstings after God and holiness, is often mentioned in Scripture as an important part of a true walk with Christ. When was the last time that you or I have meditated on the holiness of God? Only then will the above Scriptures come to bring great conviction to our souls. We are too quick to compare ourselves with others and to leave God out of it.

In Isa. 6:3 is says, “And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.” The repetition of the word “holy” is a Hebrew form used to give emphasis. R.C. Sproul says that “Only once is a characteristic of God mentioned three times in succession. The Bible says that God is holy, holy, holy. Not that He is merely holy, or even holy, holy. He is holy, holy, holy. The Bible never says that God is love, love, love, or mercy, mercy, mercy, or wrath, wrath, wrath, or justice, justice, justice. It does say that he is holy, holy, holy, the whole earth is full of His glory (R.C. Sproul, The Holiness of God).”

This is what shook Isaiah to the very bones and cried out “Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts” (Isa 6:5).

When was the last time, if any that you encountered the holiness of God? In that single moment all of Isaiah’s self-esteem was shattered. “In a brief second he was exposed, made naked beneath the gaze of the absolute standard of holiness. As long as Isaiah could compare himself to other mortals, he was able to sustain a lofty opinion of his own character. The instant he measured himself by the ultimate standard, he was destroyed—morally and spiritually annihilated. He was undone. He came apart. His sense of integrity collapsed (R.C. Sproul).”

I find myself in a quandary as I study the holiness of God and realize how unholy I am. And yet that’s precisely why we need to be looking deep in the character of the holiness of God – because we are so far away from this elevated character of God. May we cry out as Isaiah did – Woe is me! And may the hot coal of grace and mercy be placed on our lips that our sin may be purged and that we would have a genuine fear of God and to seek relentlessly the elevated character of holiness.

Bibliography:

R. C. Sproul, The Holiness of God (Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Publishers, 1996).

Edwards, Jonathan. A Treatise Concerning Religious Affections : In Three Parts ... Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 1996.

Nothing But the Truth - Part 2 by Pastor Nick Moore

2011-05-21T10:38:00.003-04:00

Word-Centered Counseling
Another area in which our ministerial walk has not quite matched our conservative talk is in the area of Biblical Counseling. As a pastor, it never ceases to amaze me the way that the people in Southern Baptist (and most evangelical) congregations have the tendency to draw a radical distinction between the elements of 2 Peter 1:3, “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness.” Most believe that God has given us (in the Bible) everything we need for “life” (namely eternal life), but what they don’t often see is that He has also given us everything we need for “godliness.” In other words, most of the people in our churches believe that the Bible is sufficient to save, but is somehow insufficient to sanctify. And it is at this point that we come face to face with the stark reality that the reason most of our people believe this distinction is because this is precisely what they have been trained to believe.

What else are they to conclude when every book their pastor told them to read for pre-marital and/or marital counseling talks more about principles of psychology and communication than about what the Bible says regarding marriage? What else are they to conclude when every time their pastor is posed with a difficult issue in the life of a member, his default reaction has not been to reproof or exhort that person, but to refer him/her to a “professional” so that he/she can be “diagnosed” and the appropriate prescription ascertained? What else are they to conclude when their pastor’s preaching points them to “tips” and “principles” more than to the depth of their depravity and the solution God has provided in Christ not just so that they can be justified, but also that they may be sanctified? Do we really believe that the Bible is power behind true “life-change”? Do we really believe that God’s Word alone, and not the voice of secular wisdom, brings about true “abundant life”? Do we really believe that we are what the Bible says we are, that we have what the Bible says we have, that we can do what the Bible says we can do? Do we really believe what the Bible says we should believe…really?

Word-Centered Mission

One final area in which there seems to be a disconnect between our words and our work in the SBC is in that of Mission. I recently heard from a young minister who attended a popular “ministry” conference that was attended by thousands from various “ministry” and “leadership” responsibilities across the nation. He told me about one of the authors/speakers who spoke there and the invaluable leadership insight he provided for his hearers: “leaders should always strive to be humble.” At first, I had to admit my relief that such a timely and appropriate word was given to such a vast audience of current/future leaders. But then, my friend informed me of the follow-up line, “Leaders should strive for humility, because humility just works.” Is this really why leaders should strive for humility? Not because the Bible says we should, but because it “just works?” We can roll our eyes. We can shake our heads. Or, we can turn right around and realize that this kind of thinking is merely the logical conclusion of what we’ve been preaching for quite some time.

When church-growth is more about method than message [Check out Scott Wilson’s Post, “The Word Grows: A New Testament Plan for Church” and “Does Inerrancy Really Matter?”]. When leadership is more about charisma than character. When results are measured more financially and fiscally than by faithfulness and fruit of the Spirit, what are we communicating? The church of the Lord Jesus is not followed by an “Inc.” The Great Commission is not merely another program or initiative to be executed and evaluated according to the principles of worldly wisdom and pragmatism. Rather the church is the Kingdom counterculture. The church is the outpost of Christ’s rule and reign. The church is the beacon by which the “manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places” (Eph 3:10). And remember, Christ has not entrusted His mission to CEO’s and Moguls, but rather He has given it to the “the things that are not” (1 Cor 1:28).

Before being delivered over for crucifixion, Jesus prayed to the Father, “Sanctify them in the truth, your word is truth” (John 17:17). The question that comes to us, as Southern Baptists in the 21^st century, is this: Will we truly be a people of the Book? Will we truly be a people of the Word? Will we truly be a people of the Truth, the whole Truth, and nothing but the Truth? Our only answer can be…so help us God!

About the author

Lead pastor at the Spencer County Campus of Highview Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Nick has a BA in Biblical and Theological Studies from Boyce College, an M.Div from the School of Theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary where he is also currently pursuing a Ph.d in Old Testament Theology. Nick has been married to Kyndra for 7 years and they have five children, Jacob, James, Elizabeth, Sophia, and a baby girl due in May ’11.

And Nothing But The Truth...Part 1 by Nick Moore

2011-05-06T11:20:00.003-04:00

Note: This Post originally
appeared on www.baptisttwentyone.com

This is my Bible…I am what it says I am, I have what it says I have, and I can do what it says I can do.” If you are still with me after reading these lines, you are probably either at least contemplating moving on to another post that is worth reading or you are waiting with bared teeth for me to turn the tables and rant on the theological vapidity of the popularizer of this creed. The reason you have reacted this way, if you are even remotely aware of the current climate of evangelicalism, is that you have grown to associate these words with emptiness. These words have become almost inextricably tied to a man known for lifting his Bible high and declaring its absolute authority one minute, only to turn around the next and lay it on the lectern for its pages to be rustled no more…at least until next week’s chant.

In the following, I can promise neither a blog post worth reading nor a seething rant on prosperity theology. But what I do hope to show is the way in which you and I as Southern Baptists are much closer to that Lakewood lectern than any of us would care to admit, both in word and in deed. For all of the sloganeering surrounding and flowing from the Conservative Resurgence (CR) in the Southern Baptist Convention, the result is that Southern Baptists are not, in the end, as much a “people of the book” as we might think. Of course, by listening to our rhetoric, we absolutely are. While we may not (for fear of negative association) stand up and proclaim the above cited creed, we regularly (and rightly) articulate ones just like it regarding our firm convictions on the “inerrant”, “infallible”, and “authoritative” word of God that our SBC forebears fought so hard to defend. The question we must answer, though, as we follow on the heels of these warriors is- will such rhetoric ring hollow for us? Will we as Southern Baptists in the 21^st century be found equally guilty of hauling our “inspired” Bibles into pulpits, counseling offices, and board rooms, touting their sufficiency, only to turn around and “lay them on the lectern” in favor of practical tips, pop psychology, and trendy new tactics? I would suggest this is a very real danger that exists for our generation in at least three major areas.

Word-Centered Preaching

The heart-cry of the CR was “Back To The Bible.” CR leaders rightly touted the Bible as the inspired word of God and the authoritative means by which God has revealed Himself to His people, but at some point in the journey, these phrases morphed into little more than clichéd slogans. Now, many of the same preachers who get red-faced and hyper-perspirant defending the “authority of the Bible,” are the ones who fill their ministries with endless treatments of the epistles and never find their way into Leviticus, Judges, or the Minor Prophets, except for (maybe) an occasional anecdote or illustration. After all, “aren’t we New Testament believers?” they’ll say. Now, many of the same preachers who, as young men, watched the CR unfold before their eyes and whose very ministries exist as direct beneficiaries of the CR, are turning around and saying things like, “Well, of course all Scripture is equally inspired, but I’m just not convinced that all Scripture is equally profitable” (cue “creative” and “hip” collection of quasi-biblical material strung together into a “helpful” and “inspirational” “talk” or “message”.)

Is this what our SBC forebears fought for? Is this the hill on which they deemed it worthy to die? So that their sons and grandsons could wave around a Bible and call it “inerrant” while (practically) denying its power? I somehow doubt it. As many have rightly observed- the Battle For The Bible did not begin in the 20^th century and it will not be won until the kingdom of this world has become the Kingdom of our God and of His Christ. In the meantime, however, we as inheritors of this faith must champion the Word in our pulpits. That means we can call our preaching “expository” all we want, but unless we are standing up week in and out actually “exposing” the text and its meaning, we will continue to create biblically anemic congregations with insatiable appetites for “lists” and “principles”, but not for Jesus. That means we can no longer begin sermon preparation in search of “preachable” points likely to garner “hoorahs” and “amens,” but must instead begin with the sacred text, which might not win us much approval or praise, but has been promised not to return void (Is 55:11).

In light of this post by Nick Moore, B21 thought it would be helpful to show a video of the Kimyal people receiving the New Testament for the first time… and to see their hunger for the Word

<a href="http://www.vimeo.com/17025038">http://www.vimeo.com/17025038</a>

A Right Heart by J.C. Ryle

2011-05-06T10:38:00.001-04:00

1) A right heart is a NEW heart (Ezek. 36:26). It is not the heart with which a person is born—but another heart put in them by the Holy Spirit. It is a heart which has new tastes, new joys, new sorrows, new desires, new hopes, new fears, new likes, new dislikes. It has new views about the soul, sin, God, Christ, salvation, the Bible, prayer, heaven, hell, the world, and holiness. It is like a farm with a new and good tenant. “Old things are passed away. Behold all things are become new” (2 Cor. 5:17).

This post originally appeared on JC Ryle Quotes
It is an excerpt from JC Ryle's book, Old Paths

2) A right heart is a BROKEN and CONTRITE heart (Psalm 51:17). It is broken off from pride, self-conceit, and self-righteousness. Its former high thoughts of self are cracked, shattered, and shivered to atoms. It thinks itself guilty, unworthy, and corrupt. Its former stubbornness, heaviness, and insensibility have thawed, disappeared, and passed away. It no longer thinks lightly of offending God. It is tender, sensitive, and jealously fearful of running into sin (2 Kings 22:19). It is humble, lowly, and self-abased, and sees in itself no good thing.

3) A right heart is a heart which BELIEVES on Christ alone for salvation, and in which Christ dwells by faith (Rom. 10:10; Eph. 3:17). It rests all its hopes of pardon and eternal life on Christ’s atonement, Christ’s mediation, and Christ’s intercession. It is sprinkled in Christ’s blood from an evil conscience (Heb. 10:22). It turns to Christ as the compass-needle turns to the north. It looks to Christ for daily peace, mercy, and grace—as the sun-flower looks to the sun. It feeds on Christ for its daily sustenance, as Israel fed on the manna in the wilderness. It sees in Christ a special fitness to supply all its needs and requirements. It leans on Him, hangs on Him, builds on Him, cleaves to Him, as its physician, guardian, husband, and friend.

4) A right heart is a PURIFIED heart (Acts 15:9; Matt. 5:8). It loves holiness, and hates sin. It strives daily to cleanse itself from all filthiness of flesh and spirit (2 Cor. 7:1). It abhors that which is evil, and cleaves to that which is good. It delights in the law of God, and has that law engraved on it, that it may not forget it (Psalm 119:11). It longs to keep the law more perfectly, and takes pleasure in those who love the law. It loves God and people. Its affections are set on things above. It never feels so light and happy as when it is most holy; and it looks forward to heaven with joy, as the place where perfect holiness will at length be attained.

5) A right heart is a PRAYING heart. It has within it “the Spirit of adoption whereby we cry, Abba Father” (Rom. 8:15). Its daily feeling is, “Your face, Lord, will I seek” (Psalm 27:8). It is drawn by an habitual inclination to speak to God about spiritual things—weakly, feebly, and imperfectly perhaps—but speak it must. It finds it necessary to pour out itself before God, as before a friend, and to spread before Him all its needs and desires. It tells Him all its secrets. It keeps back nothing from Him. You might as well try to persuade a person to live without breathing, as to persuade the possessor of a right heart to live without praying.

6) A right heart is a heart that feels CONFLICT within it (Gal. 5:17). It finds within itself two opposing principles contending for the mastery—the flesh lusting against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh. It knows by experience what Paul means when he says, “I see a law in my members warring against the law of my mind” (Rom. 7:23). The wrong heart knows nothing of this strife. The strong man armed keeps the wrong heart as their palace, and their goods are at peace (Luke 11:21). But when the rightful King takes possession of the heart, a struggle begins which never ends until death. The right heart may be known by its warfare, quite as much as by its peace.

7) A right heart is HONEST, UNDIVIDED, and TRUE (Luke 8:15;1 Chron. 12:33; Heb. 10:22). There is nothing about it of falsehood, hypocrisy, or image-acting. It is not double or divided. It really is what it professes to be, feels what it professes to feel, and believes what it professes to believe. Its faith may be feeble. Its obedience may be very imperfect. But one thing will always distinguish the right heart. Its religion will be real, genuine, thorough, and sincere.

► Summary:
A heart such as that which I have now described, has always been the possession of all true Christians of every name, nation, people and tongue. They have differed from one another on many subjects—but they have all been of a right heart. Some of them have fallen, for a season, like David and Peter—but their hearts have never entirely departed from the Lord. They have often proved themselves to be men and women laden with infirmities—but their hearts have been right in the sight of God. They have understood one another on earth. They have found that their experience was everywhere one and the same. They will understand each other even better in the world to come. All that have had right hearts upon earth, will find that they have one heart when they enter heaven.

Temple Comparison

2011-05-06T07:04:00.001-04:00

I thought this was a great illustration to show the size difference between the Temple of Solomon and that of the one we read about in the New Testament.

Solomon’s Temple, finished in 957 BC, was less than one-half the size of Herod the Great’s expanded Second Temple in Jerusalem, built in 20–19 BC.

The Radical Act of Baptism?

2011-04-27T13:58:00.001-04:00

Believer’s baptism by immersion was no insignificant step when Baptists championed it in the 17th Century. This radical and public act was a break with over 1300 years of recognized practice in Christian society and it won few converts in the early years. Why was it so unpopular?

Infant baptism was important to almost everyone. With it came a Christian name, a recognized family and community relationship. For the church it meant another communicant who would obey its teaching and support it financially, either through offerings or taxes (or risk severe punishments!). Since church and state were wed across Europe, infant baptism was significant because it was the first point of accountability and authority which a person met.

Baptists, on the other hand, saw no scriptural basis for infant baptism and no need to succumb to the authority of the church in this way. Dedication of children to the Lord was permitted, but scriptural baptism was something else. A believer’s baptism by immersion was a profession of his faith in Christ as Savior and Lord … it was a picture of his death, burial and resurrection. When Baptists immersed new converts, the believers knowingly and voluntarily sought baptism and church membership, thus exercising each individual’s precious liberty of conscience. Believer’s baptism was an act that no parent, guardian or sponsor could do on one’s behalf. It was a personal, public witness of faith.

For those who defended the baptism of infants, the public spectacle of immersion was disgraceful, unbecoming and unhealthful. More than that, believer’s baptism was an affront to church tradition, control and authority, and certainly the continued well-being of both church and state.

Baptism is a declaration to the world that we belong to Jesus. Believer’s baptism by immersion … a radical act indeed!

Bibliography

Christian History Magazine-Issue 6: The Baptists (Worcester, PA: Christian History Institute, 1985).

Redifining God

2011-04-07T07:15:00.002-04:00

An article in the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported in April 21, 2000 that "Across the country, the faithful are redefining God. Dissatisfied with conventional images of an authoritarian or paternalistic deity, people are embracing quirky, individualistic conceptions of god to suit their own spiritual needs.”

You might say, ‘yes, this is what our culture is doing’, but I would submit to you that it’s also in our churches. We have a tendency today to redefine God into who we want Him to be. He’s a god that is okay with the middle class American way of life. He’s a god that’s okay with our self-satisfied lukewarm faith. He’s comfortable with our apathy and half-hearted devotion to him. He’s comfortable with our materialistic indulgences. He’s okay with these things, why? – because we are.

And so what do we do? – we fashion a god who looks a lot like us and this is a dangerous thing because when we gather together each week for our so called worship services what happens is not true worship to the revealed God of the Scriptures who is worthy of our praise. In all reality the only person we are worshipping is ourselves and the actual God we’re supposed to be worshipping has been grossly mis-defined. We become just like the Israelites who fashioned a golden calf in the desert. We worship a god that we’ve crafted in our own mind and this god is one that we can control and he’s okay with whatever we do, to include even our sin.

Our goal must not ever be to redefine God, because He’s not open to redefinition. The goal is revelation –to see how He has chosen to reveal Himself in scripture.

The WSJ goes on to say that “These gentler, almost mystical forms of theology have found a receptive audience in today’s affluent society. Americans are cobbling together a spiritual life from a variety of religious influences, along with a dash of yoga and psychotherapy or whatever else moves them.” This is an example of man-centered theology in which people will be quick to quote “Cast all your care upon him; for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:7). But avoid verses that say “If any man will come after me (Jesus), let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24).

“People seek out these new gods the way they seek out new products in the marketplace, ‘says Randall Styers, assistant professor at Union Theological Seminary, in New York. ‘It’s the ultimate form of individualism.”

There are some key questions that we all need to think about: Who are we worshipping? Is it the true God that has revealed Himself in Scripture or is it some other god that we’ve created in our minds?

What is a True Christian?

2011-02-24T10:39:00.004-05:00

I have been thinking a lot lately about the word Christian. What is a Christian? Good question – right? It seems to be a question that should be easily answered by anyone who has “been one” for very long. Now I know that there are many different facets to this question of what a Christian is. However, one of those many facets that seem to be absent, at least in my mind, is the acknowledgment of the word of God and the willingness to subject or submit themselves to it.

J.I. Packer in this regard states that “true Christians are people who acknowledge and live under the word of God. They submit without reserve to the word of God written in ‘the Book of Truth’ (Dan 10:21), believing the teaching, trusting the promises, and following the commands.”

I recently went to visit my son in college and on Sunday we all went to church, of course with the intent to worship our God and Savior. The church property was beautiful and the auditorium was incredible and could seat at least 3,000 people if not more. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not against big churches and beautiful buildings and to be honest I was probably drooling a little bit and in somewhat in the state of awe. Everything in the service from start to finish was polished and good. The music, the announcements, the preaching – everything was all good. However, those thoughts that I had been thinking were still in the back of my mind in a nagging sort of way. I began to think, how many of these 2,000 plus people here in this early service where there as “Christians” that were intentionally putting themselves under the authority of the word of God? On the other hand, I wondered how many were there and ready to give their critique of the music, or the announcements, or even how well the message was going to be delivered that morning?

I continued to contemplate how many will leave the service talking about the message of God’s word from John chapter 11? How many there that day will allow their life to be changed because of the word of God and it’s authority on their life? How many of them because of the word of God preached that morning will change their business habits, parenting or perhaps think of someone that they could share the wonderful message that they heard from John chapter 11?

I think most of us know the answer to that question. However, I wonder what would happen if instead of us coming into church to evaluate how well the building and grounds are maintained. Or whether or not they sang the songs I like the way I like them. Or how well the preacher was and if he followed the program and stopped on time. I just have to wonder what would happen if we actually came through the doors of the church this week with the prayer and attitude that we are going to be a true Christians and acknowledge and live under the word of God. I wonder what would happen if we actually came to church and expecting God to do a work and to allow the word of God to evaluate us. I thought to myself, things would be radically different then.

You see that’s exactly what I caught myself doing last week - critiquing and evaluating the church and I believe it’s the default mode of most of us “Christians” that live in an entertainment all about me based culture. But God and His wonderful, yet convicting way gave me an illustration that brought these thoughts to my own present circumstances. I was there in church evaluating everything that was going on and totally indifferent to God’s presence and Him standing at my hearts door knocking and desiring to do a work in my own life.

What snapped me back to reality and the presence of God was a young couple who sat in the row ahead of us and to my right. Specifically, I noticed that the young lady was already moved by the Spirit of God. This was visibly evident by her swollen eyes and the tears that trickled down her face. I immediately repented and begged God for forgiveness and prayed for God’s Spirit to continue to work in this young ladies life and that my indifference to the Spirit of God would not be a hindrance to His divine work. I then prayed for Him to minister to me and that I needed to submit myself to the word of God in my own life.

I want to be a true Christian. My desire is to be a person who acknowledges and lives under the word of God. I want to be a true Christian that will submit without reserve to ‘the Book of Truth’ believing it, trusting in its promises and following its commands. God help me.

Difficult Subjects

2011-02-04T06:35:00.001-05:00

I have decided to teach some lessons this year called “Primers”. These lessons are designed to introduce people to some of the more difficult subject areas in Christianity. Probably one of the reasons that they are seldom taught in the church. The major topics will include Theology, Church History, The Bible, and Apologetics.

Well, we had our first class and it was on the Trinity – what a heady subject to start with and to teach in only an hour. I told the class at the beginning that they were going to find themselves being a “heretic” because of the way they most likely viewed and explained the doctrine of the Trinity. I defined a heretic as person that claims to be Christian, but deny some essential aspect that has always defined Christianity both biblically and historically for the last 2000 plus years.

It’s been said, “God writes straight with crooked lines,” meaning God has allowed heresy to arise to help Christians clarify what they believe.^{^[1]} That is something that we don’t know for sure, but it often helps to go back in history and look at differing views (heresies) of the Trinity to help clarify the biblical and historical view. The Bible also says that as believers we should put our ego’s and pride aside and be willing to be corrected. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (2 Tim 3:16). Part of discipleship, not only involves growth, but correction and we all need to allow Scripture and others to correct us on our journey.

Well the class ended and I fell that it was a success – not that everyone there had a clear understanding of the Trinity, but by their actual looks of confusion. They left that night wrestling in their minds and hearts who God really is as revealed in His Word. Hopefully, they see that God is much “bigger” then the box we often put Him in. Hopefully, they have a greater awe of God and as they pray and sing praises to His name that they will know Him just a little better than they did before.

“But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me…” (Jer 9:24).

^{^[1]} Christian History Magazine-Issue 51: Heresy in the Early Church (Carol Stream, IL: Christianity Today, 1996).

The Council of Nicea

2011-01-22T09:21:00.001-05:00

What was at stake in the church's first general council (325) was the simplest, yet most profound, question: Who is Jesus Christ?

This question brought about a great divide in the church. The emperor, Constantine told the church leaders that they were to come to an agreement on this crucial question and that this division must come to an end. This was remarkable, considering that this was the first time that the church was not under such persecution and an enemy of Roman Empire. Many of these leaders still bore the scars.

To settle divisions in the church the emperors called for church councils that would promote doctrinal unity. The Council of Nicea, would bring together some 220 bishops, who would meet for two months to hammer out a succinct definition of Jesus Christ. It’s interesting to note that the first council held would take on such a critical question. A question that is still being hotly contested today.

The prevailing teaching that brought this about stated that Christ was more than human but something less than God. God started out alone and then created the Son, who then created everything else. Arius, a notable pastor in Egypt, was the one that this false doctrine was attributed to. However, it’s important to note that he did not do this maliciously, but was only trying to make the person of Jesus understandable. This false doctrine became very popular to the many new converts as it was similar to their religions of their youth. This was a religion that looked at there being one supreme God, who dwells alone, and who makes a number of lesser gods who do his bidding. They found it difficult to understand the Christian belief that Christ, the divine Word, existed from all eternity, and that he is equal to the Father.

As the Council met, there were many who were quick to compromise, yet there was one young man, Alexander, who was obstinate that Arius’s doctrine left Christianity without a divine Savior. He called for a creed (statement of faith) that made clear Christ Jesus’ full deity (Jesus actually being fully God in human flesh).

Eventually, they began to hammer out a definition of Jesus Christ that would include some exceedingly important series of phrases – “True God of true God, begotten not made, of one substance with the Father…” From this came the word homoousion (homo = one, ousion = substance) “of the same substance.” Thus Jesus is the same substance as the Father (homoousion), namely, the eternal, uncreated, and identical substance. He differs in function, not in essence, from the Father.

This first Council of Nicea, laid the foundation for the orthodox understanding of Jesus Christ. That foundation, praise God, has stood ever since.

Bibliography:

Norman L. Geisler, Systematic Theology, Volume Two: God, Creation (Minneapolis, MN: Bethany House Publishers, 2003).

Christian History Magazine-Issue 28: The 100 Most Important Events in Church History (Carol Stream, IL: Christianity Today, 1990).

The Hidden Life of Prayer

2010-12-19T09:15:00.003-05:00

This book is short in pages but large in content and you will not be disappointed. You can read it online for free but the book is packed with footnotes that are also rich in content. I would highly encourage you to pick this book up. You can find it online for about $10.

These endorsements for The Hidden Life of Prayer: The Lifeblood of the Christian—originally published in 1891—make me eager to get it, read it, and put it into practice.
“God brings books at their appointed times. The Hidden Life of Prayer arrived late but well-timed. This little jewel-strewn tapestry has done for me at 64 what Bounds’ Power Through Prayer did at 34. I could be ashamed that I need inspiration for the highest privilege. But I choose to be thankful.”
—John Piper, Senior Pastor, Bethlehem Baptist Church, Minneapolis, Minnesota

“”I have read The Hidden Life of Prayer again and again since Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia first gave it to me when I visited there as a prospective student forty years ago. Every time I read this book, the Lord uses it to deepen my prayer life and encourage my faith. I strongly recommend it!”
—Wayne Grudem, Research Professor of Theology and Biblical Studies, Phoenix Seminary, Phoenix, Arizona, USA

“It was in 1971 I first read this book I was shown a copy in Al Martin’s home and he told me how he used it, which plan I took up enthusiastically and have used ever since. I have read it through aloud during a week of morning meetings with various assistants and with deacons before they have started work. . . . Every time I read it I discover something fresh, convicting and helpful. The book does not make you afraid of prayer. It has a fragrance of Disruption times and the Awakening in the middle of the 19th century, in fact the author was born in that great year of 1859. He later married the daughter of Andrew Bonar and that warm piety and close walk with God characterizes this, McIntyre’s best book.
—Geoff Thomas, Alfred Place Baptist Church (Independent), Aberystwyth, Wales

Merry Christmas

2010-12-19T06:44:00.002-05:00

Dear Faith Family,

This time of year provides lots of opportunities to stop and reflect on the months that have flown by and to think about the ones that, if the Lord wills, we will live to see in 2011. Every review of the past testifies to the truthfulness of the hymn-writer's words based on a letter from the Puritan pastor, Samuel Rutherford,

With mercy and with judgment my web of time He wove,
And, yes, the dews of sorrow were lustered with His love.
("The Sands of Time Are Sinking")

One cannot live without some regrets. The presence of sin in the world and in our hearts means that we have not yet finished a day in which everything we did was exactly right. But one cannot live as a Christian without thanksgiving that overshadows the sorrows. Don't you find it to be true that, when you look back over your life, you see many reasons to praise and thank the Lord for His grace and goodness to you? We see how He has been faithful in keeping His promises and gracious in dealing with us kindly.

Past mercies help undergird our present hope for the future. As we consider God's ways with us over the last twelve months, we are encouraged to trust Him for whatever He brings into our lives in the year ahead. As we consider how the Lord has helped us thus far, we are strengthened in our faith to depend on Him as we move into the future. Past grace guarantees future grace.

The foundation of this hope is found in what I believe is one of the greatest promise in all Scripture – Romans 8:32. He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Paul is saying to us, "Look back at all that God has done in giving us Jesus Christ." He did not spare His only begotten Son, which is a calculated way of reminding us that He did send Him to the horrible death on the cross. God "delivered Him up" to that painful and shameful death so that we, His people, could have our sins forgiven and lives transformed.

If God did not spare even His Son in order to provide for us, how can we think for even a moment that He would fail to give us anything we need in the future? The Cross of Jesus Christ guarantees that God will graciously provide for us all that we need both in this life and the life to come. That is why Jesus Christ came to earth. That is why He was born.

So as you celebrate Christmas, with whatever traditions and activities that you and yours enjoy, take advantage of the opportunity to praise God afresh for what Paul calls the "unspeakable," gift of His Son. It’s unspeakable because there is nothing that comes close in comparison. If you have Christ you can be sure that, from your heavenly Father's kind hand, you have and will have everything you need.

Have a blessed and merry Christmas!

Igniting a Passion for Christ,

O Little Town of Bethlehem

2010-12-16T08:35:00.001-05:00

One of the highlights for me during the celebration of our Saviors birth is the singing of Christmas carols. One of my favorites (I say that about all of them) is “O Little Town of Bethlehem”. Below is a little background on this wonderful Christmas hymn.

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem.... Luke 2:4

This beloved Christmas carol is from the pen of one of America’s outstanding preachers of the past century, Phillips Brooks. In his day he was often referred to as the “Prince of the Pulpit.” His many published volumes of sermons have since become classics of American literature. He is said to have won the hearts of people with his preaching and writing as few clergymen have ever done.

“O Little Town of Bethlehem” was written in 1868, several years after Brooks had returned from a trip to the Holy Land. The experience of spending Christmas Eve in Bethlehem and worshipping in the Church of the Nativity, thought to be the place of Christ’s birth, made an indelible impression upon the young preacher. Three years later, while pastor at the Holy Trinity Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he was searching for a new carol for his children to sing in their Sunday School Christmas program. The still vivid memory of his Holy Land visit inspired Brooks to write this text.

Brooks gave a copy of the newly written carol to his organist and Sunday School superintendent, Lewis H. Redner, and asked him to compose a simple melody that children could sing easily. Redner was known throughout the Philadelphia area as a devoted Christian leader in Sunday School work as well as one deeply interested in church music. He struggled for a considerable time to contrive just the right tune for his pastor’s text. On the evening before the program was to be given, he suddenly awakened from his sleep and quickly composed the present melody. Redner always insisted that the tune was a gift from heaven. The carol was an immediate favorite with the children, as it has been with children and adults around the world to the present time. It was first published in 1874. Although Brooks wrote a number of other Christmas and Easter carols especially for children, this is the only one to survive the test of time.

Bibliography:

Kenneth W. Osbeck, 101 Hymn Stories (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Kregel Publications, 1982), 187.

To Treasure and Ponder

2010-12-13T10:59:00.001-05:00

Well it’s a snowy blustery day and as I look out my window it’s just breathtaking. The blog today is simply a prayer that is taken from the blog by a pastor Scotty Smith in Franklin Tennessee. The prayer says, “It’s always been easier for me to do ‘productive’ things for you, rather than spend undistracted, unrushed time with you. I confess this as sin.” I know far too much about this, about doing in place of knowing. “An informed mind is not the same thing as an enflamed heart… by any stretch.” Amen! Maybe you need to pray this too.

Gracious Jesus, the juxtaposition of images in the nativity scene are almost too much to wrap my tiny heart around. Your mother, Mary, is just beginning to nurse and know you. Even as I write these words I realize what a holy mystery and immeasurable condescension your incarnation was. You, the very God who created all things… the Lord who sustains all things by the power of your word… the King who is making all things new… as a baby you drew life-sustaining nourishment from a young maiden’s breast. I’m stunned by your inconceivable humility—a humility that marked your life from cradle to cross.

Shepherds ran off to spread the word of your birth, while Mary “treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” “Hurrying off” like a shepherd to tell others about you has always been easier for me than sitting still and letting you tell me about yourself. It’s always been easier for me to do “productive” things for you, rather than spend undistracted, unrushed time with you. I confess this as sin, Jesus. This simply isn’t okay, for knowing about you is not the same thing as knowing you. An informed mind is not the same thing as an enflamed heart… by any stretch.

To know you is eternal life, and I do want to know you, Jesus… so much better than I already do. I want to treasure you in my heart and ponder who you are. I want to contemplate your joyful life within the Trinity, from all eternity. I want to marinate in everything you’ve already accomplished through your life, death and resurrection… and everything you’re presently doing as the King of kings and Lord of lords… and everything you will be to us in the new heaven and new earth—the Bridegroom of your beloved Bride.

O, blessed circuit board overloading and breaking glory… there’s so much to treasure and so much to ponder. It’s not as though I’m a stranger to treasuring and pondering. I treasure and ponder a lot of things, Jesus—things, however, that lead to a bankrupt spirit…an impoverished heart… and a spent body.

Jesus, this very Advent season, by the power of the gospel, slow all of us down… settle us afresh… center us on yourself, that each of us might say with awe and adoration, “Whom have I in heaven but you? And being with you, I desire nothing on earth. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever (Ps 73:25-26).” So very Amen, we pray, in your peerless and priceless name.

The General: William Booth

2010-12-04T08:05:00.001-05:00

We will be “ringing the bells” again this year and I thought it would be good for us to know a little history behind the Salvation Army. By the way, there is still some slots left to sign up.

William Booth was born in economic and spiritual poverty, yet he founded a worldwide organization dedicated to their eradication.

by Norman H. Murdoch

Few would deny William Booth the title “The Prophet of the Poor.” He is best known today as founder and first general of The Salvation Army, an organization that exists to bring a better life to the poor through both social and spiritual salvation.

Booth urging sinners to repent. Booth preached in naphtha-lit tents on disused burial grounds (shown here), haylofts, rooms behind a pigeon shop—anywhere to fulfill his famous words, “Go for souls and go for the worst!”

Pawnbroker’s Apprentice

Yet Booth did not come to this high appellation by a direct route; he was not to the manor born. Rather he was born in relative poverty, in Sneinton, a Nottingham, England suburb, on April 10, 1829. One biographer described William’s father, Samuel, as “an illiterate speculative builder.” His mother, Mary Moss Booth, was Samuel’s second wife. The Booths were at best laboring class, with little education. His father, “a Grab, a Get,” by William’s definition, died when William was just 14. By that time William was helping to earn the family income by working as a pawnbroker’s apprentice. Mrs. Booth ran a small shop in a poor Nottingham district where she sold household wares.

Life-Changing Influences

After his father’s death, a Wesleyan couple invited William to attend chapel. William’s family had not been religious, although they had had William baptized at the Sneinton parish church (Anglican) two days after his birth. William’s conversion at age 15 cannot be fixed in time or place. Various biographers describe it as coming in the streets of Nottingham, in the Broad Street Wesleyan Chapel where evangelist Isaac Marsden was leading a revival, or in a small prayer meeting. William did recall a long siege of conviction after he had made a profit in a transaction with a friend. He remembered the relief he felt when his guilt was removed.

Soon after his conversion William had another life-changing experience: hearing American revivalist James Caughey, who led “a remarkable religious awakening” at Nottingham’s Wesleyan Chapel. The rush of souls to hear the gospel led Booth to see that “soul-saving results may be calculated upon when proper means are used for their accomplishment.” Booth went on to make a lifelong commitment to the scientific revivalism methods of Charles G. Finney.

With Caughey’s example fresh in mind, Booth and a group of friends set out to evangelize the poor of Meadow Platts. They held nightly open-air addresses, after which they invited people to meetings in cottages. Their use of lively songs, short exhortations calling for a decision for Christ, visitation of the sick and of converts (whose names and addresses they recorded) all anticipated methods Booth would write into Salvation Army Orders and Regulations thirty years later.

Mission to Military Movement

In 1854 William was ordained in the Methodist New Connexion. By 1861 he found that “settled ministry” did not suit him, and he resigned. He and Catherine became itinerant evangelists in Wales, Cornwall, and the Midlands, Britain’s “burned-over” districts.

Booth had seen no career for himself in urban evangelism when he left the New Connexion. But an invitation for Catherine to preach in London in 1865 led him to accept support from lay-run East London missions as a temporary solution to his vocational quandary. He soon organized his own East London Christian Mission which, by 1870, resembled a Methodist society. His mission failed to attract the “heathen masses,” however. So in 1878, he energized it by giving it the name “salvation army,” an idea he borrowed from the successful British Volunteer Movement in which thousands of working-class men found that civilian soldiering during their leisure hours gave them new status.

The Salvation Army struggled to win converts in London’s East End and other urban areas in which Irish mobs attacked Wesleyan intruders into their neighborhoods. So Booth again found a popular idea that solved his problems. Women Salvationists, working in slums since 1883, convinced him that reform activities would save sinners from a heathen urban environment and breathe new life into his mission.

Booth agreed, which ultimately led him to become both the leader of a worldwide evangelistic mission and a renowned social reformer. At the time of his death on August 20, 1912, the Salvation Army had become a family-run Christian empire, with seven of the Booths’ eight children (one daughter was retarded) taking leadership positions. (Four of these were women, and one, Evangeline, became the Army’s fourth general in 1934.) William Booth bequeathed to his son Bramwell the generalship of the Salvation Army, a religious and social service organization whose 15,945 officers “occupied” 58 countries and colonies. Today, following the pattern established by the first general, the Salvation Army marches on with over 25,000 officers in 91 countries.

Bibliography:

Christian History Magazine-Issue 26: William & Catherine Booth: Salvation Army Founders (Carol Stream, IL: Christianity Today, 1990).

The Lord's Prayer

2010-11-09T06:56:00.004-05:00

I don’t remember too much about church when I was a boy growing up. However, there are two things that stick out in my mind: Candles and the Lord’s Prayer. Candles because I was a "Candle Boy" and had to where a “dress” (robe) and light which seemed like a thousand candles. It seemed like so many because there was supposed to be two of us and the other kid never showed up. The other aspect I remember about church was the reciting of the Lord’s Prayer.

This, I thought, was an awesome thing as “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name” would thunder across the sanctuary. It was always done, if I remember correctly, at the beginning of the service and then everyone would sit down and settle in for the sermon.

The traditional reciting of the Lord’s Prayer is seldom heard across the church landscape today. It’s a tradition that has been lost and replaced with a multiplicity of other types of traditions. Although, when the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray (Luke 11:1), I don’t believe that this was a prayer that was ever intended to be recited as some magical key for the windows of heaven to then pour out upon us. However, I don’t think it’s a bad idea either.

It’s not a bad idea, because it reminds us how we are to pray. Reciting it, helps us to learn how we should pray and why Jesus recited it to His disciples. And it must have been important to the disciples because you don’t see anywhere else in Scripture where they asked Christ to teach them something. They saw how often Jesus got away to pray with His heavenly Father.

I conclude then that we should not neglect the Lord’s Prayer as we have and that the Lord’s Prayer is as relevant today as it was to the disciples 2000 plus years ago. It is the only pattern prayer the Lord Jesus gave and its purpose and function are timeless. It is a reminder, of how we are to pray throughout our lives in this present world. It’s truths do not change. However, their application may.

Take, for instance, the truth of God as the Father of His children – what a glorious thought. However, the present down-grading of human fatherhood, demand a careful explanation today of God’s unique and perfect Fatherhood. The same is true with the other aspects of the Lords’ Prayer. Our idea of a kingdom is a far cry from the kingdom that Christ will establish when He comes. God’s will also spoken of as if it were subjective; or it is, on the other hand, identified with material prosperity and personal influence. Good teaching and preaching needs to be done to rescue it from such erroneous errors and discover the thrill and joy of living both of God’s will and under it.

While most of us live without going to bed wondering where our next meal is going to come from, there is a larger population in the world that most definitely does. When we sit down and pray before our meals do we really believe that God has provided it? “Give us day by day our daily bread” can only be genuinely prayed as we relate ourselves seriously to others and their need of bread as well as our own.

Sin and temptation are a place we don’t go to in today’s church. It’s not popular and besides the church is there for me and to encourage me and to make me feel good about myself. Thus the church has moved to the entertainment business to help us to forget about our sins and to feel good about ourselves. Today the church only politely asks them to lay their sins and temptations at the door where they can be picked up on their way out to lunch.

Holiness – what’s that? Is that something that is still a priority for Christians? It’s not if you want to continue in your sin. However, the holiness of God is the glorious light of the Gospel (2 Cor. 4:6) that caused us to recognize and repent from our sin and believe in the work Christ on the cross for our salvation. Holiness is what causes us to forsake our sin and to flee from temptation. His holiness is that light that leads us not into temptation but guides us closer to the foot of the Cross.

The Lord’s Prayer is a treasure house of instruction and guidance Christ Jesus has given us. May we not neglect it but “When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil” (Luke 11:2-4).

Sin & Prayer

2010-10-28T08:49:00.190-04:00

There are times in ministry that you sense and know that God's leading in a certain direction. This, I believe, is the case as we begin our journey into a deeper intimacy with our Savior through the study of prayer. I want to share some of the circumstances that have led me to begin a teaching a series on this important relationship aspect with the Father.

Primarily, I would have to admit that the greatest reason for the upcoming study comes from the impact our last study on sin had on me. The overall thesis was to see sin as God does. So we began to unpack sin and the effects of sin in individuals, the church and its leadership. This quite frankly, drove me to a time of deep confession and more intense prayer. During all of this, I felt a definite need for a week of fasting and prayer where Psalm 139:23-24 was the focal point of this week and much was revealed by the Holy Spirit.

Prayer is something that I strive to always do better and do it with regularity but prayer and fasting is another matter altogether. It is a discipline I had infrequently done in the past but not with much fervor or desperation behind it. That has begun to change as I realized how desensitized I had become on sin and the need to experience the fullness of God in my life. This is where I understood that my initial focus was wrong. I initially was focusing on myself and knew that I had to refocus and start with Him. Jesus, in teaching His disciples how to pray said start with "Our Father...Hallowed by thy name" (Matt6:9). There I came face to face with His holiness and His holiness is what uncovers us. When you come to that point, there is nothing that can be said or done. Just like every example we have in Scripture - you fall on your face before God and begin to confess your unworthiness.

Ultimately what I came to know is that my view of God became my view and not His complete revealed truth as He has given us in Scripture. I had an unbalanced focus that concentrated on the God of mercy, forgiveness, love and acceptance. I still worshiped God, I still prayed to the Jehovah (Yahweh) but I worshiped Him through a golden calf that I had conjured up in my mind of who I wanted Him to be. The delivered people of Israel were still worshiping God too (Exodus 34), however, the golden calf allowed them to worship Him in a way that made them feel comfortable. You must understand, the golden calf never would condemn or bring about any conviction into their lives. In all reality, it was where they could worship however they wanted, which is nothing more than man-centered worship.

God's intent is that believers - both individually and collectively, remain in close communication with Him. Prayer is our path to receive understanding from God through Scripture. Only then can we move forward in radical obedience. Radical obedience that will cause us to give our very lives to pierce the darkness with the glorious light of the Gospel. A radical passion to see the holiness of God that causes us to hate sin - hate sin in our lives, in our churches and in our leadership. I truly believe if we as individuals fail in our prayers we fail everywhere.

I praise God for His atonement and covering of our sin. Although the nation of Israel sinned against God by worshiping through a golden calf, God had provided a provision for forgiveness. Yom Kippur is a special holiday that commemorates the forgiveness God provided to the children of Israel after they worshipped the golden calf. No, God doesn't overlook sin and their is always a cost for it, a cost that God willing paid (Rom 6:23). Praise God, for the Son, who is our Yom Kippur, our atonement (John 14:6).

The Journey of Prayer

2010-10-27T07:41:00.006-04:00

We are starting a series on prayer this week at Mt Zion Baptist Church, and it’s a subject I enter with much fear and trepidation. On the one hand, it’s a subject that has been talked about, preached on and countless books have been written on the many different facets of prayer.

Nevertheless, as I have begun to evaluate my own prayer life in light of the prayer life of Christ and His apostles, I find myself far away from the place of prayer where my Savior was at. In other words, I have fallen into the trap of a theology of prayer that has been developed over the years based on clichés rather than sound doctrine. Clichés like “pray this prayer, and you can be saved” or “prayer is just talking to God”. Another good one is “prayer will change God’s mind”. We even can support that one with Scripture (John 3:10, 1 Ch 21:15, etc.). Although I will agree that some of these clichés do have merit and are based on sound doctrine, I feel it’s time for me to know what prayer is all about and to look at the Biblical theology of prayer.

So begins my journey, although, I understand right from the start that many of my questions and interest will not be satisfied as with most of my studies in Scripture. Rather as I study and practice what I will learn, I will soon realize that the more I know about this subject the more I will realize how far I have yet to go. However, this is not disappointing for me, but often fuels my interest and brings me great satisfaction to know just a little more of an infinite God.

The journey, as they say, is many times, sweeter than the destination. Especially if you are traveling with good company. Besides, with the things of God the journey can never end. You only rise and arrive at a place of breathtaking beauty, and there you sit to enjoy the vista and the exhilaration and satisfaction of reaching the top.

Nonetheless, you find it’s not the final destination, but a resting place. Even so, while you sit in awesome wonder of a knowable God, you come to realize that there is yet another challenge – a greater challenge. For what you could not see before is another mountain peak to climb, this one is a little higher and will require navigating through some tougher obstacles. But your confidence, trust and faith in God has grown, and you know that the difficult journey will be good. In reality, you begin to better understand it's all about the journey because this journey in knowing God will be a never ending journey that will just keep getting better.

Sin & Redemption

2010-10-16T10:46:00.004-04:00

We at Mt Zion Baptist are shortly going to finish two studies. We have been unpacking the book of Ruth on Sunday evenings and looking at the doctrine of sin during the morning worship service. In these studies, we are at opposite ends of the infinite spectrum of God. What I mean by that is, Ruth is a book where you see God's sovereignty, protection, care and love as The Kinsman Redeemer. You see God in the background of every verse and in all the characters in the story. In the end, we are also surprised to know that we too are also part of that story in our own redemption. Then, on the opposite end of the continuum on Sunday mornings, we have looked at how God sees and judges sin. We see God's wrath and the cost of sin that requires death and how the perfect God/Man Christ Jesus has taken our wrath and atoned for our sins. A very heavy subject is the doctrine of sin. However, a doctrine that needs to once again be heralded from the pulpits of America that has grown apathetic and comfortable with its sin.

In looking at both sin and redemption like this has taken me on a roller coaster ride if emotions that no words can quite describe. I have literally fallen down on my face before a holy, holy, holy God as I have seen my sin more clearly in the light of seeing Him more clearly. Then as I look and understand more of the truth about God revealed in the book of Ruth, I have thrown up my hands and praised Him for the righteousness of His son, who was imputed onto me His righteousness and allows me to hidden and protected under His wing. Glory to God! Alleluia, praise the Lord! Blessed be His name!

This has driven me to seek with a passion to know God more. Like Paul said in Philippians 3:10 "That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;" I find that the more I understand of the truth that God has revealed of Himself the more I hunger and thirst to see His face and to live a life that would bring glory to His name.

This lead me to read a small book by Tozer called The Knowledge of the Holy: The Attributes of God: Their Meaning in the Christian Life, which I would recommend to put on your reading list. In the very first chapter Tozer says a striking statement: "What comes to our when we think about God is the most important thing about us." Today, I would submit to you that for most in the Christian church there are very few thoughts of God and the thoughts we have are thoughts of a "god" that we have made up in our own minds. It's a god we have made up to suite our own spiritual needs. We have redefined God into who we want Him to be - a god that is okay with our nominal lukewarm Christianity and pet sins. The result has been a church that gathers together to worship an image that we've created.

George Whitefield

2010-10-07T06:59:00.001-04:00

I believe it is crucial that we learn about our Christian heritage. We are blessed to be able to stand on the shoulders of great people who have uncompromisingly preached the Word of God and have given us the great doctrines of the Bible.

Below is an article by Kevin Miller that appeared in the Christian History Magazine.

When George Whitefield preached his first sermon, at age 21, someone complained to the bishop that Whitefield (pronounced WlT-field) had driven 15 people insane.

Anglican ministers of the day were controlled, dignified, even stuffy in preaching. Whitefield, though, was intense, emotional, and dramatic. “I could hardly bear such unreserved use of tears,” wrote one observer, for Whitefield was “frequently so overcome, that, for a few seconds, you would suspect he never could recover.” Whitefield explained, “You blame me for weeping, but how can I help it when you will not weep for yourselves, though your immortal souls are on the verge of destruction?”

In America, Whitefield was a sensation. His impassioned preaching on the “New Birth” in 1739 helped spark what historians have called The Great Awakening. It’s easy to “underestimate the effect of the Awakening on eighteenth-century society,” writes Richard Bushman in The Great Awakening, 1740–1745. “The Awakening was more like the civil-rights demonstrations, the campus disturbances, and the urban riots of the 1960s combined.”

But in colonial America, the social upheaval was caused chiefly by one young British field preacher who considered himself “less than the least of all.” Whitefield traveled from New Hampshire to Georgia (where he founded America’s first charity) and unified the colonies as no one had before. Thousands discovered, as one Connecticut farmer put it, “my righteousness would not save me.”

Bibliography:
Christian History Magazine-Issue 38: George Whitefield: 17th C. Preacher & Revivalist (Carol Stream, IL: Christianity Today, 1993).

"The Life of Trust" - George Müller (1805–1898)

2010-09-29T07:04:00.002-04:00

I came across this article in Christian History Magazine and thought it to be interesting. As a young convert, I often heard quotes from the pulpit on Müller’s incredible trust in the Lord to provide for his needs in ministry. Why it interests me is because, we today trust very little in God and first try to meet our needs in our own strength, ingenuity, and wherewithal, and it’s only when we have totally exhausted our means that we’ll turn to God. My prayer is that the church, God’s people would rekindle this type of faith and trust in a good and great God.

Born in Germany, the son of a tax collector, George Müller lived a wicked life as a youth but was converted at about age 20 at a Moravian mission. He went to England in 1829 to do mission work and eventually became a preacher affiliated with the Plymouth Brethren. He determined to rely totally on the Lord for his financial support. His policy continued even after he started an orphanage in Bristol. Without direct appeals for funds, his orphanage was supported and grew. By the time he died, more than ten thousand orphans had been cared for in his orphanages—his possessions amounted to merely a few hundred dollars’ worth.

The following is excerpted from his journal, The Life of Trust: A Narrative of the Lord’s Dealings with George Müller.

I stated to the brethren, at the end of October, 1830, that I should for the future give up having any regular salary. After I had given my reasons for doing so, I read Philippians iv., and told the saints that if they still had a desire to do something towards my support, by voluntary gifts, I had no objections to receive them, though ever so small, either in money or provisions….

About the same time, also, my wife and I had grace given to us to take the Lord’s commandment, “Sell that ye have, and give alms,” Luke xii. 33, literally, and to carry it out. Our staff and support in this matter were Matthew vi. 19–34, John xiv. 13, 14. We leaned on the arm of the Lord Jesus. It is now twenty-five years since we set out in this way, and we do not in the least regret the step we then took. As I have written down how the Lord has been pleased to deal with us since, I shall be able to relate some facts concerning this matter, as far as they may tend to edification.

Nov. 18, 1830. Our money was reduced to about eight shillings. When I was praying with my wife in the morning, the Lord brought to my mind the state of our purse, and I was led to ask him for some money. About four hours after, a sister said to me, “Do you want any money?” “I told the brethren,” said I, “dear sister, when I gave up my salary, that I would for the future tell the Lord only about my wants.” She replied, “But he has told me to give you some money. About a fortnight ago, I asked him what I should do for him, and he told me to give you some money; and last Saturday it came again powerfully to my mind, and has not left me since, and I felt it so forcibly last night that I could not help speaking of it to brother P.” My heart rejoiced, seeing the Lord’s faithfulness, but I thought it better not to tell her about our circumstances, lest she should be influenced to give accordingly; and I also was assured that, if it were of the Lord, she could not but give. I therefore turned the conversation to other subjects, but when I left she gave me two guineas. We were full of joy on account of the goodness of the Lord. I would call upon the reader to admire the gentleness of the Lord, that he did not try our faith much at the commencement, but allowed us to see his willingness to help us, before he was pleased to try it more fully….

I would observe here, by the way, that if any of the children of God should think that such a mode of living leads away from the Lord, and from caring about spiritual things, and has the effect of causing the mind to be taken up with the question, What shall I eat?—What shall I drink?— and Wherewithal shall I be clothed?—I would request him prayerfully to consider the following remarks: 1. I have had experience of both ways, and know that my present mode of living, as to temporal things, is connected with less care. 2. Confidence in the Lord, to whom alone I look for the supply of my temporal wants, keeps me, when a case of distress comes before me, or when the Lord’s work calls for my pecuniary aid, from anxious reckoning like this: Will my salary last out? Shall I have enough myself the next month? etc. In this my freedom, I am, by the grace of God, generally, at least, able to say to myself something like this: My Lord is not limited: he can again supply; he knows that this present case has been sent to me: and thus, this way of living so far from leading to anxiety is rather the means of keeping from it. And truly it was once said to me by an individual,—You can do such and such things and need not to lay by, for the church in the whole of Devonshire cares about your wants. My reply was: The Lord can use not merely any of the saints throughout Devonshire, but those throughout the world, as instruments to supply my temporal wants. 3. This way of living has often been the means of reviving the work of grace in my heart, when I have been getting cold: and it also has been the means of bringing me back again to the Lord, after I have been backsliding. For it will not do,—it is not possible to live in sin, and at the same time, by communion with God, to draw down from heaven everything one needs for the life that now is. 4. Frequently, too, a fresh answer to prayer, obtained in this way, has been the means of quickening my soul, and filling me with much joy.

Bibliography:
Christian History Magazine-Issue 14: Money in Christian History: Part I (Worcester, PA: Christian History Institute, 1987).

What About Women as Deacons?

2010-09-23T14:30:00.012-04:00

In September, I finished up a series about the doctrine of the church. In my last message, I talked about deacons in the church and even tackled the question on whether or not the church should have deaconesses or woman serving in this leadership role.

In doing so, I looked at both sides of the issue and came up to what I, as a fallible and finite person believes the Scriptures teach in this area. However, I also stated from the start that this is a gray area in Scripture and there are many scholars whom I hold in high esteem, that come down on both sides of this issue. Considering that, I don’t believe it’s prudent to be known as a church that’s calling out other churches for deciding to use women as deaconesses. Furthermore, it has been my experience, that the churches that are so polemic about it, are not themselves using deacons as taught in Scripture. On the other hand, as a church, think it's best to be known for a body of believers that worship and glorify God well. To be known as a church that has a passion for Christ by making disciples of all nations. It's about what really is important and of utmost priority. Especially when you consider that there are 6,426 unreached people groups and another 3,724 unreached/unengaged people groups.

However, it is believed that in making those statements above that I, in a sense, left the door open for women to question and ultimately pursue these positions. In response, I would say that it's not my statements that should be of great concern. The greater alarm and questions are. Where are all the men who meet the qualifications of a deacon? Where are all the men who are willing to be leading servants of the church? Where are all the men who are striving for and have a desire for being leaders in our churches?

By the way, for the record, my theological position is a Complementarian. Complementarianism in contrast to an Egalitarianism, holds the view according to Grudem "that men and women are equal in value before God but that some governing and teaching roles in the church are reserved for men." Thus, men and women are in their essential nature equal, but in many instances, functionally, take subordinate roles. The Trinity is an example of this, where the God head is equal, yet function in different roles. These differences complete or “complement” each other. Because of these differences, there will be some things that women are predisposed to do more than men. Additionally, there will be some things that men are predisposed to do more than women. Therefore, there are ideal roles for both men and women that should be celebrated, exemplified, typified, and promoted in the church, family, and society. To deny these differences is to deny God's design and purpose in His creation.

In addition, I stated in my message that titles are not as important as doing the ministry of the church. In other words, although I don't believe that everyone is called to be an Elder/Pastor, the Scripture clearly states that we are all to be ministers of the Word. Although there are certain qualifications that a pastor/elder must meet, ALL are called in other places in Scripture to have the same character qualities of a pastor.

The same is true for the office of a deacon. Again, although all are not called by the church to be a deacon, we are ALL called to be servants of the church. The same is true in regard to the qualifications of a deacon. Although the Bible states the qualifications of a deacon, we are ALL, in other parts of the Bible required to meet those same character qualities.

In conclusion, I hope this helps clear up any ambiguity about my position on leadership roles of the church. It's also important to know that we are not going to avoid or skip over the more difficult doctrines, questions, and verses that Scripture may raise. We are to men and women who wrestle with God and labor in His Word. I also encourage all of us to be good stewards of the Word and search the Scriptures for themselves, but additionally to receive the word with all readiness (Acts 17:11). In other words, I'm a Complementarian because as I have searched and studied the Scriptures that is what I believe the Word teaches. Although I looked at several different resources in my studies, my conclusion was that based on the text and context of what I studied that the women are not to serve in this leadership role. I would finally submit to you that I don't have all the answers and there are still yet many "holes" in my theology. The only problem with this is I don't know where those holes are yet.

May we all heed what Paul told the young Timothy, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Tim 2:15). And...

"Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine" (1 Tim 5:17.

Bibliography:

Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology : An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Leicester, England; Grand Rapids, Mich.: Inter-Varsity Press; Zondervan Pub. House, 1994), 1238.

Grudem, Wayne A. Biblical Foundations for Manhood and Womanhood. Foundations for the family series. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2002.

Geisler, Norman L. Systematic Theology, Volume Four: Church, Last Things. Minneapolis, MN: Bethany House Publishers, 2005.

Worship in John Smyth’s Church

2010-09-22T06:59:00.001-04:00

I thought since I just finished a short series on worship that this would be a good article to post. I'm one of those "long winded" preachers, which some folks are not always enthusiastic about getting two sermons in one sitting.

Worship in John Smyth’s church in Amsterdam, c.1611, was described in a letter by Hugh and Anne Bromehead, quoted in H. Wheeler Robinson, Life and Faith of the Baptists, 1946, p. 96.

We begin with a prayer, after read some one of two chapters of the Bible; give the sense thereof and confer upon the same; that done, we lay aside our books and after a solemn prayer made by the first speaker he propoundeth some text out of the Scripture and prophesieth out of the same by the space of one hour or three quarters of an hour. After him standeth up a second speaker and prophesieth out of the said text the like time and space, sometimes more, sometimes less. After him, the third, the fourth, the fifth, etc., as the time will give leave. Then the first speaker concludeth with prayer as he began with prayer, with an exhortation to contribution to the poor, which collection being made is also concluded with prayer. This morning exercise begins at eight of the clock and continueth until twelve of the clock. The like course of exercise is observed in the afternoon from two of the clock unto five or six of the clock. Last of all the execution of the government of the Church is handled.

By the way, John Smyth was the first Englishman (of record) who declared himself dearly in favor of believer’s baptism and organized a church based on the implications of that principle. Smyth, a graduate of Christ’s College, Cambridge, made the pilgrimage from Anglican to Puritan through Separatist to a Baptist position. In 1608 Smyth and his Separatist congregation fled to Amsterdam where, with other exiled Englishmen, he began to work out his doctrine of the church.

I would say that we have come a long way since then - and for the most part a long way in a wrong way.

Bibliography:

Christian History Magazine-Issue 6: The Baptists (Worcester, PA: Christian History Institute, 1985).

PINK, Arthur Walkington (1886–1952)

2010-09-07T06:25:00.003-04:00

There has been some interest from a few people in the many writings of Arthur Pink, so I thought I would give you some information about him. Below is what comes out of the Dictionary of Evangelicals.

British Baptist minister and author, was active in the pastorate and also in an itinerant ministry in the United States and Australia from 1910 to 1934, when he withdrew from public ministry to return to Britain. Eventually he settled in the Outer Hebrides and devoted himself entirely to a writing ministry for the remainder of his life; the majority of his works were published only after his death.

Arthur W. Pink was born in Nottingham on 1 April 1886. His parents were Nonconformist Christians, who sought to raise him as such. Young Arthur’s education was extensive, and he applied himself with discipline. However, he was not yet a believer.

By the age of twenty-two Pink was a successful businessman, but still not a Christian. He was a rising leader in the Theosophy Society and was being considered for leadership in the movement. He was scheduled to speak twice at a conference in his home town. When he came home after speaking the first time, his father quoted to him Proverbs 14:12, ‘There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.’ This verse sent him into his room, and he emerged a converted man, who then went and preached the gospel to the Theosophy Society.

Following his conversion, he plunged himself into the study of Scripture. He rejected formal training, being convinced that the theological colleges were teaching errors. He did, finally, in 1910 travel to the United States to study at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, but he left before completing his first summer semester. A strong individualistic spirit, along with a disciplined study habit, had convinced him that he could study on his own. In the years that followed he was an avid reader of the Puritans and other expositional writers. These authors became the foundation of his future writings.

From Chicago, Pink moved to Silverton, Colorado, to pastor a church. He went next to Garden Grove, California, and then to Kentucky, where he pastored two (probably Baptist) churches, one in Burkesville, and the other in Albany. While in Kentucky, Pink, at the age of thirty-one, married twenty-three year old Vera E. Russell on 16 November 1916.

From Kentucky the Pinks moved to Spartanburg, South Carolina, in July of 1917, where he pastored the Northside Baptist Church. (No record of his own baptism exists, but he must have been baptized by immersion before this date.) Here he wrote his most influential book, The Sovereignty of God. This strong Calvinistic work caused problems in his church and with friends, publishers and readers. The first edition sold slowly. In the following years, Pink longed to leave Spartanburg, but no doors would open. He began to think that God might desire him devote himself entirely to his writing ministry. The pressure to leave, and having nowhere to go, led to deep depression, even a nervous breakdown. He resigned from the church in January 1920 with little desire ever to pastor again.

Pink moved to Swengel, Pennsylvania, to be close to his publisher. But he was soon in California, working in various cities. In the autumn of 1920 Brother Thompson, an evangelist who had seen many conversions in a tent mission in Oakland, enlisted Pink to teach the new converts. There followed one of the best periods of Pink’s ministry, and he continued speaking to crowds of hundreds until April 1921, but the burden to write continued to trouble him.

Later in 1921 Pink began what would eventually become his entire ministry, a periodical entitled Studies in the Scriptures. The Pinks, through all their travels, together maintained this monthly journal of biblical exposition, which had a mailing list of around a thousand.

On 3 March 1925 the Pinks left for Australia where, after a period of successful ministry, he was censured by the Baptist Union for denying human free will. Turning to the Particular (Calvinistic) Baptists, he pastored a Particular church, until it censored him for believing in human free will. The reason for this second censure was his belief in the free offer of the gospel and in human responsibility to believe the gospel. After forming a new, independent church, he resigned from it on 25 March 1928, and left for England on 20 July. This pastorate was his last. Pink was still a staunch Calvinist, but he had rejected a premillennial dispensational view of Scripture in favour of covenant theology, including an amillennial view of eschatology.

The Pinks’ return to England afforded no opportunities to preach. Therefore on 22 May 1929 they returned to America, hoping that old friends would welcome them. But when Pink was rejected in Kentucky and California, and in the light of what he perceived to be the serious compromises in the churches, an attitude of isolationism began to invade his mind. On 5 September 1934 the Pinks left for England, hoping that the response would be different there. But again the search for acceptance and ministry proved futile, both in England and in Scotland.

On 24 September 1940 the Pinks moved for the last time, from the Brighton-Hove area on the south coast of England to Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides. Their home had been strafed by a German aircraft passing over their town to bomb London.

From his new residence, Pink maintained his independent status, and continued to produce his monthly periodical, which he had never ceased to publish through all his travels and even during the war. He continued to issue warnings about what he regarded as false churches, and encouraged withdrawal if necessary. The Pinks did not attend any church, but Pink spent Sundays ministering by letters to his readers. For the next twelve years he lived in isolation, leaving his home only for a daily walk. When people came to meet him (and a visit demanded a long trip), he usually refused to receive them.

Pink died on 15 July 1952 at the age of sixty-seven. He was buried in an unmarked grave in a cemetery on the outskirts of Stornoway. Vera Pink kept the periodical in print until December 1953, using material Pink had prepared. Vera Pink died on 17 July 1962 at the age of sixty-nine.

It cannot be denied, even in the light of his unique characteristics, that Pink was committed to knowing and doing God’s will. He believed himself called in his final years to use his pen, not his tongue, to minister to a few people. In later years his voluminous writings, which during his lifetime were known only to a few, were rediscovered; hundreds of thousands of books of his writings have been printed since his death. Through these Pink became a strong bridge between the Puritans of the past and the believers of the last half of the twentieth century. He was one of several writers whose work encouraged a revival of historic Calvinism in the last half of the twentieth century.

Bibliography
R. P. Belcher, Arthur W. Pink – Born to Write (Columbia: Richbarry Press, 1980); I. Murray, The Life of Arthur W. Pink (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1981).

Timothy Larsen, D. W. Bebbington and Mark A. Noll, Biographical Dictionary of Evangelicals (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 2003), 528-30.

Does God Speak?

2010-09-06T11:22:00.003-04:00

The statement that “God works in mysterious ways” is something that I have recently thought much about. Even in our prayer life we say that “prayer is talking to God” yet when we look at God talking to us, it becomes “suspect” at the very least. Somehow, you can’t be in your right mind if you “hear from God.” Not that there is an audible voice, but often when we sense God speaking to us in our lives, we in most instances, feel that we need to keep it to ourselves, lest someone think we're crazy or a fanatic.

I have recently been experiencing God “speaking” to me about various circumstances that are going on in my own life and ministry. Take for instance, my message that I’m going to preach this Sunday about worship. And as I have been studying and praying this vast subject, I have come across many instances where God has "spoken" to me.

For instance, in my daily devotions this very day, I was reading my daily Psalm and just by “happenstance” it was Psalm 50. Psalm 50 has much to teach us in a very powerful way both about our future state and our present walk with our Lord. The first four verses we have God exploding unto the scene. I believe this is set in the context of when Christ will burst unto the scene to judge and set up His millennial kingdom. Nevertheless, I for one, would love for God to burst into my life, especially under extreme circumstances where I am needing desperately to “hear” from Him. Yet He is strangely and wonderfully silent. This is not my main point in this discussion, but I believe He wants us to develop our ears of faith and to hear that “still small voice.”

Anyway, the point of my discussion is worship and of course what this Psalm is saying is that our worship is ALL about Him! In addition, this Psalm goes on to talk about unworthy worship, which by the way, is the title to my message this coming Sunday – “What is Unworthy Worship?” and this Psalm is not my text, but here is an example where God is without a doubt “speaking” very clearly to me. Scripture is and must be the principle way of God’s still small voice, which sometimes clashes into our minds like a roaring thunder.

The Psalm also speaks about giving – another form of worship that is often overlooked in our religiosity and taken as an interlude to the worship service. This is evident many times by the chatter that often ensues and you can sense the many minds that quickly wander to the past and future obligations that crowd our minds and drowned out the voice of God and the preparation of our hearts.

Of course, God needs absolutely nothing from us, to include our giving - He is self-sufficient. However, God so loved the world that He gave, and He wants us to be like Him. Thus we don’t “have” to give, we “get” to give and, in so doing, we free ourselves from our own selfishness by making investments in heaven that will bear eternal dividends and which glorifies the Father. What He wants is our acknowledgment of His goodness not just when we pass the plate. In reality it's for us to learn to acknowledge His goodness all the day long and not various interludes in our lives. I’ve tried to implement this in a very simple act of pulling out of my driveway and thanking the Lord for His goodness and provision of shelter and that our home would be used to glorify the name of Christ.

The nest part of the Psalm fits perfectly with the sermon that I’m yet to preach. Here the psalmist talks about the person (rebellious person) who quotes Scripture and claims His promises, yet ignores His instructions. Wow, does that not sound familiar? Are we not caught up in religious formality or rebellious hypocrisy in the church today? Are we not a religious people whom have fallen into formality, going through the motions? Are we not a rebellious people, living disobediently but still claiming promises and quoting Scripture? We know the solution, but first we must come to a place of realization. Only then can we work on the solution to confess and then go on to worship thankfully and to walk righteously, for only then will our worship be acceptable to a holy and righteous God.

Well I guess I got a bit preachy, but the question of whether God “spoke” to me in this passage is not mysterious at all – it’s real and wonderful!

God has also “spoke” to me by using other people this past week in another real and wonderful way in which He uses His “still small voice.” Oh to have the ears of faith and to be sensitive and to “be still and know that I am God.”

May we individually, and as a church have worship that is worthy. For He is worthy of all our praise. “By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name” (Hebrews 13:15).

A Great Devotion This Morning!

2010-08-25T15:14:00.000-04:00

I recently did a series on having a quiet time that mostly discussed the mechanics of how they can be done. Well, this morning I had a wonderful devotional time with the Lord. I normally start my quiet time with a good ole fashioned cup of coffee – Folders Columbian to be exact.

I spend a few moments being still and preparing my heart for what God has for me. I then take out my journal and write “Thoughts:” and begin to just write about the day prior and whatever might be on my heart. Some days there is very little and others, like today, there is much.

I then began my reading routine and list in my journal “Bible:” and start with either Proverbs or the Psalms. Today U began from the book of Psalm chapter 42. The first verse immediately reached out and grabbed me so I began to write that verse down in my journal and normally as I do that is when God really begins to speak. Well the verse says, “As the heart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.” Now I know that this is a very familiar verse, however, I have been in a time of fasting and prayer and this was a huge affirmation from the Word of God that this is what I needed to be doing. I began to meditate on this verse for some time. The verse describes the incredible thirst and desire that “a deer” would have after being chased and literally running for his life. And how there is always an incredible thirst that there after not only extreme physical exertion but that is heightened by the fear and adrenaline that would be pumping through its body.

The words fear and exertion and love began to roll around in my mind. I thought about how fear always heightens your attention to detail and focus. In my former job as a Special Forces guy, we would always be doing something in the realm that would cause great fear. Whether that was jumping out of airplanes, close quarter combat, etc., it always heightened our senses and made our focus intense on the task at hand. Well the same is true with our God – “the fear of the Lord.” What does it mean to fear God? Does it mean to fear him as we would a poisonous snake? We know that it doesn’t, but we’re really not sure why.

The words the Bible uses mean literally “to fear.” Translators try alternatives, words like awe, respect, reverence, but none quite captures the raw strength of the word fear. The key to what the Bible means lies, I think, in what happens to our consciousness when we fear something. As I said earlier, when we were doing some pretty fearful things in Special Forces it marvelously focused our minds. The idea is that the experience of being brought right up to the point of possible death, and then coming through it, brings intense focus. That’s the key: What we fear marvelously focuses us. The fear of God is respect and awe and reverence. But it is these things, to a degree, that are like terror in their intensity.

Therefore, the Bible sees no conflict between fearing God and loving and trusting him. There’s that other word we’ll get to in another post. Astoundingly, when Jesus wants to calm our fears, he tells us to first do what? – fear God!

Luke 12:4-5: “And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.”

That is God he is talking about, the one who can throw us into hell, and the one we are to address in prayer as Abba, Daddy. Here again is that combination of fear and love. Then, without even a break or change in thought, he says we should relax: “ ‘even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.’ ” (v. 7). His message: You are worth everything to the One who is to be feared. Fear God and you’ll fear nothing else!

Later, in the same chapter, Jesus utters some of my f”avorite words: Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32).

The bottom line is what one most deeply loves, one most deeply fears. In example would be the love that you have for your wife or husband. At its best, my love for my wife is like terror in its intensity. I often tell her that I fear her more than anybody on earth. What it is most and should be the same toward our awesome God is the fear I have of hurting her! Her worth to me is staggering in its weight.

The combination of great, overwhelming strength and power with tender love is as hard for us to sometimes hold together. Addressing God as Father can become electrifying, if we can put these two together in our minds – combining infinite love and tenderness with infinite holiness and power. It can become the source of our greatest seriousness and our deepest joy, that one of such might can be called Father, and that our Father can be one with such might! Fear and love go together.

Can you see how fear and love coupled together could bring about an incredible thirst, desire and focus? This all creates an intense exertion to know God and to realize that like the hunter He is pursuing us. He wants communion with us. He calls us to prayer!

No character in the Bible found anything approaching a face-to-face encounter with God anything less than shattering. We must learn to act and think as people who are amazed that our proximity to holy things has not left us vaporized. We must pray that God will cultivate in our spirits fresh awareness of his majesty and goodness, and that we not confuse his goodness with his being safe. Along with our Bibles, we should be ready to put on a crash helmet when we come to worship.

What no delight in life can pass on is what is given in prayer. It is the pleasure of his company.

How's your devotional life? Have you heard from God lately? That was just the start of a great devotion I had today. When I turned to Proverbs 25 I began to read about how to purify silver. Whew! You see I got some impurities that need to go. I asked God to turn up the heat as high as it needs to go until the reflection of Jesus is seen in me. That's a lot of heat!

Bibliography:
Ben Patterson and David L. Goetz, vol. 7, Deepening Your Conversation With God, The pastor's soul series; Library of leadership development (Minneapolis, Minn.: Bethany House Publishers, 1999), 75-76.

Is Jesus the Only Way of Salvation?

2010-06-29T14:32:00.002-04:00

There are three options recognized by theologians today. Only one of them is found in the Bible. The other two are heretical.

Exclusivism: Salvation is found only through faith in Jesus Christ. Only those who have trusted Christ are saved. They are declared to be right with God and all their sins are forgiven. No one, who does not trust in Jesus Christ has any hope of salvation, but may only expect to be judged and condemned to everlasting Hell.

This is the position of the Bible:
“I am the way and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me,” (John 14:6). “For there is no other name given under Heaven whereby we can be saved,” Acts 4:12.
“Therefore by the deeds of the Law, no flesh shall be justified. . .” Romans 3:20. “And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt” (Daniel 12:2). “Then shall He say also to them on the left hand, Depart from me, you accursed, into everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels” (Matthew 25:41).

This has been the teaching of the church through the centuries:
It was the belief held by Augustine, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Jonathan Edwards, D. L. Moody, and C. H. Spurgeon.

This is the belief held by Bible believing Christians today: This includes people such as Billy Graham, Elizabeth Eliot, John MacArthur, Beth Moore, Ergun Caner, Paige Patterson, and Jerry Falwell.

This has been the teaching of Baptists in the past:

These examples are from the London Confession adopted by Baptists in England in 1644:

V. All mankind being thus fallen, and become altogether dead in sins and trespasses, and subject to the eternal wrath of the great God by transgression; yet the elect, which God has(1) loved with an everlasting love, are(2) redeemed, quickened, and saved, not by themselves, neither by their own works, lest any man should boast himself, but wholly and only by God of(3) His free grace and mercy through Jesus Christ, who of God is made unto us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption, that as it is written he that rejoices, let him rejoice in the Lord. 1) Jer. 31:2 2) Gen 3:15; Eph. 1:3, 7; 2:4, 9; 1 Thes. 5:9; Acts 13:38 3) 1 Cor.5:21; Jer. 9:23, 24

VI. (1) This therefore is life eternal, to know the only true God, and whom He has sent Jesus Christ. (2) And on the contrary, the Lord will render vengeance in flaming fire to them that know not God, and obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1) John 17:3; Heb. 5:9; Jer. 23:5, 6 2) 2 Thes. 1:8; John 3:36

These examples are from the Midland Confession of Faith, adopted by English Baptists in 1655:

10th. That every man is justified by Christ -- Romans; viii.33; I Cor. vi.11; apprehended by faith; and that no man is justified in the sight of God partly by Christ and partly by works. Romans iii.20,28,30; Gal. v.4.

16th. That at the time appointed of the Lord, the dead bodies of all men, just and unjust, shall rise again out of their graves, that all may receive according to what they have done in their bodies, be it good or evil.

It is the teaching of Southern Baptists today:

These are from our Baptist Faith and Message:
IV. Salvation
Salvation involves the redemption of the whole man, and is offered freely to all who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, who by His own blood obtained eternal redemption for the believer. In its broadest sense salvation includes regeneration, justification, sanctification, and glorification. There is no salvation apart from personal faith in Jesus Christ as Lord. . . .

X. Last Things
God, in His own time and in His own way, will bring the world to its appropriate end. According to His promise, Jesus Christ will return personally and visibly in glory to the earth; the dead will be raised; and Christ will judge all men in righteousness. The unrighteous will be consigned to Hell, the place of everlasting punishment. The righteous in their resurrected and glorified bodies will receive their reward and will dwell forever in Heaven with the Lord.
Isaiah 2:4; 11:9; Matthew 16:27; 18:8-9; 19:28; 24:27,30,36,44; 25:31-46; 26:64; Mark 8:38; 9:43-48; Luke 12:40,48; 16:19-26; 17:22-37; 21:27-28; John 14:1-3; Acts 1:11; 17:31; Romans 14:10; 1 Corinthians 4:5; 15:24-28,35-58; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Philippians 3:20-21; Colossians 1:5; 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:14-18; 5:1ff.; 2 Thessalonians 1:7ff.; 2; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 4:1,8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:27-28; James 5:8; 2 Peter 3:7ff.; 1 John 2:28; 3:2; Jude 14; Revelation 1:18; 3:11; 20:1-22:13.

There are two main heresies afoot about salvation these days.

Pluralism: All religions lead to God, at least all of the higher ones, for they are all in touch with the same spiritual realities. Each religion merely describes these realities differently. Thus, anyone who follows any of the “higher” religions may be assured that he really is in touch with God.

This is the position of many Americans today. It is the unofficial position of most television networks and programs, and is represented as the only morally sound position in many venues of public life.

Here are a couple of examples:
“We [Muslims, Jews, and Christians] all worship the same God.”
--Walter Abdur Ra’uf Declerck, quoted in The Fort Worth Star Telegram, Oct. 25, 2003, page 3F.

“The great religious traditions are to be regarded as alternative [salvational] “spaces” within which, or “ways” along which, men and women can find salvation/liberation/enlightenment/fulfillment.. . . The great world traditions have in fact all proved to be realms within which, or routes along which people are enabled to advance in the transition from self-centeredness to Reality-centeredness. . . . Accordingly, by attending to other traditions than one’s own, one may become aware of other aspects or dimensions of the Real, and of other possibilities of response to the Real. . .”
--John Hick, British Theologian

Inclusivism: Jesus is the only Savior, but He will save some who have never trusted Him. We can affirm that Salvation is only in Christ, without affirming the need to tell others about Him as they need not have faith in Him anyway.

This is the position of many Catholics, who believe that other religions are more or less able to save depending on how similar they are to Catholicism. Thus, other denominations, and religions which teach that there is one God, or those which teach a high view of ethics will lead their followers to salvation.
This is the view of many mainline denominations, and most theologians today as well.

Here is an example:
“It is. . . quite possible to suppose that there are supernatural, grace-filled elements in non-Christian religions.. . . A lawful religion. . . can be regarded on thye whole as a positive means of gaining the right relationship to God and thus for the attaining of salvation. . . The member of an extra-Christian religion. . . [is] an anonymous Christian.”
--Karl Rahner, Catholic Theologian

The biblical answer is "Yes", Jesus is the only way. The basic problem that I see in not wanting to see Jesus as the only way for salvation is too high a view of ourselves. You see, most people want a man-centered gospel as opposed to a God-centered gospel. In other words, "God loves me" period. That sounds good, but that makes us the object of salvation - man-centered. However, if we say "God loves me so that I can glorify Him" that makes God the object of our salvation. Subtle but a huge distinction.

Martha B. McKee Coggins.

2010-06-11T14:46:00.000-04:00

I got a call from Pam Coggins asking if I would be a part of the memorial services for her mom and, of course, I agreed and immediately began to pray and ask the Lord what I could say to be a comfort to Pam and the family.

As always, God is so good and as I was studying for a message, I happened to be looking at a passage in Isaiah. Although, I had already read and studied it, the Lord prompted me to read it once again. While I read the verse it became evident that these were the verses I were to read to give encouragement to the grieving family and loved ones.

Scripture Reading - Isaiah 43:1-4
But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, … Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: …Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life.

Many had shared through the passing years the wonderful companionship and fellowship they had with sister Martha. They will forever cherish the many blessed memories that come to us from those moments. Her faithfulness, friendship, and joy of the Lord will continue their radiance and testimony in our lives. And we know that we’ll see Martha again on the other side of eternity.

We continue to pray for Pam, Peggy, Howard and the family in their loss. May God overwhelm them with His great peace and assurance that she is now more alive than she has ever been.

Obituary

Mrs. Martha B. McKee Coggins, age 82, Jonesborough, our loving wife, mother, and grandmother went home to be with Jesus, Friday, May 28, 2010 at the Four Oaks Health Care Center. She will forever be in our hearts. Mrs. Coggins was a native of Washington County and daughter of the late Frank & Lillie Cole McKee. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Coggins was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, a brother, Everett McKee, a sister, Christine Phillips and a half-sister, Sylvia Phillips. She was a member of Cherokee Baptist Church where she taught the Pre-School Sunday School Class for many years. Survivors include her husband of 63 years, Robert Howard Coggins, Jonesborough; two daughters and son-in-law, Pam Coggins and Peggy & Charles Broyles, all of Jonesborough; grandson, Jeremy Broyles and wife Joleene, Jonesborough; great-grandson, Ethan Broyles; twin-sister, Mary Malone, Jonesborough; sister, Louise Matson, West Grove, PA and half-sister, Shirley Bennett, Nashville; and several nephews and nieces. The family would like to thank the staff of Four Oaks Health Care Center for their wonderful care and kindness shown to their mother.

How Long Should a Devotional Time Last?

2010-06-02T15:15:00.005-04:00

Some people claim that they never have time for daily devotions. These same people may schedule three meals a day and snacks between the meals. Obviously it is difficult to find legitimate excuses for not having a daily devotional time. So taking time for daily devotions is an issue of priorities. We take time or make time to do the things that are really important to us. The priority we give to our daily devotions helps show how much our relationship to God means to us.

The quality and depth of a devotional time is more important than its quantity and length. Nevertheless you can hardly have a successful devotional time by rushing in and out of the presence of God for a spiritual lift as you would go through a drive through for a latte (that’s French for an expensive cup of coffee). Therefore you should not hurry your devotional time but should plan for sufficient time to focus on the Lord and communicate meaningfully with Him. Then you will strengthen your relationship to God and see your devotional time develop rather than decline.

The length of personal devotions may be limited by your schedule for sleeping, eating, working, family time, and other responsibilities. Exceptions to these factors are days off work, periods of fasting, or special occasions planned for time with the Lord. However, we usually find time for the activities we really desire to do. And we should be willing to miss a meal or some sleep if necessary in order to spend time with the Lord.

On occasions such as a trip to the mountains or beach, we may be free from our routine schedule to have a longer devotional time. However, this is where I often get out of my routine and have less of devotional time if any at all. Before major decisions Christians might extend their prayer time throughout the night (Luke 6:12–13). Again, shorter and more frequent devotional times often best fit a daily schedule filled with decisions, meetings, advising, and numerous intense activities that call for renewed wisdom and strength from the Lord.

Here is a plan to get you started.

“Thirty Minutes With God”

1. Relax (2 minutes)
Be still and be quiet! Slow down! Prepare your heart. Take a few deep breaths and wait on God.

2. Read (5 minutes)
Begin reading where you left off the day before. Read until you feel God has told you something. Then stop and think about it.

3. Reflect (8 minutes)
Think about what the passage means to your life, and write those thoughts down. Part of reflecting is memorizing verses that speak to you in a special way.

4. Record (5 minutes)
Write out a personal application statement that is practical, possible, and measurable. If you can't write it down, you probably don't understand it. Remember also that context of Scripture is important and if not careful we can "make" or "adjust" God's word to say what we want as opposed to what the timeless principle is.

5. Request (10 minutes)
Conclude your Quiet Time by talking to God about what He has shown you and making your requests from your prayer list.

Bibliography:
Charles R. Swindoll and Roy B. Zuck, Understanding Christian Theology (Nashville, Tenn.: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2003), 1071.

Where is the Best Place to have a Devotion?

2010-05-06T11:17:00.002-04:00

Yes, it's even important to establish a specific place to meet with our heavenly Father each day. My wife and I used to have our devotions at the same place in our home, however, I normally got up much earlier than her and would be finishing up when she would be beginning her devotion time. Of course, I was always anxious to share what I got during my devotion (it's that pastor's heart thing) and so I would begin to engage her in conversation. We'll it wasn't long before I noticed that my wife left me - no not literally, but she moved into the den so that she would not be bothered by me and have uninterrupted time with her Abba Father.

Thus, all of us need a place for our devotions where we can obey the command, “Be still and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10). Modern technological societies with their performance-oriented people usually equate activity with accomplishment. The mind, the mouth, and the body operate at a rapid rate while the spirit shrivels for lack of attention. Christians need a place where they can be still, silent, relaxed, and relieved from the rapidity and racket of intense living. That place should also be free from disturbing noise, distraction, and interruption.

Jesus sought out such a place for His prayer time. “And in the early morning, while it was still dark, He arose and went out and departed to a lonely place, and was praying there” (Mark 1:35). Both the “inner room” where Jesus taught us to go for prayer (Matt. 6:5) and the “secluded place” where Jesus went for prayer (Mark 1:35) show the importance of selecting a location where the world is temporarily shut out from our lives, and we are shut in alone with God for intimacy with Him.

We have also seen several instances where biblical characters spent time with God outdoors. Before my knees and back went bad from spending 21 years in the Army, I would spend time in prayer as I went for a run each morning. God used this practice to give me relief from a lot of pressures of the day, and would invigorate me for focused time later in reading His Word. It is also a good time for praising God as you look and admire God’s wonderful creation. Currently, I live in beautiful Jonesborough, Tennessee where I now take my dog for a walk each morning and praise God for who He is. Nonetheless, I hope you have a place where you can walk and talk with the Lord, even if it’s your own backyard or inside your home. Walking physically and talking with the Lord can help us walk closer to Him spiritually so that we become like Enoch who “walked with God” (Gen. 5:22, 24) and “was pleasing to God” (Heb. 11:5).

I also find it good to have a designated place as it's a reminder for me to spend time with Him. Each time I pass by it, I see my "tools" (Bible, prayer journal, etc) which reminds me that He's anxiously waiting for me to spend time with Him.

Do you have a special place?

Bibliography
Charles R. Swindoll and Roy B. Zuck, Understanding Christian Theology (Nashville, Tenn.: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2003), 1070–1071.

Remembering Athanasius

2010-05-03T07:26:00.003-04:00

May 2, marked the death of one of the great Church Fathers, Athanasius, in 373. Much of the church today gives very little attention to our Church Fathers, yet these are the shoulders that we stand on, shoulder that have given us the rich doctrines that we can now so easily access and rely on. However, as believers, we need to understand that theology is always ongoing and we in the 21^st century need to also wrestle with the difficult questions that face us and go to the Scriptures for answers.

His (Athanasius) most famous work is the De Incarnatione, the second of two closely linked treatises. In it he expounds how God the Word (Logos), by His union with manhood, restored to fallen man the image of God in which he had been created (Gen 1:27), and by His death and resurrection met and overcame death, the consequence of sin. Many scholars date the work before c.318, when Athanasius was still in his twenties, but others place it 15–20 years later. As bishop he was the greatest and most consistent theological opponent of Arianism. From 339 to 359 he wrote a series of works in defense of the faith proclaimed at Nicaea—that is, the true deity of God the Son. From about 361 onwards he especially sought the reconciliation of the large Semiarian party to the Nicene term homoousios (‘of one substance’), which they were reluctant to accept. The Council of Alexandria (362), under his direction, greatly furthered this end, by clearing up misunderstandings of the terms ὑπόστασις (translated ‘person’) and οὐσία (‘substance’). He also argued for the deity of the Holy Spirit in his Epistles to Serapion.

Bibliography:

F. L. Cross and Elizabeth A. Livingstone, “The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church”, 3rd ed. rev. (Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press, 2005), 121.

You can also learn more about Athanasius in John Piper's, “Contending for Our All”

The Unchurched Next Door: A New Look at the Challenge

2010-04-27T12:24:00.004-04:00

Below is a great book review on "The Unchurched Next Door" by Thom Rainer. The book review was written by Albert Mohler and is also available at lifeway.com. I thought this was appropriate as we are entering our 9th week of FAITH evangelism training at our church:

Thom Rainer thinks that most Christians have no clue about how unchurched people really think. Given Christianity's mandate for evangelism, this represents a big problem.

Rainer is founding dean of the Billy Graham School of Missions, Evangelism and Church Growth at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Over the past decade, he has emerged as the nation's leading expert in church growth and evangelistic strategies. In a very real sense, Rainer operates in two different worlds, with one foot in academic research and the other firmly planted in the local church.

In The Unchurched Next Door, Rainer and his research team consider the real issues involved in reaching unchurched Americans. His findings will surprise many Christians--including many pastors--and offer vital insights as the church looks forward into the twenty-first century.

The Unchurched Next Door represents a massive research project based in a national survey. From the onset, Rainer was determined to force Christians to look at the unchurched all around them. "Most of the unchurched are your neighbors, your coworkers whom you know well, and even your family members," he explains. "That is why we call them 'the unchurched next door.' They have much in common with us. Many of them have your moral values. Most are not antichurch or antireligion. They are very much like you--except that they are lost without Christ."

After interviewing thousands of unchurched Americans, the Rainer research team looked for patterns in the profiles. Based on the results, Rainer suggested five different levels of responsiveness to the gospel. "U1" identifies unchurched Americans who are highly receptive to hearing and believing the good news. They know something about Christianity, and have a positive attitude toward the church. "U2" individuals are receptive to the gospel and willing to hear a message from the church. Those categorized as "U3" are identified as neutral, "with no clear signs of being interested, yet perhaps open to discussion." The "U4" group demonstrates resistance to the gospel but no antagonism. The most unresponsive group in the population is identified as "U5" The most secular Americans are "highly antagonistic and even hostile to the gospel."

Given the contours of post-Christian America, many believers would assume that the U5 category would include a large number of our fellow citizens. That assumption is not sustained by the facts. Rainer's research indicates that the U5 category fits only about five percent of the American population. Most unchurched Americans are grouped in the central three categories. Those already friendly to the church, the U1s, comprise eleven percent of the population, serving as something of a bookend to the U5s.

The majority of the unchurched fit the middle categories, with 27% listed as U2, 36% as U3, and 21% as U4. As Rainer summarizes, "Most of the unchurched are not antichurch or anti-Christian." By and large, they have had little contact with Christianity, and are not highly motivated when it comes to issues of faith and belief.

In reviewing the research, Rainer and his team came to some surprising conclusions. First of all, most Americans have never been invited to church--never. Yet, 82% indicated that they would be at least "somewhat likely" to attend church if invited. As Rainer comments, "Only twenty-one percent of active church goers invite anyone to church in the course of a year. But only two percent of church members invite an unchurched person to church." He concludes: "Perhaps the evangelistic apathy so evident in so many of our churches can be explained by a simple laziness on the part of church members in inviting others to church."

One of the most devastating insights drawn from the research is the fact that most unchurched Americans feel themselves safe from the evangelistic reach of believing Christians. They do not sense that Christians are seeking actively to share the gospel with them, and many nonbelievers are actually wondering what makes Christians so reticent to talk about their faith. Furthermore, most of the unchurched indicate that their Christian friends have little actual influence on their lives.

The withdrawal of men from participation in many churches has led a good many researchers to believe that men are most highly resistant to the gospel. This is also born out by a great deal of experience in local churches. Nevertheless, Rainer's research indicates that most men are grouped in the middle categories, and show relatively low levels of interest in the gospel--either positive or negative. Indeed, this research indicates that unchurched Americans classified in U5--the most antagonistic category--are more likely to be women. As a matter of fact, women tended to predominate in both U1 and U5, perhaps indicating that women are more likely to place a high value on the issue of faith, and thus tend to be more passionately Christian or secular.

Unsurprisingly, Rainer also discovered that the U5s tend to be more highly educated, more wealthy, and more condescending toward the Bible than other Americans. This group is marked by an anti-supernatural bias combined with a secular lifestyle. One woman interviewed for the project said simply, "I have no need for the Bible. The Bible was written for very simple people. It was written to give moral and ethical guidance to uneducated people".

The Unchurched Next Door is a serious look at a serious problem. The undeniable fact is that America's churches are falling behind in the challenge of evangelism. The best data available indicate that the percentage of the population active in Christian churches has failed to grow in even a single metropolitan area in the United States over the last twenty years. More to the point, churches have failed to grow even at a pace that would equal the growth of the population in general. America is being transformed into a secular society at a pace that would shock most Christians--if they ever cared to look.

Thom Rainer is a specialist in church growth, and he clearly wants to help churches to grow--both numerically and spiritually. At the same time, however, he wants to make certain that it is the church that grows, not merely a crowd or voluntary associciation. He is a powerful advocate for expository preaching and clear Gospel proclamation.

For that reason, he gives serious attention to theological issues at stake. Specifically, Rainer identifies a creeping inclusivism in the pews, combined with a growing disbelief in Hell among the public, as sources of evangelistic malaise.

Inclusivism, the belief that personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is not fundamentally necessary for salvation, has been growing among some Christians for decades. Driven first by liberal theologians who intentionally sought to redefine the faith, inclusivism now fits the cultural mood, and allows Christians to claim simultaneously to be believers in Christ and to deny the gospel.

As Rainer claims, "belief in inclusivism goes completely against the teaching of Christ and Scripture. The Bible teaches exclusivism, the belief that explicit faith in Christ is the only way of salvation." The impact of creeping inclusivism is obvious. "Why should one go to the trouble of sharing Christ when that person can be saved without placing explicit faith in Christ? Why waste your time?"

The denial of Hell is another issue that diminishes concern for evangelism. The denial or redefinition of Hell is now found among many who claim to be Christians, and Hell has disappeared almost entirely from the public consciousness of the nation. Today's Christians should note that Jesus himself was bold to warn sinners that they should fear Hell and understand its very real and pressing threat. Far too many Christians see Hell as an embarrassment rather than as a motivation for sharing the gospel.

Most helpfully, Rainer points to an array of evangelistic touch points that Christians should seize for the cause of the gospel. After all, most of these unchurched Americans are living all around us. Their children play with our children on the playground; Christians and non-Christians work together in the business world; and we all live in neighborhoods filled with persons who desperately need to hear the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

A simple conversation with our neighbors will help to reveal their own disposition toward the church and the Gospel. Nevertheless, we should not assume that one who fits the U5 category is further from the reach of the gospel than those who seem to fit U1. The fact is that every single unbeliever is united in an absolute and unconditional need for the gospel. Furthermore, there is a basic antagonism between belief and unbelief.

We cannot predict who will respond to the Gospel. Often, those who appear most likely to respond never do so. At the same time, many of those who are most antagonistic to the church and to the gospel, do come to Christ. This is an important reminder to us that every single conversion is a miracle of God.

The Unchurched Next Door will prompt much thought and should move every thoughtful Christian toward greater faithfulness in evangelism. This book will also help us to understand our unchurched neighbors. Who are they? "They are the unchurched next door. They are your friends, your neighbors, your classmates, your coworkers, your merchants, your acquaintances, and your family members. They need Christ. And they are waiting to hear from you." What are we waiting for?

End Note:

R. Albert Mohler, Jr. is president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. This commentary is reprinted with permission. For more articles and resources from Dr. Mohler go to www.AlbertMohler.com.

When is the best time to have a Devotional?

2010-04-23T15:01:00.002-04:00

Before answering this question, we are wise to examine some relevant biblical data. You see, as I often like to say, what we want or believe is usually, just the opposite too what the Bible says. My point being, that we should just not say what we think, or what we have heard, but what we know the Bible teaches. Alright, that’s enough preaching.

The Bible records that Jesus prayed early in the morning on at least one occasion (Mark 1:35), and it may have been His regular habit. Acts 10:9 mentions a situation in which Peter prayed at about noon (“sixth hour”). “Toward evening” Isaac went out in the field “to meditate” (Gen. 24:63). Before Christ chose the twelve apostles, He “went off to a mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to God” (Luke 6:12). Wow, when was the last time you did that – or have you ever? Again, Daniel, like David, prayed three times a day (Dan. 6:10–11).

Therefore Scripture does not indicate a best time for devotions in the twenty-four-hour cycle. And some of these instances may not refer to a daily prayer practice. For example, Jesus did not spend every night in prayer. So God gives us freedom—and we should give other people the same freedom—to choose the best time for daily devotions. There will even be days that we don’t do a “daily” devotion – ahhh! I’m just telling you from my own experience, and when I was in the Army running around in the jungles of South America, I can tell you I didn’t have a “daily” devotion as we might define it.

Anyway, individuals have differences in their biological clocks, which may also influence one’s choice of time for daily devotions. Some Christians are “morning persons” (that’s me & my wife and kids never have gotten used to it); we are wide awake when we first arise and we function well in early morning hours. Others are like owls; they are more energetic and alert in the evening than during the day. Wise Christians will choose the time of day for devotions when they are most alert, undistracted, and free from their work schedule. Therefore you should give God the best time feasible in your daily schedule for your daily devotions. If you try to squeeze devotions into your leftover time, you probably will have little or no time at all, or it will be a poor time. Besides, I believe that you would agree that He deserves our very best and not leftovers.

Biblical examples also give believers the option to have two or more special times with the Lord each day. These more frequent times would normally be briefer periods than a single period for a daily devotional. Meeting with the Lord several times each day could be the best arrangement for a person with a heavy administrative schedule such as Daniel evidently had. A busy executive might desire to seek the Lord several times a day about decisions, problems, and difficult relationships. These special times with the Lord can recharge a person spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically, resulting in more effective Christian living and growth. I personally would spend a portion of my lunch time to not only pray and thank the Lord for the food, but also took that time to praise Him being an awesome God, confess where I have failed Him in my work, pray for others that I worked with, my own needs, and to thank Him for all that He has done for me and for providing me a good job.

Christians who do not have their devotional time early in the morning should still take time to commit themselves, their family, and their daily activities to the Lord before they begin the day. I also use an early morning period to review Bible memory verses, which seems to get harder to do as the years go by, but also it’s to meditate on the truths reviewed. Then in the late afternoon or early evening folks will have their Bible reading, prayer, and other devotional activities. I would also encourage you to have a brief time of prayer together as husband and wife to acknowledge the Lord in praise and worship, to take your major concerns to Him, and to seek His blessing on your lives and activities for the day.

Each Christian needs to determine the best time to set aside each day for devotions and then follow that schedule. Emergency adjustments in the schedule for devotions are understandable. We should not consider lapses in our devotional practice as final failures since God can restore us and our devotional time to even greater success. Nevertheless we should aim for consistency, which tends to produce more consistency, while inconsistency in daily devotions tends to reinforce the habit of inconsistency. A sporadic approach to devotions usually produces sporadic results just as sporadic eating and working are not generally healthy and productive approaches. Serious athletes seldom use an irregular training schedule for their special sport if they hope to attain excellence and keep improving their athletic skills. And pursuing sanctification is like an athletic contest that demands our utmost effort (1 Cor. 9:24–27; Phil. 3:13–14; Heb. 12:1–3). So we can be encouraged that our devotional time can constantly improve so that it becomes the high point of our day and not an irksome task to endure.

So what is the best time for you? When are you going to do it? I didn’t hear you, you were mumbling something about doing something about it later.

Why have a Daily Devotion?

2010-04-21T10:41:00.004-04:00

Scripture does not explicitly say we must practice daily devotions, but the Scriptures are replete with instances where it suggests the wisdom and value of this practice. In our church, we post right in the front of the church how many people from the prior week were daily Bible readers. Unfortunately, it hovers only around 25% of the total attendance. My concern is if we are not in the Word the Word is not in us, and we will be unable to be the followers (imitators) of the Lord, and won't have the mind of Christ, nor the power to stand fast in the Lord when faced with the many issues of life. Thus, the answers to the following questions should not be difficult to answer:

Are we not to have the mind of Christ? Are we not to be renewed in the mind? Isn’t the battle that we have each day for our minds? Is our view biblical or a world view? How do we answer the difficult questions in life?

Hence, by spending special times of undistracted attention in God’s presence, we hear Him and fellowship with Him (Ps. 27:8; 46:10). We cannot love God and develop our relationship to Him more than we know Him. And we get to know Him more through focused attention in a daily devotional time.

The broadest and the most basic reason why we should have daily devotions is because God seeks fellowship with believers, and this truth starts in the early chapters of Genesis and continues in Scripture through the Book of Revelation (for example, Gen. 3:8; Ps. 27:8; 42:1–2; 63:1–8; John 1:14; 4:23–24; 1 Cor. 1:9; Rev. 3:20). STOP. Don’t read any further until you read those texts verses. It’s not what I say that’s going to have an effect, but what the Word says, so don’t pass by the Scriptures. You see one of our problems in the 21st Century here in America is we’re too accustomed to fast food and getting something for nothing. Not so, in our time we must spend with our Lord. If you have read those verses, you see that it is understandable that human creatures should seek fellowship with their Creator. However, that the holy Creator should seek reconciliation and fellowship with human beings is amazing, particularly after the fall of the human race. We serve an awesome God, who is mindful of us. In other words, His mind is full of thoughts toward you and I continuously. Take a look at Ps 4:5, a verse I have on my daily prayer journal that I read just about every day. It’s that good.

Two more specific reasons why we need daily devotions relate to communication between God and His people.

First, we need a scheduled time each day to read, study, memorize, meditate on, listen to, and apply Scripture. God has spoken to us in Scripture, and if we want to know what He has said, we must search Scripture with receptive and expectant hearts. Don’t pass by what was just stated there – receptive and expectant hearts. It’s not something we do just to do and check off on our task lists, so we can feel good about ourselves. Believers should respond to the Bible as a dry sponge responds when it contacts liquid. We should passionately (pathos) soak up Scripture and let it saturate our minds and souls. Passages such as Joshua 1:8; Job 23:12; Psalms 19:7–14; 119:97–104; Matthew 4:4 Hebrews 5:12–14; and 1 Peter 2:2 show the vital necessity of God’s Word. As it is clearly seen in these verses, daily devotions should include a time for serious intake and application of Scripture. Paul exhorted Christians, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom.” (Col. 3:16).

Secondly, we need a scheduled time each day for worship, prayer, and fellowship with God. God speaks to us through His Word, and He desires us to respond to Him through prayer. Scripture reveals many godly persons whose prayers were a vital part of their daily practice.
David mentioned the practice of praying to the Lord three times a day (Ps. 55:16–17), and this was also Daniel’s practice (Dan. 6:10–11). Daniel’s times of prayer were more important to him than life itself (6:12). Christ evidently prayed frequently and also practiced continual and perfect communion with the Father (Mark 1:35; John 8:29). Paul repeatedly prayed, especially for believers in various churches (for example, Phil. 1:3–4; Col. 1:3; 1 Thess. 1:2–3), and his times of prayer must have occurred at least daily.

Can you imagine if churches would get serious about spending a devotional time with Him, and what God would and could do through people that are faithful to His word and lead in their daily lives by the principles of God’s word that they have hidden in their hearts?

Bibliography:

Charles R. Swindoll and Roy B. Zuck, Understanding Christian Theology (Nashville, Tenn.: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2003), 1069.

Stephen D. Eyre, Drawing Close to God : The Essentials of a Dynamic Quiet Time : A Lifeguide Resource (Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 1997).

First Steps in the Christian Faith., Revised 1984, 1993, 2004 (Moody Bible Institute: Chicago, IL, 1957).

What is a Devotion?

2010-04-20T07:17:00.005-04:00

I'm getting ready to teach what we call at our church 1st CLASS, which is a church information class used to introduce people to our church. My goal in teaching the class is to "level the playing field" so to speak. The good old USA isn't so good anymore. In other words, we can't assume anymore that people have a basic knowledge of Christianity and the role and function of the local New Testament church.

Because of this, I wanted a class that would explain our basic orthodoxy - what we believe and in conjunction with that our orthopraxy - what we do or how we practice what we believe. Not only do I want to tell them what we believe and what we do, but in addition, I want to give them some basic tools. So, as I was doing my daily devotions this morning, I got to thinking how many people don't have a daily devotion. Something that is crucial in our relationship with our Lord, and yet most in the church today don't do them, and so I began to ask myself why is this. I believe one reason is people really don't know what a devotion time is and have never been taught how to have one. With that in mind, I'm going to launch out and try to define it and give practical ways in how a person can have one. Of course, there are going to be many different techniques that are good, and I believe the important thing to do is to just START.

So what is it? Daily devotional time is a regularly scheduled period in each twenty-four-hour cycle for undistracted personal response to the Lord and nurture of our spiritual relationship to Him. This practice is also known as a daily quiet time or simply daily devotions.

Two or more persons may have devotions together, such as Christian parents leading their children in devotions or a gathering of several Christians for a devotional time. However, here we are emphasizing personal daily devotions as a private time of fellowship with God.

The personal devotional time is not primarily academic Bible study or preparation of spiritual truths to share with others. This is where many pastors and even Sunday school teachers go astray and count their study time as their devotional time. Remember, Christianity is a relationship and devotions, in my mind, is time that I hang out with the God of the universe. What an incredible humbling thought, that God greatly desires just to spend some time with Him to talk and listen. Thus, this is a special time focused on intimate fellowship with the Lord.

Our personal response to the Lord and nurture of our spiritual life during devotions should be empowered by the Spirit and directed by Scripture so that our devotional time is dynamic, spontaneous, and properly controlled rather than dull and rigid. Consequently, Christians should not take a legalistic approach to their daily devotions. Neither should they try to impose a daily devotional time on others or require a strict format for personal devotions. Legalism makes a daily devotional time dead and discouraging rather than attractive, vital, and spiritually uplifting. Furthermore, legalism can mislead people by causing them to measure and compare each other’s spirituality by the length or other characteristics of their devotions. This is why as a pastor, I don’t usually share with people exactly what I do, but to give them many options and to encourage them to find out what works for them.

We should also avoid judging others’ preferences concerning the best time, place, length, and contents for personal devotions so long as one’s devotional practices are within biblical bounds. Our daily devotional time must be handled within a context of grace.

Nor should we call just any type of Christian practice a successful daily devotional time. One of the worst excuses for a devotional time I ever heard was this: “I have my devotions by reading the Christian bumper stickers during my daily driving.” Many so-called Christian bumper stickers are biblically inaccurate, and the rest hardly give the reader even a spoonful of spiritual skim milk. Not to get away from what we’re talking about, but I also would encourage people to keep “Christian” bumper stickers off their cars. Okay, back to the subject at hand – devos.

Others claim that since they “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17) they do not need a specific devotional time. To commune constantly with God and to send a continual stream of prayer requests to heaven is wonderful. But this does not substitute for a daily devotional time. Believers can pray without ceasing while driving a vehicle, doing housework, or tending their lawn. But they cannot give undistracted attention to the Lord while doing these other activities. Suppose I tell my wife I am going to spend some quality time with her by thinking pleasant thoughts of her and saying endearing things to her while I mow the lawn. She may appreciate my pleasant thoughts and endearing words, but she will hardly think this practice can replace quality time when I focus just on her and our relationship. Likewise, a quality devotional time with the Lord must include our undistracted personal response to Him.

Well, we’ve covered what a devotion or quiet time is not, next blog, we’ll look at why we should have one. By the way, I mentioned the key is to start. So while I’m writing on the subject, I would highly suggest to begin now with a pre-packaged devotion. There are many out there on the market and many more that are free on the internet. A good one can be found at: DavidJeremiah.org. It’s free and you can subscribe and have it delivered to you every day via email and also to your blackberry, iphone, and many other devices.

The Image of God in Man

2010-04-16T08:35:00.002-04:00

In his article The Image of God in Man, Gordon Clark gives Scriptural bases, secular opposition, theological diversity, but the majority of his article is devoted to the doctrinal aspects of the image of God. The importance, he states, of this doctrine is emphasized in its implications with the whole system of theology especially to key doctrines such as sin, atonement, sanctification, and glorification.

He states that man is not a dual image as many theologians believed because of the occurrence of sin and that a “part” of man was somehow lost. He then goes on and states the severity of sin, however, is supported in both the Old Testament and the New Testament and that it is impossible for the unregenerate man to please God. Yet this is the very reason he states that man is made in God’s image because sinning presupposes rationality and therefore the image of God is reason.

Without reason, man would be no different than that of animals, stars, or rocks, which do not have what the Bible calls eternal life. Eternal life is to know the only true God, and knowledge is an exercise of the mind or what is known as reason. He also states that men were created with the light of logic as a distinctive human characteristic. That light as stated in John 1:9 is the redemptive work of Christ. For this reason, the fall and its effects are that of the heart or mind. Sin then does not take away the image of God but causes it to malfunction. This brings us to the doctrine of regeneration and sanctification which corrects the malfunction caused by sin. The person becomes a new person in Christ and is given His righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21). Man then begins to evaluate and conform to God’s precepts and this will continue to improve his thinking in all matters.

In conclusion, the image of God is determined by mankind's ability to reason. Sin therefore requires God's image because man is responsible for his sins. If man was not responsible and answerable for sin, repentance would not be needed. Salvation is what enables us to reverse the effects of sin and begins the process of sanctification or conforming to the image of Christ and also fulfills the purpose of glorifying God.

Bibliography
Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society The Image of God in Man 12-04 p. 215-222 @ 2006, ATLA Serials files

John Calvin and His Commentaries

2010-02-19T09:53:00.004-05:00

You don't have to be a Calvinist to appreciate Calvin's handling of the Scriptures. Arminius himself recognized Calvin's skill when he said, "...he (Calvin) excels beyond comparison in the interpretation of Scripture...". I find that Calvin's Commentaries are understandable to the lay person as well as being scholarly, and also highly relevant in application. I always appreciate hearing what he has to say about a given text. However, when struggling with a certain text, you will find that going to Calvin’s commentaries that they are not comprehensive and some verses are not covered.

So who is this guy anyway?

John Calvin was a theologian, pastor, biblical exegete, and tireless apologist for Reformed Christianity, and ranks among the most important thinkers in church history. His theological works, biblical commentaries, tracts, treatises, sermons, and letters helped establish the Reformation as a legitimate and thriving religious movement throughout Europe. No theologian has been as acclaimed or assailed as much as Calvin. Calvinism has spawned movements and sparked controversy throughout the centuries. Wars have been fought both to defend and destroy it, and its later proponents began political and theological revolutions in Western Europe and America. The breadth and depth of the engagement with his works since they first appeared four centuries ago—and their continuous publication since then—testifies to Calvin’s importance and lasting value for the church today. Thinking Christians from the twenty-first century who ignore Calvin’s writings do so at their own peril.

John Calvin was born on July 10, 1509 in Noyan, in France. He began his work in the church at the age of twelve, intending—at the request of his father—to train for the priesthood. Calvin attended the Collège de la Marche in Paris, before studying law at the University of Orléans in 1526 and continuing his studies at the University of Bourges. In 1532, Calvin’s first published work appeared: a commentary on Seneca's De Clementia.

On year later, he befriended Nicolas Cop, the rector of the Collège Royal in Paris. This friendship resulted in trouble for Calvin when Cop was branded a heretic after calling for reform in the Catholic Church. Cop fled to Basel, and Calvin was forced from Paris. The controversy expanded when, on the evening of October 18, 1534, anonymous attacks against the Mass were posted on public buildings, fueling the violence in the city. Calvin left France for Basel in January. The controversy, and the trouble it caused Calvin, disciplined him in his writing project, and he began working on the first edition of The Institutes of the Christian Religion, which appeared in 1536.

In June, 1536, Calvin returned to Paris as the violence subsided, but was expelled again in August of 1536. He left for Strasbourg, but was forced to Geneva instead, where he stayed at the request of William Farel. He became a reader in the church in 1537. In late 1537, Calvin fled Geneva after a controversy surrounding the Eucharist. He traveled to Basel before accepting a position at the church in Strasbourg. There, Calvin continued working on both the second edition of the Institutes and his Commentary on Romans. At the urging of his friends, Calvin married Idelette de Bure. He returned to Geneva in 1541.

Upon his arrival to Geneva, Calvin began writing prolifically. He continued his revisions to the Institutes, preached weekly, taught the Bible during the week, and delivered lectures on theology. Calvin also continued work on his New Testament commentaries.

His return to Geneva was not without controversy, however. He faced opposition from the libertines, who, in 1552, compromised his authority and nearly succeeded in banishing him from Geneva a second time. His greatest threat, however, came from his theological antagonist, Servetus. The frequent letters between Calvin and Servetus contain elements of their tenuous relationship, which were exacerbated when Servetus visited Geneva against Calvin’s orders, publicly denied the Trinity, and disgraced the church. He was condemned for heresy and executed.

By 1553, Calvin was praised for his work in uniting Geneva and securing the future of the Reformation. The church housed refugees from England—among them John Knox—who brought the Reformed faith to England. Calvin also sent more than 100 Reformed missionaries to France, and frequently corresponded with both political leaders and second generation Reformers throughout Europe. He also founded a school in Geneva, and Theodore Beza became its first rector. Calvin’s influence quickly expanded beyond the vicinity of Geneva.

During the 1550s, Calvin’s health began to decline, prompting him to undertake a final revision and expansion of The Institutes of the Christian Religion. It was published in 1559, and was immediately reprinted and translated throughout Europe. Calvin became ill in early 1564, and preached his last sermon on February 6 of that same year. His health worsened throughout the spring, and he died on May 27. Thousands flocked to view his body, forcing the council in Geneva to bury him in an unmarked grave.

If you haven’t done so before, maybe because you are scared of the term “Calvinist”, and think that by reading his works you will be labeled one, I would encourage you to put aside your unfounded prejudice and look into a man who devoted his life to the study of Scripture. I am asked, at times, where I stand on this issue, and I will submit to what Charles Simeon said with a conversation he had with John Wesley in regards to this issue that continues to be divisive today.

Simeon was neither an Arminian nor a Calvinist but described himself as “a moderate Calvinist” or “a Bible Christian.” His conviction can be witnessed in a well-known dialogue between himself and the Arminian John Wesley:

[Simeon:] Sir, I understand that you are called an Arminian; and I have been sometimes called a Calvinist; and therefore I suppose we are to draw daggers. But before I consent to begin the combat, with your permission I will ask you a few questions. Pray, Sir, do you feel yourself a depraved creature, so depraved that you would never have thought of turning to God, if God had not first put it into your heart?

[Wesley:] Yes, I do indeed.

[S:] And do you utterly despair of recommending yourself to God by anything you can do; and look for salvation solely through the blood and righteousness of Christ?

[W:] Yes, solely through Christ.

[S:] But, Sir, supposing you were at first saved by Christ, are you not somehow or other to save yourself afterwards by your own works?

[W:] No, I must be saved by Christ from first to last.

[S:] Allowing, then, that you were first turned by the grace of God, are you not in some way or other to keep yourself by your own power?

[W:] No.

[S:] What then, are you to be upheld every hour and every moment by God, as much as an infant in its mother's arms?

[W:] Yes, altogether.

[S:] And is all your hope in the grace and mercy of God to preserve you unto His heavenly kingdom?

[W:] Yes, I have no hope but in Him.

[S:] Then, Sir, with your leave I will put up my dagger again; for this is all my Calvinism; this is my election, my justification by faith, my final perseverance: it is in substance all that I hold, and as I hold it; and therefore, if you please, instead of searching out terms and phrases to be a ground of contention between us, we will cordially unite in those things wherein we agree. (from Charles Simeon: Biography of a Sane Saint)

Harry Weems

2010-01-22T13:17:00.002-05:00

I did not know Mr. Weems, but I do know his son Shawn who attends our church. I had just a short conversation with Shawn as I went to visit and pay my respects to Shawn, his wife Trish, the extended family and of course, his mother Mary. Shawn was in good spirits and at peace in knowing that this is how his Dad Harry would have wanted to leave this world and have his homecoming with his Savior and Lord.

Shawn stated that he had a great relationship with his father, and that they did many things together and that he would miss the advice that he often sought from his Dad. He went on to say, that he only wished he had gotten one last piece of advice from him before he went to be with the Lord. However, we both quickly agreed that Shawn had gotten something much better – Shawn had a lifetime of advice from a wonderful and close relationship he had with his Dad. Harry has left, but his legacy, wisdom, and spirit will live on through his son Shawn.

Shawn also stated that his Dad in these latter years had “mellowed” and kindled a much closer and intimate relationship with his Savior. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8) and that is exactly what happened with Harry and is a great testimony of the love our Savior has for His children.

Shawn and Trish are an incredible couple and as a pastor, I find these things to be the hardest to deal with personally. It is something that always has a profound effect and someone you know is feeling great pain and loss of someone they love very much. My thoughts and many prays go out to the Weems family and ask God’s peace to overwhelm them.

Obituary: Harry Weems 01-20-2010

Mr. Harry Weems, age 74, Jonesborough, laid down his body and went to be with the Lord Wednesday, January 20, 2010. Mr. Weems was a native of Washington County and son of the late Wilbur & Helen Worley Weems. He was also preceded in death by a grandson, Michael Bennett and one brother, Worley Weems. He was member of Jonesborough United Methodist Church. Mr. Weems was a Manager of Jonesboro Insurance Agency for 30 years. He was a volunteer fireman and refereed for TSSAA. He was co-chairman for the original Jonesborough Days Committee and a member of Emmaus Community. He was also a member of Civitan Club. Survivors include his wife, Mary Graybeal Weems, Jonesborough; three children, Renee Bennett, Carol Weems, and Shawn Weems and wife, Trish, all of Jonesborough; one brother, Lew Weems, Knoxville; two sisters, Sharon Hutchens and Thea Smith, both of Jonesborough; three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Willie Weems; and several nephews and nieces.

To Be or Not to Be - Resolutions

2010-01-06T13:42:00.001-05:00

Some of you have asked about my New Year resolutions or commitments that I have made to Christ. As I taught on Sunday morning, many do not keep their commitments for a number of reasons. One reason is because they are not meaningful or challenging enough. What I mean by that is it must be something you believe important enough to follow through with and that other activities will not overshadow them. Remember this is a commitment to Christ and is focused on Him first and foremost not what we might want more for ourselves. Secondly, it must be a commitment that can easily be measured. In this, it’s important that you don’t set the goal too high to where you are quickly discouraged. I once had a goal to read the Bible through 4 times in one year. However, I didn’t make it, but I didn’t quite and was able to read it through almost 3 times. Obviously, I received a great blessing from that.

What is important is that we follow through with our commitments and that means they have to continually be put before you as a reminder. Many people today are IT savvy and imbed their commitments into their calendar on Outlook. I use both technology and the old school way. I have automatic pop ups on my calendar to remind me of daily, weekly, and monthly goals, but also use my daily journal that has my goals written out in 05 lead pencil. If you are really serious about your commitments you will also make yourself accountable to someone else. Share with someone what your commitments are. In many instances you don’t have to be to specific if it’s a personal matter and they might just ask you if you have been faithful in what you allow yourself to look at (TV, computer, etc.).

Remember these commitments you have to the Lord have been prayed over and have been determined to be important. Because of this, it’s always best to prioritize these commitments. For me, that means I do them first before other things. In other words, many of my commitments are spiritual in nature, thus they are done first before other things. Practically what that entails is I get up early and give the first part of my day to the Lord.

Many of you are probably wondering how do we determine what our resolutions, priorities and goals will be. Here I think it’s best to partner with the Holy Spirit of God and ask some questions in regard to four major areas: Spiritual, Emotional, Physical, and Relational. This is hard work and often can’t be done in one sitting. Here are just a few questions that I have asked the Holy Spirit over the last 3-4 weeks in helping to determine my resolutions and might help you with the process:

Q 1: What am I doing in my devotion time that needs to change and get better?
Answer 1: I need to get back to reading the Bible through each year.
Action Plan: Find or develop a reading plan that will keep me on track that includes readings from both NT and OT along with a daily Psalm and Proverb.
Answer 2: I need to memorize/meditate more Scripture.
Action Plan: Use book “Scripture Memory Made Easy” by Mark Water.

Q 2: Do I exercise enough?
Answer: No.
Action Plan: Exercise at least three times each week for 30 minutes.

As you can see this is not an easy process but it will make a difference. I will leave you with this reminder that permanent change is inward and temporary change is outward.

That’s simple. If we’re going to be the person that we need to be and that God wants us to be, the first thing that we are going to have to understand is the real change that is lasting and for eternity is an inward change. And that outside change, what we are, flesh, at best it’s just a few school years. Isn’t it amazing how much we spend on the outward and how little we spend on the inward?

Alan Dawson Miller

2009-12-29T10:40:00.001-05:00

I had the distinct privilege to take part in the homecoming service for brother Alan. It was an incredible service where Pastor Bud Pate gave the opening comments about Alan’s battle with cancer and how his wife Debbie was loyally beside her husband throughout. In the many times that I visited with them, there was never a time that Debbie was not there by his side ministering and loving on her husband. What an incredible example of living out our marriage vows that we give to our Lord and one another. Her strength, resolve, and love played out before me will leave an indelible mark in my heart in what it means to love “in sickness and in health.”

Pastor Jaime Ferguson then gave his remarks and talked about his privilege some 5 years previously to lead both Alan and Debbie to the Lord. He also had the honor of baptizing the both of them as they desired to be obedient to the commands of Christ in their lives. He continued to talk about how faithful they were to the ministry of Mt Zion Baptist church and that they we’re eager and hungry to learn more about God’s Word. They also decided that it was important to renew their marriage vows as Christians and Pastor Jamie commented on the growth and desire they had to honor the Lord with their lives. Pastor Jamie gave a clear gospel presentation and an invitation to all those without Christ to either receive the free gift of salvation or to say good bye to Alan as they would not be able to see him again. However, the hope we have in Christ is to know that we don’t have to say good bye and that we that are in Christ, will see Alan again on the other side of eternity.

The services ended at the Washington County Memory Gardens where I had the honor to conduct the committal service. What had an incredible impact on me was not only was there hundreds of people at the services, where even the overflow room was filled to capacity, but there were almost as many who came to the committal service. Although all the preaching was good, they say that your life is what preaches and has the greatest impact. By all those that were present, it is evident that Alan’s life preached the best message of the day.

We will miss Alan greatly at Mt Zion Baptist.

Death is just a natural thing
Like the closing of a door
As we start upon a journey
To a new and distant shore
So let your grief be softened
And yield not to despair
You have only placed
Your loved one in
The loving Father’s care.

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10

Obituary

Mr. Alan Dawson Miller, age 55, Jonesborough, passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2009, at Johnson City Medical Center. Mr. Miller was of Washington County and son of Dawson Miller and Dean Morris Miller. He was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. He truly enjoyed going to church and loved his church family. Mr. Miller was a truck driver for FedEx Freight and received a 16 year safe driving award. He loved his family and spending time with them. He enjoyed his Mustangs, going to car shows and cruising. Survivors in addition to his parents include his wife, Deborah Poteat Miller, of the home; two sons, Alan Michael Miller and wife, Kimberly, and Bradley James Miller and wife Jessica; one granddaughter, Amber Lynn Miller; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Louis Miller and wife, Danette, and Todd Miller and wife, Cassandra; aunt, Wyona Miller; mother-in-law, Virginia Poteat; sisters-in-law, Barbara Thompson and husband, Richard, Vicky Lloyd and husband, Jerry, and Mary Lou Sluss and husband, Tim; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The History of Worship

2009-12-29T09:47:00.002-05:00

I find it interesting that in looking at worship in the early church, there is little to nothing stated about the style or type of music that’s played. They were more focused on Christ and remembering the life, death, and resurrection of the Saviour. It would do the church good instead of focusing on the type of music, how loud or soft it’s played, whether or not there is a perfect balance between contemporary music and the hymns and focus on the weightier matters and the true essence of worship. Worship is “worthy-ship” and it’s about a person and not a preference. Maybe it would be good in our worship to have more repentance, prayer, and fasting, and take another look at the importance of the Lord’s Supper and begin to examine ourselves to where we are at in attitude of worship toward our Prophet, Priest, and King. He (Jesus Christ) is worthy of our praise.

In examining the history of worship, you will find that the first part of an early Christian worship assembly was open to all, including strangers, who might be converted by the preaching. The second part of the service involved the Lord’s Supper, which only the baptized were allowed to partake, so the unbaptized departed then.

Many Romans believed Christians were a funeral society because Christian families observed the anniversary of a relative’s death on the third, ninth, and thirtieth (or fortieth) day after the death. They gathered at the tomb, sang psalms, read Scripture, prayed, gave alms to the poor, and ate a meal. Later, this practice developed into feasts to honor martyrs. Perhaps the first such feast was for Polycarp (a bishop burned to death for his faith); it began shortly after his death in about 156.

Christians prepared for Easter, the festival of the Resurrection, by fasting. At first, the fasting lasted one day; later it was extended to 40 hours, to symbolize the 40 days Jesus spent fasting and praying in the wilderness.

Sunday, the “little Easter,” was also a festival of joy. To prepare for it, many Christians fasted on Wednesday and Friday.

Repentance was an involved process in the early church. Sin was seen not as a personal matter but as something that destroyed the unity of the church. Penitents fasted and prayed for the forgiveness of their sins, appeared before the church to make public confession, and were barred from the Lord’s Supper until they gave evidence of a change of heart and were absolved. (The only exception was for people facing persecution. They were readmitted to the Lord’s Supper so they could receive strength.)

In the first century, the Lord’s Supper included not only the bread and the cup but an entire meal. As part of the meal, neighbors who had quarreled made peace again.

Early Christians continued to observe the Jewish Passover. But they did not celebrate the Passover in memory of deliverance from Egypt. Instead, they fasted to commemorate the sufferings of Jesus, the true Passover Lamb.

Christians fiercely disagreed over when to celebrate Easter. Believers in Asia (modern Turkey) celebrated Easter, the “Christian Passover,” on Passover (the 14th day of the Jewish month of Nisan). Victor, the bishop of Rome from 189 to 198, insisted all churches had to celebrate Easter on a Sunday (the first Sunday following the 14th of Nisan). Victor threatened to excommunicate those Christians who observed Easter differently, but the Asian custom continued. The Council of Nicaea in 325 finally decreed that Easter should be celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon in spring, the practice today.

In Africa, newly baptized believers were given a drink of milk and honey, symbols of their being children of Christ and citizens in heaven, a land of milk and honey.

The first Christian feast (other than Easter and Pentecost) was a feast in memory of the baptism of Jesus. It was first celebrated on January 6 or sometimes January 10; this became the feast of the Epiphany, which means “manifestation” in Greek. Christmas was not widely celebrated until the late 300s.

When worship was ended, Christians took home the consecrated bread so that those who couldn’t attend worship could partake of the Lord’s Supper. In North Africa, Christians took home the bread so they could celebrate the sacrament every day with their families. Thus, “Give us today our daily bread” carried a deeper meaning.

Bibliography:

Christian History Magazine-Issue 37: Worship in the Early Church (Carol Stream, IL: Christianity Today, 1993).

Mrs. Christine Phillips

2009-12-04T05:50:00.004-05:00

Mrs. Phillips went had her homecoming on Tuesday, December 1, 2009. I didn't know Christine as much as I would have liked and only had the privilege of being her pastor for a short 10 months. Although I have only been at Mt Zion Baptist for a short time, however, Christine had been there making a difference for a quite some time. In looking at the church records we found that she joined by baptism on August 17, 1960. She was not just a name on a church roll, but was active in serving her Savior by serving others as she taught in Sunday school and was active in the Ladies ministry. Her ministry had an impact on a young boy, Jeremy Dikes who was her neighbor as he grew up. Pastor Jeremy, now 35 yrs old preached her "graduation" service and described Christine as a reflection of a Proverbs 31 woman.

The funeral was held on Thursday and I went to the funeral home early and was astonished at the number of people that came through for the viewing and encouraged Herman and the family. It took me 25 minutes to finally see Christine and her husband Herman. That long line remained right up to the service time, which was a great testimony about Christine and preached a message to this pastor and confirmed again in my mind that Christine followed the Great Commandment and Loved the Lord and others with all her heart. What an impact she has made with her life on the Kingdom of God!

We will miss Christine and while our grief may seem insurmountable, I am compelled to remind us that there is no weight of the soul that our savior Jesus Christ cannot help us to bear. He is with us and wants us to trust in him as we cope with our sorrow. We must not ever forget to allow the Holy Spirit, Who’s name is Comforter to minister to our hearts so that he may heal our wounds and relieve your pain. As Jesus says to all of us, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.”

Life is but a Stopping Place
Life is but a stopping place,
A pause in what's to be,
A resting place along the road,
to sweet eternity.
We all have different journeys,
Different paths along the way,
We all were meant to learn some things,
but never meant to stay...
Our destination is a place,
Far greater than we know.
For some the journey's quicker,
For some the journey's slow.
And when the journey finally ends,
We'll claim a grAnd find an everlasting peace,
Together with "Christine" and the lord
-Author unknown

-Obituary
Mrs. Christine Harris Phillips, age 78, Jonesborough, passed away Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at the Johnson City Medical Center. Mrs. Phillips was a native of Washington County and daughter of the late Frank & Lilly Cole McKee. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Phillips was also preceded in death by one brother, Everett McKee and one sister, Sylvia Phillips. She was a long time member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where she helped with Bible School and Sunday school. She was also a member of the Mt. Zion Ladies Circle. Mrs. Phillips retired from Woolworth’s as Assistant Manager. Survivors include her husband, Herman Phillips, Jonesborough; step-daughter, Jan Neal and husband, Allen, Jonesborough; step-son, Sherrill Phillips and wife Janie, Jonesborough; three sisters and brother-in-law, Mary Malone, Martha & Howard Coggins, all of Jonesborough and Louise Matson, Pennsylvania; half-sister, Shirley Bennett, Nashville, Tenn. ; step-grandchildren, Mark Phillips, Pam Phillips, Donnie Neal and Dale Neal; and several nephews and nieces.

Conviction – A Work of the Holy Spirit

2009-11-14T09:30:00.001-05:00

There are many works of the Holy Spirit, but I would like to examine the work in regard to conviction. Jesus in John 16:8 states very clearly this work of conviction: “And when he (Holy Spirit) is come, he will reprove (convict) the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not on me;”

Conviction defined is the process of being condemned by one’s own conscience as a sinner because of God’s demands. The idea of conviction is a major theme of Scripture, although the word is rarely used (Psalm 32; 51; Acts 2:37; Rom. 7:7–25). The agent of conviction is the Holy Spirit (John 16:7–11); and the means of conviction is either the Word of God (Acts 2:37) or God’s general revelation of His demands through nature and people’s inborn consciousness of a sense of right and wrong (Rom. 1:18–20; 2:15). The purpose of conviction is to lead people to repent of their sins (Acts 2:37–38; Rom. 2:1–4) and to turn to God for salvation and eternal life.

By nature, we are satisfied with ourselves, content to go on, imagining that all is well, that we are good people, or perhaps knowing that we are bad people, but still knowing no conviction of sin. However, when the Holy Spirit begins to work He convicts us of sin. This work of conviction by the third Person of the Trinity causes us to realize something of the truth concerning the holiness of God. We may have talked about God for years; we may have ‘said our prayers’ to Him, but we have never thought much about Him, and we know nothing about Him truly until the Holy Spirit begins to deal with us.

These two things happen together. I am made to see myself fallen and undone (Isa 6:5). I begin to understand that the trouble with me is not so much that I do things I should not do, but that I should ever desire to do them. I become aware of the fact that there is something within me that is vile and rotten and wrong, a perverted and a twisted nature; and I begin to realize that I do not know God, that I am really an enemy against God, that there is a hatred of God in the depths of my heart. Sure I was one of those people that “believed” in God and was happy to talk about God as long as He did not interfere in my life. I even convinced myself that I was a pretty good guy without realizing that even the good I do falls short of bringing glory to God and ultimately did it in order to bring glory to myself. I would even turn to Him when in need and pray to Him for help. However, I did not want God to dominate my life, I did not want to be guided and accountable to a holy God. The Holy Spirit awakens us to a realization of all this. He also leads us to a conviction of our lost condition, of our emptiness, and our despair. When this happens; there is one inevitable result, namely, that we are humbled, we are brought low; we are made to see ourselves as we really are.

We come to the humbling conclusion that we have nothing to brag about in what we have done or not done. We also realize that even looking at others and comparing ourselves to them does not any longer bring us comfort as we understand that the only comparison God makes is with His Son Jesus. We see the truth about ourselves; and we know that the same is true for others. The Apostle Paul, while Saul of Tarsus and before the Holy Spirit did His work in him, was a great boaster: “A Hebrew of the Hebrews, of the tribe of Benjamin, circumcised the eighth day”, a man who sat at the feet of Gamaliel, the best of scholars, exceeding all others in zeal and energy and the service of God. Even so, later he came to say, “But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ”. His privileges and his works had become “dung” and “loss”. In writing later to Timothy he said, “It is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief” (1 Timothy 1:15). He had lost his pride, his boasting, his everything; he is nothing; in his view, there was no greater sinner in the universe.

Bibliography:

David Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Christian Unity (Studies in Ephesians, Chapter 4, Verses 1 Through 16) (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1972), 62.

Ronald F. Youngblood, F. F. Bruce, R. K. Harrison and Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Rev. Ed. of: Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary.; Includes Index. (Nashville: T. Nelson, 1995).

Basil of Caesarea

2009-10-09T07:13:00.000-04:00

The “Cappadocian Fathers” brought the best gift of all: a powerful scriptural defense of the Trinity and Christ’s divinity against the Arian heretics.

Basil of Caesarea (“the Great”) Pugnacious saint and theologian of the Spirit

Mention the “church fathers” to a Western Christian, and Basil the Great is not usually the first name to come to mind. Nevertheless, even for the Roman Catholic Church, Basil ranks with his friend Gregory of Nazianzus and John Chrysostom as one of the great propounders and defenders of the faith.

Born around 330, Basil grew up in a world where Christianity was recognized by the Roman government but divided between those who believed in the full divinity of Christ and the Arians, who did not. For much of the fourth century, the Arians would enjoy the support of the emperors. The struggle between Christianity and the empire had not ended with Constantine.

After his studies in Athens ended in 356, the young Basil returned to his native city of Caesarea in Cappadocia (southeastern Asia Minor). Though he appeared to have a brilliant secular career before him, instead Basil chose to follow the path of his sister Macrina, renouncing his share in the family property and living an ascetic life with a few companions.

Thus, Basil was one of the first to establish a monastic community in Asia Minor, and the rules he drew up are still normative for Orthodox monks today.

In 370 he became the archbishop of Caesarea, which brought him into conflict with the Arian emperor Valens. In an attempt to intimidate the stubborn bishop, Valens sent the prefect of the imperial guard, Modestus, to threaten him with punishment. Basil answered that he was ready and eager to die for Christ, and that he had so few possessions that banishment, confiscation, or imprisonment would mean nothing to him.

When Modestus complained that no one had ever talked to him like that, Basil answered that perhaps he had never met a bishop before: “When the interests of God are at stake, we care for nothing else.”

The emperor eventually backed down after his young son took sick and died, but the controversy with the Arians continued for the rest of Basil’s life.

In 374 Basil wrote a treatise On the Holy Spirit, which fleshed out the orthodox doctrine of the divinity of the Spirit.

It was while Basil was at Caesarea that the doxology “Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit” was first used, placing all three Persons of the Trinity on an equal footing. Basil also authored a liturgy still used by the Orthodox Church.

Basil’s major work of biblical interpretation was the Hexameron, his homilies on the six days of creation. He refused to allegorize away the literal meaning of the text, and is often classed with the “Antiochene” school of exegesis. Along with scientific speculation and theological argument, however, the Hexameron also interprets animal behavior as symbolic of various human characteristics, in order to offer moral instruction. Comparing an unhappy couple to a viper mating with a lamprey surely does not count as “literal exegesis.”

Basil was a difficult man to deal with, even for his friends. He made his friend Gregory of Nazianzus and his own brother Gregory of Nyssa miserable by forcing them to accept positions as bishops of small rural towns, positions for which they were not suited. He was accused of harshness or pride in his defense of the truth. Yet as bishop he devoted immense energy to feeding the hungry and caring for the poor, and his courage and devotion are beyond doubt. Basil’s life showed that the heroic, counter-cultural power of the gospel had not been stifled by government recognition of Christianity, and that even in a state-sponsored church there would always be found those willing to die for Christ.[1]

[1]Christian History Magazine-Issue 80: The First Bible Teachers (Carol Stream, IL: Christianity Today, 2003).

Edict of Milan (313)

2009-09-21T19:36:00.008-04:00

The agreement shifted Christianity from being illicit, persecuted sect to being a welcome, and soon dominant, religion of the Roman Empire.

It came out of a two-man summit meeting in the northern Italian city of Milan in January 313. The two men were the Roman emperors: Constantine ruling the West and Licinius the East. They met "under happy auspices," as their joint communication put it. After years of power struggles for the imperial purple, the Roman world enjoyed a degree of peace. And after the failure of the Great Persecution initiated by emperors Diocletian and Galerius in 303-304, the Christian church had began to recover stability. Constantine and Licinius turned their minds to matters affecting the general welfare of the Empire.

They determined first of all to attend to "the reverence paid to the Divinity." This required a guarantee of full religious freedom to the Christians, setting them on par with those who followed other religions. The so-called Edict of Milan provided for this. It marks the Roman Empire's final abandonment of the policies of persecution of Christians. The age of the martyrs was at an end. The transition to the era of the "Christian Empire" had begun.

Provisions of the "Edict"

The conference at Milan undoubtedly resulted in a concordat. But its terms are known to us only from re-script issued six months later by Licinius.
(This re-script was sent from his capital in Nicomedia-now Izmit in Turkey, just east of the Bosporus-to the governor of the nearby province of Bithynia. The Christian writer Lactantius has preserved its original Latin, while the church historian Eusebius gives it in Greek.)

Here are the re-script's main provisions:
"Our purpose is to grant both to the Christians and to all others full authority to follow whatever worship each person has desired, whereby whatsoever Divinity dwells in heaven may be benevolent and and propitious to us, and to all who are placed under our authority. Therefore we thought it salutary and most proper to establish our purpose that no person whatever should be refused complete toleration, who has given up his mind either to the cult of the Christians or to the religion which he personally feels best suited to himself. It is our pleasure to abolish all conditions whatever which were embodied in former orders directed to your office about the Christians, that every one of those who have a common wish to follow the religion of the Christians may from this moment freely and unconditionally proceed to observe the same without any annoyance or disquiet."

The re-script goes out of its way to ensure evenhanded treatment of all: "no diminution must be made from the honor of any religion. "But the strongly pro-Christian flavor is tasted in the instructions to restore to the Christians all property that had been appropriated during the persecution. This applied to property belonging to individual Christians as well as to churches, and without regard for the present owners, who could apply to the state for compensation.

In implementing these rulings the governor was to give the Christians his "most effective intervention," making sure the terms were published to all.

These actions, Constantine and Licinius concluded, would ensure that "Divine favor toward us, which we have already experienced in so many affairs, shall continue for all time to give us prosperity and success, together with happiness for the state."

Significance of the "Edict"

In reality, the subjects of Constantine in the Western Empire already enjoyed the toleration and property rights spelled out in the re-script. Nevertheless, the "Edict's" significance stands unchallenged (even though we must recognize the inaccuracy of its traditional title, since it was not an edict.)

Only a few months earlier Constantine had become the first Roman emperor to throw in his lot with the Christians. Although the Milan summit decreed only strict parity for Christians alongside other religionists, hindsight reads between the lines and discerns the hint of things to come. Before the end of the 4th century, orthodox Christianity had become the sole official religion of the Roman Empire.

For Christianity, the changes were momentous. To this day state churches perpetuate the alignment between Christianity and the Empire worked out in the 4th century. Meanwhile, Christians in independent, "free" churches have long regarded the Constantine revolution as little short of the fall of Christianity, almost as calamitous as the fall of Adam and Eve.

One thing is clear: The unqualified toleration for all decreed at Milan did not last long, nor has it often prevailed in later centuries. The re-script's noble sentiments surely warrant our attention today for that reason alone.

Christian History Magazine-Issue 28: The 100 Most Important Events in Church History (Carol Stream, IL: Christianity Today, 1990).

Defend & Refute

2009-08-18T07:12:00.003-04:00

I was asked a question recently, that quite frankly, I was glad to get, and yet somewhat surprised. The question came about in a round about way, but the bottom line was this person was desiring to know more about her beliefs and to be able to intelligently and irenically discuss them. Of course, as a pastor that thrilled my heart as that, unfortunately, is not a question often asked. The church, I believe, needs to know what they believe in and why. Additionally, we should also be able to defend or refute claims made otherwise. With that, I limited myself to only three key areas that we should be able to defend and refute.

Three claims that I feel are important to defend today:

Again, it was difficult to chose, and my choices are based more on what I currently find myself dealing with as I talk with people that are from within (professing Christians) the church and those outside the church (unregenerate). The first two, I find myself defending for the most part with those outside the church and the last one with those from within the church. In our present landscape, there has been a continued shift from secular humanism (Marxism) to a form of humanism known as the New Age Movement. This movement has a marked disdain for dogma and in its basic philosophy is that the truth resides within each as individuals.

1. God’s existence. This has been the age old question on whether there is a God or not. And if there is a God is there only one or many? Many believe it’s just an idea, something they can conjure up to be in their own mind, or a philosophy.

2. Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven, to peace with God. With our pluralistic society, again, many that might believe in a “higher power” and a better place believe that there must be other ways to get there besides just through one person.

3. We are responsible to God for our moral behavior. The majority today believe that morality is driven by the culture and are responsible only to ourselves and not God.

Three claims that I feel important to refute today:

1. Jesus is merely a great teacher or prophet. If He was not the very Son of God then there is no hope that sins are forgiven and the wrath of God is still on us.

2. It doesn’t matter what your religion is as long as you are sincere—God understands. It is not a question of whether God understands or not and in His omniscience he knows all and is Sovereign. In His sovereignty, He has made a way to have a relationship and although it doesn’t matter about your religion it does matter that you come His way to a personal relationship.

3. The Bible is an old book—it was fine for back then but it has nothing to say to our time. The Bible is the inspired Word of God that has been preserved for over 2000 years and is just as relevant now as it has always been.

Defense of the existence of God.

Does God exist? At first, it would seem that this is a new question but has actually been around from the beginning of time. Paul in the New Testament addressed a group of pagan philosophers about this on Mars Hill by referring to the inscription “to the unknown God” (Acts 17:23). Paul took advantage of this to unveil the true God (Acts 17:24-31). So the question is how to defend His (God’s) existence?

First, there must be some ground work laid and some understanding of what is prevalent today. The different view of the theology of revelation verses the epistemology of philosophy. In philosophy there is a search for wisdom which embraces epistemology. Epistemology states how do we know and how do we know it is true? It’s concerned with reason as the theology revelation to what is given. So, the argument from the theology standpoint assumes that God has revealed Himself and that He has revealed truth about Himself. Thus, God is, therefore, knowable and things can be known about Him or said another way, truths concerning Him. Again, one of the greatest threats today, I believe, is that of pluralism.

This subject can be divided into two parts: non-redemptive revelation of God and redemptive revelation of God. The focus for this discussion will be on the non-redemptive revelation of God. First, general revelation states that all people have some knowledge, learning or awareness of God. History proves that in all civilizations that there was recognition of a higher power.

Romans 1:19 states that what God has made known to us is plain with people. Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. It goes on to say in Romans 1:20 that there is a Creator and that people are without an excuse. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without an excuse:
Lastly, it states in Rom 1:18 that He is holy. Mankind’s reaction to this, is to suppress the truth because of their wickedness. They don’t like to be made accountable for their actions. For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

This knowledge of God is both innate (born with) and learned (what is observed), and comes in the image of God in man, the conscious, and lastly by reason.

The image of God in man, even though it is marred by the Fall (Gen1:27), is, however, still innate within the consciousness of mankind. This event in history when our first parents, Adam and Eve, sinned in the Garden of Eden, leaving the human race helpless and sinful but with a non-redemptive knowledge of the Creator.

The conscious is the natural ability of man to reflect on himself in the light of what he knows is right or wrong. Romans 2:15 states, Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;) The conscious is what is left of the image of God in us, incapable of saving us and yet leaving us without excuse.

Reason is that which one can conclude that there is a Creator God where he honestly to follow through what his conscious tells him. In Acts 17:27 tells us that God did this, so they would seek Him. That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: Historically we have seen Theologians, such as Thomas Aquinas and Anselm demonstrate by reason the ontological proof of why there must be a God.

These three sources of awareness are further confirmed by Jesus Christ in John 1:9 where He has given that light to all mankind: That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. This light does not save us but is essentially what is implied by all the above; the image of God, the conscience, and the ability to reason.

Furthermore there is natural revelation. This states what people perceive of God through nature. This is to some extent a different way of describing general revelation.

Biblical arguments for the existence of God through general revelation:

1. Acts 17:24-28
a. God so ordered the affairs of men that they should seek God and find Him.
b. Paul shows that men do not honestly search Him.
c. He shows that all men ought to recognize that god testifies to Himself through nature and human affairs.

2. Romans 1:18-25
a. Man recognizes creation to be His handiwork.
b. Although God reveals Himself in nature man does not make the appropriate response to God but becomes idolatrous.

3. Through many of the Psalms
a. Psalm 8 – The Lord is creator of nature. It displays God’s goodness and majesty, testifying to these things.
b. Psalm 19 – the heavens declare His glory. The regularity of day and night.
c. Psalm 29 – the voice of the Lord is over the waters, breaks cedars and shakes the desert.

In conclusion, all mankind are given a limited knowledge of God. It reveals God’s creation and glory and comes through nature and the conscience. No-one is saved merely by this revelation; it is non-redemptive and yet it leaves men without an excuse. They chose not to acknowledge God and suppress the truth by their sin.

Refuting the claim that Jesus is merely a great teacher or prophet.

Is Jesus God? Most people sadly did not grasp the implications of the new millennium. The year is 2007 because of the birth of Jesus over 2000 years ago. AD stands for anno domini: the year of our Lord. Granted, Jesus may not have been born in 6 BC, or 4 BC. Of course, this is a reminder to Jew who rejected Jesus as Messiah and is also an offence to Muslims. At the end of the day the ultimate issue regarding the person of Jesus is whether or not he was – and is – God. This question is paramount if we are to continue to call ourselves Christians. If He is less than God, then we are not Christians.

If it is true that Jesus was a prophet and not the Son of God (as Muslims claim), it is undermining Jesus. In addition, if we say that He was a good man, a good teacher, a good example and one who did not deserve to be crucified, but that He was not God, is also to undermine Jesus.

The Bible is replete concerning the Christ’s deity. First we have the virgin birth. Although there some that would say that this would not prove his deity as do the Jehovah’s Witnesses. Because of the virgin birth Jesus did not have an earthly father. Mary in Luke 1:34 tells of her reaction when the angel Gabriel told her that she was to have a child. Gabriel went on to tell her that she would have a son and his name would be Jesus (Luke 1:32-35). This would take place be the Holy Spirit who will “overshadow” her (Luke 1:35). This means that Mary was impregnated by the Holy Spirit of God. The birth of a son without a human father, but rather the Most High God, could only mean that Jesus is God’s Son. Using the term ‘Son of God’ is the same as saying Jesus is God. The Jews saw it this way when the outright asked him in Luke 22:70-71. We also see it in many other places in the gospel of John (1:1, 5:18, 10:33, 20:31).

There are explicit references to the deity of Jesus. In John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. There is no way that we can get around this verse with integrity. It shows Christ’s relationship with the Father; the Word (Gr. Logos) was “with God”. It shows the pre-existence of the Word: “In the beginning”, that is, before the Word became flesh. John 1:14 says, And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. Thomas said to Him, My Lord and my God (John 20:28). We could go on and on through both the Old and New Testaments.

Jesus also made claim to His deity. In Luke 2:49, Jesus said that “I must be about his fathers business.” Jesus asked Peter in Matt 16:15-17 “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered “You are the Christ.” Jesus then affirmed Peter’s testimony.

Then there is the actual evidence of Jesus’ deity. His demonstration of omnipotence was often demonstrated. When Jesus stilled the storm with a word (Matt 8:26-27) When He multiplied the loaves and fish (Matt 14:19). When He changed the water into wine (Jn 2:1-11).

Jesus’ eternity demonstrates his deity. He said he was before Abraham (Jn 8:58). The first and last (Rev 22:13). Also his sovereignty demonstrates his deity. He said he could forgive sins (Mark 2:5-7).

Although we could go on it is evident that Jesus was 100% God and 100% man. If not we can close down the church and lock the doors. Because we would have no hope.

Communicating in a Relationship

2009-08-11T11:32:00.001-04:00

There are so many important areas that a couple need to be aware of in the area of communication. For communication to flourish in a relationship there are some key areas that a couple needs to be made aware of.

First of all, they need to be able to feel safe and to think for themselves. The “hot spots” are one or both in a relationship can become too distant or the other extreme is too controlling. Too much distance can occur when the husband and wife are not talking enough for both to feel “connected.” One person is too often silent, unable to share deep feelings or simply closes the other person out of his or her private life. Often a couple gets too busy to stay in touch emotionally; one’s job may require too much time away from home. This is especially true, I find, when a couple has a new borne arrive in the home. As the wife’s attention is given to this new gift from God, less time and attention is given to the husband. In response, he will, and in most cases unwittingly, turn to his job, hobby, or some other thing to feel a connection. However, if even one person feels this “distance,” resentment can spread quickly.

On the other side, you have the situation of over-control. This is where one spouse is dominating the other and will choose where the couple will live, go to church, and take vacations; making everyday decisions; and so on. The one being controlled can lose a sense of personal identity and eventually not know clearly what he or she wants or who he or she really is and what, if any, role they play in the relationship, if any at all.

Because of this, it’s important for the couple to work at staying “connected” and to do that they both need to share dreams with each other, deep feelings. They need to learn to value the opinion of their spouse and allow them to have an opinion.

I have to admit, that I was somewhat insensitive to my wife’s thinking process in the early years of our marriage. I believed many stereotypes about the female “emotional” way of thinking; at times I would discount her ideas because of my desire to have everything “perfectly logical.” That’s not always the superior way, as we like to think. Now, having been married for awhile, I am beginning to learn to not only listen to my wife’s ideas but seek it out as much as I can. She’s got that women’s intuitiveness and thinking process that keeps me out of a lot of messes.

Secondly, each must value what the other person is saying. This has to do with how they choose to talk and to listen. I believe it’s important to emphasize that we need to learn to think about what you are about to say before you say it. This is especially true if it has to do with an area of contention. Often it’s also best to give a “warning order” (that’s my 21 years of military coming out) and tell the person in a question format that they need to talk about something a little later. This gives the person time to prepare themselves before your jumping on them “from the top ropes” (that’s a wrestling analogy). Then have a “good” and “positive” conversation first. The Parrot’s give some great examples of how not to communicate by “placating, blaming, computing, and distracting.” They also give some great examples of how to “package” your communication in a way so it has “warmth, genuineness, and empathy.”[1]

Talking, however, is normally not the greatest area of concern but listening on the other hand takes some skill and practice to be effective at it. This is where it is important to listen with the attitude that what you hear expressed is valued, even if you disagree. Perception is reality. It really doesn’t matter whether or not what is being said is “right” because by not butting in and purposely listening creates the environment of safety and will give the person a sense of value. You will discover that many times people just want to talk through some things and need a place to do it. Men often feel that they have to fix something or to solve the problem when in reality our wives just want us to shut-up and listen. If we don’t purpose to do be an active listener, it will eventually leave our wives feeling frustrated when all she wants is to be heard. This means the spouse must listen actively and not ritualistically. Petersen describes ritual listening as “while others talk, ritual listeners prepare.”[2] In doing so, they stop listening and look for the opportunity to either prove that they are wrong (defense) or come up with the solution. In other words, they stop listening and start forming their response before the other person finishes. To actively listen then, I tell couples to use the “brief back” method of communication. I was taught this in that Army and used it for 21 years and never realized how effective it could be in my own relationship. I have also seen it in books and has been described as “drive through communication.” In other word, to be an active listener is to be like the person who takes orders in a drive through. To make sure they got it right they repeat back what you ordered to make sure “they heard you right.” Many problems in marriage or any other relationships are because of miscommunication and this technique helps greatly to diminish it.

Thirdly, there needs to be a level of vulnerability where the couple shares their deeper feelings. Yes, that means us guys too. Dr. Garry Smalley identifies 5 levels of communication: (1) clichés – just catch phrases, (2) facts—just information, (3) opinions – here is where communication feels a bit more unsafe and conflict may arise, (4) feeling – opening up this way can be scary, but we can reach the deeper levels of loving and being loved only when we put ourselves at risk of having our feelings misunderstood or ridiculed, and (5) needs – to risk this level of venerable intimacy, we have to feel secure in the relationship.[3] I have found that most couples don’t even get to the third level. I tell them if in their communication they hear the actual words “I feel, and I need” that they probably have good deep communication. That translates into a close connected relationship, that is growing.

Because we are involved in communicating all the time, most of us assume we do it well, which is not always the case. Every spouse needs to realize that good communication is not so much a matter of the words that are said but of the attitude of the heart. Because of that it’s also good to look at the biblical principles and practices that will enable them to maintain good communications.

The Bible is very clear how damaging our conversation can be:
Ø Horse and bit (James 3:2-3)
Ø Ship and rudder (Jams 3:4)
Ø Boasting tongue (James 3:5a)
Ø Tongue as fire (James 3:5b-6)
Ø Tongue as serpent (Proverbs 18:21)
Ø Tongue as sword (Proverbs 12:18)

James 1:19 is the fundamental principle of good communication in being “Swift to hear, Slow to speak, Slow to wrath.”

Another key, that I will address more at a later time, is not if we get angry, but how we respond to anger. “A soft , gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1). Ephesians 4:25-32 portrays a godly example of good communication. Don’t lie, speak the truth, be angry and don’t sin, and be willing to reconcile immediately.

Let me end by challenging you to listen to your conversation with your wife or husband and identify if you are communicating effectively. How can you do this? There are a couple of different ways. First, see how often you hear the words or if you feel safe to say the words “I need and I feel.” If not, you have a relationship that is shallow and one or both of you aren’t willing to communicate in a deep level. Secondly, do you listen on purpose? Remember listening is a skill that is only developed with practice. Do you wait for your spouse to finish what they are saying and then give a “brief back” to ensure you understood correctly? Or do you stop listen and begin to form a response and interject before they even finish. Thirdly, do you or does your spouse make all the decisions? Or do you decide things together? Often times, this is as easy as forming a question instead of making a statement. An example might be that you have decided that you need a new dress or a new power tool. Instead of telling your spouse what you have decided put it in a question instead and package it with a lot of sugar. “Honey, what do you think about me possibly getting a new dress? Or, “Honey, I really could use a new riding lawn mower, what do you think?

It works! But communication takes work!

[1] Parrot, Les & Leslie (2006). Saving Your Marriage Before it Starts (81-82). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan
[2] Petersen, James C. (2007). Why Don’t We Listen Better?: Communicating & Connecting in Relationships. (116) Tigard, OR: Petersen Publications.
[3] Smalley, Gary. (2001). Secrets of Lasting Love. (131) New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Publications