Saturday, December 22, 2012
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Video now available
Thanks to some wonderful men in the church, video messages are now available. Go to sermons and click on "watch." May these messages be a blessing to you.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
New Audio Messages
2 new audio messages(3 tips for a great marriage and Judgment is coming) are now available under the sermons tab. May God encourage and direct you through the teaching of His Word.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Surrender and Submit
Isaiah 53:6a--All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way...
We're all sinners. It is the one uniting factor between every living being; whether white or black, American or Asian, we have all gone astray and turned to our own way. But some have not stayed there. Some have chosen a different, a narrower path. They have chosen a path of true peace and joy; one where trials arise, but are never fought alone. A path where true, genuine fellowship is sought after and found; where victory over fleshly desires is not merely a dream, but a reality. What path have these few taken…one of surrender and submission.
Surrender. Matthew 16:24 says, "...if anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself..." The first step to peace comes through surrendering your all to the Lord, putting down your desires and taking up His. Repentance from your wandering and acknowledgement of your need for direction solicits forgiveness and guidance from above. Introduction to the narrow path comes through the gate of understanding that one truly gains life by choosing to lose it. Will you surrender your all to God today?
Submit. James 4:7 says, "Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." After you have surrendered your will, you must seek to obey all that He directs you to do. While difficult at times, mercy and grace are provided for those who seek it.(Hebrews 4:16) By listening to the voice of the Lord as He directs you through prayer and reading one is able to live a life where sin does not have dominion over them. What a blessed life of joy one can live, thanking the Lord for the victory He provided over anger, drunkenness, lust, and envy. Will you submit to His direction today?
"Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God."(II Cor. 5:20) As an ambassador for Christ, I strongly desire all to come to repentance, so that times of refreshing can come.(Acts 3:19) I urge you, please surrender your life to the Lord and submit to His will today. Do not neglect His offer of giving us life and peace, knowing that you are not guaranteed another day. May God draw your heart to His.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Striving for acceptance
The desire to be accepted is built into the nature of each one of us. Much time is spent, throughout the course of one's life, attempting to fit in and be accepted by one's peers. Many different physical methods are used to gain such attraction. Males may go out for sports, lift weights, use foul language or smoke, while females may fix up their hair, wear stylish clothing(often times accentuating certain body features), use lots of make-up or lower their values just to find a niche that they can fit into. As a believer, we must exit that system, not ceasing to strive for acceptance, but attempting to find it in another source...God. Is God pleased with you? Your dress, your attitude, your behavior? Does He find you acceptable? Today, I will share with you two things that must be present in your life for it to be acceptable before God.
Die to self. Romans 12:1 says, "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service." For our lives to be acceptable to God we must surrender them. All our hopes and desires must be turned over to our Creator, allowing His perfect plan to supersede our own. It is when we choose to lay down our lives and become wholly devoted to Him, that He can use us in mighty ways.
Be transformed, not conformed. Romans 12:2 says, "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." As we die to ourselves, we will notice more and more of our life that had been conformed to this world. To be acceptable, God asks that we begin to live a transformed(drastically changed) life by having our minds renewed. This renewal(change) happens through the reading and studying God's Word. It is through His Word that we begin to understand what He desires us to do and how to think.
Do you continually die to yourself? Are you studying God's Word and allowing it to renew your mind? If so, you will find that your life will be acceptable to God. If not, your life may be acceptable to man, but God is not well pleased.
Die to self. Romans 12:1 says, "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service." For our lives to be acceptable to God we must surrender them. All our hopes and desires must be turned over to our Creator, allowing His perfect plan to supersede our own. It is when we choose to lay down our lives and become wholly devoted to Him, that He can use us in mighty ways.
Be transformed, not conformed. Romans 12:2 says, "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." As we die to ourselves, we will notice more and more of our life that had been conformed to this world. To be acceptable, God asks that we begin to live a transformed(drastically changed) life by having our minds renewed. This renewal(change) happens through the reading and studying God's Word. It is through His Word that we begin to understand what He desires us to do and how to think.
Do you continually die to yourself? Are you studying God's Word and allowing it to renew your mind? If so, you will find that your life will be acceptable to God. If not, your life may be acceptable to man, but God is not well pleased.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Commissioned by Christ
John 1:6--There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
Every believer, no matter what church they attend or what fellowship they are a part of, have been called, charged and commissioned by Christ. While many believers lack the knowledge of their duties, others choose to neglect them, seeming to think those duties are unnecessary and done only by the radical. Today, I would like to encourage all true believers to consider a few areas that Christ has called us to walk in. They are not suggestions, nor helpful tips, but commissions from God's Word.
Reconciliation. II Corinthians 5:18-19 says, "Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation." Just as Christ has reconciled us, forgiving us of our wrongful deeds; we also should be individuals that freely deal out mercy to others. Forgiveness, while not always easy, is essential to the Christians' life. Without it, death of spiritual fruit will quickly be seen.
Light bearers. Matthew 5:14-15 says, "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house." It is amazing to me how many closet "Christians" we have today. Those afraid, or unwilling to share God's Word with others. The only way one might think they were believers is because their vehicle sits outside a church building on Sunday. Shouldn't one who claims to be a Christians frequently talk about Christ? Shouldn't His name come up in conversation(and I don't mean when your cursing)? We need more believers to take off the basket and begin to let their light shine.
Mistreatment. I Peter 2:21 says, "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps" and I Peter 3:9 says, "not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing." Just as Jesus suffered at the hands of men and did not return with anger, we are called to follow His steps. Very often this is difficult and seems unbearable, but remember Jesus and be longsuffering. Do not lose heart when men speak evil of you or to you, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you; but, rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven. Matt. 5:12
Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might(Eph. 6:10), allowing His power to enable you to be a minister of reconciliation, a light bearer for truth and a disciple who can withstand mistreatment and respond with a blessing.
Every believer, no matter what church they attend or what fellowship they are a part of, have been called, charged and commissioned by Christ. While many believers lack the knowledge of their duties, others choose to neglect them, seeming to think those duties are unnecessary and done only by the radical. Today, I would like to encourage all true believers to consider a few areas that Christ has called us to walk in. They are not suggestions, nor helpful tips, but commissions from God's Word.
Reconciliation. II Corinthians 5:18-19 says, "Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation." Just as Christ has reconciled us, forgiving us of our wrongful deeds; we also should be individuals that freely deal out mercy to others. Forgiveness, while not always easy, is essential to the Christians' life. Without it, death of spiritual fruit will quickly be seen.
Light bearers. Matthew 5:14-15 says, "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house." It is amazing to me how many closet "Christians" we have today. Those afraid, or unwilling to share God's Word with others. The only way one might think they were believers is because their vehicle sits outside a church building on Sunday. Shouldn't one who claims to be a Christians frequently talk about Christ? Shouldn't His name come up in conversation(and I don't mean when your cursing)? We need more believers to take off the basket and begin to let their light shine.
Mistreatment. I Peter 2:21 says, "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps" and I Peter 3:9 says, "not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing." Just as Jesus suffered at the hands of men and did not return with anger, we are called to follow His steps. Very often this is difficult and seems unbearable, but remember Jesus and be longsuffering. Do not lose heart when men speak evil of you or to you, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you; but, rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven. Matt. 5:12
Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might(Eph. 6:10), allowing His power to enable you to be a minister of reconciliation, a light bearer for truth and a disciple who can withstand mistreatment and respond with a blessing.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
What to do with false teaching
Ephesians 6:14a--Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth...
Last week we discussed the need to be on guard for false teaching, understanding that deception can happen quickly for those that are unknowledgeable. This week, I would like to address what one is to do when they are a part of a church that teaches false doctrine.
Know the truth. John 8:32 says, "You shall know the truth, and the truth will make you free." Before addressing anything you believe is false, be sure you know the truth first. It is essential that we continually be checking every thought and attitude against Scripture to protect us from error. When preparing to address another believer about a controversial matter, you must be equipped/girded with the truth.
Reason with them. Acts 19:8-9 says, "And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God. But when some were hardened and did not believe, but spoke evil of the Way before the multitude, he departed from them and withdrew the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus." Here we see Paul taking Scripture and reasoning with those in opposition to the Way, attempting to persuade them. After three months(implies fervency and patience), Paul noticed that where he desired to see tenderness to the Truth, he found resistance, pushing him to take the final step...departing.
Depart. Acts 17:33 says, "So Paul departed from among them." This was his practice. He would go into places, preach the truth and let the chips fall where they may. With those who had ears to hear, they followed him. For those that did not, they got left in the dark. While, this is never the aim, nor a pleasing conclusion, it is one that must be taken. If, you have prepped yourself with God's Word and reasoned with love and Truth and no change has occurred, it is best that you leave, searching out others that may be willing to listen. Who knows, there may be more that follow your lead.
To close, I truly believe there are those who diligently desire to know the Truth and desire to seek it out. I also believe there are those that practice something externally(tradition) but have not really understood the internal significance and any attempt to shake that practice is often viewed as an attack. Our duty is to stand for Truth and always to express it in love. May you never come across false teaching, but if you do, may you be equipped with the truth. Let all things be done by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving. Phil. 4:6
Last week we discussed the need to be on guard for false teaching, understanding that deception can happen quickly for those that are unknowledgeable. This week, I would like to address what one is to do when they are a part of a church that teaches false doctrine.
Know the truth. John 8:32 says, "You shall know the truth, and the truth will make you free." Before addressing anything you believe is false, be sure you know the truth first. It is essential that we continually be checking every thought and attitude against Scripture to protect us from error. When preparing to address another believer about a controversial matter, you must be equipped/girded with the truth.
Reason with them. Acts 19:8-9 says, "And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God. But when some were hardened and did not believe, but spoke evil of the Way before the multitude, he departed from them and withdrew the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus." Here we see Paul taking Scripture and reasoning with those in opposition to the Way, attempting to persuade them. After three months(implies fervency and patience), Paul noticed that where he desired to see tenderness to the Truth, he found resistance, pushing him to take the final step...departing.
Depart. Acts 17:33 says, "So Paul departed from among them." This was his practice. He would go into places, preach the truth and let the chips fall where they may. With those who had ears to hear, they followed him. For those that did not, they got left in the dark. While, this is never the aim, nor a pleasing conclusion, it is one that must be taken. If, you have prepped yourself with God's Word and reasoned with love and Truth and no change has occurred, it is best that you leave, searching out others that may be willing to listen. Who knows, there may be more that follow your lead.
To close, I truly believe there are those who diligently desire to know the Truth and desire to seek it out. I also believe there are those that practice something externally(tradition) but have not really understood the internal significance and any attempt to shake that practice is often viewed as an attack. Our duty is to stand for Truth and always to express it in love. May you never come across false teaching, but if you do, may you be equipped with the truth. Let all things be done by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving. Phil. 4:6
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Scripture and false teaching
II Peter 3:16-17--as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures. You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;
It may seem strange, but Scripture can, has and will continue to be used by men to teach a different doctrine. Often it is difficult to detect and harder yet to distance oneself from it(often, for fear that the leader will shun you to hell). Such false teaching thrives because Scripture can be taken out of context, sparsely used or twisted to fit one's thinking and no one checks it against God's Word. The foundation for success in such circles is a congregation that does not read and study God's Word. The problem...I fear most congregations fall into this category; leaving themselves susceptible to being deceived.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths." We must learn to stop leaning and trusting in men, who are fallen; and return to dependence upon God, who is holy. No matter how educated or eloquent a man may be, they must always be checked against the Scriptures. We are surrounded today by those who teach a doctrine contrary to Scripture, who, "do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple." Romans 16:18
II Timothy 2:15 says, "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." To protect yourself from false teaching, you must study the Word; you must read it. You must see if what you are taught is true. You must be accountable for your soul and the souls of your family. Don't expect others to notice error. I once heard a man say that surely if there were errors in their church, others in the church would see it. Do not rest on the fact that others are searching the Scriptures for truth. If you aren't, they may not be either.
To close, if you notice teaching that you do not believe aligns with God's Word, ask questions. If the answer enlightens you, great; if not, search it out more and seek guidance from others. Next week I will describe what a believer should do if they believe their church is teaching false doctrine.
It may seem strange, but Scripture can, has and will continue to be used by men to teach a different doctrine. Often it is difficult to detect and harder yet to distance oneself from it(often, for fear that the leader will shun you to hell). Such false teaching thrives because Scripture can be taken out of context, sparsely used or twisted to fit one's thinking and no one checks it against God's Word. The foundation for success in such circles is a congregation that does not read and study God's Word. The problem...I fear most congregations fall into this category; leaving themselves susceptible to being deceived.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths." We must learn to stop leaning and trusting in men, who are fallen; and return to dependence upon God, who is holy. No matter how educated or eloquent a man may be, they must always be checked against the Scriptures. We are surrounded today by those who teach a doctrine contrary to Scripture, who, "do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple." Romans 16:18
II Timothy 2:15 says, "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." To protect yourself from false teaching, you must study the Word; you must read it. You must see if what you are taught is true. You must be accountable for your soul and the souls of your family. Don't expect others to notice error. I once heard a man say that surely if there were errors in their church, others in the church would see it. Do not rest on the fact that others are searching the Scriptures for truth. If you aren't, they may not be either.
To close, if you notice teaching that you do not believe aligns with God's Word, ask questions. If the answer enlightens you, great; if not, search it out more and seek guidance from others. Next week I will describe what a believer should do if they believe their church is teaching false doctrine.
Monday, September 3, 2012
You can be deceived...and may be already
Mark 12:24--Jesus answered and said to them, "Are you not therefore
mistaken (literally deceived), because you do not know the Scriptures nor the
power of God?"
What a predicament we have before us in today's Christian circles. Scores of individuals call themselves believers, most attending church every week, but are unable to explain to anyone the hope that they have within them with Scripture. Yes, many may be able to recount the time they rose their hand in church, or the time they repeated a prayer after a minister, but when it comes to rightly dividing the word of truth, they are helpless. This is not only sad, but dangerous. I will express two reasons we find Christians that are inept in their understanding and ability to explain Scripture.
II Timothy 4:2 says, "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." The first reason most believers lack Scriptural understanding is their teachers. Instead of using God's Word as the foundation for ever teaching, it has been replaced with stories, neat anecdotes, and jokes. While the congregation leaves feeling entertained, they are unknowingly empty and ill-equipped. Churches have turned into the very thing that Paul warned of in II Timothy 4. The congregants won't endure sound doctrine, preferring rather to hear messages that make them feel good and amuse them. Such shepherding only leads to stupid sheep, walking about aimlessly, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine.(Eph. 4:14) We have famine in most churches. Amos 8:11 says, "Behold, the days are coming," says the Lord GOD, "That I will send a famine on the land, Not a famine of bread, Nor a thirst for water, But of hearing the words of the LORD." Ministers, shepherds, elders, bishops preach the Word. Saturate every breath from the pulpit with Scripture. God desires it and your sheep need it.
II Timothy 2:15(KJV) says, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." The second cause of Scriptural ineptness falls squarely upon the believer's shoulders. Those who once sought, seek no longer. Those who signed up for the class choose not to do the assignments, thus disqualifying themselves. The more I meet "believers" the more I am amazed at how little they actually know about what they say they believe. And it’s not because they are new in the race, they've been on the sidelines for many years, but have no desire to get in the game. There is no hunger for the Word, there is no drive to seek out truth. Proverbs 8:17 says, "I love those who love me, And those who seek me diligently will find me." Be not content with where you are. Study the Word. Seek the Lord while He may be found.
To close, I want to express the extreme importance of studying and knowing Scripture. Those that are uneducated in God's Word and choose not the change that are susceptible and probably have already succumbed to deception. Allow God's Word to begin to shine light in the areas of darkness. May truth reside in your heart. You shall know the truth and the truth will make you free. John 8:32
What a predicament we have before us in today's Christian circles. Scores of individuals call themselves believers, most attending church every week, but are unable to explain to anyone the hope that they have within them with Scripture. Yes, many may be able to recount the time they rose their hand in church, or the time they repeated a prayer after a minister, but when it comes to rightly dividing the word of truth, they are helpless. This is not only sad, but dangerous. I will express two reasons we find Christians that are inept in their understanding and ability to explain Scripture.
II Timothy 4:2 says, "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." The first reason most believers lack Scriptural understanding is their teachers. Instead of using God's Word as the foundation for ever teaching, it has been replaced with stories, neat anecdotes, and jokes. While the congregation leaves feeling entertained, they are unknowingly empty and ill-equipped. Churches have turned into the very thing that Paul warned of in II Timothy 4. The congregants won't endure sound doctrine, preferring rather to hear messages that make them feel good and amuse them. Such shepherding only leads to stupid sheep, walking about aimlessly, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine.(Eph. 4:14) We have famine in most churches. Amos 8:11 says, "Behold, the days are coming," says the Lord GOD, "That I will send a famine on the land, Not a famine of bread, Nor a thirst for water, But of hearing the words of the LORD." Ministers, shepherds, elders, bishops preach the Word. Saturate every breath from the pulpit with Scripture. God desires it and your sheep need it.
II Timothy 2:15(KJV) says, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." The second cause of Scriptural ineptness falls squarely upon the believer's shoulders. Those who once sought, seek no longer. Those who signed up for the class choose not to do the assignments, thus disqualifying themselves. The more I meet "believers" the more I am amazed at how little they actually know about what they say they believe. And it’s not because they are new in the race, they've been on the sidelines for many years, but have no desire to get in the game. There is no hunger for the Word, there is no drive to seek out truth. Proverbs 8:17 says, "I love those who love me, And those who seek me diligently will find me." Be not content with where you are. Study the Word. Seek the Lord while He may be found.
To close, I want to express the extreme importance of studying and knowing Scripture. Those that are uneducated in God's Word and choose not the change that are susceptible and probably have already succumbed to deception. Allow God's Word to begin to shine light in the areas of darkness. May truth reside in your heart. You shall know the truth and the truth will make you free. John 8:32
Monday, August 20, 2012
Brotherly Love
Romans 12:10--Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.
While preparing for a walk through the Sheldon parade this last weekend, I was met by a friend and minister of the local Baptist church. After a little small talk, he extended the use of the churches parking lot for our van and the use of the churches restrooms for our family(the same invitation was given to many others as well). It was very wonderful to see such an act of kindness. There were no monitors "guarding" the door or any attendants making sure we didn't dirty the carpet, just simple brotherly love being extended to others. What a breath of fresh air this was to me. I see many examples in Christian churches today, very few do I desire to emulate...this one is the exception.
Show love. John 13:34-35 says, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” What better way can a true believer show the world Jesus than through genuine, sincere love? Many today desire the structure of church, but have no desire to impart the true fellowship of it. We may enjoy the comforts that church can provide, but don't ask us to step out of our comfort zone. We will love others as long as they dress like us, smell like us, and behave like us, but love will not and cannot be extended to those that are different. What kind of gospel is that? Are you showing love to others? How can you begin to show it?
Show love by being hospitable. Romans 12:13 says, "distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality." Just as Brother Lamb opened the doors of his church to other families, we should be opening the doors of our home and our heart to those around us. Are you given to hospitality? The word "given" literally means pursuing, going after, searching for opportunity. I rarely see that in "Christians" today. Allow me to go one step further and give you the attitude with which you should be hospitable. I Peter 4:9 says, "Be hospitable to one another without grumbling." Many ministers' wives open their homes to others and can appear hospitable, but is it done without grumbling? As you strive to show love through hospitality, check your heart and motives. If they are not in line, ask God to strengthen you and create the right spirit within you.
A blessing or a warning. II Peter 1:5-7 describe the attributes that every believer should work towards. In verse 7 brotherly kindness and love are mentioned. Verse 8 tells us that if these attributes are abounding in us then we will be, "neither barren(useless) nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." But if these attributes are lacking, verse 9 tells us that we are shortsighted, even to blindness, and have forgotten that we were cleansed for our old sins. Which boat are you in?
May Christ aid you in showing brotherly love and hospitality to all, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Hebrews 13:16
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Restraining our lips
Proverbs 10:19--In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.
This issue is one that I must continue to critique. Do I talk to much? Is my speech what it should be? Taming my tongue is a continual battle that I must be aware of. With it I can praise my Father and also curse my fellow man. These things should not be so. Allow me to share a few verses with you that can help illustrate how essential it is for us to restrain our lips.
Proverbs 17:27-28 says, "He who has knowledge spares his words, and a man of understanding is of a calm spirit. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips he is considered perceptive." Verse 28 is a life saver for me. I don't have to be extremely wise or even very perceptive, if I keep my mouth shut I can be counted wise and considered perceptive. This encourages me to put a filter over my mouth and be sure that all that is said is necessary and proper. All to often my tongue will speak when it would have been better suited to stay silent.
James 1:19 says, "So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.." How often do we switch the "swift" and "slow's" around? We are quick to speak our mind and slow to listen to the thoughts of others. May I encourage you to ask more questions and ramble less. Even if the topic is not unGodly, our multitude of words may lead to unwholesome speech.
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Proverbs 25:11 May God assist you in choosing what to say and when to speak.
This issue is one that I must continue to critique. Do I talk to much? Is my speech what it should be? Taming my tongue is a continual battle that I must be aware of. With it I can praise my Father and also curse my fellow man. These things should not be so. Allow me to share a few verses with you that can help illustrate how essential it is for us to restrain our lips.
Proverbs 17:27-28 says, "He who has knowledge spares his words, and a man of understanding is of a calm spirit. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips he is considered perceptive." Verse 28 is a life saver for me. I don't have to be extremely wise or even very perceptive, if I keep my mouth shut I can be counted wise and considered perceptive. This encourages me to put a filter over my mouth and be sure that all that is said is necessary and proper. All to often my tongue will speak when it would have been better suited to stay silent.
James 1:19 says, "So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.." How often do we switch the "swift" and "slow's" around? We are quick to speak our mind and slow to listen to the thoughts of others. May I encourage you to ask more questions and ramble less. Even if the topic is not unGodly, our multitude of words may lead to unwholesome speech.
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Proverbs 25:11 May God assist you in choosing what to say and when to speak.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
The two churches
Romans 12:5--so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.
Throughout the course of history there have been two churches, one physical, one spiritual. One church is made with hands(where God does not dwell--Acts 17:24), while another is made by God(where His Spirit does not depart--Hebrews 13:5). Which church are you a member of? It can be confusing, at times, to distinguish between the two churches since the line of demarcation is not drawn around one physical building. As Jesus pointed out in Matthew 13:24-30, wheat(believers) and tares(unbelievers) will be together. So, while one physical church may be full of wheat, another may be full of tares, and still yet other mixed with both. Today, I will give a couple of indicators to help differentiate between the members of the true church and the one made with hands.
Comfort instead of compassion. Matthew 9:36 says, "But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd." While members of the true church will be moved with compassion for others, especially the lost, the other church will be concerned with comfort. In word they may declare to desire sinners to come to repentance, but in reality what they mean is, "As long as I don't have to do much" and "As long as they look like me." Those not a part of the true church concern themselves with the look and smell of the building and the people that attend it, not the spiritual state of the flock. Appearance is vital and comfort is key, even if that comfort leads them to hell.
Malice instead of mercy. James 2:13 says, "For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. Those within the true church understand the temptation to jet into judgment, but resist it; instead, choosing to follow Christ's example and show mercy to all. That is not true of those outside of the true church. Their first instinct and practice is to find fault in people and then to share those thoughts with others. These members tend to spread gossip and speak evil of dignitaries(especially if the dignitary stands behind the pulpit). They feel more comfortable tearing people down than lifting them up, even if such behavior originates from the devil(Revelation 12:10). Members of the true church, however, will operate in the wisdom that originates from above which is full of mercy. (James 3:17)
Although this list is not comprehensive, my goal is to help others understand which church they may associate with and to encourage them to change their membership, seeing that their path leads to hell. My hope is also to encourage those that are a part of the spiritual church to begin to break down the walls of separation and seek out true fellowship with those that are part of the body of Christ. II Timothy 2:22 says, "Flee also youthful lusts, but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart."
Throughout the course of history there have been two churches, one physical, one spiritual. One church is made with hands(where God does not dwell--Acts 17:24), while another is made by God(where His Spirit does not depart--Hebrews 13:5). Which church are you a member of? It can be confusing, at times, to distinguish between the two churches since the line of demarcation is not drawn around one physical building. As Jesus pointed out in Matthew 13:24-30, wheat(believers) and tares(unbelievers) will be together. So, while one physical church may be full of wheat, another may be full of tares, and still yet other mixed with both. Today, I will give a couple of indicators to help differentiate between the members of the true church and the one made with hands.
Comfort instead of compassion. Matthew 9:36 says, "But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd." While members of the true church will be moved with compassion for others, especially the lost, the other church will be concerned with comfort. In word they may declare to desire sinners to come to repentance, but in reality what they mean is, "As long as I don't have to do much" and "As long as they look like me." Those not a part of the true church concern themselves with the look and smell of the building and the people that attend it, not the spiritual state of the flock. Appearance is vital and comfort is key, even if that comfort leads them to hell.
Malice instead of mercy. James 2:13 says, "For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. Those within the true church understand the temptation to jet into judgment, but resist it; instead, choosing to follow Christ's example and show mercy to all. That is not true of those outside of the true church. Their first instinct and practice is to find fault in people and then to share those thoughts with others. These members tend to spread gossip and speak evil of dignitaries(especially if the dignitary stands behind the pulpit). They feel more comfortable tearing people down than lifting them up, even if such behavior originates from the devil(Revelation 12:10). Members of the true church, however, will operate in the wisdom that originates from above which is full of mercy. (James 3:17)
Although this list is not comprehensive, my goal is to help others understand which church they may associate with and to encourage them to change their membership, seeing that their path leads to hell. My hope is also to encourage those that are a part of the spiritual church to begin to break down the walls of separation and seek out true fellowship with those that are part of the body of Christ. II Timothy 2:22 says, "Flee also youthful lusts, but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart."
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Baptism: sprinkle, pour or immerse?
John 13:15a, 17--For I have given you an example...If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them."
What is your foundation? Ephesians 2:19-20 says that we are, "saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone..." Is God's Word your foundation on which you stand? Do you wholly depend upon it for guidance or do you lean upon your intellect. Do the Scriptures motivate your movement or do church traditions? Today, we will leave church tradition and man's opinion on the doorstep and enter the house through the gate of God's Word. We will address three areas(the Greek, examples and the symbolism) to help you understand which type of baptism is grounded in God's Word and which is founded upon man's opinion.
First, Greek. Matthew 28:19 says, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." The Greek word from which we get “baptizing” is baptizo, which means to dip or immerge. It is that way throughout the New Testament. There are Greek words that mean sprinkle(rhantizo) and pour(excheo), but neither are ever used to describe the rite of baptism that Jesus practiced.
Second, examples. Matthew 3:5-6 says, “Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him and were baptized(immersed) by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.” When it comes to immersion, John the Baptist started it, Jesus practiced it and Paul followed suit, as did many others in-between. The pattern was clearly made that baptism was essential and that immersion was the form it should be done. Acts 8:26-40 offer us one wonderful example of immersion. In verse 38-39 we see that Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, “went down into the water” and “came up out of the water.” Obviously, if sprinkling or pouring were the practice there would be no need for going into or coming out of the water; immersion is the only viable option.
Third, symbolism. Romans 6:3-4 says, “Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Immersion provides a vivid illustration of the new believer being “buried” to their old nature and being raised to walk in newness of life. Neither sprinkling nor pouring can provide such imagery.
My hope is that all will search the Scriptures to see if what I have taught is accurate and then practice it. Many may teach something different, but may you, as a whole-hearted believer rely only on God’s Word and not the word of another. May Christ richly bless you as you obey all He instructs us to do.
What is your foundation? Ephesians 2:19-20 says that we are, "saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone..." Is God's Word your foundation on which you stand? Do you wholly depend upon it for guidance or do you lean upon your intellect. Do the Scriptures motivate your movement or do church traditions? Today, we will leave church tradition and man's opinion on the doorstep and enter the house through the gate of God's Word. We will address three areas(the Greek, examples and the symbolism) to help you understand which type of baptism is grounded in God's Word and which is founded upon man's opinion.
First, Greek. Matthew 28:19 says, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." The Greek word from which we get “baptizing” is baptizo, which means to dip or immerge. It is that way throughout the New Testament. There are Greek words that mean sprinkle(rhantizo) and pour(excheo), but neither are ever used to describe the rite of baptism that Jesus practiced.
Second, examples. Matthew 3:5-6 says, “Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him and were baptized(immersed) by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.” When it comes to immersion, John the Baptist started it, Jesus practiced it and Paul followed suit, as did many others in-between. The pattern was clearly made that baptism was essential and that immersion was the form it should be done. Acts 8:26-40 offer us one wonderful example of immersion. In verse 38-39 we see that Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, “went down into the water” and “came up out of the water.” Obviously, if sprinkling or pouring were the practice there would be no need for going into or coming out of the water; immersion is the only viable option.
Third, symbolism. Romans 6:3-4 says, “Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Immersion provides a vivid illustration of the new believer being “buried” to their old nature and being raised to walk in newness of life. Neither sprinkling nor pouring can provide such imagery.
My hope is that all will search the Scriptures to see if what I have taught is accurate and then practice it. Many may teach something different, but may you, as a whole-hearted believer rely only on God’s Word and not the word of another. May Christ richly bless you as you obey all He instructs us to do.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Coach, this one's for you
Philippians 3:14--I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Throughout my high school career, I participated in sports. Whether running around a track or up and down a basketball court, I was preparing my body for competition. I was an athlete. I spent many hours sliding, sprinting, stretching and shooting just so I could become a better sportsman. I had good coaches that drove my hard, pressing me to improve upon my past success. Today, I continue to be an athlete. I continue to discipline my body so that I will be prepared for competition. I also continue to have a Coach who presses me to improve everyday. My goal and my prize are altogether different, however. I strive not for man's approval or praise, but for Christ's. Nor do I endeavor to receive some passing crest or medal, but the imperishable crown of righteousness that the Lord has stored up for those that have fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith.(I Corinthians 9:25 and II Timothy 4:7-8)
May I encourage you, not to quit competing, but to join another team. Instead of building up for yourself treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and thieves can break in and steal; how about store up for yourself treasures in heaven where it will be protected for all eternity. Instead of sweating and toiling to gain a name or fame for yourself; how about diligently laboring so that names can be written in the Lamb's book of life. Strive not for the temporal things that will soon pass away, but the eternal that will last forever.
Repent and turn from your sins, so that your playing field can be spiritual and no longer just physical.
I Corinthians 9:24--Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.
Throughout my high school career, I participated in sports. Whether running around a track or up and down a basketball court, I was preparing my body for competition. I was an athlete. I spent many hours sliding, sprinting, stretching and shooting just so I could become a better sportsman. I had good coaches that drove my hard, pressing me to improve upon my past success. Today, I continue to be an athlete. I continue to discipline my body so that I will be prepared for competition. I also continue to have a Coach who presses me to improve everyday. My goal and my prize are altogether different, however. I strive not for man's approval or praise, but for Christ's. Nor do I endeavor to receive some passing crest or medal, but the imperishable crown of righteousness that the Lord has stored up for those that have fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith.(I Corinthians 9:25 and II Timothy 4:7-8)
May I encourage you, not to quit competing, but to join another team. Instead of building up for yourself treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and thieves can break in and steal; how about store up for yourself treasures in heaven where it will be protected for all eternity. Instead of sweating and toiling to gain a name or fame for yourself; how about diligently laboring so that names can be written in the Lamb's book of life. Strive not for the temporal things that will soon pass away, but the eternal that will last forever.
Repent and turn from your sins, so that your playing field can be spiritual and no longer just physical.
I Corinthians 9:24--Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.
Monday, July 9, 2012
How to attract a Godly woman, even God Himself
I Timothy 4:8--For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.
In today's society, many men are confused on what it takes to attract a Godly woman. We are told to strive to be strong, be rich, be famous, be smart; believing that then the women will flock. That may be true for some women, but for the Godly woman, something much more important is needed. Today, I would like to aid all men in attracting the right Godly woman, or help the married man re- attract his spouse.
Learn to love. John 15:13 says, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends." A Godly woman looks for a man that is willing to sacrifice his wants, needs and desires for the good of others. I Corinthians 13:5 says that love, "does not seek its own." We are surrounded by men that are self-seekers to the core; life is about them and what they desire to do. Such a man is not fit for a Godly woman. We must learn that love is a verb that must be demonstrated. I John 3:18 says, " My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth." One way to show such love is by serving.
Learn to serve. Matthew 20:26-28 says, "Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Men have learned to be headstrong instead of humble, proud instead of polite, and controlling instead of compassionate. Men must learn to follow Paul's teaching when he says, "let each esteem others better than himself."(Phil. 2:3) Each man should remember, "not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly."(Romans 12:3) Serving goes hand and hand with loving. When we truly love, it is easy to truly serve.
Just as Jesus exhibited His love by laying down His life for us, let us do the same for others. Just as Jesus demonstrated serving by washing His disciples' feet, let us practice the same. By doing so, the Godly women, and God Himself will be attracted.
In today's society, many men are confused on what it takes to attract a Godly woman. We are told to strive to be strong, be rich, be famous, be smart; believing that then the women will flock. That may be true for some women, but for the Godly woman, something much more important is needed. Today, I would like to aid all men in attracting the right Godly woman, or help the married man re- attract his spouse.
Learn to love. John 15:13 says, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends." A Godly woman looks for a man that is willing to sacrifice his wants, needs and desires for the good of others. I Corinthians 13:5 says that love, "does not seek its own." We are surrounded by men that are self-seekers to the core; life is about them and what they desire to do. Such a man is not fit for a Godly woman. We must learn that love is a verb that must be demonstrated. I John 3:18 says, " My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth." One way to show such love is by serving.
Learn to serve. Matthew 20:26-28 says, "Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Men have learned to be headstrong instead of humble, proud instead of polite, and controlling instead of compassionate. Men must learn to follow Paul's teaching when he says, "let each esteem others better than himself."(Phil. 2:3) Each man should remember, "not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly."(Romans 12:3) Serving goes hand and hand with loving. When we truly love, it is easy to truly serve.
Just as Jesus exhibited His love by laying down His life for us, let us do the same for others. Just as Jesus demonstrated serving by washing His disciples' feet, let us practice the same. By doing so, the Godly women, and God Himself will be attracted.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Truly Free
Many this week celebrated Independence Day; a day, in which we remembered the freedom we gained over a harsh ruler. Many may not know or understand, but there is another harsh ruler at work today throughout the whole world. His name is satan. For thousands of years he has enslaved, entrapped and put into bondage many a helpless people. The good news, however, is that you can be set free. John 8:32 says, "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free." By coming into an understanding and relationship with the truth(Jesus Christ) you can truly be set free from the chains that have so easily ensnared you. John 8:36 says, "Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed." Will you surrender your will and allow Jesus Christ to come in and give you true freedom? By doing so, you can celebrate independence every day.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Honor your father and mother through reconciliation
Ephesians 6:2-3--"Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with
promise: “that it may be well with you
and you may live long on the earth.”
What a travesty to see so much separation and heartache between parents and children, especially amongst those who call themselves believers. It saddens me to hear the stories of children that hate their mother, or fathers that have disowned their child. Satan has created division where there was to be unity, discord where harmony was to be found. How can such barriers be overcome? How can the things that are broken be put back together again?
God's Word. Malachi 4:6a says, "And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers..." When the angel Gabriel came to Zacharias in Luke 1 he told him that he was to have a son and that his son would go before Jesus and, "turn the hearts of the fathers to the children."(vs. 17) How would this occur? When an individual accepted the teachings of John the Baptist, unity would result. We must understand that true unity cannot come through psychology or psychiatry, but through the understanding and accepting of the teachings of God's Word. When one truly understands the grace and mercy that has been bestowed upon them by God, it becomes possible for them to reciprocate that grace and mercy to others. Without such and understanding bitterness and barriers will persist.
Reconciliation. II Corinthians 5:18-19 says, "Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation." As a believer there is not exception for bitterness and barriers, they are commanded to come down. As much as depends upon us, we are to live peaceably with all men.(Romans 12:18) That includes believers and unbelievers. Christ has given each of us an identical ministry: reconciliation. I understand, you have been wronged, maybe very seriously, but remember Christ tells us that those who have been forgiven much, love much. (Luke 7:47) Remember your sin and trespasses that have been wiped away and do not fall into the trap of asking for mercy, while not giving it to others. Jesus said, "if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." (Matthew 6:15)
Pray. Philippians 4:6 says, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." If you are on the end desiring reconciliation, with no willing participant, do not give in or give up the idea of unity. Let your requests be made known and do not lose heart. I have heard some amazing stories at how God has softened the hardened heart and made a bridge where there seemed to be an impassable chasm. We serve the God that deals in the impractical and promises that with Him, nothing is impossible. (Luke 1:37)
To close, let us be diligent to pursue peace with all men, especially those within your home. Children, honor your father and mother. Love them unconditionally. In so doing, you will be displaying the same love that Christ has shown to you.
What a travesty to see so much separation and heartache between parents and children, especially amongst those who call themselves believers. It saddens me to hear the stories of children that hate their mother, or fathers that have disowned their child. Satan has created division where there was to be unity, discord where harmony was to be found. How can such barriers be overcome? How can the things that are broken be put back together again?
God's Word. Malachi 4:6a says, "And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers..." When the angel Gabriel came to Zacharias in Luke 1 he told him that he was to have a son and that his son would go before Jesus and, "turn the hearts of the fathers to the children."(vs. 17) How would this occur? When an individual accepted the teachings of John the Baptist, unity would result. We must understand that true unity cannot come through psychology or psychiatry, but through the understanding and accepting of the teachings of God's Word. When one truly understands the grace and mercy that has been bestowed upon them by God, it becomes possible for them to reciprocate that grace and mercy to others. Without such and understanding bitterness and barriers will persist.
Reconciliation. II Corinthians 5:18-19 says, "Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation." As a believer there is not exception for bitterness and barriers, they are commanded to come down. As much as depends upon us, we are to live peaceably with all men.(Romans 12:18) That includes believers and unbelievers. Christ has given each of us an identical ministry: reconciliation. I understand, you have been wronged, maybe very seriously, but remember Christ tells us that those who have been forgiven much, love much. (Luke 7:47) Remember your sin and trespasses that have been wiped away and do not fall into the trap of asking for mercy, while not giving it to others. Jesus said, "if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." (Matthew 6:15)
Pray. Philippians 4:6 says, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." If you are on the end desiring reconciliation, with no willing participant, do not give in or give up the idea of unity. Let your requests be made known and do not lose heart. I have heard some amazing stories at how God has softened the hardened heart and made a bridge where there seemed to be an impassable chasm. We serve the God that deals in the impractical and promises that with Him, nothing is impossible. (Luke 1:37)
To close, let us be diligent to pursue peace with all men, especially those within your home. Children, honor your father and mother. Love them unconditionally. In so doing, you will be displaying the same love that Christ has shown to you.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Be Not Ashamed
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of
God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the
Greek.
We've been sent. Matthew 28:19-20 says, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." There is no question what the responsibility of a believer is, so why does it seem like there is so little of it happening today? Could it be fear? Lack of education? Lack of desire? I am not sure, but I understand in my own life that disciple making is not an easy task, one that takes boldness. Allow me to share a few verses to encourage you into action for your Savior.
We are needed. II Corinthians 5:20 says, "Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God." An ambassador is the highest ranking representative, needed to speak on behalf of another. Christ desires to use you to teach others about Him. As a believer, you are His highest ranking official. We should not shirk from our duties, nor ignore our post. It is Christ that desires to work in and through you for His good pleasure. Allow Him to strengthen your tongue and mind so that you can speak words of truth to others.
He will prepare you. Isaiah 50:4 says, "The Lord GOD has given Me The tongue of the learned, That I should know how to speak A word in season to him who is weary. He awakens Me morning by morning, He awakens My ear To hear as the learned." Its beautiful to understand that God will give us a word to speak to those that are in need. We need not think that we must compose a masterpiece, but be willing to be a mouthpiece for Him. He will give you the tongue of the learned.
Do not be ashamed. Luke 9:26 says, "For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels." Never allow yourself to succumb to the temptation to be silent when His Spirit says speak. If you do, repent, and prepare yourself to be more obedient next time. Stand for Christ, even while other "believers" are sitting on the sidelines. Remember, it is not your fellow man that you are accountable to, but the One who will judge the living and the dead. The One who has the power to reject you and send your soul to hell. If we deny Him, He will deny us.
May you stand for Christ Jesus and lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has laid hold of you,
We've been sent. Matthew 28:19-20 says, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." There is no question what the responsibility of a believer is, so why does it seem like there is so little of it happening today? Could it be fear? Lack of education? Lack of desire? I am not sure, but I understand in my own life that disciple making is not an easy task, one that takes boldness. Allow me to share a few verses to encourage you into action for your Savior.
We are needed. II Corinthians 5:20 says, "Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God." An ambassador is the highest ranking representative, needed to speak on behalf of another. Christ desires to use you to teach others about Him. As a believer, you are His highest ranking official. We should not shirk from our duties, nor ignore our post. It is Christ that desires to work in and through you for His good pleasure. Allow Him to strengthen your tongue and mind so that you can speak words of truth to others.
He will prepare you. Isaiah 50:4 says, "The Lord GOD has given Me The tongue of the learned, That I should know how to speak A word in season to him who is weary. He awakens Me morning by morning, He awakens My ear To hear as the learned." Its beautiful to understand that God will give us a word to speak to those that are in need. We need not think that we must compose a masterpiece, but be willing to be a mouthpiece for Him. He will give you the tongue of the learned.
Do not be ashamed. Luke 9:26 says, "For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels." Never allow yourself to succumb to the temptation to be silent when His Spirit says speak. If you do, repent, and prepare yourself to be more obedient next time. Stand for Christ, even while other "believers" are sitting on the sidelines. Remember, it is not your fellow man that you are accountable to, but the One who will judge the living and the dead. The One who has the power to reject you and send your soul to hell. If we deny Him, He will deny us.
May you stand for Christ Jesus and lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has laid hold of you,
Friday, June 8, 2012
Joy, Peace and longsuffering
Have you every struggled with joy, peace or patience? From this message learn how to have joy, even in the midst of suffering; find peace that passes all understanding; and ways to suffer long when you feel like giving up. My hope is that you will be greatly encouraged as His Word saturates your soul.
Listen here.
Listen here.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
One thing God cannot do...that you can
Titus 1:2--in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began.
The other day my sons asked me questions about the Lord's return, wondering how and when He would come again. At the root of their questioning was one main thought: If God can do anything, couldn't He return differently than He said He would in the Bible? How would you answer such a question? Can't God do anything? The answer is yes....and no. Let me explain.
Limits on the limitless. Since God is, well, God He can do as He pleases; create what He wants, destroy what He wants, do what He wants. But in all His limitlessness, He has assured us that He will not, no, cannot lie. It is not in His nature. God is Truth. John 17:17 says, "Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth." Why does that matter?
All His promises are true. II Corinthians 1:20 says, "For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us." Understanding that God cannot lie allows us to fully trust in His Word and the promises that are contained therein. Stand upon the promises found in God's word, allowing them to sanctify and encourage your body, soul and spirit. Here is a list of just a few:
Nothing is able to separate the believer from the love of God--Romans 8:38-39
Sin shouldn't have dominion over the believers' life, you've been set free--Rom. 6:14, John 8:36
You can partake of His divine nature--II Peter 1:4
He will give you rest--Matthew 11:28-30
He will supply all your needs--Philippians 4:19
We can have true peace--John 14:27
You can be saved and know it--Rom. 10:9-10
Salvation is free--Rom. 6:23
May you be blessed as you wholly trust in His word and the promises you find therein.
The other day my sons asked me questions about the Lord's return, wondering how and when He would come again. At the root of their questioning was one main thought: If God can do anything, couldn't He return differently than He said He would in the Bible? How would you answer such a question? Can't God do anything? The answer is yes....and no. Let me explain.
Limits on the limitless. Since God is, well, God He can do as He pleases; create what He wants, destroy what He wants, do what He wants. But in all His limitlessness, He has assured us that He will not, no, cannot lie. It is not in His nature. God is Truth. John 17:17 says, "Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth." Why does that matter?
All His promises are true. II Corinthians 1:20 says, "For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us." Understanding that God cannot lie allows us to fully trust in His Word and the promises that are contained therein. Stand upon the promises found in God's word, allowing them to sanctify and encourage your body, soul and spirit. Here is a list of just a few:
Nothing is able to separate the believer from the love of God--Romans 8:38-39
Sin shouldn't have dominion over the believers' life, you've been set free--Rom. 6:14, John 8:36
You can partake of His divine nature--II Peter 1:4
He will give you rest--Matthew 11:28-30
He will supply all your needs--Philippians 4:19
We can have true peace--John 14:27
You can be saved and know it--Rom. 10:9-10
Salvation is free--Rom. 6:23
May you be blessed as you wholly trust in His word and the promises you find therein.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Bride of Christ blessing
Psalm 133:1--Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.
In a world full of division, discord, disagreement, hostility and contention Christ offers His bride something drastically different: unity. It cannot be overstated how blessed a believer is to be a part of a congregation that truly fellowships. Not one that finds joy and satisfaction with temporal, worldly things(you can find that in a bar), but one that gets excited about focusing on the eternal, desiring to initiate, nurture and sustain the faith of others. For many years I found very few men that truly desired to discuss Scripture and were willing to examine what they believed. Now, I am surrounded by many. Are you?
Desire. In Luke 9:23 Jesus says, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me." To initiate true unity one must be willing to surrender their will and take up the will of God. This desire for self-sacrifice is the breeding ground for genuine fellowship. When two members of God's body(no matter what church they go to) intersect, communion is initiated; not because of their similar physical interests, but rather because of their similar spiritual aspirations. Do you desire to put down your will and take up the will of Christ?
Dedication. James 2:26 says, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." Dedication is the instrument through which ones desire is displayed. One can state that genuine desire is present, but if the dedication does not accompany it, no desire is present. I am not speaking of dedication to a denomination or a program, but to people. We must practice what Ephesians 5:16 says, "redeeming the time for the days are evil." If we truly desire to lay down our wants and wills, we will be dedicated to giving the time necessary for one another. Worldly pleasure and temporal temptations will drift away, and be replaced with a desire to be united with those that are like-minded. Are you dedicated to investing yourself into the lives of others?
What a joy it is to be surrounded by so many wonderful brothers and sisters in Christ that wholeheartedly desire to please their Master; it creates unity that is not easily expressed. May you find such unity as you desire to deny yourself and are willing to dedicate your life to others for Him.
In a world full of division, discord, disagreement, hostility and contention Christ offers His bride something drastically different: unity. It cannot be overstated how blessed a believer is to be a part of a congregation that truly fellowships. Not one that finds joy and satisfaction with temporal, worldly things(you can find that in a bar), but one that gets excited about focusing on the eternal, desiring to initiate, nurture and sustain the faith of others. For many years I found very few men that truly desired to discuss Scripture and were willing to examine what they believed. Now, I am surrounded by many. Are you?
Desire. In Luke 9:23 Jesus says, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me." To initiate true unity one must be willing to surrender their will and take up the will of God. This desire for self-sacrifice is the breeding ground for genuine fellowship. When two members of God's body(no matter what church they go to) intersect, communion is initiated; not because of their similar physical interests, but rather because of their similar spiritual aspirations. Do you desire to put down your will and take up the will of Christ?
Dedication. James 2:26 says, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." Dedication is the instrument through which ones desire is displayed. One can state that genuine desire is present, but if the dedication does not accompany it, no desire is present. I am not speaking of dedication to a denomination or a program, but to people. We must practice what Ephesians 5:16 says, "redeeming the time for the days are evil." If we truly desire to lay down our wants and wills, we will be dedicated to giving the time necessary for one another. Worldly pleasure and temporal temptations will drift away, and be replaced with a desire to be united with those that are like-minded. Are you dedicated to investing yourself into the lives of others?
What a joy it is to be surrounded by so many wonderful brothers and sisters in Christ that wholeheartedly desire to please their Master; it creates unity that is not easily expressed. May you find such unity as you desire to deny yourself and are willing to dedicate your life to others for Him.
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Fruits and Gifts of the Spirit
Matthew 7:16a--You will know them by their fruits
What a blessing it is when the Holy Spirit comes and indwells the believer. We are endowed by God with a Helper(God Himself) that will comfort, convict and conduct our steps. As the Spirit enters the life of the new believer, He is accompanied by two very important members: Gifts and Fruits. Today, I would like to give you a basic understanding of these, while also pointing out some problem pits that many believers could fall into.
The Gifts. I Corinthians 12:4 says, "There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit." When it comes to the gifts of the Spirit there is variety and differences, but one central purpose: "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all." I Cor. 12:7 Some examples would include: Prophecy, Word of Wisdom, Miracles, Serving, Healings, Tongues, Interpretation of Tongues, Evangelism and Helping. You can find a complete list in Romans 12:6-8, I Corinthians 12:8-10, 28-30, Ephesians 4:11 and I Peter 4:9-11. It is a wonderful thing when seeing these gifts in operation, they are essential to the church. One may ask, "How can I get one of these gifts?" or, "Can I choose the gift I would like?" The simple truth is found in I Corinthians 12:11. It says, "But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills." We can request, plea and beg for a gift, but in the end God chooses the gift and the recipient of that gift.
The Fruits. Galatians 5:22-23 says, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law."While often under emphasized, the fruit of the Spirit is of equal importance to the church. While each believer may differ in the gift they receive, their fruit will all be the same. No matter which country they live in or what denomination they attend, love, joy peace and patience should be on display in the believers life. As we mature in the faith and grow closer to Christ our display of the fruit should increase. This is a problem in many churches today. People that have been saved for thirty years, but little to no growth is seen in the area of self-control or faithfulness. One must truly question whether or not the spirit within them is Holy in nature.
The Problem. Many believers have been deceived. We have taken our eyes off of God's instruction to know the faith of others based upon their fruits and instead have begun to look upon their gifts. We must understand that gifts can and often are counterfeited. Remember what Christ says in Matthew 7:21-23. Many that have prophesied and done miracles will not inherit the kingdom. How is that possible? Because the spirit that enabled their ability did not come from above. Please remember this. We have believers that allow a prophet to preach because they are gifted, when they clearly display little love, patience or kindness in their home. This clearly contradicts I Timothy 3, which puts the elders family in the center of the spotlight. If a preacher cannot demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit in his home, he has no business attempting to lead God's church, no matter how gifted he may be. We also have believers that allow people to believe they have been baptized in Spirit because they speak in tongues, when ten minutes after the service they are cussing at their son in the parking lot. Wouldn't it make sense that the same Spirit that gave the gift would also have given the fruit of gentleness? Not that I am saying one is perfect when they receive the Spirit, but that we must be more careful when accessing the initiation. Any outward act should be carefully tested, remembering that any gift not accompanied by the fruit of love is worthless. I Corinthians 13:1-2
May we strive to please our Father more and more each day. Knowing that as we strive, our gift and our fruits will be better used by the Master.
What a blessing it is when the Holy Spirit comes and indwells the believer. We are endowed by God with a Helper(God Himself) that will comfort, convict and conduct our steps. As the Spirit enters the life of the new believer, He is accompanied by two very important members: Gifts and Fruits. Today, I would like to give you a basic understanding of these, while also pointing out some problem pits that many believers could fall into.
The Gifts. I Corinthians 12:4 says, "There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit." When it comes to the gifts of the Spirit there is variety and differences, but one central purpose: "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all." I Cor. 12:7 Some examples would include: Prophecy, Word of Wisdom, Miracles, Serving, Healings, Tongues, Interpretation of Tongues, Evangelism and Helping. You can find a complete list in Romans 12:6-8, I Corinthians 12:8-10, 28-30, Ephesians 4:11 and I Peter 4:9-11. It is a wonderful thing when seeing these gifts in operation, they are essential to the church. One may ask, "How can I get one of these gifts?" or, "Can I choose the gift I would like?" The simple truth is found in I Corinthians 12:11. It says, "But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills." We can request, plea and beg for a gift, but in the end God chooses the gift and the recipient of that gift.
The Fruits. Galatians 5:22-23 says, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law."While often under emphasized, the fruit of the Spirit is of equal importance to the church. While each believer may differ in the gift they receive, their fruit will all be the same. No matter which country they live in or what denomination they attend, love, joy peace and patience should be on display in the believers life. As we mature in the faith and grow closer to Christ our display of the fruit should increase. This is a problem in many churches today. People that have been saved for thirty years, but little to no growth is seen in the area of self-control or faithfulness. One must truly question whether or not the spirit within them is Holy in nature.
The Problem. Many believers have been deceived. We have taken our eyes off of God's instruction to know the faith of others based upon their fruits and instead have begun to look upon their gifts. We must understand that gifts can and often are counterfeited. Remember what Christ says in Matthew 7:21-23. Many that have prophesied and done miracles will not inherit the kingdom. How is that possible? Because the spirit that enabled their ability did not come from above. Please remember this. We have believers that allow a prophet to preach because they are gifted, when they clearly display little love, patience or kindness in their home. This clearly contradicts I Timothy 3, which puts the elders family in the center of the spotlight. If a preacher cannot demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit in his home, he has no business attempting to lead God's church, no matter how gifted he may be. We also have believers that allow people to believe they have been baptized in Spirit because they speak in tongues, when ten minutes after the service they are cussing at their son in the parking lot. Wouldn't it make sense that the same Spirit that gave the gift would also have given the fruit of gentleness? Not that I am saying one is perfect when they receive the Spirit, but that we must be more careful when accessing the initiation. Any outward act should be carefully tested, remembering that any gift not accompanied by the fruit of love is worthless. I Corinthians 13:1-2
May we strive to please our Father more and more each day. Knowing that as we strive, our gift and our fruits will be better used by the Master.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
The Holy Spirit and your tongue
Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good
for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
Tower of Babel. Genesis 11:1 says, "Now the whole earth had one language and one speech." During the time after the worldwide flood, everyone was united in tongue and wished to make themselves a tower "whose top is in the heavens."(v.4) They desired to make a name for themselves and protect themselves from becoming scattered "over the face of the earth."(v.4) The problem was, God had instructed them to "fill the earth" in Genesis 9:1. So, the Lord came down to them and confused their language, making it impossible for them to understand each other; thus calling it Babel, meaning confusion.
The New Covenant Plan. I Corinthians 1:10 says, "Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment." When taking a gander at the world around us, we see a massive amount of confusion between individuals. The confusion I refer to is not centered around various physical dialects, but spiritual speech. When looking out at the vast "Christian" community one could not say we are all speaking the same thing. Just take Rich Hill as an example. With a population of just over 1400 people we have at least 10 different churches, five within a couple blocks of each other. Does that not seem strange?? Under the New Covenant we understand that God desires that all believers, whether in Russia, Rwanda or Rich Hill to again have a united tongue. But, how is this possible?
Pentecost. Acts 2:3-4 says, "Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." When the Lord chose to send His Spirit to earth He could have chosen any path or any method. When the Spirit came to earth He came as a tongue, resting upon each believer, causing them to speak in a way they never had before, creating unity in the many different groups of people. This same unity is what Paul requests of believers in Philippi when he says, "fulfill my joy be being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind." Phil 2:2 The only way such unity can occur is when the Holy Spirit is directing the tongue(not to be confused with "speaking in tongues" as some groups promote, which I will address in a later article, but the submitting control of your tongue to the Lord to use for His good.)
Two tongues. Let me close by stating that every individual can have two different tongues; one set on fire by the Holy Spirit and one set on fire by hell. James 3:6 May Christ lead you and direct you in how to allow the Spirit to control your tongue, thus creating unity amongst believers.
Tower of Babel. Genesis 11:1 says, "Now the whole earth had one language and one speech." During the time after the worldwide flood, everyone was united in tongue and wished to make themselves a tower "whose top is in the heavens."(v.4) They desired to make a name for themselves and protect themselves from becoming scattered "over the face of the earth."(v.4) The problem was, God had instructed them to "fill the earth" in Genesis 9:1. So, the Lord came down to them and confused their language, making it impossible for them to understand each other; thus calling it Babel, meaning confusion.
The New Covenant Plan. I Corinthians 1:10 says, "Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment." When taking a gander at the world around us, we see a massive amount of confusion between individuals. The confusion I refer to is not centered around various physical dialects, but spiritual speech. When looking out at the vast "Christian" community one could not say we are all speaking the same thing. Just take Rich Hill as an example. With a population of just over 1400 people we have at least 10 different churches, five within a couple blocks of each other. Does that not seem strange?? Under the New Covenant we understand that God desires that all believers, whether in Russia, Rwanda or Rich Hill to again have a united tongue. But, how is this possible?
Pentecost. Acts 2:3-4 says, "Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." When the Lord chose to send His Spirit to earth He could have chosen any path or any method. When the Spirit came to earth He came as a tongue, resting upon each believer, causing them to speak in a way they never had before, creating unity in the many different groups of people. This same unity is what Paul requests of believers in Philippi when he says, "fulfill my joy be being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind." Phil 2:2 The only way such unity can occur is when the Holy Spirit is directing the tongue(not to be confused with "speaking in tongues" as some groups promote, which I will address in a later article, but the submitting control of your tongue to the Lord to use for His good.)
Two tongues. Let me close by stating that every individual can have two different tongues; one set on fire by the Holy Spirit and one set on fire by hell. James 3:6 May Christ lead you and direct you in how to allow the Spirit to control your tongue, thus creating unity amongst believers.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Should we follow the 10 commandments
Have you ever wondered what the Christian is to do with the 10 Commandments? Are we, under the New Covenant, expected to follow the rules given in the Old Covenant. In our newly added sermon, we address these questions, and provide a guide on how to know what should and should not be practiced from the Old Covenant. Listen here.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Baptism in the Holy Spirit
Ephesians 5:18--And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the
Spirit
Confusion. The waves of confusion can quickly overtake you when swimming in a topic such as this. I have been there, and I have seen and heard about others being there as well. My hope, over the next few weeks, is to educate and alleviate any doubt or confusion on the topics surrounding the Holy Spirit. I acknowledge that there are many different opinions offered and suggestions stated about this topic, so I will attempt to have Scripture speak while keeping my biases on the sidelines. Today, I will cover 3 parts dealing with the baptism in the Holy Spirit: Who gives it, How do you get it, and what signs accompany your receiving it.
The Giver. Matthew 3:11 says, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry, He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." This point is not debated, but must be stated: baptism in the Holy Spirit only comes from God, not man. No matter who prays for you, anoints you with oil or repeats certain chants, the baptism in the Holy Spirit can and will only come from God.
How do I get it? Luke 11:13 says, "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!" I understand this may seem very simple, but to receive the Holy Spirit all you must do is ask. Verse 9-10 of Luke 11 say, "So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened." Ministers may adhere to different methods, but all are in error if they deviate from the simple command to ask.
Are there any signs? Acts 1:8a says, "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me..." When one receives the Holy Spirit, power will most definitely accompany it. But, what type of power? Acts 4 will help us understand this. Peter and John have just been taken into captivity and questioned by those that had recently killed their Master, Jesus. After being released, they rejoined their companions and raised their voices in prayer to God. In verse 29 we see that they requested that they be able to speak the Word with boldness. When looking back at Acts 1:8 we see that this is exactly what Christ was describing. Jesus understood that if the disciples were to be adequate witnesses, they would need the Spirit. We too must have the Spirit to aid us in our works. Other signs that would accompany the Spirit-filled believer would be the fruits of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23. As II Peter 1:8 states, "For if these things(fruits that the Spirit gives) are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Do not be deceived, nor confused by the many teachings that are found in churches today. Allow Scripture to be your guide and not works of man. May Christ continually fill you with His Spirit as you continually express your dependence upon Him.
Confusion. The waves of confusion can quickly overtake you when swimming in a topic such as this. I have been there, and I have seen and heard about others being there as well. My hope, over the next few weeks, is to educate and alleviate any doubt or confusion on the topics surrounding the Holy Spirit. I acknowledge that there are many different opinions offered and suggestions stated about this topic, so I will attempt to have Scripture speak while keeping my biases on the sidelines. Today, I will cover 3 parts dealing with the baptism in the Holy Spirit: Who gives it, How do you get it, and what signs accompany your receiving it.
The Giver. Matthew 3:11 says, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry, He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." This point is not debated, but must be stated: baptism in the Holy Spirit only comes from God, not man. No matter who prays for you, anoints you with oil or repeats certain chants, the baptism in the Holy Spirit can and will only come from God.
How do I get it? Luke 11:13 says, "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!" I understand this may seem very simple, but to receive the Holy Spirit all you must do is ask. Verse 9-10 of Luke 11 say, "So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened." Ministers may adhere to different methods, but all are in error if they deviate from the simple command to ask.
Are there any signs? Acts 1:8a says, "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me..." When one receives the Holy Spirit, power will most definitely accompany it. But, what type of power? Acts 4 will help us understand this. Peter and John have just been taken into captivity and questioned by those that had recently killed their Master, Jesus. After being released, they rejoined their companions and raised their voices in prayer to God. In verse 29 we see that they requested that they be able to speak the Word with boldness. When looking back at Acts 1:8 we see that this is exactly what Christ was describing. Jesus understood that if the disciples were to be adequate witnesses, they would need the Spirit. We too must have the Spirit to aid us in our works. Other signs that would accompany the Spirit-filled believer would be the fruits of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23. As II Peter 1:8 states, "For if these things(fruits that the Spirit gives) are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Do not be deceived, nor confused by the many teachings that are found in churches today. Allow Scripture to be your guide and not works of man. May Christ continually fill you with His Spirit as you continually express your dependence upon Him.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Work of faith, labor of love and patience of hope
Check out this message from I Thessalonians 1. Listen here.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
The gift of the Spirit
I Corinthians 2:9--But as it is written: "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into
the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him."
I remember the time a friend of mine mentioned that this was one of his favorite verses, and while I agree it is a wonderful verse the most beautiful part comes in the next verse. Upon first reading of verse 9 you may assume that the writer is referring to heaven, or some future time, but once verse 10 is read in conjunction with verse 9 the picture becomes so much clearer and more wonderful. Verse 10a reads, "But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit." Today, I would like to show you how marvelous a gift it is to have the Holy Spirit.
The Revealer. I Corinthians 2:12 says, "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God." The Holy Spirit is indwelling in all true believers, but many do not fully understand what that means. Enlightenment and understanding of Godly things can only come through the Holy Spirit. His desire is to continually reveal to us God's awesome plans for us and His wonderful thoughts toward us. As a believer, you cannot understand the great things God has prepared for you unless the Spirit of God reveals it to you. Are you getting such revelation?
The Helper. John 14:16 says, "And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever." The Greek word for Helper in this verse is "parakletos." Para means with or side by side. Christ desired to give us a Helper that would come beside us and work with us to comfort and guide us into the paths of righteousness. This Helper, very similar in role to our wives, is not a dictator, lording us; nor a slave, following our every command, but a friend who desires to come besides us, put His arm around us and gently guide us. What an aid this is. Many sing the line, "and He walks with me and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own," but never truly experience such a relationship. Is that you? Do you experience the intimate relationship that the Holy Spirit desires to offer?
The Changer. I Corinthians 2:16b says, "But we have the mind of Christ." When we come to Christ our mind, nor our actions are God-centered. It is only through the working of the Holy Spirit that our minds can become like the mind of Christ's, thinking and responding to all situations like He would. As we diligently and expectantly read God's Word, the Spirit takes the Word and begins to renew our mind. He begins to take what we used to see as right, and show us how wrong it truly was. He molds us by continually reminding us of what God's desire is for us, and directing us in how to get there. What a blessing this is. We no longer have to think and act as the world does. We can truly have the mind of Christ. Do you have such a mind? Are your thoughts and actions being renewed through His Word? Are you being convicted of your sin and directed in how to overcome it?
How can one have this gift of the Spirit? Humble yourself, repent of your sins and cry out to God to fill you with His Spirit. This filling is not just a one time occurrence, but is done on a continual basis. As Ephesians 5:18b says, "be filled with the Spirit." Once Christ gives us His Spirit, we must be sensitive to listen and obey His direction. It is by practicing this that life will truly come. May Christ richly bless you as the Spirit is in operation in your life.
I remember the time a friend of mine mentioned that this was one of his favorite verses, and while I agree it is a wonderful verse the most beautiful part comes in the next verse. Upon first reading of verse 9 you may assume that the writer is referring to heaven, or some future time, but once verse 10 is read in conjunction with verse 9 the picture becomes so much clearer and more wonderful. Verse 10a reads, "But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit." Today, I would like to show you how marvelous a gift it is to have the Holy Spirit.
The Revealer. I Corinthians 2:12 says, "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God." The Holy Spirit is indwelling in all true believers, but many do not fully understand what that means. Enlightenment and understanding of Godly things can only come through the Holy Spirit. His desire is to continually reveal to us God's awesome plans for us and His wonderful thoughts toward us. As a believer, you cannot understand the great things God has prepared for you unless the Spirit of God reveals it to you. Are you getting such revelation?
The Helper. John 14:16 says, "And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever." The Greek word for Helper in this verse is "parakletos." Para means with or side by side. Christ desired to give us a Helper that would come beside us and work with us to comfort and guide us into the paths of righteousness. This Helper, very similar in role to our wives, is not a dictator, lording us; nor a slave, following our every command, but a friend who desires to come besides us, put His arm around us and gently guide us. What an aid this is. Many sing the line, "and He walks with me and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own," but never truly experience such a relationship. Is that you? Do you experience the intimate relationship that the Holy Spirit desires to offer?
The Changer. I Corinthians 2:16b says, "But we have the mind of Christ." When we come to Christ our mind, nor our actions are God-centered. It is only through the working of the Holy Spirit that our minds can become like the mind of Christ's, thinking and responding to all situations like He would. As we diligently and expectantly read God's Word, the Spirit takes the Word and begins to renew our mind. He begins to take what we used to see as right, and show us how wrong it truly was. He molds us by continually reminding us of what God's desire is for us, and directing us in how to get there. What a blessing this is. We no longer have to think and act as the world does. We can truly have the mind of Christ. Do you have such a mind? Are your thoughts and actions being renewed through His Word? Are you being convicted of your sin and directed in how to overcome it?
How can one have this gift of the Spirit? Humble yourself, repent of your sins and cry out to God to fill you with His Spirit. This filling is not just a one time occurrence, but is done on a continual basis. As Ephesians 5:18b says, "be filled with the Spirit." Once Christ gives us His Spirit, we must be sensitive to listen and obey His direction. It is by practicing this that life will truly come. May Christ richly bless you as the Spirit is in operation in your life.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Give the gospel and your life also
Have you ever wondered if a preacher should get paid to teach? Or how to develop a deep sincere relationship with others? This weeks message from I Thessalonians 2 will help answer those questions. Listen here.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
How to attract a Godly man, even God Himself
How about a low-cut top? A fancy hairdo? Form fitting jeans? Well manicured nails? Or perfectly applied makeup? How about the newest fashioned swimming suit? Or a quick-witted tongue? Maybe an independent personality? Will these be an attraction to God, or the men that choose to follow Him? If so, a majority of our Christian ladies are on the right path. If not, a sure deception has crept in and overtaken many women, young and old alike. Proverbs 31:30 says, "Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised." Today, I would like to focus my attention on showing young ladies how they can aptly attract a young, Godly man; how a newly married woman can draw the heart of her husband; and how an older lady can secure the praise of her man while also being an example to the younger generation.
We must recognize and accept the fact that satan has deceived many into believing that beauty is something that it truly is not. Many ladies have been taught from a young age that their beauty lies in their externals, directly contradicting and opposing the Word of God. (One small tidbit: According to a 2007 study, the cosmetic industry generated roughly $107 billion worldwide. That is astounding!)
I Peter 3:3-4 says, "Do not let your adornment be merely outward--arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel--rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God." It is not that fixing your hair, wearing jewelry or nice clothing is sinful, but a lady must understand that these things do not draw the attention of God, nor a Godly man. As a Godly lady, the attention should be placed upon the incorruptible, imperishable inward beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit. Such a presentation is very precious to God. So, why are many ladies having face lifts, tummy tucks, liposuction, nose reductions, and chest enhancements? Why do so many spend hours a week focused on their dress, their makeup, their hair and their style, while spend only minutes contemplating and considering their inward beauty? How can one extol Godliness when worldliness has the center stage? Satan had deceived us to believe that our beauty is external, that attracting the opposite sex is done by appealing to his flesh. Don't be mistaken, those things will attract most of the male population, but not the Christ-seeking, God-honoring ones that you desire.
Be sure to understand that I am in no way condenming the external beauty of a woman (my wife excels them all), but to express that such external beauty does not originate from an external source. My attraction for my wife comes not from her hair or clothing, but from her desire to obey God's Word in every facet.
May you attract God and that Godly man by seeking His face and allowing Him to create in you a gentle and quiet spirit.
We must recognize and accept the fact that satan has deceived many into believing that beauty is something that it truly is not. Many ladies have been taught from a young age that their beauty lies in their externals, directly contradicting and opposing the Word of God. (One small tidbit: According to a 2007 study, the cosmetic industry generated roughly $107 billion worldwide. That is astounding!)
I Peter 3:3-4 says, "Do not let your adornment be merely outward--arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel--rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God." It is not that fixing your hair, wearing jewelry or nice clothing is sinful, but a lady must understand that these things do not draw the attention of God, nor a Godly man. As a Godly lady, the attention should be placed upon the incorruptible, imperishable inward beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit. Such a presentation is very precious to God. So, why are many ladies having face lifts, tummy tucks, liposuction, nose reductions, and chest enhancements? Why do so many spend hours a week focused on their dress, their makeup, their hair and their style, while spend only minutes contemplating and considering their inward beauty? How can one extol Godliness when worldliness has the center stage? Satan had deceived us to believe that our beauty is external, that attracting the opposite sex is done by appealing to his flesh. Don't be mistaken, those things will attract most of the male population, but not the Christ-seeking, God-honoring ones that you desire.
Be sure to understand that I am in no way condenming the external beauty of a woman (my wife excels them all), but to express that such external beauty does not originate from an external source. My attraction for my wife comes not from her hair or clothing, but from her desire to obey God's Word in every facet.
May you attract God and that Godly man by seeking His face and allowing Him to create in you a gentle and quiet spirit.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Divination, mediums and psychics
I Timothy 4:1--Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons
You don't have to look far to find someone attempting to tell you how your day will turn out, if your love life will work or how your dead relative feels about you. Newspapers, radios and television sets continually display someones prediction for you. The problem: many believers are giving heed to it!! It amazes me how many Christians will express their faith in God in one breath and in the next one tell me how accurate their horoscope was for the day. Since this deception seems to be gaining ground, I thought it necessary to remind believers what God's Word says on such matters, hoping to deter the weak from departing from the faith.
Definitions. Divination(psychic) is the method or practice of attempting to foretell the future or discover the unknown. Mediums are those that are believed to transmit messages between living people and the spirits of the dead.
God's Word. Philistines had them(I Sam. 6:2), Pharaoh used them(Ex. 7:11), as did Saul(I Sam. 28:8) and the people of Israel(II Kings 17:17); but God's view never changed towards them. Leviticus 19:31 says give no regard to them; 20:6 says if you do regard them, then He will set His face against you and Deuteronomy 18:10 tells us that such practices are "not to be found among you." With such clear teaching, why are so many still lead astray? I believe it is ignorance of God's Word which can only be overcome by those that have ears to hear. May you be such a person.
Is it real? Acts 16:16-19 tell a story of a certain slave girls encounter with Paul and Silas. This girl was possessed with a spirit of divination and was able to tell fortunes, making her master much profit. After following and annoying Paul and Silas for many days by her antics, Paul cast the spirit out of her, thus ridding her of her powers. May we all understand that there are only two powers in this world, one from Heaven(Godly) and one from hell(demonic), both very real. May we not forget the story found in Acts 19:13-20, where certain Jews thought they could overpower(exercise) a demon(as Paul had done) and were met with a extreme resistance. Such resistance that one, demon-possessed man, was able to beat and strip naked 8 men. Satan's powers are neither fake nor to be handled lightly.
Is it harmful? Acts 13:6-8 tell of a sorcery named Elymas. As Paul was attempting to share the gospel with the proconsul, Elymas was opposing Paul, "seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith." Understand that when satan's powers are at work, they are not being used to draw you closer to Christ, but rather, farther from Him. It does not matter if the deed seems harmless, its purpose is deadly. Acts 8 tells us about another sorcerer named Simon. People "heeded him because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time." They were so deceived that they actually attributed his power as coming from God. Could you be so deceived? Many are, because our generation, like those before us, look for signs and wonders. We seek to believe that which we see and are amazed by that which we do not understand.
May Christ open our eyes to see the deception and lean wholly upon His Word as we test the spirits to see "whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world." I John 4:1
You don't have to look far to find someone attempting to tell you how your day will turn out, if your love life will work or how your dead relative feels about you. Newspapers, radios and television sets continually display someones prediction for you. The problem: many believers are giving heed to it!! It amazes me how many Christians will express their faith in God in one breath and in the next one tell me how accurate their horoscope was for the day. Since this deception seems to be gaining ground, I thought it necessary to remind believers what God's Word says on such matters, hoping to deter the weak from departing from the faith.
Definitions. Divination(psychic) is the method or practice of attempting to foretell the future or discover the unknown. Mediums are those that are believed to transmit messages between living people and the spirits of the dead.
God's Word. Philistines had them(I Sam. 6:2), Pharaoh used them(Ex. 7:11), as did Saul(I Sam. 28:8) and the people of Israel(II Kings 17:17); but God's view never changed towards them. Leviticus 19:31 says give no regard to them; 20:6 says if you do regard them, then He will set His face against you and Deuteronomy 18:10 tells us that such practices are "not to be found among you." With such clear teaching, why are so many still lead astray? I believe it is ignorance of God's Word which can only be overcome by those that have ears to hear. May you be such a person.
Is it real? Acts 16:16-19 tell a story of a certain slave girls encounter with Paul and Silas. This girl was possessed with a spirit of divination and was able to tell fortunes, making her master much profit. After following and annoying Paul and Silas for many days by her antics, Paul cast the spirit out of her, thus ridding her of her powers. May we all understand that there are only two powers in this world, one from Heaven(Godly) and one from hell(demonic), both very real. May we not forget the story found in Acts 19:13-20, where certain Jews thought they could overpower(exercise) a demon(as Paul had done) and were met with a extreme resistance. Such resistance that one, demon-possessed man, was able to beat and strip naked 8 men. Satan's powers are neither fake nor to be handled lightly.
Is it harmful? Acts 13:6-8 tell of a sorcery named Elymas. As Paul was attempting to share the gospel with the proconsul, Elymas was opposing Paul, "seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith." Understand that when satan's powers are at work, they are not being used to draw you closer to Christ, but rather, farther from Him. It does not matter if the deed seems harmless, its purpose is deadly. Acts 8 tells us about another sorcerer named Simon. People "heeded him because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time." They were so deceived that they actually attributed his power as coming from God. Could you be so deceived? Many are, because our generation, like those before us, look for signs and wonders. We seek to believe that which we see and are amazed by that which we do not understand.
May Christ open our eyes to see the deception and lean wholly upon His Word as we test the spirits to see "whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world." I John 4:1
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Family study
Fathers, are you leading your family in Bible study? Do you feel like you do not know how to do it? Check out our Family Altar Study Time sheet here and allow it to help you lead your family through God's Word.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Happiness is...
In a world full of depression, anxiety and worry, wouldn't you like to be happy? Wouldn't you like to have the kind of happiness that does not fade away? It's different from the kind of happiness that the world has to offer, which appears sustainable but has no substance. I would like to show you four examples from God's Word that will demonstrate how you can be continually content and constantly cheerful.
Job 5: 17 says, "Behold, happy is the man whom God corrects; therefore do not despise the chastening of the Almighty." It may seem strange, but happiness can be found in being corrected by the Lord. How is that? As Hebrews 12:5-11 explains to us, God "loves those He chastens"(v.6), and that His correction is not for our bad, but "for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness."(v.10) The correcting may not seem pleasant at the time, but we can find happiness knowing that our Father is doing it, because He loves us and wants what is best for us. May you find happiness and not sorrow when the Lord corrects you.
Psalm 127:3-5 says, "Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one's youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; They shall not be ashamed, But shall speak with their enemies in the gate." This idea flies directly in the face of what society teaches about happiness. Society teaches that you will find happiness when you focus on yourself and do things you want, when in reality God's Word teaches just the opposite. Happiness is found in having many children, because in doing so you will learn to sacrifice your needs and wants for the needs and wants of others. I could never fully express the extreme happiness my wife and children bring to my life. As God's Word says, "the fruit of the womb is a reward." Do not accept the lie of the world that children are a burden and hindrance to your happiness and embrace the truth of God's Word.
Proverbs 14:21 says,"He who despises his neighbor sins; But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he." One trait that God requires from every believer to have love mercy.(Micah 6:8) Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.(Matthew 5:7) Extreme happiness comes when you are able to show mercy towards others. May we never forget our sin when looking at the sin of others. Be merciful and happiness will follow.
Psalm 144:15b says, "Happy are the people whose God is the Lord." When the Lord Jesus is the head of your life, directing your steps, happiness will be found. As we walk with the Lord, He gives us a peace which surpasses all understanding(Phil. 4:7), He blesses us with His indescribable gift(II Cor. 9:15), and He promises to supply our every need(Phil. 4:19). What a wonderful Savior we have.
May you seek Him with your whole heart, there finding the happiness that will sustain your soul.
Job 5: 17 says, "Behold, happy is the man whom God corrects; therefore do not despise the chastening of the Almighty." It may seem strange, but happiness can be found in being corrected by the Lord. How is that? As Hebrews 12:5-11 explains to us, God "loves those He chastens"(v.6), and that His correction is not for our bad, but "for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness."(v.10) The correcting may not seem pleasant at the time, but we can find happiness knowing that our Father is doing it, because He loves us and wants what is best for us. May you find happiness and not sorrow when the Lord corrects you.
Psalm 127:3-5 says, "Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one's youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; They shall not be ashamed, But shall speak with their enemies in the gate." This idea flies directly in the face of what society teaches about happiness. Society teaches that you will find happiness when you focus on yourself and do things you want, when in reality God's Word teaches just the opposite. Happiness is found in having many children, because in doing so you will learn to sacrifice your needs and wants for the needs and wants of others. I could never fully express the extreme happiness my wife and children bring to my life. As God's Word says, "the fruit of the womb is a reward." Do not accept the lie of the world that children are a burden and hindrance to your happiness and embrace the truth of God's Word.
Proverbs 14:21 says,"He who despises his neighbor sins; But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he." One trait that God requires from every believer to have love mercy.(Micah 6:8) Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.(Matthew 5:7) Extreme happiness comes when you are able to show mercy towards others. May we never forget our sin when looking at the sin of others. Be merciful and happiness will follow.
Psalm 144:15b says, "Happy are the people whose God is the Lord." When the Lord Jesus is the head of your life, directing your steps, happiness will be found. As we walk with the Lord, He gives us a peace which surpasses all understanding(Phil. 4:7), He blesses us with His indescribable gift(II Cor. 9:15), and He promises to supply our every need(Phil. 4:19). What a wonderful Savior we have.
May you seek Him with your whole heart, there finding the happiness that will sustain your soul.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
A little leaven leavens everything
I Timothy 1:15--This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.
I don't have to look hard to see sin in my life. There is no need for bifocals or a magnifying glass, my sin is every before me. My only hope and redeeming assurance is that Christ came to save sinners such as me. The song says it well, "My sin, not in part but the whole, is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, oh my soul." It is with this understanding of myself that I tackle this topic. My desire is to exhort and encourage every believer to, "lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares you,"(Heb. 12:1) and to understand that a little leaven(worldliness/sin) will affect your whole life.
I Corinthians 5:6 tells us that, "a little leaven leavens the whole lump" but do we understand what this means? Do we tell ourselves that having a little leaven in our lives is ok, and possibly good for us? Do we justify our leaven by comparing it with the leaven in the lives of other believers? We must understand that even though sin will always be in our lives, we are instructed to quickly strive to remove it when it becomes evident to us. We cannot become content with allowing sin to reign in our lives; choosing to remain in it as opposed to running from it. Let me address two areas that all Christians must continually critique to be sure leaven is not found: music and movies/T.V.
Music. How enticing it can be. Does God's Word give us a guide to help us understand what we should and should not be listening to? In a world where "Christian music" can mean so many different things, is there assistance to aid us in deciding what our ears should hear? The answer is yes! One such answer is found in Colossians 3:2. It says, "set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth." When listening to music evaluate where it takes your mind. If it does not cause your thoughts to move upward, then avoid it. Music was not originally intended for your entertainment, but for an avenue to express your love and gratitude for God. As a Christian, do not look for music that satisfies your flesh, but music that causes you to remember how wonderful your Savior is.
Movies/T.V. Philippians 4:8 says, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy -- meditate on these things." I remember being taught this passage and being encouraged to make sure every movie and program I watched passed this test. Did I succeed? No! I am not proud of the choices I have made over the years, but through God's grace and patience, my desires have changed and my obedience has improved. The world may tell us that we can decide what movies are appropriate based on the rating system of man (G, PG, etc), but when we see God's standard, we understand man's system is lacking. For many years I wasted hours upon hours filling my head with unprofitable things, not redeeming the time; may you also come to your senses and recognize the futility of those choices.
May the Lord open the eyes of our understanding(mine included) that we may clearly see the areas of our life that are full of leaven, so that we may purge them out, becoming more like Christ. May He richly bless you as you obey His every command.
I don't have to look hard to see sin in my life. There is no need for bifocals or a magnifying glass, my sin is every before me. My only hope and redeeming assurance is that Christ came to save sinners such as me. The song says it well, "My sin, not in part but the whole, is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, oh my soul." It is with this understanding of myself that I tackle this topic. My desire is to exhort and encourage every believer to, "lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares you,"(Heb. 12:1) and to understand that a little leaven(worldliness/sin) will affect your whole life.
I Corinthians 5:6 tells us that, "a little leaven leavens the whole lump" but do we understand what this means? Do we tell ourselves that having a little leaven in our lives is ok, and possibly good for us? Do we justify our leaven by comparing it with the leaven in the lives of other believers? We must understand that even though sin will always be in our lives, we are instructed to quickly strive to remove it when it becomes evident to us. We cannot become content with allowing sin to reign in our lives; choosing to remain in it as opposed to running from it. Let me address two areas that all Christians must continually critique to be sure leaven is not found: music and movies/T.V.
Music. How enticing it can be. Does God's Word give us a guide to help us understand what we should and should not be listening to? In a world where "Christian music" can mean so many different things, is there assistance to aid us in deciding what our ears should hear? The answer is yes! One such answer is found in Colossians 3:2. It says, "set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth." When listening to music evaluate where it takes your mind. If it does not cause your thoughts to move upward, then avoid it. Music was not originally intended for your entertainment, but for an avenue to express your love and gratitude for God. As a Christian, do not look for music that satisfies your flesh, but music that causes you to remember how wonderful your Savior is.
Movies/T.V. Philippians 4:8 says, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy -- meditate on these things." I remember being taught this passage and being encouraged to make sure every movie and program I watched passed this test. Did I succeed? No! I am not proud of the choices I have made over the years, but through God's grace and patience, my desires have changed and my obedience has improved. The world may tell us that we can decide what movies are appropriate based on the rating system of man (G, PG, etc), but when we see God's standard, we understand man's system is lacking. For many years I wasted hours upon hours filling my head with unprofitable things, not redeeming the time; may you also come to your senses and recognize the futility of those choices.
May the Lord open the eyes of our understanding(mine included) that we may clearly see the areas of our life that are full of leaven, so that we may purge them out, becoming more like Christ. May He richly bless you as you obey His every command.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Monday, March 12, 2012
False doctrine that we've been taught and now believe, part 3
Ephesians 5:11--And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.
After talking with a few boys about what classifies as Christian music I quickly understood that I was faced with a teaching(or lack thereof) that has permeated much of society. When you think of something or someone as being Christian, what do you think of? What qualities come to mind? How do you qualify something as being Christian? If you are like most people, your criteria will not find much backing from God's Word. Allow me to shine the light of God's Word into this, sometimes confusing arena, to aid you in making your distinctions.
The problem, the standard has been ignored. God's Word says, "...Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you..."(II Corinthians 6:17); but churches today allow, if not promote, being united to the world(music, movies, speech, clothing). God's Word states that, "...friendship with the world is enmity(hatred) with God" and that if one desires to be a friend of the world he, "makes himself an enemy of God..." (James 4:4); but today's preachers seem to be preaching that holiness and worldliness can sometimes coincide.
After talking to one believer (whose goal/program was to win the young people for Christ) about his proposed plan to reach the lost, I knew something was amiss. His objective was good, but his method was unScriptural. He desired to get unsaved youth together, play games, listen to music they liked, eat and talk about this man called Jesus. The problem, 50-55 minutes were to be dedicated to feeding the flesh while 5-10 minutes were allotted to speak to the spirit. We must understand that winning people to Christ does not come by psychological tricks, but by the awesome power of Jesus Christ. We don't run from the gospel, and we certainly should not be ashamed of it. Paul says in Romans 1:16, " For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes..." Today, many are afraid that the true gospel of Christ Jesus will offend, or drive people away....if you want to know the truth...it will (have you read the New Testament); but it will also drive some to repentance.
Where are our shepherds that are called to guide the flock of God?(I Peter 5:2) Where are the watchmen that have been called to warn others of danger? (Ezekiel 33:1-9) And where are the teachers that are called to explain God's Word and expose the works of darkness? Instead of truth, we're hearing tales; instead of Scripture, we're getting stories. Please do not forget what Hosea 4:6 says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge..." People are being deceived left and right; they are being taken captive by the devil, while we preachers stand by bloviating about some joke we read on the internet. May we repent of our wickedness and return to the command found in II Timothy 4:2. "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching"
Allow me to spend one paragraph teaching you how to know if something(music, movies, speech and dress) is Christian or not. Step one: are a majority of the people doing it? If they are, it’s not for you. Remember, Christ said that there are two paths, one that is narrow and one that is broad. Many take the broad path which leads to destruction, but few find the narrow path that leads to life. (Matthew 7:13-14) Christ does not call His followers to walk like the world, but to come out and be separate. Step two: does it pass the Philippians 4:8 test? Is your music, movies, speech and dress noble(upright), just, pure, lovely(in Christ’s eyes), of good report, virtuous and praise-worthy? Step three: is it Christ-honoring? If it does not honor Christ, it cannot attain the label Christian. Use these three steps to re-evaluate your standard of choosing what Christian is and what it is not. Just because the world calls it contemporary Christian music does not mean Christ views it that way as well.
Let me close by acknowledging my state of imperfection. I do not sit on a perfection pedestal casting down judgment upon others, but I do understand the dangerous repercussions that can come from not understanding what Christ-like living truly is. Do not be deceived, we cannot truly walk with Christ while continuing to walk in the flesh. Come out and be separate. By doing so, you will have overcome the deception that many have been misled by.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Two new messages
False doctrine that you've been taught and now believe, part 2
John 8:32--And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
It baffles me how many people claim to be a Christian, attend church, and assume they are going to heaven, not knowing(or at least not acknowledging) that they have accepted false doctrine. These individuals often are very intellectual, very learned, very astute; but when it comes to this area of doctrine, they have rather chosen to exchange the truth for a lie. It is because of this that we see many congregations walking in darkness, living lives that God would detest. What false doctrine am I referring to...the validity of God's Word.
Some say it's full of fairy tales, some say it's insufficient(even accepting another book as equal to God's Word). Some believe that it was written by ignorant men, some say it is full of errors; others discredit it, believing it was written for long ago and not for today. Now, I would not have a problem with these views, if they were being voiced by those outside the church, but when they are being uttered by those within it, concern arises. I will attempt to lay down a foundation exposing these erroneous thoughts; expressing my belief that if God's Word is not viewed as all-sufficient, all-inspired, without error, you may want to recheck your faith and examine whether or not you are truly in the faith. II Corinthians 13:5
God's Word is all-sufficient. II Peter 1:3 says, "as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue." Every believer must understand that contained within the 66 books of the Bible we have everything we need for life and godliness, nothing more is needed. We don't needed added revelations, a new history of a distant land, or any other material to aid us in living a life that is holy and pleasing to Him. The problem is, most "believers" wont go to the Word for guidance; instead they will lean on their own understanding, allowing that to guide them. The above verse states that the only way to live and be godly is through the knowledge of Jesus Christ. My hope is that all believers will depart from all other sources of knowledge(self-help books, book of mormon, etc.) in their search for godliness and wholly lean on the all--sufficient Word of God.
God's Word is all-inspired and without errors. II Timothy 3:16-17 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." II Peter 1:21 says, "for prophecy never came by the will of man, by holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit." Every Scripture written, from Genesis to Revelation, was inspired/breathed by God. The authors were moved by the Holy Spirit to write as He directed them. This being said, it is impossible for such a document to contain errors, since its originator is perfect. So, what is one to do with stories like Jonah and Noah's flood, can they be truly believed? One may discredit the account of Jonah and forget that Jesus directly referenced him twice (Matthew 12:39-41 and 16:4). Others may disregard Noah's flood as fairy tale and forget what Jesus said in John 5:47, "but if you do not believe his (Moses') writings(he penned Genesis), how will you believe My words?" The point is, if you choose to displace such stories as false, you have discredited God and called His Son a liar. Every jot and tittle is inspired and without error and able to make every man complete. Believe it and be saved.
To close I will give you some closing thoughts to demonstrate to awesomeness and uniqueness of God's Word. Did you know that the Bible is not one book, but actually 66 different books? Did you know that those 66 books cover different genres: history, poetry, prophecy, wisdom literature, letters and more? Did you know that those 66 books, of different genres, were written by 40 different authors(shepherds, fishermen, doctors, kings and prophets), over a period of 1500 years, written in 3 different languages(Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic), on 3 different continents(Africa, Asia, and Europe)? What's even more amazing...those 66 books all share a common story line, common theme and common message. No matter how far and wide you search you will not find another 66 books that meet those characteristics. God's Word is sufficient, it is inspired, it is without error and in it you will find the truth that can set you free.
It baffles me how many people claim to be a Christian, attend church, and assume they are going to heaven, not knowing(or at least not acknowledging) that they have accepted false doctrine. These individuals often are very intellectual, very learned, very astute; but when it comes to this area of doctrine, they have rather chosen to exchange the truth for a lie. It is because of this that we see many congregations walking in darkness, living lives that God would detest. What false doctrine am I referring to...the validity of God's Word.
Some say it's full of fairy tales, some say it's insufficient(even accepting another book as equal to God's Word). Some believe that it was written by ignorant men, some say it is full of errors; others discredit it, believing it was written for long ago and not for today. Now, I would not have a problem with these views, if they were being voiced by those outside the church, but when they are being uttered by those within it, concern arises. I will attempt to lay down a foundation exposing these erroneous thoughts; expressing my belief that if God's Word is not viewed as all-sufficient, all-inspired, without error, you may want to recheck your faith and examine whether or not you are truly in the faith. II Corinthians 13:5
God's Word is all-sufficient. II Peter 1:3 says, "as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue." Every believer must understand that contained within the 66 books of the Bible we have everything we need for life and godliness, nothing more is needed. We don't needed added revelations, a new history of a distant land, or any other material to aid us in living a life that is holy and pleasing to Him. The problem is, most "believers" wont go to the Word for guidance; instead they will lean on their own understanding, allowing that to guide them. The above verse states that the only way to live and be godly is through the knowledge of Jesus Christ. My hope is that all believers will depart from all other sources of knowledge(self-help books, book of mormon, etc.) in their search for godliness and wholly lean on the all--sufficient Word of God.
God's Word is all-inspired and without errors. II Timothy 3:16-17 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." II Peter 1:21 says, "for prophecy never came by the will of man, by holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit." Every Scripture written, from Genesis to Revelation, was inspired/breathed by God. The authors were moved by the Holy Spirit to write as He directed them. This being said, it is impossible for such a document to contain errors, since its originator is perfect. So, what is one to do with stories like Jonah and Noah's flood, can they be truly believed? One may discredit the account of Jonah and forget that Jesus directly referenced him twice (Matthew 12:39-41 and 16:4). Others may disregard Noah's flood as fairy tale and forget what Jesus said in John 5:47, "but if you do not believe his (Moses') writings(he penned Genesis), how will you believe My words?" The point is, if you choose to displace such stories as false, you have discredited God and called His Son a liar. Every jot and tittle is inspired and without error and able to make every man complete. Believe it and be saved.
To close I will give you some closing thoughts to demonstrate to awesomeness and uniqueness of God's Word. Did you know that the Bible is not one book, but actually 66 different books? Did you know that those 66 books cover different genres: history, poetry, prophecy, wisdom literature, letters and more? Did you know that those 66 books, of different genres, were written by 40 different authors(shepherds, fishermen, doctors, kings and prophets), over a period of 1500 years, written in 3 different languages(Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic), on 3 different continents(Africa, Asia, and Europe)? What's even more amazing...those 66 books all share a common story line, common theme and common message. No matter how far and wide you search you will not find another 66 books that meet those characteristics. God's Word is sufficient, it is inspired, it is without error and in it you will find the truth that can set you free.
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