"Lordship" - HowTo: church

Scripturally, I see five overarching elements of Christ' church. It is, by the way, His church. Nothing we lay claim to beyond identifying with, and surrendering to, His Lordship, Discipleship, Stewardship, Fellowship, & Outreach. This evening, at Mt Pisgah Baptist Church, we're going to kick-off the new year early, and begin by focussing on what I believe to be the absolote most foundational of these five elements, the most important of which, all minor elements depend....

Lordship:

Worship: Scripture, our guide in Christ, indicates we are to worship "spiritually", in "truth". This means worshipping not in regard to the flesh, our physical self, but "spirit" which is of God. Worship must be "true", not in pretense. We pray in secret, not so others may see our religiosity on display. The gospel of John 4:24 says.... "God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth." The Spirit says.. "You shall have no other gods before me. "'You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth." (Deuteronomy 5:7, 8 ESV) Without pretense.... "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." (Deuteronomy 6:5 ESV)

The psalmist said... "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." (Psalm 19:14)

We "worship" in word and thought. We support and encourage the weak.... Romans 15:1, Matthew 25:40.

We worship through personal example, as a witness of Christ Himself, to others. 1 Peter 2:11

Next week....
Lordship also consists of Prayer: acknowledging Christ as Lord, reverence, fearing The Creator of all. Petitioning Him on behalf of others, supplication on behalf of our own need., dependance upon His mercies, and His grace.

Christmas Is For You!

"But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God." (Galatians 4:4-7 ESV)


His Timing
"But when the fullness of time had come,"
OUR PERSPECTIVE:
Have you noticed that as time passes in your own life ....days, months, years become shorter? When you were a child, in school, days, weeks, months appeared to creep by ...until Summer break. As you grew older ...those same time-frames nearly blur in comparison. Clearly..... days or months or years have not shortened, or lengthened, or changed at all ...mathematically speaking. So what has changed? I submit that our own, relative, perception of time is what has changed.
"The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away."
(Psalm 90:10 ESV)
GOD'S PERSPECTIVE:
"For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night."
(Psalm 90:4 ESV)

Our Redemption
"God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law,"
God sent Christ to "buy back" those under the sin penalty of the law.
"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus," (Rom 3:23, 24)

Our Adoption
"so that we might receive adoption as sons"

"The adoption metaphor was used primarily in two contexts in Roman culture. In Roman law, adoption was very difficult. A long, involved and expensive legal procedure, once enacted adoption afforded several special rights and privileges: (1) all debts were cancelled; (2) all criminal charges were dropped; (3) they could not be legally put to death by their new father; and (4) they could not be disinherited by their new father. In legal terms, they were a completely new person. Paul was alluding to the believers’ security in Christ by using this Roman legal procedure (cf. Rom. 8:15, 23). When a father publicly adopted a son, he officially and permanently became his heir." (Bob Utley - You Can Understand The Bible!)

Our Inheritence
"And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God."
We have "inherited" the right, the privilege, to call Him "daddy", Father.

Christ' "gift" to you and I is that we are no longer stamped with the title, and baggage, of "slave" to sin. INSTEAD... we, as Roman culture practiced, as loving adoptive parents today practice, are heirs to the Kingdom which Christ knows.

"In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also."
(John 14:2, 3 ESV)

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Inexpressible Thanks

"For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God."
2 Corinthians 4:15 (ESV)

His Glory
....reveals His worth Revelation 4:11
....reveals His goodness Romans 8:28

His Grace
....is a product of His goodness. John 1:17
.....is His provision for eternity with Him. Ephesians 2:8

Our Benefit
....results from His glory & grace

"When God gets the glory, we receive the benefit."
--Steve Terrell

His glory is revealed to us by His goodness.
His goodness extends His grace to us.
His grace makes provision for us.
And His provision is Christ, Jesus.

Romans 5:8, 2 Corinthians 9:11-15

"MOMM, HEY MOM!!"

"Calvin, stop yelling across the house! If you want to talk to me, walk into the living room, where I am!" (Calvin trods across the house, into the living room)

"I stepped in dog crap! Where's the hose?"

Often, the most defeating thing that can happen is ...being right!

"Better to be patient than powerful; better to have self-control than to conquer a city." (Proverbs 16:32)

Sticks -n- Stones

Sticks and Stones
May break my bones
But my God will not forsake me!

You, Him?

"who say to a tree, 'You are my father,' and to a stone, 'You gave me birth.' For they have turned their back to me, and not their face. But in the time of their trouble they say, 'Arise and save us!' But where are your gods that you made for yourself? Let them arise, if they can save you, in your time of trouble; for as many as your cities are your gods, O Judah." (Jeremiah 2:27-28)

What do fox-holes, death-beds, and life's troubles have in common? None harbor atheists. Are you a follower of Christ in fair, and foul, conditions? Will you follow at all?

Why Do We Call 'Em "Prayer Warriors"?

It's been said... "Prayer is not preparation for the battle; prayer 'is' the battle!"

"I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf," (Romans 15:30)

Pray as if it makes a difference, then trust the Lord for the outcome.

Christ Is The Constant

"If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him." -John 12:26

How do we follow Christ? What is a true follower of Christ? The Scriptures, our base and guide for "who" Christ was and is, tells us that we must "keep" His commandments. Not flawless accounting of, but a changed-heart's desire to be obedient to His will and ways. "Whoever says "I know him" but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked." (1 John 2:4-6 ESV) The Lord Jesus is the truth, the way, and the life. He is the beginning and the end of all things. He is never changing ....the same yesterday, today, and forever. Chris is the constant in an inconsistent world. Above all else ...make following Him your goal and purpose.

Cleanliness Truly Is Next To Godliness....

...a distant second to be exact!

TV commercials may have been helpful to the religious elite back in Jesus day. Maybe they could've seen an example of how washing the outside of a dish only leaves the residue of the original contents on the inside. I can picture the ad now.....

"Divine Dish Detegent"
Cleanliness truly is next to Godliness

The Scriptures talk, very specifically, about dirty dishes and dirty hands.
"and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.". -Mark 6:4

Certainly nothing wrong with cleanliness, but there are 2 things one must be cautious of in striving to obtain it.

1. Cleanliness is next to Godliness - ...It had better be, lest we end up like the Pharisees. Cleanliness should ONLY be next to Godliness! Had their priorities been straight, much more; their own hearts been right with God, this act of cleansing would surely be an act of worship to the Lord. But their un-circumcised "hearts" had left them filthy.

While in Kenya in 2009, a few of our team (..all pastors..) were working with, and had just been worshipping with, many Kenyan pastors at a conference in Mwingi. The dusty surroundings , and really a pre-departure call for hand cleansing agents, called for, on this dusty, hot, evening, a well-deserved round of Purell shots in the van as our own countrymen left the conference. Like we Westerners so often do ...they held out hands with eager anticipation of removing the grime, the filth of these third-world surroundings. Only one problem; the few Kenyan pastors who had hitched a ride back to their stay-houses were in that van as well. We'll never forget our missionary friend's remark / question once the countrymen were dropped off at their respective residences.... "Did you just tell those men they were dirty?"

Oh the careless automation of our Western-ism!!! With no intent whatsoever, those Kenyans just heard, and saw, us communicate just how dirty and unacceptable their dusty little country is! When we speak without words....it is difficult to take those word-less statements back.

Our own rituals, habits, and traditions surely raised, at least, eye-brows as to our genuine-ness.

2. Cleanliness is next to Unattainable - Really! Romans 3:10 clearly indicates... as it is written: "None is righteous, no, not one; . In all honesty... there is no true cleanliness within us. Our righteousness is as filthy rags.

In our efforts to be "right with God", let's be sure that we first realize that ...."God is right."

"And he said, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." -Mark 4:9

The Lord has made every possible sanction and plea for us ...short of dragging us un-willingly to Him. He could do just that! When I ask my kids for a hug, and they give it ...I am thankful. When they offer it without my asking ...I am overjoyed. We should hear, and heed, His offer.

Land of The Free, And Chosen

"But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel," -Romans 9:6

I am, much, a patriot. Not necessarily by proxy, not only because of ancestry (though both are factors) ....but by choice, a choice of adherence, and dedication, to a foundational, and fundamental, truth that all men are created equal, with certain inalienable rights ...given to us by our Creator.

These are truths which find their very premise in God's word. To be "American" is, at it's very origin and core, a choice, more so than even a birthright. Case in point ...one does not have to "defect", as it were, if they so choose to seek, and apply for, citizenship elsewhere.

Therefore, it stands to reason that not everyone who calls him / herself "American" is in agreement, or in alignment, with the principles which this sovereign nation holds dear.

In his letter to the church in Rome ...the Apostle Paul makes clear that being a descendant, alone, does not make one "God's chosen". Likewise, Matthew's record of the gospel boldly states... ""Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. -Matt 7:21

This is the, much debated, doctrine of election. Who can become an "American"? Anyone who agrees to her laws. Who are "God's chosen"? Any who will call on His name, seek His face, and turn from (repent) of their wicked ways.

Christian Lawn Care

"But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold." -Mark 4:20

Without proper fertilization, water, grooming, and "continued" care ...even the best lawns will be overcome with weeds and undesirable growth, or simply burned up. The same is true with us as we receive God's word. Without continued work and grooming ...our Christianity becomes a mere placeholder; a dead memory of the potential for where God's truth could have been lush. Like a neglected lawn... our faith, without works, truly is "dead".

Be a good steward of God's lawn. Make it a place where others can find rest and not be afraid to walk barefoot.

A Hard Saying

"But many who are first will be last, and the last first." -Matthew 19:30

Easier said than done! That is... to forego what the world offers for the sake of Christ and His Kingdom. I wonder what God thinks of our thoughts of the lowly ..those who have foresaken all... to follow Him? Not for recognition, not even for self-affirmation. Not to quantify or justify money and time spent on academic achievment .....but just for Christ' glory. We think / say they "lack ambition", they have no drive, nor direction. Maybe that's because the're always looking up.

The Means and The End

Following Christ is not a means to an end. He is the means and the end.

"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end." -Revelation 22:13

Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." -John 14:6

True Humility

Genuine humility moves the focus from "me" to "we", from "I" to "Him".

"So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.'" -Luke 17:10

False Humility

You'll never have to "downplay" righteousness if you never "play it up" to begin with. This is false humility. "He must become greater, and I must become lesser" ...indeed.

"They do all their deeds to be seen by others. For they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long," Matthew 23:5

Step Up!, But Step Aside.

"Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest." -Matthew 9:37-38

Read a great quote from Pastor Marc Driscoll (Mars Hill Church-Seattle)... "Ministry is not what we do for God. It's what God does through us." When we are willing to step aside, while stepping up ...it is then God can use us. Christ has already done the task. We're traffic cops.

Justice In Love, Not Malice Through Revenge

"And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." -1Thes. 5:14-18

Have you been hurt by someone? The closer the person, the greater the pain ...right? Have you ever been the haughty one ...frustrated with those who don't share your thinking, or standard?? Do you taste the bitter gile of revenge welling up within you? JUSTICE ....your heart screams!!! REVENGE ....the Spirit hears. Afraid ...the truth be known. Afraid of embarrassment, shame, and ridicule. Afraid of being overwhelmed by "them". "Pride" wells within us. It erodes the very foundations of who God intends for us to be. THIS is why we are not given a spirit of fear! Not by our Father. "Ignorance, and prejudice, and fear walk hand in hand" ...to quote Neil Peart.

Paul was teaching the Thessalonians to be unified as much as possible, especially among brothers & sisters in Christ. But he said to "always seek to do good to one another and to everyone." He said to build others up, and not be vengeful. He charged them to "always" rejoice, trusting God's providence, praying always, and being thankful. These are character traits of God's redeemed. They are not the nature of those without Christ.

Wrath, bitterness, maliciousness, spitefulness, nor revenge, nor fear, nor ignorance ....have any place among the redeemed. We are bought and paid for, free from such fearful, angry, self-serving characteristics. We are free to depend, fully, upon the Father, and to do so in all things.

The redeemed rest easy ....not from exhaustion; that comes with a sinful, bitter heart ....but from trusting, and dependance upon, the Lord; born of a changed heart, a peace-loving heart ....a heart which desires the weary & restless to find the same refuge ...even those who have wronged us, or of whom we're afraid.

For "all" have sinned, and fall short of God's glory, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,

Free To Surrender

"But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak." -1 Corinthians 8:9

With freedom in Christ, comes the responsibility of "being Christian"; not dotting every "I", nor crossing every "T", but submitting to the entire counsel of God's word. Paul forfeit his rights for the sake of defending the faith and showing others The Way. Freedom in Christ ensures freedom from God's punishment of sin, not freedom to sin, no; but to submit our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to the Lord.

An Unwilling God

We don't lose an ounce of sleep when the wicked perish. God is not willing that "any" should perish, but that all would come to repentance.

"Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, declares the Lord GOD, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live? -Ezekiel 18:23

Worth Dying For

"When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously." -Daniel 6:10

The story of Daniel reminds us ...until we've found something worth dying for ...we haven't really lived.

Let Go and Let God?? What does that mean?

"I know, O LORD, that the way of man is not in himself, that it is not in man who walks to direct his steps. Correct me, O LORD, but in justice; not in your anger, lest you bring me to nothing" -Jeremiah 10:23-24

Do you realize who is, ultimately, in control? Is it really you? Do you believe in One who controls time and existence? Does stubborn pride prevent an ability to surrender to One greater than yourself? Jesus said......""Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me." -John 14:1

Kickin' it Old School !!

 ¹"When the LORD your God cuts off the nations whose land the LORD your God is giving you, and you dispossess them and dwell in their cities and in their houses, ² you shall set apart three cities for yourselves in the land that the LORD your God is giving you to possess. ³You shall measure the distances and divide into three parts the area of the land that the LORD your God gives you as a possession, so that any manslayer can flee to them. -Deuteronomy 19:1-4

I like "simple". The more complex life becomes, the more I like "simple". As history has unfolded, and as we have "progressed" ("if" that is what we have done), it would only seem natural that we complicate things. We humans are good at that. We try and please and extend to every possible whim and person and scenario.

Deuteronomy 19:1-21, ultimately shows God's "grace". It speaks of "cities of refuge" for a "manslayer" (meaning one who accidentally kills someone; not a cold-blooded murderer). It speaks, very simply, of "property boundaries"; that a man should not "move" a property boundary of a neighbor. It speaks, also, of "laws concerning witnesses"; stating that no "single" person may stand as an accusatory witness of someone else. Two, or three, witnesses are necessary.

Aren't these quite similar to structures of our laws today ...with the exception of a city of refuge, of course? Further evidence as to how our wonderful heritage is based, our country founded, on biblical principles. As we complicate, and try to accommodate every nuance, accept for the God that provided our model of freedom, it seems we stray further and further from simple, biblical principles; the very principles which we enjoy as citizens of the United States of America, whether we realize it or not! Privileges enjoyed by few other countries on the globe. Our God expressed righteousness, but also expressed great mercy. I pray that we continue to model this, and always struggle to balance it.

Clear Christianity: Defining what it means to "be the church" and "follow Christ"

Intentional, Definitional church

What does that mean, you ask? When I "joined the church" ..I heard words and terms for which I knew not their meaning. I went along with it (danger, danger!!) As I grew, and when I darkened the door of seminary, and likely prior, I began to hear references to things such as "house church"and "missional house church". Many believers began using the term "simple church". A little further down the road we began to hear the term "organic" church. These are all accurate in their means and intentions, though possibly none of them are "complete" in their meaning of what constitutes what / who "church" is. I would argue that "organic church" comes as close as anything I've ever heard. Scratch that.... how about ... "biblical church"?

Are we splitting hairs?? I am very glad for a Christ-follower that is "in the fight", as opposed to one who is happy to be on the sidelines. By definition, the early church did not have the option to stand on the sidelines! Peter tried it, and was so convicted that he got back on his proverbial horse, manned-up, and fought the good fight ....'til the death it would appear. But that picture, that image of "the early church" seems to be either ignored, skewed, warped, or at least neglected today ....and that is all done by us ..."the church". The ones who are supposed to be in the fight! It is no wonder I have heard, over and again, "You Christians can't even agree!" To which an appropriate response is.... "can't agree on what??" or "...with whom?"

Communication, communication, communication. It is "on us", Christ-followers, to provide clarity as to who we are, what we believe, why we believe it, and Whom we believe. (1 Peter 3:15) The older I get the more profound, significant, and critical "word meaning" becomes ...especially in American / western culture, where words take on new meaning, and / or relative meaning, every day it seems. "American English", as it is, is a "lose" language. Conclusively, this affects people in different ways. Some will take a word, term, statement, or phrase to mean something specific to the relative environment around them. More to the point ....statements / words are taken as relative to the "culture" around them. The obvious example of this, of which we all know the technically correct answer to, is the use of the word "church". We say that we are "...going to church". More accurately, we are "...going to be the church", "...going to be with our brothers and sisters of the church." So again, am I splitting hairs? We all know what we mean when we say that ....right? The end result is that we get together with believers and, hopefully, act out the living organism of "Christ' church".

Here's the rub with failing to be "intentional" in our language. A Scripture reading, somewhat mature Christ-follower will have no internal conflict with the term, as an example, "..we are going to church." He / she understands at least the basic concept of 'ekklesia'. So, whether you call it going to church, or going to eat duck ..does it really matter? I contend that it DOES MATTER to the un-believer, or even to an immature believer (maybe more emphasis on this person). Our understanding of meaning becomes embedded in our thinking, and therefore in our acting a thinking out, Conclusively, we begin to place more significance (sticking with the example) on the place "where" we worship and fellowship than we do on whom the church is, and quite tragically ....even Who's the church is. I've heard of "church buildings", or fellowships, being named after family-names; presumably in honor of a family who founded it! What an atrocity! What a tragedy!! What would this speak to someone "looking" for Jesus' church? Would they find Him there?

How many men and women have become "burned out on church", or become confused, feel displaced .....simply because he / she really did not understand the "rules of the game" as it were? Is the answer "simple church"? Well, what does that "mean"? Is the answer "missional church community"? Well, what does THAT mean?

Definition is important. Therefore, being "intentional" is important. This means being and doing "on purpose" and "with purpose". It doesn't conclude we should become paranoid with our words, and over-define each one. It does mean "keeping the main thing the main thing", and therefore "defining the main thing(s)". "Church" is worth defining! Being "Christian" is worth clearly defining! As disciple-making followers of Christ .....we have an inherent obligation to help "set new believers (especially) up to succeed!" Handing a fairly new believer a bible, a Sunday School class, and a pat on the back ...is like equipping a 16 year-old boy with rifle and shipping him off to the front-lines ...and only showing him where to stand so that he may not be shot ..or worse, no training at all. We wouldn't do that!! We would not send someone, knowingly, into harms way without providing the best training possible ...all that we can do to ensure his / her success. Why, then, do we allow it to occur in our "Christ-following fellowships"?

So, what does it mean to be intentional? Definition is required. This is not a call to simply "throw away church words" so much as it is to "define" those "church words"! There may be, and I'm sure there are, many that need thrown away. But more often than not ....these words we "more mature" Christians make fun of ...had "meaning" once upon a time. They had purpose. They had definition.

These are "fundamental" things. Like learning the basic rules of baseball (how to field a ground ball... moreover, how to wear, and position, the glove by which you will field a ground-ball), these fundamentals are an important step in growing as a follower of Christ, and as a functioning member of His body, the church. We wonder why we have so many dys-functional Christians. We throw our hands in the air and wonder if they're really "saved", or dub them as "back-slidden", or just hope they'll "catch-up". It is the role, and duty, of the body / the church to "bear one another's burdens." (Galatians 6:2) What "burden" might a new Christ-follower have ....a burden for thinking he / she is supposed to look, act, think a certain way ...hoping to "make it in the club". All wrong-thinking, but where does this wrong-thinking come from? From the world?? Most surely! It isn't of the Father. So what does "the church" do to aid, and right, that thinking?

I believe part of the answer comes in the form of "definition", and being "intentional" about doing so. A periodic "reboot" seems to be in order for us ....Christ' church. It's not because anything changes with the definition of His church, who His church is, or what her role is for the Kingdom. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Yet, it is we who change! We change meanings, we change our minds, we shift directions (as individuals and as a culture) often without even realizing the change. "We" are inconsistent. This makes the term "getting back to basics" important. My argument is that we need to return, often, to the basics .....not neglecting the weightier things, the progressive nature of Christ-followers living out the gospel in their lives ......but not neglecting the fact that those same, maturing followers, returning often, to teach, and re-teach, fundamental Christianity is not just important ...but critical to those who'll come after us ...maybe "generations" after us.

So, how do we become intentional? Maybe it's simpler to, first, state what intentional is NOT, or not only...

1. Being "intentional" doesn't necessarily mean "busier".
2. Being "intentional" doesn't necessarily mean "more active".
3. Being "intentional" doesn't necessarily mean "moving more"

These are fine things, though I fear much of this line of thinking is modeled after the work-world / business-world. It should be the other way around. I could have just saved this entire article and simply stated... let's not put the cart before the horse. But again, what, exactly, does that mean? It is a true statement ....if we understand the context of what it means, and the origin of the statement. This is how we should study Scripture. It is not the "only" way we study Scripture, but it is a fundamental thing we do to properly interpret Scripture, from its grammatical position, its historical, its narrative, and its over-all story-line. "The church", being a living, breathing, truth of Scripture .....should not be neglected by we Christ-followers defaulting to a "learn by the seat of your pants" mentality. There will be enough of that kind of learning, for any believer, despite our best efforts. But that does not negate our "best efforts".

If we fail at all else, church, let us not fail at clearly stating that which we, the church, are, and if applicable... what we are not. When we use terms and language ...let's take the time to apply meaning and purpose. For the new believer, let's be a part of setting him / her up to succeed. For the world looking at "Christians" and trying to understand who we are, and what we mean by our actions and words, let's be purposeful, deliberate, intentional. It is, indeed, additional effort ....but there is no labor more greatly needed than a lost and dying world to see a true representation of Jesus Christ and His church. "Preach the Gospel always, and if necessary, use words." The wisdom is in knowing the difference. Pray for wisdom.

I never forgot where I came from

I've heard it said, from many successful people... "I never forgot where I came from."

"As the LORD your God has blessed you, you shall give to him. You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God redeemed you;"  -Deuteronomy 15:14-15 

This realization would seem to accomplish / remind / teach us, at least, two things, in relation to how you and I live today.

1. Inward Response: Realizing God's blessing and redemption should propel a person to live less selfishly.
• The simple fact that we breathe and inhabit the land is simply by God's grace. He doesn't have to allow us to even breathe. Don't take it for granted. God owes you nothing.
2. Outward Response: Realizing that God redeemed us, while not owing us a single thing, should propel a person to live more graciously.
• Practice empathy, even undeserved favor when and where it may bless and encourage someone; not forsaking tough love where necessary, nor forsaking God's righteous, and holy, standard ....always acting out of love.

Where Is God - Part 2

Little Jimmy is in trouble. Yup, that's "Little Johnny's" kid brother. Forget "what" the trouble is ..whether it's worse, or less worse, than last week. Jimmy and Johnny's dear sweet momma has had ENOUGH! She'd made the regular pilgrimage to the principal's office often enough when Johnny was Jimmy's age. She's gonna' head the troubles of kid-brother off at the pass. Nip it in the bud!!

So Jimmy's mom doesn't hesitate, nor is she caught off-guard. She had committed herself to marching Jimmy right down to their pastor's office ...upon the next occurrence of "trouble". And so she does.....

Bro. Bill Roberts, Jimmy's pastor, sure loves Jimmy, Johnny, and their family. Bill remembers his own wayward ways when he was about Jimmy's age. He can't help but giggle just a bit after Jimmy's mom herds her son into his office. He knew this was coming. She had spoken to him about "her boys" several times before. He also knew that it was serious business to Jimmy's mom. Bill wondered exactly how he would approach "getting in Jimmy's head" when the time came. Well, here they were.

"Jimmy, I've known you longer than you've known me. You're a neat kid with a great big heart. How come you're always gettin' into trouble at school?" Bill is not at all surprised by Jimmy's well thought out and analytical respone.

"I 'unno" ...Jimmy mumbles, slouched in a chair on Pastor Bill's screened-in back porch. He didn't want Jimmy to feel intimidated by "the pastor's office" ...so he decided they'd walk next door to the Roberts' home and get an ice-cream bar out of the freezer. The Mrs. kept plenty on-hand. This was Pastor Bill's secret addiction. So, Pastor Bill and Jimmy relax.

"This ain't gonna' be so bad." ...Jimmy thought to himself.

Pastor Bill was prepared for... "I 'unno". Heck, it was the same answer he had given on many occasions as a kid! Honestly, he had used the same response when Mrs. Roberts asked him about the trail of mud through their house last weekend! Determined to get to the root of why Jimmy seemingly finds "trouble" so attractive ....Bill pulls out the big guns. It's time to find out what Jimmy knows about the Lord.

"Jimmy... where is God?" ..Pastor Bill asks in a gentle tone, but a tone that expects a response ...as if the dead silence following didn't make that clear.
Jimmy's eyes roam the room. Is he looking for an answer ...or looking for the door?

With a little more stern-ness this time.... Jimmy... where...is...God??"
Jimmy's heart begins racing now. 

This kid is tight as a drum! "Jimmy ....I want you to tell me where God is??"

Pastor Bill had no more than released the words from his lips before Jimmy nearly "leaped" for the screen-door, blew it open, hung a sharp left ...and made a bee-line (obstacles included) for "home" ...the safety of home!!

Blowing right through his own screen-door, blurring past his mom (who certainly didn't have an opportunity to glean, from Jimmy, how "the interview" went), and into the room he and big brother Johnny shared.

Every breath gained desperately, Jimmy slams the door shut, eyes bugged out, and glares at Johnny, relaxed on his bed reading a magazine. Johnny's a pro at this! He'll know what to do!!

"What in the world's wrong dude?? You look like you've seen an alien or somethin'!" ...Johnny smirks. He knew this look. He INVENTED this look! This was gonna' be kinda' fun.

"Johnny ...we're in big trouble!" ..Jimmy gasped. Notice how he included his big brother in his dilemma?

"God is missing ....and they think we did it!!!"

Has it ever occurred to you, that nothing ever occurs to God? He's never caught off-guard. Like Jeremiah... God has a plan for our lives ..even Jimmy's.

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations." -Jeremiah 1:5

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart." -Jeremiah 29:11-13

Where Is God - Part 1

"Fred, remember when we were young, when we were dating?" ..Carolyn says with a calm smile, and a tone of nostalgia in her voice as she and her husband of 35 years drive into town.

"Mmmhmm" ...responds Fred. They've been married long enough that he "knows" much more is coming! He'll never show it... as he drives with one arm relaxed over the steering wheel, the other propping his chin up on the door-frame. But he is still fascinated by his wife, his mate, after all these years. He wonders what actually "is" coming next. 

"Fred, we were sooo in love! Why... I didn't get in your truck unless it was through your door. And I never even made the seat warm on the passenger side. We were side-by-side ...anywhere we went. Weren't those the days Fred?" This is, by no means, the crescendo. There's still more.

"Yes ma'am." ..Fred says. It's time to start sounding genuinely interested, and he is.

"Well, what happened??" Carolyn sounds a little more exasperated now. She's not, but this is the most effective way to really get Fred's attention. "What happened to being young, and in love? And what happened to us sitting side-by-side?? We NEVER went anywhere that I wasn't snuggled up against you! You had to drive with one arm on the wheel, and one arm around me. Remember, I had to shift that old truck of yours!" Carolyn giggled at the embedded image of her wrestling the shifter in Fred's half-baked old "Bessy". "So what happened to those days Fred? Why don't we sit by one another when we're goin' somewhere?"

With a simple smile from one side of his mouth, Fred glances to his, still beautiful, wife ...leaning against the passenger door, and says... "Carolyn, I haven't moved."

Ever feel that God has moved away from you, is indifferent to your life, maybe even abandoned you? Good news! It's us that moves away. Any inconsistency is our own. He is waiting for your return.

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." -Hebrews 13:8

Cheap Ointment

"For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me." -Matthew 26:11

There are times that we should practice being "frugal" I suppose. "Waste not, want not.". "There are children starving all over the world...", etc. Likewise, we must discern when to pull out all the stops, pour it on thick, and use what we've got ....as you don't know when a "moment" will pass ....never to be re-created again. This is a truth I am constantly reminding myself of with my own family. There is no institution in our lives more significant than our family. Scripture places a high value on the family (1 Timothy 3:5); both for practical reasons of our personal ministry calling, and simply because God created "family". We'll not always have our children, for example. We should value the time with them, and make sacrifices anywhere we can afford ....and quite possibly in the areas where we canNOT afford. It is left to us to discern the difference. Family is worth it.

The woman who poured the expensive ointment on Jesus' head got this! While the disciples were thinking "practically", they weren't thinking "lovingly". Their Savior presented this woman with what was to be a final opportunity to "love" the Savior as He dwelt among them. What a beautiful moment! I'd say the ointment wasn't costly enough ....even cheap, compared to the tab Jesus was about to pay.

As Christ-followers We Are Entitled To....

^{...ETERNAL LIFE WITH THE LORD OF ALL CREATION! Anything else is cake! Anything less is, at least, deserved.}

^{I hear the word "entitlement" thrown around a lot nowadays ....mostly referring to socio-political discussions. A dictionary definition of "entitlement" indicates...'a right to a guaranteed benefit'. It is feared that we, as Americans, have fallen into a sense of "entitlement", and no doubt so has the rest of the modernized world. But as a Christ-follower... "entitlement" is our only hope of salvation!}

^{Let me be just a little more careful with my words here. God doesn't "owe" you or I a single thing. We are "His" creation, whom He can redeem (cash in) if He so desires, or can be disposed of if He so desires. Those seem like very harsh words don't they? Again, let me be careful not to paint a portrait of a giant, mean, god. The God to whom we submit, who owes us nothing, is, in fact, anything but that. He is "holy" (set apart) and He is just! Anything less would make Him a lesser god. I would submit He is either Lord "of" all, or not Lord "at" all. It is only by His "grace" that we are "entitled" salvation. Knowing that He could just as easily choose NOT to entitle a single positive benefit to me, and knowing that He does so because He loves me is a humbling, fearful, and encouraging thought (under-statement).}

^{He is the Lord of all creation. Who am I that He is mindful of me?}

O LORD, what is man that you regard him, or the son of man that you think of him? Man is like a breath; his days are like a passing shadow. -Psalm 144:3-4

Blessing & Encouragement

"and she exclaimed with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women," -Luke 1:42

I made a friend on a trip to Kenya a couple of years ago. She taught me a new word just yesterday. UBARIKIWE (Be Blessed). I love the beautiful language of Kiswahili! I fell in love with Kenya and many Kenyans too. Can't wait to get back.

Stopping in at a local hub, on the way to work this morning, I ran into another friend, a life-long friend. We said good morning, and when I asked how she was doing ....a giant smile wrapped her face and she said, simply, ..."Blessed!! I am blessed!" Oh my... the power of words. I was certainly not in a bad mood; no "mood" at all I don't suppose. I hadn't even thought about what "mood" I might take on for the day. Yet these few simple words changed my mental "route" for the day. These encouraging words proved to be a guide for my day. I couldn't help it. I was ENCOURAGED!!

"So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith." (Galatians 6:10) I thought about encouraging words from His word when she spoke those simple words to me. What awesome power God's word has! What awesome power His word has when lived out by another.

UBARIKIWE Jane Njambi Gatuche
UBARIKIWE Michelle!

Surrender to Christ and UBARIKIWE.

Blessings,

Steve Terrell

Our Best Intentions ...Are As Filthy Rags

 ²⁸ "What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work in the vineyard today.' ²⁹ And he answered, 'I will not,' but afterward he changed his mind and went. ³⁰ And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, 'I go, sir,' but did not go. ³¹ Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you. ³² For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. And even when you saw it, you did not afterward change your minds and believe him." -Matthew 21:28-32

Well ....what'dya think?? You can relate with this story ....especially if you're a parent. At the end of the day "simple obedience" out-does all good intentions. We want our children to learn that, and we expect them to live by such logic. Talk is cheap. Actions speak louder than words.

 I love parables .....and coming from the Master Story-teller no less. There are soooo many lessons we can learn, as ministers of the gospel, from Him whom we minister "for"! Let me be careful not to fail to state the obvious. This is the Lord, Himself; Creator of all things, God in the flesh, manifest in flesh. Why wouldn't His stories be perfect? These are not ambiguous, arbitrarily designed visages of one's imagination. They are specifically targeted, Master-crafted, visions of the One who invented imagination.

What lessons can we learn from the Master Story-teller?

Lesson #1:

Beyond even the story at hand ...Jesus' use of parables (earthly story with a heavenly meaning) spoke to people in relative terms, involving the culture around them, and "meeting them where they are". Don't mistake this, in relation to modern evangelicalism, for "bending" to man's means. This is the essence of becoming all things to all men that, by all means, some might be saved! (1 Cor. 9:22) If you can't find logic, or reason, in developing a missional mind-set, going into the highways and byways to reach the lost ....then consider Jesus' methods of "reaching the world with the gospel".

Lesson #2:
In any of Jesus' parables the imperative nature is usually obvious. "Son, go and work...." is not wishy-washy, nor without demand. Don't miss the focus here. Relate what Jesus is trying to get across ...within the details of the story. If we are to "be saved" then it isn't going to be by our own means or methods ...and certainly not by our good intentions. It will be according to "His" means.And don't confuse a parable stating "go and work" with any form of working your way to salvation. It cannot be done. He was speaking to men who understood "work", in terms of lifestyle as well as Mosaic law. They understood "literal obedience" to the law. Jesus simply wanted them to understand simple obedience ....to Him!

Lesson #3:

"Repentance" is seen in verse 29. Regardless of this son's original intentions, or his sinful, disobedient nature ....he, ultimately, changed his mind. This is what true repentance is!! It is not lip-service or only good intentions. Our righteousness is as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6), says the Scriptures, and there are none righteous ....not even one (Romans 3:10). Our hearts are deceitful and wicked ...who can know it?? (Jeremiah 17:9) If our good intentions will determine our salvation ...we are damned already. Nor will our actions, alone, propel us toward the Father. It is "grace alone" that even opens the door to salvation. The only positive "action" we can perform is that of choosing, by faith, to trust and obey Christ ...resulting in a changed mind / intentions (Romans 12:2) ....repentance.

Lesson #4:

Let's assume, just for a moment, that our intentions are pure. Maybe not even what we would deem pure, but basically "good". Good by who's standard.... ours, yours, mine? What is our heart-felt, inner-most intention ....with most anything?? I'd dare submit it is anything but self-less and pure, or even basically good. Good for us maybe, and just maybe even our selfish intentions can provide some worldly good as a by-product ...but are they "good" according to a standard of sinlessness? Mine aren't. This 2nd son mentioned gave immediate, obedient, "lip-service", but his actions proved to be otherwise. By the way.... (not that this is a side-bar) this only indicates that his original intentions were probably just as disobedient. There was no intention of going to work. Just lip-service. The picture Jesus paints here is that of one who either is a liar from the word "go" ....or a foolish son who doesn't even stop to consider the "cost" of his response. Either way ...disobedience was the result. Yet "grace" would be available to him as well ...if he "chooses" to change his mind (repent).

Can it be said that prostitutes and tax collectors are more righteous than the upstanding citizens of the world (no offense to either profession)? Well, at least speaking of the hypothetical prostitutes and tax collectors Jesus spoke of ...I'd say the answer is YES!!! Not because of anything they had done, or what they "do". For all have sinned and have fallen short of God's glorious standard (Romans 3:23). But the decision to "repent", to change one's mind about Christ, invites righteousness, by God's graceful standard, to be bestowed upon them.

I'd rather be made righteous, than to be righteous, any day.

The Reclamation

It would appear that "The Reformation", while an absolute necessity in the history of "the church", failed to eradicate all of the man-made doctrines, which the church had accumulated. Even if it would have... we have, since, filled "the church" with our own set and brand of "man-made" items; not all bad, per se, in and of themselves, but off the mark to be sure. Unintentional idols which distort, or cloud, our view of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

It would also appear that "the church" is beginning to wake up to this reality. This would seem to be a significant time, in history, that Christ' church should be very careful! Careful not to stifle the Holy Spirit, but also careful not to merely repeat the same errors of those gone before us. Hind-sight truly is 20/20. May we take advantage.

Some have called for "Revolution"! By definition..... this would indicate an overthrow, and replacement, of the "established" system currently in place. I have concerns that this would abandon many good, well-meaning, though sinful, and fallen-short "people" in the process. May we not forget that it is the people of the world that we hope and pray and work toward the goal of communicating the truth of the gospel. God chose "people" to carry out His work ...the good fruit which comes from knowledge and faith in The Risen Savior.

Instead of "revolution", and beyond "reformation" .....maybe a simple "reclamation" is in order for the church. The gospel needs no revolution. It is finished!. The truth requires no reforming. Mankind, those who make up Christ' church, needed that... and probably still do as an age passes. We, as Christ-followers, are called to simply claim, and proclaim, the saving truth of the gospel to a lost world in need of an absolute truth.

Training Up A Next Generation

"How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word."  -Psalm 119:9

My children roll their eyes at me most days. I think they see me as "overly religious", preachy, and maybe even somewhat hypocritical (as they see my own shortcomings too) ...though I don't set out to be any of those; as if I'm not just as prone to the same temptations and pitfalls of sin in this life. 


In fact, Christian, I would submit that it is of the utmost importance that we let our children know that piousness is of little significance ...compared to an attitude of humility, empathy, and understanding. Recognizing, and / or admitting, our own failures doesn't negate the significance of Godly truth.


Yet all the empathy in the world isn't an excuse not to train our children in the way they should go. I often text my two teen-age boys Scripture bites, just as I will this one, and other nuggets of Godly wisdom. I don't know how much they soak it up, ...but I know that, someday soon, they'll hold their mom and I accountable for how they're brought up. I refuse to fail on the side of laziness, or fear of "looking hoaky". I agree with Joshua... "as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." How will they (especially our children) hear ....unless there is a preacher?

a few tweet refs to read

http://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-service.html

http://www.simplychurch.com/2011/03/what-about-elders-and-deacons.html

http://theresurgence.com/2011/03/14/to-hell-with-hell

--

Blessings,
Steve Terrell

blog: www.reclaimchristianity.com

"He must increase, but I must decrease."

-John 3:30

You Are Good O' Lord

"You are good and do good; teach me your statutes." -Psalm 119:68

What does it mean to be good ...to do good? You or I don't need to reference a dictionary to get the meaning of "good". I believe the real question may be ...."who" is good? If being good consists of moral excellence, or righteousness, then in all honesty, I am only marginal; even by our own human standards. If doing good is an outward representation of those same qualities ....then I am hit and miss there as well. Don't get me wrong... I ain't a bad guy! Just ask anyone besides my wife!!

Lately, in life, it seems that I have either (a)been under attack by the evil one (yes, I do believe that he prowls around, like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour) or (b)being tested to prove my own resolve and / or endurance. In either case... I am a work in progress ...to put it in a self-defending sort of way. But does this qualify me as all good ...or all bad, for that matter?? Again, depends on whose standard of "good". By the way... if I got to quantify "good" ....it would go something like this...

good (adj.) - depending on how Steve feels, and / or acts, on any given day. - fluctuates with... Steve."

But the psalmist said, of the Lord, "you are good and do good." So if the Creator created, then only He can quantify, and qualify, what is truly "good". This means, also, that nothing He does is bad! Now I have your attention don't I? We don't say it out loud ....but some really "bad things" occur, that I sure know "I" didn't cause, or even allow. What about the folks in Japan this week?? Did the earthquake / tsunami occur because they are bad? Would it not have occurred if they were good, or did good?

The sovereign God decides "good", and by His own standard ..."none is righteous, no, not one;" (Romans 3:10). Either we quantify "good" on God's qualification or we follow our own quantification, and qualification, of good ...or we follow another human's definition and example. If that is you.... how is that "really" working for you?

Whether we define "good" as we go ...and most certainly if we define "good" by God's standard ...then we have a serious problem in the realm of "good". Refer to Romans 3:9-18. But if we read on, in vv. 21-22 we see God's response to our own lack of "good-ness". 

 Be good! Do good! But be wise enough to know that we fall short.. even at our best!! Follow God's standard of good. It will do more than merely give us a right perspective in this life! It will sustain us for eternity.

Reconciled ...Now Your Move

It has been duly noted that Jesus' death on the cross isn't the be all, end all for the purposes of redemption (being bought) ....that had Christ not risen from the dead this story, this path, of redemption would be incomplete. And of course it would! Christ, Himself, said... 'destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." (John 2:19 ESV).

Jesus' death was adequate to pay the debt of our own sin. His resurrection completed a promise to reconcile us unto Himself. "He" was finished! "He" did all that needed to be done ...for us. Yet I believe God bestowed just a little sovereignty to you and I ....the choice to believe, and therefore, be changed.

So, what does it mean to be "reconciled"? We balance our checkbooks ...making debits balance back any credits ...in order to "reconcile" any possible differences. Jesus' death and resurrection, together, paid the cost due us ...and pinned the promise of glory ..not due us.

How should this change us?

For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. -2 Corinthians 5:14-15

If we "identify" with Christ, we are claiming death to our old selves. We have to! Anything else just doesn't reconcile, doesn't balance out, doesn't add up. This doesn't mean we are without sin, but it means that we turn from sin, change our "minds" about sin (repentance) and choose to actively "follow" Christ ...instead of our old, worldly, nature.

From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. -2 Corinthians 5:16-21 ESV

What a gift! Who does that?? Only Christ... the sinless, unjustly murdered by sinful man, risen to go and prepare a place for us ...Lord Jesus! Yes, keep "eating", as it nourishes these "human" bodies ....but whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory o God! (1 Cor. 10:31) Present your bodies as a "living" sacrifice, holy and acceptable to the Lord... (Rom. 12:1).

Let these words sink into your heart and mind..... 'For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God'.

The Life of a Christ-follower is a marathon... not a sprint

"And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his hometown and in his own household." -Matthew 13:57 (ESV)

I'm not so sure Jesus' words, here, were necessarily intended to be attributed to us, but most anyone can relate with what He meant, and it certainly seems to fit the mold for most of us. He had been sharing, in form of "parables", with crowds of people, and with His own disciples present. Verse 55 seems to point to people, which He had been teaching at synagogues in His own home town, asking the question..."hey, isn't this that carpenter's son? Where in the world did he get this kind of knowledge??" These were people, maybe relatives included, who knew Jesus as a carpenter's son, Joseph's son, Mary's son. People probably knew of his upbringing, his humble lifestyle, and meager beginnings.


There seemed to be a built-in "doubt" ....and it would appear to be because they "knew who he was"; at least they thought they did. You can imagine what they likely though.... "yeah, Joseph's boy. Didn't they kinda' run out of town about 30 years ago or so? He doesn't come from any special family, not educated really. I don't know about him."


Though this may be a truth, generally, in "life", and this may be good general advice for all ...I think this reality of Jesus' ministry teaches a very important lesson to His followers.. Christians. Sometimes doubters and nay-sayers come from those closest to you. Sometimes ...within your very own household. 


(a) Don't be derailed by doubters! Don't let this surprise you. It is difficult for people, even thos of best intentions, to overlook a past, a history, they may know of you, or of your family. It makes it difficult to swallow that, through the work of the Holy Spirit, God can have done an amazing transformation of a life. Yet that is precisely one of His specialties, for which He is glorified! Don't be derailed by doubters. And if people in Jesus' own hometown would doubt Him ...in spite of His "obvious" knowledge of God's word, and for those that saw His miracles ...then why should you or I be surprised by the fact that people will have doubts about the change that has been established in us?


(b) Don't be bitter toward doubters! It is important to remember that Jesus' provision of salvation was, and is, for ALL! Being dejected doesn't provide a free pass, or any sort of excuse, for bitterness. Be prepared for this! If these are un-believers ....they are the very people you are trying to reach with the good news of Christ. If they are believers ...then it may be only time, patience, and perseverance that make the truth you carry believable, or hear-able. Stick to it, be salt and light, speak truth, and live truth day by day by day. Don't push your agenda. Rather, allow the Holy Spirit to open doors, and close doors, as He sees fit ...all to fulfill the Lord's purposes ...not your own. He must increase, while we must decrease. The Christ-follower's life is a marathon ...not a race. Stay around people long enough and they're likely to see the best, and the least, of you. If you let this knock you down ....then our example, our witness is deeply cut. When your example is positive, and truth, salt, and light are evident .....let these things simply speak for themselves. Use words when necessary. When your example is shaky, faulty, or poor, display an genuinely repentant heart. No doubt..... some will hang their hats on your failures. Keep on keepin' on. The Lord's work in your life will be developed, and displayed, over the long-haul. Remember, we are a people of no reputation. Our walk with Christ is not for our glamor, but for His glory.

One Day

for it is written, "As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God." ¹²So then each of us will give an account of himself to God. - Romans 14:11

Romans chapter 14 says, sooooo clearly, how little time we have for "playing judge". Whatever the reason is that we judge (fear, resentment, envy, pride) PUT IT AWAY! As Paul stated to the Romans ...."Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.." (Rom. 14:10)

Instead of judging a fellow traveler in this journey of life ....we should be compelled to warn those who will hear it, encourage those who need it, and speak truth to those who do not know it.

We are to, as best we can, live in unity with one another. One day each of us will give an account of himself to God. "Fear and trembling" requires no definition here.

A People For His Name

I have heard various definitions of "grace". God's Riches At Christ' Expense, etc. I believe this thing (grace) is nearly an indescribable quality, or attribute, of our Creator God. The Father, as a person "is" grace. He defines it! He quantifies the rules of, and qualifies to whom He may present it. It is His sovereign choice. And what blows my mind is the fact that He chose to present this nearly indescribable gift to ALL. And by Scriptural definition "all" seems to refer to just that ....ALL, everyone! The people / nation of Israel were, from the onset, God's chosen people. Romans chapter 11 refers to a remnant of Israel (God's chosen) who can still choose God, despite their rebellious past. He hasn't given up on those who have given up! This same portion of Scripture also refers to Gentiles (anyone NOT of Israel), and God "grafting" them into His ultimate plan of redemption ...for ALL. So, this covers ALL the bases of mankind. WOW!!! He could have stopped with the Israelites, or He could have "permanently" dismissed us to turn, each to his own way (Isaiah 53:6). But, in His "grace", God seems even to use an attribute such as "jealousy" to arouse the Jewish remnant ..simply by taking from among them (Gentiles or non-Jews) a people for His name (Acts 15:14).

I had a professor state once.... "If I am saved, it is all Christ. If I am lost, it is all me." God's sovereign choice has presented saving grace to ALL of us. And unless you ascribe to the theology of irresistible grace (meaning that God simply chooses whom He chooses, and we have no choice in the matter whatsoever) ...we are given the absolute free-will to accept His grace. 

Un-believer, it is my prayer that this manner of grace speaks to you, for want of a regenerate mind and life, and pray the Holy Spirit of God will take up residence in your life ...that, by His grace, you may be compelled to desire His long-suffering mercy, and freely receive His gift of grace. Christ-follower... it is my prayer that this same saving grace produces, in you and I, a sanctifying grace ...to cause us to be transformed by the renewal of our minds ...in absolute surrender to Him; a people for the sake of His name.

^"1I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. ²Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." -Romans 12:1-2

Unity in the Body of Christ

I wonder if there has ever been a "forum", of any sort, whereas "Christian" denominations can come together and strategically discuss doctrinal / interpretational differences within Scripture? There sure is plenty of "debate" about it ...but it is quite discombobulated! I've had more than one lost person state.... "you Christians can't even agree on what you believe!" Hard to argue that.

It would be a dream, for me at least, to establish a round-table strategy where we Christ-followers can...

1. line-item the differences in doctrine (teaching) and interpretation (which affects our doctrine / teaching). Generally speaking.... the differences are pretty well "known" within Christian circles. 
2. create a plan to discuss each 
3. create a plan to utilize the best resources available to man to force us to answer our differences one to another; with prayer being the foremost resource, and all things academic, though important, secondly. 

This, instead of remaining in dis-unity.

"I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift." -Ephesians 4:1-7

Life Is Short

...and if you don't believe life is short ...you're probably still in your twenty-somethings, or younger. Before you even know it, life has crept up on you, and possibly.... passed you. We most commonly relate life with a journey, a road traveled. To that end.... It would seem there are three types of "drivers" in the world...

1. "Cruisers" - those who, effectively, coast through life ...with no real drive, nor vision, for doing better, becoming better, desiring change, etc. ....whether for selfish, or self-less, gain. While the probable absence of selfish-pride is a positive trait ....the lack of drive, or motivation, may give, at least, the perception of apathy. Just a generalization.
2. "Racers" - those who, for mostly self-promoting gain, see life as a goal to be attained, a prize to be won. What can "I" achieve???
3. "Chauffeurs" - those who seem to take a more calm outlook on life. Though time doesn't lengthen for these folks ...the quality "of" the time seems to be paramount. Not just willing that life pass them by without having left a mark, but the mark they leave should count toward a goal which is greater than anything this world has to offer. "Serving" others needs seems to come before their own.

What sort of "driver" are you?

"So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom." -Ps. 90:12

Big Bang Is The Name

I'm going to settle the Big Bang Theory right now. In fact, I'm gonna' blow it completely out of the water...

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." -John 1:1-5

a. Jesus was before any "bang". He IS the bang!! Somebody get me a t-shirt!

b. If "it" was made ...He made it. No one, no thing, no event ....made Him.

c. "Life" stemmed from Him, as a result of Him.

d. Dark did not come first. Light shone in the darkness. Darkness did not, has not, and will not overcome the Light

e. Case closed

Inconclusive! ...you say?? That's totally up to you. Maybe we've totally mis-undestood the evolutionist. Maybe he has simply mistaken "Jesus" for "Big Bang". No doubt ....He has rocked a world.