OBC Sermons

The Apostle's Creed

2012-01-23T20:47:00.003-06:00

I. Definition
Creed - a brief, authoritative formula of religious beliefs
The Apostle's Creed - is a very old, well known, commonly used summary of Christian beliefs. (of THE FAITH)

II. The Origin of the Creed
The earliest Christian creed (statement of faith) was Jesus is Lord. BUT, the need developed to be more exact without being lengthy.

So, asked "what is essential to the faith?" This led to the Apostle's Creed.
The earliest forms called the Roman Creed.
The term "Apostle's Creed" 1st. found in 390 AD
The current form solidified by the mid 5th. century. It's at least 1500+ years old.

With some variations - languages, words (Maker/Creator)/ sentence structure (I believe...and...in...) even phrases "descended to hell/dead"

The Creed used by the Danish National Church was prefaced by "We renounce the devil and all his works and all his ways."

III. The Name of the Creed.
A. Creed is from the Latin word Credo - "to believe"
B. Apostle's creed - not because written by the Apostles, but because it was a statement of the beliefs of the Apostles
NOT primarily beliefs of early church/Christians OR later church/Christians...
But of the Apostles!! - Who got it firsthand!! 1 John 1:1
This is real stuff. Not just a religious dissertation.

IV. The Purpose of the Creed. (then/originally)
#1. to define the Faith - not all about the faith, but it does state the essentials of the faith.

#2. To weigh, measure, test other declarations of faith. (to identify error/perversion/heresy)
(Therefore, it's often used as baptismal formula)
Example: the Gnostic Creed - "We believe, that Christ descended from the Power above, from the Good, and that HE is the Son of the Good; that He was not born of a virgin, and that when He did appear He was not devoid of flesh. That He formed His Body by taking portions of it from the substance of the universe, i.e. hot and cold, most and dry; That He received cosmical powers in the Bod, and lived for the time He did in the world; That he was crucified by the Jews and died; That being raised again after three days He appeared to His disciples; That He showed them the prints of the nails and (the would) in His side, being desirous of persuading them that HE was no phantom, but was present in the flesh; That after HE had shown them His flesh He restored it to the earth; That after He had once more loosed the chains of His Body He gave back heat to what is hot, cold to what is cold, moisture to what is moist, and dryness to what is dry; That in this condition He departed to the Good Father, leaving the Seed of Life in the world for those who through His disciples should believe in Him."

When this compared to the Apostle's Creed, it was apparent that this was not a Christian creed.

#3. To teach the fundamentals of the Faith. (Catechism) - for people of all ages who wanted to become part of the Christian faith.

All of the above done briefly but sufficiently. Therefore it could be easily memorized!! (Scrolls were very expensive and few in number) (many people were illiterate) Therefore, memorization was the easiest and most practical way to "have the statement of faith"

Also,
#4. for use in public worship (liturgy) - it could be quoted together, similar to the Lord's Prayer and the 23rd. Psalm. It became a corporate confession of faith, as well as a personal confession.

#5. to keep Christians rooted (anchored) in the Apostolic teaching(s) - (tradition)
An objection: we follow Jesus, not the Apostles.
Answer: Yes, but, what Jesus said, did is handed down to us by the Apostles - who were there with Him. Therefore, Apostalic tradition is so important.

V. The Content of the Creed - primarily about Christ.
Because, it's not a general creed of religious faith(s)
It is the Apostles Creed - A Specifically Christian creed.

What we believe about Christ makes us distinctly Christian and distinctly Not Jewish, Muslim, Wiccan, etc.

The Purpose in the Apostles Creed is no different today than it was 2000 years ago.

The Apostles' Creed is not valid if it's not true. Unless it is true, then all creeds are valid - agnostics, atheists, etc.

It cannot be accepted as a congregation, but must be accepted personally. (Embraced, practiced)

Questions:
Do we accept the Person behind the Creed?
Do we practice it?

Happy Birthday, KJV

2012-01-19T13:19:00.002-06:00

Question: What translations are in the congregation today?
If had asked, 30 years ago? What would have been the answer?
" " " 60 years ago? Probably almost 100% King James Version

The Bible is the most printed and distributed book in history.
The King James Version is the most printed and distributed Bible in history. (may be the most printed book)

May 5, 1611 - the first King James Version Bible came off the press. There are about 200 complete first edition KJV Bibles still remaining - in good condition for $125, to $400,000.00 each.

HOW KING JAMES VERSION CAME TO BE

In March, 1603, Queen Elizabeth I of England died. Her nephew James VI of Scotland was named the new English ruler and became James I of England.

He inherited a divided kingdom. 770 years earlier, Henry VIII broke from the Catholic Church (1534) and formed the Church of England (Anglican). So, there were three distinct religious groups in England. Many devout Catholics were upset because they'd been ousted by the formation of the new Anglican church and they were no longer in control. There were the Anglicans and also the Puritans - who wanted further reform than what King James had already enacted.

All three camps had their own scripture translation. The Geneva Bible - printed in 1568 - the Bible of the Puritans as well as Shakespeare. This was the first translation to have chapter and verse divisions.
Then there was the Bishops Bible - 1568 - which was the Anglican Church translation.
And finally the Douay Rheims - 1582 - which was the Catholic Bible.

This was more than religious division. In that day there was no separation of church and state. Therefore, identify your denomination equaled identify your political persuasion!!

King James wants a unified England, so decides a new translation will help:
1) provide a single scripture for public reading (church, state, university, etc.) - the Bible of England.
2) be a symbol of unity in his (new) kingdom. (Compare it to our modern day US flag)
3) edify his subjects (Bible reading is a good thing)
AND,
4) displace the (popular) Geneva Bible!! (James appreciated its scholarship but despised its politics) He believed it was anti-king, seditious.
Meanwhile,
5) Pacify the Puritans - who wanted more reform.

In 1604 King James gathered the best Bible scholars in England and then authorized, organized, funded a NEW translation. (No Catholics were included in this group of scholars)

His Rules (there were 12 - been condensed to 5 here).

He insisted on:
1. Cooperation. There were 6 groups of scholars - each with a Bible section, compared within the companies. Then all companies gathered and READ ALOUD, argued, amended, etc.

From conception to publish took 7 years.

2. Accuracy BEST scholars - (lists = 47 to 54) The general editor was Lancelot Andrews - spoke 15 modern and 6 ancient languages, photographic memory, began each day with 5 hours of prayer, still set aside time each day to receive "any Londoner in need of solace or advice".

3. Readability
On one hand, the KJV was not written in the vernacular of the day (it was formal, majestic, musical)
But, it was the vocabulary of the day, therefore, readable, and comprehensible...
Preface to the 1611 version: "we desire that the Scripture may speak like it selfe, that it may bee understood even of the most vulgar." (vulgar meaning common)

He also insisted it be........
4. Anglican (conservative, traditional, Church of England)
Therefore the Greek word Ecclesea was translated "church" not "congregation" (as per the Puritans)
And the Greek word Baptiso was translated "baptize" not "immerse" - as the Anglican church sprinkled, and he didn't want the word immerse in this translation.

5. Without Commentary - except to explain the Hebrew or Greek)

The result was the 1611 King James Version.

NOTE:
#1. This is not the King James Bible that you own, carry - there have been many modifications, revisions, etc.
A) the Appocrapha - till the mid 19th. Century most KJV's contained 80 books vs. the 66 in it now.
B) Word changes - more than 300 words no longer mean the same thing they did back in the 1600s. Example: KJV - Heb. 4:12 - "quick" (Compare the word "gay" - it's meaning 50 years ago and it's meaning today.)
C) Spelling, punctuation, italics, etc. - approximately 25,000 changes in the KJ New Testament since 1611. None affects any major doctrine.

#2. This is NOT the Bible Jesus Carried (or Paul)
#3. This is NOT the 1st. English translation - translations go all the way back to the 7th century.
#4. This is NOT an infallible translation
Examples: Printer's Errors
a. Judas Bible 1611 - Matt. 26:36 - "then cometh Judas..." -(then cometh Jesus)
b. Printer's Bible 1612 - "Psalm 119:161 - "printers have persecuted me..." (Princes have persecuted me)
c. Wicked Bible 1631 - Ex. 20:14 - thou shalt commit..." (thou shalt not commit adultery)
d. Sin On Bible 1716 - John 8:11 "go and sin on more" (go and sin no more)
e. Vinegar Bible 1717 - Chapter Heading - Luke 20 - "parable of the Vinegar" (Parable of the vineyard)
f. Fools Bible 1763 - Psalm 14:1 - "There is a God" - (there is no God)
g. Lions Bible 1804 - 1 Kings 8:19 "out of thy lions" - (out of thy loins)
h. Owl Bible 1944 - 1 Pet. 3:5 - "in subjection to thine owl husband" (in subjection to thine own husband)

BUT,
#5. It DID become the most popular translation.
The Geneva Bible was user friendly - common language, margional notes, chapter and verse division. Affordable - week's wages for a common laborer.
BUT, it became illegal to print, then to import, and then to own!!!!

THEN,
#6. The KJV became the most influential English Bible in history.
For many,
#7. it became THE Bible. "but, ..... the Bible says....." (King James Version trumped the original manuscripts)

OBSERVATIONS:

King James Bible has had (still has) tremendous impact on society, not primarily because it's the King James Version but because it's the Word of God!!
"What if the Geneva Bible had not been banned???" The power is not in the translation, but in God's Word.
Isa. 55:10-11 - (KJV) ¹⁰For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:

¹¹So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

2 Tim. 3:16 - (KJV) ¹⁶All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

So, Should I use the KJV?

Answer: it's your choice... is the message clear? Is it your preference? BUT..... don't declare it "the ONLY valid, true expression of God's Word".

And remember - the point, purpose of any translation is to present the Word as clearly as possible without compromising the message.

AND, whatever translation you choose, USE IT!!!!
Because in scripture we learn about God and Christ.
In the scripture we encounter God and Christ

And (finally) whatever you choose/use, whatever you learn about God, whatever you experience with God, neither your translation, your knowledge, your experience commends you to God. For that only comes through His grace expressed in His Son, Jesus Christ.

7 Tools to Make A Difference

2012-01-09T12:47:00.004-06:00

Eph. 4:1
The term "Christian calling" covers a lot of ground.

He calls you.... to come (woos you)
........................ to accept (receive, embrace)
........................ to learn (grow, disciple)
AND...
....................... t0 go!! Example: Matt: 4:19
More fully: Matt. 28:18-20

Christian calling has NOT changed!

Mostly we as Christians feel inadequate to "go". (mostly we ARE!!)
BUT, know this ...... when called also:
A. commissioned (His authority passed on)
B. Equipped (given tools for the task)
C. Empowered (enabled) - may not feel empowered, or sense being empowered, but ARE!
**NOTE: the power is not in you or the tool.
BUT... He works through you and through the tools He's given you.

So........ 7 Tools to Make A Difference, or, 7 (Powerful) Tools to Make An (Eternal) Difference

Tools' List:
prayer - interceding for others
proclamation - telling THE story
personal testimony - telling your story
example - living the story (modeling)
truth - that which is in accord with reality, fact
love - Agape (love of God)
solidarity - unity that works (does something)

These tools are:
1. Biblical
2. traditional
3. Universal - can be used on people regardless of education, race, culture, age, etc.
4. Powerful (authored by God, empowered by God)
5. effective - will not accomplish what you desire but what God purposes.

#1. Prayer - asking (interceding on behalf of) for others - James 5:16 (b) - 18 - most of us make far too little use of this powerful tool because we don't see the immediate results
1 John 5:14-15 - based on example - Mark 11:24 - prayer has great power

#2. Proclamation - telling the story. 1 John 1:1
simple and practical - Rom. 10:14
So "through the foolishness of preaching..." - (preaching = telling the story)

#3. Personal testimony - telling your story. Mark 5:18-20 - Legion
Paul - 2 parts - #1. - I know/ #2 - I believe.
Your story is not THE story, but parallels THE story.
Power??? - Rev. 12:10-11 (a) - "...testimony" - THE story and their story

#4. Example - living the story/modeling the story. This is the twin brother to Personal Testimony. Personal testimony is not much good if it's not lived out.
1 Pet. 2:12, 15 which leads to Matt. 5:16
On one hand, not all are watching, BUT some are!

#5. Truth - that which is in accordance with reality and fact.
Truth leads to right/non-truth leads to wrong!!
Which way to the Father?? John 14:6 - right direction

#6. Love - Agape.... as defined by God.... ACTIVE (John 3:16) Rom. 5:8
1 Cor. 13:1-3, 12:31 (b)
Acting according to what is right and good regardless of feelings.

#7. Solidarity - (MRP definition) - unity that works (more than harmony that fellowships)
Solidarity - we have if we'll use it. Does something to advance the Kingdom of God.
Eph. 4:4-6
Example: community churches should do more than "fellowship".

Since these tools are: Biblical, traditional, universal, powerful, therefore, they are effective.

Also - 1) Simple
2) Available - easy to use.

Christian Confidence for a New Year

2012-01-03T11:42:00.002-06:00

The trend/mood - 100 years ago - optimism incredibly high. Today - pessimism.

So......, will things get better??? Get worse??? Continue to roller coaster????

Answer: no one knows!!! The future is always uncertain and can't be predicted by opinion polls.

BUT, Christians needn't be alarmed/upset... concerned, yes, but not alarmed... in uncertain times (which is all times).
Christians can be certain (confident/calm) because..... we know:

#1. God is still God. (if He ever was, He still is)
Mal. 3:6 (a)
Therefore, we can conclude: A. He's in control - "God is greater than __________" (you fill in the blank)
B. He's still faithful - to His purpose, promise, people. This does not mean that He'll do what we want Him to do.
Therefore:
C. We're not abandoned (as individuals, as a group, as a nation, etc)
Dan. 3:16-18 Mark 13:5-8 Rom. 8:31

#2. Christ is still on THE throne. (if He ever was Lord...)
Illustration: in the first century, Christians faced uncertainty, government sponsored persecution, and in the midst, John receives "the Revelation".
Which ...."in spite of appearances" ..... I'm still on the throne" - so..... Rev. 1:19 - "you can write this down"
John 14:1 (for the disciples before the resurrection, for us until His return) - trust Him - Christ specifically

#3. The Kingdom is still being advanced. Because people are still being saved.
Question: is the Kingdom gaining ground? Example: world stats vs. social condition???

BUT, either way... a soul saved means the Kingdom is advanced.

And,
#4. (ultimately and finally) All Will Be Well. Rev. 21:3-5

So, we know of this we can be certain:
1. God is still at work.
2. There is still work to be done. John 4:35 - talking about people
and,
3. our calling remains (unchanged/unaltered) - which in part means pursue righteousness, promote the Kingdom, etc.
Matt. 28:18-20 - make disciples
Matt. 5:13-16 - make a difference (MAD)

In closing:

A. a call to confidence in Him - regardless of what we see in the future.
B. A call to commitment as well.

God With Us (Emmanuel)

2011-12-19T10:59:00.003-06:00

Matt. 1:23

We know God has always been with His people. Because He's A) omnipresent - everywhere at once - and B) He's faithful to His promises.

There for the Old Testament is full of "God With Us" episodes and promises.

BUT NOW - He's come physically! John 1:1, 14 - incarnation (took on flesh) - lived as a man, died as a man. That's what Christmas is about.

Could argue "what new developments?" - concerning "with us".
But all agree the Incarnation led to new insights and better understanding.

Because of the Incarnation we know God is with us......
AND with us in new and different and fuller ways.

#1. Actually (in reality, in fact, in truth) - this is more than theory or supposition.
1 John 1:1-3 (a) - He came and resided with us to show that He is truly with us!!!!

#2. Personally (in other words, with me, not just us, corporately) - John 15:15 Eph. 1:17
This is not uncommon in the Old Testament.
However, it is emphasized in the New Testament.

#3. Constantly - John 14:16 Matt. 28:20 (b) Heb. 13:5 (b)
Old Testament - argument if Holy Spirit can come and go.
BUT, New Testament - promises constancy and Holy Spirit stays with us.

#4. Internally ( definition? meaning?)
Col. 1:27 Eph. 3:16-17 (a) - feel at home in heart

#5. Equally (no preference based on race, sex, social standing, etc.)
Jesus' ministry was to any and all who would come and receive. Gal. 3:28
"the ground is level at the foot of the cross." This does not mean all are saved. It is through Christ we are saved, and Christ alone.

So, on one hand we know God is transcendent (untouchable, incomprehensible, beyond us...)
but, in the Incarnation we learn He is also close by, within reach, "with us!!" (whether perceived or not)

Because we are confident of His Presence, we can also be confident of.....

#1. His Assistance (ie: help in daily life, daily struggle(s)
Isa. 41:8-10 Haggai 2:4-5
Note: presence does not mean a pain-free path!! Isa. 43:1-3 (a), Isa. 43:5 (a)
His presence means we're never alone, without His Presence and Assistance. Psalm 23:4

#2. His guidance (ie: insight, directing, attempt to steer you...)
Psalm 139:7-10
Isa. 30:20-21
John 16:13 (A) - He wants to guide us.
We may not always be aware of His guiding hand, But it's always there!!!

#3. His goodwill (ie: "God with us" is synonymous with "God for us")
He wants and desires best for you. Jer. 29:11 (more pointedly - Rom. 8:31)

Point: whether you perceive His assistance, guidance, goodwill because of the Incarnation,
you can be sure of these things....

This is called Faith, confidence, certainty, and He desires it for you.

Whether you experience it or not, (ie the presence, assistance, guidance, goodwill), because of the Incarnation, you can 1) know it and 2) act on it.

So, the challenge for the day, season - do you know this to be true? And then, what do you need to do? Receive Christ, reconnect, confess, return, etc.

When Others Judge You - Part 4 in Series

2011-12-12T15:32:00.003-06:00

WHEN OTHERS JUDGE YOU!

What to do?? How to respond??

#1. Get used to it. There are roughly 7 billion people alive here on earth - all with opinions and fallen natures! Do you really think that you are going to live without criticisms and problems????

#2. Listen. Generally speaking. Should take the time to hear them out.
Prov. 12:15, Prov. 13:1 (a)
On one hand, there is a time to say "enough!", BUT, there is also a time to listen!

#3. Bite your tongue. Prov. 10:19, Prov. 18:13 It may be legitimate advice.
James 1:19-20

#4. Control your temper.
Prov. 14:29, Prov. 29:11

#5. Consider the criticism. There is need for balance here.
On one hand, don't let men decide your course (right/wrong)
But, remember that God often speaks through men. (prophets, apostles, etc.) Therefore, a wise man will consider what people have to say.

Example: Paul - Col. 2:16 - "don't let men decide for you..."
But, Gal. 2:2 - recognize that God might use them to direct you, to correct you!!

1 Cor. 4:3-4 - Paraphrase and application:
On one hand I care little for man's opinion......
On the other hand, I care a great deal for God's opinion!
Therefore, I should listen to (consider) man's opinion (criticism) because it could be God speaking through them!!!
(remember Balaam??? - Numb.22)

This does not mean you give equal time to all criticisms.
It means reasonable consideration to reasonable criticism!
Consider:
A. in light of God's word.
B. in a spirit of humility and prayer.
C. in the counsel of wise Christian friends.

Prov. 26:12 - he's below a fool.

IF NOT GUILTY
1. Give a controlled response or no response. There is a time to explain and defend yourself. There is also a time to be silent!!
Prov. 15:1 (a)
Prob. 21:23

2. Let it go! -- refer back to first point!!!
Prov. 12:16 (a)
Prov. 19:11
Point:
A. don't let others' criticisms rule you.
B. stewing silently is not letting go!!

#3. Continue to be open - to correction.
There is danger of becoming calloused, indifferent, bitter, vengeful, etc.

IF GUILTY......
1. Admit it! The Greek word doesn't mean agree with man, but does mean agree with God!!
Prov. 17:10

2. Make appropriate response, change, amends - look for ways to correct.
Prov. 14:9

3. Learn from your mistakes.
Prov. 26:11 - on one hand, everybody stumbles, falls, but the wise man learns from it.

4. Grow !!
Prov. 15:31-32 - God's purpose is to develop God-like Character in you...

Summary Verse: Prov. 12:1 - "Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid." (and likely to remain so)

Beyond all this, all will be judged by God regarding what was done with His Son. God is the ultimate judge!!

Judging Others - Part 3

2011-12-12T15:03:00.003-06:00

Question: To judge or not to judge??
The problem being - scripture directs us both ways!

So.......... there is need for better understanding of what's meant by "judging others".

Last time, we discussed: When is it appropriate to judge others. - (according to scripture)
#1. When behavior is clearly wrong (according to scripture)
#2. When behavior threatens others.
#3. When choosing leadership - church stuff, political leadership, etc.
#4. In matters of stewardship
#5. When a brother or sister is "overtaken" by sin and you attempt to restore them. Gal. 6:1
#6. When examining your own behavior. 1 Cor. 11:31
Always appropriate to judge self. If would do this regularly, others wouldn't have to.

So, on one hand it is not always proper and appropriate to judge others.
BUT, often, it is appropriate, and even necessary in keeping with scripture, truth, common sense. John 7:24 1 Cor. 6:2-3

Last time: When is it appropriate to judge others?

This time: When is inappropriate, improper, unacceptable to judge others.

As we saw before, there is no list, BUT many instances, examples, and principles by which to determine.

IT IS WRONG TO JUDGE OTHERS..............

#1. When exercising a fault finding spirit.
Matt. 7:1-5
There are two issues here: A. being overly critical of others.
B. being under critical of 'self.
Compare the two men in Luke 18:9-14 (note especially v 14a)

#2. When judgment is merely gossip. (talebearing, backbiting, gossiping, defaming, etc.)
Biblical word is "slander". James 4:11-12
Slander is an old English word meaning "to defame".
Usually means false charges, misrepresentation designed to damage another's reputation.
Contrast: Eph. 4:29

#3. When judging disputable matters (questionable issues)
Rom. 14:1 - text talks about vegetables, day of worship
Examples: style of worship music, whether or not a bride takes her husband's last name, preferred Bible translation, etc.
Rom. 14:2-6, 10-13 (a), 15:7 - summary verse

#4. when you assume more than God reveals.
Example: Job's situation and condemnation by his three "so called" friends. Job 42:7
Compare this to "aids" being God's judgment on the homosexual. Could be, but no divine revelation to that effect.
It is not for us to judge beyond what has been revealed. Could be a 'false prophet' when do that.

#5. When entertaining sin in your own life.
2 Sam. 1:1-7 (a) - "the man".
The problem was NOT David's verdict. The problem was David's heart, situation, sin!! 1 Cor. 11:31

SUMMARY

1. There is a proper time to judge - when it's right and necessary

2. Therefore, there are times it is wrong to judge.

3. Christians should learn the difference and practice accordingly~ God didn't just call us to be saved and go to heaven someday. But to live a Godly life in Christ Jesus now.

CONCLUSION:

The most important judgment call you'll ever make - 2 Cor. 13:5 - "examine yourself to see if you are in the faith" - a. positionally - have you accepted Christ?
b. practically - are you acting accordingly?

Giving Thanks

2011-11-22T21:09:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving - the most widely celebrated holiday in America.
92% of people polled - planning special family gathering.

Why? Giving thanks is natural, inherent to all peoples, cultures, religions. It seems right and proper. Even non-believers recognize the need to give thanks.

So..... should we just follow our feelings, instinct, intuition (on thanks)?
Answer: As Christians we have more specific guidelines. (Scripture) Shouldn't leave it simply to our feelings, instincts, intuition.

We find in the Old Testament:
1. Giving thanks was part of the Old Testament Sacrificial System. (as prescribed by God).
Lev. 7:11-12 (a). God wrote it into formal worship. "Thank offering" - formally brought to the temple and presented to the Lord.

2. The offering was voluntary but also was expected! Because you would be grateful in heart to God for His blessings.

3. It was always appropriate but especially when God had done something extraordinarily special. (protection, deliverance, Christian blessing) - Ps. 107:19-22

4. The offering recognized God as the source of the blessing. Ps. 50:23 (a) - "honors Me"

So.....
5. Thanksgiving became a central part of Old Testament worship.
Ps. 100 (sub-title) Ps. 105:1, 106:1, 107:1-2 (a)

And,
6. Thanksgiving because a central part of the public worship.
As an individual in public worship. Ps. 35:18
Also, as a group (nation) in public worship.
Example: feasts - gathered as a group
ie: individually thanking Him As part of an intentionally gathered group!!

Application:
#1. We ought to give thanks. This is more than "be thankful" - only mentioned 4 times in the New Testament. Give thanks is in there many times.

#2. We ought to give thanks to God. (recognizing Him)

#3. We ought to give thanks in a way that honors Him.
Lev. 22:29 Note: not every offering honors God.

There is a time for.........
A. private thanksgiving - between you and God
B. Informal thanksgiving - "beautiful morning. Thank you, Jesus"
C. Public thanksgiving - ie: in the midst of others
D. Corporate thanksgiving - offered as a church/as a community!!
E. Formal thanksgiving. Model: Thank offering. private thanks...... publicly presented..... formally offered........ when especially blessed......

John 1:16

Judging Others - Part 2

2011-11-14T11:25:00.004-06:00

America's favorite scripture??? - Matt. 7:1
The problem: Matt. 7:6 (a)
So, scriptural contradiction, or a need for more understanding??

Last week - learned that the Greek word translated "to judge" has broad applications.
Therefore, we must examine context and intent.....

So.....
When is it appropriate to judge others??

#1. When behavior is clearly wrong - 1 Cor. 5:1-5
Examples: homosexual lifestyle, adultery, idolatry, thievery, etc.

Remember:
A. judge using scripture as the measure - it's not about us, it's about scripture - what God says.
statement "who are you to judge?" is a valid question!!!
B. judging the action not the actor (motive?, intent?, eternal state?)
C. judging with a healthy dose of mercy and grace - toward the individual, not toward the behavior!

#2. When behavior threatens others - to lead God's people astray.
Rev. 2:14-16, 20
compare - Titus 3:10-11
The point being protection.

A. This verifies common sense principle of protection.
and,
B. the "protector" is OBLIGATED to judge - Acts 20:28-31

#3. When choosing leadership - judgment call on abilities, character, etc. - Titus 1:5-8
A. requirements to get in, stay in
Important because
B. They lead (toward what???) and they represent (the church, the faith, Christ)

#4. In matters of stewardship
Acts 6:1-4 - choosing of the 1st. deacons who can make judgement calls regarding the complaints.
2 Thess. 3:6, 10-15
NOTE: the point here is not to punish, but to restore!!

#5. When a brother or sister strays - Gal. 6:1
Note: this is more than sin. It refers to "overtaken, caught up, trapped??" in a sinful lifestyle.

Some additional scriptures:
Prov. 26:4
Prov. 13:20
Phil. 3:2
2 John 10
1 John 4:1
These are just a few of the many examples of when it's appropriate to judge.

CLOSING OBSERVATIONS

1. It's not always appropriate to judge. (deal with next week)
But:
2. There are times when it is appropriate to judge!! Times when it's necessary! expected! commanded!
3. We shouldn't let (non-Christian) world make the rules for us. (concerning if/when/how... Who is your Lord???)
Therefore:
4. You shouldn't make your own rules! (God makes the rules, reveals the rules. We discover and apply those rules)
5. Christians should be wise concerning judging others. Matt. 10:16
6. We should strive to 'get it right'. John 7:24

Another time it is appropriate to judge??? (and necessary and mandatory) -
When you are judging YOURSELF!!
1 Cor. 11:31
2 Cor. 13:5 (a) - "test yourselves"
"in the faith" - A. are you a Christian? Are you born again?
B. Are you walking, acting, living in the faith???

Judging Others (A Biblical View)

2011-11-07T11:15:00.003-06:00

A couple of weeks ago, stated "even those who are transformed are not fully transformed... (sin tendency).... so don't be surprised at ungodly/unChristian behavior"

Which leads to: Are we to overlook ungodly behavior? Ignore it?, or make a judgment call concerning this behavior????

Which leads to: Judging others (A Biblical View)
(previously addressed in '99, '04, and '08)

So.... to judge or not to judge?? On one hand, scripture says "don't judge". Matt. 7:1, Rom. 14:4 (a), Rom. 14:13 (a)

On the other hand, scripture says "do judge" - Matt. 7:6 (a), Matt. 7:15, Titus 3:10, 1 Cor. 5:12-13

Or compare: James 4:12 to Lev. 19:15

So, does the Bible contradict itself????
OR, do we need a better understanding of the subject???
We believe there is no contradiction in the Bible, we have a faulty understanding of what it says.

So.......... how to properly judge others???

Some helpful observations:

#1. The Greek word has broad application. It is translated "to judge", but ALSO translated.... to think, to examine, to investigate, to weigh, to form an opinion, to discern between, to decide, to determine, to try, to conclude.
ALSO: to pronounce judgment, to pass sentence, to vindicate or to condemn.

Point being:
A. we must examine the word in context
Example: "don't condemn/pass sentence" doesn't mean "don't think, investigate, form an opinion"
B. We must not determine by one scripture alone, but by scripture as a whole.
Example: Matt. 7:1 (America's favorite scripture). We cannot build a Biblical view of judging on this scripture verse alone.

#2. The Bible (mostly) calls us to judge actions, not people. We can judge action, behavior, lifestyle.
We cannot know the heart, motive, reason, intent

The problem is that it's not always easy to distinguish between behavior and the behaver. (between the action and the actor)
Example: church leaders: 1 Tim. 3:1-12 - conduct or character? BOTH!!
or, candidates for public office: judge behavior, plus beliefs plus character!!

#3. We must all make judgment calls from time to time. (sometimes on the action/ sometimes on the actor

AND:
#4. Christians are called to do it right!! John 7:24 Amplified Version: "be honest in your judgment and do not decide at a glance - superficially and by appearances; but judge fairly and righteously"

So...... HOW to judge properly? HOW to get it right??

3 Key ingredients/basic steps to judging others properly:

#1. Weigh (examine) the facts. On one hand, we can't get all the facts. BUT, we can get some of them. So... ask, listen, go slow, be open because the judgment you are called to make may be contrary to how you feel, or what you want to say.

#2. Weigh the facts in a proper scale.
A. God's Word - which puts you at odds with many, or with most others.
The pre-modern age said: "this is truth" - (God's Revelation)
The modern age said: "is that the truth?"" (reason)
The post-modern age says: "there is no truth" - (rejection). This is where the world view is today.
So,
pre-modern - "these are the rules. By this we judge"
modern - "are those the rules? How can we judge?"
post-modern - "there are no rules. We cannot judge"

B. God's Word properly interpreted. - don't assume because you scripture you have the answer." Example: the Pharisees. They knew the letter of the law, but had it all wrong as Jesus repeatedly told them.

C. .... with a healthy dose of mercy.
An objection: don't need mercy/grace to do math. (determine right from wrong)
Answer: true, but we're not doing math (we're doing people/lives/souls)
Judging others requires:
1. determining right/wrong
2. loving people in spite of right/wrong
3. without justifying/ignoring wrong
Example: Jesus - Matt. 9:10-13

#3. Weigh them with a humble heart (considering self)
Objection (again)! don't need humility to do math (determine right/wrong)
Answer (again):
A. we're not doing math!!! We're doing ministry.
AND:
B. You're no calculator!! Our calculations are skewed by our heart! Matt. 7:3-5

So...... Micah 6:8
A. "act justly"
B. "love mercy"
C. "walk humbly"
Three ingredients???? Really there are 4 and, most importantly, your relationship with God!! - "walk with your God"
Won't get judgment calls right if not walking humbly with our God, because the point is: not your opinion, your decision, your judgment...... it's GOD'S!!!

Christians and Halloween

2011-10-24T16:16:00.003-05:00

Halloween - possible origin.
Under the Roman Empire, the early church had many martyrs, and later some of these were recognized as "saints". Around AD610 the church dedicated May 13th. as "All Saints' Day" or "All Hallows Day" or "All Hallowmas".
The point was to recognize, remember those 'saints' who had died for their faith.

As Christianity spread into Scotland, Ireland, Great Britain, the church found the Celts celebrating an ancient pagan holiday called Samhain/Sôw ên' - which literally meant 'Summer's End'. This was held on Nov. 1st - the end of summer and harvest and the beginning of dark winter. It was celebrated with bonfires, sacrifices, etc. They believed that disembodied spirits walked about that night looking for a body to occupy.

Around 741 AD, the church changed "All Hallows Day' to Nov. 1st. to combat the pagan holiday of Samhain/Sôw ên' Therefore, October 31st. came to be called "all Hallowed Eve" --> 'Hallow 'een' or "all Hallows Eve".

As often happens, the customs blended..... Similarly to Christmas -- (the time, tree, mistletoe, yule log all had origins in the pagan celebration of winter solstice) The date for Christmas was selected to combat the pagan celebrations. Also, with Easter and fertility goddess, eggs, bunnies, etc.

Origin of Halloween traditions?? Hard to be sure....

BUT:
#1. Spooks - various pagan cultures' notion of evil spirits and disembodied spirits being especially active on the eve before "Sôw ên' ".

#2. Costumes - Celts & costumes? Possibly dressed to fool the spooks or throw them off. Christians dressed as 'saints' of old - called "guising" During the Middle Ages, went door to door asking for food in exchange for prayers for the deceased - called "souling".
Example: Shakespeare's comedy "The Two Gentlemen of Verona" (1593) "puling (whimpering, whining) like a beggar on Hallowmas".
"Guising" (disguised in costume, going door to door) goes way back in Scotland (recorded in 1895). Kids visited homes in costume seeking treats and carrying lanterns made of hollowed out turnips with an ember in it for light.

#3. pumpkins/Jack o' Lanterns - comes from an old Irish fable about a man called Stingy Jack who, when the devil came for him one night, conned him into climbing a tree to get him one last apple. Jack then quickly put crosses around the tree so the devil could not come back down. He then made an agreement with the devil, first of all to let him live longer, and when he did die, not to take him to hell. The devil agreed so Jack let him back down out of the tree.
When Jack died, he went to heaven but he was so bad that he couldn't be let into heaven so he went to hell, but, the devil remembering his agreement, wouldn't let him in there either, so there was no place for Jack to spend eternity. So, he was destined to wander between heaven and hell for the rest of his life. When he complained that he needed some kind of lantern to give him some light, he was given a hollowed out turnip with an ember in it.
When the Irish immigrated to the United States they found a much better vegetable to use for these lanterns - the pumpkin. So they became known as "Jack o' lanterns".

Trick or treat???
Tricking goes way back - mostly harmless pranks, mischief done by kids to 'blame' the Halloween spirits.

BUT...
#4. Trick or treat seems to be an American or North American original - ie: show up in costume with the threat of "treat us or get tricked". In the U.S. it became common by the 1930's and was known originally as "Beggar's Night".

Question:
How should Christians react to Halloween? Deal with? Obviously, it's not directly addressed in the scripture.

Opinions vary from "this is pagan, honors Satan, is very bad" to "this is common fun, mocks Satan, no harm in it".

So........
Christians and Halloween.

#1. Evil spirits exist. Satan is mentioned from Genesis to Revelation (and is a key figure in each)
Demons are especially evident during Christ's earthly ministry, and again in Revelation.

#2. The unholy spirits are actively opposed to Christ and Christians. - Satan vs. the Jews, Satan vs. God's people. Rev. 12:17 Eph. 6:12 - ultimately our enemy is not our neighbor, spouse, child, etc. It is Satan.

Therefore,
#3. We are to have no unnecessary involvement with unholy spirits. Deut. 18:9-13
Lev. 19:31, 20:27 Isa. 8:19-20
A. We are to seek no power, authority spiritual benefactor but God. (including Holy angels which are sent as directed by God. We are not to seek them!!)
B. All powers, authority, spirits outside His realm are evil.... therefore harmful and detrimental.

BUT.....
#4. most people observing Halloween are just having fun...NOT seeking, involved with, honoring, worshiping Satan, demons, the dead, ghosts, etc. They are having fun with and making fun of the realm of witches, ghouls, goblins, ghosts.
Make the distinction: ghosts, ghouls, zombies, witches, etc. don't exist!! They are make believe!!
There are demons and spirits, etc. but there are only two powers - holy and unholy.

Contrast trick or treat with playing with an Ouija board, seances, tarot cards, etc. With the latter, you are requesting spirits speak to you and are opening yourself to the spirit world. Very dangerous.

Also note:
#5. how little attention Satan and the demons get in post resurrection scriptures!!! Why??? Because he's been defeated at the resurrection of Christ!!
Example: Rom 1 - 8 deals extensively with sin, wickedness, evil... BUT with no mention of Satan or demons! Ex. Rom. 1:29-32

WHY??? Satan and his minions are defeated!!! He still is to be taken seriously, but not to be feared. Just stand firm.

So, again..... Christians & Halloween? Should we observe? ignore? oppose? The decision is really yours. But, another option is Redeem (customize, hijack - to make a pagan holiday ours...)

Whatever you do, 2 passages are relevant........
1. 1 Cor. 8 - 10 - regarding meat offered to idols. Summary verse: 1 Cor. 10:31

2. Rom. 14 & 15 - observation of days, diets - summary vs. Rom. 14:1, 12-13 (a)

The important question is NOT which day? eat or abstain? observe or ignore?
The important question is Who IS your Lord? How will you SERVE HIM???

The Task of Transformation

2011-10-18T13:35:00.004-05:00

Definition: Transformation means change.
Christian transformation is change (a) for the better as prescribed in God's Word, (b) beyond the surface to a change of mind and a change of heart, and (c) is attributed to Christ; His person, teaching, Holy Spirit, etc.

Three areas of Transformation Christians should be concerned with...
A. Personal transformation - change toward what you should be and were created to be.
B. Individual transformation - the attempt to setter or assist other toward what they should be and were created to be.
C. Social transformation - attempt to change or steer society toward what it should be.

Focus today - Personal and Individual transformation.
Application - 1. those attempting to grow
2. those attempting to steer others toward growth.

THE WORK OF INDIVIDUAL TRANSFORMATION

#1. Christian transformation begins with Christ.
It may begin before salvation, BUT doesn't take place apart from Christ.
Point: do you want to be an agent of transformation? PRAY for Christ's involvement. We cannot affect change in an individual's life without Him, but He may use me to do that.

Therefore:
#2. People need to hear the gospel. Note: the bridge illustration.

(animation by bellsnwhistles.com)

Rom. 10:14 Efforts at transformation are incomplete without the gospel message.

#3. Your actions are also important. (or people are more apt to accept the love of God if they see the love of God). This is NOT essential to believing, but it makes believing easier, more likely.

#4. People need more than the (simple) gospel to experience Christian transformation.
(This doesn't mean to be saved but it means to be transformed.)
Before you can do/become what you ought, you must know what to do/what to become.
(sincerity/zeal is NOT enough - Rom. 10:2)

#5. Salvation plus knowledge does not guarantee transformation. Because, transformation also requires cooperation! Must have heart and mind to obey and respond to what you know.

And:
#6. Even those who experience transformation are not fully transformed. Because of sin nature/tendency to sin.

So, when someone says "I can't believe he would do that!" The answer is "I can't believe you can't believe it!" Why are we amazed when people sin? Why are we aghast, when we are sinners as well and prone to the same tendencies.
Nobody is so transformed that he is not subject to sin in his life.
This is not making excuses for sinful behavior, but just being honest - this is the way it is!

Therefore:
#7. We won't always see the positive results of our efforts - within self, within others.

Examples: Noah, Moses, Jeremiah, Jesus and the disciples, Paul and the Galatians.

But......
#8. Not seeing positive results does not mean there are no positive results.

The process of transformation has always been:
slow, difficult to measure, and sporadic, and therefore, frustrating (concerning self and concerning others), often discouraging, sometimes exhausting!! (emotionally/psychologically)
Most (if not all) serious transformers struggle with "results".

Note:
1. the longer in the battle, the more time and energy you invest into it, the more likely you are to experience frustration, discouragement, fatigue.
Therefore:
2. the more likely Satan is to use this to tempt you out of the fray!

#9. If the promise of transformation was ever valid, it remains valid today. The ETERNAL gospel. To this we are called! Personal, individual, social transformation!!

#10. When we pursue this in spite of apparent results, it is called FAITH. Heb. 11:1-2, 39 Without faith, it is impossible to please God.

Shoebox Ministry

2011-10-14T21:53:00.002-05:00

Why a shoebox? It blends good words with good works!
As Christians, we are called to both verbal evangelism and good works!

1. Evangelism is the proclamation of the gospel. Purpose - to win souls, disciple saints. Matt. 28:18-20 - Christ's authority sealed by the resurrection!

2. Good works = good works!! (deeds) - Eph. 2:10
Good works don't merit us a spot in heaven, BUT we are to be about good deeds. So.... Matt. 25:34-40

The Call is NOT either/or - it is BOTH!!
Might better be called verbal evangelism and works evangelism.

Observations/Reminders:

#1. A verbal declaration is empty without good works. James 2:14-17

Therefore,
#2. Works evangelism is insufficient without words. (without the message) Rom. 10:14

#3. Words and works are intended to complement one another. The mission of Christ - Matt. 11:2-5 Now of us ...... John 20:21 Go and do as Christ did.

#4. To this you are called. not just we (church) but you (individual)
A corporate call does not eliminate individual responsibility.

#5. For this you are equipped.
On the one hand you may not have all you need to fulfill the call.
Therefore, you have all you need to answer the call, so you can move forward and fulfill the call.
Matt. 4:18-19

On one hand, good words and good works will not get you into heaven. Eph. 2:8-9
But, it might result in someone else getting into heaven!!

The Christian Rest Ethic

2011-10-09T15:13:00.003-05:00

Gen. 2:2-3

If the Christian work ethic is a moral view of work based on scripture,
then, what about a "Christian REST ethic?""
Gen. 2:2-3 - AGAIN..... with focus on "rest". "God rested from all His work". These are complimentary ideas, not opposing ideas.
Add: Ex. 20:8-11 (plus, additional sabbaths, feasts, festivals... etc.)
Sabbath literally means to cease or to stop.

So, can we conclude that:
1. As God intended His people to work (effort to produce)
2. He also intended them to take time to rest from work.
3. His intention for me is also His Will for me.
AND:
4. to ignore His known will is SIN!!

NOTE: this is not about Sabbath observance. It is about resting from labor(s).

Some of what we know.....
1. God established the concept of a day of rest. Gen. 2:2-3

2. God modeled that concept!! Gen. 2:2-3 - "God rested"

later:
3. God commanded a day of rest.
A. wrote it into the Mosaic Law
B. May have written it into the Natural Law. - as 8 hour sleep, so 6 day work week and one day off. Most nations have a 7 day week - ancient and modern.

4. Jesus practiced the day of rest.
A. Sabbath observance though not as prescribed by the Pharisees.
B. Additional incidents - Mark 6:30-31 (promoted rest)
So.... early church adopted "day of rest" in conjunction with the Lord's day.

AGAIN: This is NOT about Sabbath observance.

It is considering the Biblical view of time off/shut down/take a break ---
As God intended
As we often fail to do!!

A 'day of rest' served (serves) several purposes:
#1. A day to rest. (sabboth literally means to cease/desist)
Obvious meaning: physical rest - Deut. 5:12-14, Ex. 34:21
Probable meaning: mental and emotional as well. Ex. 23:12 - "refreshed"

#2. A Day to remember the Lord - set aside time to focus on Him, worship Him. - Lev. 23:3, Psm. 46:10

#3. A day to identity as one of His people - non-believers know what the meeting together is about.
Ex. 31:16-17 - sign of lasting covenant. Ezek. 20:12

So.... a day of rest serves us physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually - Mark 2:27

On one hand, much has changed (not Jewish, not agrarian - don't have the physical labors that they did)
But, much is the same! (ie: needs of man, moral applications of the Law)

In addition: Scripture speaks of ....
#1. Rest in the Lord - Psalm 62:1, 5 (contrast: Job 3:26)
Point being: confidence, trust leads to inner stillness/quietude/calm/tranquil/peace
Matt. 11:28-30 - rest of the soul by trusting in Him.
Note: A. This rest comes from trusting Him ... Actively/Intentionally
B. more apt to find this rest if set aside time to focus on Him.

#2. Final Rest. 2 Sam. 7:12 (a) - "fathers" Rev. 14:13 - death of a believer - "rest"

I'm not suggesting violating "rest ethic" is as evil as thievery, idolatry, adultery, etc., or that we should reinstate legalistic observance.

I AM saying: we should give serious consideration to the Biblical Rest Ethic.....
A. the value of it. personal - corporate - kingdom
B. the right/wrong of it....

AND above all .... submit to Christ - Mark 2:27-28

The Chrisian Work Ethic - Pt. 2

2011-09-20T13:14:00.003-05:00

A moral view of work (right and wrong) - based on Scripture.

Review:
#1. God is a working God. - John 5:17

#2. We are created in His (working) image. Gen. 2:15

#3. Work is not part of the curse or a result of the fall. The fall id these to our labors: toil, frustration, drudgery, grind. Gen. 3:17-19 (a)

Definition - Work (as used in this series):
A. the task
B. the effort
C. the product

A. The task, duty, responsibility - that is yours to do. This is more than a paid vocation.
Example: job of spouse, parent, student, neighbor
Note: for the Christian this is more than a duty.... it is a calling. Eph. 4:1

B. The Effort - necessary energy expended to fulfill duty, do the job. Maybe physical, intellectual, emotional... Example: the effort required to be a good spouse, parent, etc.

C. The product - outcome, what's produced by your efforts.
On one hand, it is often beyond your control - example: farmer, cattleman, teacher, doctor.
But, product must be considered as we assess our work. We need to examine the product, and asked ourselves if the product is a result of our efforts, or is it not in our control.

So...to examine the work ethic, we must consider:
1. attitude - toward duty, obligation, responsibility..... our calling
2. effort - to fulfill the obligation, do the job.
3. outcome - ie. when it's within my control.

So.......... who work well? Why apply myself to my duties?

6 Biblical Reasons:

1. To provide for family. 1 Tim. 5:8
A. Your family is your responsibility. contrast the 'entitlement' attitude.
B. their needs are more than physical.

2. to provide for community in a broad sense. Working to assist (give/help)
Acts 20:34-35 Eph. 4:28
when I produce more than I consume which leads to excess for blessing

#3. for personal satisfaction - Eccles. 2:10, 2:24, 3:12-13
It may be hard to find satisfaction in some work, but it's easier to find satisfaction when you attempt to do it well!

#4. to earn respect - 1 Thess. 4:11-12
the point is to gain a platform to share Christ when are diligent in duty.

#5. to set an example - 2 Thess. 3:7-9 Acts. 20:35

#6. To honor Christ. Col. 3:23-24.
Point being: Who is your Lord? How do you honor Him? (obedience)
Which is why the Puritans said "all work is a form of worship".

Note:
1. labor alone does not commend you to God. (you are not going to Heaven because you work hard). Eph. 2:8-9

2. working well is not all of the Christian life (only part of it!!)

3. your labor (in the Lord) does M.A.D. - (make a difference.)
1 Cor. 15:58 Rev. 14:13

Observations on 9-11; A Christian Perspective

2011-09-12T18:18:00.002-05:00

I. We live in a fallen world - a Christian perspective. Many non-Christians don't know this.
Therefore,
A. life is uncertain - for all of us. (9-11 - normal people going about a normal day)
B. evil is present - Christian view - real evil, not just bad stuff - example: hurricane, flooding, extreme dry conditions - these are bad things but are not evil.
C. our faith does not insulate us - (ie: from uncertainty, evil, etc.) Our faith should carry us through. Can happen any time and any where.
D. ignoring and denying evil in the hearts of people does not help - so many people think if we just ignore it, it will go away.
Example: the failure of Europe and North America to take seriously the German/Imperial Japanese threat in WWII. Jer. 4:5-9, 6:13-14
E. Remembering the past can help. Reminds us of the scope of the situation, the suffering, the sacrifice
F. honoring our "responders" is in order. - So, it is appropriate to observe Memorial Day, Veterans' Day, services for 9-11 responders, etc.

So,
I. We live in a fallen world.
But,
II. God is with us in this fallen world. God doesn't only come in majesty and power, but also in humility in the midst of our agony and suffering in the pits.

(Picture of the iron cross at the bottom of the rubble (pit) of the towers.) The Christian view - "He is here". John 1:1,14 (a) Psalm 23:4

Therefore: we can worship Him amidst tragedy, and we should worship Him amidst tragedy.

III. We are not destined for (doomed to) a fallen world.
A. Christ has overcome. The cross: the greatest tragedy led to ultimate blessing.
B. We can Make a Difference - Matt. 5:13-16 - strive to prevent pain, minister amidst pain, heal pain, etc.
C. God will make it all right! Rev. 21:1-5

We can never fix anything, but should be fighting the battle all the time.

The Christian Work Ethic

2011-09-06T18:57:00.002-05:00

Labor Day originated in 1882 with a NYC parade of workers with the purpose of recognizing the American workman and his (her) contribution to our society and nation. In 1894, President Grover Cleveland made Labor Day a national holiday.

On one hand, Labor Day is not a religious holiday, but it is easy to find Biblical themes here.
Examples:
1: the Christian Work Ethic - this week's message
2. the Christian Pay Ethic - upcoming
3. the Christian Rest Ethic - upcoming

Definition: the Christian Work Ethic is more than a belief or a philosophy of work.
It is: 1. a moral view of work - what is right/wrong concerning work.
2. It is based on Scripture (Revelation)
3. Applicable to Christian life - practice.
God has revealed to us His will for our life, and work is a big part of it.

Some Basics .... Scripture teaches.....
#1. God is a working God. Gen. 2:2-3 Ps. 19:1
He's woven "work" into the fabric of creation. Col. 1:16-17 John 5:16-17 - the working goes on and on.

#2. He created us in His (working) image.
Before the fall, Adam had a task - Gen. 2:15 After the fall: Gen. 3:17-19 (a)
Note: work is not the curse. The curse put 'toil' into work!

#3. These truths are clearly presented in Old Testament scriptures.
Ex. 20:9 Prov. 12:11, 14:23, 18:9
Hard work was expected and applauded. Prov. 31:13,17

#4. These truths were embraced by New Testament Christians.
Example: 2 Thess. 3:6-15 - keep away from brother who is idle...

Why work well? hard? outcome? purpose?
(some reasons.... Listed this week, will explore them next week.)

Work well......
#1. To honor God. (example: obedience. Puritans considered work a form of worship)

#2. To provide for family - Work is the means. Family is your responsibility.

#3. To provide for community. (with a broad application!!)
example: when production exceeds consumption have a very good economy.

#4. To set an example - an outstanding worker ...... stands out.

#5. For personal satisfaction and fulfillment - "job well done"

#6. To earn respect (as ambassador for Christ, platform for gospel)

#7. To expand the Kingdom. "make an eternal difference"

OBSERVATIONS:
1. A Biblical understanding will not remove the toil from your work!! - we live in a fallen world!
But, it helps knowing the reason, purpose, positive outcome (resurrection)

2. Labor alone does not commend you to God. It honors him but doesn't insure salvation. Eph. 2:8-9

3. Labor alone will not accomplish positive, eternal results. On one hand, your effort is important. But, it is meaningless without God. Prov. 12:14 Ps. 127:1, 90:17
As a Christian, our work will not have a positive, eternal results without mingling with God.

4. Labor done in Christ does MAD (make a difference). 1 Cor. 15:58
Unfortunately, can't always see the difference, but we have the promise of God that that isn't true!

Wisdom - A Few Loose Ends

2011-08-29T10:16:00.003-05:00

Note: A wise person could be referred to as having a "black belt" in life. Takes much training, study, practice. Biblical wisdom is very broad based.

I. The (Biblical) Wise Man is well-rounded. Prov. 28:25b - KJV - "...but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat." (smile)
ie: wise in many areas, aspects of life, living - not just in a few.
We've briefly looked at..... instruction, learning, advice, correction, pride, unrealistic value of 'self, fear of God, respect for God's law(s)
We can and should add:
temper - Prov. 29:22
self-control - Prov. 12:16, 29:11
patience - Prov. 16:32
kindness - Prov. 14:31
chivalry - Prov. 31:8-9
humility - Prov. 27:21
honesty - Prov. 20:10, 20:23, 22:28, 23:10
generosity - Prov. 3:27-28
social responsibility Prov. 24:11-12, 11:26
personal responsibility - Prov. 19:3
personal contentment - Prov. 15:16, 16:18
justice
vengeance
laziness
discretion - Prov. 11:22
use of alcohol - Prov. 20:1, 31:4-7
care of animals - Prov. 12:10

Point #1: Wise in 1 or 2 areas doesn't constitute a 'wise man'.
Comparison: a Renaissance Man (Leonardo daVinci) - had a broad understanding of many things.
2 Tim. 3:16-17 - "thoroughly equipped... every good work"

Point #2: This is more than character development. These are moral and ethical issues. (matters of right and wrong) - refer to above list.

Point #3. Wisdom obviously requires an acquisition of knowledge. But then requires choosing to act on the knowledge acquired!!
Example/illustration: Prov. 15:1 - Contrast: knowledge vs. choice to..... If we understand and get the meaning and fail to act on it, acting like a fool!

So....
I. The Biblical wise man is well-rounded.

II. The (Biblical) wise man focuses his ability to relate to others.
Note list above. how much is relationship oriented!

NO SURPRISE - Matt. 22:36-40 (God's image, Christ's work, eternal state)
So, on one hand a wise man in developing himself
but, on the other hand he's developing himself in his ability to relate to others.

You can't achieve Biblical wisdom if you don't learn to relate to people.

III. The (Biblical) wise man embraces Christ.
(the focus has been on the Old Testament/Proverbs, BUT Biblical wisdom must include Christ.)
1 Cor. 1:18 - 2:16, 3:18 - Christ IS wisdom from God.

Obviously includes (A.) the teachings of Christ Matt. 7:24
Also includes (B.) the Person of Christ. Eph. 1:17 (gospel)

IV. The (Biblical) wise man promotes Christ.
Christ's last words - very important - Matt. 28:18-20
Dan. 12:1-3
Prov. 11:30 - "he who wins souls is wise"

Job 12:1-2 (sarcasm)
On one hand, we needn't think we've got all the answers (all wisdom)
However, we ought to have some, and we ought to be pursuing more!!

Portrait of A Fool - Part 3

2011-08-22T11:39:00.003-05:00

Question:
What's a fool look like??

Biblical definition: A fool is NOT stupid, ignorant, unlearned. A fool is one who has disdain for God's law(s) and the morals, ethics set forth in those laws.

A fool is not one who doesn't KNOW right and wrong, should and shouldn't.
A fool is one who knows but chooses to ignore and deny.

A fool is not one who is intellectually deficient.
A fool is one who is morally deficient.

The point: what's wrong is harmful and detrimental. THEREFORE, it is foolish to know and ignore, deny, defy, etc.

So, Week #1 - A fool ignores truth, despises correction and hates rebuke. Prov. 12:1 (refuses to be fixed)

Week #2 - A fool is self-confident, proud and wise in his own eyes. (ie: his opinion of 'self exceeds reality) Prov. 26:12
There's nothing wrong with self-confidence or pride in the proper sense.

We know 1. we all have a tendency toward foolishness - Rom. 3:23
However, 2. once we know better, it's mostly a choice!!
Therefore, 3. it's foolish to ACT like a fool when you're NOT a fool!!!

TODAY:

#3. A fool displays his folly. Prov. 13:16 When you act in a foolish way, it will be displayed.

There are many ways to expose our folly, but let's look at the most common one. WORDS/THE TONGUE!!

I. The fool talks too much, too soon, too easily.
Prov. 15:2, 18:6, 18:7 - soul endangered by mouth
Therefore, the fool is quick to answer. Prov. 18:2
and quick to quarrel. Prov. 20:3

CONTRAST:
The words of the wise are few and restrained. Prov. 10:19, 17:27, 12:23, 17:28

AND, well chosen!! Prov. 15:23, 16:24, 12:18
Summary verse: Prov. 13:3

The next level.
The immediate issue and application is the tongue/the spoken word/ the external expression - and these are VERY IMPORTANT!!
BUT, the deeper need and more important issue is the heart ( internal). ie. the source/origin of words. Matt. 12:33-36

So, on one hand a wise man learns to control his tongue, but a wiser man learns to correct his heart!

On one hand your heart is beyond perfection. But, it's not beyond improvement/correction/adjustment.
AND, the more you correct your heart, the less you'll have to filter your speech!!

So..... How to Correct the heart??
How to address the source/the root of my tongue, the origin of my speech.

How to Correct the Heart??

#1. Assess Yourself
A. Your speech, words
B. Your heart - ie. what causes you to say what you do.
*Note* - assess in light of God's Word!! (not your feelings, inclinations, culture, etc.)

#2. Confess your sin(s).
IF your attitude and behavior is not in line with God's will, it is:
A. WRONG
B. DETRIMENTAL
C. FOOLISH!!!

#3. Embrace and/or enthrone Jesus. (As Savior and/or as Lord)
A. as Savior leads to forgiveness, cleansing, new heart, nature, presence of the Holy Spirit.
B. as Lord leads to forgiveness, cleansing, Holy Spirit's presence - leadership, guidance, accountability.

#4. Forsake your foolishness. which means desert, abandon, quit, walk away, leave behind, renounce, disown, etc.
Rom. 6:11 - KJV - "reckon"
Contrast: Prov. 26:11

#5. Repeat as necessary ( steps 1 - 4)

NOW, on one hand this is difficult to execute (wholly) ( to perfect). But, it is NOT difficult to comprehend, and it is NOT difficult to practice!!
AND, acquiring wisdom doesn't lead to an event, it leads to a process!! - re-enthroning, re-aligning, re-confessing, etc.

Portrait of A Fool - continued

2011-08-15T11:58:00.002-05:00

Question: What does a fool look like, BUT remember, you don't have to be dumb to be a fool according to the Biblical definition.

DEFINITION:
A fool is not stupid, ignorant, unlearned. A fool is one who has disdain for God's law(s) and the morals/ethics set forth in those laws.

A fool is not one who doesn't know right and wrong, should and shouldn't. A fool is one who knows but chooses to ignore or deny.

A fool is not one who is intellectually deficient. A fool is one who is morally deficient.

Because, what's right is good, helpful, beneficial.
Therefore, what's wrong is harmful, detrimental.

It is foolish to know and ignore, deny, defy... When you act like a fool, it is detrimental to you AND those around you.

Two weeks ago we began "Portrait of A Fool".
I. A fool ignores truth, despises correction, and hates rebuke. Prov. 12:1

Today:

II. A fool is self-confident, proud, and wise in his own eyes.

A. Self-Confident = wrong??? Answer is the definition of self-confident.
A self-confident person is one with more confidence than competence/ability.
His opinion of himself exceeds reality. He won't see his limits.
Prov. 28:26 - wisdom of God, wisdom of others, versus own wisdom only.

B. Proud. On one hand, pride has positive place. 2 Cor. 5:12 (a), 2 Cor. 7:4 (a)
Contrast legitimate pride vs. foolish Pride!
In the negative sense, it's an opinion of self that exceeds reality.

Obad. 1:3-4 - view of self is faulty and unhealthy. Rom. 12:3 (a)

C. Wise in his own eyes. Prov. 12:15, 26:16, 16:12
There is "no hope" because:
1. cannot be corrected
2. cannot be improved
3. repeats mistakes - Prov. 26:11

which leads to:

III. A fool mocks sin and denies God. (this naturally follows)
Prov. 10:23 (a), Prov. 14:9 (a), Psalm 14:1 (a) -- "..... no God"

NOTE:
A. The mockery is not necessarily verbal: but is to ignore sin as if it's of no consequence.

B. The denial is not necessarily absolute. May not deny the existence of God, but DOES deny the power, authority, holiness, concern, involvement, and Judgment!!!

Example: Gal. 6:7-8 - fool says (by action, lifestyle...) "this doesn't apply to me."

We often say "there's no fool like an old fool" which is apt because had lots of time to change and didn't.
We might add or amend the saying to: "no fool like a Christian fool" because Christians have God's Word for instruction in righteousness and to ignore these is foolish indeed.

Portrait of A Fool

2011-08-03T20:49:00.002-05:00

Definition: a fool is NOT someone who is stupid, ignorant, unlearned. Example: clown, court jester, etc.
The Biblical definition of a fool is one who has disdain for God's laws and the morals/ethics set forth in these laws!

A fool is NOT one who doesn't know right and wrong, should and shouldn't. It is one who knows but chooses to ignore or deny it.

Question: Why would this constitute a "fool"?
Answer: What's right is also what's good (helpful/beneficial) for relationships, finances, reputation, family, friends, social life, future life! What is good leads to blessing, what's wrong leads to cursing.

To violate the rules is detrimental. To obey rules is beneficial. Therefore, it is "foolish" to
ignore, deny, defy!!

NOTE!! The point of "Portrait" is not to declare or label us a "fool".
The point is to identify behavior so as not to act like a fool.

Comparison: John 3:16-17. Christ came not to condemn but to SAVE.
So with wisdom literature.... it's not to label or condemn
It's to identify, instruct, teach, correct, etc.

PORTRAIT - What does a fool look like??

I. A fool ignores truth, despises correction and hates rebuke.

A. Ignores truth. Prov. 12:1 - Amplified Version: like a brute beast, stupid and indiscriminate.
(ie: no moral character)
Remember: a fool is not unlearned but is unconcerned.
Wisdom/Foolishness is more about choice than we like to admit!!

B. Despises Correction - Prov. 1:7 Prov. 15:5

C. Hates rebuke. If you embrace wisdom, you have to apply wisdom.

On the one hand, it's understandable. Who enjoys rebuke? correction?

On the other hand, if you're doing wrong, (and all can see it), do you want to know? fix?

A wise man listens to advice. Prov. 12:15 Prov. 13:10
And, a wise man listens to criticism. Prov. 17:10
Prov. 15:31-32. Summary verse: Prov. 9:7-9

Note #1) On one hand, a wise man listens to advice. On the other hand, he doesn't always take it. Prov. 14:15 Matt. 10:16 (b)

Note #2.) If it is wise to heed wise man's counsel, how much wiser to heed the counsel of God!!
(A.) The external/objective counsel...... His Word.
(B.) The internal, subjective counsel....His Holy Spirit!
The two-fold path to wisdom and then never contradict each other.

John 14:16-17, 25-26.
To experience the wooing of the Holy Spirit and ignore it is extremely foolish!!!

Proverbs - Wisdom for Dummies (a reference for the rest of us)

2011-07-28T15:59:00.002-05:00

Definition: A proverb is a short, witty, catchy statement designed to impart wisdom by summarizing one of life's lessons.
Examples:
A. Common proverbs - "a stitch in time saves nine", "a penny saved is a penny earned", etc.
B. Modern proverbs - similar but updated to be relevant.

Comparison:

A Biblical proverb is the same, but the content and teaching is the wisdom of God! It's of divine origin, not just the wisdom of man.

So, Prov. 1:1 could read... "the Proverbs of the Lord.... as written, compiled, quoted by Solomon....."
This compares to the ACTS of the Apostles..... or Acts of the Holy Spirit as he worked through the Apostles.

Solomon spoke many proverbs!!! 1 Kings 4:32
There are approximately 432 proverbs in the book of Proverbs. BUT, remember, the origin, source is GOD!! 2 Pet. 1:20-21
All wisdom and truth has it's origin in God or else it is not truth and wisdom!

A Proverb may take many forms. Three of the most common are:

1. Contrasting Proverbs - "but", "therefore" - Prov. 11:1, 13:24, 14:1
2. Comparing Proverbs - "like, as better, than" - Prov. 15:17, 17:1, 11:22, 17:12
3. Complimenting Proverbs - "and" - Prov. 15:23, 15:33 "and" implied - Prov. 16:18, 16:24

In Proverbs we find 2 ways and 2 characters - the way of the wise, and foolish. The wise man and the foolish man.

This is in keeping with the Biblical Model. Matt. 7:24,26, 13-14. Psalms - righteous and unrighteous.
The Point= right way, wrong way. list/saved. sheep/goats. heaven/hell. blessed/cursed. wise man/fool

DEFINITION:

A fool is not one who is stupid, ignorant, unlearned. It is one who has disdain for the moral and ethical pr9nciples set forth by God, His people, and His Word. Psalm 14:1 (a) "..... no God."

A fool is not one who does not know how he should live....
It is one who knows right from wrong, knows what should or should not do, how should act, react ....... and refuses to recognize the truth and live accordingly.

A fool is not mentally deficient. A fool is morally deficient. Rom. 1:21-22

Illustration: Luke 12:16-21 . Wealth is not condemned in scripture. Condemned for putting trust in material things God has given.

POINT - not "if you do ______ you are a fool." BUT, if you do ________ you are acting in a foolish manner!

(next 2 weeks - Portrait of a fool/what NOT to look like!!

THE PURPOSE OF PROVERBS - Prov. 1:1-7
#1. To teach divine wisdom. This is more than words of the wise. 2 Pet. 1:20-21

#2. To make it simple. "wisdom for dummies"

#3. To provide moral instruction. (teach right and wrong)
In scripture - morality (truth) and wisdom are inseparable.

#4. To direct us to God. - God is the source of all wisdom. Therefore, when we find wisdom, it leads us to find God.
Consequently,
#5. To provide opportunity for a better life.
Provers is practical wisdom, applicable, life changing, life shaping - Prov. 8:35 - "if you hear my words and do them."

The Preface to Proverbs. - Chapters 1 -11. These are to introduce the text, explain the importance, convince you to read on, etc.
Prov. 1:20-33, 8:1-11.

Wisdom is a gift from God, but it must be chosen!!

Wisdom - Lessons form King Solomon

2011-07-18T14:46:00.007-05:00

I. The Definition of Wisdom
A. Common definition - knowledge, insight, discernment, good judgment, uncommon good sense.
B. Eastern definition - adds hands to head (actions to knowledge)
A wise man is a person with right thinking and right actions in daily life - James 3:13
C. Biblical definition.... figures God into the equation. Faith in a personal God.
A wise man knows God, fears God, obeys God, etc.
Prov. 1:7 (a), "Knowledge" Prov. 15:33 (a) - "wisdom"

Last week - definition, value, acquisition of wisdom.
Today - life lessons from the wisest of the wise King Solomon.

1 Kings 3:4-15 (followed by stories of his wisdom, wealth, and fame!!!)
1 Kings 10:23-24 .... "But...."
1 Kings 11:1-11 (followed by his death, the division and downfall of Israel)

II. The Big Question????? If Solomon had all wisdom and understanding, why would he? How could he?
Answers: He's human, he wanted to, he could (he was the King!)
AND.... he thought he could get away with it!! How?? Jer. 17:9

III. Lessons for Us (from the life of Solomon)

#1. God is pleased with a heart that seeks wisdom.
example of Solomon, and many scriptures

#2. God grants wisdom to the true seeker - James 1:5
Question: granted equally??? don't know. Still pondering that.
BUT, granted sufficiently!! 2 Cor. 12:9 - Paul's thorn in the flesh
Matt. 7:7-11 - G0d does not withhold good from people who ask for it.

BUT----
#3. Wisdom must also be chosen. Prov. 4:5 "get" - Prov. 4:7
A. God grants you insight. Not B. your must use it or you don't have it!!

Therefore:
#4. You can be wise in your head and still be stupid with your hands.
Example: Solomon, lung surgeon who smokes two packs a day, etc.

So........
A. Some here today ... primary need - acquire insight, understanding
B. others here today .... primary need - apply insight, already have understanding..
C. All of us.... need to recognize the faulty mechanism between head and hands....
ie: heart - Jer. 17:9 Prov. 4:23 Psalm 90:12 "heart of wisdom"

#5. You must not only choose wisdom, you must continue to choose it.
Solomon obvious example. Ezek. 28:11-17, 19
Observation: #1. A good start does not guarantee a good finish. You can deviate at any time!!

Observation #2: Wisdom perverted, misapplied is probably far more dangerous, detrimental, damaging than wisdom never acquired.
The simpleton is not as dangerous as the wise fool!!

#6. Your un-wise choices affect more than yourself. Solomon's decisions affected his wives, kids, nation, future generations.

#7. Some of your choices (decisions, actions) cannot be undone! They can be forgiven, but cannot be reversed. Gal. 6:7-8. So, get it right the first time as often as possible.

NOTE: need to correct last week's mis-statement.... ie: "if you do _______ you are a fool."
Should be: "If you do _______ you are acting like a fool, displaying foolish behavior". Does not necessarily mean you are a fool!!!
Question: At what point does foolish behavior constitute a full-blown fool? Don't know, but will explore that in future sermons.

Meanwhile - leave with two scriptures... Prov. 9:9 - my hope for us and this series
So..... start reading Proverbs
don't rush thru it..
and Remember ..... Prov. 9:10

Wisdom

2011-07-12T13:35:00.003-05:00

Prov. 1:1-7, 2:1-6, 9-11, 3:13-18, 4:5-9
These are just a small sample of what scripture teaches concerning Wisdom.

Two weeks ago - "Building a Stable Christian life" and we alluded to WISDOM'S place in this process.

Today - we'll expand on the study of Biblical Wisdom.

I. The definition/description of true wisdom.
A. Webster's Dictionary:
1. knowledge
2. ability to discern (insight)
3. good sense (judgment)
4. a combination of these three

B. Eastern Tradition adds.... a person with knowledge, insight and judgment ... who applied these things to practical affairs/everyday living (which is more than just head).
ie: a person with right thinking AND right actions. A person who utilized knowledge, experience, understanding, etc.

A wise man is a man skilled at life; could glean the most good from life with the least hassle; could make life work for him instead of against him. Ex: paddling with the current instead of against it.

C. *Biblical sense/Jewish understanding adds a bit more!!!
ie: includes
1. a knowledge of God and God's will (revealed in His Word)
2. a "fear" of God ie: reverential awe, recognizing His awesomeness, authority (Prov. 1:7, 15:33)
3. (a personal) trust in God.... (faith)
4. the belief that all wisdom originates with God and, therefore, ultimately comes from God. ( Prov. 2:6) (Job 28:20-28)

* to be wise in the Biblical sense is to be skilled in living in light of God's revelation, will.. To master the art of living as God intends you to live. A wise person in scripture is one who has "A black belt in life" - head knowledge and actions to match. James 3:13

II. The Value (practical) of true wisdom.

Note: All cultures/civilizations have valued wisdom, but often more for recognition/prestige than for practical value. This is NOT so in scripture!!! Prov. 8:19

Benefits listed in scripture are:
in wisdom you'll find knowledge and understanding, direction and purpose, insight and confidence, goodness, justice moral rightness, social rightness, personal growth and maturity, correction, discipline, and development, inner peace and prosperity (which doesn't mean monetary but wholeness/health, pleasure, satisfaction, contentment, a good name ... favor with man and with God (person out of favor with man and with God is NOT a wise person)

Also (especially) in Wisdom we find God..... so find eternal life, eternal purpose, eternal rewards, relationships.
IN WISDOM..... find LIFE. Prov. 8:32-26

III. The Acquisition of Wisdom (doesn't necessarily come with age)

#1. Recognize Wisdom's Practical Value
Point is not become a sage. The point is to maximize life which leads to maximum enjoyment and impact.
Important to recognize the value, because you must choose wisdom.

#2. Choose Wisdom - If you don't choose it, you won't have it.
On one hand, some may have a greater capacity for wisdom (gift of knowledge, discernment, etc)
BUT, scripture says it's mostly a choice! Prov. 4:5, 4:7 Point: not a fool because born a fool, but because choose fool.

#3. Seek God - who is the source of all truth, wisdom... Can't acquire true wisdom if don't seek God. Prov. 9:10, 15:33 - Wisdom is found in God, AND God is found in wisdom.
Contrast Rom. 1:21-22 - speaking of those who rejected God.

#4. Embrace Christ (God incarnate) - to reject Christ is to turn away from wisdom.
John 1:14 (a) "among us". Col. 1:15 (a) "God"
So.... John 10:10 (b) - "I have come...."

#5. Study the Word (God's revelation to us...)
Psalm 119:130

#6. Walk according to the Word
Mat. 7:24, 26 - wisdom is more than head, it is hands!
Illustration: Solomon - had wisdom, but chose not to implement it.

#7. Pray for Wisdom - James 1:5 (James 4:2 - "have not because you ask not")
It's not simply a matter of asking, BUT that is part of the process!!

#8. Accept Instruction - Prov. 19:20, 9:9 - some hard words!!

#9. Accept Correction - Prov. 15:31-32 more than receiving criticism well. Means adjusting accordingly. Prov. 13:10 "take advantage"

#10. Choose Wise Companions Prov. 13:20. Who do you hang with? Who do you listen to?

Experiencing the Presence of God

2011-07-07T19:16:00.004-05:00

Heb. 13:5 , Deut. 31:6 - Texts - the promise of His Presence.

Founding fathers, early patriots believed this applied to themselves and their cause.
AND, reviewing history, journals, biographies, we'd mostly agree with them.
We believe God had a divine intention there.

BUT, did they feel His Presence?? Sense His Presence??
ie: were they always confident, comfortable, secure, at peace????
- when forging and signing the Declaration of Independence?? (a rash act, akin to a declaration of war)
- when taking up arms against a Super power?
- when war seemed to favor England?
Later,
-when attempts to forge an Nation from 13 separate, independent-minded/free spirited colonies.....?

Then undoubtedly believed in His Presence (favor).

But, did the confidence (faith) come accompanied with a feeling? experience? sense of His immediate presence?
What about doubts? fears? second thoughts???

So...... did they believe in/trust in/ act on the certainty of His Presence? Ans: yes.
BUT, did they feel? sense? experience His Presence? Ans: don't know, but suspect (being human) their experience is much like ours.

So today, "Experiencing the Presence of God"
(a subject we often explore.... because it is important/relevant/close to our heart)

We know that Christ is always with us. We also know there are times when He doesn't seem near.

OBSERVATIONS:

#1. For most believers, experiencing His Presence is not the norm. According to Barna stats, most Christinas do not sense His presence and guidance that much.

#2. Whether this is His will is an ongoing debate.
On one hand, the relationship with God, Jesus, Holy Spirit leads to experience!
On the other hand, "we walk by faith, not by sight." - answer is probably a balance.

#3. The whole thing is subjective (internal) therefore impossible to measure!
And, therefore, a claim to experience not necessarily true.

So, a claim to never experience the Presence of God is not necessarily true!!
It's a matter of definition! Have you experienced conviction, correction? comfort/ confidence? illumination? a realization? clarity?

Some Biblical Examples to guide us....

#1. Job - situation - no sense of God's Presence??
He kept questioning, lamenting. BUT, he never stopped believing. His heart caused him to doubt, but his head demanded that he keep believing.

#2. Jeremiah - his call, ministry, response
He did experience God's Presence, BUT that's not evident from the outcome!
So...... he cried aloud, lamented, vented.
Then, he resubmitted and carried on. Jer. 20:7-9

#3. Joseph - 17 when sold into slavery, 30 when second to Pharoah. That is 13 years of slavery and prison!!
We know God was with him. Gen. 39:1-2, 20-21
But.... what did he (Joseph) feel???

#4. Moses
On one hand, he clearly experienced God's Presence! Ex. 33:11 (a) - "friend"
On the other hand, Moses' words to Israel? us??? Deut. 6:4-9 Deut. 30:15-16
Nothing about "feeling and sensing"

Wrap up and summary....
A true experience/true sense of God's Presence is in His Hands!!

Therefore: our part (your part)

#1. Choose Christ He is the way into God's Presence. John 14:6

#2. Seek God (clear Biblical command) - not - seek the experience.
But it's more than experience!! Matt. 6:31-33 says seek His will/ways

#3. Request His Presence (experience)
Moses: "show me Your glory".
Jesus - "I won't leave you orphans"
Nature and person of the Holy Spirit in our life.
John 17:3 Phil. 3:10 (a) - "resurrection"

But:
#4. Accept what you're given. (provided you've done your part)
This is in His wisdom, His best... Heb. 13:5 "be content...."

#5. Carry On - Gal. 6:9-10 1 Cor. 15:58

And,
#6. Know that He is with you. Matt. 28:20 (b) ...."and surely I am with you....."

Building a Stable Christian Life

2011-06-26T15:10:00.002-05:00

Matt. 7:24-27

In comparing two separate buildings, one being older, well kept, well built- solid, straight; and one being newer, BUT with substandard foundation and framework.
Observations: Good finish work, nice furnishings can cover for a while but the instability will eventually show through in the second structure.

Compare Christian life with church attendance, ministry involvement, Bible Study, Praise and worship, witnessing, etc. BUT, if the base and foundation is not solid????? You can't substitute finish for framework!!

So.... what is the foundation and framework of a solid Christian life? How do we build solid, stable, weather resistant lives???

5 Components of a stable Christian Life.

#1. Salvation - (regeneration, a spiritual makeover, spiritually re-done. ) "New birth". John 3:1-7 (compare Peter and James as well)

What happens?? Ezek. 36:26-27 2 Cor. 5:17 - spiritual makeover, new birth - the work of God.
How it happens??? hear the message with more than our ears, experience the Holy Spirit calling/ trust Christ - acknowledge, respond to
John 1:11-13

This is the beginning, foundation, footing that we build on - Christ. 1 Cor. 3:11
Then we must build something solid and stable on this foundation. That is our choice.

#2. Submission 1. have accepted Christ and the free gift of salvation.
Now..... 2. will I submit to his leadership, Lordship??? ie: in a practical, functional, daily way???
We still have the choice/option to follow and submit to Him.

The concept is simple.
The practice is difficult. (because we are sinful and selfish) Will I do it????

BUT, you cannot build ON Him......... apart from Him!!! Luke 6:46-49

#3. Discipleship Matt. 4:19 - "if you follow me, I'll form you" - develop, grow, stabilize

A disciple is a student/learner
The point being to grow into the state (level) of the Master.

Disciples are to grow in: A. knowledge - facts/understanding, discernment, which lead to Wisdom!!!!
B. Character = Christ-likeness, what you were saved to become
Note: #1. growth requires effort - 2 Pet. 1:5-8 - laziness won't work
Note #2: the effort has rewards - 2. Pet. 1:10

#4. Constancy (consistency, stick-to-it-ness)
Some Bible words synonymous with Constancy.
perseverance, persistence, endurance steadfastness, patience,
being proven, unwavering, continuing, abiding, lasting

This doesn't mean you never stumble, fall, stop, fail.

But it does mean the you keep getting back up, adjusting your course, and plodding on.

To build is to move upward!!! Webster's Dictionary definition of build is: "to form by ordering and uniting materials by gradual means into a composite whole."

You can never build anything substantial with just piles of materials stacked all over the place.

#5. Time - because building, developing, stabilizing, maturing is a process!!
The point: therefore: get started As Soon As Possible!!!
2 Cor. 6:2 (b) - "I tell you, now...."

Even will build structures 'weather' with age, But if the are solid, stable, straight.... then they can be repaired, refinished, refurbished.....

The Challenge: What are you building???
In what manner are you building???
On what are you building?

Benifits of a Christian Home

2011-06-21T12:18:00.003-05:00

My Definition:

A Christian Home is one where Christ is recognized as Lord and Savior, where Christ is honored as Lord and Savior, (There is a big difference in recognizing and honoring.)
AND,
where an attempt is being made to live by His Word(s).

A Few Benefits of a Christian Home:

I. A Divine Presence. Jesus' power and authority is not weakened by rejection. He is omnipresent - in all homes at all times.
However, He is most active where He is welcomed, received.
Mark 6:1-6
Rev. 3:20

II. Divine Directives (instruction/guidance)
Contrast that with the typical : how I was raised, taught, making it up as I go....."
Prov. 12:15/22:6 - "the way of..... ______" vs. the way of God.

III. God's Moral Code - makes for a great standard in a family
a. of divine origin, therefore
b. authoritative
c. practical, not arbitrary - 2 Tim. 3:16-17
d. unchanging
e. application to all (in the family)

IV. A Lifelong Moral Challenge
a. the challenges: forgiveness, edifying, encouraging, etc.
b. the duration - it doesn't end at adulthood
There is no promise, but a much greater opportunity to follow God's Moral Code if have been raised with it.

V. A Visible Model - we learn by what we see, more than what we hear!!

On one hand, a Christian does not guarantee success (sin nature, free will)
But, it does guarantee a better opportunity of success!!

BABY DEDICATION

To the parents: - the dedication of your child is:
1. a public declaration of faith - in God, Christ, in His concern, in His involvement

2. A public statement of intent ...
to raise him/her as best you can according to God's will and God's Word.

3. A public request for assistance... from God, from God's people.

To the congregation: note "public"

This is: 1. a clear bold statement
which 2. invites your participation

Parents - dedication of your child without dedication of yourself is meaningless!!! God intends to work with this child primarily through you!!!

Congregation - Jesus made clear his view and value of children. These children are partly our concern, our responsibility.

Preparing Kids for Marriage

2011-06-10T14:04:00.002-05:00

(Disclaimer: 1. this is no guarantee and 2. this is not a Bible study)

Marriage effects every area of your life. When it's such a big deal t almost all Americans, why do we not focus more on specified preparing our children for marriage?

So - some suggestions and ideas to prepare your kids for marriage.

#1. Think about it. (You will never hit a target if you never shoot at the target.) Ask yourself, is this important? And who will it affect?

#2. Pray - - for the child, for the future spouse. James 5:16 (b)

#3. Start Early - with prayers and with preparation. Kids are quick learners, they pick things up fast.

#4. Introduce your child to Jesus. You can't force it, but you can introduce it. There is nothing more life forming than Jesus living in you!

#5. Disciple your child. It's about more than being saved. It means grounded in the faith.
According to a poll by Geo. Barna: "the born again Christian divorce rate is identical to the national average.... EXCEPT... Evangelicals" (which have the lowest rate of all religious groups)
Evangelicals are more likely to measure their life views by an outside measure (the Bible) rather than by their own ideas, feelings.

Why???
A. they have a high view of Scripture
B. they have more knowledge of Scripture Deut. 6:4-9 - the responsibility rests on the parents!!! Eph. 6:4

#6. Focus on building godly character. Godly offspring are not born, they are developed. Mal. 2:15
Because:
A. Godly character will rise to the challenge. (more than education/ability
B. Godly character is more apt to seek a Godly partner! As water seeks its own level...so does emotional health!!

#7. Teach practical marriage skills.
Like, money management, housework, cooperation, teamwork, mutual assistance. Contrast that with a Prince/Princess attitude - where a child is brought up thinking they are owed everything!

#8. Teach respect for the opposite sex.
Because, that's who they're going to marry!!

#9. Be positive about marriage! Marriage is God's design, intent, and is potentially - "very good!" Teens of both sexes still desire a good marriage and family life, but, they are NOT optimistic about the possibility of having that!
If you are happy with marriage you need to say so!!

#10. Model marriage. Kids learn from watching more than listening. This includes conflict resolution, apology, forgiveness, compromise. It means eat together, work, play, pray, do ministry together!

#11. Resource your child. Many good books available on this subject for all ages. At that stage they are (A.) interested and (B.) concerned

#12. Educate yourself. So.....when they want advice and counsel, you have Helpful answers!
Parents are the primary influence for a young child.
That influence doesn't have to end at marriage!

Note: during the process, it may look like wasted effort, lost cause, BUT, generally leads to Prov. 22:6.

Dealing With Emotional Baggage (in Marriage)

2011-05-30T20:16:00.003-05:00

During any counsel scenario - (1.) typical marital issues or (2.) personal/emotional issues

Definition/Description:
Marriage Issues - probably caused by or inherent to a marriage relationship. ie: problems that didn't exist until the union.
Examples: $ management by 2, child discipline, sexual compatibility, dealing with in-laws.

Maybe gender differences, personal preference, issues of teamwork and cooperation.

Marriage issues are common - there are some in all marriages.
Marriage issues are predictable - "let me finish your story"
Marriage issues are relatively easy to diagnose and address.

Emotional Issues and Emotional Baggage are not problems caused by the union.
They are unresolved issues brought into the union.

So..... Emotional issues and emotional baggage on the one hand cause problems in marriage. BUT, they are not caused by the marriage!!

Descriptive Terms

1. Baggage - because brought it with you. (unpacked in the relationship)

2. Personal - because it's yours! It belongs to you!

3. Emotional - because it's deep seated, solidly rooted feelings!!

4. Mental - because it affects how you think, see, perceive. And how you think and feel leads to how you act, react, respond

5. Unresolved because the problem is past experiences. The problem is past experiences that have not been resolved, dealt with, cleared up, etc.

6. Issues, problems because the are problems!!! Your feelings, conclusions contrary to God's will for you. So, (a) hinder growth, maturity (b) hinder your ability to give and receive love.

ORIGINS??
May be inherited, learned, environmental, introduced (by trauma) *these are real causes, BUT, they may even be perceived, and imagined cause!!

*POINT - these (any) unresolved emotional issues are:
1. contrary to God's will and intent for you.
2. hinder your growth, maturity
3. hinder your ability to give and received in a relationship

In summary: 1. It's sin, wrong, detrimental!
and
2. You have to be the one to deal with them.

IV. Observations

1. We all have emotional baggage, because we are sinners, raised by sinners, in a sinful world.
2. Emotional baggage comes in all levels of intensity.
Some are minor. example: prejudice against little dogs.
Some are major. example: prejudice against little boys or girls!

Most issues are not big BUT can be compared to a thorn in your shoe!!

3. The emotional health of a marriage cannot exceed the emotional health of the individuals within the marriage.

4. The emotional health of one cannot (fully) compensate or offset the emotional baggage of the other. Can make a difference, can help, but cannot make the relationship what it should be.

5. Emotional issues in one tend to create emotional issues in the other. (introduced baggage)
Example: abusive alcoholic can effect wife??

6. Emotional issues in parents tend to create emotional issues in the children.
Example: who is more likely to be physically abusive?, sexually abusive?, domineering? later in life. Statistics show that it is usually those who have come out of those types of situations.

Again: NOTE: most of the illustrations are radical for the sake of illustration.
But, remember, emotional issues come in small doses more often than in large doses.

Application - take responsibility for your Emotional Baggage
On one hand, you may not be responsible for owning the baggage. However, (as an adult) you are responsible for dealing with it!!

First. how not to deal with emotional baggage .... denial, indifference, stone-walling, blame transfer, helpless victim, etc.

instead:
1. Admit generally - you are a sinner, were raised by sinners, have emotional issues.

2. Assess yourself.
It's HARD! Because not convinced of the issues, not convinced of need

The Need here is objective measure. - subjective is measured inwardly (my thoughts, feelings, opinions, stand
Objective is measured from without - independent of inner beliefs

The objective measure for emotional issues??? - God's Word - 2 Tim. 3:14-16

Then:
3. Admit specifically

4. Deal with issues scripturally
Examples: confession, apology, forgiveness, repentance, fresh input....
John 8:31 & 32

5. Replace the baggage with truth - "put off, put on"
NOTE: (Get help if necessary!!!)

Marriage 102

2011-05-24T10:12:00.004-05:00

Gen. 1:27 - "Male and Female"

On one hand there are many similarities.
However, (1) there are distinct differences (gender differences)
(2) These differences are more than physical, biological, anatomical

So, today - we're discussing One difference, which is a big, important, fundamental difference.

Eph. 5:33 - "Love and Respect". The definition ---- the overlap ---- downward spiral

I. Her need for love - SECURITY - A. Emotional/Relational security - not $$$
B. when she feels emotionally secure she feels loved!!

A. The issue - women don't feel secure in their husband's love.

B. The need -
1. God-given, not a result of the fall!!
2. not necessary to survive bu the thrive!!

C. The Feeling - because they need more than to be secure, need to feel secure!!

NOTE: feeling is logic resistant - not fixed by intelligence, knowledge, reason and facts

D. The Solution/Remedy = YOU!!
On one hand, men, there are many places your wife can receive love,
But, marital love, marital security and the feeling thereof comes ONLY from a spouse/mate!!

So, what to do!!! It's not complex. It's not difficult.
Examples: time together, relational time together, time on purpose (says she's valuable), communication, intimate communication, a focus on feelings, sympathy for feelings....

II. His need for Respect.
A. The Issue. If had to choose between being loved or being respected, the vast majority of men choose to be respected over loved.

B. The need
1. God given.
2. not necessary to survive, but thrive.

C. the feeling - because feelings are not for women only! If a man feels disrespected, he feels unloved.

Note: this is also logic resistant!
D. The Solution? Remedy? = YOU!

Marital needs are only supplied by marital partners!
Therefore, if the needs not met, He'll look elsewhere! (affairs = love!)

So, affirm him/build him. They are "buffaloes - pretty simple!!

Duty/Responsibility - Eph. 5:33
A. Love and respect = a command! "Must"
B. They are to be given "unconditionally"
C. To refuse to do so = disobedience to God! I Tim. 5:8
D. To refuse to do so = foolish. Eph. 5:28-29

As one or the other doesn't receive what's needed, that person reacts by not meeting the needs of the other. And so on and so on, and it continues to go down from there.

So....
IV. Reversing the Spiral
Prov. 24:3-4

What women want their hubbies to know: "although I don't always show it well, I do deeply love/respect/desire you..." - 93% of women agree with this statement.

What men want their wives to know: "how much I love/cherish/need you!"

So??? Why are we starving one another??? Ignorance? Indifference? Pride? Stubbornness? Selfishness? Fear of rejection? Vengeance? Anger??

Prov. 14:1

Marriage 101

2011-05-18T15:07:00.002-05:00

Marriage basics/fundamentals - the institution, origin, establishment of marriage.

Note: this is more than a marriage - it is the model of marriage.

Gen. 1:26-28/2:15-25

I. Eve was created to be a "helpmete" because Adam NEEDED....
1. A companion - "alone"
2. a partner "rule/subdue/have dominion over" to help him (a.) accomplish and (b.) become
3. a lover (in the broadest sense) - to feel loved, valued, significant, special, etc. by another person.
4. A mate ... to meet (a) sexual needs (b) family needs - have kids, raise kids (c) intimacy needs - Ex. 20:14/15/17

II. The Reverse is also true - ie: Adam is to be all of the above to Eve
This is called reciprocal - it works both ways/equally true of Both!!

BUT:
III. Though equally true, it is not always equally expressed. Example: Pit Saws - years ago when sawing lengths of lumber they used pit saws. A deep pit - one person down in the pit - one person at the top. Log goes down into the pit and was sawed like using a crosscut saw. The one in the pit had it easier as the weight was less - the one on top had to pull the weight of the saw UP. IF you're a couple, who's on top?? (the husband) Why??? (greater upper body strength)

Now, marriage is complicated by another issue..... SIN!!!
Gen. 3:6-13 - much lost, damage in the fall. One thing: Intimacy - with one another, with God. And, sense of responsibility -- blame transfer! - "not my fault".

Question: Is there hope? A remedy? Can we regain? recover? (Paradise List?)

Answer is: yes and no.
On one hand, No - we cannot fully recover this perfection in this life. (due to sin)
However: YES!! We can begin to move back toward what was and should be and what as intended to be!!

BUT... we must (1) know what it should be (God's design/intent/goal)
and, we must (2) determine to pursue God's plan God's way.

We call this: Repentance.
And in this case it is more than an action or event.
It is a process!! - and it's difficult and ongoing.

BUT - it's worth the effort!! Therefore, we will continue with the family series.

Closing quote: from Wendell Berry ... "Remembering".
"they were not making marriage, but being made by it.... making them fit together, fit to be together."

Resurrection Sunday

2011-04-24T15:30:00.002-05:00

The Resurrection was:
1. a literal, physical, historical event - Acts 2:32

2. permanent - the body He'll have for eternity

3. planned - foretold, prophesied - 1 Cor. 15:3-4

The Resurrection is:
4. a declaration, a clear, emphatic statement......
of God's approval - Rom. 1:4
of Christ's authority - Mat. 28:18

5. the defining event of Christianity - 1 Cor. 15:14-19

6. The guarantee of our victory over death. - 1 Cor. 15:20-26, 54-55

So......... we celebrate what has happened. (Christ's victory)

We celebrate what will happen: at my death - 'cross over' - John 11:25-26
at His return - reunion of body and soul
at the final judgment - Rev. 20:14

We celebrate what is happening - He is interceding; He is interacting

We celebrate what can happen - to you.... if you've not yet received Christ - John 20:30-31

So, we're here to celebrate the Resurrection and here to worship Christ.

The Lord's Supper

2011-04-18T12:26:00.002-05:00

1 Cor. 11:23-26

What we believe
1. The bread and wine are symbolic - ie. pictures of His body broken and blood shed for us.
2. His people should celebrate the Lord's Supper (participate in) - 1 Cor. 11:24 - "do this"

How we celebrate
we gather
we worship
we partake (of the bread and wine)
we fellowship (potluck)

Why do we do this?
To remember His sacrifice
To demonstrate our faith (in His Sacrifice)
To celebrate our common bond (sinners/saints/brothers/sisters)
To renew our vows
To anticipate His return - 1 Cor. 11:26

Who should participate
Believers - Christians - this is "The Lord's supper"

Final word: Note: 1 Cor. 11:27-29
So examine yourself, make preparation, come and celebrate

Now our worship is or should be focused on Him - His work, His sacrifice, His table, etc.

The Spiritual Discipline of Praise & Worship Pt. 2

2011-04-11T10:41:00.004-05:00

In a series on Spiritual Discipline.

Definition: practices that promote spiritual growth, devotional habits that aid and advance spiritual maturity.

Examples:
self- examination
confession
contrition - feeling sorry for sins
repentance - turning around
humility
self-denial

Bible Reading
Fasting and Prayer

Last week - added Praise and Worship

Question: Why is Praise and Worship a spiritual discipline?
Answer:
1. Praise and Worship promote spiritual growth.
2. Praise and Worship is not always easy to practice. Requires a lot of self.

Today: 3 categories of Praise and Worship.
A. Spontaneous
B. Planned
C. Forced
AND --- how we ought to discipline ourselves in each area.

I. Spontaneous Praise and Worship.
sudden, unplanned, impulsive. Also, natural and instinctive - we just know that when God works in our midst that we should praise and worship Him.
Spontaneous P & W is triggered by factors without and wells up within. - without thought or effort.
NEW TESTAMENT EXAMPLES: the disciples after Jesus came to them walking on the water;
Thomas on seeing the risen Lord; the disciples after the Ascension; John on the Isle of Patmos

God moves - acts, reveals, speaks, delivers, blesses, touches
Man responds - intellectual, emotional, quiet, dramatic, individual, corporate
EXAMPLE: Hymn "How Great Thou Art" - Vs. 1, 2, 3 each followed by the chorus

Question? What discipline is needed here?
#1. Allow God to move you.
2. Allow yourself to respond.
Contrast this with: Rom. 1:21 Christians get very close to this when they refuse to P & W

II. Planned Praise and Worship - premeditated, designed, arranged
Old Testament examples: Israel's daily sacrifices, temple rituals, festivals, offerings - all planned and designed.
New Testament church - Sunday AM worship service.

Notes: 1. This is probably the most practiced form of Praise and Worship. Because it IS planned!!
Therefore, you make time, adjust your focus.

2. Praise and Worship is not less acceptable because it is planned!!!
Examples: Abraham going to sacrifice Isaac; Jesus dying on the cross; Old Testament temple

3. Planned Praise and Worship often leads to spontaneous Praise and Worship!!
Example: carrying the Ark to Jeruselem: 2 Sam. 6:13 (planned) 2 Sam. 6:14 (spontaneous) 2 Sam. 6:15 (combination of the two)
Carrying the ark to the temple: 2 Chron. 5:6 (planned) which led to 2 Chron. 7:1-3 (spontaneous)

Spontaneous Praise and Worship begins within and migrates out - heart leads to hands
Planned Praise and Worship begins without and migrates in - hands to heart

Question? What discipline is needed here?
Answer: Must: 1. Plan to worship
2. Make time to worship
3. WORSHIP!! (D0 it!)

III. Forced Praise and Worship - means giving Him proper recognition and praise when things don't go well.
Hab. 3:16-18
Acts 16:22-25
Gen. 22:4-5

Note: 1. If He was worthy yesterday, He is still worthy today!! Job 1:20-21
2. If you would discipline 'self to Praise and Worship when all is good, then it would come easier when all is bad!!!
Example: David had a lifestyle of Praise and Worship. Therefore, that led to 2 Sam. 12:18-20

The need for discipline here is obvious!
BUT: it's often easier to Praise and Worship in great tragedy than in daily irritations, frustrations, weekly grind!
Examples: death vs. weedeater quitting, plumbing leak, power outage.....
Therefore: Psalm 34:1-3

On one hand, we are approaching Passion week, Good Friday, Easter Sunday - so there is plenty of opportunity to apply this lesson.
But, we could begin this morning!!!!

Close with the hymn "It Is Well With My Soul"

Spiritual Disciplines of Praise & Worship

2011-04-06T21:56:00.004-05:00

We've looked at Spiritual Disciplines associated with Lent.

Then - the most basic/most important spiritual discipline - Bible Reading

Last week - the most common spiritual discipline - Fasting and Prayer with the focus on Fasting

This week: the Spiritual Discipline of Praise and Worship

Praise: Verb means to value something. Noun - an expression (outward)
Praise is visible, vocal, audible adoration (spilling over into the body)
(you may adore inwardly but praise outwardly)

Hebrew has more than 50 different words to denote or describe praise....... (all actions)

Magnify, glorify, exalt, extol, remember, acknowledge, recount, proclaim, cry aloud, testify, give, ascribe, honor, kneel, prostrate 'self, lift - voice, hands, head, eyes, shout - for joy, with joy, in or of joy, in triumph!, celebrate, dance, circle in joy, skip about, leap, clap, call out, rejoice, be glad, burst forth with song, laughter, let resound, play instruments, delight in, take pleasure in.

Hallel - Boast/brag upon!!! with Yah (Hebrew word for God - Yahweh) - Psalm 146 - 150 : last 5 Psalms begin and end with Hallel-Jah. (Hallelujah)

Worship: from Old English - weorthscipe - to ascribe worth to..... to declare the value of....
to honor, exalt, extol, glorify, to express our admiration/esteem/respect/reverence
to look up to, bow down to.......

But NOTE: Worship is not to be expressed from afar, or exercised from a distance - it's coming into God's presence and there declare His worth.

The point of worship is to approach Him and (then) address Him as worthy...
1 Chron. 16:28-29
Psalm 100:1, 2, 4

So....... the idea of worship is:
1. Approach Him
2. Bring a gift - Deut. 16:16-17
3. Offer it to Him - example: praise!!!! Heb. 13:15
It can be done in public worship or private worship. Both are Biblical, commended, expected.

So..... why Praise and Worship?? to what end? purpose?
Answer: for Him, for self, for others....

I. For Him. God is absolute and unchangeable, our praise will not add to or take away from Him. BUT,
A. God delights in it. Psalm 49:1-4 (a) - "people". Psalm 22:3 (KJV) - "But Thou art holy, O Thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel."

The Bible declares that you are created, called, expected, saved to worship. 1 Pet. 2:9

B. He is worthy!!! Psalm 18:3, 48:1, 96:4, 145:3 Rev. 5:9-10, 12-14

Remember means come and offer .... praise and worship is not about you!!! It's about HIM!! Psalm 111:10 (b) - "to Him belongs........"

II. For 'Self - Benefits of praise and worship.
A. puts my focus on God - His person, nature, character..... and concern!! Psalm 8:3-5
B. Therefore, puts problems into perspective.
C. Praise reminds me of His former deeds, mercies toward me.
D. Praise helps me recognize His present blessings.
E. Therefore, it increases my confidence (Faith) for today, tomorrow - Psalm 52:9
F. Which lowers anxiety (worry, fear, depression, etc.)
G. And, adjusts my (general) attitude - humility, patience, kindness, concern......
H. Also, praise and worship develops my intimacy with God. If I approach, present, and commune ..?! Phil. 310

III. For Others - public praise and worship offers:
A. Encouragement for believers - Psalm 40:1-3
B. Witness for non-believers
C. Testimony for future generations - Psalm 102:18

Balance:
On one hand, we ought to publicly praise Him. 1 Chron. 16:8-9
However, don't make a nuisance of yourself in doing so. Prov. 27:14

Why are Praise and Worship considered a spiritual discipline???

Two reasons.
#1. Praise and Worship promote spiritual growth. (as evidenced from the former list...)

#2. Praise and Worship are not always easy to practice. - We're fallen people who live in a fallen world...
Maybe having a busy day, bad day, ..... a tragic day!!!

So, next week we will continue to look at:
1. spontaneous praise and worship
2. planned praise and worship
and will focus on:
3. disciplined praise and worship.

Psalm 103:19-22

The Most Common Spiritual Disciplines

2011-03-28T21:22:00.002-05:00

FASTING AND PRAYER

Definition: Spiritual Disciplines - practices that promote spiritual growth, or devotional habits that aid and advance spiritual growth.

For Example: Two weeks ago we looked at spiritual disciplines associated with Lent.

Last week: the most basic/most important spiritual discipline - Bible reading. Can't know how to relate to God without this.

This week: Fasting and Prayer - with the focus on fasting.

Fasting is the most recognized spiritual discipline but the least practiced.

1. Fasting is NOT the most commonly practiced discipline --- but is the most commonly recognized!! Examples: monks, monasteries, etc.
2. Fasting is an ancient practice and found in all world religions!
3. Though prayer is often practiced without fasting, fasting is never found without prayer.
Bear in mind - we are talking about Biblical fasting - not fasting for a diet, etc.

DEFINITION: Common/primary sense - fasting is voluntary abstinence from food for spiritual reasons. It is not required.
In the broader sense - it is voluntary abstinence from any legitimate substance or activity for spiritual reasons. Dan. 10:2-3
Some examples could be: meats, sweets, coffee, pop, TV, Facebook, video games, etc.

The PURPOSE is NOT to appease God contrary to the pagan notion that the gods needed to be appeased, calmed, pacified, placated, soothed, softened, mollified. OR, to win the gods' favor - manipulate, negotiate, satisfy a requirement, pay a debt.

Fasting was never designed for God. It was designed for us!

Why do we fast??
1. to express sincerity (show outwardly what we claim is in us)
2. to enhance spiritual sensitivity
3. to gain insight, understanding of spiritual things, spiritual realization
4. to correct attitudes, adjust behavior
5. to develop Godly character
6. to develop my relationship with God.

NOTE: Fasting and prayer doe not guarantee any results. Can be fasting for the wrong reasons.

Scriptures about fasting:
Jonah 3:4-10 - show sincerity, express repentance
Esther 4:15-16 - seeking God's favor and serious about it.
Ezra 8:21-23 - earn His favor
2 Chron. 20:2-4 seeking guidance/wisdom
Joel 2:12-14 (a) "blessing" - not necessary, BUT where's the evidence

So..... they added fasting to prayer .... to express contrition, ask for protection, to seek guidance, to increase sensitivity, to honor God, to express devotion

In a nutshell, fasting complements prayer with intensity, focus, persistence.

"Fasting hoists the sails of the soul" so, if He moves........

Jesus ..... practiced, modeled, taught fasting.
On the one hand, he did not command it. However, He did expect it.
Matt. 6:1, 2, 5, 16-18
Matt. 9:14-15

POINT: Not do you fast? how often? how long? how extreme?
The point is: do you seek God? His will? His kingdom?

and IF so.... would you fast and pray???
for -
1. your own spiritual growth and development?
2. the lost?
3. our church, community, nation?

Bible Reading - The Primary Discipline

2011-03-21T12:06:00.004-05:00

last week - discussed "spiritual disciplines associated with Ash Wednesday and Lent

Definition of spiritual disciplines - practices that promote spiritual growth
devotional habits that aid and advance spiritual growth.
These have been practiced by all Christians, all cultures, all times

They are called "disciplines" because they are difficult and are work! These are self-imposed. Similar to an exercise program. 1 Tim. 4:7-10 (a)

This week - the most basic, most important spiritual discipline: Bible Reading - here is where God reveals Himself, His nature, etc.

Scripture on the importance and nature of Scripture. Matt. 4:1-4 - Jesus' words.
Psalm 119:24
2 Tim. 3:16
John 17:17

POINT: If we have His word, then we should READ it!!! Back to: 1 Tim. 4:15-16

So....... 5 ASPECTS OF BIBLE READING

#1. Reading the Word - Rev. 1:3
1 Tim. 4:13

#2. Listening to, hearing the Word. Rom. 10:17
This is more than just listening to scripture. It is listening and hearing exposition of scripture. (preaching/teaching)
1 Thess. 2:13

3. Studying the Word. (Pay attention, examine, look at) Acts 17:11 (= depth)

#4. Meditating on the Word. Psalm 1:1-3
Psalm 119:97-99 (insight due to meditation)
Contrast: Eastern meditation (empty mind) and Christian meditation (fill it with truths from God's Word. Then think on these things.)
Phil. 4:8

#5. Memorizing the Word - Psalm 119:11
Prov. 22:17-18
If we would witness, counsel, direct others, we need a mental Bible.
Examples: Satan (when tempting Jesus in the wilderness), Peter @ Pentecost, Stephen before the Sanhedrin, Paul before Felix and King Agrippa. All used scripture memorization!

The point is not read through the Bible annually, listen to sermons everyday, study as a scholar, sit cross-legged and hum, quote 100 verses with addresses from memory.
The POINT is: we should discipline 'self concerning God's Word (within your ability, capacity, resources, etc.)

IF you would grow, develop, mature, become something of what God created, saved you to be.... you must practice Spiritual discipline!!!

AND, there is no discipline more basic, fundamental, important than Bible Reading!

Finally: YOU CAN DO IT!!!!

Common Christian Disciplines

2011-03-15T14:15:00.006-05:00

ASH WEDNESDAY - The First day of Lent.
formally/officially - dies cinerum = day of ashes. Ashes from palm fronds of the previous Palm Sunday are rubbed on the foreheads of Christians (often in shape of a cross).

The point is: it's done as a sign/symbol of contrition/humility/repentance, and Christian faith.
It is practiced by Roman Catholics and some Anglican, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Presbyterian, United Methodist churches.

Ash Wednesday begins the period of Lent (from the teutonic/Jermanic for springtime) It is not a Biblical period of time.
Lent is the 40 days preceding Easter (excepting Sundays).
Lent is a period of fasting (abstaining from certain foods and/or activities), self-examination, self denial, spiritual cleansing, seeking God as focus is placed on Easter and Good Friday, etc.

Ash Wednesday is preceded by Shrove Tuesday - also known as Fat Tuesday which, in French, is Mardi Gras. This day traditionally is a time of feasting and celebrating before the 40 days of Lent. (last big party before Easter)

Baptists generally do not recognize or celebrate Ash Wednesday or Lent. It is optional. (though there seems to be no objection to Mardi Gras)

BUT, the practices/disciplines associated with Ash Wednesday and Lent.... are Biblical, traditional Christian disciplines. These we should recognize, value, pursue... year around.

So... common Spiritual disciplines that accompany Lent (or a Lenten attitude)

COMMON CHRISTIAN DISCIPLINES
(ie: basic, fundamental, foundational) - that all believers should incorporate into life and engage in regularly.

1. Self-examination - this is more than a casual glance
James compares the word to a mirror - looking in the Word is like looking into a mirror.
Paul says - "judge self accordingly" - 1 Cor. 11:31

2. Confession. homologeo - say the same thing that God says.
The point - admit what you see .... to self, to God. The admission should be verbal.

3. Contrition (mainly in the heart) means being sorry for your sin(s) - sincerely sorry.
Job 42:5-6 - truly grieved
Jonah 3:6
Words of David - Psalm 51:16-17 - "note the introduction to Psalm 51".
Words of Isaiah - Isa. 66:2 (b) - "this is the one..."

4. Repentance (in the hands and feet) means A. "about face".... and B. march forward!

5. Humility doesn't mean confessing less than I am, but exactly as I am ---- in my relationship to God... and others. Rom. 12:3
Recognize exactly who we are compared to God - and in relation to other people.

6. Self Discipline - means making self do what's right.
which leads to....

7. Self denial - which does not mean denying self of any good thing. Opposed to ascetics. This self denial means deny things that stand in the way of relationship to God.
It means: A. saying No to self when self desires the wrong thing.
B. saying Yes to God, Christ, the Holy Spirit .... Matt. 16:24

Question of purpose .... Why??? - Not to restrict life but enhance it .. John 10:10

Question of obligation ... Must I? Not legally obligated, BUT are morally obligated as Christians!!!

Statement of promise..... if you practice these....you'll not be deprived of life ... But blessed!! Matt. 5:3-8 - to see God not just someday, but tomorrow, the next day, and the day after that!

Walking with Imperfect Faith

2011-03-08T14:23:00.003-06:00

Mark 9:21-24 - to paraphrase the father:
1. I do believe! (else, why would I be here?)
BUT:
2. I know my faith is imperfect. ("if you can help")
So,
3. I ask for help... with my unbelief..... in spite of my unbelief....

Question: Can you relate???

OBSERVATIONS:

#1. Imperfect faith is universal among believers.
Examples: Abraham, Moses, Job, David, Elijah, Jeremiah, Jonah, John the Baptist, Peter
There are a lot of people who believe that there are Christians who do not struggle with belief. That is not true. We all struggle with imperfect faith.

#2. Imperfect faith is inevitable among believers.
The only way to not experience imperfect faith is to have PERFECT FAITH!
Perfect faith is almost an oxymoron. Faith must be imperfect to be "faith". Faith requires that we walk without the benefit of the five senses.

Heb. 11:1 2 Cor. 5:7

Faith is being confident in what we can't see.

#3. Imperfect faith is unique to believers.
A. Non-believer can't have imperfect faith, because he doesn't have the faith!!
B. Imperfect faith is found only among those who desire to believe and make an effort believe.... and come up short!!!
Therefore:
C. Imperfect faith shouldn't lead to doubting the reality of your faith. It is evidence that you are a believer. Unbelievers don't struggle with this.

So...... when faced with the realization/experience of imperfect faith, what should you do?

SIMPLIFIED ANSWER:
1. Confess

2. Affirm

3. Move on

#1. Confess your doubts. (fears, imperfections, shortcomings, etc.)
Psalm 88:14-18
This means:
A. being honest
B. directing your complaint to the proper source
Example: Job's complaints - showed he suffered from imperfect faith, not the absence of faith!!! He went directly to God.
Example: Jer. 20:7-8

Then.....
#2. Affirm (re-affirm) your faith. (in God and Christ)
Examples: Psalm 10:1, 16-17, 13:1, 5-6, 74:1, 12 Jer. 20:9 John 6:66-69

And....
#3. Move On (Keep walking and doing what you know you should do!)
Perhaps the greatest expression of faith may be obeying while experiencing imperfect faith!!
Examples: Noah building the Ark, Abraham's offiering Isaac, Jeremiah's preaching for 40 years.

There are additional things you can do: wait for an answer, consult friend, read the Word, revisit the past, gain knowledge, etc.

BUT, confess, affirm, move on - summarizes the right response to imperfect faith!!
We don't know if Jesus' response increased the father's faith, but He graciously helped him in spite of his imperfect faith.

John 13:17

Evangelism - The Attempt to CP2G

2011-02-22T16:23:00.004-06:00

Four Functions of the Church - Worship, Nurture, Ministry, Evangelism

Today - Evangelism - 2 Cor. 5:17-20

Focus is on the message, NOT the methods. It is our Christian duty to present a clear gospel message. Note: Bridge Illustration.
Purpose today is not to convince, but to inform and prepare

The scripture teaches and the Bridge illustrates that:

I. We are separated from God by our sin(s).
1st. Sin is an action/attitude contrary to God's will, desire, intent. It is inherent (born that way), universal (everybody), *chosen (we come to a point in life where we KNOW right from wrong)

2nd. Separation does not mean no contact with the person or purpose of God. It does not mean you are separated from His love and concern. Eph. 4:17-18 - other words: "lost/dead/condemned.
We are hopelessly separated (can't fix it) - Rom. 3:20 - good works only make us aware of how separated we are.
We are eternally separated (hell???) John 3:18 - state that we live in, stay in, the way it is.

The tension (problem): On one hand you have God's unconditional love.
On the other hand God's uncompromising holiness.
The answer/solution is not either/or. The answer is BOTH as shown in Jesus Christ. He came down, emptied himself, paid the price.

II. The way to reconciliation is through Jesus Christ.
Rom. 5:1-2 (a) - "stand" Eph. 3:12
Crossing leads to forgiveness, reconciliation, new birth (nature), place in heaven

Most people don't object to Jesus as A way.
The objection is to Jesus as The way.
Note: Words of Paul: I Tim. 2:5 - one God and one Mediator
Peter: Acts 4:12
Jesus: John 14:6

I & II are the most important points, but the Bridge also illustrates:

III. The Freewill of man. - Rev. 22:17 KJV "whosoever" believes, confesses, calls upon....

Therefore:

IV. The Necessary Response of (free) man.
Rev. 3:20 - "hears and opens"
On one hand it is by grace, but, grace requires response.

Therefore:

V. The Need for Evangelism.
A. People are separated and stand condemned
B. They can't accept until they know - Rom. 10:13-14

VI. The Responsibility of the Evangelist
(obvious) the process requires God's presence - John 6:44/65
(also obvious) the process requires God's people - Rev. 22:17 - "Spirit and the bride (Christians)...."

Rom. 1:16 - "not ashamed" to accept/receive Christ. "not ashamed" to share Christ.

*animation from bellsnwhistles.com

2011-02-22T16:23:00.000-06:00

Combining Ministry and Eveangelism

2011-02-17T11:55:00.002-06:00

Review:
4 Functions of the church - Worship, Nurture, Ministry, and Evangelism

Today we're addressing: Combining Ministry and Evangelism

Definition: Ministry - Doing good..... *to people.....on God's behalf.*
Evangelism - attempting to connect people to God and, perhaps, reconnecting people to God.
Combination - doing good * - * in hopes of connecting people to God. (or, doing temporal (here and now) good in hope of achieving greater good)

Our example/model/teacher is Jesus - Mark 1:29-39 He had a unique way of blending ministry AND evangelism - ministry through vs. 34. Evangelism - vs. 38-39.

Note #1 - His primary purpose was to accomplish eternal good.
Mark 1:38
Luke 19:10
John 3:17

Note #2. How He used ministry extensively to help accomplish that good.
Example: feeding the 5000 (healed, fed, taught)
Answer to John the Baptist - Luke 7:21-22

This does not mean.....every good deed requires a verbal gospel presentation.
Examples: raising Jairus' daughter - Mark 5
healing the deaf mute - Mark 7

but recognize - Jesus did not do these good deeds apart from His efforts to connect people to God!

So...... ministry is doing good because people are valuable and important
However, the New Testament model is doing temporal good in hopes of achieving eternal good (greater, higher good)

Note: it is very easy to slip in to ministry by itself which becomes "social gospel". Establishing the kingdom without the King fails miserably.

Lessons and Applications for Us??

#1. We are called to both ministry and evangelism. Comfort with one does NOT excuse us from the other!!! 2 Cor. 5:20 (a) God appeals to people "through" us.

#2. This does not mean you must always give a full gospel presentation. Example: John 8:10-11
Question? Why didn't Christ share the gospel here? and, more often?
Answer: don't know, BUT He is the model, He did it right, and He did it well!!

#3. Evangelism is more than giving a gospel presentation.
Evangelism is the process of connecting people to God.
Example: gestation period - the seed is planted, then grows to fruition over time. 1 Cor. 3:5-6, 8

Nevertheless,
#4. the greatest good cannot be achieved without a gospel presentation. Rom. 10:13-14

So......
1. be intentional - visualize ministry as a means of connecting people to God.

2. watch for opportunity - but don't take advantage of situations when people are most vulnerable. Example: funerals

3. pray.... for the situation, for the individual, with the individual - WITH permission!!

4. be prepared to give a verbal witness of:
a. God's love and concern
b. the basic gospel story (bridge, ABC, wordless book)
c. the faith - 1 Pet. 3:15 On one hand, you won't ever have all the answers, but you already have the most important ones.

5. leave the results with God. 1 Cor. 3:6 - it is not our responsibility to get people saved!

2 faulty applications: presenting the King without the Kingdom (shallow evangelism)
pursuing the Kingdom without the King (social gospel)

You are called to present the King and pursue the Kingdom.

Ministry

2011-01-31T16:01:00.002-06:00

Last week - the four functions of the church - Worship, Nurture, Ministry, Evangelism

Today - MINISTRY - doing good to people on God's behalf.
1 John 3:16-19 - ("truth")

WE KNOW THAT:
1. We're called to help people - Biblical mandate throughout scripture, Jesus modeled, Biblical reason
2 We're equipped to help people - resourced with spiritual gifts, emotional well-being, finances, etc.
3. few of us minister to capacity given the resources and opportunities God has given us.
4. we need to examine and expand our ministry efforts...

That said, we still must ask "when should we refuse to help???"
(ie: given time/resources/opportunities .... is it ever right to refuse?

Answer: You should refuse to help when helping is not helpful.

3 personal questions..... if you are then one responsible for the decision..
#1. what should you do?
#2. what would you do?
#3. What if what you should do does not match what you would do? (who is irresponsible now??)

SOME OBSERVATIONS:
#1. We are called to help (aid/assist) NOT merely to give to people.
#2. Not all "help" is helpful. Examples: doing kids' homework, supporting grown kids, bailing out guilty family members, etc.
#3. Jesus didn't always say "yes". John 6:22-26

Breakdown from the book "When Helping Hurts".
Three levels of ministry/assistance

Relief: immediate, temporary assistance to reduce suffering (or prevent suffering)
Rehabilitation: an attempt to restore to a pre-crisis state.
Development: an attempt to develop beyond the pre-crisis state (in hope of avoiding future crisis)

Scenarios are endless but here are some questions for assessment.
#1. Is there truly a crisis? if not, no need for relief.

#2. If so, to what degree is the individual responsible? The point is not punish, but not promote irresponsible behavior!

#3. Can the individual help 'self? Does he have the ability to help himself? Also, to what degree? Sometimes relief is the best we can do.

#4. Has past help been well used? Stewardship

#5. If the person is able to help 'self, is it right to continue to assist? (to enable/promote irresponsible behavior?) 2 Thess. 3:6, 10-13

#6. If the person responds to rehabilitation and development how long and how far should we assist?

The point of all of the above is, does "helping" help???

Keep in mind.....
#1. We are called to minister (help) not merely give!
John 6:14-15 Luke 12:13-15

#2. We answer to the Lord, not to the request.

#3. The right thing is not always the easiest thing, and that's irresponsible.

#4. Often you won't know what's the right thing. You have to do the best you can with right heart, right attitude.

#5. When unsure, err on the side of mercy (compassion) - (this is not a cop out for decision making!)

#6. Don't let the abusers harden you toward the needy.

God calls us to be His hands and feet. We cannot do that unless we have some of His heart and mind. Can't be ignorant about God's will in order to be able to do what's right.

Heb. 13:20-21

The Four Foundations of the Church

2011-01-24T13:05:00.002-06:00

Life goes better when we function as designed!
So....... church design????? church function?????
On one hand there is no scripture with a list. BUT, there is plenty of scripture to construct a list.

MY LIST:

WORSHIP
NURTURE
MINISTRY
EVANGELISM

Observation:
#1. If these are functions of the church, then they are functions of a church.
#2. A church functions only as well as its individual members.
Therefore,
#3. If you want to be part of a functioning church, then the body has to be functioning as well.

I. WORSHIP - to ascribe worth to/declare value of something or someone.
It is usually visible/audible (sing/shout/praise/give thanks/give money)
Not everyone is wired to naturally worship. BUT, all should worship - no one is exempt. John 4:23-24

A. Corporate worship begins with gathering (attending)
B. when you come, you should bring an offering. Deut. 16:16-17
(worship is more about giving than receiving)
BUT NOTE:
C. God is not the one who gains (benefits) when we worship Him. The ones who benefit are other believers, non-believers, and the one giving worship!

II. Nurture - to supply nourishment/aid in development/promote growth and well being/build up/raise up/care for..... and is mainly aimed at other Christians. Not just spiritual.
Example: Jesus "nurtured" the 12 disciples/Paul "nurtured" Timothy.... Eph. 4:11-16
Everyone needs nurturing.

Obviously - teaching/training/resourcing....
But also - greeting/encouraging/praying for/transporting/modeling/making feel welcome, valuable, significant...

On one hand it is reasonable to expect your church to nurture you... On the other hand, it is reasonable for the church to expect you to nurture!!!!
Too many times, people come to church with an "entitlement attitude". It's all about what's in it for me.

III. Ministry - to help/aid/serve/do good to PEOPLE - all people. This means acting on God's behalf to help PEOPLE. (physical/emotional/spiritual/relational/financial....)

Jesus is our role model and teacher: Acts 10:37-38 - because
Ministry.....
A. Portrays the Father - Matt. 5:43-48
B. Benefits mankind (created in His image/for whom Christ died)
C. Softens the hearts and minds of non-believers (opens eyes/doors)
D. Develops the minister (you)

IV. Evangelism - the attempt to introduce people to God through Jesus Christ! That's all we can do. We are to make the effort.
Must have the Spirit convicting/Father drawing
But, evangelism is our part int eh salvation process - Rom. 10:13-14, Rev. 22:17
Just a social gospel without evangelism.

Evangelism is central to the Christian life and church function.... whether it is:
A. direct - verbal witness
B. indirect - evangelistic support - AWANA/missions, prayer support, etc.

To be a healthy, balanced, functioning church, we (as a church group) cannot overlook or exclude any of these functions.

To be a healthy, balanced, function church, YOU (individual member) cannot overlook, exclude any of these functions.

The Church

2011-01-17T12:56:00.003-06:00

During the 60's movement - "Jesus, yes. Church, no". Young people especially - leaving the "organized church", organized religion.

Compare today: especially young adults - "Yes" to Jesus, spirituality, God, but "No" to church once again. "No" to traditional worship, music, liturgy, etc.

Question: Is this reasonable? Valid? Practical? Biblical? Helpful?
Answer: on one hand, the church is far from perfect. There is a constant need for assessment and correction in the church.
But, Jesus and the church are inseparable.

DEFINITION: church is the community (gathering) of believers. (in Christ/Christianity)

BROAD APPLICATION: house church: Rom 16:5 citywide church - 1 Cor. 1:2 region - Acts 9:31
Therefore, could be THE church (universal) , the churches (places in an area) or a church (local body)

IMPORTANCE OF CHURCH

I. Scripturally
A. Founded by Christ - Matt. 16:18
B. Paid for by Christ - Acts 20:28
C. Identified with Christ - Acts 9:4 -
D. and extension of Christ - body - Eph. 1:22-23, 4:11-12

Question: Can you accept Him and reject His church??? Can't separate the two.
Compare: Stalin - yes/communism - no. They are inseparable.

II. Historically - the church is the:
A. Primary means of spreading the gospel
B. Primary means of developing believers
C. Primary place of worship and prayer
D. Primary platform for mission work
E. Primary pipeline for mission support

You find that where Christianity grows, the church grows, and where the church grows, Christianity grows. They are parallel, go hand in hand.

III. Individually.
The Jesus people mentioned earlier either:
A. fell away as it was just a fad
B. entered established churches
C. started new churches!! Because that's what happens when people embrace Christ.

Christianity does not (cannot) thrive apart from the church.
AND:
Christians do not (cannot) thrive apart from the church.

You cannot (legitimately/effectively) separate Christ and the church - Biblically, historically, doctrinally, practically, etc.

OBSERVATIONS:
#1. The church is not perfect. Because it consists of people - all of whom are sinners.
Some of whom are lost. - 2 Tim. 2:16-20

Therefore:
#2. The church is in constant need of critique and correction.
Christians should be the harshest critics, but for correction not destruction. - Example: correct a child to build up or to tear down?

#3. The faults of the church do not negate the benefits of the church. Example: the sex scandal in the Catholic church. Terrible, yes, but that doesn't mean that everything that the Catholic church has accomplished over the past two thousand years should be thrown out.

Therefore:
#4. It's foolish to abandon the church because of the faults.
Comparisons: do away with public education because had some students dropout.
Do away with hospitals because some people have not recovered, or died.

#5. It's detrimental to abandon the church because of its faults.
A. Detrimental to the church because it handicaps the functioning of the church
B. Detrimental to you - does the body need the hand???
C. Detrimental to yours - does the hand need the body???

Given the evidence, we Christians should be church:
1. Participants - more than attendees, but actually doing something in the church
2. supporters
3. adjusters
4. promoters

Bill Hybols once said, "the New Testament church is the hope of the world"

There is value in Christ without the church. The church is not necessary for salvation.
There is value in church without Christ!! - not eternally, but for the here and now.

BUT, the design, ideal, God's will, intent??? - the church and Christ.!

Walking by Faith (not by sight)

2011-01-09T16:03:00.002-06:00

2 Cor. 5:7 - "for we walk by faith and not by sight."

This verse is:
#1. parenthetical - is not in the original text.
A. was inserted in the broader passage: (life/death/trials/rewards)
B. could be left out without changing the text
ALSO:
#2. it's broadly applicable - could be inserted in dozens of other New testaments texts an fit without changing the text or it could stand alone.
example: loving your neighbor when that neighbor is perhaps unlovable - we do it by faith and not by sight,/thanking God - for we walk by faith and not by sight,/suffering well/looking for Christ's return
#3. it's very adaptable - for any Christian who.... attends church (why do you attend church? - because I walk by faith, not by sight)/pays a tithe/ says grace/ works in AWANA, gives thanks at a funeral

So, let's examine the verse and the application.

Definition of "faith" - as we are talking about faith.
Faith is Christian confidence in God and Christ, His Son, and in His promises.

So, (based on scripture) we are confident in God's - concern for us/presence with us/involvement/ability to fix everything/wisdom/etc.
So, also, we are confident in life after death/eternal life after death/triumph of righteousness/abolition of evil, pain, and suffering/future rewards/the Lordship of Christ....

The verse does not mean that we don't believe what we see. We do believe what we see.
The verse means we believe what we see... and MORE than we see.
OR, based on what we do see, we believe some things that we can't see.

Illustration: John 20:27-28
Thomas - by sight believed that Jesus is alive/ by Faith believed that Jesus is Lord.!

So, when we can't see God's wisdom, power, sense His presence, concern - then we walk by faith believing more than I see (which is based on what I've seen)
John 20:29
1 Pet. 1:8
Heb. 11:1
2 Cor. 4:16-18

Three things to consider:

I. The origin of this faith
II. The development of this faith
III. The implementation of this faith

I. The origin of the faith (where does it come from?)
A. encountered - usually at a later age when have been living a non-Christian life
B. acquired - brought up in the faith with believing parents, grandparents, etc.
But also...
C. inherent - Eccles. 3:11 - Everyone has enough faith to take the first steps
D. a gift - Eph. 2:8-9

Point being: the faith is available but you must accept it and develop it!!

II. The development of the faith. (walking and improving our walk)
through:
A. exposure to the Word - Rom. 1:17
B. openness to the Holy Spirit - 1 Cor. 2:9-10
C. responding to the light given. Example: realize that Jesus is the Christ but don't accept Him leads to ???
D. Practicing the faith - learn to walk by walking. Same way you learn to drive, cook, skate, etc.
E. Exposure to the faith of others - biographies of giants of the faith, stories, personal tests
F. Reflection on past victories
G. reflection on present blessings - should give you faith to walk tomorrow
H. developing your relationship with God - quiet time, prayer, Bible reading, thanksgiving, reflection, etc.

God will grant faith and assist your faith, but YOU must accept and develop it!

III. The implementation of the faith (putting it to work)
Because we're not to just consider/contemplate/prefer/accept/embrace/preach/promote, etc. the faith.
We are to WALK (live) the faith. There is no "pouring on" of faith.

So....... two examinations:
1. examine your faith 2 Cor. 13:5 (a) - "test yourselves"
2. examine your walk Eph. 4:1 - hinge verse. Because of all that was said in the first three chapters, do what's in the last three chapters.

Jesus Is the Light

2010-12-29T09:28:00.002-06:00

Isa. 9:1-2, 6-7
One of the primary themes of Christmas is the entry of light! (when Christ came)

Shepherds - "glory of the Lord shone" - Magi - the star (unusual light) Simeon - Luke 2:30-32

Therefore, John 1:1, 4-9, 8:12, 12:46

"Light" (in scripture) represents all that is good, pure, right. ie: sight, understanding, truth, wisdom, prosperity, joy, health, moral uprightness, openness, holiness, etc.
The Person, Power, Presence of God is represented by light.

"Darkness" (in scripture) always has negative connotations!!
ie: ignorance, falsehood, folly, blindness, stumbling, groping, hiding, concealing, sneaking around, rejecting truth. Synonymous with evil, wickedness, sin, corruption, Satan, evil powers.
It's tied to judgment, banishment, death, separation, etc.
Examples:
the 9th. plague - Ex. 10:21-23
5th. bowl - Rev. 16:10-11
3 hours on cross - Matt. 27:45
parables of Christ - Matt. 8:11-12, 22:13, 25:30
Fate of godless - Jude 6, 13

QUICK OVERVIEW
Light is the 1st. thing created - Gen. 1:1-3
then separated from darkness - Gen. 1:4 And at odds ever since!!
BUT, darkness will be banished from the Presence of God and God's people - Rev. 21:23-25, 22:5

MEANWHILE (between times....)

I. Christ offers us light. (broad application)
But includes the knowledge of right and wrong - to help us see and know things

Also,
II. Christ offers to deliver us from darkness.
Col. 1:12-13 (also has a broad application)

Suggests our problem is more than a need for knowledge
The Gospel message says that it means release from bondage (compare to Israel in Egypt - the information Moses gave regarding the Promised Land wasn't going to change their situation)

Our Part???? (also, your part - individually)
#1. Exposure to the light - seeking, pursuing. Mostly, God does not invade or force Himself on us. Example: the Magi
A. through His Word - Psalm 19:8, 119:105, 119:130
B. with His Presence (person) - Job 29:1-5 (a) - "with me" John 16:13 (a) - "all truth"
You cannot conjure up the Presence of God, but must seek it.

#2. Receiving light given. Rom. 1:21 - Light received increases light. Light rejected increases darkness.

#3. Accepting the Source of Light - (ie: Christ)
Therefore, it's more than propositional. It is personal. John 1:11-12 - received Him. Calling Him Savior and Lord.

#4, Living according to the light received. Eph. 5:8-15
Goes beyond accepting Him as Savior and Lord.

#5. Modeling the light - (closely related to #4)
Matt. 5:14-16 Phil. 2:14-15 - lifestyle should be such that we stand out as examples of a "light follower".

#6. Spreading light. Compare Acts 26:17-18

The 2nd. Advent

2010-12-22T17:09:00.003-06:00

Christmas Prophecies fulfilled in Christ.
examples: Matt. 1:22-23, 2:14-15, 2:17-18, 2:23

Others deal with: birth, parentage, name, character, residence, ministry, miracles, rejection, suffering, betrayal, death, crucifixion, burial, resurrection, ascension.

BUT, not all have been fulfilled!! Isa. 9:6-7 Isa. 11:1-9
Answer? Solution? - these combine the 1st. and 2nd. coming in one prophecy!!

Jews expected Messiah to come once and fulfill all.
Therefore many rejected Jesus as the Messiah because He didn't fulfill them all.

Christians slowly realized that there would be two advents of one Messiah.
Luke 24:13-32
Acts 1:3-11 - same Jesus, He will come back!

Combining the teachings of Christ (pre- and post- resurrection) - Holy Spirit, Scripture, combined wisdom, unfolding events, etc... - Heb. 9:28

Back to Isa. 9:6-7 - Why in one passage??

So... the 2nd. Coming of Christ - are many ideas/theories/explanations.

What's Clear from Scripture?? What we can know!

#1. Christ will return - bodily, visibly, in power and glory - everyone will know
Matt. 24:26-27

#2. Nobody knows exactly when or how - Mark 13:32
But different from the 1st. time - Rev. 19:11-16

#3. He'll gather His people - Mark 13:26-27
Some come with Him, some meet Him

#4. There will be a Resurrection - reuniting of soul and body -- 1 Thess. 4:14-17

#5. He'll usher in eternity - a new age, new era, new life .... Rev. 21:4

#6. He'll establish His Rule over all things - 1 Cor. 15:24 He will establish Himself as LORD. Every knee shall bow and every tongue confess Jesus is Lord.

#7. There will be a final judgment. Rev. 20:11-15

Do's and Don'ts for us concerning the 2nd coming.

#1. Don't be deceived/misled - Nobody knows exactly when/how

#2. Don't be discouraged - all will be put right at the right time/in the right way

#3. Do be aware/informed - concerning His coming

#4. Do be confident - (a) "soon" - relative term meaning in His time.
- (b) He keeps His word

#5. DO BE READY!! You will meet Him/soon

#6. DO BE FAITHFUL - the parables mean - doing your job?? Faithfully living day by day. We'll answer for that!
Rev. 22:20

Lessons from the Incarnation

2010-12-14T17:21:00.004-06:00

Last week - His Advent (coming)
Today - His Incarnation - ie: God in the flesh, took on human nature
Matt. 1:18-23

Exactly how??? We're not told. But, we are told..... A. it's so, and, B. by the Holy Spirit --- Matt. 1:18/20
Luke 1:34-35 - foundational truth of Christianity

Compare: Isa. 9:6-7 John 1:1/14 - God Incarnate Col. 1:15/19, 2:9 image of the invisible God

Summary verse: 1 Tim. 3:16

Many truths/lessons .... so, here are a few....

The Incarnation helps me see...... (perceive, understand, glimpse)

#1. God's Character. Phil. 2:5-8
THE Almighty God, creator of all, omniscient, needs nothing, all powerful, absolute, complete, etc. ,
but He gave all that up to became a man.

#2. Our Model - John 13:12-16 - this is more than foot washing. Speaks of what we should be - Christlike - not me, me, me, even people who hate us and did us wrong.

#3. My Failure. (to live up to the model)
Measure self by Christ - Rom. 3:23 - we are short of what we should be.

#4. The Remedy (solution/redemption) Rom. 3:23-25 (a)

#5. The Reconciliation - Col. 1:19-22 - God wants a relationship

#6. My Helper (advocate/mediator/console-er/counselor/comforter/encourager, etc.
Heb. 2:17-18 Heb. 4:15-16 - He knows exactly what we go through.

#7. My Ministry - John 14:12 - what are you going to do with your life? We're talking about being used of God - scope of ministry.

#8. My Hope - 1 Thess. 5:9-10 Rev. 1:17-18
Christian hope is joyous expectation of what's to come!

Praying in the Spirit of Advent

2010-12-05T21:11:00.003-06:00

Advent (Latin Adventus) means a coming/an arrival - celebrated the 4 Sundays before Christmas

Three aspects/applications:
1. we celebrate His coming
2. we anticipate His return
3. we call upon Him to come NOW - as You have come and will come again.

The point is not presence but it means activity (active presence) Judges 6:12-13
Acts 4:29-30

Advent prayer is "as you came and will come.. So come, now, and... make yourself known and do might works among us."

This is a common theme: Exodus, Judges, Exile, Macabees, Persecuted Christians
Therefore: Psalm 5:1-5, 7:1-2, 5-9, 10:1-3,10-12

So..... what should we pray and who to pray for???

I. WHAT??? "Lord, come now and ....

1. deliver your people - from oppression, evil, injustice, persecution
2. establish justice - make things right
3. bring healing - physical, emotional, spiritual, relational, social, political, racial, etc.
4. comfort - because healing is not always available!!!
5. Shed light - knowledge, wisdom, discernment, understanding; Contrast: darkness
6. grant salvation - save souls, reconcile, grant eternal life....
7. effect transformation of individual/ of society - change things
8. expand your Kingdom - "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done .... on earth.."
9. execute judgment (now) on sin, evil, wickedness
10. make yourself known - as in Advent 1 & 2

II. Who to pray this for??
1. yourself
2. other individuals
Lord, come and deliver (sin/drugs/emotion/ heal - cancer? comfort - save

3. a group - family, church, community, nation
"Lord, bring light, effect transformation, make Yourself known."

III. How should we pray? (an advent prayer?)
On one hand, God can't be manipulated or coerced.
But, He answers prayer so......

Components of an Advent Prayer
#1. A Recognition of need.... of His presence, power, intervention
Point being, there's no need to call if: A. all's well and B. we can handle it. Which is why these kinds of prayers are not common in the U.S. We've got it so good!!!
Our nation is not going to turn around without a mighty moving of God!!

#2. A desire of the heart. (not ritualistically) You can't fake this. Isa. 1:10-15 - all external.

#3. Serious invitation "Cry out" Ex. 3:7-10 Judges 3:7-9

#4. personal preparation. example: John the Baptist - Mark 1:2-5,7-8
Why?? Amos 5:18-20 - When He comes, you want to be ready for His arrival.
Always before the Lord came, He looked for His people to prepare for His coming.

#5. A spirit of cooperation. ie: Are you willing to work with Him to accomplish what you pray for??? Examples: Exodus, Judges, Exile, Macabees

#6. Submission to His decision(s) (timing, methods, etc.)
Example: Hab. 1:2-6,12 (b) Example: deliver from Rome took 300 years of spreading the Gospel. God didn't do it the way they wanted it done, so they rejected their Messiah.

#7. the inclusion of Christ. This is more than a call for God to act. It is a call for Him to act through His Son, the person of Jesus Christ.

Utilizing Your Blessings

2010-11-30T14:01:00.002-06:00

Our Thanksgiving Blessings series stated:
#1. We're Blessed
Therefore, we ought to
#2. Recognize the blessings
#3. Recognize the Source - God is the Source of ALL blessing. (Even if we worked for them.)
Also,
#4. we should give thanks - verbal expression
and,
#5. Enjoy the blessing (because it was given as a blessing!!)

Question: Enough said?? End of the matter??
Answer: depends largely on World view. (view of life, view of God)
Contrast: typical world view: blessings are given to me to possess and enjoy (as I see fit)
with: Biblical world view: blessings entrusted to me to use (as He directs)

So............ Utilizing Your Blessings (stewardship of those blessings)

#1. The Bible stresses the concept of stewardship. (we are the managers)
example: Matt. 25:14
This does not ignore aspects of ownership. Ex. 20:15 - "Thou shalt not steal."
Stewardship merely recognizes true ownership. "No one takes them with them!"
Ultimately, God is the owner. We leave with nothing.

#2. Stewardship goes beyond money and material possessions.
1 Pet. 4:10 - gifts, abilities, time, relationships, opportunities, knowledge
The point is NOT that we must employ every minute of blessing.
The point is you're blessed for a reason and purpose.

#3. The goal of stewardship is the expansion of God's kingdom. In the parable of the talents, the talents were to be used to expand the holdings of the master.
NOTE: this does not benefit God!!!! It benefits people!! God is already absolute and complete.

Therefore:
#4. The focus of the matter is people.
ie: Utilizing your blessings is a way that benefits people.

#5. The specific applications ultimately are between you and your Master. John 21:18-22
Generally outlined in His Word. Specifics you must work out with Him.

#6. Stewardship is not designed to restrict your life but to enhance it. John 10:10
Point is: add an eternal dimension - that eternity will be changed by what you do.
MAD (make a difference) MAED (make an eternal difference)
Luke 12:15, 21

#7. Stewardship does not deny your needs and pleasures.
The word for stewardship in the Greek is household manager who benefits from the house!!
1 Tim. 5:18

#8. Biblical stewardship is a win/win situation.
Nearly every command to give, share, be generous includes a promise of blessing upon the giver.
OT - Deut. 14:28-29 Prov. 11:25, 22:9, 28:27, 17:19
NT - Luke 6:38 2 Cor. 9:6, 10-11 Phil. 4:19

#9. Stewardship is (nearly) synonymous with Lordship.
Luke 12:48 (b) The concept of accountability!

#10. (as always) Stewardship is a matter of personal choice. (decision)

Maximizing Your Blessings

2010-11-22T09:27:00.003-06:00

BLESSING: A gift from God and/or the sense of well-being generated by the gift(s).

Question: got any? like 'em? want more? is that WRONG? Answer: Not if they are from GOD!!

So then..... how to maximize (get the most) blessings (from God)
General answer (umbrella answer) is: get IN HIS WILL if you want the maximum blessings.
(God is benevolent, interactive - cares for us personally, but also authoritative - there are boundaries.)
On one hand there are many blessings outside His will - example: common blessings
BUT maximum blessings are found IN His will.

So...... more specifically.... How to Maximize Your Blessings.

#1. Get in Christ. Eph. 1:3 - can't be in God's will if not in Christ. If you miss this one, you are missing the ultimate blessings, here and in eternity.

#2. Walk in Christ. ie: Conduct/lifestyle according to God's Word and will.
Deut. 7:12-14 (a) - people Deut. 11:26-28 (a) - God Deut. 30:19

Conduct (when living as supposed to) blessings can be:
A. Simple consequence
B. Divine intervention
C. Eventual reward
Gal. 6:7-9
Matt. 25:34-36

#3. Ask. 1 Chron. 4:10 ( James 4:2 ) Matt. 7:7-11

#4. Receive what's freely offered. Example: salvation/forgiveness/acceptance (already have God's acceptance)/significance/security - He freely offers eternal security - /etc.
Many people walk around with guilt over past sins and failures and therefore are unable to minister and be an ambassador for Him.

#5. Enjoy what you've received. ie: the joy of being blessed often is found in taking time to enjoy the blessings. Example: spouse, kids, grandkids, etc., intimacy with God, a good meal, a fall day, warm fire.

#6. Share your blessings. Deut. 15:10, 24:19 Ezek. 44:30 Acts 20:35 - more blessed to give than to receive.

#7. Accept correction. Job 5:17 leads to Heb. 12:5-7 (a) (sons)
Correction is designed to bring you into His will and therefore increase blessings!!

#8. Associate with blessed people.
Last week we discussed "proximity blessings" - examples: Jacob and Laban, Joseph and Potiphar
Prov. 11:11 and Psalm 33:12 - contrast with Psalm 1:1-2

#9. Bless others. 1 Pet. 3:9

#10 Surrender your non-blessings to Christ. A lot of things in life are not a blessing.
However, Rom. 8:28 - He can draw a blessing out of a curse. Example: the cross.

Summary verse: John 13:17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

Recognizing Your Blessings

2010-11-16T14:11:00.002-06:00

As we approach Thanksgiving, it is appropriate that we examine "blessings".
Definition of blessing: 1. A gift from God
and/ or 2. a sense of well being generated by the gift(s)

Last week we discussed Giving Thanks for your Blessings.

Today: Recognizing your blessings.
Question: What have you got to be thankful for?????
(the list is too long so we'll look at categories and types of blessings.

YOU SHOULD THANK GOD FOR YOUR.........

#1. ...... Material Possessions. (money, job, home, cars, clothes, etc.)
We know: A. we're blessed. (according to statistics - we are in the top 10% of the wealthiest people in the world.)
and, B. that's OK. Gen. 24:35 Job 42:12 There is nothing WRONG with wealth.

Remember, on one hand, you may have worked, planned, saved, etc. to acquire your wealth.
However, those blessings would NOT be possible without God's grace.
Deut. 8:17-18 (a)
Job 1:9-10 - "blessed the WORK of his hands" - common phrase

#2. .... Material non-possessions. ie: yours to enjoy but not to own!!
examples: sunset, fall day, ocean surf, smell of honeysuckle, great view, warm sunshine, soft rain, full moon, whippoorwill's call, etc.

#3....Spiritual blessings. Eph. 1:3 - He has already blessed us with.
text means election, redemption, forgiveness, adoption in the family. But could also add: regeneration (chosen), reconciliation (brought back to the Father), sanctification (set apart), security!!
Note: Eph. 1:6-8 The generosity and Eph. 1:3 - the source - "in Christ".
Therefore, get in and give thanks.

#4...... Relational blessings. ie: people - special people. spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents, extended family, friends, neighbors, brothers and sisters, etc.
Next to spiritual blessings, these are the most valuable and can be eternal, because people are eternal.
Demonstrated by: 1. the cross - for people
2. the greatest commandment - "love the Lord with all your heart, soul and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself"
3. landscape of heaven - only thing going there from here is people

#5..... former blessings. Blessings of past that still bless today!! ie: lost spouse? distant childhood? former health? former youth?
Former blessings have the ability to generate new blessings everyday!! When we're in the pit of despair, there is much to be gained from looking back at former blessings.

#6..... future blessings.
A. future temporal - another fall, Christmas, vacation, etc.
B. future eternal - example: Rev. 21:4
For the Christian, what He's done is good! What He's gonna do is BETTER!!!

#7.... opportunity blessings
#8.... Ability blessings
ie: blessed with the opportunity and ability to achieve, acquire, enjoy, share....
I Chron. 29:14,16

#9.... Inherited blessings. blessings others worked for and you received. Example: your freedoms!! Few of us sacrificed, paid for these.
You've inherited political freedoms, sound economy, high standard of living, prosperous nation, extensive borders, constitutional rights, etc.

#10.... Proximity blessings. ie: blessings you receive simply because you are in the presence of blessed people!!
Gen. 30:27 Gen. 39:5
The text refers to material, monetary. The application is much broader!!
We should thank God for blessings received because we're IN a Christian marriage, home, family, good church, good community!!!
example: our Community Thanksgiving service last year had 400 - 450 people present. That's roughly 1/3 of the entire population of this area.
If you had a similar event in OK. City and drew that percentage of the population, you'd have over 300,000 in attendance. We are extremely blessed to be living in this area.

In the list above, we haven't even mentioned...

#11. Common blessings - breath, heartbeat, eyesight, taste buds, 2 arms, 2 legs, 10 fingers/toes, hair on your head, rain on crops, sun in the sky, mind that thinks, body that heals, love, laughter, good night's sleep... If you can appreciate these when they're gone, shouldn't we be thankful while they are still here???

AND,
#12...... Life blessings. - ie: the blessing of life!!
Why? were you even born? Why? here? Why? have life? why do you have choice? opportunity? individuality? eternity????

Answer: because God has chosen you, selected you, graced you, blessed you!!!
And you ought, therefore, to give Him thanks!!

Summary verse: John 1:16

One note: The lengthy list of blessings does not ignore, deny, eliminate the problems, pain, struggles in your life.
Blessings alone do not remove/negate... loneliness, grief, pain, suffering, confusion.
so, know this: the same God we go to with thanksgiving, is the One you go to with complaints, problems, heartaches, tears)

And, that's OK, too. He is your Father! You can thank Him for loving you even when you have doubts and complaints, etc.

CLOSING:
An appropriate response to your many blessings???
1. Be grateful
2. Give thanks
3. Give SELF!!!

Giving Thanks

2010-11-08T15:53:00.002-06:00

As I study grace, giving, blessing, thanksgiving - I'm drawn back to:
WHAT WE KNOW:
#1. We're blessed - more than physical or monetary. Eph. 1:3

#2. We're blessed beyond what we deserve

#3. These blessings come from God. He is the source. This doesn't mean that you haven't worked, planned, done your part. But, it does mean that God has given the opportunities, resources, abilities. Deut. 8:17-18 (a)

Therefore:
#4. We should give Him thanks. Psalms 118:28

So......... HOW TO GIVE THANKS? (in an appropriate manner) NOTE: Lev. 22:29 - giving thanks is for us & those around us. God doesn't need our thanks.

#1. by literally giving thanks. This is MORE than "be thankful" - attitude which is mentioned only 7 times in scripture. It means "give thanks" - action - mentioned 143 times in scripture.
Typical psalm: Ps. 69:30-31 Ps. 95:1-2 Ps. 100:4

#2. by giving thanks publicly. Ps. 35:18 Ps. 105:1
note: ministry of Legion Luke 8:38-39 (as opportunity affords)

#3. By giving thanks always. 1 Thess. 5:18
Example: Dan. 6:6-10 (the situation changed, God hasn't)
Give thanks in all situations and circumstances

#4. by giving back (to Him). 1 Chron. 29:13-14
Deut. 6:10 - freewill offering in proportion to blessings. Leads to: Mal. 3:10 - God will give blessing upon blessing. Not necessarily monetary, or material.

#5. by giving away where blessings are needed.
Prov. 19:17
Deut. 15:7-8, 10 - more blessed to give than to receive.
Matt. 25:40
Heb. 13:16
Acts 20:35

#6. by giving yourself. Example - David Psalm 51 subtitle vs. 16 & 17
initially - salvation occasionally (as needed)

#7. by giving your all. This is a Lordship issue.

Deut. 16:16-17 - most blessed should give the most praise!!

The Spiritual Disciplines

2010-11-03T18:54:00.003-05:00

2 Pet. 1:3-4, 5-7 - "make every effort"
1 Tim. 4:7-10 - (Vs.7 - work at, develop)

The last weeks we've talked about "Christian transformation". - (growth, becoming)
We noted that on one hand, transformation is the work of God.
However, it doesn't happen without our cooperation and effort.

So, today: "Spiritual Discipline".
Definition: personal and corporate disciplines that promote spiritual growth/habits of devotion that aid us in our Christian life and advance Christian maturity...

The lists of spiritual discipline vary, but here are some things that are included:
Bible reading/study
Prayer
Worship
Service
Meditation
Learning
Accountability
Confession
Sacrifice
Submission
Fasting
Journaling
Silence & Solitude
Simplicity
Giving
Watching
Evangelism
Celebration
Sleep deprivation

OBSERVATIONS:
1. Spiritual disciplines are time honored, universal, practical, proven
They've been practiced by Christians of all times, cultures, denominations, etc.

2. They are also WORK!!! - which is why they are called disciplines! The are difficult.

3. Spiritual disciplines are not to be confused with legalism!
They are not to obtain salvation, keep salvation, gain 'acceptance' with God, etc.
They are designed to put you in the path (presence of) God - that you may encounter Him and "absorb His grace".

4. Godly people are disciplined people. - Make your own list - check it out!!
Question?? Disciplined because they are spiritual giants?? OR they are spiritual giants because they are disciplined??

5. Godly people are self disciplined people!!
Spiritual growth and transformation requires:
A. Choice and
B. Self-denial
Matt. 16:24
Mark 8:34
Luke 9:23

Today we will focus on a few of most widely recognized Spiritual disciplines.

#1. Bible Study and Meditation
ie. exposure to and thinking on God's Word.
1 Tim. 4:13
2 Tim. 2:15
2 Tim. 3:16
This results in.......
A. a knowledge of His Will
B. an encounter with God Heb. 4:12
C. A change of mind/heart/hands 1 Pet. 2:2-3

#2. Prayer (most recognized and accepted spiritual discipline ..... BUT practiced?????
This is effective because...
A. brings you into His Presence (sensed or not) which
B. changes the pray-er.
(#1 and #2 are the basis for most quiet time)

#3. (least mentioned) church (yet most practiced!!)
was predicted and assumed yet NOT commanded!!
Why???? Because it's natural

3 disciplines within the church.....

A. Worship (coming to declare His worth) - like prayer which brings you into His Presence
un-like prayer it means giving back (not asking)

B. Fellowship - sharing (what we have) in common!! (in worship/greeting/aisles/hallway/foyer/porch/at meals
It equals discipline because
#1. don't always wanna do it!!
and,
#2. (properly done) it requires you give as well as receive

Seldom mentioned:
C. Preaching (not do it, but endure it)
It was established by the prophets, practiced by Christ and the Apostles, and continued today.
More people experience life changing encounters with Christ under preaching than any other medium. 1 Cor. 1:21

#4. Ministry - ie: service/serving/good works/good deeds
Though not means of salvation, they are essential to Christian faith.
Acts 10:38
Heb. 13:16
Matt. 20:25-28

John Wesley's Rule for Christian Living
"Do all the good you can,
by all the means you can,
in all the ways you can,
in all the places you can,
at all the times you can,
to all the people you can,
as long as ever------ you can!"

#5. Stewardship - the discipline of handling and managing your possessions according to God's Word and the dictates of the Holy Spirit.
A. Includes your money and your giving
B. is a practical, visible expression of your submission to His Lordship
Note: Matt. 25:23 - not only commended but promoted!!
(He has grown, matured, developed, become...!!!)

Review:
1. Spiritual discipline is time honored, universal, practiced, and proven. (they work!)

2. are also WORK!! (that's why they are called disciplines!)

3. not to be confused with legalism. Point being: put in the path and promote growth.

4. Godly people are disciplined people.

5. Godly people are self disciplined people!!
Your choice, you decide, you apply...

1 Tim. 4:7 (b) & 1 Tim 4:8

The Transforming Power of Christ - continued

2010-10-24T14:06:00.003-05:00

John 9:1, 6-11,13-15,18-21,24-25

Point of these: "Jesus changed my life!" Millions of Christians throughout time will testify to this fact. The change is NOT always instantaneous, but progressive.

Last week we discussed Christian transformation is: change, for the better, beyond the surface (not only external), attributed to Christ, and according to Scripture

We noted that transformation is a process, synonymous with growth, and is never completed (in this life).

This Week:
I. What's He changing us into?
Answer: "His likeness" - 2 Cor. 3:18 Rom. 8:29 (a) - talking about character
Point being: change into what we should be, called to be, created to be.

On one hand, Christian transformation is not primarily about what you do but who you are.
Because, when you change who you are (inside), it'll change what you do (outside).

On the other hand, this doesn't mean wait until transformed inside. DO what's right (outside) regardless of feelings (inside). This is responsible Christian human behavior.
II. What's the process look like? Always upwards with many ups and downs.
BECAUSE it's
A. progress
B. of a sinner
C. toward perfection

2 Pet. 1:3-4 - He's already given us all we need
2 Cor. 4:7 (a) - contained in a sinful, tainted body

III. Key Ingredients of Christian Transformation
(necessary if going to change for the better!)

#1. God's grace. which is readily available to you! God is gracious!
Your part - recognize the grace, accept the grace and forgiveness, employ the wisdom, extend this grace to others.

#2. A new birth. It begins here. John 3:1-7 John 1:11-13 The surrender to Christ is vital.

#3. The knowledge of his will. You can't do your part until you know what your part is!!
Rom. 12:2 - your part is exposure and study of His revelation of His will. ie: the Bible

#4. Submission to that will. It makes no difference if you know His will if you don't submit to it.
On one hand, there is a great need for more knowledge.
On the other hand, what could be done IF ACTED ON WHAT ALREADY know???

#5. Surrender to the Holy Spirit. This is similar to #4, but Scripture attributes these traits to the Holy Spirit: conviction, persuasion, guidance, direction, remembrance, discernment, enlightenment, understanding, wisdom, comfort, strength, power, etc. Gal. 5:22-23 (a)
Your Part equals surrender........, invitation and welcome.....

#6. A concentrated effort. 2 Pet. 1:3-8 Verses 5 - 7 - make every effort.

#7. A continual effort. This doesn't mean you never have a break. It does mean you never give up!!!
Faithlessness is staying down and giving up.
Faithfulness is getting back up and continuing on.

Phil. 1:6 - God will not give up on you!!

The Transforming Power of Christ

2010-10-17T14:11:00.003-05:00

Rom. 7:15, 18-19, 21-24

Last week - the Christian struggle, how to reconcile the high calling with, many times, low conduct? My position and my practice??

BUT..... we stopped 1 verse short - Rom. 7:25 (a)
The point is: in, through, by Christ there is hope of personal transformation - in this life and the next.

It is a fundamental belief that Jesus Christ can and does transform lives.

On one hand, not all who encounter Christ claim Christianity or are transformed. But, many are!!

So...... The transforming power of Christ. (for you, for individuals)

A definition or description is difficult because there are so many applications or scenarios.
BUT, generally speaking, Christian transformation includes:

#1. Change - no change, no transformation

#2. Change for the better (which we know when we see)

#3. Change beyond the surface. It's more than moral conduct. It equals character! - Head, heart, hands.

#4. Change that affects others. We're to be salt and light to: spouse, family, neighbors, community, culture

#5. Change attributed to Christ. Christian transformation.

More specifically, transformation toward:
1. what I ought to be.
2. what I was created to be.
3. as modeled by Christ, and,
4. as defined in Scripture

OBSERVATIONS:
#1. Transformation is part of God's will for us. Rom. 12:2

#2. Transformation (in Scripture) is a process, not an event. 2 Cor. 3:18 - the new birth equals a new beginning, NOT a new product.

#3. Transformation (in Scripture) is synonymous with growth. 1 Pet. 2:2 - if you want to change - GROW!!! If you change with out growing, will go right back.

#4. Transformation is never complete in this life. Example: Phil. 3:12 - question is not have you arrived? But, have you grown???

Key Ingredients in transformation - to be addressed next week.

Some transformation is available apart from Christ, but true transformation is a result of:
A. Christ within your heart, and
B. Christ upon the throne of your heart.

Making a Silk Purse from a Sow's Ear

2010-10-11T12:24:00.004-05:00

Eph. 4:1 The general Christian calling is a call to the Christian lifestyle.
1. what I'm to DO
2. what I'm to BE
The problem being - we fall short - Rom. 7:15-24

So, how to reconcile my high calling with my low lifestyle?
how to reconcile my saintly position with my sinful practice?
how to reconcile my apparent ability with my poor performance?
How to live the Christian life amidst constant sin and moral failure?
How to "make a silk purse out of a sow's ear?"

TWO PARTS:
I. Recognize (realize, know, understand...)
II. DO (response, action based on that knowledge)

I. Recognize:
1. You are a sinner - Rom. 3:23 1 John 1:8, 10

2. that doesn't end at salvation in the practical sense (difference between position and practice)

3. all of God's people experience this tension (even the best) - examples: Abraham, Moses, Elijah, David, Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Paul, etc.

4. God doesn't lower His standard to match our performance
Perfection is not required, but it is requested

BUT:
5. Christ's forgiveness covers all your sins.
1 John 1:9 Luke 5:30-32 Luke 19:10 John 3:17

6. You are not condemned or disowned due to poor performance Jude 1, 24
But, certainly our poor performance disappoints the Father and affects our relationship with Him.

7. God's not finished with you yet. Phil. 1:6

So, based on these truths, what to do?

II. DO

1. Admit your sin - general sinfulness, AND on occasion, specific sins

2. admit your need - ie. for help, assistance. You can't fix yourself.

3. Ask forgiveness - initially for salvation, repeatedly - as a Christian

4. Accept forgiveness - 1 John 1:9 This is the right, proper, responsible thing to do!! It has nothing to do with feelings or if deserve it.

5. Get up and go on. Being faithful doesn't mean you never fall - it means you never stop!!!
(sin will lead you astray repeatedly)
Rom. 6:12-14 (a) - who (what) is Lord???? Endurance is not base on the number of falls, but on the number of times you get up and keep going.

6. Don't lower the bar. It is set by God, not us.
"a rose by any other name is still a rose". we have a tendency to say, "I don't thing that's really wrong." Thus, lowering God's standards to suit self.

7. Therefore, don't be surprised when you can't get over it. (more implicitly, don't get devastated, or defeated) He will continue to love you and receive you.

CONCLUSION:
You can't make a silk purse from a sow's ear. BUT, A. you can make a very good purse! (practical, useful, etc.)
The point being: God's got a purpose and place for you until perfection comes.

You can't make a silk purse from a sow's ear....
BUT, God can (and will) Rom. 8:28-31

Examining the Christian Call

2010-10-04T11:45:00.003-05:00

1 Cor. 1:1-3

I. Definition and scripture - An invitation/a summons

It's an invitation because it is an appeal - a pull, tug, drawing, wooing! by God which means it's an offer that appeals to the heart as well as the mind.

However, it is also a summons because it is a call with authority behind it. There is no threat, penalty,retaliation if ignored.
BUT, there are consequences if you don't respond. (God will not violate your free will, but there will be consequences of ignoring the appeal.)

Therefore, it's an offer or request with authority, but without coercion.

Some scripture definitions:
Rom. 8:28
Eph. 1:18
Eph. 4:4
1 Thess. 5:24
1 Tim. 6:12
Heb. 9:15 (a)
2 Pet. 1:3
Jude 1

II. The nature of the call (what does it look like, sound like, feel like?

A. The internal (subjective) call - measured internally
It is perceived by the individual without the 5 senses and is unobservable.
Acts 16:9-10 Primary means is by the Holy Spirit
Acts 13:2 - it's not known how many or who heard this call

Problem with this type of call:
1. hard to measure
2. easy to misinterpret
3. easy to fake
4. easy to abuse

B. The external (objective) call.
perceived by the 5 senses, observable (perceptible to all)
examples: calling the disciples, appointing the apostles
Primary means is by the Holy Scripture

Internal calls should be measured by external measure. 1 John 4:1 (a)
For example: what if a person thinks they are called to.... drug dealer/hit man/prostitute/called to edit Scripture, abandon Scripture, avoid Christians.
Test the spirits - not all are from God.

III. Types of calling(s)

A. The call to salvation (initial call)
This is a personal summons... from God for you to come....
Acts 2:37-39
2 Thess. 2:13-14
On one hand, you needn't wait for a subjective call, BUT, can anyone come without it?? John 6:44 and John 6:65

B. The Call to Christian Life (style) Eph. 4:1
Called to_______?? Luke 5:32 1 Cor. 1:9
Col. 3:15 1 Thess. 4:7 1 Pet. 3:9 1 Pet. 2:20-21 etc, etc.
There is no need ofr subjective call here. It is adequately outlined int he New Testament.
It doesn't matter what you feel you are obviously called to do these things.

C. The Vocational call - to a task, job, duty, ministry, office, position, pursuit, profession....
CAN be a call to vocational (full-time or otherwise) ministry.
BUT, can also be a call to use your gifts, abilities, talents, resources, etc. to further the gospel, serve Christ, minister to people, etc.

The elements of a vocational call? Ability - Desire - Opportunity

D. The Miscellaneous call - a summons to a particular (specific) response, behavior, activity, etc.
Examples: repent of _____ / confess ____/ forgive ______ / share _____ / bear with _____/ befriend ______

REPEAT: The internal call is legitimate, impelling, powerful, moving (passion)
BUT: 1. it's not always necessary
2. must be measured...

CONCLUSION:
He has called you - to repentance, discipleship, etc.

He is calling you - no over yet.

He will continue to call you.

But the call(ing) is of no advantage unless or until you respond to it..

Whatever else, He is calling you to: come, accept, follow, promote. Rom. 1:6 (called to belong)

Called To Go

2010-09-27T10:12:00.003-05:00

Matt. 28:16-20 - The Great Commission - traditionally applied to all Christians. All are to be about "going and making disciples".

Definition of "go make disciples":
A. leave home, travel forth - examples: the apostles, missionaries, etc.
B. stay home and make disciples as you go about your life and business
Mark 5:18-20
Rom. 16:3-16

"Make disciples" means an attempt to win (convert), develop, and send forth others. 2 Tim. 2:1-2
This is not simply evangelism.

Why go?? Why "make disciples"?
(obviously) because it's commanded by Christ.

BUT, the purpose is more that to promote our brand of religion, more than to promote a brand of religion or the best brand.

Point is... go and make disciples to:
1. Spread truth - because truth matters and truth has immediate and long term consequences.
2. Save souls - John 14:6 - if this is true, it is very important to spread
Therefore
3. Affect eternity
4. transform lives - through knowing and accepting truth
which leads to:
5. transform society(s), culture(s) - this is best done through the transformation of lives.
6. form future generations
7. build the Kingdom - on earth as it is in heaven. Matt. 6:9-10

On one hand, we can't do it apart from God, but He has chosen to accomplish this through us!!

Additional scripture:
Matt. 5:13-16
Matt. 9:35-38
John 4:35-38
Acts 1:8
2 Cor. 5:17-20
1 Pet. 2:9

OBSERVATIONS
#1. this is part of God's will for you if you are saved, born again, etc.
You are:
A. saved to go - Eph. 2:10
B. summoned to go (doesn't require personal call. Scriptural call is sufficient)
C. equipped to go (gifted to fulfill your purpose)

#2. if God's people go.... it'll make a difference in the world

There are no guarantees of success as we measure it.
But, we have this assurance - Isa. 55:10-11

#3. If you go, it will make a difference in you! Whether or not you feel it, sense it, see it. God will:
A. work through you (to make a difference in others)
B. work in you (to transform your heart and mind)

So.... are we obligated to go?? Answer: yes and no

No, we're not obligated because you received salvation by grace (alone)
But, yes... you are obligated ... because you received your salvation by grace (alone)!
Rom. 1:14-15 "debt" owed to Christ; payable to mankind.

Close: Rom. 1:16

Challenge:
1. Come to Christ
2. Go and make disciples for Christ.

Perseverance

2010-09-19T13:29:00.004-05:00

Opening Scripture: Heb. 12:1

Perseverance - (one of the great needs of the day)

Definition: Persevere (verb) means to persist, continue in a state or undertaking IN SPITE OF counter influences, opposition, discouragement.

Synonym: to continue, keep on, keep at, keep after, to endure, be steadfast, stand firm, stand fast, to be persistent, resolute, constant, tenacious, to be firm, stalwart, determined, etc., etc.

Other Bible phrases include: Continue in prayer, the Word, teaching, the faith
hold to truth.... stay upon, wait upon the Lord
to be patient (as in) - "patient in suffering". It's close kin to long suffering (to bear with, put up with, etc.)

Perseverance is a definite necessary component of Faithfulness!!

Jesus commended: Rev. 2:2, 3, 19 Rev. 1:9 - note also the author - the only one left living of the original apostles.

Paul to Timothy: 2 Tim. 2:3, 4:2-5, 3:2-14 (a)

Words of Christ .... concerning discipleship: John 8:31-32, 15:4
" " " persecution: Matt. 10:22
" " " end times: Matt. 24:9-13

A Promise: Rev. 2:24-26 - hold on
A Summary: James 5:11 (a)

Persevere doesn't mean never fall down, sit down, look back, slide back, drift away
BUT,
Persevere does mean always get up, come back, repent, return.......
Examples of those who slipped, yet came back, etc: Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Job, David, Solomon, Elijah, Jeremiah, Peter, etc.

Sometimes we deliberately and intentionally fall away, slide back, etc., and sometimes we just slip, but perseverance sees the error and returns.

OBSERVATIONS:

Perseverance....
I. Necessary for salvation??? Answer is Yes and No.
There are 2 views of this: 1. if you persevere then you will become a saint (saved). (works oriented)
2. if you are a saint (saved) you will persevere.
On one hand, these are vastly different views, However, both recognize if there is NO perseverance, probably is NO salvation.
Heb. 3:14 2 John 1:9 1 John 2:19

So, I recommend.... 2 Cor. 13:5 (a) - examine self

II. Other benefits?
Perseverance affects....
#1. growth - James 1:2-4 - cannot binge feed on spiritual truths and then nothing, and expect to grow and mature
#2. life consequences - Gal. 6:7-9
#3. Future rewards - (BEMA - judgment seat of Christ) Heb. 10:36 James 1:12
#4. Personal Testimony - consistency is so important in order for personal testimony to bear any weight.
#5. Your portrayal of Christ (Christianity) - we are Ambassadors, Representatives - the church is represented by us - good or bad.

III. How to acquire or develop perseverance?

#1. It's partly a gift from God. 1 Cor. 1:8 2 Cor. 1:21 "grace sufficient for the situation"
#2. It's partly a result of determination, self-discipline and self-effort - 2 Pet. 1:5-8 1 Cor.15:58
#3. It's partly a result of time, experience, and Christian growth. Rom. 5:3-4 (good judgment comes from experience, experience comes from poor judgment)
In time we should learn that sometimes life hurts - deal with it!
MOSTLY:
#4. Combination of all three!!
1 Pet. 5:8-10 - you do your part.... He'll do His!!!

Perseverance means to persist in the hard times.
BUT, often... the best of times are the hardest time!! 3 John 4 -- Persevere for all times!

A Christian Work Ethic

2010-09-06T10:36:00.006-05:00

Labor Day was established in 1894 by Grover Cleveland,
therefore, look at scripture and 'work'.

The title "Christian Work Ethic" is, by definition, more than a belief or philosophy of work.
It is: #1. a moral view of work
#2. based on Scripture
#3. applicable to Christian life. - lived out, practical. Christians should have a moral view of work.

Scripture reveals to us:
#1. God is a working God.
Gen. 2:2-3 Ps. 19:1 "work" is woven into the fabric of the universe. Col. 1:16-17
It was necessary for creation and is necessary to maintain.

#2. Man is created in His (working) image.
Before the fall - Gen. 2:15
After the fall - Gen. 3:17-19 (a)
NOTE: work is not and never was a curse. Gen. 5:28-29

#3. These truths are reflected in Hebrew theology.
The Law: Ex. 20:9-10 (a) - (focus vs. 9) - "how" in many specific laws
Wisdom Literature: Prov. 12:11, 14 Prov. 14:23 Prov. 18:9 Prov. 21:25 Prov. 31:13, 17
The Talmud: "he who does not teach his son a craft is, as it were, bringing him up to robbery"
Eccles. 2:10, 2:24, 5:19

THEN:
#4. God revealed Himself through a working Son.
Pre-ministry: Mark 6:3 (a) - "isn't this the carpenter?"
Ministry: John 5:17 John 5:36 John 17:4 John 19:30

So naturally,
#5. These truths were embraced by the New Testament and Christian Community.
Acts 20:34-35 Eph. 4:28 1 Thess. 4:1-12 2 Thess. 3:6-12

So... upon these (and other) texts, truths, we build a "Christian Work Ethic."

Additional observations and applications.

#1. Work is more than manual labor. (teaching, computers, etc.)

#2. Work is more than a paid job (career)
Christian vocation: Work is whatever tasks, duties, obligations, responsibilities are rightfully yours. Christian Calling:
So, if married, parent, neighbor, student? Your work is whatever tasks, duties, obligations, responsibilities are rightfully yours in that particular area.

#3. Work doesn't end with retirement.

$4. You are not asked to excel at your calling ... you are asked to work at your calling.
When you work at your calling, God works in/on/through you!!! Col. 1:29

Therefore, you can say:
#5. Your efforts will be (blessed and) beneficial.
Qualifying statements: A. Not all hard work will be blessed, or beneficial. Example: the porn business.
B. No guarantee you will see the benefits and results - in this life.

However, can also say:
#6. The knowledge of and practice of these truths will not remove the labor from your work.
This is a fallen world!! Work will continue to be.... difficult, frustrating, wearing, etc.
BUT: it's easier if you know A. What's right
B. it will Make a Difference

Diligent effort (work) is our calling and is God's will.
Therefore it is pleasing to Him.
BUT:
#7. You are not commended to God by your hard work.
Rom. 3:23-24 Eph. 2:8-9

Remember: 1 Cor. 15:58 Col. 3:23-24

Running the Race (Staying the Course)

2010-09-01T11:44:00.003-05:00

Heb. 12:1-12 The imagery is a "distance race" - your faith is like that.
The point being: RUN - get in, get serious, run, keep running, finish well.
Compare with 2 Tim. 4:6-7 and then 2 Tim. 4:5

So...... RUN .... How????
#1. Stripped down. (the Romans actually competed naked)
The point is: "throw off':
A. Everything that hinders - extra weight, legal weight - things that are not necessarily bad but are just a hindrance.
B. sin that entangles.
This means a deliberate, intentional discard. Col.3:8 James 1:21 1 Pet. 2:1
You must do it. You have to decide to do it.

#2. With perseverance. "patience" - resolve, determination, decisiveness with stubbornness, tenacity...
Heb. 3:6 Heb. 3:14
This is a huge issue in Christian life - Rev. 13:5-10 - this is speaking of end times but the battle is perpetual.
It has nothing to do with never stumbling or stopping, etc. But, pick back up and keep going.

#3. The race marked out - it doesn't mean run any race where ever you want.
It means:
A. THE Christian race (generally) as determined by God and spelled out in Scripture
B. Your particular Christian race. - God has a purpose for you!
Illustration: John 21:18-22 - on one hand, it's the same race for Peter and John, but... they were decidedly different from one another.

#4. With your eyes on Jesus - it's easier to run the race if you are looking in the right place.
A. our earthly example (and inspiration) - Heb. 12:3
B. our heavenly source - of strength, encouragement, direction, correction...
Isa. 26:3

#5. A realistic view of the course.
On one hand, the Christian life is difficult. However, Heb. 12:4 - your course, for the most part, is not that difficult. Especially when compared to the Christian life fellow believers in persecuted countries face.

#6. Remembering God's Word and God's purpose. Heb. 12:5-6
Discipline can be: A. punishment
B. correction
C. training (Heb. 12:10-11)
2 Cor. 4:16-18 Gen. 50:20

Therefore:
#7. Enduring hardship Heb. 12:7 (a)
Jer. 12:5 - expect it, endure it, grow from it....

#8. Run with good form Heb. 12:12
The point being: perking up! lift up your head, pick up your feet!
We're not talking about: fake fresh - but, show dignity, nobility, respectability...
The main point is: we're running for Christ, wearing His shirt, sponsorship as ambassadors

#9. Run with confidence - called faith.
It is not explicit in the text. However, it is the text - all over the text.
Because we believe Jesus is the Son of God and what He said is properly recorded.
Isa. 40:27-31

Staying on Course

2010-08-24T15:20:00.003-05:00

Heb. 2:1
Concepts of staying on course are simple! Doing it and acting on it can be more difficult!

Last week: Pay attention, hold on (sometimes life is out of control), move on (to maturity), spur on, gather together, draw near.

Add.....

#1. See to it. Heb. 3:12 Heb. 12:15 Heb. 12:25 (a)
In other translations: take heed, care; look diligently; exercise foresight and be on watch
The phrase IMPLIES: A. ability - you are able to do this
B. responsibility - it is your responsibility to do this. It is NOT the church's, parents', spouse's responsibility to keep you on course!

#2. Remember (recall) - Heb. 10:32-34 - how used to stand when persecuted
Remember..... former decisions, commitment, experiences, His faithfulness, your victories
ALSO failures! Heb. 3:16-4:2 1 Cor. 10:11-13

#3. Be thankful Heb. 12:28-29 - focus brought back to giving thanks.
BE thankful leads to give thanks leads to "worship - acceptable with reverence and awe!"
Review: 1 Chron. 17:16-17
Add: Heb. 13:15-16 - why worship is so important

#4. Hold to truth. Heb. 13:9 (a) - (give heed, go on to maturity, stand firm) with Eph. 4:14-15
Contrast today's philosophy - "follow your heart"
On one hand, it is not always wrong to follow your heart..... However, Jer. 17:9 - heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.
The answer is to judge the heart with the Word..... then if it's acceptable, follow it!!

#5. Imitate the faithful. Heb. 6:11-12 and Heb. 13:7
Many books have been written "Habits Of A Successful _____" Why???? Imitate someone who is successful to BE successful!!!
This is true of business, sports, health, diet, etc. But of the faith???? Christianity??? Why wouldn't it be true of the faith, of Christianity as well?

#6. Make every effort. Heb. 6:11-12 Heb. 4:11 (a) Heb. 12:14 (a) It is work, takes effort to get it done.
It requires hard work, self discipline, perseverance!!
It's easy to take the right step but how about the right journey??? It takes diligence and perseverance to continue. The Christian life is NOT easy!! 2 Pet. 1:3-7

#7. Bear with these words. Heb. 13:22
They are words of Paul to Hebrew Christians. They are pastoral: based on truth from the heart and for your good!!!
John 8:31-32

How To Prevent Drift?

2010-08-16T10:42:00.002-05:00

Series: The Danger of Drifting - Heb. 2:1
Two main dangers: distraction and comfort. These are very common to mankind. That's why they are so dangerous.

So...... how to prevent drift???? Offset the tendency??? Correct the act???

#1. Pay attention. Heb. 2:1
NOTE: knowledge is essential BUT of little value if not heeded!!!

Illustration: in the Book of Deuteronomy, repeated over and over: be careful, pay attention, take heed, watch yourselves, remember, don't forget.

#2. Hold on - this is simple, basic, yet fundamental! Heb. 4:14 Heb. 10:23
Used in scripture as: hold on, hold to, hold fast, hold firmly, lay hold, take hold, keep hold

Compare: The Apostle Peter: 1 Pet. 5:8-9

With a verse on the flyer of a local saint's funeral service:

If the way is kinda gloomy, and the chances kinda slim,
And the situation puzzlin; and the prospects awful grim.
If perplexes keep on risin' 'til all hope is nearly gone.
Just bristle up and grit your teeth and keep on keepin' on!

Remember, you will be more tempted in the good times and in the little nitpicky things that happen.

#3. Move on. On one hand, "hold to what you know". However, you can't stay there!!! Heb. 6:1-3 A 40-year old should not STILL act like a 5 year old.

Illustration: With an alternate view to what this passage is saying, God is slipping away, moving on - while you are standing firmly (and perhaps stubbornly) right where you've ALWAYS been. God's work is a progressive kingdom, and a progressive work.

#4. Spur on. Heb. 10:24
It is an obvious benefit to others, but also an overlooked benefit to SELF!!
ie: when you are more involved in Ministry you are less apt to slip!!
Heb. 3:12-13 - Corporate interaction and responsibility leads to corporate benefits!!!!
NOTE: one early sign of slipping is SELF centered!!

#5. Come together. Heb. 10:25
for: fellowship, encouragement, worship, prayer, AND.... Challenge of the Word and Holy Spirit!!

Question 1: How much of this do you get at the Casino?
Question 2: How often do you seen a Christian slip from church and NOT slip from the truth? (not talking a church. We're talking about the church)
(another early sign of slipping is a withdrawal from fellowship)

#6. Draw near. Heb. 10:19-22 (a) Heb. 4:14-16
If you stay near, you won't drift far!!
If you drift far, you can still draw near!!
Rev. 2:1-5 (a)

These concepts are simple, yet hard to practice, but.......

A Christian never falls asleep in the fire, or in the water, but grows drowsy in the sunshine." Samuel Wilkes, 18th. century Christian.

You don't fall asleep in the fire, you don't fall asleep when the water is coming up over your head, but it is real easy to fall asleep in the sunshine.

Staying the Course

2010-08-09T09:46:00.001-05:00

Last sermon - "The Danger of Drifting" - Heb. 2:1
This is the whole message of the book of Hebrews.

So, today - Staying the course. - prevent, correct drifting.

REVIEW:
The definition of drifting (slipping): the process of quiet, gradual separating from truth.
The does NOT mean separation from GOD in the strictest sense - Heb. 13:5
Therefore: it is more than intelligent, philosophical, religious, etc. It is a lifestyle drift.
Example: a married couple - together but perhaps distant.

Descriptive observations: (of drifting, slipping)

1. Drifting is a process. It is NOT an event - it is a series of little events

2. It's a slow, subtle, quite, gradual process.

3. It's usually unintentional. (may be unaware until....?) Not done on purpose

4. It's a great danger (to Christians and the Christian walk) - perhaps the most serious danger facing us as Christians. Example: termites and tornadoes. If a tornado wipes out 15 or 20 homes in an area, it's all over the news and widely publicized. BUT, many more homes are lost each year to termites than tornadoes but you will never read about or hear that on the news.

5. It's never neutral. To drift from something means to drift toward something else.
A. you are drawn away (wooed, influenced)
B. fromChrist toward ___________? (ungodly)
You cannot drift neutrally. The something you are drawn to may not be wrong in and of itself, but if it's pulling you away from Christ, something anti-Christ is behind the drawing. Not the Holy Spirit.

6. It's usually reversible. 1 John 1:9

BUT..... DANGER....
7. Drifting away is the start of turning away. Heb. 3:12 - "turns away"
Compare: Rom. 1:21 - they knew the truth Rom.1:25 - they exchanged the truth for a lie, Rom. 1:28 - turning away always follows drifting away. Initially all have a "natural" belief in God. Rom. 1:32 - applaud that which is sin.

8. Drifting is more likely to occur in good times.
Heb. 10:32-26
Great persecution and hardship brings Christians closer to God.
2 Tim. 4:6-7

Think on these things!!

Hebrews - Book of Warning(s)

2010-07-30T11:37:00.002-05:00

Our focus today is Heb. 2:1 - the warning BEGINS here. The warning is SUMMARIZED here.

Point being: "slipping away, drifting" is a great danger!!!! It is the subject of the whole book of Hebrews.
A. it is a serious danger - note the various warning phrases:
make every effort
let us hold firmly
let us hold unswervingly
do not give up
do not throw away
run with perseverance
endure hardship
remember
do not forget
keep on
see to it
don't be carried away
B. it is a common danger - ALL are subject to this.
C. it is a practical danger (not just a Sunday thing) - it has life consequences! When we step out of truth, we step into falsehood.

So....... let's look at the text.

I. The Lead-up (to the text) - Heb. 1:1-4 , 2:1
The point is: Jesus is Lord, He is Truth, He is Superior... therefore: must pay more careful attention

II. The Word (drifting, slipping) - this Hebrew word is used only here in the New Testament
There are two views:
A. We slip from truth
B. truth slips from us

EITHER WAY, it leads to: 1. separation from truth and 2. beginning of a process (inattention leads to apathy leads to disobedience leads to hardened heart leads to turning away....)
God's truth doesn't stop even if you do.

NOTE: drift is NOT irreversible. But, it is progressive (if not addressed)

III. Implications of the Word. (the Word implies, suggests...)

A. A subtle movement - ie: example - gentle stream, snow falling off shoulder, etc.
B. An unintentional movement - doesn't mean pull away, deny, discard. Similar to a vehicle driver's drift across the line or off to the side.
C. A preventable movement - (example: kayak pulled up on the riverbank but not far enough and not tied. Drifted away during the night. Could have been prevented.) Prov. 3:21

IV. The Cause of the Drifting
Inattention, shifted focus, misplaced priorities

Compare: Matt. 13:3-9 Matt. 13:18-23
All are exposed to the truth
None consciously or intentionally rejects the truth.
Rather they drift from truth OR truth slips from them.

V. Prevention from drifting Heb. 2:1 "Pay Attention"
1. "PAY ATTENTION" - give heed, focus
2. "TO WHAT WE'VE (ALREADY) HEARD" ie: gospel truths, apostles doctrine, teachings of Christ, etc.

VI. Observations
1. "drifting, slipping" may be the greatest spiritual danger you face (as a Christian)

2. if it's a spiritual danger, it's also a practical danger. - has life consequences - Gal. 6:7
We can't separate spiritual life from practical life.

3. it doesn't take great sin(s) to disrupt your walk or destroy your soul (example: tornado vs. termites)

4. truth does not benefit you until it's heeded

5. truth is not heeded until it is acted upon....

2 Cor. 6:1-2

Developing Christian Optimism

2010-07-12T10:38:00.002-05:00

Last week we looked at Post Millennial optimism which was the norm among Christians up to 60 to 70 years ago. People like Matthew Henry, Johnathon Edwards, John Wesley, etc. were all staunch post millennialists. Therefore, they had a mindset of post-millennial optimism.

Hymns such as Onward Christian Soldiers and Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus were written in this optimistic frame.
Contrast the majority of early Christians were POST millennial and therefore optimistic as to the direction the church and country was going to take
With the majority of contemporary American Christians who hold a PRE-millennial viewpoint and therefore are pessimistic as to the direction the church and the country are going to take.

Post Millennial viewpoint is that things are going to get better and better and THEN Christ will return.
On the other hand, the Pre-Millennial viewpoint is that things are going to get worse and worse before Christ returns.

NOTE: Which end times scenario is true remains to be seen!!
We do have good reason(s) for concern (pessimism)
However, there are many reasons to be optimistic as well!!

The sermon last week gave Reasons for Optimism (concerning the nation)

This week: we're looking at Developing Christian Optimism.
The focus is not national but personal.
The focus is not the end, but is in the meantime!!

So: 1. should we be more optimistic?
if so, 2. how can we develop and optimistic spirit??

#1. Recognize the reasons for optimism
(this is last week's message. The number one reason for optimism is that
God is greater than ___________. (anything you put in the blank.)

#2. Recognize reasons for concern.
Because, Christian optimism equals realism!! Isaiah 6:8-12
BUT, realism is not alarmism!

Then:
#3. Factor in God. He is all powerful, knowing, loving at work, And personally interested in you!! Psalm 139:1-10, 13-18 (a)
However, there is no Biblical optimism in the end for people who have rejected Christ. They have plenty of reason to be pessimistic.

#4. Review His Promises (read the history, review the promises given)
Question: if you spent equal time in God's Word as with the media, would your outlook change?

#5. Look back. (at what He's done. for you!!! What He's carried you through, and carried you to!!) Deut. 8:2-5 - "remember" - used 16 times in Deuteronomy, 166 times in scripture.

#6. Reaffirm your confidence. (in Him, His promises, etc) - rededicate, recommit.
On one hand, there's time to lament, but on then the lament should end with confidence in Him.
Psalm 13:1-6
Psalm 42:1-6 a
Psalm 42:9-11
Hab. 3:17-18

#7. Seek His will (direction, plan, guidance, etc.
"in His general will is not necessarily a safe, comfortable place. Example: the cross. Christ was definitely not in a safe, comfortable place, but He was right in the center of God's will for Him.
Thus, it will turn out all right!
Example: Dan. 3:15-18 This was NOT foolish, empty optimism, but confidence in God and His will.

#8. Act Accordingly. Find God's word, find God's will, then: react with obedience, response, human effort. Often that is a catalyst for miracles! Example: feeding the 5000.
Point: if you do right, you are more apt to get right which leads to feel right.
Example: Moses - was he optimistic about the Exodus?
Gideon - was he optimistic about deliverance?
BUT - they received orders, promises, obeyed, saw the outcome, changed their attitude.
Ex. 3:10-12 (a) Judges 6:14-16 (a)

#9. Reject (refuse) a pessimistic spirit.
2 Tim. 1:7
For Christians, feelings are NOT Lord!!!

#10. Give Thanks.
Compare and contrast:
Psalm 37:1, 7, 8 - "do not fret"
with Phil. 4:6-8