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.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Monday, December 19, 2011
God With Us (Emmanuel)
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.
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.
Monday, December 12, 2011
When Others Judge You - Part 4 in Series
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!!
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
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?
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?
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Giving Thanks
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
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
Monday, November 14, 2011
Judging Others - Part 2
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???
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???
Monday, November 7, 2011
Judging Others (A Biblical View)
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!!!
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!!!
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