The State vs God's Word.
Our state, local and Federal governments, while never perfect, were at one time built upon an understanding of God's law. As time has progressed we are defining right and wrong more from our own understanding than from God's Word, and thus we are departing severely from where we first stood, in many cases.
Believers are faced with the issue of which to follow: the State or the Lord? For some of us, as long as we are good citizens of our state, read our Bibles some and are in church fairly often then we believe all is well between ourselves and God. Likely this is not so!
Here is one example: the issue of divorce and remarriage. Our state a divorce is easy to obtain. Once the divorce is finalized a new marriage is permitted. We, believers, are happy when we or our children are doing things legally. Yet, if one settles for the standard that is given by our State, we would do well to realize that we often are falling short of God's standard. Does this possibility disturb us? Christ's teaching on remarriage was so sever that it brought about this response from his disciples: "If such is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry." (Mat 19:10 ESV) The situation that led to this response by the disciples began with the Pharisees asking Jesus: “"Is it lawful to divorce one's wife for any cause?" (Mat 19:3 ESV) Christ points out that in the beginning God had made male and female. Then Christ makes this statement: “So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate." (Mat 19:6 ESV) This is followed by the revelation that it is because of the hardness of our hearts that divorce was permitted, not commanded. Therefore, Christ continues, (to paraphrase) remarriage except in the case of our spouse committing adultery is a sin because upon remarriage we ourselves are committing adultery, for in God's sight, our first marriage was not broken.
Are there other issues out there in which the Christian community is patting itself on its back because they are following legal guidelines, yet completely missing the clear Word of our God? I fear that this might be so.
The Lord's Church must not settle for conformity to the state. Rather we must proclaim: “We are the Lord's body.” ""Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." 18 "For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished." 19 "Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:17-19 ESV)
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Saturday, February 14, 2009
The art of giving a good speech
or
Teaching the Word
As a pastor/teacher (Eph. 4:1,12) I am sent by our Lord to teach His word to His people, and to others as well. Paul instructions to Timothy and Titus contain the words: teacher, teach and teaching(s). While I believe those of us called to teach ought to strive by God's grace and gifts to do the best job that we are able to do, we are not called to give good speeches. I would distinguish between a speech and a teaching along these lines. A teacher is first interested in teaching something. While a speaker might be interested in teaching, the impact or impress of his speaking, his style, his use of illustrations and many other factors move to the fore front of his task. Paul tells the Corinthians that he did not come to them with persuasive words of wisdom, (1 Co. 1:17,24,30; 2:1,4ff,13) in other words, Paul thought there was something of higher importance than being known as a top notch speaker.
A teacher of God's Word would lay the foundation of Christ and build upon this, while trusting in His gracious God to build His house. In this light a teacher of God's Word is not much different from a teacher of math or language. This teaching would be done by patiently going over the material, re-enforcing it and building upon the basics. This very process of teaching has a higher priority than anything else, other than being true to the Word.
Maybe if I were a conference speaker or someone showing up to 'preach' once at a church I might think about making a 'speech'. Hum, but if I did what would be my goal? However, I'm building a church, which is to grow in the unity of faith and knowledge of the Son of God, if God would so blesses.
or
Teaching the Word
As a pastor/teacher (Eph. 4:1,12) I am sent by our Lord to teach His word to His people, and to others as well. Paul instructions to Timothy and Titus contain the words: teacher, teach and teaching(s). While I believe those of us called to teach ought to strive by God's grace and gifts to do the best job that we are able to do, we are not called to give good speeches. I would distinguish between a speech and a teaching along these lines. A teacher is first interested in teaching something. While a speaker might be interested in teaching, the impact or impress of his speaking, his style, his use of illustrations and many other factors move to the fore front of his task. Paul tells the Corinthians that he did not come to them with persuasive words of wisdom, (1 Co. 1:17,24,30; 2:1,4ff,13) in other words, Paul thought there was something of higher importance than being known as a top notch speaker.
A teacher of God's Word would lay the foundation of Christ and build upon this, while trusting in His gracious God to build His house. In this light a teacher of God's Word is not much different from a teacher of math or language. This teaching would be done by patiently going over the material, re-enforcing it and building upon the basics. This very process of teaching has a higher priority than anything else, other than being true to the Word.
Maybe if I were a conference speaker or someone showing up to 'preach' once at a church I might think about making a 'speech'. Hum, but if I did what would be my goal? However, I'm building a church, which is to grow in the unity of faith and knowledge of the Son of God, if God would so blesses.
Monday, February 02, 2009
There has been a gap between this blog and the last one. My wife and I went away for 3 days, all by ourselves. We had an enjoyable time together.
Pastors are people just like everyone else. Time with my wife is important for both of us. Our mornings were spent reading and studying, while in the afternoons we window shopped and visited the exercise room. (We actually did spend a little money here and there.) We also visited art galleries, a woodworking school and other points of interest. Bobbi sat at my feet some of the time, actually, she was a yard or two away, braiding a rug. I just happened to be sitting near her. I did, however, give her feet some kind of treatment. She had this tube of stuff to be followed by several other tubes of who knows what! Now she has the softest feet around!
We watched a few movies, and listened to a story on tape. I enjoyed listening to her laugh.
Mom went to a respite home for the time while some friends stayed with Lydia, interrupting her schedule.
Now we are all back together.
This was a nice 'break', for which we praise the Lord!
Pastors are people just like everyone else. Time with my wife is important for both of us. Our mornings were spent reading and studying, while in the afternoons we window shopped and visited the exercise room. (We actually did spend a little money here and there.) We also visited art galleries, a woodworking school and other points of interest. Bobbi sat at my feet some of the time, actually, she was a yard or two away, braiding a rug. I just happened to be sitting near her. I did, however, give her feet some kind of treatment. She had this tube of stuff to be followed by several other tubes of who knows what! Now she has the softest feet around!
We watched a few movies, and listened to a story on tape. I enjoyed listening to her laugh.
Mom went to a respite home for the time while some friends stayed with Lydia, interrupting her schedule.
Now we are all back together.
This was a nice 'break', for which we praise the Lord!
Monday, January 19, 2009
On Being a Happily Married Man.
The other day someone commented, “You are a happily married man”.
I've been thinking about this some. Yes, I believe this statement is true, and I would offer the following regarding how this may have come about.
First of all, without any negative reflection upon any one else, I find my happiness, or contentment in the Lord. This comes about because God in His grace has owned me as His Own and turned my heart towards Him through Christ, to own Him as My God. The last commandment, “You shall not covet . . .”, rephrased as, “find contentment in God and what He give us”, is key to my happiness. Along with this is a line which Christ quotes from the OT, ESV Mat 4:4 But he answered, "It is written, "' Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"
As I do not practice the above to perfection, the happiness of my heart is often in fluctuation. In other words, I am not perfectly, absolutely happy. This is a confession of my sinfulness and of my lack of finding fulfillment in my God and Savior.
A second point, contributing to my happiness, is my wife. For her I am greatly thankful. Now she too is subject to the same weaknesses that I expressed in point number one. My reason for saying this is simply to express that she is not absolutely happy all the time either. With the blessing of the Lord she makes a major contribution to my happiness as she too seeks to walk with the Lord. She is, however, not my happiness.
Third, in general my children and grandchildren add to my happiness. Some of our children walk with the Lord, while others do not. This does effect my happiness, yet the more I find God, as the all-that-I-need-one, the less I find other people influencing the state of my heart. Again, moment by moment I do have my ups and downs. Without going into any details, both my wife and I agree that what struggles and hurts we have been handed have been for our good.
Fourth, God's Word say (Philippians 2:12,13) “to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you . . .” In my heart, I have had to work and work, lest sin and the flesh overwhelm me. Being a happily married man has not been a natural occurrence or an accident, but is the fruit of a deliberate walk with the Lord and of His blessing.
Almost lastly, I am finding, praise be to the Lord, that I am maturing spiritually over time. There has been more unhappiness in the past, and the struggle is not over. While, to some minor degree others may have played some part regarding my lack of happiness, as I reflect upon these situations, I must confess that my heart was not upon the Lord. I would even think to blame him from time to time. There is not happiness there.
And now, lastly, as a human being I do not know what the rest of this day will hold. I am supposed to pick up some milk on the way home, a certain brand and a certain percent milk. Will I? Will I be able to? Will I have a wife and family to go home to? There are many other what-if's. Therefore, I will say, “The Lord willing”. That is my joy and happiness. The Lord.
The other day someone commented, “You are a happily married man”.
I've been thinking about this some. Yes, I believe this statement is true, and I would offer the following regarding how this may have come about.
First of all, without any negative reflection upon any one else, I find my happiness, or contentment in the Lord. This comes about because God in His grace has owned me as His Own and turned my heart towards Him through Christ, to own Him as My God. The last commandment, “You shall not covet . . .”, rephrased as, “find contentment in God and what He give us”, is key to my happiness. Along with this is a line which Christ quotes from the OT, ESV Mat 4:4 But he answered, "It is written, "' Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"
As I do not practice the above to perfection, the happiness of my heart is often in fluctuation. In other words, I am not perfectly, absolutely happy. This is a confession of my sinfulness and of my lack of finding fulfillment in my God and Savior.
A second point, contributing to my happiness, is my wife. For her I am greatly thankful. Now she too is subject to the same weaknesses that I expressed in point number one. My reason for saying this is simply to express that she is not absolutely happy all the time either. With the blessing of the Lord she makes a major contribution to my happiness as she too seeks to walk with the Lord. She is, however, not my happiness.
Third, in general my children and grandchildren add to my happiness. Some of our children walk with the Lord, while others do not. This does effect my happiness, yet the more I find God, as the all-that-I-need-one, the less I find other people influencing the state of my heart. Again, moment by moment I do have my ups and downs. Without going into any details, both my wife and I agree that what struggles and hurts we have been handed have been for our good.
Fourth, God's Word say (Philippians 2:12,13) “to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you . . .” In my heart, I have had to work and work, lest sin and the flesh overwhelm me. Being a happily married man has not been a natural occurrence or an accident, but is the fruit of a deliberate walk with the Lord and of His blessing.
Almost lastly, I am finding, praise be to the Lord, that I am maturing spiritually over time. There has been more unhappiness in the past, and the struggle is not over. While, to some minor degree others may have played some part regarding my lack of happiness, as I reflect upon these situations, I must confess that my heart was not upon the Lord. I would even think to blame him from time to time. There is not happiness there.
And now, lastly, as a human being I do not know what the rest of this day will hold. I am supposed to pick up some milk on the way home, a certain brand and a certain percent milk. Will I? Will I be able to? Will I have a wife and family to go home to? There are many other what-if's. Therefore, I will say, “The Lord willing”. That is my joy and happiness. The Lord.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Pastoring
Pastoring is shepherding. Shepherding implies at least two things.
First, the sheep can not make it on their own. They need help and a portion of help comes in the form of a shepherd. One must remember that it is the Lord who both declares that there is a need and also supplies the fix. While it might be humbling to acknowledge not just that the church is needy but that I have a need, we ought to be comforted in understanding that we all share Adam's nature.
The need is met in and through the Lord providing a shepherd. The Scriptures define this shepherd as an under-shepherd of the Chief Shepherd who is none other than Christ the Lord. An humbling point for the shepherd to remember is that he too is a sheep, and as a sheep he too share in human weakness and must also follow the Shepherd as well. Doesn't our Lord do things in an interesting manner? Yet, he also supplies the shepherd with the gifts that he needs to shepherd other sheep. If there is good shepherding going on, we must first, and above all, give thanks to the Lord.
A problem arises when the sheep see the weakness of the shepherd and despise him. A solution that is offered in Scripture is to pray for one another, to admonish and encourage one another. This includes praying for our under-shepherd. Obedience, not blind obedience to the shepherd, but cheerful, trusting obedience to The Shepherd, on the part of the sheep is something of great encouragement to the under-shepherd.
ESV Heb 13:17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.
ESV 3Jo 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
ESV Luk 22:26 But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves.
Pastoring is shepherding. Shepherding implies at least two things.
First, the sheep can not make it on their own. They need help and a portion of help comes in the form of a shepherd. One must remember that it is the Lord who both declares that there is a need and also supplies the fix. While it might be humbling to acknowledge not just that the church is needy but that I have a need, we ought to be comforted in understanding that we all share Adam's nature.
The need is met in and through the Lord providing a shepherd. The Scriptures define this shepherd as an under-shepherd of the Chief Shepherd who is none other than Christ the Lord. An humbling point for the shepherd to remember is that he too is a sheep, and as a sheep he too share in human weakness and must also follow the Shepherd as well. Doesn't our Lord do things in an interesting manner? Yet, he also supplies the shepherd with the gifts that he needs to shepherd other sheep. If there is good shepherding going on, we must first, and above all, give thanks to the Lord.
A problem arises when the sheep see the weakness of the shepherd and despise him. A solution that is offered in Scripture is to pray for one another, to admonish and encourage one another. This includes praying for our under-shepherd. Obedience, not blind obedience to the shepherd, but cheerful, trusting obedience to The Shepherd, on the part of the sheep is something of great encouragement to the under-shepherd.
ESV Heb 13:17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.
ESV 3Jo 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
ESV Luk 22:26 But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
ESV Col 1:9 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. 11 May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. 13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities- all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. 21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Distractions!
It is the Monday before Christmas and all is . . . busy! Some family arrived home Saturday evening. However part of Saturday was spend putting up a Christmas tree, doing some decorating and in making gifts. Wonderful! Oh, I also did some sermon preparation.
Now it is Monday. We have had a snow storm. My driveway collected its share of snow and thus needed to be cleaned out. It has been cold as well. Wood needs to be brought in for the fire. Family is still here – they won't be living until after Christmas. That is a good thing.
Tomorrow another daughter and her boy friend are coming by. We haven't met him yet. They want to run across the border (Canada) to a chocolate shop. My wife, and others might go with them. My mother-in-law will probably opt out, or be opted out. So perhaps I will stay with her as she can not be left alone. So tomorrow, I will have to say hello to more people arriving and perhaps help out at home. A good thing.
Wednesday is Christmas Eve. Our family has some traditions we do together. This will take up some afternoon and evening time.
Thursday, Christmas. Yes, we have most of the family arriving, if they have not already. No distraction, Lord willing, as this will be a day of worshiping the Lord and family time.
Friday, not sure, some family will be leaving. We 'have to' say “good bye”. Anything else?
Sunday: an adult Sunday school lesson, Worship services. Will I be prepared? Well prepared to service God's Word?
I am at the church office. Not as many distractions here!
Pastors have a relatively free schedule. May the Lord grant that I stay focused on being His servant, whether at home or at work.
It is the Monday before Christmas and all is . . . busy! Some family arrived home Saturday evening. However part of Saturday was spend putting up a Christmas tree, doing some decorating and in making gifts. Wonderful! Oh, I also did some sermon preparation.
Now it is Monday. We have had a snow storm. My driveway collected its share of snow and thus needed to be cleaned out. It has been cold as well. Wood needs to be brought in for the fire. Family is still here – they won't be living until after Christmas. That is a good thing.
Tomorrow another daughter and her boy friend are coming by. We haven't met him yet. They want to run across the border (Canada) to a chocolate shop. My wife, and others might go with them. My mother-in-law will probably opt out, or be opted out. So perhaps I will stay with her as she can not be left alone. So tomorrow, I will have to say hello to more people arriving and perhaps help out at home. A good thing.
Wednesday is Christmas Eve. Our family has some traditions we do together. This will take up some afternoon and evening time.
Thursday, Christmas. Yes, we have most of the family arriving, if they have not already. No distraction, Lord willing, as this will be a day of worshiping the Lord and family time.
Friday, not sure, some family will be leaving. We 'have to' say “good bye”. Anything else?
Sunday: an adult Sunday school lesson, Worship services. Will I be prepared? Well prepared to service God's Word?
I am at the church office. Not as many distractions here!
Pastors have a relatively free schedule. May the Lord grant that I stay focused on being His servant, whether at home or at work.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Lessons from Christ prayer
John 17 and Christmas issues.
God willing we will finish our study of John 17 this Sunday. Also, this Sunday we are having our Christmas dinner after our service. YUMMY! During the worship service we will have some special Christmas music. However, the message will be from John 17.
While John 17 is not about the birth of Christ, it is clearly about Christ. Arguably we might say John 17 is more about Christ than some 'Christmas' messages might be, for in this prayer we get to see deeply into Christ heart.
Here are a couple of points which we will be developing.
In this prayer, less than 1/3 of the words are directly petitions and requests. Our own prayers are sometimes more like wish lists that kids might present to Santa. Christ prayer is not just a list. He inserts other words which show an understanding of who the Father is, in what and in whom the Father has an interested and of Christ's role in furthering God's interest amongst the people of God.
These words are connected to the people given to Christ by the Father. The given ones, their knowledge of God, their sanctification, their unity and their ultimate abode with the son are items of great interest to Christ, and of great interest to the Father.
Christ prayer is not worldly in the sense of offering petition for every man and woman and child that will ever live on the earth. He clearly prayers for the give-to-Christ-ones. He does so pray because his interest is in what and whom God has an interest. His confidence that the Father will answering him is in his ability to bring his own desires, words and actions into conformity with that of the Father, so he prays for those who belong to the Father. He seen no need, therefore, to pray that the ones-not-given-to-him might be with him in glory for the Father has no interest in these people, at least not in regards to Christ's work of salvation.
What do we see in Christ's heart? The Father! The more the Father, as revealed through Scripture, becomes our delight the greater will be our hope and confidence before him in prayer. One day when God fills all of the given-to-Christ-ones with himself we will find our joy is filled for we shall want nothing other than the Father and what he desires as well.
John 17 and Christmas issues.
God willing we will finish our study of John 17 this Sunday. Also, this Sunday we are having our Christmas dinner after our service. YUMMY! During the worship service we will have some special Christmas music. However, the message will be from John 17.
While John 17 is not about the birth of Christ, it is clearly about Christ. Arguably we might say John 17 is more about Christ than some 'Christmas' messages might be, for in this prayer we get to see deeply into Christ heart.
Here are a couple of points which we will be developing.
In this prayer, less than 1/3 of the words are directly petitions and requests. Our own prayers are sometimes more like wish lists that kids might present to Santa. Christ prayer is not just a list. He inserts other words which show an understanding of who the Father is, in what and in whom the Father has an interested and of Christ's role in furthering God's interest amongst the people of God.
These words are connected to the people given to Christ by the Father. The given ones, their knowledge of God, their sanctification, their unity and their ultimate abode with the son are items of great interest to Christ, and of great interest to the Father.
Christ prayer is not worldly in the sense of offering petition for every man and woman and child that will ever live on the earth. He clearly prayers for the give-to-Christ-ones. He does so pray because his interest is in what and whom God has an interest. His confidence that the Father will answering him is in his ability to bring his own desires, words and actions into conformity with that of the Father, so he prays for those who belong to the Father. He seen no need, therefore, to pray that the ones-not-given-to-him might be with him in glory for the Father has no interest in these people, at least not in regards to Christ's work of salvation.
What do we see in Christ's heart? The Father! The more the Father, as revealed through Scripture, becomes our delight the greater will be our hope and confidence before him in prayer. One day when God fills all of the given-to-Christ-ones with himself we will find our joy is filled for we shall want nothing other than the Father and what he desires as well.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
The Lord's Supper
Once a month, at least in our church, we take extra time, unless the pastor shortens other parts of the service, which he doesn't usually do, to observe the tradition of the Communion Service.
Oh yes, we have to do this because Paul and Jesus and maybe some other people, told us to. But other than that, why do we do this? Is it a burning desire in our hearts, or just another thing that is done at church.
I must confess that I have not often thought about this aspect of the church services. It was after all a tradition, and a Biblical one at that, so we do it.
We have moved the Lord's Supper! Now before some of your go scrambling around looking for it, just relax. Instead of tacking it on at the end of the service we are attempting to make it a part of the service. Like in the middle, with the pastor giving a short message highlighting some aspect of the meaning of the Lord's Supper.
Recently my friend Owen Strachan blogged at http://owenstrachan.com/ regarding: Are Roommates the new family? He commends that these roommates are looking for something that is good: a sense of community. Yet they are looking in the wrong place. We shall never find fellowship, belonging, love, unity and place in this fallen world that completely satisfies while at the same time emphasizes the Biblical responsibility of love.
Certainly from time to time we catch glimpses of the fellowship promised by the Savior to his people. His promise is big, much bigger and deeper than we can now grasp. The Lord's Supper gives us such a glimpses into the other world fellowship. Until we are there we can not fully know it, but we may know it, in part, today. Oh the depths of the love of God. He not only is taking people of every race, nation, tribe and tongue and saving us, he is also making us one.
The text for our services for the next couple of weeks will be John 17:20-26. Who am I to teach such truths as one finds here?! Yet, this is where our Chief Shepherd as brought us. May our Savior lift us up, not just to an escape from hell, but into the glories of Christ and the fellowship of the eternal Godhead. May we take the bread and cup as a member of something wonderful, something awesome and of something far bigger and deeper that just tradition.
Once a month, at least in our church, we take extra time, unless the pastor shortens other parts of the service, which he doesn't usually do, to observe the tradition of the Communion Service.
Oh yes, we have to do this because Paul and Jesus and maybe some other people, told us to. But other than that, why do we do this? Is it a burning desire in our hearts, or just another thing that is done at church.
I must confess that I have not often thought about this aspect of the church services. It was after all a tradition, and a Biblical one at that, so we do it.
We have moved the Lord's Supper! Now before some of your go scrambling around looking for it, just relax. Instead of tacking it on at the end of the service we are attempting to make it a part of the service. Like in the middle, with the pastor giving a short message highlighting some aspect of the meaning of the Lord's Supper.
Recently my friend Owen Strachan blogged at http://owenstrachan.com/ regarding: Are Roommates the new family? He commends that these roommates are looking for something that is good: a sense of community. Yet they are looking in the wrong place. We shall never find fellowship, belonging, love, unity and place in this fallen world that completely satisfies while at the same time emphasizes the Biblical responsibility of love.
Certainly from time to time we catch glimpses of the fellowship promised by the Savior to his people. His promise is big, much bigger and deeper than we can now grasp. The Lord's Supper gives us such a glimpses into the other world fellowship. Until we are there we can not fully know it, but we may know it, in part, today. Oh the depths of the love of God. He not only is taking people of every race, nation, tribe and tongue and saving us, he is also making us one.
The text for our services for the next couple of weeks will be John 17:20-26. Who am I to teach such truths as one finds here?! Yet, this is where our Chief Shepherd as brought us. May our Savior lift us up, not just to an escape from hell, but into the glories of Christ and the fellowship of the eternal Godhead. May we take the bread and cup as a member of something wonderful, something awesome and of something far bigger and deeper that just tradition.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Believers are called upon to run the race.
There are several factors that go into this racing business which must be combined in order for us to have success.
Here, at the starting line, though most of us are well along the course, or at least we hope so. Which direction are we facing? Do we know the directions or signs along the course so that we will not get lost? So one of the ingredients to a successful race must be either knowledge of the course itself or knowledge pertaining to reading signs along the way.
A second item would be that of persistence. Staying power! One might have knowledge of the route, but gets tired, burnt out or distracted. The race is put on the back burner, thus is never finished.
Conversely, one may have a great deal of persistence, zeal, energy and a lot of other good things, yet if one mis-reads the signs along the way or is on a course set from misinformation he will not run the race either. He will have run his own race, rather than the official one.
While it is possible to run this race alone, from a certain perspective that is the only way possible, one may be encouraged if other are also running the race, not as competitors but as fellows pilgrims, all heading for the same goal. Here there are two parts to racing with another: being able to be encouraged by another and being able to encourage another.
May the Lord give us love for him, so that we will desire to run towards him all of our life. May the Lord give us a love for his word, that we run the course approved of our God. May the Lord grant that we receive the prize.
Amen.
There are several factors that go into this racing business which must be combined in order for us to have success.
Here, at the starting line, though most of us are well along the course, or at least we hope so. Which direction are we facing? Do we know the directions or signs along the course so that we will not get lost? So one of the ingredients to a successful race must be either knowledge of the course itself or knowledge pertaining to reading signs along the way.
A second item would be that of persistence. Staying power! One might have knowledge of the route, but gets tired, burnt out or distracted. The race is put on the back burner, thus is never finished.
Conversely, one may have a great deal of persistence, zeal, energy and a lot of other good things, yet if one mis-reads the signs along the way or is on a course set from misinformation he will not run the race either. He will have run his own race, rather than the official one.
While it is possible to run this race alone, from a certain perspective that is the only way possible, one may be encouraged if other are also running the race, not as competitors but as fellows pilgrims, all heading for the same goal. Here there are two parts to racing with another: being able to be encouraged by another and being able to encourage another.
May the Lord give us love for him, so that we will desire to run towards him all of our life. May the Lord give us a love for his word, that we run the course approved of our God. May the Lord grant that we receive the prize.
Amen.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
The election is over, or will be soon, as there are still a few races here and there that are too close to call.
Our town voted for McCain, and I believe a fair number of our church membership did not vote for Obama. So where does this leave us? Are we angry? Complaining? Do we wonder where our God is? Or, do we just shrug this off?
Matthew records a very interesting prayer offered by Jesus to His father: (ESV) Mat 11:25 At that time Jesus declared, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; 26 yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. 27 All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.
In respects to salvation Christ declares this issue to be in the hands of the “Lord of heaven and earth”, yet we men often likes to lay claim to being sovereign as to if and when we 'decide' for Jesus. However, if it is true that the Son could “thank” the Father that some would not ever come to know the Son, we may also ask “Would Jesus be thankful for Obama being elected as President”? The answer is “Yes, he would.” And as Christ is the one who has been “handed” all things by the Father, believers must acknowledge that Obama is the president elect because Christ is in control.
Similarly, Paul gave us the following: (ESV) Eph 1:22 And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
The context expands on this to some extent so please read that as well. Christ has all authority. He exercises this authority not just to do the will of God, but particularly to do good for his people; to bring them salvation and to develop Christ's likeness in them. Therefore, we must look at each leader, on every level, that we have over us, and also at people who might be under us, and declare that this is so because Christ has willed it to be thus.
In light of these Scriptures, and many others like them, we must conclude that grumbling and complaining is a statement directly against our Lord and God, whom we believers do declare to be a 'good God'. Thus, to adopt the words and attitude of Christ is imperative, especial as we acknowledge that the grace of God is working in his people to conform us to the likeness of Christ, the Lord.
Having said all of the above, does this mean then that we ought to expect godly things from an Obama administration? At this point, we will have to wait and see, though the evidence seems to stacked against such a hope. Look at the rulers, both local and global, at the time of Paul, Peter and John. Yet the admonishment from their writings is to submit to the authorities over us for the Lord's sake.
May we do so, as people who know the Only True God and his sent Son, Jesus Christ. Obama is president elect because our good Lord has so willed.
Our town voted for McCain, and I believe a fair number of our church membership did not vote for Obama. So where does this leave us? Are we angry? Complaining? Do we wonder where our God is? Or, do we just shrug this off?
Matthew records a very interesting prayer offered by Jesus to His father: (ESV) Mat 11:25 At that time Jesus declared, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; 26 yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. 27 All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.
In respects to salvation Christ declares this issue to be in the hands of the “Lord of heaven and earth”, yet we men often likes to lay claim to being sovereign as to if and when we 'decide' for Jesus. However, if it is true that the Son could “thank” the Father that some would not ever come to know the Son, we may also ask “Would Jesus be thankful for Obama being elected as President”? The answer is “Yes, he would.” And as Christ is the one who has been “handed” all things by the Father, believers must acknowledge that Obama is the president elect because Christ is in control.
Similarly, Paul gave us the following: (ESV) Eph 1:22 And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
The context expands on this to some extent so please read that as well. Christ has all authority. He exercises this authority not just to do the will of God, but particularly to do good for his people; to bring them salvation and to develop Christ's likeness in them. Therefore, we must look at each leader, on every level, that we have over us, and also at people who might be under us, and declare that this is so because Christ has willed it to be thus.
In light of these Scriptures, and many others like them, we must conclude that grumbling and complaining is a statement directly against our Lord and God, whom we believers do declare to be a 'good God'. Thus, to adopt the words and attitude of Christ is imperative, especial as we acknowledge that the grace of God is working in his people to conform us to the likeness of Christ, the Lord.
Having said all of the above, does this mean then that we ought to expect godly things from an Obama administration? At this point, we will have to wait and see, though the evidence seems to stacked against such a hope. Look at the rulers, both local and global, at the time of Paul, Peter and John. Yet the admonishment from their writings is to submit to the authorities over us for the Lord's sake.
May we do so, as people who know the Only True God and his sent Son, Jesus Christ. Obama is president elect because our good Lord has so willed.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Counseling, if mentioned in the church, is often understood to imply that someone has real problems or perhaps someone is getting married. (As in pre-marital counseling.) Yet verses that we have memorized speak of 'stirring one another up unto love and good works' (Heb. 10:24,25). This certainly is a form of counseling, is it not?
Below is a link to 9marks.org, their latest ejournal is featuring counseling on a very practical level for churches. On the left of this page is 'latest from 9marks'. Under this title is information on the Nov/Dec ejournal.
http://www.9marks.org/partner/0,,314526,00.html
I may print up a few copies to have available.
I am offering this information as a helpful tool for us, that we might function together in a healthy manner, building each other up in the love and truth of the Lord.
Below is a link to 9marks.org, their latest ejournal is featuring counseling on a very practical level for churches. On the left of this page is 'latest from 9marks'. Under this title is information on the Nov/Dec ejournal.
http://www.9marks.org/partner/0,,314526,00.html
I may print up a few copies to have available.
I am offering this information as a helpful tool for us, that we might function together in a healthy manner, building each other up in the love and truth of the Lord.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Voting, as a Christian.
Elections are just around the corner.
Here for your pleasure and edification (Lord willing) is my ideal candidate, and why I question whether many of our present slate of nominees will be a blessing for our country.
The first and foremost command is to love the Lord our God with all of our heart, soul, strength and mind. The God of this command is not just any ole god. He is our Creator and Judge. The God who provided His Son as the Way, Truth and Life – the God of the Bible.
The candidate must have a life that shows consistence in living this belief, as this is the foundation for a sound world-view.
Secondly, the candidate must love his neighbor as himself. This point may be fleshed out by looking at the last 6 of the Ten Commandments (according the traditional Protestant numbering of these).
I would like to highlight just three.
God commands us not to covet our neighbor's . . . (filling the blank). The ideal candidate will not encourage us to look at our neighbor's wealth, success and prosperity with envy. He will teach us by example, by veto power, and other means, that our trust is to be in the God who made us. This candidate will encourage work. He would take steps to take the rewards way from laziness and a lifestyle of deliberate dependence upon others.
This leads to the second point. He will not pass legislation that amounts to stealing from one's neighbor. There are legitimate roles of the government, both arising from the Bible and from our Constitution, which he would seek to fund. He would not be known as a man who has enlarged government.
The role of our government in his administration would be to punish evil, rather than in legislating programs. Government would not be 'god' to him or his people.
Third, the murder of our infants and infirmed would have to be addressed. This would include not just these acts but the world-view that cultivates the environment for these deaths.
Lastly, one general comment regarding international diplomacy. Democracy, while being greatly blessed by God in our country, is not necessarily the only good form of government. Democracy requires a philosophical/religious foundation that some cultures just do not have. Early America had it. It is doubtful that the America of today would have gotten off to such a good start if we had to do it over again. We are theologically/philosophically a different culture today.
He would realize that, both at home and abroad, the ugliness of sin (the breaking of these commandments) is going to corrupt all of the best laid plans of mice and men. His hope of being a good ruler would be that the Lord of Heaven and Earth would bless him, and thus, faithfulness to his God would be his light rather than his standing in the polls.
(This candidate would not seek to set up a Christian state, but would life his faith in the political arena.)
Pay for by . . . .
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
What is the Church? Or, the local Church? Here is a short article touching upon campus ministries and the Church. The overall article is good, but I would encourage you to look carefully at the paragraphs on the Church. This is very well stated and is an important point.
http://www.henryinstitute.org/commentary_read.php?cid=484
http://www.henryinstitute.org/commentary_read.php?cid=484
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Discernment – 2
(ESV) Jer 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?
One tricky part regarding discernment is that we are not always objective. Certainly this means that we may think we are very discerning, when in truth we are just so much wind blowing. Or, our discernment might be on target but applied with little love or desire for edification. Further, this verse also means that I might not be objective when I consider my own walk with the Lord or my own maturity or my ministry. One must bear the testimony of this verse before him at all times.
Humility is a good antidote to a false assessment, however, the deceitful heart is very capable of messing with this attribute as well.
The following might prove helpful in keeping a proper perspective.
Always bear in mind that one never will have perfect discernment – that deceitful heart thing, again.
Listen to the views and opinions of others, even the most 'humble' saint.
Don't be rash in imposing your own judgment.
Be filled with God's word. Let it's light illumine each issue and situation.
Listen to more than one side of an issue.
Just because one has gotten one issue correct he mustn't think he's am on a roll. (Pride and that heart issue.)
Live a life of dependence upon the Lord.
Above all, apply the truth in love.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Discernment
How does a pastor/teacher know if God's people are getting it? You know, understanding the Word, the Gospel and various issues and theological positions.
One window into a person's mind is the comments that they might make in discussions, conversations or emails. One such recent conversation comes to mind. A few members and I had the opportunity to share comments on a speaker we had all heard. One member remarked favorably about the presentation of the gospel. The other member and I were not as enthusiastic. Yes, the gospel had been presented, but with a very strong bias in the direction of man-centered faith. For example, the speaker emphasized that “You are the only one who can reserve a place in heaven for yourself.” Christ is actually the one who does this. (John 14:1-3; 1 Peter 1:4,5)
Certainly some attenders and members of the church will never grow in their understanding. Yet there is hope, isn't there, for others?
ESV 2Ti 4:2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
While I, as the under-shepherd, have responsibility to do these things listed, I must wait upon the Lord to give understanding to His people. He is the one who opens eyes spiritually.
And I do wait in hope, for eternal life is knowing God and the one he sent. (John 17:3) It is God's will that his people know him. So I teach, and pray, that these sheep might know God, know more about God, - might know him better, more accurately.
Is this important?
Yes. God's people bear witness in the church and in the world of who and what God is. God does not share his glory with man, and He gives grace to the humble. We do much better before God when we are not lifting ourselves up.
ESV 1Co 1:29 so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. 30 He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom and our righteousness and sanctification and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.
How does a pastor/teacher know if God's people are getting it? You know, understanding the Word, the Gospel and various issues and theological positions.
One window into a person's mind is the comments that they might make in discussions, conversations or emails. One such recent conversation comes to mind. A few members and I had the opportunity to share comments on a speaker we had all heard. One member remarked favorably about the presentation of the gospel. The other member and I were not as enthusiastic. Yes, the gospel had been presented, but with a very strong bias in the direction of man-centered faith. For example, the speaker emphasized that “You are the only one who can reserve a place in heaven for yourself.” Christ is actually the one who does this. (John 14:1-3; 1 Peter 1:4,5)
Certainly some attenders and members of the church will never grow in their understanding. Yet there is hope, isn't there, for others?
ESV 2Ti 4:2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
While I, as the under-shepherd, have responsibility to do these things listed, I must wait upon the Lord to give understanding to His people. He is the one who opens eyes spiritually.
And I do wait in hope, for eternal life is knowing God and the one he sent. (John 17:3) It is God's will that his people know him. So I teach, and pray, that these sheep might know God, know more about God, - might know him better, more accurately.
Is this important?
Yes. God's people bear witness in the church and in the world of who and what God is. God does not share his glory with man, and He gives grace to the humble. We do much better before God when we are not lifting ourselves up.
ESV 1Co 1:29 so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. 30 He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom and our righteousness and sanctification and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
A recollection of the previous week.
A beautiful view.
As I write this I am looking out of a window at Eastern Maine Medical overlooking the Penobscot River. My wife has had a few problems fixed that had arisen from having children, working hard and – hum – getting older. Also, I am on vacation.
Sitting, relaxing, nothing on my schedule. For a few days this is nice.
Later – we are home. Yet my wife is not recovered. Of course, that will take a long time. Our life is not 'normal'. At the same time some in our household are on a normal schedule. While 'tension' might be an overstatement, there is some pulling and tugging in different direction. Also, the household items are using this interruption as an opportunity for mischief. Something my wife notices more than myself.
The week continues.
Oh yes, our daughter has volley ball practice and a couple of games. Someone needs to take her to our Friday home school group. An elderly saint is close to being called home. We are in need of a few groceries.
My wife has had a steady stream of cards, phone calls and visitors. Meals have been accompanying these visits as well.
The Lord has been gracious, bestowing his love upon us. My wife has five more weeks of 'taking it easy'. As she feels more like herself, 'herself' will want to be on the go. Perhaps the hardest part is yet to come.
Sunday morning has arrived. I am the only one up. Soon others will be joining me. Lydia and I will worship and fellowship while Bobbi and her mom will stay home. Week one is above over. I'm looking forward to John's teaching today. May the Lord bestow his blessings upon His Word.
A humble 'thank you' to all who have contributed this week to our needs and our comfort.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Sunday School
Princeton Baptist has a very faithful adult Sunday School class. Over the years we have had a robust teaching staff for all ages, but things have changed. Fewer children are available to come to Sunday School. Another group which seems to be slipping through the cracks, for some reason, is that of the younger adults. Why? I don't know for sure.
Princeton Baptist has a very faithful adult Sunday School class. Over the years we have had a robust teaching staff for all ages, but things have changed. Fewer children are available to come to Sunday School. Another group which seems to be slipping through the cracks, for some reason, is that of the younger adults. Why? I don't know for sure.
Who is available, and also able, to teach these few young children and even fewer teens? Or, do we need to have the traditional classes?
In some games, like scrabble, or chess, for example, as the game progresses one has few and few pieces with which to work. In such cases one has to own up to his limitations, adapt to them and use what resources are available. So must we.
What are the real important elements of a Sunday School?
That the Word is taught well, soundly.
That the Word is taught with love.
That anyone coming in must be loved by those teaching and by others in the Sunday School.
That the Word be received well, as God's Word.
That it be received in Faith
that it be received in Obedience
That as a church we engage in prayer for our Sunday School
expressing our dependence upon him
asking for his blessing
that God's name might be honored
that those who are dead might be made alive
that fruit might be born in all of us.
Expressing thankfulness for the Gospel and for what He has given so far.
Elements that might be not so important.
Age segregation
The best lesson material (colorful, 'exciting', 'age appropriate', etc.)
Programs
Other items might be added to both list.
Lastly, Sunday School ought not to be in competition with or against the family. Rather it ought to support and complement worship at home.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Sunday evening.
Princeton Baptist has not had an evening service for some time. So the question of what do to with oneself on a Sunday evening has to be addressed.
We have decided that we would use the time to have the church people over for supper. We have one or two families over, depending upon the size of the families, and my wife tries to invite an older and a younger couple for the same evening if possible. This is giving us opportunities to become better acquainted, and perhaps, make this possible for our guests.
At this point we are just getting acquainted, discussing the backgrounds of each of us, local history, jobs and family. With some spiritual conversation seems to flow much easier than with others, and sometimes not along lines that we might expect.
We consider this as part of the our Christian walk. While hospitality is much larger than having people over for dinner, having dinner guests is at least a part of this concept. The elder is to be a person demonstrating this service: ESV 1Ti 3:2 “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.” However, I must give a great deal of credit and thanks to my wife, for without her help I could not do this.
However, this trait is not to be reserved for the 'clergy'. Read the following verses: Acts 28:7; Rom. 12:13; 1 Tim. 3:2; 5:10; Titus 1:8; Heb. 13:2; 1 Pet. 4:9.
May we also be an example of hospitality, for the glory of God.
One last closing point. Hospitality, in the sense of ministering, it not to be limited to our friends. Have someone over for an evening whom you do not know well. Make plans to minister the grace and love of our Lord.
Princeton Baptist has not had an evening service for some time. So the question of what do to with oneself on a Sunday evening has to be addressed.
We have decided that we would use the time to have the church people over for supper. We have one or two families over, depending upon the size of the families, and my wife tries to invite an older and a younger couple for the same evening if possible. This is giving us opportunities to become better acquainted, and perhaps, make this possible for our guests.
At this point we are just getting acquainted, discussing the backgrounds of each of us, local history, jobs and family. With some spiritual conversation seems to flow much easier than with others, and sometimes not along lines that we might expect.
We consider this as part of the our Christian walk. While hospitality is much larger than having people over for dinner, having dinner guests is at least a part of this concept. The elder is to be a person demonstrating this service: ESV 1Ti 3:2 “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.” However, I must give a great deal of credit and thanks to my wife, for without her help I could not do this.
However, this trait is not to be reserved for the 'clergy'. Read the following verses: Acts 28:7; Rom. 12:13; 1 Tim. 3:2; 5:10; Titus 1:8; Heb. 13:2; 1 Pet. 4:9.
May we also be an example of hospitality, for the glory of God.
One last closing point. Hospitality, in the sense of ministering, it not to be limited to our friends. Have someone over for an evening whom you do not know well. Make plans to minister the grace and love of our Lord.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)