Mark 10:17-27 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" "Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.'" "Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy." Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!" The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, "Who then can be saved?"
Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."
How many folks can relate to the rich man? America is the wealthiest nation which has ever existed. I believe this suggests that we all fall into the category of rich, at least comparatively speaking. I want God to challenge me and any reader with this question about wealth because there’s no sense going any further until I check my own heart and intentions. Let me check my heart by seeing, if I’m honest with myself, if I’m asking the question “what’s wrong with what this guy (the rich man) has said or done?”. Wealth leads to contentment which can lead to a notion of independence which then pushes God further and further out of our lives. Keeping in mind, however, the Bible teaches us that there were at least a few rich disciples who were counted among Jesus’ disciples (the women mentioned in Matthew 8:2-4, Nicodemus the Pharisee, Zacchaeus the tax collector, Joseph of Arimathea, just to name a few). What does this say about the power of God and the zeal He has for His glory?
The rich man ran up to Jesus and fell on his knees before him. He said good teacher what must I do to inherit eternal life? This communicates to me one of two things: 1. this rich man highly respected Jesus and recognized Jesus had some measure of authority over him or 2. The rich man wanted to disarm Jesus with flattery and make a public showing of his piety before someone he considered to be the most famous teacher/prophet in all of Israel, at the time. From this scripture, in my opinion, the truth is somewhere in between. In my opinion this rich man is concerned with his outside appearance and the opinion of others, but I also believe he truly wanted something more in his life and somehow he knew Jesus had the answer. However, this rich man wanted the quick and dirty answers. He most definitely didn’t want to hear about perseverance, sacrifice and faith.
The rich man said “good teacher what must I do to inherit eternal life?” "Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. Do you see what’s going on here? The rich man wants that quick and dirty answer from Jesus. In my opinion, Jesus answers his question with a challenge: ‘When you say “good teacher” do you believe that I am God or do you just want a quick and dirty answer?’ (I stress in my opinion because this is definitely open to interpretation.)
The funny thing is, Jesus actually gives the rich man the quick and dirty answer to eternal life. “You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.'" In my opinion Jesus is pointing out the sins in the rich man’s life, much like He did with the woman at the well. I say this because He doesn’t mention all of the commandments. Obviously Jesus knows the hearts of man and obviously He loves us despite this. I believe Jesus gave the rich man what he wanted (the direct answers) in order to point him to Himself (Jesus).
"Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy." Notice the rich man’s response or rather notice what he omits in his response. He dropped the word “good” and thus acknowledges in speech what was truly in his heart. Jesus never said “How dare you call me good! Only God is good and I am not He!” Also, as I noted in the previous paragraph, I believe the rich man is lying to Jesus in this response.
Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." Now Jesus issues the more straight forward challenge. He doesn’t call the rich man a liar or anything of the like. He cuts to the chase and says (basically) “get rid of that which hinders you, the deceitfulness of wealth, and come and follow me”. I wonder if I truly believe the Word is living because if it is then Jesus is speaking to me, and every person, here. Think long and hard about how these verses are speaking to you. There are some very real, very necessary challenges here which are completely counter culture and completely contrary to what we were all taught in school, the work place and our homes growing up. I’ve always been taught to work hard, make lots of money and maintain a good image and a good name for others. Well I’m here to tell you my name is meaningless, outside of Jesus. My name has it’s origins in man just like my sin. Remember “Narrow is the path”!
"Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, "Who then can be saved?" Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God." What was Jesus doing here? I believe He was now challenging His disciples to look to Him for salvation. The point is no one can be saved without Jesus. If none are good except God then none can be saved on their own (Psalm 14:2-3).
(Matthew 13:3-23)
How should the church address those people who receive the seed in the thorns, those who allow the word to be chocked by the deceitfulness of wealth? I would argue to say Christ centered, loving discipleship. However, this takes courage and confidence in Christ. It’s also counter culture, requires a focus on Christ and others and forces us out of our comfort zones.
Should affluent churches be placed in affluent areas? Should churches cater to the masses, especially the wealthier masses? Should churches pander to man at all? The flesh wants us all to run away to do everything to please men and lift up ourselves. The flesh wants us to worry about this life and fill it with more and more. Ultimately the flesh wants to be content with this life and independent of God. Woe to the man who is content with this life. I believe the desires we have for more (fill in the blank) are our desires for Christ. We should all be content with what the Lord gives us, but never content with our relationship with Him.
Love your brother so that there’s a possibility “He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown."
A prayer: If bringing my name low humbles me and lifts up the name of Jesus then may my name be nothing to every man. If my wealth holds me back from Jesus then may I loose it all for Him. May I realize my own sin, and in this realization understand why I need Jesus so much in my life. May I be more like Zacchaeus the tax collector, who when he stood before Jesus and heard the accusations of the crowd against Jesus, for his association with him, immediately gave away much of his wealth (Luke 19), not to please man, but to please Jesus. May I understand your Word so that, for your name’s sake, others may also understand. Amen.
Friday, December 16, 2005
Thursday, December 08, 2005
It's beginning to look a lot like Xmas, or Holiday
There has been much discussion in blog-dom concerning this trend of the megachurches canceling Christmas services. Well I guess I'm throwing my name into the hat as well. However, someone else has hit the nail on the head with this whole issue, in my opinion. I was reading the Internet Monk's thoughts on this and I found myself with little else to say. He pretty much sums up my feeling on all this. Basically, the issue isn't about putting one day above another or "how dare you cancel Christmas? This is the Lord's day!". We all know that everyday is the Lord's day. This issue is about fullfilling the great commission, or more basically, promoting a godly witness. It's our witness, as a Christian community which is the issue. Every year the godless in this nation are pushing out God and every year we (the church) are letting them. It's not about protecting my beliefs, it's about protecting my witness. God doesn't need to protect His honor, but He has left us as stewards of this world. There's a responsibility in that.
Here's a quote from the Internet Monk's article on this topic and I would encourage anyone to read it. I feel it sums up my feelings (click on the title of this article to see the Internet Monk's original article):
“In Dicken’s Christmas Carol, Scrooge sees Bob and Tiny Tim return from Christmas Day worship:
`And how did little Tim behave?'’ asked Mrs Cratchit, when she had rallied Bob on his credulity and Bob had hugged his daughter to his heart’s content.
“As good as gold,'’ said Bob, “and better. Somehow he gets thoughtful, sitting by himself so much, and thinks the strangest things you ever heard. He told me, coming home, that he hoped the people saw him in the church, because he was a cripple, and it might be pleasant to them to remember upon Christmas Day, who made lame beggars walk, and blind men see.'’
And Scrooge himself, with a changed nature…
He went to church, and walked about the streets, and watched the people hurrying to and fro, and patted children on the head, and questioned beggars, and looked down into the kitchens of houses, and up to the windows: and found that everything could yield him pleasure. He had never dreamed that any walk — that anything — could give him so much happiness. In the afternoon he turned his steps towards his nephew’s house.
I’m glad for the churches who will still give Tiny Tim and Scrooge the opportunity to hear the message of Christ on, of all days of the year, December 25th.”
Here's a quote from the Internet Monk's article on this topic and I would encourage anyone to read it. I feel it sums up my feelings (click on the title of this article to see the Internet Monk's original article):
“In Dicken’s Christmas Carol, Scrooge sees Bob and Tiny Tim return from Christmas Day worship:
`And how did little Tim behave?'’ asked Mrs Cratchit, when she had rallied Bob on his credulity and Bob had hugged his daughter to his heart’s content.
“As good as gold,'’ said Bob, “and better. Somehow he gets thoughtful, sitting by himself so much, and thinks the strangest things you ever heard. He told me, coming home, that he hoped the people saw him in the church, because he was a cripple, and it might be pleasant to them to remember upon Christmas Day, who made lame beggars walk, and blind men see.'’
And Scrooge himself, with a changed nature…
He went to church, and walked about the streets, and watched the people hurrying to and fro, and patted children on the head, and questioned beggars, and looked down into the kitchens of houses, and up to the windows: and found that everything could yield him pleasure. He had never dreamed that any walk — that anything — could give him so much happiness. In the afternoon he turned his steps towards his nephew’s house.
I’m glad for the churches who will still give Tiny Tim and Scrooge the opportunity to hear the message of Christ on, of all days of the year, December 25th.”
Monday, December 05, 2005
Amish-ism
I was having a chat with my mother the other night. One of the topics of conversation that came up was the sheltered lives of Christians. This conversation came up as I was reflecting on an earlier conversation I had with a friend of mine concerning his girlfriend’s mother. My friend shared with me a story about this one time he, his girlfriend and her mother were walking down the street, engaged in conversation, when they passed this guy who was uttering profanity to himself. My friend and his girlfriend continued their conversation not paying much attention to what they just heard. Her mother, on the other hand, exclaimed “Did you hear what that man just said?!!”. After sharing this story with my mother she shared with me that she could very much relate to this reaction. She explained to me the culture shock she went through several years ago when she reentered the work force after my dad was laid off. She was a phlebotomist at this hospital back in Binghamton, NY. She began to explain to me her shock at the frequent use of profanity, vulgarity and descriptions of the immoral acts her co-workers were involved in. After my mother shared this with me I started wondering about the prevalence of sheltered Christianity in our churches, with our leaders and what this meant, with regards to interacting with the unbelieving world.
Should we really ever be surprised by heathens being, well… heathen? How can a sheltered man teach others how to engage the (heathen) world for the purposes of spreading the good news of Jesus Christ? How many of our teachers followed the pattern of attending Christian schools through college, then seminary and then straight into ministry? Or how many of them are involved in the lives of unsaved folks now? If no servant is better then his master, then why aren’t we engaging the world around us as Jesus did? Both Jesus and Paul were able to adeptly use the culture around them to either start a lesson or preach about the good news of Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 5:9-13: I have written you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside.
There is a prevalence of sheltered ignorance, in the church, we use to excuse the responsibility we have to engage the world. This misunderstanding of remaining in, but not of the world. The Amish fell prey to a huge misunderstanding of this scripture many years ago and so now they’re stuck in the 1800’s. As if the 1800’s were the pinnacle of human purity. Are we creating a contemporary “Amish-like” society in our churches now? However, in one interpretation (not being “of the world”), it almost seems as though we ignore scripture.
Colossians 2:20-23 Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: "Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!"? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
In these verses Paul is writing about Gnostic practices of trying to attain grace from God through human wisdom and actions. I believe the Bible teaches Christ’s love comes from the Father and His love is independent of the objects of His love. Are we trying to please man or are we trying to manipulate God when we act like “good” Christians or good Gnostics or good Pharisees? I think we so much desire to be like God that we secretly want others to worship (like/ highly respect/ adore/ desire) us and be in control of our own destiny. Why do you think satan has any power at all in this world? We gave it to him when we ate the fruit and turned our back on God. The major difference between a good, yet sinful man and an evil one (by human standards) is that the evil man has a firmer grasp on these two desires, willingly turns his back on God and tries to fulfill his sinful desires. A truly godly man has come to this same realization, however, instead of falling into his desires, he gives them over to Jesus Christ and observes, through the unfolding of his life in Christ, how these desires were nailed to a cross a long time ago. This gives him real power and ultimate freedom because he understands that this power doesn’t come from himself, but exists for the sole purpose of glorifying Jesus Christ and His glory is the salvation of mankind.
Do you see the confidence and power which can be drawn upon here? Why are you so afraid to engage the world? Are you afraid they will see you for the insecure wretched sinner you really are? Join the rest of humanity. Is this what keeps you from pouring into other brothers and sisters in Christ, with your own family? Take hold of the freedom in Christ.
Matthew 3:16-17 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased."
If we are saved then God sees only the blood of His son. For if He saw anything else Jesus would have to die again and Jesus was lying when he said “It is finished”. This is where our freedom comes from. God looks upon Jesus, loves Him and is well pleased. This is our confidence, not the value others place on us. This enables us, as Christians, to say “Yes I am a sinner, however, my sins have been forgiven!”.
Wake up you lazy sleepers! Too many Christians expect everything to be spoon fed to them and too many churches try really hard to accommodate this desire. The church puts far too much importance on 1 to 2 hours every Sunday morning and almost no emphasis on the rest of the week. No more excuses like “those verses no longer apply to us.”, or “Our current culture doesn’t support that. Those verses are just too difficult and ideal in our culture.”
(John 1:1-5) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
Jesus Christ is the Word and the Word is the eternal truth. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. This tells me that all of scripture is God breathed and of eternal significant. If you overlook scripture because it seems too ideal, then I would argue that you’re leaning towards being “of the world”. Don’t allow satan to cloud your judgment through living in a sheltered existence. Don’t believe his lies about the unknown. Don’t allow yourself to become irrelevant. Don’t listen to people who purport that scripture is no more then stories. Jesus Christ isn’t a story, He is Lord of Lords and King of Kings and His word is eternal.
Now is the time for action, to apply our faith in the lives of others and humble ourselves enough to be held accountable, to be the Good Samaritan, to serve our fellow man, to take a real interest in him, instead of focusing so much on ourselves. The church doesn’t need anymore sheltered leaders and laymen who never leave their “Christian” world or feel they are an island unto themselves. Put aside your fears, for they are not of God, but put on the full armor of God. If you’re just not comfortable with engaging the heathen world, then get into prayer and take action. Seek out people who can disciple you in this area. Again don’t just expect it to fall into your lap. Your life is nothing without Jesus and He wants you to be interested in and love others.
Matthew 22:36-40 36 "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Should we really ever be surprised by heathens being, well… heathen? How can a sheltered man teach others how to engage the (heathen) world for the purposes of spreading the good news of Jesus Christ? How many of our teachers followed the pattern of attending Christian schools through college, then seminary and then straight into ministry? Or how many of them are involved in the lives of unsaved folks now? If no servant is better then his master, then why aren’t we engaging the world around us as Jesus did? Both Jesus and Paul were able to adeptly use the culture around them to either start a lesson or preach about the good news of Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 5:9-13: I have written you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside.
There is a prevalence of sheltered ignorance, in the church, we use to excuse the responsibility we have to engage the world. This misunderstanding of remaining in, but not of the world. The Amish fell prey to a huge misunderstanding of this scripture many years ago and so now they’re stuck in the 1800’s. As if the 1800’s were the pinnacle of human purity. Are we creating a contemporary “Amish-like” society in our churches now? However, in one interpretation (not being “of the world”), it almost seems as though we ignore scripture.
Colossians 2:20-23 Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: "Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!"? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
In these verses Paul is writing about Gnostic practices of trying to attain grace from God through human wisdom and actions. I believe the Bible teaches Christ’s love comes from the Father and His love is independent of the objects of His love. Are we trying to please man or are we trying to manipulate God when we act like “good” Christians or good Gnostics or good Pharisees? I think we so much desire to be like God that we secretly want others to worship (like/ highly respect/ adore/ desire) us and be in control of our own destiny. Why do you think satan has any power at all in this world? We gave it to him when we ate the fruit and turned our back on God. The major difference between a good, yet sinful man and an evil one (by human standards) is that the evil man has a firmer grasp on these two desires, willingly turns his back on God and tries to fulfill his sinful desires. A truly godly man has come to this same realization, however, instead of falling into his desires, he gives them over to Jesus Christ and observes, through the unfolding of his life in Christ, how these desires were nailed to a cross a long time ago. This gives him real power and ultimate freedom because he understands that this power doesn’t come from himself, but exists for the sole purpose of glorifying Jesus Christ and His glory is the salvation of mankind.
Do you see the confidence and power which can be drawn upon here? Why are you so afraid to engage the world? Are you afraid they will see you for the insecure wretched sinner you really are? Join the rest of humanity. Is this what keeps you from pouring into other brothers and sisters in Christ, with your own family? Take hold of the freedom in Christ.
Matthew 3:16-17 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased."
If we are saved then God sees only the blood of His son. For if He saw anything else Jesus would have to die again and Jesus was lying when he said “It is finished”. This is where our freedom comes from. God looks upon Jesus, loves Him and is well pleased. This is our confidence, not the value others place on us. This enables us, as Christians, to say “Yes I am a sinner, however, my sins have been forgiven!”.
Wake up you lazy sleepers! Too many Christians expect everything to be spoon fed to them and too many churches try really hard to accommodate this desire. The church puts far too much importance on 1 to 2 hours every Sunday morning and almost no emphasis on the rest of the week. No more excuses like “those verses no longer apply to us.”, or “Our current culture doesn’t support that. Those verses are just too difficult and ideal in our culture.”
(John 1:1-5) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
Jesus Christ is the Word and the Word is the eternal truth. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. This tells me that all of scripture is God breathed and of eternal significant. If you overlook scripture because it seems too ideal, then I would argue that you’re leaning towards being “of the world”. Don’t allow satan to cloud your judgment through living in a sheltered existence. Don’t believe his lies about the unknown. Don’t allow yourself to become irrelevant. Don’t listen to people who purport that scripture is no more then stories. Jesus Christ isn’t a story, He is Lord of Lords and King of Kings and His word is eternal.
Now is the time for action, to apply our faith in the lives of others and humble ourselves enough to be held accountable, to be the Good Samaritan, to serve our fellow man, to take a real interest in him, instead of focusing so much on ourselves. The church doesn’t need anymore sheltered leaders and laymen who never leave their “Christian” world or feel they are an island unto themselves. Put aside your fears, for they are not of God, but put on the full armor of God. If you’re just not comfortable with engaging the heathen world, then get into prayer and take action. Seek out people who can disciple you in this area. Again don’t just expect it to fall into your lap. Your life is nothing without Jesus and He wants you to be interested in and love others.
Matthew 22:36-40 36 "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Narrow is the road
Luke 12:35-48 "Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. I tell you the truth, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the second or third watch of the night. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."
Peter asked, "Lord, are you telling this parable to us, or to everyone?"
The Lord answered, "Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns. I tell you the truth, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. But suppose the servant says to himself, 'My master is taking a long time in coming,' and he then begins to beat the menservants and maidservants and to eat and drink and get drunk. The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers.
"That servant who knows his master's will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
I’ve already written, in a previous article, on (or rather implied) that the mega churches are perhaps more of a breeding ground for disobedience to scripture, particularly by the leaders of these churches. Perhaps a more accurate statement is that the temptation is greater. All you have to do is read about the king’s of ancient Israel & Judah or references in Isaiah, Jeremiah or Ezekiel in the Bible to see plenty of examples of wicked kings and watchmen over God’s sheep and the punishment outlined for them. As well, the NT is full of stories concerning the wickedness of the Pharisees and teachers of the law described in the gospels. The point is these types of men have always been around and there’s no reason, for a Christian, who stays in the Word, to be so naive to think that these types of men don’t exist now in the church. That's why it is so important to stay in the Word and prayer.
Matthew 7:12-14 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Think about this for a moment. Don’t just pass it by. What are the implications of this verse? Was Jesus off His rocker when He said this? Were these verses only applicable to the folks of Christ’s generation or, as with everything He said, is this eternal truth? Again what are the implications of these verses? This is important to the whole of Christianity, of a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. Why does it seem as though these verses are either essentially, misread, ignored or illicit conceit (the few the proud, the Christian) from so many Christians? The implications are huge here!
We’ve all heard that tired saying which goes something like “If you saw someone in the middle of a fire and had the ability to save this person, would you?” Of course this is referring to our responsibility, as Christians, to spread the good news and thereby obey the great commission (Matthew 28:19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit).
Basically, for the intentions of this particular article, I’m trying to underscore the importance of church discipleship, both for leaders as well as laymen. Why? One implication of Matt 7, to me, is that people we see every week in our church buildings aren’t truly part of Christ’s church. Many modern churches are set up, for the most part, and particularly true of the mega churches, to get folks in the door. They want the money these folks bring, as well as the higher status they get from a worldly perception of success in numbers. Sounds like a corporation, doesn’t it? This way the church leaders feel their job is done, especially if these folks continue to attend every week. Perhaps they feel the messages the pastor’s offer up are so in tune with the seeker that they will become Christian purely through osmosis? “Congratulations, you belong; you’re a real Christian now!” How watered down can something be and still remain as it was? I say watered down because seekers certainly couldn’t understand real truth, as written in the Bible. The Holy Spirit is obviously insufficient for this particular task. I’m using sarcasm.
Here’s an interesting quote from an interesting man, George Washington Carver (http://inventors.about.com/library/weekly/aa041897.htm): “It is not the style of clothes one wears, neither the kind of automobile one drives, nor the amount of money one has in the bank, that counts. These mean nothing. It is simply service that measures success.”
Do you see the humility and simplicity of this quote? Service! Well how do we serve the Lord where we are right now? Don’t be afraid to share with someone your testimony of how Jesus has changed your life. So many common practices in the church are inconsequential in comparison to Jesus Christ and Him crucified. No matter where you perceive a fellow church attender to be, whether mature in Christ or unsaved, a little bit of yourself (in the form of friendship & encouragement) goes a long way. Of course you’re exposing yourself to possible hurt, but then isn’t that part of vulnerability? Sounds like sacrifice to me. “Take up your cross daily”.
Ephesians 5:8-20 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said: "Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you."
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Peter asked, "Lord, are you telling this parable to us, or to everyone?"
The Lord answered, "Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns. I tell you the truth, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. But suppose the servant says to himself, 'My master is taking a long time in coming,' and he then begins to beat the menservants and maidservants and to eat and drink and get drunk. The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers.
"That servant who knows his master's will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
I’ve already written, in a previous article, on (or rather implied) that the mega churches are perhaps more of a breeding ground for disobedience to scripture, particularly by the leaders of these churches. Perhaps a more accurate statement is that the temptation is greater. All you have to do is read about the king’s of ancient Israel & Judah or references in Isaiah, Jeremiah or Ezekiel in the Bible to see plenty of examples of wicked kings and watchmen over God’s sheep and the punishment outlined for them. As well, the NT is full of stories concerning the wickedness of the Pharisees and teachers of the law described in the gospels. The point is these types of men have always been around and there’s no reason, for a Christian, who stays in the Word, to be so naive to think that these types of men don’t exist now in the church. That's why it is so important to stay in the Word and prayer.
Matthew 7:12-14 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Think about this for a moment. Don’t just pass it by. What are the implications of this verse? Was Jesus off His rocker when He said this? Were these verses only applicable to the folks of Christ’s generation or, as with everything He said, is this eternal truth? Again what are the implications of these verses? This is important to the whole of Christianity, of a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. Why does it seem as though these verses are either essentially, misread, ignored or illicit conceit (the few the proud, the Christian) from so many Christians? The implications are huge here!
We’ve all heard that tired saying which goes something like “If you saw someone in the middle of a fire and had the ability to save this person, would you?” Of course this is referring to our responsibility, as Christians, to spread the good news and thereby obey the great commission (Matthew 28:19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit).
Basically, for the intentions of this particular article, I’m trying to underscore the importance of church discipleship, both for leaders as well as laymen. Why? One implication of Matt 7, to me, is that people we see every week in our church buildings aren’t truly part of Christ’s church. Many modern churches are set up, for the most part, and particularly true of the mega churches, to get folks in the door. They want the money these folks bring, as well as the higher status they get from a worldly perception of success in numbers. Sounds like a corporation, doesn’t it? This way the church leaders feel their job is done, especially if these folks continue to attend every week. Perhaps they feel the messages the pastor’s offer up are so in tune with the seeker that they will become Christian purely through osmosis? “Congratulations, you belong; you’re a real Christian now!” How watered down can something be and still remain as it was? I say watered down because seekers certainly couldn’t understand real truth, as written in the Bible. The Holy Spirit is obviously insufficient for this particular task. I’m using sarcasm.
Here’s an interesting quote from an interesting man, George Washington Carver (http://inventors.about.com/library/weekly/aa041897.htm): “It is not the style of clothes one wears, neither the kind of automobile one drives, nor the amount of money one has in the bank, that counts. These mean nothing. It is simply service that measures success.”
Do you see the humility and simplicity of this quote? Service! Well how do we serve the Lord where we are right now? Don’t be afraid to share with someone your testimony of how Jesus has changed your life. So many common practices in the church are inconsequential in comparison to Jesus Christ and Him crucified. No matter where you perceive a fellow church attender to be, whether mature in Christ or unsaved, a little bit of yourself (in the form of friendship & encouragement) goes a long way. Of course you’re exposing yourself to possible hurt, but then isn’t that part of vulnerability? Sounds like sacrifice to me. “Take up your cross daily”.
Ephesians 5:8-20 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said: "Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you."
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Happy Thanksgiving
I sent this out to everyone in my young adults group for last Thanksgiving.
Every day we draw breath is by the good pleasure of our God and Lord Jesus Christ. Let us all now as the bride of Jesus Christ rejoice in our bridegroom and raise up our praises to such a glorious, great and wondrous provider and savior.
Thank you Lord for giving me breath to draw, eyes to read, ears to hear and a mouth to proclaim your word and praise your holy name. Thank you God for the salvation you have given me through your son Jesus Christ. Forgive me for my transgressions and may your love so overwhelm and convict me that I will love others more unconditionally. For the glory of Jesus Christ until His blessed return. Amen.
Below I’ve included an address George Washington gave on Thanksgiving. Please read it and if you wish to see for yourself the web address is at the very bottom of this email.
George Washington's1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation
Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me "to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:"Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted' for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have show kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.
Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the 3d dy of October, A.D. 1789.
(signed) G. Washington
From Spark's Washington, Vol. XII, p. 119
The following background information was submitted by Wayne Winters of Pocatello, Idaho.Shortly after the Thanksgiving Proclamation was written it was lost for over a hundred years. It was apparently misplaced or attached to some private papers in the process of moving official records from one city to another when the capital was changed. However, it happened the original manuscript was not in the official archives until 1921 when Dr. J. C. Fitzpatrick, then assistant chief of the manuscripts division of the Library of Congress "found" the proclamation. It was at an auction sale being held at an art gallery in New York. It was written in long hand by Wm. Jackson, secretary to President Washington and was signed by George Washington. Dr Fitzpatrick purchased the document for $300.00 for the Library of Congress, where it now resides.
Every day we draw breath is by the good pleasure of our God and Lord Jesus Christ. Let us all now as the bride of Jesus Christ rejoice in our bridegroom and raise up our praises to such a glorious, great and wondrous provider and savior.
Thank you Lord for giving me breath to draw, eyes to read, ears to hear and a mouth to proclaim your word and praise your holy name. Thank you God for the salvation you have given me through your son Jesus Christ. Forgive me for my transgressions and may your love so overwhelm and convict me that I will love others more unconditionally. For the glory of Jesus Christ until His blessed return. Amen.
Below I’ve included an address George Washington gave on Thanksgiving. Please read it and if you wish to see for yourself the web address is at the very bottom of this email.
George Washington's1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation
Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me "to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:"Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted' for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have show kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.
Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the 3d dy of October, A.D. 1789.
(signed) G. Washington
From Spark's Washington, Vol. XII, p. 119
The following background information was submitted by Wayne Winters of Pocatello, Idaho.Shortly after the Thanksgiving Proclamation was written it was lost for over a hundred years. It was apparently misplaced or attached to some private papers in the process of moving official records from one city to another when the capital was changed. However, it happened the original manuscript was not in the official archives until 1921 when Dr. J. C. Fitzpatrick, then assistant chief of the manuscripts division of the Library of Congress "found" the proclamation. It was at an auction sale being held at an art gallery in New York. It was written in long hand by Wm. Jackson, secretary to President Washington and was signed by George Washington. Dr Fitzpatrick purchased the document for $300.00 for the Library of Congress, where it now resides.
Forgiveness
Thought I'd just share this link to a rather long comment I posted on my friend Greg's blog, concerning forgiveness. I was going to post this comment as an article on my site, as Greg brought up a very good question on forgiveness. However, Greg posed the question. So if you'd like to see what me and Greg have to say about forgiveness just click on the title of this posting.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Understanding God? & Prayer: Faith and God’s Sovereignty
It seems as though there is something inside all of us humans. There is this desire to figure out everything that touches our lives, whether corporeal or spiritual. However, as a Christian I believe every desire we humans have is or, maybe better, can be tainted by sin. As we perceive, we can explain and as we explain we can then rest easy that the world was truly created in our image. As if God created us to be gods as if we could somehow compete with and overthrow Him.
Why are so many scientist consumed with proving out and figuring out the beginnings of the universe? Why are scientists so consumed with proving how this planet came to be populated by us? Why are these same scientists so adamantly against Christianity? They are so quick to dismiss Christianity as a myth. Why?
(Genesis 2:8-9,15-17) Now the LORD God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. And the LORD God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the LORD God commanded the man, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die."
(Genesis 3:4-6) "You will not surely die," the serpent said to the woman. "For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
Humans have been evil and wretched from the beginning, even though we were actually able to walk with God, physically, we wanted more then He could give us. We wanted to know it all. We wanted to be like God. Dare I say we wanted (or perhaps even want) to be God. Sound familiar? We chose the tree of death, instead of the tree of life. It is interesting to notice that the tree of immortality, of life, was not restricted from man, only the tree of death, of the knowledge of good and evil. It was such an easy command, for our benefit and His glory, with free access to immortality with God. So the first sin was also the most heinous. God was with them (Immanuel). This was before the great divorce or fall. Man had direct physical access to God. He was there to be praised, to be worshipped and to directly inquire and converse with, like another person. Why didn’t Adam or Eve simply just ask God? Why did they trust a serpent they knew wasn’t sent to them from God? Even though they hadn’t eaten from the tree they already knew what they were doing was wrong. They knew the serpent was lying. They knew why they couldn’t eat this fruit and what the result of eating the fruit was. They already knew good from evil.
Fast forward thousands of years and man is still repeating the same old mistakes, except 100 fold. To me it seems utterly foolish to believe the world created itself somehow. Our planet orbits at the exact proper distance from the sun to sustain life! Closer (Venus) is too hot, further away (Mars) too cold. We are the only known sentient life forms, in corporeal form, in existence. Why? Why aren’t monkeys or fish or birds or dogs or cats or any other life forms capable of this? If evolution were true then surely other sentient life forms would exist. Wouldn’t “nature” be able to find a way for life to exist on the moon or Mars or Venus or one of the other planets or moons? Surely if it were powerful enough to enable man to come from a single celled organism it would be powerful enough to create a life form which could exist in a Mar’s like environment. Right? I mean Mars has an atmosphere, it’s not a complete vacuum. Surely nature could come up with something that could survive on Mars, no matter how strange or alien? Oh, wait a minute, our great scientists have already set boundaries for how life could form because they know it all. They already know how life could form. There has to be a set environment, with specific gases and specific amino acids and on and on. So we’ve already established boundary conditions for life. So suddenly “nature” is limited. It’s not all powerful. The universe has to somehow randomly supply all of the necessary components for life to then randomly form. Then somehow the universe created itself from nothing. Does this make any sense? However, it almost seems to when “they” explain it.
The below link was one part of the impetus for my discourse. I guess it kind of chaps my butt when self purported “intelligent” people, who have obviously never had an independent thought apart from the work and established opinions or scientific work of other people, state their opinions as fact. I try to encourage everyone to use the brain God has given us to investigate and figure things out for ourselves. For me the Bible is the only rock solid truth in writing. Everything else is subject to this truth and as I continue on in this life I find more and more how true the following verse is: (1 Corinthians 1:24 ) For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20051122/ap_on_re_us/intelligent_design_course_1
Sub-article: Prayer: Faith and God’s Sovereignty
The other catalyst for this article is a discussion I had with a friend of mine concerning faith and prayer. I described a health problem my mother is dealing with in which I’m applying prayer, and the belief I hold that my lack of faith is a factor with this situation remaining a closed door. My friend disagreed with me and holds to the belief (basically) that our prayers are under God’s sovereignty alone. I don’t disagree with him on this point and that’s why I pray “your will be done Lord”. I believe I’m too sinful to understand God’s ways, however, I believe scripture teaches that faith and God’s sovereign will are one. Just as the glory of Jesus and the absolute good (or best situation) in my life, as well as the entire world are all one. Sin (and we are all sinful) is counter to God’s will, counter to faith, counter to God’s glory and so counter to life (life as God’s good will). In part I use these scriptures to obtain this view:
(Mark 9:17-29) A man in the crowd answered, "Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not." "O unbelieving generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me." So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth.
Jesus asked the boy's father, "How long has he been like this?", "From childhood," he answered. "It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us." " 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the evil spirit. "You deaf and mute spirit," he said, "I command you, come out of him and never enter him again." The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, "He's dead." But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up. After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, "Why couldn't we drive it out?" He replied, "This kind can come out only by prayer."
(John 14:12-15) I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. "If you love me, you will obey what I command.
(1 Corinthians 13:11-13) When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 1Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
(John 16:22-24) So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
(Mark 11:22-24) "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
However, here’s a clear example of pure faith in prayer and a closed door to a request. This would be an example of the Father’s sovereign will superseding a pure desire. However, notice the disclaimer “yet not my will, but yours be done.”
This is Jesus’ prayer just prior to be taken by the temple guards:
(Luke 22:41-43) He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.
Conclusion
The truth, in God’s word, is absolutely not subjective, however, human interpretations can be. When a man interprets the word, look for fruits of the Spirit. If there are no fruits then his/her truth become very subjective. This is what I try to do: Take any one piece of human truth (human interpretation of the word) and measure it against the whole (i.e. the entire Bible). I also ask myself: Which interpretation brings the most glory to God versus interpretations which give the most glory to man? Last, but not least, pray and trust that the Holy Spirit will reveal the truth to you.
(John 14:16-18) And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.
Why are so many scientist consumed with proving out and figuring out the beginnings of the universe? Why are scientists so consumed with proving how this planet came to be populated by us? Why are these same scientists so adamantly against Christianity? They are so quick to dismiss Christianity as a myth. Why?
(Genesis 2:8-9,15-17) Now the LORD God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. And the LORD God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the LORD God commanded the man, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die."
(Genesis 3:4-6) "You will not surely die," the serpent said to the woman. "For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
Humans have been evil and wretched from the beginning, even though we were actually able to walk with God, physically, we wanted more then He could give us. We wanted to know it all. We wanted to be like God. Dare I say we wanted (or perhaps even want) to be God. Sound familiar? We chose the tree of death, instead of the tree of life. It is interesting to notice that the tree of immortality, of life, was not restricted from man, only the tree of death, of the knowledge of good and evil. It was such an easy command, for our benefit and His glory, with free access to immortality with God. So the first sin was also the most heinous. God was with them (Immanuel). This was before the great divorce or fall. Man had direct physical access to God. He was there to be praised, to be worshipped and to directly inquire and converse with, like another person. Why didn’t Adam or Eve simply just ask God? Why did they trust a serpent they knew wasn’t sent to them from God? Even though they hadn’t eaten from the tree they already knew what they were doing was wrong. They knew the serpent was lying. They knew why they couldn’t eat this fruit and what the result of eating the fruit was. They already knew good from evil.
Fast forward thousands of years and man is still repeating the same old mistakes, except 100 fold. To me it seems utterly foolish to believe the world created itself somehow. Our planet orbits at the exact proper distance from the sun to sustain life! Closer (Venus) is too hot, further away (Mars) too cold. We are the only known sentient life forms, in corporeal form, in existence. Why? Why aren’t monkeys or fish or birds or dogs or cats or any other life forms capable of this? If evolution were true then surely other sentient life forms would exist. Wouldn’t “nature” be able to find a way for life to exist on the moon or Mars or Venus or one of the other planets or moons? Surely if it were powerful enough to enable man to come from a single celled organism it would be powerful enough to create a life form which could exist in a Mar’s like environment. Right? I mean Mars has an atmosphere, it’s not a complete vacuum. Surely nature could come up with something that could survive on Mars, no matter how strange or alien? Oh, wait a minute, our great scientists have already set boundaries for how life could form because they know it all. They already know how life could form. There has to be a set environment, with specific gases and specific amino acids and on and on. So we’ve already established boundary conditions for life. So suddenly “nature” is limited. It’s not all powerful. The universe has to somehow randomly supply all of the necessary components for life to then randomly form. Then somehow the universe created itself from nothing. Does this make any sense? However, it almost seems to when “they” explain it.
The below link was one part of the impetus for my discourse. I guess it kind of chaps my butt when self purported “intelligent” people, who have obviously never had an independent thought apart from the work and established opinions or scientific work of other people, state their opinions as fact. I try to encourage everyone to use the brain God has given us to investigate and figure things out for ourselves. For me the Bible is the only rock solid truth in writing. Everything else is subject to this truth and as I continue on in this life I find more and more how true the following verse is: (1 Corinthians 1:24 ) For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20051122/ap_on_re_us/intelligent_design_course_1
Sub-article: Prayer: Faith and God’s Sovereignty
The other catalyst for this article is a discussion I had with a friend of mine concerning faith and prayer. I described a health problem my mother is dealing with in which I’m applying prayer, and the belief I hold that my lack of faith is a factor with this situation remaining a closed door. My friend disagreed with me and holds to the belief (basically) that our prayers are under God’s sovereignty alone. I don’t disagree with him on this point and that’s why I pray “your will be done Lord”. I believe I’m too sinful to understand God’s ways, however, I believe scripture teaches that faith and God’s sovereign will are one. Just as the glory of Jesus and the absolute good (or best situation) in my life, as well as the entire world are all one. Sin (and we are all sinful) is counter to God’s will, counter to faith, counter to God’s glory and so counter to life (life as God’s good will). In part I use these scriptures to obtain this view:
(Mark 9:17-29) A man in the crowd answered, "Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not." "O unbelieving generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me." So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth.
Jesus asked the boy's father, "How long has he been like this?", "From childhood," he answered. "It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us." " 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the evil spirit. "You deaf and mute spirit," he said, "I command you, come out of him and never enter him again." The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, "He's dead." But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up. After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, "Why couldn't we drive it out?" He replied, "This kind can come out only by prayer."
(John 14:12-15) I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. "If you love me, you will obey what I command.
(1 Corinthians 13:11-13) When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 1Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
(John 16:22-24) So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
(Mark 11:22-24) "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
However, here’s a clear example of pure faith in prayer and a closed door to a request. This would be an example of the Father’s sovereign will superseding a pure desire. However, notice the disclaimer “yet not my will, but yours be done.”
This is Jesus’ prayer just prior to be taken by the temple guards:
(Luke 22:41-43) He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.
Conclusion
The truth, in God’s word, is absolutely not subjective, however, human interpretations can be. When a man interprets the word, look for fruits of the Spirit. If there are no fruits then his/her truth become very subjective. This is what I try to do: Take any one piece of human truth (human interpretation of the word) and measure it against the whole (i.e. the entire Bible). I also ask myself: Which interpretation brings the most glory to God versus interpretations which give the most glory to man? Last, but not least, pray and trust that the Holy Spirit will reveal the truth to you.
(John 14:16-18) And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Multi-Mega churches versus local churches part 2: The love of money…
I’m going to try to keep my thoughts relatively short on this issue and let the scriptures speak on this topic, as God does a much better job then I, in relaying His perspective. As always I would encourage any reader to really delve into the scriptures.
Disclaimer: I want to be clear, to those readers who attend the same church as I do, that my opinions are based on conversations with other brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as my own personal experiences in several different churches. I am not specifically addressing concerns I have with my current church. I’m addressing concerns I have with the current American church, in general, and the mega churches more specifically.
I’ve heard so many sermons about money and many times it seems as though Jesus gets lost in the fray. I am told to be a good steward of my money, but not really taught how to use this to glorify Jesus. I am told to tithe as much as I can, and sometimes beyond, but not told why. I am told all this by pastors who lead churches which are cranking in the money without seemingly any accountability. Where is this money being spent? Expansion projects? A big new church building with the churches web site plastered all over it? Better bulletins, or should I say programs (Nice programs so we can all feel like we just attended a very entertaining sporting event, but that’s another article)? Hipper/louder concert/worship music? How much money do these pastors make, in total (book sales, speaking engagements, church salary)? What is the biblical model for how we should spend our money?
I checked two mega church’s websites to see if I could readily find some information on how much money the staff, primarily the senior pastor, receives. Nothing! I believe every church (especially the mega churches) should clearly publish where the tithes and donations are going and how much is going to the staff wages, especially the senior pastor. I also believe the senior pastor should willingly publish his total yearly income. This is to everyone’s benefit. If the pastor is leading a righteous life, with regards to the stewardship of his money, then it is an encouragement to the congregation to do the same. For example, if a senior pastor has a total yearly income of say $100,000 and gives away ½, or more, of it (tithing and charities), this will be an encouragement for the congregation to do the same, especially when he gives the ‘tithing’ sermon. A legitimate case could be made against this particular opinion of mine, however, at the very least, any believer should agree the senior pastor NEEDS to be held accountable by several folks (preferably the unpaid elders of the church) and these folks need to know his total yearly income and how he’s spending it (1Tim 3:2). Also the following scripture comes to mind:
1 Peter 5: 1-3
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
The verses at the end of this article clearly point out how evil the love of money is. If you notice the prophet Balaam is mentioned in 3 separate books of the NT (listed below) and none of these references are good. Balaam is used as a model for the false prophet who seeks wealth and not God. Balaam was wicked because he believed in God, but directly disobeyed Him and didn’t hold to His teachings or His will. This brought destruction, not only to himself, but to those who sought his counsel and/or services.
Concerning false prophets and their love of money, God has given us all a brain, but more than that He’s provided His word which is full of all things good (joy, encouragement, instruction, love and wisdom). I encourage all believers to read His word. Read about our glorious Lord and savior Jesus Christ. Read His teachings. In light of these teachings and in light of the love of the Father expressed through His son Jesus Christ, humbly pray for discernment enough to tell the man of God from the Balaam’s of this world. However, pray for Jesus’ bride (the church) and pray for humbleness and love in your heart so that you can pray for these men once you’ve recognized them. That God may yet reveal to them that He is the Lord. That He may yet have mercy on them, as He did with Nineveh (Book of Jonah) and Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:33-37).
An interesting email I received:
Subject: Consider before you donate
As you open your pockets for yet another natural disaster, keep these facts in mind:
Marsha J. Evans, President and CEO of the American Red Cross salary for year ending 06/30/03 was $651,957 plus expenses.
Brian Gallagher, President of the United Way receives a $375,000 base salary, plus numerous expense benefits.
The Salvation Army's Commissioner Todd Bassett receives a salary of only $13,000 per year (plus housing) for managing this $2 billion dollar organization.
No further comment necessary
Pertinent scripture:
Ecclesiastes 5:10 (New International Version)
Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless.
Mark 10:23-25
Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!"
The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
Luke 8:14
The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear (the word), but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature.
Matthew 6:24
"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
1 Timothy 6:3-12
If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, he is conceited and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction between men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
2 Timothy 3:1-5
But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.
Hebrews 13:5-6
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"
Concerning Balaam
For reference see Numbers 22-24
2 Peter 2 (concerning false prophets/teachers in the likeness of Balaam who sought material wealth for his prophecies)
Jude 1 (concerning godless men, also in the likeness of Balaam who sought material wealth for his prophecies)
Revelation 2:12-17
"To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives. Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality. Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.
Encouragement:
Isaiah 55:1-2
"Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare.
Matthew 6:20
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
Disclaimer: I want to be clear, to those readers who attend the same church as I do, that my opinions are based on conversations with other brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as my own personal experiences in several different churches. I am not specifically addressing concerns I have with my current church. I’m addressing concerns I have with the current American church, in general, and the mega churches more specifically.
I’ve heard so many sermons about money and many times it seems as though Jesus gets lost in the fray. I am told to be a good steward of my money, but not really taught how to use this to glorify Jesus. I am told to tithe as much as I can, and sometimes beyond, but not told why. I am told all this by pastors who lead churches which are cranking in the money without seemingly any accountability. Where is this money being spent? Expansion projects? A big new church building with the churches web site plastered all over it? Better bulletins, or should I say programs (Nice programs so we can all feel like we just attended a very entertaining sporting event, but that’s another article)? Hipper/louder concert/worship music? How much money do these pastors make, in total (book sales, speaking engagements, church salary)? What is the biblical model for how we should spend our money?
I checked two mega church’s websites to see if I could readily find some information on how much money the staff, primarily the senior pastor, receives. Nothing! I believe every church (especially the mega churches) should clearly publish where the tithes and donations are going and how much is going to the staff wages, especially the senior pastor. I also believe the senior pastor should willingly publish his total yearly income. This is to everyone’s benefit. If the pastor is leading a righteous life, with regards to the stewardship of his money, then it is an encouragement to the congregation to do the same. For example, if a senior pastor has a total yearly income of say $100,000 and gives away ½, or more, of it (tithing and charities), this will be an encouragement for the congregation to do the same, especially when he gives the ‘tithing’ sermon. A legitimate case could be made against this particular opinion of mine, however, at the very least, any believer should agree the senior pastor NEEDS to be held accountable by several folks (preferably the unpaid elders of the church) and these folks need to know his total yearly income and how he’s spending it (1Tim 3:2). Also the following scripture comes to mind:
1 Peter 5: 1-3
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
The verses at the end of this article clearly point out how evil the love of money is. If you notice the prophet Balaam is mentioned in 3 separate books of the NT (listed below) and none of these references are good. Balaam is used as a model for the false prophet who seeks wealth and not God. Balaam was wicked because he believed in God, but directly disobeyed Him and didn’t hold to His teachings or His will. This brought destruction, not only to himself, but to those who sought his counsel and/or services.
Concerning false prophets and their love of money, God has given us all a brain, but more than that He’s provided His word which is full of all things good (joy, encouragement, instruction, love and wisdom). I encourage all believers to read His word. Read about our glorious Lord and savior Jesus Christ. Read His teachings. In light of these teachings and in light of the love of the Father expressed through His son Jesus Christ, humbly pray for discernment enough to tell the man of God from the Balaam’s of this world. However, pray for Jesus’ bride (the church) and pray for humbleness and love in your heart so that you can pray for these men once you’ve recognized them. That God may yet reveal to them that He is the Lord. That He may yet have mercy on them, as He did with Nineveh (Book of Jonah) and Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:33-37).
An interesting email I received:
Subject: Consider before you donate
As you open your pockets for yet another natural disaster, keep these facts in mind:
Marsha J. Evans, President and CEO of the American Red Cross salary for year ending 06/30/03 was $651,957 plus expenses.
Brian Gallagher, President of the United Way receives a $375,000 base salary, plus numerous expense benefits.
The Salvation Army's Commissioner Todd Bassett receives a salary of only $13,000 per year (plus housing) for managing this $2 billion dollar organization.
No further comment necessary
Pertinent scripture:
Ecclesiastes 5:10 (New International Version)
Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless.
Mark 10:23-25
Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!"
The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
Luke 8:14
The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear (the word), but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature.
Matthew 6:24
"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
1 Timothy 6:3-12
If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, he is conceited and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction between men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
2 Timothy 3:1-5
But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.
Hebrews 13:5-6
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"
Concerning Balaam
For reference see Numbers 22-24
2 Peter 2 (concerning false prophets/teachers in the likeness of Balaam who sought material wealth for his prophecies)
Jude 1 (concerning godless men, also in the likeness of Balaam who sought material wealth for his prophecies)
Revelation 2:12-17
"To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives. Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality. Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.
Encouragement:
Isaiah 55:1-2
"Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare.
Matthew 6:20
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
Saturday, October 29, 2005
Multi-mega churches vs. traditional church. Part 1
Every Christian should care about what's going on in big churches because the big churches are setting the bar and that's the real problem. Church leaders are running the church like a business instead of a place of worship. We measure success based on attendance or how many folks heed the alter call to perceived salvation, instead of obedience to the word.
Weak worship is a symptom or one problem generated by a bigger issue. The real issue being, we've lost sight of our first love, as a church body. How are we trusting in God as our provider when we continue to pump money into ministries or buildings with the sole intention of bolstering attendance? Shouldn't churches start looking into planting more churches before spending money on expanding a building? I mean why are we coming to church? For the pastor? Jesus Christ is the standard every church should aspire to and His words are clearly communicated in the Bible. Weak worship (whether contemporary or traditional (and as a side note, traditional worship at one point was contemporary) is a symptom of this bigger issue, just like adultery, all the myriad of denominations (thereby creating a total lack of unity in Christ), divorce (which mirrors the secular world, shame on us, as marriage is suppose to be representative of Christ's relationship with His bride, the church), fornication, gossip, selfishness and especially pride, just to name a few, which are all rampant in the church. Yes we are all sinners, but where's the difference a true "seeker" is looking for between his/her current lifestyle and what we call the Christian lifestyle, if there is such a thing? Are we more concerned with our appearance as "holy" people, much like the Pharisees, then with being a servant to all?
"Weak, spineless leadership" doesn't just affect praise singing, it affects the whole church. It provides us with weak messages which challenge nobody, but yet provide a sense of comfort so we can all walk out the door on Sunday back into lives which deny the power of the Holy Spirit. Out of fear we don't share our faith with anyone, but curl up into our comfortable "Christian ball". It's bad enough we segregate between denominations, but we also segregate between sexes, married and unmarried, older and younger, perceivably mature and perceivably immature Christians. Thereby we don't really fellowship as much as we look for "the beautiful people". Little to no mentoring or discipleship, let alone love. We bury the "talents" God has given us and expect that at the end of the age He will still say "Well done good and faithful servant" (Matt. 25:21). We almost deify essentially learned rich men (I think six figure salaries for a pastor defines rich, in most areas of this country) who have the ability to speak in front of large numbers of people. Doesn't anyone else see an issue with this? And I want to make this 100% clear, the answer is not another denomination or maybe a better word is "revolution". That is only trusting in human wisdom, with no regard for preparing the bride for her wedding, by making her beautiful for the bridegroom (Ephesians5:26).
The question we should all be asking is: are we doing church right or wrong? How does our church look when compared against the church in the NT or more importantly to Jesus? If this can be recognized for the extremely serious issue that it is, then how can we lovingly (putting others above ourselves) affect change in our current churches? Quite easily we can focus off of the problems and focus back on serving Jesus (1 Co 2:2). We can do what the word says and pray that God would use us to be a light to others (James 1:22). We have to change first. It's never about the other person, so much as it is about the individual (Matt. 7:5).
Regarding the traditional church: It's doubtful the traditional, or the "contemporary" church is equiped to equip the congregation towards the endeavor of engaging the world. The traditional church is only the contemporary church of 50 years ago and if we're honest it essentially failed it's generation. Whether through the depression, which closed it's doors to the needy and thereby created the welfare state we enjoy now, or through the rebellious 60's when there was no real voice for Christ (other then possibly MLK jr. and he never addressed the prolific rebellion, to my knowledge). Traditional church or worship isn't the answer, being relevant, but uncompromisingly faithful to Jesus is. The moment you get caught up with "How can we keep the (fill in the blank) folks here?" you've just lost sight of the prize and focused on pleasing people. This isn't to say we shouldn't listen to each other.
We all need to be very careful not to get distracted by the minor symptoms when the deeper issues need to be resolved. We all need to allow God to work in our hearts. This is the only way we're ever going to see real change in the church. It has to start with the individual and we need to encourage each other (other believers).
Weak worship is a symptom or one problem generated by a bigger issue. The real issue being, we've lost sight of our first love, as a church body. How are we trusting in God as our provider when we continue to pump money into ministries or buildings with the sole intention of bolstering attendance? Shouldn't churches start looking into planting more churches before spending money on expanding a building? I mean why are we coming to church? For the pastor? Jesus Christ is the standard every church should aspire to and His words are clearly communicated in the Bible. Weak worship (whether contemporary or traditional (and as a side note, traditional worship at one point was contemporary) is a symptom of this bigger issue, just like adultery, all the myriad of denominations (thereby creating a total lack of unity in Christ), divorce (which mirrors the secular world, shame on us, as marriage is suppose to be representative of Christ's relationship with His bride, the church), fornication, gossip, selfishness and especially pride, just to name a few, which are all rampant in the church. Yes we are all sinners, but where's the difference a true "seeker" is looking for between his/her current lifestyle and what we call the Christian lifestyle, if there is such a thing? Are we more concerned with our appearance as "holy" people, much like the Pharisees, then with being a servant to all?
"Weak, spineless leadership" doesn't just affect praise singing, it affects the whole church. It provides us with weak messages which challenge nobody, but yet provide a sense of comfort so we can all walk out the door on Sunday back into lives which deny the power of the Holy Spirit. Out of fear we don't share our faith with anyone, but curl up into our comfortable "Christian ball". It's bad enough we segregate between denominations, but we also segregate between sexes, married and unmarried, older and younger, perceivably mature and perceivably immature Christians. Thereby we don't really fellowship as much as we look for "the beautiful people". Little to no mentoring or discipleship, let alone love. We bury the "talents" God has given us and expect that at the end of the age He will still say "Well done good and faithful servant" (Matt. 25:21). We almost deify essentially learned rich men (I think six figure salaries for a pastor defines rich, in most areas of this country) who have the ability to speak in front of large numbers of people. Doesn't anyone else see an issue with this? And I want to make this 100% clear, the answer is not another denomination or maybe a better word is "revolution". That is only trusting in human wisdom, with no regard for preparing the bride for her wedding, by making her beautiful for the bridegroom (Ephesians5:26).
The question we should all be asking is: are we doing church right or wrong? How does our church look when compared against the church in the NT or more importantly to Jesus? If this can be recognized for the extremely serious issue that it is, then how can we lovingly (putting others above ourselves) affect change in our current churches? Quite easily we can focus off of the problems and focus back on serving Jesus (1 Co 2:2). We can do what the word says and pray that God would use us to be a light to others (James 1:22). We have to change first. It's never about the other person, so much as it is about the individual (Matt. 7:5).
Regarding the traditional church: It's doubtful the traditional, or the "contemporary" church is equiped to equip the congregation towards the endeavor of engaging the world. The traditional church is only the contemporary church of 50 years ago and if we're honest it essentially failed it's generation. Whether through the depression, which closed it's doors to the needy and thereby created the welfare state we enjoy now, or through the rebellious 60's when there was no real voice for Christ (other then possibly MLK jr. and he never addressed the prolific rebellion, to my knowledge). Traditional church or worship isn't the answer, being relevant, but uncompromisingly faithful to Jesus is. The moment you get caught up with "How can we keep the (fill in the blank) folks here?" you've just lost sight of the prize and focused on pleasing people. This isn't to say we shouldn't listen to each other.
We all need to be very careful not to get distracted by the minor symptoms when the deeper issues need to be resolved. We all need to allow God to work in our hearts. This is the only way we're ever going to see real change in the church. It has to start with the individual and we need to encourage each other (other believers).
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