Home is Where God Is- Revelation 21 and 22

A couple of weeks ago, Allie came to me and asked if there were any pictures of Heaven in the Bible. Scattered throughout scripture there are glimpses of our awaiting glory.

Read Revelation 21:10-21 aloud and picture John’s description of the New Jerusalem—costly stones, high walls, foundation stones inlaid with precious gems, gates inlaid with pearls. Simply put, Heaven is gorgeous. No matter our social standing now, we will play the role of George Jefferson and be “movin’ on up…to that deluxe apartment in the skies!”

There will no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His bond-servants will serve Him; they will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads. And there will no longer be any night; and they will not have need of the light of a lamp nor the light of the sun, because the Lord God will illumine them; and they will reign forever and ever.  -Revelation 22:3-5

Even better, God Himself will live among us and will be the only source needed for comfort, peace, renewal, and security.  Life is crazy busy sometimes with stress levels that never seem to drop. God promises His people that a time is coming when all the struggles, pain, separation, and death will be done away with. He will wipe away His people’s tears.

And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.” -Revelation 21:3-4

This home is a result of the sacrifice of Jesus. His blood made reconciliation with God possible. Sin’s curse was because of man’s rebellion. Yet even as God assigned punishments, He announced His plan to fix the broken relationship with man. God wanted His people to be with Him for eternity.

In the Bible’s final chapter, we see the end result of God’s plan. The curse of sin will be no more. God and man will be together. God will provide everything we need. In the midst of all life’s struggles, our Creator and Sustainer provides us a picture to strengthen and encourages His people. This is a picture of Heaven. This is where we are meant to be—with Him.

Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city. -Revelation 22:14

Focus as a Good Soldier- 2 Timothy 2

As I sit down to write this article, numerous distractions present themselves. The dog is begging for some leftover bacon from breakfast, Allie is asking questions about her schoolwork, Tassie is busily working around the house, and my attention is divided between my wandering mind and an explosive headache. Today, focus is hard to maintain. Yet focus is what God calls us to as good soldiers of Christ.

Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. -2 Timothy 2:3-4

Unfocused soldiers are dangerous. During wartime, they risk disaster and death for themselves and their platoon. They are likely to get shot by not noticing the enemy. Christians are in a war against Satan. A distracted Christian is dangerous too.  They risk spiritual disaster for themselves and for their fellow soldiers (not to mention the lost they could have reached!). As an example, these Christians may be too focused on their position on the latest “hot topic” to focus on what God has to say.

Satan uses distractions from a variety of sources: family, job, sports, money, stress, etc. He wants to take our attention off Jesus. When this happens, we are more likely to give in to temptations that promise to make our lives “easier” or “more pleasant.” Temporary pleasures are never good reasons to compromise our faith. Athletes and farmers can’t afford to give into this temptation either.

Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules. The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops. -2 Timothy 2:5-6

Just as a soldier must obey orders, an athlete must obey the rules of a competition. In the same way, a Christian must obey God’s word if they are going to remain pleasing to Him. Otherwise, they run the risk of being disqualified from their eternal prize. To combat this, the people of God need to be in His word daily, seeking to learn and grow to be more like Jesus. Paul points out this fact to Timothy.

Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, descendant of David, according to my gospel, for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not imprisoned. For this reason I endure all things for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it eternal glory. -2 Timothy 2:8-10

Jesus is like the commanding officer keeping His troops focused on the upcoming mission. He is like the coach preparing the athlete for the upcoming competition. Keeping Jesus in the forefront of our minds will aid us as life attempts to entangle us. Satan is sneaky. Our salvation and the salvation of others may depend on our ability to focus.

 

Transformed Not Conformed- Romans 12

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. -Romans 12:1-2

Have Christians been conformed to the world? The people of God are offended at the thought! After all, the church is supposed to be the “pillar and support” of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15). Do we stand for the truth or have we adopted the world’s outlook? Before simply dismissing the thought, consider this example.

Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. -Romans 12:16-18

How do we handle disagreements arising within the local congregation? Unity is what is called for. How do we see fellow Christians? Paul says that we should not think too highly of ourselves. How do we treat the poor? Biblically, we should spend time with them. What do we do when people take advantage of us? God tells us not too seek revenge. How do we define “right?” Our definition should be God’s definition. How do we deal with people when problems arise? Peacemakers are called sons of God (Matthew 5:9).

Paul calls the church to unity, humility, forgiveness, and peace. The church should aim for these attitudes daily. In contrast, the world has fallen victim to Satan’s reading.

Be of the same mind toward one another as long as everyone agrees with you; humility is for the weak, there is no need to waste your time with the lowly. You are as wise as you think you are. Treat people the way they treat you. Respect those who respect you. If possible, so far as it depends on others, be at peace with all men.* 

Unfortunately, the church often agrees with the world’s selective and alternate reading of Scripture. This conformity needs to stop. It is imperative that we seek to do God’s will in every situation. The beginning of a new year is when people resolve to do better. Christians must decide to be transformed into the living, holy sacrifices God wants us to be. Conformity does not please God. Christ died to free us from the patterns of the world, opening the door for something far better—a peaceful, repaired relationship with God (Ephesians 2:11-16). Let the transformation begin!

-Kevin W. Smith

*Romans 12:16-18 rewritten from Satan’s viewpoint.

Christmas and the Promised Savior- Isaiah 7 and 9

The Christmas holidays are hectic. Shopping, decorating, traveling, baking and preparing for parties are staples within the American culture. It is also a time when an increasingly God-less society turns its attention to the Savior for a brief time. Instead of taking this opportunity to discuss the amazing miracle of Jesus’ conception and birth, too often we focus on “educating” the general public on the fact that Jesus was not born on December 25. Shouldn’t we praise God for His faithfulness and creativity in the fulfillment of a series of ancient promises? What a wasted opportunity!

For example, in the midst of an attempted siege, Isaiah the prophet foretold of God’s plan to not only rescue Jerusalem but to bring about the miraculous birth of the Savior.

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel. -Isaiah 7:14

This virgin would give birth to “Immanuel” which means “God with us.” God would be with His people like never before, walking as one of them. Two chapters later, Isaiah describes what the promised child would accomplish.

The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them.You shall multiply the nation, You shall increase their gladness; they will be glad in Your presence as with the gladness of harvest, as men rejoice when they divide the spoil. For You shall break the yoke of their burden and the staff on their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, as at the battle of Midian. For every boot of the booted warrior in the battle tumult, and cloak rolled in blood, will be for burning, fuel for the fire. For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this.

-Isaiah 9:2-7

God sent Jesus, “Immanuel,” to bring hope, direction and great joy to a downtrodden, abused people. He would establish a new Kingdom built upon justice and righteousness. This Jesus would be unlike any ruler before Him. After all, Jesus was no ordinary or even extraordinary man. He was God Himself.

Was Jesus born on December 25? Probably not. Does it matter? Probably not. It does not change what God promised and later fulfilled in bringing our Savior to earth. It does not change the way God chose to work His plan. During this time of celebration, when even this increasingly pagan society pauses to remember Jesus, let us take the time to celebrate with them in hopes of having an opportunity to really introduce them to God. Even if that opportunity does not come, Christians have the added bonus of praising the Creator for His faithfulness and creativity in sending Jesus.

Confident Faith- 2 Timothy 1

Life is challenging to say the least. Our courage and even our faith can be rocked when we or those we love are called to suffer for the gospel. However, our confidence in Jesus can serve as a mighty stalwart aiding us whenever struggles come calling. The Apostle Paul confronts this issue in 2 Timothy, beginning with the young evangelist’s roots.

For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well. For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God,  -2 Timothy 1:5-8

When it came to Jesus, Lois and Eunice were apparently confident and convinced. After all, they passed their faith down to Timothy. Paul encourages Timothy to have this same confidence and faithful conviction by telling him that God has not given His people a spirit of timidity. Paul uses the word δειλια (deilia) which can also be translated “cowardice.” God has not made us cowards, but given us a bold, powerful Spirit to help Christians deal with whatever suffering and challenges surface.

who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel…For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day. -2 Timothy 1:9-10, 12

Paul’s confidence is based on who God is and what He accomplished through Jesus, not on his own ability or standing. After all, he is in a Roman prison as he writes this! For His own purpose, God has granted us grace; His Son has abolished death, illuminated life and offered immortality. Paul wants Timothy to know his confidence is based on Jesus and His competency to safeguard what Paul has entrusted to Him.

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).  He has not changed since Paul declared confidence in His power and ability. Christians today have the same Spirit of power lodging inside them. We are capable of standing firm in our faith through sufferings and challenges as long as Jesus is the stalwart we are holding on to.

 

Standing in God's way-Jonah and Romans 5

On their own, people do not change. Everyone is broken, riddled with sin and rebellion. Yet God wants to see mankind restored to a good relationship with Him. Sometimes His people stand in the way of His Will. Jonah did…or at least tried to.

The word of the LORD came to Jonah the son of Amittai saying, “Arise, go to Nineveh the great city and cry against it, for their wickedness has come up before Me.” But Jonah rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. So he went down to Joppa, found a ship which was going to Tarshish, paid the fare and went down into it to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. -Jonah 1:1-3

Jonah was not suffering from the Bugs Bunny syndrome! You know, always needing to take the left turn at Albuquerque. Jonah was running the other direction because he HATED the Assyrians. After all, Assyria was the most powerful nation at the time and constantly a thorn in Israel’s side. Jonah’s nationalism and hatred were getting in the way of his obedience to God. He even admits this to God after Ninevah repents!

He prayed to the LORD and said, “Please LORD, was not this what I said while I was still in my own country? Therefore in order to forestall this I fled to Tarshish, for I knew that You are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness, and one who relents concerning calamity.” -Jonah 4:2

Through all the disobedience and rebellion, God still took care of His wayward prophet. First God provided a great fish to save Jonah from drowning. Then He provided a large plant for shade to keep Jonah from roasting.

God gives His people hard tasks today—talking to and serving people we do not deem worthy of His saving message. Doing God’s Will in these moments can make Christians uncomfortable (at the very least) or defiant. God has not changed. His Words to Jonah still echo today.

Should I not have compassion on Nineveh, the great city in which there are more than 120,000 persons who do not know the difference between their right and left hand, as well as many animals? -Jonah 4:11

After all, God has gone to great measures to restore a relationship between mankind and Himself.

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only this, but we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation. -Romans 5:8-11

If God was willing to go to such lengths to save a sin-riddled, rebellious race, do His people have any right to stand in His way? Jonah thought so. It didn’t work out too well for him though!

God's Covenant Faithfulness- Psalm 136, 1 Timothy 6, John 1, Romans 6, and Philippians 3

The God worshiped in the Old Testament is the same God worshiped today.  Worshipping our Creator cannot be divorced from His identity and power.

In Psalm 136, the writer addresses God’s goodness (1), superiority (2-3, 26), creative power (4-9), deliverance (10-20), and provision (21-25).  The worship of our Creator is far too important for our checklists.  After all, the God that the psalmist lauds for His superiority is the same God who reigns today.

He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen. -1 Timothy 6:15b-16

The God that the psalmist lauded for His creative power and ability is the same God Christians worship today.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.

-John 1:1-3

The God that was praised for His power to deliver His people is the same God who has delivered Christians from the bondage of sin.

But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. -Romans 6:22-23

The God exalted for His faithful providing is the same God providing Christians a home in Heaven and an eternal inheritance.

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself. -Philippians 3:20-21

Psalm 136 is often referred to as a “responsive” psalm. The speaker would read a line and the people would then respond with the preset line:

For His lovingkindness is everlasting;

Repeating this line caused the people to remember how God has worked throughout Israel’s life. The word translated “lovingkindness” is the Hebrew word Hesed which carries a meaning of “covenant faithfulness.” The people’s portion of the Psalm refocused them on the most crucial reason they had to praise God-His meticulous care in keeping His part of the bargain.

The God that the psalmist lauds is the same God who reigns today.  With a God like this, Christians truly have a reason to be thankful.  Yet, He is far too important simply to be checked off.  He deserves to be actively praised as we remember His covenant faithfulness even today.

Additions, Subtractions, and Sharpening- 2 Peter 1, Ephesians 4, and Proverbs 27

Since we are from the South and lived without a car from February 2006-June 2014, moving to Wyoming brought new and interesting challenges. To counter the new challenges of snow driving as well as the wind, we have needed to add new skills to our repertoire. A Christian’s spiritual life is no different. New behaviors and skills must be added while others must be strengthened to be more pleasing to God.

Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. -2 Peter 1:5-7

Peter tells Christians to be serious about specific additions to their lives. By extension though, he also addresses subtractions that must be made. For example, if a person is adding knowledge of Scripture and God’s will to their lives, they are subtracting ignorance. If they are adding self-control, they are eliminating a lack of restraint. Peter goes on to tell his readers these qualities are not optional if we truly want to prove useful and grateful for what Christ has done for us.

For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. -2 Peter 1:8-9

The altered skills and behaviors are meant to make God’s people useful to Him. By adding these things, we reflect the glory of God to the world around us. Don’t want to change? Peter says you are blind and short-sighted regarding the sacrifice of Jesus.

Change is tough. God wants to help us. To do so, He has given us each other.

And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. -Ephesians 4:11-13

God aids us in building up the body of Christ. Paul specifically mentions evangelists, elders, and teachers. These evangelists and teachers are not necessarily in a classroom or pulpit. Instead these are people who are more spiritually mature who can guide us in our walk with Jesus. They can offer good advice because they have lived the Christian life longer. Because of them, our faith and understanding of God is strengthened. We become more faithfully mature.

Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. -Proverbs 27:17

As 2015 is quickly coming to a close, let’s reevaluate our lives. What changes need to be made to make us what God wants us to be? How can we help our Christian family make the additions that will make them useful to God? Let the sharpening begin!

Bulletin Article- Shadows of a Greater Deliverance- Exodus 12, Luke 22, and Galatians 3

Shadows are one of God’s favorite tools throughout the Old Testament. These served to help His people understand what He would do later.

For the Law, since it has only a shadow of the good things to come and not the very form of things, can never, by the same sacrifices which they offer continually year by year, make perfect those who draw near. -Hebrews 10:1

The Passover served as the greatest shadow of God’s plan to ultimately redeem His people from sin and death.

For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when He sees the blood on the lintel and on the two doorposts, the LORD will pass over the door and will not allow the destroyer to come in to your houses to smite you. And you shall observe this event as an ordinance for you and your children forever. When you enter the land which the LORD will give you, as He has promised, you shall observe this rite. -Exodus 12:23-25

God told the people they would be saved from the destroyer through their obedience. Blood on the doorposts meant salvation. Lack thereof meant death. Just as the Passover meal was meant to spark memories of what God had done for the Israelites, Christians have been left a memorial feast lest we forget the event the Passover shadowed.

And He said to them, “I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I say to you, I shall never again eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He said, “Take this and share it among yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine from now on until the kingdom of God comes.” And when He had taken some bread and given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” And in the same way He took the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood.” -Luke 22:15-20

The Passover was observed yearly. It represented the historical moment when God redeemed His people. In a similar but more frequent fashion, the Lord Supper is observed as Christians remember the historical moment when the sacrifice of Jesus first brought salvation to those who obediently place the blood of Christ on our hearts in baptism.

For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise.

-Galatians 3:26-29

Neither Timid Nor Ashamed- 2 Timothy 1

One skit our group did during our campaigns in England was “The Bus.” During this play, an elderly woman notices a young man with a hymnal on his lap on his way to church. The lady takes the book, flips to various songs and sings some of the lines loudly while the young song leader sinks lower in his seat. The last song she flips to is I Am Not Ashamed to Own My Lord. She sings a couple of lines and asks if the young man knows this song. After he affirmed that he did, she closes the book and hits him with it exclaiming, “Then act like it you lush!”

How we view our faith in Jesus matters. Do we seek to hide our Christianity from our coworkers, friends, and family? Does our faith only come out 1 day per week for 2-4 hours? Are we ashamed of our Savior or afraid to be known as His? Fear is nothing new.

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. -2 Timothy 1:7

Timidity is too nice a word. Paul’s actual word here is better translated “cowardice.” God has not made us cowards! Instead He has given Christians the gift of the Holy Spirit who gives us power, love, and discipline. This new Spirit is a result of our baptism. This, Paul wants Timothy to realize, should make Christians bold.

Unfortunately, sometimes fear is not the only problem. Often fear is mingled with shame.

Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, -2 Timothy 1:8-10

Considering what Jesus has done for Christians, there is no reason to be ashamed of calling Him our Lord. God has saved us from the eternal damnation that we had earned because of our sins. God has called us into His purpose, granting us grace. We are blessed to be able to proclaim this message to others. God wants them to come into the grace and salvation He has given to Christians.

God’s blessing through Christ does not stop there. He abolished death. This abolishing is not cancellation of death, but rather something more intriguing. The translation of this particular phrase is that God made death powerless. He removed it’s fangs! Death no longer carries the force it once carried for Christians. Mankind still faces a physical death, a separation from our physical bodies and this world. What God’s people have been freed from is spiritual death, a separation from Him for eternity.

These promises should lead us to be fearless in the face of whatever persecution may come it’s way: political, career, or physical. These promises should make the church proud of who we belong to and the message God has given us to proclaim.

For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.  -2 Timothy 1:12

Bulletin Article- Crazy, Busy Service- Matthew 14

I have a set routine so I can make sure I get everything done without dropping one of the many balls I have in midair. Some weeks though are like trying to work a jigsaw puzzle with my time. This past week was a routine-busting challenge as I attempted to keep my regular duties and activities from crashing in a heap when unexpected things popped up. Those types of weeks are exhilarating, maddening, and exhausting all rolled together. Jesus had a few of these too. One was particularly memorable.

Now when Jesus heard about John, He withdrew from there in a boat to a secluded place by Himself; and when the people heard of this, they followed Him on foot from the cities. When He went ashore, He saw a large crowd,

-Matthew 14:13-14a

John the Baptist, Jesus’ cousin and forerunner, had been beheaded by King Herod after Herod made a very foolish oath to Herodias’ daughter. All Jesus wanted to do was be alone with His disciples, probably to mourn. The crowd had other plans. Jesus’ response was simply amazing.

and [Jesus] felt compassion for them and healed their sick. -Matthew 14:14b

There was no attempt to hide, no trying to turn them away, no loss of temper. Exhausted with grief, Jesus focused on others. Mark 6:34 adds that Jesus also taught the crowd during this time. This was no 5-minute encounter. It lasted until evening when the disciples tried to persuade Jesus to send the crowd away to food. Instead of complying, sighing, and waving good-bye while they all exit, Jesus performs one of the most well-known miracles of His earthly career. He fed 5,000 men and an undisclosed number of women and children with 5-loaves of bread and 2-fish! There was so much food provided in this miracle that the disciples picked up 12-baskets full of leftovers.

After all was said and done, Jesus finally got the peace and quiet He was seeking, and He used it to spend time with the Father.

Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. -Matthew 14:22-23

The miracle alone was unfathomably astounding. However, when we consider the context surrounding the event, it becomes infinitely more impressive. Bad, busy, crazy days happen. This certainly qualified as such. Not many would have faulted Jesus for turning the crowd away. Yet God granted Him the strength, both during and afterward, to serve in the midst of all the craziness and sorrow.

The next time things just do not shape up the way we planned, we need to respond like our Savior, compassionately seeking to honor God through placing others before ourselves. God can and will help us through whatever the world throws at us.

True Success—Ecclesiastes 2; 12; 1 Timothy 6

How do you measure success? Houses? Cars? Influence? Power? A full bank account? Normally mankind judges success by what brings pleasure. We buy stuff because we think it will make us happy and make us look better to others around us.

Solomon was king of Israel during one of it’s richest periods in history. He was also the wisest man who lived. According to man’s criteria, Solomon should have considered himself über-successful. During his life, he discarded his relationship with God to serve other gods and find “real pleasure.”

I said to myself, “Come now, I will test you with pleasure. So enjoy yourself.” And behold, it too was futility. I said of laughter, “It is madness,” and of pleasure, “What does it accomplish?” -Ecclesiastes 2:1-2

What was his opinion of the pleasures that should have declared his success? Folly and madness. His reasoning was simple yet profound. All the pleasures and the work required to obtain them amounted to nothing because the stuff did not last.

When there is a man who has labored with wisdom, knowledge and skill, then he gives his legacy to one who has not labored with them. This too is vanity and a great evil. For what does a man get in all his labor and in his striving with which he labors under the sun? Because all his days his task is painful and grievous; even at night his mind does not rest. This too is vanity.

-Ecclesiastes 2:21-23

As we have seen on Sunday mornings, the Israelites rightly believed that true wisdom came from God with the ultimate goal of a right relationship with Him. Outside of a relationship with God, success and contentment in life is akin to taming the wind, pointless and impossible. Solomon appears to finally remember this.

The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.

-Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

True success is rooted in the Creator. This fact has not changed in the near 3,000 years since Solomon ran his famous test. The reason is the same as well. Enduring success will stand after our physical lives are over. The only success that lasts is our relationship with our Creator because it will last eternally. The Apostle Paul reiterated godly success when he wrote to Timothy.

But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. -1 Timothy 6:6-8

Everything else is merely trying to tame the wind. 

Confrontations for Unity and Purity—Matthew 5 and 18

Relationships matter to God. Our relationships with one another effect not only our relationship with but also our worship of our Creator. Unity and purity must be preserved and unreconciled differences and sin are a ticking time bomb.

Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering. -Matthew 5:23-24

In context, being angry with your brother can have both legal and eternal consequences. Jesus urges His hearers to fix the issues before they are beyond repair. Later in Matthew, He gives this command specifically regarding sin with a two-fold aim: unity and purity.

If your brother sins [against you], go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother. But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. -Matthew 18:15-17

The offense is not allowed to go ignored if it is garnering hurt feelings or ill-will especially if sin is the issue.  The goal of the sought after reconciliation is unity within the Body. After all, contention has the potential to breed further widespread discord which can splinter groups into factions. Jesus’ process for preservation begins with a 1-on-1 confrontation in private. There is no need to air dirty laundry. Only after the offender refuses to listen are others brought in for aid beginning with only 1 or 2 then finally escalating to the church’s intercession. If the person is unwilling to respond to all of these attempts, they simply do not want to be reconciled.

However unity is not the only goal Jesus has in mind. The other aim, and possibly the primary one, concerns the purity of the Body of Christ. If a person witnesses someone sinning and says nothing, they are condoning the sin. This will eventually infect the church. We see an example of this in 1 Corinthians 5. The whole Corinthian church seemed to know about the man’s inappropriate relationship with his father’s wife. Yet Paul indicated that none of them did anything about this sin. Paul asks them, “Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump of dough?” (5:6)

Jesus deals with two types of confrontation-your brother having something against you and witnessing your brother sinning-the basis of both is love. We want reconciliation and unity with our fellow Christians because we love God’s Family. We want purity within every Christian’s life because we love them. Therefore we want our brother or sister to stop sinning so they will be pleasing to God.

Unity and purity are extremely important. The way we treat one another matters. Unreconciled differences and especially sin cannot be allowed to get in the way. The price Jesus paid was too steep to permit the church to splinter because of unchecked dissension.

Wisdom Shown in Behavior—James 1 & 3

Wisdom and its rewards are invaluable. Solomon makes this clear in the first three chapters of Proverbs. How do we get the wisdom we need? How do we know when we have become wiser? James addresses these questions.

Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. -James 1:2-8

The proof, as they say, is in the pudding. Wisdom is seen in how a person handles difficult times. Our struggles in faith produces the endurance to keep pushing through, much like a runner’s training increases his ability to go further distances without tiring. A person does not successfully run a marathon without building up good endurance. James mentions God being the source for any wisdom lacking to deal with difficult times. The caveat is the person asking must believe that God can give them what they need—the wisdom to handle whatever circumstances come their way properly. How do we know when God has granted us this great blessing?

Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. -James 3:13-16

This section of James’ letter is sandwiched between a section on controlling the tongue (3:1-12) and one about quarrels stemming from greed (4:1-12). A runner that is gasping for breath is a runner whose conditioning is not where it should be. Likewise jealousy, arrogance and selfish ambition show a lack of training in godly wisdom.

According to James, wisdom (or it’s lack) is shown by the fruit produced in someone’s life. True wisdom comes from God, not man. A person of true wisdom shows God’s transforming fingerprints all over the,. As we ask, believing, we will see noticeable changes in our behaviors.

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

-James 3:17-18

By asking for and receiving wisdom, we become what He wants us to be—wise like Christ.  

Caring for Family—1 Timothy 5 and Matthew 5

One of my clearest memories from childhood is watching my dad take care of my maternal grandparents. He would come home from a long day’s work and then help them with whatever they needed. When my grandpa died, dad stepped up his efforts even more and I also moved into the back room of my grandma’s trailer. I do not recall if this move was his idea or mine. I just did it because it seemed the right thing to do.

Honor widows who are widows indeed; but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. -1 Timothy 5:3-4

Consciously or unconsciously, my dad was teaching me godliness. She was not even his mother, but she was part of the family. His tireless effort for my grandma until the day she died modeled the type of widow’s care Paul insisted on within the church. For a believer not to do such things would be unthinkable.

But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

-1 Timothy 5:8

Paul was definitely not being PC here with this comparison between believers and unbelievers! Insiders should be better morally than outsiders. Insiders are held to a higher standard because they belong to God. Jesus made a similar statement in the Sermon on the Mount.

You have heard that it was said, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect. -Matthew 5:43-48

Jesus called His listeners to be different than the Gentiles, to be better. God’s people are called to a higher standard than the “outsiders.” The “outsiders” love their friends. There is nothing special or challenging about this. Followers are instructed to do the hard thing, love their enemies. Failure to do so is only living up to the standard of a Gentile…unthinkable! In 1 Timothy 5, Paul implies that caring for family, like loving our friends, is just something you do. Even those outside the church do that! Failure to do so would be unthinkable! Paul said a person who refuses to care for their family has “denied or rejected the faith.” In other words, an unbeliever is more acceptable to God than them!

Memorizing scripture is important. Learning to pray is important. However, learning to serve is equally necessary. As we raise our kids, let us set the right example for them concerning both their physical and spiritual families. Taking care of our own is one of the best lessons we can provide in how to be like Jesus.

Witnesses—Hebrews 12 and 1 Corinthians 4

Today (9/20/15) would have been my grandma’s 90th birthday. It is also my 27th spiritual birthday. When I looked at the calendar, I got to thinking. We all stand on the shoulders of those that came before us. We owe our faith to faithful men and women past and present. Hebrews 11 recognizes a few amazingly faithful Old Testament saints.  In the next chapter, the Hebrews writer encourages their readers with these words.

Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

-Hebrews 12:1-3

While these men and women were physically dead, they were still spiritually alive and encouraging the readers to keep running the race of faith. These serve as proof of God’s guidance and faithfulness. They illustrate how God accomplished His Will, blessing them through their obedience and perseverance. This “roll call of faith” was not the only source of encouragement for these 1st century Christians.

For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. Therefore I exhort you, be imitators of me. For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and he will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church. -1 Corinthians 4:15-17

These ancient Christians had many teachers of the word, including Paul who exhorts them to follow his example. Questions could be written to Paul or asked of Timothy.  Along with the written word of God, modern Christians still have godly teachers in the church and hopefully in their families.The goal of the teachers and writers is simple: a race won!

For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well. -2 Timothy 1:5

Hopefully our natural family is pulling for us to remain faithful to our Lord and Savior. Church a and families should serve the same purpose—encouraging us to keep going, helping us to fight off sin in our lives, and setting a Christ-like example. If we have both our natural and spiritual families aiding in this endeavor, we are doubly blessed.

Witnesses have always surrounded God’s people, encouraging them to continue in the faith. These people have set and continue to set a godly example for us to follow. Whether it was the saints of the Old Testament, the apostles, our own teachers, or our family and friends one goal remains…finish the race together.

Set an Example—1 Timothy 4

Timothy was a young evangelist given the daunting oversight of the growth and development of the Ephesian church. Though we are not told how young he was, Paul does recognize the fact that Timothy has some age-related challenges ahead and offers some invaluable mentoring. Paul’s advice is applicable both to him and the young people today.

Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching. Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you. -1 Timothy 4:12-16

Paul tells his young coworker to set an example in “speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.” In other words, every aspect of his life. By doing this, those older critics would have little to criticize. Timothy would also gain their respect for his Christ-like manner. Today’s critics are silenced the same way. This can only be done by young Christians guarding their lives in every aspect so that Christ is clearly seen.

According to 1 Timothy 4:1-3,  the error being taught in Ephesus concerns Paul. He instructs his charge not to neglect reading the Scripture publicly. Turning directly to God’s Word eliminates much of the doubt about a speaker’s accuracy. It is hard to argue against a command of God when it is read directly from His word. Likewise, our younger Christians need to base their opinions and any teaching on God’s truths. The only way to do that is to stay in God’s Word daily.

Paul also tells Timothy to monitor himself. Likewise, young people must monitor their own lives. Learning God’s Word, obeying God’s Commands, eliminating sin, and growing up in the faith-Paul indicates by doing these, young Christians will stay on the narrow way as well as help others find it.

These words Paul writes to Timothy are valuable for Christians of all ages. While we can look at someone and guess at their physical age, it is impossible to tell how old they are spiritually merely by looking. It is dangerous to grant spiritual respect simply due to gray hair. Young people are not the only ones needing to focus on God’s Word. Everyone must go to God’s Word and accurately use it to teach and mentor. Examining ourselves is not something we only do when we are young.  Satan is sneaky and relentless. No matter our age, physically or spiritually, we must be seeking to grow in the “grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Learning God’s Word. Obeying God’s Commands. Eliminating sin. Growing up in the faith.

Anticipation and Faithfulness- 1 Corinthians 15 and Romans 8

Football season is here! The anticipation of opening kickoffs loom in the air. At this point in the season every team has championship aspirations. Even the Broncos have a chance…well probably not! Christians have something far more important to look forward to than tailgating and touchdowns though.

Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality. But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, “DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory. “O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. -1 Corinthians 15:51-57

Imperishability. Dominance. Victory. There is no fear of losing, being traded, or season/career ending injuries. However, we must be on the team to receive these benefits.

Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. -Romans 8:1-2

There is one condition. We must be “in Christ.” Romans 6 details how to get into Christ discussing what baptism does for a believer. However, baptism is merely the opening whistle. The remainder of this game is played out daily for the rest of a Christian’s life.

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. -Romans 12:1-2

Make no mistake. These assurances come for one reason, Jesus Christ. He commanded us to stand firm in our faith and constantly, tirelessly work for Him. The benefits of being faithful far outweigh alternative. As Paul said,

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.

-1 Corinthians 15:58

Acquitted. Freed. Eternal. Once condemned to die, mankind has been offered a pardon.

Faithful submission to God’s Will is absolutely necessary to be pleasing to Him. We must be transformed into what He wants us to be. After all we have been freed from sin and death. God is now calling the plays. We traded the play-calling right for imperishable bodies, dominance over death, and victory over an otherwise unbeatable foe. If we will only stay faithful, we can utter the same words the Apostle John did as he anticipated Jesus’ return and the endgame.

Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. -Revelation 22:20b

Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. Your people are waiting.

Importance of Godliness—1 Timothy 4

Teaching or learning, I love being a part of our adult Bible classes. I do not remember a time when I have been blessed by such an active group discussing the Scriptures. Wednesday night highlighted this fact once again as we were discussing the benefits of godliness.

On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. -1 Timothy 4:7-8

Paul uses an athletic example in this passage when instructing Timothy to “discipline” himself for godliness. Paul uses the Greek term γυμαζω (gumatzo) which is translated as “exercise/train naked” like the 1st century Olympians trained and competed. He tells Timothy that godliness is of such importance that Christians should be training for it like Olympians! The conversation garnered responses more often associated with getting ahead in daily life and business: giving constant, full-out effort, being vulnerable to criticism and rebuke, welcoming scrutiny, holding firmly to the teachings, practicing daily with full dedication. It’s interesting that the same things we use to train ourselves for “getting ahead” in life are the very things we can use to train ourselves spiritually.

Godliness is often placed on the back-burner behind our jobs, families, entertainment, and educations. According to Paul, this should not be the case. He calls godliness “profitable for all things” because of its effect on the whole of life, both now and eternally. Our jobs are important since they help to provide for our families’ physical well-being. Entertainment is important to a point because it helps us to recharge and refocus on more important things. Education is important as it helps prepare us for new challenges and avenues in life. Of the above list, only family has the potential to aid our eternal preparation. Because of its all-encompassing sway, godliness trumps them all

Even though Christians know this, there is a constant struggle to place godliness in its proper place in life. Culture gets in the way. From a very young age, we are materially-conditioned. Big houses, multiple cars, large bank accounts, fancy clothes, advanced degrees, etc are held up as benchmarks of success. These have the potential to bless our physical lives while damaging or even destroying our spiritual ones. This simply will not do.

Training ourselves for success in this life is appropriate and good. It is not, however, the most important focus for Christians. 

It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers. -1 Timothy 4:9-10

The Olympians were training to compete to honor their city-states and win a temporary crown. Christians are preparing for their daily battles with Satan. In order to be truly successful we must be prepared. This elevates training to the highest importance. Training to be like God. 

Contentment—1 Timothy 6

One of my favorite country songs at the moment is Homegrown by the Zac Brown Band. The chorus is a testament to contentment. “I got some good friends that live down the street. Got a good looking woman with her arms ‘round me. Here in a small town where it feels like home. I got everything I need and nothing that I don’t. Homegrown, Homegrown.”

The Bible has much to say about contentment.

But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. -1 Timothy 6:7-10

Paul tells them that godliness plus contentment is a means of great gain because a content person realizes what will truly last. While promoting godly contentment, he also reasons that focusing on getting rich leads to a person’s ruin. The word used for “love of money,” ϕιλαργυρία (philarguria), can also be translated as “miserly.” It has the same root as the brotherly type of love (phileo). These people elevate money to the same status as family members! This simply will not work.

I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. -Philippians 4:12-13

Contentment is a matter of trust and thankfulness. Paul knew something about being left wanting. He wrote Philippians from a Roman prison! Philippians 4:13 is often touted as the Christian battle cry. The word iσχυω (iskuo) is translated "to be able to do (something) or also means "to be competent to do (something)." Paul is not only saying that Christ is giving him the strength to do what is needed, but Christ is also making him competent to handle whatever comes his way.

Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. -2 Peter 1:2-3

Peter addresses God’s great care of His people. God is the great provider of everything necessary for life, physical and spiritual. Therefore we need to show our thankfulness by being content. The question left for us to consider, is whether or not we trust our Creator enough to be content with what He has given us. The alternative is dangerous!