Mother,

Boy’s want to be with her. Girls want to be like her. Husbands want to adore her. God carefully shaped her.

Mother,

Her love soothes babies. Her gown shields toddlers. Her elegance pleases her husband. God gave her to strengthen.

Mother,

Children are lulled to sleep by her soft voice. Husbands are encouraged by her strong heart. God made her to compliment.

Mother,

She embodies compassion. She exemplifies charity. She lives out forgiveness. God made her to encourage.

Mother,

She shows us how to love. She shows us how to give. She shows us how to serve. God made her a helper.

A mother obeys her creator and designer, God the Son (Col 1:16; Gen 2:18,20).

Friendship

The word “friendship” only appears twice in our King James Version. Both are warnings. The first is to make no friendship with an angry man. The second is a warning against friendship with the world. The word “friend,” on the other hand, is found 53 times.

In Proverbs 17:17, a friend loves at all times. In 18:24, one who has friends is friendly, and they stick closer than a brother. In 19:6, we find the scripture’s wisdom on buying friends. In 27:6, even wounds caused by a friend are faithful. In 27:9, hearty counsel is a perfume of the heart in which one should rejoice. Iron sharpens iron, as man sharpens the countenance of his friend (27:17). God called Abraham His friend in Isaiah 41:8.

Of all these references, the one scripture that is most comforting to this pastor is Luke 7:34. Here we find Jesus is accused of being a friend to publicans and sinners. Without this truth, we may never enjoy Heaven.

Thank you, Jesus, for being my friend. Yours is the only friendship I need. Thank you for befriending me. I would never have sought you. Thank you for your friendship, I would never have given you mine. Yours is the only friendship that is eternal. Thank you, Jesus, for befriending the unfriendly.

Obedience is Simple; We Make it Complex

 Obedience is simply doing what we are asked of God to do. It seems simple enough. One just has to yield and follow. Our problem is we complicate it. Instead of simply following, we often have to figure out how. That does not seem all bad except we put another word with “how” — “when.” How do we do this when we have these things? How do we do this when they do not care? How do we do this when we have no funding? The assessments at the end of the questions may be valid. However, where they come from and where they lead us either complicate our obedience or simplify it. We need simple.

In a 2-page exposition of Jeremiah 45:5, Oswald Chambers makes two observations. First, ask the question whether you are seeking things for yourself, or to be a great person for God. Second, to get the life in God you desire you must first turn over all control to God. In the end, Chambers makes the point that those not alive for the Lord are either disobedient or they make obedience too complex.

We complicate obedience when we commit to obey God then try to think through His plan for Him. We complicate obedience when we plan to maintain what we have in the process. We complicate obedience when we do not give Him all authority, power and decisions that go with that on the way up our mountain to sacrifice our Isaac. We complicate obedience when we do not rest in clear promises in scripture. Make decisions for obedience simple. Let go of the things in your life that complicate your decision to serve and obey God (Luke 22:42).

Loyal Servants

 Scripture has much to say about loyalty. We can discuss Moses’ loyalty to God in the exodus. Noah displayed his loyalty in building the arc. Abraham’s loyalty offered Isaac. Joseph and Job remained loyal in the face of great loss. Daniel remains loyal while facing conspiracy.

All these individuals faced many things in their loyalty to God. They faced struggles from without and struggles from within. There were struggles in their families. Moses had His wife circumcise her son and she, “cast it at his feet, and said, surely a bloody husband art thou to me.” (Ex 4:25)

God’s faithful also faced great challenges in their ministry while staying loyal to God. Moses had over half a million people mad at him. Jeremiah had the entire country of Israel in an uproar. Daniel had four wise men placating the King while planning his demise.

What every person must decide is where their loyalties lie. Your choice is going to upset someone, regardless. Where do we place loyalty then? Loyalty means you commit your whole heart, mind and strength. It determines where one commits themselves in a family for the Lord. That decision will not be popular with everyone, but it will please the One person in whom we place our complete loyalty. Loyalty to a body in Christ displays loyalty to Him. (Rom 7:4; 1 Cor 12:27)

Committed to God or Self

The world today says be committed to self. From self help shows to self-esteem in society the world truly revolves around self. Even fast food drive-through advertises, “Have it your way.” Talk about massaging the ego (not all male!).

Like all things with our Lord, His world is different. He says be committed to Him. We are supposed to commit our lives to God the Father through the Son, giving ourselves over to Him without reservation.

When we read Scripture’s account of Abraham, we marvel at his faith and commitment in offering Isaac. We wonder if we will ever be called to that deep dedication in faith. What we fail to realize is we are called to commit heart, mind, soul, and strength to Him. Abraham was not a phenomenal believer, he was a believer committed to a phenomenal God: heart, mind, soul, and strength. (Mark 12:30)

Knowing Abraham’s actions are nominal not phenomenal, we better understand verses in scripture that describe total commitment. Forsaking old friends who will not follow Jesus, unbelieving family, and things in life that normally give you security does not seem so extreme, considering Abraham and Isaac or Job’s faithful worship. To the world these ideas seem extremist. Not to God. God requires full commitment. It’s not only the seeming “super-Christian” who achieves this; every Christian has this power within them, the Holy Spirit of God. (Acts 4:29; 2 Tim 1:7)

Our Lord Has Risen

 When we consider the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we often do not reflect upon the misconception of who Christ was. What should shock us more is the belief Jesus’ enemies engendered. They took precautions for His resurrection. The disciples did not watch for His return in the resurrection.

When we read Matthew 27:62 through 66 that the chief priests and Pharisees went to Pilate worried about some of Jesus’ teachings. They were afraid of the prophecy. They wanted to do whatever they could to prevent any man made interference of Jesus entombment. While the disciples and all His followers were moaning about Friday, those influenced by Satan were already thinking about Sunday. If we deny that we can learn from sinner as well as saint, we forget these lessons. Though their preparations were not focused upon a celebration of the resurrection, they still prepared for it nonetheless.

If God’s enemies anticipate His great miracles, the fulfillment of His truth and believe (though not to salvation but to their damnation) in His promises, how much more should those who claim Christ! We say again, live now as Sunday has come. Live in the resurrection. Friday is gone. Crucifixion was done. Saturday is gone, the schemes to thwart God’s will have failed. Sunday is here and His resurrection is fact. Live Sunday every day! Live the joy of His resurrection every day.

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Children’s Heroes

In 1898 a school teacher polled 1,440 children, ages 12-14. He asked what sort of heroes and heroines they had. Ninety percent picked their heroes from history. Washington, Lincoln, Whittier, Clara Barton, Julius Caesar and Christopher Columbus topped the list. Since approximately the 1950′s that list has turned to star athletes, entertainers of screen and radio as well as comedy.

A proper perspective through loving leadership can have great influence upon children. We find Washington writing Rules of Civility & Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation at the ripe age of 14 and Lincoln teaching himself to read through those young years to ultimately become a great statesman. Today we see little dedication to the pursuits of civility and statesmanship. Today’s chosen heroes reflect the loss of  perspective in our youth.

What a blessing we have One Hero that will never change. He created the heavens and universe. He populated earth with man and beast. Ultimately offered His Son to atone for our sins even while we were “at enmity with Him.” The one true Hero we should encourage our children to focus upon is our triune God. God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Our God can outplay any sports icon. He can outwhit any college professor. The host in His Heaven will put any entertainer to shame. We serve a great God. I pray He is the one we encourage our children to emulate.

Bearing Burdens for Others

There is a story about a slaveholder in the 18th century who came into possession of a Christian servant. This servant became as a Joseph to him. He cared for his master’s home and all his possessions with great
competence. God blessed his service, he produced much for his master.

One day they went to the market to buy more slaves. As they surveyed the market, the servant pointed to a wretched man on the block and said to his master, “We must purchase that man.”  The man was very old, very ill and infirm but this Joseph-like servant assured his master that he knew this slave had great wisdom and he had seen him use it in the past. He assured his master that this man would be of value to them. The master knew that his servant was wise and had made him successful. He trusted his judgment. He purchased the man. After returning home the servant dressed the newly purchased man’s wounds and very intently cared for his needs.

After healing and cared for it was still obvious that this man was going to be of no physical use. He was too advanced in age and his infirmities were too great. The Master asked his servant again, “Is he your father, a brother a blood relative?” He was trying to discover the reason for the purchase because it certainly would not be service. The response displays the kind of Christlikeness we should have, “No, he was the worst enemy of my family and myself in Africa. He enslaved, beat and killed many that I knew. However, when I saw him, I knew I had to save him and care for him.” That is the love of Christ that one should have for their enemies. (Rom 5:6-9)

Defeating the Negatives

“Are you convinced that your life is in the hands of your sovereign God? If you are, you can survive life’s negatives. I am not talking about a man-centered ‘Something good is going to happen to you’ humanistic ideology. I speak of viewing life’s trials, rejection, and negatives in the context of knowing God, Who is only, always good. Knowing how to handle negatives is the difference between a top salesman and a mediocre one, the difference between the church planter who survives the start-up pains and one who quits when the ministry gets tough. It’s a characteristic of the pastor who presses on though carnal Christians oppose him. Learning to handle negatives will allow God to turn your bitters into His sweets. It is biblical. It is doable. And in ministry, it is essential.” (Dave Barba, Press On, pg 70).

The difference between those who survive trials in life, in ministry, in testimony or in faithfulness is in their trust of God’s sovereignty. The most challenging times are those when you have striven for faithfulness only to seemingly be thwarted at every bend. Satan wants to tell you to give up, to give in. But we are on the winning side. Even at our weakest times, God’s grace must be sufficient. (2 Cor 12:9)

Judgment or Discernment

 Many who read about judgmentalism immediately want to quote the verse, “Judge not lest ye be judged.” It’s true, we shouldn’t be judgmental. Jesus Himself said, “I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.” However, we miss context when one might call another out for judgmentalism when it is actually discernment being applied. People do this for a variety of reasons.

People cry the foul of judgmentalism when they do not want to be convicted. A new believer may cry out “hypocrite” to the supposed mature believer who is not in the word but is encouraging the newbie to read more. The same is true with prayer and devotional life. The new convert has every right to encourage the “mature” Christian to “judge not.” We should never shy from real opportunities to encourage purity in other believers. If the devotion of a new covert convicts you, you should evaluate your heart, not place theirs under the microscope in retaliation (an all too common happenstance).

Discernment is called for repeatedly in scripture. Matthew 7:15 talks about wolves in sheep’s clothing. Matthew 7:17 our Lord tells us there are good and bad trees. Obviously, we are called to discern which is which. When we find out, we are supposed to stay away from them. We are supposed to completely avoid individuals who abide in doctrines contrary to the scriptures you hold before you (Rom 16:17). Once again, how do we do this if we do not discern and make decisions.

Judgment is not discernment, discernment is not judgment. Judgment involves a consequence as a judge can levy sentence. Discernment is a personal decision to remove oneself from the world’s temptations and sins and those in the world that perpetrate them, even secretly. Discern, but do not judge. Be discerning, but not judgmental.

Preferring One Another

 One of the most difficult things we have to do as Christians, regardless of our personal aversion is to prefer one another (Rom 12:10). This is a tall order. It’s hard to love some folks. Some are natural critics; more normally finding fault, than encouraging.

Recently, when out visiting with my granddaughters one of them saw a squirrel that scampered up a tree. One said, “He’s going to be with his friends in the tree.” The other not content with this answer said, “No he’s not, he’s going to find nuts.” The younger child was frustrated by the elder’s correction. Which was correct? Does it matter?

Consider our Lord and His life here on earth. He would not permit minimizing God’s goodness and power. Jesus tolerated nothing that detracted from God’s greatness. Those who would deny Jesus His rightful duty may suffer  severe verbal chastisement such as Peter being told, “Get thee behind me Satan!” (Matt 16:23) Yet other times “Oh, ye of little faith.” (Matt 6:30).

With the sin we presented to our Lord, He still preferred being with us, ministering to us and dying for us than being in heaven (Rom 5:8; Phil 2:2, 6-7). Christians are called to have a clear preference for one another in Christ; even with the sandpaper-like criticalness some have. If we think it difficult for us to do, consider the perfection of Christ and His preference for us.

Salvific Proof and Results

 For some, the test of salvation is in the fruits of the spirit (Gal 5:22-23). This is a very good general gauge. Seeing fruits of the spirit certainly tells that a person is active. More accurately, that God’s spirit is active in them. We should note though that fruits of the spirit grow from or are a product of a spiritual seed. The fruits in Galatians 5:22-23 grow from the vine of Christ after spiritual animation by the Holy Spirit. Once one is grafted into the vine of God’s Son, he cannot help but produce the fruits of the spirit. The proof in these fruits is that the only way they can happen is through salvation provided by our Lord.

Proof is different than results. Results are part of proof. Proof comes in much larger portions than individual results born from certain spiritual gifts. Proof of salvation is much like functional faith. It has many layers cut from different textiles. Layers reinforce one another, and develop overall conclusive irrefutable proof of salvation. Fruits of the spirit are simply one of those layers. Other layers include spiritual sensitivity, life change, dedication to God’s word, testifying Christ to others and devout purity in Christ. Are the salvific layers of proof evident in your walk with Christ?

 Love Test

 A Google search on “A Test of Love” returned over 1,777,000,000 results. The first results were movies. One return was about a bachelor party. There are references to romance and fleeting encounters as well as family challenges.

With fortitude we can face our own shortcomings. We wonder why loved ones love us. Many admit truth through humor bestowing sainthood on parents, spouses or siblings. We know who we really are; the truth about our own heart. In truth we wonder how one can love us and that truth makes us love them all the more. Loving the unlovable is a test worth passing.

Through all the love tests listed on the Internet, one seems absent. One love test stands above them all. Man rejected and scoffed perfect love. We spurned the Person who loves perfectly. We denigrated, sneered at, impugned, denied and belittled loves perfect representative. Still, He loves us and gave Himself for us. What is the ultimate love test? For a perfect person to sacrifice Himself for the most imperfect. Selfless love for the selfish and unlovable.

The most challenging love test in history is represented in the Person on the cross at Calvary. He loved us and gave himself for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for our eternal souls (Rom 5:8). The ultimate love test? Would God sacrifice His perfect life in heaven to give you eternal life knowing full well who you truly are. He passed the test.

Martin Luther King said, “Faith is taking the first step when you do not see the whole staircase.” Corrie Ten Boom said, “Faith is like radar that sees through the fog.”

Taking steps without footprints to guide you requires faith in your path without visual evidence of its existence. Many think that faith is taking a step then waiting for assurance of the path. That is not faith. Faith does not wait, it moves forward assured and confident in the unseen, unheard, untouchable and incomprehensible. The hope in one’s faith is the driving force for life in Christ. We do not hope upon that which we see, but upon the unseen where our faith rests. If we see, there is no faith. If we are assured through sensory evidence, faith is not required.

Some might venture out, expand ones self, stretch to new heights but they only do so when they have evidence of need or proof of readiness. This is not faith but pragmatism. Pragmatism negates faith. Where one says, we cannot because we have not, the pragmatist rules. Faith rules when regardless of the physical evidence that drives the pragmatist, one presses on to the mark.

The just do not live by logic, but by faith.(Romans 1:17) The Christian lives not by pragmatism, but trusting in God for all things. (Hebrews 11:1)

 Faithful Unity in God’s Omnipotent Power

 My God is great. My God creates everything that is, was and will be. My God controls all of creation. My God opened the womb of a 90 year old barren woman (Sarah) to fulfill His promise. My God moves whole oceans to save His people. My God fed 1.2 million Israelites every day in a desert for 40 years. My God parted the Jordan where His people crossed on dry land. My God leveled Jericho’s walls through obedience and a shout by His people. My God defeated armies of 120,000 with 300 believers. My God destroyed 120,000 of my enemies in one night without man drawing a single sword. My God uses the smallest such as David to destroy the biggest such as Goliath. My God moves mountains at will. My God came to earth as a child, grew to manhood, told man of salvation, then died for all mankind on the cross. My God is all powerful, capable of anything that pleases Him.

My God is God of gods and owns the cattle on 1000 hills. He is forever my refuge. God is my King, He is love, truth, my judge, and my defense. My God is my rock of salvation, the righteous good shepherd and my strength. My God can do anything. My God uses everything from insects to planetary systems to carry out His will. His power is incomprehensible.

Unity depends upon our believing in the same God. If we all believe in the one true God of the universe, we would not chance the insolence of thinking we should manage God’s miraculous blessings. We can only pray we are ready to receive them, because we know we certainly are not worthy. Our unity begins with faith in the one and only God of the universe and His power.

Hypocrites

Sophisticated Gentile philosophers in the days of the Apostle Paul postulated that morality was the highest calling of man. Influences from Socrates, brought about many moralists and relativists who studied a wide variety of points of view. Greek Philosophers were held in the highest regard as great moral guides. Jesus was called a philosopher in an attempt to satisfy Christian’s perceived need for recognition. But Christianity is not about morality.

Jews thought they had a favored position before God due to a misunderstood promise in scripture. Their attitude was one of disdain for the Gentile who, from their perspective, is morally ignorant. With a disparaging tone, they label them unclean, infidels and pagans.

The truth is that all are immoral. There is not one of the moralists of the world in Hollywood, news media or politics that will not be judged by God’s standards, in God’s time and through God’s prism of moral fortitude.

The only question that will save man is, how do I mitigate the judgment? The only answer to this question is to recognize all are hypocrites except Jesus. The only way to rescind the guilty hypocrite’s sentence is with the imputation of a true perfect morality. Jesus, the Son of God, is the only perfectly moral man and he died to redeem your hypocrisy. Simply believe and you escape God’s moral judgments.

 I’m Saved!!!

 When once I was destined for complete destruction, the weight on my tainted soul was oppressive. Sin dominated my life. Not the things that man might call gross sin, but all sin is gross to God. Not the sins we call reprehensible, just the ones everyone else accepts. To man I was great. To God I was grievous.

When once I was destined for eternal judgment, the finality and deep failure of that thought set me on a course to find redemption. Set apart from God meant a need for reconciliation. Correlation to man met no standard of God. Moral reconciliation/redemption was not enough. God required things to be on a scale beyond man’s comprehension. God’s creation of the universe displays the immensity of His power, but also the immensity of His perfection. One seeking reconciliation with God must seek it on a scale unobtainable by man. God must reconcile man with God. Jesus, the very Son of God did just that.

When once I understood God’s heavenly greatness, yet could not meet the magnitude of demand to enter therein, I sought an avenue to satisfy the requirements for reconciliation. I FOUND THE BLOOD OF Christ. No right, no ritual, no work, no tradition, no moral human life of good deeds can match the blood shed on a cross by the innocent Godman. God sent His own perfect Son to meet His humanly unachievable requirements for entrance into Heaven.

Only the God of the Bible is a God that loves us enough to do all that which is required for the salvation of man. Man is inept to achieve salvation; God’s Son is the author and finisher of the faith. I’m Saved!

 Martin Luther Stands on Scripture

 Luther once stated, “The Spirit of Christ does not reign where the spirit of Aristotle dominates.”

March 6, 1521, Luther is summoned to appear at the Diet of Worms. Luther was 37. Emperor Charles V was in attendance. Princes, bishops, prelates, archbishops, nobles, gentry, doctors of law and foreign ambassadors were among the audience and Diet itself. At issue were Luther’s books. Books that opened the word of God to the native tongue (German) and spoke of the errors precipitated by the Catholic Church. Two questions, were these his writings and was he ready to retract them. He answered the first immediately in the affirmative. To the second he requested the evening to consider. The following evening he was ushered into a small torchlit room packed with notable secular and ecclesiastic leadership.

“Since your Majesty and your lordships desire a simple reply, I will answer without distinction. Unless I am refuted and convicted by the testimonies of the Scriptures or by clear arguments (since I believe neither the Pope nor the councils alone; it being evident that they have often erred and contradicted themselves), I am conquered by the Holy Scriptures quoted by me, my conscience is captive to the Word of God: I cannot and I will not recant anything, since it is unsafe and dangerous to do anything against the conscience. Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me! Amen.”

We, too, should stand on the conviction of scripture in the face of all adversity or things to the contrary. God’s word is our standard. There is where we should stand. We should do no other. God will help you. Amen.

Season of Compassion, Season of Hope, Season of Giving

 Jesus is love (1 John 1:5). Jesus’ promises carry hope (John 3:16). Jesus gave man eternal life (John 10:28). There is no wonder this season is filled with these wonderful sensations: compassion, hope and giving. They started from God. God the Son poured out His earthly existence for man. He literally gave up His home and life in heaven in order to deliver the greatest gift man can ever know – eternal life in Heaven with Him.

He is there now waiting for you to take the gift. If this is the one gift under the tree you have never taken, take it now! This season of giving was christened by the gift of God to earth, His Son.

What is the wrapping around the gift? All your sins washed away through the blood of Christ. The bow is crimson with that blood. Pull it open, peel away the layers of sin and you’ll find Jesus. He lived, was crucified, died and was buried to take your sins away. As you unwrap His eternal gift to you, tear away the sins in your life to get to the eternal prize of pure loving grace which is Jesus Christ our Lord.

What kind of container is your gift in? It looks like a small sepulcher, a hewed out tomb of solid rock. His burial in this tomb was prophesied over 700 years before (Is 53:9). Jesus rose again the third day from the tomb. His resurrection was prophesied approximately 1000 years before Christ (Psalm 16:10). The container (the tomb of death) could not hold the present. Life will not be constrained as it burst forth from the tomb in the person of Christ Jesus.

What is so precious about this gift that is inside? Jesus was victorious! A globe of pure light shines inside this container. It is the light of pure eternal life. Jesus beat death. He beat back Hell’s gates, He beat Satan at his own game. Jesus’ gift is life’s freedom for all mankind.

What is so spectacular about the gift? Like all gifts under the tree,you didn’t earn it, it was simply given. No mater how expensive it is, all you need to do is pick it up and take possession of it. It has your name on it. No gift is more personal than this gift from God that addresses all your own personal sins. All you have to do is pick it up. How do you do that you might ask?

Faith. Believe and the splendor of the gift will unfold to you. Believe and the wrappings will become clearer to you. Believe and the box will take new shapes for you molding itself to encourage, strengthen and reconcile you personally. Believe and your whole life changes.

Just believe in Jesus Christ and you pick up the gift of a lifetime. It may be years before you know the whole value of the gift, but it may be seconds.

  What is Maturity?

 Do we want to be mature Christians? Can we be mature Christians? That is a tall order. Maturity usually indicates a seasoned individual capable of imbibing wisdom upon others. That is how we take it.

Unfortunately, the word also carries a connotation of finality in it. When it means “ripe, adult, full-grown, fully developed” there are ramifications in our temporal existence. Once something has reached this peak, he begins to decline on earth. Spiritually, we should never assume this.

There is a sense that seasoned believers can and are more spiritual than others (1 Cor 2:6). However, in the spiritual world, the human should exercise extreme caution when dealing with others (Acts 20:19). Scripture tells us we are only really spiritually mature in the final sense at glorification (Rom 8:17; 2 Tim 2:10).

Be careful not to shut off God’s instruction in any form. We are not nearly as mature as we might think. We are CHILDREN of God because He is the master, the Father. Our primary charge is to love one another. Everything Christian stems from a deep love for God and love for one another. Claiming a special maturity can shut off that love.

  Remembering Who You Were

Most see teaching one another as an opportunity to tell others how to be better Christians. They often mask this attitude with platitudes, but they still exercise their will. In 2 Peter 1 we find another way to testify of the truth within us. Instead of openly attempting to get others to change, we live our lives for Christ.

We are given a precious, even a magnificent promise in Christ. Because of this promise though, we are encouraged to supplement our faith with some other character qualities. We add virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection and love. In the sense of 2 Peter 1, these attributes are stair steps from the upper to the lower. Therefore, love is the base, the foundation of these supplements to our faith. In faith we rest in the promises of God’s eternal life, provision and truth. In love we gather positive character traits to help edify one another and the body of Christ as a whole.

Individuals who lack these qualities or who are not seeing that they grow in them, have lost sight of why they needed Christ in the first place. There is no pinnacle, no apex to this growth. While on earth, you need to grow and see growth within yourself. As long as you feel that twang of rebellion in your heart, you are imperfect, needing greater faith and through love the perfect character of Christ.

  Giving Thanks

I am thankful that we have the Lord Jesus Christ who fulfilled the law (Matt 5:17-18). That we are delivered from the law (Rom 7:6). The offering for thanksgiving in scripture requires unleavened cakes mixed with oil, unleavened wafers spread with oil, loaves from fine flour mixed with oil, leavened bread with the sacrifice and a peace offering. The blood of the offering has to be sprinkled properly and the flesh must be consumed that day. I’m thankful we are no longer tied to the flesh sacrifices which Paul explains are spiritually dead (Rom 7:25).

I am thankful that we no longer live in under a law that feeds upon itself making even the good I would do sin (Rom 7:13-18). I am thankful that there is no condemnation for those in Christ (Rom 8:1) and that though I know nothing good exists within me, I am righteous before God (Rom 5:17-18).

Ladies and gentlemen, do you realize how thankful your spirit should be? Your spirit, if you are in Christ as I am in Christ, is free! In this spiritual freedom you have been made servants of righteousness! (Rom 6:18) Now in Christ, you can fulfill the requirements of the law with your renewed spirit in Christ where you could not before in your flesh (Rom 8:4).

I am thankful that we can actually please God. We could never do that before. By being renewed, reborn or made alive in our spirit, we can be righteous before God (John 3:5; Rom 12:2; 1 Cor 15:22). We can hear, “well done thou good and faithful servant.” (Matt 25:21) I pray you too can be thankful today!

Salvation

 One of the beatitudes is a mournful spirit (Matthew 5:4). This spirit mourns for the souls lost to eternal torment because they reject God. If you do not mourn for these souls, one must wonder whether your soul has been quickened by God’s grace. Jesus was so concerned for these souls He gave His life as an atonement for their sin (Jn 3:16). We often think salvation is an issue that rectifies our position before God. We were lost, now we’re saved. It is true, but it is only the beginning of the eternal journey.

We think that witnessing is really only for a few people. Many believe there is a gift of witnessing, though it does not seem to be listed in scripture. we do see Romans 8:16 which tells of the Holy Spirit within every believer bearing witness of Christ Jesus. Persecution is expected (Matt 5:11-12). How can one be expected to be persecuted if they do not tell others they follow Christ? In Matthew 5:13 believers are the salt of the earth, they change things. Jesus changed things. In Matthew 5:14 Christians are the light of the world. The Savior was the light of the world while here (Jn 8:12; 9:5). Believers are the same light as Christ was while they are here. This means you talk to people about salvation. You talk to everyone!

Do you feel a pull in your heart after reading this? Maybe you’d better start talking to people about Jesus. Don’t feel that pull? Maybe you better talk to Jesus about your salvation.

Raised to newness of life (Romans 6:4)

Godly works result from a new life in Christ. James tells us in 2:24 that works issue from true faith. These two, faith and Christian service, are inseparable. Where Christian faith truly exists, Christian service must issue from anyone indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Martin Luther wrote,

“Oh this faith is a living, busy, active, powerful thing. It is impossible that it should not be ceaselessly doing that which is good. It does not even ask whether good works should be done. But before the question can be asked, it has done them. And it is constantly engaged in doing them. But he who does not do such works is a man without faith. Faith is a living well founded confidence in the grace of God, so perfectly certain that it would die 1000 times rather  than surrender its conviction.”

Ladies and gentlemen. Our salvation begins with sin’s forgiveness, but it is a deliverance unto good works where they are the proof of our changed life in Christ. All of these things are operative in faith and due to a newness of life. Our old man does things of the world, through our worldly heart, for those in the world. The new man does things of Christ, through Christ for those in the kingdom of Christ.

True salvation then is a transformation that gives way to an impulse to obey instead of the natural impulse to rebel. Where a believer may naturally rebel, their heart is convicted not encouraged. We do not argue against implementing God’s word in our lives, we support it. We may still struggle, but we admit its needs and change toward accepting those instructions. In 1 Peter 4:10 the instruction is to spend our lives serving one another in love. Go now and obey God.

Faith in God Alone is the Key to Success  (Isaiah 50:7-9)

Israel was in great peril. The people of Israel were so distraught over the law they continually forgot who God really was. They forgot how to worship. They forgot it was their heart not their pocket book. They forgot it was their heart not their families. They forgot it was why they worshiped, not that they did so. They forgot who they really were and who had delivered them from bondage. They forgot everything important and focused instead on the things of lesser import.

We frequently do this today and most often this failure shows up in a lack of faith. Instead of depending on the Lord, we get lost in what we don’t have. Instead of submitting to His guidance we hunker down into what we know. Instead of looking to the leadership He provides, we seek only our own understanding.

Israel’s people were so busy with their own lives that they had little time to give to God, let alone actually worship Him. They were lost in their own worlds. They had family problems. They needed food in their belly. They earned the right to a home. They  earned their freedom and were going to exercise it. They had money to spend and intended to spend it. Whatever the issue (good or bad) they were so involved in their own lives, the things of God, especially faith were shadows. Hopes and dreams are wonderful; toil and work can be edifying, but without the Lord they are wind. (Eccles 1:1-11) As John Yates wrote “Faith is the victory!”

Disagreement

“There are bound to be areas where believers disagree especially over points of doctrine. Good people disagree on the question of eternal security of the believer, on points of prophecy, and on when the Rapture will take place, for instance. They differ as to where God’s sovereignty begins and ends; in the matter of a person’s salvation; and where human choice, responsibility and accountability begin. They differ widely as to whether the church is “spiritual Israel,” or whether it is an entirely separate entity in God’s dealings… There are enough grounds for disagreements here to keep believers at each other’s throats for the rest of time. Peter urges us to be compatible, not contentious (italics mine)…

“Certainly some issues cannot be swept under the rug. A cordial discussion of issues is one thing; acrimonious  argument is another. We ought to be able to resolve many minor issues compatibly. Where doctrine is concerned, and where the issues differ widely, however, going separate ways might be the best solution.

“In all non essentials, for instance, Paul was the most conciliatory of men. Peter would recall how readily he had agreed to the somewhat arbitrary, narrow, and judiastic suggestion of James that he submit to a Jewish ritual and even pay the heavy expenses of four men who wished to perform the Levitical ritual for terminating their vows (Acts 21:21-26). Paul was willing to accommodate the weak conscience of James in this matter because he was himself a Jew and wished, above all things, to show his compatibility. Peter could still remember, however, that Paul would not budge an inch on an issue of faith and doctrine that he considered non-negotiable. Peter would remember one incident with a red face because he had been in the wrong, and Paul had not minced words with him (Gal 2:11-18).” ( from John Phillips’ commentary on 1&2 Peter)

Spiritual leaders will not tolerate sin that smacks of lacking faith, open rebellion or denial of God’s omnipotent power. However, life and the
things of life are very subjective.

Gifts from God for You and Me

What a glorious thing to think that we can be used for God’s purposes. When we consider the gifts available to us, we normally see ourselves in light of the prophet or pastor or teacher. We might think we are Administrator material. Many times we think too highly of ourselves (Romans 12:6-8&9). Romans 12:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:9 and 1 John 4:7,12 tell us that there are really two universal gifts; hospitality and love. All things should stem from these but most of all they stem from the greatest of all – love.

Do we love one another enough to talk to one another, care for one another, give ourselves for one another? Do we love one another with a pure sinless heart (1 Pet 1:22). Do we treat one another as we would treat Jesus who lives within our believers? We pray to Jesus when we have problems, do we talk to other believers when there are challenges (Matt 18:15)?
Scripture tells us that those who love would never work to defraud, discredit, decry or in any way destroy a neighbor (Romans 13:10). This is not believers, whom we are called to hold in higher regard. This is a neighbor next door who may not even know Jesus. Many were taught if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all. This is wise counsel. If we have anxiety against any individual, no one has the right to talk to a third party about the issue. That is unloving and simply taints the third person’s perspective about someone. This is unloving behavior that destroys church unity. To participate in any such conversation is sin (Prov 11:9).

What of the other gifts mentioned earlier (prophecy, pastorate, teaching, administering, etc.)? Ladies and gentlemen, when we are good stewards of the first gifts we are given (love and hospitality) others may be bestowed upon us (Matthew 25:21). God’s children are commanded to love one another without dissimulation (Romans 12:9).

Personal Expectations

 Many think that before we step out in faith, we have to know why, what, when, where and how. What we fail to realize is that it would not be faith if we knew why, what, when, where and how. Faith is living in an assurance of hope while being convicted of things not not yet visible to us (Heb 11:1). Faith is an effort we have to make to believe Jesus Christ died for our sins. We have never seen Him, but we hope in His truth. Further, we are convicted in our sin and know our depravity, therefore we understand we need a Savior to take our place before an almighty and perfect God. We are convicted that Jesus is this Savior even though we have seen neither Him nor the Father.

What we fail to realize is that we can have this faith and still be as sinful as any single unbeliever or worse than them. You may walk a straight line, not smoke, not drink, say your prayers, read your bible and not beat your dog, but you could be more wicked than the drunkard in the gutter. When we presume to have to know everything to do anything  we deny God’s omnipotence and omnipresence. Job 38 begins with what should be a troubling comment as God asks, “Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?” In verse four are words that should strike the Christian heart deeply, “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?” Not only do we not need to know God’s plan to get somewhere, we have no right to expect to know. Our function and purpose is to live by faith, not by sight.

We are charged with loving as He loved, giving as He gave. We are supposed to have no personal expectations, but have an operative faith that whatever God may desire of us or our church that He will communicate it when He sees fit. This ministry is trusted to us not just to maintain then, but to grow as He provides resources to do so. As He sees fit to give, we accept and use. It is not given to us to stifle His grace, but grow and flourish in it.

 No Quarter for Hate

 Jesus says to love one another (believers) as He loves us and gave Himself for us (John 13:34). He tells us to love thy neighbor (unbelievers) as thyself (Matt 19:19b). He also tells us to love our enemies (Matt 5:44). Everywhere we look today there are (or should be) efforts to remember 9/11/01. The question we must answer is, HOW are we to remember it. Do we as Christians remember it nationally? There is certainly cause for that. Do we remember it religiously? A satanic religion caused it. Alternatively, do we remember it with a sense of compassion? I believe this is the response Jesus would prefer from His sheepfold. Can we be mad at the blatant hate and disdain for life? That is a worthy response. But Christ himself forgave the very men who crucified Him at the Cross. We can hate what man does, how he treats other men, how his heart is so black with evil and wickedness and how he changes the world (especially religion–Islam in this case) to suit his own hunger for domination and power. But we must not hate man. A better response is to remember how lost the world really is. We must be willing to give each individual Christ and Him crucified to save their eternal soul.

That is how we love even our enemies.

We celebrate our freedom from tyranny on July 4th. This freedom is for all men, created equal in the eyes of God. In this light, our nation was founded to provide for a free practice of religion as a mainstay of human liberty. Many today make grandiose claims and write with eloquence arguing that our nation was founded as a secular nation by politicians of the same vain as those we suffer under today. This could not be farther from the truth. Below are some quotes from our nations founders we should ponder in this season of national celebration.

“The Holy Ghost carries on the whole Christian system in this Earth. Not a baptism, not a marriage, not a sacrament can be administered but by the Holy Ghost, Who is transmitted from age to age by laying the hands of the Bishop on the heads of candidates for the ministry. In the same manner, as the Holy Ghost is transmitted from monarch to monarch by the holy oil in the vial at Rheims which was brought down from Heaven by a dove and by that other phial [vial] which I have seen in the Tower of London. There is no authority civil or religious, there can be no legitimate government but what is administered by this Holy Ghost. There can be no salvation without it.” John Adams letter to Dr. Benjamin Rush on December 21, 1809

Adams puts scriptural principles into operation in national politics. Dickenson (below) puts faith into political operation as a basis for founding a nation free from human despotism.

“Kings or parliaments could not give the rights essential to happiness. . . . We claim them from a higher source – from the King of kings and Lord of all the earth. They are not annexed to us by parchments and seals. They are created in us by the decrees of Providence, which establish the laws of our nature. They are born with us, exist with us, and cannot be taken from us by any human power without taking our lives.”John Dickinson, The Political Writings of John Dickinson (Wilmington: Bonsal and Niles, 1801), Vol. I, p. 111. Dickenson was a signatory on the Constitution.

The founders knew that if government regulated religion in any way, we would never be free. They also knew that if religion were freely practiced, people would always wrestle power from government.

Our freedom of speech and freedom of religion stems from the base spiritual needs of man. Therefore, our prayer is that you will exercise your freedom of religion in a church of your choice. We prefer one that preaches the scriptures, Christ and Him crucified from the pulpit. However, you are free to take liberty with your faith. This is the United States of America.

Never Forget

The blood of those who have taken up the flag and given their lives is the oil that feeds the flame of freedom.

This flame shines bright with the liberty our nation represents. This week we celebrate the brave men and women whom have paid that ultimate sacrifice to purchase and maintain our freedom. Ladies and gentlemen, please never forget them. If our country is to remain free, their sacrifice will not end until the return of our Savior. We at Mountain View salute them.

Burdened for God

 There are some spiritual burdens that we cannot bear for one another. One such burden is apathy.  Apathy is spoken of in Galatians 6:1 in the form of a warning “considering yourself lest you be tempted.” I don’t know how many people I have had tell me, “my vote aint worth nothin!” Ladies and gentlemen in the past three or four election cycles we have had more elections determined by 10 votes, 20 votes, even 5 votes. Races, even in our state, are close. Giving up is unacceptable in our representative republic and giving up is sinful with respect to the gospel.

Witness, stand with those who are witnessing, help bear the burden of reprisal (spiritual attack). Believers stand with other believers to tell others about challenges in our society. They tell the world that God has the answers in His word. Brothers stand with Sisters in Christ to tell others about how they can defeat alcohol or drug addictions. We stand together to testify Christ and bring people into His sheepfold to experience eternal life in Him.

We should be burdened to share Christ and Him crucified at every opportunity. Our loving response to every lost soul is to tell how they can be free from the binding burdens of sin. Are you burdened for God? Witness and let that burning heart express your love for your Savior.

A Spirit Filled Christian is a Little Fruity

Our wonderful Charismatic brothers and sisters miss great blessings on a regular basis. They might claim tongues, visions, a prophetic utterance or uncontrolled bodily gyration in a spirit filled service. The truth is far and away different and much more exciting than these temporal sensory displays. Spirit filled believers produce heavenly fruits for others.

Probably the most glorious consequence of being filled with the Spirit of God is the fruit we produce to care for others. Galatians 5:22-23 tells of amazing service believers give through the glorious power of God. The scripture tells of a selfless love more holy and selfless than any on earth. It tells of Christian joy that cannot be quenched or suppressed regardless of circumstance. It speaks of peace in the most horrid of circumstance or physical condition. The patience of a Spirit filled believer is unmatched and can equal that of God’s own long suffering. There is a kindness about a Christian that the fruit from the tree of everlasting life in Christ gives a gentle warmheartedness to others in their presence. There is such goodness that it cannot be denied and in fact calls many to feed from its succulent nectar. Faithfulness comparable with Christ who did all for the glory of the Father. This Christian, filled with the Holy Spirit of God is gentle beyond compare, able to squelch any quarrel, put down any injustice and quiet any argument with a heavenly meekness unmatched in the world. This is a great believer, full of self-control and able to promote peace wherever he may travel. All of these fruits are directed out to feed, nourish and care for others. That is what a spirit filled believer is. Fruit is not about the believer, but the Spirit that produces it in the believer. Fruit is for other believers sustenance.

Contemporary America would have us believe we are about the individual. That this great testimony to freedom is about ethnicity or our personal rights. However, the soldier does not throw himself upon a hand grenade for the one, but for the many. Ethnicity is simply a spice that flavors the meat that is the American. I fear the meat has been overpowered by the spice leaving a bitter taste in the mouths of many. Though I descend from Native-Americans, French, Irish and who-knows-what, I AM AN AMERICAN.

America – reach back to your true heritage – the freedom to worship Jesus Christ of the Bible. Freedom from oppressive government and government supported religious episcopates. On April 24, 2011 at Mountain View Baptist Church we celebrated the resurrection of the Messiah, the Savior of the whole world, the one person who died and lived again. The one man who beat death and lives as He sits at the right hand of God the Father. This, ladies and gentlemen, should be our heritage. Unfortunately we are to busy with “I” and have forgotten “Him.” Our ancestors did not die for “I” but for “Him.” They died for our freedom worship Him. Honor their sacrifice by making some of your own.

The Christian’s Liberty Serves Christ

The brothers and sisters who worship beside us share our faith. They pray for us and with us. With them, we get to live out what someone has called the “one another” verses of the New Testament. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another (Jn 13:35). Be devoted to one another in brotherly love (Romans 12:12). Live in harmony with one another (Romans 12:16). Serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13). (God’s Promises, Jane L. Fryar)

We should recognize that the Lord lays upon us layer after layer of blessing in our lives as believers. The many other believers that we fellowship and worship with are just such blessings. Whether rich or poor, tall or small all believers are those blessings one to another.
We see here four small one another commands, all of which we have covered in our Sunday morning studies. Look around your now. What a blessing as you look around our sanctuary at the faces that you see. Every one of them that you know has a testimony first loves you as Christ has asked them to keep that commandment. Second, they are devoted to you and give themselves wholly for your welfare, edification and spiritual strength. Third, they are willing to forgive and beg forgiveness to continue a Christ centered relationship as they seek harmony with you. Fourth, they serve you in the love of Christ as Christ served all through His matchless love. Ladies and gentlemen, encourage one another to  exercise the loving servitude of Christ in your Christian liberty.

Loyalty

Loyalty means not that I am you, or that I agree with everything you say or that I believe you are always right. Loyalty means that I share a common ideal with you and that regardless of minor differences we fight for it, shoulder to shoulder, confident in one another’s good faith, trust, constancy, and affection. (Karl Menninger)

Our English word loyal comes from the Latin word “legere,” which means “to choose,” or “to pick.” It also gives us the words diligent, eligible, and allegiance, all of which are good words to remember in ministry. When Paul wrote Philippians 2:1-5, I think he had loyalty as well as humility in mind. As you read this inspired admonition, see if you get this loyalty message as I do:

“If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, 2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.  5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:”

Warren W. Wiersbe “On Being a Servant of God”, p115.

“Our Exceptionalism”

Alexis de Tocqueville was a Frenchman who first coined the phrase “American Exceptionalism.” He wrote this after finishing an extensive study of America. He found our nation founded in freedom, liberty and independence was exceptional.

The word for “perfect” is mentioned over 10 times in the book of Hebrews. Hebrews tells us Christ is the perfect prophet, priest, king, tabernacle, sacrifice and servant. Also that Jesus gives us a perfect salvation, that Christ is perfect, that He leads us on to perfection. Ladies and gentlemen, there is nothing wrong with striving for exceptionalism. We should never accept the status quo. Marginalism is the way of the world that massages ego’s and satisfies itself with mediocrity. Jesus was never satisfied with anything less than perfection. Anything less would not atone for all the sins of man; man would still be condemned. Anything less would mean God did not keep His promise of a Messiah. Anything less than perfection and God is a liar.

Why should we accept anything less in our testimony and ministry at Mountain View Baptist. To err is human, but to say, “that’s good enough” is giving up. If we had given up at Normandy and said, that is good enough the German Army would have re-grouped and could have defeated us. If God settles for anything less than our complete dependence upon Jesus, He cheapens Christ’s sacrifice. God is enough, and God in the person of Christ Jesus is the only true perfection man has ever seen. With God the Father, His Son Christ Jesus and the Holy Spirit, we should strive in faith for nothing less. Jesus gives us freedom from sin, liberty to testify and an independent part within our church family. We can achieve Christian exceptionalism.

“Gathering unto Christ” (2 Thessalonians 2:1-5 & Psalm 51:16-17)

Many times we permit man to deceive us into thinking there is some great grand and glorious way of worshiping God. That the worship of the King of Kings must be some lavish show of pomp and circumstance. After all, weren’t the halls of the greatest kings of the world filled with just such celebrations and gift giving when others came to honor them? The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God that gave His Son to atone for all your sins, the God who loved you enough to make it possible for you to be with Him simply wants YOU. Each person is worth more than any pot of gold or jewels presented as an offering. Many see Christianity as religion, a liturgical way of life, something prescribed by a priest or church organization focused upon revenues. Christians see Christianity as salvation from worldliness and strife unto a heavenliness, purity and an existence with Christ. When will your heart break? When will you become contrite? Christianity is about your heart, your soul, your eternal life. It should change your temporal loyalty to eternal appreciation.

“Nothing is Impossible (Matthew 19:26)”

With Christ, all things are possible. Consider this verse often when you look at the magnitude of challenges before us. As a church, we face tremendous obstacles in this small ministry. We need a new building, but have no church base or income to support the need. We endeavor to reach our nations school children with real history and the Word of God through the Aitken’s bible project, but we are a simple and small ministry in rural Lander Wyoming. None of that matters when we think of David against the bear, lion or Goliath. If we come together, if we join forces to witness to and encourage Lander for Christ, if we gather unto the Lord and give our small little church body our all for Christ, we can accomplish anything. We simply need to be that thumb to help pick stuff up, or that arm for strong lifting. One of us is a leg that will get things moving and carry the body. One may be an eye that sees or an ear that hears. Whatever the case, we need each other. If we support one another in the love of Christ, we will succeed.