Per Pastor Scotty Smith:
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. Luke 2:20
Heavenly Father, life just on the other side of Christmas day feels quite different to different people. For some of us, this was the “greatest” Christmas ever—in terms of caring relationships, incredible “eats”, thoughtful gifts, and above all, profound gratitude for the indescribable gift of your Son, Jesus. But for others of us, it was a really difficult day of palpable tensions, dashed hopes, and brokenness abounding. For still others, it was the first Christmas with an empty chair where a loved one used to sit, or a day spent all by ourselves with underscored loneliness.
Father, my prayer today is for all of us, no matter what yesterday was like. For even our best days are in need of the gospel, and none of our worst days are beyond the reach of the gospel. We always have more of your grace than we’re aware of and we need more than we realize.
When the shepherds left Jesus’ manger, they were still shepherds. They still couldn’t worship at the temple; they still couldn’t give testimony in a court of law; they still were stereotyped as thieves by many in their community. A five-star inn in Bethlehem didn’t suddenly open up for Joseph and Mary the day after Jesus was born. She wasn’t spared any of the normal chaos and pain of birthing and afterbirth. Angels didn’t begin showing up as round-the-clock nurses.
Father, thank you that we’re Christians, not Gnostics. We don’t have to pretend about anything. Christmas isn’t a season in which we’re supposed to be transported into a super-spirituality, rising above reality. The gospel isn’t about denial but is about learning to delight in you, no matter what’s going on. We praise you that Jesus came into a real world where everything is broken, but he did come to make all things new, starting with us.
Please give each of us the special and the common grace you gave the shepherds. Let us hear and let us see more of Jesus, even if we remain “shepherds” the rest of our lives. Father, enable us to glorify and praise you in every season and situation of life. We are a people of hope, not hype, and everything you tell us in your Word will come to pass. Our past is forgiven, our present is in your hands, and our future is looking really good. This is good news for shepherds and kings alike. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ faithful and loving name.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Believer, When the Temptation is Great, Keep This in Mind
When the day of evil comes and our temptation is great, we should not say, “Satan cannot touch me because of how truthful, righteous, and faithful I have been.” Rather we should say, “I am protected by the truth that though I feel weak, I am strong; though I may fall, I possess Christ’s righteousness. And though I am not perfect, I have peace with my God who has provided the faith I could not conjure (for faith, too, is a gift of God), the salvation I could not earn, and the Spirit I daily need.”
The spiritual disciplines and godly practices of our lives are not what protect us against Satan; they are the means of grace by which God builds within us greater understanding and confidence in him, so that we will stand on his promises and provisions when the day of battle comes (Bryan Chapell).
The spiritual disciplines and godly practices of our lives are not what protect us against Satan; they are the means of grace by which God builds within us greater understanding and confidence in him, so that we will stand on his promises and provisions when the day of battle comes (Bryan Chapell).
Friday, December 23, 2011
Believers Have Resurrection Power Over Satan's Schemes
Hell and your sins resist your course;
But hell and sin are vanquished foes:
Your Jesus nailed them to the cross
And sang the triumph when he rose --(Isaac Watts, "Stand Up, My Soul; Shake Off Your Fears," 1707).
But hell and sin are vanquished foes:
Your Jesus nailed them to the cross
And sang the triumph when he rose --(Isaac Watts, "Stand Up, My Soul; Shake Off Your Fears," 1707).
Thursday, December 22, 2011
A Testimony of the Effect of Sexual Lust on Marriage
Christian counselor Richard Winter once shared an article with pastors to help them understand how sexual sin can destroy intimacy in marriage. It was an honest autobiography of a minister's struggle with sexual lust and the consequences of it on his marriage:
I have not mentioned the effect of lust on my marriage. It did not destroy my marriage, did not push me out to find more sexual excitation in an adulterous affair, or with prostitutes, did not even impel me to put unrealistic demands on my wife's sexual performance. The effect was far more subtle....
Because I have...gone over every inch of Miss October as well as the throng of beauties that Madison Avenue and Hollywood recruit to tantalize the masses, I start to view my wife in that light....I begin to focus on my wife's minor flaws. I lose sight of the fact that she is a charming, warm, attractive woman and that I am fortunate to have found her....
Lust affected my marriage in...[a] subtle and pernicous way. Sex....We performed okay....But passion, ah, that was something different. Passion I never felt in my marriage....
We never talked about this, yet I am sure that she sensed it. I think she began to view herself as a sex object--not in the feminist sense of being the object of a husband's selfish greed, but in the deprived sense of being only the object of my physical necessity and not of romance and passion ("The War Within," Anonymous, Leadership Magazine, Fall, 1992.
I have not mentioned the effect of lust on my marriage. It did not destroy my marriage, did not push me out to find more sexual excitation in an adulterous affair, or with prostitutes, did not even impel me to put unrealistic demands on my wife's sexual performance. The effect was far more subtle....
Because I have...gone over every inch of Miss October as well as the throng of beauties that Madison Avenue and Hollywood recruit to tantalize the masses, I start to view my wife in that light....I begin to focus on my wife's minor flaws. I lose sight of the fact that she is a charming, warm, attractive woman and that I am fortunate to have found her....
Lust affected my marriage in...[a] subtle and pernicous way. Sex....We performed okay....But passion, ah, that was something different. Passion I never felt in my marriage....
We never talked about this, yet I am sure that she sensed it. I think she began to view herself as a sex object--not in the feminist sense of being the object of a husband's selfish greed, but in the deprived sense of being only the object of my physical necessity and not of romance and passion ("The War Within," Anonymous, Leadership Magazine, Fall, 1992.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Our Safety is in the Deep!
There are few dangers threatening the religious future more serious than the slow shallowing of the religious mind....Our safety is in the deep. The lazy cry for simplicity is a great danger. It indicates a frame of mind which is only appalled at the great things of God, and a senility of faith which fears that which is high. Men complain that they...cannot rise to such matters. That may mean that the matters of the world absorb all the energies of the great side of the soul, that Divine things are no more than a comfort (P.T. Forsyth).
Monday, December 19, 2011
The Father's Bargain
One of my students (Corey Terry) in an assignment turned into me included this dialogue from a work by John Flavel called “The Father’s Bargain.” I found it to be a provocative way to communicate the necessity of the cross.
Father: My son, there is a company of poor miserable souls, that have utterly undone themselves, and now lie open to my justice! Justice demands satisfaction for them, or will satisfy itself in the eternal ruin of them. What shall be done for these souls?
Son: O my Father, such is my love to, and pity for them, that rather than they perish eternally, I will be responsible for them as their Surety; bring in all they bills, that I may see what they owe thee; Lord bring them all in, that there may be no after-reckoning with them; at my hand shall thou require it. I will rather choose to suffer their wrath than they should suffer it: upon me, my Father, upon me be all their debt.
Father: But, my Son, if thou undertake for them, thou must reckon to pay the last mite, expect no abatements; if I spare them, I will not spare thee.
Son: Content, Father, let it be so; charge it all upon me, I am able to discharge it: and though it prove a kind of undoing to me, though it impoverish all my riches, empty all my treasures, yet I am content to undertake it!
Father: My son, there is a company of poor miserable souls, that have utterly undone themselves, and now lie open to my justice! Justice demands satisfaction for them, or will satisfy itself in the eternal ruin of them. What shall be done for these souls?
Son: O my Father, such is my love to, and pity for them, that rather than they perish eternally, I will be responsible for them as their Surety; bring in all they bills, that I may see what they owe thee; Lord bring them all in, that there may be no after-reckoning with them; at my hand shall thou require it. I will rather choose to suffer their wrath than they should suffer it: upon me, my Father, upon me be all their debt.
Father: But, my Son, if thou undertake for them, thou must reckon to pay the last mite, expect no abatements; if I spare them, I will not spare thee.
Son: Content, Father, let it be so; charge it all upon me, I am able to discharge it: and though it prove a kind of undoing to me, though it impoverish all my riches, empty all my treasures, yet I am content to undertake it!
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Why There Is Only One Deathbed Conversion in the Bible
It cannot be too often, or too loudly, or too solemnly repeated, that the Bible, which ranges over a period of four thousand years, records but one instance of a death-bed conversion—one that none may despair, and but one that none may presume.—Thomas Guthrie (1803-1873), a Scottish preacher, in chapter 1 of Early Piety
From Justin Taylor's Between Two Worlds.
From Justin Taylor's Between Two Worlds.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
What Can and Can't Change in the Believer's Relationship With God
What Can and Cannot Change in Our Relationship with God
In a chart entitled 'Our Relationship with God,' Bryan Chapell lists what can change and what cannot change.
What Can Change
our fellowship
our experience of his blessing
our assurance of his love
his delight in our actions
his discipline
our sense of guilt
What Cannot Change
our sonship
his desire for our welfare
his actual affection for us
his love for us
our destiny
our security
--Bryan Chapell, Holiness by Grace: Delighting in the Joy That Is Our Strength (Crossway, 2001), 196 (Per Dane Ortlund).
In a chart entitled 'Our Relationship with God,' Bryan Chapell lists what can change and what cannot change.
What Can Change
our fellowship
our experience of his blessing
our assurance of his love
his delight in our actions
his discipline
our sense of guilt
What Cannot Change
our sonship
his desire for our welfare
his actual affection for us
his love for us
our destiny
our security
--Bryan Chapell, Holiness by Grace: Delighting in the Joy That Is Our Strength (Crossway, 2001), 196 (Per Dane Ortlund).
Friday, September 9, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "Z" for "Zeal"
“Z”—Zeal
May God stir both our own hearts and the hearts of those who are called to serve with an authentic zeal for the Gospel, and for the Christ of the Gospel.
Indeed, Christ gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works (Titus 2:14).
May God stir both our own hearts and the hearts of those who are called to serve with an authentic zeal for the Gospel, and for the Christ of the Gospel.
Indeed, Christ gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works (Titus 2:14).
The Gospel Alphabet: "Y" for "Yielding"
“Y”—Yielding
The Gospel must be continually set forth before church members because it is view of God’s mercy that we are provoked to yield our lives fully to God as living sacrifices (Rom 6:13; 12:1).
It is the kindness of God displayed in the Gospel that leads us to repentance (Rom 2:4) so that we no longer live for ourselves but for him who died for us and was raised again (2 Cor 5:15).
The Gospel must be continually set forth before church members because it is view of God’s mercy that we are provoked to yield our lives fully to God as living sacrifices (Rom 6:13; 12:1).
It is the kindness of God displayed in the Gospel that leads us to repentance (Rom 2:4) so that we no longer live for ourselves but for him who died for us and was raised again (2 Cor 5:15).
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "X" for "Xenophilia"
“X”—Xenophilia
The actual Greek word is philoxenia, which literally means love of strangers, foreigners, aliens.
Xenophilia is defined in The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 3rd ed. as attraction to that which is foreign, especially to foreign peoples, manners, and customs.
It thus stands in deep contrast with xenophobia (a fear or hatred towards foreigners, strangers, or those different than us), a sin that has too often characterized many churches.
In our English translations of the Bible, philoxenia is translated as hospitality (Rom 12:13; 1 Pet 4:9) and to show hospitality to strangers (Heb 13:2). Such love to strangers is a required attribute of church leaders (1 Tim 3:2).
In the final judgment Jesus will either commend or condemn based upon whether or not people have welcomed the least of these (and thus welcomed Christ himself; Matt 25:35, 43). Jesus is the great model for hospitality, as is indicated in the Gospel narratives as well in the whole wonder of his incarnation and passion.
Indeed, we were not merely strangers to him; we were God’s enemies when he died for us (Rom 5:8). In declaring such love, the Gospel also calls us to imitate him (1 John 4:10-11).
The actual Greek word is philoxenia, which literally means love of strangers, foreigners, aliens.
Xenophilia is defined in The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 3rd ed. as attraction to that which is foreign, especially to foreign peoples, manners, and customs.
It thus stands in deep contrast with xenophobia (a fear or hatred towards foreigners, strangers, or those different than us), a sin that has too often characterized many churches.
In our English translations of the Bible, philoxenia is translated as hospitality (Rom 12:13; 1 Pet 4:9) and to show hospitality to strangers (Heb 13:2). Such love to strangers is a required attribute of church leaders (1 Tim 3:2).
In the final judgment Jesus will either commend or condemn based upon whether or not people have welcomed the least of these (and thus welcomed Christ himself; Matt 25:35, 43). Jesus is the great model for hospitality, as is indicated in the Gospel narratives as well in the whole wonder of his incarnation and passion.
Indeed, we were not merely strangers to him; we were God’s enemies when he died for us (Rom 5:8). In declaring such love, the Gospel also calls us to imitate him (1 John 4:10-11).
Monday, August 29, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "W" for "Worship"
“W”—Worship
We must continually teach and learn the Gospel because there is simply nothing else that evokes worship and adoration as the Gospel does. A survey of the hymnody of the church through the past twenty centuries makes this evident. The best hymns which have shown themselves to have staying power have always been Gospel—saturated.
God is glorified, Christ is exalted, and the cross and Christ’s atoning work are central. The same is true of the other key elements of Christian worship—our preaching, our confessions, our prayers, our ordinances. Take away the Gospel and Christian worship ceases.
We must continually teach and learn the Gospel because there is simply nothing else that evokes worship and adoration as the Gospel does. A survey of the hymnody of the church through the past twenty centuries makes this evident. The best hymns which have shown themselves to have staying power have always been Gospel—saturated.
God is glorified, Christ is exalted, and the cross and Christ’s atoning work are central. The same is true of the other key elements of Christian worship—our preaching, our confessions, our prayers, our ordinances. Take away the Gospel and Christian worship ceases.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Signs of Life in the Christian
I posted a quote a few days ago in which Jonathan Edwards, drawing from 2 Corinthians 5, reminds us that we are a "new creation" in Christ. A more modern commentator on the Gospel of Matthew suggests the opening words of The Sermon on the Mount, known as the Beatitudes, are to be "signs of life" in us new creatures. A way of life that, while not yet globally present, should already be found amongst Kingdom people.
"These statements [the Beatitudes], clearly, are not describing 'the way things are.' They are not suggesting that the mourners are already being comforted, despite appearances. They are not trying to teach hidden, timeless truths about a reality which is normally hidden behind a bleak facade. They are announcing a new state of affairs, a new reality which is in the process of bursting into the world. They are declaring that something that wasn't previously the case is now going to be; that the life of heaven, which had seemed so distant and unreal, is in the process of coming true on earth...These qualities - purity of heart, mercy, and so on - are not, so to speak, 'things you have to do' to earn a 'reward,' a 'payment.' Nor are they merely the 'rules of conduct' laid down for the converts to follow - rules that some today might perceive as somewhat arbitrary. They are, in themselves, the signs of life, the language of life, the life of new creation, the life of new covenant, the life which Jesus came to bring."
"These statements [the Beatitudes], clearly, are not describing 'the way things are.' They are not suggesting that the mourners are already being comforted, despite appearances. They are not trying to teach hidden, timeless truths about a reality which is normally hidden behind a bleak facade. They are announcing a new state of affairs, a new reality which is in the process of bursting into the world. They are declaring that something that wasn't previously the case is now going to be; that the life of heaven, which had seemed so distant and unreal, is in the process of coming true on earth...These qualities - purity of heart, mercy, and so on - are not, so to speak, 'things you have to do' to earn a 'reward,' a 'payment.' Nor are they merely the 'rules of conduct' laid down for the converts to follow - rules that some today might perceive as somewhat arbitrary. They are, in themselves, the signs of life, the language of life, the life of new creation, the life of new covenant, the life which Jesus came to bring."
The Gospel Alphabet: "V" for "Vision"
“V”—Vision
Keeping our minds focused on the Gospel can help us align our hearts to God’s own heart. We so easily fall into pettiness and needless division when we are not prizing the things God prizes.
Jesus endured the cross and its shame because of the joy set before him (Heb 12:2); a joy which refers to the fact that through suffering and death he would bring many children to glory (Heb 2:10-18).
Paul also endured all manner of things for the sake of the Gospel and in the furtherance of its saving ministry (1 Cor 9:23; Phil 1:12-13; 2 Tim 1:11-12).
A clear vision of the goal imparts fortitude in struggling toward it and great forbearance in the face of distractions from it.
Keeping our minds focused on the Gospel can help us align our hearts to God’s own heart. We so easily fall into pettiness and needless division when we are not prizing the things God prizes.
Jesus endured the cross and its shame because of the joy set before him (Heb 12:2); a joy which refers to the fact that through suffering and death he would bring many children to glory (Heb 2:10-18).
Paul also endured all manner of things for the sake of the Gospel and in the furtherance of its saving ministry (1 Cor 9:23; Phil 1:12-13; 2 Tim 1:11-12).
A clear vision of the goal imparts fortitude in struggling toward it and great forbearance in the face of distractions from it.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "U" for "Unity"
“U”—Unity
A clear Gospel focus contributes to the unity of the church. To be sure, we never achieve perfect consensus here because we need to constantly wrestle with variant details of conviction. But magnifying the Gospel as our central point of reference can help us keep a variety of lesser concerns in proper perspective (Phil 1:18).
A clear Gospel focus contributes to the unity of the church. To be sure, we never achieve perfect consensus here because we need to constantly wrestle with variant details of conviction. But magnifying the Gospel as our central point of reference can help us keep a variety of lesser concerns in proper perspective (Phil 1:18).
The Gospel Alphabet: "T" for "Theology"
“T”—Theology
While errant theological thinking on a variety of issues can lead us to a twisted Gospel; it is also true that an errant Gospel can unleash a host of heresies. It is worth pointing out that Satan is a competent theologian with great ability in confusing and misleading with regard to God’s truth.
While errant theological thinking on a variety of issues can lead us to a twisted Gospel; it is also true that an errant Gospel can unleash a host of heresies. It is worth pointing out that Satan is a competent theologian with great ability in confusing and misleading with regard to God’s truth.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Come Lord and Tarry Not
Here is a great hymn by the Scottish poet Horatius Bonar to sing after meditating on Romans 8: 18-30. Bonar, mentored by the venerable mathematician/theologian Thomas Chalmers, had an incredible gift for making complex realities not only understandable, but singable! This hymn is a reminder that while God began making things new at Christs first coming, we are still desperately awaiting His return when all things will be set right completely and finally.
Come, Lord, and tarry not;
Bring the long looked for day;
O why these years of waiting here,
These ages of decay?
Come, for creation groans,
Impatient of Thy stay,
Worn out with these long years of ill,
These ages of delay.
Come, for love waxes cold,
Its steps are faint and slow;
Faith now is lost in unbelief,
Hope’s lamp burns dim and low.
Come, and make all things new,
Build up this ruined earth;
Restore our faded Paradise,
Creation’s second birth.
Come, and begin Thy reign
Of everlasting peace;
Come, take the kingdom to Thyself,
Great King of Righteousness.
Come, Lord, and tarry not;
Bring the long looked for day;
O why these years of waiting here,
These ages of decay?
Come, for creation groans,
Impatient of Thy stay,
Worn out with these long years of ill,
These ages of delay.
Come, for love waxes cold,
Its steps are faint and slow;
Faith now is lost in unbelief,
Hope’s lamp burns dim and low.
Come, and make all things new,
Build up this ruined earth;
Restore our faded Paradise,
Creation’s second birth.
Come, and begin Thy reign
Of everlasting peace;
Come, take the kingdom to Thyself,
Great King of Righteousness.
The Gospel Alphabet: "S" for "Salvation"
“S”—Salvation
Scripture is very clear that the Gospel is the power of God for salvation for everyone who believes (Rom 1:16). This isn’t a truth pertaining only to evangelism. The Gospel saves those who believe, from first to last, through and through.
It includes all the wondrous doctrines of our great salvation, including, regeneration, justification, sanctification, glorification, and much more.
For this reason alone, the Gospel must remain central in all the ministries of the church.
Scripture is very clear that the Gospel is the power of God for salvation for everyone who believes (Rom 1:16). This isn’t a truth pertaining only to evangelism. The Gospel saves those who believe, from first to last, through and through.
It includes all the wondrous doctrines of our great salvation, including, regeneration, justification, sanctification, glorification, and much more.
For this reason alone, the Gospel must remain central in all the ministries of the church.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
The Discipline of the Gospel
In his (very helpful) Romans commentary C.E.B. Cranfield reminds us that when you increase in your knowledge of the gospel you necessarily increase in your awareness of indwelling sin.
“The verses which follow [Romans 7:7-25] depict vividly the inner conflict characteristic of the true Christian, a conflict such as is possible only in the man, in whom the Holy Spirit is active and whose mind is being renewed under the discipline of the gospel. In the man who understands the law not legalistically but in the light of Christ and so recognizes the real seriousness of its requirement, and who truly and sincerely wills to obey it, to do what is good and to avoid the evil, the man in whom the power of sin is really being seriously and resolutely challenged, in him the power of sin is clearly seen. The more he is renewed by God’s Spirit, the more sensitive he becomes to the continuing power of sin over his life and the fact that even his very best activities are marred by the egotism still entrenched within him”
“The verses which follow [Romans 7:7-25] depict vividly the inner conflict characteristic of the true Christian, a conflict such as is possible only in the man, in whom the Holy Spirit is active and whose mind is being renewed under the discipline of the gospel. In the man who understands the law not legalistically but in the light of Christ and so recognizes the real seriousness of its requirement, and who truly and sincerely wills to obey it, to do what is good and to avoid the evil, the man in whom the power of sin is really being seriously and resolutely challenged, in him the power of sin is clearly seen. The more he is renewed by God’s Spirit, the more sensitive he becomes to the continuing power of sin over his life and the fact that even his very best activities are marred by the egotism still entrenched within him”
What is Your Stance Towards Indwelling Sin?
John Duncan (17th-18th century Scottish pastor): Christ came to save the contrasts of himself; but not to leave them such. There's nobody perfect: that's the believer's bed of thorns: that's the hypocrite's couch of ease.
Church Life Worthy of the Gospel
Paul admonishes the church at Philippi to let their manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ (Phil 1:27a).
What then does a church look like whose corporate manner of life is worthy of the gospel of Christ?
Paul tells us: it is a church that is always standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel (Phil 1:27b).
When a church fails to understand that individual rights and desires within the body aren't ultimate (when these things become ultimate, it's a form of idolatry), it will experience carnal division and infighting in the body that damages the reputation of the gospel of Christ.
However, when a church understands that the gospel of Jesus Christ is ultimate; that is, we don't exist as a church for ourselves, but for the sake of the gospel, that church will be too busy on the front lines of ministry to concern itself with secondary and peripheral matters that end up dividing brothers and sisters who are called to stand firm in one spirit, with one mind.
My prayer for FBC Fisherville today is that we will continue to grow as a church that can aptly be described by its striving for the faith of the gospel. Please pray with me.
What then does a church look like whose corporate manner of life is worthy of the gospel of Christ?
Paul tells us: it is a church that is always standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel (Phil 1:27b).
When a church fails to understand that individual rights and desires within the body aren't ultimate (when these things become ultimate, it's a form of idolatry), it will experience carnal division and infighting in the body that damages the reputation of the gospel of Christ.
However, when a church understands that the gospel of Jesus Christ is ultimate; that is, we don't exist as a church for ourselves, but for the sake of the gospel, that church will be too busy on the front lines of ministry to concern itself with secondary and peripheral matters that end up dividing brothers and sisters who are called to stand firm in one spirit, with one mind.
My prayer for FBC Fisherville today is that we will continue to grow as a church that can aptly be described by its striving for the faith of the gospel. Please pray with me.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
New Birth
After reading 2 Corinthians 5 this morning I was reminded of a great quote (I think I got from Brian) on the new birth. It has been on my mind today and caused me to examine my "internal tempers and disposition" in light of Paul saying my "old [self] has passed away" and I am a "new creation" in Christ. It's my prayer that the Spirit continues changing all of our innermost principles from the very foundation...
"The believer has such a sight and such a knowledge of things that, ever since, he is quite another man than he was before. It has exceedingly altered his internal tempers and disposition. The knowledge that he has is so substantial, so inward, and so affecting, that it has quite transformed the soul and put a new nature into the man, has quite changed his very innermost principles, and has made things otherwise, even from the very foundation, so that all things have become new to them. Yes, he is a new creature, he is just as if he was not the same, but born again, created over a second time." -Jonathan Edwards
"The believer has such a sight and such a knowledge of things that, ever since, he is quite another man than he was before. It has exceedingly altered his internal tempers and disposition. The knowledge that he has is so substantial, so inward, and so affecting, that it has quite transformed the soul and put a new nature into the man, has quite changed his very innermost principles, and has made things otherwise, even from the very foundation, so that all things have become new to them. Yes, he is a new creature, he is just as if he was not the same, but born again, created over a second time." -Jonathan Edwards
The Gospel Alphabet: "R" for "Righteousness"
“R”—Righteousness.
In the Gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last (Rom 1:17).
The Gospel reveals God’s righteousness in at least two ways. First, it is a declaration that God himself is just and righteous, for the Gospel teaches that in Christ our sins have been fully propitiated as a basis for his forgiving of us (Rom 3:24-26; 1 John 1:9; 2:2).
Then, second, through the Gospel, God declares us righteous as we put our faith in Christ Jesus. Thus in the Gospel God demonstrates his own justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus (Rom 3:26).
It is absolutely vital beyond words that we faithfully preach and teach this Gospel.
In the Gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last (Rom 1:17).
The Gospel reveals God’s righteousness in at least two ways. First, it is a declaration that God himself is just and righteous, for the Gospel teaches that in Christ our sins have been fully propitiated as a basis for his forgiving of us (Rom 3:24-26; 1 John 1:9; 2:2).
Then, second, through the Gospel, God declares us righteous as we put our faith in Christ Jesus. Thus in the Gospel God demonstrates his own justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus (Rom 3:26).
It is absolutely vital beyond words that we faithfully preach and teach this Gospel.
The Gospel Alphabet: "Q" for "Quickening"
“Q”—Quickening
Though by nature we were dead in our trespasses and sins and were objects of God’s wrath, God quickened us—made us alive with Christ—through his love and grace (Eph 2:1-5).
This God did, and still does, as we believe the Gospel, putting our faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ.
Though by nature we were dead in our trespasses and sins and were objects of God’s wrath, God quickened us—made us alive with Christ—through his love and grace (Eph 2:1-5).
This God did, and still does, as we believe the Gospel, putting our faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "P" for "Passion"
“P”—Passion
Passion comes from the Latin passio, meaning “suffering.” We celebrate each year the passion of our Lord in our remembrance of Holy Week. Likewise, whenever we partake of the Lord’s Supper we proclaim the Lord’s death til he comes.
It is required of us not only to believe in Christ, the Suffering Servant, but also to suffer for him ourselves (Phil 1:29).
Paul saw his own suffering for the Gospel and for the building up of the church as an active participation in the afflictions of Christ (Col 1:24; Phil 3:10-11).
Passion comes from the Latin passio, meaning “suffering.” We celebrate each year the passion of our Lord in our remembrance of Holy Week. Likewise, whenever we partake of the Lord’s Supper we proclaim the Lord’s death til he comes.
It is required of us not only to believe in Christ, the Suffering Servant, but also to suffer for him ourselves (Phil 1:29).
Paul saw his own suffering for the Gospel and for the building up of the church as an active participation in the afflictions of Christ (Col 1:24; Phil 3:10-11).
Monday, August 22, 2011
A Prayer to Start the Week: Divine Support
Happy in thyself,source of happiness in thy creatures, my Maker, Benefactor, Proprietor, Upholder.
Thou hast produced and sustained me, supported and indulged me, saved and kept me; Thou art in every situation able to meet my needs and miseries. May I live by thee, live for thee, never be satisfied with my Christian progress but as I resemble Christ; And may conformity to his principles, temper, and conduct grow hourly in my life. Let thy unexampled love contrain me into holy obedience, and render my duty my delight. If others deem my faith folly, my meekness infirmity, my zeal madness, my hope delusion, my actions hypocrisy, my I rejoice to suffer for thy name. Keep me walking steadfastly towards th country of everlasting delights, that paradise--land which is my true inheritance. Support me by the strength of heaven that I may never turn back, or desire false pleasures that wilt and disappear into nothing. As I pursue my heavenly journey by thy grace let me be known as a man/woman with no aim but that of a burning desire for thee, and the good and salvation of my fellow men. (From Valley of Vision, 212-13)
Thou hast produced and sustained me, supported and indulged me, saved and kept me; Thou art in every situation able to meet my needs and miseries. May I live by thee, live for thee, never be satisfied with my Christian progress but as I resemble Christ; And may conformity to his principles, temper, and conduct grow hourly in my life. Let thy unexampled love contrain me into holy obedience, and render my duty my delight. If others deem my faith folly, my meekness infirmity, my zeal madness, my hope delusion, my actions hypocrisy, my I rejoice to suffer for thy name. Keep me walking steadfastly towards th country of everlasting delights, that paradise--land which is my true inheritance. Support me by the strength of heaven that I may never turn back, or desire false pleasures that wilt and disappear into nothing. As I pursue my heavenly journey by thy grace let me be known as a man/woman with no aim but that of a burning desire for thee, and the good and salvation of my fellow men. (From Valley of Vision, 212-13)
The Gospel Alphabet: "O" for "Obedience"
“O”—Obedience
The Gospel calls forth obedience (Rom 1:5) in at least 3 ways:
(1) we must obey the Gospel by believing and receiving this Good News (Jn 6:29).
(2) the faith that saves works itself out in obedient living by God’s empowering grace (Phil 2:12-13).
(3) we are to obey Jesus’ command to bring this Gospel to the nations (Matt 28:18-20).
In our ministries of teaching and formation these calls to obey the Gospel must be clear and unmistakable.
The Gospel calls forth obedience (Rom 1:5) in at least 3 ways:
(1) we must obey the Gospel by believing and receiving this Good News (Jn 6:29).
(2) the faith that saves works itself out in obedient living by God’s empowering grace (Phil 2:12-13).
(3) we are to obey Jesus’ command to bring this Gospel to the nations (Matt 28:18-20).
In our ministries of teaching and formation these calls to obey the Gospel must be clear and unmistakable.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "N" for "Narrative"
“N”—Narrative
We must ever study the Gospel because it is the summit and summary of the great narrative of God’s redemptive activity in the world. It is into this Story that we have been called.
In an age when many deny the existence of a single metanarrative that applies to all persons it is more important than ever that we know the biblical narrative and tell it faithfully to others, asking God to convince hearers as we do so that this is their Story as well.
Indeed, this is our story, this is our song, praising our Savior (the main point of the Story), all the day long.
We must ever study the Gospel because it is the summit and summary of the great narrative of God’s redemptive activity in the world. It is into this Story that we have been called.
In an age when many deny the existence of a single metanarrative that applies to all persons it is more important than ever that we know the biblical narrative and tell it faithfully to others, asking God to convince hearers as we do so that this is their Story as well.
Indeed, this is our story, this is our song, praising our Savior (the main point of the Story), all the day long.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "M" for "Mission"
“M”—Mission
We must continually learn and teach the Gospel so that we may not lose sight of the great work that God is doing in our world. God is actively engaged in the wondrous work of reconciling all things to himself. It was for this that the Son of God came: God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself (2 Cor 5:19).
And this work continues in and through us, the body of Christ, gathered and dispersed throughout the world. The very work for which the Father sent the Son, the Son has now sent his church to continue (Matt 28:18-20; Jn 20:21).
And he promises to be with us always. Being in his presence must be taken as seriously as doing the work of mission, for mission can only have power when Christ is indwelling us and we him.
We must continually learn and teach the Gospel so that we may not lose sight of the great work that God is doing in our world. God is actively engaged in the wondrous work of reconciling all things to himself. It was for this that the Son of God came: God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself (2 Cor 5:19).
And this work continues in and through us, the body of Christ, gathered and dispersed throughout the world. The very work for which the Father sent the Son, the Son has now sent his church to continue (Matt 28:18-20; Jn 20:21).
And he promises to be with us always. Being in his presence must be taken as seriously as doing the work of mission, for mission can only have power when Christ is indwelling us and we him.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Sermon for August 21: "Desperate Faith" Part 2 (Luke 5:17-26)
Please be in prayer for our service Sunday as we look at another person (and his friends) who are desperate for the Lord Jesus Christ. To be sure, Luke is setting us up for Jesus' statement in 5:32: I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.
In other words, Jesus will not save the "self-righteous," and self-sufficent. He only saves those who come to terms with their sin and desperate situation before a holy God.
Interestingly, situated between the accounts of the desperate leper (5:12-16) and the desperate paralytic (and his desperate friends) (5:18-26) stands the Pharisees and the teachers of the law (5:17). This group has it together. They aren't desperate; why should they be? All their "i's" are dotted and all their "t's" are crossed theologically and morally.
No one was more religious, moral, or zealous for the Law of God than the Pharisees. And yet, Luke wants us to see that it's only the desperate who can benefit from the ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Pharisees are left out in the cold. Their righteousness will not deliver.
Indeed, Jesus says elsewhere, For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven (Matt 5:20).
He tells Nicodemus, a Pharisee, (and ruler of the Jews), unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3).
No wonder we are desperate. If the Pharisees can't make it with their religious commitment, who can? Only those who understand this and come desperate to the Lord Jesus Christ in repentant faith.
In other words, Jesus will not save the "self-righteous," and self-sufficent. He only saves those who come to terms with their sin and desperate situation before a holy God.
Interestingly, situated between the accounts of the desperate leper (5:12-16) and the desperate paralytic (and his desperate friends) (5:18-26) stands the Pharisees and the teachers of the law (5:17). This group has it together. They aren't desperate; why should they be? All their "i's" are dotted and all their "t's" are crossed theologically and morally.
No one was more religious, moral, or zealous for the Law of God than the Pharisees. And yet, Luke wants us to see that it's only the desperate who can benefit from the ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Pharisees are left out in the cold. Their righteousness will not deliver.
Indeed, Jesus says elsewhere, For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven (Matt 5:20).
He tells Nicodemus, a Pharisee, (and ruler of the Jews), unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3).
No wonder we are desperate. If the Pharisees can't make it with their religious commitment, who can? Only those who understand this and come desperate to the Lord Jesus Christ in repentant faith.
The Gospel Alphabet: "L" for "Love"
“L”—Love
The Gospel is the revelation of God’s abounding love: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Rom 5:8). We need to immerse ourselves and the saints we serve in that Good News.
The ordinance of the Lord’s Supper, for example, is an ongoing reminder of Christ crucified (1 Cor 11:26). God’s Gospel love also calls forth love as response. The Lord’s Supper both declares God’s love and demands that we love one another in turn (1 Cor 11:27).
The Apostle John makes this clear. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another (1 Jn 4:10-11).
And again he writes, We love because he first loved us (1 Jn 4:19). To see love grow in the hearts of God’s people and reach to their neighbors, we must school them continuously in the Gospel of love.
The Gospel is the revelation of God’s abounding love: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Rom 5:8). We need to immerse ourselves and the saints we serve in that Good News.
The ordinance of the Lord’s Supper, for example, is an ongoing reminder of Christ crucified (1 Cor 11:26). God’s Gospel love also calls forth love as response. The Lord’s Supper both declares God’s love and demands that we love one another in turn (1 Cor 11:27).
The Apostle John makes this clear. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another (1 Jn 4:10-11).
And again he writes, We love because he first loved us (1 Jn 4:19). To see love grow in the hearts of God’s people and reach to their neighbors, we must school them continuously in the Gospel of love.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "K" for "Knowledge"
“K”—Knowledge
We continually learn the Gospel, even as believers, because the Gospel is the revelation of the knowledge and wisdom of God. Though the message of Christ crucified seems foolish to many in this age, to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God (1 Cor 1:23-24).
The Gospel is a message of wisdom among the mature (1 Cor 2:6), a message that is God’s secret wisdom that has been hidden for ages (1 Cor 2:7). But God has revealed it to us by his Spirit (1 Cor 2:10). Who has known the mind of the Lord that he would instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:16). To grow in the knowledge of God’s wisdom, grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, then, let us remain steadfast in the Gospel.
We continually learn the Gospel, even as believers, because the Gospel is the revelation of the knowledge and wisdom of God. Though the message of Christ crucified seems foolish to many in this age, to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God (1 Cor 1:23-24).
The Gospel is a message of wisdom among the mature (1 Cor 2:6), a message that is God’s secret wisdom that has been hidden for ages (1 Cor 2:7). But God has revealed it to us by his Spirit (1 Cor 2:10). Who has known the mind of the Lord that he would instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:16). To grow in the knowledge of God’s wisdom, grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, then, let us remain steadfast in the Gospel.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "J" for "Jealousy"
J”—Jealousy:
We learn and teach the Gospel because we are called to be jealous for those we serve. The apostle Paul declared to the Corinthians, I feel a divine jealousy for you, for I betrothed you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ (2 Cor 11:2).
Indeed, God himself is a jealous God (Exod 20:5). True love that is covenant based is properly jealous concerning the parties in that covenant. We must keep the true Gospel before the eyes of those whom we teach and serve so that they will avoid what Paul feared for the Corinthians—that is, that they should be deceived by the serpent’s cunning and somehow be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ (2 Cor 11:3).
Deeper acquaintance with the true Gospel will help believers recognize and reject the preaching of another Jesus and a different Gospel (2 Cor 11:4).
We learn and teach the Gospel because we are called to be jealous for those we serve. The apostle Paul declared to the Corinthians, I feel a divine jealousy for you, for I betrothed you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ (2 Cor 11:2).
Indeed, God himself is a jealous God (Exod 20:5). True love that is covenant based is properly jealous concerning the parties in that covenant. We must keep the true Gospel before the eyes of those whom we teach and serve so that they will avoid what Paul feared for the Corinthians—that is, that they should be deceived by the serpent’s cunning and somehow be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ (2 Cor 11:3).
Deeper acquaintance with the true Gospel will help believers recognize and reject the preaching of another Jesus and a different Gospel (2 Cor 11:4).
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
The Trinity and Our Salvation
Let us never forget that our salvation in the Lord Jesus Christ is a salvation that brings us to the Father. Yes, Jesus is THE way, the truth, and the life; but let us understand that Jesus is the way to the Father.
I love the way Douglas Wilson states it in a recent article of his, "All of Christ for All of Life: Foundations."
Wilson writes: The Father is our destination, Jesus is the road, and the Spirit carries us down that road.
What a mighty Redeemer God we worship: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!
I love the way Douglas Wilson states it in a recent article of his, "All of Christ for All of Life: Foundations."
Wilson writes: The Father is our destination, Jesus is the road, and the Spirit carries us down that road.
What a mighty Redeemer God we worship: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!
One Atheist's Confessed Reason for Rejecting Christianity: His Love of Sin
Aldous Huxley (26 July 1894 – 22 November 1963) was a widely read English writer and famous atheist of the early to mid 20th century. He once freely confessed that his rejection of Christianity was motivated by his desire to sin.
He wrote: I had motives for not wanting the world to have a meaning; consequently assumed that it had not; and was able without any difficulty to find satisfying reasons for this assumption. The philosopher who finds no meaning for this world is not concerned exclusively with the problem of pure metaphysics; he is also concerned to prove that there is no valid reason why he personally should not do as he wants to....For myself...the philosophy of meaninglessness was essentially an instrument of liberation, sexual and political (Ends and Means, pp. 270, 273).
He wrote: I had motives for not wanting the world to have a meaning; consequently assumed that it had not; and was able without any difficulty to find satisfying reasons for this assumption. The philosopher who finds no meaning for this world is not concerned exclusively with the problem of pure metaphysics; he is also concerned to prove that there is no valid reason why he personally should not do as he wants to....For myself...the philosophy of meaninglessness was essentially an instrument of liberation, sexual and political (Ends and Means, pp. 270, 273).
The Gospel Alphabet: "I" for "Intimacy"
“I”—Intimacy:
Through the Gospel we’re invited into a living relationship with the living God. In the love proclaimed at the heart of the Gospel, God has adopted us into his family.
“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us that we should be called the children of God, and that is what we are” (1 Jn 3:1). The Holy Spirit empowers us to believe the Good News and is sent into our hearts, enabling us to cry, “Abba, Father” (Gal 4:6).
Rehearsing the Gospel in our worship, teaching, preaching, fellowship, and service helps us to nurture and celebrate this unfathomably intimate relationship.
Through the Gospel we’re invited into a living relationship with the living God. In the love proclaimed at the heart of the Gospel, God has adopted us into his family.
“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us that we should be called the children of God, and that is what we are” (1 Jn 3:1). The Holy Spirit empowers us to believe the Good News and is sent into our hearts, enabling us to cry, “Abba, Father” (Gal 4:6).
Rehearsing the Gospel in our worship, teaching, preaching, fellowship, and service helps us to nurture and celebrate this unfathomably intimate relationship.
Monday, August 15, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "H" for "Hope"
“H”—Hope
We center on the Gospel because it is the source of our hope. In the face of a broken world and indwelling sin, the Gospel is a great and steadfast hope, and from this hope springs forth faith and love sufficient for each day (Col 1:5).
Diminished “Gospels” may promote easy believism on the one hand, but may put the burden of salvation back on our shoulders rather than locating and leaving it in the hand of God.
This parody of hope isn’t certain. But the glorious Gospel is a blessed hope indeed (Titus 2:13), an anchor for the soul (Heb 6:19). Christ in us is the hope of glory (Col 1:27). This is the hope held out in the Gospel (Col 1:23).
With such a hope fixed within our hearts—based upon the certainty that God has made us his children and the confidence that we will be with Christ and like him forever—we long for and labor toward becoming more like him even now (1 Jn 3:1-3).
We center on the Gospel because it is the source of our hope. In the face of a broken world and indwelling sin, the Gospel is a great and steadfast hope, and from this hope springs forth faith and love sufficient for each day (Col 1:5).
Diminished “Gospels” may promote easy believism on the one hand, but may put the burden of salvation back on our shoulders rather than locating and leaving it in the hand of God.
This parody of hope isn’t certain. But the glorious Gospel is a blessed hope indeed (Titus 2:13), an anchor for the soul (Heb 6:19). Christ in us is the hope of glory (Col 1:27). This is the hope held out in the Gospel (Col 1:23).
With such a hope fixed within our hearts—based upon the certainty that God has made us his children and the confidence that we will be with Christ and like him forever—we long for and labor toward becoming more like him even now (1 Jn 3:1-3).
The Good We Do: All of Grace
I spoke of "see saw" theology yesterday in the sermon. On a see saw, two parties can't be up at the same time. When humanity is exalted, God is brought low. When God is exalted, humanity is brought to its proper place.
In light of that thought, here's a statement by Matthew Henry to humble us and exalt God as we begin our week:
Whatever good we do, we must look upon it as the performance of God's promise to us, rather than the performance of our promise to him (Judges to Job).
In light of that thought, here's a statement by Matthew Henry to humble us and exalt God as we begin our week:
Whatever good we do, we must look upon it as the performance of God's promise to us, rather than the performance of our promise to him (Judges to Job).
Sunday, August 14, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "G" for "Grace"
“G”—Grace:
We need to consistently learn and teach the Gospel because a Gospel-centered focus leads us to a Grace-centered focus.
When we drift from the Gospel, we lapse into either “antinomianism” (the erroneous thought there is no need for the law in the Christian life) or legalism (the erroneous thought that it is through my obedience to the law that I earn favor).
Let us then ever study the glorious Gospel that we may stand fast in the true grace of God (1 Pet 5:12) and may indeed “grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forevermore” (2 Pet 3:18).
We need to consistently learn and teach the Gospel because a Gospel-centered focus leads us to a Grace-centered focus.
When we drift from the Gospel, we lapse into either “antinomianism” (the erroneous thought there is no need for the law in the Christian life) or legalism (the erroneous thought that it is through my obedience to the law that I earn favor).
Let us then ever study the glorious Gospel that we may stand fast in the true grace of God (1 Pet 5:12) and may indeed “grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forevermore” (2 Pet 3:18).
Saturday, August 13, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "F" for "Fidelity"
“F”—Fidelity:
Faithfulness to the true Gospel calls for ongoing study and obedience. As well, it demands watchfulness, lest false Gospels be introduced. The battle against counterfeit Gospels has always been an issue in church life (see Paul’s, Peter’s, Jude’s, and John’s ministries). Like Paul we must resolve not to tolerate other “Gospels”, even if it comes from a heavenly angel (Gal 1:6-9).
Only a consistent learning and reviewing of the Gospel can ensure that we will be astute enough to separate the chaff from the wheat.
Faithfulness to the true Gospel calls for ongoing study and obedience. As well, it demands watchfulness, lest false Gospels be introduced. The battle against counterfeit Gospels has always been an issue in church life (see Paul’s, Peter’s, Jude’s, and John’s ministries). Like Paul we must resolve not to tolerate other “Gospels”, even if it comes from a heavenly angel (Gal 1:6-9).
Only a consistent learning and reviewing of the Gospel can ensure that we will be astute enough to separate the chaff from the wheat.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Sermon for August 14: "Desperate Faith" (Luke 5:12-16)
Please be in prayer for our service on Sunday as we consider the desperate plight of the leper. Of course, Luke is proving the claims that Jesus made when he preached his sermon in Nazareth (Luke 4:16-27). That is, Jesus, the anointed one, has to come usher in the Lord's favor to the poor, captive, blind, and oppressed (4:18).
At this point in the narrative, Jesus has delivered the possessed, healed the sick, preached the kingdom to the crowds (4:31-44), and called out Peter (and James and John) from his idolatrous life to follow him (5:1-11).
Now a desperate man with the desperate condition of leprosy comes urgently, humbly, and boldly to Jesus for healing and cleansing.
Indeed, Jesus has demonstrated his authority and glory as the Son of God (3:38).
In light of this, the leper recognizes two things: 1. Jesus' authority and glory; 2. the leper's own desperate condition.
It's in knowing these two truths that precipitates desperate faith for the leper. It wasn't a comfortable place for the leper; but it was the safest place.
Truth be known, we are no less desperate than the leper. Prosperity, health, and creature comforts mask this condition for us. Let's learn from the leper.
At this point in the narrative, Jesus has delivered the possessed, healed the sick, preached the kingdom to the crowds (4:31-44), and called out Peter (and James and John) from his idolatrous life to follow him (5:1-11).
Now a desperate man with the desperate condition of leprosy comes urgently, humbly, and boldly to Jesus for healing and cleansing.
Indeed, Jesus has demonstrated his authority and glory as the Son of God (3:38).
In light of this, the leper recognizes two things: 1. Jesus' authority and glory; 2. the leper's own desperate condition.
It's in knowing these two truths that precipitates desperate faith for the leper. It wasn't a comfortable place for the leper; but it was the safest place.
Truth be known, we are no less desperate than the leper. Prosperity, health, and creature comforts mask this condition for us. Let's learn from the leper.
The Gospel Alphabet: "E" for "Evangelism"
“E” for Evangelism.
The Gospel is not only food for believers; it is also the saving medicine for those who haven’t yet believed. And we are compelled by the love of Christ to declare this Good News to all people. As witnesses to the Gospel (Acts 1:8), we shall be called upon to testify. When we are, we must be sure to get the message of the Gospel right for there are many counterfeit “Gospels” in the world.
Furthermore, remember: the gospel is the power of God for salvation (Rom 1:16). It's the only saving message we have. It's also the only saving message we need. Amen!
The Gospel is not only food for believers; it is also the saving medicine for those who haven’t yet believed. And we are compelled by the love of Christ to declare this Good News to all people. As witnesses to the Gospel (Acts 1:8), we shall be called upon to testify. When we are, we must be sure to get the message of the Gospel right for there are many counterfeit “Gospels” in the world.
Furthermore, remember: the gospel is the power of God for salvation (Rom 1:16). It's the only saving message we have. It's also the only saving message we need. Amen!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "D" for "Depth"
“D”—Depth.
We don’t move from the milk of the Gospel to the meat of something else. Rather, we move from the milk of the Gospel to the meat of the Gospel.
Indeed, Paul, after concluding his section on the “tender mercies” of the Gospel and preparing to move on to its implications for living, concludes his argument in awe and wonder: “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom of the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!” (Rom 11:33).
The wonder of how deep and powerful the Gospel—most notably as it works in the believing heart—is well stated in this Puritan prayer titled “The Gospel Way”:
Blessed Lord Jesus,
No human mind could conceive or invent the Gospel. Acting in eternal grace, thou art both its messenger and its message, lived out on earth through infinite compassion, applying thy life to insult, injury, death, that I might be redeemed, ransomed, freed. Blessed be thou, O Father, for contriving this way, Eternal thanks to thee, O Lamb of God, for opening this way, Praise to thee, O Holy Spirit, for applying this way to my heart. Glorious Trinity, impress the Gospel on my soul, until its virtue diffuses through every faculty; Let it be heard, acknowledged, professed, felt.
We don’t move from the milk of the Gospel to the meat of something else. Rather, we move from the milk of the Gospel to the meat of the Gospel.
Indeed, Paul, after concluding his section on the “tender mercies” of the Gospel and preparing to move on to its implications for living, concludes his argument in awe and wonder: “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom of the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!” (Rom 11:33).
The wonder of how deep and powerful the Gospel—most notably as it works in the believing heart—is well stated in this Puritan prayer titled “The Gospel Way”:
Blessed Lord Jesus,
No human mind could conceive or invent the Gospel. Acting in eternal grace, thou art both its messenger and its message, lived out on earth through infinite compassion, applying thy life to insult, injury, death, that I might be redeemed, ransomed, freed. Blessed be thou, O Father, for contriving this way, Eternal thanks to thee, O Lamb of God, for opening this way, Praise to thee, O Holy Spirit, for applying this way to my heart. Glorious Trinity, impress the Gospel on my soul, until its virtue diffuses through every faculty; Let it be heard, acknowledged, professed, felt.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "C" for "Contextualization"
“C”—Contextualization.
Paul was determined to become all things to all people for the sake of the Gospel (1 Cor 9:19-23). He knew that the Gospel will take on different forms in different cultural settings. Yet when we communicate the Gospel to others, we may be guilty of confusing it with our own cultural trappings. For example, some missionaries have been guilty of imposing their Western cultural forms on those to whom they carried the Gospel. This reflects a lack of discernment about which aspects of our own Christianity are truly Gospel-driven and transcultural, and which are culturally driven and therefore variable.
To help us avoid such an error, its crucial that we continually study the heart of the Gospel so that may discern and distinguish the treasure we bear from the jars of clay in which we bear it (2 Cor 4:7).
Paul was determined to become all things to all people for the sake of the Gospel (1 Cor 9:19-23). He knew that the Gospel will take on different forms in different cultural settings. Yet when we communicate the Gospel to others, we may be guilty of confusing it with our own cultural trappings. For example, some missionaries have been guilty of imposing their Western cultural forms on those to whom they carried the Gospel. This reflects a lack of discernment about which aspects of our own Christianity are truly Gospel-driven and transcultural, and which are culturally driven and therefore variable.
To help us avoid such an error, its crucial that we continually study the heart of the Gospel so that may discern and distinguish the treasure we bear from the jars of clay in which we bear it (2 Cor 4:7).
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "B" for "Belief"
B”—Belief. We must continually teach and learn the Gospel because even Christians struggle to truly believe God’s Good News. The message of the cross is both countercultural and counterintuitive.
To the world it is foolishness and weakness. To our flesh it is simply too good to be true. And the Devil—the accuser—continually speaks a contradictory word to our hearts. Hearing all this we, with knowledge and awareness of our sins and failures, struggle to believe the Gospel. To believe it at a deep level, with an appropriate appreciation of all that it implies, is a lifelong task. We must hear it again and again and ask God to seal its truth on our hearts.
“Lord, I believe, but help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24). God answers this request through the Gospel.
To the world it is foolishness and weakness. To our flesh it is simply too good to be true. And the Devil—the accuser—continually speaks a contradictory word to our hearts. Hearing all this we, with knowledge and awareness of our sins and failures, struggle to believe the Gospel. To believe it at a deep level, with an appropriate appreciation of all that it implies, is a lifelong task. We must hear it again and again and ask God to seal its truth on our hearts.
“Lord, I believe, but help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24). God answers this request through the Gospel.
Monday, August 8, 2011
The Gospel Alphabet: "A" for "Alignment"
In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul teaches us that the doctrine of the Gospel is "of first importance." He writes: 1 Cor 15:1 Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, 2 and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you- unless you believed in vain.3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures,4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures
As I often say, gleaning from Pastor Timothy Keller, the Gospel is not merely the ABC’s of the Christian life; rather, it is the A to Z of the Christian life.
In keeping with this notion, J.I. Packer and Gary Parrett in their recent book, Grounded in the Gospel (108-116), have offered what they call the Gospel Alphabet—26 reasons (drawing from the alphabet) why the Gospel must retain pride of place in our families, churches, and personal walks.
Over the next several days, I will be sharing this alphabet with you. Today we come to the first letter: A.
The “A” is alignment. That is, we must continually learn and study the Gospel because it is to be the “plumb line” for all our doctrine and living. We are to measure all our teaching to ensure that it corresponds to the glorious Gospel of God (1 Tim 1:11). If our teaching about God, humanity, sin, salvation, the church, last things, and any other doctrine we teach does not accord with the Gospel then they must be rejected.
So, we see a reason in this why Paul would say the Gospel is "of first importance."
As I often say, gleaning from Pastor Timothy Keller, the Gospel is not merely the ABC’s of the Christian life; rather, it is the A to Z of the Christian life.
In keeping with this notion, J.I. Packer and Gary Parrett in their recent book, Grounded in the Gospel (108-116), have offered what they call the Gospel Alphabet—26 reasons (drawing from the alphabet) why the Gospel must retain pride of place in our families, churches, and personal walks.
Over the next several days, I will be sharing this alphabet with you. Today we come to the first letter: A.
The “A” is alignment. That is, we must continually learn and study the Gospel because it is to be the “plumb line” for all our doctrine and living. We are to measure all our teaching to ensure that it corresponds to the glorious Gospel of God (1 Tim 1:11). If our teaching about God, humanity, sin, salvation, the church, last things, and any other doctrine we teach does not accord with the Gospel then they must be rejected.
So, we see a reason in this why Paul would say the Gospel is "of first importance."
Sunday, August 7, 2011
The Importance of Gospel Delight
Per Scotty Smith, here is the full quote from John Flavel on the importance of delighting in the Gospel. I partially quoted it this morning in my sermon. I think you will find it penetrating and insightful.
John Flavel was one of the main influences in Charles Spurgeon’s spiritual formation in the gospel. This statement will give you insight as to why:
Ecstasy and delight are essential to the believer’s soul and they promote sanctification. We were not meant to live without spiritual exhilaration, and the Christian who goes for a long time without the experience of heart-warming will soon find himself tempted to have his emotions satisfied from earthly things and not, as he ought, from the Spirit of God. The soul is so constituted that it craves fulfillment from things outside itself and will embrace earthly joys for satisfaction when it cannot reach spiritual ones. The believer is in spiritual danger if he allows himself to go for any length of time without tasting the love of Christ and savoring the felt comforts of a Savior’s presence. When Christ ceases to fill the heart with satisfaction, our souls will go in silent search of other lovers. By the enjoyment of the love of Christ in the heart of a believer, we mean an experience of the “love of God shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given to us” (Rom. 5:5). Because the Lord has made himself accessible to us in the means of grace, it is our duty and privilege to seek this experience from Him in these means till we are made the joyful partakers of it.
John Flavel was one of the main influences in Charles Spurgeon’s spiritual formation in the gospel. This statement will give you insight as to why:
Ecstasy and delight are essential to the believer’s soul and they promote sanctification. We were not meant to live without spiritual exhilaration, and the Christian who goes for a long time without the experience of heart-warming will soon find himself tempted to have his emotions satisfied from earthly things and not, as he ought, from the Spirit of God. The soul is so constituted that it craves fulfillment from things outside itself and will embrace earthly joys for satisfaction when it cannot reach spiritual ones. The believer is in spiritual danger if he allows himself to go for any length of time without tasting the love of Christ and savoring the felt comforts of a Savior’s presence. When Christ ceases to fill the heart with satisfaction, our souls will go in silent search of other lovers. By the enjoyment of the love of Christ in the heart of a believer, we mean an experience of the “love of God shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given to us” (Rom. 5:5). Because the Lord has made himself accessible to us in the means of grace, it is our duty and privilege to seek this experience from Him in these means till we are made the joyful partakers of it.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
The Vanity of Prospering Without God
To prosper in sin is the greatest tragedy that can befall a man this side of hell. Envy not such a one his pomp any more than you would a corpse his flowers (17th century English poet, John Trapp).
Friday, August 5, 2011
Sermon for August 7: "The Making of a Disciple" (Luke 5:1-11)
Please be in prayer for our service Sunday as we consider the process Jesus took Peter through to teach him about true discipleship.
Of course, the key to all true discipleship is beholding the glory and majesty of the Lord Jesus.
This is exactly what Peter experienced after Jesus led Peter to the greatest catch of fish of his life in the middle of the day, no less--which was virtually impossible from the human perspective. As Norval Geldenhuys comments:
This miracle spoke to Peter in a very special manner. For he was a fisherman by trade and knew how humanly impossible it was to catch fish successfully in the lake in the early morning hours. The Lord's revelation of power in the field of Peter's own particular calling--the trade of a fisherman--consequently made a very powerful impression on him. That is why it was precisely after this event that he fell down before the Saviour with an overwhelming sense of His superhuman, divine glory and with a deep realization of his own utter sinfulness (The Gospel of Luke, 182).
Mark this down: all discipleship begins this way. It begins with seeing the glory of Christ and being stirred to respond to him in repentance and faith.
Of course, the key to all true discipleship is beholding the glory and majesty of the Lord Jesus.
This is exactly what Peter experienced after Jesus led Peter to the greatest catch of fish of his life in the middle of the day, no less--which was virtually impossible from the human perspective. As Norval Geldenhuys comments:
This miracle spoke to Peter in a very special manner. For he was a fisherman by trade and knew how humanly impossible it was to catch fish successfully in the lake in the early morning hours. The Lord's revelation of power in the field of Peter's own particular calling--the trade of a fisherman--consequently made a very powerful impression on him. That is why it was precisely after this event that he fell down before the Saviour with an overwhelming sense of His superhuman, divine glory and with a deep realization of his own utter sinfulness (The Gospel of Luke, 182).
Mark this down: all discipleship begins this way. It begins with seeing the glory of Christ and being stirred to respond to him in repentance and faith.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
The Infinite Glory of Our God
I've always loved this poem by Hildebert, the 12th century Archbishop of Tours. Read it, muse on it, let it stir you to worship the living God.
First and Last of faith's receiving,
Source and sea of man's believing,
God, whose might is all potential,
God, whose truth is truth's essential,
Good supreme in thy subsisting,
Good in all thy seen existing;
Over all things, all things under,
Touching all, from all asunder;
Centre thou, but not intruded,
Compassing, and yet included;
Over all, and not ascending,
Under all, but not depending;
Over all the world ordaining,
Under all, the world sustaining;
All without, in all surrounding,
All within, in grace abounding;
Inmost, yet not comprehended,
Outer still, and not extended;
Over, yet on nothing founded,
Under, but by space unbounded;
Omnipresent, yet indwelling....
First and Last of faith's receiving,
Source and sea of man's believing,
God, whose might is all potential,
God, whose truth is truth's essential,
Good supreme in thy subsisting,
Good in all thy seen existing;
Over all things, all things under,
Touching all, from all asunder;
Centre thou, but not intruded,
Compassing, and yet included;
Over all, and not ascending,
Under all, but not depending;
Over all the world ordaining,
Under all, the world sustaining;
All without, in all surrounding,
All within, in grace abounding;
Inmost, yet not comprehended,
Outer still, and not extended;
Over, yet on nothing founded,
Under, but by space unbounded;
Omnipresent, yet indwelling....
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Why Do We Need Consistency in Corporate Worship?
Why do we need to be regular and consistent in corporate worship? Certainly not because it impresses God or earn points with him. But think about it this way:
Through the preaching of the gospel, baptism, teaching, and the Lord’s Supper, the Triune God creates an oasis in the desert. God uses these means not only to teach us about the new creation but to actually create it….The means of grace…are God’s strategies for delivering Christ to us and to the world (M. Horton, Gospel Commission, 178).
Through the preaching of the gospel, baptism, teaching, and the Lord’s Supper, the Triune God creates an oasis in the desert. God uses these means not only to teach us about the new creation but to actually create it….The means of grace…are God’s strategies for delivering Christ to us and to the world (M. Horton, Gospel Commission, 178).
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Do We Display the Christian Grace of Humility?
A truly Christian love, either to God or men, is a humble, brokenhearted love. The desires of the saints, however earnest, are humble desires: their hope is a humble hope; and their joy, even when it is unspeakable, and full of glory, is a humble, brokenhearted joy, and leaves the Christian more poor in spirit, and more like a little child, and more disposed to a universal lowliness of behavior (Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Yale, 1959, pp. 339f.).
An Evangelical Failure
We Evangelicals have failed to pass on to our young people an orthodox form of faith that can take root and survive the secular onslaught. Ironically, the billions of dollars we’ve spent on youth ministers, Christian music, publishing, and media has produced a culture of young Christians who know next to nothing about their own faith except how they should feel about it (Michael Spencer, quoted in Grounded in the Gospel, J.I. Packer and Gary Parrett, 51).
Monday, August 1, 2011
31 Biblical Virtues to Pray for Your Children
1. Salvation—"Lord, let salvation spring up within my children, that they may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory." (Isa. 45:8; 2 Tim. 2:10)
2. Growth in Grace—"I pray that my children may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Pet. 3:18)
3. Love—"Grant, Lord, that my children may learn to live a life of love, through the Spirit who dwells in them." (Gal. 5:25; Eph. 5:2)
4. Honesty and Integrity—"May integrity and honesty be their virtue and their protection." (Ps. 25:21)
5. Self-Control—"Father, help my children not to be like many others around them, but let them be alert and self-controlled in all they do." (1 Thess. 5:6)
6. Love for God's Word—"May my children grow to find Your Word more precious than much pure gold and sweeter than honey from the comb." (Ps. 19:10)
7. Justice—"God, help my children to love justice as You do and act justly in all they do." (Ps. 11:7; Mic. 6:8)
8. Mercy—"May my children always be merciful, just as their Father is merciful." (Luke 6:36)
9. Respect (for self, others, and authority)—"Father, grant that my children may show proper respect to everyone, as Your Word commands." (1 Pet. 2:17)
10. Biblical Self-Esteem—"Help my children develop a strong self-esteem that is rooted in the realization that they are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus." (Eph. 2:10)
11. Faithfulness—"Let love and faithfulness never leave my children, but bind these twin virtues around their necks and write them on the tablet of their hearts." (Prov. 3:3)
12. Courage—"May my children always be strong and courageous in their character and in their actions." (Deut. 31:6)
13. Purity—"Create in them a pure heart, O God, and let that purity of heart be shown in their actions." (Ps. 51:10)
14. Kindness—"Lord, may my children always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else." (1 Thess. 5:15)
15. Generosity—"Grant that my children may be generous and willing to share, and so lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age." (1 Tim. 6:18-19)
16. Peace-Loving—"Father, let my children make every effort to do what leads to peace." (Rom. 14:19)
17. Joy—"May my children be filled with the joy given by the Holy Spirit."
(1 Thess. 1:6)
18. Perseverance—"Lord, teach my children perseverance in all they do, and help them especially to run with perseverance the race marked out for them." (Heb. 12:1)
19. Humility—"God, please cultivate in my children the ability to show true humility toward all." (Titus 3:2)
20. Compassion—"Lord, please clothe my children with the virtue of compassion." (Col. 3:12)
21. Responsibility—"Grant that my children may learn responsibility, for each one should carry his own load." (Gal. 6:5)
22. Contentment—"Father, teach my children the secret of being content in any and every situation, through Him who gives them strength." (Phil. 4:12-13)
23. Faith—"I pray that faith will find root and grow in my children's hearts, that by faith they may gain what has been promised to them." (Luke 17:5-6; Heb. 11:1-40)
24. A Servant's Heart—"God, please help my children develop servant's hearts, that they may serve wholeheartedly, as if they were serving the Lord, not men." (Eph. 6:7)
25. Hope—"May the God of hope grant that my children may overflow with hope and hopefulness by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Rom. 15:13)
26. Willingness and Ability to Work—"Teach my children, Lord, to value work and to work at it with all their heart, as working for the Lord and not for men." (Col. 3:23)
27. Passion for God—"Lord, please instill in my children a soul that 'followeth hard after thee,' one that clings passionately to You." (Ps. 63:8)
28. Self-Discipline—"Father, I pray that my children may acquire a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair." (Prov. 1:3)
29. Prayerfulness—"Grant, Lord, that my children's lives may be marked by prayerfulness, that they may learn to pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers." (1 Thess. 5:17)
30. Gratitude—"Help my children to live lives that are always overflowing with thankfulness and always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Eph. 5:20; Col. 2:7)
31. A Heart for Missions—"Lord, please help my children to develop a desire to see Your glory declared among the nations, Your marvelous deeds among the peoples." (Ps. 96:3)
© Bob Hostetler. Used with permission. www.ReviveOurHearts.com Info@ReviveOurHearts.com
2. Growth in Grace—"I pray that my children may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Pet. 3:18)
3. Love—"Grant, Lord, that my children may learn to live a life of love, through the Spirit who dwells in them." (Gal. 5:25; Eph. 5:2)
4. Honesty and Integrity—"May integrity and honesty be their virtue and their protection." (Ps. 25:21)
5. Self-Control—"Father, help my children not to be like many others around them, but let them be alert and self-controlled in all they do." (1 Thess. 5:6)
6. Love for God's Word—"May my children grow to find Your Word more precious than much pure gold and sweeter than honey from the comb." (Ps. 19:10)
7. Justice—"God, help my children to love justice as You do and act justly in all they do." (Ps. 11:7; Mic. 6:8)
8. Mercy—"May my children always be merciful, just as their Father is merciful." (Luke 6:36)
9. Respect (for self, others, and authority)—"Father, grant that my children may show proper respect to everyone, as Your Word commands." (1 Pet. 2:17)
10. Biblical Self-Esteem—"Help my children develop a strong self-esteem that is rooted in the realization that they are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus." (Eph. 2:10)
11. Faithfulness—"Let love and faithfulness never leave my children, but bind these twin virtues around their necks and write them on the tablet of their hearts." (Prov. 3:3)
12. Courage—"May my children always be strong and courageous in their character and in their actions." (Deut. 31:6)
13. Purity—"Create in them a pure heart, O God, and let that purity of heart be shown in their actions." (Ps. 51:10)
14. Kindness—"Lord, may my children always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else." (1 Thess. 5:15)
15. Generosity—"Grant that my children may be generous and willing to share, and so lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age." (1 Tim. 6:18-19)
16. Peace-Loving—"Father, let my children make every effort to do what leads to peace." (Rom. 14:19)
17. Joy—"May my children be filled with the joy given by the Holy Spirit."
(1 Thess. 1:6)
18. Perseverance—"Lord, teach my children perseverance in all they do, and help them especially to run with perseverance the race marked out for them." (Heb. 12:1)
19. Humility—"God, please cultivate in my children the ability to show true humility toward all." (Titus 3:2)
20. Compassion—"Lord, please clothe my children with the virtue of compassion." (Col. 3:12)
21. Responsibility—"Grant that my children may learn responsibility, for each one should carry his own load." (Gal. 6:5)
22. Contentment—"Father, teach my children the secret of being content in any and every situation, through Him who gives them strength." (Phil. 4:12-13)
23. Faith—"I pray that faith will find root and grow in my children's hearts, that by faith they may gain what has been promised to them." (Luke 17:5-6; Heb. 11:1-40)
24. A Servant's Heart—"God, please help my children develop servant's hearts, that they may serve wholeheartedly, as if they were serving the Lord, not men." (Eph. 6:7)
25. Hope—"May the God of hope grant that my children may overflow with hope and hopefulness by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Rom. 15:13)
26. Willingness and Ability to Work—"Teach my children, Lord, to value work and to work at it with all their heart, as working for the Lord and not for men." (Col. 3:23)
27. Passion for God—"Lord, please instill in my children a soul that 'followeth hard after thee,' one that clings passionately to You." (Ps. 63:8)
28. Self-Discipline—"Father, I pray that my children may acquire a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair." (Prov. 1:3)
29. Prayerfulness—"Grant, Lord, that my children's lives may be marked by prayerfulness, that they may learn to pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers." (1 Thess. 5:17)
30. Gratitude—"Help my children to live lives that are always overflowing with thankfulness and always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Eph. 5:20; Col. 2:7)
31. A Heart for Missions—"Lord, please help my children to develop a desire to see Your glory declared among the nations, Your marvelous deeds among the peoples." (Ps. 96:3)
© Bob Hostetler. Used with permission. www.ReviveOurHearts.com Info@ReviveOurHearts.com
Friday, July 29, 2011
Sermon for July 31: "3 Portraits of Jesus: A Deliverer, a Healer, and a Preacher" (Luke 4:31-44)
Please be in prayer for our service Sunday as we consider a day in the life of Jesus Christ, the Anointed One, the Son of God. We will see that this narrative in Luke 4:31-44 directly follows Jesus' sermon where he promises that he is ushering in the "year of the Lord's favor" (4:19). This is nothing less than the Day of Salvation promised by Isaiah (49:8).
What Jesus is doing is making all things new (Rev 21:5). Luke begins to evidence this by describing 3 aspects of Jesus' earthly ministry: he came as a deliverer, a healer, and a preacher of the kingdom.
Today as I write this, it has special significance for me because on this day, 34 years ago, Jesus made me new by forgiving me of my sins as I repented and believed in his finished work for my salvation. I was a 9 year old boy.
All of Jesus' miracles in the physical world reflect in their own way what will happen, not only cosmically, but also spiritually to a sinner when he/she repents and believes.
The miracles also signal a day when our mortal, dishonorable, natural, weak bodies will be raised from the grave by the power of the Spirit and Word of Christ; and these perishable bodies will "put on the imperishable" (15:35-54).
"Then shall come to pass the saying that is writeen: 'Death is swallowed up in victory."' 'O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?'" (15:54b-55).
In short: come Lord Jesus!
What Jesus is doing is making all things new (Rev 21:5). Luke begins to evidence this by describing 3 aspects of Jesus' earthly ministry: he came as a deliverer, a healer, and a preacher of the kingdom.
Today as I write this, it has special significance for me because on this day, 34 years ago, Jesus made me new by forgiving me of my sins as I repented and believed in his finished work for my salvation. I was a 9 year old boy.
All of Jesus' miracles in the physical world reflect in their own way what will happen, not only cosmically, but also spiritually to a sinner when he/she repents and believes.
The miracles also signal a day when our mortal, dishonorable, natural, weak bodies will be raised from the grave by the power of the Spirit and Word of Christ; and these perishable bodies will "put on the imperishable" (15:35-54).
"Then shall come to pass the saying that is writeen: 'Death is swallowed up in victory."' 'O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?'" (15:54b-55).
In short: come Lord Jesus!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Don't Waste Your Life
A life is a horrible thing to throw away. To demonstrate this point, John Piper retells a story his evangelist father often told of a man who came to saving faith in Jesus Christ at an old age. Piper writes:
The church had prayed for this man for decades. He was hard and resistant. But this time, for some reason, he showed up when my father was preaching. At the end of the service, during a hymn, to everyone's amazement he came and took my father's hand. They sat down together on the front pew of the church as the people were dismissed. God opened his heart to the Gospel of Christ, and he was saved from his sins and given eternal life as he trusted in Jesus Christ's substitutionary payment for our sins at the cross. But that did not stop him from sobbing and saying, as the tears ran down his wrinkled face--"I've wasted it! I've wasted it!" (Piper, Don't Waste Your Life, 12).
Let me say here, that even though there is a strong sense in which this man was correct; by God's mercy, even a life that is almost totally wasted away by temporal pursuits can still be redeemed. After all, our present lives are only a small blip on the radar of eternity. And because this is true, this man's life really wasn't wasted; it was only just beginning.
Having said that, why wait another moment? If you haven't repented of your sins and trusted the Lord Jesus Christ, the sin-bearer, the scape-goat, do it now. You only have one life to live. Don't waste it by living for yourself when you can invest it instead for the glory of God in Christ.
The church had prayed for this man for decades. He was hard and resistant. But this time, for some reason, he showed up when my father was preaching. At the end of the service, during a hymn, to everyone's amazement he came and took my father's hand. They sat down together on the front pew of the church as the people were dismissed. God opened his heart to the Gospel of Christ, and he was saved from his sins and given eternal life as he trusted in Jesus Christ's substitutionary payment for our sins at the cross. But that did not stop him from sobbing and saying, as the tears ran down his wrinkled face--"I've wasted it! I've wasted it!" (Piper, Don't Waste Your Life, 12).
Let me say here, that even though there is a strong sense in which this man was correct; by God's mercy, even a life that is almost totally wasted away by temporal pursuits can still be redeemed. After all, our present lives are only a small blip on the radar of eternity. And because this is true, this man's life really wasn't wasted; it was only just beginning.
Having said that, why wait another moment? If you haven't repented of your sins and trusted the Lord Jesus Christ, the sin-bearer, the scape-goat, do it now. You only have one life to live. Don't waste it by living for yourself when you can invest it instead for the glory of God in Christ.
Monday, July 25, 2011
31 Days of Praying for Your Pastor’s Wife
Many people don't realize that when pastors take hits in ministry, they feel the same hurt and pain that any normal human being would feel.
Furthermore, when a pastor takes a hit, his wife takes the same hit. A pastor’s wife is often in the shadow of the man who fills the pulpit every Sunday. Therefore, an important question is who will listen to, encourage, and pray for her needs?
This prayer guide with accompanying Scriptures from Revive Our Hearts Ministries offers some practical ways to pray for her.
Day 1Pray that your pastor’s wife will love God with all her heart, soul, mind, and strength.Pray that God’s Spirit will work in her heart in power, and that she will value and follow biblical priorities. (Deut. 6:5; Matt. 6:33)
Day 2Pray that she will cultivate strong character and uncompromising integrity. Pray that her testimony will be genuine, and that she will guard her heart. (1 Tim. 1:5; 3:7; Prov. 4:23)
Day 3Pray for her personal walk with God—that her soul and spirit will be nourished and strengthened in her times with Him. Pray that she will spend more time in the Word of God than in reading Christian books and articles. (2 Tim. 2:15-16; Ps. 119:7).
Day 4Pray that your pastor’s wife will counsel and teach with discernment through the wise use of Scripture and faith in God’s power. (Ps. 119:99; James 1:5-6)
Day 5Ask God to protect her marriage and keep it strong as a model of the Church’s submission to Christ. Pray that she will respect and practice godly submission to her husband’s leadership, and that her husband will love and cherish her. (Eph. 5:23-33)
Day 6Pray that God will protect your pastor’s wife from discouragement and bitterness when she or her husband faces inevitable criticism. Pray that she will trust in the wisdom of the Word of God to answer her critics, and commit herself into the hands of God, who judges righteously. (Heb. 12:15; Ps. 119:42; Col. 4:6; Prov. 31:26; 1 Pet. 2:23).
Day 7Pray that your pastor’s wife will remember truth and practical principles from the Word of God during times of trial, and that the Scriptures will bring her comfort. Pray that the Word will become her delight and song when circumstances are tough. (Ps. 119:28, 52)
Day 8Ask God to protect your pastor’s wife from the evil plots of Satan. Pray that she will notbe corrupted as she rubs shoulders with the world. (John 17:15; Isa. 54:17; Ps. 91:9-11)
Day 9Pray that God will build a hedge of protection around her marriage, and that she and her husband will be aware of the potential for any improper relationships. Pray that their family time will be protected. (Matt. 19:6; Prov. 31:11a; 2 Cor. 10:4-5)
Day 10Pray that your pastor’s wife will be morally pure and that she will wear the armor of God so that she will not fall into sexual temptation. Ask God to guard her heart concerning the use of free time, and that she will be especially discerning in her use of emails, the Internet, television, and other media. (Rom. 13:14; Eph. 6:10-18)
Day 11Pray that God will bring godly friends and encouragers to your pastor’s wife and her family, to strengthen them for the ministry and to provide meaningful fellowship, accountability, and times of rest. (Ps. 55:14; 119:63)
Day 12Pray that she will be a woman of prayer and worship, and that she will lead by example—teaching women how to walk in a close relationship with the Father.(1 Thes. 5:17; Acts 1:14a; Mark 1:35; Matt. 4:10; Titus 2:4-5).
Day 13Your pastor’s wife is a busy woman. Pray that she will make wise lifestyle choices in
order to protect her health, especially in the areas of exercise, eating moderately, and getting sufficient rest. Pray for times of relaxation and renewal to balance the stress of ministry. (Rom. 12:1-2; 1 Cor. 9:27; 6:19-20; 10:13; Prov. 31:17)
Day 14Pray that your pastor’s wife will focus on the Word of God and walk by faith in the fear of the Lord—rather than the fear of man. Pray that she will not seek acceptance from others or compare herself with them, but that she will discover true freedom in her position in Christ. (Prov. 19:23; 31:30; Heb. 11:6; 2 Tim. 2:15; Ps. 119:45; Eph. 1:3-12).
Day 15Pray that she will cooperate with her husband in providing godly leadership in their home, not based on fear of what others will think, but according to scriptural truth. (Eph.6:4; Col. 3:20-21) (If your pastor’s wife does not have children, pray that God will give her many “spiritual children” as she shares the truth of God’s Word.)
Day 16Pray that her children will be taught of the Lord and experience His peace. Pray that the pressures of the ministry will not discourage or embitter them. (Isa. 54:13).
Day 17Pray that your pastor’s wife will be an example of contentment, thankful for God’s supply. Pray that her sufficiency will be in God’s abounding grace. (1 Tim. 6:6, 8).
Day 18Ask God to provide for the financial needs of your pastor and his family. Pray that your pastor’s wife will be a wise steward in caring for her family and using funds entrusted to her care. Pray that her heart will be turned away from selfish gain and worthless things.(Phil. 4:19; Heb. 13:5; 1 Tim. 6:11; Ps. 37:25; 119:36-37).
Day 19Pray that your pastor’s wife will use time wisely, seek God’s perspective for her schedule and priorities, and guard against unnecessary interruptions. Pray that she will seek and obey God’s will, rather than trying to meet everyone else’s expectations.(Eph. 5:15-16; Col. 4:5; Ps. 90:12; Prov. 31:27)
Day 20Ask God to remind her of the hope and refuge God offers her each day. Pray that she will be encouraged in God, knowing that He is a firm, secure anchor for her soul.(Ps. 9:9-10; Ps. 42:5; 71:14; Heb. 6:19a).
Day 21Pray that your pastor’s wife will be wise in her conversations, choosing her words carefully to encourage respect for her husband and the church, and to edify her sisters in the Lord. Pray that she will know how to respond to gossip, and that she will always speak with kindness and compassion. (Prov. 21:23; 31:26; 1 Pet. 3:10; Prov. 11:13)
Day 22Pray that she will serve others with God’s agape love and encourage them with His wisdom and compassion. (Gal. 5:13b; Phil. 2:3-4; Prov. 31:20)
Day 23Pray for spiritual unity between the pastor’s wife and others in the church—especially other staff members’ wives. Pray that the enemy will not be allowed to create divisions,strife, or misunderstanding in any way. (Rom. 14:19; 1 Cor. 12:25)
Day 24Pray that your pastor’s wife will be clothed with strength and dignity. Pray that she willhave a gentle and gracious spirit, and represent the Lord well as His ambassador.(Prov. 31:25a; 2 Cor. 5:20a; 1 Pet. 3:4).
Day 25Pray that your pastor’s wife will seek God for personal revival and revival in your church and community. Pray that she will quickly repent when she sins or strays from her Good Shepherd’s side, and that she learn the will and ways of God. (2 Chron. 7:14)
Day 26Pray that your pastor’s wife will think biblically—with the mind of Christ—and practice the expression of her faith with boldness in places of influence. (Ps. 119:46)
Day 27Pray that she will earnestly seek God’s will and be committed to instant and complete obedience—ready for God to work powerfully in and through her life and ministry.(1 Sam. 15:22; 2 Cor. 10:3-5; Luke 9:23-24)
Day 28Pray that she will strive for personal excellence as a “Proverbs 31” woman, and will believe God to accomplish His will in her as a virtuous woman. (Prov. 31:10-31).
Day 29Pray that your pastor’s wife will be a woman of faith and passionate love for God, not giving in to worries, fears, or an uptight and anxious spirit. (1 John 4:18; Prov. 3:5-6)
Day 30Pray that the Word will be her counselor, and that she will serve the Lord with gladness,and encourage others to worship with a joyful, surrendered spirit. (Isa. 61:3; Ps. 119:24)
Day 31Pray that your pastor’s wife will be humble and authentic in her faith, not given to pride or hypocrisy. Pray that she will have pure motives and give God glory for every gain or Pvictory. (Mic. 6:8; Gal. 6:14; John 7:17-18; 1 Cor. 10:13)
Published by Revive Our Hearts © 2006.
Furthermore, when a pastor takes a hit, his wife takes the same hit. A pastor’s wife is often in the shadow of the man who fills the pulpit every Sunday. Therefore, an important question is who will listen to, encourage, and pray for her needs?
This prayer guide with accompanying Scriptures from Revive Our Hearts Ministries offers some practical ways to pray for her.
Day 1Pray that your pastor’s wife will love God with all her heart, soul, mind, and strength.Pray that God’s Spirit will work in her heart in power, and that she will value and follow biblical priorities. (Deut. 6:5; Matt. 6:33)
Day 2Pray that she will cultivate strong character and uncompromising integrity. Pray that her testimony will be genuine, and that she will guard her heart. (1 Tim. 1:5; 3:7; Prov. 4:23)
Day 3Pray for her personal walk with God—that her soul and spirit will be nourished and strengthened in her times with Him. Pray that she will spend more time in the Word of God than in reading Christian books and articles. (2 Tim. 2:15-16; Ps. 119:7).
Day 4Pray that your pastor’s wife will counsel and teach with discernment through the wise use of Scripture and faith in God’s power. (Ps. 119:99; James 1:5-6)
Day 5Ask God to protect her marriage and keep it strong as a model of the Church’s submission to Christ. Pray that she will respect and practice godly submission to her husband’s leadership, and that her husband will love and cherish her. (Eph. 5:23-33)
Day 6Pray that God will protect your pastor’s wife from discouragement and bitterness when she or her husband faces inevitable criticism. Pray that she will trust in the wisdom of the Word of God to answer her critics, and commit herself into the hands of God, who judges righteously. (Heb. 12:15; Ps. 119:42; Col. 4:6; Prov. 31:26; 1 Pet. 2:23).
Day 7Pray that your pastor’s wife will remember truth and practical principles from the Word of God during times of trial, and that the Scriptures will bring her comfort. Pray that the Word will become her delight and song when circumstances are tough. (Ps. 119:28, 52)
Day 8Ask God to protect your pastor’s wife from the evil plots of Satan. Pray that she will notbe corrupted as she rubs shoulders with the world. (John 17:15; Isa. 54:17; Ps. 91:9-11)
Day 9Pray that God will build a hedge of protection around her marriage, and that she and her husband will be aware of the potential for any improper relationships. Pray that their family time will be protected. (Matt. 19:6; Prov. 31:11a; 2 Cor. 10:4-5)
Day 10Pray that your pastor’s wife will be morally pure and that she will wear the armor of God so that she will not fall into sexual temptation. Ask God to guard her heart concerning the use of free time, and that she will be especially discerning in her use of emails, the Internet, television, and other media. (Rom. 13:14; Eph. 6:10-18)
Day 11Pray that God will bring godly friends and encouragers to your pastor’s wife and her family, to strengthen them for the ministry and to provide meaningful fellowship, accountability, and times of rest. (Ps. 55:14; 119:63)
Day 12Pray that she will be a woman of prayer and worship, and that she will lead by example—teaching women how to walk in a close relationship with the Father.(1 Thes. 5:17; Acts 1:14a; Mark 1:35; Matt. 4:10; Titus 2:4-5).
Day 13Your pastor’s wife is a busy woman. Pray that she will make wise lifestyle choices in
order to protect her health, especially in the areas of exercise, eating moderately, and getting sufficient rest. Pray for times of relaxation and renewal to balance the stress of ministry. (Rom. 12:1-2; 1 Cor. 9:27; 6:19-20; 10:13; Prov. 31:17)
Day 14Pray that your pastor’s wife will focus on the Word of God and walk by faith in the fear of the Lord—rather than the fear of man. Pray that she will not seek acceptance from others or compare herself with them, but that she will discover true freedom in her position in Christ. (Prov. 19:23; 31:30; Heb. 11:6; 2 Tim. 2:15; Ps. 119:45; Eph. 1:3-12).
Day 15Pray that she will cooperate with her husband in providing godly leadership in their home, not based on fear of what others will think, but according to scriptural truth. (Eph.6:4; Col. 3:20-21) (If your pastor’s wife does not have children, pray that God will give her many “spiritual children” as she shares the truth of God’s Word.)
Day 16Pray that her children will be taught of the Lord and experience His peace. Pray that the pressures of the ministry will not discourage or embitter them. (Isa. 54:13).
Day 17Pray that your pastor’s wife will be an example of contentment, thankful for God’s supply. Pray that her sufficiency will be in God’s abounding grace. (1 Tim. 6:6, 8).
Day 18Ask God to provide for the financial needs of your pastor and his family. Pray that your pastor’s wife will be a wise steward in caring for her family and using funds entrusted to her care. Pray that her heart will be turned away from selfish gain and worthless things.(Phil. 4:19; Heb. 13:5; 1 Tim. 6:11; Ps. 37:25; 119:36-37).
Day 19Pray that your pastor’s wife will use time wisely, seek God’s perspective for her schedule and priorities, and guard against unnecessary interruptions. Pray that she will seek and obey God’s will, rather than trying to meet everyone else’s expectations.(Eph. 5:15-16; Col. 4:5; Ps. 90:12; Prov. 31:27)
Day 20Ask God to remind her of the hope and refuge God offers her each day. Pray that she will be encouraged in God, knowing that He is a firm, secure anchor for her soul.(Ps. 9:9-10; Ps. 42:5; 71:14; Heb. 6:19a).
Day 21Pray that your pastor’s wife will be wise in her conversations, choosing her words carefully to encourage respect for her husband and the church, and to edify her sisters in the Lord. Pray that she will know how to respond to gossip, and that she will always speak with kindness and compassion. (Prov. 21:23; 31:26; 1 Pet. 3:10; Prov. 11:13)
Day 22Pray that she will serve others with God’s agape love and encourage them with His wisdom and compassion. (Gal. 5:13b; Phil. 2:3-4; Prov. 31:20)
Day 23Pray for spiritual unity between the pastor’s wife and others in the church—especially other staff members’ wives. Pray that the enemy will not be allowed to create divisions,strife, or misunderstanding in any way. (Rom. 14:19; 1 Cor. 12:25)
Day 24Pray that your pastor’s wife will be clothed with strength and dignity. Pray that she willhave a gentle and gracious spirit, and represent the Lord well as His ambassador.(Prov. 31:25a; 2 Cor. 5:20a; 1 Pet. 3:4).
Day 25Pray that your pastor’s wife will seek God for personal revival and revival in your church and community. Pray that she will quickly repent when she sins or strays from her Good Shepherd’s side, and that she learn the will and ways of God. (2 Chron. 7:14)
Day 26Pray that your pastor’s wife will think biblically—with the mind of Christ—and practice the expression of her faith with boldness in places of influence. (Ps. 119:46)
Day 27Pray that she will earnestly seek God’s will and be committed to instant and complete obedience—ready for God to work powerfully in and through her life and ministry.(1 Sam. 15:22; 2 Cor. 10:3-5; Luke 9:23-24)
Day 28Pray that she will strive for personal excellence as a “Proverbs 31” woman, and will believe God to accomplish His will in her as a virtuous woman. (Prov. 31:10-31).
Day 29Pray that your pastor’s wife will be a woman of faith and passionate love for God, not giving in to worries, fears, or an uptight and anxious spirit. (1 John 4:18; Prov. 3:5-6)
Day 30Pray that the Word will be her counselor, and that she will serve the Lord with gladness,and encourage others to worship with a joyful, surrendered spirit. (Isa. 61:3; Ps. 119:24)
Day 31Pray that your pastor’s wife will be humble and authentic in her faith, not given to pride or hypocrisy. Pray that she will have pure motives and give God glory for every gain or Pvictory. (Mic. 6:8; Gal. 6:14; John 7:17-18; 1 Cor. 10:13)
Published by Revive Our Hearts © 2006.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
As Was His Custom
Today in worship, we saw among other things that every Sabbath, Jesus "went to the synagogue," "as was his custom" (Luke 4:16).
If anyone had the right to think that he didn’t need to go to worship it was Jesus. Think how often he had to sit through subpar teaching. It would’ve been easy to say: “I don’t need to go to synagogue. I can commune better with the Father without the distraction of bad preaching and people I don't have a lot in common with."
Yet it was his custom. Weekly worship attendance is the fixed point for any life and any family that seeks to glorify God.
B.B. Warfield has some insightful words on Jesus' weekly discipline of corporate worship: If ever there was one who might justly plead that the common worship of the community had nothing to offer him it was the Lord Jesus Christ. But every Sabbath found him seated in his place among the worshipping people…. It is a reminder,” as Sir William Robertson Nicoll well insists, “of the truth which…we are apt to forget — that the holiest personal life can scarcely afford to dispense with stated forms of devotion, and that the regular public worship of the church, for all its local imperfections and dullness, is a divine provision for sustaining the individual soul.”“We cannot afford to be wiser than our Lord in this matter. If any one could have pled that his spiritual experience was so lofty that it did not require public worship, if any one might have felt that the consecration and communion of his personal life exempted him from what ordinary mortals needed, it was Jesus. But he made no such plea. Sabbath after Sabbath even he was found in the place of worship, side by side with God’s people…. Is it reasonable, then, that any of us should think we can safely afford to dispense with the pious custom of regular participation with the common worship of our locality? (Selected Shorter Writings, 1:421–422:).
If anyone had the right to think that he didn’t need to go to worship it was Jesus. Think how often he had to sit through subpar teaching. It would’ve been easy to say: “I don’t need to go to synagogue. I can commune better with the Father without the distraction of bad preaching and people I don't have a lot in common with."
Yet it was his custom. Weekly worship attendance is the fixed point for any life and any family that seeks to glorify God.
B.B. Warfield has some insightful words on Jesus' weekly discipline of corporate worship: If ever there was one who might justly plead that the common worship of the community had nothing to offer him it was the Lord Jesus Christ. But every Sabbath found him seated in his place among the worshipping people…. It is a reminder,” as Sir William Robertson Nicoll well insists, “of the truth which…we are apt to forget — that the holiest personal life can scarcely afford to dispense with stated forms of devotion, and that the regular public worship of the church, for all its local imperfections and dullness, is a divine provision for sustaining the individual soul.”“We cannot afford to be wiser than our Lord in this matter. If any one could have pled that his spiritual experience was so lofty that it did not require public worship, if any one might have felt that the consecration and communion of his personal life exempted him from what ordinary mortals needed, it was Jesus. But he made no such plea. Sabbath after Sabbath even he was found in the place of worship, side by side with God’s people…. Is it reasonable, then, that any of us should think we can safely afford to dispense with the pious custom of regular participation with the common worship of our locality? (Selected Shorter Writings, 1:421–422:).
Friday, July 22, 2011
All Things New
This past Wednesday both us in the youth house and those in the adult Bible study talked about the new heavens and the new earth. I came across this quote today and thought it went along with the subject we are thinking through together.
"The world into which we shall enter in the Parousia of Jesus Christ is therefore not another world; it is this world, this heaven, this earth; both, however, passed away and renewed. It is these forests, these fields, these cities, these streets, these people, that will be the scene of redemption. At present they are battlefields, full of the strife and sorrow of the not-yet-accomplished consummation; then they will be fields of victory, fields of harvest, where out of seed that was sown with tears the everlasting sheaves will be reaped and brought home" -Edward Thurneysen (Zwischen den Zeiten, 1931, p. 209).
"The world into which we shall enter in the Parousia of Jesus Christ is therefore not another world; it is this world, this heaven, this earth; both, however, passed away and renewed. It is these forests, these fields, these cities, these streets, these people, that will be the scene of redemption. At present they are battlefields, full of the strife and sorrow of the not-yet-accomplished consummation; then they will be fields of victory, fields of harvest, where out of seed that was sown with tears the everlasting sheaves will be reaped and brought home" -Edward Thurneysen (Zwischen den Zeiten, 1931, p. 209).
Sermon for July 24: "Salvation: Only for the Poor, Captive, Blind, and Oppressed" (Luke 4:14-30)
Please be in prayer for our worship service as we consider this crucial and strategic passage on the sermon Jesus preaches in Nazareth, which comes off the heals of his successful victory over the devil in the wilderness.
What Luke wants us to see here is that until a sinner comes to terms with his/her sin condition, he/she isn't ready to respond rightly to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Indeed, if truth be known, we are all poor, captive, blind, and oppressed due to the guilt and corruption of sin.
But in coming to terms with this, we see the glory and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ who comes to liberate us through his life, death, and resurrection from the grave. His victory becomes our record, by repentance and faith.
What Luke wants us to see here is that until a sinner comes to terms with his/her sin condition, he/she isn't ready to respond rightly to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Indeed, if truth be known, we are all poor, captive, blind, and oppressed due to the guilt and corruption of sin.
But in coming to terms with this, we see the glory and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ who comes to liberate us through his life, death, and resurrection from the grave. His victory becomes our record, by repentance and faith.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
A Thought on Living Life Not For God
In the class I was teaching today, one of the students shared his frustration that he and his wife have experienced in seeking to evangelize a young lady who is prospering in her job and life although she doesn't love or walk with God.
In essence, because she is so comfortable and successful, she sees no need for God.
This situation reminded me of a statement once made by David Powlison that I've never forgotten. The warning is perceptive and sobering: Something bad gets last say when whatever you live for is not God (David Powlison).
In essence, because she is so comfortable and successful, she sees no need for God.
This situation reminded me of a statement once made by David Powlison that I've never forgotten. The warning is perceptive and sobering: Something bad gets last say when whatever you live for is not God (David Powlison).
A Thought on Christianity
“Christianity if false is of no importance and if true of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important (C.S. Lewis).
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
The Evidences of Regeneration (the New Birth)
Jesus told the Pharisee named Nicodemus, that unless one is born again he cannot see or enter the kingdom of God (John 3:1-8). To be born again is to be "regenerated" (Titus 3:5). We must be made new in order for us to abide in the presence of a holy God. This is more than a mere "decision," "asking Jesus into your heart," or "praying the sinner's prayer." The new birth is radical in its orientation, affecting every aspect of our being.
To demonstrate the comprehensiveness of regeneration (or the new birth), John Piper helpfully gleans from 1 John to demonstrate how radical in nature regeneration really is.
Regeneration’s Evidences from 1 John— :
1st, Those who are born of God keep His commandments: By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4 The one who says, "I have come to know Him," and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; (1 John 2:3-4 NAU) The one who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. We know by this that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us. (1 John 3:24 NAU)
2nd, Those who are born of God walk as Christ walked. but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: 6 the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked. (1 John 2:5-6 NAU)
3rd, Those who are born of God don't hate other believers, but love them. The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. (1 John 2:9 NAU) We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love abides in death. (1 John 3:14 NAU) Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. (1 John 4:7-8 ESV)
4th, Those who are born of God don't love the world. Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (1 John 2:15 NAU)
5th, Those who are born of God confess the Son and receive (have) Him. Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father; the one who confesses the Son has the Father also. (1 John 2:23 NAU) Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. (1 John 4:15 NAU) He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. (1 John 5:12 NAU).
6th, Those who are born of God practice righteousness. If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him. (1 John 2:29 ESV)
7th, Those who are born of God don't make a practice of sinning. No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins has seen Him or knows Him. (1 John 3:6 NAU) No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God. 10 By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother. (1 John 3:9-10 ESV) We know that everyone who has been born of God does not keep on sinning, but he who was born of God protects him, and the evil one does not touch him. (1 John 5:18 ESV)
8th, Those who are born of God possess the Spirit of God. The one who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. We know by this that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us. (1 John 3:24 NAU) By this we know that we abide in Him and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. (1 John 4:13 NAU)
9th, Those who are born of God listen submissively to the apostolic word. We are from God; he who knows God listens to us; he who is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error. (1 John 4:6 NAU)
10th, Those who are born of God believe that Jesus is the Christ. Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him. (1 John 5:1 ESV)
11th, Those who are born of God overcome the world. For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith. (1 John 5:4 ESV)(J Piper, Finally Alive, 125-128)
To demonstrate the comprehensiveness of regeneration (or the new birth), John Piper helpfully gleans from 1 John to demonstrate how radical in nature regeneration really is.
Regeneration’s Evidences from 1 John— :
1st, Those who are born of God keep His commandments: By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4 The one who says, "I have come to know Him," and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; (1 John 2:3-4 NAU) The one who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. We know by this that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us. (1 John 3:24 NAU)
2nd, Those who are born of God walk as Christ walked. but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: 6 the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked. (1 John 2:5-6 NAU)
3rd, Those who are born of God don't hate other believers, but love them. The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. (1 John 2:9 NAU) We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love abides in death. (1 John 3:14 NAU) Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. (1 John 4:7-8 ESV)
4th, Those who are born of God don't love the world. Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (1 John 2:15 NAU)
5th, Those who are born of God confess the Son and receive (have) Him. Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father; the one who confesses the Son has the Father also. (1 John 2:23 NAU) Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. (1 John 4:15 NAU) He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. (1 John 5:12 NAU).
6th, Those who are born of God practice righteousness. If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him. (1 John 2:29 ESV)
7th, Those who are born of God don't make a practice of sinning. No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins has seen Him or knows Him. (1 John 3:6 NAU) No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God. 10 By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother. (1 John 3:9-10 ESV) We know that everyone who has been born of God does not keep on sinning, but he who was born of God protects him, and the evil one does not touch him. (1 John 5:18 ESV)
8th, Those who are born of God possess the Spirit of God. The one who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. We know by this that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us. (1 John 3:24 NAU) By this we know that we abide in Him and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. (1 John 4:13 NAU)
9th, Those who are born of God listen submissively to the apostolic word. We are from God; he who knows God listens to us; he who is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error. (1 John 4:6 NAU)
10th, Those who are born of God believe that Jesus is the Christ. Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him. (1 John 5:1 ESV)
11th, Those who are born of God overcome the world. For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith. (1 John 5:4 ESV)(J Piper, Finally Alive, 125-128)
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
But Now
I had the blessed opportunity today to hear the remarkable testimonies of God's saving grace in Jesus Christ of some godly people going through our church's new members class. In one of the testimonies,the person told me of her difficult childhood and in her words, "but God" saved her.
Her "but God" moment strongly reminded of the words of Martyn Lloyd Jones who suggested one way we can test whether or not we are a true Christian and can strengthen ourselves if we are:
When the devil attacks you and suggests to you that you are not a Christian and that you have never been a Christian because of what is still in your heart or because of what you are still doing or because of something you once did—when he comes and thus accuses you, what do you say to him? Do you agree with him? Or do you say to him: “Yes, that was true, but now . . .”? Do you hold up these words against him? Or when, perhaps, you feel condemned as you read the Scripture . . . and as you feel that you are undone, do you remain lying on the ground in hopelessness, or do you lift up your head and, “But now? Can you say those words? Can you say, “Once I was blind, but now I see? Once I was lost, but now I am found?
Her "but God" moment strongly reminded of the words of Martyn Lloyd Jones who suggested one way we can test whether or not we are a true Christian and can strengthen ourselves if we are:
When the devil attacks you and suggests to you that you are not a Christian and that you have never been a Christian because of what is still in your heart or because of what you are still doing or because of something you once did—when he comes and thus accuses you, what do you say to him? Do you agree with him? Or do you say to him: “Yes, that was true, but now . . .”? Do you hold up these words against him? Or when, perhaps, you feel condemned as you read the Scripture . . . and as you feel that you are undone, do you remain lying on the ground in hopelessness, or do you lift up your head and, “But now? Can you say those words? Can you say, “Once I was blind, but now I see? Once I was lost, but now I am found?
31 Days of Praying for Your Pastor
© Revive Our Hearts. Used with permission. Take the 31 Days of Praying for Your Pastor Challenge
Brothers, pray for us(1 Thess 5:25 ESV).
“Let the thought sink deep into the heart of every church, that their minister will be such a minister as their prayers make him. . . . How perilous is the condition of that minister . . . whose heart is not encouraged, whose hands are not strengthened, and who is not upheld by the prayers of his people! . . .
It is at a fearful expense that ministers are ever allowed to enter the pulpit without being preceded, accompanied, and followed by the earnest prayers of the churches. It is no marvel that the pulpit is so powerless, and ministers so often disheartened when there are so few to hold up their hands. . . . When the churches cease to pray for ministers, ministers will no longer be a blessing to the churches.
Gardiner Spring (1785-1873)
There is no greater gift you can give your pastor and the spiritual leaders of your church than to pray for them. Pastors cannot win the battle alone; they need committed intercessors to lift them up in fervent, specific prayer. Imagine how the power of God might be released in our churches if we were to pray faithfully for our pastors.
Pastors are human—they face the same challenges that their people do, with some additional ones! They grow tired in ministry, are tempted to sin, and may find it difficult to balance their many roles and responsibilities. They need the encouragement and support of those they lead.
Prayer for your pastor is crucial to the spiritual health of your pastor, his family, and your church. God will reward your efforts to cover him in prayer.
If you want to encourage your spiritual leaders (and their wives!) let them know you are praying for them. Ask them periodically for any specific prayer requests and assure them you will pray accordingly. Use the following prayer guide with accompanying scriptures, to suggest practical ways to pray for those who provide spiritual leadership for the flock.
31 Days of Praying for Your Pastor
Day 1
Pray that your pastor will love God with all his heart, soul, mind and strength. Pray that
God’s Spirit will work in his heart in power and that he will value and follow biblical priorities. (Deut. 6:5; Matt. 6:33)
Day 2
Pray that your pastor will cultivate strong character and uncompromising integrity. Pray
that his testimony will be genuine, and that he will never do anything that he would need to hide from others. (1 Tim. 1:5, 3:7; Eph. 6:10-12)
Day 3
Pray for his personal walk with God—that his soul and spirit will be nourished
and strengthened in his quiet time with God, beyond his sermon preparation. Pray that he will spend more time in the Word of God than reading Christian books and articles. (Mark 1:35; 2 Tim. 2:15-16)
Day 4
Pray that your pastor will counsel and teach with discernment through the wise use of
Scripture and faith in God’s power to work. Pray that he will be protected from the effects of sinful or negative attitudes that he encounters as he counsels (Mal. 2:7; James 1:5-6; John 17:15).
Day 5
Ask God to protect your pastor’s marriage and keep it strong as a model of Christ’s
relationship with the Church. Pray that your pastor will tenderly cherish and lead his wife, and that she will respect and encourage her husband, submitting to his leadership. (Eph. 5:23-33) (If your pastor is not married, pray for his relationships with loved ones and those who are close to him.)
Day 6
Pray that God will protect your pastor’s wife from bitterness when her husband is
criticized. Pray that her prayer and devotional life will be consistent, and that she will guard her mind and heart. (Heb. 12:15; Prov. 4:23)
Day 7
Pray for your pastor’s children, and especially that the pressures of the ministry will not
discourage or embitter them. Pray that your pastor will provide godly leadership in the home, not based on fear of what others will think, but according to scriptural truth. (Eph. 6:4; Col. 3:20-21) (If your pastor does not have children, pray that God will give him many “spiritual children” as he shares the Gospel.)
Day 8
Ask God to protect your pastor from the evil plots of Satan. Pray that he will not be
corrupted as he rubs shoulders with the world in the course of ministry. (John 17:15; Is. 54:17; 2 Cor. 2:11; 1 Pet. 3:12; Ps. 9:9-10, 91:9-11)
© Revive Our Hearts. Used with permission. Take the 31 Days of Praying for Your Pastor Challenge
http://www.ReviveOurHearts.com
Info@ReviveOurHearts.com
Day 9
Pray that God will build a hedge of protection around your pastor’s marriage, and that he and his wife will be aware of the potential for any improper relationships. Pray that their family time will be protected. (Ezek. 22:30a; 2 Cor. 10:4-5; Matt. 19:6)
Day 10
Pray that your pastor will use discernment in use of e-mails, the Internet, and the media.
Ask God to guard his heart concerning the use of free time. Pray that he will be morally pure and that he will wear the armor of God so that he will not fall into sexual temptation. (Rom. 13:14; 1 Pet. 1:16; Eph. 6:10-18; 2 Cor. 10:4)
Day 11
Pray that God will bring godly friends and encouragers to your pastor and his family, to
strengthen them for the ministry and provide meaningful fellowship and times of rest. (Phil. 2:19-25)
Day 12
Pray that your pastor will be humble and authentic in his faith, not given to pride or
hypocrisy. Pray that he will have pure motives and give God glory for every gain or victory. (Micah 6:8; Gal. 6:14; John 7:17-18; 1 Cor. 10:13)
Day 13
Pray that your pastor will make wise lifestyle choices in order to protect his health,
especially in the areas of exercise, eating moderately, and getting sufficient rest. Pray for times of relaxation and renewal to balance the stress of ministry. (Rom. 12:1-2; 1 Cor. 9:27, 10:13, 6:19-20; James 3:1-2)
Day 14
Pray that your pastor will focus on the Word of God and walk in the fear of the Lord—
rather than fear of man—as he prepares his messages. Pray that he will seek to please God rather than men, and pursue holiness rather than the praise of men. (Acts 6:4; Prov. 19:23; 2 Tim. 2:15; Heb. 11:6; 2 Tim. 4:1-2)
Day 15
Praise God for your pastor’s leadership and pray that he will make godly decisions. Pray
that he will lead with a shepherd’s heart, and that he will always speak the truth in love. (1 Kings 3:9; 1 Pet. 5:2; Rom. 12:6-8; Jer. 3:15)
Day 16
Pray that your pastor will be courageous in the pulpit in proclaiming Christ, and
confident in his use of the Word of God. Ask God to help him preach with insight, transparency and humility. (Col. 1:28, 4:3a; Eph. 6:19)
Day 17
Pray that your pastor will be a “Great Commission man”—committed to personal
evangelism and the equipping of the saints to seek the lost. Pray that he will have a heart to develop a thriving missions program in his church. (Rom. 10:15; Matt. 28:19-20; Luke 19:10)
Day 18
Pray that your pastor will be a man of prayer and worship, and that he will lead by
example—teaching the congregation how to walk in a close relationship with the Father. (1 Thess. 5:17; Acts 1:14a; Matt. 4:10; Mark 1:35; Luke 22:46)
Day 19
Pray that your pastor will use wise time management, and that he will seek God’s
perspective for his schedule, guarding his time against unnecessary interruptions. (Eph. 5:15-16; Col. 4:5; Ps. 90:12; John 9:4)
Day 20
Pray for a fresh divine anointing on your pastor’s ministry. Pray that God’s working will
be powerfully evident both in his personal life and the spiritual life of the congregation. (1 Cor. 9:27; 2 Tim. 1:7; Rom. 15:18-19a)
Day 21
Pray that your pastor will not give in to discouragement, but will deal with inevitable
criticism and conflict by committing himself into the hands of God, who judges righteously. (1Pet. 2:23)
Day 22
Pray that your pastor will practice servant leadership, edifying the congregation with
wisdom and serving with God’s “agape” love. (Gal. 5:13b; Eph. 6:7; Mark 10:43b-45, 9:23-24; John 13:5-9; Phil. 2:3-4)
Day 23
Pray for spiritual unity in the church staff and among the spiritual leadership of the
church (elders, deacons, etc.). Pray that the enemy will not be allowed to create divisions, strife, or misunderstanding among the church leaders. (Rom. 14:19; 1 Cor. 12:25)
Day 24
Pray that God will give your pastor a clear, biblical vision of what your church can be
and should be for His glory, and that he will communicate that vision clearly and confidently to the church. (Prov. 29:18; John 15:16, 17:17; 2 Tim. 3:5; Mal. 3:11)
Day 25
Pray that your pastor will seek God for personal revival, and revival in your church and
community. (2 Chron. 7:14; Ps. 69:32)
Day 26
Pray that your pastor will think biblically, with the mind of Christ. (1 Cor. 2:16; Col. 2:6-
8; Eph. 4:17)
Day 27
Pray that he will earnestly seek God’s will and be committed to instant and complete
obedience—ready for God to work powerfully in and through his ministry. (2 Cor. 10:3-5; Luke 9:23-24)
Day 28
Pray that he will strive for personal excellence and will believe God for all He wants to
do in the congregation. (2 Pet. 1:3; Col. 3:23-24)
Day 29
Pray that your pastor will be a man of faith and passionate love for God, not giving in to
worries, fears, or an uptight and anxious spirit. (1 John 4:18; Prov. 3:5-6)
Day 30
Ask God to provide for the financial needs of your pastor and his family. Pray that he will
be a wise steward of both personal finances and church funds. (Phil. 4:19; Heb. 13:5; 1 Tim. 6:11; Ps. 37:25)
Day 31
Ask God to heal any hurts that your pastor has suffered in the ministry. Pray that he will
serve the Lord with gladness, and encourage the congregation to worship God with a joyful, surrendered spirit. (Isa. 61:3)
Brothers, pray for us(1 Thess 5:25 ESV).
“Let the thought sink deep into the heart of every church, that their minister will be such a minister as their prayers make him. . . . How perilous is the condition of that minister . . . whose heart is not encouraged, whose hands are not strengthened, and who is not upheld by the prayers of his people! . . .
It is at a fearful expense that ministers are ever allowed to enter the pulpit without being preceded, accompanied, and followed by the earnest prayers of the churches. It is no marvel that the pulpit is so powerless, and ministers so often disheartened when there are so few to hold up their hands. . . . When the churches cease to pray for ministers, ministers will no longer be a blessing to the churches.
Gardiner Spring (1785-1873)
There is no greater gift you can give your pastor and the spiritual leaders of your church than to pray for them. Pastors cannot win the battle alone; they need committed intercessors to lift them up in fervent, specific prayer. Imagine how the power of God might be released in our churches if we were to pray faithfully for our pastors.
Pastors are human—they face the same challenges that their people do, with some additional ones! They grow tired in ministry, are tempted to sin, and may find it difficult to balance their many roles and responsibilities. They need the encouragement and support of those they lead.
Prayer for your pastor is crucial to the spiritual health of your pastor, his family, and your church. God will reward your efforts to cover him in prayer.
If you want to encourage your spiritual leaders (and their wives!) let them know you are praying for them. Ask them periodically for any specific prayer requests and assure them you will pray accordingly. Use the following prayer guide with accompanying scriptures, to suggest practical ways to pray for those who provide spiritual leadership for the flock.
31 Days of Praying for Your Pastor
Day 1
Pray that your pastor will love God with all his heart, soul, mind and strength. Pray that
God’s Spirit will work in his heart in power and that he will value and follow biblical priorities. (Deut. 6:5; Matt. 6:33)
Day 2
Pray that your pastor will cultivate strong character and uncompromising integrity. Pray
that his testimony will be genuine, and that he will never do anything that he would need to hide from others. (1 Tim. 1:5, 3:7; Eph. 6:10-12)
Day 3
Pray for his personal walk with God—that his soul and spirit will be nourished
and strengthened in his quiet time with God, beyond his sermon preparation. Pray that he will spend more time in the Word of God than reading Christian books and articles. (Mark 1:35; 2 Tim. 2:15-16)
Day 4
Pray that your pastor will counsel and teach with discernment through the wise use of
Scripture and faith in God’s power to work. Pray that he will be protected from the effects of sinful or negative attitudes that he encounters as he counsels (Mal. 2:7; James 1:5-6; John 17:15).
Day 5
Ask God to protect your pastor’s marriage and keep it strong as a model of Christ’s
relationship with the Church. Pray that your pastor will tenderly cherish and lead his wife, and that she will respect and encourage her husband, submitting to his leadership. (Eph. 5:23-33) (If your pastor is not married, pray for his relationships with loved ones and those who are close to him.)
Day 6
Pray that God will protect your pastor’s wife from bitterness when her husband is
criticized. Pray that her prayer and devotional life will be consistent, and that she will guard her mind and heart. (Heb. 12:15; Prov. 4:23)
Day 7
Pray for your pastor’s children, and especially that the pressures of the ministry will not
discourage or embitter them. Pray that your pastor will provide godly leadership in the home, not based on fear of what others will think, but according to scriptural truth. (Eph. 6:4; Col. 3:20-21) (If your pastor does not have children, pray that God will give him many “spiritual children” as he shares the Gospel.)
Day 8
Ask God to protect your pastor from the evil plots of Satan. Pray that he will not be
corrupted as he rubs shoulders with the world in the course of ministry. (John 17:15; Is. 54:17; 2 Cor. 2:11; 1 Pet. 3:12; Ps. 9:9-10, 91:9-11)
© Revive Our Hearts. Used with permission. Take the 31 Days of Praying for Your Pastor Challenge
http://www.ReviveOurHearts.com
Info@ReviveOurHearts.com
Day 9
Pray that God will build a hedge of protection around your pastor’s marriage, and that he and his wife will be aware of the potential for any improper relationships. Pray that their family time will be protected. (Ezek. 22:30a; 2 Cor. 10:4-5; Matt. 19:6)
Day 10
Pray that your pastor will use discernment in use of e-mails, the Internet, and the media.
Ask God to guard his heart concerning the use of free time. Pray that he will be morally pure and that he will wear the armor of God so that he will not fall into sexual temptation. (Rom. 13:14; 1 Pet. 1:16; Eph. 6:10-18; 2 Cor. 10:4)
Day 11
Pray that God will bring godly friends and encouragers to your pastor and his family, to
strengthen them for the ministry and provide meaningful fellowship and times of rest. (Phil. 2:19-25)
Day 12
Pray that your pastor will be humble and authentic in his faith, not given to pride or
hypocrisy. Pray that he will have pure motives and give God glory for every gain or victory. (Micah 6:8; Gal. 6:14; John 7:17-18; 1 Cor. 10:13)
Day 13
Pray that your pastor will make wise lifestyle choices in order to protect his health,
especially in the areas of exercise, eating moderately, and getting sufficient rest. Pray for times of relaxation and renewal to balance the stress of ministry. (Rom. 12:1-2; 1 Cor. 9:27, 10:13, 6:19-20; James 3:1-2)
Day 14
Pray that your pastor will focus on the Word of God and walk in the fear of the Lord—
rather than fear of man—as he prepares his messages. Pray that he will seek to please God rather than men, and pursue holiness rather than the praise of men. (Acts 6:4; Prov. 19:23; 2 Tim. 2:15; Heb. 11:6; 2 Tim. 4:1-2)
Day 15
Praise God for your pastor’s leadership and pray that he will make godly decisions. Pray
that he will lead with a shepherd’s heart, and that he will always speak the truth in love. (1 Kings 3:9; 1 Pet. 5:2; Rom. 12:6-8; Jer. 3:15)
Day 16
Pray that your pastor will be courageous in the pulpit in proclaiming Christ, and
confident in his use of the Word of God. Ask God to help him preach with insight, transparency and humility. (Col. 1:28, 4:3a; Eph. 6:19)
Day 17
Pray that your pastor will be a “Great Commission man”—committed to personal
evangelism and the equipping of the saints to seek the lost. Pray that he will have a heart to develop a thriving missions program in his church. (Rom. 10:15; Matt. 28:19-20; Luke 19:10)
Day 18
Pray that your pastor will be a man of prayer and worship, and that he will lead by
example—teaching the congregation how to walk in a close relationship with the Father. (1 Thess. 5:17; Acts 1:14a; Matt. 4:10; Mark 1:35; Luke 22:46)
Day 19
Pray that your pastor will use wise time management, and that he will seek God’s
perspective for his schedule, guarding his time against unnecessary interruptions. (Eph. 5:15-16; Col. 4:5; Ps. 90:12; John 9:4)
Day 20
Pray for a fresh divine anointing on your pastor’s ministry. Pray that God’s working will
be powerfully evident both in his personal life and the spiritual life of the congregation. (1 Cor. 9:27; 2 Tim. 1:7; Rom. 15:18-19a)
Day 21
Pray that your pastor will not give in to discouragement, but will deal with inevitable
criticism and conflict by committing himself into the hands of God, who judges righteously. (1Pet. 2:23)
Day 22
Pray that your pastor will practice servant leadership, edifying the congregation with
wisdom and serving with God’s “agape” love. (Gal. 5:13b; Eph. 6:7; Mark 10:43b-45, 9:23-24; John 13:5-9; Phil. 2:3-4)
Day 23
Pray for spiritual unity in the church staff and among the spiritual leadership of the
church (elders, deacons, etc.). Pray that the enemy will not be allowed to create divisions, strife, or misunderstanding among the church leaders. (Rom. 14:19; 1 Cor. 12:25)
Day 24
Pray that God will give your pastor a clear, biblical vision of what your church can be
and should be for His glory, and that he will communicate that vision clearly and confidently to the church. (Prov. 29:18; John 15:16, 17:17; 2 Tim. 3:5; Mal. 3:11)
Day 25
Pray that your pastor will seek God for personal revival, and revival in your church and
community. (2 Chron. 7:14; Ps. 69:32)
Day 26
Pray that your pastor will think biblically, with the mind of Christ. (1 Cor. 2:16; Col. 2:6-
8; Eph. 4:17)
Day 27
Pray that he will earnestly seek God’s will and be committed to instant and complete
obedience—ready for God to work powerfully in and through his ministry. (2 Cor. 10:3-5; Luke 9:23-24)
Day 28
Pray that he will strive for personal excellence and will believe God for all He wants to
do in the congregation. (2 Pet. 1:3; Col. 3:23-24)
Day 29
Pray that your pastor will be a man of faith and passionate love for God, not giving in to
worries, fears, or an uptight and anxious spirit. (1 John 4:18; Prov. 3:5-6)
Day 30
Ask God to provide for the financial needs of your pastor and his family. Pray that he will
be a wise steward of both personal finances and church funds. (Phil. 4:19; Heb. 13:5; 1 Tim. 6:11; Ps. 37:25)
Day 31
Ask God to heal any hurts that your pastor has suffered in the ministry. Pray that he will
serve the Lord with gladness, and encourage the congregation to worship God with a joyful, surrendered spirit. (Isa. 61:3)
Monday, July 18, 2011
A Prayer to Start the Week: A Prayer about Christians Always Coming to Jesus
As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him—you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” 1 Pet 2:4-6
Heavenly Father, I used to think “coming to Jesus” was a phrase whose meaning was exhausted when we first trust your Son to be our Savior. For sure, that’s the most essential “come-to-Jesus-meeting” we’ll ever have. There’s no greater moment in our lives than when we first trust Jesus plus nothing for our salvation.
But it’s clear to me now that the whole Christian life is about coming to Jesus. No time in our lives is to be called “after I came to Jesus.” We need Jesus this day just as much as the first day. In fact, we’ll never exhaust our need for what Jesus alone can give and we’ll forever discover more reasons to praise and adore him.
Indeed, Lord Jesus, you are the life-giving living Stone for your beloved people; the precious cornerstone of the living temple, called the Body of Christ; the Rock of refuge that’s higher than I am (Psalm 61); the Rock from which God gave water in the wilderness in Moses’ day (1 Cor. 10:1-4); the Honey-ed Rock of whom Asaph spoke (Psalm 81:16); Daniel’s stone, cut from a mountain by the hands of God, which will become an everlasting kingdom of redemption and restoration (Daniel 2:36-45). If we’re not coming to you, where are we going?
Lord Jesus, we exalt you, we boast in you, we delight in you. The more precious you become to us, the more we watch our shame melt away. The more we see you for you really are, the more we see all other currencies as “fool’s gold.” The more we come to you, the more we realize that it’s you who are always coming to us first, always.
We come to you right now—we come bringing our emptiness to the fountain of your fullness. We bring our brokenness to the storehouse of your kindness. We bring our weakness in the great assurance of your endless mercies. We come to you anticipating gospel-manna and living water more-than-sufficient for the demands of this day. Free us to be a people to the praise and glory of your grace all day long. So very Amen we pray, in your precious and shame-freeing name (Scotty Smith).
Heavenly Father, I used to think “coming to Jesus” was a phrase whose meaning was exhausted when we first trust your Son to be our Savior. For sure, that’s the most essential “come-to-Jesus-meeting” we’ll ever have. There’s no greater moment in our lives than when we first trust Jesus plus nothing for our salvation.
But it’s clear to me now that the whole Christian life is about coming to Jesus. No time in our lives is to be called “after I came to Jesus.” We need Jesus this day just as much as the first day. In fact, we’ll never exhaust our need for what Jesus alone can give and we’ll forever discover more reasons to praise and adore him.
Indeed, Lord Jesus, you are the life-giving living Stone for your beloved people; the precious cornerstone of the living temple, called the Body of Christ; the Rock of refuge that’s higher than I am (Psalm 61); the Rock from which God gave water in the wilderness in Moses’ day (1 Cor. 10:1-4); the Honey-ed Rock of whom Asaph spoke (Psalm 81:16); Daniel’s stone, cut from a mountain by the hands of God, which will become an everlasting kingdom of redemption and restoration (Daniel 2:36-45). If we’re not coming to you, where are we going?
Lord Jesus, we exalt you, we boast in you, we delight in you. The more precious you become to us, the more we watch our shame melt away. The more we see you for you really are, the more we see all other currencies as “fool’s gold.” The more we come to you, the more we realize that it’s you who are always coming to us first, always.
We come to you right now—we come bringing our emptiness to the fountain of your fullness. We bring our brokenness to the storehouse of your kindness. We bring our weakness in the great assurance of your endless mercies. We come to you anticipating gospel-manna and living water more-than-sufficient for the demands of this day. Free us to be a people to the praise and glory of your grace all day long. So very Amen we pray, in your precious and shame-freeing name (Scotty Smith).
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Why the Church Can Be a Dangerous Place
One of the reasons I require a class on the Gospel before I am open to baptizing a child or young person is that I want to make sure, as the pastor/shepherd of a local church, that the child clearly understands and professes faith in the Gospel. Of course, the young person's parents also need to bear witness that the child bears the fruit of "new life." But on my part, one of the most dangerous things I can do is to baptize someone who has not shown they understand the Gospel. The deadly consequence of this, among other things, is that it could lead to false security.
In this regard, hear the sobering words of Martyn Lloyd Jones:
There is a sense in which it is true to say that the church is a very much more dangerous place than the world for the unbeliever….The church has been far too anxious to put people into church membership…
Church membership, unless it is based upon a true and definite belief in and experience of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, can be exceedingly dangerous and can even be the cause of damning a soul (a sermon on John 6:66, April 23, 1933 in D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: The First Forty Years: 1899-1939 by Iain Murray, 213).
In this regard, hear the sobering words of Martyn Lloyd Jones:
There is a sense in which it is true to say that the church is a very much more dangerous place than the world for the unbeliever….The church has been far too anxious to put people into church membership…
Church membership, unless it is based upon a true and definite belief in and experience of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, can be exceedingly dangerous and can even be the cause of damning a soul (a sermon on John 6:66, April 23, 1933 in D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: The First Forty Years: 1899-1939 by Iain Murray, 213).
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Do You Have a List of Names?
I have two lists of names in my prayers, those for whose conversion I pray and those for whose conversion I give thanks. The little trickle of transferences from List A to List B is a great comfort (C.S. Lewis, Letter to Dom Bede Griffiths, June 27, 1949).
Mt Sinai Precedes Mt. Calvary
Earlier in the week, I referred to a sermon preached by Charles H. Spurgeon on the "new birth."
I wanted today to mention another sermon by Spurgeon, preached in 1883 that I think reveals a problem in many contemporary evangelistic efforts today. That is, until a person understands, embraces, and believes the "bad news" that we are condemned and guilty before a holy God, he/she will never understand and embrace the "good news" of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Hear it better from Spurgeon: In the beginning, the preacher's business is not to convert men, but the very reverse. It is idle to attempt to heal those who are not wounded, to attempt to clothe those who have never been stripped, and to make those rich who have never realized their poverty (The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit, vol. 44, p. 421).
In other words, a person has to be brought to Mt. Sinai before he/she can be brought to Mt. Calvary. Sinai represents the law that condemns us as law breakers. This is the picture of the Prodigal Son who was brought to know "that he was a sinner, that his very nature was vile and filthy."
Indeed, to add to this thought, Martyn Lloyd Jones asserts until you experience that, you know nothing; that is the first thing a man or woman can ever really "know." What is more, unless you have experienced that, unless you have known that, you are not a Christian, you do not believe in Christ as your personal Saviour. Until you realize that, you cannot possibly have felt the need of Christ; you may have felt the need of help and advice and comfort, but until you awake to the face that your nature itself is evil, until you realize that your trouble is not that you do this and that which is wrong, but that you yourself are wrong, and that your whole nature is wrong, until you realize that, you will never have felt the need of a Savior. Christ cannot help or advise or comfort you until He has first of all saved you, until He has changed your nature. Oh, my friends, have you yet felt this? God have mercy upon you if you haven't. You need not be a rotter or a scamp to be a sinner. It makes no difference who you are or what you are, it makes no difference how good you may appear to be or how much good work you may do. You may have been inside the church all your life and actively engaged in its work, but still I say that unless you have at some time or other felt that your nature itself is sinful, that you are..."dead in sins", then you have never known Jesus Christ as a Saviour, and if you do not know Him as a Saviour you do not know Him at all (Sermon on Luke 15, preached June 19, 1927; cited in D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: The First Forty Years 1899-1939, by Iain Murray, p. 208-09).
I wanted today to mention another sermon by Spurgeon, preached in 1883 that I think reveals a problem in many contemporary evangelistic efforts today. That is, until a person understands, embraces, and believes the "bad news" that we are condemned and guilty before a holy God, he/she will never understand and embrace the "good news" of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Hear it better from Spurgeon: In the beginning, the preacher's business is not to convert men, but the very reverse. It is idle to attempt to heal those who are not wounded, to attempt to clothe those who have never been stripped, and to make those rich who have never realized their poverty (The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit, vol. 44, p. 421).
In other words, a person has to be brought to Mt. Sinai before he/she can be brought to Mt. Calvary. Sinai represents the law that condemns us as law breakers. This is the picture of the Prodigal Son who was brought to know "that he was a sinner, that his very nature was vile and filthy."
Indeed, to add to this thought, Martyn Lloyd Jones asserts until you experience that, you know nothing; that is the first thing a man or woman can ever really "know." What is more, unless you have experienced that, unless you have known that, you are not a Christian, you do not believe in Christ as your personal Saviour. Until you realize that, you cannot possibly have felt the need of Christ; you may have felt the need of help and advice and comfort, but until you awake to the face that your nature itself is evil, until you realize that your trouble is not that you do this and that which is wrong, but that you yourself are wrong, and that your whole nature is wrong, until you realize that, you will never have felt the need of a Savior. Christ cannot help or advise or comfort you until He has first of all saved you, until He has changed your nature. Oh, my friends, have you yet felt this? God have mercy upon you if you haven't. You need not be a rotter or a scamp to be a sinner. It makes no difference who you are or what you are, it makes no difference how good you may appear to be or how much good work you may do. You may have been inside the church all your life and actively engaged in its work, but still I say that unless you have at some time or other felt that your nature itself is sinful, that you are..."dead in sins", then you have never known Jesus Christ as a Saviour, and if you do not know Him as a Saviour you do not know Him at all (Sermon on Luke 15, preached June 19, 1927; cited in D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: The First Forty Years 1899-1939, by Iain Murray, p. 208-09).
Friday, July 15, 2011
Sermon for July 17: “The Son of God: Tempted and Tried ‘For Us’” (Luke 4:1-13)
Please be in prayer for our service Sunday as we consider the temptations of Jesus. The immediate result of Jesus' reception of the Spirit (3:22) was that he was sent into the desert to face on his own the attacks of the devil.
Keep in mind, Luke has traced Jesus' lineage back to Adam (3:38). In other words, the wilderness temptations are depicted as a rerun of the Garden. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit leads Jesus into this wilderness. In that sense, Jesus does not simply suffer temptation, he marches into temptation. He frontally attacks it. As one 16th century writer asserts: He appears in the wilderness as a divine champion; entering into enemy occupied territory under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
It is nothing short than a declaration of war; an attack on one who claims to be the ruler of the world. Rather than overcome Jesus, Satan is defeated and dismissed by his conqueror.
This is the first step in binding the Strong Man in order that Jesus may spoil him of his goods. It is a foreshadow of what Christ came to do.
This isn’t the devil coming to Jesus. It’s the King coming into the enemy occupied territory ready to do battle with the evil one (1 Jn 3:8). Its an act of advancement on the kingdom of darkness.
So, the temptations aren't simply a narrative showing us how to overcome temptation. That's a secondary application, to be sure. These temptations are "one of a kind." Our covenant representative, Jesus Christ, is coming to crush the serpent's head and deliver a people from the serpent's dominion.
One of the issues that arises in the discussion of Jesus' temptations is whether Jesus could have really sinned. I will not address that issue in the sermon but I would like to discuss it here a moment.
There are two views in regards to this question: (a) Impeccability of Christ, i.e. Jesus was not able to sin; (b) Peccability of Christ, i.e. in order for Jesus’ temptations to have been real, it must have been possible for Jesus to sin, even though he did not sin.
Its a tough issue, but here are the biblical givens:
(1) Christ never actually sinned.
(2) Jesus was tempted & they were real temptations (Luke 4:2; Heb 4:15).
(3) Scripture says that God cannot be tempted with evil (James 1:13).
Here we are encountering one of the great mysteries of the faith, Jesus’ two natures. However, it is important to assert that while he could have sinned, it was certain that he would not. There were genuine struggles and temptations, but the outcome was always certain.
I think writer Wayne Grudem offers some convincing insight to this discussion:
A. If Jesus’ human nature had existed by itself, independent of his divine nature, then it would have been a human nature just like that which God gave Adam & Eve. It would have been free from sin but nevertheless able to sin.
B. However, Jesus’ human nature never existed apart from union with his divine nature. From the moment of his conception, he existed as truly God and truly man as well. Both his human and divine natures existed united in one person.
C. Although there were some things that Jesus experienced in his human nature alone and were not experienced in his divine nature, nevertheless, an act of sin would have been a moral act that would have apparently involved the whole person of Christ. Hence, if he had sinned, it would have involved both his human and divine natures.
D. However if Jesus as a person sinned, involving both his human and divine natures in sin, then God himself would have sinned, and he would have ceased to be God. That is impossible because of the infinite holiness of God’s nature.
E. Hence, it seems that we must conclude that it was not possible for Jesus to have sinned. The union of his natures in one person prevented it.
Keep in mind, Luke has traced Jesus' lineage back to Adam (3:38). In other words, the wilderness temptations are depicted as a rerun of the Garden. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit leads Jesus into this wilderness. In that sense, Jesus does not simply suffer temptation, he marches into temptation. He frontally attacks it. As one 16th century writer asserts: He appears in the wilderness as a divine champion; entering into enemy occupied territory under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
It is nothing short than a declaration of war; an attack on one who claims to be the ruler of the world. Rather than overcome Jesus, Satan is defeated and dismissed by his conqueror.
This is the first step in binding the Strong Man in order that Jesus may spoil him of his goods. It is a foreshadow of what Christ came to do.
This isn’t the devil coming to Jesus. It’s the King coming into the enemy occupied territory ready to do battle with the evil one (1 Jn 3:8). Its an act of advancement on the kingdom of darkness.
So, the temptations aren't simply a narrative showing us how to overcome temptation. That's a secondary application, to be sure. These temptations are "one of a kind." Our covenant representative, Jesus Christ, is coming to crush the serpent's head and deliver a people from the serpent's dominion.
One of the issues that arises in the discussion of Jesus' temptations is whether Jesus could have really sinned. I will not address that issue in the sermon but I would like to discuss it here a moment.
There are two views in regards to this question: (a) Impeccability of Christ, i.e. Jesus was not able to sin; (b) Peccability of Christ, i.e. in order for Jesus’ temptations to have been real, it must have been possible for Jesus to sin, even though he did not sin.
Its a tough issue, but here are the biblical givens:
(1) Christ never actually sinned.
(2) Jesus was tempted & they were real temptations (Luke 4:2; Heb 4:15).
(3) Scripture says that God cannot be tempted with evil (James 1:13).
Here we are encountering one of the great mysteries of the faith, Jesus’ two natures. However, it is important to assert that while he could have sinned, it was certain that he would not. There were genuine struggles and temptations, but the outcome was always certain.
I think writer Wayne Grudem offers some convincing insight to this discussion:
A. If Jesus’ human nature had existed by itself, independent of his divine nature, then it would have been a human nature just like that which God gave Adam & Eve. It would have been free from sin but nevertheless able to sin.
B. However, Jesus’ human nature never existed apart from union with his divine nature. From the moment of his conception, he existed as truly God and truly man as well. Both his human and divine natures existed united in one person.
C. Although there were some things that Jesus experienced in his human nature alone and were not experienced in his divine nature, nevertheless, an act of sin would have been a moral act that would have apparently involved the whole person of Christ. Hence, if he had sinned, it would have involved both his human and divine natures.
D. However if Jesus as a person sinned, involving both his human and divine natures in sin, then God himself would have sinned, and he would have ceased to be God. That is impossible because of the infinite holiness of God’s nature.
E. Hence, it seems that we must conclude that it was not possible for Jesus to have sinned. The union of his natures in one person prevented it.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Charles Haddon Spurgeon on the "New Heart"
This morning I came across an old research paper I wrote in seminary on the 19th century Baptist preacher, Charles Haddon Spurgeon's view of "regeneration." I wanted to post this so that we could see an example of just how doctrinal our Baptist forefathers were with regard to our human plight and God's sovereignty and mercy to meet that plight.
For example, in 1858, Spurgeon preaching from Ezekiel 36 on “The New Heart” begins his message on the importance of the promise from God that he will give a new heart. He argues, God does not promise to us that he will improve our nature . . . Human nature is too far gone ever to be mended . . .
To drive this assertion home he argues, The nature that can feed on the garbage of sin, and devour the carrion of iniquity, is not the nature that ever can sing the praises of God and rejoice in his holy name. The raven yonder has been feeding on the most loathsome food, do you expect that she shall have all the kindliness of the dove . . . No; there must be a change.
With this idea in mind, Spurgeon expounds on humankind's fallen nature with candid imagery. He states, The very beasts are better than man, for man has all the worst attributes of the beasts and none of their best. He has the fierceness of the lion without its nobility; he has the stubbornness of an ass without is patience; he has all the devouring gluttony of the wolf, without the wisdom which bids it avoid the trap.
Spurgeon continues on this thought with his conviction that the worst aspect of man’s depravity is his pride. He asserts, It is a wild, strange thing to think that man should be proud, when he has nothing to be proud of. A living, animated lump of clay—defiled and filthy, a living hell, and yet proud.
In typical fashion, Spurgeon, having established the hopelessness of the human condition, expounds on the futility of man’s own ability to change. He states, A man trying to improve human nature is like trying to change the position of a weathercock, by turning it round to the east when the wind is blowing west; he has but to take his hand off and it will be back again to its place.
Therefore, man’s only hope is God who provides, not reformation, but renovation by giving a new heart. This regenerating work of God is his from first to last.
Furthermore, it is by God’s sovereign initiative because no unregenerate man cries for a new heart. Man revolts against his Maker and his Saviour; but where God determines to save, save he will. God will have the sinner, if he designs to have him. God never was thwarted yet in any one of his purposes.
When I think about Spurgeon's sermon, it reminds me a great deal of Ephesians 1:3-14, where 3 times Paul says that God saves us, "to the praise of his glorious grace" (Eph 1:6, 12, 14).
For example, in 1858, Spurgeon preaching from Ezekiel 36 on “The New Heart” begins his message on the importance of the promise from God that he will give a new heart. He argues, God does not promise to us that he will improve our nature . . . Human nature is too far gone ever to be mended . . .
To drive this assertion home he argues, The nature that can feed on the garbage of sin, and devour the carrion of iniquity, is not the nature that ever can sing the praises of God and rejoice in his holy name. The raven yonder has been feeding on the most loathsome food, do you expect that she shall have all the kindliness of the dove . . . No; there must be a change.
With this idea in mind, Spurgeon expounds on humankind's fallen nature with candid imagery. He states, The very beasts are better than man, for man has all the worst attributes of the beasts and none of their best. He has the fierceness of the lion without its nobility; he has the stubbornness of an ass without is patience; he has all the devouring gluttony of the wolf, without the wisdom which bids it avoid the trap.
Spurgeon continues on this thought with his conviction that the worst aspect of man’s depravity is his pride. He asserts, It is a wild, strange thing to think that man should be proud, when he has nothing to be proud of. A living, animated lump of clay—defiled and filthy, a living hell, and yet proud.
In typical fashion, Spurgeon, having established the hopelessness of the human condition, expounds on the futility of man’s own ability to change. He states, A man trying to improve human nature is like trying to change the position of a weathercock, by turning it round to the east when the wind is blowing west; he has but to take his hand off and it will be back again to its place.
Therefore, man’s only hope is God who provides, not reformation, but renovation by giving a new heart. This regenerating work of God is his from first to last.
Furthermore, it is by God’s sovereign initiative because no unregenerate man cries for a new heart. Man revolts against his Maker and his Saviour; but where God determines to save, save he will. God will have the sinner, if he designs to have him. God never was thwarted yet in any one of his purposes.
When I think about Spurgeon's sermon, it reminds me a great deal of Ephesians 1:3-14, where 3 times Paul says that God saves us, "to the praise of his glorious grace" (Eph 1:6, 12, 14).
Clothed in Garments Provided by the LORD God
I'm studying Genesis 3:14-24 this week in order to prepare for Sunday evening's message. Of course, one of the remarkable verses in the entire Bible is found in that passage-Genesis 3:21, where the LORD God, in response to the first couple's sin, shame, and nakedness (which I believe to be the loss of original righteousness)made for Adam and for his wife garments of skins and clothed them.
Of course, for there to be garments of skins, there had to be animals that had been sacrificed. Listen to what Marcus Dods, the 19th century Scottish preacher/theologian has to say about God's action:
The clothing which God provides was in itself different from what man had thought of. Adam took leaves from an inanimate, unfeeling tree; God deprived an animal of life, that the shame of His creature might be relieved. This was the last thing Adam would have thought of doing. To us life is cheap and death familiar, but Adam recognized death as the punishment of sin. Death was to early man a sign of God’s anger. And he had to learn that sin could be covered not by bunch of leaves snatched from a bush as he passed by…but only by pain and blood. Sin cannot be atoned for by any mechanical action nor without expenditure of feeling. Suffering must ever follow wrongdoing. From the first sin to the last, the track of the sinner is marked with blood….It was made apparent that sin was a real and deep evil, and that by no easy and cheap process could the sinner be restored….Men have found that their sin reaches beyond their own life and person, that it inflicts injury and involves disturbance and distress, that it changes utterly our relation to life and to God, and that we cannot rise above its consequences save by the intervention of God Himself, by an intervention which tells us of the sorrow He suffers on our account (The Book of Genesis, 24-25).
Of course, for there to be garments of skins, there had to be animals that had been sacrificed. Listen to what Marcus Dods, the 19th century Scottish preacher/theologian has to say about God's action:
The clothing which God provides was in itself different from what man had thought of. Adam took leaves from an inanimate, unfeeling tree; God deprived an animal of life, that the shame of His creature might be relieved. This was the last thing Adam would have thought of doing. To us life is cheap and death familiar, but Adam recognized death as the punishment of sin. Death was to early man a sign of God’s anger. And he had to learn that sin could be covered not by bunch of leaves snatched from a bush as he passed by…but only by pain and blood. Sin cannot be atoned for by any mechanical action nor without expenditure of feeling. Suffering must ever follow wrongdoing. From the first sin to the last, the track of the sinner is marked with blood….It was made apparent that sin was a real and deep evil, and that by no easy and cheap process could the sinner be restored….Men have found that their sin reaches beyond their own life and person, that it inflicts injury and involves disturbance and distress, that it changes utterly our relation to life and to God, and that we cannot rise above its consequences save by the intervention of God Himself, by an intervention which tells us of the sorrow He suffers on our account (The Book of Genesis, 24-25).
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
A Prayer for Spiritual Revitalization
I don't know about you, but often when I'm in need of spiritual revitalization, the ironic thing is that I feel too weak to agonize and persevere in prayer for it. That's why, in those dry and weak times, I like to turn to prayers offered by others that communicate the sentiments, desires, and longings of my heart.
I came across this prayer C. John Miller prays at the end of an article he wrote called "Prayer and Evangelism." This prayer could be a good place to start if you are in need of spiritual refreshing.
Heavenly Father, we really don't know much about praying. We're good at talking. We're good at gossiping. We're not good at praising, and we're not very good at witnessing. We want to be honest, and we want to have You deal with us where we really are. We also have many lusts and ambitions. And we are often fools for our own sakes. But we want to be different. We want to get rid of this. We want to become fools for Christ's sake. We ask you for mercy. We are not talking about someone else; we're talking about ourselves. We need to have Your compassion over us. We ask You to pity us with Your fatherly heart and eye and send Your Spirit to cleanse us and to give us a new joy, a new fellowship with You, a new eye to see that You are our Father, a new glorying in Christ, a new glorying in You, a new freedom in the Spirit, a new setting aside of anxieties, a deep awareness that there is nothing You are not sovereign over. We pray Father, that You would bring us the comfort of knowing we are wonderfully loved by our God, that we might in wonder and trembling joy take the pardon of our God, the pardon for crimes of deepest dye, a pardon bought with Jesus' blood.
Lord, give us the gift of the Spirit to pray. Revive us, change us, make us different: that we might forgive our enemies, and bless them, that we might love our friends, that we might be tender to those nearest us, that we might be the vehicles of Your ministry in our age. Open our eyes to see evangelistic opportunities. May we have a heart to see, a mind to see; may we love people. May we realize that John 3:16 is applicable wherever we are, that men are under Your wrath and Your curse, but You also offer them a beautiful redemption in Jesus Christ. Redemption brings life and not death. Cause us, then, to proclaim the realities of this new life. Awaken us to the peril of men; help us to see that they are lost, that they are dying without Christ. When they go to hell, that door shuts; it will never be reopened. Lord, give us the knowledge of Your truth. Cause us to live, and then, Lord, as we go forward, daily teach us to pray. Daily teach us to love and to reach out....Amen (C. John Miller).
I came across this prayer C. John Miller prays at the end of an article he wrote called "Prayer and Evangelism." This prayer could be a good place to start if you are in need of spiritual refreshing.
Heavenly Father, we really don't know much about praying. We're good at talking. We're good at gossiping. We're not good at praising, and we're not very good at witnessing. We want to be honest, and we want to have You deal with us where we really are. We also have many lusts and ambitions. And we are often fools for our own sakes. But we want to be different. We want to get rid of this. We want to become fools for Christ's sake. We ask you for mercy. We are not talking about someone else; we're talking about ourselves. We need to have Your compassion over us. We ask You to pity us with Your fatherly heart and eye and send Your Spirit to cleanse us and to give us a new joy, a new fellowship with You, a new eye to see that You are our Father, a new glorying in Christ, a new glorying in You, a new freedom in the Spirit, a new setting aside of anxieties, a deep awareness that there is nothing You are not sovereign over. We pray Father, that You would bring us the comfort of knowing we are wonderfully loved by our God, that we might in wonder and trembling joy take the pardon of our God, the pardon for crimes of deepest dye, a pardon bought with Jesus' blood.
Lord, give us the gift of the Spirit to pray. Revive us, change us, make us different: that we might forgive our enemies, and bless them, that we might love our friends, that we might be tender to those nearest us, that we might be the vehicles of Your ministry in our age. Open our eyes to see evangelistic opportunities. May we have a heart to see, a mind to see; may we love people. May we realize that John 3:16 is applicable wherever we are, that men are under Your wrath and Your curse, but You also offer them a beautiful redemption in Jesus Christ. Redemption brings life and not death. Cause us, then, to proclaim the realities of this new life. Awaken us to the peril of men; help us to see that they are lost, that they are dying without Christ. When they go to hell, that door shuts; it will never be reopened. Lord, give us the knowledge of Your truth. Cause us to live, and then, Lord, as we go forward, daily teach us to pray. Daily teach us to love and to reach out....Amen (C. John Miller).
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