Presence vs Presents

  Christmas is always a great time to gather with family and make memories.  Precisely for this reason, the season also brings remembrance for everyone that not all of our family is here with us anymore.  We remember how Papaw loved to bless the food and carve the ham.  We are reminded of Uncle John’s reading of the true Christmas story.  Then Mom’s wonderful Christmas cookies, that no one can ever match.  The many traditions of Christmas help us to remember times past, and to embed present events as lasting memories.

  At Christmas we often get gifts for those around us.  We spend considerable funds buying just the right gift, in addition to the time searching, wrapping, and delivering the gift.  It would be no surprise to say that ‘time’ is the most precious resource we have.  God has an appointed time set for our life, and then we will leave this life.  Whatever amount of hours and minutes we have, it is given for our choice of investing. 

  The events of the past few weeks and the memories of times past, should remind us of just how precious our time is on this Earth.  Each day we make choices of how to spend our time and resources.  Sometimes we choose to be alone, other time we spend at work, and still others with friends and acquaintances.  We should be exceedingly careful with how we choose to invest our time, and choose to invest the most of it with those we love.  

“This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.” John 15:12-14

  The greatest fulfillment of this verse is Jesus’ sacrifice for our eternal life.  Yet when we consider the limited resources we have in this life, do we realize that each expenditure and hour given to someone is a precious gift, a sacrifice of our life.  We do the same when we give to missions, volunteer in ministry, and devote ourselves to a cause.  We choose those that we do not know, and give them part of ourselves.  It may seem counter-productive in taking time from our family and giving to others, but Jesus directed us to pray and love even our enemies, even as He did. 

 “Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.” Ephesians 5:1-2

Be sure to be very intentional in how you spend your time this Christmas, and every day.  Many people leave this life every day, never knowing that today was their last.  Invest your time well!

Message of the Gospel for Newtown

   It is hard for any of us to grasp the images and stories coming out of Newtown, Connecticut this weekend.  The many mass shootings which have occurred in recent years are evidence of the growing evil in our world.  While there has been evil on Earth since Satan tricked Eve in the Garden, it continues to grow, and will continue until the Lord returns.  The killing of small children seems to be a new level of evil by a sick individual.  How did we get here?

   We live in a day where God has let people go to their reprobate mind.  Should you need any evidence, consider the millions of abortions performed, the rash of movies and games depicting killings and war, sexual ads filling our TV and mail, increasing materialism, and a withdrawal from the church and its teachings.  Before thinking that there is nothing we can do, we can still shine the light of Jesus to all those around us.  The light of love will drive back the darkness of evil. 

   Our lives are filled with sickness and pain often, but Christmas has a way of putting these things behind, and bringing hope for the future.  As a Christmas card written by Bro Kelvin Edwards, who has been dealing with cancer treatments, said:

While the coming year may be uncertain, the future is not.  This year, maybe more than any year before, we cherish the opportunity to celebrate our Savior’s birth.  In our journey we have rediscovered that in those swaddling clothes there is more than just a baby; there is love, mercy, joy, hope, peace, salvation . . .a Savior, God!

As we talk with people this holiday, remind them of the Savior wrapped in swaddling clothes.  While our depictions of Jesus at Christmas are of the baby, He grows sinless, and dutifully goes to the cross for our sins.  All his life spreading His message that God loves us all despite of our sins.  Be ready to share this message for the hope we have within us.  Society needs to hear our message of the Gospel!

“And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient ; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them” Romans 1:28-32

“But sanctify the Lord God d in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;” 1Peter 3:15

Proclaim 'Prince of Peace'

“By You I have been upheld from birth; You are He who took me out of my mother's womb. My praise shall be continually of You. I have become as a wonder to many, But You are my strong refuge. Let my mouth be filled with Your praise And with Your glory all the day. Do not cast me off in the time of old age; Do not forsake me when my strength fails.” Psalms 71:6-9

“For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."  And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you are blessed. "And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled." But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.” 1 Peter 3:12-16

A favorite movie of mine at Christmas is, “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”  I have always enjoyed the Peanuts cast and their lively fun and comedy, and who doesn’t like Snoopy?  Having already seen it this season, I can certainly identify with Charlie Brown’s exasperated plea, “Does anyone know what Christmas is really about?!”  So many people rushing around, worried about shopping, commercialism in full force . . .It can seem like the holiday season of family and love, has been replaced with sales and gifts purchased in a tired run.  I am always glad to see Linus step into the spotlight and say, “Yes Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about,”

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward all men.'" Luke 2:8-14

This is what we must do during Christmas, is point people to the true reason for the season, Jesus Christ.  What was once prominent in the community now can get odd looks and names, when Jesus is pointed out.  Yet as the scriptures above remind us, God is always with us, and is pleased to receive praise and glory from his children.  The prophets told Israel that the Lord would keep them despite the Assyrian and Babylonian reigns of terror, because He had chosen them and given His Word to them.  We still have his Word and promises.  We know there will be a remnant until the second coming (Romans 11:5.)  Let us not whisper, but proclaim ‘Merry Christmas’ from the ‘Prince of Peace!’

Spiritual Priority

“God reigns over the nations; God sits on His holy throne. “Psalms 47:8

“But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, . . . Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:. . . And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” Matthew 3:7-12

A familiar scene: It is Friday night, the office/job has deadlines fast approaching, a school recital is tonight, a review of the week reminds you that prayer has somehow slipped through the cracks, Saturday is your ‘date night,’ there is a broken doorknob at home, and the soup kitchen has called saying there is a shortage of workers this weekend . . .

Each aspect of this situation has its own partakers and hint of immediacy demanding your attention.  Choosing one activity, excludes each of the others (by design), delaying the completion and needed results. Is there any wonder that priorities are a constant struggle for us all?  Truly there are times that any of these situations are a crisis, trumping any other and making it impossible to postpone; yet many times it is only our perception of the situation and we miss out on other activities altogether unnecessarily.

God has his ways of realigning our priorities throughout life.  Disaster, calamity, life events, deaths, sickness, and others; have a way of reviving clarity in our mind.  Our reminder this week, confirms for us again that today is a gift and all that is promised (James 4:14-15).  All of the deeds done in our time on Earth have an immediate outcome, and then will also be judged at the Great Throne. Though it seems there are actions which are too insignificant to matter, the Bible teaches us that every idle word will be judged. We should live with intention, seeking the eternal value of our actions.

We learn from God, almost surprisingly, that God is still always at work.  He is still completing the work began in us.  We will certainly always have work to do, just as God is always at work.  God is infinite and all-sufficient, while we are not; our task is to complete all of our work here to the best of our ability and to his glory. 

As you complete your Christmas activities, please be sure to point people to the Light of the season, and be intentional who you spend your time with

Lips of Wisdom

“Listen, for I will speak of excellent things, And from the opening of my lips will come right things; For my mouth will speak truth; Wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are with righteousness; Nothing crooked or perverse is in them. They are all plain to him who understands, And right to those who find knowledge. Receive my instruction, and not silver, And knowledge rather than choice gold; For wisdom is better than rubies, And all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her.” Proverbs 8:6-11 (‘Wisdom’ speaking)

“"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10

   Reading this week, brought me to this passage of scripture.  These words form a worthy goal, especially for those who attempt to unfold the truths of scriptures to others as preachers, teachers, and pastors. We open our mouths each week with prayers that those who hear will understand and receive the truths. 

Beyond that these verses are great goals and challenges for all us.  Can we imagine a world where only truths come from our mouths?  Could it be a church that only speaks that which edifies those among us?  Could there be a business that you can completely trust all the promises made?  Have we completely abandoned a society seeking wisdom, and rather would receive a quick buck at another’s expense, or a hand out? 

While we are all seeking to be the best Christians we can, there are always areas where we fall short.  We can then turn to the Bible to find instruction on how to improve.  While we are told that the tongue is an evil that man can never tame (James 3:8), we are also warned many times that we should keep our tongue from evil.  Ephesians 4: 29 tells us to refrain any evil or corrupt communication from coming out of our mouths, and another consequence is that it grieves the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. 

What comes out of our mouths actually comes from our heart and mind.  Jesus said in Matthew 15 that out of the heart come murders, adulteries, thefts, and so forth, which then flows out of our mouth.  So to protect our words, we should also protect, or monitor our heart.  As the works of the flesh rise in our heart, we should turn to the fruits of the Spirit to push them out.  As we fill our heart with kindness, love, patience, and the like, we have less room for sin.  Scripture memorization is another way to fill our minds with spiritual things, so we do not focus on the flesh. 

Service in God's Body

“And He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, "If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all."” Mark 9:34

“No much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty, but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another.” 1 Corinthians 12:22-25

   In conversation this week it was said, “Looking back, it was just like God was filling in all the pieces (people) needed for our church to see the growth He ordained.”  It is no secret, that no one at Rowletts Baptist is the same as any member.  Even the twins among us have their own strengths and weaknesses, gifts and struggles.  What we forget sometimes is the differences among us are actually ordained by God, and is a large part of His beautiful body. 

   When we are justified through faith in Jesus Christ, God gives us each certain rewards. Most notable among these is salvation from the penalties of our sins.  Each believer is also indwelt by the Holy Spirit, and in that measure we are given a gift for use in service to Him.  The use of this gift is essential for many things.  It aids the individual in worship to Christ, by working for Him.  It also embeds the person into the church (an organization for glorifying Jesus Christ through service.)  Each individual serving in their capacity makes other’s service easier.  When all believers work to meet the needs of the church, each individual’s needs are met through co-dependence.  Every piece of the puzzle is essential, just as we need each part of our body to function at our most efficient. 

   With the opportunity to exercise our individual gifts so essential, there must be ample avenues to work for everyone.  There are still many chances to help with upcoming events, and with our regular programs.  If you are called to assist in them, see the committee chairpersons to see how.  There are also thousands of people in Hart County that are not attending services anywhere; we need people with a burden to reach them, to step up with a ministry and commit to it.  While your idea may be too large for yourself, we have many people who will surely step in, if you will step out. 

   Our prayers are continued to reach the lost.  We must find new ways to tell them about the Jesus of the Bible.  Then Jesus will once again be glorified for ministering to the needy, through a mixture of individual people and talents, and most of all, for dying to save another lost soul.

Sinner I choose not to be

“Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. 13 And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. 14 For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace. 15 What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? Certainly not! 16 Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one's slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness? 17 But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. 18 And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.” Romans 6:11-18

“14 For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do. 16 If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good. 17 But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. 18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; or to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. 19 For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. 20 Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.” Romans 7:14-20

This life is a constant battle between powers and principalities.  Satan is seeking to tear down all that he can, while God seeks to redeem as many as will hear his voice and obey.  We are born as sinners from the womb, and must be reborn as Christians through the spirit.   The first half of the book of Romans is an exposition of the sinfulness of all men.  You could use this as justification of the old preacher’s statement, “You must preach them lost (sinners), before you can preach them saved.”  It was not a well-respected message among the Jews, and especially the Pharisees, who saw themselves as great or perfect.    Often we find ourselves the same way.

It is extremely difficult for people to find sin in their own life.  When we find the slightest wrong of our own, our nature is to look at all those around us to justify why we are not as sinful as they.  Soon we believe we are great people; and we either do not look for sin in ourselves any longer, or simply overlook it.  This is where scripture enters, and presents the law to us.  If a surface view of the Ten Commandments isn’t enough to convince you of the sin present in your life; it also presents 600+ other laws for you to follow.  But even this was not enough for the Pharisees who felt they had followed them all, but then Jesus expounds the commandments to show that it isn’t just physical obedience, but our minds also. 

It is very likely you have already realized the sinfulness in your life since you read this, but the scripture also shows us that the ‘law’ of grace is even greater at freeing man than the law was to condemn him.  If after being saved from your sinfulness by God, you still have sin running rampant, the law and scriptures then will help you cut the sin out (Hebrews 4:12).  You would not hesitate with cancer, sin is far worse.

Among the Thorns and Briers

“cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field;” Genesis 3:17(b)-18

“Even the sparrow has found a home, And the swallow a nest for herself, Where she may lay her young-- Even Your altars, O Lord of hosts, My King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in Your house; They will still be praising You.” Psalms 84:3-4

“And I will lay it waste: it shall not be pruned , nor digged ; but there shall come up briers and thorns: I will also command the clouds that they rain no rain upon it.” Isaiah 5:6

“Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds?” Luke 24:12

This week my lesson was taught in the middle of a brier bush.  In the Bible thorns and briers are usually signs of sin and separation from God (such as Isaiah 5:6).  Sometimes these were caused by Israel departing from God and not trusting in His provisions.  Yet also this world has been cursed with sin and its consequences since the fall.  I was cutting a large bush (taller than I am) down, when I saw a nest in the midst of the briers.  It impressed upon me how we must live among the thorns of this life, just as this bird had.  God provided this bird a home (safe place of rest) among the thorns.

We all know sometimes this life can get complicated; when all our decisions become like these briers.  Our thorns may be results of our sins, or just a consequence of a fallen world.  Any way we turn we get stuck, and even some lashes leave behind deep scars. It is enough to make anyone just stop and do nothing more.

Friends I am glad to say that God will not leave us there alone. He may not always take away the briers, but He will come and give you rest if you turn to him. When Israel would turn back to God, He would begin to restore them.  He did not always take away the consequences of their sins, but they were able to see the hand of God again.  He says, "This world, with all its thorns and hurts, does not need to define you. Come and build your nest (temporary home), I will be with you. Trust me, and I can give you rest among the thorns, along with guidance to navigate your way."

 

Will you allow God to help you see through the briers, and guide you away from the thorns?  Jesus wore a crown of thorns on His head while on the cross, to pay for your sins.  If you will put your faith in Him, He will assure you that you will not suffer the consequences of your sins in eternity.  Please see and talk to someone today to show you the gospel.

Spiritual Gifts Study Announcement

“There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all:” 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (also Romans 12)

“But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore He says: "When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men."” Ephesians 4:7-8

“As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:10

Each and every born-again believer is given at least one, possibly more, spiritual gift to minister with.  Their use of this gift is what God intends to bring him the most glory in their service.  The amazing mystery of why God would give us these abilities and allow us to be a part of giving him glory is awe inspiring and worthy of worship.

Yet the devil, the skillful warrior he is, comes in to try and cast down anything the Lord has declared good.  So it seems safe to say that Satan would use our own gifts against us.  If he can take the glory away from God, he will do it ('He is such a great singer!)  If he can take our focus from God to ourselves, or those we minister to, he will (‘There is no time for a Bible reading, we have too many mouths to feed. ’or ‘They don't appreciate the service we give them!').  If he can get us to believe that what we do is accomplishing nothing, and we should quit, he will gain a victory ('Nobody is listening, and I'm not making any difference.').  We must not let this be so!

 

 The World Changers class is going to be doing a Spiritual Gifts survey and study in December. We will begin with a survey meant to stir our thinking and identify the gift God has given us.  Then we will have a couple lessons looking at spiritual gifts in the Bible, discussing how that affects us now.   Then the culmination of the study will be a special dedication service where we bring a symbolic 'gift' to God, and ask Him to bless it for the coming year.  After these moments of study and meditation, I am even more convinced now that it is crucial to find and expose these gifts to 'the Light' so they can be used.  Anyone is invited to participate, even just this month.  Please let A.J. know if you plan to participate so he can have enough copies of the survey available.

Broken before the Lord

“The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord's doing; It is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalms 118:22-24

“Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: 'The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord's doing, And it is marvelous in our eyes'? . . . 44 And whoever falls on this stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder."  Matthew 21:42,44

“But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: "God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble."  Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” James 4:6-7

   What does it mean to be broken before the Lord?  There are many things described as ‘broken’ in the scriptures, such as shackles, walls, bread, the backs of the proud, and so on.  God doesn’t intend for us to be broken into pieces, such that we would become unusable for His kingdom.  Instead he intends for us to become humble; not standing on legs of our own strength, but relying on His strength and His grace. 

   The intentions of Matthew 21:44 refer to the judgment at the end of this age.  Where the works of all will be judged; and the central question will be what did you do with “Jesus of Nazareth?” Everyone will be broken in one fashion or another.  Those who willingly go to Jesus and allow Him to break them in order to realign with God’s will, are going to be with God forever through his grace.  Those who come proud, saying “I don’t need Jesus because of my family heritage . . . my abilities . . . my connections” or any other human empowered reason will be rejected and ‘crushed’. 

   Immediately in a Christian’s life this could be applied in our path of sanctification.  There are strongholds in our lives which we must bring to Jesus to break them. God is then able to rebuild them to his Glory  through his grace.  Those places/ideas we refuse to subject to Jesus, attempting to hide them, will eventually be crushed out of our lives.

   We need grace in our life and there is only one source of it.  God is love, and also the source of all grace.  Man is inherently self-centered and does not forgive.  Even a great pastor or parent cannot give grace of their own, it is a gift of God.  Once we have seen our need for grace, we are much more willing to show grace to others.  Thereby we glorify God all the more. 

If your life feels broken right now, remember that God wants to help you build it back.  His grace can heal deep wounds.  If your life is smooth sailing right now, show some grace to those around you.  It might be the display of grace they need to get back on track with God.

Abide in His Word

“Deal bountifully with Your servant, That I may live and keep Your word. Open my eyes, that I may see Wondrous things from Your law. I am a stranger in the earth; Do not hide Your commandments from me. My soul breaks with longing For Your judgments at all times. You rebuke the proud--the cursed, Who stray from Your commandments. Remove from me reproach and contempt, For I have kept Your testimonies. Princes also sit and speak against me, But Your servant meditates on Your statutes. Your testimonies also are my delight And my counselors” Psalms 119:17-24 (Gimel)

“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. "As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” John 15:5-11

    Would you say during a typical week it is easy to “abide in the Word?”  When you look at to-do lists, doctor appointments, practices, chores, homework, work schedules, and so forth, is the Lord on your mind; or even in your thoughts?  Anyone can see it is easy for the cares of this world to pull our focus far from God, Jesus, and the Bible. 

    Part of this can be attributed to Satan, as the “prince of this world.”  He is very skilled at taking bus(y)iness, flashing lights of entertainment, and pleasures of our flesh to lure us into the darkness where we stumble and fall into sin.  God created us with needs and desires which need to be met; Satan then moves them into excess.  By gorging ourselves in one area of life, it will take away from other areas. 

    Yet there is also the fault which is ours.  Many of us are lazy and undisciplined.  You may reply, “I am certainly not lazy, I do . . .” and then list out a very lengthy itinerary which you accomplish every week.  Yet would you say that there is absolutely no time for God in that itinerary?  Many of us will accomplish ‘great’ things in our own power, but leave out God as we do it.  We’ve all said it, “But I don’t have time to pray or read my Bible.” We must train and discipline ourselves to read and pray even when we “don’t have time.”  I’ve seen myself when I don’t take time, and it isn’t God-honoring.  Look at the promises of the Bible.  The Old Testament shows us that God will bless His people and curse their enemies, when they follow his Word.  Jesus himself says in the NT, if we abide in Him (Word)we will have joy, fruit, and God will be glorified.  While we can accomplish nothing without him. 

Prayer for Boldness

And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, "Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!" So God granted him what he requested. 1 Chronicles 4:10

“if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14

“And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.” Acts 4:31

praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints-- and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.  Ephesians 6:18-20

“Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” James 4:16

The Bible speaks highly of prayer; and we are commanded to pray.  So why do our individual and corporate (in a group) prayers become short, generic, and not even God honoring so often?  What would happen if all our prayers were answered?  Who would be better off because they were answered?  Our family or church?  The people of the Bible were able to do great things; because they asked a Great God, through great (big) prayers. 

Prayer is not a magic formula for success in life, or getting everything we could ever want, however when we become Kingdom-minded our desires change.  Jesus offered a Model prayer in Matthew 6, then in chapter 7 He says “Ask and it will be given to you.”  James said you have not, because you ask not; or ask amiss (James 4:1-4). 

How long has it been since you examined your prayer life?  There are millions or billions needing the church to take serious its call to minister to the broken and downtrodden.  There are billions who have never heard the name of Jesus.  Will we be satisfied in praying for one lost soul, when so many churches haven’t even reached one in over a year?  Could everyone you pray personally for salvation, fit in your pew?  If they can, we probably need to pray bigger.  Then we must also move when God directs us.  For the future, should we look at expanding our facilities for 50-60 people, or multiplying what we have to double our ability to reach Hart County?  We must learn to pray with boldness, so that we can proclaim His Gospel with boldness. 

In Christ Alone

“And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.” 1Corinthians 2:1-5

“I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ.” Galatians 1:6-7

“Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.” James 1:21-25

What does it mean for us to be “In Christ Alone?”  Paul expressed that he wanted to know nothing ‘except Jesus Christ and Him crucified’ to the Corinthian believers.  He also tells the churches in Galatia that other gospels were being preached, and those who preach them should be cursed.  It is extremely important for us to understand what the gospel is, and preach it properly both for Christians and unbelievers alike.  We should find also that the gospel remains the most important of things in our lives in thought and action.

The gospel as expressed in 1 Corinthians 15 (an early creed) concisely states the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Often we find it easier to see how this relates to our unbelieving brothers, being dead in sins, and condemned to hell.  Yet it was not us that discovered the gospel, in effect saving ourselves, but it was God who brought it to us, sovereignly.  We cannot get to a point in our minds, intellectually, that we let the gospel become a one hit wonder.  The same song over and over everyone knowing what comes next, losing all meaning. 

Christian living is a chance to show the gospel every day.  What constitutes ‘Christian living?’  We are called to follow him, and sin no more, or be righteous.  We were unable to be perfect before, we are still not; we lean on Christ’s sacrifice, and realize it is sufficient to cover all our faults.  It then can spur us on to glorify Him even more.  We are told to forgive others, and be kind to our enemies; because that is what He did.  Each situation we come to offers another opportunity to glorify Him.  Take a moment and reflect how can I show the gospel in this? 

Do a Great Work

“Now it happened when . . . the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall, and that there were no breaks left in it . . .  So I sent messengers to them, saying, "I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?" But they sent me this message four times, and I answered them in the same manner.” Nehemiah 6:1-4

“for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost." Luke 19:10

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” Hebrews 12:1-2a

“Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place--unless you repent.” Revelation 2:4-5

During our homecoming service we were challenged to leave a legacy, as a part of the great “cloud of witnesses” referred to in Hebrews 12.  Each of those Old Testament heroes in Hebrews 11 accomplished great things through God’s Spirit.  Their stories are recorded in order to give us hope that great things can be accomplished by God even with sinners/ mistake-makers.

Approximately 80% of Hart County residents do not attend church on any given Sunday.  Since we love to hang out with our Christian brothers and sisters, it is easy to look over the lostness even here in Kentucky.  We as a group have a great work that needs to happen; we need to reach as many of these people as we can. 

Yet, in each of our lives there is likely at least one thing which is hindering our growth.  You know what this ‘thing’ is, because it has already come to your mind as an excuse as to why you can’t do anything about the lostness of Hart County.  We must take care of it now, and go to work.

In the book of Nehemiah, Jerusalem has been destroyed, the people are exiled into foreign countries, and it made them mad and embarrassed as a prideful people.  Nehemiah knew the unfortunate situations, and he decided to do something about it.  Nehemiah had to rebuild the walls before the rest of the work could begin, what do we need to do?  There were obstacles, setbacks, and discouragements thrown in Nehemiah’s direction but he refused to quit and answered what is shown above.

There are opportunities ahead of us which demand our attention and we desire to press forward.  In order for this to happen there is likely one obstacle we need to clear, maybe a couple.  It could be a sin you need to stop, or a ministry we need to start.  What is your ‘great work?’

I love to listen to Andy Stanley, this is partially derived from a message of his called, "This One Thing"

Value Voting 2012

“God, give Your justice to the king and Your righteousness to the king’s son. He will judge Your people with righteousness and Your afflicted ones with justice. May the mountains bring prosperity to the people, and the hills, righteousness.  May he vindicate the afflicted among the people, help the poor, and crush the oppressor.” Psalms 72:1-4

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise Wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs 1:7

   What is values-based voting?  Values-based voting is simply choosing which issues, or concerns, you care the most about and voting on a candidate based on those issues.  A voter choosing this method of voting stands in direct contrast to party-based voting, or name-based voting which involve no work.   Sometimes it may take a lot of work in order to find differences between the candidates, but in this presidential election that is not the case. On most of the issues there are no similarities in the approach of the two candidates; they are standing as far apart as possible.  A line from President Obama’s acceptance speech explains our situation well, “On every issue, the choice you face won’t just be between two candidates or two parties. It will be a choice between two different paths for America. A choice between two fundamentally different visions for the future.”

   As Christians it is our responsibility as the salt of the world, to choose leaders who hold our views and values.  For a Christian to not vote is a failure to accept their responsibility to choose Godly Leaders.  Please search in your Bible and find out what God has to say, and then choose the candidate which most clearly follows those values.  The issues which are most a matter of conscience, morals, and religion are probably a definition of marriage, homosexuality, and abortion.  While some issues surrounding hate crimes, and equality have moral decisions also.  You can examine the party platforms/positions at their websites.    

   Do not take your opportunity to vote lightly.  Examine the issues, pray for direction, and read the Bible to see what it says on the issues.  For a prayer guide you can download, “40/40 prayer vigil for Spiritual Revival and National Renewal” from the SBC’s Ethics & Religious Liberties Commission website (http://erlc.com/) .  There are other resources available on the site also.  (The ERLC is the public policy arm of the Southern Baptist Convention.)  We do not live in the days of the Davidic Covenant, where God blessed the nation if it had a Godly leader, but our president certainly influences the direction of the nation and its laws and policies.  Let’s seek to have a God fearing leader.

Developing a Biblical Worldview

“Direct my steps by Your word, And let no iniquity have dominion over me.” Psalms 119:133

“He declares His word to Jacob, His statutes and His judgments to Israel. He has not dealt thus with any nation; And as for His judgments, they have not known them. Praise the Lord!” Psalms 147:19-20

“Be diligent (study in KJV) to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15

Are Christians really a people of the Book? To what extent do they orient their thinking by, take their cues from, establish their priorities on the basis of, subject the entirety of their experience to, and seek ever deepening understanding of the teachings of Scripture? To what extent can we say that Christians are people of the Book? (T.M. Moore on Breakpoint 5-23-07)

The concept of having “rose-colored glasses” generally comes with a negative connotation.  Those seeing through the glasses do not see a true picture, everything having a reddish tint from the glasses.  Despite this concept, it would be best if all Christians would look at the world through the “blood-stained glasses” of the Bible. In other words having a Christian worldview; by running every decision, action, or attitude through the filter of the Bible.

In order for us to do this, we must know what the Bible teaches on a subject.  As part of our inerrant view of the Bible, we believe that the Bible addresses every necessary subject for our Christian living.  While some topics or words are not directly mentioned in the Bible, we can take what it does say about a related subject and apply it appropriately.  For example the word abortion is not found in the Bible however child sacrifice and the destruction of life are condemned; so this is where we form our basis against the practice. 

So as we seek to develop a life directed by the Bible we must study the doctrines it teaches.  Certainly this involves lots of study in the Bible itself.  Another helpful starting place are resources such as catechisms and systematic theologies.  These are collections of teachings or statements developed by many Bible scholars in one volume.  The catechism is especially popular in the Catholic church to ground their children in solid Bible principles, having classes revolved around these teachings.  As Southern Baptist another resource we have is the Baptist Faith and Message, specifically the year 2000 revision.  Each of these resources pairs a theological statement with a listing of scriptures used to develop it.  By studying the resource and the scripture list, it will help the student heed the exhortation of 1 Peter 3:15.

Restored to Service

“But Peter said, "Man, I do not know what you are saying!" Immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, "Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times."  So Peter went out and wept bitterly.” Luke 22:60-62

“He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?" Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, "Do you love Me?" And he said to Him, "Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You." Jesus said to him, "Feed My sheep. Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish."  This He spoke, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him, "Follow Me." John 21:17-19

also John Mark - Acts 12: 25(began), 13:13 (departed) , 2 Timothy 4:11(useful again)

   Messed up, sinned, letdown, failure, abomination, denial, defeated, disappointment . . . whatever you call it our lives are full of sin, and it causes us to do things which we know are against the desired will of God for our lives.  When we walk down the road of sin, especially as Christians, it is easy for Satan to convince us that we are no longer useful to the kingdom of God.  However if we look at scripture we will quickly see that is not the case.

   Perhaps the most pointed case could be that of Peter, the apostle.  In the verses above we see his denial of the Lord, and then his restoration. We all can identify with how Peter must have felt in the weeks between his denials and when he was restored at the Sea of Galilee.  Peter had spent almost 3 years following Jesus, and often expressed his desire to follow Him, even to death.  Then when the situation arose, he denied his Lord not once, but three times.  Peter went from thinking he was the #1 follower of Jesus, to a complete failure; as Luke tells us, weeping bitterly. The beginning of John chapter 21 tells us that Peter returned to his homeland and “went fishing.”  Once Jesus shows him that he is restored, at Pentecost Peter preached and 3000 were added to the church.  He can do the same with us, even as messed up as we are.

   For clarity, this does not mean we are to continue in sin, but that if we fall into sin, that we must repent, then return to the work appointed to us by God.  God chooses us in our weakness to show his power, not ours.  The Old Testament shows how he used drunks, murderers, liars, depressed, and unconfident people.  He still uses the weak of the world to condemn the strong.  We are a church of weak sinners redeemed into the unstoppable church of God.  There are 15,000 unchurched people in Hart Co., in His strength, let’s go and reach as many of them as we can!

Reverent Worship

“So when the Lord saw that he turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, "Moses, Moses!" And he said, "Here I am." Then He said, "Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground." Exodus 3:4-5 (Joshua 5:15)

“Walk prudently when you go to the house of God; and draw near to hear rather than to give the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they do evil. Do not be rash with your mouth, And let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven, and you on earth; Therefore let your words be few.” Ecclesiastes 5:1-2

“When you spread out your hands, I will hide My eyes from you; Even though you make many prayers, I will not hear. Your hands are full of blood. "Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes. Cease to do evil, Learn to do good; Seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow. “ Isaiah 1:15-17

“In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.” Matthew 6:9

There are many special things about a Sunday morning worship service.  Israel was called to rest on the Sabbath day (seventh, Saturday,) but after the death of Christ, the day of worship gatherings changed to the “Lord’s day” or Sunday.  While we should think of God throughout the week, on Sunday we focus on Him.  We are called to worship Him, (Acts 2:42, Hebrews 10:25) through our music, prayers, and preaching.  However not all prayers, music, or preaching are glorifying to God, or consist of worship. 

The greatness of worship is the setting aside for God.  God is a jealous god.  (Exodus 20:5)  God is not in need of anything; He is perfectly self-sufficient.  His desire is for his creation to glorify Him, yet it must be in single purpose.  We cannot desire glory for ourselves (our talents, wisdom, abilities, or memories ;) all the glory must be to God.  While half-hearted actions and gifts can fill a service, it is not considered worship.  In fact God says He will “hide his eyes” and “I will not hear.”

   We must remember what Solomon says “God is in heaven, and you on earth.”  Not everything is suitable for worship of our holy God.  God is not impressed by leftovers.  He does not desire the resources we have left after we finish all of our other tasks on our agenda or budget.  God asked for first fruits, and sacrifices with no blemish.  We disgrace God when we put so many things ahead of him (comfort, hobbies, recognition, etc.)  We give more in tips, than in offerings; we dress up more for “date night” and are more respectful in a doctor’s office than a worship service; we put more thought in a birthday card, than a prayer to God.  God deserves reverence in our worship.