BURDENS!

BURDENS!

Gal 6:2-5

2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.

4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

5 For every man shall bear his own burden.

Three concepts are found in these verses that will likely engage us as this day dawns.

1. We are to help others carry their burdens!

          David complains of his sin and says: "Mine iniquities are gone over my head; as a heavy burden they are too heavy for me" (Ps 38:4). The law of Christ is that we should love one another. Love prompts us to move quickly alongside a brother who is about to “lose it” or to drop it. How many of our brethren are so burdened that they are ready to quit? How many will we meet today with a smile on their face and a tear in their eye? Their shoulders are stooped and sore from carrying a heavy load.

2. We are to prove our own work!

          In this we see the almost lost concept of personal responsibility. Adam blamed Eve for his downfall and Eve passed the buck to the serpent. It’s been happening that way with man ever since! The battle cry of our age is: “It’s not my fault.” A young man sitting in jail may ask a visitor, “Why has this happened to me?” The answer is that you robbed a bank. Had you NOT robbed the bank you would still be free. The burden of personally proving our own work belongs to each of us. The Amplified New Testament puts it this way:

Gal 6:4 AMP

4 But let every person carefully scrutinize and examine and test his own conduct and his own work. He can then have the personal satisfaction and joy of doing something commendable [in itself alone] without [resorting to] boastful comparison with his neighbor.

3. Some burdens must be borne alone!

          The Greek word translated “burden” in verse 5 is different from the word used in verse 2. Here the word means “an invoice” or “ships freight.” It is the only place in all of Paul’s writings that he uses this word. The word refers to the “bill of lading” and refers to something of great value. Each of us will stand in judgment and receive our own reward.

Dear Lord, although I am burdened with my own load, help me to lighten the load of a brother or sister today. AMEN

WEARYING GOD!

WEARYING GOD!

Isa 43:24

24 Thou hast bought me no sweet cane with money, neither hast thou filled me with the fat of thy sacrifices: but thou hast made me to serve with thy sins, thou hast wearied me with thine iniquities.

Mal 2:17

17 Ye have wearied the Lord  with your words. Yet ye say, Wherein have we wearied him? When ye say, Every one that doeth evil is good in the sight of the Lord , and he delighteth in them; or, Where is the God of judgment?

Why are so many professed believers yet undecided regarding their Christianity?. Each one seems to be two kinds of people and you can never be certain which you are dealing with. Their lives are what we commonly refer to as “compartmentalized.” One compartment holds work, another holds family, a large compartment holds recreation, and into a small compartment we stuff religion.

There are some reasons why this is so…

Ø Our culture of rapid change and easy access to everything has produced a restless desire for some unknown thrill or satisfaction. Like Goldilocks we keep sampling the porridge but can never find a bowl that is “just right.”

 

Ø We insist on deciding for ourselves that which is right or wrong without restriction or accountability.

 

Ø We have a lust for supremacy and applause that ruins all our relationships because we are always manipulating others.

 

Ø Everything in our life passes through the “me” filter.

There are some things that we desperately need…

1. A quiet spirit! We must learn to give to each task our very best effort and then leave the results in God’s hands. The conventional method results in nervous anxiety and a complaining spirit.

1 Thess 4:11-12…study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

12 That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.

2. Real purity inside and out! We must choose to live our lives unsullied by the filthiness that surrounds us in the world.

1 Tim 5:22

22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure [innocent or modest].

3. Simplicity! Simplicity brings  freedom, joy and balance. We lack a divine Center, our need for security has led us into an insane attachment to things.

4. Thrift!  Placing boundaries around our appetites will build self-discipline and character.

John 6:12

12 When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.

5. Modesty! The word is only used once and is found in First Timothy 2:9 and means “orderly or decorous.” Today it has come to mean a manner of dress and deportment that does not entice or lead to lustfulness.

6. Passion! Ours is an age absolutely defined by the word “casual.” Unfortunately we have allowed informality to modify quality. A lack of quality in preparation hinders performance in every area. Choir members do not practice. Sunday school teachers do not study. Buildings and facilities are not well maintained. The result is a haphazard presentation of an urgently needed gospel.

Dear Father, I’m sure in many ways my behavior just wears you out! Forgive me for my sometimes casual approach to Christianity and make me pleasing to Thee. AMEN

BEHIND SO THIN A COVERING!

BEHIND SO THIN A COVERING!

Ex 12:12-13

12 For I will pass through the land of Egypt this night, and will smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I am the LORD.

13 And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.

Do you suppose there were any skeptics hiding behind the bloody doors that night in Egypt? Were there any that thought the entire concept to be hard to believe? I wonder if there were those who just did not feel safe or secure behind so thin a covering. If you are feeling a bit vulnerable beneath that thin covering of blood, consider the following:

It’s not our understanding that is important!

Prov 3:5

5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Isa 55:9

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

It’s not the strength of our faith!

Matt 17:20

20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.

Can you imagine one cowering behind the bloody door doubting its ability to save? See him stack chairs and furniture against that same bloody door lest death should enter. Doubt and uncertainty held hands with weak faith throughout that night of terror but in the morning faith stood alone.

It’s not our righteousness but His faithfulness!

Titus 3:5-6

5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;

A wicked man in deed and thought huddles behind the bloody door wondering if his sins would so anger God that the blood would not be enough. He determines to do better if he should last the night. In the morning it is not his resolve that has saved him but the blood that covered him.

It was the blood that saved them, not their righteousness. And a little child by that blood in Goshen was just as safe as Moses or Aaron or Joshua or Caleb. It was the blood that saved them. – D. L. Moody

Dear Lord, though I am unworthy, sometimes insincere and often fearful, yet I huddle behind the blood of the Lamb. Thank you for the safety of the shed blood. AMEN

LET YOUR CANDLE GLOW!

LET YOUR CANDLE GLOW!

Luke 8:16

16 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.

          The analogous candle is a familiar Biblical example of the life of the believer. We have been set ablaze by our faith in Christ and in Him is “no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). That a man would light a candle and then cover it with a vessel, or put it under a bed is foolish. In the case of the candle under the bed, it is also dangerous. Yet it is clear that Jesus sees us doing exactly that with the candle of our life.

          A most interesting word in our scripture today is the word “vessel.” It sometimes means “household goods” or “stuff.” Oh, I see it often! A talented believer sometimes has his light hidden beneath the accumulation of all his valuables.

The word is also used to designate the human body as in “he is a chosen vessel.”  How often is the light of the gospel dimmed by our indulgence of the body’s needs or the concern for the body’s safety? We do not speak for fear of enduring some deprivation of accustomed pleasure. We will not venture far to share the gospel for fear of personal safety. The light has become darkness.

Luke 11:33

33 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light.

          Jesus again, as recorded by Luke, says that it is unthinkable to place a lighted candle in a secret place. Now, the word that is translated “a secret place” is the Greek word krupte (kroop-tay) and means “a place concealed or a private place.” How often is the gospel hidden simply because it is viewed as my very own private light? The nature of light makes this thought even more ridiculous.

          The believer is a candle to all and has been set ablaze by his faith in Christ. His design and purpose is to shine so that others may see the light. If we hid ourselves under material stuff our light becomes darkness. If we keep our light selfishly private then no one will see.

Matt 5:16

16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Dear Lord, set me on fire and put me in a prominent place that I may give light to those in darkness. Amen

HE IS THE GOD OF BETTER DAYS!

HE IS THE GOD OF BETTER DAYS!

Ps 30:10-12

10 Hear, O LORD, and have mercy upon me: LORD, be thou my helper.

11 Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness;

12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.

          I’ve lived long enough to believe there is nothing so dark that God can’t make brighter. There is no circumstance so baffling that He can’t make a way. There is no table so bleak that he can’t burden it down with a feast. There is no pocket so empty that he can’t fill it with an abundant supply and there is no grief so bitter that he can’t turn it into dancing.

          Perhaps this morning you wait by a sickbed worried and grief stricken. Trust in God! He will turn your sorrow into joy. I know of some this morning that sit confused because their bright path has stopped short against a cold closed door. Trust in God for He makes a way in the wilderness! He can turn your confusion and disappointment into confidence and hope. Wait for Him! He is not far away as you suppose. He is as close as a heartbeat. Cry out to Him! He hears our very breath.

Dear Lord, for me and for so very many of my friends today, please turn our mourning into dancing. AMEN

HOW TO DEAL WITH AN HERITIC!

HOW TO DEAL WITH AN HERITIC!

Titus 3:8-11

8 This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

10 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;

11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.

          I’m not sure why this was the first Biblical phrase that clattered around in my head this morning! It is strange but when my feet hit the floor it was my first thought. Although we have many in our church that are still learning Christian dogma, I don’t think we have any heretics as we commonly think of them. So why does God seem to want me to research this phrase? When I have questions like these I always dig deeper into the meaning and context of the words.

          What is the context? In chapter three, Paul’s advice to pastor Titus was regarding civil and church order. He said we are to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work. So the circumstances framing Paul’s teaching was civil obedience and Christian life. Specifically, we are to be good citizens even when our government seems to be a bit out of control. We are also urged to continue doing good.

          What’s the problem? The local chapter of the “moron’s Bible study” was causing trouble in the church. I say this because the word “foolish” is the Greek moros which actually means moron. These blockheads (this is an actually description from Strong’s Concordance!) were arguing over unimportant items in the law. Rather than searching for the truth, their moronic activity was for the purpose of appearing intelligent. It wasn’t working! Paul said it was unprofitable. The result was strife.

          What’s a heretic? We commonly think a heretic is one who holds to a flawed or incorrect belief. However, the word heretic actually means “choice.” This person is schismatic, one who is contentious, quarrelsome, and removes himself from the teachings, meetings and fellowship of the church. This person is acting in opposition to Acts 2:42 “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” They were not steadfast in traditional teaching, they were absent from fellowship and they were not even participating in the breaking of bread. They were heretics!

We wish we did not have "problem people" in our churches; but wherever there are people, there can be problems. In this case, Paul warned Titus to avoid people who like to argue about the unimportant things of the faith; "one who makes a choice, a person who causes divisions." This is a self-willed person who thinks he is right, and who goes from person to person in the church, forcing people to make a choice. "Are you for me or for the pastor?" This is a work of the flesh (see Gal 5:20). Such a person should be admonished at least twice, and then rejected.

 

(from The Bible Exposition Commentary. Copyright © 1989 by Chariot Victor Publishing, and imprint of Cook Communication Ministries. All rights reserved. Used by permission.)

          What’s to be done? Nouthesia is the Greek word for admonition and it means “mild rebuke or warning.” Christian counseling is often referred to as neouthetic counseling, made popular by Dr. Jay Adams. So, we are to mildly rebuke and warn this schismatic moron once or twice and then reject him. Now, the word “reject” is the Greek word paraiteomai and actually means “to beg off, to deprecate or denounce, and to shun.”

Dear Lord, let me clearly understand your teachings so that I may admonish those who cause divisions. Let me never, ever, be one of them! AMEN

ADVICE FROM TWO FAILURES!

ADVICE FROM TWO FAILURES!

1 Peter 3:4

4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

Ps 51:6-7

6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

I find it interesting that both of these comments come from men who had “failed” their God and momentarily abandoned their steadfastness. Peter, whom we all remember, loudly declared that he would never, no never deny Jesus, was told that he would indeed deny him three times before the rooster cockled his doodle-do. He did! David, whom God said was a man after his own heart, yielded to lust which ultimately led to murder. His sin unsheathed the sword upon his family for generations.

Each of these men learned by hard lessons that religion is not safely tucked away in some favorite pew but is carried in the heart all day, every day. I am disgusted and dismayed to witness the duplicity of many Christians. They wear their religion emblazoned on their cars and clothing but their language is vile, their morals are questionable at best and their business practices are dishonest. I am most alarmed at my own weaknesses.

A small boy had received a little red wagon that was a birthday present and the delight of his heart. His family decided to skip church so that he could play with it. When he brought it out to the front walk he was told that he must play with it at the back of the house. "This is Sunday," explained the father. The boy obeyed, but he was puzzled and asked as he trudged away, "Isn't it Sunday in the backyard, too?"

Dear Lord, let me be a genuine Christian! Let me be in the back yard the same as I would be in the front. AMEN

IN THE DITCH AGAIN!

IN THE DITCH AGAIN!

Matt 26:73-75

73 And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee.

74 Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew.

75 And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

          The rooster announced Peter’s denial and brought to mind the prophecy of the One he had just denied. Peter was wounded in his conscience and pained by self condemnation. He left the enemy’s fire and had a cleansing cry.

What should we do when the rooster crows for us? How should we handle the occasions when sin so easily besets us? Let me suggest three urgent things.

1. IMMEDIATELY CONFESS!

1 John 1:9

9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

2. RECEIVE THE GIFT OF GRACE!

Ps 130:3-4

3 If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?

4 But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.

Rom 8:1

8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

3. RESUME – START AGAIN!

Prov 24:16a

16 For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again.

Ps 37:23-24

23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.

24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.

          Saint Francis, a seventh century believer said this about his failures. “Well, my pour soul, here we are in the ditch again – in spite of our earnest resolve to stay out of it. Ah well, let us get out and be on our way; and we will do well enough, God helping us.”

Dear Lord, I often find myself in that familiar ditch. Let me confess my sin, receive your grace and start again. AMEN

NOT KNOWING!

NOT KNOWING!

Acts 20:22-24

22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:

23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.

24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

Heb 11:8-10

8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:

10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

          The phrase “not knowing” is found seven times in the Bible. A few times it refers to someone’s ignorance or confusion but these two times it refers to a life lived by faith. In the book of Acts, Paul felt very strongly that he should travel to Jerusalem. His friends tried to warn him that persecution, prison and possible death awaited him there. It should have been strong motivation not to go but Paul was driven by a desire to complete the assignments given to him by the Lord.

          Abraham was “called” to go out but the destination was uncertain. Not knowing, he had a choice to make. He could either go or not. He could obey or not. He could trust or not. I find it very interesting that Abraham did not only sojourn TO but IN the land of promise. Wherever he went, whatever the circumstance, God was there with him leading him not only step by step but inch by inch. He did not know – could not know – but God knew and that was enough.

          Because we like to know, we do not feel led but abducted by God! Often He kicks over our comfortable habitat and scatters our pleasant things so that we will no longer want to stay where we have for a long time been. We are then cast upon a journey to a place where God always wanted us to be. What we thought was a destination was actually a pleasant oasis. Now it is time to saddle the camels and ride. It is not always fun not knowing.

Ps 32:8

8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.

MERIT!

MERIT!

Eph 2:4-10

4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

          The word “merit” does not appear anywhere in the Bible. This English word, as a noun, means “laudable or blameworthy traits or actions; conduct deserving reward or honor.” As a verb, the word means “to earn or deserve.”

          The concepts of merit or demerit have been planted deeply into our psyche and have born abundant fruit. The concept of merit is contrary to the concept of grace. Four phrases stand out in our portion of Scripture which capture our attention and imagination. First we were dead in our sins; totally unable to respond to Christ. Then we learn that salvation is not of ourselves and not of works. Finally we are told that salvation is a product of His workmanship. In spite of this four-fold reinforcement of the facts, we still fail to understand.

          The word “works,” in verse 9 is the Greek ergon and simply means toil. Salvation is not achieved through strenuous effort or even strong desire. The word “workmanship,” on the other hand, is poiema and literally means fabric! The white robe of our salvation was spun, woven, cut, sewn and crafted by Christ Himself. We are His workmanship.

          The closest word we have to “merit” in Scripture is the word “worthy” and we see it at the end of Romans chapter one. After a long list of sins, verse 32 declares that those who sin are “worthy of death.” Chapter two actually begins with a conclusion by declaring man inexcusable.

Oh Thou virtuous God! I have rightly earned only condemnation, death and eternal separation from you. Yet, through no merit of my own, I am accepted, given eternal life and friendship with Thee, O majestic creator. Treat me today as one of Thy little birds who do not plant nor harvest nor gather into barns. Yet daily you provide them their meat. O God, be thou to me not only my substance but my Savior and my friend. AMEN

ANOTHER LAW!

ANOTHER LAW!

Rom 7:22-25

22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:

23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?

25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

          The unwelcome law in Paul’s members was a regulating principle. It was a mode of operation that had a long standing history. It was the way things were done. It was the way things always had been done. It would not be unseated without a fight! Sinful passions, which have enjoyed a long history of unrestrained gratification, have developed a strong force of habit that will not be easily broken.

          This law, or regulating principle, wars first against the mind. It questions right thinking. It argues for indulgence of vices. It lays siege to morality of mind until finally the walls are broken down and the mind relents to the cravings of the flesh. “He that knoweth to do good and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” (James 4:17)

          Paul painfully describes what so many of us know. We know what is right and want to do it but there is a ruling principle that demands that we do wrong. The good which we want to do is not done but the wrong which we hate is what we continue to do. It is frustrating and miserable. Paul calls it captivity and bondage. From this fleshly prison we are not able to free ourselves. We need Someone to rescue us from ourselves.

                Adam Clarke, in his commentary, answers the craving of the scholars who may happen upon this feeble writing of mine. He says: “Instead of ‎eucharistoo ‎‎too ‎‎Theoo‎, I thank God, several excellent manuscripts, with the Vulgate, some copies of the Itala, and several of the fathers, read it ‎hee ‎‎charis ‎‎tou ‎‎Theou‎, or ‎hee ‎‎charis ‎‎tou ‎‎Kuriou‎, the grace of God, or the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ; this is an answer to the almost despairing question in the preceding verse. The whole, therefore, may be read thus: "O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death?" ANSWER: "The grace of God through our Lord Jesus Christ."

Prov 4:23

23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

Dear Lord, how well I know the frustration so well described by Paul. Apply thy grace with a broad brush and with bold strokes today for I am taken captive by the enemy of self. Come quickly to rescue me, O Champion of Grace! AMEN

NOT DUMB – JUST IGNORANT!

NOT DUMB – JUST IGNORANT!

2 Tim 3:7

7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

          One of the characteristics of the end-time generation is that they are ignorant of the truth. Paul warns Timothy that they will be self lovers, proud, religious but not righteous, and ignorant. If this is the last generation, and I believe that it is, there are three possible reasons for this ignorance.

1. INFORMATION OVERLOAD!

          There is simply too much information for our minds to process. Computers both big and small, and gadgets that almost defy description, pour information into and upon us at an alarming rate. Modern man has hardly ever heard silence, felt the comfort of sensory rest, or communicated with his own spirit. Someone or something is always vying for our attention. Spiritual truth is almost always communicated in periods of quiet, in unhurried reflection and contemplation.

Ps 46:10

10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

2. WE ARE LEARNING THE WRONG THINGS!

          If you walk on any college campus you will eventually hear one student ask another: “What’s your major?” It indicates the kind of things being learned and it also indicates the destiny to which this learning is leading. A student studying political science will make a poor doctor. Much of what we learn lies outside the boundaries of what God is trying to teach us.

Jer 4:22

22 For my people is foolish, they have not known me; they are sottish [or silly] children, and they have none understanding: they are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge.

          Make no mistake, we are not dumb – we are simply ignorant. We are processing information at an astounding rate but most can’t clearly recall the simplest of Bible stories. Two things I hear from the mouths of young people that amaze me – they are bored and they are tired! I sometimes wonder how these can abide together.

3. WE DEMAND THAT KNOWLEDGE ENTER THROUGH OUR OWN FAMILIAR PARADIGM!

          The Jews rejected Jesus not because he was not an astounding and spectacular individual but because He did not fit their preconceived notion of a Messiah. In spite of all the miracles they sought for a sign and Jesus said there would no sign be given except the sign of the prophet Jonah who was three days in the belly of the whale. He said that he would be three days in the belly of the earth and they didn’t understand. It didn’t fit.

          The Greeks rejected Jesus because they were looking for some new wisdom. They were sophists. Their arguments were brilliant but their reasoning was flawed.

1 Cor 1:22-23

22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:

23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;

1 Cor 3:18

18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, [moros, a moron] that he may be wise.

Dear Lord, let me find quiet and stillness today so that I might hear your voice. AMEN

IT IS HARD TO DRIVE A NAIL ONCE BENT!

IT IS HARD TO DRIVE A NAIL ONCE BENT!

Eccl 1:15

15 That which is crooked cannot be made straight: and that which is wanting cannot be numbered.

Eccl 7:13-14

13 Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight, which he hath made crooked?

14 In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after him.

          This proverb urges man to be in submission to the providence of God. We often decide that God has made things crooked and we then engage in the task of making the circumstances straight. We want the circumstances to fit our notion of what should be right. We preachers do this all the time thinking that to be our calling. It is a Messiah complex that often frustrates us when crooked people can’t be made straight by our efforts. Some things and some people can’t be made straight simply by wanting them to be.

          We are left with two courses of action regarding the workings of God. These are listed in verse fourteen. First, in the day of prosperity when everything seems straight to us, be joyful and thank God that there are no uncomfortable twists and turns in the circumstances of your life. In the day of adversity consider that there is nothing certain in this life. The word “consider” means to study thoroughly or to meditate so as to fully and properly understand. We can’t fully understand why God does what He does. He has His own plans and purposes. In the absence of our understanding, He bids us to trust in His nature, wisdom and goodness.

          It is hard to drive a nail once bent, but not impossible. There will always be a weakness that keeps it from piercing true unless it is hammered carefully by a skilled carpenter. Some things, once done, can’t be undone and crooked people can be made straight by God alone.

Jesus, Master Carpenter, make straight the crookedness in my loved ones and me. Look upon the injustice and judge. Calm all that frustrates us. Heal all that ails us. Hammer us gently home for we are bent. AMEN

OUR LAST ENEMY!

OUR LAST ENEMY!

1 Cor 15:22-26

22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming.

24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.

25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.

26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.

Col 2:13-15

13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.

          I envision a vast battlefield upon which is scattered the broken remains of vanquished foes. Yonder lies in a heap disappointment, bitterness and despair. The dismembered remains of poverty, prejudice and ignorance lie next to them. Lust, greed and evil ambition come running to the rescue only to be cut down in mid-stride by the Captain of our faith.

          I stand with my sword in hand but it is my Captain who wields the gleaming two-edged sword. It glistens in the sunlight and clangs at the impact with first one enemy and then another. But I see the approach of another enemy. It is the captain of all and he rides a black horse shiny with sweat and with evil, purposeful eyes. It is death and he is coming for me.

          The Captain kicks his horse and sparks fly as his mount claws the earth. He lifts his sword and charges to intercept the last enemy remaining. Death spurs on his mount and, ignoring my Captain, seems determined to vanquish my soul. They clash in an indescribable clatter. Death thrusts his cruel sword into my Captain delivering a mortal blow but my Captain, with his last effort, cuts Death asunder. Christ took the blow meant for me then rose again the third day to make a display of the weakness of Death.

1 Cor 15:55-57

55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Oh, my Captain, thank you for defeating death and giving me eternal life. AMEN

STAY CLOSE!

STAY CLOSE!

Acts 2:41-42

41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

          Ministers are forever encouraging regular, steady, and even fierce attachment to the church. On the surface it would appear that the motivation is the pastor’s own ego. If the pews are full then he can boast of his eloquence and leadership. If the offering plate is full then he will enjoy more economic ease. The reality is that drifters, whatever their reason for drifting, withdraw from four essential elements of Christian life.

          Doctrine is the first essential mentioned in verse 42. The word used is didache and simply means instruction. Simply put, drifters are more ignorant of the Bible and spiritual things than those who stay closely attached to the church. Just as truancy makes for a dunce in school, so absence makes for an ignorant churchman.

          Fellowship is translated from the Greek word koinonia which basically means participation and communication. The idea is community! Just as a child picks up traits more or less simply by dwelling in the presence of his or her parents, so the Christian develops tenderheartedness, compassion, humility, forgiveness, joy, and hope through fellowship with God and God’s people. Drifters become less and less like Christ. Gradually they slip back into their old habits and unsaved lifestyle.

                The “breaking of bread” mentioned in verse 42 probably needs some explanation. “The Syriac renders this "the eucharist" or the Lord's Supper. It cannot, however, be determined whether this refers to their partaking of their ordinary food together, or to feasts of charity, or to the Lord's Supper. The bread of the Hebrews was made commonly into cakes, thin, hard, and brittle, so that it was broken instead of being cut. Hence, to denote "intimacy or friendship," the phrase "to break bread together" would be very expressive!” (from Barnes' Notes.) The drifter misses opportunities to partake of the body and the blood in communion as well as the bonding which takes place in common meals. The result is a very loose attachment to the church and its people.

                Prayers! Certainly we have a clear understanding of what this means, don’t we? Our prayer requests presented at prayer meetings usually consist of requests for healing of the sick and that is not wrong. However there are many more things for which the church should be praying. Adam Clarke says that the early church prayed for “an increase of grace and life in their own souls; for establishment in the truth which they had received; and for the extension of the kingdom of Christ in the salvation of men.” (from Adam Clarke's Commentary.) They prayed for revival and that’s why it came.

Dear Father, anchor us to the church so that we may increase in understanding, enjoy fellowship, remember you in communion, and bond together in prayers. Help me not to drift. AMEN

The Regions BEYOND you!

The Regions BEYOND you!

2 Cor 10:15-16

15 Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,

16 To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand.

The word translated BEYOND is the Greek word huperekeina (hoop-er-ek'-i-nah) which means “above those parts” or “still farther.” Since I have traveled to the Philippines twice and to Brazil three times, I think I have a little pretty good grasp of the word beyond. The idea of World Missions taking the gospel beyond our comfort zone.

Beyond our culture!

If you’ve never been BEYOND your city, county, state or country, you can’t imagine the things that are beyond your borders! Language is the first difference that greets you but that is only the first. Differences in climate and geography are sometimes stark in contrast with our own. Living conditions in some parts of what we call the third world cause the poorest of Americans to feel guilty because of our waste.

Beyond our care!

What we do not see can not produce in us any concern.

Lam 3:51

51 Mine eye affecteth mine heart because of all the daughters of my city.

Ezek 3:15

15 Then I came to them of the captivity at Tel-abib, that dwelt by the river of Chebar, and I sat where they sat, and remained there astonished among them seven days.

Beyond our means!

When we finally understand the enormity of the task of reaching the globe with the gospel, we understand that this is a task for God. We do not have the means to accomplish it without God’s providence.

2 Cor 8:1-3

8:1 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;

2 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

3 For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;

Dear Lord, because things are in such a mess in America, we are tempted to forget our duty to the World. Let us renew our commitment to mission work today. AMEN