2015 Reading List

Before I post the list of books that I read in 2015, I want to say how thankful I am for "gift" of reading.  Yes, I believe reading is a gift from the Lord to us.  After all, James 1:17 (ESV) say, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."  Without further delay, here is the list.

1. "Intimate Moments with the Shepherd" by Phyllis Benigas
2. "Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life" by Donald Whitney
3. "10 People Every Christian Should Know" by Warren Wiersbe
4. "Counter Culture" by David Platt
5. "For Men Only" by Jeff and Shaunti Feldhahn
6. "The Case for Christmas" by Lee Strobel
7. "Stuff Christians Like" by Jon Acuff
8. "Four Blood Moons" by John Hagee
9. "Forgotten God" by Francis Chan
10. "Talk the Lid Off Your Church" by Tony Morgan
11. "Natural Church Development" by Charles Schwarz
12. "Just Do Something" by Kevin DeYoung
13. "Leaders Who Last" by Dave Kraft
14. "A Time for Truth" by Ted Cruz
15. "5 Steps to Breaking Free from Porn" by Joe Dallas
16. "When Christ Comes" by Max Lucado
17. "Five Points" by John Piper
18. "From This Day Forward" by Craig and Amy Groeschel
19. "Strange Fire" by John MacArthur
20. "The Truth War" by John MacArthur
21. "Sticky Faith" by Chap Clark and Kara Powell
22. "Twelve Unlikely Heroes" by John MacArthur 

One might be thinking, "Why does he always post about what he has read?  That is kind of arrogant."  I completely understand this line of thinking and if the "shoe was on the other foot" I would probably think the same thing.  I do not post about what I've read to gloat or to be arrogant/prideful.  I do this with the mindset that others might be inspired to read more.  Also, it is an opportunity for others to possibly see a book or two (or more) on my list that they might want to read in the year to come.

I am not one to set New Year's Resolutions, but I want to read more in 2016.  Currently, I am reading 4 books simultaneously.  I should be able to finish them (all 4) rather quickly and build a strong foundation for the year.  Blessings upon your 2016!!!
  

Which is Easier?

I have heard countless sermons on Mark 2:1-12 (you can read the passage here).  I am sure, if you're like me, the sermons that you have heard that are based on this passage, most of the time, focus on the faith and determination of the four men who had to get their friend to Jesus.  There is NOTHING wrong with this.  I think this is actually a very wise handling of the passage.  However, I believe that there is something else that needs to be highlighted even more.  I am not going to take lots and lots of time rehashing the passage, but let's quickly summarize it.

Jesus was in a place called Capernaum and all the people there had heard that Jesus had come home.  Capernaum was Jesus' home base throughout His earthly ministry.  Such a large crowd gathered that "there was no room left, not even outside the door."  Jesus used this as an opportunity to preach the Word to this large gathering of people.

While Jesus was preaching to the masses, four men grabbed their paralyzed friend, who was lying on a mat, and tried to get him to Jesus.  No doubt they believed that Jesus could heal their friend.  Upon arriving at the house in Capernaum, the four men realized that they were NOT going to be able to get their friend to Jesus because the crowd was too large and too pressing.  Many of us at this point would have an "Oh Well!" attitude.  We would take the mindset, "We tried!"  Thankfully, that is not what these four men thought.

These four men decided to take their paralyzed friend up to the roof of the house.  Upon arriving at the pinnacle of the house, the men began tearing back the layers of the roof making a large enough hole for them to lower their paralyzed friend into the center of the house and at the feet of Jesus.  This display of faith "impressed" Jesus.  Verse 5 says, "When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed men, 'Son, your sins are forgiven.'"  

This brings us to the point in the story that I believe needs to be highlighted.  Among the crowd that was gathered in Capernaum that day were some "teachers of the law."  They were sitting there and they witnessed what just took place.  They were sitting there and after hearing Jesus forgive the sins of the paralyzed man, they began thinking to themselves.  Notice that they, according to Mark, NEVER spoke a word out loud.  This is what they were THINKING, "Why does this fellow talk like that?  He's blaspheming!  Who can forgive sins about God alone?" Here's where the rub come in:  Jesus, being Jesus, had the ability to know what they were thinking.  Jesus HAS the ability to know what we are thinking as well.

Immediately Jesus responded to their thoughts.  He said, "Why are you thinking these things?  Which is easier:  to say to this paralyzed man, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up, take your mat and walk?'"  To me, this is a very intriguing question that Jesus asked these "teachers of the law."  Let's answer this question.

On surface, let's forget the fact that Jesus is God and all, the answer to this question is "your sins are forgiven."  Let me explain.  I could walk up to you and tell you "your sins are forgiven" and you would NOT feel different physically.  However, if I walk up to you and you are suffering from some physical issue and I say "you are healed," you are going to immediately know whether I am telling the truth or not telling the truth.  Proof of the latter statement will be evident, based on whether or not your physical issue is resolved.  This makes the next statement by Jesus all the more meaningful.

Jesus said, "But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins."  Jesus wanted the "teachers of the law" to understand that He was "the Son of Man."  He wanted them to know that He was the long awaited Messiah.  Therefore, He was about to do something that would prove to them who He actually was.  Jesus was about to do the more difficult of the two things.  If, in fact, it’s easier to say "your sins are forgiven," then Jesus was about to heal this man to prove to them that He was the Son of God.  Verses 10b-11 state:  "So he said to the man, 'I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.'"

Did Jesus prove that He was the Son of God?  Did He perform the "harder" of the two tasks?  Verse 12 says, "He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all.  This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, 'We have never seen anything like this!'"  Jesus just proved to everyone gathered in the house on that day in Capernaum that He was the Son of God.  Jesus proved that He has the ability not only to heal physical issues, but that He has the ability to forgive sins.  Jesus Christ "has the authority on earth to forgive sins."   I wander what "the teachers of the law" were thinking now? 

Have you asked Him to forgive your sins?  Have you prayed that He would convict those in your circle of influence of their sins so that they might call on Him for forgiveness?  Let's not miss the message of this passage.  Jesus Christ has the ability to and He wants to forgive sins.  It only requires faith.  

2014 Reading List...

Here is a list of book that I read in 2014 (if anyone cares): 

"The Red Sea Rules" by Robert J. Morgan

"Deep & Wide" by Andy Stanley

"Crazy Busy" by Kevin DeYoung

"Stop Dating the Church" by Joshua Harris

"Gods at War" by Kyle Idleman

"Just Like Jesus" by Max Lucado

"How Do You Kill 11 Million People" by Andy Andrews

"I Am a Church Member" by Thom Rainer

"City on a Hill" by Philip Ryken

"Replinish"by Lance Witt

"Church + Home" by Mark Holmen

"The Trellis and The Vine" by Colin Marshall and Tony Payne

"The Most Misused Verses in the Bible" by Eric J. Bargerhugg

"Date Your Wife" by Justin Buzzard

"Accidental Pharisees" by Larry Osborne

"Heaven is for Real" by Todd Burpo

"Ignite" by Nelson Searcy

"Wild Goose Chase" by Mark Batterson

"All In" by Mark Batterson

"On Being a Servant" by Warren Wiersbe

"Tech Savvy Parenting" by Brian Housman

"Things I Wish I'd Known Before We Got Married" by Gary Chapman

"Surviving Culture" by Edward Moody

"Replant" by Mark DeVine and Darrin Patrick

"Outlive Your Life" by Max Lucado

"Too Busy Not to Pray" by Bill Hybels

"Vertical Church" by James MacDonald

Total Pages Read:  4,877

I am looking forward to 2015 and the books that await me.  Blessings!

Video Friday: "Be Born in Me"

Enjoy!!!

A Recipe for Giving Thanks...

Have you ever read the phrase "when it rains, it pours"?  Often times we use this phrase when negative circumstances seem as if they are flooding our lives and we are in grave danger of being swept away by the torrent waters.  As we approach the end of 2014 and are just a few short weeks away from the Christmas and New Year's holidays, it seems as if its not only raining in the "Altom House;" it's as if one thing after the next is causing the failing drops of water to rise beyond unsafe levels.  Now, don't get me wrong, not ALL of the rain is negative.  Some of it is helpful and positive, but it's rising nonetheless.

Its amazing to me that God knows exactly what I need at just the time I need it.  As I was lying in bed last evening before drifting off to France (France was in my dream last night? LOL), I asked God to point me in the direction that He wanted me to go in my daily Bible reading.  Yesterday, I finished a study in 2 Corinthians and today brought a new beginning in my daily devotions.  After getting my morning "java fix" at Hot Shots, I arrived at the office to begin my day.  After reading a chapter in a devotional book I'm reading (Intimate Moments with the Shepherd), I opened my Bible and once again asked the Lord for direction.  God led me to Psalm 100.

Psalm 100 is ONLY 5 verses in length but it contains the materials needed to build a dam (to continue the metaphor) of protection from the rising waters that are ever increasing.  Because I am a pastor and possess multiple opportunities to preach/teach God's Word, I am always looking to break down scripture in "outline" form.  This helps me accurately process what I am reading and it enables me to "zero in" on specific truths.  Psalm 100 revealed a recipe for what to do when it seems as if life is a monsoon.  Psalm 100 provides a recipe for giving thanks.  Let's take a look.

A Recipe for Giving Thanks

Psalm 100:1-4 (ESV)

#1:  Make a Joyful Noise--verse 1

("joyful noise could also be translated "shout for joy) 

*We are to make a "joyful noise" to the Lord.

*Who is to make a "joyful noise"?  Answer?  ALL THE EARTH!!!

#2:  Serve the Lord with Gladness--verse 2a

#3:  Come into His Presence with Singing--verse 2b

#4:  Know that the Lord, He is God--verse 3

*He made us.

*We are His.

*We are His people.  

*The sheep of His pasture.

#5:  Enter His Gates with Thanksgiving/Enter His Courts with Praise--verses 4a

#6:  Give Thanks to Him--verse 4b

#7:  Bless His Name--verse 4c

 If you are anything like me (if you are, that's scary) you might be wondering the "why" behind this.  If you are anything like me, you might be asking, "Why should I do all this?" You don't have to look any further than verse 5 of Psalm 100 for the answer to this important question.  Read the following words aloud.  Let them sink in.  God wants you and I to understand the depths of these truths.  God wants you and I to understand that no matter how much rain seems to be falling in your life or my life that these words are still true.  Again, read these words aloud:

Psalm 100:5 (ESV):   

For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

The goodness of our God is the reason why.  The steadfast love of our God is the reason why.  The faithfulness of our God is the reason why.  Even if its raining pregnancy, car issues, vacations, holidays, year-end projects, ministry demands, death, health concerns, money issues, family turmoil or disease, God is the reason why we should follow the recipe for giving thanks.  Blessings! 

Video Friday: "House of Their Dreams"

This is an extremely challenging song for a dad and a husband to listen to.  Please listen and watch with an open heart and ask God to allow you to be the type of spouse and parent that God demands you to be.  Blessings!

What's the Old Testament Good For Anyway?

You don't have to be a Christian for any length of time before you here this phrase:  "I'm a New Testament Christian.  What is the Old Testament good for anyway?"  I am sure that you have heard some form of this statement/question before.  Let's be honest.  This is a good question.  It is a question that must be answered.  It is something that is required if one is going to believe in the complete accuracy and complete reliability of the Bible.  Fortunately, God has given us the answer to this question.  We need to look no further than what the Apostle Paul said to his son in the faith, Timothy, in 1 Timothy 1:8-11 (ESV).  Let's take a quick look.

#1:  Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully...-verse 8

Right off the bat, Paul tells that "the law is good."  This is the first truth that we must grasp if we want to answer this question.  However, there is a condition to this truth.  The law is ONLY good "if one uses it lawfully."  The law is ONLY good if we use it in the right way.  This brings to the forefront another question:  "What is the "right way" to use the law?"  Paul does not leave us to wonder.

#2:  ...understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the...-verses 9ff

The law is NOT given for those who are just.   The law is NOT given for those who are morally upright and good.  Beginning with the last part of verse 9, Paul lists for us who the law was given for.  Trust me, you won't have to look very far through this list to see that the law was given for you.  Prayerfully read through this list.

• The lawless and disobedient-verse 9
• The ungodly and sinners-verse 9
• The unholy and profane-verse 9
• Those who strike their fathers and mothers-verse 9
• Murderers-verse 9
• The sexually immoral-verse 10
• Men who practice homosexuality-verse 10
• Enslavers-verse 10
• Liars-verse 10
• Perjurers-verse 10

Question:  Do you see yourself in that list?  I do.  The sad reality is that I see myself in that list to frequently.  For those of you out there who hold the position that you DON'T see yourself in that list (notice liars is on there), Paul gives on more phrase that WILL include you.

...and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine, in accordance with the gospel of the glory of the blessed God with which I have been entrusted."-verses 10b-11

What did Paul just say?  Paul just said that if you don't find yourself in the above list, then you WILL find yourself in that last statement.  Paul just said that the law was given for those individuals who are guilty of breaking anything that is "contrary" to what the gospel teaches.  This includes you.  This includes me.  This includes everyone because ...all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God...(Romans 3:23, ESV).  

Getting back to our initial question.  What is the Old Testament (the law) good for anyway?  The answer is quite simple.  The Old Testament is good for pointing out that we are ALL sinners and in need of a Savior.  We are ALL sinners and in need of a perfect, once and for all sacrifice to bring us into a right standing with God.  Therefore, in my mind and in the mind of the Apostle Paul, the law has immense value.  The law points us to Jesus Christ! 

My Response to "Heaven is for Real"

I am not one that loves to stir up controversy, but in this particular blog post the "pot might get stirred."  There has recently been a huge whirlwind of press surrounding the book, and the movie by the same name, Heaven is for Real.

I will admit something upfront in this post:  I have NOT read the book or seen the movie.  However, I do think that one can look at the premise of a book/movie (i.e., read about its main themes, storyline, etc.) and filter that information through what Scripture teaches and come to a conclusion. 

Fortunately, there are other out there in "media land" who have already done this.  I am not going to take the time here to re-hash what they have already done for us.  With that said, I am going to leave you with several links to several articles that were produced by Dr. John MacArthur and Grace to You.

I will advice you on something:  please read these articles with an open-mind and an open-heart.  Put your preconceived ideas about the book/movie aside and listen to what God has already told us about such things in His Word.  At the end of the day, what God has already told us in His Word trumps what any other book or movie might have to say.  I hope that you genuinely believe that last statement.

Without any further commentary from me, here are the links.

The Burpo-Malarkey Doctrine by Phil Johnson (October 2012)
http://www.gty.org/blog/B121018?term=The%20Burpo-Malarkey%20Doctrine

Heaven is Real; Hallucinations Are Not by John MacArthur (April 2014)
http://www.gty.org/Blog/B140428

Dead Men Tell No Tale by John MacArthur (April 2014)
http://www.gty.org/Blog/B140429

When Preschoolers Speak Ex Cathedra by John MacArthur (May 2014)
http://www.gty.org/Blog/B140501

The Idolatry of Experience by John MacArthur (May 2014)
 http://www.gty.org/Blog/B140502

Without being a raving crazy person, fill free to comment on this post and let me know what you think. 

We Must Be Ready!!!

I was recently surfing through Facebook and I cam across this article (CLICK HERE to read it).  I would suggest that you stop and read the article RIGHT NOW. 

I recently concluded a series of sermons from the book of 1 Peter entitled Stand Firm.  You can go to our churches website and listen to most of the sermons.  If we have ever lived in a culture where Christian people needed to "Stand Firm" it is today.  I am not saying that people in previous generations or centuries had it easy.  In fact, they had it rough.  Think about the audience that the Apostle Peter was writing to in this letter.  He was writing to a group of believers who HAD to scatter because the persecution of Christians was getting hot.  They were literally "running for their lives."

However, one statistic that I read while I was preaching through 1 Peter was this:  the 20th century was the bloodiest century for the persecution of believers.  It was more bloody than the first 19 centuries combine!  I am not a "gloom and doom" type of person, but I think that it is only going to get worse. 

In this great country in which we live (USA) we may not EVER face what believers face in other parts of the world where Christianity is illegal.  However, the attacks that we face in this country on absolute truth, marriage standards, abortion, conservatism, and the like is a non-violent form of persecution and we MUST BE READY!!!  Now is NOT a time for Christians to take a "laid back" approach in regards to their faith in Jesus Christ.  We must not use Christianity as an excuse for being "stupid."  We must search the scriptures and find out what we believe (according to what the Bible teaches) and then "live out" that belief.  Why should we do this?  Let me give you one example.  When you have so called "Christian" publishing houses promoting books by so called "bold, young, evangelical writer[s]" that condone homosexual relationships, WE MUST BE READY!!!  

Matthew Vines is NOT an evangelical.  I don't mean to sound judgmental, but fruit is fruit.  I am NOT saying that I hate Matthew Vines.  I don't even know him.  In fact, I love him as a person created in the image of God.  However, there is no such thing as a "gay Christian."  Those two ideas and/or lifestyles are opposites according to what Scripture teaches.  Matthew's book, God and the Gay Christian:  The Biblical Case in Support of Same-Sex Relationships, is FALSE TEACHING!  There is no way to use the Bible to justify and support this type of lifestyle without taking Scripture out of context.  Church, WE MUST BE READY to defend biblical truth when false teaching like this is so prevalent in our culture today.

I don't want you to leave this blog post thinking that I hate homosexuals!  This IS NOT the case. What I am seeking to do is prepare myself and others for the fight that we are facing.  At the end of 1 Peter, Peter leaves his readers with some greetings and one main exhortation.  Verse 12 (ESV) reads:

By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God.  STAND FIRM IN IT.

Did you catch it?  Peter is telling his readers (which includes you and I) that all that he has written in this letter to his fellow believers in Jesus Christ is "the true grace of God."  What should we do with it?  We MUST "stand firm in it."  Church, WE MUST BE READY!!!

Blessings!

What on Earth Am I Here For?

Click on the picture for information about purchasing this book.

Today, actually tonight, I started a 40-day journey.  I recently purchased a book by Pastor Rick Warren entitled What on Earth Am I Here For?.  Many of you will know this book by a different title.  What on Earth Am I Here For? is an expanded edition of a previously released book by Pastor Rick.  I think you MIGHT have heard of the other name for the book.  Its title was/is The Purpose Driven Life.  Have you heard of it?  I thought so.

I know some of you out there are not HUGE fans of Rick Warren.  To be honest, I have my reservations about him too.  I don't think that he and I would land on the same side of various theological issues.  I don't think that I would be comfortable with some of the things that Pastor Rick does at Saddleback Church.  I don't think I would practice some of them at Ada First.  However, I DO think that there is some value in the premise of this book. 

Let's be honest.  "What on earth am I here for?" is a valid question that we ALL have asked ourselves at some point in our lives.  "What on earth am I here for?" is a valid question that we ALL have asked God at some point in our lives.  At the age of 31 (almost 32), I am STILL pondering this question during certain seasons of my life.

During this 40-day journey, I am looking forward to discovering several things about my purpose on this earth.  Day #1, which I read this evening, reminded me of something that many individuals need to be reminded of.  Some need to discover the truth of Day #1 for the first time.  This is how the book begins:  "It's not about you."

Do I really believe this?  I live my life like "it's all about me."  The decisions I make, the places I go, the words that I speak, the actions I commit all SCREAM to others and to God that "it's all about me."  I believe that it is human nature to live this way.  I believe that it is human nature to live life on this earth like this life is ALL there is.  However, at the close of Day #1, Pastor Rick used a verse from the book of Colossians that scatters this mentality.  Listen to the words of the Apostle Paul:

 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--ALL THINGS WERE CREATED THROUGH HIM AND FOR HIM.--Colossians 1:16 (ESV, emphasis added)

This verse perfectly proves who it's all about.  It's not about us.  It's about Jesus Christ.  All things were created through Him and all things were created for Him.  Where do we come into the picture?  We are to live our lives and enjoy the things that God created for us.  We are to live our lives glorifying God through the use of the things that He created.  

It's not about me!  It's ALL about Christ!  If I can live my life in such away where this all important truth is the focus of my life, I will be WELL on my way to living a purpose driven life and answering the question, "What on earth am I here for?" Blessings!

Let's Be Ready...

If you would like to purchase a copy of this book

,

 click here.

I have recently began reading "I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist."  This is a book by Norman Geisler and Frank Turek. 

During the introduction of the book, the author posed a very thought provoking question regarding belief by those who say they don't.  In the paraphrased words of this author, here is the question:

If someone was able to provide you (unbelievers) with enough evidence to prove without a reasonable doubt that all of the claims concerning God were true, would you then believe?

In my estimation, most would not and here is why.  I think most individuals who claim unbelief do not really believe in the claim that there is no God.  I know that this is not a popular opinion to hold with most skeptics, but it is just that, MY OPINION.  

I am not overly concerned if this is offensive to skeptics because it is simply an opinion.  Where my opinion becomes offensive is if I move from the realm of opinion to the realm of persecution.  But here is reality:  Most skeptics don't view this as an opinion.  They view it as persecution.  One would think that "know-it-all" skeptics would be able to determine the difference between opinion and persecution.  The sad reality is that most of the skeptics that I have encounter CANNOT do this.  

Here is what I believe at the day of the end.   At the end of day, I believe that most skeptics believe that there is a God.  They simply don't want to submit to His authority and lordship.  Getting back to my initial question, I think most skeptics would say no.  They simply don't want to believe.  

Here is the journey that I am on as of late.  I am on a journey to know what I believe and why.  I want to know what scientist say about creation.  I want to know about absolute truth.  I want to know about the reliability of the Bible and so forth.  Don't get me wrong.  I believe in  all of these things, but I want to go deeper.  Faith in God is no excuse for Christians to be stupid.  Let's be on a mission together to find out all we can about the great and mighty God that we say that we believe in.  Let's give our words some legs.  Let's be ready at all times "to give an answer for the hope that is within (1 Peter 3:15).  

2013 Reading List...

Here is the list of books that I read in 2013.  I am extremely thankful for the gift of reading.  I am praying the God will give me more opportunities in 2014 to strengthen my mind through reading His Word and other resources that will aid in my understanding of His Word.  Without further delay, here is the list.

1. Found:  God's Will by John MacArthur 
2. The Purpose and Power of the Average Church by Jack Eldred
3. Preaching and Preachers by D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones
4. The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni
5. Visionary Marriage by Rob and Amy Rienow
6. Twice Adopted by Michael Reagan
7. Follow Me by David Platt
8. When Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert
9. Family Driven Faith by Voddie Baucham
10. 10 Questions Every Christian Must Answer by Alex McFarland and Elmer Towns 
11. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work by John Maxwell
12. The Explicit Gospel by Matt Chandler
13. Simplify Your Spiritual Life by Donald Whitney
14. Altar Ego by Craig Groeschel
15. What They Didn't Teach You in Seminary by James Emery White
16. Barefoot Church by Brandon Hatmaker
17. Stuck in a Funk:  How to Get Your Church Moving Forward by Tony Morgan
18. It Starts at Home by Kurt Bruner and Steve Stroope
19. The Supremacy of God in Preaching by John Piper
20. Limited Church, Unlimited Kingdom by Rob Rienow
21. Seven Letters to Seven Churches by Dwight M. Gunter II
22. Forgotten God by Francis Chan
23. Family Shepherds by Voddie Baucham
24. Breakout Churches by Thom Rainer
25. The Renegade Pastor by Nelson Searcy
26. Simple by Robert J. Morgan
27. What's So Amazing About Grace by Philip Yancey
28. The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson
29. The Purpose Driven Church by Rick Warren
30. Twelve Unlikely Heroes by John MacArthur 
31. Preach by Mark Dever and Greg Gilbert
32. To Live is Christ, To Die is Gain by Matt Chandler
33. Erasing Hell by Francis Chan
34. Real World Parents by Mark Matlock
35. From Embers to a Flame by Harry Reeder
36. Blood Work by Anthony Carter 

I want to challenge you to READ!!!  I am amazed how the Lord has used the simplicity of reading to engage my mind and my heart towards Him.  Anytime you need a book suggestion, I am an open book.

Laser-Like Focus...

I get distracted easily sometimes.  Not to make fun of people who actually struggle with "ADD," I have self-diagnosed myself with the disorder.  I get distracted.  If you think about all the things that are going on in life, its easy to get distracted.  The pressures of leading a church, being a loving and godly husband, parenting three small children (boys at that), and speaking regularly all demand lots of time and if I'm not careful, I can get distracted easily.  To be honest, I probably get distracted more than I don't.

In Hebrews 2:1, the writer of Hebrews gives us some advice about distractions.  Read these words aloud:

"We must therefore pay even more attention to what we have heard, so that we will not drift away."

What is the writer of Hebrews referring to here?  The writer is referring to the words of Jesus Christ.  The context of this verse (it's always important to read Scripture in its context) is based on what the writer of Hebrews laid out in Hebrews 1.  God, in these last days, as spoken through His Son, Jesus Christ.  Christ is divinely qualified to speak and His speaking requires that ALL listen.  Christ is superior to the angels, which is another qualification that proves that Jesus is more than qualified (to read the previous spot on this topic, click here).   Therefore, the writer states, "we must...pay even more attention to what we have heard."

The writer of Hebrews is telling us, through the power of the Holy Spirit, that there is no room for distractions when it comes to what Christ has spoken.  There is no room for us to deviate to the right or to the left.  There is no room for personal interpretation or reading into the text what is not seen in the text.  It means that we must pay attention.  We must have laser-like focus.  Why must we do this?  We must do this so that we don't drift away.  We must do this so that our relationship with Christ stays where it must stay.  We must do this so that we don't get distracted by all the things that this life, both good and bad, throws at us.  We must do this so that when we are tempted with distraction there is no debate about what to do.  Christ says "stay focused," therefore, we are going to stay focused with a laser-like focus.

Hebrews 2:2-3 provide for us some logic behind this rationale.  Remembering what the writer said in Hebrews 1:1 that "long ago God spoke to the fathers by the prophets at different times and in different way," he says this in verses 2 and 3 of chapter 2:

"For if the message spoken through angels was legally binding, and every transgression and disobedience received a just punishment, how will we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?  It was first spoken by the Lord and was confirmed to us by those who head Him."

We are not going to be able to escape the punishment required if we become distracted away from the message of Jesus Christ.  If the people were punished long ago when they were "distracted," what makes us think that we will not be punished for being "distracted" when we have an even greater message?  Here is the question that I will leave you with today:  "What is distracting you in your relationship with Christ?  What is pulling you away from your relationship with the Master?  Space doesn't allow me to list all the possible things that could distract us (if that is even possible).  Here is the deal.  You and I must keep a laser-like focus in our relationships with Christ.  Otherwise, we will drift away.

Jesus is More Than Qualified...

Have you ever asked yourself this question:  "Why should I listen to Christ?"  What qualifications does Christ have that requires me to listen (not to mention obeying) to a word spoken about Him?  I think this is a valid question.  In the Church we don't like to ask these types of questions, let alone answer them.  Well, I am tired of not asking the hard questions.  I am tired of not asking MYSELF the hard questions about why I believe what I believe.  I think asking ourselves the difficult questions and digging and digging until we find the answer is a Biblical command.  Listen to the words of the Apostle Peter:   

"...but set apart the Messiah as Lord in your hearts, and ALWAYS be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you."

In Hebrews 1, the writer of Hebrews (whomever he may be) begins the process of answering the question stated above.  The writer begins, in verse 1, by telling us how God spoke in the past.  He spoke "to the fathers by the prophets at different times and in different ways."  Then, beginning in verse 2 through the remainder of chapter 1, the writer tells us how God has spoken "in these last days."  The writer states, "He has spoken to us by His Son."  This is extremely important.  God no longer used things like donkeys, bushes, prophets, and plagues to speak to His people.  He is now speaking to us through His very own Son, Jesus Christ.

Again, I ask the question.  "So what?  Why should I listen?"  In verses 2-4, the writer of the book of Hebrews gives us Christ's qualifications that prove His validity.  The writer gives us Christ's "resume" that proves that He is more than qualified for the job.  Let's take a look.  Here is a list of Christ's qualifications:

1. Appointed by God has the heir of all things-v. 2
2. Avenue through whom God made the universe-v. 2
3. Radiance of God's glory-v. 3
4. Exact expression of God's nature-v. 3
5. Sustains all things by His powerful word-v. 3
6. Made purification for sins-v. 3
7. Sits at the right hand of the Majesty on high-v. 3
8. Higher in rank than the angels-v. 4
9. Inherited a name that is superior to the angels-v. 4

Now, I don't know what you're thinking, but to me this is a pretty impressive resume.  Let's face it, however.  It does not matter whether you, me, or anyone else (believer or unbeliever) thinks, this is impressive because God says it is.  I want you to understand something.  This is only the "launching point" to answering this question.  There are several other places in the Bible that will aid one in finding further proof that Jesus is more than qualified.  Let me leave you with these words from the writer of Hebrews:

"We must therefore pay even more attention to what we have HEARD, so that we will not drift away (Hebrews 2:1)."

What does this mean?  We must pay extremely close attention to what Christ is saying.  Christ is speaking to us and we must listen.  Why must we listen?  We must listen so that we don't drift away.  We must listen so that we don't find ourselves in a broken relationship with God.  We must listen so that we don't begin to "crack" the foundation that we have in Christ Jesus.  This is further proof that Jesus is more than qualified.  

Things We Must Put Away...

So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander...

1  Peter 2:1 (ESV)

We began a series of blogs this past week based on a passage from 1 Peter 2.  Specifically verses 1-3.  To read the previous post, click here.    Today, I want us to take a detailed look at some attitudes and actions that we must "put away" in order for us to grow in our relationships with Christ.  To begin, let's look at the phrase "put away."

To "put away" something is a forceful word that means "to cast off" or "to cast aside."  Often times we take the Christian life and reduce it down to that "its all God job and I get to be lazy and/or do what I want."  Here is the problem with this philosophy and mindset:  God has certain things that He requires of His children.  One of things that God expects from His children is that we continually grow in Christlikeness.  In order for us to grow in Christlikeness and to mature in our relationship with God there are some attitudes and actions that must be cast off, cast aside, and "put away."  Let's take a look at 5 things in 1 Peter 2:1 that Peter tells us to "put away."

#1:  Malice

Malice is a word that is used eleven times in the New Testament to indicate the wickedness that comes from within a person.  More specifically, malice is a desire to inflict pain or injury on another person.  Personally, I don't think many believers take malice to this degree.  However, malice can also include holding deep grudges and acting upon those grudges.  I think many believers take malice to this level.  Malice must be "put away."

#2:  Deceit

Deceit is being deliberately dishonest.  Deceit is speaking or acting with ulterior motives.  Anything less than speaking the full and honest truth from the heart is deceit.  I don't know what you are thinking at this point, but this is something I struggle with.  God help us to "put away" deceit.

#3:  Hypocrisy

This is a buzz word in the Christian circle.  We all know what hypocrisy is, don't we?  Hypocrisy is acting out one part while at the same time concealing your truth heart and motives.  Let's face it, we are all hypocrites.  Often times you hear about unbelievers accusing believers of being hypocrites.  They are correct.  Here is where the rub comes in:  Christians try and act like they are not hypocrites and play one part outwardly while being something completely different inwardly.  Let's be real.  Admitting the problem is the first step in curing it.  Stop trying to be what you really are not.  Put hypocrisy away.

#4:  Envy

Envy is a desire to possess what belongs to someone else.  This often times lead to resentful discontent.  For example, a certain person has something that you desperately want.  Because that person has something that you desperately want, you begin to become resentful towards that person.  This becomes extremely toxic both to the individual and the Church.  Let's praise the Lord for what He has provided and "put away" envious thoughts and actions.

#5:  Slander

Slander is speaking out against someone.  On the surface, speaking out against someone is not a bad thing.  Where speaking out against someone becomes slander is when one speaks out against someone and attacks their reputation or character falsely.  Slander is when you or I assault someones character unjustly and untruthfully.  This must be "put away."

To close, I want to leave you with one main thought to meditate upon.  In this passage Peter is essentially saying this:  If you want to grow in your relationship with Christ you must "PUT AWAY" these five things.  If you feel like you are not growing in your relationship with God, are you holding onto things like malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy or slander?  The reverses side of the statement is true as well.  If you want to STOP GROWING in your relationship with Christ, allow these five things to run wild in your life.   My advice to you (and to myself) is to "put away" anything and everything that is keeping you from having a deep intimate relationship with God. 

Next time we will look at "How to Put Things Away."  Blessings for now!

What Do You Crave?...

I am captivated by Scripture.  Now, don't get me wrong, this is not always the case in my life.  However, in my life right now God has used the work of the Holy Spirit inside of Derek to crave a "hunger and thirst for righteousness" (Matthew 5:6).  God has giving me a craving for "the pure spiritual milk" (1 Peter 2:2).  God is using the "living and active" (Hebrews 4:12) "sword of the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:17) to mold me and shape into His wonderful "workmanship" (Ephesians 2:10).

I would love to sit here and say that this has always been the case with me and God's Word.  I would love to say that I have always had a passionate desire for the Word of God to "dwell in me richly" (Colossians 3:16).  After all, "all scripture is God-breathed" (2 Timothy 3:16).  After all, the word of God "is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path" (Psalm 119:105).

Currently at Ada First Free Will Baptist Church I am preaching through a series entitled Stand Firm:  An Indepth Look at First Peter.  We are eight sermons into preaching/teaching through this book by the Apostle Peter.  This past Sunday was sermon eight in the series.  Our text was 1 Peter 2:1-3.  Let the simplicity, yet convicting truths of this passage ring in your heart and mind this morning:

So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.  Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation--if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

Over the next several days, we will be taking a closer look at exactly what this passage is instructing believers to do.  Tomorrow we will begin by looking at:  "Things We Must Put Away".  Blessings!

P.S.  If you would like to listen to the sermon I preached from this passage, click here.

"Sowing and Reaping..."

I frequently read through the book of Proverbs.  At the risk of being persecuted by my friends for being cheesy, think about this.  "A proverb a day, keeps the Devil away."  Today I read Proverbs 26.  Verses 24-26 really peaked my attention.  We have been discussing the issue of "hate" recently in our Sunday School class.  I want to breakdown, quickly, what these verses are saying about hate.  

Whoever Hates...

#1:  Disguises Himself with His Lips

We may not always recognize a person that is filled with hate.  We may not recognize that we are a person filled with hate.  Others deceive us and we deceive ourselves by words.  Words can disguise the hate that is buried deep down in an individual.  Verse 25 goes on to tell us that "when he (the hateful person) speaks graciously, believe him not..."  Why is this the case?  This is the case because "there are seven abominations in his heart."  An abomination is "extreme disgust and hatred" for something or someone.  The disgust and hatred that the "hater" has in his heart is 7 times greater than the base level of hate.  

#2:  Harbors Deceit in His Heart

What does the word "deceit" mean?  Deceit can simply mean "dishonest behavior."    What does the word "harbor" mean?  Harbor means "a place of security or comfort."  So, what is this verse saying?  Someone who hates is secure and comfortable with the dishonest behavior in his or her life.  

#3:  His Hatred is Covered with Deception

The "hate-filled" person is a master at deception.  This person deceives others and, ultimately, him or herself masterfully.  He or she deceives others by appearing loving and gracious, but inwardly his a "professional deceiver."

This passage does provide us with hope and encouragement.  This is what I love about the Word of God.  Despite the fact that there are dark, tragic, and seemingly hopeless passages of scripture, it always comes back to hope, redemption, and encouragement.  Listen to what hope Solomon provides through the Spirit of The Lord.  "...his (the person of hate) wickedness will be exposed in the assembly."  The last part of verse 26 reminds me of Galatians 6:7.  Paul writes, "Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for WHATEVER ONE SOWS, THAT WILL HE ALSO REAP."  

The hate-filled person might disguise his or her speech, harbor deceit, speak graciously, and masterfully deceive others, he or she will eventually reap the hate that has been sown deep down in his or her heart.  I think many of us must keep this in mind.  We must keep this in mind regarding hate, but we also must keep this in mind with other harmful issue we face.  Things like:  anger, drinking, lust, impurity, jealousy, immorality, etc...  We must remember one thing:  WE WILL ALWAYS REAP WHAT WE SOW!  

Playing & Praying...

Mondays are relaxing to me.  Mondays are my days off.  I greatly enjoy them.  Today, because of a change in Jennifer's schedule, I picked up son #3 from daycare.  Over the last 20 minutes or so we have played on the floor together.  Every toy he owns is in the middle of the floor.  I love it and I LOVE being a dad.  

During this time, The Lord struck  me with a thought.  I am sitting here (I am 6'3 by the way) in the middle of the floor playing with baby toys with my almost 1 year old son and The Lord hits me with this thought.  He probes my brain and says, "Derek, pray for him."  Now, don't get crazy on me.  I pray for my children.  This was different. 

With all the turmoil in our culture today I must pray.  Wars, financial crisis, definition of marriage, spiritual warfare, and a myriad of other things are what my son will face in the near future.  Sadly, the current way in which he sees the world will become dramatically different.  

The biblical norms are constantly being attacked by unbelievers and false teachers alike.  All of these things force me to take a deep breath and say, "God, I want YOUR best for my sons.  Help them (and any other future children I have) to love YOU with all they've got and to love OTHERS like they love themselves."

I must pray.  I must pray.  I must pray.

Anger Part 2...

Yesterday, we began a look at what the Apostle Paul taught concerning anger.  If you would like to read yesterday's post, please click here.  Today's post will be part 2.  I would love to hear your thoughts.

Second, Paul tells us “do not let the sun go down on your anger.”  What in the world does this mean?  Well, I’ll tell you.  We have already discussed how anger (sometimes) is a good thing and we are commanded to have it at times.  However, this righteous anger can turn sour.  If left unattended it can cause us some major problems.  It can easily turn to bitterness, resentment, and an “I’m better than you” attitude.  Even the best motivated anger can spoil and we need to put it aside at the end of the day.   

Why must we do this?  Paul tells us in verse 27.  Paul says tells us to do this so that we “give no opportunity to the devil.”  If we leave our righteous anger unattended and if we do not lay it down at the end of the day, the devil will use it.  He will use what was once good and godly for his “devil-like” purposes.   

There is another reason we must “put our anger to bed” at the end of the day.  Anger has the ability to come upon you in a moment and overtake you.  Because of this it has a nature to grow and fester and turn you into a big, huge, angry monster.  Anger should be dealt with immediately.  We need to confess it.  We need to leave it.  We need to give it to God for cleansing before we lay down at the end of the day.  

What does all this mean?  Let’s review.  First, there are certain circumstances where it is not only okay for us to be angry, but we are commanded to be angry.  What does this look like?  This type of anger might display itself when students are bullied at your school, when a child is physically abused by a parent or another adult, or after reading stories or watching videos of children dying of hunger.  It is important to note, these types of situations are the only time the anger is not only permitted, but it is commanded.  

Second, if your anger is only “serving” you, it is sinful anger.  If the only time you are angry is when something bad happens to you, we must give the anger to God to be dealt with.  We must not act on it.  This type of anger is self-destructive, self-serving, and extremely dangerous if left unattended.  We must not “let the sun go down” on this type of anger.  Why?  It gives the devil an opportunity to use it for his good. 

Here are some practical steps you can take to help deal with the anger in your life.  These steps are nothing out of the ordinary, but they are essential.  First of all, talk to God about it.  We must pray.  Tell Him why you are angry.  Tell Him about the injustices going on around the world and ask Him for ways that you could be involved in dealing with these issues.  Ask Him to help you lay your anger down at the end of the day.  Ask Him to help you keep the devil from using your good anger for his good.   

Second, talk to someone that you trust about your anger.  Find a godly friend, a youth pastor, a pastor, or a parent who can help you with your anger.  Tell him/her about what is going on in your life that is making you angry and ask them for advice on how to deal with it.   

Finally, in those times when you are not handling your anger well, place your attention on others and serve them instead of using your anger to get back at those individuals who you are angry at.  These practical steps will help you (and me) not turn into the Incredible Hulk or a fire-breathing dragon. 

 

Anger...

In many ways, this is not easy to write.  This has forced me to think deeply, study diligently, and repent frequently.  Anger is not a simple subject to deal with.  Actually, it may not be that difficult, but it is extremely difficult for me.  You see, I struggle with anger and to be honest, it feels good to admit it.  It is something that I have battled since childhood.  There are times when I get so angry that I feel as if I am going to turn into the Incredible Hulk and destroy anything and everything that gets in my way.  There are times, for no reason at all, I want to scream and shout and turn into a fire-breathing dragon and spew fire on anyone and everyone.  I justify my behavior by blaming others, by blaming circumstances, or by blaming any other thing that takes the guilt off me.  The sad reality is that I do not have anyone or anything to blame but myself.  Thankfully, I can go to the Bible and get help.  I can go to the book of Ephesians and get some advice from the Apostle Paul.  Ephesians 4:26-27 really helps.  Let’s dive into this passage and see how. 

 

First of all, verse 26 tells us to be angry.  Wait!  We are allowed to be angry?    Before we get too “jacked up” in our thinking, let’s define what this means.  Anger is not always a bad thing.  There are times when anger is good.  For example, when Jesus saw that the so-called “righteous people” were extorting money from people in the temple, He got angry.  In Mark 3, Jesus expressed righteous anger at the hard-heartedness of the Pharisees (so-called “righteous people”) who did not like it that Jesus healed a man with a messed up hand on the Sabbath.  We are allowed to be angry at things like injustice (child abuse, sex trafficking poverty, hunger, etc.), immorality, and ungodliness.  

But we cannot stop the discussion here because that is not where Paul ended his statement.  He said, “Be angry and DO NOT SIN…”  Sinful anger is anger that is only being expressed for the purpose of you; it is self-defensive and self-serving.  This type of anger, according to Matthew 5:21-22, leads to murder and judgment.  This type of anger has no place in the life of someone who is a follower of Jesus Christ.  This type of anger must be dealt with; it must be given to God.   

To recap, anger that is unselfish, and is based on a love for God and a concern for others not only is allowed but is commanded.  John MacArthur says this, “Genuine love cannot help being angered at that which injures the object of that love.”  Let’s be angry, but let’s not sin.

Tomorrow, we will continue to look at this passage from Ephesians 4 regarding anger.  Blessings for now!