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.  

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! 

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! 

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!

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!

"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!

6 Don't Statements...

I love the "practical application" that the book of Proverbs has to offer the reader.  I received some good advice from a pastor friend of mine several years ago concerning the book of Proverbs.  This is what my friend told me and it is advice that I would offer (free of charge!) to you as well. 

As you might know, the book of Proverbs has 31 chapters.  My friend told me that part of his morning routine in spending time with God is to read a proverb a day.  If the month has only 30 days, then on the last day you read 2.  If the month has 28 days (thanks February for messing up the system) then figure it out yourself. 

Anyway, every so often I will do a 31 day study of the book of Proverbs.  I just began this journey again on Sunday, September 1.  Today is Tuesday, September 3.  If you have not read Proverbs 3 in awhile, I would encourage you to do so today.  It is chalked full of rich nuggets of scriptural truth for today.  I am not going to unpack the entire chapter today for you, but I would like to let draw you into a portion of it.

In Proverbs 3:25-32 there are 6 "don't" statements (if you are reading from the ESV).  Listen to these truths and apply the word of the Lord to your life.

#1:  Don't Be Afraid...
What are we to not be afraid of?  The writer tells us.  We are not to be afraid of sudden terror or of the "storm" of the wicked when they come.
Why can we not be afraid in these circumstances?  Well, scripture says that "the Lord will be our confidence."  "The Lord will keep our feet from being caught."

#2:  Don't Withhold Good...
We are not to withhold good from those people to whom goodness is due.    We are not to do this especially when it is in our power to control the situation.

#3:  Don't Say...
Don't say to a neighbor, "Go, and come again tomorrow I will give it."  Why would we do this when we have it with us at the present time?

#4:  Don't Plan Evil...
We are not to plan evil against our neighbors.  This is speaking of those people who live (dwell) trusting beside us.

#5:  Don't Contend...
We are not to contend with a man for no reason.  Don't be unnecessarily contentious.   This is true especially when the person has done you no harm at all. 

#6:  Don't Envy...
We are to envy those people who do violence.  We are not to choose any of their ways.  Why is this the case?  The devious person is an abomination to the Lord.  On the other hand, the upright are in His confidence.  

All...

Two days ago we looked at the first word of a very familiar verse of scripture. It comes from 1 Peter 5:7. The word is "cast."
Here is a quick review of what we learned (at least what I learned).

"Cast" means three things that are all connected. First, it means "to place upon." Second, it means "to throw over. Finally, it means "to bond to." Here is the question, however. What are we going to cast? Glad you asked.

We are going to cast...ALL! All of what? All of your anxiety. Some Bible translations say "cares."

Let me ask you a very blunt question.  What worries you?  What keeps you awake at night?  What do you find yourself thinking about constantly wondering its outcome?  These things are what worry you.

Risking persecution, here are mine.

#1:  Lost Family and Friends
There are several people that are extremely close to me that need Jesus.  Many of them "believe" that God does not even exist.  As you can see, this presents a huge problem.  I worry about the consequences of their beliefs.

#2:  The World
I am very concerned about the world that we live in.  We are under attack.  As a country, we are considering legalizing things like homosexual marriage.  We have doctors who are aborting babies (both unborn & born) by the thousands.  Here is where my worry comes.  If for some reason the Lord, in His infinite wisdom, decides not to return and my 3 boys make it to age 30, what will this world be like?

#3:  Success
Let's be honest, we all want to be successful.  No one sets out to be a complete failure.  I want to have a successful family.  I want to make money.  I want to have a large, broad ministry (if you have problems with this, we can talk).  Therefore, I worry about success.

I have only named a few of mine, but I think you can see that worry is real.  Let me ask you again.  What worries you?  I have got good news about my worries and your worries.

We need to "place them upon," "throw them over to," and "bond them.  We need to take everything that burdens us, worries us, makes us bite are nails over, and cast them.  Where you ask?  This will be the subject we conquer next.

For now, blessings!

Cast...

I ran across a verse today that, if you've been a Christian for any length of time, you should know or at least have heard.  

1 Peter 5:7

 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Have you heard it before?  

I thought so.  

I was doing some studying on this verse today because I really wanted to unpack its meaning.  I think often times we take the familiar scriptures that we have known since childhood for granted.  I think the familiar is often dangerous for this reason. 

For example, have you ever though about the word "cast" or "casting?"  Let's think about what this powerful word really means.  There are three possible meanings that are all connected.

#1:  "To Place Upon"
I recently received the opportunity to speak at a Wednesday Afternoon Bible Study at a nearby assisted living facility.  We were discussing this verse.  Here is the (cheesy) analogy that I used.  If I am standing in the kitchen cooking dinner for my family and I want the food to be placed on the table so that my family can consume it, how is that going to happen?  Can I say, "Food, go to the table?"  No, that is crazy talk and I should be placed in a facility for crazies.  I must pick-up the food carefully and "place it on" the table.  I must "place it upon."

#2:  "To Throw Over"
Have you ever seen someone put out a small fire by throwing something over the fire?  Often times this is something like a wet blanket or dirt or (hopefully) something that will put the fire out.  One is "throwing something over" the fire with the intention of putting it out. 

#3:  "To Bond To"
I have a candy dish in my office that belong to my hero, my Grandma.  At some point in the candy dishes history the lid got broke into two pieces.  My Grandpa, being the "Tim the Tool Man Taylor" that he is glued the lid back together.  To this day, if you come visit me in my office, you can see the huge bead of glue that was require to "bond" the two pieces back together. 

The Candy Dish Mentioned Above

Now, after looking at the meaning of the word "cast," do you see why this is intriguing?  If not, its okay.  We are going to unpack more of the verse tomorrow.  This will help bring this powerful word into sharper focus.  

For now, blessings. 

Pretenders--Luke 20

Luke 20 contains some very captivating dialogue between Jesus and the "religious" people of the day.  In Luke 20:1-8, Jesus' is doing what Jesus did.  He was teaching and preaching the gospel in the temple.  The chief priests, scribes, and elders came to Jesus and asked Jesus a question.  They asked, "Tell us by what authority you do these things, or who it is that gave you this authority."  I do not think this is, necessarily, a bad question, but they were asking Jesus.  Jesus did not answer the question.  He asked them a question.  They did not answer him, so Jesus did not answer them.  This brings us to Luke 20:9-18.

Jesus tells a parable about "wicked tenants."  I will let you read this parable for yourselves, but Jesus is obviously speaking indirectly about the scribes, chief priests, and elders.  Then beginning in verse 19 (after Jesus finished the parable) we read this:

The scribes and the chief priests sought to lay hands on him at that very hour, for they perceived that he had told this parable against them, but they feared the people.

They wanted Jesus gone.  They wanted Jesus dead.  They wanted Jesus done away with.  Tthey were terrified of the people.  They were fearful of the backlash against them if they did not do something.  Beginning in verse 20, we can see what they decided their strategy would be.  Read what Luke 20:20 says:

 So they WATCHED him and SENT SPIES, who PRETENDED to be SINCERE, that they might catch him in something he said, so as to deliver him up to the authority and jurisdiction of the governor. (emphasis mine)

They watched Jesus.  They sent spies to watch Jesus, but these were no ordinary spies.  They were pretenders.  They were pretending to be sincere.  They were pretending to be interested in what Jesus was doing so they could get close to him.  Why would they want to get close to him?  They wanted to get close to him so that they could catch him in something that would ultimately lead to his death.  They wanted to "deliver him up."   Listen to their words in Luke 20:21-22

So they asked him, "Teacher, we know that you speak and teach rightly, and show no partiality, but truly teach the way of God.  Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?"

Now, I want to say this.  Before we come down to hard on these "so called religious folks," one needs to realize that we do the exact same thing.  We, more times than we will ever admit, are pretenders.  We pretend to honestly care about the things of God, but in all reality we are really just seeking self-righteousness.  We are seeking to justify our positions.  We are seeking to justify our lifestyles.  The sad thing is we fool a lot of people and these men probably fooled some of those who were watching.  They DID NOT fool Jesus. 

But he perceived their craftiness...

Jesus knew what they were up to even if no one else did.  Question, who are we trying to fool?  Ourselves?  Others?  God?  One might succeed in his or her attempts at fooling the first two groups, but one will NEVER fool God and these men did not either.  Jesus gave them some teaching about "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God the things that are God's."  Notice how this section ends.

And they were NOT able in the presence of the people to CATCH him in what he said, but MARVELING at his answer THEY BECAME SILENT.

We must stop trying to fool ourselves, others, and God.  We must marvel at the teachings of the Christ that we say we believe in and trust.  We must become silent in the ways of this world and rest in the comfort and teachings of Christ.  Did these "pretenders" in this text come to Christ?  I do not know and you do not know either.  I do know one thing, however.  There is still time for you and I.  Let's stop pretending and marvel at the teachings of Christ.

Blessings!

 

What Do You Need to Leave Behind?....

I generally read several chapters from Scripture in the mornings when I first get to my office at the church.  Today has been no different except I can't get through 11 verses.  I recently finished a several day (maybe week) journey through the Gospel of John during my reading time.  Beginning two days ago (Monday), I felt that I needed to begin a journey through the Gospel of Luke.  I read the first 4 chapters on Monday.  Yesterday I did some different things throughout Scripture (I like to change it up every now and then).  Places like John 14 and 1 Corinthians 3. 

This morning, I returned to Luke 5, but I just cannot get beyond verse 11.  Here is what it says in the English Standard Version:

And when they had brought their boats to land, they LEFT EVERYTHING and followed him.

(emphasis mine)

Hopefully you see why I cannot get beyond verse 11 of Luke 5.  They (Peter, James, and John) once they had an encounter with Christ, they left it all.  What specifically did they leave?  To answer this question you must look back at verses 4-6.  They read:

And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch."  And Simon answered, "Master, we toiled all night and took nothing!  But at your word I will let down the nets."  And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking.

There are several things that I think we can see from theses three verses.  

First of all, the command of Jesus.  Jesus told three experienced fisherman how to fish.  Does this seem odd to anyone else?  

Second, notice the response from Peter.  Don't you realize that we have been fishing all night long and we have caught nothing?  Don't you realize that we are the experienced fishermen here, not you?  Don't you realize that we are in lots of trouble financially because we didn't catch anything?  After all, this is how we make our living.  Somehow, though, Peter (or Simon) obeyed.  We are not told why, but he did.  Peter and the others let down their nets.

Finally, notice what happened.  After putting their nets down into the deep, they caught so many fish that their nets could not hold it and their nets began to break.  If we were to read verse 7 we would see that Simon called for James and John to come over and help him.  When the three men finally got all of the fish in their two boats, the boats were so full that they began to sink.  

Now, back to the original question.  What did they leave behind to follow Jesus?  They left a fortune (think about how much they could have gotten for all those fish).  They left their jobs or professions.  They left their security.  They left their families.  They left their possessions.  They left themselves.  For what?  To follow Jesus and "catch men" (verse 10).  Christ is requesting the same of you and I.  

What do you need to leave behind?

"Remember"

Titus 3:1-8
#1:  Remind Them What They Are To Be--vv. 1-2

• Remind Them To Be...
• submissive to rulers and authorities
• obedient
• ready for every good work
• speak evil of no one
• avoid quarreling
• gentle
• show perfect courtesy toward all people

#2:  Remind Them What They Once Were--v. 3

• We Ourselves Were Once...
• foolish
• disobedient 
• led astray
• slaves to various passions & pleasures
• passing our days in malice and envy
• hated by others and hating one another

#3:  Remind Them What God Did--vv. 4-7

• But When...
• The goodness of God our Savior appeared
• The loving kindness of God our Savior appeared
• What Happened...
• HE SAVED US!!!
• Not because of works done by us in righteousness
• According to His own mercy
• By the washing of regeneration
• By the renewal of the Holy Spirit
• Whom He poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ 
• Why?
• So that being justified by His grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life

#4:  Remind Them What They Are To Insist On--v. 8

• The saying is trustworthy
• I want you to insist on these things
• Why?
• So that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works
• Because they are excellent and profitable for people.

Failed Attempts Part 1...

Jacob and Joseph are now both dead.  Before his death, Jacob (now called Israel) moved his entire clan to Egypt.  They were given the land of Goshen in Egypt and God blessed them while they inhabited the land.  Exodus 1:7 reads, "But the sons of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly, and multiplied, and became exceedingly mighty, so that the land was filled with them."

This presented a problem.  The king who reigned during there placement in the land was no longer in power.  There was a new king.  This king knew nothing of Joseph.  This king made the following statement in Exodus 1:9, "Behold the people of the sons of Israel are more and mightier than we.  Come, let us deal wisely with them, lest they multiply and in the event of war, they also join themselves to those who hate us, and fight against us, and depart from the land."  To put it bluntly, they were somewhat scared of the sons of Israel. 

How would they deal with this issue they were facing?  How were they going to control the sons of Israel from growing stronger and mightier?  How were they going handle this situation?  Let's take a quick look at the text.

Exodus 1:11-14--They Worked Them
They appointed taskmasters over them to afflict them with hard labor (v. 11).  They made them build storage cities for Pharaoh (v. 11).  They compelled the sons of Israel to labor rigorously (v. 13).  They made their lives bitter with hard labor in mortar and bricks and at all kinds of labor in the field (v. 14). 

What was the outcome of all of this hard labor?  Look at verse 12:

"But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and the more they spread out, 

so that they were in dread of the sons of Israel."

In our everyday vernacular we would say it like this:  they through everything but the kitchen sink at the sons of Israel to try and control them and they only made the problem worse.  

The Egyptians failed to realize one thing.  God was working for the sons of Israel.  The harder the Egyptians pushed, the greater God grew the sons of Israel.  The more sanctions and rigorous regulations the Egyptians placed on the sons of Israel, the more God caused them to spread.  

Tomorrow we will take look at another failed attempt by the Egyptians to control the sons of Israel.

Acts 2 Thoughts...

Reading Acts 2 today in my daily Bible time, I simply took some notes. Here is what I came up with.

Acts 2 Thoughts:
1. It is interesting that the devote Jerusalem Jews' first thoughts were not that God was doing something, but that the people were drunk.--vv. 5-13

2. Peter's direct response to their ignorant statements was to preach the Gospel to them.--vv. 13-36

3. After hearing the Gospel, they were convicted and wanted to respond to what they had heard.--v. 37

4. Peter tells them to "repent" & "be baptized." Why? For the forgiveness of sins and to receive the Holy Spirit. It is for anyone God calls to Himself.--vv. 38-39

5. Peter continued preaching. Anyone who received his message accepted it and were baptized. 3,000 people in a day.--v. 40-41

6. The large group of people devoted themselves to three things: 1) the apostles teaching & the fellowship, 2) the breaking of bread together, and 3) praying.--v. 42

7. A fearful type of awe came upon everyone and the apostles did many signs and wonders.--v. 43

8. They were all together & had all things in common. Like : selling their possessions and belongs are giving the money away to those in need, attended church everyday together, ate together everyday in their homes, received their food with glad and generous hearts, and they praised God and had favor with all people. As a result of this, God added daily to their number those being saved.--vv. 44-47

To me, this looks like a great formula for the Church to follow. What do you think?

Blessings!
DA
Note: Sorry if there are errors. Did this on my iPhone.