I believe one of the shortcomings of the church in America over the past 100 years has been our tendency to focus, to fixate on heaven. That may sound a little strange, being that we do hope for a future day when things will be set right, when God's Kingdom will fully come. But as the church, we have often spoken of the Gospel, and what Jesus accomplished as only having a bearing on what happens when we die. It's as if we are to simply sit back, pray and hope for that day, while trying to get as many others to do the same. Don't you have a deep seeded sense that there is more to the story? Don't you long for something different today, here, in our world? I think chapter five gives us just a glimpse of something more.
God is holding a scroll, which could represent His-story, the story of the world. Imagine that this scroll contains exactly what God had planned when He spoke our world into existence and breathed life into Adam and Eve. Think back to the Garden of Eden. Whose role was it to carry out what God had intended? It was humanity's role, right? But because of humanity's choice to walk away from God's intent, everything changed. Now, when John, in Revelation 5, looks around and sees that no one can open the scroll, could it be that all of humanity has walked away from God's plan (some would say that all of humanity has sinned)? God could open the scroll Himself, but that would be undoing everything He had originally done. A human must open the scroll. Enter the Lion (I know, a lion is not a human...but the lion represents Jesus). Jesus is worthy to open the scroll. Look closely at what was sung when the Lion, Jesus, opens the scroll:
"For You were slaughtered, and Your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation." (go back and read Isaiah 53 next to this passage)
Jesus ransomed humanity. 2 Corinthians says this: "For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ." You and I have been made right with God through what Christ accomplished on the cross. Most of us have heard this message, and to some extent, we get it. But has Jesus done this only so that we can go to Heaven when we die? I think there is more. Keep reading in Revelation...the song continues:
"And You have caused them to become a Kingdom of priests for our God. And they will reign on the earth."
Here is the beauty of this passage and this vision from John. Because of what Jesus did, because we have been made right with God, the scroll (God's story, the story of the world we live in) is being opened. And if God's purpose was for His ways to be known in our world today, here and now, and if God's purpose was for humanity to live out and spread His Kingdom in the world, who is it that can do this? You guessed it...the church. We are the ones who are to write God's story, to write His-story, in this world. Heaven isn't just about the future - you and I are to bring Heaven into our world today. The scroll has been opened by Jesus, the Lion. And because of the righteousness we have through Christ, we are to be "a Kingdom of priests for our God. And [we] will reign on the earth."
This chapter is a beautiful picture, and a challenging call to live the reality of the Kingdom today, wherever we are, whatever we may do, for the time we have life. Yes, there is a day coming when our present lives will slip away, and we have a hope for resurrection because of Jesus' resurrection - but there is too much to be lived here and now than to just sit back, hope and wait.
So...what do you think?
6.19.2009
6.17.2009
Wake up!
Rev. 3
Sardis is located in Asia Minor (modern day Turkey). It was also built into a cliff forming an impenetrable citadel for protection. In the ancient world, the people of Sardis bragged that they could never be conquered. No army could scale its cliffs and walls. The people of Sardis were completely “safe”.
Around the 6th Century BC, the powerful Persian Empire went to war with Sardis. The Persians attempted to destroy the city, but could not even make a dent in its defenses. Tradition has it, one day a Persian scout saw a Sardis guard drop his helmet from the high walls. A short time later the scout saw the guard emerge from a crevice in the bottom of the cliff and retrieve the helmet. The scout realized that there was a hole in the wall, and a secret passageway into the city.
That night, the scout led a group of soldiers into the crevice and up the wall. They found the battlements abandoned, for the Sardis guards were all sleeping, trusting that their walls would keep them completely safe. The Persian force swept through the city and opened the gates to allow their main force in. Sardis was destroyed. The guards were caught sleeping, and the enemy brought destruction.
This sounds like a silly mistake for the people of Sardis to make, but they had become complacent, and dependent on their walls for protection. The crazy thing is, about two hundred years later, the Greeks led by Alex the Great; conquer Sardis in the same way. The climbed up the crevice and found the guards sleeping. History repeated itself.
So John is writing a letter to the church in Sardis (Rev. 3:1-6), and he has this message for them, “Wake up!” It would have been a loaded statement. He said, “I know your deeds, you have a reputation for being alive, but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die.”
For the people of Sardis, they would have taken this message quite personally; they knew the history of their city. When you fall asleep, the enemy comes in and destroys. John warns them that spiritually, they have fallen asleep.
When we understand this passage, we take to heart the warning of John. Wake up!
For when we fall asleep, then enemy comes in to destroy us.
In what ways have you fallen asleep? In what ways have you become complacent?
Sardis is located in Asia Minor (modern day Turkey). It was also built into a cliff forming an impenetrable citadel for protection. In the ancient world, the people of Sardis bragged that they could never be conquered. No army could scale its cliffs and walls. The people of Sardis were completely “safe”.
Around the 6th Century BC, the powerful Persian Empire went to war with Sardis. The Persians attempted to destroy the city, but could not even make a dent in its defenses. Tradition has it, one day a Persian scout saw a Sardis guard drop his helmet from the high walls. A short time later the scout saw the guard emerge from a crevice in the bottom of the cliff and retrieve the helmet. The scout realized that there was a hole in the wall, and a secret passageway into the city.
That night, the scout led a group of soldiers into the crevice and up the wall. They found the battlements abandoned, for the Sardis guards were all sleeping, trusting that their walls would keep them completely safe. The Persian force swept through the city and opened the gates to allow their main force in. Sardis was destroyed. The guards were caught sleeping, and the enemy brought destruction.
This sounds like a silly mistake for the people of Sardis to make, but they had become complacent, and dependent on their walls for protection. The crazy thing is, about two hundred years later, the Greeks led by Alex the Great; conquer Sardis in the same way. The climbed up the crevice and found the guards sleeping. History repeated itself.
So John is writing a letter to the church in Sardis (Rev. 3:1-6), and he has this message for them, “Wake up!” It would have been a loaded statement. He said, “I know your deeds, you have a reputation for being alive, but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die.”
For the people of Sardis, they would have taken this message quite personally; they knew the history of their city. When you fall asleep, the enemy comes in and destroys. John warns them that spiritually, they have fallen asleep.
When we understand this passage, we take to heart the warning of John. Wake up!
For when we fall asleep, then enemy comes in to destroy us.
In what ways have you fallen asleep? In what ways have you become complacent?
6.15.2009
the churches
I remember the day my dad told me that he grew up in a home that shared a telephone with 10-15 other houses. I just scratched my head, unable to grasp what that must have been like. My life, my experience gave me no frame of reference to understand what he was saying. To some extent, I get a similar feeling when reading Revelation. Anyone else get a similar feeling? Anyone else want to admit that they shared phone lines too?
In the next couple of chapters, Jesus addresses seven different churches. What jumps out at you? Do you notice a pattern? As you read through them, it isn't too hard to pull out something applicable to us. I'd be interested to know what you sense as applicable to us as a church body.
We live in a culture that offers us everything. And if we are honest, we tend to pursue much of what the world offers. I don't pretend to know what the city of Ephesus was like in the ancient world, but from what I can gather through historical and Biblical data, it seems like it was a pretty happening place - a place that offered people just about anything they could want. It almost sounds like where we live. Notice what Jesus says to the church there: "You don't love me or each other as you first did." I wonder if that early church found themselves falling into the traps of the culture...the things, the stuff, the activities that promised so much. I wonder if we fall into that trap too.
I don't think I've ever said this... but I want Jesus to be the central love of my life. I don't want to love my stuff or my hobbies or my money more than I love Jesus. And next to Jesus, I want to learn to love you - this community - more and more. This world, the world that you and I live in has a lot to offer....but none of it compares with the life we find when we love Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.
In the next couple of chapters, Jesus addresses seven different churches. What jumps out at you? Do you notice a pattern? As you read through them, it isn't too hard to pull out something applicable to us. I'd be interested to know what you sense as applicable to us as a church body.
We live in a culture that offers us everything. And if we are honest, we tend to pursue much of what the world offers. I don't pretend to know what the city of Ephesus was like in the ancient world, but from what I can gather through historical and Biblical data, it seems like it was a pretty happening place - a place that offered people just about anything they could want. It almost sounds like where we live. Notice what Jesus says to the church there: "You don't love me or each other as you first did." I wonder if that early church found themselves falling into the traps of the culture...the things, the stuff, the activities that promised so much. I wonder if we fall into that trap too.
I don't think I've ever said this... but I want Jesus to be the central love of my life. I don't want to love my stuff or my hobbies or my money more than I love Jesus. And next to Jesus, I want to learn to love you - this community - more and more. This world, the world that you and I live in has a lot to offer....but none of it compares with the life we find when we love Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.
Diving in
My delay is posting today is not just due to our internet being down most of the day. I have to admit there has been some procrastination on my part to dive into Revelation with you. I have studied this book several times in my life. In high school, my Sunday school teacher was infatuated with the events in Revelation and we spent an entire year working our way through it. The culmination was a movie depicting end time events primarily from the perspective of a pastor who was left behind because he never really believed what he'd been preaching for years. So, unfortunately, my first exposure and reaction to Revelation was fear and doubt: How will I know my belief is real? Am I saved enough to make it through the rapture? While God works good through everything and used those questions to began my journey in making sure my relationship with Christ was mine to own, my first real dance with Revelations left me a little wobbly.
Since Darin and I have been married we have studied this book of the Bible with our jr. high Sunday school class, in an adult Bible fellowship class, and on our own in personal study. We've studied, debated, questioned, but foremost in all of the studies, we sought God. Sometimes I walked a way with a clearer understanding and sometimes more questions about the symbolisms of a particular chapter, but always searching for a deeper understanding of God and what this book means to my Walk.
As I began to read and get a little nervous as to what I would write about the first chapter from John, I prayed that prayer again. The dictionary definition of "revelation" is:
"a.The act of revealing or disclosing. b. Something revealed, especially a
"a.The act of revealing or disclosing. b. Something revealed, especially a
dramatic disclosure of something not previously known or realized"
As we embark on this message revealed to John through the Spirit, let us keep our focus on Christ and what is revealed to us in these words. God is allowing us to get a glimpse of His power, majesty & might. I love the descriptions John gives us of Christ coming in on the clouds and the how descriptive he is of the the "one" sent to give him this vision. I don't know that I will ever be of great help in figuring out the meanings of every picture, every verse, but I walk away today with a reminder of how Glorious our God is. To grow deeper in our faith, we must always be searching out who God "was", recognizing who He "is" to us today, and looking forward with urgency and anticipation for the God "who is to come."
6.12.2009
It's the end of the world as we know it...
On Monday, June 15, our reading turns to the book of Revelation. The book of Revelation has been a source of debate for hundreds of years. Today, there are scholars who read this book, this letter from John, and fiercely debate its meaning and purpose. Because these scholars contest the meaning, it causes interesting reactions from Christians. There are some believers who chose to run from this book and want nothing to do with it. They are so confused by the debate that they decide to skip it altogether. There are other believers who decide Revelation is the key to understanding the future, and ultimately, the return of Jesus. They decide to skip the rest of the Bible and plant themselves here - in an effort to discern the hidden meanings, dates and signs. I don't believe either of these approaches is the best for us. I believe we must read Revelation as a part of God's Holy Word, and work to not read our own theology into it. Let's allow God's Word to speak to us rather than trying to speak our words into it.
Some orienting data-
Author: John, who has been exiled to the island of Patmos
Date: some scholars date this letter before AD70, but the majority of scholars believe it to be written around AD95
Recipients: a group of churches in the Roman province of Asia (modern day western Turkey)
Emphasis: an encouragement to those who currently suffer for their belief in and faith in Jesus Christ; a picture of our world moving towards God's plan - His Kingdom fully come; the end as a restoration of the beginning (Genesis 1-3)
Key Themes:
May you and I open Revelation with wonder and awe. May we allow it to shape us rather than us working to shape it. May we walk away with a new vision of who God is and who we are in Christ. And may we live differently today, here and now because of God's Spirit within us.
Some orienting data-
Author: John, who has been exiled to the island of Patmos
Date: some scholars date this letter before AD70, but the majority of scholars believe it to be written around AD95
Recipients: a group of churches in the Roman province of Asia (modern day western Turkey)
Emphasis: an encouragement to those who currently suffer for their belief in and faith in Jesus Christ; a picture of our world moving towards God's plan - His Kingdom fully come; the end as a restoration of the beginning (Genesis 1-3)
Key Themes:
- The Trinity - God, Three in One
- God Almighty - God will ultimately bring all things under His ways.
- Our Holy God - God is holy, perfect and complete.
- Our Coming King - Jesus will return to bring full redemption and take His place as King of all kings.
- Our Righteous Judge - God will judge and will grant to humanity what we have chosen.
May you and I open Revelation with wonder and awe. May we allow it to shape us rather than us working to shape it. May we walk away with a new vision of who God is and who we are in Christ. And may we live differently today, here and now because of God's Spirit within us.
6.04.2009
Follow Jesus, save a goat. Heb. 9
About the time of Abraham, many religions were floating around which we think of as oppressive, archaic, and quite frankly, brutal. In order to appease the gods, humans would go to great lengths of sacrifice. One popular religion, the worship of Molech, required that followers would sacrifice their firstborn son as a sin offering (google “Molech” and be horrified). The cult of Molech comes and goes throughout the Old Testament. In fact, many pagan religions of antiquity required such a sacrifice to appease the gods.
This may be why Abraham was not surprised of God’s demand of him in Gen. 22:2; everyone else’s god required this. God tells Abraham to take his son whom he loves (which is the first time the word “love” appears in the Bible) and sacrifice him as a burnt offering. And of course, we know how the story ends… God provides a ram in place of Abe’s son for the sacrifice. This is an important story in the big picture of the Bible. This is a story about a God who does not require you to sacrifice your firstborn son to appease him but provides a different sacrifice. For people in Abraham’s day, this would be “good news” for obvious reasons.
And God takes it a step further, he sends his son, “whom he loves” (check out the similarity of these phrases when God speaks in Matt. 3:17 and Gen. 22:2) into the world. John the Baptist identifies Jesus as “The Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” John 1:29.
This is not a story about a god who demands humans to sacrifice their firstborn to appease him. This story is about a God who sacrifices his son for us. This is a story about a God who pursues us. This is a story about a God who initiates our salvation, a God who jumpstarts restoration. This is a story about a God of love. And that is good news.
And that, maybe, is what she is trying to get across in Hebrews 9 and 10. All of the blemished rituals we use to try to get to God are now obsolete because God has come to us through Jesus.
For an amazing explanation of the book of Hebrews and of Christ’s sacrifice, watch Rob Bell’s “The Gods Aren’t Angry”
This may be why Abraham was not surprised of God’s demand of him in Gen. 22:2; everyone else’s god required this. God tells Abraham to take his son whom he loves (which is the first time the word “love” appears in the Bible) and sacrifice him as a burnt offering. And of course, we know how the story ends… God provides a ram in place of Abe’s son for the sacrifice. This is an important story in the big picture of the Bible. This is a story about a God who does not require you to sacrifice your firstborn son to appease him but provides a different sacrifice. For people in Abraham’s day, this would be “good news” for obvious reasons.
And God takes it a step further, he sends his son, “whom he loves” (check out the similarity of these phrases when God speaks in Matt. 3:17 and Gen. 22:2) into the world. John the Baptist identifies Jesus as “The Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” John 1:29.
This is not a story about a god who demands humans to sacrifice their firstborn to appease him. This story is about a God who sacrifices his son for us. This is a story about a God who pursues us. This is a story about a God who initiates our salvation, a God who jumpstarts restoration. This is a story about a God of love. And that is good news.
And that, maybe, is what she is trying to get across in Hebrews 9 and 10. All of the blemished rituals we use to try to get to God are now obsolete because God has come to us through Jesus.
For an amazing explanation of the book of Hebrews and of Christ’s sacrifice, watch Rob Bell’s “The Gods Aren’t Angry”
6.02.2009
Mel, Abe and Jesus
Remember today that the author is working on an argument that presents Jesus as superior to anyone the readers have considered being sent from God. The author presents Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest in Jerusalem during the time of Abraham. To a Hebrew reader, Abraham was one of the great Patriarchs of the faith. He was a very important man in the history of the Jewish nation, and he was sent from God. In Genesis, we find that Abraham, a great man of God, paid tithes to Melchizedek. Melchizedek then blesses Abraham. At first glance, we may think that the author is just another pastor who is getting ready to take up an offering (insert chuckle here) ... but the author is once again brilliantly building a case for who Christ is. Abraham paid a tithe to Melchizedek, showing that Melchizedek was superior to Abraham - and Abraham's family line...which is the priesthood of the Old Testament (the Levitical priesthood). If this Old Testament law and priesthood would have been sufficient, God would not have needed to send Jesus, a new priest. God did send a new priest, and because of this, everything must change.
Read verses 18 and 19 again. The Old Testament law did nothing to perfect humanity - it only made us aware of the sin in our lives. The new system, the new priest - Jesus Christ - has taken the place of the old and has the power to reconnect us to God Himself ("and this is how we draw near to God"). The author finishes this chapter with another beautiful picture of what Jesus did for us. Read verses 23-28 again. What is Jesus doing now? What did He do on the cross? And what difference does that make for you?
Read verses 18 and 19 again. The Old Testament law did nothing to perfect humanity - it only made us aware of the sin in our lives. The new system, the new priest - Jesus Christ - has taken the place of the old and has the power to reconnect us to God Himself ("and this is how we draw near to God"). The author finishes this chapter with another beautiful picture of what Jesus did for us. Read verses 23-28 again. What is Jesus doing now? What did He do on the cross? And what difference does that make for you?
6.01.2009
Hebrews 6
First, let me confess that I've been prepping VBS all week, so my study on Hebrews 6 is greatly lacking. However, as it contains verses 4-6, I wanted to at least start a discussion. When I first read these verses I thought "this must be one of the passages that causes the 'can you lose your salvation?' controversy." The few commentaries I did get to read seem to lean toward an understanding of this section as the writer is talking to/about unbelievers who have heard the Truth and know of it, but have chosen not to except the Truth in it's entirety and for eternity. I want to share a few thoughts I found...
The tasting of truth is not enough to keep them from falling away from it. They must come all the way to Christ in complete repentance and faith; otherwise, they in effect re-crucify Christ and treat Him contemptuously. Those who sin against Christ in such a way have no hope of restoration or forgiveness because they reject Him with full knowledge and conscious experience. They have concluded that Jesus should have been crucified, and they stand with His enemies. It is impossible to renew such to repentance. ("Got?.org" )
Now come to verse 4, he says, "You know so much that it is impossible, for you who have been so enlightened and tasted the heavenly gift, partakers of the Holy Spirit, tasted the good word of God, the powers the age to come, if you fall away to renew you to repentance." In other words, with all you know if you turn your back on this you could never be saved. Why? Because if you reject with such full light, how could you ever be saved? Do you see the point? (John MacArthur)
In other words, if you walk away from this there’s no hope for you, because this is all the revelation you could possibly have, you ought to be a teacher. I mean you know everything. And if you turn your back on this…it’s hopeless. Your going to go right out and crucify the Son of God and put Him in open shame. (John MacArthur)
Not one word in verse 4 or 5 is ever used anywhere in the Bible to speak of salvation. Salvation is never called enlightenment, it is never called tasting the Spirit of God, it is never called tasting the powers of the age to come, it is never called tasting the good Word of God. Those are references to having an intellectual perception. So you see, the point there is they weren’t even saved... (John MacArthur)
The tasting of truth is not enough to keep them from falling away from it. They must come all the way to Christ in complete repentance and faith; otherwise, they in effect re-crucify Christ and treat Him contemptuously. Those who sin against Christ in such a way have no hope of restoration or forgiveness because they reject Him with full knowledge and conscious experience. They have concluded that Jesus should have been crucified, and they stand with His enemies. It is impossible to renew such to repentance. ("Got?.org" )
Now come to verse 4, he says, "You know so much that it is impossible, for you who have been so enlightened and tasted the heavenly gift, partakers of the Holy Spirit, tasted the good word of God, the powers the age to come, if you fall away to renew you to repentance." In other words, with all you know if you turn your back on this you could never be saved. Why? Because if you reject with such full light, how could you ever be saved? Do you see the point? (John MacArthur)
In other words, if you walk away from this there’s no hope for you, because this is all the revelation you could possibly have, you ought to be a teacher. I mean you know everything. And if you turn your back on this…it’s hopeless. Your going to go right out and crucify the Son of God and put Him in open shame. (John MacArthur)
Not one word in verse 4 or 5 is ever used anywhere in the Bible to speak of salvation. Salvation is never called enlightenment, it is never called tasting the Spirit of God, it is never called tasting the powers of the age to come, it is never called tasting the good Word of God. Those are references to having an intellectual perception. So you see, the point there is they weren’t even saved... (John MacArthur)
Now, I'm sure we could discuss this all day, and please share your findings on this passage, but I don't want to overlook the first 3 verses of this chapter where we are told to make sure we grow up. Having worked with kids all my life, I've seen every different maturity rate out there! However, I'm not sure I've ever seen a kid who didn't want to grow up, who wasn't always looking into the future and what a few more years would bring them: different TV options, sleepovers, kindergarten, bigger allowance, driver's license, etc. Kids tend to focus on the rewards that come with growing up, with maturity. So, why don't we, as Christians, do the same? Why are so many of us content to just stay babies? Why don't we focus on the rewards of maturity? That is a closer relationship with Christ, a faith that is ever more secure and a clearer and deeper understanding of who God is.
So, where in your walk are you still taking baby steps?
5.28.2009
Today
The writer of Hebrews wants to get a point across, quoting Ps. 95:7-8 three times in chapters 3 and 4. The point is simply this, “Do not harden your hearts.”
Chapter four deals with a Sabbath Rest for the people of God.
Remember, the book of Hebrews was probably written to… Hebrews.
When they were slaves in Egypt, these Hebrews worked 7 days a week. They did not have a day off; they did not have a Sabbath. Can you imagine doing manual labor every single day, with no day to rest, no day to look forward to? When the Hebrews left Egypt, God reestablished the Sabbath (Exodus 20). It was a day for the Hebrews to rest, rejuvenate, worship, and NOT work.
In Egypt they were slaves, suffering oppression, mastered by someone else. But the Sabbath meant living outside of Egypt… outside of oppression… outside of slavery.
After working 7 days each week, a day to rest would have meant God’s blessing.
The Sabbath meant the freedom to rest in the presence of God.
And the promise of entering his rest still stands (Heb. 4:1). Because in Christ, we now live outside of Egypt.
And what keeps us from entering rest, relationship, and intimacy with God? It starts slowly with the hardening of our hearts. Even after these people left Egypt, many of them wanted to go back, grumbled against God, and let their hearts be led astray.
The hardening of hearts has happened in the past to God’s people, and it could happen again.
What does it mean to harden your heart? What causes it? What does it lead to?
In what ways does chapter 4 warn you? Challenge you? Inspire you?
So, may you hear the voice of God today, and may you not harden your hearts (vs. 7).
Chapter four deals with a Sabbath Rest for the people of God.
Remember, the book of Hebrews was probably written to… Hebrews.
When they were slaves in Egypt, these Hebrews worked 7 days a week. They did not have a day off; they did not have a Sabbath. Can you imagine doing manual labor every single day, with no day to rest, no day to look forward to? When the Hebrews left Egypt, God reestablished the Sabbath (Exodus 20). It was a day for the Hebrews to rest, rejuvenate, worship, and NOT work.
In Egypt they were slaves, suffering oppression, mastered by someone else. But the Sabbath meant living outside of Egypt… outside of oppression… outside of slavery.
After working 7 days each week, a day to rest would have meant God’s blessing.
The Sabbath meant the freedom to rest in the presence of God.
And the promise of entering his rest still stands (Heb. 4:1). Because in Christ, we now live outside of Egypt.
And what keeps us from entering rest, relationship, and intimacy with God? It starts slowly with the hardening of our hearts. Even after these people left Egypt, many of them wanted to go back, grumbled against God, and let their hearts be led astray.
The hardening of hearts has happened in the past to God’s people, and it could happen again.
What does it mean to harden your heart? What causes it? What does it lead to?
In what ways does chapter 4 warn you? Challenge you? Inspire you?
So, may you hear the voice of God today, and may you not harden your hearts (vs. 7).
5.27.2009
Moses
In chapter 3, the author brings Moses into the presentation. To a Jew, Moses was one of the most influential men in all of history. Moses led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. In essence, Moses was a savior to their ancestors. The story of the Exodus was the foundational story in their history. The Torah was attributed to Moses' work. Moses was one very important fellow. But compared to Jesus, Moses doesn't hold a candle. The author is continuing to build a foundation of the supremacy of Jesus. Jesus is above all. Notice how the author doesn't just stop here, but how she then moves to instruction. She reminds the reader/hearer/us that those who followed Moses hardened their hearts toward God. Now that God has spoken to us through Christ, we must not harden our hearts...we must keep our hearts and minds soft and open to God's voice and will in our lives through Jesus.
How do our hearts become hard toward God? I know there are definite times in my life that I have turned away from the truth and hardened my heart toward God. What is it that moves us in this direction? And then, how do we return, how do we find ourselves moving back toward God's love in Jesus?
How do our hearts become hard toward God? I know there are definite times in my life that I have turned away from the truth and hardened my heart toward God. What is it that moves us in this direction? And then, how do we return, how do we find ourselves moving back toward God's love in Jesus?
5.26.2009
Hebrews
I'm not going to lie...Hebrews is a tough read. For starters, we aren't sure who wrote Hebrews (I love Rob's joke that whoever she was, she was brilliant.) and to whom it was written. Add to that the fact that the author's thought pattern is very different than ours, written to a culture very different from ours, and we have a book that makes us scratch our heads.
Have you ever been really, really excited about something revolutionizing your life? Maybe it was the clapper - a simple way to turn the lights on and off. Maybe it was that juicer you saw on late night tv - the way to a healthier lifestyle. Maybe it was a new boss or a new employee. You thought they were the answer to all your problems. A couple years ago, a book was released and marketed as THE way to get your children to eat vegetables. It wasn't difficult...blend them up and substitute them for other ingredients in food. We bought the book, the vegetables and the new blender. We thought it would fix our kids unhealthy eating habits. Let's just say that it didn't live up the the hype. The food was terrible. There is this tendancy that many of us have to get pumped about a product, only to find ourselves losing faith as time goes on. Such is the case with those Hebrews was written for. It was as if they started off strong and found themselves losing faith as time passed. The author wants to remind them, and build a strong foundation of who Jesus really is and why He came. Jesus isn't just a good man with some good teachings. He is above all things and life is found in Him alone.
Hebrews is built around one central theme: the sufficiency and centrality of Jesus Christ. It appears that the audience is questioning if Christ is God's final plan. They are wondering if there is more to it. And so the author begins a long, thoughtful presentation of who Christ really is and why He is God's only plan. As you read, keep in mind that the point is to help us see Christ at the center...not only of creation, but also of God's plan for humanity. This first two chapters build a case for the supremecy of Jesus.
What makes you scratch your head in these first two chapters?
Have you ever been really, really excited about something revolutionizing your life? Maybe it was the clapper - a simple way to turn the lights on and off. Maybe it was that juicer you saw on late night tv - the way to a healthier lifestyle. Maybe it was a new boss or a new employee. You thought they were the answer to all your problems. A couple years ago, a book was released and marketed as THE way to get your children to eat vegetables. It wasn't difficult...blend them up and substitute them for other ingredients in food. We bought the book, the vegetables and the new blender. We thought it would fix our kids unhealthy eating habits. Let's just say that it didn't live up the the hype. The food was terrible. There is this tendancy that many of us have to get pumped about a product, only to find ourselves losing faith as time goes on. Such is the case with those Hebrews was written for. It was as if they started off strong and found themselves losing faith as time passed. The author wants to remind them, and build a strong foundation of who Jesus really is and why He came. Jesus isn't just a good man with some good teachings. He is above all things and life is found in Him alone.
Hebrews is built around one central theme: the sufficiency and centrality of Jesus Christ. It appears that the audience is questioning if Christ is God's final plan. They are wondering if there is more to it. And so the author begins a long, thoughtful presentation of who Christ really is and why He is God's only plan. As you read, keep in mind that the point is to help us see Christ at the center...not only of creation, but also of God's plan for humanity. This first two chapters build a case for the supremecy of Jesus.
What makes you scratch your head in these first two chapters?
5.22.2009
Third Heaven
In II Cor. 12, Paul shares about a very unusual experience.
Vs 2 “I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether is was in the body or out of the body I do not know- God knows… he was caught up to paradise.”
Third heaven? Out of body experience? Did anyone learn about this passage in Sunday School?
There are many theories on what this “third heaven” is.
One thing that might help: The world “paradise” comes from the Persian word, which means a “walled garden”. When a Persian king wished to honor someone very special to him, he made that person a “companion of the garden.” This gave the person the right to walk with the king in the royal gardens in close and intimate companionship (Barclay 286).
Jesus uses this analogy in Luke 23 on the cross when he tells the criminal “Today you will be with me in paradise.”
God walked with Adam in the “Garden of Eden” before the fall of mankind.
What is your theory of the third heaven?
Hebrew starts on Monday!
Vs 2 “I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether is was in the body or out of the body I do not know- God knows… he was caught up to paradise.”
Third heaven? Out of body experience? Did anyone learn about this passage in Sunday School?
There are many theories on what this “third heaven” is.
One thing that might help: The world “paradise” comes from the Persian word, which means a “walled garden”. When a Persian king wished to honor someone very special to him, he made that person a “companion of the garden.” This gave the person the right to walk with the king in the royal gardens in close and intimate companionship (Barclay 286).
Jesus uses this analogy in Luke 23 on the cross when he tells the criminal “Today you will be with me in paradise.”
God walked with Adam in the “Garden of Eden” before the fall of mankind.
What is your theory of the third heaven?
Hebrew starts on Monday!
5.21.2009
light and momentary troubles… huh
Here are some observations and questions on II Cor. 11
In this passage Paul is writing in response to opposition against him.
It is a fascinating passage but something really jumps out at me as I read.
In chapter 4 Paul writes about his ministry. Look at verses 8-12, and 16-18 of chapter 4.
Then read chapter 11: 23-29.
What light and momentary troubles have plagued Paul?
How is he outwardly wasting away but inwardly being renewed?
How is death at work in him but life at work in others?
How does this inspire you?
How does it challenge you?
In this passage Paul is writing in response to opposition against him.
It is a fascinating passage but something really jumps out at me as I read.
In chapter 4 Paul writes about his ministry. Look at verses 8-12, and 16-18 of chapter 4.
Then read chapter 11: 23-29.
What light and momentary troubles have plagued Paul?
How is he outwardly wasting away but inwardly being renewed?
How is death at work in him but life at work in others?
How does this inspire you?
How does it challenge you?
5.15.2009
Titus
II Cor. 7
Scholars tell us that something had gone terribly wrong with Paul and the Corinthians. Trying to mend the wound, Paul made a quick trip to Corinth, but it was unsuccessful and only caused more heartbreak. After the visit that failed, Paul dispatched Titus to the Corinthians with a letter filled with sternness and harsh corrections for their thinking and behavior. (This letter was possibly I Corinthians, but maybe even the first part of II Corinthians)
Paul did not know how the Corinthians would react to the strict demands in his letter. Can you imagine his unrest as he awaited news from Titus on how his letter was received? Have you ever felt the anxiety of such a situation?
That is the background story for which chapter 7 was written. Understanding the intensity of the moment causes this to be an extremely rich passage indeed!
Paul once again writes of the God who brings comfort, and Paul experiences comfort, peace, and joy when he hears Titus’ report.
Chapter 7 addresses Paul’s outlook on rebuke and receiving rebuke.
Paul writes about two different kinds of sorrows: Godly sorrow and worldly sorrow. In what ways are these sorrows different? What different things do they lead to? How have you experienced both kinds of sorrow in your life?
I love Paul’s honesty as he shares his heart and his experiences with the Corinthians in this letter.
Scholars tell us that something had gone terribly wrong with Paul and the Corinthians. Trying to mend the wound, Paul made a quick trip to Corinth, but it was unsuccessful and only caused more heartbreak. After the visit that failed, Paul dispatched Titus to the Corinthians with a letter filled with sternness and harsh corrections for their thinking and behavior. (This letter was possibly I Corinthians, but maybe even the first part of II Corinthians)
Paul did not know how the Corinthians would react to the strict demands in his letter. Can you imagine his unrest as he awaited news from Titus on how his letter was received? Have you ever felt the anxiety of such a situation?
That is the background story for which chapter 7 was written. Understanding the intensity of the moment causes this to be an extremely rich passage indeed!
Paul once again writes of the God who brings comfort, and Paul experiences comfort, peace, and joy when he hears Titus’ report.
Chapter 7 addresses Paul’s outlook on rebuke and receiving rebuke.
Paul writes about two different kinds of sorrows: Godly sorrow and worldly sorrow. In what ways are these sorrows different? What different things do they lead to? How have you experienced both kinds of sorrow in your life?
I love Paul’s honesty as he shares his heart and his experiences with the Corinthians in this letter.
5.13.2009
ambassadors
I always wanted to be the team captain. Both in high school and college, my first three years found me desperately wanting to be a team captain. I wanted to walk to the center of the field, call the coin toss and represent my team. I wanted to be the one with a tough look, no smiles - I wanted to shake the hand of our opponents and squeeze as hard as I could - I wanted to be the team captain. But the team captain had more responsibility than just what was visible on the field. The captain led the team - on and off the field of play. The team captain was chosen because he was the best option to represent the team - players and coaches. This position was one with great responsibility.
In 2 Corinthians 5, Paul reminds us that we are Christ's ambassadors. Think about the great honor of being named the ambassador of the Son of God, King Jesus. This is startling news. When I look at my life I see mistakes and failures and weakness. But when God looks at us, He sees Jesus. God looks at you and me and sees something great. Paul tries to help us see this when he says, "anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!" God chooses you and me to be ambassadors for the King.
With honor comes responsibility. This role of ambassador is not a figure head role. It is one with great purpose. Catch this... God sent Jesus to reconcile us to Him. In other words, Jesus was here so that we could be o.k. with God. Our role, our responsibility is to continue that mission in the world - to help others know that they can, through Christ, be o.k. with God. Don't miss this - what we do is the most important thing going on in the world today.
You are an ambassador. Your old life is gone and there is new life in Christ. And your mission is to help people know that because of Christ, they are o.k. with God.
How does that make you feel? What are you doing this week as His ambassador?
In 2 Corinthians 5, Paul reminds us that we are Christ's ambassadors. Think about the great honor of being named the ambassador of the Son of God, King Jesus. This is startling news. When I look at my life I see mistakes and failures and weakness. But when God looks at us, He sees Jesus. God looks at you and me and sees something great. Paul tries to help us see this when he says, "anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!" God chooses you and me to be ambassadors for the King.
With honor comes responsibility. This role of ambassador is not a figure head role. It is one with great purpose. Catch this... God sent Jesus to reconcile us to Him. In other words, Jesus was here so that we could be o.k. with God. Our role, our responsibility is to continue that mission in the world - to help others know that they can, through Christ, be o.k. with God. Don't miss this - what we do is the most important thing going on in the world today.
You are an ambassador. Your old life is gone and there is new life in Christ. And your mission is to help people know that because of Christ, they are o.k. with God.
How does that make you feel? What are you doing this week as His ambassador?
5.12.2009
encouragement
This chapter is one of the most powerful chapters in the New Testament. I love it. It serves as such an encouragement for followers of Christ - an encouragement to continue preaching Christ and pointing others to Him no matter what may come. Just a couple of things to note:
1. We preach Christ: It must be our goal to preach Christ, not ourselves. It is a temptation to think about how others view us and adjust accordingly. It is a temptation to work to have others follow us instead of Jesus. It is a temptation to build our own Kingdom instead of His. We must remain fixed on preaching Christ.
2. We are like jars of clay: We find ourselves getting knocked around in this world. Following Christ is a call to live a different kind of way than the rest of the world. Choosing that path will cause us to take some hits and get some bumps and bruises. But the power within us is greater than the powers outside of us. We are pressed, but not crushed...
3. We should never give up: Though our bodies are fading and weakening, our spirits are being renewed each day by God's own Spirit. God breathes new life into us each day, and empowers us to continue the way of Jesus. He gives us strength to continue pointing people toward Him.
The takeaway? Preach Jesus and point people to Him, not you. Realize that the message you carry is far more important than the 'jar' it is in. And be renewed each day by God's Spirit. Remember...
our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.
1. We preach Christ: It must be our goal to preach Christ, not ourselves. It is a temptation to think about how others view us and adjust accordingly. It is a temptation to work to have others follow us instead of Jesus. It is a temptation to build our own Kingdom instead of His. We must remain fixed on preaching Christ.
2. We are like jars of clay: We find ourselves getting knocked around in this world. Following Christ is a call to live a different kind of way than the rest of the world. Choosing that path will cause us to take some hits and get some bumps and bruises. But the power within us is greater than the powers outside of us. We are pressed, but not crushed...
3. We should never give up: Though our bodies are fading and weakening, our spirits are being renewed each day by God's own Spirit. God breathes new life into us each day, and empowers us to continue the way of Jesus. He gives us strength to continue pointing people toward Him.
The takeaway? Preach Jesus and point people to Him, not you. Realize that the message you carry is far more important than the 'jar' it is in. And be renewed each day by God's Spirit. Remember...
our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.
5.11.2009
Reflection
The art of letter writing is not dead, at least not in our family. Megan loves to write letters to one of her best friends in Tennessee. Now, these are not traditional letters as they are often written on multiple pieces of paper or sticky notes reflecting their different moods on the different days each was penned. And that is why I love when I get to read them. Those letters burst with personality and honesty--reflecting exactly what each was thinking in that moment. That is true freedom among friends who hide nothing. I thought of this as I read Chapter 3 today.
In Paul's letter he speaks of people being letters, letters of commendation...of proof of our works, really. And, the freedom that comes when we turn to God and experience Him face to face. It made me ask myself some questions:
Do I hid behind any veils? Is there an area of my life that I have not completely exposed, and submitted to God?
What "letters" have I written in my lifetime? In the last few months? In the last week? I hope and pray always that my children are letters for me; reflections of how well I have shared and shown God to them. But what other letters am I working on? Who else can some day be that reflection? Not for our glory, but for the sake of God's Kingdom should we all be composing letters of lives daily.
So, who should be your next letter?
5.07.2009
Comfort
Today we start a new book, II Corinthians, which comes after I Corinthians if you were having trouble finding it. In II Corinthians we will find an emotional author in the Apostle Paul.
In Philippians he is joyful, and Galatians he is angry, Philemon he is compassionate. In this letter Paul is in deep sorrow from a great suffering he has endured. And it is from this great suffering that he speaks of comfort to others who suffer.
Check out how many times he uses the word comfort in verses 3-7. Do you see a theme?
Paul also makes a connection between the suffering and the resurrection of Christ with our own story (vs. 5-7) Christ’s body was broken and his blood poured out to bring new life to humanity. And now, as the church, we are the body of Christ on earth. This is central to Paul’s theology. II Corinthians returns to this pattern again and again. In chapter 4 he expounds on this idea of death and new life, suffering and comfort, and it is truly good news…
In Philippians he is joyful, and Galatians he is angry, Philemon he is compassionate. In this letter Paul is in deep sorrow from a great suffering he has endured. And it is from this great suffering that he speaks of comfort to others who suffer.
Check out how many times he uses the word comfort in verses 3-7. Do you see a theme?
Paul also makes a connection between the suffering and the resurrection of Christ with our own story (vs. 5-7) Christ’s body was broken and his blood poured out to bring new life to humanity. And now, as the church, we are the body of Christ on earth. This is central to Paul’s theology. II Corinthians returns to this pattern again and again. In chapter 4 he expounds on this idea of death and new life, suffering and comfort, and it is truly good news…
5.06.2009
do everything
At the end of his first letter to the church at Corinth, Paul says this: Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.
And do everything with love. I'm not great at that. In fact, I have a long way to go. Just thinking back over the past few days, I find that there are plenty of things I've done without love. What would it look like if you and I did everything with love? What would it look like to your spouse if you did everything with love? What would it look like to your children if you did everything with love? What would it look like to your parents if you did everything with love? What would it look like to your neighbor if you did everything with love? What would it look like to your enemy (you know, that person you can't stand to be around...) if you did everything with love?
And do everything with love.
And do everything with love. I'm not great at that. In fact, I have a long way to go. Just thinking back over the past few days, I find that there are plenty of things I've done without love. What would it look like if you and I did everything with love? What would it look like to your spouse if you did everything with love? What would it look like to your children if you did everything with love? What would it look like to your parents if you did everything with love? What would it look like to your neighbor if you did everything with love? What would it look like to your enemy (you know, that person you can't stand to be around...) if you did everything with love?
And do everything with love.
5.05.2009
so...
The word 'so' is such a simple word. But it is a transition word that is important to pay attention to when reading Paul's letters. Paul usually begins by building a foundation of theology. He wants us to know the truth about God and what God has done through Jesus. Then, he wants us to know how it should be impacting our lives. This little word, 'so,' provides the transition from one to the other.
Chapter 15 begins with a simple statement:
I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said.
This is the foundation of theology - the core belief we are to build everything around. Is this at the center of your life, your faith, your belief, your worldview? (on Sunday we sang a song titled 'Center' that said "Oh Christ be the center of our lives, be the place we fix our eyes..." I loved it. It was written by Charlie Hall if you want to find it on itunes.)
Then, at the very end of this long chapter, Paul uses the little transition word 'so.' Here comes how we are to live in light of the theology, the foundation he has been building. Don't miss this:
So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
Be strong and immovable. Dig your feet in. Let your roots grow down into Christ. Don't allow others to knock you off of center. And then get enthusiastic in your work for King Jesus...because it is not useless. I often lose enthusiasm. I get complacent. What you and I are doing for the King is eternally important. I truly believe that what we do is the most important thing going on in the universe today. I know there are a lot of good things going on, but what we should be doing could influence people to make decisions that change the course of their forever. So...be immovable and enthusiastic.
Chapter 15 begins with a simple statement:
I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said.
This is the foundation of theology - the core belief we are to build everything around. Is this at the center of your life, your faith, your belief, your worldview? (on Sunday we sang a song titled 'Center' that said "Oh Christ be the center of our lives, be the place we fix our eyes..." I loved it. It was written by Charlie Hall if you want to find it on itunes.)
Then, at the very end of this long chapter, Paul uses the little transition word 'so.' Here comes how we are to live in light of the theology, the foundation he has been building. Don't miss this:
So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
Be strong and immovable. Dig your feet in. Let your roots grow down into Christ. Don't allow others to knock you off of center. And then get enthusiastic in your work for King Jesus...because it is not useless. I often lose enthusiasm. I get complacent. What you and I are doing for the King is eternally important. I truly believe that what we do is the most important thing going on in the universe today. I know there are a lot of good things going on, but what we should be doing could influence people to make decisions that change the course of their forever. So...be immovable and enthusiastic.
5.04.2009
Say what?
Darin and I have some wonderful friends in Kentucky and we have attended their church during weekend visits on several occasions. We have experienced prophecy beyond preaching and teaching and have been called out as direct receivers of a specific message. I have to admit, it was a little out of our comfort zone! However, on every occasion I wanted to pull out my Bible and read today's chapter out loud--throughout the service there are always at least 10 people speaking in tongue and at several points in the service, up to 30 or 40 voices can be heard. About this time Darin's ADD kicks in!
All joking aside, it was always so distracting. And, we would get slightly amused at how everyone was seemingly unaware of each other and everyone talking, but no one interpreting. Every once in a while, there would be a lull, and 2 people would stand together, one speaking and one interpreting. Admittedly, this was still strange to us as neither Darin nor I grew up in a church where tongues and interpretation were part of the service. However, my Spirit always had a very different response when there was interpretation as opposed to the chaos that seemed to ensue most of the time.
What I love about Paul's writings today is that they talk of how the speaking of tongue is an intimate prayer language with God. Isn't that just beautiful? I have never received the gift of tongues, but I do have friends who have shared with me experiences when they were so deeply entrenched in prayer that they have begun communicating in Spirit through a language they did not recognize. Now that's cool!
I have always believed, based on this passage, that public speaking of tongues should ALWAYS be paired with interpretation. I also believe that the gift of tongues is a gift from God and has great purpose within prayer. But, I also pulled something new out of this passage today: while he is clearly giving some direction, instruction, and boundaries to speaking in tongue, the flip side of that is presenting God's truth in every service. Again, I have attended services at other churches before and walked away wondering what an unbeliever could possibly have gained from that message. I am thankful for MMCC and the Truth that is always spoken in a manner that reaches the unbelievers where they are but encourages and pushes the believer as well. It was just a good reminder to me that all we do on Sunday morning to make service enticing to the children is important, but none more than presenting Biblical Truth. That should be and is our number goal.
5.01.2009
love.
Chapter 13 might be the most wonderful literature in history. After all Paul has dealt with in this letter, after all his frustration, correction, and teaching, he wants the Corinthians to understand this one thing; love. He wants them to be united as one body, the body of Christ, and this is how that solidarity is achieved; love.
In everything they do, in everything they strive for, in all of their differences, and all the ways they try to get things “right”, it’s all meaningless without love.
One writer even says, “God is love.” (I Jn. 4:16)
Jesus sums up the central theme of the scripture, “love God, and love others”. (Matt. 22:37)
Love is absolutely essential for a follower of Jesus, and this is why we continue to stress loving people with no strings attached.
And so the other day I helped take the food from the MMCC food drive down to Living Water Fellowship. Some men from the discipleship house came out to help unload the groceries. These men are rough men, many rehabbing from addictions and a wrecked life. They were overwhelmed with the amount of food being organized for distribution.
One man asked me, “Why are you all so generous?”
And I got to tell him, “Because we love you.”
And he said, “but you don’t even know us.”
And I responded, “It doesn’t matter, God knows you, and so we love you.”
We are fully known by God, and he still loves us. (vs .12)
love.
An activity we do with our students:
Look at verses 4-7, anytime you see the word love, replace it with your name. _________________ is patient. __________________ is kind.
Can you still read these verses with your name replacing love? Will it still be true?
In everything they do, in everything they strive for, in all of their differences, and all the ways they try to get things “right”, it’s all meaningless without love.
One writer even says, “God is love.” (I Jn. 4:16)
Jesus sums up the central theme of the scripture, “love God, and love others”. (Matt. 22:37)
Love is absolutely essential for a follower of Jesus, and this is why we continue to stress loving people with no strings attached.
And so the other day I helped take the food from the MMCC food drive down to Living Water Fellowship. Some men from the discipleship house came out to help unload the groceries. These men are rough men, many rehabbing from addictions and a wrecked life. They were overwhelmed with the amount of food being organized for distribution.
One man asked me, “Why are you all so generous?”
And I got to tell him, “Because we love you.”
And he said, “but you don’t even know us.”
And I responded, “It doesn’t matter, God knows you, and so we love you.”
We are fully known by God, and he still loves us. (vs .12)
love.
An activity we do with our students:
Look at verses 4-7, anytime you see the word love, replace it with your name. _________________ is patient. __________________ is kind.
Can you still read these verses with your name replacing love? Will it still be true?
4.30.2009
Context plus the Holy Spirit
With a few exceptions, the Apostle Paul’s letters were written to meet an immediate situation. Often times, there was some threatening situation in the churches in Corinth, or Galatia, or Philippi, and Thessalonica. And so when we read the Letters of Paul we must keep the context of which they were written in mind. Did anyone have a tough time with I Cor. 11:1-10? What does this instruction mean for us in today’s world? Should women still cover their heads when they pray? Or was there a certain kind of “woman” who uncovered her head in a place like Corinth that Paul is addressing? Context is important…
But we also must remember that a thing is not transient because it was written to meet an immediate situation.
Think of the greatest love songs of the world. Most of them were written about one person, but everyone likes them. We connect with certain songs because we understand the situation. Couples will even claim one as “our song.”
So it is with Paul’s letters. They may have been written to meet a threatening danger, a difficult circumstance, or addressing issues, but we have much to learn from them. For even though human culture changes, the human situation does not. And so God still speaks to us through these letters he inspired Paul to write 2000 years ago. That is why these letters are considered Holy Scripture; they are alive and active.
Context with the Holy Spirit guiding us is important, otherwise we would have a lot of bald women walking around (I Cor. 11:6).
But we also must remember that a thing is not transient because it was written to meet an immediate situation.
Think of the greatest love songs of the world. Most of them were written about one person, but everyone likes them. We connect with certain songs because we understand the situation. Couples will even claim one as “our song.”
So it is with Paul’s letters. They may have been written to meet a threatening danger, a difficult circumstance, or addressing issues, but we have much to learn from them. For even though human culture changes, the human situation does not. And so God still speaks to us through these letters he inspired Paul to write 2000 years ago. That is why these letters are considered Holy Scripture; they are alive and active.
Context with the Holy Spirit guiding us is important, otherwise we would have a lot of bald women walking around (I Cor. 11:6).
4.29.2009
the body
I absolutely love Paul's discussion about the body, or the church. Paul is clear that each believer receives a gift from God's Spirit and that this gift is to be used to build up the church. He speaks about the church as a body - a group of individual parts working together for the greater good. Each part is vital. There is not one part that can be removed without hurting the body. In other words, there is no appendix in the church. You are a vital part of the church. Regardless of what gift you think you may or may not have, you are a vital part of the church. MMCC is not what God had in mind if you are not using your gift to build up the body, the church. (How is that for guilt?) If you are a believer, you have a gift that fulfills an important role in the church.
So, to build one another up, what gifts do you see functioning in our church body today? Who do you see using a gift that God gave them? For example, Christy Fay and Dan Smith used their gifts the past two weeks to bring The Shack to life in Sunday morning worship.
And, what gift do you bring to the body? Are you using it?
So, to build one another up, what gifts do you see functioning in our church body today? Who do you see using a gift that God gave them? For example, Christy Fay and Dan Smith used their gifts the past two weeks to bring The Shack to life in Sunday morning worship.
And, what gift do you bring to the body? Are you using it?
4.28.2009
Sin City
Some much needed background information on Corinth:
If you look at a map of the Mediterranean World in the 1st Century, you will find Corinth located on a four mile wide Isthmus that divides the northern and southern parts of Greece. Mariners would actually pull their boats out of the water and drag them on rollers across this isthmus instead of sailing around the dangerous waters of southern Greece. The voyage around Greece’s southern waters was so dangerous that the sailors had a saying, “Let him who sails around (southern Greece) first make his will.” And so people from all over the world would pass through either for trade or on a journey.
This strategic location allowed Corinth to be one of the greatest trading and commercial centers of the ancient world. Its wealth and diversity resulted in an epicenter of culture and fashion.
But there was another side to Corinth. Not only was it known for its wealth and culture, but it also had a reputation for being an evil and immoral city. It was probably a Spring Break destination for ancient young 20 somethings. There was another saying popular in this time period, “korinthianzesthai” or “To live like a Corinthian”, which meant to live with drunken and immoral debauchery. No one is even sure what debauchery means... it is so bad, we can't talk about it :)
One reason for the evil was that above the isthmus there towered the hill of Acropolis, and on it stood the great temple of Aphordite, “goddess of love.” One thousand priestesses worked in this temple as sacred prostitutes, and in the evening they descended upon Corinth and plied their trade in the streets. Another saying became popular; “It is not every man who can afford a journey to Corinth.” Which might have been similar to “What happens in Vegas…”
And so this new, diverse group of Christians starts meeting in this city. Can you imagine some of the “issues” they might have been dealing with? Can you imagine the frustration of Paul as he tries to instruct and bring wisdom, grace and truth to this young church?
More thoughts on this tomorrow…
If you look at a map of the Mediterranean World in the 1st Century, you will find Corinth located on a four mile wide Isthmus that divides the northern and southern parts of Greece. Mariners would actually pull their boats out of the water and drag them on rollers across this isthmus instead of sailing around the dangerous waters of southern Greece. The voyage around Greece’s southern waters was so dangerous that the sailors had a saying, “Let him who sails around (southern Greece) first make his will.” And so people from all over the world would pass through either for trade or on a journey.
This strategic location allowed Corinth to be one of the greatest trading and commercial centers of the ancient world. Its wealth and diversity resulted in an epicenter of culture and fashion.
But there was another side to Corinth. Not only was it known for its wealth and culture, but it also had a reputation for being an evil and immoral city. It was probably a Spring Break destination for ancient young 20 somethings. There was another saying popular in this time period, “korinthianzesthai” or “To live like a Corinthian”, which meant to live with drunken and immoral debauchery. No one is even sure what debauchery means... it is so bad, we can't talk about it :)
One reason for the evil was that above the isthmus there towered the hill of Acropolis, and on it stood the great temple of Aphordite, “goddess of love.” One thousand priestesses worked in this temple as sacred prostitutes, and in the evening they descended upon Corinth and plied their trade in the streets. Another saying became popular; “It is not every man who can afford a journey to Corinth.” Which might have been similar to “What happens in Vegas…”
And so this new, diverse group of Christians starts meeting in this city. Can you imagine some of the “issues” they might have been dealing with? Can you imagine the frustration of Paul as he tries to instruct and bring wisdom, grace and truth to this young church?
More thoughts on this tomorrow…
4.20.2009
Outside and Inside
Lawsuits and sexually immorality. Are these my only choices today? Ha Ha. At first, I wasn't gleaning anything out of these verses for myself. I'm not at "battle" with anyone and considering a law suit and I'm in a committed and pure marriage. So, God, what would you have me take away from this? How does this apply to me? Here was His answer: Protect your witness and protect your Holy temple.
I don't want to overgeneralize this Chapter at all, but that I can run with. While Paul's main point is that they are asking people they would trust with no other matter to settles disputes; they are entrusting decisions to unGodly people so they will get unGodly answers. But I also see that then the unbelievers are seeing these disputes and arguments and witnessing often unGodly thoughts and actions. Our bottom line in The Alley yesterday was "When you stand for what's right, you show others who God is". When I apply this life application to these verses, I come away with the notion that in everything I do, I'm either showing others who God is or who I am without God. Every day we have opportunities to be Jesus with skin on, a walking Bible, or however you want to put it--we have the chance to demonstrate who God is and what He's all about. And, more importantly, if we are Christians, people are watching to see if our walk matches our talk: in the movies we watch, with the language we use, in how forgiving we are, with how slow to anger we are, in how we treat others, etc.
Just as we need to be somewhat aware of what others see in us, we need to be ultra aware of what is in us, the Holy Spirit. There are certain things we would NEVER consider doing while at church, but once we are away from God's House, the rules seem to change. The problem is that God's House is us: "19 Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, 20 for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." (1 Cor 6:19-20 NLT) When I look at preteen/teen girls I am sometimes overwhelmed with this truth for them. If only we could fully grasp at a young age that we are Holy because God is in us. Oh what different choices we would make and how differently we would view ourselves. The world tells us we are not good enough and to do whatever makes us feel good in the moment. God tells us we are beautiful in Him and that through Him peace and contentment will come. Boy that one took me along time to even realize it existed. And I still wrestle with a complete understanding of being Holy.
Is there someone in your life who doesn't see themselves through God's eyes right now? They can't see that who they are exactly who God created them to be and He made their body a dwelling place for Him? Maybe that someone is you? Let God work in and through you today.
4.16.2009
When we are cursed, we bless….
I Corinthians 4
The Romans were masters in propaganda. They loved to display power, might, and glory to remind the people of their greatness. In fact, after military victories, the Roman Generals would return to the capital city in a triumphant parade. These events were actually called a ‘triumph’.
In the days before the news media flashed pictures of battle and victories around the world, this was how people back home knew for sure their generals had won.
And so the generals and rulers of Rome would parade their greatness and splendor through the streets of Rome along with the spoils of war they had secured. At the end of the parade would be the weary gang of prisoners the Romans had conquered and captured. The day would usually end with these prisoners being sold into slavery or killed in the arena for sport (Wright 48).
In chapter 4, Paul uses this picture to show the Corinthians what the life of an Apostle is like. He is once again addressing the rivalry and animosity within the Corinthian church, with different teachers and speakers claiming that their wisdom makes them ‘rich’ or even ‘kings’. (Vs. 8-13)
Who does Paul identify himself with in the picture of the parade (vs. 9)? Why would he do this?
Do you sense a hint of sarcasm?
Verses 11-13 really jumped out at me this morning…
And what does it mean for us today to imitate Paul? (vs. 16)
For a great commentary on this passage, check out “Paul for Everyone: I Corinthians” by NT Wright.
The Romans were masters in propaganda. They loved to display power, might, and glory to remind the people of their greatness. In fact, after military victories, the Roman Generals would return to the capital city in a triumphant parade. These events were actually called a ‘triumph’.
In the days before the news media flashed pictures of battle and victories around the world, this was how people back home knew for sure their generals had won.
And so the generals and rulers of Rome would parade their greatness and splendor through the streets of Rome along with the spoils of war they had secured. At the end of the parade would be the weary gang of prisoners the Romans had conquered and captured. The day would usually end with these prisoners being sold into slavery or killed in the arena for sport (Wright 48).
In chapter 4, Paul uses this picture to show the Corinthians what the life of an Apostle is like. He is once again addressing the rivalry and animosity within the Corinthian church, with different teachers and speakers claiming that their wisdom makes them ‘rich’ or even ‘kings’. (Vs. 8-13)
Who does Paul identify himself with in the picture of the parade (vs. 9)? Why would he do this?
Do you sense a hint of sarcasm?
Verses 11-13 really jumped out at me this morning…
And what does it mean for us today to imitate Paul? (vs. 16)
For a great commentary on this passage, check out “Paul for Everyone: I Corinthians” by NT Wright.
4.15.2009
Wisdom and Following
But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets. 11 No one can know a person's thoughts except that person's own spirit, and no one can know God's thoughts except God's own Spirit. 12 And we have received God's Spirit (not the world's spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us.
I love these thoughts. God's very Spirit - the Spirit that breathed life into Adam and Eve, the Spirit that Jesus breathed onto/into His disciples, the Spirit that filled the writers of Scripture - dwells in us. We have God's Spirit speaking life and wisdom into our lives. Discerning the sound of His Spirit takes time, but we know through the teachings of the NT that the Spirit lives within us. I believe when we hear and respond to the Spirit in our lives, the Spirit's voice becomes louder and clearer to us. And when we hear and ignore the Spirit, that voice becomes softer and more distant to us. Are you listening and responding to the Spirit in your life?
Pam Smith made a great comment in response to Jared's post yesterday. If you haven't read it, go back and read it now. Chapter 3 is for us. Here's the deal - Paul preached Christ, I (Matt) preach Christ, Jared preaches Christ, Don preached Christ - we are all pointing people to Christ alone, not us. I do not want any followers because I will only let them down. I want to lead people to Christ - He is the only One worth following. Pam...great thoughts - thanks for the reminder.
Any other pieces of this passage jump out at you?
I love these thoughts. God's very Spirit - the Spirit that breathed life into Adam and Eve, the Spirit that Jesus breathed onto/into His disciples, the Spirit that filled the writers of Scripture - dwells in us. We have God's Spirit speaking life and wisdom into our lives. Discerning the sound of His Spirit takes time, but we know through the teachings of the NT that the Spirit lives within us. I believe when we hear and respond to the Spirit in our lives, the Spirit's voice becomes louder and clearer to us. And when we hear and ignore the Spirit, that voice becomes softer and more distant to us. Are you listening and responding to the Spirit in your life?
Pam Smith made a great comment in response to Jared's post yesterday. If you haven't read it, go back and read it now. Chapter 3 is for us. Here's the deal - Paul preached Christ, I (Matt) preach Christ, Jared preaches Christ, Don preached Christ - we are all pointing people to Christ alone, not us. I do not want any followers because I will only let them down. I want to lead people to Christ - He is the only One worth following. Pam...great thoughts - thanks for the reminder.
Any other pieces of this passage jump out at you?
4.13.2009
Who are you following?
I don't know about you all, but I had to read this chapter a couple times to start to grasp it. (perhaps it's due to the strong doses of allergy meds I'm on!) It helped me to read a more contemporary translation, then go back to the NIV again. Any way, here's the two sections that caught my attention: vs. 11-17 & vs. 27-31.
In verse 17 specifically, Paul talks about how he was sent to be a messenger, a preacher, but not to have a following. I think this is a struggle that everyone has had at one point in time--the fine line between respecting the preacher or teacher in their life without "following" them or putting them up on a pedestal. I've seen time and time again people's faith shattered because they put too much faith in a person. And while, yes, leaders in the church are called to a high standard, they are humans with flaws who will experience failure. When we loose sight of their humanness and focus only on their wisdom and teaching, forgetting that it comes from God in the first place, we will always be disappointed. I also believe that this happens to Satan's great delight for it opens the door to dissension and confusion. Each time I have witnessed a similar situation, my heart has broken for the person, the leader and the church. I absolutely beleive that it's important to find teachers and preachers that we can trust to share God's Truth with us and that we respect as Wise in God and His Word. But we always need to be mindful that we are trusting and following Christ first, not the messenger.
Let me share verses 27-31 from The Message: "27 Isn't it obvious that God deliberately chose men and women that the culture overlooks and exploits and abuses, 28 chose these "nobodies" to expose the hollow pretensions of the "somebodies"? 29 That makes it quite clear that none of you can get by with blowing your own horn before God. 30 Everything that we have - right thinking and right living, a clean slate and a fresh start - comes from God by way of Jesus Christ. 31 That's why we have the saying, "If you're going to blow a horn, blow a trumpet for God."
In children's ministry we want young ones to understand that they, too, can be prepared and used by God. We look at people like Moses, David, & Joseph. Ordinary people that God worked in and through to do extra ordinary things. That's the same thing that these last verses of today are talking about. God chooses us plain people, even messed up, flawed people, so that when He does something amazing, others have to know it's from God because we are not remarkable enough to accomplish it on our own. I love that! If those are the job requirements, I'm perfectly suited--I'm yours God!
Let me share verses 27-31 from The Message: "27 Isn't it obvious that God deliberately chose men and women that the culture overlooks and exploits and abuses, 28 chose these "nobodies" to expose the hollow pretensions of the "somebodies"? 29 That makes it quite clear that none of you can get by with blowing your own horn before God. 30 Everything that we have - right thinking and right living, a clean slate and a fresh start - comes from God by way of Jesus Christ. 31 That's why we have the saying, "If you're going to blow a horn, blow a trumpet for God."
In children's ministry we want young ones to understand that they, too, can be prepared and used by God. We look at people like Moses, David, & Joseph. Ordinary people that God worked in and through to do extra ordinary things. That's the same thing that these last verses of today are talking about. God chooses us plain people, even messed up, flawed people, so that when He does something amazing, others have to know it's from God because we are not remarkable enough to accomplish it on our own. I love that! If those are the job requirements, I'm perfectly suited--I'm yours God!
I encourage you to do as I have this morning and think about the times God has used you in all of your weakness and failures to bring glory to His name. Think about it, then Thank Him.
4.09.2009
Adonai
Chapter 14 is full of heartbreaking stories. Jesus is betrayed, disobeyed, deserted, lied about, and these are just his friends. Jesus is arrested and in verse 53 brought before the high priests and the Sanhedrin.
Now the Sanhedrin was the “Supreme Court” in Jerusalem made up of 70 judges, and this nighttime meeting was illegal for them. They were looking for a reason to put Jesus to death. “Some gave false testimony against Jesus… yet even their own testimony did not agree (v. 59).”
Finally the high priest asks Jesus, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus responds, “I am.”
Now up until this point Jesus has told people to be quiet about him being the Messiah (Mk. 1:34, 44 5:43, 8:30). We even blogged about it a few weeks ago as Shad brought it to our attention. Scholars know this idea as the “Messianic Secret.”
Jesus knew the consequences of such a claim… and here at this moment he reveals any secret of who he is. In response to a direct question, Jesus does not hesitate. In fact, he uses the very word “Adonai” used to identify himself to Moses at the burning bush, when he said, “I am who I am.”
So not only does Jesus affirm he is the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One, he hints that he is to be identified with Adonai himself!
This would have been a loaded statement to the high priests and Sanhedrin who knew their Torah well. Can you imagine the intensity of this moment? The priest tore his clothes!
Yesterday, Matt shared about how he was reflecting on who Jesus is. Maybe today we can also reflect on Jesus’ response to the question about who he is… “Adonai”.
The secret is out.
Now the Sanhedrin was the “Supreme Court” in Jerusalem made up of 70 judges, and this nighttime meeting was illegal for them. They were looking for a reason to put Jesus to death. “Some gave false testimony against Jesus… yet even their own testimony did not agree (v. 59).”
Finally the high priest asks Jesus, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus responds, “I am.”
Now up until this point Jesus has told people to be quiet about him being the Messiah (Mk. 1:34, 44 5:43, 8:30). We even blogged about it a few weeks ago as Shad brought it to our attention. Scholars know this idea as the “Messianic Secret.”
Jesus knew the consequences of such a claim… and here at this moment he reveals any secret of who he is. In response to a direct question, Jesus does not hesitate. In fact, he uses the very word “Adonai” used to identify himself to Moses at the burning bush, when he said, “I am who I am.”
So not only does Jesus affirm he is the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One, he hints that he is to be identified with Adonai himself!
This would have been a loaded statement to the high priests and Sanhedrin who knew their Torah well. Can you imagine the intensity of this moment? The priest tore his clothes!
Yesterday, Matt shared about how he was reflecting on who Jesus is. Maybe today we can also reflect on Jesus’ response to the question about who he is… “Adonai”.
The secret is out.
4.08.2009
Jesus
Jared did a brilliant job with our NT reading calendar. Notice that we are reading Mark's account leading up to the resurrection. And on Sunday, we will be reading Mark 16 - the account of the resurrection.
Today, I found myself simply reflecting on who Jesus is. In thinking of the different ways to describe Jesus, I remembered an old sermon by S M Lockridge. I think the sermon was titled "That's My King." If you have a few minutes, watch this clip -
And don't forget that we'll be gathering on Thursday evening to reflect on Jesus' last supper with His disciples. We'll gather at MMCC at 7pm. Hope you can make it.
Today, I found myself simply reflecting on who Jesus is. In thinking of the different ways to describe Jesus, I remembered an old sermon by S M Lockridge. I think the sermon was titled "That's My King." If you have a few minutes, watch this clip -
And don't forget that we'll be gathering on Thursday evening to reflect on Jesus' last supper with His disciples. We'll gather at MMCC at 7pm. Hope you can make it.
4.07.2009
stories
Have you noticed the conflict between Jesus and religious people? I think this is one of the most overlooked pieces of the Jesus stories in our world. Well, maybe not completely overlooked...but passed over in how they relate to us. I believe there are many times when we, as Christians today, could probably see ourselves in the stories of the Pharisees. I'm just not so sure we would like what we see. I think we read them and relate them to others instead of ourselves. So we read the stories and just pass over them. Notice that Jesus isn't real interested in all the religious debates these religious people want to start. Yes, He answers their questions and leaves them angry, but He just doesn't seem that interested in religiocity. I love the story of the 'tax' question. I love the way Jesus responds and turns the tables. But my favorite piece of today's passage is found in verses 28-34.
I'm not sure why he asked the question, "What is the greatest commandment?" Maybe, like many of us, he just wanted to know the most important thing. Maybe in the spirit of the surrounding stories, he was trying to trap Jesus. For Jews, all of the law found in the Torah was important. Maybe he was just trying to catch Jesus 'off His game.' I'm not sure why he asked, but I am so glad that he did. I have a feeling that I would have asked this question. And Jesus' response? It becomes a direction for us, a foundation for us, it becomes the thing we should focus on every single day of our lives. Here it is. "Love God with everything you are and love other people with no strings attached." (my paraphrase) Period. Everything comes down to this: Loving God and loving other people. That's it.
So, the question today...How are you doing at the most important thing? How are you doing at loving God with everything you are? How are you loving people with no strings attached? And after answering those questions, what can you do to take another step in loving God and loving others today? These are the most important things.
Father, forgive me for not loving You with everything I am. Forgive me for making gods of the things in our world. Forgive me for loving money and stuff. Father, forgive me for ignoring people around me. Forgive me for thinking only of myself. Forgive me for the agendas I often have with other people. Lead me to love them with no strings attached today. Help me to love You and love others like Jesus did. Amen.
I'm not sure why he asked the question, "What is the greatest commandment?" Maybe, like many of us, he just wanted to know the most important thing. Maybe in the spirit of the surrounding stories, he was trying to trap Jesus. For Jews, all of the law found in the Torah was important. Maybe he was just trying to catch Jesus 'off His game.' I'm not sure why he asked, but I am so glad that he did. I have a feeling that I would have asked this question. And Jesus' response? It becomes a direction for us, a foundation for us, it becomes the thing we should focus on every single day of our lives. Here it is. "Love God with everything you are and love other people with no strings attached." (my paraphrase) Period. Everything comes down to this: Loving God and loving other people. That's it.
So, the question today...How are you doing at the most important thing? How are you doing at loving God with everything you are? How are you loving people with no strings attached? And after answering those questions, what can you do to take another step in loving God and loving others today? These are the most important things.
Father, forgive me for not loving You with everything I am. Forgive me for making gods of the things in our world. Forgive me for loving money and stuff. Father, forgive me for ignoring people around me. Forgive me for thinking only of myself. Forgive me for the agendas I often have with other people. Lead me to love them with no strings attached today. Help me to love You and love others like Jesus did. Amen.
4.06.2009
God in a box
Forgive me as I am going to work backwards through Mark 11 today. Verse 24 jumped out to me today. I often pray within the limits of my humanness. I believe but I keep God in a box. For example, I pray that our van will continue to run or that some day we can afford a new one, but I never pray for God to just bring us a better vehicle. Why not? Because that's too big for God? Because I shouldn't exhibit such faith? Because it's out of the ordinary and I keep God in a box. But I sometimes wrestle with the notion in this verse that if I ask it I will get it; I love how The Message phrases this verse: "That's why I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you'll get God's everything." I should pray for everything on my heart AND (I love this emphasis) I will get God's everything. In other words, anything God gives me is great because it's from him.
OK, now it's time for a little Bible history. I give credit to Beth Moore--I just love how she links the Old and New Testaments together for us! As we studied the Psalms of Ascents last Fall, we learned about the Three Feasts. The last of the Feasts, I believe, was celebrated at the end of the harvest season: The Feast of the Tabernacle. You can read about it in Leviticus 23:33-44, but verse 40 is of particular interest today.
On the first day you are to take choice fruit from the trees, and palm fronds, leafy branches and poplars, and rejoice before the Lord your God for seven days.
OK, now it's time for a little Bible history. I give credit to Beth Moore--I just love how she links the Old and New Testaments together for us! As we studied the Psalms of Ascents last Fall, we learned about the Three Feasts. The last of the Feasts, I believe, was celebrated at the end of the harvest season: The Feast of the Tabernacle. You can read about it in Leviticus 23:33-44, but verse 40 is of particular interest today.
On the first day you are to take choice fruit from the trees, and palm fronds, leafy branches and poplars, and rejoice before the Lord your God for seven days.
We know that this is exactly what occurred on Palm Sunday, the day Jesus entered Jerusalem. Let me try to tie this together simply. During the Feast of the Tabernacle, they would celebrate the coming Messiah. They would shout "Hosanna" which means "Send Messiah" or "Save Now". So, when Jesus entered Jerusalem that day, for those who believed, it sent them straight into the Feast of the Tabernacle. When they cried "Hosanna", they were acknowledging and proclaiming that Jesus was the Messiah.
Palm Sunday was yesterday. Did you shout "Hosanna"--did you cry out, proclaiming that Jesus was the Messiah, your Savior & redeemer. As we lead up to the Easter celebration, I'm thinking I need to keep a certain heartattitude. So, I believe I will start every morning this week with a "Hosanna!"
4.02.2009
Why couldn’t we drive it out?
My wife and I are big fans of the TV show Lost. We have watched it since the first episode back in 2004. The show relies on an easy formula for success: Every episode leaves you with more questions than answers. After each episode, my wife and I try to figure out what is really going on, connect the dots, and answer the questions. We call friends because it is good to get another perspective, opinion, or theory. This word is too strong, but the show is addicting ☺
As I read Mark 9 this morning, I was left with a similar feeling. It is full of fascinating stories about the Transfiguration of Jesus, miracles, driving out demons/or failing to drive out demons. After reading this chapter, I have more questions than answers!
So here is a confusing story:
Vs. 14-29 Jesus’ disciples are not able to heal the boy who is possessed by an evil spirit. It is interesting because in Mk 6:7 Jesus gives his disciples authority over evil spirits, and in 6:13 they drive out many demons. So why can’t they do it in this story?
Jesus replies, “This kind can come out only by prayer.”
What do you think this means? What is the importance of our prayer life?
Then in 8:38 the disciples saw someone driving out demons in the name of Jesus, but he was not one of them.... What?
Vs. 32 really jumped out at me, “The disciples did not understand what Jesus meant and were afraid to ask him about it.”
What questions or answers do you have for these stories in Mark 9? I pray that you will not be afraid to ask, and I pray that you would become addicted to the wonderful stories of scripture, and understand that sometimes, we need to call friends to get another perspective, opinion, or theory ☺
Have a great day!
As I read Mark 9 this morning, I was left with a similar feeling. It is full of fascinating stories about the Transfiguration of Jesus, miracles, driving out demons/or failing to drive out demons. After reading this chapter, I have more questions than answers!
So here is a confusing story:
Vs. 14-29 Jesus’ disciples are not able to heal the boy who is possessed by an evil spirit. It is interesting because in Mk 6:7 Jesus gives his disciples authority over evil spirits, and in 6:13 they drive out many demons. So why can’t they do it in this story?
Jesus replies, “This kind can come out only by prayer.”
What do you think this means? What is the importance of our prayer life?
Then in 8:38 the disciples saw someone driving out demons in the name of Jesus, but he was not one of them.... What?
Vs. 32 really jumped out at me, “The disciples did not understand what Jesus meant and were afraid to ask him about it.”
What questions or answers do you have for these stories in Mark 9? I pray that you will not be afraid to ask, and I pray that you would become addicted to the wonderful stories of scripture, and understand that sometimes, we need to call friends to get another perspective, opinion, or theory ☺
Have a great day!
3.31.2009
2 Questions
There are two questions that Jesus asks in Mark, chapter 8 that I believe are vital for us. Obviously, everything Jesus says is important, but these two questions jump out at me as something that Jesus might ask us today.
1. "Who do you say that I am?" There are a lot of people who have a lot of things to say about Jesus. But what do you say? Who do you think He is?
2. "What do you benefit if you gain the world, but lose your soul in the process?" To be honest, this is where I believe so many of us lose our way. I believe so many in our world are caught up in the pursuit of the world - not the world as in the overtly anti-Jesus world, but the world as in things that simply grab our attention. I believe so many of us get caught up running after the things we are engaged in. It is even possible to pursue ministry and mission and lose sight of Jesus. In your life, what clamors for your attention and pursuit?
1. "Who do you say that I am?" There are a lot of people who have a lot of things to say about Jesus. But what do you say? Who do you think He is?
2. "What do you benefit if you gain the world, but lose your soul in the process?" To be honest, this is where I believe so many of us lose our way. I believe so many in our world are caught up in the pursuit of the world - not the world as in the overtly anti-Jesus world, but the world as in things that simply grab our attention. I believe so many of us get caught up running after the things we are engaged in. It is even possible to pursue ministry and mission and lose sight of Jesus. In your life, what clamors for your attention and pursuit?
3.30.2009
Pretzels and Goldfish crackers
I have told the story of the feeding of the 5,000 many, many times in my life. Since I was usually with a group of preschoolers, I did my best to make the story come to life. So, I would walk through the "crowd" and hand out pretzels and goldfish crackers, the closest to loaves and fish a preschooler is gonna get! I always loved not just telling stories, but re-enacting them; being as creative as possible to try to make the stories real. And yet, as I read that story in our chapter for today, I realized that it's really hard to get my brain around 5,000 people being fed with 5 loves of bread and 2 fish. That's just mind-boggling to me.
In contrast, I look at the end of this chapter and read how the disciples were still not getting it all-they were forgetting miracles and not grasping a complete understanding of who Christ really was. And I think "how could you watch Jesus feed 5,000 people, drive out demons and constantly heal the sick and not get Him?" You were there in the middle of it all!
Hmmmm...how many times has God worked miracles in my life and yet the next time there's a struggle, a challenge, an obstacle, worry and doubt rush in and wipe my memory of those moments when Jesus' power was so evident? Am I not then so different from the disciples? My cabinets have been sparse, yet with a prayer and a little creativity I've made some of my finest meals. What was coming into the checking account didn't match what needed to go out and yet, bills were paid and the family was cared for. At our first ultrasound with Ethan (at only 7 weeks) we were told that the baby had stopped developing for some reason and as tears welled up and I prayed, the doctor moved the u.s. wand to show us something else and he & Darin noticed a "spot" which turned out to be our Ethan. Jesus power is ever present in my life and in yours too. I am thankful today of those reminders.
There is sooo much more we could look at in this chapter today, but I'd rather stop here and give you a chance to share--when was the power of Jesus remarkably evident and present in your life?
3.26.2009
Agrarian stories about the kingdom of God
In Chapter 4, Jesus taught the crowd by using parables. I once heard that a parable is an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. These stories are rich and give us much to think about. The first parable is about a farmer who went out to sow his seed (the word). The seeds are scattered and essentially fall in four different places (representing people’s hearts/response). I want to focus in on this story because it has had a profound influence on my life. You see I often find myself in the third scenario:
“Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desire for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful.”
Worries of this life…Deceitfulness of wealth…Desire for other things…
I hear the word, but there are so many things going on in my life. God, unfortunately, gets choked out. Thorns come in different forms and cause my life to be unfruitful.
Maybe you know what the third scenario is like too. Here is an activity that helps me and I encourage you to try…
Do not post the following questions ☺ but maybe grab a pen and paper, take some time to pray, and write these out.
What is frustrating me right now?
What am I worried or anxious about?
What am I scared or concerned about?
In what ways do I feel inadequate?
What chokes God out of my life?
What makes my life unfruitful?
What am I thankful for? How has God been good to me?
What am I looking forward to?
P.S. If you are really feeling brave, share your list with your spouse, or parents, or a close friend.
*It is interesting that the words Jesus addressed to the wind and the waves (vs. 39) are exactly the same as he addressed to the demon-possessed man in Mark 1:25.
My prayer today is that you may be able to tell certain voices, thoughts, or storms in your life to “Be quiet, be still!”
“Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desire for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful.”
Worries of this life…Deceitfulness of wealth…Desire for other things…
I hear the word, but there are so many things going on in my life. God, unfortunately, gets choked out. Thorns come in different forms and cause my life to be unfruitful.
Maybe you know what the third scenario is like too. Here is an activity that helps me and I encourage you to try…
Do not post the following questions ☺ but maybe grab a pen and paper, take some time to pray, and write these out.
What is frustrating me right now?
What am I worried or anxious about?
What am I scared or concerned about?
In what ways do I feel inadequate?
What chokes God out of my life?
What makes my life unfruitful?
What am I thankful for? How has God been good to me?
What am I looking forward to?
P.S. If you are really feeling brave, share your list with your spouse, or parents, or a close friend.
*It is interesting that the words Jesus addressed to the wind and the waves (vs. 39) are exactly the same as he addressed to the demon-possessed man in Mark 1:25.
My prayer today is that you may be able to tell certain voices, thoughts, or storms in your life to “Be quiet, be still!”
3.24.2009
3 pieces
Mark is a staightforward Gospel. It simply tells the story of Jesus - in power and servanthood. There is much packed into each chapter. Today, three things jumped out at me.
1. Jesus saw the faith of four men who brought a friend to him to be healed. Mark is telling this story, giving a picture of Jesus carrying the authority of God. But he also is giving a picture of how important it is that we, in our faith, carry our family, our friends, our neighbors to Jesus. This is why INVEST & INVITE is such a vital action. We are to invest & invite so that our family, friends, neighbors can experience life change with Jesus. Who are you investing in? Who are you inviting for Easter? (Remember, this man's friends didn't have to heal the man - they didn't have to explain anything to him - they simply brought him to Jesus.)
2. Jesus called Matthew. Maybe this jumped out at me because my name is Matthew. Or maybe it is because I realized how Matthew was such a bad choice for the job. Or maybe it was both - how my name is Matthew and I am a bad choice for the job (trust me, I know me better than you know me.). Humanly, it didn't make sense for Jesus to call Matthew. But he did. And Jesus calls you and me, regardless of what it looks like from a human perspective. Then, Jesus went to a party at Matthew's house - full of tax collectors and sinners. Hmmm. Have you gone to a 'Matthew party' lately? Maybe we should throw a 'Matthew party' for our neighbors. No preaching, no DVD, no worship music...just people hanging out talking about life.
3. The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. I love this thought. How often do we simply follow rules because we think this is what makes God happy? The command about the Sabbath was given because that is how we were created to live. Click here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjW63LuqYm8) and watch this preview. Rob has some great thoughts about life rhythm.
What jumped at you today?
1. Jesus saw the faith of four men who brought a friend to him to be healed. Mark is telling this story, giving a picture of Jesus carrying the authority of God. But he also is giving a picture of how important it is that we, in our faith, carry our family, our friends, our neighbors to Jesus. This is why INVEST & INVITE is such a vital action. We are to invest & invite so that our family, friends, neighbors can experience life change with Jesus. Who are you investing in? Who are you inviting for Easter? (Remember, this man's friends didn't have to heal the man - they didn't have to explain anything to him - they simply brought him to Jesus.)
2. Jesus called Matthew. Maybe this jumped out at me because my name is Matthew. Or maybe it is because I realized how Matthew was such a bad choice for the job. Or maybe it was both - how my name is Matthew and I am a bad choice for the job (trust me, I know me better than you know me.). Humanly, it didn't make sense for Jesus to call Matthew. But he did. And Jesus calls you and me, regardless of what it looks like from a human perspective. Then, Jesus went to a party at Matthew's house - full of tax collectors and sinners. Hmmm. Have you gone to a 'Matthew party' lately? Maybe we should throw a 'Matthew party' for our neighbors. No preaching, no DVD, no worship music...just people hanging out talking about life.
3. The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. I love this thought. How often do we simply follow rules because we think this is what makes God happy? The command about the Sabbath was given because that is how we were created to live. Click here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjW63LuqYm8) and watch this preview. Rob has some great thoughts about life rhythm.
What jumped at you today?
3.23.2009
Boldly Go
In one chapter we learn of the way prepped by John the Baptist, the baptism of Christ, his time and temptation in the desert, the calling of the first disciples, Jesus driving out demons and healing many AND Christ's need for solitude. Wow! That's a lot in one little chapter. It certainly gives us a good overview of the preparation of Jesus' early ministry and the beginning of His ministry.
I think I would love to have met John the Baptist. He sure seems like we was an "out there" kind of guy, or in today's language, John was definitely an "outside of the box" thinker and doer! Can you imagine being given the call to prepare the way for the Son of God? Talk about responsibility and courage. As I read this, I wondered what parallels I could draw from John's ministry.
I certainly am not preparing the way for Christ's ministry, but aren't we all really preparing the way for Christ's return? According to Matthew 28:19-20 we are to be discipling, preaching and baptizing....that's what John the Baptist was doing. And he was obviously sold out, bought in, and 100% committed to the cause of Christ. I believe it was that passion that led to the fervor with which he preached the coming of Christ and the need for repentance. We, too, should be doing the same. Yes, I do believe that with many people we have to "earn the right" to share the gospel--we have to build a relationship and earn credibility. But how often do we wait too long? Come up with one excuse after another of why it's not time? We are each and everyone called to spread the Good News.
There's a lot in this passage and I realized I have focused on one small part. Feel free to share your thoughts on other aspects of today's reading. Personally, God used verses 1-8 today to remind me of a commandment He gave me to not only live out my faith, but to share it openly and honestly as well. I'm not going to start eating locusts or wearing camel's hair clothing, but I think I could take a few tips from John's boldness and commitment.
Father,
May we be very aware today of the chances you give us to share your love and Truth. As people pass by us, may we not let the opportunities pass us by. Give us courage to speak when You want us to speak. Help us to remember that we are being watched by neighbors, co-workers, family and even strangers and daily we have a chance to live in obedience to you.
Amen.
3.19.2009
You want something... but don’t get it.
James starts chapter 4 with this question and answer,
“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from YOUR DESIRES that battle within you? You want something but you don’t get it…”
You want something… but you don’t get it….
This little phrase really slapped me in the face as I read ☺ and it is so true.
How do I act when I want something, and I don’t get it?
This passage makes more sense when we look at the end of chapter 3. James writes about two kinds of wisdom: heavenly and earthly. Both are identifiable by the fruit they produce. Wisdom from heaven is pure, peace loving, considerate, full of mercy. Earthly wisdom is full of disorder, selfish ambition, bitterness, and envy.
I don’t want to brag, but looking at that list I am full of “heavenly” wisdom…
At least, when it is easy to be.
Yet when I really, really want something, and then I do not get it... envy, bitterness, disorder, manipulation, quarrels etc.…
As we read James 3 and 4 we must ask ourselves these questions: How do I treat others when I do not get what I want? Do I connive, manipulate, or enforce my will?
Do I seek God’s will, and heavenly wisdom? Do I pray with the right motives? Do I remain humble and submit myself to God?
Because I am usually wise, until I want something and don’t get it.
“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from YOUR DESIRES that battle within you? You want something but you don’t get it…”
You want something… but you don’t get it….
This little phrase really slapped me in the face as I read ☺ and it is so true.
How do I act when I want something, and I don’t get it?
This passage makes more sense when we look at the end of chapter 3. James writes about two kinds of wisdom: heavenly and earthly. Both are identifiable by the fruit they produce. Wisdom from heaven is pure, peace loving, considerate, full of mercy. Earthly wisdom is full of disorder, selfish ambition, bitterness, and envy.
I don’t want to brag, but looking at that list I am full of “heavenly” wisdom…
At least, when it is easy to be.
Yet when I really, really want something, and then I do not get it... envy, bitterness, disorder, manipulation, quarrels etc.…
As we read James 3 and 4 we must ask ourselves these questions: How do I treat others when I do not get what I want? Do I connive, manipulate, or enforce my will?
Do I seek God’s will, and heavenly wisdom? Do I pray with the right motives? Do I remain humble and submit myself to God?
Because I am usually wise, until I want something and don’t get it.
3.18.2009
the tongue.
Can you roll your tongue?
Can you control your tongue? James takes some time to talk about how important, but how difficult it is to control the tongue. You will definitely hear a sermon sometime in the next year on this subject. I've been wanting to do a series on this for the past year or two - but it just hasn't come together yet. At the end of his comments about the tongue, James makes a statement that is so very convicting to me: Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can't draw fresh water from a salty spring. What is he saying here? Is he saying that our heart, our motives can be made known by the words we choose to use? I think it was Scooby Doo who said "rhut rho." And I think Jesus said something to the effect of "Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks." How do you assimilate these verses? What do you take from these instructions from James? And is it ok to quote James, Jesus and Scooby Doo in the same blog entry?
Can you control your tongue? James takes some time to talk about how important, but how difficult it is to control the tongue. You will definitely hear a sermon sometime in the next year on this subject. I've been wanting to do a series on this for the past year or two - but it just hasn't come together yet. At the end of his comments about the tongue, James makes a statement that is so very convicting to me: Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can't draw fresh water from a salty spring. What is he saying here? Is he saying that our heart, our motives can be made known by the words we choose to use? I think it was Scooby Doo who said "rhut rho." And I think Jesus said something to the effect of "Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks." How do you assimilate these verses? What do you take from these instructions from James? And is it ok to quote James, Jesus and Scooby Doo in the same blog entry?
3.17.2009
dead?
This piece of James is just convicting. Seriously - James uses plain language to get a very important point across. If you claim to have faith, but don't have any outward evidence (and he's not talking about showing up at church), you're only fooling yourself. Here it is again...just in case you skimmed over it in your reading:
What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don't show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? 15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, 16 and you say, "Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well"—but then you don't give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
17 So you see, faith by itself isn't enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, "Some people have faith; others have good deeds." But I say, "How can you show me your faith if you don't have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds."
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. 20 How foolish! Can't you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
There is much debate over this passage of scripture. You have some who say: if you really believe this, you believe in salvation by works (or that you are made right with God because you do the right things). You have some who say: you have to do the right thing to be right with God. And then, there are those with a more balanced perspective: you are made right with God through Christ alone (faith)...but that faith makes itself known in how you live. If you don't live it out, I'm not sure how real it is.
So what do you think? Was this convicting to you?
What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don't show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? 15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, 16 and you say, "Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well"—but then you don't give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
17 So you see, faith by itself isn't enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, "Some people have faith; others have good deeds." But I say, "How can you show me your faith if you don't have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds."
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. 20 How foolish! Can't you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
There is much debate over this passage of scripture. You have some who say: if you really believe this, you believe in salvation by works (or that you are made right with God because you do the right things). You have some who say: you have to do the right thing to be right with God. And then, there are those with a more balanced perspective: you are made right with God through Christ alone (faith)...but that faith makes itself known in how you live. If you don't live it out, I'm not sure how real it is.
So what do you think? Was this convicting to you?
3.16.2009
Just do it
James might just be my favorite book of the Bible. So, I am excited to delve into Chapter 1 with you.
First, I love that we are reminded to be joyful as we face and endure trials. While it is often difficult to assume this attitude during the trial, we all appreciate the maturity of faith and gift of grace as a result of the experience. Knowing that the endurance of a variety of trials will increase my spiritual stamina and develop my moral character has to change my attitude and approach to any challenges that might come my way. Let me share a thought from The Expositor's Bible Commentary on verse 12: "the word dokimos, which indicates that the man 'has stood the test', was used to describe the successful testing of precious metals and coins. It referred to the process of testing and also to the consequent approval of the tested object as genuine." I love that picture--that God would watch my process and deem me, my Walk and my Faith, as genuine. How I long to please the Lord in that way!
It is interesting to me that James points out in the next few verses that temptation does not come from God, nor does it come from outside sources. Rather it comes from “his own evil desire.” Of course Satan tempts us, but sometimes we spend more time placing blame then recognizing that which is within us and giving it up to God. I think this section can be summed up by a Casting Crown song entitled “Slow Fade”; I recommend searching it on itunes and giving it a listen—let me entice you with this one line “Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid…”
I think verses 19-27 could be summed up by quoting Nike…“just do it”. Several times in my life I have had the privilege of learning sign language. I love this language and seem to pick it up rather quickly. However, my “learning phase” has rarely been coupled with a “practical phase”; in other words, I am taught how to position my hands and fingers in certain ways to make specific words for communication, but I never have anyone to actually sign to. The result? After a few months, I’ve forgotten most of it again and am reduced to being able to tell you my name and to “stop” or “wait”—helpful with 2 year olds and that’s about it! The same goes for our studies of God’s Word. We must listen and read then obey, experience and DO.
Reflect on all we have read in the N.T. together this year. Are you putting it into practice? What have you changed in your life as a result? How has your Christ-like love manifested itself lately?
First, I love that we are reminded to be joyful as we face and endure trials. While it is often difficult to assume this attitude during the trial, we all appreciate the maturity of faith and gift of grace as a result of the experience. Knowing that the endurance of a variety of trials will increase my spiritual stamina and develop my moral character has to change my attitude and approach to any challenges that might come my way. Let me share a thought from The Expositor's Bible Commentary on verse 12: "the word dokimos, which indicates that the man 'has stood the test', was used to describe the successful testing of precious metals and coins. It referred to the process of testing and also to the consequent approval of the tested object as genuine." I love that picture--that God would watch my process and deem me, my Walk and my Faith, as genuine. How I long to please the Lord in that way!
It is interesting to me that James points out in the next few verses that temptation does not come from God, nor does it come from outside sources. Rather it comes from “his own evil desire.” Of course Satan tempts us, but sometimes we spend more time placing blame then recognizing that which is within us and giving it up to God. I think this section can be summed up by a Casting Crown song entitled “Slow Fade”; I recommend searching it on itunes and giving it a listen—let me entice you with this one line “Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid…”
I think verses 19-27 could be summed up by quoting Nike…“just do it”. Several times in my life I have had the privilege of learning sign language. I love this language and seem to pick it up rather quickly. However, my “learning phase” has rarely been coupled with a “practical phase”; in other words, I am taught how to position my hands and fingers in certain ways to make specific words for communication, but I never have anyone to actually sign to. The result? After a few months, I’ve forgotten most of it again and am reduced to being able to tell you my name and to “stop” or “wait”—helpful with 2 year olds and that’s about it! The same goes for our studies of God’s Word. We must listen and read then obey, experience and DO.
Reflect on all we have read in the N.T. together this year. Are you putting it into practice? What have you changed in your life as a result? How has your Christ-like love manifested itself lately?
3.13.2009
A request and a warning
Paul opens II Thes. ch. 3 with a request for prayer:
Pray that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored. Pray for deliverance and protection from evil and wicked men. These are good things to pray for and it is easy to understand why Paul would want prayer for such things, as should we.
In the second part of the chapter, Paul warns the Christians in Thessalonika about a certain kind of people. He warns them to stay away from these people and not become like these people.
Does anyone know who these people are? Why is Paul so adamant about keeping away from them?
What type of person would this be in our world today? How do you love these people and spread the message of Jesus to them?
Some thoughts to ponder for your Friday…
And pray today that the message of Jesus would spread rapidly through our church community in an honoring way, and that we would have protection and deliverance from the evil one.
Pray that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored. Pray for deliverance and protection from evil and wicked men. These are good things to pray for and it is easy to understand why Paul would want prayer for such things, as should we.
In the second part of the chapter, Paul warns the Christians in Thessalonika about a certain kind of people. He warns them to stay away from these people and not become like these people.
Does anyone know who these people are? Why is Paul so adamant about keeping away from them?
What type of person would this be in our world today? How do you love these people and spread the message of Jesus to them?
Some thoughts to ponder for your Friday…
And pray today that the message of Jesus would spread rapidly through our church community in an honoring way, and that we would have protection and deliverance from the evil one.
3.10.2009
prayer
In chapter 3, I love one of the prayers that Paul prays for this church. Here it is:
And may the Master pour on the love so it fills your lives and splashes over on everyone around you...
Don't you love that picture? This is going to become one of my prayers for McDowell Mountain Community Church. I am going to pray that God will pour His love on us so much that it will fill our lives and splash over on everyone around us. What do you think would happen in your home, in your neighborhood, in your school, in your business, in your _________(fill in the blank) if you had love splashing out on everyone around you? Many of us have anger and frustration splashing out onto everyone around us. Don't you want to be someone known more for your love than anything else?
Anything jump out at you from chapter 2 or 3?
And may the Master pour on the love so it fills your lives and splashes over on everyone around you...
Don't you love that picture? This is going to become one of my prayers for McDowell Mountain Community Church. I am going to pray that God will pour His love on us so much that it will fill our lives and splash over on everyone around us. What do you think would happen in your home, in your neighborhood, in your school, in your business, in your _________(fill in the blank) if you had love splashing out on everyone around you? Many of us have anger and frustration splashing out onto everyone around us. Don't you want to be someone known more for your love than anything else?
Anything jump out at you from chapter 2 or 3?
3.09.2009
1 Thessalonians Orienting Data
These are two short letters, but very important letters. There are some disagreements among scholars, but I believe that these were two of Paul's first letters. Paul wrote these letters to a church that he had started in Thessalonika. In the first letter, we will find a couple of reasons for him to write. The first is simply to encourage. Being a Christian in this day would have been extremely difficult. Early Christians were in the minority and suffered much persecution. The second reason had to do with Christ's second coming. Paul wanted these Christians well grounded in this important belief.
As you and I read, I pray that we are encouraged. Paul writes about the history of this young church. Maybe you and I will be reminded of our history, MMCC's history - and be encouraged by God's grace and direction in our lives. And, as we read later chapters, I pray that we will be encouraged about what will one day take place - Christ's return.
Chapter 1 is so appropriate to where we find ourselves. We will experience trouble in our lives together - and how we respond to that trouble will be a reflection of the hope and trust we have in God. Our outward behavior is a picture of what lives inside. I love how Eugene Peterson puts it in the Message:
We don’t even have to say anything anymore—you’re the message!
So, MMCC - be the message. Live the message. And I guess if we have to, we'll use words.
As you and I read, I pray that we are encouraged. Paul writes about the history of this young church. Maybe you and I will be reminded of our history, MMCC's history - and be encouraged by God's grace and direction in our lives. And, as we read later chapters, I pray that we will be encouraged about what will one day take place - Christ's return.
Chapter 1 is so appropriate to where we find ourselves. We will experience trouble in our lives together - and how we respond to that trouble will be a reflection of the hope and trust we have in God. Our outward behavior is a picture of what lives inside. I love how Eugene Peterson puts it in the Message:
We don’t even have to say anything anymore—you’re the message!
So, MMCC - be the message. Live the message. And I guess if we have to, we'll use words.
3.03.2009
Therefor
Remember, everything that Paul writes from this point on is built on the foundation of chapters 1-11. We've got to have the understanding of those first chapters to live out what Paul will challenge us toward in those chapters we now read.
I have to admit that I am bent toward verses 1 and 2. I love these verses and view them as the simplest explanation of what it means to live the Christian life. And the best commentary I have found on these two verses is Eugene Peterson's paraphrase found in the Message. It says this:
1 So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. 2 Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
Christianity isn't about showing up at church on Sundays (although that is important) and it isn't about memorizing verses from the Bible (although that is important)...(I could go on here). Christianity is about offering God our lives - every bit of our lives. Christianity is about living differently, in light of what God has done for us. How different do you think our world would be if Christians took these two verses more seriously? What would be different about your life if you lived these two verses?
Don't get me wrong, I love the rest of the chapter. You and I need to do what we were gifted and called to do. You and I need to rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. We need to meet needs as we see them. I am challenged by all of these things.
So what hit you and challenged you today? Let us know what God will use from this to work in you today...this week...this month...
I have to admit that I am bent toward verses 1 and 2. I love these verses and view them as the simplest explanation of what it means to live the Christian life. And the best commentary I have found on these two verses is Eugene Peterson's paraphrase found in the Message. It says this:
1 So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. 2 Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
Christianity isn't about showing up at church on Sundays (although that is important) and it isn't about memorizing verses from the Bible (although that is important)...(I could go on here). Christianity is about offering God our lives - every bit of our lives. Christianity is about living differently, in light of what God has done for us. How different do you think our world would be if Christians took these two verses more seriously? What would be different about your life if you lived these two verses?
Don't get me wrong, I love the rest of the chapter. You and I need to do what we were gifted and called to do. You and I need to rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. We need to meet needs as we see them. I am challenged by all of these things.
So what hit you and challenged you today? Let us know what God will use from this to work in you today...this week...this month...
3.02.2009
11&12
I have to admit that I flew through chapter 11 because chapter 12 is one of my favorite chapters in the entire Bible. All of this discussion about the Jews and the Gentiles and God's plan. Verse 33 says this:
Oh, how great are God's riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways!
What a great reminder. There are times that I do not completely understand the circumstances and direction I sense God leading - but it is vitally important that I remember HE IS GOD AND I AM NOT. God's ways are so much higher than ours and His plan so much more perfect than ours. Do you remember the story of Job - after some pretty rotten things in his life, he finds himself questioning God. If you get the chance, go back and read Job 42, verses 1-6. God's ways are perfect, and as we were reminded last week, He is always working for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purposes.
Tomorrow begins with this one word: THEREFOR. What Paul is about to say, what he is about to challenge us toward is completely built on the foundation of chapters 1-11. What we read the last two weeks and today builds our UNDERSTANDING so that we can now APPLY it to our lives. We've been packing our minds with WISDOM, and we will now be challenged to LIVE accordingly.
Are you enjoying Romans? Why or why not?
Oh, how great are God's riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways!
What a great reminder. There are times that I do not completely understand the circumstances and direction I sense God leading - but it is vitally important that I remember HE IS GOD AND I AM NOT. God's ways are so much higher than ours and His plan so much more perfect than ours. Do you remember the story of Job - after some pretty rotten things in his life, he finds himself questioning God. If you get the chance, go back and read Job 42, verses 1-6. God's ways are perfect, and as we were reminded last week, He is always working for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purposes.
Tomorrow begins with this one word: THEREFOR. What Paul is about to say, what he is about to challenge us toward is completely built on the foundation of chapters 1-11. What we read the last two weeks and today builds our UNDERSTANDING so that we can now APPLY it to our lives. We've been packing our minds with WISDOM, and we will now be challenged to LIVE accordingly.
Are you enjoying Romans? Why or why not?
2.27.2009
Believe and confess
Good morning my fellow Romans readers! We are more than half way through Romans; do you have a new found appreciation for Paul's intellect and God's grace?
I want to focus on verses 9-13 today. Wow, this is a powerful passage! The first thing I noticed is that Paul is quoting scripture in verse 11 & 13. Where are these from? Verse 11 comes from Isaiah 28:16 and verse 13 is from Joel 2:32. I encourage you go to read those verses in context and see how they relate.
This passage sort of sums up the road to salvation: believe and confess. Yes, it's that simple. All the lessons learned over the last 2 weeks about the Law and sin and putting our trust and faith in God and important, but I love this reminder that to gain that freedom in Christ is really quite a simple act. Now, for some, getting to that point is a long hard road with many battles as they try to hang on to their old selves, to the supposed freedom with which sin deceives. But, when we come to that moment when we are ready to freely give ourselves to Christ, there's not a long list of requirements--believe with your heart, confess with your mouth.
I was so blessed to grow up in a home, a family, where God was the center and, thankfully, my path to salvation was fairly free of obstacles and road blocks. I gave my heart to Christ in 5th grade. Later, I struggled with the validity of my salvation--there was no big moment or change in my life, so was it real? Then a very dear friend of mine pointed out that I should be thankful that I didn't have to go down a difficult path in order to find a need for Christ, He was just always there and it was very easy for me to believe. I rededicated myself to Him in college when I realized what a blessing my path to salvation really was. I would love it if you would share a little of your story today!
p.s. is everyone else asking the same question I am: Where's Grant?
2.26.2009
Chapter 9
Sorry--I'm late in the day and this is a short posting, especially compared to the material in Chapter 9. What jumped out most to both Darin and I, was verse 32. What God brought to my heart are people in my life that think their works are enough. And, I was convicted in prayer for them. It reminded me of Megan in first grade.
She wasn't being challenged at all and this became very clear one day when we were running late for school. Her spelling list was lying on the table and, realizing we hadn't studied for it at all, she grabbed it, then laid it back down mumbling to herself "I don't need to study. I know them all already. I always do." And, she aced the test. My point? It was very difficult that year to teach her study habits that she would need later on in life when she didn't need the studying to do well now. When people think their works are "good enough", it is often difficult to get them to realize and accept a need for Christ. It's that "why change what you're doing if it's already working for you?", kind of thinking. It made me examine my attitude today and how I'm doin' on my Walk. I need to be careful to not equate my works for Christ with my living for Christ.
One last thought: I also like how I read it in The Bible Exposition Commentary, "They (Israel) rejected "grace righteousness" and tried to please God with Law righteousness." There's that Law versus grace thing again. Thank God for His grace to those who believe!
2.25.2009
Hope and Victory and Life, Oh My!
Whew! Those first few chapters of Romans have been a lot to get through. Let’s move on.
What I noticed first about this chapter is all of the well-known verses. Here are the ones that popped out at me:
v. 1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…”
v. 28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
v. 35a “Who shall separate us from the love of God?”
v. 38-39 “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
All of these verses by themselves have great impact, but when you see them in context, you realize the weight of their great news! We should jump for joy; we should go skipping along the yellow brick road as we realize what great hope we have in Christ. The Law, sin, and inherent death of the flesh all give way to a great victory…new life in Christ.
Personally, verses 26 & 27 tugged most on my heart. Let’s get some conversation going today; what verses most reflected the hope in your heart and life today? Please share!
What I noticed first about this chapter is all of the well-known verses. Here are the ones that popped out at me:
v. 1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…”
v. 28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
v. 35a “Who shall separate us from the love of God?”
v. 38-39 “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
All of these verses by themselves have great impact, but when you see them in context, you realize the weight of their great news! We should jump for joy; we should go skipping along the yellow brick road as we realize what great hope we have in Christ. The Law, sin, and inherent death of the flesh all give way to a great victory…new life in Christ.
Personally, verses 26 & 27 tugged most on my heart. Let’s get some conversation going today; what verses most reflected the hope in your heart and life today? Please share!
2.24.2009
Laying down the Law
Let me start by admitting that this was a tough one for me—bring out the commentaries!
Legalism seems to be the running theme; that point at which obedience to the law becomes the route to holiness. And, often leads to self proclaimed judgment superiority. Paul shows us that while the law is important it should not be our ruler. But we are divided—flesh and soul. Our flesh is grounded in man’s sinful nature and uses the law as a temptation.
As a mom and former preschool teacher I know there are certain phrases you shouldn’t say to a young child:
“Johnny, here’s the scissors. Cut the paper, but whatever you do, don’t cut your hair”
“Mommy needs just a few minutes of peace and quiet so please get along and don’t hit your sister”
“Don’t put that in your mouth!”
What does each of these phrases carry the potential to do? That’s right! It plants the idea—one that may not have existed before. This is what Paul is conveying. The Law which is God given, has been corrupted: “sin found a way to pervert the command into a temptation, making a piece of ‘forbidden fruit’ out of it” (The Message).
When we died to our old selves, we died to the Law. The Law that perverts, condemns, and misleads. Ugh! About now my head is starting to go fuzzy. How do we find the balance between obedience under the Law and living for the Law? WE don’t. Only through the leading of the Holy Spirit can our flesh be defeated and our obedience manifested in Him.
What do I take away from this? My life and walk with Christ should not and cannot be a list of do’s and don’ts. I must daily surrender both my flesh and mind to Him and the Holy Spirit.
Legalism seems to be the running theme; that point at which obedience to the law becomes the route to holiness. And, often leads to self proclaimed judgment superiority. Paul shows us that while the law is important it should not be our ruler. But we are divided—flesh and soul. Our flesh is grounded in man’s sinful nature and uses the law as a temptation.
As a mom and former preschool teacher I know there are certain phrases you shouldn’t say to a young child:
“Johnny, here’s the scissors. Cut the paper, but whatever you do, don’t cut your hair”
“Mommy needs just a few minutes of peace and quiet so please get along and don’t hit your sister”
“Don’t put that in your mouth!”
What does each of these phrases carry the potential to do? That’s right! It plants the idea—one that may not have existed before. This is what Paul is conveying. The Law which is God given, has been corrupted: “sin found a way to pervert the command into a temptation, making a piece of ‘forbidden fruit’ out of it” (The Message).
When we died to our old selves, we died to the Law. The Law that perverts, condemns, and misleads. Ugh! About now my head is starting to go fuzzy. How do we find the balance between obedience under the Law and living for the Law? WE don’t. Only through the leading of the Holy Spirit can our flesh be defeated and our obedience manifested in Him.
What do I take away from this? My life and walk with Christ should not and cannot be a list of do’s and don’ts. I must daily surrender both my flesh and mind to Him and the Holy Spirit.
2.23.2009
Dead end
Some very dear friends of ours have a teenage girl whose life over the last few years is a great picture of Romans 6. She has been in a constant state of rebellion towards God and her parents. She finally admitted to me a couple of weeks ago that she will be happy when her parents just do what she says and let her do whatever she wants. In other words, she wants freedom. Freedom to live as she pleases with no boundaries placed on her by those troublesome adults living in that house with her. Along with many other words of advice and Truth, I shared with her that if her parents chose to give her all the freedom she wanted, as soon as poor choices and consequences caught up with her, she’d be blaming them for not making her follow rules and so on and so on.
This is exactly what Paul is talking about in our reading today. Freedom outside of God isn’t really freedom because it leads to nowhere good. In fact, it leads to death. We, as humans, need God’s boundaries so we don’t stray off the path of righteousness. And God knows that. But He allows us to make that choice so we truly appreciate His grace and the freedom of living….now and forever with Christ.
And don’t you just love the beautiful picture of baptism that God gave us symbolizing this very thing? Every summer Scottsdale park and rec sponsors a mud fest at Chapparel Park. Ever been? There is mud everywhere. Mud piles, mud obstacle courses, mud, mud, and more mud. I took my kids ONCE. Before they could even get in the car, I made them strip down as much as they could and sit on towels in the car, then straight to the bathtub they went. We all know what it feels like to be covered in filth, then washed clean with water. You think you’ve never felt cleaner. That’s the picture of baptism—to be washed cleaner than ever, whiter than snow. To be buried to your old self, then raised with new life. Sin no longer is your master or has a hold on you, although Satan sure tries.
What old sin has been trying to retake you? Today, think back to your baptism. Remember that “you” died to live in Christ. Sin is a dead end, but life in Christ is ever new. Live as proof that you have life abundant.
This is exactly what Paul is talking about in our reading today. Freedom outside of God isn’t really freedom because it leads to nowhere good. In fact, it leads to death. We, as humans, need God’s boundaries so we don’t stray off the path of righteousness. And God knows that. But He allows us to make that choice so we truly appreciate His grace and the freedom of living….now and forever with Christ.
And don’t you just love the beautiful picture of baptism that God gave us symbolizing this very thing? Every summer Scottsdale park and rec sponsors a mud fest at Chapparel Park. Ever been? There is mud everywhere. Mud piles, mud obstacle courses, mud, mud, and more mud. I took my kids ONCE. Before they could even get in the car, I made them strip down as much as they could and sit on towels in the car, then straight to the bathtub they went. We all know what it feels like to be covered in filth, then washed clean with water. You think you’ve never felt cleaner. That’s the picture of baptism—to be washed cleaner than ever, whiter than snow. To be buried to your old self, then raised with new life. Sin no longer is your master or has a hold on you, although Satan sure tries.
What old sin has been trying to retake you? Today, think back to your baptism. Remember that “you” died to live in Christ. Sin is a dead end, but life in Christ is ever new. Live as proof that you have life abundant.
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