Reclaim Christianity

Homegoings

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Mon, 21 May 2012 04:27:00 +0000

May 20, 2012 "Homecoming" sermon, at Mt Pisgah Baptist Church.

Welcome to Mt Pisgah's Homecoming bash!

This may be Homecoming, but maybe we should make this a celebration of our 1st Annual Home-going. Some of us may be closer to "going home" than others, eh? By the way... lunch will follow this sermon ....but I promise ...the drinks aren't spiked; i.e. Jim Jones.

As important as it is to know, and to reminisce about, where we've been ....it is all to the purpose of knowing where we are going. I'd like to read something which I recently read myself....

"Week by week we drowsily summon the God who shouted Job down out of the tempest, and blithely invoke Him who toppled Pharaoh's empire with wave after wave of catastrophe. We glibly propose to encounter the King of kings who could wither a tree with a glance and who cracked death itself in two ....[all] as though we were taking a trip to the post office."

A right quote and a revealing one. We often treat God either as a genie whom we can summon, or a disconnected baron of whom we can only but speak. He is neither. Rather, we must hold, in faith, that He is the God of the scriptures, and to believe or SAY that we believe requires that we know Him through His inspired word; lest He be dwarfed to our own imaginations, ponderings, and needful desires. He is, truly, King of kings and Lord of lords. And before we get too cliche.... Let me be clear. It is not that He is Lord of all or not Lord at all. No, He is Lord of all whether or not we like it at all.

15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world-the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions-is not from the Father but is from the world.
17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:15-17 ESV

It is rightly said that.... "This world is not our home." Yet I see two extremes in existance today.

(a) we hold on to life & prosperity as if we'll have either long enough to satisfy us

(b) or we neglect life and living as if we were honorary members of God's

Kingdom.

I think another cliche is true....... "Though we are in the world, we are not "of" the world."

I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. John 17:14-16

1. So how do we keep from "the desires of the flesh / eyes?

After all, isn't it all we know?

Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality,
idolatry, sorcery, enmity [hostility], strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Galatians 5:19-21

How do we NOT love the world?

The short answer is.... we love God more.

And he said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
Matt 22:37-39

How do we know that we love God more?

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Galatians 5:22-24

2. Why should we not take pride in possessions?

And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:17 ESV

Homecomings are a wonderful tradition .....but they're only as good as compared to last year's, or as anticipated against next year's. We aren't here to celebrate ourselves; our accomplishments, or accolades. We aren't here as Christ' church to celebrate homecomings, or even home-goings .....as is humblingly evident upon each marked grave in that cemetary right behind you. No, we are indeed here to worship, and commit to full-service followship of, King Jesus Himself.

The Sovereign Authority of A Loving God

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Mon, 14 May 2012 05:16:00 +0000

⁵I am the Lord, and there is no other,

    besides me there is no God;
     I equip you, though you do not know me,
⁶that people may know, from the rising of the sun
    and from the west, that there is none besides me;
    I am the Lord, and there is no other.
⁷I form light and create darkness,
    I make well-being and create calamity,
    I am the Lord, who does all these things.

-Isaiah 45:5-7

God is "sovereign"

He is THE authority. He asks no permission nor consults any higher. He is NOT swayed by anything outside of His own perfect will. He reserves the right to use us any way He sees fit; to suit "His will" without necessarily asking our opinion or giving notification. We bend to His needs, not He our own. If He meets our need it is simply, and firstly, His will to begin with. It is His love nature that causes Him to give thought to us.

He is NOT selfish. He reserves the right to form and create anything He desires, or destroy anything He desires. If He chooses to be selfish ...He cannot be wronged for it. However, His word indicates that He chose selflessness.

He is "just"

He is NOT a heartless dictator …or He wouldn't even bother "justifying" Himself as "just". He owes no explanation, nor justification, otherwise. His live nature causes Him to demonstrate Himself to us. "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)

He is "Lord"

He is NOT our servant or personal genie. He reserves no "right" of anything. He doesn't need to. To even think in terms of God having "rights" would show our arrogance, or at least our short-sightedness of "Who" He is!! He doesn't have to inherit "rights". He is RIGHTEOUS exemplified. He is RIGHTEOUSNESS exemplified. He does NOT have to answer to us, nor excuse Himself before us.

God hears us and uses the unlikely to fulfill His perfect and sovereign will. He loves us and by His own grace-filled nature, chose to redeem us, regardless that while we were sinners Christ died for us.

Fact or Faith: The Horse Must Pull the Cart

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 18:20:00 +0000

In recent times, in Christianity, much has been made of apologetics, or the ability to give a defense for, an account of, the facts which constitute our faith. To be sure... there are many "facts" to be accounted for in establishing the reasons for one's hope in Jesus Christ. There exist manuscript evidence, archaeological evidence, prophetic evidence, personal eyewitness evidence, etc. Christ-followers are, indeed, charged to equip themselves to be ready to give a reason for the hope in, and faith upon, Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (1 Peter 3:15).
But let it be stated, as equal truth, that along with the facts of faith, simple surrendering trust is also required. The facts of the Christian faith have always been, and will always be, scrutinized and vetted. Rightfully so. I believe they stand firm. But at the end of the day, and at the end of our days, we will all stand before God in judgment. We will be queried as to why we would be brought forth into the Kingdom of God. The ONLY correct response, according to all the factual evidences accumulated, is faith in Jesus Christ as the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). For without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6).
The facts are plenty. The doubts also abound. Genuine faith boils down to each individual's decision to trust and obey. Not a blind, ignorant faith with no foundation, but even with all the facts and arguments against faith combined ...we are left with a choice; a decision to "let go and let God" as it's been said.
Faith in Christ will cost you, at its onset, the freedom to run your own show and rule over your own life. There is a better, more joyful, plan for your life (Jeremiah 29:11-13).
Facts alone won't save you or I. Only faith in the resurrected, living, Christ will do. Here's to making sure the horse pulls the cart.

The Message of The Cross Is ...It Won't Carry You

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 14:13:00 +0000

A year, or so, ago my youngest son erected a cross; made from wooden planks from a broken part of our fence. It was constructed by a few nails and some white paint. The paint has since faded, and the nails holding the cross together have turned loose or broken. All that remains is a scarred single plank, surely not recognizable as the symbol it once was.

With the once beautiful representation of, and now brokenness of, Adam's cross ....and as we celebrate Christ' glorious, profound, unimaginable resurrection I am reminded of this simple reality. The cross will not carry you nor I. It is not sufficient to do so. It is ill-equipped to do so. ONLY Christ can carry us.

The cross won't carry you

The cross is broken. A man-made device, intended for destruction, the cross is only as powerful as it's creator makes it. It proved itself to be fallible, temporary. And while man constructed the cross ....it could not exist short of the very elements by which its ultimate Creator designed them. What man intended for evil ....God meant for good! (Gen. 50:20) Just as Joseph, in the Genesis story, stated in relation to the evil his brothers intended against him ....he knew that God had another use for his situation.

Your struggles won't carry you

You are broken. Whatever things we conquer and struggle through in this life, death ultimately comes, defeating any victories we manage. We have all sinned against God Himself, and have fallen short of His glory and His standard (Rom. 3:23). There is no good we can do which will defeat the ultimate response to our fallen nature .....death.

Only Christ', Himself, and His sacrifice will carry you

Christ "became" broken, for our sake and our inability to establish any real good for ourselves. He was pierced for our transgressions. He was crushed for our sins (Isaiah 53:5).

Living life ,for whatever opportunity it can bring, is fruitless and pointless. The only eternal good we can do is surrendering to Christ, who can carry you, and who did carry your sins. A broken tree, a broken body, a living Savior for our brokenness. He "is" alive! Hallelujah, He is alive!

Hearing & Doing

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 14:08:00 +0000

1 Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples,
2 saying to them, "Go into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me.
3 If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, 'The Lord needs them,' and he will send them at once."
4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying,
5 "Say to the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.'"
6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them.
7 They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them.
8 Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.
9 And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!"
10 And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, "Who is this?"
11 And the crowds said, "This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee."
-Matt 21:1-11 ESV

1. Be Ready for Obedience

Our Lord will ask only that you do anything according to, and in alignment with, His sovereign will. If you feel the Lord is "calling" you to do something, ask yourself... "Does this align with God's revealed Word?" Once His truth is confirmed we need to respond quickly to His will, and do so boldly. Jesus asked two of His disciples to swipe a couple of donkeys! They "knew" their Lord would not ask anything outside of His own will. They trusted Him, in obedience. When I was called to Kenya in 2009 I already knew it was His will to go into all the world with the gospel. Therefore, the answer to my going came swiftly. Even as a new Believer... I knew, when my oldest was ill as a young child, that I should pray and ask the Lord for healing.

2. Study to Show Yourself Approved

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)

We can only know the Lord's will as it aligns with, or is revealed directly, in His Word. Jesus request of the two disciples was to fulfill a destiny set forth 450 - 500 years earlier.

9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. 10 I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim and the war horse from Jerusalem; and the battle bow shall be cut off, and he shall speak peace to the nations; his rule shall be from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth."
-Zechariah 9:9

The only possible responses were obedience or disobedience.

As Christians, we need to know our aim, and our goal. If we make up our own as we go through life ....this is not true Christianity; however "good" the thing may be. We must know God's revealed Word to us, and align with it, not contradict it. We must know the "whole" of His word. This provides "context" for our thoughts and actions.

3. Careful That Our Praising Does Not Become Cursing

We must count the cost of authentic Christianity. Our identity in Christ doesn't stem from our exactness in keeping His law. His law is good, and just from Him! However, as fallen people, redeemed only by His grace, do not miss the forest because of the trees. Humbly recognize His graceful life, death, and resurrection ...all for our own benefit. Then, let that grace produce good works.

"Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen."
-Hebrews 13:20, 21

The same crowds which shouted "And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" ...were later those who shouted... "Crucify Him!". From the same mouths come both blessing and cursing.

"but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and salt water? Can a fig tree, my brothers, bear olives, or a grapevine produce figs? Neither can a salt pond yield fresh water."
-James 3:8-12

James 1:19-25 instructs to be "quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;" and to be "doers", not only hearers, of the word. His word promises.... "But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing."

Context Is Everything! .....Mostly Everything

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 06:20:00 +0000

"Any part of the human body can only be properly explained in context of the whole body. And any part of the Bible can only be properly explained in reference to the whole Bible." -F.F. Bruce

How can I have God's perspective of living in a dying world?

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 05:04:00 +0000

Why do bad things happen? What kind of loving God......? Questions which cycle through with each generation. What is God's purpose? What is on His mind? How can I know it? Having the mind of Christ, and understanding God's overarching will and purpose "is" an attainable truth! His truth is not hidden from us, though some work is certainly intended for our disclosure of it. So, how do we have this mind? How do we know His general and specific will? How can I have God's perspective of living, while in this present world? This question assumes what I hope is already obvious. We will not be in the presently provided vehicle (our human body) forever! Whether a predetermined, or yet determined, number of years ....our time on Earth is, as Scripture states it, but a vapor. With that understanding in mind, it would only behoove you and I to share The Creator's perspective while we are here; His perspective on "things", on our "health", our "outlook" on living. His word has plenty to say on this subject.

"Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish." (Psalm 146:3, 4 ESV)

"As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life." (1 Timothy 6:17-19 ESV)

God's word, and His direction for living, are not vague, inconclusive, or uncertain at all. What "is" uncertain is our own willingness to observe and obey what He "has" instructed.

Let's begin this discussion with some self-disclosure, a statement of truth, an agreement between us... if you will. Truth is.... we only want to know God's will in two ways most of the time.....

1. We want to know His will when we feel hurt, abandoned, confused, or uncertain.
2. We want to know His will in how it can benefit us.

What is equally true is that we want a hands-off God when things are going well, or when things are going our way.

It would do us good to understand that He is either Lord "of" all, or He is not Lord "at" all. As elementary as it sounds.... this is the real root of the problem. It proves that selfishness and sinfulness are nearly synonomous words.

So, if we don't really think that we need God (at least actively speaking) when life is "ok", what does He have to do to have a complete relationship with us, to demonsrtate His Lordship to us, to get our attention for what is further beyond our understanding than the tips of our noses? To save us from ourselves? Most often, the answer is "friction", to put it in a pleasant term. Trial, testing, or difficulty ...are more expressive terms. We want a God who saves us when we are drowning, and who leaves us to our own decisions otherwise. This may be the very God we get.

"The reason why many are still troubled, still seeking, still making little forward progress is because they haven't yet come to the end of themselves. We're still trying to give orders, and interfering with God's work within us. " ― A.W. Tozer

"It is doubtful whether God can bless a man greatly until He has hurt him deeply." ― A.W. Tozer

Let's observe, from His word, a statement about these very realities.

"Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him." (James 1:12)

Q: What are "blessings"?

They are gifts from God, and what God makes, or provides, is good (vv. 16-17). "Blessed" is the man; not necessarily successful on his own, but for God's purpose and Christ' cause. Would you consider God's servant, Job, to have been blessed? We all know the story; how God allowed his family, his wealth, even his health to be taken away. Does this conclude that Job was never "blessed"? Job's health, wealth and his family were all God's provision to begin with, His to take away if He wanted. Let's be perfectly clear. I do not observe that it was God's desire to rob Job of these provisions. Instead, it was God's goal to draw Job even closer to Himself, for Job's "eternal" good, and God's glory. We put too much stock in stuff; the provisions, even the blessings, we aquire in this world. This dependence clouds our view of God's "true" goodness, His eternal goodness.

Q: What is "the test"?

"Trials" are allowed for our growth in the Lord, and dependence upon Him.

"A crown of life" is promised. Christ' own crown was painful and meant to mock and humiliate Him! Will your crown be one of your own glory?? Or will any achievment you experience be for His glory, and redirected to him?

"Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God," for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one." (James 1:13)

"If we are free to praise God, then we must be free to curse God. The very nature of our divinely given freedom makes evil possible." -Norman L. Geisler | If God, Why Evil

Liar, leunatic, or Lord?? Each must decide, and God's gracious allowance of free will allows you and I to choose, this day and each, whom we will serve. A flawless, sinless, perfect Lord cannot be tempted by evil. He is not the instigator of evil, yet He allows you and I to choose His goodness or our own decided evils. His interest is righteousness; that none of His created should perish, but have everlassting life in presence with Him.

"But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire." (James 1:14)

It is our free will to choose what we desire. No excuses of God pushing evil on us. No doubt, bad things happen to good people. We're all in this game of life together, and none of us is an island unto him/herself. Effects are rippled, good and bad, to others. When this happens we can grow or drown in our own sorrow. The choice is still ours ....separate and apart from our circumstances. This is a difficult statement to be sure. Yet when we stumble, or evevn fail, we have an opportunity made available to "depend" on Him.

"Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death." (James 1:15)

Put simply... we have been warned of the results of selfish, God-less, desire and it's outcome. We are, here, without excuse.

"Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." (James 1:16-17)

If God created it, it is "good"! If He allows it, it is ultimately good for us.

"Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures." (James 1:18)

We did not, and do not, choose Him. We choose ourselves, and our own needs. Yet, through Christ ....God chooses us.

"but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8 ESV)

Why inerrancy of Scripture is a deal maker or deal breaker

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 04:13:00 +0000

I recently ran across an article of an interview with former president, long-time Christian, and Sunday School teacher, Jimmy Carter. Granted, I've heard passing, and various, thoughts on Carter's views on Christ-followship, and I think I had heard that he had separated himself from Southern Baptist culture, in particular, some time ago. I had reserved even internally sizing-up his thoughts on genuine Christ-followship. I had no basis to wonder ....before today.

The below snippet of an interview with The Huffington Post reveals a source problem for any confessed Christ-follower..

HUFFINGTON POST: Should we approach the Bible literally, or metaphorically?
JIMMY CARTER: When we go to the Bible we should keep in mind that the basic principles of the Bible are taught by God, but written down by human beings deprived of modern day knowledge. So there is some fallibility in the writings of the Bible. But the basic principles are applicable to my life and I don't find any conflict among them.

(for sake of full disclosure, this is the URL to the full interview on Huffington Post's web-site: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/03/19/president-jimmy-carter-bible-book_n_1349570.html)

The statement "So there is some fallibility in the writings of the Bible" really says it all. No dissecting, nor debating, of modern-day cultural, and / or spiritual, topics is necessary, nor yet applicable! Forget discussions of homosexual marriage (which was, in part, the Huffington Post article), or anything else argued as "authoritative" based on Scripture. How can the scriptures be God's authoritative word, good for teaching, etc. (2 Tim. 3:16), when a Christ-follower has declared His word "fallible"? How one can conclude "any" of it to be trustworthy, if indeed tarnished by fallible human-hands, is beyond me.

With all respect, Mr Carter, I'd chunk my bible and write my own memoirs as a guide to spiritual living and thinking. I might even consider replacing it for Sunday School lessons. It would be far less contradictory and easier to swallow.

The Butterfly Effect

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 04:39:00 +0000

The "Butterfly Effect", or more technically the "sensitive dependence on initial conditions" is a theory of small cause, big effect ...at least in simple terms. The theory is derived from the theoretical example of a hurricane's formation being contingent on whether or not a distant butterfly had flapped its wings several weeks before. Could such a "reality" be true?

To be honest, I'm less about theories, and more about practical, literal, impacts these days. However, life has taught me that too much of that thinking, to the neglect of long-term impact thinking, can definitely lead to an altered lifestyle for my children and grand-children someday; whether positive or negative. This, too, is practical thinking. Balance.

So how do we learn to "think" beyond immediate needs? Is it selfish to make decisions for the here and now? Is it dismissive to think only of the future? Do decisions I make today really affect my children, grand-children, and future societies? Can one person have a ripple-like impact on culture and society? If so... how do I discern the difference? When are we making mountains of mole-hills, and when are those hills worth dying on?

As I keep discovering, the Scriptures of the true God exemplify very practical thinking. It is worth saying... God's word, while it certainly exists as a guide to our thinking (Psalm 119:105, 2 Tim. 3:16-17), serves a far more practical purpose; to glorify Him! I cannot substantiate this in one writing, nor can anyone else. Nor should you merely take my, or anyone's, word for it. I would encourage you to investigate / read for yourself. It'll take a lifetime, but I do not believe there is a greater pursuit than the truth. That said, here's a nugget to kick-start........

As I read the story, in scripture, of Pharaoh's "hard heart" ...I am reminded that it wasn't only his temporal life that he was making difficult. In his unwillingness to "let go and let God" he created an effect on his own people. "What happened to our plenty?" ...they must have surely asked as they dug for water while their beloved Nile was polluted.

How often do our decisions affect those within our influence? I'd dare say... almost always; with lesser / greater effects, dependent. Our decisions, today, will post an effect on future generations. Teach me, Lord, to forego temporal thinking in exchange for the eternal ....and the wisdom to know the difference.

"So Pharaoh's heart remained hardened, and he would not listen to them, as the Lord had said. Pharaoh turned and went into his house, and he did not take even this to heart. And all the Egyptians dug along the Nile for water to drink, for they could not drink the water of the Nile." (Exodus 7:22-24 ESV)

Own Worst Enemy

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 13:49:00 +0000

Matthew 12:22-32

Have you ever been wrong ...and had the courage to admit it? A humbling, but liberating, feeling to be sure. Remember Mr. Harold Camping? He, and his organization, had made several, as recent as 2011, predictions of Christ' coming. Camping's recent statement of wrongness and repentance seem to indicate a primary example of the good from admitting wrong-doing..... "We tremble before God as we humbly ask Him for forgiveness for making that sinful statement, -- "We are so thankful that God is so loving that He will forgive even this sin." ...repented Camping.

Have you ever been at least wrongly accused? Ever been set up to fail? I know a preacher who spent his entire ministry under this cloud. His evangelism plan did not convince all to follow the way. There were even some who followed and soon fell away. Yet there were indeed some who stayed the course. Following the way cost them more than they likely, at least originally, anticipated. Despite the good works the preacher performed, he was doubted and viewed, at best, unstable in his ways and teaching. At worst, a blasphemer of God by many in religious circles. And persecution? Definitely.

The gospel according to Matthew draws this picture of false accusation, defense of the truth (not the proclaimer), denial of the truth, and a clear statement of the only excuse our Lord could find NOT to forgive us. Was He, is He, a liar, a lunatic, or Lord of all?

Those who knew Him then saw Him as Healer

"Then a demon-oppressed man who was blind and mute was brought to him, and he healed him, so that the man spoke and saw. And all the people were amazed, and said, "Can this be the Son of David?" vv.22-23

The religious establishment, and unbelievers, called Him Blasphemer

"But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, "It is only by Beelzebul, the prince of demons, that this man casts out demons." v.24

Many today call Him "friend of sinners" and Forgiver

"Knowing their thoughts, he said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand. And if Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand? And if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. Or how can someone enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? Then indeed he may plunder his house. Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come." vv.25-32

Love and forgiveness were Christ' major, over-arching themes. Though He spoke so much of the reality of Hell, and our free choice toward it ...it was His desire that none should perish. In healing, in encouragement, in rebuke, in warning ....He was intent on proclaiming, and being, the truth, To a fault.... many would say! He made clear that there were higher offenses of sin beyond lying, thieving, adultering, even murder. Only ONE unpardonable transgression ....utter, deliberate, continual, to the point of final, rejection of the work of the Holy Spirit.

"We have met the enemy and he is us." ...said Pogo

Our worst enemy may be ourselves, but our best friend, our advocate, our forgiver, is most definitely in Jesus Christ.

Knowledge + Wisdom = Common Sense

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 12:52:00 +0000

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways." (James 1:5-8 ESV)

What is "knowledge"?

Aquaintance with truth, facts, or principles, as from study or investigation.

The sum of what is known.

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;

fools despise wisdom and instruction." (Proverbs 1:7 ESV)

What is wisdom?

"The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps."

(Proverbs 16:9 ESV)

"We must not confuse it with knowledge. Knowledge is information; wisdom is application. Knowledge is comprehending facts; wisdom is handling life. Knowledge is theoretical; wisdom is practical. We can think of it in terms of driving a car. We can have very good knowledge of a car and not drive very well at all!".

-Opening Up James, Roger Ellsworth

What is "common sense"?

Common sense is defined by Merriam-Webster as, "sound and prudent judgment based on a simple perception of the situation or facts."[1] Thus, "common sense" (in this view) equates to the knowledge and experience which most people already have, or which the person using the term believes that they do or should have. The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as, "the basic level of practical knowledge and judgment that we all need to help us live in a reasonable and safe way".[2]

So?

So, what do wisdom and endurance have in common? Is James speaking of two separate qualities here? I think not. Life's circumstances can manage you, or you can manage life's circumstances. What you cannot control can either bring you contentment ....or confusion.

Overheard In An Orchard
Said the Robin to the Sparrow,
"I should really like to know
Why those anxious human being
Rush around and worry so."
Said the sparrow to the Robin,
"Friend, I think that it must be
That they have no Heavenly Father
Such as cares for you and me."
-Elizabeth Cheney

Surely the poet was thinking of the Scriptures of Matthe 6:26.....

"Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"

What is a present trial you face? Will you trust God's provision (present & future) and His guidance, jointly, through His communicated word and through the leading of His indwelling Holy Spirit? If you "will" trust God in your trials you can be assured of more to come ...because He "does have a purpose, and a plan, for you; plans for hope and a future. But you may also be assured of a growing contentment, and strengthened commitment, in how His all-knowing, all-powerful hand will guide you. Each of your struggles can become minor opportunities to bring major glory to a faithful, loving, just, and merciful Lord. These same struggles will bring joy, and fulfillment to an, otherwise, empty life.

Life In Ministry: A Very Human Perspective

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 05:35:00 +0000

Probably not your typical entry of this sort. That's a cautionary note I suppose. :) This is not a study-snippett, or nugget of teaching, as is the like by which so many of we "bloggers" bombard you with on a daily basis. I'd dare say ....the only thing possibly more wordy than a preacher with a soapbox is a preacher with an internet connection ...eh?

I've been in "the ministry" for a while now; vocationally speaking. I've been in youth ministry, music ministry, teaching ministry, pastoral ministry, I've worked in church establishments with hi-tech demands, and in those low-tech, even no-tech. Counciling has been a piece of the ministry shape, as has proclamation, investigation, and instigation when the shoe fits. I've done it with payment, and done it for free. "The ministry" has been, for me, consisting of ups and downs, and then that again ....over and over. To the degree which ministry is something ya' do ....it has been a most difficult load to carry, a blessing, and pure, real, genuine God-sized "joy" ....and all at the same time, at times. I have matured enough to recognize my immaturity. This is humbling ....if a little frustrating.

I have witnessed men, women, youth-aged, and children surrender their lives to Jesus Christ. I have wondered, silently and prayerfully, how many continued in "the way", to even grow in knowledge and wisdom of the way. I have wept for lost-ness. I have also found myself stiff-hearted. I have seen myself become stretched in my own faith ...at times wondering if I would snap, and lose my own way. I've observed my family "stretched", and tested, in their own walk (individually and corporately). This is where "the ministry" really comes into crystal-clear view ...sorta'. At least, this is where the rubber truly meets the road. My family has seen genuineness from my ministry. It has also seen hypocrisy from it. They know me best. As unintentional as I may defend any hypocrisy to be ....it is what it is. I've repented to the point that I have, at times, wondered if I believe me. I find myself doing what I know I shouldn't. Not doing what I know I should. The biblical letter to the Romans is more "real" to me each day. Give chapter 7 a quick read. You'll see a real Christ-follower struggling to follow Christ.

If you've read this far ....surely you're curious as to why I continue to emphasize "the ministry". Is it something we do, or is it who we are? The answer is ...yes, both. By the Holy Spirit's indwelling ....it is fabric of our DNA. Science could never support that, however, and I'm not asking it to. I already have my right answer. No further query required.

In retrospect, I am in awe that God has used me thus far, not discarding me. I "am" that disposable! That isn't a sob-story. We all are. I've observed many failures in ministry ....a many of them my own. I've counted my struggles all joy, as James (Jesus half-brother) stated it .....except for one area; my own household. It is quite easy to count both successes and failures as "joy", when the results do not live in the same house with you. The "weight" of ministry takes on a nearly crushing degree when the trials of faith hit home. I've wept and prayed, and then some more, for my family ....desperate that they continue in Christ' way. I've pushed so hard that I've pushed away, and prayed so long that I've felt physical exhaustion, and expressed, counter-actively, my own anger and frustration when "I" thought the Christ-following life wasn't progressing as "I" thought it should. This is vain folly. No fruit to be born here.

I've strongly considered throwing in the vocational towel, the corporate "practice", if you will, of "the ministry" many, many times. I will likely consider it again, only to clammer back above the water's depths, gasping for air, and re-positioning myself to never give up. It (the ministry) has ALWAYS been a struggle for me. I'm puzzled as to why at times. I've wondered if I'm making it too hard, or not hard enough. Either is likely too much focus on "me" but remember ....this is a very human perspective. I've wondered if I've made my own version of what "it" is. I LOVED seminary! Oh how I enjoyed the process, the life, the stretching of my mind and testing of my faith. This, too, was a struggle. The financial strains still have me short of a degree. To finish well ....is always present on my mind. This, too, is human thinking ...to a degree.

There is one, constant, undeniable reality ....that I came to the faith a little late in the game of life, and surrendered to being a very serious student of the Word even later. This comes with a cost. But there is yet an undeniable reality beyond the hard facts of worldly life ...the faithfulness of God the Father. Scripture indicates, as does the Holy Spirit's presence, that He is faithful and just to forgive our trespasses against Him. While we were still sinners ...Christ "chose" to die for us. He will never leave, nor forsake us. As real as are the pains of ministry ....more "real" is the unfailing, un-ending, love of Christ.

Every "human" has his / her own burden(s) to bear, so mine may seem trivial to you. That is ok. It is human. But as you feel the weight of your own burdens ....consider that everyone of us has ours. It is what keeps us in-step with one another ....to whatever degree we still are. We are "all" in the same boat ...fallen short. It is, in fact, what keeps us dependent upon God. Do not wait. Do not hesitate to genuinely, fully, wholly, without looking back, surrender yourself to God through the already paid for sacrifice of His Begotten. Leap headlong into "the ministry", but realize that the ministry is not a seminary education. It is not merely academic. It is not dependent upon how you feel. It is not even dependent upon "you". Yet it functions through you one way or another. It is not the denomination with which you align. It is not an agenda you define. It is not a series of good programs, nor thwarted by the bad. "It" is all of these things. Your ministry is revealed upon your choice to live it. Don't start late, but if it's already late for you ...don't hesitate to start. "Live"! Live life in the abundance designed for you. If you lose both arms, both legs, your health, your wealth, and even your family .....NEVER GIVE UP! Do not become harsh, and bitter, when you are stripped down as a result of your choosing. If the choice is to follow Christ ....this may be the effectual stripping away of worldliness. This is difficult. This is to be counted as joy ....though you'll act it out with gritted teeth.

When the world wonders if you've lost your mind .....have the mind of Christ. Knowledge and wisdom of such is in His revealed word. You'll need to ardently, prayerfully, sometimes painfully, often joyfully ....study it for yourself. It will NOT be transferred to you by osmosis. It must be wrestled with. It won't grow within you through blogs, devotional readings, nor preaching and proclamation alone. It will not come to you through church related work, good works. These are "parts", good parts, but without the main element of your own indulgence ....your walk will be shallow, stale, and un-real. You need to know how all of these parts fit together to make the machine, organic as it is, that Christianity is.

Find "your" ministry! Fulfill your ministry! Do the work of an evangelist. Do not merely enjoy or appreciate someone else's. The most acclaimed and admired of Christian leaders cannot do it for you. Start right now. Surrender to "the ministry".

What's In A Name?

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 06:14:00 +0000

The current buzz in Southern Baptist culture is regarding a proposed change of the convention's name. If it isn't obvious to you yet, the current name is at least "regional", at most ...misleading. Beyond that the name carries a certain amount of historical baggage. Is it time for a change?

It would seem appropriate. The name we're all hearing (..I can say, because "I is one"..) is 'Great Commission Baptists'. Catchy!? Definitely more true to our missionary nature. The International Mission Board, a product of Southern Baptists, supported by funding by member congregations through The Cooperative Program, is the largest missionary sending force on the globe.

But what's in a name anyway? I wanted to call it "Bible Baptists", or how about "Grace Baptist Convention"? But they didn't ask me. And if I've ever even had a really good idea, of this sort, I've always been a day late and a dollar short. But I still haven't answered my question! What's in a name? Why does it matter? Why not "World Baptists"?

I had a friend with whom I once argued about putting so much stock in a "name". His perspective.... "If the Southern Baptist" name, or logo, is on the sign then I can know what's being taught inside." My perspective to the argument.... "I wouldn't trust a name on a sign to give me any certain feeling for what doctrine is being taught behind those doors!" In truth, there is likely a middle-ground which supports remaining autonomous, while still "identifying' with a clearly stated, and mutual, doctrine of beliefs.

But does a name make a difference where the proverbial rubber meets the road, in reaching people .....real men, women, children ...for the sake of the gospel, the good news, the truth which leads to a sinner's salvation? Once, I would have thought not ...a bureaucratic waste of time and resources, which may otherwise be sending good, God-called, men and women to the ends of the Earth to reach the lost with the saving truth of Jesus Christ! But that is in a perfect world. Here in the real world ....we are interdependent, cooperative, and constantly leaning on one another for resources and possibilities. No Lone Ranger Christians! Read my previous blog entry.... "Purpose Is Discovered, Not Defined", for more on the topic of community and cooperation.

In a world seething with sooth-sayers of a modern variety, preachers selling their wares at every opportunity, and straight-up false teachers ..there is value in a name, I believe. Value in placing a unified stamp, a statement of beliefs, a bar for the biblical world to model; a distinctive, by which we are set apart. No, this "name" won't save you. Nor will it save us from fault. But it will frame our "standard" of beliefs and practice ....bigger than any one of us, or even any small group of us. Bigger, even, than the next generation of Great Commission Christians. Whatever we choose to call ourselves, may it bring unity, and further unify us to live out Christ' own great commission, be it as Great Commission Baptists, Southern Baptists, World Baptists, or Grace Baptists. For the record... I still like "Bible Baptists".

What do you think?

Purpose Is Discovered, Not Defined

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:35:00 +0000

From the first stories in Scripture .....cooperation with God, and mankind's cooperation with one another has been a source of contention and division to be sure. But it "is" His plan, and when executed selflessly, with His will and glory in mind, has been the vehicle by which His will and glory are modeled to a fallen world in need of His gracious salvation.

Christianity without community is reduced to self-centric religion, and community withoutcooperation is defeated before it begins. "Faith without works is dead!" (James 2:26) It is true.... there are no Lone Ranger Christians. At its very essence, the triune God-head is, by definition, community and is cooperative. You and I, as God's creation, are designed to work together, with cooperative purposes otherwise difficult or nearly impossible to accomplish by any one of us. And if we "do" accomplish a goal on our own ....it is often short-lived, likely short-sighted, powerless, and at risk of being purposeless. Andy Worhol's "fifteen minutes of fame" would surely apply to God's people who neglect the power of cooperation.

God's design is communal, certainly not to the neglect of individual time spent alone with God, but a spiritually balanced life should consist of open-ness to God's defining / refining of individuals, and their motivations for doing. Then, doing should be accountable to, sharpened by, and acted in correlation with others like-minded; all that with flexibility in mind, so as to do what the Holy Spirit encourages in a time of need. No plan we make, even corporate, will be perfect. It is true... "no one ever did anything without first doing something." Yet, there is no greater area of responsibility than Kingdom-work! Plan with care, handle with thoughtfulness, then execute with boldness ...trusting that He "equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen." (Hebrews 13:21 ESV) Our purpose needs no defining! Purpose needs discovering! God defines our purpose in life, and it is exemplified through Jesus Christ' earthly work, gratified through His sacrifice to secure our salvation, and certified by His resurrection!

In all of wise Solomon's frustration with the uselessness of toil, and the vanity of progressiveness, he recognized the inherent, essential, value of cooperation.

"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 ESV)

Leaders need followers, and planners need executors. Set out on the adventure of your lifetime! Discover the section of Christ' community body that best fits you, surrender to Him, jump in, go to work, and live out His purpose in your life. There is no human endeavor more satisfying. You'll have reason to get out of bed in the morning. You'll rest well at night.

Joy x Trials + Testing = Steadfastness

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:40:00 +0000

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (James 1:2-4 ESV)

This math may be simple, but the continuing effects of sin cause us to have a world-view rather hopeless, pointless. James indicates that, with each trial a Believer faces, we should "count it all joy". This message given to the early church, already begun spreading into the world, is the same for us today.

The question is not ....do trials test our faith. Life proves that to be true. Rather, "as" your faith is tested, James says, we can count each, and all, as joy. Why? Why aren't trials merely an end in themselves? Is there a purpose in suffering? Each test produces "steadfastness" and endurance. The writer of Hebrews made the same charge. Upon giving an historic tour through "The Hall of Faith", in Hebrews chapter 11, Christians were charged..... "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1, 2 ESV)

What is a present trial you face? Will you trust God's provision (present & future) and His guidance, jointly, through His communicated word and through the leading of His indwelling Holy Spirit? If you "will" trust God in your trials you can be assured of more to come ...because He "does have a purpose, and a plan, for you; plans for hope and a future. But you may also be assured of a growing contentment, and strengthened commitment, in how His all-knowing, all-powerful hand will guide you. Each of your struggles can become minor opportunities to bring major glory to a faithful, loving, just, and merciful Lord. These same struggles will bring joy, and fulfillment to an, otherwise, empty life.

Steve Terrell

sola gratia

www.reclaimchristianity.com

Life In The Balance

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 20:07:00 +0000

Life is so often spoken of in terms of balance; not too much of any one thing, nor too little of things which provide health for both mind and body.
To exemplify... a "balanced" diet is necessary to maintain a healthy body; in both function and form. An un-balanced diet, on the other hand, affects all systems in a negative way. "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God." (Matt. 4:1-4) .....Jesus rebuked Satan when tempted; surely hungering for what the mouth senses that tastes good.

I would submit that life is, indeed, about balance. Not a balancing "act,", mind you, but maybe a journey down a narrow ridge; not controlled merely by such forces as equalibrium and ability of balance, but in full view of God's sovereign authority, infinite wisdom, and certainly His protection.

But if God is our protector ....then why "do" bad things happen? Is it because of imbalance? Aircraft are dependant upon physical forces, the dynamics of "pitch", "yaw", and "roll" are in effect.

Are we varying from our plotted coourse? Is, in fact, our course plotted? It would seem this would assume that "we" are in absolute, decisive, control of our circumstances. Are we protected, by the way, even in our disobedience?

Scripture provides plenty of examples of people whom, while under God's protective hand, certainly faced often imminent, and often terminal, danger.

"Cancer was a blessing." -Dave Dravecky's story
I never imagined hearing those words spoken by a cancer survivor. Dave Dravecky (retired SF Giants lefty pitcher) shares this at his speaking engagements. His career endedabruptly after battling a cancerous tumor in his pitching shoulder. Despite a dramatic comeback, he ultimately lost his arm. He'll tell you, today, of the blessing of wrestling with his true identity ...in Christ.

So why do bad things happen to people, whom God created? Is it because God sees the intrinsic value of His very nature being lived out, or even dying for, His eternal glory, our eternal good?

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:11-13 ESV)

Jeremiah wrote a letter to the captives, exiled in Babylon. It carried the idea of recognizing that God, Himself, ordained their captiviity....
"The message to the exiles was very practical. First they should realize that God had sent them into captivity. That being the case, they should make the best of their situation. The normal activities of life should be resumed. Specifically he mentioned building houses, planting gardens, and marrying their children. Jeremiah directed them to pray for the welfare of Babylon, because as Babylon prospered, so also would the captives who were there (29:4–7). Among the captives, as in Judah, nationalistic prophets kept stirring up hope of a quick overthrow of Babylon. They urged the captives to maintain a posture of non-cooperation with the Babylonians. Jeremiah maintain a posture of non-cooperation with the Babylonians. Jeremiah warned that the prophets and diviners7 were prophesying falsely. Only when seventy years had been completed for Babylon would God fulfill his promise to bring them back to the homeland (29:8–10). God’s plans for the captives were positive but not immediate. He was planning for their “welfare, future and hope.” -Old Testament Survey Series: The Major Prophets ....by James E. Smith

Those remaining in Jerusalem, appearing to have freedom, were pending doom. God would chase them out with sword and famine, Jeremiah indicated. We must follow God's leading, even when it doesn't make sense to us. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your path." (Proverbs3:5-6)

"As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today." (Genesis 50:20 ESV)

God used Joseph' seemingly unfair, undeserved circumstance to bring "good" to many. In 50:20, Joseph was specifically reminding his brothers that, though they “meant evil against” him when they sold him into slavery, “God meant it for good in order to … preserve many people alive” through the seven years of famine. Think through the chain of events that Joseph was encapsulating in that verse, and think how they worked out for good:

• Had Joseph not been sold into slavery, he would never have ended up in Egypt.

• Had Joseph not ended up in Egypt, he would never have gained distinction in Potiphar’s house.

• Had he not gained distinction in Potiphar’s house, he would never have been falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife.

• Had he not been falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife, he would never have ended up in jail.

So far, things do not seem to be working out for good! But think on …

• Had Joseph not ended up in jail, he would never have interpreted the cupbearer’s dream.

• Had he not interpreted the cupbearer’s dream, he would never have been called upon to interpret Pharaoh’s dream.

• Had he not interpreted Pharaoh’s dream, Egypt would never have been prepared for the coming famine.

• Had Egypt not been prepared for the coming famine, many in Egypt would have died—and so would Joseph and his brothers!

• And had Joseph and his brothers died, there would have been no Israel and, therefore, no Messiah!

Joseph’s whole life is one long trail of evidence that demonstrates how God uses the worst of circumstances to turn our lives into something useful and profitable! And the profit of Joseph’s suffering continues down to this very day! As believers in Jesus, we benefit from the fact that Joseph’s suffering kept the family tree of the Savior alive! “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Rom. 8:28)! -Opening Up Genesis by Kurt Strassner

Down to Christ' own acceptance of the cup He must bear, we too have our burdens, or crosses, to bear. Jesus shunned Peter's notion of saving his Lord from arrest, as He knew what He must do. He told Judas to do, quickly, what he must do. I put these thoughts in word form a couple of years ago ...in shape of a poem. Maybe it most clearly communicates the all too, yet very real, human condition of our willingness, or lack thereof, to follow God's will. Truly, as I once heard a preacher say, " The question is not... What is God's will for our lives, but ....what is God's will?"

Ebb & Flow

Life all but handed on a plate
How grateful I can be
Circumstances begin to irritate
How grateful will I be?

For lack of hunger, and abundance of wealth
How grateful I can be
With fading sight, and fleeting health
How grateful will I be?

A desire to grow, and resources plenty
How grateful I can be
Options depleting, closer to empty
How grateful will I be?

Entitled nothing, consumed with all
How grateful I can be
Desiring something, facing a fall
How grateful will I be?

Ever so blessed when all is well
How grateful I can be
Aimed toward a future I cannot tell
How grateful will I be?

Plotting my course down a road I know
Circumstances change.
Ebb & Flow
-Steve Terrell

God has a plan for your life today; not to lead you into harm, but into eternity with Him. Will you trust His plan?

Christianity 101: 1 John

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:20:00 +0000

John's (the beloved disciple) first epistle to the churches in Asia Minor appears, at first glance, to be a general "how-to" as such relates to treating one another in Christ' body. God is love ...is an interweaving theme. It is, indeed, that. However, after preaching "through" this epistle recently, I (intentionally) went backwards for the sake of a thematic "review". I was overjoyed to discover the gospel in a nutshell throughout 1 John.

I would encourage you to read through this very short letter. Then, with pen & paper, go back and do a general overview of the topics presented. I believe you'll find an encouraging, challenging, outline of the life of the Christ-follower.

Often, new Believers are encouraged to begin their journey into God's Word starting with the Gospel of John, and that is well. But I would dare say that as an equal portion of that prescribed diet ...a new Believer should read John's own encouragement to the early church of who we are in Christ, how we faithfully serve a "loving" God, how to discern false teachings, the Christian worldview, and basically how to live the Christian life.

By no means "conclusive", I have provided my own recent review, with very brief topical headings below. Also, I have referenced supporting passages along with each theme / idea provided.....

The Gospel In A Nutshell:
We Sin & We Are Sinners:
(1 John 1:8), (Romans 3:23)

Sinners Can Have Forgiveness:
(1 John 1:9), (Romans 5:8)

Believers Can Have Assurance of Forgiveness:
1 John 2:3), (John 10:22-30)

Believers Cannot Love God & Hate Others:
(1 John 2:11), (Matthew 22:34-40)

Believers Are Changed Creatures:
(1 John 2:15), (2 Cor 5:16, 17)

Believers Have Eternal Hope:
(1 John 2:17), (John 15:18, 19)

Christ is Part of the God Package:
(1 John 2:23), (John 10:30)

Believers Need To Be Consistent, Not Flawless:
(1 John 2:28), (Luke 9:24-26)

God Hates Sin, But Practice, In Righteousness, Makes Perfect:
(1 John 3:8), (Matthew 7:21-23)

All Godly Roads Lead Back To Love:
(1 John 3:11), (Mark 12:30, 31)

Hate = Murder:
(1 John 3:15), (Exodus 20:13)

Love Is Opposite Hate:
(1 John 3:16), (Romans 5:8)

We Can Spot True & False Believers:
(1 John 4:2, 3), (Matthew 7:15-20)

Confession + Consistency = Christ‐likeness:
(1 John 4:15), (Romans 10:9)

Believers Have Mutual Identity In Christ:
(1 John 5:2), (1 Corinthians 13:12, 13)

We Are In A Life Or Death Situation:
(1 John 5:12), (John 14:5, 6)

Power To The Powerless

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 06:02:00 +0000

Acts 4:1-21

We cannot save ourselves under our own power. No more can we live out God's will on our own.
As we board passenger airplanes we are, without apology, instructed to save ourselves first; recognizing the simple logic that if we are dead we are of no use in the salvation of others, in the event of an airline emergency. The same is true of our eternal salvation! If we know not Christ, then we're of no "eternal" value to a single other soul. Yet once alive in Christ, ourselves, the Scriptures make clear.... "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)

POWERLESS
So powerless that about 5,000 were saved....
"But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand." (Acts 4:4 ESV)

"And he said, "Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the LORD to you, 'Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's." (2 Chronicles 20:15)

So powerless that dependance upon the Holy Spirit was absolutely necessary...
"And when they had set them in the midst, they inquired, "By what power or by what name did you do this?" Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "Rulers of the people and elders, if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed, let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well. This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone." (Acts 4:7-11 ESV)

"I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5 ESV)

"Attempting the world's work in our own power is, at best, short-lived. God's work in our own power is already dead."

SHAMELESS
So shameless they continued to preach despite the threat of losing their freedom...
"And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus." (Acts 4:12, 13 ESV)

SPEECHLESS
The Sadduccees could not untangle the reality that these men had been with Christ, and that a formerly lame man is now walking.
"Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus. But seeing the man who was healed standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition." (Acts 4:13, 14 ESV)

Charged by the Holy Spirit the unspeakable became the unshakable, untamable,u ndeniable, relentless pursuit of preaching the gospel to all the world. Soldiers lay down their very lives to protect the freedom of we who may continue to enjoy them. Christ' soldiers did, and continue to do, the same.
You haven't really lived until you've found something worth dying for.

"Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)

A little less talk could do us all some good

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 03:13:00 +0000

Actions speak louder than words..... Less talk, more action..... Let your actions speak for themselves..... Let the music do the talkin'! Ok, the last one's an old Aerosmith song, but you get the idea. It's hard to dispute cold, hard facts. The impression left when we allow the results to speak for themselves is most often ...."believability". Empowered by the Holy Spirit ...a couple of uneducated, unlikely men were asked "by what power or by what name did you do this [miracle, healing]?" Peter's response wasn't a self-defense. "Filled with the Holy Spirit" ....he simply presented the raw, obvious evidence of their actions, and that ...simply a result of God's will.

"But seeing the man who was healed standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition."

Acts 4:14

Leave the naysayers speechless. Allow the Father, through the Holy Spirit, to give you both words to utter, and drive the actions you may perform. You'll never have to second-guess.

His Glory Is Our Benefit

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 03:07:00 +0000

Rules, commands, demands.... what a great reminder that obeying God's commands is all for our good. When we give Him the glory, we get the benefit!

"And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD, which I am commanding you today for your good?" -Deuteronomy 10:12-13

If God Be For Us...

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 02:58:00 +0000

"No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you." -Joshua 1:5

The same promise God made to Joshua is true for you. He'll never leave nor forsake you. How does this empower your faith? If God is for us, who can be successfully against us?

Wipe Away Worry

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 03:38:00 +0000

"You cannot serve God through faith when shackled by fear."
-Steve Terrell

Matt 6:25-34

Worrying Is Finite
Whatever the thing is, about which you worry, it is a means to an end, and it is not the end, but it will most definitely end.

"Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?" v25

Whether you worry about work, your weight, your wedding, your wellness, or your windows ...they are "finite" things; things you can't take with you when your days end.

Worrying Is Fruitless
Worry will not pay you a dime in the meantime.
And while you're waiting on worry to pass ....realize that worry will not pay you a dime in return for your troubles.

"And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?" v27

Worrying Is Faithless
However big the worry ...it takes only a little faith to overcome.

"But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?" v30

Jesus' own disciples asked why they were unable to cast out demons. They didn't understand what it was that rendered them impotent. Christ instructed them that it was "little faith" which caused them to fail. And reminded them that it "only" takes faith, the size of a mustard-seed, to succeed.

"Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not cast it out?" He said to them, "Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you." (Matthew 17:19, 20 ESV)

So wipe away worry ...it only takes a fragment of faith to do so.

Chasing The Dream. Is It Meaningless?

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 04:31:00 +0000

What's the purpose in life? What are we here for? What's to be gained? Eat, drink, and be merry? Or is there more to it .....life? Even kings of old have pondered the questions of life. The people change, but the questions remain the same.

Imagine having all you could want at your fingertips, and the power to give or take. Imagine actually having indulged in every pleasure life can afford! Wealth, wine, women. The modern-day rock star lifestyle was coveted centuries ago ...and, apparently, drove toward the same questions at the end.... is this it? What now? I have "accomplished"! Is there more? It's no wonder the addict isn't completed with her last "high"! Do we wonder why the rich and famous' desires are never quenched? Always striving for more. What does it mean to be truly content. Is that the view of the lazy person today?

The biblical book of Ecclesiastes ponders all these questions, and many more ....coming from a guy who's been there, done that. If we're gonna' "want more" out of life do we want to know what the end of the rainbow looks like. Was it worth it? Was it what you expected, as good as you expected? I have many, many questions for this supposed "wise man". What did your dad teach you .....about wealth, things, relationships? Was it meaningful, or meaningless ....striving after the wind? I wanna' know, so I'll know which rabbit to chase through life.

"Chasing The Dream" -Ecclessiastes ....Sunday evenings winter study at Mt Pisgah in Jonesboro, AR.

"Lordship" - HowTo: church

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 22:38:00 +0000

Scripturally, I see five overarching elements of Christ' church. It is, by the way, His church. Nothing we lay claim to beyond identifying with, and surrendering to, His Lordship, Discipleship, Stewardship, Fellowship, & Outreach. This evening, at Mt Pisgah Baptist Church, we're going to kick-off the new year early, and begin by focussing on what I believe to be the absolote most foundational of these five elements, the most important of which, all minor elements depend....

Lordship:

Worship: Scripture, our guide in Christ, indicates we are to worship "spiritually", in "truth". This means worshipping not in regard to the flesh, our physical self, but "spirit" which is of God. Worship must be "true", not in pretense. We pray in secret, not so others may see our religiosity on display. The gospel of John 4:24 says.... "God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth." The Spirit says.. "You shall have no other gods before me. "'You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth." (Deuteronomy 5:7, 8 ESV) Without pretense.... "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." (Deuteronomy 6:5 ESV)

The psalmist said... "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." (Psalm 19:14)

We "worship" in word and thought. We support and encourage the weak.... Romans 15:1, Matthew 25:40.

We worship through personal example, as a witness of Christ Himself, to others. 1 Peter 2:11

Next week....
Lordship also consists of Prayer: acknowledging Christ as Lord, reverence, fearing The Creator of all. Petitioning Him on behalf of others, supplication on behalf of our own need., dependance upon His mercies, and His grace.

Christmas Is For You!

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Terrell) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 13:03:00 +0000

"But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God." (Galatians 4:4-7 ESV)

His Timing
"But when the fullness of time had come,"
OUR PERSPECTIVE:
Have you noticed that as time passes in your own life ....days, months, years become shorter? When you were a child, in school, days, weeks, months appeared to creep by ...until Summer break. As you grew older ...those same time-frames nearly blur in comparison. Clearly..... days or months or years have not shortened, or lengthened, or changed at all ...mathematically speaking. So what has changed? I submit that our own, relative, perception of time is what has changed.
"The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away."
(Psalm 90:10 ESV)
GOD'S PERSPECTIVE:
"For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night."
(Psalm 90:4 ESV)

Our Redemption
"God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law,"
God sent Christ to "buy back" those under the sin penalty of the law.
"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus," (Rom 3:23, 24)

Our Adoption
"so that we might receive adoption as sons"

"The adoption metaphor was used primarily in two contexts in Roman culture. In Roman law, adoption was very difficult. A long, involved and expensive legal procedure, once enacted adoption afforded several special rights and privileges: (1) all debts were cancelled; (2) all criminal charges were dropped; (3) they could not be legally put to death by their new father; and (4) they could not be disinherited by their new father. In legal terms, they were a completely new person. Paul was alluding to the believers’ security in Christ by using this Roman legal procedure (cf. Rom. 8:15, 23). When a father publicly adopted a son, he officially and permanently became his heir." (Bob Utley - You Can Understand The Bible!)

Our Inheritence
"And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God."
We have "inherited" the right, the privilege, to call Him "daddy", Father.

Christ' "gift" to you and I is that we are no longer stamped with the title, and baggage, of "slave" to sin. INSTEAD... we, as Roman culture practiced, as loving adoptive parents today practice, are heirs to the Kingdom which Christ knows.

"In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also."
(John 14:2, 3 ESV)

MERRY CHRISTMAS