There is much history concerning celebrating "New Years," In brief, New
Year's Day is observed on January 1st, which is the first day of the
year
on the modern Gregorian calendar. The Gregorian calendar was used by the
Roman Empire around 45 BC and is accepted today by most countries and
is the calendar most used. The Romans originally dedicated New Year's
Day
to Janus, the god of gates, doors, and beginnings for whom the first
month of the year (January) is named. New Year's Day is probably the
world's most celebrated public holiday, often observed with fireworks at
the stroke of midnight as the new year starts in each time zone. By
Roman definition, beginnings, we can see why so many people make
resolutions, that is, taking a course of action one determines or
decides to do as a new beginning. Looking into New Years resolutions you
would discover that on the average ninety percent of all New Years
resolutions fail. Why is that? Statistics tell us four major reasons why
they fail. One, most people try to make several resolutions instead of
focusing on one; Two, people tend to set unrealistic goals; Three, after
a resolution is made, most people have no one to encourage them to see
it through; Four, failure to adopt new behavior and thought patterns.
You may think of more reasons, but these four points are to bring us to
the place to understand that the flesh is weak. One example of a New
Years resolution which is probably most popular is weight loss. Usually,
beginning in November, television, news papers, magazines, internet and
other forms of media focus their advertisements on weight loss.
However, every time I see an advertisement promoting weight loss, I find
it interesting that they never reveal the failure rate. If you do some
research, you will find that only about five percent of the people who
make a resolution to lose a certain amount of weight make their goal and
keep the weight off for five years or more. I am only using weight
loss as an example. There is certainly nothing wrong with trying to
loss weight if you have a weight problem. Actually, it's a good thing.
For the believer however, a so called resolution should not be a first
day of the New Year thing. Believers should be determined to be a
reflection of Christ in and through their life every day, but we must
remember and act upon some sound advise. "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men." (Colossians 3:23) "For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's.'
(Romans 14:8) Everything in the believers life should not be to gratify
ourselves or to please men per se, but to please the Lord. Solomon
tells us the conclusion of all of mans vain self efforts, "...Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man's all." (Ecclesiastes 12:13)
Next, we must not try to do things through our abilities or strength, but, "Trust
in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own
understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct
your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6). The apostle Paul reveals several
things along these lines. But one of the greatest revelations that he
received was through his pray to the Lord asking Him to deal with the
messenger of Satan that was stirring up persecution and opposing the
work that the Lord called him to. The Lord said to Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." The revelation Paul received was, "Therefore
most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of
Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in
reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake.
For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:9-10) It
is of the utmost importance that believers rely upon the Lord, His
strength and abilities to accomplish any task or conquer any trial that
may be encounter in this life. This is why Paul was able say, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)
Another area to consider, is understanding who believers are in Christ.
When believers come to a full knowledge of no longer being identified
with who they were before they were born again and know who they are in
Christ, then they will understand what it means when Jesus said, "nothing is impossible to those who believe."
(Mark 9:23) Knowing who one truly is in Christ sets believers free from
shame, condemnation, guilt and inferiority. They will walk in a freedom
that will cause them to not make resolution but find the grace and
power to overcome and live victorious. For instance, "Therefore, if
anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away;
behold, all things have become new. Now all things are of God, who has
reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ.." (2 Corinthians
5:17-18) The old nature, the old way of doing things, the old person
that you were prior to your salvation is gone. You have been made
completely new in Christ and have right standing with God.
Finally, you must have and use your own faith.
What does this mean? All believers one day must come to the place where
their own faith has grown and has brought them to know without doubt, "Now
this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything
according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us,
whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked
of Him." (1 John 5:14-15) This is actually a realm of Christianity
that few believers come to. Not because they do not desire to have this
level of faith. It is mostly due to a lack of studying and meditating on
God's Word as well as faithless church leaders leading people down a
path that causes then to believe man's doctrines over God's Word. These
things will prevent believers from having their own faith and will cause
them to rely on another believers faith hoping to live a victorious
Christian life.
All of these things if applied in the believers life will change their
behavior and thought patterns. These things are not self imposed, by
Holy Spirit inspired. The apostle Paul tells us to, "...Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh." (Galatians
5:16) So, you see, we do not have to make New Year resolutions to only
have them fail. We can live in the power and ability of God everyday
through faith
in Jesus Christ to overcome every obstacle of life and do the
impossible where others fail. So, this New Years, do not make a New Years
resolution but, "...lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of you." (Philippians
3:12) Let us be purposeful, determined, unwavering, resolute in our
walk with Jesus. Finally, my prayer for us all, as recorded in 3 John 2,
is,
"Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers" HAPPY NEW YEAR...
Monday, December 30, 2019
Monday, December 23, 2019
Behold, The Savior Is Come
The "Christmas Story" is one of the most remembered and by far the most
told of any other story in human history. Not only does this story
reveal the birth of Christ the Lord, but a closer look reveals the
movement of creation itself in bringing forth the Savior. It is the
Gospel according to Matthew and Luke that uncover the events of the
"Christmas Story." So as we look at these events, we will see the
infinite wisdom and love of God at work in human history for only one
reason, "to open their (humanity) eyes, in order to turn them
from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they
may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are
sanctified by faith in Me.' (Acts 26:18)
In Luke 1:5-25 we see a priest named Zacharias chosen to minister before the Lord in the temple in the form of burning incenses. His wife's name was Elizabeth and they were both descendants of Aaron, Moses' brother and first High Priest chosen by God. (Exodus 4:14, 28:1) Zacharias was a praying man and his prayers were heard. The angel of the Lord, Gabriel, was sent to give him the good news concerning what was about to break forth into human history. However, we see that Zacharias first response was doubt. Like Zacharias, we too can get so caught up in doing our regimented Christians duties or building our own personal kingdoms, that we miss what God is about to do. Then when God reveals to us His plan we again like Zacharias do not believe. I believe that most Christians today struggle with a lack of faith for the very same reason. They pray, look for God, but when He reveals Himself doubt enters and they forget the very things that they were praying for. Although, Zacharias doubted God's Word, what the angel had spoken still came to pass.
Next, Luke 1:26-38 records another miraculous event happening. The same angel, Gabriel, appears to a virgin woman whose name is Mary who was betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph. He reveals that she is “highly favored" by God and "blessed among women" and that it would be Mary who would be used by God to bring forth the One who would be the Deliverer. Mary questions Gabriel, but his answer should cause believers to see God for who He really is, "For with God nothing will be impossible." This is an important key to having prayer answered as well as living a victorious life. Jesus says it this way, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes." (Mark 9:23) Not only are all things possible with God but all thing are possible to all who exercises faith. and simply believe. It is very apparent that Mary believed Gabriel's report, "Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her."
Although we see Mary exercising faith for the impossible, we see a different picture with Joseph, her betrothed. Again, we see doubt take the place of faith. (Matthew 1:19) However, we do see an angel of the Lord appear to Joseph in a dream explaining the situation to him, which caused Joseph to respond to what the angel had spoken. (Matthew 1:20-25) You may be thinking, "Well getting the news that your wife is with child and you have had nothing to do with it certainly would cause one to doubt." This may be somewhat true, but remember Zacharias had a visitation of an angel of the Lord but he still doubted. Also, Matthew records that Joseph was a "just man" which means, "justly, righteously, in accordance with what is right."
So, we have to assume that for Joseph to have this type of character, that he attended synagogue and or was versed in the the scriptures. If so he had available to him what was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel." (Isaiah 7:14) But isn't that the problem that the children of God have struggled with then and still struggle with today? For most believers, although we have the Word of God recorded in what we call the Holy Bible, many still chose to look at the circumstances in the natural like Zacharias and Joseph and entertain doubt rather than faith in a faithful God, "that what He has promised He is also able to perform." (Romans 4:21) Although it appears that Joseph had some doubts, he still responded to the command of the angel to take Mary as his wife.
These wonderful events continue to unfold. Luke 2:1-7, which records, not even Caesar Augustus the top official of the human government at that time could do anything more than to bring the prophetic Word of God spoken 700 years prior through Micah to pass, "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting." (Micah 5:2) Joseph following the orders of the government, made his way with Mary to the very town where Christ was to be born, Bethlehem.
Finally, Luke 2:8-20 shows us the culmination of the events of the birth of Christ. Again, an angel of the Lord appears. This time to "shepherds living out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night." It is recorded that the"angel stood before them and the glory of the Lord shown around them" and the angel reported the most tremendous event to date in the history of humanity, "For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." Once the angel gave this report "suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" Not only were the people of the earth moved to be participants in the ingenious plan of God (whether they knew it or not) but even the angels of God rejoiced. Think about that. The angels of God who are spirit beings were excited for humanity that now the plan of God was manifested for the salvation of humanity. Deity and humanity has now come together as Jesus Christ the Lord.
We all should see Christmas as a time for great rejoicing. A new birth in our love towards God and toward one another. A new birth in dedicating our lives to His service. Christmas not New Years should be a catalyst for change, hope and increased faith. A great expectation of what God can and will do through those who believe. For some, maybe we need to see Christmas through the eyes of three wealthy wise men who left their nation and traveled a great distance to behold an infant King. Three men who apparently exercised faith having only the knowledge of ancient writings and a star that guided their way. Christmas is not just about a baby in a manger, it's about the complete redemption of humanity. We should celebrate Christmas as one of the two greatest moves of God in human history. That baby, the Christ, had come into the world to save humanity from Satan's power, to reconcile God to man and man to God and to give humanity "life and to have it more abundantly." (John 10:10) Have a wonderful and very "MERRY CHRISTMAS."
In Luke 1:5-25 we see a priest named Zacharias chosen to minister before the Lord in the temple in the form of burning incenses. His wife's name was Elizabeth and they were both descendants of Aaron, Moses' brother and first High Priest chosen by God. (Exodus 4:14, 28:1) Zacharias was a praying man and his prayers were heard. The angel of the Lord, Gabriel, was sent to give him the good news concerning what was about to break forth into human history. However, we see that Zacharias first response was doubt. Like Zacharias, we too can get so caught up in doing our regimented Christians duties or building our own personal kingdoms, that we miss what God is about to do. Then when God reveals to us His plan we again like Zacharias do not believe. I believe that most Christians today struggle with a lack of faith for the very same reason. They pray, look for God, but when He reveals Himself doubt enters and they forget the very things that they were praying for. Although, Zacharias doubted God's Word, what the angel had spoken still came to pass.
Next, Luke 1:26-38 records another miraculous event happening. The same angel, Gabriel, appears to a virgin woman whose name is Mary who was betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph. He reveals that she is “highly favored" by God and "blessed among women" and that it would be Mary who would be used by God to bring forth the One who would be the Deliverer. Mary questions Gabriel, but his answer should cause believers to see God for who He really is, "For with God nothing will be impossible." This is an important key to having prayer answered as well as living a victorious life. Jesus says it this way, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes." (Mark 9:23) Not only are all things possible with God but all thing are possible to all who exercises faith. and simply believe. It is very apparent that Mary believed Gabriel's report, "Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her."
Although we see Mary exercising faith for the impossible, we see a different picture with Joseph, her betrothed. Again, we see doubt take the place of faith. (Matthew 1:19) However, we do see an angel of the Lord appear to Joseph in a dream explaining the situation to him, which caused Joseph to respond to what the angel had spoken. (Matthew 1:20-25) You may be thinking, "Well getting the news that your wife is with child and you have had nothing to do with it certainly would cause one to doubt." This may be somewhat true, but remember Zacharias had a visitation of an angel of the Lord but he still doubted. Also, Matthew records that Joseph was a "just man" which means, "justly, righteously, in accordance with what is right."
So, we have to assume that for Joseph to have this type of character, that he attended synagogue and or was versed in the the scriptures. If so he had available to him what was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel." (Isaiah 7:14) But isn't that the problem that the children of God have struggled with then and still struggle with today? For most believers, although we have the Word of God recorded in what we call the Holy Bible, many still chose to look at the circumstances in the natural like Zacharias and Joseph and entertain doubt rather than faith in a faithful God, "that what He has promised He is also able to perform." (Romans 4:21) Although it appears that Joseph had some doubts, he still responded to the command of the angel to take Mary as his wife.
These wonderful events continue to unfold. Luke 2:1-7, which records, not even Caesar Augustus the top official of the human government at that time could do anything more than to bring the prophetic Word of God spoken 700 years prior through Micah to pass, "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting." (Micah 5:2) Joseph following the orders of the government, made his way with Mary to the very town where Christ was to be born, Bethlehem.
Finally, Luke 2:8-20 shows us the culmination of the events of the birth of Christ. Again, an angel of the Lord appears. This time to "shepherds living out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night." It is recorded that the"angel stood before them and the glory of the Lord shown around them" and the angel reported the most tremendous event to date in the history of humanity, "For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." Once the angel gave this report "suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" Not only were the people of the earth moved to be participants in the ingenious plan of God (whether they knew it or not) but even the angels of God rejoiced. Think about that. The angels of God who are spirit beings were excited for humanity that now the plan of God was manifested for the salvation of humanity. Deity and humanity has now come together as Jesus Christ the Lord.
We all should see Christmas as a time for great rejoicing. A new birth in our love towards God and toward one another. A new birth in dedicating our lives to His service. Christmas not New Years should be a catalyst for change, hope and increased faith. A great expectation of what God can and will do through those who believe. For some, maybe we need to see Christmas through the eyes of three wealthy wise men who left their nation and traveled a great distance to behold an infant King. Three men who apparently exercised faith having only the knowledge of ancient writings and a star that guided their way. Christmas is not just about a baby in a manger, it's about the complete redemption of humanity. We should celebrate Christmas as one of the two greatest moves of God in human history. That baby, the Christ, had come into the world to save humanity from Satan's power, to reconcile God to man and man to God and to give humanity "life and to have it more abundantly." (John 10:10) Have a wonderful and very "MERRY CHRISTMAS."
Monday, December 16, 2019
Open The Door And Let Him In
Today one of the problems that
captivates most people, including believers, is image. Just standing in
the checkout line of most stores, all you see is tabloids and magazines
concerned with how one looks. Basically, image deals with how one
projects themselves, which in turn becomes what people think a person is. Although this issue has been present throughout man's history, since the
mid 1990’s it has had a profound affect on the church. There is a
greater concern about image that unfortunately has come in the form of compromising God's Word which results in a lack of integrity and solid character. Billy Graham said it this way, "When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, all is lost." What is meant by this?
Today many church leaders seemed to have adopted various worldly concepts and have brought them into the "Body of Christ." Some of these concepts are; the church building needs to look appealing and non-threatening to an unbeliever meaning, remove anything that presents a Christian view (banners, scripture verses, etc.); church members need to refrain from using certain Christian phrases that may make unbelievers uncomfortable; the church needs world class entertainment to keep people interested and coming back; music must be upbeat only with a time limit; worship means maybe one slow song but no true expression of worship; and sermons also known as a message, are to be short and sweet to make people happy and feel good about themselves (this type of sermon is considered to be "relevant" for today). The thinking is that if the church does these things, we then can expect to reach unbelievers and have a successful ministry.
Naturally, we should have clean facilities, but are we representing Christ or the local coffee shop? One of the things that separates believers from the world is how we talk and act. When the presence of the LORD begins to touch lives during a service believers should be shouting the name of Jesus. When Jesus entered Jerusalem look at the response of the people, the religious leaders and Jesus Himself. "Then they brought the colt to Jesus. And they threw their own clothes on the colt, and they set Jesus on him. And as He went, many spread their clothes on the road. Then, as He was now drawing near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works they had seen, saying: "'Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the LORD!' Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, "Teacher, rebuke Your disciples." But He answered and said to them, "I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out."
Notice that "the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice." This was a multitude of disciples not unbelievers. To keep believers from shouting or speaking "Christian Phrases" is to deny God the honor that He is worthy of. It is ignorance motivated by fear in church leaders that want to squelch believers from verbalizing their excitement about Jesus because it may offend an unbeliever or make them feel uncomfortable. Though the people may not be shouting out the praise due to the LORD one day the stones supporting the building may. There is certainly nothing wrong with doing drama or having special music during a church service. The problem lies when we saturate people with entertainment to keep them interested and coming back to "Our Church".
The following is the entertainment that the LORD provided in the church to multiply the number of believers. "And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all." (Acts 4:33) "And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, so that they brought the sick out into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on some of them. Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed." (Acts 5:14-16) "And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people." (Acts 6:8) "And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. And there was great joy in that city." (Acts 8:6-8)
Not to belittle or make light the power of God in any way shape or form, but these are the entertainment, if you will, that unbelievers truly need to bring them to a conversion to Christ not a decision for Christ. What is the difference. Well a decision means, "the action or process of deciding something." However, a conversion is, "the process of changing or causing something to change from one form to another." Notice, conversion brings change whereas a decision has nothing to do with change. No one can honestly deny when the LORD reveals Himself by a demonstration of the Spirit and power. (1 Corinthians 2:4). However, this takes faith in an all powerful God who has not changed. It also take courage for church leaders to step away from the pressures that the world wants to conform the church to, and let Jesus build His church through His people.
Music is a powerful medium especially during church gatherings (not to exclude any other time). It is a means to usher in the presences of the LORD as we exalt and magnify Him through singing. David tells us, "...In Your presence is fullness of joy..." (Psalm 16:11) and "But You are holy, enthroned in the praises of Your people". (Psalm 22:3) Why would any church leader want to exclude Gods presence as to not offend an unbeliever or to make them feel uncomfortable? I have been in numerous congregational and small group meetings where unbelievers were so taken by Gods presences that some were saved, some healed, some delivered and some a combination of them all. I have been in other meetings where the presence of God was so strong that the praise and worship continued unplanned for two hours. There was no preaching during this time and in the LORDS presence, time seemed to stop. It was extremely powerful having such an affect on both believers and unbelievers that many still talk about the experience today. To exclude an intimate time of ministering to the LORD through worship or to place a limited time frame on worship is to say that God is not worthy of our admiration and we do not need His presences to have a successful church service.
I find it very interesting how church leaders advertise that they share a "Relevant Message" at their meetings but rarely preach from the Bible or use the Word of God in context. Honestly, the gospel (God's Word) has always been, is and will always be the only relevant message that the world will ever need to hear. Church leaders must stop being ashamed of the gospel of Christ and begin to preach and teach God's Word without reservation or apologizing for what it says. Paul says, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek." (Romans 1:16) Notice that the unadulterated Word of God has the power to save all people. To not preach and teach God's Word is to deny Jesus the preeminence in His Church. He is the Word! (John 1:1-2, 14, Revelation 19:13)
When the Prophet Samuel was sent by God to the house of Jesse to anoint a king to replace king Saul He made this statement concerning David, "...For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, (Image) but the LORD looks at the heart (Integrity, character)." (1 Samuel 16:7) We should not be concerned as to how we match up with the worlds image, but realize that Gods presences and glory far surpasses the best the world has to offer. We should concern ourselves with being a sanctified, a people set apart, as we serve the one true God, more than trying to adjust our image with worldly concepts that are motivated by Satan (1 John 5:19) and infested with sin (1 John 2:16) that only appeal to the flesh.
The real problem is not trying to reach the unbeliever per se, but how congregations go about it. We must stop reducing the church to a palatable organization where we fit into the world, but once again become a life filled Body that turns the world upside down. The church must begin to operate in faith and return to preaching the full gospel. The apostle Paul makes it clear as to what the full gospel entails, "For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ has not accomplished through me, in word and deed, to make the Gentiles obedient, in mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God, so that from Jerusalem and round about to Illyricum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ. And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel..." (Romans 15:18-20) As Paul tells us, the Full Gospel is preaching God's Word (the gospel) in mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God. This is the churches legacy; this is how multitudes will be saved, healed and delivered; this is church growth Gods way!
Won’t it be wonderful when the church becomes the envy of all once again. Well I have some good news and some not so good news, you can decide for yourself. We will see the so called "Open Church" (not the name of a congregation, but how they perceive themselves) continue to compromise the truth (God's Word) for the sake of unbelievers who unfortunately never come to Christ. We we see what is known as "Seeker Friendly" church's who currently have thousands of members begin to shrink and some will even be forced to close their doors (this is already happening) because all their programs and entertainment have not truly fixed broken lives. We will see many main line denominations reject sound doctrine and teach such things as Christ not being the only way to eternal life (this also is currently happening). Some will even be deceived by Mormon's, J---- Witnesses, Muslim's or other false religions and join their ranks.
However, on the other hand, there are some church leaders and congregation that have not bowed their knee to the world for the sake of having a world pleasing image. They have maintained their integrity in Christ and have not compromised God's Word. They are not trying to please the world but save people from the world. They understand and embrace the kind of faith that pleases God which will open the door to many lost souls being saved, healed, delivered and becoming true disciples. We will see reformation taking place in some denominations. Many denominational church leaders will throw away doctrines that they have embraced for years which are contrary to God's Word. They will come out from under the religious laws of men and begin to live by grace through faith.
Even now there is a stirring in many believers, young and older, who want more of Christ. They have participated in many church programs that are more therapeutic than life changing. They have listen to sermon that are psychology based rather than steeped in the Word of God. Even now many are seeking a congregation where the Full Gospel (as Paul presents it) is the norm and where true Christian community is experienced replacing the social club atmosphere. Why are these things happening and why will they be? Because the church is Christ's Body which He loves. Even now He is cleansing her so that she will be a "glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish." (Ephesians 5:27) PTL
As I close I would like to share a quote from General William Booth, Founder of the Salvation Army. Although the church is in the twenty first century, his statement is still worth pondering…
Today many church leaders seemed to have adopted various worldly concepts and have brought them into the "Body of Christ." Some of these concepts are; the church building needs to look appealing and non-threatening to an unbeliever meaning, remove anything that presents a Christian view (banners, scripture verses, etc.); church members need to refrain from using certain Christian phrases that may make unbelievers uncomfortable; the church needs world class entertainment to keep people interested and coming back; music must be upbeat only with a time limit; worship means maybe one slow song but no true expression of worship; and sermons also known as a message, are to be short and sweet to make people happy and feel good about themselves (this type of sermon is considered to be "relevant" for today). The thinking is that if the church does these things, we then can expect to reach unbelievers and have a successful ministry.
Naturally, we should have clean facilities, but are we representing Christ or the local coffee shop? One of the things that separates believers from the world is how we talk and act. When the presence of the LORD begins to touch lives during a service believers should be shouting the name of Jesus. When Jesus entered Jerusalem look at the response of the people, the religious leaders and Jesus Himself. "Then they brought the colt to Jesus. And they threw their own clothes on the colt, and they set Jesus on him. And as He went, many spread their clothes on the road. Then, as He was now drawing near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works they had seen, saying: "'Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the LORD!' Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, "Teacher, rebuke Your disciples." But He answered and said to them, "I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out."
(Luke 19:35-40)
Notice that "the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice." This was a multitude of disciples not unbelievers. To keep believers from shouting or speaking "Christian Phrases" is to deny God the honor that He is worthy of. It is ignorance motivated by fear in church leaders that want to squelch believers from verbalizing their excitement about Jesus because it may offend an unbeliever or make them feel uncomfortable. Though the people may not be shouting out the praise due to the LORD one day the stones supporting the building may. There is certainly nothing wrong with doing drama or having special music during a church service. The problem lies when we saturate people with entertainment to keep them interested and coming back to "Our Church".
The following is the entertainment that the LORD provided in the church to multiply the number of believers. "And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all." (Acts 4:33) "And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, so that they brought the sick out into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on some of them. Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed." (Acts 5:14-16) "And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people." (Acts 6:8) "And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. And there was great joy in that city." (Acts 8:6-8)
Not to belittle or make light the power of God in any way shape or form, but these are the entertainment, if you will, that unbelievers truly need to bring them to a conversion to Christ not a decision for Christ. What is the difference. Well a decision means, "the action or process of deciding something." However, a conversion is, "the process of changing or causing something to change from one form to another." Notice, conversion brings change whereas a decision has nothing to do with change. No one can honestly deny when the LORD reveals Himself by a demonstration of the Spirit and power. (1 Corinthians 2:4). However, this takes faith in an all powerful God who has not changed. It also take courage for church leaders to step away from the pressures that the world wants to conform the church to, and let Jesus build His church through His people.
Music is a powerful medium especially during church gatherings (not to exclude any other time). It is a means to usher in the presences of the LORD as we exalt and magnify Him through singing. David tells us, "...In Your presence is fullness of joy..." (Psalm 16:11) and "But You are holy, enthroned in the praises of Your people". (Psalm 22:3) Why would any church leader want to exclude Gods presence as to not offend an unbeliever or to make them feel uncomfortable? I have been in numerous congregational and small group meetings where unbelievers were so taken by Gods presences that some were saved, some healed, some delivered and some a combination of them all. I have been in other meetings where the presence of God was so strong that the praise and worship continued unplanned for two hours. There was no preaching during this time and in the LORDS presence, time seemed to stop. It was extremely powerful having such an affect on both believers and unbelievers that many still talk about the experience today. To exclude an intimate time of ministering to the LORD through worship or to place a limited time frame on worship is to say that God is not worthy of our admiration and we do not need His presences to have a successful church service.
I find it very interesting how church leaders advertise that they share a "Relevant Message" at their meetings but rarely preach from the Bible or use the Word of God in context. Honestly, the gospel (God's Word) has always been, is and will always be the only relevant message that the world will ever need to hear. Church leaders must stop being ashamed of the gospel of Christ and begin to preach and teach God's Word without reservation or apologizing for what it says. Paul says, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek." (Romans 1:16) Notice that the unadulterated Word of God has the power to save all people. To not preach and teach God's Word is to deny Jesus the preeminence in His Church. He is the Word! (John 1:1-2, 14, Revelation 19:13)
When the Prophet Samuel was sent by God to the house of Jesse to anoint a king to replace king Saul He made this statement concerning David, "...For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, (Image) but the LORD looks at the heart (Integrity, character)." (1 Samuel 16:7) We should not be concerned as to how we match up with the worlds image, but realize that Gods presences and glory far surpasses the best the world has to offer. We should concern ourselves with being a sanctified, a people set apart, as we serve the one true God, more than trying to adjust our image with worldly concepts that are motivated by Satan (1 John 5:19) and infested with sin (1 John 2:16) that only appeal to the flesh.
The real problem is not trying to reach the unbeliever per se, but how congregations go about it. We must stop reducing the church to a palatable organization where we fit into the world, but once again become a life filled Body that turns the world upside down. The church must begin to operate in faith and return to preaching the full gospel. The apostle Paul makes it clear as to what the full gospel entails, "For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ has not accomplished through me, in word and deed, to make the Gentiles obedient, in mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God, so that from Jerusalem and round about to Illyricum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ. And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel..." (Romans 15:18-20) As Paul tells us, the Full Gospel is preaching God's Word (the gospel) in mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God. This is the churches legacy; this is how multitudes will be saved, healed and delivered; this is church growth Gods way!
Won’t it be wonderful when the church becomes the envy of all once again. Well I have some good news and some not so good news, you can decide for yourself. We will see the so called "Open Church" (not the name of a congregation, but how they perceive themselves) continue to compromise the truth (God's Word) for the sake of unbelievers who unfortunately never come to Christ. We we see what is known as "Seeker Friendly" church's who currently have thousands of members begin to shrink and some will even be forced to close their doors (this is already happening) because all their programs and entertainment have not truly fixed broken lives. We will see many main line denominations reject sound doctrine and teach such things as Christ not being the only way to eternal life (this also is currently happening). Some will even be deceived by Mormon's, J---- Witnesses, Muslim's or other false religions and join their ranks.
However, on the other hand, there are some church leaders and congregation that have not bowed their knee to the world for the sake of having a world pleasing image. They have maintained their integrity in Christ and have not compromised God's Word. They are not trying to please the world but save people from the world. They understand and embrace the kind of faith that pleases God which will open the door to many lost souls being saved, healed, delivered and becoming true disciples. We will see reformation taking place in some denominations. Many denominational church leaders will throw away doctrines that they have embraced for years which are contrary to God's Word. They will come out from under the religious laws of men and begin to live by grace through faith.
Even now there is a stirring in many believers, young and older, who want more of Christ. They have participated in many church programs that are more therapeutic than life changing. They have listen to sermon that are psychology based rather than steeped in the Word of God. Even now many are seeking a congregation where the Full Gospel (as Paul presents it) is the norm and where true Christian community is experienced replacing the social club atmosphere. Why are these things happening and why will they be? Because the church is Christ's Body which He loves. Even now He is cleansing her so that she will be a "glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish." (Ephesians 5:27) PTL
As I close I would like to share a quote from General William Booth, Founder of the Salvation Army. Although the church is in the twenty first century, his statement is still worth pondering…
“The chief danger of the 20th century will be religion without the
Holy Spirit, Christianity without Christ, forgiveness without
repentance, salvation without regeneration, politics without God and
heaven without hell.” (William Booth Quotes) How prophetic...
Monday, December 9, 2019
Natural to Spiritual
Creation reveals the master hand of the Designer. Blind chance is not the author. Taking an honest, intelligent look at creation will agree that there is nothing left to chance. Creation is governed by fixed laws and these laws apply to the most minute cell, to the highest forms of life as well as all things seen and unseen. There is an intelligent purpose behind all creation and yet the theory of evolution (which in most institutions is taught as fact) has not given us any adequate reason for creation, why? Because we have forgotten that truth is eternal and theories are based on the opinions of man. Webster defines theory as facts related to one another based on unproved assumption. Also theories are limited by time as seen by the constant revisions made in much scientific discoveries from age to age.
Notice that theories are based on "unproved assumptions." Could this be why when evolution is mentioned educators and evolutionists who believe in this "unproved assumption" try to avoid using the term "theory of evolution." They know as fact, that it cannot be proven through any means. In short, it is argued that fossil records and biology can prove that evolution is the basis of creation; that life evolved from non-life; and that life as we know it came to exist by chance. However, modern day advancements in technology have concluded beyond question or reasonable doubt, that evolution is a fallacy. In fact, none of the means in which evolutionists use in their attempts to prove their "unproved assumption" actually disprove their theories.
I cannot speak for you, but it would take a whole lot of faith and a rejection of logic for me to believe the religion of evolution, especially when it has been proven scientifically (an evolutionists means to test theory) to be false. So if evolution cannot be proven, then why is it taught as fact? The apostle Paul tells us, "Because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things...who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever." Amen. (Romans 1:21-25)
Every human being whether involved in religions other than a true form of Christianity or even if they profess to be atheist, know that something is not right, so they look for anything that will ease their conscience. Even though they know that Jehovah God exists, they refuse to acknowledge Him as God. But to appease their conscience some will believe that a higher power exists and thereby create a god in their own image, while other who emphatically deny the existence of God, resort to their futile thinking. In either case, they exchange the truth of God for a lie. Those who deny that God exists and yet are driven by the feeling that something is not right, fail to recognize the reason behind their quest. They refuse to believe that God blew His breath of life into the first created man and it was this breath that brought life into man. They cannot perceive that sin caused man to die spiritually and that "he has become flesh.” Nevertheless, man still has a spirit and that spirit longs to connect with its Creator and until it does, man will always be on a quest to find the answers to life.
The apostle Paul tells us, "But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one. For who has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct Him?" But we have the mind of Christ." (1 Corinthians 2:14-16) Looking at verse 14, we know another reason why evolutionist hold to the theory of evolution. However, looking at verse 15 and 16, should be an encouragement to believers to take the truth of creation (the Creator) to those who do not believe. By adding faith to what Paul says, believers can present the truth to the world in a way that will provoke thought which will open the heart. Think where you were right before you were saved. You heard the truth, thought was provoked, your heart was opened, the Father gave you grace and faith and you believed from the heart, confessed with your mouth, and you were saved.
Think about this way, if the church is Gods vehicle to "turn the world upside down;" if the church is backed by the power of God; if it is Gods desire that all people be saved; if the authority of Christ has been delegated to the church, then there is no reason why the church cannot, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen. (Matthew 28:19-20) "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might..." (Ephesians 6:10) So, let the power of the Holy Spirit work through us all to turn the natural mans thinking from foolish carnal thoughts to becoming born again and having the mind of Christ. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you...
Notice that theories are based on "unproved assumptions." Could this be why when evolution is mentioned educators and evolutionists who believe in this "unproved assumption" try to avoid using the term "theory of evolution." They know as fact, that it cannot be proven through any means. In short, it is argued that fossil records and biology can prove that evolution is the basis of creation; that life evolved from non-life; and that life as we know it came to exist by chance. However, modern day advancements in technology have concluded beyond question or reasonable doubt, that evolution is a fallacy. In fact, none of the means in which evolutionists use in their attempts to prove their "unproved assumption" actually disprove their theories.
I cannot speak for you, but it would take a whole lot of faith and a rejection of logic for me to believe the religion of evolution, especially when it has been proven scientifically (an evolutionists means to test theory) to be false. So if evolution cannot be proven, then why is it taught as fact? The apostle Paul tells us, "Because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things...who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever." Amen. (Romans 1:21-25)
Every human being whether involved in religions other than a true form of Christianity or even if they profess to be atheist, know that something is not right, so they look for anything that will ease their conscience. Even though they know that Jehovah God exists, they refuse to acknowledge Him as God. But to appease their conscience some will believe that a higher power exists and thereby create a god in their own image, while other who emphatically deny the existence of God, resort to their futile thinking. In either case, they exchange the truth of God for a lie. Those who deny that God exists and yet are driven by the feeling that something is not right, fail to recognize the reason behind their quest. They refuse to believe that God blew His breath of life into the first created man and it was this breath that brought life into man. They cannot perceive that sin caused man to die spiritually and that "he has become flesh.” Nevertheless, man still has a spirit and that spirit longs to connect with its Creator and until it does, man will always be on a quest to find the answers to life.
The apostle Paul tells us, "But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one. For who has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct Him?" But we have the mind of Christ." (1 Corinthians 2:14-16) Looking at verse 14, we know another reason why evolutionist hold to the theory of evolution. However, looking at verse 15 and 16, should be an encouragement to believers to take the truth of creation (the Creator) to those who do not believe. By adding faith to what Paul says, believers can present the truth to the world in a way that will provoke thought which will open the heart. Think where you were right before you were saved. You heard the truth, thought was provoked, your heart was opened, the Father gave you grace and faith and you believed from the heart, confessed with your mouth, and you were saved.
Think about this way, if the church is Gods vehicle to "turn the world upside down;" if the church is backed by the power of God; if it is Gods desire that all people be saved; if the authority of Christ has been delegated to the church, then there is no reason why the church cannot, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen. (Matthew 28:19-20) "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might..." (Ephesians 6:10) So, let the power of the Holy Spirit work through us all to turn the natural mans thinking from foolish carnal thoughts to becoming born again and having the mind of Christ. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you...
Monday, December 2, 2019
Great is His Name
The incarnate Son of God was manifest to restore humanity to the place
that God had originally intended. All that Adam was before he committed
treason and forfeited the dominion and authority that God had given him
over creation, was God's goal of the restoration of man. The Apostle
Paul tells us, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. " (Romans 3:23) This means that not one human being could ever satisfy
justice for Adam's transgression. So God Himself would be the only
candidate that could fulfill such an incredible undertaking.
The Apostle John tells us, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." (John 1:1) and "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us..." (John 1:14) The angel Gabriel announced to Mary, "And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end." (Luke 1:31-33) and so it was, Deity and humanity came together. The Word was conceived in the womb of a woman, became flesh and His name is JESUS.
The Apostle Paul tells us, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11)
Because Jesus willingly gave up His sinless, perfect life for every man, woman and child, "God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name." In other words, God the Father has super-eminently exalted Jesus, has given Him the highest position above all else and there is no other name that can be compared with his. It stands alone! Hebrews tells us, "having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they." (Hebrews 1:4) These things are very important for all believers to understand because not only is the name of Jesus above every other name, His name carries with it all authority in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. This means that every created being in those three realms must bow in submission to His name.
We may be quick to say "amen" to this, but the possibilities that surround His name are beyond our understanding. Basically, in His name, He has given the church (believers) "carte blanche" to all the resources and promises of God. The good news in this is, all believers have been given the legal use of His name so that, "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This mean the devil, every evil spirit and every demon. We see this played out in the ministry of seventy other disciples that Jesus sent out, "Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name." (Luke 10:17) Let us take note that this was before His resurrection and the exaltation of His name. So think how much power and authority the believer has today in His name. Honestly, it is almost incomprehensible.
God did not do this for Himself. He made this tremendous, stupendous investment for the benefit of all humanity and now is made manifest through the church (all believers). He made this investment so that all who would believe upon the name of Jesus would have the liberty to use His magnificent name to meet their every need and also to enforce what Jesus' death and resurrection has secured, especially the power over the enemy. However, all of these things that the name of Jesus provides for the church do not manifest simply because the Bible reveals these things. Faith must be released through the believer and then the believer must act upon his released faith."But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works." (James 2:18)
So let us remember this; God the Father has bestowed upon Jesus honor, glory, power, all authority and has "seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all." (Ephesians 1:20-23) Glory be to God!!!
The Apostle John tells us, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." (John 1:1) and "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us..." (John 1:14) The angel Gabriel announced to Mary, "And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end." (Luke 1:31-33) and so it was, Deity and humanity came together. The Word was conceived in the womb of a woman, became flesh and His name is JESUS.
The Apostle Paul tells us, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11)
Because Jesus willingly gave up His sinless, perfect life for every man, woman and child, "God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name." In other words, God the Father has super-eminently exalted Jesus, has given Him the highest position above all else and there is no other name that can be compared with his. It stands alone! Hebrews tells us, "having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they." (Hebrews 1:4) These things are very important for all believers to understand because not only is the name of Jesus above every other name, His name carries with it all authority in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. This means that every created being in those three realms must bow in submission to His name.
We may be quick to say "amen" to this, but the possibilities that surround His name are beyond our understanding. Basically, in His name, He has given the church (believers) "carte blanche" to all the resources and promises of God. The good news in this is, all believers have been given the legal use of His name so that, "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This mean the devil, every evil spirit and every demon. We see this played out in the ministry of seventy other disciples that Jesus sent out, "Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name." (Luke 10:17) Let us take note that this was before His resurrection and the exaltation of His name. So think how much power and authority the believer has today in His name. Honestly, it is almost incomprehensible.
God did not do this for Himself. He made this tremendous, stupendous investment for the benefit of all humanity and now is made manifest through the church (all believers). He made this investment so that all who would believe upon the name of Jesus would have the liberty to use His magnificent name to meet their every need and also to enforce what Jesus' death and resurrection has secured, especially the power over the enemy. However, all of these things that the name of Jesus provides for the church do not manifest simply because the Bible reveals these things. Faith must be released through the believer and then the believer must act upon his released faith."But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works." (James 2:18)
So let us remember this; God the Father has bestowed upon Jesus honor, glory, power, all authority and has "seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all." (Ephesians 1:20-23) Glory be to God!!!
Monday, November 25, 2019
Thankful In All Things
Thanksgiving Day, in the United States, is a holiday celebrated on the
fourth Thursday in November. Thanksgiving was celebrated nationally in
1789, after a proclamation by George Washington. It has been celebrated
as a federal holiday every year since 1863, when, during the Civil War,
President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of "Thanksgiving and
Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens." As a
federal and public holiday in the United States, Thanksgiving is one of
the major holidays of the year. The event that Americans commonly call
the "First Thanksgiving" was celebrated by the Pilgrims after their
first harvest in the New World at the Plymouth Plantation in 1621.
According to historic accounts, this feast lasted three days, and it was
attended by 90 Native Americans. It was first and foremost celebrated
as a religious observance of the blessings of God upon the early
settlers.
Although the colonist did not call the celebration Thanksgiving, it was the first corn harvest proved successful by the new colonists. After being plagued with sickness and death, there was definitely something to be thankful to God for. So, Governor William Bradford organized a celebratory feast and invited a group of the fledgling colony’s Native American allies, including the Wampanoag Chief Massasoit. While no record exists of the historic banquet’s exact menu, the Pilgrim chronicler Edward Winslow wrote in his journal that Governor Bradford sent four men on a “fowling” mission in preparation for the event, and that the Wampanoag guests arrived bearing five deer. Historians have suggested that many of the dishes were likely prepared using traditional Native American spices and cooking methods. The meal, most likely, did not feature pies, cakes or other desserts, which have become a hallmark of contemporary celebrations. Today, in the United States, Thanksgiving is the most traveled holiday of the year.
In many American households, the Thanksgiving celebration has lost much of its original religious significance. Instead, it now centers on cooking and sharing a bountiful meal with family and friends. Although turkey has become all but synonymous with the holiday, it may or may not have been on the menu of this inaugural feast in 1621. According to the National Turkey Federation, today, nearly 90 percent of Americans eat some type of foul, whether roasted, baked or deep-fried, on Thanksgiving Day. Other traditional foods include stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, a variety of vegetables and pumpkin pie. Volunteering is also a common Thanksgiving Day activity. Communities, especially churches, often hold food drives and host free dinners for the less fortunate. Parades have also become an integral part of the holiday in cities and towns across the United States.
Although these things may have some redeeming qualities, there are two main thing (although there are more than two) that have certainly twisted the observance of Thanksgiving Day in the USA. One has been working for decades to either downplay or eliminate altogether many of the traditions that have been a part of American history and culture for centuries, the National Education Association (the public school system). The other began Thanksgiving Day 2014. Unfortunately, since 2014, most department stores and retailers have permitted greed to erode this day of giving thanks to become a day of making a profit.
Although there has been a departure in the United States of the true meaning and reason for celebrating Thanksgiving, and although there may be some who disagree that Thanksgiving was a religious event, believers should never let any sector of society deprive us of celebrating Thanksgiving from its original roots, celebrating the wonderful works of God. The Apostle Paul tells us, "In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Believers are to maintain an attitude of gratitude. We should always remember what the Lord Jesus Christ did for humanity. The fact that He left the glory of heaven to take on the form of a man (Philippians 2:5-8), becoming sin with our sin and sick with our sicknesses (Isaiah 53:4-6, 10), should cause every believe to be extremely thankful and to greatly rejoice. To rejoice is a spontaneous, unsustainable feeling of jubilance; a feeling so strong that it finds expression in some external act, clapping, dancing, shouting. It means to be exceedingly joyful.
Even in our prayer time believers are to be thankful, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." (Philippians 4:6) "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men." (1 Timothy 2:1) So, during this festive holiday, let us truly offer the Lord the fruit of our lips from hearts of thanksgiving, how great and wonderful He is. Let us give Him thanks for the wonderful blessings that He has given and continues to give. May the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ fill you with thanksgiving everyday...
Although the colonist did not call the celebration Thanksgiving, it was the first corn harvest proved successful by the new colonists. After being plagued with sickness and death, there was definitely something to be thankful to God for. So, Governor William Bradford organized a celebratory feast and invited a group of the fledgling colony’s Native American allies, including the Wampanoag Chief Massasoit. While no record exists of the historic banquet’s exact menu, the Pilgrim chronicler Edward Winslow wrote in his journal that Governor Bradford sent four men on a “fowling” mission in preparation for the event, and that the Wampanoag guests arrived bearing five deer. Historians have suggested that many of the dishes were likely prepared using traditional Native American spices and cooking methods. The meal, most likely, did not feature pies, cakes or other desserts, which have become a hallmark of contemporary celebrations. Today, in the United States, Thanksgiving is the most traveled holiday of the year.
In many American households, the Thanksgiving celebration has lost much of its original religious significance. Instead, it now centers on cooking and sharing a bountiful meal with family and friends. Although turkey has become all but synonymous with the holiday, it may or may not have been on the menu of this inaugural feast in 1621. According to the National Turkey Federation, today, nearly 90 percent of Americans eat some type of foul, whether roasted, baked or deep-fried, on Thanksgiving Day. Other traditional foods include stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, a variety of vegetables and pumpkin pie. Volunteering is also a common Thanksgiving Day activity. Communities, especially churches, often hold food drives and host free dinners for the less fortunate. Parades have also become an integral part of the holiday in cities and towns across the United States.
Although these things may have some redeeming qualities, there are two main thing (although there are more than two) that have certainly twisted the observance of Thanksgiving Day in the USA. One has been working for decades to either downplay or eliminate altogether many of the traditions that have been a part of American history and culture for centuries, the National Education Association (the public school system). The other began Thanksgiving Day 2014. Unfortunately, since 2014, most department stores and retailers have permitted greed to erode this day of giving thanks to become a day of making a profit.
Although there has been a departure in the United States of the true meaning and reason for celebrating Thanksgiving, and although there may be some who disagree that Thanksgiving was a religious event, believers should never let any sector of society deprive us of celebrating Thanksgiving from its original roots, celebrating the wonderful works of God. The Apostle Paul tells us, "In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Believers are to maintain an attitude of gratitude. We should always remember what the Lord Jesus Christ did for humanity. The fact that He left the glory of heaven to take on the form of a man (Philippians 2:5-8), becoming sin with our sin and sick with our sicknesses (Isaiah 53:4-6, 10), should cause every believe to be extremely thankful and to greatly rejoice. To rejoice is a spontaneous, unsustainable feeling of jubilance; a feeling so strong that it finds expression in some external act, clapping, dancing, shouting. It means to be exceedingly joyful.
Even in our prayer time believers are to be thankful, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." (Philippians 4:6) "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men." (1 Timothy 2:1) So, during this festive holiday, let us truly offer the Lord the fruit of our lips from hearts of thanksgiving, how great and wonderful He is. Let us give Him thanks for the wonderful blessings that He has given and continues to give. May the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ fill you with thanksgiving everyday...
Monday, November 18, 2019
Life In Him
The apostle John had a particular reason behind writing what we see in the gospel according to John. (Keep in mind that although John did the writing, the Holy Spirit gave
the inspiration). We read, "And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His
disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written
that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that
believing you may have life in His name." (John 20:30-31) Please note, "that believing you may have life in His name." The
word life is the Greek word "zoe" which means "life in the absolute
sense; life as God has it; that which the Father has in Himself and
which He gave to the Incarnate Son to have in Himself." This is the same
quality of life that Christians are to experience their entire time on
planet earth. With that said, let's look a little deeper into
the gospel of John and see repeatedly what Jesus Himself says concerning
His mission of revealing the Father's will, nature, character, purpose and plan.
First, Jesus is by Himself and He has an encounter with a woman of Samaria at Jacobs well. At the end of His conversation with her, His disciples return to Him and urge Him to eat, but look closely at Jesus' response, "Jesus said to them, My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work." (John 4:34) Notice Jesus' mission, "...to do the will of Him who sent Me.." So whatever we see Jesus do or and whatever He says, He is revealing the Father. Next, we see Jesus healing on the Sabbath which causes the Jews to be filled with indignation so severe that they sought to kill Him because He healed on the Sabbath. Again looking at Jesus' response to the Jews, we see, "Then Jesus answered and said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel." (John 5:19-20)
Notice that Jesus does not initiate the things that He does, "...the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do..." Jesus only does what the Father Himself does. He only does the Father's will. Not only does Jesus' actions perfectly reveal the Father's will, but they are also proof that He is from or that He has been sent by the Father. Again, we see, "But I have a greater witness than John's; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish, the very works that I do, bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me." (John 5:36) "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me." (John 6:38) "...I speak to the world those things which I heard from Him."(John 8:26) "...I do nothing of Myself; but as My Father taught Me, I speak these things." (John 8:28)
Now let's look at another very important key in the life and ministry of Jesus. "And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him." (John 8:29) Not only does Jesus perfectly reveal the Father's will and nature, but everything that He does and says pleases the Father. Next, we see Jesus having an encounter with the Jews. Look at the words that Jesus speaks to them. "If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him." (John 10:37-28) Jesus again, is pointing to the works that He does as the work of His Father. Finally, Jesus says something that should awaken every Christian from the slumber of doubt. If one cannot believe that He is the Christ, the Savior, God the Son, the Son of God, then the works that He does should bring one to understand that the Father is in Him revealing Himself through the works that Jesus is doing.
The fact that Jesus perfectly reveals the Father's will, nature, character, purpose and plan is the most crucial point of knowing the One and only Living, Almighty God and Father, especially to one who accepts Christ as Savior, confesses His Lordship from their mouth and believe in their heart that God raised Him from the dead. Of course this takes faith. Unfortunately, many Christians are taught and trained to believe the opposite. Once again I want to exhort us to let the Word of God assault and destroy all the thoughts, argument and perceptions that exalt themselves above the Word of God. In other words, let the Word of God prevail mightily in our lives and we will find that in doing so, we will truly experience "life in the absolute sense; life as God has it; that which the Father has in Himself and which He gave to the Incarnate Son to have in Himself." .
First, Jesus is by Himself and He has an encounter with a woman of Samaria at Jacobs well. At the end of His conversation with her, His disciples return to Him and urge Him to eat, but look closely at Jesus' response, "Jesus said to them, My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work." (John 4:34) Notice Jesus' mission, "...to do the will of Him who sent Me.." So whatever we see Jesus do or and whatever He says, He is revealing the Father. Next, we see Jesus healing on the Sabbath which causes the Jews to be filled with indignation so severe that they sought to kill Him because He healed on the Sabbath. Again looking at Jesus' response to the Jews, we see, "Then Jesus answered and said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel." (John 5:19-20)
Notice that Jesus does not initiate the things that He does, "...the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do..." Jesus only does what the Father Himself does. He only does the Father's will. Not only does Jesus' actions perfectly reveal the Father's will, but they are also proof that He is from or that He has been sent by the Father. Again, we see, "But I have a greater witness than John's; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish, the very works that I do, bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me." (John 5:36) "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me." (John 6:38) "...I speak to the world those things which I heard from Him."(John 8:26) "...I do nothing of Myself; but as My Father taught Me, I speak these things." (John 8:28)
Now let's look at another very important key in the life and ministry of Jesus. "And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him." (John 8:29) Not only does Jesus perfectly reveal the Father's will and nature, but everything that He does and says pleases the Father. Next, we see Jesus having an encounter with the Jews. Look at the words that Jesus speaks to them. "If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him." (John 10:37-28) Jesus again, is pointing to the works that He does as the work of His Father. Finally, Jesus says something that should awaken every Christian from the slumber of doubt. If one cannot believe that He is the Christ, the Savior, God the Son, the Son of God, then the works that He does should bring one to understand that the Father is in Him revealing Himself through the works that Jesus is doing.
The fact that Jesus perfectly reveals the Father's will, nature, character, purpose and plan is the most crucial point of knowing the One and only Living, Almighty God and Father, especially to one who accepts Christ as Savior, confesses His Lordship from their mouth and believe in their heart that God raised Him from the dead. Of course this takes faith. Unfortunately, many Christians are taught and trained to believe the opposite. Once again I want to exhort us to let the Word of God assault and destroy all the thoughts, argument and perceptions that exalt themselves above the Word of God. In other words, let the Word of God prevail mightily in our lives and we will find that in doing so, we will truly experience "life in the absolute sense; life as God has it; that which the Father has in Himself and which He gave to the Incarnate Son to have in Himself." .
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