Intentional Evangelism

Today, many consider America as a postmodern culture where experiential Christianity is paramount. While informational approaches to evangelism may still have some merit these approaches must migrate to a demonstration of the life changing power of Jesus Christ, being lived out before those who are unbelievers or incarnational evangelism. Authenticity is vital for the believer to be an effective evangelist. These two approaches, the informational and the incarnational, are connected. The informational approach requires you to know why you believe and be capable of presenting the information necessary to lead someone to Christ. The incarnational approach requires you to live a life demonstrating the power of the gospel in your life. How can you live what you do not know? Effective evangelism requires a balance between informational and experiential. “Christians must understand that an unbelieving world will not believe what we say about Christ and our faith, until they first see the truth manifested through us.”^[1] Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians said, “To the weak (wanting in discernment) I have become weak (wanting in discernment) that I might win the weak and overscrupulous. I have [in short] become all things to all men, that I might by all means (at all costs and in any and every way) save some [by winning them to faith in Jesus Christ]” (I Corinthians 9:22, AMPC).

Often we personally feel apprehension regarding the informational evangelism. Our conscious is clear because we have hired pastors and church staff to evangelize, however this is the responsibility of every believer. Many tools are available today via the internet for self-training to insure your tool belt is well equipped. The incarnational aspects are more challenging for many for a variety of reasons. Time tends to be one of the biggest obstacles for many. We have reduced evangelism to participating in evangelism events, instead of a life that must be lived. Incarnational evangelism is incorporating evangelism into your everyday routine. When some at work confides in you with a particular struggle at home or work, this is the opportunity for you to evangelize. You can express biblical content without reference, offer of prayer, or give an encouraging word of faith. When you are doing yard work and a neighbor rides by on their bike, wave and be open for conversation. Evangelism is the expressions of love God has commanded us to do. Seldom do we view evangelism in the context of our relationship with other believers; however, it is key in our identification as a disciple of Christ. Disagreements between Christ followers promotes unbelief. Likewise, agreement between Christ followers promotes evangelism and belief in Christ.

I give you a new commandment: that you should love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too should love one another. By this shall all [men] know that you are My disciples, if you love one another [if you keep on showing love among yourselves]. (John 13:34-35, AMPC)

 

Unbelievers need to hear, “There is hope!” When faced with the reality that they may spend eternity separated from God, we should feel compelled to evangelize. When evangelism is a natural part of our life, it is casual and unpresuming. Our prayer life drive us to become watchmen, on the wall waiting for a casual opportunity to befriend unbelievers intentionally. How welcoming is your home? On your FaceBook page, are you limited to just believers? If you posted or liked one of the challenging social issues we face today with the truth of the Bible, would your post challenge any of your friends beliefs? Are you a friend of sinners? Many Christians avoid posting on controversial issues, because they feel weak in their ability to defend and challenge unbelievers. We are salt and light! Relationship building is important. Where there is no relationship offense is taken, however when we invest and build our relationships with unbelievers, they gain the sense that we really care for them, love them, and desire the best for them. In these environments, we are able to speak truth with love. We should continue to pray every day for the Divine appointments to share the truth of the gospel. Unbelievers are not a three-day project and will need a long-term commitment for the un-rooting of confusion of truth, hurts, and religion. A crisis in life, may present an open door. In those moments, the only way you will know or given an opportunity to intervene is if you keep unbelievers close in your prayers, heart, and mind.

 

Utilizing tools like “The Truth Project” or David Barton’s material from WallBuilders.com and interacting in your home, you may appeal to intellect and intentionally open a door. An investigative Bible study could follow with something like the Alpha course. Continuing to pray, inviting your unbelieving friends to church, filling the gap of family, security, and truth that no one has ever had modeled in their life could lead to an opportunity for them to experience Christ in a tangible way. We must help them realize that the journey of a believer does not end at salvation, but begins and will require ongoing discipleship.

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[1] David Wheeler, “Incarnational Apologetics” (Professor of Evangelism, Liberty University, 2014).

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In the Throne Room

 

Christians long to be in heaven their final home leaving all their sorrows here on earth. While here, we are just strangers passing through on our pilgrimage (Hebrews 11:13). For a moment, we can examine instances from the book of Revelation to gain some insight of heaven and especially the Throne Room.

 

The first glimpse into the Throne Room is in Revelation 1:10-11a (AMPC),

“I was in the Spirit [rapt in His power] on the Lord’s Day, and I heard behind me a great voice like the calling of a war trumpet, Saying, I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last.”

John the Revelator wrapped by the power of the Holy Spirit hears the voice of God calling from behind. God does not announce Himself in a timid voice, but that of a war trumpet for what god would call with any other voice from his chambers.

And Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem in the house of the Lord before the new court And said, O Lord, God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven? And do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations? In Your hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand You. (2 Chronicles 20:5-6, AMPC)

 

The real glimpse into the Throne Room of God occurs in Revelation 4, where in verse 1 John hears God calling again like a war trumpet to “Come up here…” John called into the third heaven and finds himself in the holiest of all places, the Throne Room of God. His first sight is the Throne of God; however, John does not describe the throne. He describes the one seated on the throne.

At once I came under the [Holy] Spirit’s power, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with One seated on the throne! And He Who sat there appeared like [the crystalline brightness of] jasper and [the fiery] sardius, and encircling the throne there was a halo that looked like [a rainbow of] emerald. (Revelation 4:2-3, AMPC)

When we get to heaven, our only focus will be the “One seated on the throne!” Jesus will be seated with God the Father on this throne (Revelation 3:21). In Him, there are no shadows of doubt; you can find no darkness in Him or around Him. When He turns, bends, or stoops there is only light (James 1:17). He who is the Light of the world (John 8:12) will illuminate the heavens with his splendor and beauty. Beauty we have never dreamed of seeing. We have observed beauty on earth (the birth of a child, a giant glacier in Alaska, snowcapped mountains, Caribbean blue sea and islands, or a flower blooming), but nothing will compare to the beauty of our Savior.

 

John continues his description and paints a picture of beauty we can all hope to see. There are twenty-four other thrones with elders with each arrayed in white. Flashes of lightning and thunder, the glassy sea, and four living creatures who could only cry “Holy.” When we stand in the Throne room of God the only utterance from our lips will be “Holy,” as we view the beauty of heaven and reminisce, ponder, and review the goodness of God bestowed to us. For eternity, we will stand and gaze at the beauty of God and cry “Holy,” praising God forever!

And the four living creatures, individually having six wings, were full of eyes all over and within [underneath their wings]; and day and night they never stop saying, Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty (Omnipotent), Who was and Who is and Who is to come. And whenever the living creatures offer glory and honor and thanksgiving to Him Who sits on the throne, Who lives forever and ever (through the eternities of the eternities), (Revelation 4:7-8, AMPC)

Likewise, John sees the twenty-four elders prostrate before Him and they worshipped Him, casting their crowns before the throne for there is only one crown, one King, one worthy. All others crowns are in submission to the one crowned King of kings, and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16). Hear the cry of the elders, who cried,

Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive the glory and the honor and dominion, for You created all things; by Your will they were [brought into being] and were created. (Revelation 4:11, AMPC)

We too will find ourselves casting our crowns before Him and declaring, “Worthy are you Lord and God!”

 

What a beautiful sight John paints for us of God’s Throne Room. John was still earth bound and found himself in an open vision observing the Throne of God. Likewise, we have opportunities to enter His presence and maybe even gain access in an open vision of heaven to the Throne Room of God. The humility with which John writes compels us to humility before our God. Like the four creatures, we should cry “Holy” here on earth. Like the twenty-four elders, we too should cast our crowns and cry “Worthy!” If we cannot cry “Holy” and “Worthy” here on earth, how can we expect to live eternally crying “Holy, holy, holy,” and “Worthy are You our Lord and God?”

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From Denial to Courage

 

The establishment of the Jewish Feast of Pentecost along with many others is in the Old Testament marking significant interventions of God on behalf of the Jewish people as part of the revelation of God to man. These are the Feast of the Lord (Leviticus 23). Within these feast we can find Jesus as many parallel events of His life. Many scholars believe Mary’s conception of Jesus was during the Festival of Lights, because He is the light of the world (John 8:12), and they further believe Jesus was born nine months later at the Feast of Tabernacles established to celebrate the end of the Israelites wandering in the dessert. Jesus ended our wandering in sin (Isaiah 53:6-8). The crucifixion of Jesus occurs in conjunction with the celebration of the Feast of Passover, where Jesus becomes our Passover lamb, and His resurrection occurs in conjunction with the Feast of First Fruits, which is the first harvest (barley). Now, we celebrate Pentecost Sunday, which also parallels the Jewish Feast of Pentecost, which is the second harvest (wheat).

 

Similar to the Passover Feast, the Feast of Pentecost is a pilgrimage feast meaning many people would travel to Jerusalem to celebrate these feasts. How fitting that many would find themselves in Jerusalem to bear witness to the crucifixion of Jesus and His resurrection, now they will gather to celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, not knowing of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. It is in the midst of this celebration that we can better understand the accusation, “But others made a joke of it and derisively said, They are simply drunk and full of sweet [intoxicating] wine. (Acts 2:13, AMPC).” With many people gathered in the city, we can understand that the first evangelistic message given by Peter in Acts 2 yielded 3,000 souls believing in Christ. Many became believers at the crucifixion of Christ (Matthew 27:54), and many became believers when the Holy Spirit descended.

 

On the day of Pentecost, Peter moves from denial to courage. Jesus prophesied Peter’s denial of him before the rooster would crow three times (Matthew 26:34). Peter realized he had denied Christ “And he went out and wept bitterly [that is, with painfully moving grief]. (Luke 22:62, AMPC)” finding forgiveness. Now, clothed with power Peter finds courage to be a witness. Others find hope as they begin to understand the “greater things” they would do (John 14:12) and their empowerment to be witnesses (Acts 1:8). Peter’s fear of men is gone and he now finds courage in Christ.

 

The Holy Spirit empowers us to accomplish the work of Christ.

And behold, I will send forth upon you what My Father has promised; but remain in the city [Jerusalem] until you are clothed with power from on high. (Luke 24:49, AMPC)

Many translations state, “until you are endued with power,” however, the Amplified Translation is a better translation, “until you are clothed with power.” The Holy Spirit clothes us with power. The disciples gathered in an upper room with friends and family totaling 120. Still grieving, they followed the instruction of Christ. They waited. Their hopes crushed. They believed Jesus would be their King. The acts of this tragedy unfolded before them. They witnessed His death, resurrection, forty more days of ministry, and His ascension ten days ago. Now they wait, uncertain of the future. In Acts 2:4, the Holy Spirit descends and clothes them.

To grant [consolation and joy] to those who mourn in Zion—to give them an ornament (a garland or diadem) of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, the garment [expressive] of praise instead of a heavy, burdened, and failing spirit—that they may be called oaks of righteousness [lofty, strong, and magnificent, distinguished for uprightness, justice, and right standing with God], the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified. (Isaiah 61:3, AMPC)

 

God wove through time a perfect plan establishing Feasts for us to observe and see the revelation of His plan over time. In the Old Testament, we find the progressive revelation of God. In the New Testament, we find the revelation of Christ and the Church in a shorter period, complementing and building on Old Testament revelation. Christ is the fulfillment of the Law.  

Do not think that I have come to do away with or undo the Law or the Prophets; I have come not to do away with or undo but to complete and fulfill them. (Matthew 5:17, AMPC)

 

Today, the Holy Spirit too can clothe us. Our grief, sorry, and brokenness can be turned over to Christ and the Holy Spirit will clothe us with power. What Christ was to His Disciples, the Holy Spirit is now to believers. Every need Christ encountered while here on earth, He fulfilled. Now, Christ through the Holy Spirit fulfills every need we have on earth. In John 14:26, Jesus declares He will send to us the “Comforter,” the Holy Spirit. The Greek word translated is “parapkletos,” meaning advocate or one called to one’s side. The Holy Spirit stands by us to guide, help, defend, and instruct us, if we will only listen. You too can move from denial to courage.

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Christian Leader

As a Christian leader, personal leadership capabilities are not limited to Christian contexts, but extends to non-Christian environments as well. The example of being salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16) is necessary in a world yielded to fleshly whims. Don N. Howell, Jr., offers a definition: “Biblical leadership is taking the initiative to influence people to grow in holiness and to passionately promote the extension of God's kingdom in the world.”[1] The difference and distinctions of Christian leaders is the living out of their faith from core to crust.[2] Christianity is not to be a badge of honor we ware when it is convenient, but a lifestyle that is to be lived.

 

Recently, a father rang our doorbell expecting his daughter to be here with my daughter. In discussing the situation openly with my daughter and her friend’s father, we shared that she had been in our home, but not the entire time. While exchanging contact information, his daughter showed up and they proceeded to go home. Obviously upset as they left, I overheard the harsh tones the father expressed to his daughter, which provided a glimpse into the realities of their lives. It would have been easy to dismiss any further concern, but as a Christian leader, “We humbly serve others based on our love for them.”[3] During prayer the following morning, I felt the need to reach out in love to this father. Through a series of text messages, I was able to share that I am a pastor and gained his permission to intervene further with reflections from my prayer time. Specifically, I shared that his daughter had seen the father’s discipline, but now she needed to see the fathers love. His daughter has been back in my home and family life seems to be improving. I hope to connect with her father again, soon.

 

A great example of Christian leadership today is Chick-fil-a. S. Truett Cathy in his book, Eat Mor Chickin: Inspire More People, he outlines the story of creating this restaurant chain. Cathy asserts that they earned their reputation and good name relying on Proverbs 22:1, “A good name is better to be chosen than great riches and loving favor rather than silver and gold.”[4] “Upholding moral and ethical values in decision making, actions, and communication is one of the hallmarks of faithful leading.”[5] Our values, morals, and decision making must be reflective of the inner-workings of our faith.

 

The outward man is reflective of the inward man (Proverbs 23:7). “The crisis that exists in leadership today is fundamentally a crisis of values.”[6] Paul’s leadership demonstrates a number of qualities and values that guided his leadership.[7] “There are four areas in a Christian’s life, but especially in the ministry, that must be sound: finances, commitments, honesty, and doctrine.”[8] When Christian leaders pay careful attention to these areas, it will pay off with a lifetime of influence.[9] How can salt be an influence on food unless it is applied? How can light pierce the darkness if it is covered? As Christians, we are to influence the world around us not resemble those in the world in which we live. We are to be influencers with our values, especially in areas of our finances, commitments, honesty, and doctrine.

 

The Great Commission is the call to be salt and light to a dying world. Don N. Howell, Jr., in his book Servants of the Servant, capsulizes leadership as defined in a way that is proactive, purposive, and comprehensive.[10] “Leadership principles are values translated into action.”[11] Leadership is a proactive nature, faith induced form of leadership that should propel Christian’s to meet the needs of their community. “The pressures to perform, the ingrained fear of failure, and the rewards for success can cause us to deviate from our values.”[12] However, if we remain purposive as a biblical leader, focused on helping others, both individually and collectively, grow in godliness and obedience to God’s agenda we will succeed in fulfilling the Great Commission.[13]

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[1] Don N. Howell, Jr., Servants of the Servant (Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2003), 3.

[2] Aubrey Malphurs, Being Leaders: The Nature of Authentic Christian Leadership (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2003), 14.

[3] Ibid., 21.

[4] S. Truett Cathy, Eat Mor Chickin: Inspire More People (Decatur, GA: Looking Glass Books, 2002), 42.

[5] Robert Banks, and Bernice M. Ledbetter Reviewing Leadership: A Christian Evaluation of Current Approaches (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2004), 55.

[6] Robert Banks, and Bernice M. Ledbetter Reviewing Leadership: A Christian Evaluation of Current Approaches (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2004), 32.

[7] Ibid., 42.

[8] Larry Stockstill, The Remnant: Restoring the Call to Personal Integrity (Lake Mary, FL: Charisma House, 2008), 70-71.

[9] Ibid., 71.

[10] Don N. Howell, Servants of the Servant (Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2003), 3.

[11] Bill George, and Peter Sims True North: Discover Your Authentic Leadership (San Francisco, CA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2007), 86.

[12] Ibid., 102.

[13] Howell, 3.

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Troubles

The Psalmist David found himself in trouble at various points of his life. It is unclear the exact trouble he was experiencing when he wrote Psalm 27. Jewish tradition holds that the writing occurred upon his last battle (2 Samuel 21), while other theologians believe the writing occurred prior to David assuming the throne. In any case, this Psalm provides great comfort for those who are experiencing trouble.

The Psalm opens with great declarations of faith overcoming fear. Fear is an overwhelming force when we are in trouble. For many fear of the unknown consumes us and debilitates us. One of Satan’s biggest weapons is fear. Fear often invades with unfounded anticipation of trouble. The moment the doctor calls for more test, fear sets in. When our young children have slipped from our view, fear overwhelms. An unexpected meeting scheduled with your boss, fear enters. The unknown is an abys of fear. Fear causes our minds to play the “What if” games. Those games only enhance our fear. We do well to turn our attention to words of faith and trust in God, building ourselves up in the most holy faith (Jude 1:20). The Psalmist focuses on God and His provision. David’s enemies are nothing compared to his God. When we “dwell in the house of the Lord,” we find peace, comfort, and provision. David realizes the “one thing” he desires is to be with God.

In the midst of our troubles, we must cry out to God and seek His face as David displays here in Psalm 27. God is omnipresent meaning He is everywhere at the same time. David firmly believes that God will hear him. Do you believe God hears you in your times of trouble? He does! True worship is seeking the face of God. Psalms 145:16 declares, “You open Your hand and satisfy every living thing with favor.” However, God’s face satisfies our souls (Psalms 4:6-7). The Psalmist cries for God with specific request where he asks for favor, continual presence, instruction, and protection, which outlines our prayer for times of trouble.

When others fail us, we can trust a God that does not fail! Often in our times of trouble, we can only depend on God and Him alone. These expressions from the Psalmist are still true for us today. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows (James 1:17, NIV).” We must look for the goodness of the Lord to come in the midst of our troubles. It is in these moments when God reveals Himself most assuredly. You can trust the latter part of Hebrews 13:5 (AMPC), “I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]” We can also trust Psalms 84:11b (AMPC), “No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.” In the moments of trouble turn your face to God and expect good things!

In closing the Psalmist speaks to his soul and commands,

Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Yes, wait for and hope for and expect the Lord. (Psalms 27:14)

We must demand obedience of our mind, will, and emotions to remain focused on the good things God has instore for those who wait (Lamentations 3:25). In the Hebrew, the word for “wait” has a primitive root meaning to bind together (perhaps by twisting). In essence, the Psalmist is saying, “I am going to bind myself to you God with hope expecting your goodness to be given to me.” The visual is David’s arm bound together with God’s arm and declaring, “Lord, wherever this trouble is coming from, I am bound to your goodness, and I know that if I am bound to you, nothing, absolutely nothing, can separate me from your goodness.” In times of trouble, we must see ourselves bound to God and expect the display of His goodness in our lives (Deuteronomy 6:8)!

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Mom's Great Faith

On this Mother’s Day, the Canaanite mother (Matthew 15:21-28) provides the opportunity to thank mothers for their faith filled prayers for their children. Idolatry and wickedness filled the hearts of the Canaanites who lived in the cities of Tyre and Sidon, and it would have been inappropriate for Christ to venture there. However, Jesus did visit the coast of these cities on the Sea of Galilee. Here He meets the Canaanite women whose child is demon possessed.

Fully aware of the cultural challenges, she obviously had heard of the miracle worker named Jesus and seeing Him pass by, she does not run, grab His hand, and speak to Him, but cries with a loud voice, begging, “Have mercy on me…” Her cry for mercy bellowed from her because of the need of her child. Mercy for her child translated into mercy for her. The pains of a mother’s heart when her child is ill can be overwhelming. Her desperation drove her. Her belief in Christ compelled her. The need of her child necessitated a zeal to cry for help regardless of cultural dictates.

This story is interesting due to the responses of Christ and the disciples toward her. The cultural challenges are part of the picture; however, it is deeper than that. Jesus first ignores her cry. The expression of discuss by the disciples asking Jesus to send her away. Jesus’ answer to His disciples highlighted the significance of the cultural divide. Jesus continues and compares her to dogs. Furthermore, she is not part of the Jewish family. Nothing can squelch the desperate cry of a mother whose child is in need of deliverance and healing. The dismissal for cultural reasons, name calling (dogs), and rejection will cause many to cease, but these issues will not silence a mother’s persistent petition. Many upon hearing these discouraging words would have dismissed this opportunity and moved on, yet, she remained because it was not about her, but the need of her child.

Most theologians note the faith of the Canaanite mother. Great trials demand great faith. While the extension of mercy to all is expected, Jesus taught:

Do not give that which is holy (the sacred thing) to the dogs, and do not throw your pearls before hogs, lest they trample upon them with their feet and turn and tear you in pieces. (Matthew 7:6, AMPC)

 After making her petitions known, she did not run away because she did not hear the answer to her prayer, but she knelt and worshipped. While she worshipped, Jesus calls her a dog, yet she knew that even being a lowly dog, the crumbs from Jesus table would be sufficient relief for her need. The delay of answers to our prayers requires that we pray more. Prayer and petitions to God are not wasted time. Our fast pace society rejects the living Savior, simply because He does not move on our timetable. He moves on His. Humility will keep us on our knees and worshipping a living Savior. She remains. She continues her plea. With every discouragement, she continued to press for release for her child. Sometimes the trials of our faith are to strengthen us and encourage others. Through her humility, she overcomes rejection. Jesus recognizes her great faith and answers her prayers.

 

And going away from there, Jesus withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a woman who was a Canaanite from that district came out and, with a [loud, troublesomely urgent] cry, begged, Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! My daughter is miserably and distressingly and cruelly possessed by a demon! But He did not answer her a word. And His disciples came and implored Him, saying, Send her away, for she is crying out after us. He answered, I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. But she came and, kneeling, worshiped Him and kept praying, Lord, help me! And He answered, It is not right (proper, becoming, or fair) to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs. She said, Yes, Lord, yet even the little pups (little whelps) eat the crumbs that fall from their [young] masters’ table. Then Jesus answered her, O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you wish. And her daughter was cured from that moment. (Matthew 15:21-28, AMPC)

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Yesterday

Yesterday, May 5, 2016, was quite a busy day with Cinco de Mayo, National Day of Prayer, and Ascension Day all celebrated on that day. This critical time within our country draws need for our continued prayer over our nation. Just one single day a year is insufficient, but there should be daily prayer of guidance for our nation, leaders, and citizens.

 

This critical period marks a time when we are witnessing the battle of the gods. We question at times, “Where is God?” The Church seems to be indifferent to many challenges and ultimately weak and absent in influencing society as a whole, and individuals. In I Kings 18, Elijah calls the nation of Israel to account for their turning to and mingling the practices of Baal worship and forsaking true and pure worship of the one true god, Jehovah. As believers in Jehovah God (the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) and as Christians we are again at one of these junctures. A decision point. Will we as Americans continue to serve the god of materialism or even fall prey to the boundaryless anarchy of societal demands? On the other hand, will we choose to serve Jehovah God? Will we stand for Christ? Alternatively, will we yield to the beliefs of Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism? Bishop Paul Zink often said, “Where there is no God, all things are permissible.”

 

Often observation of natural events point to a prophetic meaning. In 2011, an earthquake shook the Nation’s Capital. Since that time, major iconic buildings and monuments have been under some form of repair due to the earthquake or recurring maintenance including the Supreme Court, U. S. Capital, Washington Monument, and National Cathedral. Prophetically this speaks of the shifting social structures we are enduring. In 2014, the National Cathedral held its first Muslim service within its walls. Will we continue to mingle religions? On the other hand, will we worship the one true God? When America begins to lose its Judeo-Christian foundation, we witness the expanding affects in the world at large seen in slaughter of Christians who would not deny Christ in the Middle East. Is the American Christian able to make such a stand? Please pray for our country.

 

The birth in Bethlehem marks the beginning of Jesus earthly ministry, and the end was marked when Chris ascended into Heaven forty days after His resurrection. Christ’s ascension also marks the beginning of the church and the end will be marked when the Lord comes and takes us all away and establishes His Kingdom on earth (Revelation 5; Zechariah 14; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). The ascension of Christ takes place with the assignment of the Great Commission to “Go.” The four Gospels close with Christ earthly ministry done, while the other books of the New Testament begin the life of the Church. Ten days after the ascension the church is empowered by the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost.

 

Will America waken again to their mandate to “Go?” Will we as believers be salt and light in our own country (Luke 8:16-18; John 8:12)? Will we continue to allow the distractions of others sin consume our thoughts, responses, and actions? Will we embrace our mandate to “Go” and be a transformational element within our society? Many within the Church are afraid to open their lives displaying the transformational work of Christ in them. The greatest weapons possessed by believers are their testimony of the transformative work of Christ in their life paralleled with the Love of Christ. Who have you loved lately? Whom have you shared your testimony with lately? Do you live in a glass house where all can see the righteousness of Christ in your life? Where is the exercising of the power of the Holy Spirit in your life? Are you friends with sinners or just surrounded by church folk?

Our belief in Christ is not some magic pill or hocus pocus prayer that causes a subservient god to answer our beckoning call like the God of Baal. It is a submission to a higher power, and for Christians, the only higher power. This submission is the realization that we are not in control nor in a position to demand. The teachings of the Bible are good, moral philosophies that are good for the governance of anyone’s life, but our belief as Christians goes much deeper than just following teachings or philosophies. The Bible is God breathed and the inspired word of God. Simply following the philosophies alone will bring better behavior in our children and if we further follow the dietary demands of the Bible, we do well. For Christians, these beliefs go much deeper. We believe in a God who is active in our world today and intimately cares for those who are in need of wisdom, guidance, and healing. Our beliefs are more than just a mental exercise of reading and doing, but a constant consciousness of listening for wisdom and guidance that comes from beyond ourselves. Found in the Bible is the moral code for Christians to live by. We often fail, but that does not mean we should not try again. Similar to a football player who fumbles the ball, we as Christians must seek forgiveness and try again. Suffering is part of our human experience as well. Just because we believe in God, it does not eliminate suffering in this life. Nevertheless, if we remain spiritually attuned to what God is doing, we can trust that all will be well and the transformational work of Christ will be on open display.

No one after he has lighted a lamp covers it with a vessel or puts it under a [dining table] couch; but he puts it on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light. For there is nothing hidden that shall not be disclosed, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come out into the open. Be careful therefore how you listen. For to him who has [spiritual knowledge] will more be given; and from him who does not have [spiritual knowledge], even what he thinks and guesses and supposes that he has will be taken away. (Luke 8:16-18, AMPC)

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New Start

A fresh new start. When we have made errors or life itself has just become too hard to endure, we long for a fresh new start. As Christians, we gain this new start when we are grafted into the body of Christ. The old has passed away and we are given a fresh new way (2 Corinthians 5:17, AMPC). When we become followers of Christ, we are submitting to new principles and rules. It is not just a simple washing away from a believer’s heart their filthy ways of life, but an exchanging of the old heart for a new heart. Christ, our ultimate example, demonstrated for us how to live with a new heart. Before we were against God or indifferent to Him, but now, with a new heart, we want our heart to beat in harmony with Christ and Father God.

 

The exchange of heart is not just a New Testament principle. In Ezekiel 36:25-38 a similar passage regarding Israel’s Restoration. The Hebrew is interesting especially the phrase “I will take away” regarding the stony heart. It literally means, “to turn off.” From this, we learn that God can turn off our propensity to sin. Both 2 Corinthians 5, and Ezekiel 36 are explaining the regenerative work of God. Water signifies cleansing in the Ezekiel passage. Similarly, New Testament teachings of Water Baptism is an outward sign of an inward change, or the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit.

 

It is interesting to think of the Psalmist and his cry in Psalm 51:10 (AMPC), “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right, persevering, and steadfast spirit within me.” The Psalmist uses the same Hebrew word found in Genesis 1:1 (AMPC), “In the beginning God (prepared, formed, fashioned, and) created the heavens and the earth.” This Hebrew word is בָּרָא bârâʼ, baw-raw'; a primitive root; (absolutely) to create. Out of nothing God created the heavens and the earth and all the fullness thereof (Psalms 24:1). When God made man (Genesis 2:7), He formed him. The Hebrew word for “formed” is יָצַר yâtsar, yaw-tsar', which has a different contextual understanding than the word “created” (bârâʼ). To be formed (yâtsar) means to take a substance that already exist and make something new with it. To create out of nothing is the meaning for the word “created” (bârâʼ). The Psalmist is saying, “Do not just remake my existing heart, but you, the Creator of all things, create a brand new heart for me.”

 

When we release the creative forces of God in our life real changes begin to occur. It is God, our King, who commanded victories for Israel (Psalm 44:4). He will command victories in your life if you will allow Him. When you allow the creative forces of God to create a clean heart in you, renewing your spirit, you find the fresh new start you were looking for. When we accept Christ as our Savior, or turn to Him in the midst of our crisis, it is then that the creative work begins to happen. It is then with the removal of our defilement and the lighting of our burdens occurs. With every trial, He desires to create a new heart perspective that renews our spirit to trust in Him.

Having a relationship with God provides hope when we are overwhelmed or exhausted. In our waiting, He renews our strength (Isaiah 40:31). We can come to Christ when we are weary and burdened (Matthew 11:28-29). Our soul can find rest when we focus on God and His provisions (Psalm 62:1). Job 11:16-19 is a great passage to pray over yourself when you are overwhelmed and miserable.

For you shall forget your misery; you shall remember it as waters that pass away. And [your] life shall be clearer than the noonday and rise above it; though there be darkness, it shall be as the morning. And you shall be secure and feel confident because there is hope; yes, you shall search about you, and you shall take your rest in safety. You shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid; yes, many shall sue for your favor. (Job 11:16-19, AMPC)

 

We can also find comfort from the book of Hebrews.

Let your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and be satisfied with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!] (Hebrews 13:5, AMPC)

In the end, we know that from His throne Christ will declare, “Behold, I am making all things new."

Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17, AMPC)

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Decision Day

Decision Day is today, May 1^st, where many American High School Seniors must finalize and submit their choice of college. Adam and Eve faced the first decision day in the Garden of Eden. God had sat them in the garden with simple instructions.

And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, You may freely eat of every tree of the garden; But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil and blessing and calamity you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die. (Genesis 2:16-17, AMPC)

Before the fall of man, we can observe the establishment of several things:

·        Fellowship with God

·        Marriage between a man and a women

·        Dominion of man over the earth

·        Boundaries (read Psalm 148)

·        And the Establishment of Choice

God lovingly established boundaries for man’s protection. All parents have set boundaries for their kids. While much freedom has been lost to evil and fear, as a child I knew during the day how far I could drift from home without risking correction from my parents. Boundaries when set properly protect, instruct, and produce freedom. Knowing limits always grants freedom within those limits. God set limits for Adam and Eve too for their protection, instruction, and freedom where God said, “You may eat freely of every tree in the garden; But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, and blessing and calamity…” When we carefully consider and follow the boundaries we are given we remain humble towards the Father and His leading. Beginning in Job chapter 38, Job finds himself in a position we would hate to be in as God schools Job on boundaries. We should always yield to the commands of the Father!

[Consider this:] What soldier at any time serves at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat any of the fruit of it? Who tends a flock and does not partake of the milk of the flock? Do I say this only on human authority and as a man reasons? Does not the Law endorse the same principle? For in the Law of Moses it is written, You shall not muzzle an ox when it is treading out the corn. Is it [only] for oxen that God cares? Or does He speak certainly and entirely for our sakes? [Assuredly] it is written for our sakes, because the plowman ought to plow in hope, and the thresher ought to thresh in expectation of partaking of the harvest. (1 Corinthians 9:7-10, AMPC)

The first trial given to Adam and Eve was the trial of obedience. This trial set the course of man who consistently crosses the boundaries God has set and falls into disobedience. In essence, God said to Adam, “Continue in holiness. As you are holy and in conformity to the Creator’s will and you will continue to be happy. As you are happy in the enjoyment of your Creator’s favor, either in this paradise or in one that is better. Know this Adam. You are now upon good behavior. You are put into paradise upon trial; be observant, be obedient, and you will live forever in happiness; otherwise should you fall into disobedience, you will be miserable, dying and you will ultimately die.” Eating of the fruit of the tree was evil only because God forbade it.

Understanding the distinctions here are important. When examining the phase “freely eat” in the Hebrew we understand the greater meaning. “Freely eat” in essence means “eating you shall eat.” Eat until you are completely full and satisfied, and if you want to eat more, eat! Eat! Eat! Likewise, the distinction of the phrase “surely die” is important. You will “surely die,” in the Hebrew means, “dying you will die.” You will begin dying and continue to die until ultimately death. This can be understood from Deuteronomy 30:19-20 (AMPC), “I call heaven and earth to witness this day against you that I have set before you life and death, the blessings and the curses; therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live And may love the Lord your God, obey His voice, and cling to Him. For He is your life and the length of your days, that you may dwell in the land which the Lord swore to give to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” Set before Adam and Eve was a full grant of blessing, or a curse.

God had set two trees in the Garden.

And out of the ground the Lord God made to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight or to be desired—good (suitable, pleasant) for food; the tree of life also in the center of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of [the difference between] good and evil and blessing and calamity. (Genesis 2:9, AMPC)

 

These two trees set in the center of the garden were the focus of man’s attention. The Tree of Life represents eternal life. The Tree of Knowledge represents man’s choice. Once man fell into disobedience, most theologians agree that the Tree of Knowledge loses its significance and becomes common like every other tree, which signifies that man is still eating the forbidden fruit and walking in disobedience. God removes the Tree of Life from man’s access. If man were able to touch or eat from the Tree of Life in his sinful state, he may remain trapped in his sin for eternity (Genesis 3:22-23). The Tree of Life does not appear again until the end, where we read in Revelation 2:7 (AMPC), “7 He who is able to hear, let him listen to and give heed to what the Spirit says to the assemblies (churches). To him who overcomes (is victorious), I will grant to eat [of the fruit] of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.”

 

Obedience is better than sacrifice (I Samuel 15:22). Sacrifice is only necessary for what obedience would have kept. Had Adam and Eve never sinned by eating the forbidden fruit, Christ would have not had to sacrifice Himself to redeem mankind from sin. Jesus is a direct contrast to Adam and Eve. Adam’s disobedience in life brought death, while Christ’s obedience in death brought life.

And after He had appeared in human form, He abased and humbled Himself [still further] and carried His obedience to the extreme of death, even the death of the cross! (Philippians 2:8, AMPC)

 

What decision will you make today? Will you be like Adam and Eve and chose disobedience or death? On the other hand, you can be different from Adam and Eve and you can chose obedience and life? I choose obedience and life. Join me!

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