To greet you today with a “happy” Memorial Day seems a bit contradictory, don’t you think?
When I was a child my family attended a church called “Memorial Baptist.” Although I didn’t question it at the time, as I reflect on it now, I realize what an odd name it was for the church of the Living God. On Memorial Day we remember men and women who have died in the service of our country. In a way, they died for us! Maybe that’s what the founders of the Memorial Baptist Church were thinking.
A memorial is also an object which serves as a focus for memory of a person who has died—a gravestone or plaque or a cross. But a church as a memorial doesn't set right with me, as though it were a big tomb! I do realize, however, the Lord’s Supper is a memorial ("this do in remembrance of me”). Jesus wanted us to remember He died for us.
Well, I’m not going to be able to resolve this paradox today. But this one thing I know. Unlike the fallen heroes and man-made gods of this world, of whom there is nothing left but a memory, “our hope [on this day of memories] is in the Living God” (1 Tim. 4:10).
Monday, May 30, 2011
Friday, May 27, 2011
Nowhere to Run To
“The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations… God is faithful, and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape so that you are able to bear it” (2 Peter 2:9; 1 Corinthians 10:13).
When Peter and Paul wrote these words, they weren’t only talking about personal temptations, but the tribulations that had already started coming up against the Church. (In fact, shortly thereafter, both Peter and Paul were violently martyred.) In writing these words, it was their intent for these ‘new’ believers to know they could trust God in their crises—He would provide a way of escape.
Last week in Joplin, Missouri, when the terrible tornado came, people were unprepared—they had nowhere to run to for safety. It reminds me of Daniel’s words about how people will react in the end times: “many shall run to and fro…"(12:2-4). What does ‘to and fro” mean? Could it mean people who run around in a frenzied manner, “like a chicken with its head cut off?” Could it describe fearful persons who don’t know that God is the only way of escape? “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10).
When Peter and Paul wrote these words, they weren’t only talking about personal temptations, but the tribulations that had already started coming up against the Church. (In fact, shortly thereafter, both Peter and Paul were violently martyred.) In writing these words, it was their intent for these ‘new’ believers to know they could trust God in their crises—He would provide a way of escape.
Last week in Joplin, Missouri, when the terrible tornado came, people were unprepared—they had nowhere to run to for safety. It reminds me of Daniel’s words about how people will react in the end times: “many shall run to and fro…"(12:2-4). What does ‘to and fro” mean? Could it mean people who run around in a frenzied manner, “like a chicken with its head cut off?” Could it describe fearful persons who don’t know that God is the only way of escape? “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10).
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
The Lord May ReturnTomorrow
By now everyone knows Mr. Camping was mistaken. The Rapture did not occur on May21st. What has occurred, however, is a lot of mockery—about Harold Camping, but also about the whole notion of the Rapture. And not only on the View or Late Night shows, as we might expect, but from mainline media.
You and I knew that the rapture could have happened on the 21st, but not because of Mr. Camping’s calculations, but because we know the rapture can happen any day. May 21st was just one possibility. Personally, I am a little disappointed it didn’t happen when he said it would. Weren't you? Hasn’t He planted a desire for eternity in our hearts? (Ecc. 3:11)
While the Lord said that no one would know the day or hour, He also said we should be able to recognize the signs of the times. (Matt. 16:2-3) Likewise, Paul said that the coming of the Lord should not take us by surprise (1 Thess. 5:4). So don’t let one man’s misguided interpretation of the “day” and “hour” numb you into ambivalence. We are to be watching and waiting, not ignoring the signs of His coming. Read the following words of Jesus, in light of recent catastrophic events.
“Now concerning how and when all this will happen, dear brothers and sisters, we don't really need to write you. For you know quite well that the day of the Lord's return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. When people are saying, "Everything is peaceful and secure," then disaster will fall on them as suddenly as a pregnant woman's labor pains begin. And there will be no escape. But you aren't in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won't be surprised when the day of the Lord comes… be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded" (1 Thess. 5:2-6NLT).
You and I knew that the rapture could have happened on the 21st, but not because of Mr. Camping’s calculations, but because we know the rapture can happen any day. May 21st was just one possibility. Personally, I am a little disappointed it didn’t happen when he said it would. Weren't you? Hasn’t He planted a desire for eternity in our hearts? (Ecc. 3:11)
While the Lord said that no one would know the day or hour, He also said we should be able to recognize the signs of the times. (Matt. 16:2-3) Likewise, Paul said that the coming of the Lord should not take us by surprise (1 Thess. 5:4). So don’t let one man’s misguided interpretation of the “day” and “hour” numb you into ambivalence. We are to be watching and waiting, not ignoring the signs of His coming. Read the following words of Jesus, in light of recent catastrophic events.
“Now concerning how and when all this will happen, dear brothers and sisters, we don't really need to write you. For you know quite well that the day of the Lord's return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. When people are saying, "Everything is peaceful and secure," then disaster will fall on them as suddenly as a pregnant woman's labor pains begin. And there will be no escape. But you aren't in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won't be surprised when the day of the Lord comes… be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded" (1 Thess. 5:2-6NLT).
Monday, May 23, 2011
Loosey-Goosey Christianity
Last Friday, I mentioned I had read an editorial in USA Today about the future of faith in America. The author, Oliver Thomas, said the new generation’s faith is becoming less creedal, in favor of experience and relevance. According to Thomas, “the days of orthodoxy [a prescribed set of beliefs] are numbered.”
These are the same people who say they are “spiritual but not religious” (see my blog post “Burger King Spirituality,” June 11, 2010). They say they want a faith that is unbound by doctrinal restraints—and a God who is not so uptight, one they can relate to. While on the surface it might look like a good thing that the new generation wants to experience God, the fact is, what they are really doing is replacing faith with feeling—relation over reason. Even the author, whose sympathies for the new generation were quite apparent, referred to this new style of Christianity as “loosey-goosey.”
As I read the article, two things struck me. First, an article ostensibly written about Christian faith had no mention of Jesus. And second, it seems to me it is yet another proof that Christianity is under attack by “deceitful spirits” and “doctrines of demons” (1 Timothy 4:1). To the Thessalonian Christians Paul wrote there would be a time of “falling away” [apostasy] before Jesus' return. Jesus had previously warned this deception would be so severe that even the 'elect' would be mislead (2 Thess. 2:3; Matt. 24:24). Watch and pray. With the recent publication of Rob Bell’s book “Love Wins,” suggesting that a loving God would never send anyone to hell, it appears the apostasy is rapidly approaching.
These are the same people who say they are “spiritual but not religious” (see my blog post “Burger King Spirituality,” June 11, 2010). They say they want a faith that is unbound by doctrinal restraints—and a God who is not so uptight, one they can relate to. While on the surface it might look like a good thing that the new generation wants to experience God, the fact is, what they are really doing is replacing faith with feeling—relation over reason. Even the author, whose sympathies for the new generation were quite apparent, referred to this new style of Christianity as “loosey-goosey.”
As I read the article, two things struck me. First, an article ostensibly written about Christian faith had no mention of Jesus. And second, it seems to me it is yet another proof that Christianity is under attack by “deceitful spirits” and “doctrines of demons” (1 Timothy 4:1). To the Thessalonian Christians Paul wrote there would be a time of “falling away” [apostasy] before Jesus' return. Jesus had previously warned this deception would be so severe that even the 'elect' would be mislead (2 Thess. 2:3; Matt. 24:24). Watch and pray. With the recent publication of Rob Bell’s book “Love Wins,” suggesting that a loving God would never send anyone to hell, it appears the apostasy is rapidly approaching.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Will Tomorrow be the Judgment Day!?
Harold Camping is claiming tomorrow we will be raptured and the 'day' of God's judgment will begin, ending six months from now on October 20th, when the world will end. But that’s not all. Did you know that Harold Camping, who formerly predicted judgment day on September 6, 1994, also teaches that the church age is over, that the Holy Spirit has left the church.
You may be wondering how Camping came to this conclusion. He focuses on the "hidden" meanings of texts and numbers—for example, the number of servants in Abraham's house or the number of swine drowned in the Sea of Galilee. But this is no laughing matter. The whole world is watching this embarrassing debacle—Camping has paid millions to mount a billboard campaign all over America’s freeways, proclaiming the imminent disaster. Pundits and cartoonists are having a heyday!
Last week I read an editorial in USA Today about the future of faith in America. The author Oliver Thomas says the religious landscape is changing: today’s new generation of Christians no longer want to adhere to doctrines and beliefs but want a new brand of Christianity with a “big God who is unbound by Scripture of learned scholarly limitations.” After this, can you blame them?
Paul’s words ought to be shouting at us today: a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching but will follow their own desires and look for teachers to tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear, rejecting truth and chasing after myths. (2 Tim. 4:3-4). Oh, and by the way, I’ll see you Monday!
You may be wondering how Camping came to this conclusion. He focuses on the "hidden" meanings of texts and numbers—for example, the number of servants in Abraham's house or the number of swine drowned in the Sea of Galilee. But this is no laughing matter. The whole world is watching this embarrassing debacle—Camping has paid millions to mount a billboard campaign all over America’s freeways, proclaiming the imminent disaster. Pundits and cartoonists are having a heyday!
Last week I read an editorial in USA Today about the future of faith in America. The author Oliver Thomas says the religious landscape is changing: today’s new generation of Christians no longer want to adhere to doctrines and beliefs but want a new brand of Christianity with a “big God who is unbound by Scripture of learned scholarly limitations.” After this, can you blame them?
Paul’s words ought to be shouting at us today: a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching but will follow their own desires and look for teachers to tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear, rejecting truth and chasing after myths. (2 Tim. 4:3-4). Oh, and by the way, I’ll see you Monday!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Take it Easy?
I just returned from a trip to Arizona. Having been on many out-of-state (and out-of-country) adventures in the last year, I recognize how every time I make plans that take me out of my routine, my patience is put to the test! With planes to catch, security checkpoints, waiting for this and that, trying to navigate unfamiliar roads and freeways—not to mention how much more intolerant I am of others when I’m stressed. At such times, while I’m hard on others, I make excuses for myself.
Regarding our own shortcomings, we say "I didn't mean to do it;" or "I couldn’t help it; I was under a lot of stress.” But when it comes to other people, we say: “He/she should have known better.” It’s easy to be hard on others. But A. W. Tozer said: “A spiritual man is easy on others and hard on himself.” Yikes! (Or, in more Biblical parlance, “Woe is me; I am undone!”—Is. 6:5)
Jesus addressed this issue. “How can you think of saying, 'Friend, let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye” (Luke 6:42). But we tend to get this “log/speck” thing in reverse! Today the Lord convicts me with these words: “Therefore you have no excuse everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things” (Romans 2:1) Take it easy? I don’t think so.
Regarding our own shortcomings, we say "I didn't mean to do it;" or "I couldn’t help it; I was under a lot of stress.” But when it comes to other people, we say: “He/she should have known better.” It’s easy to be hard on others. But A. W. Tozer said: “A spiritual man is easy on others and hard on himself.” Yikes! (Or, in more Biblical parlance, “Woe is me; I am undone!”—Is. 6:5)
Jesus addressed this issue. “How can you think of saying, 'Friend, let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye” (Luke 6:42). But we tend to get this “log/speck” thing in reverse! Today the Lord convicts me with these words: “Therefore you have no excuse everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things” (Romans 2:1) Take it easy? I don’t think so.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
“You Complete Me!”
I’ve been working on a term paper for my “Systematic Theology” class this week, and have not been able to pull my head out of academia long enough to produce a cogent devotional thought. But a statement in an article about Arnold Schwarzenegger and Marie Shriver’s separation caught my attention.
A divorce lawyer who was interviewed for the article speculated: “People have little tolerance nowadays for relationships that don’t fulfill them in all aspects.” That statement pretty much sums up the ethic of the day—I need someone to complete me. Everyone is searching for that “one” person.
If our lives were like a cup, we would certainly want to fill it with positive emotions and genuine fulfillment in life. And at a very early age, we begin to look for what we think can fill up our cups with positive things. We look to one of three sources, or all three, for the fullness we want—acceptance, worth, or performance. When Martha tried to be fulfilled by her performance, Jesus told her she had missed the “one” thing that Mary had chosen. When the rich young man tried to prove his worth by his good deeds, Jesus told him he had missed the “one” thing. When the woman at the well was trying to fulfill herself through acceptance, Jesus told her about the “one” that could satisfy her.
What is the ONE thing they missed? That Jesus was the only “One” who could fulfill them. And He is the only “One” to whom it is quite appropriate to say “You complete me!”
A divorce lawyer who was interviewed for the article speculated: “People have little tolerance nowadays for relationships that don’t fulfill them in all aspects.” That statement pretty much sums up the ethic of the day—I need someone to complete me. Everyone is searching for that “one” person.
If our lives were like a cup, we would certainly want to fill it with positive emotions and genuine fulfillment in life. And at a very early age, we begin to look for what we think can fill up our cups with positive things. We look to one of three sources, or all three, for the fullness we want—acceptance, worth, or performance. When Martha tried to be fulfilled by her performance, Jesus told her she had missed the “one” thing that Mary had chosen. When the rich young man tried to prove his worth by his good deeds, Jesus told him he had missed the “one” thing. When the woman at the well was trying to fulfill herself through acceptance, Jesus told her about the “one” that could satisfy her.
What is the ONE thing they missed? That Jesus was the only “One” who could fulfill them. And He is the only “One” to whom it is quite appropriate to say “You complete me!”
Friday, May 6, 2011
The Power of Two
As I read a book on prayer last week, I was struck by the phrase “the power of two-pray.” The idea of "two-pray" comes from Jesus words: Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst, [and] this is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him (Mat 18:20; 1 John 5:14-15).
After God created Adam, He said “It is not good for man to be alone.” When Jesus sent out his disciples he sent them two by two. It was not merely a matter of being lonely if they had gone out singly, "Lone Ranger" ministry was not God’s design. He intends that one partner complement (complete) the other. The principle: two together do more than two apart.
Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor, for if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion, but woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up. Furthermore, if two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone? And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart. (Ecclesiastes 4:10-12).
After God created Adam, He said “It is not good for man to be alone.” When Jesus sent out his disciples he sent them two by two. It was not merely a matter of being lonely if they had gone out singly, "Lone Ranger" ministry was not God’s design. He intends that one partner complement (complete) the other. The principle: two together do more than two apart.
Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor, for if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion, but woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up. Furthermore, if two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone? And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart. (Ecclesiastes 4:10-12).
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Should We Celebrate the Death of Osama bin Laden?
People everywhere are celebrating upon hearing the news of the death of Osama bin Laden. But many born-again Christians are confused about celebrating a person’s death. God says: “Do you think that I like to see wicked people die?” says the Sovereign Lord; “of course not! I want them to turn from their wicked ways and live” (Ezekiel 18:23).
No one will ever forget “911” when Osama bin Laden’s band of radical Muslim terrorists—al Qaeda—flew into the World Towers and the Pentagon. President Bush called them “evildoers.” Did that create an impression that they were less than human? Since then the evildoers have become more ‘real’ to us—more human, as their pictures have been displayed in the papers—they do not look evil. They look like your next door neighbor, or the person standing in line at Walgreen’s.
What was Jesus’ attitude toward evil doers? “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matt. 5:44). Forgiveness is the hardest of all Christian acts. It has no limit. No boundaries. The question is whether the Christian can forgive a murderer, a mass murderer, even — as in the case of Osama bin Laden. Although his death was seen as a victory in the war against terrorism, Christians should remember that Osama was a sinner, being held captive by Satan to do his will. And the loss of even one life to Satan is nothing to rejoice about. These are just my thoughts on the matter. I welcome your response.
No one will ever forget “911” when Osama bin Laden’s band of radical Muslim terrorists—al Qaeda—flew into the World Towers and the Pentagon. President Bush called them “evildoers.” Did that create an impression that they were less than human? Since then the evildoers have become more ‘real’ to us—more human, as their pictures have been displayed in the papers—they do not look evil. They look like your next door neighbor, or the person standing in line at Walgreen’s.
What was Jesus’ attitude toward evil doers? “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matt. 5:44). Forgiveness is the hardest of all Christian acts. It has no limit. No boundaries. The question is whether the Christian can forgive a murderer, a mass murderer, even — as in the case of Osama bin Laden. Although his death was seen as a victory in the war against terrorism, Christians should remember that Osama was a sinner, being held captive by Satan to do his will. And the loss of even one life to Satan is nothing to rejoice about. These are just my thoughts on the matter. I welcome your response.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Discombobulated Again?
I’m a planner by nature. I keep a tight calendar, a to-do list, and usually have a pretty good idea of what I want to accomplish each day. But when God’s plans take me in a different direction, I get disoriented and, well,discombobulated! “Discombobulated!” I'll bet that's a word you haven't heard for a while! Appropriately, it means “having self-possession upset.” There you have it: one is discombobulated when he cannot “possess” his own plans—his plans are upset!
But it’s not just my plans that are upset. I get upset with myself: “Will I ever get to the point where I can respond contentedly when He redirects me?” I know that God’s plans are my only hope for joy and fulfillment. And God knows that when my own plans are thwarted, He gets my attention; and I turn to Him. You see, He loves me too much to allow me to continue on a wrong path.
I think this idea is well-captured by Watchman Nee. “After you give yourself to the Lord, He begins to break [upset] your plans. Everything seems to go wrong, and you protest and find fault with the ways of God. This is the tragedy of many Christians. My giving of myself to the Lord must be an initial fundamental act. Then, day by day, I must go on giving to him, not finding fault with his use of me, but accepting with praise even what the flesh finds hard.”
But it’s not just my plans that are upset. I get upset with myself: “Will I ever get to the point where I can respond contentedly when He redirects me?” I know that God’s plans are my only hope for joy and fulfillment. And God knows that when my own plans are thwarted, He gets my attention; and I turn to Him. You see, He loves me too much to allow me to continue on a wrong path.
I think this idea is well-captured by Watchman Nee. “After you give yourself to the Lord, He begins to break [upset] your plans. Everything seems to go wrong, and you protest and find fault with the ways of God. This is the tragedy of many Christians. My giving of myself to the Lord must be an initial fundamental act. Then, day by day, I must go on giving to him, not finding fault with his use of me, but accepting with praise even what the flesh finds hard.”
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
ON DAVID WILKERSON'S SUDDEN HOME-CALL, by Zac Poonen
Many believers have a question (sometimes unasked) as to how God could allow a faithful servant of His, like David Wilkerson, to leave this world through a car crash.
My answer is: We do NOT know all the facts concerning the accident and so we must not judge by what our ears have heard or by what our eyes have read. Jesus Himself never did that (Isaiah 11:3). We DO know however that David Wilkerson was a genuine man of God. He was certainly the one I respected the most in the USA. We also know that "the death of godly men is precious in the sight of the Lord" (Psa.116:15).
In David Wilkerson's last blog (on the very day of the accident) he had written: "In that darkness you will hear the Father whisper, 'I am with you. I cannot tell you why right now, but one day it will all make sense. You will see it was all part of my plan. It was no accident. It was no failure on your part. Hold fast. Let me embrace you in your hour of pain.'" Those words seem to be prophetic. I believe God embraced David Wilkerson in his hour of pain - and that (as he wrote there) this was "no accident" in God's eyes.
Godly people will always seek to put the best construction on events that they do not have full details about. And even when we think we have all the details about an event, we still may not know ALL the facts. We must all be humble enough to acknowledge that. So it is best to leave such matters with God. "The secret things belong to the LORD our God. Only the things that are revealed belong to us" (Deut.29:29). We should all kill our curiosity about matters that are hidden and unknown.
David Wilkerson was a great evangelist and a prophet - a unique combination of gifts that is almost never seen in the church. He was a new-covenant prophet and not an old-covenant prophet. Many believers do not understand the difference between old covenant prophets and new covenant prophets. Old-covenant prophets were tested by whether EVERY ONE of their prophecies were fulfilled EXACTLY AS SPOKEN (Deut.18:22). New-covenant prophets however are given by the Lord to the church to equip the saints to build the Body of Christ. This is stated very clearly in Ephesians 4:11,12. So new-covenant prophets prophesy primarily to challenge people to repentance - exposing un-Christlike attitudes in their hearts (1 Cor.14:24,25). If however such new-covenant prophets speak occasionally about future events, according to their understanding and discernment of certain situations, they may be mistaken, since we all "see through a glass darkly" (1 Cor.13:12). But that does not take away from the fact that they are still new-covenant prophets.
We should all thank God for the example of such a man as David Wilkerson - who lived a godly life until the very end, had such a uniquely anointed ministry, and who stood for the truth uncompromisingly until the very end of his life. Let us consider his example and follow him as he followed Christ (1 Cor. 11:1) "Remember your former leaders, who spoke God's message to you. Think back on how they lived and died, and imitate their faith." (Hebrews 13:7 - Today's English Version)
My answer is: We do NOT know all the facts concerning the accident and so we must not judge by what our ears have heard or by what our eyes have read. Jesus Himself never did that (Isaiah 11:3). We DO know however that David Wilkerson was a genuine man of God. He was certainly the one I respected the most in the USA. We also know that "the death of godly men is precious in the sight of the Lord" (Psa.116:15).
In David Wilkerson's last blog (on the very day of the accident) he had written: "In that darkness you will hear the Father whisper, 'I am with you. I cannot tell you why right now, but one day it will all make sense. You will see it was all part of my plan. It was no accident. It was no failure on your part. Hold fast. Let me embrace you in your hour of pain.'" Those words seem to be prophetic. I believe God embraced David Wilkerson in his hour of pain - and that (as he wrote there) this was "no accident" in God's eyes.
Godly people will always seek to put the best construction on events that they do not have full details about. And even when we think we have all the details about an event, we still may not know ALL the facts. We must all be humble enough to acknowledge that. So it is best to leave such matters with God. "The secret things belong to the LORD our God. Only the things that are revealed belong to us" (Deut.29:29). We should all kill our curiosity about matters that are hidden and unknown.
David Wilkerson was a great evangelist and a prophet - a unique combination of gifts that is almost never seen in the church. He was a new-covenant prophet and not an old-covenant prophet. Many believers do not understand the difference between old covenant prophets and new covenant prophets. Old-covenant prophets were tested by whether EVERY ONE of their prophecies were fulfilled EXACTLY AS SPOKEN (Deut.18:22). New-covenant prophets however are given by the Lord to the church to equip the saints to build the Body of Christ. This is stated very clearly in Ephesians 4:11,12. So new-covenant prophets prophesy primarily to challenge people to repentance - exposing un-Christlike attitudes in their hearts (1 Cor.14:24,25). If however such new-covenant prophets speak occasionally about future events, according to their understanding and discernment of certain situations, they may be mistaken, since we all "see through a glass darkly" (1 Cor.13:12). But that does not take away from the fact that they are still new-covenant prophets.
We should all thank God for the example of such a man as David Wilkerson - who lived a godly life until the very end, had such a uniquely anointed ministry, and who stood for the truth uncompromisingly until the very end of his life. Let us consider his example and follow him as he followed Christ (1 Cor. 11:1) "Remember your former leaders, who spoke God's message to you. Think back on how they lived and died, and imitate their faith." (Hebrews 13:7 - Today's English Version)
Monday, May 2, 2011
A Violent Death
Last week, one of the Church’s giants in faith, David Wilkerson, was killed in a head-on collision. I wondered about the violence of David’s death. It’s one of those things that David would have told us not to fret about—just trust in God’s sovereign goodness, and don’t try to make sense of it.
As I reflected on the violence of his death, however, I thought to myself ‘David died much the way he lived.’ His was a ‘violent’ Christianity, living every day with passion and power, as though it were his last. He lived with self-abandonment. David Wilkerson was one of the Church's “violent men” who take the kingdom of God “by force” (Mat. 11:12). The “gates of hell could not prevail” (Mat. 16:18) against David Wilkerson and the mighty army of men and women he raised up.
But the words “violent” and “force” do not tell the whole story. He was a very humble man, a servant leader—even as Jesus humbled Himself to the point of death (Philippians 2:8). David did violence to his own flesh long before an auto accident took his life so violently. Likewise, Peter, Paul, James, and most of the Apostles and early followers of Jesus died violent deaths. But they were all long dead to this world before that happened—men who “did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die” (Rev. 12:11), even a violent death!
As I reflected on the violence of his death, however, I thought to myself ‘David died much the way he lived.’ His was a ‘violent’ Christianity, living every day with passion and power, as though it were his last. He lived with self-abandonment. David Wilkerson was one of the Church's “violent men” who take the kingdom of God “by force” (Mat. 11:12). The “gates of hell could not prevail” (Mat. 16:18) against David Wilkerson and the mighty army of men and women he raised up.
But the words “violent” and “force” do not tell the whole story. He was a very humble man, a servant leader—even as Jesus humbled Himself to the point of death (Philippians 2:8). David did violence to his own flesh long before an auto accident took his life so violently. Likewise, Peter, Paul, James, and most of the Apostles and early followers of Jesus died violent deaths. But they were all long dead to this world before that happened—men who “did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die” (Rev. 12:11), even a violent death!
Friday, April 29, 2011
The Blessing of Incarceration?
Excuse me, Greg, did you mean to say “incarnation?” No, I meant “incarceration!”
According to Open Doors, an organization that reports on persecution around the world, police blocked more than 500 worshippers of Beijing’s Shouwang Church from leaving their homes to attend an outdoor Easter service—36 of them were detained by police and their pastor is currently under house arrest. [China is ranked 16th on Open Doors World Watch List of nations where Christians are persecuted.]
Last week, Pastor Tianming sent the following email to his 1,000-member church: “We pray especially for those brothers and sisters who in the past week or two have already been forced to move or leave their jobs. We ask God to remember the price they have paid for holding on to their faith and ask him to take care of their families and their daily life needs.”
"God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for a great reward awaits you in heaven” (Mathew 5:11-12 NLT, NKJ). You already knew about the blessing of the incarnation—our brothers and sisters in China now know the blessing of incarceration!
According to Open Doors, an organization that reports on persecution around the world, police blocked more than 500 worshippers of Beijing’s Shouwang Church from leaving their homes to attend an outdoor Easter service—36 of them were detained by police and their pastor is currently under house arrest. [China is ranked 16th on Open Doors World Watch List of nations where Christians are persecuted.]
Last week, Pastor Tianming sent the following email to his 1,000-member church: “We pray especially for those brothers and sisters who in the past week or two have already been forced to move or leave their jobs. We ask God to remember the price they have paid for holding on to their faith and ask him to take care of their families and their daily life needs.”
"God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for a great reward awaits you in heaven” (Mathew 5:11-12 NLT, NKJ). You already knew about the blessing of the incarnation—our brothers and sisters in China now know the blessing of incarceration!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
David Wilkerson Goes Home
Today I awoke to the news that David Wilkerson, one of the greatest men of faith in our time, went home to be with the Lord yesterday. He died from injuries sustained in a car accident in East Texas. His wife Gwen is still in critical condition.
In this blog, I have quoted from David Wilkerson more than any other contemporary Christian author/pastor. David has been an inspiration and encouragement to me for almost 50 years, since I read his book “The Cross and the Switchblade.” From that beginning, David established Teen Challenge, a ministry that now provides hope for nearly 24,000 men and women around the world who are experiencing powerful deliverance from alcohol and substance abuse through Jesus Christ.
In 1972, he established World Challenge, a ministry dedicated to serving the needs of the poor around the globe. In 1987, he founded Times Square Church in New York City. David Wilkerson authored more than 30 books, including one that is extremely relevant to us, “America’s Last Call,” in which David insightfully points out the signs that God’s judgment on America is imminent.
George Wood, Superintendent of the Assemblies of God said: “Today, the Kingdom of God has lost a giant of the faith. His life touched millions. He was godly, humble and represented everything that is best in a spiritual leader.” David Wilkerson was a father in the faith to many. Today we have lost one of our ‘fathers.’
In this blog, I have quoted from David Wilkerson more than any other contemporary Christian author/pastor. David has been an inspiration and encouragement to me for almost 50 years, since I read his book “The Cross and the Switchblade.” From that beginning, David established Teen Challenge, a ministry that now provides hope for nearly 24,000 men and women around the world who are experiencing powerful deliverance from alcohol and substance abuse through Jesus Christ.
In 1972, he established World Challenge, a ministry dedicated to serving the needs of the poor around the globe. In 1987, he founded Times Square Church in New York City. David Wilkerson authored more than 30 books, including one that is extremely relevant to us, “America’s Last Call,” in which David insightfully points out the signs that God’s judgment on America is imminent.
George Wood, Superintendent of the Assemblies of God said: “Today, the Kingdom of God has lost a giant of the faith. His life touched millions. He was godly, humble and represented everything that is best in a spiritual leader.” David Wilkerson was a father in the faith to many. Today we have lost one of our ‘fathers.’
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The Answer is Not Blowing in the Wind
From the Midwest to the Mid-Atlantic, people are on tornado watch today. By all accounts, this is the worst tornado season in recorded history. And the worst of it all may be yet to come since tornado season doesn’t reach its peak until May.
Severe storms find their parallel in human trial and tribulation that blow through our lives, often leaving us feeling destroyed. Our faith seems tested beyond what we can endure. It is at these times, we must stand firm in our faith (1 Cor. 16:13; 1 Thess. 3:8). But unless we are grounded in the Word, really believing what God says, we will “be tossed and blown about” (Eph. 4:14) when the trials come.
We must have a telescopic vision, magnifying Jesus who can make everything ‘good’ (Ro. 8:28). We must keep looking to our future hope when Jesus “will wipe every tear from [our] eyes,” when there will be “no more death or sorrow or crying or pain.. [when] all these things are gone forever" (Rev. 21:4). People of faith will not be blown off track when things don’t make sense. Listen to what David Wilkerson says today:
To those going through the valley and shadow of death, hear this word: Weeping will last through some dark, awful nights—and in that darkness you will soon hear the Father whisper, “I am with you. I cannot tell you why right now, but one day it will all make sense. You will see it was all part of my plan. It was no accident. It was no failure on your part. Hold fast. Let me embrace you in your hour of pain.” Hold fast to your faith. Stand fast in his Word. There is no other hope in this world.
Severe storms find their parallel in human trial and tribulation that blow through our lives, often leaving us feeling destroyed. Our faith seems tested beyond what we can endure. It is at these times, we must stand firm in our faith (1 Cor. 16:13; 1 Thess. 3:8). But unless we are grounded in the Word, really believing what God says, we will “be tossed and blown about” (Eph. 4:14) when the trials come.
We must have a telescopic vision, magnifying Jesus who can make everything ‘good’ (Ro. 8:28). We must keep looking to our future hope when Jesus “will wipe every tear from [our] eyes,” when there will be “no more death or sorrow or crying or pain.. [when] all these things are gone forever" (Rev. 21:4). People of faith will not be blown off track when things don’t make sense. Listen to what David Wilkerson says today:
To those going through the valley and shadow of death, hear this word: Weeping will last through some dark, awful nights—and in that darkness you will soon hear the Father whisper, “I am with you. I cannot tell you why right now, but one day it will all make sense. You will see it was all part of my plan. It was no accident. It was no failure on your part. Hold fast. Let me embrace you in your hour of pain.” Hold fast to your faith. Stand fast in his Word. There is no other hope in this world.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
How will our story read?
Last year I attended a memorial service for the wife of a friend. Since I didn’t know her very well, I paid close attention to what people said about her. In all, probably a dozen people took the ‘mic’ and shared how her life impacted them. I had met her once and knew her to be a Christian, but, surprisingly, no one spoke about the impact of her spiritual life. I hope it was just an awful omission. But it did make me think: ‘what would people say about me?’ And would some tell a different story than others?
If “it is no longer I who live, but Christ is living in me” (Gal. 2:20), then shouldn’t my life story be more about Jesus than me, about how His life impacted others through me? If I am being conformed to the image of Jesus (Rom. 8:29), shouldn’t my character be indistinguishable from His?
As if eulogizing the Corinthians, Paul said “you are living letters… written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God” (2 Cor. 3:2). When I wrote my father’s eulogy last year, I chose to focus on the impact of his spiritual life on his family and friends. To me, that’s the ‘real’ story.
Again, I must ask myself ‘how will my story read?’ One thing for sure is that I want my family and friends to tell the ‘same’ story—that is, I hate to think that I made a positive impact with some and a negative one with others. Thank God, I’m not finished yet. There is still time to write my story.
If “it is no longer I who live, but Christ is living in me” (Gal. 2:20), then shouldn’t my life story be more about Jesus than me, about how His life impacted others through me? If I am being conformed to the image of Jesus (Rom. 8:29), shouldn’t my character be indistinguishable from His?
As if eulogizing the Corinthians, Paul said “you are living letters… written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God” (2 Cor. 3:2). When I wrote my father’s eulogy last year, I chose to focus on the impact of his spiritual life on his family and friends. To me, that’s the ‘real’ story.
Again, I must ask myself ‘how will my story read?’ One thing for sure is that I want my family and friends to tell the ‘same’ story—that is, I hate to think that I made a positive impact with some and a negative one with others. Thank God, I’m not finished yet. There is still time to write my story.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Will they be watching Jesus on YouTube?
Yesterday in an interview with ABC News Reporter Christiane Amanpour, Franklin Graham, Billy Graham’s oldest son, said he thinks the second coming of Jesus Christ could be a social media event captured by millions of mobile phones, explaining, “The Bible says that Christ will come on the clouds and every eye is going to see it.”
I have always thought that Christ’s visibility to the whole world at once would just be a rather supernatural event. But Graham finds a ‘natural’ explanation for it! Just think of it! Everyone will be taking pictures with their cell phones and sending them throughout the entire world by picture and video messaging, which will be watched on YouTube, and shared on Face book, and "tweeps" tweeting it in real time. Graham seems to be suggesting not only that Jesus' return is imminent, but that the phenomenon of social media is one more proof that everything is getting in place for the world’s greatest event!
I have always thought that Christ’s visibility to the whole world at once would just be a rather supernatural event. But Graham finds a ‘natural’ explanation for it! Just think of it! Everyone will be taking pictures with their cell phones and sending them throughout the entire world by picture and video messaging, which will be watched on YouTube, and shared on Face book, and "tweeps" tweeting it in real time. Graham seems to be suggesting not only that Jesus' return is imminent, but that the phenomenon of social media is one more proof that everything is getting in place for the world’s greatest event!
Friday, April 22, 2011
What Makes it "Good" Friday?
In Jesus’ day, death on a cross was cruel and brutal—the worst way to die. No one would have worn a cross as a piece of jewelry anymore than we would consider wearing a tiny emblem of a coffin around our neck!
More than two thousand years before Christ’s death on a cross, Abraham was circumcised; it was an external sign of his covenant with God. Did Abraham know it foreshadowed the work of the Cross? I think he did. Because some 400 years later, the Old Testament writers called it a “circumcision of the heart (Deut. 10:16; Romans 2:29). They knew the covenant with God was entered by death—that’s what the sacrificial ceremonies were all about. But on some level, they also knew that it meant death to the treasures of one’s heart.
How many people who call themselves Christians wear the cross on the outside but have never known what it is to have a new heart and a new spirit (Ez. 36:26)because of Jesus’ death and resurrection (Romans 6:4,6,11): the New Covenant? Jesus bore the Cross. Now we wear a Cross. Today is Good Friday. Why is it “good?” Because… if Jesus had not been bearing the Cross, we couldn’t be wearing one.
More than two thousand years before Christ’s death on a cross, Abraham was circumcised; it was an external sign of his covenant with God. Did Abraham know it foreshadowed the work of the Cross? I think he did. Because some 400 years later, the Old Testament writers called it a “circumcision of the heart (Deut. 10:16; Romans 2:29). They knew the covenant with God was entered by death—that’s what the sacrificial ceremonies were all about. But on some level, they also knew that it meant death to the treasures of one’s heart.
How many people who call themselves Christians wear the cross on the outside but have never known what it is to have a new heart and a new spirit (Ez. 36:26)because of Jesus’ death and resurrection (Romans 6:4,6,11): the New Covenant? Jesus bore the Cross. Now we wear a Cross. Today is Good Friday. Why is it “good?” Because… if Jesus had not been bearing the Cross, we couldn’t be wearing one.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
"Don’t take life so seriously"
Altha and I saw the movie “Soul Surfer” last weekend—a film that unapologetically presents a Christian world view. Teen-ager Bethany Hamilton’s faith in Jesus sustains her after losing her arm in a shark attack! I have since seen the “real” Bethany interviewed on TV—a serious champion surfer who is just as serious about Jesus.
The phrase “don’t take life so seriously” seems to be the 21st century American mantra (Is anyone really taking the National Debt seriously?) And according to a recent survey (2011) by researcher George Barna, American Christians are not taking God too seriously. Only 14% of professing Christians say their relationship with God is their highest life priority.
And anyone who tries to warn of judgment on America, like David Wilkerson, in his book "America's Last Call," is viewed as a doomsayer. Most people just don't want to hear it. "You're taking this all too seriously," they say.
Leonard Ravenhill once said: "Many people criticize me for being too serious. But do they really think that on Judgment Day, Christ will chastise me, saying, 'Leonard, you took me too seriously?"
The phrase “don’t take life so seriously” seems to be the 21st century American mantra (Is anyone really taking the National Debt seriously?) And according to a recent survey (2011) by researcher George Barna, American Christians are not taking God too seriously. Only 14% of professing Christians say their relationship with God is their highest life priority.
And anyone who tries to warn of judgment on America, like David Wilkerson, in his book "America's Last Call," is viewed as a doomsayer. Most people just don't want to hear it. "You're taking this all too seriously," they say.
Leonard Ravenhill once said: "Many people criticize me for being too serious. But do they really think that on Judgment Day, Christ will chastise me, saying, 'Leonard, you took me too seriously?"
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
The Perfect Storm
A perfect storm is an expression to describe weather conditions that happen to hit at a region’s most vulnerable area, resulting in the worst possible damage. The term is also used (metaphorically) to describe an event where a rare combination of circumstances will aggravate a situation drastically.
I read a letter in the Mercury’s Editorials this morning describing current conditions in America this way: “We are facing a perfect storm of an aging population affecting both Social Security and Medicare, unpaid war expenditures, declining oil supplies, and increased tax burden for the middle class and wealthy.” And I can immediately think of many more present conditions that could be added to that mix.
Today David Wilkerson wrote: “Beloved, if we’re going to face the coming storm, then we need to be prepared so nothing disturbs our spirit. And the only way to do that is to spend time in the Father’s presence beholding His face. We have to be shut in with Him—on our knees, practicing His presence, seeking Him—until we’re thoroughly persuaded He’s at our right hand.”
I have set the Lord always before me; because You are at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad; my flesh also will rest in hope. You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy (Psalm 16: 8-11 abbreviated).
I read a letter in the Mercury’s Editorials this morning describing current conditions in America this way: “We are facing a perfect storm of an aging population affecting both Social Security and Medicare, unpaid war expenditures, declining oil supplies, and increased tax burden for the middle class and wealthy.” And I can immediately think of many more present conditions that could be added to that mix.
Today David Wilkerson wrote: “Beloved, if we’re going to face the coming storm, then we need to be prepared so nothing disturbs our spirit. And the only way to do that is to spend time in the Father’s presence beholding His face. We have to be shut in with Him—on our knees, practicing His presence, seeking Him—until we’re thoroughly persuaded He’s at our right hand.”
I have set the Lord always before me; because You are at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad; my flesh also will rest in hope. You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy (Psalm 16: 8-11 abbreviated).
Monday, April 18, 2011
Lord, Help Me Forget the Things I shouldn’t Remember
As Altha and I advance into our 60’s we seem to be commenting more frequently on what-we-think-is our increasing forgetfulness—the telltale signs of ‘aging.’ But then I remember how forgetful our children were as teen-agers and even as young adults.
But as feeble as our minds (at any age) may be, it seems all of us (at every age)have an amazing ability to remember things we would be better off forgetting—like, all the hurts, disappointments, betrayals, and grievances of our past. Isn’t it remarkable! You can forget where you parked your car at the mall 30 minutes ago, but when it comes to perceived injury, slight, or infraction, your memory never fails you?
Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony (Col. 3:12-14).
But as feeble as our minds (at any age) may be, it seems all of us (at every age)have an amazing ability to remember things we would be better off forgetting—like, all the hurts, disappointments, betrayals, and grievances of our past. Isn’t it remarkable! You can forget where you parked your car at the mall 30 minutes ago, but when it comes to perceived injury, slight, or infraction, your memory never fails you?
Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony (Col. 3:12-14).
Friday, April 15, 2011
Happy Birthday McDonald’s
Yes, it’s true. McDonald’s opened its first fast food restaurant on this day in 1955. A regular burger was 15 cents. Fifty-six years later, the same burger (well, not the ‘same’ one) is nearly $2. That said, if you are wise about saving money for the future, you are also shrewd enough to know you have to earn enough interest on that money to keep up with inflation. In a half-century, that $2 burger will be $26.
But of course you know I’m not talking about protecting your earthly interests! In God’s economy, whatever you invest in (it’s called sowing) will give you a guaranteed return of at least 30-fold (30, 60, 100 fold, Mark 4:8) which would mean that $2 “hamburger” is now worth $60. In “kingdom” economy, you will always ‘earn’ much more than you invest. “Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name's sake shall receive many times as much, and shall inherit eternal life." (Matthew 19:29) As much as the sacrifice involved of divesting yourself of earthly treasures is great, the reward of investing in God’s kingdom is greater.
People my age worry about the future—that they will run out of money before they run out of life! I think we should rather be worried that we will run out of time before we’ve finished investing!
But of course you know I’m not talking about protecting your earthly interests! In God’s economy, whatever you invest in (it’s called sowing) will give you a guaranteed return of at least 30-fold (30, 60, 100 fold, Mark 4:8) which would mean that $2 “hamburger” is now worth $60. In “kingdom” economy, you will always ‘earn’ much more than you invest. “Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name's sake shall receive many times as much, and shall inherit eternal life." (Matthew 19:29) As much as the sacrifice involved of divesting yourself of earthly treasures is great, the reward of investing in God’s kingdom is greater.
People my age worry about the future—that they will run out of money before they run out of life! I think we should rather be worried that we will run out of time before we’ve finished investing!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Don’t be Like a Rubber Band
As I have stated many times in this blog, God wants us to set our mind on the things above and not on things of earth. And in order to do that, He puts us through trials that cause us to look to Him for strength, perspective, and comfort. My friend Zac Poonen compares this to the stretching of a rubber band. Like a rubber band, our spirit is stretched to focus on eternal things. But unfortunately, once the trial is over, our mind, like the rubber-band relaxes to its normal position, our spirit relaxes, and our minds spring back to the things of earth.
In the 1970s, the word “détente” was used in a political reference to the general easing of relations between the Soviet Union and the United States: during the Cold War. The French word détente originally meant the releasing of crossbow strings—two warriors relaxing their bow strings. But in our war against sin and Satan, our bow strings should never be relaxed. We should allow all circumstances to keep us taut—meaning “not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit” (Romans 12:11), alert, ever ready for an enemy who is constantly on the prowl to catch us (1 Peter 5:8).
In the 1970s, the word “détente” was used in a political reference to the general easing of relations between the Soviet Union and the United States: during the Cold War. The French word détente originally meant the releasing of crossbow strings—two warriors relaxing their bow strings. But in our war against sin and Satan, our bow strings should never be relaxed. We should allow all circumstances to keep us taut—meaning “not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit” (Romans 12:11), alert, ever ready for an enemy who is constantly on the prowl to catch us (1 Peter 5:8).
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
“Everybody wants to go to Heaven, but nobody wants to die”
As I read the USA front page article on the deficit reduction, this quote nearly jumped off the page. You can understand why. No true believer could fail to see the spiritual analogy! People want to balance the budget, but they don’t want to give up anything to do so. Unfortunately, there are born-again believers who want "the spiritual blessings in the heavenlies" (Eph. 1:3, 20), but are unwilling to give up (die to) treasures on earth.
On one occasion a wealthy young man came to Jesus asking how to get to Heaven, and Jesus told him “go and sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven” (Mat. 19:21). And though the young man wanted to go to Heaven, he was unwilling to give up anything (die) to do so. Seeing a teachable moment, Jesus told the Disciples “everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will have eternal life” (Mat. 19:29).
Jesus' first followers found themselves facing economic hardships because they decided to follow Him. But we are told they “accepted joyfully the seizure of their property” (Heb. 10:34). I don’t know if you and I will ever have to endure such persecution in our life time. But before that happens, it should be a settled issue: to gain Heaven, we are willing to give up (die to) our treasures on earth.
On one occasion a wealthy young man came to Jesus asking how to get to Heaven, and Jesus told him “go and sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven” (Mat. 19:21). And though the young man wanted to go to Heaven, he was unwilling to give up anything (die) to do so. Seeing a teachable moment, Jesus told the Disciples “everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will have eternal life” (Mat. 19:29).
Jesus' first followers found themselves facing economic hardships because they decided to follow Him. But we are told they “accepted joyfully the seizure of their property” (Heb. 10:34). I don’t know if you and I will ever have to endure such persecution in our life time. But before that happens, it should be a settled issue: to gain Heaven, we are willing to give up (die to) our treasures on earth.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Leave It at the Cross
Through many years of counseling, I know that wounded people often wear their wound like a name tag, i.e., “this is who I am.” They are paralyzed by this “I-am-wounded” identity. Mark tells a story about a paralyzed man’s friends who brought him to Jesus. Unable to get in the front door, they removed the roof and dropped him down. Jesus’ initial response was: “My son, your sins are forgiven” (2:5). But he was still paralyzed. Then to demonstrate that He had authority to forgive sins, Jesus healed the paralytic, saying “rise up, take up your bed and go home” (2:11).
In this story, the man’s “bed” represents his wound—and the 'place' of spiritual paralysis. But it was not Jesus’ intention for him be a forgiven but remain wounded. How can a spiritually crippled person express the fullness of Jesus? After Jesus saves you, he wants you to “pick up your bed” of failure [overcome it] and walk in the newness of life (Romans 6:4).
Easter will be here in less than two weeks. Let us remember that while you and I were wounded BY our transgressions, Jesus was wounded FOR our transgressions. In other words, Jesus took our “wound” on Himself. Then He took our wound into the grave, and left it there. And when He was were raised up, we too were raised. And now He says, “My son, you are forgiven; now rise up; take up your bed [don't be paralyzed anymore] and walk.”
In this story, the man’s “bed” represents his wound—and the 'place' of spiritual paralysis. But it was not Jesus’ intention for him be a forgiven but remain wounded. How can a spiritually crippled person express the fullness of Jesus? After Jesus saves you, he wants you to “pick up your bed” of failure [overcome it] and walk in the newness of life (Romans 6:4).
Easter will be here in less than two weeks. Let us remember that while you and I were wounded BY our transgressions, Jesus was wounded FOR our transgressions. In other words, Jesus took our “wound” on Himself. Then He took our wound into the grave, and left it there. And when He was were raised up, we too were raised. And now He says, “My son, you are forgiven; now rise up; take up your bed [don't be paralyzed anymore] and walk.”
Monday, April 11, 2011
Contentment in Chaos
The number 11 in Bible numerology means disorder and chaos (as in “9/11”). Not to spook you out, but less than four months into 2011, the world has already witnessed unprecedented chaos in North Africa, the Middle East, and extreme natural catastrophes, including of course, the devastating earthquakes in New Zealand and Japan—the latter followed by a tsunami that killed 25,000 and damaged several of Japan’s nuclear reactors with as yet unknown consequence.
According to Shaddy Soliman, pastor of Every Nation Church in Florida and co-author of “Islam and Terrorism,” the symbol of 11 is beginning to manifest: “We’re seeing history-making events unfold before our eyes… Fasten your seat belts, because we haven’t seen the best of it yet. But the good news is that 12 is the number of order and perfection.”
While I can’t be sure “order” is around the corner, of this I am sure. The good news for believers is that even in difficult times we can be safe, blessed, content and full of peace by trusting that God is good, and has good things planned for us. "For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome" (Jeremiah 29:11).
According to Shaddy Soliman, pastor of Every Nation Church in Florida and co-author of “Islam and Terrorism,” the symbol of 11 is beginning to manifest: “We’re seeing history-making events unfold before our eyes… Fasten your seat belts, because we haven’t seen the best of it yet. But the good news is that 12 is the number of order and perfection.”
While I can’t be sure “order” is around the corner, of this I am sure. The good news for believers is that even in difficult times we can be safe, blessed, content and full of peace by trusting that God is good, and has good things planned for us. "For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome" (Jeremiah 29:11).
Thursday, April 7, 2011
"Love Wins"
Rob Bell, pastor of a 10,000-member church in Grand Rapids, has written a book that is stirring controversy among Evangelicals. It is called Love Wins: Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived.
The controversy centers on the doctrine of Heaven and Hell. Questioning conventional interpretation, Rob asks: "Will only a few select people make it into Heaven [while]billions of people burn forever in hell? And if that's the case, how do you become one of the few? Does it really make sense that God is a loving, kind, compassionate God who wants to know people in a personal way, but if they reject this relationship with Jesus, they will be sent to Hell where God will eternally punish them forever?" Bell arrives at the conclusion that, in the end, love wins.
Now, let me say I have no issue with people asking hard theological questions—especially when it comes to exploring the character of God. And not having read his book, I don’t know exactly what he means by “love wins.” But if Rob Bell wants to investigate the limits of God’s love, he need look no further than the Cross upon which Jesus died to save men from sin, death, and yes, Hell. I believe an alternate title for Rob’s book should be “Love Won”.
The controversy centers on the doctrine of Heaven and Hell. Questioning conventional interpretation, Rob asks: "Will only a few select people make it into Heaven [while]billions of people burn forever in hell? And if that's the case, how do you become one of the few? Does it really make sense that God is a loving, kind, compassionate God who wants to know people in a personal way, but if they reject this relationship with Jesus, they will be sent to Hell where God will eternally punish them forever?" Bell arrives at the conclusion that, in the end, love wins.
Now, let me say I have no issue with people asking hard theological questions—especially when it comes to exploring the character of God. And not having read his book, I don’t know exactly what he means by “love wins.” But if Rob Bell wants to investigate the limits of God’s love, he need look no further than the Cross upon which Jesus died to save men from sin, death, and yes, Hell. I believe an alternate title for Rob’s book should be “Love Won”.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
THE PRESENT MADNESS by David Wilkerson
I am shocked by the present madness of the world. Government leaders are under God’s judicial blindness. You cannot explain the blindness of so many politicians and leaders. They grope about like the blind leading the blind. It seems like all restraint is being cast aside and a moral madness has hardened multitudes.
Seeing all this madness makes me rejoice all the more that Christ Jesus has quickened those of us who were dead in trespasses and sin. I rejoice that those who once walked according to the course of this world—who were under the spirit of the prince of the power of the air and the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience—who once fulfilled all desires of the flesh and of the mind, even dead in sins—are now raised from the dead, quickened by the Spirit—sitting in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Today, as you grieve over the present madness, give God praise that you have been saved out of it all. God be praised!
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As I [Greg] reflected on David's article today, the Lord brought to my mind the following verse: “He died for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live” (Galatians 1:4).
Seeing all this madness makes me rejoice all the more that Christ Jesus has quickened those of us who were dead in trespasses and sin. I rejoice that those who once walked according to the course of this world—who were under the spirit of the prince of the power of the air and the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience—who once fulfilled all desires of the flesh and of the mind, even dead in sins—are now raised from the dead, quickened by the Spirit—sitting in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Today, as you grieve over the present madness, give God praise that you have been saved out of it all. God be praised!
______________________________________________________
As I [Greg] reflected on David's article today, the Lord brought to my mind the following verse: “He died for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live” (Galatians 1:4).
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Donating Blood—the Gift of Life
My mother is slowly recovering from hip-replacement surgery; and after determining she was anemic, the doctor gave her a unit (pint) of blood. As I watched the plastic bag of blood draining into her veins, I was kind of amazed to think that the life of someone else was entering her body. The Red Cross slogan “Donating Blood: the Gift of Life” became more real to me.
I couldn’t help but think of Jesus’ words “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life… for my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him" (John 6:53-57).
Centuries earlier God told Noah not to drink the blood of an animal—which would be the equivalent of drinking in its life. Against that backdrop, when Jesus said "Drink my blood,” He shocked the devout Jews! But Jesus didn’t speak those words for their shock value, but to teach a radical life-changing truth. In effect, saying if you drink my blood, my life will enter you! Not until after His death would the disciples be able to comprehend the truth He spoke about that day. Two thousand years later, we are still trying to fully apprehend this wonderful truth—“it is no longer I who live but Christ lives in me” (Gal. 2:20)—we really do live by the life of another.
I couldn’t help but think of Jesus’ words “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life… for my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him" (John 6:53-57).
Centuries earlier God told Noah not to drink the blood of an animal—which would be the equivalent of drinking in its life. Against that backdrop, when Jesus said "Drink my blood,” He shocked the devout Jews! But Jesus didn’t speak those words for their shock value, but to teach a radical life-changing truth. In effect, saying if you drink my blood, my life will enter you! Not until after His death would the disciples be able to comprehend the truth He spoke about that day. Two thousand years later, we are still trying to fully apprehend this wonderful truth—“it is no longer I who live but Christ lives in me” (Gal. 2:20)—we really do live by the life of another.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Moderate Muslims or Moderate Christians
A Pakistani Christian woman Asia Noreen was convicted of blasphemy and sentenced to death by hanging—the first woman ever sentenced to death under Pakistan's sharia blasphemy laws. She denied that Muhammad was a prophet. Even if she wins her appeal and is released from prison, a Pakistani Imam has issued a Fatwa against her—anyone killing her will be paid $6,000.
Salmaan Taseer, the Governor of Punjab and an outspoken critic of Pakistan's blasphemy laws, spoke in defense of Asia Noreen. After declaring that she should be pardoned, he was assassinated by his body guard. Then Pakistan's Minister of Minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti, the only Christian in the Pakistani Cabinet, was assassinated two months later because of his vocal opposition to the blasphemy laws.
Author Nonie Darwish who wrote “Now They Call me Infidel” and “Why I Renounced Jihad” says “the term “moderate Muslim” was created in the West. In the Muslim world there is nothing called moderate or radical Muslims or moderate or radical mosques. You are either a Muslim or not. What the West terms as Moderate Muslims are really just those who do not take their religion very seriously and do not follow Sharia Law.” In other words, they are Muslim in name only, probably not unlike a “moderate” Christian—one who doesn’t take the Bible or relationship with Jesus too seriously. "Moderate" Muslims or "moderate" Christians: both are oxymorons!
Salmaan Taseer, the Governor of Punjab and an outspoken critic of Pakistan's blasphemy laws, spoke in defense of Asia Noreen. After declaring that she should be pardoned, he was assassinated by his body guard. Then Pakistan's Minister of Minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti, the only Christian in the Pakistani Cabinet, was assassinated two months later because of his vocal opposition to the blasphemy laws.
Author Nonie Darwish who wrote “Now They Call me Infidel” and “Why I Renounced Jihad” says “the term “moderate Muslim” was created in the West. In the Muslim world there is nothing called moderate or radical Muslims or moderate or radical mosques. You are either a Muslim or not. What the West terms as Moderate Muslims are really just those who do not take their religion very seriously and do not follow Sharia Law.” In other words, they are Muslim in name only, probably not unlike a “moderate” Christian—one who doesn’t take the Bible or relationship with Jesus too seriously. "Moderate" Muslims or "moderate" Christians: both are oxymorons!
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