Fight for Joy! with Scott Savell

A Glorious Imputation

2012-01-17T03:06:00.002-05:00

“But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:21-23). I have the privilege of pastoring a wonderful congregation of believers. We are slowly working our way through Paul’s letter to the Romans. We have already answered the question, why the Gospel (see Rom. 1:18). We have thoroughly enmeshed ourselves in the goodness of God (see Rom. 2:4). Next we are coming to chapter three where Paul discusses a glorious imputation. Imputation is a legal term that is used in a variety of ways in Scripture. It appears some forty times in the New Testament, ten times in Romans, alone. The word means, “to set to one’s account.” For example, in Philemon 18 Paul admonishes Philemon to charge (impute) to his account any debts Onesimus may have incurred. Theologically speaking, there are three great imputations in Scripture. First of all, there is the imputation of Adam’s sin to me. “Through one man sin entered into the world” (Rom. 5:12). Because Adam sinned, all are sinners. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). Secondly, there is the imputation of my sin to Jesus. This happened at the Cross. “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:21). Finally, there is the imputation of Christ’s righteousness to all those who believe. This is a glorious imputation that God brings about in the life of all believers—those who through faith believe the Gospel. It occurs at the very moment of salvation when God imputes to the sinner what is not actually his—the righteousness of God—“Even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe” (Rom. 3:22).

Paul describes this righteousness of God as that which is apart from the Law. In other words, the Law cannot save us. The Bible says through the Law all are accountable to God. Furthermore, it is through the Law we have the knowledge of sin. For this reason, at the final judgment the Law will close the mouth of the unbeliever (see Rom. 3:19-20). But thanks be to God for the glorious imputation of His righteousness. The Bible says the righteousness of God is revealed in the Gospel—“For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith” (Rom. 1:17). Both Romans 1:17 and 3:22 speak of this imputed righteousness as coming through faith in Jesus. This is the essence of God’s plan of salvation. It is a salvation that is offered “apart from the Law.” In other words, you can’t earn this salvation. It can only be obtained as a gift and it comes through faith in Jesus. Although this is the fulfillment of the New Covenant, this isn’t some new way of saving people but is in perfect agreement with God’s work in times past. This is what is meant by the phrase, “being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets” (Rom. 3:21b). In other words, God has always been in the salvation by grace through faith business. This is demonstrated in the Old Testament through the faith of Abraham. In fact, Paul mentions this in the next chapter, “For what does the Scripture say? Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness” (Rom. 4:3). “Credited” here is that glorious imputation about which I write. And this imputation comes by way of Jesus: “But now apart form the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested” (Rom. 3:21a). It has been manifested in Jesus!

Romans 3:23 declares, “All have sinned.” All here would include you and me. It includes every person who has ever lived from Adam onward. The exception is, of course, Jesus—“For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin” (Heb. 4:15). And it is this Jesus who, although “He knew no sin [He became] sin on our behalf” (2 Cor. 5:21). We do not earn this righteousness by faith but we receive it through faith. Think about it. Because Adam sinned you and I are sinners—sorry, it doesn’t matter how good you might think you are because you are still a sinner by nature. But God has taken your sins and imputed them to Christ. Through faith you can have Christ’s righteousness imputed to you. This is the essence of the Gospel message and is the message I believe and proclaim. You don’t have to remain in your sin. You can experience freedom. You can be changed. You can have the righteousness of Christ. You can choose life! If you haven’t done this, what are you waiting for? “Being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 3:24).

The Goodness of God

2012-01-14T20:53:00.002-05:00

“Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4). In my last article I sought to answer the question, why the gospel? In this article I want to consider the gospel in light of the goodness of God. All Christians would agree that God is good. In fact, most of us would sum up our belief in the goodness of God with the statement, “God is good all the time and all the time God is good.” I’m not sure where that statement originated. But it is clearly biblically and theologically sound. But have you ever paused to consider why God is good? Furthermore, have you ever considered how we ought to respond to the goodness of God? God is definitely good. In fact, the Bible teaches He is good to everyone—believer and unbeliever alike (see Matthew 5:45). God’s goodness is a wonderful reality and is demonstrated through the riches of His grace, forbearance, and patience toward us. The question is, how ought we to respond to His goodness?

The Bible teaches there are two possible responses to God’s goodness. These responses can be described as willful responses in that each requires an exercise of the will. In other words, when faced with the wonderful reality of God’s goodness a decision is required from us—how will I respond? The first response is alluded to in the first few words of Romans 2:4, “Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness?” Kindness here is the Greek word chrestotes, which appears some ten times in the New Testament and each time means goodness, kindness, or gentleness. Paul says God is good and because of His goodness we are asked, “Do you think lightly of His kindness?” The phrase, “think lightly of” is translated from the Greek word, kataphroneo, and means to despise, disdain, think little or nothing of, to scorn. So one possible response to God’s goodness is to scorn it, that is, to reject it. There are many today who scorn the goodness of God. In so doing, they reject the gospel, and as a result, Paul says, “But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God” (Rom. 2:5). Obviously, it is a serious thing to reject the goodness of God. Another possible response to the goodness of God—one much more desirable if you ask me—is to receive or embrace His goodness. We do this through repentance. In other words, I repent of my sins and believe the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Hosea 3:5 says, “How great is Your goodness which You have stored up for those who fear You.” So to reject God’s goodness is to “[store] up wrath” (Rom. 2:5), and to receive His goodness through repentance is to “[store up goodness]” (Hos. 3:5). This repentance works itself out through perseverance in doing good and results in “glory and honor and immortality, eternal life” (Rom. 2:7). This is the Word of the Lord!

This brings us back to our original question. How ought we to respond to God’s goodness? To put it another way, how will you respond to God’s goodness? Will you reject it or receive it? Will you continue in your sin or repent, believe in and obey the Gospel? Paul concludes his thought here with a summation of God’s righteous judgment towards everyone: “For there is no partiality with God” (Rom. 2:11). The Greek word translated partiality here means to judge things on the basis of external or pre-conceived notions. Some Jews wrongly believed God showed partiality towards the Jews. Some today—both Jews and non-Jews—believe God will somehow show them partiality in terms of judgment. However, Paul makes it clear this will not be the case. God is not partial. He is no respecter of persons. His judgment will be righteous and just. The only way to escape God’s judgment is to respond right now to His goodness by repenting of your sins, embracing, believing in and obeying the Gospel. If one fails to meet God’s conditions by rejecting and scorning His goodness, only judgment remains.

Why the Gospel?

2012-01-09T15:30:00.004-05:00

“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them” (Romans 1:18-19). I would imagine most Christians know the basic definition of the Gospel—the good news about Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Paul defined the Gospel in his first letter to the Corinthian believers when he wrote, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Cor. 15:3-4). But I wonder how many Christians would be able to articulate the primary reason behind the Gospel. In other words, why did God give us the Gospel? Most, I am sure, would answer with some reference to the love of God. John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” However, Paul reminds us of the primary reason for the Gospel. In his letter to the Romans—a letter that has been rightly hailed as the Constitution of Christianity—he declares the revelation of the wrath of God is the primary reason for the Gospel. In other words, Paul underscores the utter sinfulness of mankind, the fact all are without excuse and deserving judgment, and how desperately we all need the righteousness that only God can provide. So perhaps we should begin our Gospel presentations with God’s wrath rather than God’s love. After all, the Bible does say those who have not believed the Gospel, “[have] been judged already” (John 3:18). Could you imagine sharing the Gospel with someone by saying, “Did you know God’s wrath is right now being revealed against your ungodliness?” Think about it? How can we convince others they need to be saved unless we first answer the question saved from what?

Once we answer the question, “saved from what,” only then are we ready to present the Gospel. The Gospel, according to Paul, is “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Rom. 1:16). The Greek word for “power” here is “dynamis,” from which we get an English word, “dynamite.” The word means inherent power, power residing in a thing by virtue of its nature. The power of the Gospel is what God uses to deliver people from His wrath. It rescues people from the ultimate penalty of their sin—eternal separation from God and eternal punishment. Clearly, to believe the Gospel is to be rescued from all spiritual dangers. It is no wonder the Bible presents the proclamation of the Gospel as the obligation of all believers. In fact, Paul reminds us we are not only obligated to proclaim the Gospel but should all be eager to share the Gospel with every person (see Rom. 1:14-15). Such a message seems foolish to the world. “For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Cor. 1:18). But it is this foolish message that has the inherent power to produce the righteousness of God within a person’s heart. It is this foolish message that once embraced by faith results in “salvation to everyone who believes.” This is the Word of the Lord!

Saving faith consists of three fundamentals. First of all there is the mind—what we might call mental assent to the Gospel. In other words, one hears and understands the Gospel and the truth about Jesus Christ. This is the witness of Ephesians 1:13. Secondly, there is the emotional aspect. It is here one embraces the truthfulness of the Gospel with sorrow over sin and joy over God’s mercy and grace—“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing” (Rom. 15:13). Finally, there is volition which speaks of the will or desire. It is here that one submits his or her will to Christ and trusts in Him alone as the only hope of salvation thus resulting not only in salvation but also in genuine repentance and authentic obedience of the one being saved. Paul wrote, “If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord” (Rom. 10:9). This is not a simple acknowledgement that He is God and the Lord of all. Even the demons acknowledge as much. This is the deep personal conviction—without reservation—that Jesus is Lord. Since Jesus is Lord, the saved person endeavors to bring every aspect of his or her life under His Lordship. Therefore, when one believes the Gospel sin is repented of, Christ alone is trusted for salvation and faith is evidenced through submission to Him as Lord. “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).

Nearing Midnight: 2011 Prophetic Year in Review

2011-12-28T15:38:00.002-05:00

“Do not forsake our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encourage one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:25). Another year has come to an end and with it comes my annual prophetic year in review. My conclusion: The clock ticks ever closer to midnight. Unless the Lord tarries, one wonders just how much longer things can continue as they are. Clearly, the prophecy clock is racing. I had dinner recently with Jack Kinsella of The Omega Letter (http://www.omegaletter.org/) who observed when world events can go in one or more directions they always go in the direction prophesied in the Bible. I couldn’t agree more. Politically, militarily, and financially, this world is staging itself for an appointment with its Creator. And those with an eternal perspective know this means one thing—Jesus is coming soon for His church, perhaps today.

Politically speaking, the political map of the Arab world was totally reshaped in 2011. This is significant considering it is that part of the world—the Middle East—with which the biblical prophets were primarily concerned. The so called “Arab spring,” which is quickly becoming an “Arab winter,” has seen the end-time alignment of nations come into sharper focus. With the collapse of the Mubarak regime in Egypt—the anchor of stability in the Middle East—and the ascendency of the Muslim Brotherhood and other radical elements, a united effort to annihilate Israel is clearly underway. Add to that the fact Iran may be only months away from developing a nuclear weapon. Syria’s dictator Bashar al-Assad’s continues his ruthless grip on power. All of this brings the prophecies of Ezekiel 38-39, Daniel 11, and Isaiah 17 into sharper focus. War is on the way in the Middle East and it could literally break out any moment. Former Assistant Defense Secretary under Ronald Reagan—Frank Gaffney—warns that, “A cataclysmic regional war [is coming] and it will be over the future existence of the state of Israel. It may involve all of her neighbors, as they want to drive the Jews into the sea. It may include the use of nuclear weapons.” In the end, I’m not worried too much about Israel, as “He who keeps watch over Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps” (Psalm 121:4). But it is interesting to note that of all the directions things could have gone in the Middle East in 2011, everything has moved in the direction prophesied by the Bible.

Along with the political reshaping of the Middle East one must also consider significant events militarily. The United States has pulled out of Iraq with Afghanistan not too far behind. It will be interesting to see what happens in that part of the world once the U.S. completely withdraws. Russia continues to strengthen its military ties with Iran, Syria and other Middle Eastern regimes. In fact, Russia has confirmed plans to send a flotilla of naval ships led by Russia's only aircraft carrier to a little-utilized base in Tartus, Syria, by spring 2012. Furthermore, Russia continues to provide military assistance and weapons to Iran and Syria. One can only wonder if the groundwork is being laid for the Ezekiel 38-39 war: “Be prepared, and prepare yourself, you and all your companies that are assembled about you, and be a guard for them” (Ezek. 38:7). Additionally, things are happening in the East. China continues to pursue a global military presence and its President, Hu Jinto, recently told China’s military personnel they should "make extended preparations for warfare.” Interestingly, China is the only country in the world that could field an Army of 200 million (Rev. 9:17; 16:12). Again, of all the directions the world could go militarily it is moving quickly in the direction spelled out in Bible prophecy.

Finally, as 2011 draws to a close one should also consider world events from a financial perspective. The world has only gone deeper into debt. The financial crisis that exploded in 2008 continues to affect the entire world. One area of the world that has witnessed the affects of this global financial crisis is the European Union which is currently fighting for its own survival. This union—now 27 nations strong—has been described by many experts as being simply too big to survive. I am neither a prophet nor a son of a prophet but if I had to guess I would say the worldwide financial crisis will ultimately work out in the direction the Bible says things are going to go in the last days. What is 27 nations strong today may very well collapse and regroup with a smaller number of much stronger nations—say ten? Daniel wrote, “After this I kept looking in the night visions, and behold, a fourth beast, dreadful and terrifying and extremely strong; and it had large iron teeth. It devoured and crushed and trampled down the remainder with its feet; and it was different from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns” (Dan. 7:7). Furthermore, this global financial crisis may very well lead to the rise of a global leader—a man-with-a-plan kind of a guy—to solve the world’s financial problems as well as the problem of an elusive peace in the Middle East. “While I was contemplating the horns, behold, another horn, a little one, came up among them…” (Dan. 7:8). 2011 was an interesting year from the perspective of Bible prophecy. 2012 promises to be even more interesting. But my focus is not so much on world events as it is on the promise of Jesus, “I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also” (John 14:3). As the world struggles to overcome insurmountable problems and seeks after a super-man who can seemingly solve it all, I am looking for Jesus and 2012 may very well be the year we see Him face to face—“Even so. Come, Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:20).

Do You Love His Appearing?

2011-12-12T20:40:00.001-05:00

"In the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing" (2 Timothy 4:8). I just returned from the twentieth annual meeting of the Pre-Trib Study Group Conference (www.pre-trib.org). The meeting took place at the Sheraton Grand Hotel near the Dallas/Fort Worth airport. This was my third trip, having also attended in 2007 and 2008. The conference was academically stimulating with several papers presented by various scholars on the Rapture and Pre-Tribulationism. Perhaps the most challenging paper for me personally was Dr. Paul Wilkinson’s paper on "The Rapture and Evangelism." Dr. Wilkinson is a British scholar from England who challenged everyone attending to be about the task of evangelism in light of the any moment return of Christ for His church. The banquet on Monday evening featured Dr. Ed Hindson from Liberty University. Afterwards I was privileged to enjoy a brief visit with Bill Koenig, a White House correspondent and director of World Watch International news agency (www.watch.org). Tuesday evening included the traditional current events presentations dealing with current events in light of Bible prophecy. Although this is perhaps the highlight of the whole conference for me, this year I slipped out after the first speaker in order to have dinner with Jack Kinsella of the Omega Letter (www.omegaletter.org) and other Omega Letter friends. When all was said and done my mind kept coming back to Paul’s words to young Timothy in 2 Tim. 4:8, which I think is summed up with this question: Do you love His appearing?

Of all the reasons we might long for and love Jesus’ return for His church, three remain in the forefront of my thinking. First of all, I want to be where Jesus is. He said, "I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also" (John 14:3). As believers, we should long to be with Christ above all else. I think our longing to be with Him is a sure sign we treasure Him more than anyone or anything this world has to offer. Do you long to be with Christ? Do you love His appearing? Secondly, although Christ’s death has set me free from the power of sin, I long to be free from the presence of sin. Paul wrote, "For in hope we have been saved" (Rom. 8:24). This hope includes not only the redemption of our bodies but also freedom from the very presence of sin. Personally, I cannot even begin to fathom being free from the presence of sin. But such freedom is coming and it is coming at "the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus" (Titus 2:13)! Finally, God has promised a great reunion in the sky for those who love His appearing. The Bible says, "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus" (1 Thess. 4:14). Imagine that—our loved ones who are "asleep in Jesus" will come with Him when He appears. Asleep here simply means those who have died in the Lord. They are now with Jesus—where we long to be—and one day they are coming with Him when He comes for His church.

So what’s the bottom line? Simply put, it is this: Do you love His appearing? Do you long for and pray for the return of Jesus for His church? Or, are you busy with and focused on the cares of this world? I am amazed at the focus of Christianity today, particularly in our own country. It seems the church is more interested in the things of this world rather than Christ. We see it in so-called Christian programming where the focus is on health, wealth, and prosperity. We see it in books where the authors seem more interested in our best life now and becoming a better you. There doesn’t seem to be much interest in holy living and longing for Christ’s return. It is no wonder. Even Paul promised, "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths" (2 Tim. 4:3-4). Here’s the test. Are you accumulating for yourself teachers in accordance with your own desires who promulgate what may on the surface sound and feel good but in reality is nothing more than myths? Or, do you treasure Christ above all and love His appearing? "Fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 1:13).

Ahmadinejad, Ezekiel, the Return of Christ, and You

2011-08-27T01:54:00.001-04:00

“Thus says the Lord God, ‘It will come about on that day, that thoughts will come into your mind and you will devise an evil plan, and you will say, ‘I will go up against the land of unwalled villages. I will go against those who are rest, that live securely, all of them living without walls and having no bars or gates, to capture spoil and to seize plunder…” (Ezekiel 38:10-12). The Iranian president said on Friday there would be no room for Israel in the region after the formation of a Palestinian state, and that once the state is established; the liberation of all Palestinian lands should follow. He is quoted as saying to Israel, “There is no room for you in the region.” Such diatribes are nothing new from Mr. Ahmadinejad. In 2005 he stated Israel would soon be, “wiped off the map.” In 2006 he said, “The Zionist regime is a rotten, dried tree that will be eliminated by one storm.” Interestingly enough, Ezekiel prophesied, “You will go up, you will come like a storm; you will be like a cloud covering the land” (Ezek. 38:9). When one considers Ezekiel’s prophecy speaks of an Iranian led, Russian equipped coalition of nations that come against Israel in the last days all of Ahmadinejad’s statements take on a whole new meaning. Add to that Iran’s feverous pursuit of nuclear weapons and the situation becomes dire, indeed—or so it would seem. But remember, appearances can be deceiving.

When considering Ezekiel’s prophecy in light of current world events there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, when it comes to predicting the future, Ezekiel bats one thousand—in other words, one hundred percent accuracy one hundred percent of the time. His prophecies concerning Israel’s return to its ancient homeland (Ezek. 36-37) have largely been fulfilled. The Palestinians are attempting to take all the land of Israel just as Ezekiel prophesied: “Because you have said, ‘these two nations and these two lands will be mine, and we will possess them’” (Ezek. 35:10). And now we see Persia—Iran of today—rising to prominence in the Middle East. Furthermore, Russia has entered into economic and military alliances with Iran and other nations mentioned in the Ezekiel 38-39 coalition. Furthermore, Ezekiel tells us Russia’s purpose for equipping and supporting this coalition—although reluctantly—will be to take spoil (Ezek. 38:12). What spoil has Israel that Russia and other nations might desire? In recent years huge natural gas fields have been discovered in Israel’s territorial waters. Furthermore, explorers suggest it’s only a matter of time before huge quantities of oil are discovered in Israel. Imagine how a massive Israeli oil discovery might upset the petroleum economies of the Middle East and the world. But that’s not all. We must also consider other biblical prophecies concerning the last days—the alignment of nations, apostasy in the church, the rise of the European super-state and Mediterranean Union, worldwide economic turmoil, preparation for the third Jewish Temple, arguments over Jerusalem, and the push for an elusive Middle East peace. To see all these things transpiring together suggests only one thing. Daniel’s Seventieth Week—also known as The Great Tribulation—is closer than most are willing to believe. And closer than that is the Rapture of the Church.

Clearly the hour is late. The return of Christ for His Church is closer than it’s ever been before. The amazing thing to me are those who claim to belong to Christ yet whose actions, lifestyle choices, and decisions in general give evidence they are not coming into the Kingdom of Heaven. In other words, they are nowhere near prepared for the return of Christ. What about you? Are you prepared? Jesus said, “But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have allowed his house to be broken into. You too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect” (Luke 12:39-40). The evidence is all around us. Jesus is coming soon. “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15). Are you ready to meet the Lord in the Air?

Earthquakes in Various Places

2011-08-24T10:49:00.002-04:00

For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs” (Matthew 24:7-8). I’m sure by now everyone has heard about the unusually strong earthquake that struck the East Coast of the United States. The earthquake’s epicenter was located in central Virginia in an area known for seismic activity although it seldom produces a quake with such large magnitude. This quake comes a day after a similar magnitude earthquake struck in Colorado. All this shaken going on brings to mind Jesus words in Matthew 24: “In various places there will be famines and earthquakes.” Colorado and the East Coast definitely qualify as various places.

Even a casual observer would rightly observe strong earthquakes seem to be on the increase. Some prophecy teachers even point to this as evidence we are living in the last days very near the return of Christ. But the question remains: Does today’s earthquake, along with the many newsworthy earthquakes of recent days (Japan, Chili, Haiti) indicate we are nearing the terminus of the present age? When seeking to answer this question we must keep in mind the signs Jesus gave in Matthew 24 are specific to a very narrow window of time—seven years to be exact. This time period is known in Scripture as Daniel’s Seventieth Week. It is also referred to as the Time of Jacob’s Trouble and also as the Great Tribulation. It is the last half of this seven-year period where the earth will experience the severe outpouring of God’s wrath. So by themselves, earthquakes probably don’t mean too much. In fact, the Scoffer says, “For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation” (2 Peter 3:4). But reality leads us to a different conclusion—something is definitely up. When taken together with other global happenings such as the global economic unease, the wave of Islamic nationalism in the Middle East, and the growing threat of wars and rumors of wars, we must conclude things are not continuing the way they always have been. It seems the events of The Tribulation are beginning to cast their shadows into our present time. Perhaps we really are nearing that time when God will once again directly intervene in the affairs of man. The Bible reminds us He has done it before and He’ll do it again.

He will do it again. We got His Word on that! Therefore, the question we need to answer is one posed by the Apostle Peter: “Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat” (2 Peter 3:11-12)? In the words of a modern-day theologian: “How shall we then live?” Peter answers that question for us. We should seek to live lives characterized by “holy conduct and godliness.” In 2 Peter 3:14, he admonishes us to “be diligent to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless.” The world isn’t getting any better. In fact, it’s getting worse. We aren’t headed for some cosmic leap in global consciousness but an appointment with the Creator. Therefore, the wise will recognize the days in which we are living and prepare to meet God. That meeting may very well occur today. “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).

Overcoming the World through Affection for Christ

2011-08-20T21:27:00.002-04:00

“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” (1 John 5:4-5) What holds your heart right now? Does your soul yearn for Jesus, or the things of this world? Is your desire for Him or your sin? When living in an undisciplined age like ours, our affections can be unintentionally focused on the things of the world. Whether it’s the world or sin, misplaced affections rob us of the full glory of Christ. If you met Christ face to face this very moment would you hear “Well done,” or something akin to His assessment of the Church in Ephesus in Revelation 2:4: “You have left your first love.” Whatever worldly affections we might have, God expects you and me to overcome these things. Failure to overcome may very well indicate something far worse than misplaced affections. It could be indicative of not belonging to the Lord. John writes, “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world.” My overcoming then is of utmost importance for it serves as an outward proof of inward change. John emphasizes this in an earlier passage when he writes, “Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15).

John says those who truly belong to Christ overcome the world. There is no hidden meaning here. This passage means exactly what it says. If one is born of God he or she will overcome the world. Their affections, although they may sometimes cross the line of being misplaced onto the things of this world, will in the end, always come back to that which is truly important—Christ. So, if you are able to comfortably embrace sin and let your affections settle onto the things of this world, watch out! Such could very well indicate you don’t belong to God. Remember, “Whatever is born of God overcomes the world.” So clearly, the answer is overcoming. But how does one overcome the world? In this passage John says, “This is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” The writer of Hebrews reminds us, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the men of old gained approval” (Heb. 11:1-2). True faith overcomes because true faith brings eternity into view. I read somewhere, “Faith discerns the excellence of the things believed, and therefore, fills the heart with love and longing. It displaces the world from the heart by introducing a new and infinitely higher affection.” That’s the key—a new and infinitely higher affection—a love and longing for namely, Christ Himself. Remember, faith is only as good as its object. The object of saving faith is Jesus Christ. “Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” (1 John 5:5) Our faith in Jesus overcomes the world and sin! Therefore, we can safely conclude if one’s faith is real then he or she will overcome the world. Is your faith real? Is your affection for Christ rather than anything this world has to offer or any sin with which Satan might tempt you? If so then be encouraged—you belong to the Lord!

As he neared the end of his first letter, John wrote, “These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13). This is the key verse in the entire letter and serves to remind us we can know whether or not we possess eternal life. One way—the primary way—is through a changed life. Has your life radically changed where you now long for the things of God rather than the things of this world? Is your chief affection for Christ or something or someone else entirely? “The world is passing away, and also its lust; but the one who does the will of God lives forever” (1 John 2:17). What is the will of God? That you and I believe and love the Lord Jesus Christ above all else

The Good Fight of Faith

2011-07-13T22:45:00.003-04:00

“But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses...I charge you in the presence of God,...keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Timothy 6:11-14). C.H. Spurgeon once quipped, “I would recommend you either believe God up to the hilt, or else not to believe at all. Believe this book of God, every letter of it, or else reject it. There is no logical standing place between the two.” Life is all about choices. It seems to me I face a daily barrage of choices—some minuscule some not. It’s the “some not” with which I am most concerned. These choices often look me square in the eyes with a simple yet profound question—will I believe God? And by “believe” I do not mean passive acknowledgement but active faith. I meet people all the time, from all walks of life, who readily acknowledge they believe the Bible yet for some reason fail to make a personal, life-changing commitment to Jesus Christ. They refuse to join the fight—the good fight of faith which Paul admonishes us to fight in his first letter to young Timothy. I am convinced if one is not fighting the good fight of faith then he or she probably doesn’t belong to God. The good fight of faith is a serious matter, indeed—one I like to describe with the phrase “Fight for Joy!”

How do we fight for joy? In 1 Timothy 6:11-14, Paul offers three principles we must employ as we fight for joy. First of all, we are challenged to flee from some things while pursuing other things. To put it plainly, we are told to flee from a desire for earthly treasures and instead pursue a heavenly treasure—Christ Himself. We do this as we “pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.” Secondly, we are told to get in and stay in the fight—the good fight of faith. This is where I am faced with the question of will I believe God? If my answer is yes then the next part is not necessarily easy but it is settled— how long will I believe God? Paul says I am to fight the good fight of faith until I “take hold of the eternal life to which you were called.” In other words, I fight for joy—the good fight of faith—until I see Jesus either at my death or the Rapture of the Church, whichever comes first. He drives his point home with a third principle: “Keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.” In other words, keep on believing until Jesus comes. I like the old Southern Gospel hymn—Keep on the Firing Line— which says, “If you’re in the battle for the Lord and right, keep on the firing line; if you win, my brother, surely you must fight, keep on the firing line; there are many dangers that we all must face, if we die still fighting it is no disgrace; cowards in the service will not find a place, so keep on the firing line.” Friend, keep fighting the good fight of faith until you see Jesus! Like Paul, be able to say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). This is the Word of the Lord!

C.S. Lewis once said, “You never know how much you really believe anything until its truth or falsehood becomes a matter of life and death. It is easy to say you believe a rope to be strong as long as you are merely using it to cord a box. But suppose you had to hang by that rope over a precipice. Wouldn't you then first discover how much you really trusted it?” It is easy for me to say I believe God is who He says He is and that He will do what He says He will do. But it is only when life throws me a curveball and the bottom drops out and I’m stripped of everything but Jesus that I truly discover what I really believe. Then the question as to whether or not I will believe God becomes very real and of utmost importance. Don’t wait until the bottom drops out. Settle right now—once and for all—no matter what happens you will believe God and that belief won’t be merely passive acknowledgement but an active and vibrant faith in the one who has promised, “He who believes in Him will not be disappointed” (1 Peter 2:6).

It's the End of the World As We Know It -- Or is It?

2011-05-21T21:06:00.003-04:00

“But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone” (Matthew 24:36). As of this writing it’s nearly an hour and twenty minutes past doomsday and the Church is still here. I am referring to the second doomsday prediction of Harold Camping—his first doomsday prediction came in 1994. He’s now 0 for 2. Maybe the third time—if there is a third time—will be a charm. I doubt it very seriously. The Bible is crystal clear on this point. Although we may be able to discern the general time of the end (Matt. 16:3) we will never be able to pinpoint the day and hour. It does not take a rocket scientist to figure this one out. Camping joins a long line of date setters, all of whom have seen their predictions fall flat. By the way, Camping says his predictions are based on taking direct quotes and stories from the Bible and applying them to numerological formulas. I guess he missed this one: “But of that day and hour no one knows.” Or maybe he just didn’t include himself in “no one.” After all, he is someone, right? The sad part is his gullible followers who expended their life savings spreading a misguided and thoroughly false prediction.

That being said, what can we know about the time of the end, specifically the return of Christ? First of all, we know He is coming again. We’ve got His word on that: “I will come again and receive you to Myself” (John 14:3). Even the angels present at His ascension confirmed the promise of His return to earth. Luke writes, “They also said, ‘Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven’” (Acts 1:11). Jesus is coming again. Secondly, we know that when He comes it will be business as usual for the world. Jesus said, “For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be” (Matt. 24:37-39). In other words, most of the world won’t even be looking for or otherwise expecting His return. But just as judgment came suddenly and without warning in Noah’s day so it shall be when Christ returns for His own. Then the Day of the Lord—doomsday—will come. This is why Jesus stressed, “For this reason you also must be ready” (Matt. 24:44). Finally, although His return will come upon an unsuspecting world it should not take Christians by surprise. Paul wrote, “But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief” (1 Thess. 5:4). In other words, if we are discerning, we will know His return is near.

Personally, I believe we are living in the last of the last days. I think the prophetic evidence is overwhelmingly clear. But I dare not set any dates other than to say I’m surprised the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ is still here. I’ve been expecting the return of Christ for His Church any day now—and it may very well be today. Only God knows. That is why He stresses readiness. In the military we train to go to war. We work hard to maintain a constant state of readiness so that when duty calls all we have to do is respond based on weeks, months, and years of training. The same thing should be true in the life of believers. We must be ready at all times for at any given time Christ may call us home. “We are not of night nor of darkness; so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober” (1 Thess. 5:5-6). Well, it’s now nearly two hours past the doomsday deadline and the Church is still here. But she could very well be out of here at any moment. Therefore, “repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15) before it is too late.

2010 Prophetic Year in Review -- Living Faithfully in a Pagan and Hostile Society

2010-12-19T11:07:00.002-05:00

“Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy’” (1 Peter 1:13-16). We are one year closer to the return of Christ! With each passing year it becomes more and more evident we are living in the last days. So many things occurred in 2010 that it is difficult for me to summarize them all in one Thoughts to Ponder. It is clear to me that the United States is quickly going the way of the world. In fact, I am convinced America has crossed the line with God and our being given over to judgment is a foregone conclusion. Therefore, rather than follow my previous pattern of summarizing where I think we are in Bible prophecy I have decided to offer a few insights on living faithfully in a pagan and hostile society.

Peter begins his letter with a greeting to Christians “scattered” throughout the world. These were Christians who, like Israel of old, were scattered throughout the world. Their situation was one of suffering and trial. The sufferings and trials to which Peter refers are those that often come to Christians as they live faithfully in a pagan and hostile society. Such trials take the form of slander, riots, police action, and social ostracism. It is clear to me that America has become just such a society. The Christianity that once was part of the fabric of our nation that created some cultural props to hold us up and to give us a biblical morality and some divine standard in which to judge behavior is now gone. Moral freedom reigns as god. What was once done in secret has now emerged as outright open rebellion against the Lord God before whom we will all one day stand and give an account. This open hostility is clearly evident as the enemy seeks to marginalize those who truly belong to the Lord Jesus Christ. Consider these words uttered by a military leader concerning those who might oppose certain lifestyle choices based on religious conviction: "But these people opposing this new policy will need to get with the program, and if they can't, they need to get out. No matter how much training and education of those in opposition, you're always going to have those that oppose this on moral and religious grounds just like you still have racists today." Did you get that? He subtly tied biblical Christianity to racism. This is the kind of slander and social ostracism about which Peter wrote and we now experience. So the question is how do we live faithfully in this pagan and hostile society?

Peter offers three principles we must faithfully apply. These principles are captured with three words: (1) Prepare, (2) Keep, and (3) Fix. First of all, we are to “prepare your minds for action.” This is military imagery meaning we are to pull in all the loose ends that might otherwise hinder our walk with Christ. The image is one of gathering and fastening up a long garment so that it would not interfere with one’s activity. This gathering up would include dealing with sin, and that which is wasteful and useless. Secondly, we are directed to “keep sober in spirit.” This means to think soberly or to get your thoughts right. Will I think the way the world thinks or will I have the mind of Christ? Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 2:16 that we are to have the mind of Christ. The world says one thing but God says something altogether different. Finally, we are to “fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” In other words, everything we think, say, and do is to be thought, said, and done with a view to the return of Christ—our blessed hope—and the reward He will bring with Him for those of us who truly follow Him. Paul wrote, “We have as our ambition to be pleasing to Him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ” (2 Cor. 5:9-10). How are we to apply these principles? Practically, we are to obey God by living a holy (separated) life: “As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior.” We are to live faithfully in whatever pagan and hostile society we find ourselves. Regardless of what form our trials and sufferings take—slander, riots, police action, social ostracism—we are to live holy and faithful lives. As 2010 draws to a close it is clear the world is headed to an appointment with God—judgment is imminent. “Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Pet. 1:13).

How About some Burning Coals?

2010-10-12T23:18:00.003-04:00

“Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord. But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:17-21). My sister recently asked my advice on how someone should respond to the unkind words and actions of another. This is an important question, especially if one desires to glorify God above all else. It is natural to want to respond to mistreatment with resentment, anger, and revenge but Jesus calls Christians to a supernatural response. Now I know what some of you are thinking. “But you don’t know what they did to me!” You are right, I don’t. But God does. In fact, He’s taking meticulous notes. Therefore, when dealing with difficult and downright evil people, it is imperative that we allow the Bible to inform our response. We may think that this is impossible or unreasonable. And I suppose apart from the indwelling Holy Spirit it is. But remember, as Christians we have the Holy Spirit of God living on the inside of us. Peter tells us we have “become partakers of the divine nature” (2 Pet. 1:4), meaning that as believers, we share in the life of God by means of Christ and the Holy Spirit living in us. Therefore, what is impossible for those outside of Christ is quite possible for us. Not only that, God expects it of us. And if we love God and are concerned with His glory we will submit to that which He expects.

What does God expect? He expects us to “overcome evil with good.” But how, you ask. We must resolve to “never pay back evil for evil to anyone.” This recalls Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:43-45: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons [and daughters] of your Father who is in heaven.” Paul goes on to say, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.” Sometimes it simply isn’t possible. If the offending party doesn’t want peace then it simply isn’t possible to be at peace. But it is possible to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” This does not refer to a fondness or affection for them. It means we are to show them goodwill. We are to refuse to hold any grudges or ill-will against them. Loving your enemies is simply making the godly choice or decision to do good. Furthermore, doing good means we are to "do good to those who hate us" (Luke 6:27). We are not only to have no bitterness towards them but also to make every effort to do them good. Also, we are to do good by speaking well of the very people who speak evil of us. As Jesus put it we are to "bless those who curse you" (Luke 6:28). We are not to defend ourselves from their wicked words. We are not to reciprocate, seek revenge or even be silent. Rather we are to respond to their evil words with kind words and “leave room for the wrath of God.” In so doing,” the Bible says, “you will heap burning coals [upon their head].” This most likely refers to a “burning conviction” that our kindness places on our enemy. All of this is one huge act of faith for the believer. When we do good to our enemies we in essence show them mercy. And believe me, unless they repent and obey the Gospel, it’s all the mercy they’re going to get! Our prayer should be that our showing mercy rather than returning evil for evil will result in our enemies coming under such conviction that they repent and believe the Gospel.

The Bible reminds believers, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad” (2 Cor. 5:10). It is here that believers will be judged for the purpose of rewards. One way to insure rewards it to patiently endure the unkind words and actions of others by doing good to them. Friend, go for rewards! In so doing, you will honor Christ while shaming those who do evil. “If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you… but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name” (1 Peter 4:14, 16).

Preach Jesus or Burn Books?

2010-09-10T22:54:00.003-04:00

“For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified… and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:2, 4-5). Gainesville, Florida pastor Terry Jones has made news recently for his on again off again plans to burn copies of the Koran on the ninth anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks on our country. His plans have created a firestorm of protest worldwide. Political and religious leaders have expressed their concern. Many adherents to Islam the world over have staged protests in response. It was even reported that some churches in the Gainesville, Florida community would read from the Koran as part of their worship services to protest Jones’ plans—a huge mistake if you ask me. But, this article is not about the wisdom of incorporating the Koran into Christian worship services. My question is this: Is it ever right for a Christian—one who names the name of Christ—to burn or otherwise desecrate the sacred texts of other religions even though those religions are nothing more than false religious systems that lead people away from the true Christ of Holy Scripture? I think the answer is definitely no! Destroying the sacred texts of a false religious system serves absolutely no purpose whatsoever.

When Paul came to Corinth, the Bible tells us he came for one purpose, “to declare the testimony of God” (1 Cor. 2:1). He could have come with his superior intellect and his God-given ability to reason and debate persuasively. I would imagine he could have even hosted a scroll burning event. After all, the city of Corinth was known for its rampant immorality and paganism. But Paul chose not to waste all his energy by attacking all things Corinthian. He wrote, “For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified” (1 Cor. 2:2). The word determined, taken from the Greek word κρίνω (krino), here means to resolve. Paul resolved to focus on the gospel—preaching Christ—rather than “persuasive words of wisdom” (1 Cor. 2:4). If we are not careful, we can get in the way of the gospel instead of being a servant or minister of the gospel. Any other approach is dangerous indeed. Burning books, especially the sacred texts of false religious systems, obscures Jesus Christ. But the Holy Spirit anointed preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ does just the opposite. It frees God to demonstrate His power to save. When that happens, “Your faith rests not on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God” (1 Cor. 2:5). No one will ever be persuaded into the Kingdom of God via man’s wisdom. But when the “demonstration of the Spirit and of power,” is involved, people are saved and lives are changed. “For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.” This is the Word of the Lord!

Adoniram Judson (1788-1850) was an American Baptist missionary who spent almost 40 years in Burma (today known as Myanmar). He translated the Bible into Burmese. He planted more than 100 churches, and led more than 8,000 to faith in Jesus Christ. What was his secret? He preached Jesus, not anti-Buddhism. Pastor Jones could learn a lot from the Apostle Paul and from Adoniram Judson. We all can. The answer is never book burning but Holy Spirit anointed, Gospel-centered, repentance filled preaching. May we all resolve to preach Jesus—in word and deed—to all whom the Lord will grant us opportunity. Who knows, maybe long after we’re gone from this world it will be said about us, he (or she) led over 8,000 to faith in Jesus Christ. Don’t waste your energy on desecrating the sacred texts of another. Just preach Jesus and God will take care of the rest. “Jesus answered and said, … And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself” (John 12:32).

A Thorn in the Side of Replacement Theology

2010-05-15T23:22:00.002-04:00

“Thus says the Lord God, „Behold, I will take the sons of Israel from among the nations where they have gone, and I will gather them from every side and bring them into their own land; […] They shall live on the land that I gave to Jacob My servant, in which your fathers lived; and they will live on it, they, and their sons, forever; and David My servant shall be their prince forever” (Ezekiel 37:21, 25). Modern Israel is 62 years old today. It was on this date—May 14, 1948, when against all odds, the world witnessed the rebirth of a nation—a sovereign fulfillment of millennia old prophecy. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement that captures the essence of all that is Israel: “On this Independence Day we mark two of the Jewish nation's miracles: The miracle of revival and the miracle of building. The miracle of revival, because I am not familiar with any other nation in history that was scattered all over the world and lost control of its destiny but still managed to return to its homeland and rebuild its sovereignty there. The other miracle is building: What we have built in this land since the State of Israel's inception. Israel is quickly becoming a regional economic superpower and a global technological superpower. In this world of knowledge in the 21st century our possibilities are endless: In science, medicine, technology and art. In each and every field, the forces of genius within our nation break out and create a magnificent country. We are not here by chance. We are here because this is our land. We've returned to our land, to our city - Jerusalem - because this is our land, this is our city.” Israel is a nation whose history is like no other. And it is painfully clear God’s promises to her are eternal and irrevocable. Indeed, Israel is a thorn in the side of those who believe her to be an accident of modern history, particularly to those who hold to the heretical position known as Replacement Theology.

Replacement Theology originated early on in church history, shortly after Gentile leadership took over from Jewish leadership. It teaches that the Christian Church has replaced Israel in the purposes of God. In other words, Israel (the people and the land) forfeited their position as God’s chosen people because of their unbelief. Therefore, the Jewish people have no future, no hope, and no calling in the plan of God. Furthermore, the promises, covenants and blessings ascribed to Israel in the Bible have been taken away from the Jews and given to the Church, which has superseded them. However, it has always amused me that those who hold this heretical position are quick to claim replacement of Israel as God’s chosen people, but insist the Jews are still subject to the curses found in the Bible. The hostility of the early Christians towards the Jews is reflected in the writings of the so called early Church Fathers. For example, Justin Martyr (c. AD 160) in speaking to a Jew said: "The Scriptures are not yours, but ours." Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyon (c. AD 177) declared: "Jews are disinherited from the grace of God." Tertullian (AD 160-230), in his treatise, "Against the Jews," announced that God had rejected the Jews in favor of the Christians. Such statements reflect theological and spiritual arrogance. Paul wrote, “For I do not want you, brethren, to be uninformed of this mystery—so that you will not be wise in your own estimation—that a partial hardness has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in” (Rom. 11:25). Clearly, God is not finished with Israel and the Jewish people!

There are 77 references to Israel in the New Testament and none of them refer to the Church. Try replacing the words, "the Church," where Israel is mentioned and the passage is rendered unreadable and silly. Psalm 105 has a seven-fold affirmation of God's promises of the Land to Abraham. This is an everlasting promise, as was Genesis 12:1-3. Last time I checked, “everlasting” meant everlasting! Jeremiah 31:35-37 speaks of the everlasting nature of God's promises to and for Israel, the Jewish people, which is as sure as the sun that shines by day and the moon and stars that glow in the night. Last time I checked, the sun still shines and the moon and stars still appear at night. The end-time prophecies, which speak of the return of Israel to the land and its restoration, have overwhelmingly been fulfilled in Israel and the Jewish people in the past 120 years. (See, Isa. 11:11-12; Ezek. 37:1-14; Ezek. 36; Ezek. 35:1, Isa. 43:5,6; Jer. 16:14-16; Isa. 60:9-11; Isa. 49:22-23). It has always amazed me that one could turn a blind eye to the overwhelming scriptural evidence in support of Israel and God’s everlasting covenants with the Jewish people. Thankfully, Replacement Theology will not thwart God’s plan and purpose for Israel and the Jewish people! “From the standpoint of God’s choice they are beloved for the sake of the fathers; for the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable” (Rom. 11:28-29).

God Always has been, and Forever will be, Faithful

2010-03-24T17:46:00.002-04:00

“Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow” (James 1:17). The Bible says that God is forever faithful. I believe that. However, I will also be the first to admit that simply because I believe something to be true does not mean I always act like it. Like you, I face a daily bombardment of uncertainties, challenges, and circumstances that are inherent in a fallen world. Sometimes these uncertainties, challenges, and circumstances catch me off-guard. Sometimes they turn my world upside down. Sometimes they leave me with more questions than answers. It is during times like these we must endeavor to turn our attention to and meditate upon what I believe to be the greatest truth about God’s eternal character—His faithfulness. The Bible is crystal clear on this point and leaves no room for debate. God always has been, and forever will be, faithful.

James, writing about the God who gives perfect gifts to His children, says this about Him: “There is no variation or shifting shadow.” The use of the words variation and shifting is interesting. In using these words, James is probably referring to the sun, which because of the Earth’s rotation, “varies” its position in the sky throughout the day. This variation in position results in shifting shadows on earth. It’s a great illustration because we have all seen shadows and we have all witnessed the shifting of shadows brought about by the varying position of the sun throughout the day. But James reminds us it is not like this with God. God is the “Father of lights,” meaning He is the Creator of the sun and stars—the heavenly bodies that give off light. And unlike these heavenly bodies that are constantly changing or appearing to change, the “Father of lights” does not change. He is faithful and with Him, “there is no variation or shifting shadow.” This is in perfect agreement with Malachi 3:6, which says, “For I, the Lord, do not change.” Because God does not change, we can count on Him to be faithful—always! The same thought is captured in Psalm 100:5, “For the Lord is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting, and His faithfulness to all generations.” This basically means His truth endures. Because His truth endures, because He is faithful and forever will be, the Bible says, “And without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him” (Heb. 11:6). Because God always has been, and forever will be, faithful, we can believe Him. Abraham did, and the Bible says, “It was credited to Him as righteousness” (Rom. 4:3). Sarah believed because, “she considered Him faithful who had promised” (Heb. 11:11). This is the Word of the Lord!

I do not know what is transpiring in your life right now. I only know what is going on in my own. But this much I do know—God always has been, and forever will be, faithful! When God told Joshua to meditate upon His Word (Joshua 1:8), He was basically charging Joshua to meditate upon His faithfulness. Joshua was about to embark on the greatest challenge of His life—leading the children of Israel into the Promise Land. He needed to be assured of God’s faithfulness. The Psalmist wrote, “Oh how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day” (Ps. 119:97). Only those who love the Word of God and endeavor to meditate upon and obey it will believe God. And only those who meditate upon God’s faithfulness can face the uncertainties, challenges, and circumstances that life throws our way. Remember, no matter what happens in this life, God is faithful—He always has been, and He forever will be, faithful! No changes on this earth can cast a shadow on the unchanging Father of lights. “In the same way God, desiring even more to show to the heirs of the promise the unchangeableness of His purpose, interposed with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge would have strong encouragement to take hold of the hope set before us. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us” (Heb. 6:17-20).

Sanctification Leading to Eternal Life

2010-03-17T22:32:00.002-04:00

“But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:22-23). Sanctification is one of those big theological words often misunderstood by new and old believers alike. It is the Greek word hagiasmos, meaning holiness. It is understood to include past, present, and future holiness. In reference to past holiness, it speaks of position. Paul wrote to the Corinthian believers, “You were sanctified” (1 Cor. 6:11). In a sense, it is a position without reference to sin. In other words, as a believer I may sin from time to time but that does not change my position of holiness before the Lord. In reference to future holiness, it speaks to that time when Christ returns and I see Him face to face. This is often referred to as glorification. Romans 8:30 describes in past tense this future event wherein all believers will be glorified. This event will occur at the Rapture of the Church and will be an instantaneous conformity to the image of Christ—“Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is” (1 John 3:2). Finally, there is present holiness. This is the moment-by-moment, day-by-day process of sanctification whereby I choose obedience to God over the sinful desires of the flesh. It is made possible only by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit and my choice to submit to Him. This is not always an easy choice and is yet another reason Paul wrote, “Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called” (1 Tim. 6:12).

I think Paul has present sanctification in mind in Romans 6:22. It is a present “sanctification without which no one will see the Lord” (Heb. 12:14). This is a pretty strong assertion but it is the gospel truth! Basically, this means one who is truly saved “by grace through faith” (Eph. 2:8) will give evidence that he or she truly belongs to Christ. In other words, they will give evidence of a changed life. Matthew wrote, “Therefore bear fruit in keeping with repentance” (Matt. 3:8). Obviously, the Bible isn’t referring to sinless perfection but it is referring to less sinning and greater holiness! This is why the writer of Hebrews wrote, “Pursue sanctification” (Heb 12:14), and Paul wrote, “Fight the good fight of faith” (1 Tim. 6:12). In other words, I can’t walk the aisle of my church, pray the “sinner’s prayer,” follow that with baptism, then go out and live like the world only to fall back on “once saved always saved.” My life must give clear evidence of a change. This change is known as sanctification or holiness. Such moment-by-moment, day-by-day holiness is possible because I have “been freed from sin and enslaved to God.” The “benefit” of this freedom from sin and enslavement to God is present sanctification. And the outcome of present sanctification is eternal life! John describes this process of present sanctification as overcoming—“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith” (1 John 5:4). How can you know if your faith is real, that you’ve truly been saved by grace through faith, that you’ve been sanctified and will be sanctified? Ask yourself these questions: Are you fighting the good fight of faith? Are you pursuing sanctification? Paul wrote, “If you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live” (Rom. 8:13). Charles Spurgeon put it this way: “Be killing sin or it will be killing you.” I don’t know about you, but I want to live eternally with Christ! Therefore, I’m fighting the good fight and pursuing present sanctification right now.

When I was growing up we attended Silver City Baptist Church. Every so often we would have Sunday evening hymn sings where the congregation chose the songs. Without fail, Mama Nick always requested “Victory in Jesus,” only she called it “Victory of Jesus!” Because of the victory of Jesus, we can experience victory in Jesus. It troubles me deeply when I see folks who claim to belong to Christ but whose lives are anything but victorious. I’m not suggesting believers don’t struggle with temptation and sin. I know I do! But when someone continually chooses willful disobedience and sin as a lifestyle over what they know to be right, then it calls into question whether or not their faith is real. Real faith works itself out in present sanctification. This will always be the case because real faith overcomes the world! Is your faith real? Are you an overcomer? Are you experiencing present sanctification? “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thess. 5:23).

Empty Deception

2010-03-06T21:38:00.004-05:00

“See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ. For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form” (Colossians 2:8-9). I have written on numerous occasions regarding the fact that we live in an age of remarkable theological and biblical confusion. This should come as no surprise as Jesus said on the Mount of Olives that deception would be one of the primary signs we are living in the last days. He said this three times in Matthew 24. If He says something once, it’s important. But to say it three times means it is seriously important. “See to it that no one misleads you” (Matt. 24:4). “Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many” (24:11). “For false Christs and false prophets will arise…” (24:24).

False theologies, religions, and other belief systems have been around since sin entered the world. Some of these belief systems are so well package that even some in the Church are deceived. A recent article appearing in USA Today drives this point home: “More U.S. Christians mix in 'Eastern,' New Age beliefs.” Did you know that many theologically conservative churches offer “Christian” Yoga classes to their membership? Or how about this—a Bible professor at a Christian university in Minnesota says there just might be “common ground” with Buddhism and Christianity when it comes to “meditation.” I doubt the kind of meditation he has in mind is that found in the Scriptures. Eastern religions with their practice of meditation and self-revelation are considered to be exemplary and valuable in today’s society. Yoga and other meditative practices are heralded for their “positive” physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits. But what many believers fail to realize is you can’t take something pagan and dress it up in Christian lingo and make it “holy.” In other words, there is no such thing as Christian Yoga. There are several reasons I could offer in support of this, but suffice it to say, Yoga is thoroughly Hindu and cannot be divorced from it or its pagan gods. Yoga postures are designed to form one's body into the likeness of man, animals, birds, insects, snakes, fish, and many more--all of which are revered as gods in Hinduism. Therefore, the words of Christ and Paul serve as a strong warning to believers: “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception.” Elsewhere, Paul writes, “Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness? Or what harmony has Christ with Belial, or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever? Or what agreement has the temple of God (your body) with idols?” (2 Cor. 6:14-16). These are all rhetorical questions, meaning the answer is obvious—NOTHING! Christianity has nothing in common with this garbage! Therefore, if you are thinking about doing “Christian” Yoga, don’t. If you are already involved with it, stop! Repent of your sin and ask for and receive God’s forgiveness. Run from “the elementary principles of the world,” and pursue a pure devotion to Christ, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Col. 2:3).

Many Christians have been duped into thinking there is nothing wrong with Yoga and other Eastern meditative practices, all of which are designed to put the practitioner into an altered state of consciousness. According to one apologist, “believers who think they’re just exercising are being swept into a [false religious system].” Authentic Christians are to stand against such evil. We do this by running to the Word of God and resting in and believing His warnings and promises. Regardless of how physically, emotionally, and spiritually positive something might seem on the surface, if the Word of God says it’s evil, then it’s evil and is to be shunned and avoided. All pagan practices are inherently evil. “Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them… Therefore, be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil” (Eph. 5:11, 15-16).

Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?

2010-02-08T20:26:00.007-05:00

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed” (2 Corinthians 9:8). I cannot recount the number of messages and Bible studies I have heard regarding Christian stewardship. As far as I can remember, each of these messages and studies centered on the so-called principle of tithing—giving at least ten percent to the work of the Lord through the local church. However, as one studies the New Testament, one quickly discovers no required amount or percentage for giving to the Lord‟s work is specified. I‟m sure at this point many of my fellow chaplains and ministers are shouting heresy! But, an honest look at Scripture will reveal that I am no heretic. Furthermore, understanding what the Bible really teaches concerning stewardship is both God-honoring and liberating!

The Old Testament principle of tithing is one of the most misunderstood teachings in Scripture. We have read and heard “ten percent” for so long that we have concluded this is what the Bible teaches. Many are surprised to learn the Old Testament required giving of three tithes which totaled about 23 percent annually. So, instead of ten cents out of every dollar, now you owe twenty-three! This system is similar to many modern taxation systems throughout the world today. These tithes were used to fund the national government of Israel, public festivals, and welfare. Giving to the work of the Lord, on the other hand, was not regulated as to amount. The Bible says, “Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, „Tell the sons of Israel to raise a contribution for Me; from every man whose heart moves him you shall raise My contribution‟” (Ex. 25:1-2; see also 35:21; 36:6; Prov. 3:9-10; 11:24). This same principle of free will giving is evident in the New Testament. In his second letter to the Corinthian believers, Paul writes, “Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9:7). In other words, our giving is to be planned and done cheerfully. Anything less is considered “grudgingly or under compulsion.” Elsewhere, the Bible says our giving is to be, “as he may prosper,” indicating no required amount or percentage but that all giving to the Lord is to be free will and completely discretionary (See 1 Cor. 16:2). These passages, taken in light of other passages such as Luke 6:38, Acts 4:32-37, and 2 Corinthians 8:1-6, clearly teach we are to give proportionately and sacrificially. This means we are to give both “according to [our] own ability,” and “beyond [our] ability and of [our] own accord” (see 2 Cor. 8:3). We are to give according to what we have, yet sacrificially. Finally, we are to give voluntarily. This is important as I believe much of what we hear today concerning stewardship lends itself to giving by compulsion, manipulation, and intimidation. Free will giving, on the other hand, has always been God‟s plan and should not be confused with Old Testament tithing.

Therefore, the question is, if free will giving is God‟s plan then why is so little said about it from pulpits and in Bible studies? I believe there are several reasons. First of all, I believe many are simply ignorant of what the Bible actually teaches. Secondly, many preachers and Bible teachers believe that unless we guilt believers into giving at least ten percent of their income to the Church, God‟s work will simply go unfunded. Finally, and perhaps even more telling, we simply don‟t believe God who said He “is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed” (2 Cor. 9:8). If we understand and apply this principle, our giving will be with such joy and enthusiasm that we would eventually have to be restrained from bringing more gifts! So, give. Give cheerfully. Give in proportion to how God has blessed you, yet sacrificially. Such giving is pleasing to God. It demonstrates whether or not I believe Him. And ultimately, it honors Him! “Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return” (Luke 6:38).

2009 Prophetic Year in Review -- Global Governance and Messianic Fervor

2010-01-02T17:04:00.001-05:00

“I saw one of his heads as if it had been slain, and his fatal wound was healed. And the whole earth wondered after the beast; they worshiped the dragon because he gave his authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, „Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war with him?‟ (Revelation 13:3-4). 2009 has proven to be another exciting year so far as current events and Bible prophecy are concerned. I believe we are witnessing end-time events in the Middle East and around the world playing out with ever increasing speed. Think about it. Jewish people the world over continue to make Aliyah to the land of their forefathers. The prophesied alignment of nations for the last days continues to fall rapidly into place. The anticipation for a comprehensive Middle East peace has reached a fevered pitch. Apostate Christianity, seen primarily in the Emerging Church, seems to know no theological bounds. The argument over the city of Jerusalem—who will own and control it—has taken center stage in Middle East politics. But perhaps the one thing 2009 will be remembered for among prophecy teachers is the world’s continued march towards global governance and a messianic fervor not seen since the time of Christ.

The worldwide financial chaos witness early on in 2009 brought many major world leaders together to try and solve the problem. What resulted was an acceleration of interdependence on a worldwide scale. The Bible seems to indicate economics and religion as the unifying factors that bring the world together under the leadership of one man in the last days. The Bible further predicts a near future in which a man of superior intelligence, wit, charm, and diplomacy will emerge on the world scene as savior. Speaking of this coming individual, Thomas Horn writes, “He will seemingly possess a transcendent wisdom that enables him to solve problems and offer solutions for many of today’s most perplexing issues. His popularity will be widespread, and his fans will include young and old, religious and non-religious, male and female. He will have the uncanny ability to resolve what has escaped the rest of us, and the poor will bow down at his table.” This individual will appear to be a man of distinguished character, but will ultimately become “a king of fierce countenance” (Dan. 8:23). There is no doubt in my mind that this individual is alive and well on planet Earth today. Of course, I realize I could be wrong. But when one considers the rapid change that has taken place in the world financial arena, and the call for some sort of world governance, the conclusion is clear. UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown stated, “It is time for all countries of the world to renounce protectionism and to participate in a new international system of banking and regulations to shape the twenty-first century as the first century of a truly global society.” Other world leaders have echoed this same call. Ultimately, all countries of the world will come together as a “truly global society.” The Bible predicts the entire world will come together under one man, known as the Antichrist, about whom the Bible says “the whole earth wondered after.” The Greek word for “wonder” is “thaumazo,” which means “to wonder at” or “to marvel at.” Perhaps you are wondering how in the world any intelligent person could ever “wonder at” or “marvel at” another individual. I used to wonder the same thing. However, the past 18 months have clearly demonstrated the very real possibility of such an event taking place. Just think long and hard about it!

As 2009 draws to a close and a new year begins, the one question that is on my mind is this—will 2010 be the year believers the world over hear the trumpet blast? Only God knows. Therefore, it is imperative that we all ready ourselves for this coming momentous event. When it occurs, a change will take place—the dead in Christ will rise and those of us who are alive will be “caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air” (1 Thess. 4:17). But that’s not the only change that will take place. Imagine the utter shock and chaos that will follow on planet Earth. I believe the Rapture of the Church will be the final event that pushes the world into position for the last days and the rise of Antichrist. This event will change everything and it will occur at any moment. If the trumpet sounded today would you be “caught up” with all the saints of all the ages, or would you be left behind? “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

Christmas -- Scripture's Most Profound Reality

2009-12-11T12:09:00.003-05:00

“And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). Every year about this time, political correctness reaches its annual pinnacle of stupidity. Is it a Christmas Tree Lighting or Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony? Should we say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays? These questions, and others like them, are asked under the guise of not wanting to offend anyone. But the reality is the god of this world—the Devil—desires to remove any vestige of the Christ of the Bible from the public square—thus removing any thought of Him from the minds of men and women everywhere. When it comes to what I believe, I try not to worry too much about offending others. As I tactfully informed a friend recently, “What I believe is what I believe and I don’t care what anyone else thinks about it!” At the height of what I believe is Scripture’s most profound reality. Christians call it Christmas, theologians call it the Incarnation but the Bible simply says, “And the Word became flesh.” These are simple words but their meaning is profound. John MacArthur says these words indicate “that the infinite became finite; the Eternal was conformed to time; the Invisible became visible; the supernatural One reduced Himself to the natural.” This means the second person of the Godhead—the Lord Jesus Christ—also known as the Son, and here the Word, “became flesh.” In other words, Jesus did not cease to be God but became God in human flesh—two natures, the Divine and human, joined together (not mixed) as one person—undiminished deity in human form. The human mind simply cannot wrap itself around such an amazing truth! Think about it. The Creator became the created. This miraculous event happened when He was conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Virgin Mary. This has always boggled my mind, the reason being, Mary was a sinner in need of salvation just as you and I are. Yet, the sinless Son of God allowed Himself to be conceived within her womb.

Christmas is Scripture’s most profound reality. It lays the foundation for the entire Gospel message, the rejection of which results in eternal damnation. One must believe the truth about Jesus—who He is and what He accomplished. Any belief system that departs from this very basic yet profound reality is heretical in nature. This would include Docetism, which teaches that Jesus was a divine being that took on human appearance but not flesh (see 1 John 4:2). It includes Areianism, a teaching which states that Christ was a created being (sounds a lot like the Watchtower doesn’t it?). It includes Nestorianism, which says that the Son of God and the man, Jesus, shared the same body but retained two separate natures. And finally, it includes Oneness Pentecostalism which teaches that there is one God, a singular spirit who manifests Himself in many different ways, including as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This stands in sharp contrast to the biblical doctrine of the three distinct and eternal "persons" of the Triune God. Indeed, Christmas is much more than the giving of gifts, discussions about tree lighting ceremonies or greetings. It is the direct intervention into human history by the Creator of history Himself—God “became flesh, and dwelt among us,” in the person of Jesus Christ. Try and wrap your mind around that!

Christmas teaches us that God came once to this earth. But it also assures us that He “will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him” (Heb. 9:28). When Christ appears at His second coming, it will be confirmation that the Father has been fully satisfied with His sacrifice on behalf of all believers. As we approach another Christmas season, all indications are Christ’s return for His Church is very near. He is coming a “second time.” He came once to pay your and my sin debt in full. He came once to provide for the forgiveness of your sins and mine. He is coming again—soon, very soon—to snatch away all those who have, by faith, placed their trust in Him for the forgiveness of their sins. As far as it concerns you, what will you celebrate in the days ahead—holidays or Christmas? Will you celebrate Scripture’s most profound reality or get caught up in the stupidity of political correctness, all of which is designed by Satan to draw men’s hearts away from the truth and further into the bondage of sin leading to eternal damnation? “How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?” (Heb. 2:3)

Speaking with Grace

2009-12-10T09:23:00.002-05:00

“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person” (Colossians 4:5-6). Words are the primary way we communicate to each other. Each time we open our mouths to speak to someone, whether to an individual or a group, we convey our thoughts, feelings, emotions, intentions, and attitudes. We do this not only by what we say but also how we say it. Words are a powerful force. It’s no wonder James wrote, “The tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire” (James 3:5). Whether we realize it or not, others—unbelievers especially—are watching, even listening to us to see if we truly live out that which we say we believe. This is why Paul wrote, “Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders.” For this reason, he says, “Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt.” This means we are to speak only what is spiritual, wholesome, fitting, kind, sensitive, complimentary, gentle, truthful, loving, and thoughtful. Our speech should result in God being glorified and others being blessed. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

I will be the first to admit that my speech is not always gracious. This would include speech in my head before it ever reaches my tongue. It is a constant struggle. It is part of the “good fight of faith” that Paul wrote about to young Timothy (see 1 Tim. 6:12). It is the primary reason the Bible repeatedly reminds us of the importance of holding the tongue before speaking. Psalm 39:1 says, “I will guard my ways that I may not sin with my tongue. I will guard my mouth as with a muzzle while the wicked are in my presence.” Sounds a lot like Colossians 4:5-6, doesn’t it? I was recently reminded of this ongoing struggle when I learned of some unnecessary and unkind words that were said about me by a fellow believer. My first reaction was “speech in my head” that was neither gracious nor edifying. This response, although natural, was clearly sinful on my part, as even our thought life is to honor Christ. But my second response I would like to think was a little more righteous. It was a two-fold response. I was angry because the words that were said were said in the company of people that included those Paul would describe as “outsiders.” Such speech sets a very poor example for those outside the body of Christ. But I was also reminded of Paul’s words to the Corinthian believers, “Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be defrauded?” (1 Cor. 6:7) His point is clear—forgive, forget, and move on. And, based on Colossians 4:3, we might add an additional point—pray. Paul writes, “Praying at the same time for us as well, […], so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ.” Based on all that the Bible says about speech, I have concluded the purpose for Christian speech is threefold: (1) to edify others, (2) to praise God, and (3) to proclaim the Gospel. If what we say or think about saying doesn’t fall within the purview of those three statements, then it’s best to keep our mouths shut. That’s good advice for us all!

An Eighth Century Irish proverb says, “A person should not speak evil of, or harshly reproach another, nor should he put anyone to the blush. Never should he violently rebuke anyone or carry on a conversation with a boorish person, and his speech at all times should be noted for his lack of boastfulness.” That’s just another way of saying, “Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” The Lord is going to return soon for His Church. There are a lot of outsiders, all of whom will be left behind to face the terrors of God’s wrath. I would hate to think that my speech might be the reason some of these “outsiders” ultimately choose to turn a deaf ear to the Gospel message. Therefore, may our speech be edifying and Christ-honoring, so that it may serve to advance the Gospel to those who are outside the body of Christ. “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear” (Eph. 4:29). Let all of us who name the name of Christ determine to always speak with grace as together, we “fight the good fight of faith.”

There’s a Temple Coming – Perhaps Sooner than You Think

2009-12-08T13:07:00.001-05:00

“And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate” (Daniel 9:27). Will a third Jewish Temple be built on the most volatile 35 acres in the world—the Temple Mount in Jerusalem? Many say no but the Bible says yes. Daniel wrote about it. Paul referred to it in his second letter to the Thessalonians (2 Thess. 2:4). John wrote about it in the Book of Revelation (Rev. 11). Even Jesus mentioned it in His Olivet Discourse (Matt. 24). With such a preponderancy of evidence from the Scriptures, it amazes me the number of so called scholars and other Christian leaders who flatly deny the Jewish Temple will ever be rebuilt. That aside, it is being reported that Jewish Sanhedrin rabbis have been meeting with a Turkish Muslim leader on this very subject. If these reports are true (and I have no reason to doubt their veracity), this is an astounding development, indeed, an unprecedented one. But it’s not surprising as this is what the Bible calls for in the last days just prior to the return of Christ.

I believe it is very possible and highly probable that the “firm covenant” that Daniel speaks of will include some type of guarantee and plan for the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple. The Muslim leader in question says, "The Palace of Solomon is a historically important palace and rebuilding it would be a very wonderful thing. It is something that any Jew, a Christian or a Muslim should welcome with enthusiasm. Every Muslim, every believer will want to return to those days, to experience those days again and, albeit partially, to bring the beauty of those days back to life." He goes on to say that the Temple of Solomon "will be rebuilt and all believers will worship there in tranquility." During his meeting with the Sanhedrin Rabbis, he expressed his belief that the Temple could be rebuilt in one year: "It could be done in a year at most. It could be built to the same perfection and beauty. The Torah says it was built in 13 years, if I remember correctly. It could be rebuilt in a year in its perfect form." Now you might rightly be wondering how in the world a third Jewish Temple could ever be erected on the Temple Mount today—a spot of land occupied and administered by Islamic militants who have said over and over again there was never a Jewish Temple located there—all evidence to the contrary. It may take many twists and turns but the Bible does seem to indicate a Jewish Temple existing side-by-side with the Dome of the Rock. John wrote, “Then there was given me a measuring rod like a staff; and someone said, ‘Get up and measure the temple of God and the altar, and those who worship in it. Leave out the court which is outside the temple and do not measure it, for it has been given to the nations; and they will tread under foot the holy city for forty-two months” (Rev. 11:1-2). WorldNetDaily®, whose news article was my primary source for this article reports, “The Interfaith Encounter Association is working on a project called "God's Holy Mountain." It sees the day when the rebuilt Jewish Temple will exist side by side with the Dome of the Rock.” This is utterly amazing considering what the Bible prophesies for the last days. But it makes complete sense, particularly when you consider the call of certain world leaders for the internationalization of the city of Jerusalem and the overwhelming majority of Jews who want to see the Temple rebuilt.

The Bible says that a shrewd and calculating political leader will arise in the last days speaking flatteries who will “make a firm covenant” with Israel and her enemies. This covenant will surely include a provision for rebuilding the Jewish Temple on the Temple Mount. All indications are we are a lot closer to that reality than most Christians realize or are even willing to believe. The question is will its construction begin before or after the Rapture of the Church? Only God knows the answer to that question. Therefore, I suggest we all focus on another question—are you ready? If Christ returned for His Church today, would you be ready? “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord” (1 Thess. 4:16-17).

We are Coming Down to the Wire

2009-11-24T09:17:00.005-05:00

“Do you know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but cannot discern the signs of the times?” (Matthew 16:3) We use the phrase down to the wire for any situation which is tense because its outcome may not be decided until the very last moment. However, when it comes to end-times Bible prophecy, the outcome is clear. The question is simply when? Personally, I believe when is a whole lot closer than most people are willing to believe. Few of us realize the lateness of the hour. Many in the Church have ignored the Bible’s warning concerning the end-times and, as a result, have no idea how to “discern the signs of the times.” I believe, based on Scripture and current events, that it is overwhelmingly clear we are nearing the end of the Church Age. The birth-pains Jesus described in Matthew 24 indicate that Daniel’s Seventieth Week will soon begin (see Daniel 9:24-27). However, before this prophesied seven year period can start, the Church must be removed. Therefore, if Daniel’s Seventieth Week is on the near horizon, how much closer then is the Rapture of the Church? It is mind-bogglingly close!

If the return of Christ for His Church is as close as many prophecy teachers believe it is, me included, what should we as believers do? I believe we must raise the bar in our walk with Christ. This is not the time to get lazy, max out your credit cards, and cruise on into heaven. No, now is the time to get more serious than ever about your walk with Christ. One reason I believe this is because I also believe that persecution against followers of Christ will increase as the time of our departure nears. We are already seeing this. Satan will stop at nothing to suppress God’s truth. One of his primary ways of doing this is through silencing Christians. One example of this clever deception is the recently signed hate-crimes law. Regardless of what its supporters want you to believe, its ultimate purpose will be to silence anyone who opposes the abhorrent lifestyles it claims to protect. Therefore, in order to prepare for the coming increase in persecution it is imperative we raise the bar in our walk with Christ. To begin with, we must pursue holiness with a passion. 1 John 3:2 says, “It has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is.” Since we are going to be like Him, which includes both physical changes of the resurrection body and spiritual changes of purity, no sin, and righteousness, let’s be as much like Him now as we can. In fact, John goes on to write, “And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as he is pure” (1 John 3:3). This raises another very important issue—that of false hope. I know far too many people who think they are right with God because they walked a church aisle but whose lives today give little evidence they belong to Christ. Paul said, “Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith” (2 Cor. 13:5). Secondly, we need to go to our knees in prayer. We should be praying for His will to “be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt. 6:10). Thirdly, we must raise the bar on personal and corporate Bible study. By this, I mean the verse-by-verse study of God’s Word. Our goal in life ought to be to know God as intimately as possible this side of glory. The only way that is going to happen is through careful Bible study and concerted prayer. Finally, we must preach Jesus. By preach Jesus, I mean share the gospel one on one and corporately. Jesus said, “You shall be My witnesses” (Acts 1:8). If the Rapture occurred today, how many of your family, friends, and loved ones would be left behind? What are you doing about it? Hopefully, you are going to your knees in concerted prayer and preaching the Gospel of our glorious Savior, Jesus Christ!

Our duty and calling in these last days, as we recognize the signs of the times in which we live, is to stand firm on behalf of the Lord. Paul wrote, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58). He repeated this in the next chapter, “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong” (1 Cor. 16:13). I can think of no better advice for those of us so fortunate to live during the most exciting time in history—the time leading up to the return of Christ for His Church. There is no better time to raise the bar in our walk with Christ. There is no better time to “proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Pet. 2:9). When it comes to the end-times, we are coming down to the wire. Therefore, make sure you are ready to meet the Lord in the air! “Fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Pet. 1:13).

The End -- Are We Really this Close?

2009-11-17T10:26:00.002-05:00

“Though Edom says, ‘We have been beaten down, but we will return and build up the ruins’; thus says the Lord of hosts, ‘They may build, but I will tear down; and men will call them the Territory of Wickedness, and the people toward whom the Lord is indignant forever’” (Malachi 1:4). The Rapture of the Church is upon us! Surely the return of the Lord is near. At least that’s the way I feel every time I read or hear about another news report coming out of the Middle East. It seems every major event prophesied for the last days regarding the Seventieth Week of Daniel and the return of the Lord is converging so quickly, I can hardly keep up. Consider this recent news headline: The Palestinians are ready to declare the peace process a failure and name a Palestinian state unilaterally. Several news agencies are reporting, “The Palestinian Authority is mobilizing international support for declaring statehood. Palestinians will bring the issue to a vote before the United Nations Security Council, which would declare a Palestinian state on the 4 June 1967 border with Israel.” This is utterly amazing as it fits quite nicely with the prophetic scenario for the last days.
The Prophet Daniel indicated the last days would see numerous Middle East peace proposals, none of which would be working (see Dan. 9:27). There have been several treaties, accords, and other proposals put forth in recent years to try and solve the Israeli-Palestinian and Israeli-Arab problems. No plan has thus far succeeded in ending these conflicts. The recent announcement by the Palestinian Authority that the peace process is a failure and that they will ask the United Nations to recognize their unilateral declaration of a Palestinians State is, to quote Dr. Jimmy DeYoung, “a page out of Bible prophecy for the last days.” The Bible is very clear that the Palestinians will do this. They will, according to Malachi and Ezekiel, return to take God’s Covenant Land from the Jewish people, thus setting up their boarders which God calls, “the Territory of Wickedness.” Ezekiel 35:10-12 says the Palestinian people (the Edomites in Biblical times) will say, “These two nations and these two lands will be mine, and we will possess them.” As a result, God says, “Therefore as I live, I will deal with you according to your anger and according to your envy which you have showed because of your hatred against [the Jewish people]; so I will make Myself known among them when I judge you.” The Palestinians are doomed because of their scheme to snatch control of Israel and God’s Covenant Land. They have never been interested in peace or a “two state solution.” Their only interest and their primary goal is Israel’s destruction and a single State of Palestine. They may try to declare their fantasy state unilaterally. They may succeed for a time in building their “Territory of Wickedness.” But God will, according to Malachi, negate their efforts. Israel, on the other hand, will be fully and completely restored to their Covenant Land. This will ultimately take place when Christ returns to this earth. Until then, we can expect to see an ongoing struggle, on the part of the Palestinians and Arabs, to destroy Israel, either by direct conflict or through diplomatic negotiation and unilateral declaration. But do not be deceived. “They may build, but [God] will tear down.” This is the Word of the Lord!

This whole scenario is definitely setting the stage for the end-times. The prophetic scenario found in the Bible will be played out. In fact, it is being played out right before our eyes. This is a prophetic flash point that could descend the Middle East into war literally overnight. In fact, the Prophet Obadiah seems to indicate such a war between Israel and the Palestinians is on the near horizon. “Then the house of Jacob will be a fire and the house of Joseph a flame; but the house of Esau will be as stubble. And they will set them on fire and consume them, so that there will be no survivor of the house of Esau” (Obad. 1:18). The house of Jacob and Joseph is, of course, Israel. The house of Esau is the Palestinians of today. Israel will be victorious and the Palestinians utterly destroyed. There is no way around this conclusion as this is what the Bible teaches for the last days. The question is when all this will take place. Only God knows but all indications point to a near fulfillment. Therefore, make sure you are ready to meet the Lord in the air. keep your focus on the Lord Jesus and His soon return for His Church. “But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:20).

Three Marks of an Overcomer

2009-11-12T15:45:00.001-05:00

"And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death" (Revelation 12:11). As we near the end of the age, persecution and even martyrdom of Christians will increase dramatically. Those of us living in the United States won’t be exempt. In fact, we are already witnessing an increase in persecution. The time to prepare for this eventual reality is now. Make sure you are thoroughly grounded in the faith. Make sure you know what you believe and why you believe it. Make sure you are truly of the faith. Make sure you are an overcomer! Otherwise, when persecution comes—particularly persecution with the threat of death—you will run the risk of denying and bringing shame to the name of Christ. Such denial may indicate another reality—that you do not belong to Christ. Therefore, it is imperative that we understand what the Bible says about those who overcome. Revelation 12:11 give us three marks of an overcomer. All three are true in the life of one who has truly been saved by the grace of God through faith in the Son of God.

John writes, "And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb." In a previous article I pointed out the Greek word for overcame is the word nikao, meaning "to come off victorious." True Christians are, by nature, overcomers. But we don’t overcome in our own strength and energy. We overcome "because of the blood of the Lamb." Satan is our accuser. Yet, because of the blood of the Lamb, his accusations cannot stand. Paul wrote, "Who will bring a charge against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies" (Rom. 8:33). We are justified through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. The blood emphasizes the death of Jesus. He died so that we might live. We are forgiven because of His shed blood. No accusation can stand against those whose sins have been forgiven! Because Christ was victorious, His victory is our victory. So the first defining mark of an overcomer is that they belong to Christ, having been washed by the blood of the Lamb. Secondly, John writes that we overcome the enemy, "because of the word of [our] testimony." My testimony is not walking a church aisle and praying to receive Christ. My testimony is the fact that I have been born again by grace through faith and that I continue to walk in newness of life. In other words, my testimony is a changed life! I no longer embrace my sin, but rather, I embrace Christ! Your testimony overcomes Satan’s deception. Paul could write, "I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day" (2 Tim. 1:12). The writer of Hebrews echoed that truth by writing, "Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them" (Heb. 7:25). The King James says it this way: "He is able also to save them to the uttermost." We are saved to the uttermost! This is the testimony of the believer and it is this testimony we share with others and is the living evidence of a changed life. I cannot emphasize this changed life enough! Finally, John says we overcome because, "[we do] not love [our] life even when faced with death." Overcomers are willing to make any sacrifice, including death. Jesus said, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me" (Luke 9:23). Willingly dying for the cause of Christ is the ultimate in self-denial. Like Christ, we should all be willing to be "obedient to the point of death" (Phil. 2:8). However, self-denial begins with repenting of my sin and turning to Christ. It is an ongoing condition and lifestyle whereby I choose Christ over all else—especially self. Such a life is not easy but it is eternally rewarding. If we refuse to cling to our earthly lives, then there really is no threat Satan can bring against us. If the enemy kills you because of your faith in Christ, what else can they do (see Luke 12:4)?

To sum it all up, overcomers are first of all, saved. Secondly, they have a consistent testimony of a changed life. Finally, they would readily welcome death rather than to deny their Lord. So, the question is, are you an overcomer? Does your life give evidence of a changed life? Are you truly saved? If so, take hope in knowing that God will preserve you to the end—He is able and has saved you to the uttermost! If you are not saved, now is the time to give your life to Christ, receiving His free gift of forgiveness and eternal life. The Bible says, "How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?" (Heb. 2:3) God has provided "so great a salvation," so that through Christ we can overcome Satan, the flesh, and the world system. But it begins by simple faith in the crucified, risen, ascended, and soon returning Lord. "But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name" (John 1:12).