Stephen-on-Bible

Losers for the Gospel

2012-01-13T17:34:00.000-08:00

Few days ago, after many years, my brothers and sisters and all our families had the privilege of meeting together for a time of fellowship. Wondering when we would meet this way again, I arranged a photographer for snapping photos of our families together.

Wow, I thought, everything went on well!

But when we got the pictures in print, we were disappointed to see them as they came out with a very poor quality, like a mobile’s VGA camera. My younger brother was angry, went to the studio and yelled at the photographer for his crappy work.

When I learned about my brother’s reaction, since the studio person knew that we are Christians, I felt concerned about the gospel and wondered—what would happen to the saltiness of our Christian testimony? Will our reaction become a stumbling block for these unsaved people to the receptivity of the gospel? What kind of message are we giving to the unbelievers through our conduct?

Convicted by these questions, I immediately called the photographer on phone and apologized to him for the harsh behavior of my younger brother. Although I was unhappy with this photographer’s work, I told him that we are Christians and we want to be at peace and his relationship is important to us. After hearing my words, he was overwhelmingly humbled.

Yes, we were at loss, but don’t you think it is worth the loss for the gospel than react in a way that would mar the message of the gospel? If we cannot make little sacrifices and control our short-tempers, how can we lose our life itself, as Christ said, for the gospel? (Mk. 8:35)

Disgraceful Behavior
Now do not suppose this is how I conduct myself every time I face disappointed situations. Regretfully, many times I reacted to unbelievers in a way that was shameful. I brought much disgrace to the name of God and to the gospel because of my unchristian behavior.

I am learning now to be more careful about how I talk and act when I confront odd behavior from unbelievers.

There were times that I behaved in such a way with customer service executives that when they asked my name to resolve the problem, I was ashamed to say it [Stephen David], for they would know that I am a Christian.

I remember how wildly I reacted in a gas station when the fuel was not filled in my bike according to the exact amount. After leaving that place, the Holy Spirit convicted me, "Stephen, if you go back and share the gospel with him, would he be willing to listen to you?" Would he not hate my message?

When I was discussing about such behavioral issues with my elder brother, he expressed it right, "We pray to God for the lost souls and then ruin the work of the gospel through our behavior." We preach the gospel to the unbelievers and then behave rudely with them when things go wrong. Would they be impressed with our gospel in this way?

Don’t you suppose such behavior is unfitting for God’s children and Christ’s ambassadors who are called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world? (Matt. 5:13-16) Were we not exhorted from God’s word, "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity?" (Col. 4:5) Are we not commanded to live our daily life in such a way that it would win the respect of outsiders? (1Thess. 4:12)

Losing to Gain
Remember, when we love material things and our own ambitions more than the gospel and the lost souls, we become quick-tempered, displaying folly and unchristian behavior. I am afraid this is what the non-Christians are witnessing in us in workplaces, on streets, in shopping malls, in our neighborhood and as they pass by our homes?

So, I suppose, it is better to become losers than react in a way that would disrepute the message of the gospel. Don’t you think—when we lose our patience, we may lose a soul too?

Now this does not mean we have to always let others to step on us like a doormat and we have to simply lay silent. When misbehavior is manifested or when injustice is done, we can confront the offensive person or raise our voice towards injustice, but this is done not as the worldly people generally do—yelling, threatening and behaving violent. It should be done with appropriate Christian behavior and biblical standards.

As we live in a crooked world where things do not occur according to our expectations, we must be careful about how we speak and behave with the worldly people. As much as possible, we ought to be kind and gentle. And, yes, I don’t deny the fact of facing certain situations where we may have to be firm but without being fierce, bold but without being blunt and hard but without being harsh.

I have learned that when things go wrong, my response should be such that I should not be ashamed to preach the gospel later, although I fail at times and repent.

Carrying the Ark of the Gospel
Remember, folks, we carry the ark of the gospel wherever we go. Make sure we do not let it be disgraced by our ill conduct. Because we exist in this world, not for our desires and their fulfillment sake but for the glory of God, we need to know that our lifestyle has a stake in the spread of the gospel of Christ Jesus.

Therefore, let us be different and make a difference, even if it costs us to become losers for the sake of the gospel of Christ. And, I believe, we cannot become radical losers unless our passion grows and conforms to the passion of Paul who passionately said:

"I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me--the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace." (Acts 20:24)

"I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some." (1Cor. 9:22)

"Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God--even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved." (1Cor. 10:32-33)

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Your Salvation - Biblical or Self-Induced?

2012-01-10T02:37:00.000-08:00

One of the worst deceptions of the devil is to make people believe they are Christians when they are not, to make people believe they are saved when they are not, to make people believe they are going to heaven when they are not. And there so many people in Christian homes and churches without having biblical salvation. Hence, this message is to help people understand the meaning and significance of biblical salvation in contrast to self-induced salvation.

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Resolutions in Regard to Money

2011-12-31T01:14:00.000-08:00

Money—who doesn’t want it? Both the good and the bad want it—the former out of need and the latter out of greed.

As needful and useful money is, I have learned, it is also a dangerous asset. Many Christian leaders have wrecked their reputation and ministry because of money. Thus, if there is any area wherein we have to build some strong principles, I suppose, it should be in the area of money.

I have been in Christian ministry for twelve years. I have committed so many blunders and learned so many lessons that eventually led me to make some wise resolutions in the Lord, particularly pertaining to finance.

There is a reason why I want to share these resolutions—it may encourage others to be careful in the area of money matters, bringing glory to God. Also, sharing this puts me in accountability to all the readers regarding my commitment [if I go astray in my resolutions, please feel free to correct me]. Anything beyond this, may the Lord give me the grace to overcome all the temptations of the evil one!

Before I share these, I want to mention few points:

i. I didn’t make these resolutions on New Years. I believe, true change does not wait for a specific date or a moment. You change right at the moment when you get a personal conviction. Also, I didn’t make all these resolutions at once; these were made as I keep growing in the Lord.

ii. Just because I am strong in one area does not mean that I am strong in all the areas of life. There are worse things that I struggle with in my life and by God’s grace I have to change more and become a better person.

iii. All the good resolutions and change that happens in my life is solely due to God’s gracious work within me. There is nothing great about me. Left to myself, I am a worst beast. Glory be to God who works in us to will and to act according to His good purpose. (Phi. 2:13)

Here are my three resolutions in regard to money which I strive by God’s grace to live accordingly:

Resolution 1

As I am involved in Christian ministry, one major resolution I have made in my life is this—I should not make my personal or family needs known to any, not even indirectly through prayer requests. I resolved not to ask anyone but to pray and seek the Lord to meet my needs. And I testify that my Father in heaven has been faithful to meet all my needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

As God meets my needs, I have learned to seek His face to give me the grace to use money wisely and seek to live a simple lifestyle.

Now this doesn’t mean I live by faith. I don’t think my faith is so great. But I can say boldly that I live only by the grace of God. It is one thing not to ask anyone and another thing not to expect anything from any. May the Lord enable me to completely conquer the latter temptation too!

Further, I resolved that if there is no providence for a prolonged time, I would rather take up a job and work to earn to support my family than ask others for money. I will assume this is how the Lord wants me to serve Him, working in the marketplace and earning my living. But so far the Lord has given me the grace to be active in extensive [full-time] ministry and may He continue to guide me to finish the task He has for me.

Yet when it comes to meet the dire needs of other people, I don’t hesitate to ask those who trust me to help others.

Resolution 2

Coming to ministry needs, I have resolved not to publicize them. Although the ministry that I do is good and the needs may be reasonable, I have found that it is an unhealthy habit to make public appeals for money. Because of this unhealthy practice, there is more disgrace coming to God’s name and ministry than glory.

However, if anyone has given the freedom to share the ministry needs with them or personally interested to know the specific needs of ministry in order to make a contribution, I think it is fine to share with them.

Moreover, I have resolved to do only that which the Lord gives me the grace to do and not take up too many things, thereby coming under financial pressure and helplessly beg others to support the ministerial activities. By God’s grace, let us do God’s work in God’s way because that alone brings glory to God.

Resolution 3

The Holy Bible warns, “The love of money [not money itself] is a root of all kinds of evil” (1Tim. 6:10). I have learned that one way to overcome this love for money is to give away money. The antidote for greed is generosity.

Richard J. Foster suggests, “If money has a grip on your heart, give some away and feel the inner release.” The English writer, Thomas Browne (1605-1682), exhorted, “Be charitable before wealth makes you covetous.” John Wesley (1703-1791) said, “Money never stays with me. It would burn me if it did. I throw it out of my hands as soon as possible, lest it should find its way into my heart.”

Therefore, from the providence of God to me, by God’s grace, I have resolved to give away more than twenty percent of the money every month. I don’t do this because I have plenty. To be frank, generally every month begins with zero balance in my account. Despite all the challenges, God is faithful to provide me my daily bread and it is a delight to share it with others too.

I don’t believe the New Testament teaches the Old Testament tithing system. In fact, it teaches—generous giving (2Cor. 9:6). And I don’t think that giving away more than twenty percent is generous giving. As God gives me grace, I would love to give away not less than forty or fifty percent for His glory and I think that is generous giving.

It is amazing how God transforms people. Before Christ, I was robbing money from people and now He is changing me to give away money to people. He is able to transform a thief into a philanthropist:-) And I have learned to give not with an intention to receive more [sowing and reaping business] but with an attitude of gratitude to God’s faithfulness in my life.

Soli Deo Gloria!

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Why Does God Save People? [Audio Clip]

2011-12-10T02:01:00.000-08:00

Did you ever think - Why does God save people? What is the purpose of God in saving people? I suppose, many are unaware of this fact. This brief audio clip explains the purpose of God in saving people.

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The Fourth Temptation of Man

2011-12-02T23:54:00.000-08:00

We are well aware of the three temptations a man commonly confronts—glory [pride], girl [lust] and gold [money]. As we live in this modern, advanced age, there is another temptation that I wish to add to the list. This has become a powerful, irresistible temptation to many a man. It has now taken an enticing, equivalent position to the common three.

Can you guess what it is?

GADGETS.

Today, many Christian men, including so many pastors and leaders, have become victims of the fourth temptation—electronic gadgets. These have enslaved so many of us in the form of being good to our eyes and appearing pleasurable to our senses while in fact eating away our precious and brief time on earth.

Just think:

• How many spend more time before Facebook than before God’s book!
• How many spend more time in online chatting than in conversing with God!
• How many spend more time before the television, watching movies and programs, than in study of sound books that builds oneself in the Lord!
• How many spend more time listening to music players [mp3 players, iPod…etc] than in seeking opportunities to listen to discouraged souls and encourage them!
• How many spend more time with computer games than treasuring God’s word in heart!
• How many spend more time in superfluous conversations on their mobile phones than grabbing time to serve others for their edification!
• How many spend more money in buying electronic gadgets than generously helping the needy ones and in the spread of God’s kingdom work!

Well, I am not saying it is wrong or sinful to spend time with the electronic gadgets. What I want to convey is that we need to exercise discipline and moderation, investing reasonable time and money in such things. If we allow these to take precedence over our relationship with God, His Word and His kingdom issues—we lose spiritual fervency, vitality and strength, living no better creatures than those who do not know the Living God.

Donald S. Whitney counsels, "If we are going to be like Jesus, we must see the use of our time as a spiritual discipline." O, time wasted on earth is life wasted for God! So, let us beware of glory, girl, gold and gadgets—for all these have the potentiality to suck our spiritual strength and valuable time, making us impotent in our life for God.

Finally, remember, we are accountable to God even in regard to our time. Jonathan Edwards [1703-1758] exhorted to live each day as if at the end of that day you had to give an account to God of how you used your time. Imagine how carefully we would daily invest our time in things if we live with this sacred consciousness!

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Did Jesus Command to Love Oneself?

2011-11-25T21:45:00.000-08:00

If you ask the personality developers, motivational speakers and many counselors of our time, "What is the important commandment of life?" many would perhaps say, "Love yourself".

The Most Important Commandment

When Jesus was asked, "What is the most important commandment?", He didn’t say, "Love yourself." Instead, He said, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these" (Mark 12:30-31).

It is worth noting the ending words of verse 31: "There is no commandment greater than these." The most important and joyful thing on the face of the earth is to love God with our whole being, the Maker of the heavens and the earth. And in loving Him, love our neighbour as ourself.

'Love Yourself' or 'As Yourself'

Now many suppose that Jesus gave a command here to 'love oneself.' It is surprising to see how 'self-love' has become a matter of paramount importance in our day. Even many Christian writers and teachers advocate this, erecting it as a third commandment. However, the grammar doesn’t suggest such a notion. To do so is to impose one’s thought upon the text than allowing the text to speak for itself.

The words 'love yourself' can be a command, but 'as yourself' is simply an acknowledged fact. Jesus didn't say, "Love yourself", but "Love your neighbour as yourself." In others word, "You love yourself, right? Okay. Then love your neighbour as well. Just as you love yourself, so also love your neighbour. Add to the love of self, which you already have, your love of neighbour."¹ John Piper suitably articulates what Jesus is saying in effect:

I start with your inborn, deep, defining human trait—your love for yourself. This is a given. I don't command it; I assume it. All of you have a powerful instinct of self-preservation and self-fulfillment. You all want to be happy. You all want to live and to live with satisfaction. You want food for yourself. You want clothes for yourself. You want a place to live for yourself. You want protection from violence against yourself. You want meaningful or pleasant activity to fill your days. You want some friends to like you and spend some time with you. You want your life to count in some way. All this is self-love. Self-love is the deep longing to diminish pain and to increase happiness. That's what Jesus starts with when he says, "as yourself."²

God's Order of Love

Of course, there is an implication of loving oneself but that’s not the focus of Jesus’ commandment. It is not good to stretch too much that which was not a predominant thought.

I comply with John Stott (1921-2011), "God’s order is that we put Him first, others next, self last. Sin is the reversal of the order. It is to put ourselves first, our neighbour next, and God somewhere in the background."³ Don’t we see this is what many are propagating—to love oneself as a prerequisite to loving God and loving neighbour?

Unlike many psychologists today, Jesus believed that man generally loves himself. Man's problem is not that he doesn’t love himself but that he loves himself too much. Honestly, when I look into my heart in the light of Holy Spirit, my greatest problem is that I overly love myself; and my greatest struggle is to love God and others. Günther Bornkamm is right when he says, "We are most skilled in the love of ourselves; whether in selfish passion or in cool reflection, whether prompted by blind instinct or by some ideal, we desire our own self."⁴

From Self to Unself

The fact that man struggles for attention, acceptance and appreciation shows how much he loves himself and got obsessed with a focus on his self. Even those who hate themselves may do so out of love for themselves, for they cannot see themselves let down. The reason why man is miserable today is simply because of his engrossment in self. So remedy is not self-love, but to love God with his whole heart and then his neighbour. Martin Luther actually viewed loving God and loving others as a cure for self-love.⁵

One major problem with the self-esteem movement—because of too much focus on self-esteem, it has produced a bunch of narcissists, although this may not be its intended fruit. It has pathetically reaped 'Me-Generation' and 'Self-obsessed Society'. What man needs is a radical change of nature, what Professor H.M. Gwatkin called "a change from self to unself."⁶ In saying this, I am neither endorsing self-hatred nor condemning healthy love of oneself. My point is not to become self-absorbed but to stay focussed on what Jesus said—love God and love others.

Self-Denial is Not the Goal

Besides, let none suppose self-denial is the goal of life. Not at all! Whether delight or denial, self is not the central issue. C.S. Lewis captured it right: "The New Testament has lots to say about self-denial, but not about self-denial as an end in itself. We are told to deny ourselves and to take up our crosses in order that we may follow Christ."⁷ Therefore, the purpose of self-denial is to release ourself to God so that He would continuously reveal Himself to us, sanctify us and use us to be a blessing to others for His glory. And in living this way, we would find pure joy in Christ Jesus.

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Notes:

[1] Nicholas Wolterstorff, Justice: Rights and Wrongs (Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 2008), pg. 209
[2] John Piper, What Jesus Demands from the World (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2006), pg. 257
[3] John Stott, Basic Christianity (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2008), pg. 95
[4] Günther Bornkamm, Jesus of Nazareth (New York: Harper & Row, 1960), pg. 113
[5] Henning Graf Reventlow, History of Biblical Interpretation, Vol. 3 (Atlanta, GA: Society of Biblical Literature, 2010), pg. 85
[6] Cited by John Stott, Basic Christianity (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2008), pg. 97
[7] C.S. Lewis, The Weight of Glory and Other Addresses (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans), pg. 2

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Admitting Flaws: An Essential Quality of an Authentic Christian Leader

2011-11-13T23:14:00.000-08:00

Randy Alcorn, one of my most enjoyed inspirational Christian writers, was asked, "In your view, what are the qualities of an authentic Christian leader?" He answered, "He loves God with all his heart, is quick to admit his flaws, listens to his critics and doesn't dismiss them." I kept thinking about the second point he mentioned—"quick to admit his flaws."

As leaders in the responsibility of leading people, don't we find ourselves being quick to reject and to justify our flaws than quickly admit them?

Sad Example, Good Model

Few days back, I met a Christian brother who seemed to be quite embarrassed about approaching Christian leaders. He shared about confronting an old experienced preacher to gently offer a reasonable word of correction in regard to his preaching. The old preacher annoyingly responded to him, "It is not your age to correct me." Seeing his response, this brother was completely shattered, even afraid to approach any preacher the next time.

What a sad experience of this brother and a pathetic example modeled by that preacher!

In contrast to this brother's experience, I know an old preacher who is engaged in missions for more than twenty years. In my fellowship with him, many times he told me, "Stephen, I may be wrong. Please feel free to correct me." What a humbling experience to a young man like me to witness such humble models!

Regretfully, not many of us are as humble to accept correction and to admit our faults as this wonderful man of God! Think—how many people find it comfortable to approach us to offer correction? How many of us deny ourselves and humbly confess our sins?

Being Stupid, Being Honored

In my fifteen years of Christian life, I ought to honestly confess—not many Christian leaders love to accept correction and are quick to admit their flaws. They are great preachers but weak models in regard to admitting their faults. When it comes to correction and confession—some walk with a sense of loftiness as if they don't commit mistakes, some foolishly blame others, some adamantly justify themselves and some stay silent, putting on a sad facial expression.

Don't you suppose such reactions are unfit to Christian leaders who are called by the Living God to servant leadership?

Moreover, I found leaders who suppose by admitting their faults they lose their honor and respect among the people. What a deception! The book of Proverbs says, "He who hates correction is stupid" but "whoever heeds correction is honored" (12:1b; 13:18b). We are more stupid when we despise correction but more honored when we heed to it. In my view, there are many great leaders who lost their honor, not because of committing faults, but because of rejecting to admit them.

Heed Correction, Humbly Confess

In writing this, I am not saying I find it easy to accept correction and always admit my faults. I find admitting my flaws more hurting to my ego. There were numerous times where I justified myself and acted stupidly. Nevertheless, the Lord seriously dealt with my heart. He still does His painful surgery on my arrogant heart. Because of the gracious work of the Holy Spirit in me, I am learning to sincerely admit my faults and to accept correction, even from my little kids. O, I am finding it a great blessing in my life and ministry!

Dear Christian leaders—we may be great preachers, having a great passion, possessing great talents, doing great ministry—but all these are nothing when there is no essential quality of humility to heed correction and to humbly confess our flaws. May we pray and allow God to humble us for His glory, honor and praise!

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Note: Not every correction may be valid. However, we need to humbly consider the correction given to us, honestly examine our heart and then gently respond with appropriate answer.

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Are You Tormented by Self-Condemnation?

2011-11-07T03:17:00.000-08:00

Have you genuinely repented in view of God’s mercy but still struggling from thoughts of self-condemnation? Here are few Scriptures you can stick to like glue. Remember, these are not for an unrepentant soul but to those who sincerely repent and yet suffer from tormenting thoughts of self-condemnation.

Friends, treasure these words in your heart. Preach them to your soul and find strength through them:

• Are you haunted by past failures?
Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! (Isa. 43:18-19)

• Do you have this question, "Can God really forgive me?"
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1Jn. 1:9)

• Do you fear the Lord is always angry with you?
The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. (Ps. 103:8-10)

• Do you see the discipline of the Lord because of the sins you have committed show God's hatred towards you?
My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when He rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those He loves, and He punishes everyone He accepts as a son. Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? (Heb. 12:5-7)

• Are you thinking your sins can never be blotted out?
The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. (1Jn. 1:7)

As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. (Ps. 103:12)

• Are you feeling hopeless?
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isa. 40:31)

• Are you afraid of some curse upon you?
Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." (Gal. 3:13)

• Are you condemning yourself?
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Rom. 8:1)

For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. (1Jn. 3:20, NKJV)

• Is the enemy of your soul condemning you?
Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died-- more than that, who was raised to life-- is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. (Rom. 8:34)

• Do you see yourself trapped in any temptation without redemption?
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. (1Cor. 10:13)

• Do you feel cut off from God because of your sins?
For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. (1Pet. 3:18)

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A Word to Tongues Speakers and Non-Tongues Speakers

2011-10-29T00:29:00.000-07:00

Since I have been born-again by the grace of God in the year 1996, in God’s sovereign providence, I lived in both the circles—the tongues speakers and the non-tongues speakers. I wish in my heart to boast about their love and respect they have for each other in spite of the differences, but sadly that’s not the case. Instead, what I generally observed in both of them, though not all, is this—self-righteousness and other-accusation.

Hence, here is a word for them.

Tongues Speakers

Dear brothers and sisters who speak in tongues, may I plead with you in Christ Jesus—do not look down on those who do not speak in tongues. To the church at Rome that had certain differences among them, Paul wrote, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves" (Rom. 12:10).

Based on what Paul said, do you become a better person than others just because you speak in tongues? If you speak in tongues, should you honor yourself above those who don’t speak in tongues? Walking in humility is a great sign of being filled with the Holy Spirit than just speaking in tongues. Sadly, there are many tongues speakers in the body of Christ but few humble walkers.

And do not suppose that those who do not speak in tongues do not have the Holy Spirit. Do not confuse the empowerment of the Holy Spirit with the indwelling of the Spirit of God. Every person who sincerely believes in Christ is indwelt by the Holy Spirit (Eph. 1:13). The greatest sign of having the Spirit of God in an individual is not speaking in tongues but not living a life controlled by the sinful nature (Rom. 8:9).

Your non-tongues speaking brothers and sisters are loved by the Lord and are indwelt by the Spirit of God as much as you are loved and indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Of course, both need the power of the Holy Spirit for which both need to constantly seek God to empower them for effective witness (Acts 1:8).

Let me also be plain in saying this—just speaking in tongues is not a sign of spiritual maturity. You don’t become spiritual only by speaking in tongues. To the church at Corinth that was good in speaking in tongues, Paul wrote to them, "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal" (1Cor. 13:1).

The church at Corinth was filled with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, but it immensely lacked maturity due to lack of love. A person can speak in tongues and still be carnal. The love of God in our hearts for people is the greatest sign of spiritual maturity. Without love for his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, no matter how much an individual speaks in tongues, he is simply an irritating sound.

Therefore, may I encourage you to love and respect your non-tongues speaking brothers and sisters in Christ without despising them in your heart, words and actions.

Non-Tongues Speakers

Dear brothers and sisters who do not speak in tongues, may I urge you in Christ Jesus—do not despise those who speak in tongues. Do not mock at them and treat them with contempt. Do not put them off as if they don’t belong to the family of Christ. They belong to God through their faith in Christ Jesus just as you belong to God.

To the church at Rome where the folks disagreed on certain issues, Paul wrote, "Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God" (Rom. 15:7). Christ accepts an individual, not based on whether he speaks in tongues or does not speak in tongues, but based on his sincere faith in the complete atonement of what He had done on the cross for the sins of people. Don’t you suppose that should be our base too than petty doctrinal differences?

And do not consider speaking in tongues as something of the devil. Do not be quick in judging those speaking in tongues as being led by a demon. There is no evidence from the Scripture where people spoke in tongues by the devil. Such comments are unwise and do not manifest a proper biblical attitude.

You do have complete freedom not to believe in tongues, but be careful of taking the freedom to make unbiblical judgments and fall into the accusing trap of the devil.

What is certainly from the devil is bitter envy and self-boasting (Jas. 3:14-15). Moreover, people are never like the devil than when they walk in pride, feeling better about themselves and despising others. And this pride is found in every group, both in those who do not speak in tongues and in those who speak in tongues. There is a great need of humility for which all God’s people ought to pray and practice.

Let me also mention not to think of yourself as knowing the Holy Bible much better than those who speak in tongues. Do not shun them as emotional brats and consider yourselves as wise in the Word. Paul wrote that if we have all the knowledge but have no love, then we are nothing (1Cor. 13:2). The one who loves knows the Holy Bible much better than all those who possess great theological knowledge and sound doctrines but have no love for their brothers and sisters in Christ.

Love is the greatest sign of spiritual maturity, not mere knowledge. Of course, all have to grow in knowledge but not without love.

Therefore, love and respect your tongues speaking brothers and sisters in Christ without despising them in your heart, words and actions.

Final Words

To speak in tongues and not to speak in tongues is a minor doctrinal difference; it is not an issue of sin. I say it is a minor doctrine because—whether you speak or do not speak in tongues, it has nothing to do with your salvation which was bought by Christ on the cross. You are not accepted in heaven based on this but only because of the finished work of Christ Jesus our Lord.

I think, had Paul lived in our age, perhaps he would have added "there are no tongues speakers and non-tongues speakers" to the following list—"Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience" (Col. 3:12-13).

You who speak in tongues and do not speak in tongues—are you clothed with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience towards one another?

Finally, some speak about tongues as if this is the only worthwhile thing under the sun to do and some speak against tongues as if this is the only evil thing on the earth to disprove. On both sides, this seems to be a childish conduct and an immature mindset.

There is no clear indication from the Holy Scripture that speaking in tongues is a must for all people of all generations or that tongues have ceased with the death of Christ’s apostles. What all the Scriptures people take to defend each others’ belief is an assumption which is not completely based on the explicit evidence. It is a never-ending argument about which we do not have to fight at the cost of ruining our relationships [but this can be discussed in love without giving up on each other or accusing one another].

There are major doctrinal problems, like assaults on the trinity, the deity of Christ and the Holy Spirit, the authority of the Holy Bible…etc—let’s fight against them. There are terrible sins in the church, like pride, envy, conflicts, selfish-ambition, sexual immorality, gossip, complacency…etc—let’s fight against them.

Let’s stay together in the things we agree and work together for the expansion of God’s holy kingdom and to pull down the strongholds of the enemy.

Think—if we have to live together only when we agree with each other in everything then no husband and wife can live together for more than few days. The church of Christ Jesus, which is the family of God, is no different from our family life.

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Rom. 15:5-6).

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The Conversation of Job on Lust

2011-10-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

Note: One morning, I had a severe struggle with lust. To win this war, I turned to the words of Job in chapter 31:1-12. Job was one of the oldest patriarchs and is renowned for being a man who feared God and shunned evil. What he spoke here few thousands of years back are very much challenging to the people of modern age.

As I reflected upon these few words of Job, I was led to write the following words, elaborating the discourse of Job and allowing them to plainly converse with our hearts. I found the words of Job quite challenging in my own life in regard to living a life of sexual purity.

Here is Job.

Listen to my words. Let me tell you something to think about. I made a covenant with my eyes, with my sight, with how I look at a woman. Do you want to know the covenant I made with my eyes? I determined not to look lustfully at a woman. I resolved not to entertain sexual fantasies about a girl. I took a stubborn decision, not only to flee from committing physical adultery, but also from its very thought in my mind, i.e. not to undress a girl with my imagination.

Yes, I fled from watching the nakedness of a woman, whether with my physical eyes or in my imagination. I firmly made up my mind not to be led by whatever my eyes sees and whatever my heart feels. I have learned to master my sight, my thoughts and my feelings. I decided to treat the opposite sex with absolute purity. I know it is hard. It is a tough battle. But I made this solemn choice, not a one-time choice, but a constant choice not to dwell on lust.

Do you know why I did this? Because I fear God. Does He not punish those who do wrong? Is not disaster waiting for those who live by wicked thoughts and actions? Does He not see my ways? Are not my thoughts laid bare before Him? Is He not counting every step of my life? Isn’t God looking, observing how I live and what I think?

Am I not accountable to God for what I choose, what I watch, what I think and what I do? Does not God weigh me according to His holy standards?

O, my Maker, my God, knows all my thoughts and all my ways. When I watch a naked woman, God is watching my evil actions. When I secretly imagine of having sex with a woman in my mind, God is observing my evil thoughts. I cannot hide from His pure sight! There is no sin that I can commit without His knowledge.

All my thoughts, all my imaginations, all my secret communications, all my ways, which no man may ever know—glare before His blazing holy eyes. Since I cannot escape from the holy sight of God, from His judgment, I chose not to sin against Him by immersing myself in lust. And God knows that I am blameless.

There is another thing I thought about which I would like to tell you. It sounds scary but I thought it anyway. If my heart has been enticed by a woman, if my heart lustfully goes after her, and if I secretly lust to sleep with another man’s wife, let me be honest in telling you this—let other men sleep and have sex with my wife, for that is the worst punishment I should receive for what I did.

When I lust after other women, why can’t my wife lust after other men? When I sleep with another man’s wife, why shouldn’t other men sleep with my wife? My wife has every right to against me when I choose to go against her. The other men have every right to go against me when I choose to go against them [for lusting their women]. Oh, I have no right to hold my wife faithful to me when I remain unfaithful to her, whether in thought or in deed.

Here is what I want to say at the end. Lust and adultery is a deadly fire. It burns my house and others' house too. It ruins my family and others’ family too. It puts everyone closely connected to me in trouble. It brings curse upon everything. It gives momentary pleasure but reaps lasting pain. O, a choice made out of lust reaps inescapable destruction.

Therefore, I decided, not to lust any woman and chose to fear God and to stay faithful to my wife—in my thought, in my imagination and in my action.

What is your covenant?

Sincerely,

Job

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Job 31 (New International Version)

¹ "I made a covenant with my eyes
not to look lustfully at a young woman.
² For what is our lot from God above,
our heritage from the Almighty on high?
³ Is it not ruin for the wicked,
disaster for those who do wrong?
⁴ Does he not see my ways
and count my every step?
⁵ "If I have walked with falsehood
or my foot has hurried after deceit—
⁶ let God weigh me in honest scales
and he will know that I am blameless—
⁷ if my steps have turned from the path,
if my heart has been led by my eyes,
or if my hands have been defiled,
⁸ then may others eat what I have sown,
and may my crops be uprooted.
⁹ "If my heart has been enticed by a woman,
or if I have lurked at my neighbor’s door,
¹⁰ then may my wife grind another man’s grain,
and may other men sleep with her.
¹¹ For that would have been wicked,
a sin to be judged.
¹² It is a fire that burns to Destruction;
it would have uprooted my harvest."

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The Pastor’s Greatest Temptation

2011-10-16T21:42:00.000-07:00

What do you think is the pastor's greatest temptation? I am not going to talk on the common battles that are well known to many – gold [money], glory [pride] and girl [lust]. I would like to share with you about something crucial which many pastors do not even think about it as a temptation.

One of the reasons, I believe, why the church today is not maturing is due to the pastor's focus on this while neglecting the essential. I think, almost every pastor, who is honest with himself, agrees that his focus is primarily on this and that this is indeed his greatest temptation. I have seldom come across a pastor who is free from this enticement.

What could this be?

Sunday Service
In my years of Christian life and ministry, I have observed that the pastor's greatest temptation is Sunday service. His focus is primarily on getting people together, possibly in large numbers, on Sunday. His main passion is to fill the place with people and feel good to see every member on the chairs.

There is nothing as disappointing for pastors as to see the missing members on empty chairs. Thus he chases people during the week not to miss the Sunday service.

The pressure is even more when a guest speaker comes to speak. When I go as a guest speaker to different churches and if there are no good numbers, I see how pastors feel embarrassed and struggle to justify why it is so. I have to take some effort to let them feel at ease.

Why does a pastor chase people to bring them all together? Is it for the glory of God and for the edification of all God’s people? I wish this would be the reason but it seems this is not the attitude of many pastors. I am afraid whether there is a kind of pomposity, a puffed up feeling, to stand before the crowd and feel good about the numbers.

I don't completely deny a pastor's love for people but I fear whether the temptation for numbers has taken precedence over his heart for them. The sight of great numbers of people can truly feed our hidden egos. We love numbers, want to feel good at the sight of numbers and even boast about the numbers.

Didn't David feel great about the numbers in 2Chronicles 21 and invoked God's judgment? One of the reasons the Lord may not hear our prayers for church growth is this—our attitude may not be to save people and fill the kingdom of heaven but to bring people and fill our church hall with folks and feel good about the numbers.

How complacent a pastor can feel to see his church hall being packed with people! But is good numbers on Sunday service a sign of success?

Building Lives in the Lord
I never heard of a couple being complemented for having a successful family just because of giving birth to a dozen children. Our common sense tells—the sign of a successful family is not in how many children we bear but in how we bring them up in the Lord. Likewise, a pastor's success is not in how many people he can gather on Sunday service but how he brings them up in the Lord. His reward is not in bringing people to the church but in drawing people closer to the Lord.

When a pastor sees a great number of people before him, instead of feeling good, he should prostrate before God and cry out to Him, "Lord, here I see so many before me. How can I bring them in you? I have a great responsibility upon me. I am incompetent to rear them. Give me your grace and wisdom to lead them towards maturity." As the numbers increase, he should fear and tremble at the great responsibility of equipping them to walk worthy in the ways of the Lord.

Remember, unlike many pastors today, Paul's passion was not to present every person regularly on Sunday service but to “present everyone perfect [mature] in Christ” (Col. 1:28). I wonder how many pastors come out of the pulpit and take personal concern, finding out and motivating believers to have a disciplined and devoted walk with the Lord in their daily life.

Monday to Saturday
Yesterday, i.e. on Sunday, I had an opportunity to personally listen and learn from brother Zac Poonen who visited my city to speak. He is about seventy two years old, doing the Lord's work for more than forty years. He is one of my esteemed Indian bible teachers in our day. In his teaching, he said something like this [about his ministry] which very much impressed my heart:

Our focus on people is not for Sunday. Our focus on people is for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and then at last Sunday. We want to see people living for the glory of God from Monday to Saturday. Sunday is not that important to us.

If pastors have such a focus and passion, the spiritual condition of the churches today would be quite different and better.

I plead with the shepherds of the church, not to stay focused on just the Sunday service—having good numbers, good worship, good sermon, good offering—but to stay committed and prayerfully focused on equipping people to have a good personal walk with the Lord 24/7. [1]

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1. I am not saying that we should not pray and desire to have a lively Sunday fellowship. It is good [provided if our attitude is to build lives in the Lord]. But it is not the only important thing as it is to many pastors today. The primary concern of every pastor must be for the believers’ personal walk with the Lord, not simply for a large gathering.

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Three Tragic Signs of Complacency

2011-10-12T22:33:00.000-07:00

"Complacency is a deadly foe of all spiritual growth," said A.W. Tozer.

These days I have been meditating on the book of Amos. What wealth of insights the Lord has in store for His children to learn about His ways! When I came to chapter 6, I was moved in my heart to self-examination, for it reveals three tragic signs of complacency.

One of the terrible diseases of Christianity today is complacency [a feeling of self-satisfaction]. A.W. Tozer says, "Religious complacency is encountered almost everywhere among Christians these days." He also observed, "Among the many who profess the Christian faith, scarcely one in a thousand reveals any passionate thirst for God." I cannot resist agreeing with Tozer. If the world is shattered because of its callousness towards the truth, Christianity is miserable due to its complacency in the truth it has believed.

Let us reflect upon the following brief message with a prayerful heart and allow God to redeem us from this evil of complacency.

Self-Sufficiency

The Lord spoke to the backslidden Israel through His prophet Amos, "Woe to you who are complacent in Zion, and to you who feel secure on Mount Samaria, you notable men of the foremost nation, to whom the people of Israel come!" (6:1)

The Lord was addressing to the people who were self-satisfied in their comfortable zone, who thought secure in their affluence and who felt safe in their strength. These people wallowed in their cozy lifestyle with no desire for God, with no hunger for His righteousness and with no reverence to live according to His Word. They were self-confident and self-sufficient. Thus the Lord warned them about the impending judgment upon them.

How often do we fall into this mire of complacency wherein we live a self-satisfied life and give up our humble dependence upon God for our sustenance! Remember, complacency makes us to feel secure in our job, safe in our strength, good about our knowledge, protected in our money and possessions, eventually leading us to build an ivory tower of egotism.

Complacency also ruins our passion for God. It takes us away from God-satisfied life to self-sufficiency. It makes us to think that we know God better, that we are thoroughly biblical and that we are spiritual enough. It ends the fresh streams of living water flowing through our lives which in fact results from our continuous growth in Christ and keeps only the rotten water in us by ceasing our growth. O, complacency kills our thirst for God, robbing us of the experience which the Psalmists expressed, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God" (Ps. 42:1).

Moreover, complacency leads us to think that all is well with our heart and fails us to recognize our depraved nature. We do little good and think we are good enough. We feel satisfied in our own righteousness and so-called spiritual activities. We may pray, read the Bible, give offerings and participate in church activities, but all these may be done as rituals than out of passion for God and for His Kingdom. These devotional acts may be "like the morning mist, like the early dew that disappears" (Hos. 6:4).

Indulgence

The Lord spoke to His people through His prophet Amos, "You lie on beds inlaid with ivory and lounge on your couches. You dine on choice lambs and fattened calves" (6:5).

When the lives of God’s people were far from their Creator and from His standards, instead of repenting and seeking the face of the Lord, they indulged in worldly pleasures. They didn’t care about their dire spiritual condition but were focused on enjoying the worldly things. They externally expressed their devotion to God in the form of following certain rituals but their hearts were indeed set on the world, on its things and pleasures. They lived for themselves, for their ambitions and for their pleasures. Thus the Lord cautioned them about the disaster that was about to come upon them.

When our hearts are lukewarm in God and far from His commands, rather than going through godly sorrow and turning to the Lord with a contrite spirit, how possible it is for us to give ourselves to more worldly amusements and pleasures! Complacency thrusts our heart to run after the pleasures of the world than after the pleasures of God, to pursue the comforts the world offers than the comfort of the Spirit of God, to seek our security in the things of the world than in the Maker of the heavens and the earth.

Complacency creates discontentment for worldly pleasures and makes us content with spiritual things. It leads us to vigorously pursue the earthly things, leaving us paralyzed in spiritual issues. It produces in us spiritual fatness and lethargy.

How tragic it is to think that we are rich in the spirit when Jesus said, "Blessed are the poor in spirit [realize their spiritual poverty] for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matt. 5:3). How pathetic it is to amuse ourselves by material things when Christ said, "Blessed are those who mourn [weep over their spiritual dryness] for they will be comforted" (Matt. 5:4). How regretting it is to be passionate for worldly prosperity when Christ said, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they will be satisfied" (Matt. 5:6).

If our prayers are examined, would they be found with more repentance, more cry for God and for His holiness or with more petition for earthly blessings?

Now, let us not suppose that indulgence means just going to clubs and pubs, brothels and orgies. We may be good enough not to get involved in such blatant activities. But one of the devil’s subtle temptations is to enslave God’s people, not by things that are considerably evil, but by the things that are seemingly good and let them take precedence over our passion for God.

When the good earthly pleasures become our priority and pursuit [food, fun, television, internet, hobbies…etc], when our mind is dominated by the nice things of the world [work, business, family, friends…etc], when our heart is filled with more delight for material things [money, possessions, electronics…etc]—what could it be if not complacency? Is the Living God, by whom and for whom we exist, loved and pursued above all things?

O, when we are taken captive by complacency, we can never say to God what the Psalmist sung, "Whom have I in heaven but You? And earth has nothing I desire besides You" (Ps. 73:25).

Desensitivity

The Lord spoke to His people through His prophet Amos, "You drink wine by the bowlful and use the finest lotions, but you do not grieve over the ruin of Joseph" (6:6).

When the kingdom lied in ruin, people were self-sufficient, indulged in earthly pleasures and did not grieve over the disaster that has come upon God’s children. They became desensitized to the miseries of the people around them. They lacked compassion for others. All that they were concerned was—personal security, personal comfort and person happiness. Thus the Lord pronounced His curse upon them.

Complacency makes us desensitized. It ruins our compassion for people. It hardens our heart from thinking about the welfare of those around us. It does not let us grieve over the pathetic condition of others. It causes us to stay focused on personal happiness and safety. It drives our thoughts, interests and pursuits to revolve around the globe of self.

When we are complacent, we ignore the pain of other people. Our heart is not moved by looking at the troubles and sins of others. We lack generosity, hospitality, care and empathy. We neglect the helpless and hopeless. We have no burden for the lost. We even care little about the spiritual decay in the body of Christ. Matthew Henry comments, "Those are commonly careless of the troubles of others who are set upon their own pleasures; and it is a great offence to God when His church is in affliction and we are not grieved for it, nor lay it to heart."

Final Words

If we honestly examine our hearts, don’t you think we have fallen into the abyss of complacency? Don’t you suppose we are self-sufficient in our life, indulgent in worldliness and lack compassion for others? Don’t you think we need revival, mighty revival, tremendous awakening that will lead us to become passionate for God, drive us to love our Lord with our whole heart and mind, and cause us to care for others out of God’s love in our hearts for them?

O, we need revival, that awakening of spiritual poverty for the glorious riches of God! Let us keep seeking the face of God, keep asking before the Mercy seat and keep knocking the door of the heaven for an awesome revival in our lives.

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Devout Worship

2011-09-27T02:43:00.000-07:00

The way we frequently use the term 'worship' seems as if we are so well acquainted with its understanding and practice. But is it really so? To me it appears the true meaning of worship is waning in our day. There are many worshippers today but are they devout worshippers? It is time to blow the trumpet and call people to get back to the Scriptures and gain some comprehension of what devout worship is.

Few days ago, in my meditation on Psalm 9:1-2, I have observed two features associated with devout worship, which I would like to share with you.

Telling of God’s Wonders
David expressed, "I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders" (Ps. 9:1). David praised the Lord with his whole heart and spoke of all His wonders. Now this telling about God’s wonders is not only his mention of God’s greatness in his worship to Him but also seems to be speaking of His majesty to others. Eugene Peterson, in his popular translation, The Message, puts it this way, "I'm thanking you, God, from a full heart, I'm writing the book on your wonders." New Living Translation says, "I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done."

Moreover, listen to what David sung in Psalm 145:3-6:

Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; His greatness no one can fathom. One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works. They will tell of the power of your awesome works, and I will proclaim your great deeds.

So, here is the point—devout worship results in declaring God's wonders to others. In superficial worship, there is praising God but there is no passion to tell His greatness to others. O, how many of us worship God in prayer meetings and church buildings, but in our normal conversations and personal discourses, with believers and unbelievers, do we speak of God's glory?

Here is a thought to think—If I love and adore someone dearly, will I not only praise that person but also share about his/her wonderful qualities with others? The one whose greatness and good nature I appreciate deeply, will I not also get excited to talk about him/her with others? Likewise, if we love and adore God with all our heart, how can we shut our mouth from speaking about His goodness, majesty and wonders to others? Is it not for this very purpose that God chose us to be His priests:

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises [excellencies, majesty] of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. (1Pet. 2:9)

Therefore, our worship unto God is not complete, devout and genuine unless we are passionate to speak of His wonders, talk of His glory, share of His goodness and proclaim His awesome works to others. Our praise is incomplete without the expression of the excellencies of God to those around us.

Delighting in the Lord
In Ps. 9:2, David states, "I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High." Notice, before praising God’s name, what do we observe David doing? He was glad and rejoiced in the Lord. He took great delight in God. His rejoicing in the Lord led him to worshiping God.

Here is another point—devout worship comes out of our utmost delight in God. In superficial worship, there is praising God and feeling good about oneself, but there is no delight in Him. O, we who worship God in the gatherings, don't you think our utmost delight is not in the Maker of our souls but in the things that have been made? I fear our heart is set on the delights of the world, yet our lips worship God without having a heart or passion for Him.

Did not God Himself say, "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me"? (Matt. 15:18; cf. Isa. 29:13). Where there is heart in worship there is also delight in God but where there is no heart in worship but only words, there is no delight in Him.

Devout worship is the outcome of a heart which overflows with delight in the object of its worship. God takes delight in our worship when it comes forth out of our joy in Him. God wants us to praise Him by enjoying Him, for what is that worship of Him when there is no delight in Him. In devout worship—praising God and delighting Him are inseparable. C.S. Lewis brilliantly enlightens this thought in the following way:

I think we delight to praise what we enjoy because the praise not merely expresses but completes the enjoyment; it is its appointed consummation… our joy is no more separable from the praise in which it liberates and utters itself than the brightness a mirror receives is separable from the brightness it sheds. The Scotch catechism says that man's chief end is 'to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.' But we shall then know that these are the same thing. Fully to enjoy is to glorify. In commanding us to glorify Him, God is inviting us to enjoy Him.

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When God Does Not Make Sense

2011-09-18T20:01:00.001-07:00

Recently, in our training class, questions were raised from the Holy Bible about why God did certain things which seems unreasonable to our finite minds. No doubt we all find some incidents in the Scripture, leading us to question – Why God did that thing? How did He let that happen? How can He do that?

When people do not make sense, that is endurable, but when God does not make sense, it is quite troubling to our mind. Don’t we expect God to be the most reasonable being, I mean, according to our perception? What then shall we do when God does not make sense to us?

Here is one important lesson I have learned in life—when it comes to man, we look at his actions and understand who he is. But when it comes to God, we need to look at who He is and understand His actions. The Scripture makes it clear that we do not always comprehend His ways and cannot at all times trace His paths, for He is infinite and sovereign.

• As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts” (Isa. 55:9).

• Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths beyond tracing out! (Rom. 11:33).

• He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. (Ecc. 3:11)

Although His works and ways are incomprehensible to our finite mind, the Scripture makes it flatly obvious about who God is and how just He is in everything He does.

• He is the Rock, His works are perfect, and all His ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is He. (Deut. 32:4)

• As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. (2 Sam. 22:31)

• The LORD is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him. (Ps. 92:15)

• Everything He does is right and all His ways are just. (Dan. 4:37)

• Great and marvelous are Your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are Your ways, King of the ages. (Rev. 15:3)

Now this is what I have seen the devil working on many minds—when what God does do not make sense, he tempts us to doubt the goodness of God. When we try to understand God’s ways in the absence of His holy nature and good attributes, the devil grabs such endeavor to ruin our faith. O, how many have abandoned their faith as they yielded to the temptation of the Enemy whose sole aim is to use what people do not understand about God's actions and infuse doubts in them so that they would misunderstand God and turn their back against Him.

So, this is what I have learned—when what God does do not make sense, I simply have to trust who He is. This, I believe, is absolutely sensible. I do not have to understand the reasons behind everything He does. Am I not a mere man, whose understanding is limited and even flawed? But I know from the Holy Scripture—God is faithful and upright. His works are perfect and all His ways are just. He is a faithful God who does no wrong. Upright and just is He.

Come, therefore, let us trust the Lord, “for the LORD our God is righteous in everything He does” (Dan. 9:14).

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Work is Ministry: Simple Cautions

2011-09-12T03:59:00.000-07:00

For centuries, this notion has been deeply ingrained in Christianity—work/job/business is secular and Christian ministry is spiritual. This led many to consider that ministry is a spiritual activity, a life lived for God, but work is a secular thing, a life lived for oneself. Consequently, the Christian workers are viewed as the most blessed people, for they are called to serve God, while the believers who hold jobs are simply the ordinary ones.

Fortunately, this perspective is now slowly changing.[1] I am glad to see a revival in the marketplace (workplace) today, emphasizing that work is not secular but spiritual, and it is also a ministry to the Lord. Praise God!

As good and necessary this teaching is, however, it ought to be taught with utmost balance, particularly considering certain cautions, for when God moves, Satan too moves. Where the wheat is sown, the devil tries to sow the weeds as well. When good is desired to be spread, evil seeks to lurk beneath it.

So, what are the cautions we need to consider to avoid certain blunders?

Caution 1
Since work is also a ministry, which is Biblically true, a working believer may subtly justify himself for not being actively involved in church ministry, evangelism and missions. He may be completely absorbed in his work, reasoning "Is not work a ministry to the Lord?" and neglect the Great Commission of our Lord. There is a high possibility for spiritual lethargy and negligence toward missions to creep into the believers, for it is more comfortable to stay in a job than to suffer in a mission field. If some are required to go to missions, they may say, "Is not my work a service to the Lord, so why should I think about going elsewhere as a missionary?"

Well, we know from God’s word that some of His people are called to devote themselves to missions, leaving jobs that confines them to a particular place and getting involved in planting churches and making disciples.[2] Therefore, the missionary movement should not suffer in our zeal to spread the word that work is a ministry. Challenge to consider foreign missions (national or overseas) should not decline due to belief that work is a ministry to the Lord.

Although the Holy Scripture mentions that work should be done as a service to the Lord (Col. 3:23-24; Eph. 6:5-6), even a cursory reading of the entire New Testament makes one to grasp its prime emphasis, which is – preaching the gospel of Jesus, making disciples, planting churches and edifying the body of Christ for the glory of God. Although Paul mentioned in Acts 20:34 about working with his own hands to supply his own needs, his passion was obviously evident in 20:24, "I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me-- the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."

Don't you suppose this should be the passion of God’s children in whichever field they are placed? I think, every Christian in the workplace should be God's missionary, passionate to spread the kingdom of God through the gospel of Christ Jesus.

Hence, this wonderful movement in the marketplace, that work is a ministry to the Lord, should challenge believers to be faithful and diligent in their jobs or business, to live a blameless life, to shine as God’s witnesses, to become active in church ministry and to spread the kingdom of God by preaching the gospel and making disciples of Christ. But a believer who believes that his/her work is a ministry to the Lord and neglects other aspects of Christian/mission/church responsibilities has been deceived by the Enemy of our soul.

Caution 2
Since work is a ministry to the Lord, a believer may use this belief to have his focus on work only to procure more money and possessions with a purpose to live a more comfortable life on earth. This temptation is great among those who are in white-collar jobs with a good paycheck.[3]

Now, there is nothing wrong in earning money and buying possessions to meet the essential needs of our life. It is no evil in moderately enjoying at times some earthly comforts. However, we know that our hearts can easily be obsessed with such things, going beyond needs to pursue our untamed wants. We need to understand that our heart is deceptive above all things and we can use a good belief as a means to gratify our selfish ambitions. We may easily pay lip service to the belief 'work is a ministry to the Lord' but our ulterior motive may be to seek comfort zone and cozy lifestyle.

It is important, therefore, that a believer is led by the following biblical principles as he/she works or does business:

• 1Co 7:31, "Those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away."

• 1Ti 6:6-10, "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it….. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."

• 1Pe 2:11, "Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul."

Furthermore, I believe, the belief that work is ministry should help believers to become good stewards of God’s blessings on earth. This should lead them to be wise in how they spend money on themselves, to be generous in giving to the missions and to be kind in helping the poor and needy. This ought to motivate them to be passionate for God’s will to be done and His kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven. Those who live this way prove to be Christ-centered and kingdom-minded. O, such are the ones who will make a tremendous difference in the marketplace for the glory of the Living God!

Finally, dear child of God, if you sincerely examine your heart in the light of Holy Spirit, how do you judge yourself in this regard?
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Notes:

[1] In fact, this transformation began in the reformation period and in Puritan movement.
[2] Of course, Paul worked and earned his living, though he had a right to be supported by the churches. This is a wonderful ministry but this does not mean everyone itinerant worker should do the same, for there were other apostles who were receiving support from the churches (1Cor. 9:5-6).
[3] Christian workers too are not immune from this temptation where ministry can become a means to earn money and indulge in earthly comforts.

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Wanted: Sanctifying Communities

2011-09-04T21:35:00.000-07:00

We are aware of the exhortation from God’s word to us—to live holy, to pursue righteousness, to shun evil and to do good. But many of us suppose this process of sanctification is something that happens in isolation. This is something individualistic. This is my pursuit, my responsibility, my concern, my commitment, my act of discipline.

Yes, we know it is the Holy Spirit who is the source of sanctification. But we assume He does His sanctifying work just personally in us—the Spirit of God sanctifies and I have to yield to His sanctifying work through submission and discipline.

Now, there is no doubt of untruth in this assertion, but is this completely true?

Sanctification in Community
It is written, "See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness" (Heb. 3:12-13). Again it says, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-- and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Heb. 10:24-25).

What do these Scriptures speak about? Does it not talk about sanctification? Exhort one another so that you can guard each other from being hardened by the deceitful work of sin. Stir up each other to love and good works so that you would not live an unproductive life. Are these not sanctifying acts?

Sanctification is not something that happens only in isolation, the Holy Spirit dealing just personally with us. It happens most importantly in a community, the Holy Spirit using each other to sanctify us. Sanctification is primarily a community event. The Spirit of God conforms us into the likeness of Christ in and through the fellowship of believers.[1]

Services without Sanctification
What can we say about contemporary Christianity? What is happening in our churches, communities and fellowships?

We modern Christians have become so overly concerned with privacy, so unduly reserved, so too preoccupied with minding one's own business that the acts of sanctification in a community has become something alien to us. John Piper rightly pointed out: "We live in a day when people shun responsibility and accountability. We are very individualistic and resistant to others holding us to any standard that might cross our immediate desires."[2]

Don’t you think our gatherings are simply external rituals without internal sanctifying ministry of one another? We come together physically but stay miles away from each other from the spiritual work of sanctification. We have formal programs and nice Sunday services but no sanctifying communities.

Sanctifying One Another
Notice, the said Scriptures—Hebrews 3:12-13; 10:24-25, does not speak about pulpit ministry, just one man exhorting all others. There is, of course, room for the ministry of leaders. But these Scriptures primarily speak of one another ministry, sanctifying each other toward holiness and love. This is a community work. This is the act of the Holy Spirit in and through the community.

Sadly, how our fellowships are merely physically connected without no spiritual connection in a way that stimulates our faith, our love, our purity and our life with God! Honestly, when we come together, is our spiritual life boosted?

O, how much holy we would become, how much loving we will be, how much we can shine as the light of the world, how much salt can be spread across, how much glory we can bring to the name of God, if we heed to these Scriptures—seeking for and building sanctifying communities, such as encouraging each another, correcting one other, rebuking each other, holding one another accountable and stirring up each other to live a life worthy of the calling we have received from the Living God!

Wanted: Glowing Fellowships
Remember, no matter how much knowledgeable I may be, having great Christian experience, I need the sanctifying fellowship of the saints that stirs up my walk with God. How few of us realize like Charles Simeon (1759-1836), the nineteenth-century spiritual giant, who said, "I love to view all my Christian friends as fuel. Having gathered you all together at my hearth, I warm myself at your fire, and find my Christian love burn and grow."[3]

I believe, one of the reasons we are so cold, so lukewarm, so shallow in Christian life is—we pursue spirituality and sanctification just as an individual act but not as a community. We somehow missed to understand from the New Testament teachings—we grow as a body, not as an individual part (1Cor. 12:14-27; Eph. 4:15-16). Thus counsels John Piper, "Put yourself in some kind of fellowship, small enough so that this one-another ministry is happening. One of my first questions in dealing with a joyless saint is, "Are you in a small group of believers who care for each other and pray for each other and ‘consider how to stir one another up to love'"? Usually the answer is no."[4]

Don’t you think this is what you need? I think, I desperately need it. O, we need sanctifying communities!

Prayer
Father in heaven, we come before Your Throne of Grace and plead unto You to forgive us of our sin of individualism. Forgive our churches for not living according to Your Word. We brought so many systems and programs which seldom reflect the life of the church you gave in your Word. Bring revival in our communities so that we may seriously take your word and build sanctifying communities.

O God, may we not be content with our current shallow Christian life and church gathering. We need the fire of Your Spirit within us which consumes each other with Your presence. Give us such communities that stir us up to live mightily for Your glory, loving each other and expanding
Your kingdom by bringing the lost into Your fold. In the name of the Chief Shepherd of the church, our Lord Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

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Notes:

[1] In some cases where the fellowship with believers is impossible, God does provide His grace to fill the lack.
[2] John Piper, When I Don’t Desire God (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2004), pg. 131
[3] Cited by Gordon MacDonald, A Resilient Life (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2004), pg. 219
[4] John Piper, When I Don’t Desire God (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2004), pg. 130

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Parents, Change Yourself First - Part 2

2011-08-27T22:53:00.000-07:00

"In everything set them an example by doing what is good."

The Holy Bible (Tit. 2:7)

[Continuation of Part 1 ]

Famous are the words of Gandhi, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." Applying this to parents, it can rightly be said, "Be the change you wish to see in your children." If I want to change my children from watching TV excessively, then I myself must exercise self-control. If I desire that my children should pray and regularly study God’s Word, then I myself should first practice in front of them. If I expect my children to always speak the truth unto me, then I myself ought to be a man of truth. If I want my children not to speak foul language or communicate in an improper manner, then I myself must abstain from such talk.

One father was upset when his son got into trouble for foul language at school. "But, Dad," the son replied, "I heard you use these same words last week." Not many children are bold in challenging their parents this way, for they may be scared of their reaction. But many do the self-talk and question their parents’ example. Examine yourself, "Do my children question my lifestyle when I lay my expectations before them?"

If I don’t model my expectations I have for my children they won’t be able to joyfully fulfill them. After all, what good does it do if parents have good intentions and expectations for their children when they are not good models. Children generally look into the lives of their parents the kind of life their parents expect from them. What an inspiration to children when they find beautiful exemplary parents who are worth imitating! The following is an example of that excitement, shared by a daughter about her father:

He has been an amazing role model. He inspires me to work hard, treat people fairly, to love God, and to enjoy life. The life he made for my family is one which I hope to be able to provide for a family of my own someday. My father instilled a foundation of faith within me since I was a child that has carried me through difficult years and allowed me to become the person I am today, and to have the relationship I have with God today.[1]

If our children are going the wrong way, pause and examine to see whether they are following our own behavior. If you see your children fighting with each other, perhaps they are following their parents who often quarrel. If you watch your married children having disruptive arguments before you, may be they are following their parents who did the same before them while they were young. It is said that one of the greatest things a father and a mother can do for their children is to model a healthy marriage.

Therefore, let’s be an example to our children because they live what they learn from their parents. If we haven’t been a good model, it is not too late for us to apologize to them for being a bad example and start living an exemplary life. The apostle Paul said to the Thessalonians, we made "ourselves a model for you to follow" (2Thess. 3:9). I believe, this should be the aim of every parent, "I will make myself a model for my children to follow."

Here is the golden rule of parenting: Be before them what you expect them to live behind you. The Puritans’ exhortation to parents on living an exemplary life before children is worth of our consideration:

Be sure to set good example before your children. . . . Other methods of instruction probably will not do much good, if you don’t teach them by a good example. Don’t think your children will mind the good rules you give them if you act contrary to those rules yourselves. . . . If your counsels are good, and your examples evil, your children will be more like to be hurt by the latter, than benefited by the former.[2]

Note: I do not mean our exemplary life is an iron-clad assurance of our children’s imitation of us. But there is a high possibility for our children to be influenced by us when we seek to be a model of the standards God had given to us. And despite living a life worth imitating by our children, if our children yet turn their back on God and on us, in that case we need not condemn ourselves but prayerfully commit them to God to lead them to repentance.

[To be continued.....]

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Notes:

[1] Cited by H. Norman Wright, A Dad-Shaped Hole in My Heart (Minneapolis, MN: Bethany House Publishers, 2005), 56
[2] Cited by Kent and Barbara Hughes, Disciplines of a Godly Family (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2007), 61

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Parents, Change Yourself First - Part 1

2011-08-22T02:29:00.000-07:00

"In everything set them an example by doing what is good."

The Holy Bible (Tit. 2:7)

Once a mother approached Mahatma Gandhi with her son. She said, "Mahatma-ji, tell my little boy to stop eating sugar." Gandhi then told her to come back with the boy in three days. When the mother returned, Gandhi said to the boy, "Stop eating sugar."

The mother curiously asked, "Why was it necessary for us to return after three days just to tell my little boy that?"

Gandhi replied, "Three days ago I had not stopped eating sugar." [1]

Dear parents, here is the point: If we want to change our children, we need to change ourselves first.

There was a word that I warned my son Joe not to use, but he could not give up. I realized that I have to change first to see my child change, for I have used the same word often before him. I changed and he too.

Children get fretful when we tell them to do a particular thing while we do the contrary. They hate hypocrisy—telling them to obey that which we ourselves don’t practice. Don H. Highlander pointed out, "If our children are disrespectful, perhaps we need to examine our own attitudes and examples. They may be responding to our inconsistency; we may be breaking our own rules."[2]

I recollect watching a story in which a young man was continuously absent from the college. The authorities of the college decided that he should get his father, or else he will be removed from the institute. He then goes and informs his father that he should visit the college while concealing the actual fact. The father, unaware of the cause, assumes it is for some formality’s sake and encourages his son to lie to the authorities that he is sick and thus cannot visit. However, when the father eventually comes to know that his son was indeed lying to him and bunked off college, his heart was shattered.

How easy it is for parents to encourage their children to lie to others, but when the children lie to them, how painful for them to endure!

What are we teaching to our children? Do you think your children are not learning to speak lies from you when you are conversing with your spouse to tell a lie at your office about being sick, only to do some personal work? How absurd it is when we teach our children to lie by our example, but when we are lied to, we get angry and either scold or spank them! Who actually deserves to be scolded or spanked—parents or children? Beware - Do not let your own exhortations to your children cut your own throat.

I am reminded of a teacher who complained to the father about how his son kept stealing things from the other kids. His son took their pens, their paper, their tape, and the teacher couldn't figure out why. Surprised to hear what his son has been doing, the father responded, “Why is my son stealing other kids' things when I am able to get all the supplies he needed from my office?” The teacher then figured out why his son steals.

No wonder, the one who steals begets alike. The one who speak lies begets alike. The one who is short-tempered begets alike. The one who is addicted to television begets alike. The one who is irreverent begets alike. The one who is ungodly begets alike.[3]

Parents, do we realize that our children are continuously watching us and following our example? Do we feel glad if they imitate us or be ashamed?

For this reason, I believe, God exhorted to treasure His commands in our hearts before impressing them upon our children: "These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children" (Deut. 6:7).

[Continuation.....Part 2]

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Notes:
[1] Cited in The Complete Idiot’s Guide to World Religions (Alpha Books, 2004), 345
[2] Don H. Highlander, Positive Parenting (Dallas: Word Books Publisher, 1980), 59

[3] Of course, exceptions considered, but the impact of our parenting, whether for good or for bad, cannot be undermined.

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Can God Be Absolutely Loving Without Being Righteous?

2011-08-07T22:00:00.000-07:00

For centuries, what stunned people, shook their hearts and moved them to tears is the scene of CROSS. The cross has become a sign of God’s ultimate expression of His love. Jesus Himself said, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends” (Jn. 15:13). The memorable John 3:16 says, “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son….” Also, Romans 5:8 declares, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

But why did Jesus have to lay down His life on the cross? Why did God sacrifice His Son for us? Why did Christ die for us, undergoing disgraceful and painful death on the cross? As we know, it is for the forgiveness of our sins. It is written, “For Christ died for sins once for all” (1Pet. 3:18).

But why did He have to do all this to forgive us? Could He not just declare forgiveness without having Christ die on the cross?

The Holy Bible reveals that God is righteous (Ps. 119:137). Can one be righteous without loving purity with perfect love and without hating sin with perfect hatred? Absolutely not! Because God is righteous, He perfectly hates sin, for sin is against His nature and attributes (Pro. 15:9, 26). And it is to meet the righteous requirements of God—Jesus had to die on the cross (Rom. 8:3-4). Everyone who sins shall die, for God is righteous; He hates sin and He ought to punish sin (Eze. 18:20a; Rom. 6:23). But God also loves us, so He poured out His wrath and curse upon Jesus, punishing our sin in Him and having Him suffer and die in our stead (Jn. 3:16; 2Cor. 5:21; Gal. 3:13).

Remember, without God’s righteousness the cross has no meaning and purpose. And without the righteousness of God, the full extent of His love could never have been manifested to us and comprehended by us. The price for our sin was so expensive—costing the life of Christ—because God’s standard of righteousness is high and perfect. O, the cross was the junction where the righteousness and the love of God fully met and kissed each other!

Here is my question: what really moves us—God simply declaring His forgiveness or the death of Christ on the cross for the atonement of our sins? Obviously, the death of Christ which gave us life! We could never have been amazed at God’s love if forgiveness was just a matter of declaration in words. It is the righteousness of God which showed God’s full extent of His love for us, the sinners. The complete expression of God’s loves was shown on the cross because it is there where God’s righteousness was fully satisfied.

Therefore, I believe, God cannot be absolutely loving without being righteous. How well it is asserted:

• Your righteousness reaches to the skies, O God, you who have done great things. Who, O God, is like you? (Ps. 71:19)

• Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. (Mic. 7:18)

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Treating Holy Spirit like Toothpaste

2011-07-24T22:11:00.000-07:00

This morning, as my children were getting ready to go to school, my wife called me and told me to brush the teeth of Joe, my youngest son. Now this is what my kid does—he applies toothpaste to his brush, puts it in his mouth and just enjoys the taste. He simply keeps it over the tongue and doesn’t properly brush his teeth. His focus is more on relishing the taste of the toothpaste than on cleaning his teeth so as to protect them from germs and bacteria.

Well, don’t you think this is how we treat the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity? It seems many of us want to feel His sweet presence, enjoy His good blessings, experience His pleasant comfort in our troubles and do some fascinating things by His power. Although there is nothing wrong to expect such things, I am concerned that in our passion to relish His sweet blessings are we missing the supreme purpose of the Holy Spirit in us?

God’s purpose in sending His Spirit is not to lead us into all pleasure, but into all truth (Jn. 16:13). God’s aim in blessing us with His Spirit is not to revive our emotions but to reveal the glory of Christ Jesus in us (Jn. 16:14). God’s desire in having His Spirit dwell in us is not to enjoy ourself but to glorify Him (Phi. 3:3). God’s passion in giving us His Spirit is not to satisfy our wants but to sanctify our soul (Rom. 8:13-14).

Of course, we do enjoy the sweetness of His blessings but that is just the byproduct of sanctification, not the supreme purpose. Let us not treat the Holy Spirit like how kids use the toothpaste to enjoy its taste without allowing it to clean. Remember, the Holy Spirit is holy and His greatest passion for us is to make us holy by sanctifying us from our sinful passions and from the contamination of the world.

“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1Thes. 5:23).

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Leadership - Hidden Vices Behind the Virtuous Screen

2011-07-16T05:40:00.001-07:00

Leadership, whether it is considered as a position or responsibility, is truly hazardous. Why? Behind the virtuous screen of the role of leadership, who knows how many vices dance and dine!

I was reading my favorite author, Eugene H. Peterson’s Under the Unpredictable Plant: An Exploration in Vocational Holiness, particularly written to shepherds or leaders in view. It is a book which strips off our pretentious and shallow rags, making us naked so as to put on genuine and fine garments.

Higher Sins
I suppose, everybody admits that leadership is a role encircled with fiery temptations. Talking about the enticements leaders confront, Peterson speaks about “lower sins” which are easily noticeable:

If I kill a man, I know that I have done wrong. If I commit adultery, I at least have the good sense not to advertise it. If I steal, I make diligent efforts not to get found out. The so-called “lower sins,” the sins of the flesh as they were once categorized, are obvious, and there is not only a community of faith but a civil community that protests against their proliferation.[1]

Not many leaders are susceptible to “lower sins.” Few are the men who fear God and shun evil; and if not out of reverence towards God, by virtue of its consequences, the disgraceful and embarrassing exposure that may follow, many live above these vices. They carry a remarkable reputation of morality, at least in relation to these visible evils.

But there are hidden vices, which Peterson calls “higher sins”. These are not so easily discerned or visible like the outward form of sins. Diagnosis is humanly difficult. They are like germs invisible to our naked eyes. He writes:

Is this outburst of zeal energetic obedience or human presumption? Is this exuberant confidence holy boldness inspired by the Holy Spirit or a boastful arrogance fed by an anxious ego? Is this assertive leadership courageous faith or self-importance? Is this suddenly prominent preacher with a large and admiring following a spiritual descendant of Peter with five thousand repentant converts or of Aaron indulging his tens of thousands with religious song and dance around the golden calf?[2]

I am tempted to add few thoughts of mine to Peterson’s list—Is this entrance into ministry driven with a passion for God and for His purposes or to make a living out of it? Is this authority used to build people’s lives or to feed one’s own ego? Is this nice demeanor a manifestation of genuine love for people or a manipulation to gratify selfish ambitions? Is this work done as a performance for public applause or to please the Living God? Is this passion for church growth ignited with a purpose to further the kingdom of God or to build one’s own kingdom?

Do you know these subtle and unseen sins, perhaps called ‘ulterior motives’, are more gross and hazardous than any other? Are you aware the reason why the Pharisees became the religious hypocrites of their time was that they focused on the visible evils while ignoring the invisible hidden vices in the heart? They hated Jesus, not primarily for breaking their traditions, but for exposing their evil hearts which was covered under the mask of devotion and ministry to God. O, may we not be overconfident of our integrity, for none of us are immune from this Pharisiac deception!

Hidden Evils
Ah, leadership—“in no other station do we have so many opportunities for pride, for covetousness, for lust, or so many excellent disguises at hand to keep such ignobility from being found out and called to account.”[3] Right, who knows how much pride exists behind that growth, how much covetousness behind that pursuit, how must lust behind that purity, how much worst evils behind those excellent virtues! Who knows how many innumerable vices lurk behind the virtuous screen of leadership!

How difficult it is to identify the hidden evils! How tough it is to see the darkness in the limelight! And how tragic it is when we ourselves are unaware of the polluted motives of our heart under the guise of spiritual leadership! I fear, while people follow us, admiring us as great saints, our heart may further be degraded by unseen evils. O Holy Lord, have mercy on us and save us from our depravity!

The Holy Scripture affirms, “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Jer. 17:9) Thankfully, it doesn’t end there. It goes further, "I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve" (17:10). True, only the omniscient Lord can bring to the shore the gigantic evils hidden in the sea of heart. Only He can deliver us from the evil one and from evil dispositions.

I can recollect numerous incidents wherein I conversed like an angelic saint but when I closeted myself in my room with my Lord, the Spirit of God revealed my demonic attitude of arrogance. I think, we leaders have to realize the grand responsibility which we have to faithfully carry on and at the same time recognize the deceptive, unrecognized, invisible evils in our heart which may compete to become the reasons for the acts we perform.

Peterson candidly pointed out, “Deception is nowhere more common than in religion. And the persons most easily and damningly deceived are leaders.”[4] I cannot but agree to this statement. We leaders are more liable to deception and corruption than any person, for deception is all along in the form of good and not easily recognized and caught. The crafty old serpent’s strategy to knock down God’s men is not by luring them to visible sins but to obviously good things behind which the intentions are horribly evil.

Therefore, may we give ourself continuously to the scrutiny of the Holy Spirit, the sanctifier of our lives and the perfect leader to guide us into all the truth. May we not walk around with a sense of saintliness but with conviction, repentance and hunger for righteousness. May we give freedom to our closest ones to hurt us by removing venomous thorns from our lives. Let us walk humbly with the Lord before whom everything is uncovered and laid bare.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
(Ps. 139:23-24)

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1. Eugene H. Peterson, Under the Unpredictable Plant: An Exploration in Vocational Holiness (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1992), 14
2. Ibid., 14
3. Ibid., 15
4. Ibid., 14

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What Happened on July 8, Two Hundred and Seventy Years Back?

2011-07-07T22:41:00.000-07:00

Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758)

On Wednesday, July 8, 1741, exactly two hundred and seventy years back, at Enfield, Connecticut, Jonathan Edwards preached a sermon which later came to be known as one of the most powerful sermons in the history of Christianity. He selected his text from Deuteronomy 32:35, “Their foot shall slide in due time.” And he titled his message “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.”

Before going further, I am afraid our age of sensation may despise Jonathan Edwards and his sermon. Our generation is brimming with such superficial preachers, sugar-coated sermons and make-me-feel-comfortable listeners that many feel nauseated by hard and strong teachings. Our current Christianity is crowded with those who get enamored by messages on love, heaven, blessings, peace and success, but not righteousness, wrath, hell, warnings and curses. Nonetheless, the Holy Bible is a book of truth—not a book of sensation, teaching with balance both love and holiness, heaven and hell, blessings and curses, kindness and wrath, peace and suffering, grace and truth.

Although many emotionally suppose Edwards to be just a “fire and brimstone” preacher, he was in fact a broken and tenderhearted man, pleading with people to know God for whom they were created. Out of his more than 1000 sermons, only few messages were as fiery as “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.” He spoke much on the sweetness, the pleasures and the glory of God which makes us to fall flat on our face before the Maker of the heavens and the earth. Just like the Holy Bible he diligently studied, he was a man of balance.

So, back to the grand day in history—July 8, 1741. It was said that when Edwards was about to preach the atmosphere was lousy. People came to the meeting as if they expected more of a fashion show than revival. One minister later wrote of the scene, “When they went into the meeting house, the appearance of the assembly was thoughtless and vain. The people hardly conducted themselves with common decency.”

Then came Jonathan Edwards, an unimpressive, tall, fragile and thin man, with a high forehead and a long narrow face. He wore thick glasses to read his sermons. His voice was not up to the standard of homiletics, for it was monotonous, not strong and not loud but yet distinct, precise and solemn. He stood like a pillar, motionless, making no gestures with his head or hands.

Now Edwards poured his heart in prayer for revival for a long period of time and prepared his sermons with great intensity and hope to see the mighty move of the Holy Spirit. The time came for the Spirit of God to honor His servant’s passion and labor. How many of us persistently pour out our hearts before God for revival and prepare messages with great anticipation for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit?

When Jonathan preached his message, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God”, before he could even finish his message, people fell down under the conviction of the Holy Spirit and began crying out. One minister reported, “There was a great moaning and crying out throughout the whole house. What shall I do to be saved? Oh I am going to Hell. Oh what shall I do for Christ.”

The atmosphere at the time was filled with such solemnity that they imagined the floor had opened and they were about to be swallowed up. There was such weeping, outcry and distress in the congregation that Edwards could not be heard. Although he asked them to be quiet, they could not and Edwards never finished the sermon. The revival continued for a long duration—converting souls, reviving the lukewarm, enlivening charity, increasing godliness and bringing untold glory to God.

If you ask me, “What do you think is the greatest need of our time?” I reply, “Not evangelism, not charity, not church planting…etc but REVIVAL.” Yes, we need revival. When revival comes, the former activities would be the outcome done with great zeal and love. Without revival, whatever we do may become shallow and dreary acts.

O, what the Lord had wrought through His servant, Jonathan Edwards, may He do that again in our time! May He raise servants—as bold and tender, as full of the Spirit and the word, as laborious and dependent on God, as bright and humble, as studious and prayerful, as God-soaked and passionate for the lost—as Edwards.

Lord, send your wind of revival upon us and sweep away lukewarmness and worldliness from our lives. Set our hearts on fire to love you passionately and to live for your glory and to accomplish your divine purpose on earth. Amen.

Here is a brief excerpt of the words Edwards spoke on July 8, 1741.

Your wickedness makes you as it were heavy as lead, and to tend downwards with great weight and pressure toward hell…There are the black clouds of God’s wrath now hanging over your heads, full of the dreadful storm, and big with thunder…

The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider, or some loathsome insect, over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked; his wrath towards you burns like a fire; he looks upon you as worthy of nothing else, but to be cast into the fire; he is of purer eyes than to bear to have you in his sight; you are ten thousand times so abominable in his eyes as the most hateful venomous serpent is in ours. You have offended him infinitely more than ever a stubborn rebel did his price; and yet ‘tis nothing but his hand that holds you from falling into the fire every moment: ‘tis to be ascribed to nothing else, that you did not go to hell the last night…but that God’s hand has held you up: there is no other reason to be given why you haven’t gone to hell since you have sat here in the house of God, provoking his pure eyes by your sinful wicked manner of attending his solemn worship: yea, there is nothing else that is to be given as a reason why you don’t this very moment drop down into hell.

Oh sinner! Consider the fearful danger you are in…

And now you have an extraordinary opportunity, a day wherein Christ has flung the door of mercy wide open, and stands in the door calling and crying with a loud voice to poor sinners;…many that were very lately in the same miserable condition that you are in, are now in a happy state, with their hearts filled with love to him that has loved them and washed them from their sins in his own blood, and rejoicing in hope of the glory of God. How awful is it to be left behind at such a day!
Click here to read the entire sermon: http://www.ccel.org/ccel/edwards/sermons.sinners.html

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Source referred: Roberts Liardon, God's Generals: The Revivalists (New Kensington, PA: Whitaker House, 2008), pg. 157-159

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Who is this Most Controversial Person?

2011-07-03T21:36:00.000-07:00

Who is this most controversial person? Who is this person about whom the world has diverse, conflicting views? I suppose, no issue has been as much studied and as much debated and as much reaped contrasting beliefs as the subject of ‘God’.

The question, “Who is God?” is the most important matter on the face of the earth. There are diverse views regarding who God is. Some argue, “There is no God,” i.e. naturalists claim the physical universe is all that exists. Some claim, “knowing yourself is knowing god within you,” i.e. self is god. Others say, “God is everything and everything is god,” i.e. they claim that god exists in idols, animals, and nature. Some propose, “God is a supreme power,” i.e. he is reckoned as an impersonal force.

Moreover, there are others who say, “God is someone who is extraordinary,” i.e. anyone who seems to be extraordinary—whether in knowledge, might, or in character trait—is seen as god. To them all who are unusually knowledgeable or mighty or morally good are seen as gods. Some assume, “There is one God but in many forms,” i.e. there are many demigods. Others state, “God is a mystical being incomprehensible to human beings,” i.e. skeptics say he is an unknowable being. Yet some contend, “God is a being separate and distinct from every created thing,” i.e. a transcendent one.

In this chaotic world where multiple religions, philosophies, and beliefs try to define God, we see that each gains a following, but, can all be right? Unfortunately, people are gullible enough to following anything without the careful examination that it requires. Some, in an attempt to bring unity in this diversity, say, “everything is right; nothing is wrong; there are different beliefs yet all roads lead to one God.” Though this seems appealing, it, in fact, is not reasonable and logically convincing. If one can propose that everything is equally true then it is quiet possible that everything is equally false.

Ignorance of the right knowledge of God is the greatest problem worldwide. An unsound perspective of God’s nature will undoubtedly lead to false conclusions and make anything a god. However, one needs to pursue the truth about the grand characteristics of God, which disqualifies all supposed gods for lack of genuine attributes.

Reason and common sense implies: Considering this massive universe, God must be the Creator of all existence. Everything man knows is finite, including himself, so a Creator God must be superior and Infinite. Man’s knowledge and power is finite, so the Creator God, who is greater, must be all-knowing and all-powerful. If man is a relational being, no doubt his Creator must be a personal rational being too (not necessarily having a physical body, but a capacity to feel, think, relate, desire and decide). Finite man is limited by time and space, but God, being superior, must be eternal and unbound by time and space. Finite man dwells in a world where good and evil conflict, but God dwells beyond those limitations and possesses the highest attributes like – the purest love, kindness, compassion, patience, righteousness, holiness and justice. In fact, He must be the ultimate truth.

Just think, no sane person can claim himself to be a doctor without studying medicine, an engineer without finishing engineering, a farmer without knowing farming. And no one can claim himself to be God without having the basic qualifications mentioned above. Sadly, man has become so self-centered that the magnificent knowledge of God has been blurred by his selfishness. We are living in an age where “knowing yourself” has become more important than “knowing God.” Man’s self-induced beliefs have blindfolded him from seeing the Truth as it is. But the lofty sense of who God is compels us to pursue the actual God who is superior to all.

Who do you think is perfectly qualified in your view?

There is one reliable truth where God has revealed Himself. This book has proven itself—historically, archeologically, geographically, scientifically, prophetically, internally (unity of the books), supernaturally and practically—genuine. And this Holy Bible speaks of the God who is Self-Existent, Creator, Infinite, Sovereign, Unchanging, Incomparable, Holy, Loving, Personal, and Eternal. Therefore, He alone is worthy for worship and obedience.

At one time the human race knew this God intimately, but through sin, all mankind became separated from God. Regretfully, man in his sinful state has lost the godly knowledge and relationship with this wonderful God. The evidence of immorality, violence, distortion of truth, deception, hatred, injustice, and selfishness in the world proves how blinded man has become to comprehend the knowledge of truth.

But what is the knowledge of the truth?

The knowledge of the truth is—all are sinners and thus separated from the holy God. Nevertheless, in His passionate love for mankind, God came as a man, who is called Jesus Christ. He suffered for our sins, shed His blood on the Cross and eventually laid His life for us. That’s not the end. He rose again on the third day to prove that He is the Savior of the whole world. He commanded people to repent of their sins and to trust in Him to save them from inner emptiness, spiritual blindness, and everlasting destruction caused from sin. If you will, call upon Jesus in your heart—who is your Creator, the Savior and your only hope. Reflect on this truth and make a good decision that matters for eternity.

References from the Holy Bible: Exodus 3:14; Psalm 71:16; 86:8; 115:15; 147:5; Hebrews 13:8; 1 Peter 1:16; 1 John 4:16; Isaiah 40:11; 1 Timothy 1:17; Romans 1:21; 3:23; 1 Corinthians 15:3-5; Luke 24:46-47. Romans 6:23.

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June 26th—Why Is It An Unforgettable Day of My Life?

2011-06-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

I have earned the reputation among those intimate with me about being a forgetful person. My friend says he can write a book on this funny part of my life. Then how is my mind stamped with this date—June 26th?

This day is the most remarkable day of my life. It is more important than the day I was born. It is more auspicious than the day I got married. It is more memorable that the day my children were born. Moreover, it would be more wonderful than the day I would die.

“Why is it so” you might question?

This June 26th, 2011, takes my thoughts back to June 26th, 1996. Fifteen years back, on this day, I woke up from my bed with heavy conviction about the serious issues of life. Eventually, the Spirit of God brought me to the feet of Jesus. It was on this day that I gave my life to my beloved Jesus and became His child and disciple. [Click here later to read my brief testimony about how I came to know the Lord]

How I came to Christ is still a wonder to me! I didn’t experience a miracle, didn’t hear an audible voice and didn’t see a vision or dream. I wasn’t even driven for earthly blessings. I was simply wallowing in sin. But how good and gracious the Lord is—He sent His Spirit to convict me of my sins and of the reality of His presence and glory! I didn’t seek Him; He sought me. What an amazing blessing to be found by the Maker of the heavens and the earth!

“So what?” “What radical difference did it make as a result of believing in Christ?” some might ask.

This wondrous song, written by John W. Peterson in 1961, well expresses the excitement of my heart:

O what a wonderful, wonderful day, day I will never forget;
After I'd wandered in darkness away, Jesus my Saviour I met.
O what a tender, compassionate friend, He met the need of my heart;
Shadows dispelling, with joy I am telling, He made all the darkness depart.

Heaven came down and glory filled my soul,
When at the cross the Saviour made me whole;
My sins were washed away and my night was turned to day,
Heaven came down and glory filled my soul!

[Click here later to listen to this complete song.....]

On this day and from then onward, the Lord has made a world of difference in me. My life was tremendously impacted in many ways. Because of time constraint, let me share just a few of them.

Grand Purpose
I lived a life without purpose. Everything that I was doing under the sun; all of them were meaningless, a chasing after the wind. I didn’t know the reason for my existence and had no meaningful aim to live on earth. I lived for the sake of living and had done things for the sake of doing. I had no idea from where I came, what should I be doing on earth and where I was heading. I sailed in this world like a ship without a rudder.

Everything was centered on me—my pleasures, my ambitions, my money. And you know, when ‘self’ becomes the master, the wages it gives is ‘misery’. Ah, my life was miserable in serving myself!

Then when the day came, the glorious moment of knowing Christ personally, I had stopped beating around the bush. O, I found the grand purpose of my life! For the first time, I became excited and passionate to live for someone worth living for. I realized—I am not the reason for my existence; there is an infinite, greater Being than me (a finite one) who created the whole universe; there is a greater purpose for my life than just me and my world.

Colossians 1:16 gives a definite answer to the purpose of life—“For by Him [Christ Jesus] all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and for Him.”

What a great revelation! All things, everything—you and me and everyone—were created by Him and for Him. What a joy to know—Stephen David was created by Christ and for Christ! When Christ has created me for Himself, I have no better purpose and meaningful way to live than for Him. He is the cause for my existence. He is the purpose of my life on earth. He is my hope with whom I would be living eternally.

When Christ became the Lord of my life, joy and peace flowed in me like streams of water in the wasteland. From a dry desert land He made my life a beautiful meadow. Yes, I am amazed at what Christ wrought in me!

Radical Change
The other day, I was telling my wife and children—you people have to be thankful to God forever, for if I was not transformed by Christ, I could have made your lives hell. Thankfully, my home is now a haven only because of Jesus. Without Christ, no doubt, I could have become either a smuggler or some criminal. That was the crooked path I chose. I was bent on doing evil things. Although I was there a few times due to minor offenses, I could have certainly ended someday behind bars because of serious crimes. I could have been a wicked and immoral husband, an abusive father and a stench to those around.

Can someone love a wretched man like me? Unimaginable! I could not point to one person, from among the millions of gods many Indians believe (once I was among them), and say, “He loved me and gave Himself for me.” When my eyes were opened to the gospel, I could point to only one person and say—Christ loves, shed His blood on the Cross, offered His body to pay the price for the forgiveness of sins and rose again on the third day. How soothing are these words from Romans 5:8-9:

Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

And that is not just a historical fact; it has become a personal and lively experience of my daily life. He loved me and gave Himself for me, a being unworthy of His abounding love and worthy of His holy wrath! Although He is currently invisible to my physical eyes (and one day I going to see Him face to face), His love and holy move that I experience by His Spirit living within me is more real than I can express. Thank you Jesus for revealing Yourself to me!

Considering how I loved sin and desired doing sinful things, I could never have changed myself. Only someone, who is perfectly holy, loving and sovereign, could do. And when I was encountered by that loving and holy person, Jesus Christ, I didn’t just received forgiveness for my sins but my life too was radically changed. He made me a different person.

Of course, I am not perfect but God is patiently working on my life to shape me in becoming a person He wants me to be. There were times I turned my back on Him and forsook His ways; however, He didn’t give up on me and won me back.

It really amazes me—the person who was a thorn to those around him, Jesus has touched him and is now using him to be a blessing to many. My heart gets excited when I see Christ touching lives and making a difference in them through me. I give all glory to Him who is doing good things in and through my life.

Unflinching Hope
Were you ever struck with these thoughts—What would happen to me after I die? Where will I go?

Earlier I avoided thinking about such things. I was obsessed with making money and thriving in life in whatever crooked way possible. But when God arrested my attention to consider the inescapable fact called ‘death’, it was a chilling moment.

When Christ Jesus saved me, my whole perspective about life, death and afterlife has changed. I didn’t just find purpose to live on earth but also found hope to die here peacefully. My mind was enlightened to the glorious fact that death in Christ is birthday in heaven. I realized that death is not the end of the road; it is just a speed bump.

Because there is life after death and am accountable to God about how I live on earth, I endeavor by God’s enabling grace to live a godly life, not to attain salvation but out of gratitude for receiving it. Because there is life after death, I am encouraged to endure afflictions on earth with hope that life will be gloriously different in the afterlife (heaven). Because there is life after death, I am not hopelessly frightened to face death. Because of what Christ had done on the Cross, I can shout, "Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death is your victory? Where, O death is your sting?" (1Cor. 15:54-55)

Before Christ, I had no words to respond when questioned—what would be my reaction if I know I am going to die in a moment? I lived in despair. But now, in Christ, how marvelously different! Before his death, the great evangelist D.L. Moody said, “Someday you will read in the papers that D. L. Moody of East Northfield is dead. Don’t you believe a word of it! At that moment I shall be more alive than I am now.” That would be my response too—I would be more alive than I am now. I know my destiny. I will kiss the rod of death and fall into the arms of my Lord. Maranatha!

Think and Decide
Friend, if you haven’t put your trust in Jesus and living a purposeless life, eventually to face hopeless death, I invite you to come to Christ who loved you and laid His life on the Cross for you. He is the One you need to save you from your sins and from living a miserable life here and forever. Everybody dies here but not everyone dies with hope. That unflinching hope to face death boldly is found only in Christ, the ultimate conqueror of death.

Or maybe you have once put your trust in Christ but now have fallen in love with the world and became cold in your love for the Lord. Then I urge you to repent of your worldliness and turn to the One who forgives you and gives you a new beginning. Nothing can satisfy you except the Maker of your soul who created you for Himself. Heed these words of your beloved Savior, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door of your heart, I will come in and fellowship with you and you with me."

"Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen." (1Ti 1:17)

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A Leader and His Family

2011-06-20T21:52:00.000-07:00

We leaders suppose our greatest responsibility is to minister to the church and world. We miss to understand that family is one great responsibility God has given to us, much greater responsibility than church and ministry. We are unfit for ministry if we neglect this primary responsibility that God has entrusted to us to disciple them in His ways....

The following message "A Leader and His Family" is delivered in two sessions, in a meeting "Leaders Fellowship Network", on June 15th, 2011. This video is just an excerpt. May the Lord accomplish His glorious purpose through the message!

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