THE GOSPEL BLOG!

Poem: "Peace on Earth" by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Peace on earth:

a greeting which first came unto some shepherds in Bethlehem,

tellin' them of Jesus' birth.

Peace on earth is something He would earn by His death.

God is righteous, and only satisfied with righteousness.

This is what Christ lived His life with.

And when He died, it was a sacrifice which provided

peace, in the highest sense of the word.

Christ entered the world

to reconcile men, who were defiled with sin, to The Lord.

Truly, before we could know any peace on earth,

God's holy justice must've been appeased first.

The Lord Jesus' work at the Cross restored peace between us & God.

By us, I mean the believers of the Gospel

and others in this world, who are His, but who are lost, though.

Eventually, these particular sheep will also be brought into the fold.

The glory of God they'll behold,

who will have wrought peace in their souls.

Gospel preaching is the info by which men know

that God is at peace with them.

“Peace on earth, good will to men”

means that God's will for them

is to turn to Jesus. He is God's terms of peace &

the means by which He deals with sin.

For Christ's sake, He forgives them;

inwardly cleanses; gives repentance, and makes them live with a significant difference,

which is only reasonable, since He speaks whole peace to their souls.

This is the true peace on earth, and indeed it’s beautiful.

When His peace is revealed, we will believe and be healed and be whole.

Otherwise, due to our evil, and because of our hearts being so dark and deceitful,

"Peace on earth "is a credo, which we know nothing much of,

until we behold God's abundant love,

in sending us His Son from above.

This is the sum & the substance of

the glad tidings of which the Scriptures teach.

From Genesis to Revelation,

Jesus, the Word of God, speaks

and His word to the people of God is: "Peace."

"He Inquired of Them" (Matthew 2:4) by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 08:00:00 +0000

"And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet:

‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
Are not the least among the rulers of Judah;
For out of you shall come a Ruler
Who will shepherd My people Israel.’'

Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.” (Matthew 2:3-7)

Herod and his people in Jerusalem were troubled by the arrival of Christ, who was “born King of the Jews” (v2). They had the Scriptures, which foretold of Christ, but did not believe the Scriptures in such a way, as to be comforted by them. When Herod referred to the Scriptures, what did he expect to find? He made an insincere inquiry, and missed out on the Gospel.

Know Christ; Don’t Just Know About Him
"And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born" (v4).

When we approach the Scriptures, will it be for mere information, or will we actually put into practice what we learn from the word of God? The Scriptures were written for us to know Christ, in a saving way. The Scriptures can only be of value to our souls, as they compel us to worship God in Spirit and truth, bowing to Christ, in the obedience of faith. When rightly used, the Scriptures bring us unto confession, forgiveness, cleansing and repentance of sin. Any use of the Scriptures that does not involve the forsaking of ourselves to follow The Lord Jesus Christ, is a misuse of the Book. May Herod’s treachery stand as a warning to us, that we would not handle the word of God deceitfully.

Herod had no intention of bowing to what was written. In fact, he consulted the Scriptures, only to find a way out of believing the good news. How many people today have such an attitude about the Gospel? How many people, rather than looking for Christ in the Scriptures, in order to worship Him, treat the Bible as an interesting textbook of historical facts and conventional principles - or even worse - a compilation of fables to merely demonstrate moral lessons? It's this type of thinking that leads people to believe that the Bible is a "take it or leave it" type of book, with teachings that are optional and/or on the same level as other texts that have been written throughout the ages. Such thinking is confronted by the stark claim that the Holy Bible is God’s word, and the fact that all 66 of its books cohesively testify of Christ, who Himself, is the Word of God.

A diverse collection of men penned the Bible, but the Spirit of God is the Author (2 Peter 1:20-21), and Christ is its singular message (John 5:39). Furthermore, every person who has ever lived will be judged by what's in that Book. It deserves much more consideration than the average person typically gives it (religious, or otherwise). Like Herod, many people make the horrible mistake of approaching the Scriptures the wrong way - not seeking to know and obey God's revealed will.

We see that in verses 4-6 of Matthew 2, Herod had Micah 5 read to him by the chief priests and scribes, whose job it was to study the writings of Moses and the prophets. They were supposedly well-versed experts in the Scriptures, but they missed Christ. It's a tragic example of people who had the Scriptures, but did not live by them. Let's all avoid the folly of trifling with God's word (and our own souls) like this.

"And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet:
‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
Are not the least among the rulers of Judah;
For out of you shall come a Ruler
Who will shepherd My people Israel.’” (Matthew 2:4-6)

This text contained some wonderful news for God’s elect. It can be said of Herod, like all others who perish in unbelief, that he did not believe because he was not of Christ’s chosen sheep (John 10:26). However, he was still culpable for every bit of his rebellion. Rather than being brought Godward by the Scriptures, Herod willfully misused them, and missed out on the blessings contained therein.

Paul told Timothy that: ^“all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16).

The Scriptures were written for a specific purpose, but those who twist them, do so "to their own destruction" (2 Peter 3:16). Like many an unregenerate sinner, Herod's immediate agenda, upon hearing the Gospel, was to discount it; prove it untrue; put an end to it; stamp it out - although he pretended to be in alignment with it.

Seek Christ For Yourself
"Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also” (Matthew 2:7-8).

Notice Herod’s directive to the wise men: “Go and search carefully…” What if Herod, himself, would have been a careful seeker? He would have found mercy, salvation and eternal life! But instead, he delegated the task to others. And those others were called wise men for a reason. They sought The Lord and found Him. Herod did not do so, and remained a fool.

Notice his words: “when you have found Him…” We cannot outsource the pursuit of inward peace that our souls require. We cannot count on others to find God for us. We must be active seekers, and sincere worshippers. Then, rather than saying “bring back word to me,” we can dig into the Scriptures to get our own particular needs met, and find out for ourselves what God’s will is. If we don’t, by the Gospel, get to Christ on a personal basis, we will have no relationship with God the Father, and no comfort of the Holy Spirit.

What if Herod would have gotten up from his vain throne and made a sincere pilgrimage after that star, like those wise men did? What if he would’ve thought enough about his eternal soul, to step out of the temporary comforts of his kingly palace, and embark upon a journey to find this true King, that they (and the Scriptures) spoke of? What if he would’ve arrived with them at that lowly manger, where the King of kings was laying, and worshipped Him, like everyone else there? Tragically for Herod, this is not how his history reads. He did not seek, nor find Christ. He was content to send others (who were, themselves, already en route). Herod had his own agenda, which did not involve bowing to the Son of God.

Herod had no intention of worshipping Christ. His pretense is reminiscent of many today who would call themselves "Christian," but in their hearts, they will not seek God's will as supreme. They still want to maintain their own self-rule and self-righteousness, rather than seeking "the kingdom of God and His righteousness" (Matthew 6:33). Let's be mindful that those three wise men, who left what they had, and pursued Christ, did not miss out on anything. They were blessed, beyond measure, to have been worshippers of King Jesus. Whatever they may have had before they found Him, it paled in comparison to the "unsearchable riches of Christ" (Ephesians 3:8).

Conversely, like Herod, all other fraudulent worshippers will be sorely disappointed. Herod never heard back from the wise men (Matthew 2:12). Likewise, those who trifle with the Gospel, and don't give Christ the honor and reverence He deserves, place themselves in danger of perishing, without hearing any more good news from God, or His people. Those who will not live by the word of God will die without the word of God. In Hell, they’ll never hear, nor see, nor experience anything good again…..ever.

Fraudulent Worship Breeds Mad Hatred
"Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men." (Matthew 2:16)

The Lord had warned the wise men in a dream not to return to Herod. When it was discovered that they would not play into his game, Herod became “exceedingly angry.” This extreme anger can be contrasted with the extreme gladness of the wise men, who, “when they saw the star, rejoiced with exceedingly great joy” (v10). In these two extremes, we can see how everyone can fit into one of two categories, with regard to the Gospel. They will either react with joy, or with anger. Those who are offended by the Gospel will direct their disagreeable anger at both the message and the messengers. Ultimately, their hatred is against God. However, since they are powerless to take their anger out on The Lord, they take it out on whomever they can.

Herod, in this insanely ruthless execution campaign, sought to stamp out the Gospel, by any means. He started out as a dissident to the Gospel, and ended up as a murderous madman, on a rampage. I’m reminded of how Cain slew his righteous brother Abel, setting the precedent for all future persecutions – from the killing of the prophets, to the crucifixion of Christ, to the martyrdom of His disciples over the past 2000 years. These murders have been perpetrated by both religious and secular adversaries. Such is the climate of current persecution that God’s people endure today. But neither this, nor even the very gates of Hell, can prevail against Christ’s church.

Troubled by Good News? (Matthew 2:1-3) by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 08:00:00 +0000

"Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.’ When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him." (Matthew 2:1-3)

Why would anyone be troubled by good news? We’ll see, in this text, an example of such nonsensical reasoning. As a result of sin’s presence and influence in this world, human minds can indeed be so corrupt, as to be troubled by good news. It's a fact that many people are troubled, albeit needlessly, by the Gospel. In King Herod's day, there were some who were glad at the coming of Christ, and others who were troubled by it. In our day, there still exists a distinction between people: those who rejoice in the Gospel of Christ's kingdom, and those who reject Him.

Before we proceed with our main text, let's consider how unnecessary the consternation was, and is. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came into this world on an errand of pure mercy and love. He came to rescue sinners from having Hell as their destination, and to prepare them for Heaven. He came to bring evil people unto their Holy God, in a full restoral of the peace that was lost, due to sin. He came to die for the ungodly, taking upon Himself the punishment for their crimes. He came to make wicked people righteous. Any way you look at it, this is good news - a precious gem; beautiful from all sides. And yet, this ultimate gesture of God's goodness is despised by many eternity-bound human beings, who'd otherwise benefit greatly from it. Who can understand such unreasonable insolence? Here's a portion of Scripture that we can rely on, to explain what seems inexplicable:

"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil." (John 3:17-19)

This is an accurate description of everyone who hears and rejects the Gospel, as pictured by the reaction of King Herod to the news about King Jesus.

Wise Men Seek The Lord
In the 2nd chapter of Matthew, Herod and those in his kingdom had just heard about the birth of Christ, from three wise men, who travelled a long way, searching Him out. These wise men had heard about Him, who was "born King of the Jews" (v2), and were excited about this good news. They had apparently understood something that Herod and his pseudo-religious cohorts did not. Something was revealed to them that caused them to embark upon a journey to find Him. They enquired about Him with diligence. And when they found Him, they worshipped Him, and presented Him with gifts. Similarly, every believer, after hearing about King Jesus, begins a lifelong quest to seek Him. We follow that bright star (the light of Gospel truth) and seek Him, according to His word. And finding Him, we are lifelong worshippers of Him. This worship also involves offering Him the gift of our very lives, as we open the treasures He gave us, and render myriad forms of praise, devotion, honor and thankful service.

These three wise men in the text represent a wonderful picture of faith, and the wisdom that it exhibits! If any person on this planet can truly be called wise, he or she will be a seeker of Christ. We see, by the example of these three wise men, that wise people hear and believe the Gospel - so much so, that they seek The Lord.

This is in direct contrast to Herod and his people, who were troubled by the same news. But why? Why did the good news of Christ's arrival bring dread to Herod and his people in Jerusalem? They had the Scriptures that prophesied of Christ, and as Jews, they were supposed to have been awaiting the coming of the Messiah. Why didn't they rejoice, and see it as an awesome blessing, that the Christ would come in their generation?! Why did the Gospel, instead, disturb them? Why were they troubled?!

The wise men were not troubled! They were very enthusiastic (Matthew 2:10). The shepherds in the field were not troubled! They praised and glorified God for the good tidings of great joy that the angels proclaimed to them (Luke 2:8-20). Mary was not troubled! She magnified The Lord for His mercy and the fulfillment of His promise to Israel (Luke 1:46-56). Joseph was not troubled! He, himself, a "son of David," was also looking for the promise, and it was surely an honor for Him to, as the angel told him, name his stepson: "Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:20-21). How wonderful that our God would have His name/identity wrapped up in the salvation of His people from their sins! And, indeed He is our God, having that other name, "Immanuel...God with us" (Matthew 2:23). This magnificent Person causes the heart of every believer to rejoice! The world of unbelievers may be troubled by the Gospel, but believers are not troubled! This is our hope of salvation and eternal life! This is the message that shows us how our sins are forgiven!

Christ “Has Been Born King”
This text in Matthew 2 gives us a small glimpse of what distinguishes those who would be King Jesus' willing subjects, from those who would persist to be His mutinous enemies. We've already sought to examine the rationale behind their bewilderment against Him, and were shown that an innate preference for sin, and love of their own darkness, causes them to resist the Light. Herod's example provides us with specific details that contribute to this point. Simply put, Herod was disturbed by the news of Christ, because Herod, at that point in time, was considered king of the Jews. There had been many Jewish kings, since Saul, but Jesus is the only one who was "born King of the Jews."

Herod did not rejoice in this good news of Christ's arrival because he viewed it as a threat to his own meager throne. The Scriptures clearly showed that the fulfillment of Christ's promised coming would be to the benefit of that entire nation (including Herod, if he'd only acquiesced). And yet, there was still dismay. This Gospel wasn't good news to those who were comfortable with their current ranks and positions, preferring temporal frivolity above eternal life. Although the Jews, at that time, were under the thumb of the Roman Empire, those of them, who had a little authority, thought themselves to be great. Herod didn't want to hear about another King, whom he would have to bow the knee to. He was satisfied with the carnal ease, privileges and esteem that came with being the "king."

Oh! What a picture of the natural man! We will not bow the knee to Christ, because we do not want to forfeit our own throne. We hear the Good News: the Gospel of Christ, and we say "we will not have this man to reign over us" (Luke 19:14). We have sins that we do not want to let go of. We enjoy being the bosses of our own lives; the masters of our own realities. But how foolish are we to think that we can push God Almighty off of His throne! How futile are our efforts to retain our own fleeting kingdoms! How unwise are we to think that we do not have to acknowledge Him as our Master, to whom we must give account!

Herod Died
Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” (Matthew 2:19-20)

There was a day of reckoning for Herod. He would eventually (sooner than he knew) forego his throne and exit his kingdom. Moreover, he would leave his own body. In the end, all he had was his eternal soul. He could not take with him any of the wealth or status that he enjoyed, while on earth. Not one possession, nor position, could he carry with him to the other side. How foolish of him to live for those things, in light of eternity, and the consequences that awaited him.

Meanwhile, the Gospel continued to prosper. Christ would go on to fulfill His mission, and there was nothing that Herod, or any other enemy could do to prevent it. Despite mankind's revelry, the kingdom of God has been advancing and abounding for thousands of years. Our individual responses to the Gospel will continue to define each of our destinies. As in Herod's day, there will be wise people who kiss the Son of God, and there will be fools who experience the kindling of His wrath, having refused to bow (Psalm 2).

Which side will we be on, when death comes for us? There came a time when King Herod, like all men, had to die. As you're reading this, I implore you to take heed to this lesson. Don't be as Herod, who refused the good news about the kindness of God toward sinners. Don't be offended by something so glorious and helpful. Don't imitate Herod's pretense of worship. Be real with God, and get mercy. Don't retain a low regard for God's word. Don't even think that you can escape, by being indifferent. To do so, is to run the risk of your obstinacy, like Herod's, soon being discovered as all-out hatred. Don't leave this world, having been troubled by good news. You will die as you lived, and the good news will trouble you forever. You will endure the torment of regret, knowing that you refused the King's invitation to eternal life.

Right now, on this side of eternity, there is a chance for everyone alive to obey the words of King Jesus, who has pronounced this gracious message: “The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe the Gospel.” (Mark 1:15)

"Pray for Us" by George Whitefield

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 08:00:00 +0000

1 Thessalonians 5:25 - "Brethren, pray for us."

You ought to pray for those, whom "the Holy Ghost hath made OVERSEERS over you." This is what St. Paul begs, again and again, of the churches to whom he writes: Says he in the text, "Brethren, pray for us;" and again, in his epistle to the Ephesians, "praying always, with all manner of supplication; and for me also, that I may open my mouth boldly, to declare the mystery of the gospel." And in another place, to express his earnestness in this request, and the great importance of their prayers for him, he bids the church "strive, (or, as the original word signifies, be in an agony) together with him in their prayers." And surely, if the great St. Paul, that chosen vessel, that favorite of heaven, needed the most importunate prayers of his Christian converts; much more do the ordinary ministers of the gospel stand in need of the intercession of their respective flocks.

And I cannot but in a more especial manner insist upon this branch of your duty, because it is a matter of such importance: for, no doubt, much good is frequently withheld from many, by reason of their neglecting to pray for their ministers, and which they would have received, had they prayed for them as they ought. Not to mention, that people often complain of the want of diligent and faithful pastors. But how do they deserve good pastors, who will not earnestly pray to God for such? If we will not pray to the Lord of the harvest, can it be expected He will send forth laborers into His harvest?

Besides, what ingratitude is it, not to pray for your ministers! For shall they watch and labor in the word and doctrine for you, and your salvation, and shall not you pray for them in return? If any bestow favors on your bodies, you think it right, meet, and your bounden duty, to pray for them; and shall not they be remembered in your prayers, who daily feed and nourish your souls? Add to all this, that praying for your ministers, will be a manifest proof of your believing, that though Paul plant, and Apollos water, yet it is God alone who giveth the increase. And you will also find it the best means you can use, to promote your own welfare; because God, in answer to your prayers, may impart a double portion of His Holy Spirit to them, whereby they will be qualified to deal out to you larger measures of knowledge in spiritual things, and be enabled more skillfully to divide the word of truth.

Would men but constantly observe this direction, and when their ministers are praying in their name to God, humbly beseech Him to perform all their petitions: or, when they are speaking in God's name to them, pray that the Holy Ghost may fall on all them that hear the word; we should find a more visible good effect of their doctrine, and a greater mutual love between ministers and their people. For ministers hands would then be held up by the people's intercessions, and the people will never dare to villify or traduce those who are the constant subjects of their prayers.

- Excerpt from sermon entitled: "Intercession - Every Christian's Duty"

Thank The Good Lord (Spurgeon excerpt)

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 08:00:00 +0000

O give thanks unto the LORD. For He is good. Because His mercy endureth for ever. (Psalm 118:1)

For He is good.

This is reason enough for giving Him thanks; goodness is His essence and nature, and therefore He is always to be praised, whether we are receiving anything from Him or not. Those who only praise God because He does them good should rise to a higher note and give thanks to Him because He is good.

In the truest sense, He alone is good, "There is none good but one, that is God"; therefore in all gratitude the Lord should have the royal portion. If others seem to be good, He is good. If others are good in a measure, He is good beyond measure. When others behave badly to us, it should only stir us up the more heartily to give thanks unto the Lord because He is good; and when we ourselves are conscious that we are far from being good, we should only the more reverently bless Him that "He is good."

We must never tolerate an instant's unbelief as to the goodness of the Lord; whatever else may be questionable, this is absolutely certain, that Jehovah is good; His dispensations may vary, but His nature is always the same, and always good. It is not only that He was good, and will be good, but He is good; let His providence be what it may. Therefore let us even at this present moment, though the skies be dark with clouds, yet give thanks unto His name.

CH Spurgeon (from The Treasury of David)

"Righteous Grace" by Horatius Bonar

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:00:00 +0000

We have spoken of God's character as "the God of all grace." We have seen that it is in "tasting that the Lord is gracious" that the sinner has peace.

But let us keep in mind that this grace is the grace of a righteous God; it is the grace of One who is Judge as well as Father. Unless we see this we shall mistake the Gospel, and fail in appreciating both the pardon we are seeking, and the great sacrifice through which it comes to us. No vague forgiveness, arising out of mere paternal love, will do. We need to know what kind of pardon it is; and whether it proceeds from the full recognition of our absolute guiltiness by Him who is to "judge the world in righteousness." The right kind of pardon comes not from love alone, but from law; not from good nature, but from righteousness; not from indifference to sin, but from holiness.

The inquirer who is only half in earnest overlooks this. His feelings are moved, but his conscience is not roused. Hence he is content with very vague ideas of God's mere compassion for the sinner's unhappiness. To him human guilt seems but human misfortune, and God's acquittal of the sinner little more than the overlooking of his sin. He does not trouble himself with asking how the forgiveness comes, or what is the real nature of the love which he professes to have received. He is easily soothed to sleep, because he has never been fully awake. He is, at the best, a stony-ground hearer; soon losing the poor measure of joy that he may have got; becoming a formalist; or perhaps a trifler with sin; or it may be, a religious sentimentalist.

But he whose conscience has been pierced, is not so easily satisfied. He sees that the God, whose favor he is seeking, is holy as well as loving; and that He has to do with righteousness as well as grace. Hence the first inquiry that he makes is as to the righteousness of the pardon which the grace of God holds out. He must be satisfied on this point, and see that the grace is righteous grace, ere he can enjoy it all. The more alive he is to his own unrighteousness, the more does he feel the need of ascertaining the righteousness of the grace which we make known to him.

It does not satisfy him to say, that, since it comes from a righteous God, it must be righteous grace. His conscience wants to see the righteousness of the way by which it comes. Without this it cannot be pacified or "purged;" and the man is not made "perfect as pertaining to the conscience;" but must always have an uneasy feeling that all is not right; that his sins may one day rise up against him.

That which soothes the heart will not always pacify the conscience. The sight of the grace will do the former; but only the sight of the righteousness of the grace will do the latter. Till the latter is done, there cannot be real peace. The hurt is healed slightly, and peace is spoken where there is no peace. The healing of the hurt can only be brought about by speaking peace where there is peace.

Here the work of Christ comes in; and the cross of the Sin-Bearer answers the question which conscience has raised, - "Is it righteous grace?" It is this great work of propitiation that exhibits God as "the just God, yet the Saviour;" not only righteous in spite of his justifying the ungodly, but righteous in doing so. It shows salvation as an act of righteousness; nay, one of the highest acts of righteousness that a righteous God can do. It shows pardon not only as the deed of a righteous God, but as the thing which shows how righteous he is, and how he hates and condemns the very sin that he is pardoning.

Hear the word of the Lord concerning this "finished" work. "Christ died for our sins." "He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities." "Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many." "He gave Himself for us." "He was delivered for our offences." "He gave Himself for our sins." "Christ died for the ungodly." "He hath appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself." "Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh." "Christ hath once suffered for sins, the Just for the unjust." "His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree." These expressions speak of something more than love. Love is in each of them; the deep, true, real love of God; but also justice and holiness; inflexible and inexorable adherence to law. They have no meaning apart from law; law as the foundation, pillar, keystone of the universe.

But their connection with law is also their connection with love. For as it was law, in its unchangeable perfection, that constituted the necessity for the Surety's death, so it was this necessity that drew out the Surety's love, and gave also glorious proof of the love of Him who made Him to be sin for us. For if a man were to die for another, when there was no necessity for his doing so, we should hardly call his death a proof of love. At best, such would be foolish love, or, at least, a fond and idle way of showing it. But to die for one, when there is really need of dying, is the true test of genuine love. To die for a friend when nothing less will save him; this is the proof of love! When either He or we must die; and when He, to save us from dying, dies Himself, this is love. There was need of a death, if we were to be saved from dying. Righteousness made the necessity. And, to meet this terrible necessity, the Son of God took flesh and died! He died, because it was written, "The soul that sinneth it shall die." Love led Him down to the cradle; love led Him up to the cross! He died as the sinner's substitute. He died to make it a righteous thing in God to cancel the sinner's guilt and annul the penalty of His everlasting death.

Had it not been for this dying, grace and guilt could not have looked each other in the face; God and the sinner could not have come nigh; righteousness would have forbidden reconciliation; and righteousness, we know, is as divine and real a thing as love. Without this exception, it would not have been right for God to receive the sinner nor safe for the sinner to come.

But now, mercy and truth have met together; now grace is righteousness, and righteousness is grace. This satisfies the sinner's conscience, by showing him righteous love for the unrighteous and unlovable. It tells him, too, that the reconciliation brought about in this way shall never be disturbed, either in this life or that which is to come. It is righteous reconciliation, and will stand every test, as well as last throughout eternity. The peace of conscience thus secured will be trial-proof, sickness-proof, deathbed-proof, judgment-proof. Realizing this, the chief of sinners can say, "Who is he that condemneth?"

What peace for the stricken conscience is there in the truth that Christ died for the ungodly; and that it is of the ungodly that the righteous God is the Justifier! The righteous grace thus coming to us through the sin-bearing work of the "Word made flesh," tells the soul, at once and forever, that there can be no condemnation for any sinner upon earth, who will only consent to be indebted to this free love of God, which, like a fountain of living water, is bursting freely forth from the foot of the Cross.

Just, yet the Justifier of the ungodly! What glad tidings are here! Here is grace; God's free love to the sinner; divine bounty and goodwill, altogether irrespective of human worth or merit. For this is the scriptural meaning of that often misunderstood word "grace."

This righteous free love has its origin in the bosom of the Father, where the only begotten has His dwelling. It is not produced by anything out of God himself. It was man's evil, not his good, that called it forth. It was not the drawing to the like, but to the unlike; it was light attracted by darkness, and life by death. It does not wait for our seeking, it comes unasked as well as undeserved. It is not our faith that creates it or calls it up; our faith realizes it as already existing in its divine and manifold fullness. Whether we believe it or not, this righteous grace exists, and exists for us. Unbelief refuses it; but faith takes it, rejoices in it, and lives upon it. Yes, faith takes this righteous grace of God, and, with it, a righteous pardon, a righteous salvation, and a righteous heirship of the everlasting glory.

- Chapter 4 of "God's Way of Peace" by Horatius Bonar (1808-1809)

Song: "Perfect Love" by Shai Linne

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Verse 1:

Now let’s get straight to the topic, God’s love is weighty to process
And apart from the Holy Spirit, we’re unable to digest
Because man’s depraved in his logic, so God’s haters will mock it
But inter-trinitarian love should make us astonished
Imagine the Son enjoying the embrace of His Father
Eternally paying Him homage as He bathed in His knowledge
Equally faithful and sovereign, gracious, patient and honest
Cosmic greatness blazing with radiance- conscious
Holy Spirit also present, full display of His God-ness
No creation could watch this- it wasn’t safe for their optics
What an awesome scene in heaven with all esteem and reverence
It’s Psalm 16:11 as conveyed through the prophet
Overflow of joy and love, the Father made Him a promise
To give His Son a people to liberate from their bondage
So they’re no longer slaves and hostages, but blameless and spotless
Consequence of eternal love - our salvation’s accomplished!

Chorus:

Love so perfect
Love eternally
Unchanging, Holy, Righteous Love
Transcends our understanding
But in Your nature there is perfect love

Verse 2:

Now it’s one thing to consider God’s love that’s within
But how could God’s love extend to men corrupted with sin?
Because we certainly don’t deserve it, He’s perfect and we’re imperfect
What’s lurking beneath the surface? His mercy and deeper purpose
Made in His likeness, installed with reminders of His law
Despite our blindness from the fall, His kindness reaches all
The fact He allows the sun to rise on this evil planet
Means that His love is such that we can’t even understand it
In other words, don’t let traditions fool ya, gotta let them Scriptures school ya
As a matter of fact, see how Christ reacted when it came to the rich young ruler
Love explicit, if it isn’t His love, what is it
Restricting Him from inflicting His vengeance on the wicked?
Some call it common grace, but I’m inclined to state
that it’s the love of God shining from a place that's beyond time and space
They say, “If God is love, what’s eternal torment for?”
Well, He loves the world for sure, but He loves His glory more!

Chorus

Verse 3:

Perhaps the most misunderstood aspect of this subject
Would be the love of God that He expresses towards the elect
And the second some people hear that, they get mad inside
But it’s a special kind of love the Husband has for His Bride
It’s a love that distinguishes her and sets her apart
No other woman could ever have the same effect on His heart
Because this Groom is not adulterous, this marriage has no openness
His devotion is traced back to when the world was motionless
In love we were predestined for adoption as a son
Not for anything that we’ve done, check Ephesians chapter one
Look, when we lived as God’s opponents, He gave His only Son for atonement
So we’ve got to see He can’t possibly love us more than He does this moment
In love, He justified us, in love, He sanctifies us
So we don’t have to jump through hoops to try to make Him like us
One thing we truly cannot fathom- we’re stunned
The Father loves us with the very love He has for His Son!

Chorus

- from "The Attributes of God" (Lampmode.com)

Poem: "Of Judgement" by John Bunyan

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Of Judgement

As 'tis appointed men should die,
So judgment is the next
That meets them most assuredly;
For so saith holy text.

Wherefore of judgment I shall now
Inform you what I may,
That you may see what 'tis, and how
'Twill be with men that day.

This world it hath a time to stand,
Which time when ended, then
Will issue judgment out of hand
Upon all sorts of men.

The Judge we find, in God's record,
The Son of man, for he
By God's appointment is made Lord
And Judge of all that be.

Wherefore this Son of man shall come
At last to count with all,
And unto them shall give just doom,
Whether they stand or fall.

Behold ye now the majesty
And state that shall attend
This Lord, this Judge, and Justice high
When he doth now descend.

He comes with head as white as snow,
With eyes like flames of fire;
In justice clad from top to toe,
Most glorious in attire.

His face is filled with gravity;
His tongue is like a sword;
His presence awes both stout and high,
The world shakes at his word.

He comes in flaming fire, and
With angels clear and bright,
Each with a trumpet in his hand,
Clothed in shining white.

The trump of God sounds in the air,
The dead do hear his voice;
The living too run here and there,
Who made not him their choice.

Thus to his place he doth repair,
Appointed for his throne,
Where he will sit to judge, and where
He'll count with every one.

Angels attending on his hand
By thousands on a row;
Yea, thousand thousands by him stand,
And at his beck do go.

Thus being set, the books do ope
In which all crimes are writ.
All virtues, too, of faith and hope,
Of love; and every whit

Of all that man hath done or said,
Or did intend to do;
Whether they sinn'd, or were afraid
Evil to come into.

Before this bar each sinner now
In person must appear;
Under his judgment there to bow
With trembling and with fear:

Within whose breast a witness then
Will certainly arise,
That to each charge will say Amen,
While they seek and devise

To shun the sentence which the Lord
Against them then will read,
Out of the books of God's record,
With majesty and dread.

But every heart shall opened be
Before this judge most high;
Yea, every thought to judgment he
Will bring assuredly.

And every word and action, too,
He there will manifest;
Yea, all that ever thou didst do,
Or keep within thy breast,

Shall then be seen and laid before
The world, that then will stand
To see thy judge open ev'ry sore,
And all thy evils scann'd.

Weighing each sin and wickedness
With so much equity,
Proportioning of thy distress
And woful misery.

With so much justice, doing right,
That thou thyself shalt say,
My sins have brought me to this plight,
I threw myself away.

Into that gulph my sins have brought
Me justly to possess,
For which I blame not Christ, I wrought
It out by wickedness.

But O! how willingly would these
That thus in judgment be,
If that they might have help or ease,
Unto the mountains flee.

They would rejoice if that they might
But underneath them creep,
To hide them from revenging right,
For fear of which they weep.

But all in vain, the mountains then
Will all be fled and gone;
No shelter will be found for men
That now are left alone.

For succour they did not regard
When Christ by grace did call
To them, therefore they are not heard,
No mountains on them fall.

Before this Judge no one shall shroud
Himself, under pretence
Of knowledge, which hath made him proud,
Nor seeming penitence.

No high profession here can stand,
Unless sincerity
Hath been therewith commixed, and
Brought forth simplicity.

No mask nor vizor here can hide
The heart that rotten is;
All cloaks now must be laid aside,
No sinner must have bliss.

Though most approve of thee, and count
Thee upright in thy heart;
Yea, though preferred and made surmount
Most men to act thy part,

In treading where the godly trod,
As to an outward show;
Yet this hold still, the grace of God
Takes hold on but a few,

So as to make them truly such
As then shall stand before
This Judge with gladness; this is much
Yet true for evermore.

The tree of life this paradise
Doth always beautify,
'Cause of our health it is the rise
And perpetuity.

Here stands the golden throne of grace
From out of which do run
Those crystal streams that make this place
Far brighter than the sun.

Here stands mount Zion with her king.
Jerusalem above,
That holy and delightful thing,
So beautified with love.

That, as a mother succours those
Which of her body be,
So she far more, all such as close
In with her Lord; and she

Her grace, her everlasting doors
Will open wide unto
Them all, with welcome, welcome, poor,
Rich, bond, free, high and low,

Unto the kingdom which our Lord
Appointed hath for all
That hath his name and word ador'd;
Because he did them call

Unto that work, which also they
Sincerely did fulfil,
Not shunning always to obey
His gracious holy will.

Besides, this much doth beautify
This goodly paradise,
That from all quarters, constantly,
Whole thousands as the price

Of precious blood, do here arrive;
As safe escaping all,
Sin, hell, and satan did contrive
To bring them into thrall.

Each telling his deliverance
I' th' open face of heaven;
Still calling to remembrance
How fiercely they were driven

By deadly foe, who did pursue
As swift as eagles fly;
Which if thou have not, down thou must
With those that then shall die
The second death, and be accurs'd
Of God. For certainly,

The truth of grace shall only here
Without a blush be bold
To stand, whilst others quake and fear,
And dare not once behold.

That heart that here was right for God
Shall there be comforted;
But those that evil ways have trod,
Shall then hang down the head.

As sore confounded with the guilt
That now upon them lies,
Because they did delight in filth
And beastly vanities.

Or else because they did deceive
With hypocritical
Disguises, their own souls, and leave
Or shun that best of all

Approved word of righteousness,
They were invited to
Embrace, therefore they no access
Now to him have, but woe.

For every one must now receive
According to their ways;
They that unto the Lord did cleave,
The everlasting joys.

Those that did die in wickedness,
To execution sent,
There still to grapple with distress,
Which nothing can prevent.

Of which two states I next shall write,
Wherefore I pray give ear,
And to them bend with all our might
Your heart with filial fear.

John Bunyan

Hymn: "Go, Labor On: Spend And Be Spent" by Horatius Bonar

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Go, labor on: spend, and be spent,

Thy joy to do the Father's will:

It is the way the Master went;

Should not the servant tread it still?

Go, labor on! `tis not for naught

Thine earthly loss is heavenly gain;

Men heed thee, love thee, praise thee not;

The Master praises: what are men?

Go, labor on! enough, while here,

If He shall praise thee, if He deign

The willing heart to mark and cheer:

No toil for Him shall be in vain.

Go, labor on while it is day:

The world's dark night is hastening on;

Speed, speed thy work, cast sloth away;

It is not thus that souls are won.

Toil on, faint not, keep watch and pray,

Be wise the erring soul to win;

Go forth into the world's highway,

Compel the wanderer to come in.

Toil on, and in thy toil rejoice!

For toil comes rest, for exile home;

Soon shalt thou hear the Bridegroom's voice,

The midnight peal, "Behold, I come!"

Horatius Bonar, 1843

Poem: "Joy and Peace in Believing" by John Newton

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Sometimes a light surprises
The Christian while he sings;
It is the Lord who rises
With healing in His wings:
When comforts are declining,
He grants the soul again
A season of clear shining,
To cheer it after rain.

In holy contemplation,
We sweetly then pursue
The theme of God's salvation,
And find it ever new:
Set free from present sorrow,
We cheerfully can say,
E'en let th' unknown to-morrow
Bring with it what it may.

It can bring with it nothing
But He will bear us through;
Who gives the lilies clothing,
Will clothe His people too:
Beneath the spreading heavens,
No creature but is fed;
And He who feeds the ravens,
Will give His children bread.

Though vine nor fig-tree neither
Their wonted fruit shall bear,
Though all the field should wither,
Nor flocks nor herds be there:
Yet God the same abiding,
His praise shall tune my voice;
For while in Him confiding,
I cannot but rejoice.

Hymn: "All The Way My Savior Leads Me" by Fanny Crosby

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 07:00:00 +0000

All the way my Savior leads me;
What have I to ask beside?
Can I doubt His tender mercy,
Who through life has been my guide?
Heavenly peace, divinest comfort,
Here by faith in Him to dwell;
For I know whate'er befall me,
Jesus doeth all things well;
For I know whate'er befall me,
Jesus doeth all things well.

All the way my Savior leads me;
Cheers each winding path I tread;
Gives me grace for every trial,
Feeds me with the living bread;
Though my weary steps may falter,
And my soul athirst may be,
Gushing from the Rock before me,
Lo, a spring of joy I see;
Gushing from the Rock before me,
Lo, a spring of joy I see.

All the way my Savior leads me;
O the fullness of His love!
Perfect rest to me is promised
In my Father's house above;
When I wake to life immortal,
Wing my flight to realms of day,
This my song through endless ages,
Jesus led me all the way;
This my song through endless ages,
Jesus led me all the way.

Blessed are Those who Mourn (Matthew 5:4) by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 07:14:00 +0000

"Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted." (Matthew 5:4)

This second Beatitude is much like the first. In the same way that only the spiritually poor can be enriched, only the mournful can be comforted. Only the mournful need comfort. True followers of Christ readily confess that the cause of our mourning is, most often, the corruption within our own selves. Thus, our comfort comes from outside of ourselves. We receive our comfort from above. The God, who shows us our sin, also shows us Himself, as our Savior from sin.

Blessed are we, if we hurt. That feeling of pain is what makes us long for comfort, and brings us to Christ, who alone can provide the healing that we need. Physically, pain in our bodies indicates problems that need to be fixed, and prompts us to seek medical attention. Spiritually, the truth hurts us. The word of God exposes our sin, and alerts us of our condition. We are blessed, if the soul anguish drives us toward that Great Physician, who has power and compassion to help us. He specializes in curing the ailment that, if not treated, would most assuredly lead to our eternal destruction. Blessed are we, if we go to Him for repair. The disease of sin, and the sentence of death that accompanies it, have but one remedy: the Cross of Christ. That's where He took His people's sins upon Himself, and died under the holy wrath of God, in our place. By faith in Him, we experience His care, whereby He heals our wounds and comforts us. As we experience the forgiveness and cleansing that the Gospel brings, we rejoice in The Lord and exclaim, like the Psalmist, " You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness" (Psalm 30:11).

"Blessed are those who mourn

The Christian life is one of frequent mourning. Don't be deceived by any false prosperity preachers. Many would have us to believe that the life of faith consists of constant highs, with no lows. Such an imbalance would be unrealistic and inconsistent with the human experience, let alone the Christian experience. Those who are born of God have been given a godly understanding, whereby we get a glimpse of things, as they truly are. Everyone who's been given new life in Christ now sees things with new eyes, which are often full of tears (figurative, if not literal ones). We mourn because we are cognizant of the darkness that's rampant in the world, as well as in our own hearts. We're fully aware of the misery that sin brings to the world, at large, and to us, in particular. We're in a regular state of mourning because of our ever-present sin. This mourning is most certainly met with comfort, and unspeakable joy. But the mourning is just as real, and perpetually significant, as the rejoicing.

"For they shall be comforted"

The Christian life is one of frequent comforting. Don't be deceived by any false austerity preachers. There are many who would present a doom and gloom message, with no space for happiness in this temporal existence. Some think it a form of righteousness to be low all the time. Their frowns are only emblems of the pride and self-righteousness of their hearts. If they were truly broken, they’d know something of the joy that goes with it (see Psalm 51:8). Furthermore, they present an image of a god who is an un-pleasable killjoy. Such a distorted picture leads to a works-based approach to religion, whereby people think that plainness in appearance and/or sternness in demeanor can somehow make them more godly than someone else. Nowhere in Scripture is a flavorless, rigidly ascetic lifestyle required by God. Indeed, there is sorrow, self-denial and the utmost sobriety involved in the Christian walk. But it's a path of freedom and true pleasure. It's a turning away from that which is confining and oppressive (sin) and turning to something that is liberating and joyous (the Gospel). The Gospel is good news! Even as we bemoan our sin, and its afflictions, we constantly take new comfort, because of Christ.

God brings us down, not to keep us down. After humbling us, He lifts us up. The sorrow that He gives is good for us, because it changes us for the better. We're told that "godly sorrow produces repentance" (2 Corinthians 7:10). We're told that the painful chastening that we endure "yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness" (Hebrews 12:11).

The Holy Spirit is called the Comforter, whose job it is to convict us of sin AND to show us Christ, our Savior from sin (see John 16:7-15). Only helpless sinners will be helped. Only mournful sinners will be comforted. These are the only people who truly understand what sin is, and acknowledge the need to be saved from it.

"Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted"

We mourn our sin, but God comforts us by showing us that in Christ, we're forgiven of all sin. We mourn the abundance of evil in this world, but we know that there is an end, and Heaven ultimately awaits us. Plus, we know that the God who will rectify all things then, is the same God who is at peace with us now, showing Himself as "our refuge and strength; a very present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1). We mourn the estate of the lost, who are apparently headed for Hell, but we are comforted by seeing that not only is God right in everything He does, but that He is also mighty and gracious to save. Plus, He has given us His message to deliver to this perishing world. We take comfort in the fact that He will save others by the very Gospel with which He saved us. He has an elect people whom He has purposed to save by His sovereign grace and far-reaching mercy.

Finally, the troubles that cause us to mourn serve another purpose. They enable us to comfort other believers, with encouragement. Paul wrote to his brethren in Corinth:"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation" (2 Corinthians 1:3-7).

Excerpt: Faith First, Confession Following (Romans 10:10) by Charles Spurgeon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 07:00:00 +0000

“For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Romans 10:10

In speaking of this important matter, — confessing with the mouth what we have believed with the heart, I call your attention, first of all, to the order of the two things. Believing with the heart must come first; confession with the mouth must and should come afterwards. To confess with the mouth what I do not believe with the heart would be hypocrisy; instead of being an acceptable sacrifice, it would be an abomination in the sight of God. How dare I profess to have faith if I do not possess it? How dare I assume a form of godliness unless I have proved its power in my spirit? So first comes the heart’s believing, and then follows the mouth’s confession. Do not reverse the Scriptural order, but take care that you do all things in their due course. Among the last words of the Lord Jesus Christ to his disciples are these, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” Note the order, — not baptism first, and believing afterwards; but he who first believes, and then is baptized upon profession of his faith, is the servant of Christ who obeys his Master’s commands in their right order; and he it is who “shall be saved.”

Having noted the order of faith and its confession, next, note the connection between them. Confessing with the mouth is to follow believing with the heart just as effect follows causes. We are to confess with the mouth because we believe with the heart. The heart’s belief is to be so potent and energetic a thing that it constrains us to confess openly what we have received inwardly; no confession is worth anything unless it is the outcome of the grace by which we have received the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior.

There is a due order for faith and confession, and there is a clear connection between faith and confession.

Notice, also, the result of the two put together: “With the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” The result of faith and confession is salvation. I do not doubt that a man, who truly believes in Jesus, is saved even before he makes a confession of his faith; but it is very remarkable that the blessing of salvation is constantly connected with these two things rather than with either one of them alone, and we must not put asunder what God has joined together. The same truth is taught in the memorable sentence which I quoted to you just now: “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” There is no saving efficacy in baptism, yet belief and baptism are joined together by our Lord Jesus Christ, and again I say, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” I would not like to attend to one duty, and neglect another, when I found my Master laying both upon me. The path of obedience is ever the path of happiness; and if any God-given command should ever seem to your imperfect apprehension to be less important than another, remember the wise words of the mother of Jesus to the servants at the wedding in Cana of Galilee, “Whatsoever HE saith unto you, do it." And do it conscientiously, gladly, promptly, because he commanded it, even though you cannot see any other reason for doing it.

EXCERPT FROM A SERMON DELIVERED BY C. H. SPURGEON, JULY 4TH, 1867.

"We Are Not Our Own Masters, but Belong to God" byJohn Calvin

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 07:00:00 +0000

1. We are not our own masters, but belong to God

Although the Law of God contains a perfect rule of conduct admirably arranged, it has seemed proper to our divine Master to train His people by a more accurate method, to the rule which is enjoined in the Law; and the leading principle in the method is, that it is the duty of believers to present their "bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, which is their reasonable service," (Rom. 12: 1.) Hence He draws the exhortation: "Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God." The great point, then, is, that we are consecrated and dedicated to God, and, therefore, should not henceforth think, speak, design, or act, without a view to His glory. What He hath made sacred cannot, without signal insult to Him, be applied to profane use.
But if we are not our own, but the Lord's, it is plain both what error is to be shunned, and to what end the actions of our lives ought to be directed.

We are not our own; therefore, neither is our own reason or will to rule our acts and counsels. We are not our own; therefore, let us not make it our end to seek what may be agreeable to our carnal nature. We are not our own; therefore, as far as possible, let us forget ourselves and the things that are ours.

On the other hand, we are God's; let us, therefore, live and die to Him (Rom. 14: 8.) We are God's; therefore, let His wisdom and will preside over all our actions. We are God's; to Him, then, as the only legitimate end, let every part of our life be directed. O how great the proficiency of him who, taught that he is not his own, has withdrawn the dominion and government of himself from his own reason that he may give them to God! For as the surest source of destruction to men is to obey themselves, so the only haven of safety is to have no other will, no other wisdom, than to follow the Lord wherever He leads.

Let this, then be the first step, to abandon ourselves, and devote the whole energy of our minds to the service of God. By service, I mean not only that which consists in verbal obedience, but that by which the mind, divested of its own carnal feelings, implicitly obeys the call of the Spirit of God. This transformation, (which Paul calls the renewing of the mind, Rom. 12: 2; Eph. 4: 23,) though it is the first entrance to life, was unknown to all the philosophers. They give the government of man to reason alone, thinking that she alone is to be listened to; in short, they assign to her the sole direction of the conduct. But Christian philosophy bids her give place, and yield complete submission to the Holy Spirit, so that the man himself no longer lives, but Christ lives and reigns in him, (Gal. ii. 20.)

John Calvin
Excerpt from "A Summary of the Christian Life of Self-Denial" (from Book III, Ch. 7 of "Institues of the Christian Religion")

“Blessed are the Poor in Spirit” (Matthew 5:3) by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 07:36:00 +0000

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:3)

This is the first of a group of statements, commonly known as "The Beatitudes." These are the first words which would comprise what's been famously called "The Sermon on the Mount." This is a lesson that The Lord Jesus Christ taught to His disciples, who were seated there with Him. The discourse consisted of instruction that was not only valuable for those disciples who were in His presence on that mountain, but also for those of us who would, thereafter, become His disciples. To the believing soul, these words are as fresh and meaningful, as when they were first spoken.

In these beatitudes, a series of blessings are pronounced. Let's learn here what it means to be blessed, according to Christ, who is, Himself, the source of all blessings. Everyone has their own ideas about what it means to be blessed. Let's hear the truth from Him, who is the actual authority on blessedness. Observe how it begins:

"Blessed are the poor in spirit"
It's notable that the first Gospel blessing He presents here, is for those who are spiritually poor. Before any other blessings are granted, this necessary first one will be experienced. The Gospel is the wisdom of God, and He wisely prescribes spiritual poverty as the way to blessedness. Indeed, the poverty, itself, can also be understood as a blessing. God blesses us with spiritual poverty, and He blesses the spiritually poor. Either way, "Blessed are the poor in spirit" is a good promise. The reason attached to it is "for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven."

To be spiritually poor is to have nothing with which to recommend oneself to God. It's to be cognizant of the inability to please God, in and of, oneself. It's to have insufficient funds for purchasing salvation, or any other blessing from God. It's to be destitute of true goodness, and in need of the grace of God. It's to have no individual merit to present to God. It's to be absolutely empty and weak; devoid of spiritual strength; inept to perform godliness; unable to produce the holiness that God requires; impotent to live up to God's standard of righteousness; too sinful to earn God's favor; too inadequate to be considered worthy of any blessing. Truly, these characteristics belong to every human being. But if we are conscious of them, and they bring us to Christ, then we are blessed.

To be spiritually poor is to be totally dependent upon God alone. This is who gets blessed. It's a blessing to be aware of one's inability to stand before holy God, without a Mediator. They, who know this, are they, who get to Christ. These are the people for whom the Gospel is good news. All spiritual blessings are in Christ (Ephesians 1:3). He has done everything necessary to secure our salvation and eternal blessedness. Only the spiritually poor will have and experience the unsearchable riches of Christ (Ephesians 3:8). Our confidence is rightly appropriated, as we focus not on what we do for God, but in what God does for us. We trust Him to give us the fruits of His Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

"Blessed are the poor in spirit"
Many go about religion the wrong way - along the path of self-reliance. Ignorantly, they think themselves rich enough to rouse some sort of spiritual power, from within themselves, to serve God. Rather than trusting Christ, they trust their own wills, thinking that what they muster up can somehow be good enough. They greatly underestimate the depths of their sinfulness, and as of yet, are not in desperate need of a Redeemer, to pay the entire cost of what they owe. They're not poor, spiritually. There's no sense of indebtedness for the broken Law of God, which cannot be paid by mere humans.

But those whom God blesses, and calls blessed, are brought low, and made to see our need of a Savior. The awareness of our sin makes us long for forgiveness, cleansing and deliverance. Then, we are encouraged to look to Jesus, who came to "save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). We see that "when were still without strength, in due time, Christ died for the ungodly" (Romans 5:6). He said explicitly: “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance” (Mark 2:17). God's blessings are for those who acknowledge that they don't deserve to be blessed by Him.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit"
Being poor in spirit has nothing to do with being bereft of enthusiasm, or low in emotional energy. It has everything to do with being bereft of self-sufficiency, and emptied of spiritual pride. This is the type of person who God describes as blessed. This is the type of person who gets grace.
The Scriptures proclaim: “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time" (1 Peter 5:5). God only helps the helpless. He only provides for the needy. He only feeds the hungry. He only heals the sick. He only fixes the broken. He only enriches the poor.

Blessed are we, if we understand, like Hannah, that "The Lord makes poor and makes rich; He brings low and lifts up" (1 Samuel 2:7).
Being poor in spirit will cause us to trust Christ, and go to Him for what we need. We refrain from touting our own virtue, and in desperation, seek to "touch the hem of His garment" (Matthew 14:35-36).
Being poor in spirit will transform our character from that of the self-righteous Pharisee, to that of the penitent tax collector (Luke 18:9-12). Thus, rather than admiring ourselves and despising others, we now despise ourselves, and have compassion on others. We know the plague of our own hearts, and walk humbly with our God, according to His mercy.

"for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven"
This is the reason that spiritual poverty is important. The spiritually poor are the people whom God brings into His kingdom. Weak and insignificant as we may be, our sufficiency is Christ. In Him, we have the kingdom of Heaven, and all that it entails, as a free gift of grace. Because of Him, we're invited into the very home of God.
In Christ, we are now able to stand in the presence of God. We have been made partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4), and are new creatures (2 Corinthians 5:17). And though we are still sinners, we have conquering strength, because we are saved by grace.

He says “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12:32)." If left to ourselves, we'd have reason to fear, but God is so pleased with Christ, that we are, by faith, absolutely secure in Him. Being given the kingdom of Heaven means that we are taken care of, by God. This King provides for all of our needs.

Being given the kingdom of Heaven means that our hearts have been conquered, and we are willingly under His rule. We're taught to relinquish our own thrones, and bow to Him as King.
Being given the kingdom of Heaven means that we're now able to serve God, because we are subjects in His kingdom. We have inclusion into God's family, with all of the rights and privileges of His children. The magnitude of our sonship is such that we are even described as joint heirs with Christ! (Romans 8:17)

Being given the kingdom of Heaven means that as we go into the world, preaching His kingdom, we are going in the King's authority. He said “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen (Matthew 28:18).

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven"
The kingdom of Heaven is for those who are too spiritually poor to contribute to it, but who receive it as a free gift. There are people in this world who are materially poor, and rely upon the charitable giving of others. Spiritually, we are blessed if we rely upon the charitable giving of God Almighty. To be poor in spirit is to be a constant recipient of God's grace. The kingdom of Heaven is something that we cannot merit, but in Christ, we can inherit.

"How Graces Are To Be Obtained" (A Poem by John Bunyan)

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 07:00:00 +0000

The next word that I would unto thee say,
Is how thou mayst attain without delay,

Those blessed graces, and that holiness
Thou dost with so much godly zeal express

Thy love to, and thy longing to enjoy,
That sins and weakness might thee less annoy.

Know, then, as I have hinted heretofore,
And shall now speak unto a little more,

All graces in the person of the Son
Are by the Father hid, and therefore none

Can them obtain but they who with Him close;
All others graceless are but only those;

For of His fullness 'tis that we receive,
And grace for grace; let no man then deceive

Himself or others with a feigned show
Of holiness, if Jesus they eschew.

When He ascended to His Father, then
It was that He received gifts for men;

Faith, hope, and love, true zeal, an upright heart,
Right humbleness of mind, and every part

Of what the word of life counts holiness,
God then laid up in Him, that we redress

And help might have, who do unto Him fly
For righteousness and Gospel sanctity.

John Bunyan

“The Sacrifice of Fools” (Ecclesiastes 5:1) by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Walk prudently when you go to the house of God; and draw near to hear rather than to give the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they do evil. (Ecclesiastes 5:1)

King Solomon's warning against levity, to those who would approach the temple in his day, still resonates in our day. There is helpful instruction here, if we would take heed.

Today, "going to church" is so commonplace an exercise, that multitudes of people go about it (whether haphazardly or routinely), without earnestly considering what they're doing. As we explore this text, my aim is to provoke Biblical self-examination in each reader, with regard to the worship of God. I want us all to be more awake. I want to exhort true Christians to approach every aspect of their worship (particularly the church gathering) with more careful thought, so that God's glory would be more zealously sought after. I also want those who are Christians in name only, to honestly assess their religious activities, recognize God's displeasure with hypocrisy, and repent, unto true belief of the Gospel.

If Christ is absent from your Christianity, what good is it? Why not be real with God, and get true saving faith, which He is willing to give? If God is dissatisfied with mere religion, we ought also to be. Why settle for that which is counterfeit, when we can have that which is authentic? Religious pretense is a worthless stock, and a poor investment for one's eternal soul.

"Walk prudently when you go"

The old King James translation reads: "Keep thy foot," which we can also understand as "watch your step" or "tread carefully." Don't have a flippant attitude with this. Be sober-minded. Consider the magnitude of whose presence you're supposing to approach: God Almighty!

We carry ourselves respectfully, when coming into the presence of human dignitaries. When invited into the homes of our friends, we behave ourselves sensibly. Shall we come with less reverence, into the symbolic house of God, our Creator and Holy Judge? We've not rightly understood His awesomeness, if we're not awe-inspired by His Person. Our thoughts about God will dictate our steps toward Him.

"to the house of God"

When this book of Ecclesiastes was written, the term "house of God" referred to the temple, where the Jews worshipped. In Christendom, the term "house of God," has typically been understood as a "church" or place where people gather for the supposed purpose of worshipping God. Both of these renderings are to be accompanied by the realization that the omnipresent God doesn't dwell in buildings made with hands (See Acts 7:47-49).

Still, we see the appropriateness of the term, as it is used in the Scriptures. Christ, Himself, described the temple as "My Father's house," when he drove the moneychangers out of it (See John 2:13-15). And in doing so, He reminded us of the honor that it deserved. During that time, it was a place of worship, and He, being consumed with zeal for its true glory, would not tolerate their turning that "house of prayer" into "a den of thieves" (See Mark 11:16-18).

Would He be less serious about the Christian church, which came from the actual fulfillment of everything that the Old Testament temple represented? No. In fact, He taught that the temple in Jerusalem would eventually be destroyed (Luke 21:5-6), and that He, the true Temple of God, would Himself, die and rise again (John 2:19-21).

His risen body is now, spiritually, called "The Church" (See Romans 12:5; Colossians 1:24; 1 Corinthians 12:12; Ephesians 4:11-13). It consists of those who worship God in spirit and truth (See John 4:21-24). Its members are the true "house of God," since we have God, by His Spirit, dwelling within us, and among us - both individually and collectively (See 1 Corinthians 6:19, John 14:15-18 and Matthew 18:20). He purchased this church with His own blood (Acts 20:28). Thus, any mockery of it is an affront to Him. Any counterfeit of it will eventually be exposed and destroyed.

So, as we examine this subject of approaching God in worship, within the context of the Gospel of Christ's death and resurrection, let's be helped by Solomon's wise counsel in Ecclesiastes: "Walk prudently when you go to the house of God."

"and draw near to hear"

Faith comes by hearing the word of God, preached by God-sent messengers. (See Romans 10:13-17). What else would we go to church for, if not to hear from God? Indeed, it's a delight to be taught by God; to hear His Gospel preached, by way of His Scriptures being expounded (See 1 Peter 1:25 and 2 Timothy 3: 14-17).

There are multitudes of church-going people, for whom this is neither the priority, nor the intended focus of their religious exercises. Rather than drawing near to hear from God, perhaps they go to hear from an entertaining preacher or choir, for an emotional lift. Rather than drawing near to hear from God, perhaps they go for discourse that caters to their political and social preferences. Rather than drawing near to hear from God, perhaps they go as a matter of duty, figuring that they should attend church, to "earn some points" with God, as a form of works-based righteousness. There's a myriad of other wrong reasons that people go to church. Instead of getting into an endless list of them, let's look further into our text, and see their danger.

"rather than to give the sacrifice of fools"

Solomon is using "either/or" language here. If someone is not drawing near to hear from God, then they are giving the sacrifice of fools. Fools say no to God (See Psalm 14:1). They proceed to go their own way; maneuver under their own direction; live as they see fit; with allegiance to their own chosen lifestyles. Religious activity (specifically under the guise of Christianity), apart from faith in Christ, is the sacrifice of fools. There is no greater folly on earth than for a person to pay lip service to God, while the life is bent in a totally different direction. (See Matthew 15:7-9)

"for they do not know that they do evil"

The tragedy of religious delusion is that many people actually do not know that what they're doing is evil. They think that they're doing good, but they are blind followers of the blind (see Matthew 15:13). However sincere they may be in their own minds, if their religion is not founded upon the rock of the truth of Christ, it is a lie that will cause them to sink, unto destruction (See Matthew 7:24-27). There are many examples in Scripture, where religious folly is uprooted, by God, who sees everyone's heart. Perhaps the clearest and most stunningly frightful example is found in Matthew 7, when Jesus says:

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’ (Matthew 7:21-23)

These were religious people, who called Jesus "Lord" with their mouths, and did many religious works, by which they, no doubt, impressed other people. But God wasn't impressed. They trusted in themselves, and their own goodness. But they did not know that they were doing evil, until it was brought to their attention at the day of reckoning.

Let us avoid this! Let's get the grace of God, to approach the worship of God the right way, both publicly and privately. Let's walk with God, in obedience to His word, so as to be able to function as members of that true church, which Christ died for. Let's ask Him for His Spirit, without which, we can accomplish nothing spiritual. Let's live in the presence of God, so that our Christian duties can be found pleasing, as they are done by looking to Christ.

Christ's work is a sweet smelling savor to God; a soothing aroma to His holy nostrils (See Ephesians 5:2). Anything else is an offensive stench, which He calls evil, and will punish. Believers, by faith in Christ, are able to lovingly offer fragrant sacrifices (prayers and deeds), that are acceptable and well-pleasing to God (Philippians 4:18; Revelation 8:3-4). Those who will hold onto false piety are only capable of giving the sacrifice of fools.

Come, Holy Spirit, Come (Hymn by Joseph Hart)

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Come, Holy Spirit, come;

Let Thy bright beams arise;

Dispel the darkness from our minds,

And open all our eyes.

Cheer our desponding hearts,

Thou heav’nly Paraclete;

Give us to lie with humble hope

At our Redeemer’s feet.

Revive our drooping faith;

Our doubts and fears remove;

And kindle in our breasts the flames

Of never dying love.

Convince us of our sin;

Then lead to Jesus’ blood,

And to our wond’ring view reveal

The secret love of God.

Show us that loving Man

That rules the courts of bliss,

The Lord of Hosts, the Mighty God,

The Eternal Prince of Peace.

’Tis Thine to cleanse the heart,

To sanctify the soul,

To pour fresh life in every part,

And new create the whole.

Dwell, therefore, in our hearts;

Our minds from bondage free;

Then we shall know and praise and love

The Father, Son, and Thee.

(Joseph Hart, 1712-1768)

"Being Justified" by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 07:00:00 +0000

I was recently asked a very good question: "How do you know that you're justified before God?"

It behoves every Christian to be able to give a Scriptural answer of this hope that we have. Several verses came to mind, as I considered the question. Approaching the matter Biblically, this is how I know that I'm justified; right with God; righteous before Holy God:

I believe that God justified me freely by His grace, as a sinner, apart from my works. It's because of Christ's work at the Cross, whereby I've been brought into a right relationship with God. He's the spotless Lamb of God whose blood fulfilled the Scriptures' promise of redemption. The promise is to all who believe, so I believe.

But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:21-24)

I believe that Christ, in my place, lived the righteous life that I could not live. He obeyed God's law perfectly, and it's by simple faith in Him, that I'm declared justified by God. So, rather than foolishly touting my own merits, I lean my soul upon Christ, and His finished work.

Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? No, but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law. For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.” But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for "the just shall live by faith." (Galatians 3:10-12)

I believe that God is just, in showing mercy toward sinners like me, because Christ satisfied God's strict justice, when He was punished under God's wrath. By faith, I know that it was in my place that He died. The sacrifice of Himself was acceptable to make atonement. Therefore, God is absolutely just, to justify me.

Whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. (Romans 3:25-26)

I believe in the goodness of God, to justify the ungodly.

What then shall we say that Abraham our father has found according to the flesh? For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace but as debt. But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness, just as David also describes the blessedness of the man to whom God imputes righteousness apart from works:

“Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven,
And whose sins are covered;
Blessed is the man to whom the LORD shall not impute sin.” (Romans 4:1-8)

I believe that God is gracious and propitious toward sinners, who need mercy. I must humbly take my place with the lowly, penitent tax collector, who acknowledged his sinfulness, cried out for mercy, and went home justified, rather than the pharisee, who trusted his own righteousness (Luke 18:9-14). I believe that, as I confess my sin, He is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse me.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

Christ, alone, is the basis of my hope, and the reason for my justification. It's by trusting Christ - not myself, that I have assurance that God is for me. It's by believing that what Christ did is enough to make me right with God, and to give me the strength to live right. He says "the just shall live by faith."

“Behold the proud,
His soul is not upright in him;
But the just shall live by his faith." (Habakkuk 2:4)

There are numerous other verses that could be referred to, in relation to this topic of justification. These are simply a few that came to mind, that I could immediately grab hold of. They are helpful reminders of why I'm right with God, and appropriate answers for anyone who would enquire about such a possibility. By faith (taking God at His word), I affirm that what Christ did was for me, and I am, therefore, justified before Holy God.

"Go Near" (Acts 8:26-29) by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 09 Aug 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, “Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is desert. So he arose and went. And behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace the queen of the Ethiopians, who had charge of all her treasury, and had come to Jerusalem to worship, was returning. And sitting in his chariot, he was reading Isaiah the prophet. Then the Spirit said to Philip, “Go near and overtake this chariot.” Acts 8:26-29

Just as Philip obeyed, when The Spirit of God compelled him - first to the desert, and then to the chariot, I want to be obedient to what God's Spirit tells me to do. If the urge is a holy one, it will always be in accordance with His Word, and driven by faith in Christ. Every Christian's commission is to spread the Good News of Christ's salvation to the world. The Lord enables us to fulfill this commission, as He not only equips us with His Spirit, but also opens doors for the Gospel to be preached. He opened a door for Philip in the desert. This open door was connected with obedience to a direct order. And Philip, after walking through the door that was opened, saw the glory of God, in the salvation of a sinner.

When The Lord opens such doors for us, we should walk through them. That's our purpose for being here. We should always be attentive to His Spirit's inclinations, when pondering some good work. If He gives a specific thought about how this or that person, or group of people, can be helped, it's typically wise to follow through on a good gesture.

I'm not saying that we should be impulsive, put confidence in our own thoughts, or trust any hunches that are not in alignment with the Scriptures. What I am saying is that we should yield ourselves to God’s will at all times, and seek to honor Him in all things. With this attitude of His glory being our foremost priority, we will be open to anything that He would lay upon our hearts, to do for His Name. He establishes our thoughts. (See Proverbs 16:3)

Apostolic signs and wonders do not exist today, as they did in Philip's era, but The Holy Spirit is no less communicative or persuasive. Listen to what He tells you. He will always direct you, according to the Scriptures, and in the context of Christ. And love will always be the motivating factor. God's goodness toward us impels us to do good unto others, for His glory.

It could be something very simple. He could be prompting us to initiate a conversation with someone; foster a particular relationship; send an encouraging email; publish a helpful meditation; enquire about someone's beliefs; reach out to someone who's infirmed, etc. But, the point is that any opportunity to function as a minister of Christ is a good one. It could be as simple as speaking a kind word to a stranger. It could even be to follow-up on some particular item of business. These are simple things that we often tend to ignore. We want to live in His presence, so as to be aware of these little persuasions, and ready for bigger ones (like being called to preach, travel as a missionary, or do some other major-scale work). He will reveal His will clearly, in the outcome. (See Ecclesiastes 11:6)

It's one thing to be sensitively in-tune to God's Spirit, so as to discern His will, with a Biblical foundation for your movements. It's another thing to operate in a superstitious fashion, and put a label of "spirituality" upon one's own whims, as pagans do. The difference is clearly set forth for us in Proverbs 3:5-6, which says: "Trust in The Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

God will direct our paths, as His kingdom and righteousness are at the forefront of our minds, as our foremost priority.

We should never discount the importance of any of the Holy Spirit's inclinations. If you're saved, was it not the Spirit that moved you Godward, by the Gospel you heard preached? It's the Spirit that led you to believe at first, as Christ's message of "Come unto Me" was laid to your heart. I'm reminded of the words of the famous hymn: I Will Praise Him, "I obeyed The Spirit's wooing, when He said 'Wilt thou be clean?' " These words are an accurate reflection of what takes place, as God, by the Gospel message, pulls a sinner to Himself, with cords of grace.

The message by which we were saved initially, is also the same message by which we're continually called out of our lethargy, and brought to new levels of service. It's the same Spirit at work; the same faith in Christ, as the driving force. God often moves the hearts of His people toward certain duties, and assures us, by the Scriptures, that a particular endeavor is really His will.

If the Lord puts something on your heart, and you’re convinced that it would be for His glory, and the good of somebody else, go ahead and do it. Do it boldly and courageously, without fear or apprehension. Don’t be talked out of it by your flesh, or even by other brethren, who might not understand. It's time to stop paying so much attention to what people think, and start paying more attention to what The Lord's thoughts are. If God tells you to do something, do it, and see what He does with it. It just might turn out to be a blessed episode, similar to the encounter between Philip and the Ethiopian man, where Christ was preached, and a soul was brought from darkness to light.

"Count The Cost" (Luke 14:25-31) by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them,“If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it— lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish’? Or what king, going to make war against another king, does not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is still a great way off, he sends a delegation and asks conditions of peace. So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple. (Luke 14:25-31)

Here, The Lord Jesus explicitly lays down the terms of discipleship (and salvation). Without mincing words, or sugar-coating anything, He clearly instructs this crowd of people (and us) on what it truly means to be His disciples. He would have everyone count the cost, and give an honest calculation of their intent. He would, with full disclosure, lay out the blueprint for a life of devotion to Him: what it would look like; what it would entail; what it would require; what would be gained; what would be lost.

He makes it known that to be His disciple is to have such a new life, that we follow Him with our whole heart, regardless of any one else's opinion. Not even our dearest and closest relations in this life (parents, spouse, children, self) have any say so in the matter. He is the One who must have our heart; our obedience; our primary allegiance. Compared to the Savior of our souls, everyone else is insignificant. In fact, the only way to truly love them, is to live how God tells us to live, despite their input.

The word hate, used in verse 26, has nothing to do with any malevolent mistreatment of them. God's word instructs us to honor our parents, cherish our families, provide for our households and show ourselves friendly unto our friends. We are called to love everybody - even our enemies. But to hate, as indicated here, is to follow Christ discriminately, with an utter disregard for anyone's contrary ideas (even our own).

Gideon loved his father so much that he smashed his father's false gods. His love for the glory of the true God was preeminent (Judges 6). Paul loved his Jewish countrymen so much that he openly testified that their zeal was not according to knowledge. And yet, his affection for them was as strong as it could be (Romans 10). Job disregarded his wife's advice to "curse God and die." In love, he reproved her foolish speaking (Job 2). Asa, king of Judah, removed his grandmother from her position as queen mother, because of her idolatry (1 Kings 15). The Scriptures are full of additional examples of faithful men and women, who refused to elevate their loved ones above God. Likewise, to hate our loved ones is to despise their false ways, and seek to help them, by refuting their lies with the honest truth.

The best thing that I can do for my loved ones (and my own self) is to follow Christ whole-heartedly. For me to have a fruitful life of obedience to the Gospel, is in the best interest of everybody I know. Moreover, for me to forsake my own self, in order to follow Christ, is the healthiest thing that I could ever do for myself. It's not possible to have a more meaningful ambition. With everything subordinate to God's will, I can trust His power in my life, and experience the peace that only He can give. This will, in turn, make me more helpful to this world, than if I lived my own way, for my own self. To forsake all, and pursue Christ, is the all-around best option.

In this text, we see that The Lord Jesus loved His disciples enough to be truthful with them. He is utterly honest with them, so that they'd be utterly honest with themselves. As a disciple of His, I'm thankful that He deals with me in such a way. I have several reasons to be glad about His candor.

First, in this world of "buffet line" religion, where people basically pick & choose what's suitable to their tastes, it's refreshing to know that my God speaks so "matter of factly." He clearly establishes truth, and authoritatively dictates reality, with no regard for anyone's opinion or interpretation.

Secondly, it's refreshing that in this world of religious "salesmanship," where people are told what they want to hear, and coaxed into buying into a particular brand of preference-tailored doctrine, my Lord speaks very plainly. He makes it absolutely clear, so that all of His would-be disciples are made fully aware of exactly what they're getting into. He has us do a cost/benefits analysis, so that we know what the deal is.

Thirdly, in this world of "dumbed down" religion, where people "feel their way around," placing inordinate emphasis on emotions, and too much confidence in leaders, it's refreshing to know that Christ calls us to use our minds. Rather than "playing spirituality" to entertain ourselves, He would have us to substantiate our rationale, exercising discernment, with clear thought and sound reasoning. Most religious people are content to be led in the way of ignorance and foolish simplicity, when it comes to their eternal souls! But how remarkable is the fact that The Lord Jesus Christ has no blind followers! He opens people's eyes to the truth of His word, and moves our hearts with His mercy. And our commitment to Him is based upon what He did for us, in the laying down of His own life. We're thankful to be forgiven of our sin! For that reason, we willingly lay down our lives to Him, whom we see as our rightful Master.

Before I decide to surrender my life, He convinces me that He's absolutely worthy of it. He's no salesman, pitching a spiel about a deal, among other comparable deals. He's the giver of eternal life, to whoever must have it. He's not begging for any type of validation from me. He doesn't need my approval, but I do need His. And His approval of me is directly related to how I respond to His Lordship. I'm thankful that He shows me that I'm responsible to make a determinate judgment, weighing everything in the balance......not to simply make a flippant decision, without sober consideration of the outcome.

Christianity is not whimsical, but deliberate. The Lord is in full control of all things - including my life, but He shows me how I must relinquish my own perceived control of my life. Otherwise, I cannot be His disciple. His terms of discipleship are very clear.

A Christian is a follower of Christ alone. Considering the magnitude of who that Person is, shouldn't a profession of discipleship to Him be carefully pondered? Eternal life in Him is the most free of gifts. It's also the costliest of endeavors, and not to be taken lightly. It involves bearing one's own cross, and going in the footsteps of Him, who was the despised and rejected Man of sorrows, acquainted with grief (Isaiah 53).

Who has sufficient material for such a tower to be built? If God, Himself, is our supplier, we will have the grace to see it through, to completion. In fact, it's by the triumph of Christ's Cross that we can expect to be sustained through, and rewarded for, our own crosses. How can we know that we indeed have what it takes to finish what we start, and live out our profession, to the end? It's by "looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2). It's by being confident that He who has begun a good work in us, will complete it (Philippians 1:6).

"The Holy Spirit to Those Who Ask" (Luke 11:9-13) by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 08:00:00 +0000

“So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish?Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” (Luke 11:9-13)

I recently heard a message that set my soul free, as I found myself believing what was taught, concerning this promise of Jesus. I was, and am, very encouraged by the fact that God will give His Holy Spirit to those who ask Him. Aware of my utter inability to accomplish anything spiritual, apart from the Spirit of God, this promise thrills me to the core. It prepares me to walk in the works that He has ordained for me. It quells my fears about how everything will play out. As I desire to faithfully glorify God with my life, and to maneuver in this world, as a helpful light to others, I've been brought to this wonderful conclusion: all I need is God's Spirit. And for this gift, I've been provided with very clear direction: ask, seek and knock.

James wrote: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5)

"Ask God." Wow! It's very elementary. Why not just ask God for what I need? Why should my mind complicate the matter any further? Analysis paralysis is a real affliction, indeed. It's my unbelief that causes me to be so filled with anxiety, and slow to arrive at this eureka-ish discovery: I can simply go to God for that which I need, and which only He can give.

Paul wrote: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." (Philippians 4:6)

The unbelief, which causes anxiety, is also intermingled with pride, whereby I think that things are, somehow, within my own control. Such vain assumptions of self-sufficiency are remedied by these words that Peter wrote: "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:6)

All I need is the Spirit of God to show me Christ (John 14), and looking to Him will make me fruitful. This is His will and His good pleasure (John 15). What an appropriate and refreshing prescription for my ailments! The God, without whom, I can do nothing, is absolutely willing to be with me, and help me to do His will.

Let me close with a list of spiritual fruit that is the result of being granted the Spirit of God. To be Spirit-filled is not some intangibly nebulous concept, inexplicably euphoric feeling, or magically mystic trance. It's a very practical, albeit supernatural, operation.

Paul plainly tells us that "the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." (Galatians 5:22-23)

These are the things that I need, in order to be functional as a Christian, and at my best, as a human being. These are things that God Almighty is willing to give freely. Jesus tells us to ask, seek and knock. God will freely grant us this most urgent, all-important desire. If we need it, we'll search it out desperately, as Jacob sought the blessing (Genesis 32:26), as blind Bartimaeus sought sight (Mark 10:46-52), as the Canaanite woman sought mercy (Matthew 15:22-28), and as any sinner who needs to be saved, gets saved (Romans 10:13).

The God, unto whom belongs salvation, is the same God who will most assuredly give the fruits of His Spirit to His children. And what a blessing ,that we are pointed in this direction, by none other than the Father's preeminent Child: Jesus, the only begotten Son of God.

"The Benefits of Affliction" by John Newton

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 08:00:00 +0000

I have often preached to others of the benefit of affliction; but my own path for many years has been so smooth, and my trials, though I have not been without trials, comparatively so light and few, that I have seemed to myself to speak by rote upon a subject of which I had not a proper feeling. Yet the many exercises of my poor afflicted people, and the sympathy the Lord has given me with them in their troubles, has made this a frequent and favourite topic of my ministry among them.

The advantages of afflictions, when the Lord is pleased to employ them for the good of his people, are many and great. Permit me to mention a few of them; and the Lord grant that we may all find those blessed ends answered to ourselves, by the trials He is pleased to appoint us.

Afflictions quicken us to prayer. It is a pity it should be so; experience testifies that a long course of ease and prosperity, without painful changes, has an unhappy tendency to make us cold and formal in our secret worship; but troubles rouse our spirits, and constrain us to call upon the Lord in good earnest, when we feel a need of that help which we only can have from Him.

They are useful, and in a degree necessary, to keep alive in us a conviction of the vanity and unsatisfying nature of the present world, and all its enjoyments; to remind us that this is not our rest, and to call our thoughts upwards, where our true treasure is, and where our conversation ought to be. When things go on much to our wish, our hearts are too prone to say, It is good to be here. It is probable, that had Moses, when he came to invite Israel to Canaan, found them in prosperity, as in the days of Joseph, they would have been very unwilling to remove; but the afflictions they were previously brought into made his message welcome.

Thus the Lord, by pain, sickness, and disappointments, by breaking our cisterns and withering our gourds, weakens our attachment to this world, and makes the thought of quitting it more familiar and more desirable.

A child of God cannot but greatly desire a more enlarged and experimental acquaintance with his holy word; and this attainment is greatly promoted by our trials. The far greater part of the promises in Scripture are made and suited to a state of affliction; and, though we may believe they are true, we cannot so well know their sweetness, power, and suitableness, unless we ourselves are in a state to which they refer. The Lord says, "Call upon me in the day of trouble, and I will deliver."

Now till the day of trouble comes, such a promise is like a city of refuge to an Israelite, who not having slain a man, was in no danger of the avenger of blood. He had a privilege near him, of which he knew not the use and value, because he was not in the case for which it was provided. But some can say, "I not only believe this promise upon the authority of the speaker, but I can set my seal to it: I have been in trouble; I took this course for relief, and I was not disappointed. The Lord verily heard and delivered me." Thus afflictions likewise give occasion of our knowing and noticing more of the Lord's wisdom, power, and goodness, in supporting and relieving, than we should otherwise have known.

I have not time to take another sheet, and must therefore contract my homily. Afflictions evidence to ourselves, and manifest to others, the reality of grace. And when we suffer as Christians, exercise some measure of that patience and submission, and receive some measure of these supports and supplies, which the Gospel requires and promises to believers, we are more confirmed that we have not taken up with mere notions; and others may be convinced that we do not follow cunningly devised fables. They likewise Strengthen by exercise our graces: as our limbs and natural powers would be feeble if not called to daily exertion; so the graces of the Spirit would languish, without something provided to draw them out to use.

And, to say no more, they are honourable, as they advance our conformity to Jesus our Lord, who was a man of sorrows for our sake. Methinks, if we might go to heaven without suffering, we should be unwilling to desire it. Why should we ever wish to go by any other path than that which He has consecrated and endeared by His own example? especially as his people's sufferings are not penal; there is no wrath in them; the cup He puts in their hands is very different from that which He drank for their sakes, and is only medicinal to promote their chief good. Here I must stop; but the subject is fruitful, and might be pursued through a quire of paper.

John Newton, 1773

NOT WHAT MY HANDS HAVE DONE ( A Hymn by Horatius Bonar)

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 08:00:00 +0000

"By grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast." Eph. 2: 8-9

Not what my hands have done can save my guilty soul;

Not what my toiling flesh has borne can make my spirit whole.

Not what I feel or do can give me peace with God;

Not all my prayers and sighs and tears can bear my awful load.

Your voice alone, O Lord, can speak to me of grace;

Your power alone, O Son of God, can all my sin erase.

No other work but Yours, no other blood will do;

No strength but that which is divine can bear me safely through.

I praise the Christ of God; I rest on love divine;

And with unfaltering lip and heart I call this Savior mine.

My Lord has saved my life and freely pardon gives;

I love because He first loved me, I live because He lives.

Horatius Bonar, 1861

Christ, The Word Of God, Is God (part 1) by Librae Jackson, Deacon

noreply@blogger.com (Heshimu Colar, Pastor) — Thu, 31 May 2012 08:00:00 +0000

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it."

As we look upon
the first 5 verses of these Divinely inspired words in the Book of John,
we'll get a good understanding, as we
realize that it reveals Christ, candidly.

The One who came to the world to save sinners is
the same One who made the world, in the opening verse of the Holy Scriptures, in Genesis.
"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" is what it says.

So when John writes: "In the beginning was the Word, who was God, and with God,
and that He was in the beginning with God,"
it's a direct mention of God, the Son of God.

This wonderful and precious truth is further delved into

by the Apostle Paul in the first chapter of Colossians,
where He describes Jesus Christ

as the Invisible God's Image.
He goes on to insist

that all things were created by Him, through Him and for Him.

And in Him, they all consist.
And as the church's Head, the Firstborn from the dead,

He gets pre-eminence.

These sentences, along with the awesomely

definitive acknowledgement in Christian theology

that "In Him dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily,"

are words that Paul received.

This terminology was God-breathed.

And, for us, non-optional to believe.

Audacious, indeed, are these statements.

Bu truly, the case is

that we should render praises for such phrases,
because the God-Man's grace is the exact place where salvation is.

Bear with me a moment, as I try to convey this.

Or, rather, what the Scriptures proclaim is

what God unfolds as The Gospel:

The Son of God, also known

as the Son of Man, to the Cross, would go

in order to, unto God, atone

for multitudes of lost souls.

In the mind of God, this was always so.

All that was told

by Moses and the Psalmists and Prophets of old,

and highlighted in the Gospels, and the Acts and Epistles of the Apostles,

is collectively called the Word of God, also.

Moved by the Spirit of God, these holy men all wrote

so that we would, the glory of God, behold,

as we see the things which concern Christ;

and believe, unto eternal life.

It's an assortment of discourses and stories, which

are, undoubtedly, historic.

But the volume of the Book is written of Him,

so we've got to look to Him, to give every portion its significance.

He is the Message that God intends for us to get.

This is why God, in His providence,

sovereignly influenced men

to formally compile

these writings into the Holy Bible.

And it's by this Word that Christ, the Word, revives souls.