Press Toward the Mark

Siloam – 11.19.09

2009-11-19T11:54:00.002-05:00

John 9 records the account of a man that was blind from his birth – not for his sin or the sin of his parents, but "that the works of God should be made manifest in him" (v. 3). The method used by the Lord in this particular miracle is interesting (vv. 6-7). Jesus approached the man, spat on the ground, made clay of the spittle, anointed the blind man's eyes, and sent him to wash in the pool of Siloam. Verse 7 says, "He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing."

I've read this passage multiple times, but what I had never noticed or thought about was the significance of the pool of Siloam. There's an important parenthesis in verse 7 that points out the meaning of the name of the pool – it means SENT.

According to John 9, why was the blind man healed? To manifest the works of God (v. 3). And what did the blind man do as soon as he was healed? Testified to his neighbors (vv. 8-12) and the Pharisees (vv. 13-34) of the power of Jesus Christ, then worshipped the Lord (vv. 35-38).

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound

That saved a wretch like!

I was once lost but now am found;

Was blind but now I see.

Question: Have you been SAVED? Have your BLIND eyes been opened by Jesus Christ? Are you WASHED in the blood of the Lamb? Then you've also been SENT. You've been SENT to manifest the works of God by testifying to your friends, your neighbors, your family, your community, and all the world of WHO IT WAS that turned you from darkness to light (Acts 26:18).

The Father SENT the Son to be the Savior of the world (1 John 4:9, 10, 14; John 3:17; Acts 3:26).
The Spirit is SENT to comfort and empower the believer (John 14:26; Luke 24:49).
And the believer is SENT to tell the world that JESUS SAVES…

John 17:18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.

John 20:21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.

1 Timothy 2:5-6 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

If you're SAVED, then you've been SENT!

Orphans & Widows

2009-11-15T16:37:00.005-05:00

Passing this note along (with permission) from Kristin Steele, a former BBC teen now at Foothills Christian Bible College:

I was sitting in class listening to what Dale Elwell was saying about Evangelism and Spiritual Formation and he said something that I had never noticed before about the orphans and widows of the world.

In James 1:27 the Bible says "Pure religon and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and the widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."

Once someone has accepted Christ as his/her Savior they are called a child of God. (Gal. 3:26) A "child" is a person between birth and full growth, a son or daughter, boy or girl, with parents. We, as children of God, have a Heavenly Father. Thus, making all unbelievers "orphans" because of the absence of the Father in their lives.

The body of Christ, the Church, is also commonly refferred to as the bride of Christ, for which He, the Bridegroom, will one day return for. There cannot be a bride without a bridegroom, therefore making any non-believer a widow.

So if all unbelievers are, in a way, orphans and widows they are without a doubt "in their affliction" on their way to hell. It is therefore our job, as people who possess that "Pure religon", to visit them and share with them the wonderful news of Jesus. In doing so, we are required to be IN the world, however not OF the world; thus keeping ourselves "unspotted from the world."

I realize this verse (James 1:27) has another more simple meaning, refferring to Christians helping with and taking care of the physically orphaned children and/or a wife whose husband has died or husband whose wife has died; thus making them a widow. This is how I have always taken it, especially because I believe God wants me to invest my life in the orphans of Africa; but I thought it was a very neat and interesting "interpretation" of the verse, and really shows how important it is to witness to people around you as well as people in foreign countries. Just thought i'd share this with yall. Let me know your thoughts on it.

Is It Easy? – 11.10.09

2009-11-10T12:09:00.002-05:00

QUESTION – Is it simple to serve God and obey His word? Is it easy to live for the Lord? Just something to consider…

ANSWER # 1 – YES. It's simple in that it's straightforward and uncomplicated. All I have to do is deny myself (Luke 9:23) and yield to the control (Romans 6:11-14) of the indwelling Holy Spirit (Philippians 2:13; Hebrews 13:20-21). I don't even have to depend on my own faith but rather place what little faith I have in One whose faith is perfect (Galatians 2:20; 2 Corinthians 5:7).

ANSWER # 2 – NO. It's not difficult to understand what serving God is all about, it's just that the whole self-denial thing doesn't come naturally. It's not easy to say no to this flesh. It takes some discipline (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). It takes some spiritual exercise (1 Timothy 4:8). It takes some drive and determination (Philippians 3:13-14). It takes some endurance (2 Timothy 2:3).

ANSWER # 3 – YES. Denying self and obeying the scripture is a matter of my love for God (James 1:12; 2 Corinthians 5:14), and it's easier to lay aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us when we set our eyes on the Son of God (Hebrews 12:2) and consider how He first loved us (1 John 4:19; 1 John 3:1-2).

ANSWER # 4 – YES and NO. Throughout the scripture, God promises abundant blessing and rich reward to the obedient. Intellectually we know that God will make our service to Him every bit worth it, and there are times when we're able to get past the present distress by focusing our attention on the prize that is set before us (Philippians 3:13-14; 2 Corinthians 4:18; Hebrews 11:1). But the problem is that this flesh is just so short-sighted. It just can't see past the here and now.

Romans 7:21-25 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

Isaiah 35 – 11.6.09

2009-11-06T08:13:00.002-05:00

Isaiah 35 is one of if not my #1 favorite chapter in this great book of Bible prophecy. That probably has something to do with the fact that the Lord blessed me with its truth and prophetic significance as I was reading through my Bible not long after I had gotten serious about studying and preaching God's word.

The chapter gives us a glimpse at some of the blessings of the kingdom that Jesus Christ will establish when He returns to this earth in a future day. Read through these 10 verses, then we'll note 4 of the blessings of the millennial kingdom.

Isaiah 35:1-10 The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the LORD, and the excellency of our God. Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence; he will come and save you. Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert. And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes. And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein. No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there: And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

1. A NEW GEOGRAPHY

The chapter says that the deserts will blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing. The parched ground will become a pool and the thirsty land springs of water. Lebanon (inland mountains, forests), Carmel (hills, seacoast), and Sharon (plains, seacoast) will become even more glorious and excellent.

I don't know about you, but I've often been amazed at the glory and beauty and grandeur of God's creation – on this earth that is under a curse! On this earth that Romans 8 says groans and travails in pain waiting for the return of the Lord Jesus Christ. I can't imagine how beautiful and how perfect this place will be when that curse is lifted and creation is restored to Eden-like conditions.

Ezekiel 36:35 And they shall say, This land that was desolate is become like the garden of Eden; and the waste and desolate and ruined cities are become fenced, and are inhabited.

2. A NEW BODY

Weak hands will be strengthened; feeble knees confirmed; blind eyes opened; deaf ears unstopped; lame legs made to leap; the tongue of the dumb made to sing. Again, the Bible says that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), but what a day that will be when we exchange this vile body for one made like to the glorious resurrection body of Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:20-21)! What a day that will be when this corruptible puts on incorruption and this mortal puts on immortality (1 Corinthians 15:51-53)!

In Christ's millennial kingdom, we'll have no need for walking canes, reading glasses, hearing aids, wheelchairs, hospital beds, medicine cabinets, vitamin supplements, or doctor's offices. We'll have been made whole by the Great Physician.

3. A WAY OF HOLINESS

As Christians, there are 3 great enemies with whom we do battle on a daily basis: the world, the flesh, and the devil. According to Isaiah 35, all 3 will be eliminated and excluded from Christ's millennial kingdom.

Verse 9 says no lion (1 Peter 5:8) shall be there. Revelation 20 says that Satan will be bound for the duration of the 1,000 years. Praise the Lord! Then verse 8 speaks of a way of holiness, and it says the unclean shall not pass over it (the world). But in addition to that, the wayfaring men (you and me), though fools, SHALL NOT ERR THEREIN.

Today, I am a child of God. My soul is saved, but my flesh is not. No matter how hard I try, I constantly err (Romans 7:18-23). But when Jesus Christ returns my son-ship will be made manifest (Romans 8:19; 1 John 3:1-2) and I will receive the adoption, to wit, the redemption of the body (Romans 8:23; Ephesians 1:13-14). Jesus Christ will deliver me from the body of this death (Romans 7:24-25) and walking on the way of holiness in Christ's millennial kingdom I couldn't sin if I tried!

4. EVERLASTING JOY

Everlasting joy shall be upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

Revelation 21:4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

Psalm 16:11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

The wonders of the kingdom that Jesus Christ will return and establish: a new geography, a new body, a way of holiness, everlasting joy, world-wide peace – and more! But Isaiah 35:9-10 says it's only for the ransomed and redeemed. The glories of this kingdom are reserved only for those who have submitted to the righteousness of Jesus Christ and been saved from sin by His marvelous grace.

If you're part of that company, then REJOICE (1 Peter 1:3-6) and busy yourself in the service of THE KING (Revelation 19:11-16).

World Peace – 11.3.09

2009-11-03T09:31:00.002-05:00

If the Bible is true (and it is), then there is a coming day in which the Lord Jesus Christ will return to this earth. Upon His return, He will destroy His enemies; He will establish His kingdom; He will sit on the throne of His father David at Jerusalem; He will right all that is wrong; and He will accomplish what no man has ever been able to accomplish (or ever will) – He will bring WORLDWIDE PEACE! And we will rule and reign with Him for 1,000 years.

Isaiah 9:6-7 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

That's why it's important for us to place our hope and your faith not in political figures but in the Son of God. Recently, our president was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize. It was openly acknowledged, even by our liberal news media, that the prize was not given as a reward for anything Mr. Obama has done but rather in hopes that the award will help him to accomplish something that would one day make him deserving of it. So they gave him the Nobel Peace Prize for bringing "hope to the international community," but the fact of the matter is that he doesn't have anything else to bring. Men can soothe their hearts with cries of peace (Jeremiah 6:14) as long as they want, but until this world repents of its wickedness (Isaiah 57:21) and gives glory to God in the highest (Luke 2:14) there will not be peace on earth.

Isaiah 2:1-4 The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.

That last bit about beating swords into plowshares and spears into pruninghooks is the theme of a statue at the headquarters of the United Nations in New York City – and we all know what a wonderful job that organization has done at achieving that goal since its formation in 1945. Not surprisingly, they have lost the truth of the passage by lifting it out of its context (which is what always happens when you do so). The fact of the matter is that no one will start making farming equipment out of their weapons until the Lord comes to judge the nations; the mountain of God's house is exalted and established; and all people flow unto Jerusalem so that Jesus Christ can teach us of His ways.

Now, worldwide peace is not the only characteristic of this 1,000 year kingdom that is to come. Isaiah 35 gives us a one chapter summary of the glories of that kingdom. We'll take a look at that next time.

PRAISE THE LORD, I'M ON THE WINNING SIDE!

Attributes of Antichrist – 10.30.09

2009-10-30T12:01:00.002-04:00

Bro. James brought a very interesting lesson last night on the person of the antichrist (click here to listen). Amidst the solid Bible teaching and the many reasons why it's NOT Barack Obama, there was a very practical note that really stuck out to me. Thought I'd pass it along.

2 Thessalonians 2:4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.

The Bible teaches that the beast, in following the footsteps of his father (Isaiah 14), will EXALT HIMSELF. What 2 Thessalonians 2:4 teaches us is self-exaltation equals self-opposition.

The verse does not say that by exalting himself he opposes God. The verse says that he opposeth AND exalteth HIMSELF. By exalting himself he opposes himself.

Now, the reason that self-exaltation is also self-opposition is found in Luke 14:11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Compare the antichrist to the true Christ. Throughout the Bible we read of how the antichrist promotes and exalts and worships himself. And we also read of his ultimate end and how he will be DESTROYED by the Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Thessalonians 2:8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:

Daniel 7:8-10 …behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things. I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him…

Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand.

Revelation 19:20 And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.

On the other hand our Savior humbled himself and became obedient unto death…Philippians 2:9-10 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

Let THIS MIND be in you. Don't fall into the devil's snare of opposing yourself (2 Timothy 2:25-26). Humble yourself. Exalt the Lord Jesus Christ. Live for others. Either that, or manifest the attributes of antichrist.

Ecclesiastes 7:17 – 10.26.09

2009-10-26T23:44:00.002-04:00

Here's one that I didn't preach but had ready just in case…

Ecclesiastes 7:17 Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time?

1. Every man has an appointment with death (Hebrews 9:27; Romans 5:12).

2. Nobody knows when that appointment is.

3. The timing of that appointment is ultimately up to God (Ecclesiastes 8:8; Revelation 9:6).

4. There are some things one can do that can have an effect on the timing of that appointment (Ecclesiastes 7:17; Psalm 55:23; Proverbs 11:19).

I. OBEY AND HONOR YOUR PARENTS – Ephesians 6:1-3

A. Obey (your actions)

1. To comply with the orders or instructions of a superior; to do that which is commanded or required and to forbear doing that which is prohibited; to submit to the government of; to be ruled by; to submit to the direction or control of authority.

2. It is the duty of your parents, preacher, teacher, etc. to tell you what to do. It is your duty to obey.

B. Honor (your attitude)

1. To revere; to respect; to treat with deference and submission, and perform relative duties to; to reverence; to manifest the highest veneration for; to entertain the most exalted thoughts of; to dignify; to raise to distinction or notice; to elevate in rank or station; to exalt

2. God requires both obedience and honor.

3. Rebellion will get you nowhere but an early grave.

II. FEAR GOD – Proverbs 3:1-2; Proverbs 3:13-16; Proverbs 9:10-11; Proverbs 10:27

1. It is a holy awe or reverence of God and his laws, which springs from a just view and real love of the divine character, leading the subjects of it to hate and shun everything that can offend such a holy being, and inclining them to aim at perfect obedience.

2. It is a RESPECT for God's holiness and a RECOGNITION of His judgment that RESULTS in my desire to please Him, which leads to length of days.

III. HATE COVETOUSNESS – Proverbs 28:16

A. It is an inordinate desire for the possessions of another (Exodus 20:17). It is making a god out of stuff (Colossians 3:5).

B. We must beware that we're not deceived into thinking this life is all about the pursuit of stuff – or that it will make us happy (Luke 12:15).

C. Covetousness stems from a heart that is not satisfied with God's provision (Hebrews 13:5; 1 Timothy 6:6-8).

Play the Men – 10.23.09

2009-10-23T12:43:00.002-04:00

The children of Ammon saw that they stank before David b/c of what they had done to his servants (see the opening of chapter 10) so they hired 33,000 men to fight against Israel. Joab goes out to battle and finds himself surrounded by a strong and valiant enemy. Not sure if he has what it takes to defeat them, he divides the host with Abishai…

2 Samuel 10:11-12 And he said, If the Syrians be too strong for me, then thou shalt help me: but if the children of Ammon be too strong for thee, then I will come and help thee. Be of good courage, and let us play the men for our people, and for the cities of our God: and the LORD do that which seemeth him good.

… and it seemed good to the Lord to grant the Israelites the victory.

As Christian men, we must recognize that we are in a real battle with a real enemy; that there is much at stake (Ephesians 6:10-12; 1 Peter 5:8) and that we have a duty to our God, to our families, and to our churches. And in order to stand firm in this fight, there are times when we will have to take courage and PLAY THE MEN.

I. FROM THE BIBLE, WHAT "A MAN" IS SUPPOSED TO BE/DO

A. A hard worker who provides for the needs of His family

1. Work is not a part of the curse. God gave man a job to do in the garden (Genesis 2:15).

2. Hard labor was made a part of the curse for man's benefit (Genesis 3:17-19). A man is not afraid to break a sweat, get his hands dirty, and go out and break his back to put food on the table (Psalm 104:23).

3. Nothing worth having comes in the absence of hard work. It is good to work with one's hands (Ephesians 4:28). In all labor there is profit (Proverbs 14:23).

4. A man that won't work and provide for his family is worse than an infidel (1 Timothy 5:8) and is not fit to be in fellowship with God's people (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12).

B. Protect, nurture, and love his family

1. A real man is a gentleman. He loves his wife and isn't ashamed to admit it or to show it. He follows Christ's example in giving of himself for her (Ephesians 5:25-33).

2. He treats her with honor as the weaker vessel (1 Peter 3:7).

3. He diligently strives to please his wife (1 Corinthians 7:33).

4. He doesn't leave the child rearing completely to the wife, but takes an active role in the raising and disciplining of children (Ephesians 6:4).

C. Leads his family

1. Being the head of the home does not mean that the man is superior to the man anymore than Christ's submission to the Father makes Him inferior to the Father (1 Corinthians 11:3).

2. It does mean that he is ultimately responsible for the spiritual, physical, emotional welfare of his family and will give account to God for his handling of that responsibility (Hebrews 11:17).

3. A man should be willing to make the final decision in a given matter and must take initiative to lead his family in the right direction.

II. WHY IT WILL TAKE A REAL MAN TO SERVE GOD

A. To do right despite the inevitable opposition

1. Self-denial is essential in following Christ (Luke 9:23; 1 Corinthians 9:25-27)

2. We are commanded to endure hardness (2 Timothy 2:3)

3. We are promised persecution (2 Timothy 3:12; Matthew 5:11-12)

B. To focus on what's truly important

1. Too many men don't do what they're supposed to do because they're too distracted with toys, hobbies, games, sins, the pursuit of material wealth, etc.

2. A real man will establish the proper priorities in his life (2 Timothy 2:4; Matthew 6:33).

C. To keep doing right no matter what

1. Men don't quit (1 Corinthians 16:13).

2. God is searching for a man to stand in the gap (Ezekiel 22:30).

Henry Varley once said, "The world has yet to see what god will do with and for and through and in and by the man who is full and wholly consecrated to Him."

When DL Moody heard that, he answered in his heart, "By the grace of God, I will be that man."

What It Means To Be A Christian – 10.21.09

2009-10-21T12:47:00.002-04:00

Acts 11:26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

I. A BELIEVER ON JESUS CHRIST

Acts 11:21 – These people had turned from all else and believed on Jesus Christ ALONE for the salvation of their soul

A. Someone who denies the deity of Christ is not a Christian (1 John 2:22; 1 John 4:3; 2 John 1:7-11)

B. Someone who is trusting their works – on any level – is not a Christian (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; Romans 3:19-28; Galatians 2:21)

II. A FOLLOWER OF JESUS CHRIST

Acts 11:26 – They were called Christians. The fact that they believed on Jesus Christ was evident in their day to day lives (assembling, learning the scriptures, exhorting one another, preaching the word (vv. 19-26).

One cannot be a Christian without being saved, but one can be saved without being a Christian. A Christian is a saved person who lives like it.

This is what the world needs. There are enough religious people who claim to be Christians and aren't. And there are enough saved people who claim the name of Christ but bear no resemblance to their Heavenly Father.

Galatians 1:4 – The Bible never says that Jesus came to save me from hell. The Bible says Jesus came to save me from my sin, so I could be delivered from this present evil world. Missing hell and gaining heaven is a glorious blessing that's included.

Ephesians 2:8-10 – I am not saved by my works, but I am saved in order to do good works. Religion gets this backward. Religion says grace > good works > salvation. The Bible says grace > salvation > good works.

Titus 2:11-14 – Again, the grace of God means I have a blessed hope of entering heaven, but in the meantime it teaches me to live right. Jesus Christ gave himself to redeem us from iniquity and purify unto Himself a peculiar people zealous of good works.

2 Timothy 1:19-22 – Let everyone that nameth the name of Christ (Christian) depart from iniquity. Why did the angel tell Mary to call His name Jesus? "For he shall save his people FROM THEIR SINS" (Matthew 1:21). A Christian must depart from iniquity / flee youthful lusts AND follow after righteousness. Because righteousness is elusive (I have not attained so I press toward the mark, Philippians 3:12-14) and iniquity is in pursuit of me. If I'm standing still, I'm losing ground. I am not a Christian.

Purpose In Your Heart – 10.19.09

2009-10-19T10:27:00.002-04:00

Daniel 1:8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.

Daniel was an intelligent, talented, attractive young man who was taken away from his parents, his people, and his temple by a nation who gave him a new name, taught him a new language, and placed him in the court of a heathen king. Yet he stayed clean and pure and true to God throughout his entire life because early in his life he made a decision not to defile himself.

Likewise, if we are going to be blameless and harmless as the sons of God without rebuke in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation among whom we shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:15), we must recognize that is not going to happen by accident or default. If we want to be used of God (2 Timothy 2:19-22), we must purpose in our hearts not to defile ourselves with…

I. Sexual immorality

Hebrews 13:4

God created marriage and is the designer of the blessings that go with it (i.e. the physical relationship between a husband wife, Genesis 1:28). But He has established some very definite boundaries in which that relationship can be enjoyed – one husband and one wife committed to each other for their entire lives – and gives a sure and certain promise of judgment to any who step outside of those boundaries in any way.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

To step outside of the boundaries God has established is to sin against one's own body. Again, if you get involved with something God has said to save for marriage, you're only going to get hurt. So FLEE fornication. The best way to keep from falling off a cliff is to stay away from the edge. The devil would have you get as close to the edge as possible, telling you all the while that you'll never "go too far," and all so he can push you off and laugh when you crash on the jagged rocks below.

1 Corinthians 7:1-2

God's idea for making sure that you keep yourself pure is HANDS OFF.

Romans 13:14

Make no provision for the flesh. Don't pack a lunch for lust. You CAN'T handle the temptation. If you think you can, that just proves how close you are to falling over the edge of that cliff (1 Corinthians 10:12).

II. Alcohol

Proverbs 20:1

You're stupid ("not wise") if you think drinking is cool. You're stupid ("not wise") if you think one drink won't hurt. You're stupid ("not wise") if you think it's OK as long as you don't get drunk. The devil laughs at your ignorance.

Proverbs 23:29-32

It's pretty hard to drink something you're not even supposed to look at. But everybody's doing it…it biteth like a serpent and stingeth like an adder. But they'll make fun of me if I don't…it biteth like a serpent and stingeth like an adder. But I know when to stop…it biteth like a serpent and stingeth like an adder.

III. Music

1 Corinthians 15:33

Music is a powerful thing, and you're deceived by the devil if you think the music you listen to doesn't have a major effect on your life.

Ephesians 5:18-19; Colossians 3:16

A Christian has no business listening to anything but music that glorifies God and encourages him/her to do what's right. A Christian has no business singing anything but music that glorifies God and encourages him/her to do what's right.

IV. Money

1 Timothy 6:9-10

Money is not the root of all evil – it's necessary for love. But if you LOVE money, if you make it your goal in life to get rich, then here's what you have to look forward to: temptations; snares; foolish and hurtful lusts; drowning in destruction and perdition; piercing yourself through with many sorrows.

Riches are uncertain (1 Timothy 6:17). They make themselves wings and fly away as an eagle toward heaven (Proverbs 23:5). So labor not to be rich (Proverbs 23:4). The richest man in the world said it was empty and meaningless (Proverbs 30:8-9; Ecclesiastes).

Life isn't about what you can get (Luke 12:15). It's about God and the people He puts in your life and relationships and memories and making a difference in eternity. So invest your time and effort into those things – not making another dollar – because godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6-8).

So work hard and provide for yourself. Work hard and provide for your family. If God gives you riches then praise Him for it and use that money for Him. But don't be deceived and defiled by the love of money.

It's important that you make up your mind about these things ahead of time. Daniel would have never survived in Babylon had he not purposed in his heart from the outset that he would not allow himself to be defiled.

Finding God’s Will – 10.16.09

2009-10-16T09:20:00.002-04:00

Ephesians 1:9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:

Romans 12:1-2 – KNOW the will of God

Ephesians 5:17 – UNDERSTAND the will of God

Ephesians 6:6 – DO the will of God

The will of God is a mystery, but it has been revealed. God not only wants us to know it, He commands us to know it. So how do we go about it?

I. Do what the Bible says.

There are many things clearly stated in the Bible as being "God's will." Here are a few:

A. Get saved – or get involved in getting others saved (2 Peter 3:9; 1 Timothy 2:3-6; John 6:39-40).

B. Get sanctified and learn to control your lusts (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4).

C. Submit to the authority God has placed in your life (1 Peter 2:13-16).

D. Learn to suffer for doing right and keep going (1 Peter 4:12-19).

E. Spend time with God's people (Romans 15:32; Hebrews 10:25).

F. Develop a thankful spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:18). It's a choice.

II. Learn to apply biblical principles.

A. God's word does not directly address every situation or issue we face in life. But God's word contains the principles we need to guide and direct our decision making (Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 6:23).

B. This is what WISDOM is all about, and God calls it the principal thing (Proverbs 4:7).

C. We are commanded to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly IN ALL WISDOM (Colossians 3:16).

III. Trust God – Proverbs 3:5-7

IV. Learn patience – Hebrews 10:36

Many are too concerned with FINDING the will of God for their lives and not concerned enough about DOING the will of God as it's already revealed in His word. If you are doing what God has told you to do, God has promised to provide direction and blessing. It might be on His timetable instead of yours, so don't give up. Just keep doing right. God never fails on His promise.

An additional thought that was not included in the message is that if you're saved and have a desire to live for God and serve God and reach others and you have something that you want to do for God, but you're not sure if you should, don't be afraid to go for it. If you're not violating the word of God, don't waste your time trying to figure out if you're called, just do what's on your heart and let God call you back if He wants (Acts 16:6-10).

2 Important Questions – 10.14.09

2009-10-14T09:12:00.002-04:00

Acts 9:5-6 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

If you could talk to God tonight, what questions would you ask Him?
Paul asked the 2 most important questions a man could ever ask of God.

I. WHO ART THOU, LORD?

Paul wanted to know God (Philippians 3:7-10)

A. You can know about God by reading the Bible (1 Samuel 3:21)

1. Who He is

a. The CREATOR (Genesis 1:1; Exodus 20:11; John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:16-17)

b. The SAVIOR (Isaiah 43:11; Matthew 1:21; 1 Timothy 4:10; 1 John 4:14)

c. The JUDGE (Genesis 18:25; Psalm 50:6; Acts 17:30-31)

2. What He is like

a. HOLY, harmless, separate from sinners (Hebrews 7:26)

b. GOOD to all (Psalm 145:9)

c. JUST and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus (Romans 3:26)

d. FULL OF COMPASSION, gracious, longsuffering, plenteous in mercy and truth (Psalm 86:15)

e. God is LOVE (1 John 4:8), and He's a CONSUMING FIRE (Hebrews 12:29)

f. the SAME yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

3. What He is called (just to name a few)

ALMIGHTY GOD (Genesis 17:1); THE ALPHA & OMEGA (Revelation 1:8), THE ANCIENT OF DAYS (Daniel 7:9); THE AMEN (Revelation 3:14); THE COMFORTER (John 14:26); THE COUNSELOR (Isaiah 9:6); THE CREATOR (1 Peter 4:9); THE EVERLASTING FATHER (Isaiah 9:6); EMMANUEL (Matthew 1:23); THE FAITHFUL & TRUE WITNESS (Revelation 19:11); HEAVENLY FATHER (Matthew 6:9); THE GOOD SHEPHERD (John 10:11); THE GREAT SHEPHERD (Hebrews 13:20); my GREAT HIGH PRIEST (Hebrews 4:14); HOLY (Isaiah 57:15); my HELPER (Hebrews 13:6); my HOPE (1 Timothy 1:1); THE I AM THAT I AM (Exodus 3:14); JEALOUS (Exodus 34:14); JEHOVAH (Psalm 83:18); THE JUST (Acts 3:14); THE KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS (Revelation 19:11); THE LAMB OF GOD WHICH TAKETH AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD (John 1:29); THE LAWGIVER (Isaiah 33:22); THE LIGHT (John 1:9); THE LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH (Revelation 5:5); THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS (Jeremiah 23:6); our MAKER (Psalm 75:6); our MASTER (John 13:13); our MEDIATOR (1 Timothy 2:5); our MESSIAH (Daniel 9:25); THE PRINCE OF PEACE (Isaiah 9:6); the REDEEMER (John 19:26); the ROCK (1 Corinthian 10:4); the STAR (Numbers 24:17); the SCEPTER (Numbers 24:17); the SERVANT (Isaiah 42:1); the SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS (Malachi 4:2); the TRUE GOD AND ETERNAL LIFE (1 John 5:20); THE WAY; THE TRUTH; AND THE LIFE (John 14:26); the WORD (John 1:1); WONDERFUL (Isaiah 9:6)!

B. You can believe the gospel and know Him personally.

1. God became a man and revealed Himself in the person of Jesus Christ (1 John 5:20)

2. Jesus came so we can know God. The way to do so is to believe. The promise is eternal life. (John 10:14, 26-28; John 17:3)

3. Hell awaits those who know about God but do not know Him personally (Matthew 7:22-23; 2 Thessalonians 1:8).

C. You can know Him better by spending time with Him – 2 Peter 3:18; James 4:8

II. LORD, WHAT WILT THOU HAVE ME TO DO?

A. This question naturally follows the honest asking and correct answering of the first.

1. He is the Lord and has every right to demand our service (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

2. He is all-wise and knows what is best for us (2 Samuel 22:31; Isaiah 55:6-9).

3. He is all-loving and wants what is best for us (Psalm 145:16).

B. Jesus Christ is our example (1 Peter 2:21). He came to do the Father's will (Hebrews 10:7; Luke 22:42).

C. We must make a conscious decision and effort to surrender our will to God's (Romans 12:1-2). This is our reasonable service.

Paul wanted to KNOW God – "Who art thou, Lord?"
Paul wanted to PLEASE God – "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?"

I have decided to follow Jesus…

The world behind me the cross before me…

Though none go with me still I will follow…

No turning back, no turning back.

God is Good – 10.12.09

2009-10-12T08:53:00.003-04:00

For the next couple weeks, I'm going to post (in order) short outlines of the messages I preached at the teen alive youth conference in Guyana – in hopes that these notes will be a blessing to some.

GOD IS GOOD

Psalm 145:9 The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.

Exodus 34:6 – God is ABUNDANT in goodness and truth

Psalm 31:19 – His goodness is GREAT

Psalm 52:1 – His goodness ENDURETH CONTINUALLY

I. WHY YOU MUST RECOGNIZE THE GOODNESS OF GOD – THE REASONS

A. He is the source of all of life's blessings

1. Stated (Acts 17:22-28; James 1:17; 1 Timothy 6:17)

2. God's creation was very good (Genesis 1:31)

3. Man's sin brought sorrow and death (Genesis 3:16-17; Romans 5:12; James 1:14-15)

4. Sometimes our trouble is our own fault, sometimes it's the fact of life in a sin-cursed world

B. He gives comfort in all sorrow – Psalm 46:3; 2 Corinthians 1:3; Hebrews 4:14-16; Proverbs 18:24

C. He'll use the bad things in your life to make you a better person – Romans 8:28

D. He is the source of salvation – Hebrews 2:9, 14-15

II. WHY YOU MUST RECOGNIZE THE GOODNESS OF GOD – THE RESULTS

A. The goodness of God will lead you to repentance

1. Stated (Romans 2:4)

2. God's goodness means He must judge sin (Romans 2:3-6)

3. God's goodness in light of our unworthiness (Romans 5:6-8)

B. The goodness of God will lead you to obedience

1. God's commandments are for our good (Deuteronomy 10:13; Micah 2:7)

2. There is true joy in doing right (Psalm 16:11; Psalm 19:11)

3. If God is all-wise and all-loving, then I'm best off trusting Him enough to do what He says

Guyana – 10.9.09

2009-10-09T10:02:00.002-04:00

Well, it's been a while since I've posted, and I do apologize. Plan to get back at the regular schedule next week. In the meantime, here's an update on my recent journey to Guyana.

For those of you who might not know, I had the opportunity to travel to Guyana from Monday, September 21 thru Tuesday, September 29 to be with Missionary Dean Runyon in Port Kaituma and preach a teen revival meeting that ran Wednesday through Sunday.

1. Thanks so much to those who prayed. The effect of those prayers was very evident throughout the week, and the Lord answered every prayer I had going in.

The meetings were very well attended. In all, I believe over 175 "secondary students" (equivalent of our high school) were registered.
The response to the messages was very good. The altar was full the one night we had a "come forward" type invitation. Many young people made some important decisions and commitments throughout the week as a result of the preaching of the word of God.
There were also 11 who professed faith in Jesus Christ for the salvation of their soul and were baptized on Sunday afternoon.
I came down with a head cold the Monday morning that I flew out of Miami, which really affected me on the Tuesday morning jungle flight into Port Kaituma. In answer to prayer, it was clear in a matter of days, and I was fully recovered for my flight back out the next Monday morning.

2. Please continue to pray for Dean & Patty Runyon as they minister in Guyana.

Pray that Dean will have wisdom in continuing to minister to these young people. There were many who grew up in the church (the Runyons celebrate their 11th anniversary on the field this month) but had gotten out since going into secondary school – and were there for each service during the teen meeting. Pray that they'll stick with the decisions they made and go on for Jesus.
There are currently two couples raising support and making plans to join Dean & Patty on the field as soon as possible. Ray & Kim Boltz will be starting a children's home and working with Bro. Dean at Lighthouse Baptist Church, and Buck & Shannon Woodworth (Buck's a graduate of The DeLand School of THE BIBLE who filled in for Dean during his furlough in 2008) will be working in the church planting and Bible school ministries. Please pray they can wrap up their deputation quickly and get to Guyana soon. There is much work to be done!
Dean has been battling an ear infection for probably a good two months. It had improved somewhat while I was in Guyana but has since worsened (again). He's been on a couple different rounds of antibiotics. Please pray for God's healing and grace.
Cheo and Charlene McIntyre are two adorable, 9-year-old, Amerindian twins (Cheo's a boy, Charlene's a girl) that the Runyons are raising. They have a sad past but a bright future. Cheo has been saved and baptized, and Charlene is asking a lot of questions. Pray for her salvation.

3. I went on this trip in hopes of being a blessing, but as always, the Lord ministered to my heart.

As with any mission trip, I returned home with a greater appreciation for the things we so often take for granted in the US. The trip also renewed my appreciation for the things that our missionaries do without for the love of the God who called them and the people to whom they minister. Every Christian should visit the mission field at least once if at all possible.
Had a great time of fellowship with the Runyons throughout the week. There wasn't much time for sightseeing (not that there was much to see), river boating (with the piranhas), or jungle exploring (with anacondas), but I got to spend some time with Bro. Dean during the days as we prepared for the evening meetings. Two things about Bro. Dean that stuck out to me and I hope will stick on me were (1) the fact that he has more he wants to do for God than he'll ever be able to accomplish in this lifetime. He has more ideas, plans, goals, desires, etc. than will ever come to fruition. (2) He genuinely cares about people. People he's ministering to right now, people he has known in the past, people he met only yesterday. I don't know how many times tears would well up in his eyes as he'd tell me stories about people he's known and things that God has done.

4. A couple notes to finish up.

As exciting and as fun and as much of a blessing as it was to go, it was even better to come back to my home and my church and my beautiful wife! GOD IS SO GOOD!
Please pray for Pastor Joel Logan and a group from Sweet Springs Baptist Church who are working this week with Missionary James Hoffmeister in an attempt to start a church in a predominately Hindu area on the island of Trinidad.

Until next time – keep pressing toward the mark (and don't quit after that).

Patience – 9.26.09

2009-09-18T10:25:00.002-04:00

Hebrews 10:36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

That verse is for me. I don't know about you, but I have need of patience.

Patience is one of those things that people want – but don't want to go through the necessary process in order to get it…because the Bible says that acquiring patience involves the trying of one's faith (James 1:2-3). The recipe for patience includes the bitter ingredient of tribulation (Romans 5:3-5).

Here's how it often works. We get saved, or we get on fire for God. We start to read the Bible. We dig even deeper and start to study the Bible. We listen to preaching and hang on every word. We memorize scriptures. We go out and witness. We surrender our lives to the will of God.

It's at this point that many then begin to search for "God's will for their life." That's admirable – but there's a better way. You see, God's will is clearly revealed in God's word (see Ephesians 1:9; Ephesians 5:17), and those who spend their time SEARCHING for the will of God would be much better off busying themselves in DOING the will of God. Because when you do the will of God, you'll find IN TIME that He always comes through on His promise.

If you trust in Him with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding and acknowledge Him in all His ways and fear the Lord and depart from evil, He WILL direct your path (Proverbs 3:5-7)! He'll use you, He'll bless you, He'll guide you, He'll provide for you.

If you need a spouse, He'll give you a spouse (Matthew 6:33). If you're ready for a ministry, He'll put you in the ministry (2 Timothy 1:12). Just do everything you know to do and WAIT on God to do what He said He would.

And there's the problem. We want God to work on our timetable. But God's timetable is better, and He wants to teach us to work on His (the trying of your FAITH – James 1:2). And the only way for us to obtain patience is to wade through this river called "TIME" that separates doing the will of God from receiving His promise.

So when you find yourself in one of those necessary waiting periods of life (of which there are many), don't be discouraged. Just do God's will. Believe His word. Trust His plan (2 Samuel 22:31). And wait to reap the desired result.

You can't get spiritual maturity and fruitfulness without patience (James 1:4; 2 Peter 1:5-8; Luke 8:15), and you can't get patience without trying and testing (James 1:2-3; Romans 5:3-5). So count it all joy, and keep your eyes fixed on the prize (Hebrews 10:35; Philippians 3:13-14).

Are You A Good Person – 9.17.09

2009-09-17T11:51:00.002-04:00

Why I Use the Law in Witnessing:

Because the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul (Psalm 19:7)
Because it is given to stop EVERY mouth and make ALL THE WORLD guilty before God (Romans 3:19)
Because by the law is the knowledge of sin (Romans 3:20)
Because the law entered that the offence might abound (Romans 5:20)
Because I had not known sin, but by the law (Romans 7:7)
Because it is holy, just, and good (Romans 7:12)
Because it makes my sin exceeding sinful (Romans 7:13)
Because it is our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ (Galatians 3:24)
Because it puts men under a curse (Galatians 3:10)
Because it is good when used lawfully (1 Timothy 1:8-10)
Because it defines sin (1 John 3:4) and makes men guilty (James 2:10)
Because on judgment day the books will be opened and the dead will be judged according to their works (Revelation 20:13)
Because Gentiles who are not under the law are condemned by the law written in their hearts (Romans 2:1-16) and by this law is sin imputed to them (Romans 5:13)
Because certain commandments contained in the law are not exclusive to the Hebrew law (it's not a sin for a Gentile or Christian to eat pork, but it is a sin for either to lie)
Because it explains the reason for Christ's death (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
Because Ray Comfort is funny

The Sin of Unbelief – 9.15.09

2009-09-15T14:06:00.002-04:00

Hebrews 3:12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

The sin of unbelief. It's the only sin that will damn a man to hell – the truly unpardonable sin. When Jesus gave His life on the cross, was buried, and rose again, He paid the price for the sin of all mankind. "The blood of Jesus Christ…cleanseth us from ALL sin" (1 John 1:7), and there is no sin outside the bounds of God's forgiveness. A man can commit any sin in the book – and be forgiven – when he repents and turns to the Savior (be careful not to pervert the amazing extent of God's grace as a license to go commit any of those sins). But a man who does not believe on Jesus Christ finds no such forgiveness – no matter what his sin, no matter what his level of religious devotion, etc.

The sin of unbelief, like pride, is also a root sin. Hebrews 3:12 says that ANY departure from God ultimately stems from an evil heart of unbelief. Why is it that we as Christians – saved and on our way to heaven by the grace of God – fail to do what we should? In some way, at some point, it's a failure to believe the word of God. Why is that we as Christians – cleansed and forgiven and eternally secure – do what we shouldn't? It's because we fail to believe the Bible.

"Lord, increase our faith" (Luke 17:5). We know what God's word says to do. We know what God's word says not to do. And the Bible is very clear about the consequences we can expect either way.

Hebrews 3:13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

But sin steps in and deceives us. Somehow it convinces us that God didn't mean what He said; that the consequences won't be all that bad; that we've got this under control and can stop whenever we want; that it'll be worth it. LIES!

Let's make up our minds that God means what He says in His book; that things will really turn out the way He said they would; and we'd be best off simply following Him.

Galatians 6:7-8 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

Maniac of Gadara – 9.13.09

2009-09-13T15:20:00.002-04:00

Mark 5:1-20 and Luke 8:26-40 both record one of my favorite accounts in all the gospels of the miracles Jesus performed during His earthly ministry. The wonderful, life-changing power of Jesus Christ is seen in this man, who in a single day went from running around naked like a crazy man to sitting at Jesus' feet, clothed and in his right mind.

What was this man's problem? What caused him to lose his right mind? Well, in some way, he had put himself under the control and influence of an unclean spirit (see Ephesians 4:27). The above-referenced passages shed some interesting light on some of the marks of satanic influence.

1. NAKEDNESS

Luke 8:27 says that he ware no clothes. In every Biblical case since the man and woman were alone in the garden (Genesis 2:25), any type of open nakedness is a shameful thing to those who recognize the presence of God (Adam & Eve, Genesis 3; Noah, Genesis 9; Peter, John 21; et al).

God says cover yourself. And His word doesn't change with the temperature or the location or your activity. It's not OK to be naked (by the biblical definition) just because it's 95 in Florida or you're at the beach. It's not OK to uncover your flesh because you're working out or cutting the grass or taking a swim or going somewhere where everyone else is doing it.

2. REBELLION

This man could not be bound. He could not be controlled. No man could tame him (Luke 8:29; Mark 5:3-4). In 1 Samuel 15:22-23 God equates rebellion with witchcraft. In other words, according to the Bible it is just as satanic to be a rebel as it is to be a witch.

3. SELF-MUTILATION

This man ran among the tombs, cutting himself with stones (Mark 5:5). Reminds me of the prophets of Baal in the showdown with Elijah atop Mount Carmel in 1 Kings 18. In their attempts to get their false god to answer by fire, the Bible says they cut themselves with knives and lancets, till the blood gushed out upon them.

Somebody who is interested in hurting himself/herself needs help (Ephesians 5:29). And the root of their problem is not depress or self-esteem or any of that, it's that somehow in some way, they have allowed themselves to come under the influence of some type of unclean spirit.

Seems to me this country is full of people who have lost their right mind and allowed their lives to be influenced by the god of this world, and it's all because they have refused to submit their lives to the will of God and resist the enemy that seeks to destroy their lives and devour their souls (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:8).

The devil cannot overpower us, but He'd sure love to deceive us and ensnare us (2 Timothy 2:26). Let's not be ignorant of His devices (2 Corinthians 2:11). And let's be strong in the power of our mighty God (Ephesians 6:10-11).

Help – 9.9.09

2009-09-09T12:17:00.002-04:00

Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Psalm 37:25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.

Coming across that first verse in my Bible reading this morning took my mind back to an experience I had this past Sunday night (and many other times prior to that). My wife and I stopped to do a little grocery shopping on the way home from church Sunday night. As we loaded my car, a man approached us with this story:

He just moved to the area from KY for his job, which is going very well. He doesn't have a place yet, but the VA is helping him move into an apartment this Tuesday (as he points to the letters "USMC" tattooed on his arm). He's not asking for any money. He has some money. But when he went to his church and asked for help all they gave him was some bread and some peanut butter (that's all), and his wife is pregnant and about to have a baby, and he's just asking for some help with some food for them.

There was more to it, but I can't remember all of it. May I point out a couple of loopholes?

1. The alcohol on his breath told me that he had enough money for food and that he really was asking for money.

2. I might not have noticed the alcohol on his breath as quickly had he not been clutching breath mints when he approached us.

3. What's wrong with peanut butter and bread (OK, maybe he was just asking for some jelly)?

4. If he has money, why not go in the store and buy some food.

5. A "USMC" tattoo on one's arm is not sufficient proof of military service and/or VA benefits.

6. So the VA can give you a place to stay but can't come up with anything to eat?

7. Not everybody is dumb enough to believe everything they hear from every bum that approaches them in the parking lot.

There are more, but I can't remember them all.

So, at the end of his speech, he asks, sheepishly, "Can you help?" I reply with a simple "No," and proceed to return my grocery cart (or buggy, depending on where you're from) when he comes out with, "Sir, are you a Christian?" No I wear a tie on Sunday nights just for fun and have scripture on my vehicle because it makes people think I'm cool. (I realize that doesn't make you a Christian, but you understand what he's asking.) His next brilliant question, "What does the Bible say?"

OK, the right answer would have been Romans 3:23 or 1 Timothy 1:15 or Amos 4:12 or Acts 16:31 or Acts 17:30 or John 3:16 or something. But instead I came back with a VERY gracious, "You tell me," and he gave me one of the 3 references he had memorized for such occasions – Matthew 22:36-37 – which I quoted as if to say, "And…" So he got in his truck and left, and I got in my car and left.

I used to feel really bad after these kind of conversations. In fact, I've been suckered 3 times into giving people gas (never given anybody money). I'm convinced one might have been legitimate; one was definitely a fraud; and the other was highly doubtful. But I'm a soft-hearted guy. OK, I was a soft-hearted guy. Now I just get mad. I think there are 2 main reasons I get mad. One, I get mad at myself for still kind of feeling bad about not helping the guy out. And two, I get mad because I think of all the things I should have said after the fact – as if one intelligent statement is going to cure a bum of his stupidity.

So why write all of this? One, I'm venting. Two, I need a good answer to give people. When people come to the church looking for handouts (sob-story in tow), I usually ask them what their church said when they went there and explain from 1 John 3:17 how we help those in our congregation who have needs from time to time but are not scripturally commanded to extend those privileges to those outside our fellowship. (Either that, or refer them to one of the larger churches in town.)

But I need to be ready (1 Peter 3:15) for these parking lot encounters. I'm purposing to somehow use the Bible in each situation. (When I did help with gas, at least I was able to give the gospel and invitations to church.) The verses at the top are a couple thoughts, but I'm also looking for your ideas. What I really ought to do/want to do is find a good way of turning these encounters into witnessing opportunities. Also, I'd like to figure out a good way to try to reason with these people without sounding smart or sarcastic. Help! And thanks.

The Goal of Spiritual Leaders – 9.9.09

2009-09-09T11:38:00.002-04:00

Colossians 1:28-29 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

Another semester of Bible school is upon us, and I'm excited about the opportunity to teach the first class in the course on "The Fundamentals of the Faith" (from Genesis 3). Fitting that I should come across this verse in my Bible reading this morning.

What is (or should be) the ultimate goal of spiritual leadership? What is the supreme object of the Christian minister? What is the purpose of the Bible preacher? It is the "perfecting of the saints" (Colossians 1:28; Ephesians 4:11-12; 1 Thessalonians 3:10). It is to bring other believers into full and complete Christian maturity so that they can stand unashamed at the judgment seat of Christ.

How is that task to be carried out?

1. Through preaching ALL the counsel of God (Acts 20:27-32; 2 Timothy 3:16-4:2; 1 Timothy 4:6). This includes the positive parts and the negative parts; the popular topics as well as those many would rather do without; the simple basics and the deeper truths; encouragement as well as rebuke; instruction as well as controversy, etc. CH Spurgeon said, "Controversy for the truth against the errors of the age is, we feel more than ever convinced, the peculiar duty of the preacher."

2. Through setting the example of Christian maturity (Acts 20:18-21; Philippians 3:10-17; Hebrews 13:7). This doesn't mean you're sinless, but it means your personal walk with the Lord is complete, it's well-rounded, and you're constantly growing. This means you're doing the things you preach about. You're reading your Bible; you're spending time in prayer; you're consistent in your study; you're witnessing; you're ministering to others; you're a blessing to your wife; you set the proper order in your home; you're balanced in how you spend your time; you're giving; you're handling your finances properly, etc.

3. Through constant, fervent prayer (Colossians 4:12; Ephesians 1:15-23; Ephesians 3:14-21; Philippians 1:4, 9-11; Colossians 1:3, 9-13; 1 Thessalonians 5:23). James Hudson Taylor once said, "When I get to China, I will have no claim on any one for anything. My claim will be alone in God and I must learn before I leave England to move men through God by prayer alone."

4. Through hard work; through diligent, steady, zealous commitment to the task (Colossians 1:28-29; 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Corinthians 12:15). It's not easy, and the work will never be completed until we enter into our final rest (Hebrews 4:11). But the God we serve is worth it, and it's definitely worth the while (Colossians 3:23-24).

Paul’s Last Words – 9.1.09

2009-09-01T12:26:00.002-04:00

The epistle of 2 Timothy was written by the apostle Paul from a jail cell not long before he took his departure (4:8) and appeared in the presence of his Savior (Philippians 1:21-23; 2 Corinthians 5:8).

As you read the final chapter of the final book that he wrote, it is interesting and instructive to note the things that he requested as he awaited his coming fate.

He desired a visit from Timothy (v. 9), and when you and I get to the end of our lives it will be easy to see that's what's really important is not the things we've acquired but rather the relationships we've enjoyed. Somebody who's getting ready to leave this world generally doesn't ask for someone to bring them all their possessions so they can enjoy them. What they want is the people they love and care about. If that's what's important then, surely we ought to devote more of our time and attention to the people around us and less of it to the things that don't last and won't matter.

He asked Timothy to bring Mark with him when he came (v. 11). What's great about that is the fact that Paul and Barnabas had parted ways back in Acts 15 because Mark had departed from them on the previous journey and Paul didn't think it was wise to include him this time around (see Acts 12:12, 24-25; 13:5, 13; 15:36-41). This lets you know (1) that Mark had grown, matured, and proven himself and (2) that Paul was humble and gracious enough to recognize this, maybe even admit to a former mistake, and give this brother a commendation (Colossians 4:10; Philemon 24).

He also asked Timothy to bring the cloke he left at Troas (v. 13) – he probably didn't have a heater in his jail cell – and the books, BUT ESPECIALLY THE PARCHMENTS. In the final days of his life, Paul still considered himself a student. He never lost his appetite for truth or his desire for study. And what an example for us. 2 Timothy 2:15 says, Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

In order for ANY Christian to be approved of God and without shame on the day of judgment, he must be diligent in his study of the scripture. I'm afraid we often relegate this verse to the pastor or the Sunday school teacher, but according to the Bible, it's the duty of every Christian. Yes, the pastor should feed you when you go to church, but you've got to eat the rest of the week as well. None of us would dare think of surviving physically on 2 or 3 meals a week so what makes us think we can survive spiritually for 6 or 7 days on a Sunday morning feast?

1 Timothy 4:13 says, Till I come, give attendance to reading… Young men, you'd do well to give less attendance to video games and TV shows and big trucks and fast cars and powerful guns and goofing off and use that time to get your nose in THE BOOK. Young ladies, you'd do well to give less attendance to facebook and makeup and shopping malls and shoe collecting and celebrity watching and movie going and beach combing and use that time to get your nose in THE BOOK. Have you ever read God's word from Genesis to Revelation? Are you working on it every day? Do you really want to stand before God and try to explain why you didn't think the words He recorded and preserved were worthy of your time?

Isaiah 34:16 says, Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read… I believe we'd all be better off if we took less time to seek out the newspaper or the magazine or the catalog or the website and more time to seek out God's book.

Let's learn from Paul's example, and let's not allow what doesn't matter to stand in the way of what does matter, and let's be sure to spend our time doing those things that'll be important when the time comes to make our departure and stand before our God.

No Greater Love – 8.25.09

2009-08-25T09:56:00.002-04:00

John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

John 15. The setting is the upper room. It's the night just before Christ's crucifixion. Jesus is preparing His disciples for what lies ahead. Prior to His prayer of intercession in chapter 17 and the garden scene of chapter 18, in chapters 13-16 Jesus makes it clear to His disciples that He is leaving; that He'll return in the future; that in the meantime they'll face trouble and persecution from a world that hated Him before it hated them; but that He'll send them "another Comforter," the Holy Spirit. He also continually reminds them of the importance of their love not just for Him, but for one another.

John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

John 15:9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.

John 15:17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.

John 15:13 is a great and well-loved passage of scripture. It is an undeniable and marvelous truth that Jesus Christ set the example for the greatest love when He gave His love for the sin of all mankind the very next day. But when you look at the verse in its context, you realize that it's not so much about the love Jesus has for us as it is about the love He wants us to have for one another.

Verse 12 says, This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

What John 15 (and the rest of the NT) is saying is that if we are going to make it through this world that has forsaken our God and hates His word and stand strong and let our light shine, we must, through the power of the Holy Spirit, have this kind of love for one another – that a man lay down his life for his friends.

1 John 3:16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

Philippians 2:4-5 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

As carnal creatures, it's so easy for us to get wrapped up in ourselves and forget about everybody else. But God would have us live our lives seeking to be a blessing to our brothers and sisters in Christ; doing things intentionally just to be of benefit to others; giving of ourselves on purpose just to help somebody else out, with the expectation of nothing in return.

That's the greatest love. It's the example that Jesus set, and it's the commandment that He gave.

Honesty In Prayer 2 – 8.21.09

2009-08-21T12:20:00.002-04:00

Psalm 38:9 Lord, all my desire is before thee; and my groaning is not hid from thee.

Just like Jeremiah (Jeremiah 12:1), David here provides a good example of being honest with the Lord in prayer. The passage states that ALL of his desire was presented before the Lord. Question: is yours? Do you go to GOD with your plans, your dreams, your goals, your desires, your ambitions? Your needs, your wants, your requests, your wishes? Your problems, your worries, your hurts, your disappointments? Do you lay it all before the Lord?

Some people tend to keep all that inside. Others tend to talk about all those things with their friends, and maybe even their parents and/or pastors, teachers, counselors, mentors – and we ought to do that – but let's not forget to be open and honest and pour out our hearts to the Lord (Psalm 62:8).

For one, that's what friends do (John 15:13-15). They share those things with each other. And prayer is about communing with God. How do we expect to grow closer to the Lord without spending time in His word (to learn of His desires) and spending time in prayer (to thank Him, praise Him, and take Him our desires).

But more importantly, the Bible says in Psalm 37:4 Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Now, this verse does not say that when we go to God with our desires, all those desires are automatically and immediately fulfilled. Nor does it say that if I delight myself in the Lord, He'll give me everything that I want. What this passage emphatically states is that if I delight myself in the Lord, then GOD will give me my desires – that is, He will be the source of my desires. My desires will come from Him. His desires will become my desires.

And that's what prayer is about. It's about aligning our will with the will of God. It's about pouring out our heart before the Lord and allowing Him to fill it with what is good and what is right. "Our business in prayer is not to prescribe but to subscribe to the wisdom and will of God; to refer our case to Him, and then leave it with Him.

Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Ye Would Not – 8.19.09

2009-08-19T10:53:00.002-04:00

Matthew 23:37-38 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.

In Matthew 23, Jesus Christ foretold the doom and destruction of Jerusalem and its temple (not to be confused with Matthew 24, dealing with prophetic matters concerning "the end of the world"). But as He closes the sermon, He reminds the people that it doesn't have to be this way.

Way back in the book of Genesis, God called out a people unto Himself. It was His desire and His intention that through this family all nations of the earth would be blessed (Genesis 12:3). But down through history, this nation forsook the Lord, rebelled against His law, and served other gods. Even still it was God's desire to gather them together and restore them to proper fellowship with Him. But they despised His word, ignored His messengers, and martyred His prophets.

There is coming a day when the Lord will set all this straight and bring blessing to all nations of the earth, but in the meantime that Jewish nation has sure missed out on the blessings God intended for them and has and will suffer much for being so hard-hearted, stiff-necked, and disobedient.

There are a couple of important lessons for us to take from this verse.

First of all, notice that God does not force His will on any of us. One of the tenets of Calvinism is this idea of "irresistible grace," but according to the Bible, no such thing exists. Here God had blessings He desired to give to Israel, but Israel refused them – ye would not. Acts 7:51 says that they always resisted the Holy Ghost. Likewise, He desires to give eternal life to all men (2 Peter 3:9), but so many refuse to repent. He has life more abundant to give His children (John 10:10), but so few lay down their lives on the altar of sacrifice (Romans 12:1-2) and submit to His perfect will. So while it is God's will to bless, He does not force His blessing on those who for whatever reason are not willing to receive it.

What follows from this is the fact that our failure to get in on all the grace and blessings God has for us is our fault, not His. If I'm not living my life under the power of the Holy Spirit, it's not because God has not made it available to me, it is that I have failed to avail myself of it. If I lack boldness or wisdom, it's not that God is intentionally withholding those things from me, but rather that I have in some way refused to receive them. If my life is not full of the blessings of God's joy and peace and comfort and rest, it's not His fault. It's mine.

Praise God that His love and His mercy continue forever. Regardless of the mess I've made in the past, His desire is still to bless, and the requirement is still the same. All it takes is a willing heart that is yielded unto Him. May He find such a heart in each of us today.

Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And 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.

Verse for the Week

2009-08-19T10:51:00.000-04:00

A quick thought on Proverbs 13:10. If only by pride cometh contention, would it not follow that only by humility comes reconciliation.