“Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.” Romans 13:7
We are quickly approaching what may be the most important election year ever. It does matter who is elected because it is not just the person elected, but also the platform of the party they represent that is elected too!
In light of all that is going on right now in our country, I think the following quote is not only prophetic, but a wake-up call to all responsible voters.
Please read and understand what the writer says...
“A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves largesse from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates promising the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy, always followed by a dictatorship.
The average age of the world’s greatest civilizations has been two hundred years. These nations have progressed through this sequence: From bondage to spiritual faith; from spiritual faith to great courage; from courage to liberty; from liberty to abundance; from abundance to complacency; from complacency to apathy; from apathy to dependence; from dependence back again into bondage.”
- Penned by Professor Alexander Tytler over 200 years ago while we were still a British Colony.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Monday, September 29, 2008
A Perfect Example of Why California Needs Prop 8
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” Ephesians 5:25
According to a WorldNetDaily article, “brides” and “grooms” are no longer allowed to marry in the State of California. That privilege is only extended to themselves to be called “Party A” and “Party B” on marriage licenses.
Pastor Doug Bird or Abundant Life Fellowship in Roseville, Calif., was alarmed to find the state now rejects the traditional terms after he officiated his first marriage ceremony last week following the California Supreme Court decision to overturn Proposition 22.
The couple has written the words “bride” and “groom” next to “Party A” and “Party B” because they wanted to be legally recognized as husband and wife.
However, the Placer County marriage license was denied.
“I received back the license and a letter from the Placer County Clerk/Recorder stating that the license ‘does not comply with California State registration laws,;” Bird said in a statement from the Pacific Justice Institute.
It was an “unacceptable alteration,” the County Recorder’s Office claimed the State Office of Vital Records determined.
“What’s next?” Bird wrote in a September 4th letter. “Will the State of California force [ministers] to use the terms ‘Party A’ and ‘Party B’ in the ceremony itself?”
In a 4-3 decision, California’s high court declared that legal definitions of marriage as a union between a man and a woman were unconstitutional. Since the ruling, the generic designations have been added to legal documents.
Pacific Justice Institute President Brad Dacus said that voters must change the state constitution by voting on the marriage amendment in November, if they wish to preserve the traditional meaning of marriage.
“Unless Proposition 8 is passed, heterosexual couples will be forced to wed out of state if they wish to be officially identified as bride and groom or husband and wife,” he said in a statement. “This is a major slap in the face for traditional marriage.”
According to a WorldNetDaily article, “brides” and “grooms” are no longer allowed to marry in the State of California. That privilege is only extended to themselves to be called “Party A” and “Party B” on marriage licenses.
Pastor Doug Bird or Abundant Life Fellowship in Roseville, Calif., was alarmed to find the state now rejects the traditional terms after he officiated his first marriage ceremony last week following the California Supreme Court decision to overturn Proposition 22.
The couple has written the words “bride” and “groom” next to “Party A” and “Party B” because they wanted to be legally recognized as husband and wife.
However, the Placer County marriage license was denied.
“I received back the license and a letter from the Placer County Clerk/Recorder stating that the license ‘does not comply with California State registration laws,;” Bird said in a statement from the Pacific Justice Institute.
It was an “unacceptable alteration,” the County Recorder’s Office claimed the State Office of Vital Records determined.
“What’s next?” Bird wrote in a September 4th letter. “Will the State of California force [ministers] to use the terms ‘Party A’ and ‘Party B’ in the ceremony itself?”
In a 4-3 decision, California’s high court declared that legal definitions of marriage as a union between a man and a woman were unconstitutional. Since the ruling, the generic designations have been added to legal documents.
Pacific Justice Institute President Brad Dacus said that voters must change the state constitution by voting on the marriage amendment in November, if they wish to preserve the traditional meaning of marriage.
“Unless Proposition 8 is passed, heterosexual couples will be forced to wed out of state if they wish to be officially identified as bride and groom or husband and wife,” he said in a statement. “This is a major slap in the face for traditional marriage.”
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Anger Management
“He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city.” Proverbs 16:32
“Do you want to explain why there is a hole in your bedroom door?” Bill asked his 15-year-old son, Charles.
“I lost my temper,” Charles mumbled.”
“Hmm. Can you show me what that’s like?” asked Bill.
“What?”
“I want you to show me what happens why you lose your temper.”
“I can’t do that,” Charles said.
“Why not?
“Because I’m not angry right now.”
“Pretend that you are and show me what happens when you become upset.”
Charles stood to his feet and looked at the closet door. Then he looked back at his father.
“I don’t know. I was really upset and I snapped.”
“Remember how your grandpa always told jokes that weren’t funny, but you laughed anyway?”
“Yeah.”
“And just a few months ago, you canceled your spring break plans and stayed home to help your mom because the twins had chicken pox,” Bill continued. “Did I tell you how proud I was of you for doing something so selfless and mature?”
Charles blushed.
“The point I’m trying to make, Charles, is that your anger isn’t something that’s natural to your personality.” Bill placed a hand on his son’s shoulder. “If it was, you could act that way any time you wanted to. Keep that in mind the next time something’s getting the better of you - or else your allowance could become the ‘broken door’ fund!”
“Do you want to explain why there is a hole in your bedroom door?” Bill asked his 15-year-old son, Charles.
“I lost my temper,” Charles mumbled.”
“Hmm. Can you show me what that’s like?” asked Bill.
“What?”
“I want you to show me what happens why you lose your temper.”
“I can’t do that,” Charles said.
“Why not?
“Because I’m not angry right now.”
“Pretend that you are and show me what happens when you become upset.”
Charles stood to his feet and looked at the closet door. Then he looked back at his father.
“I don’t know. I was really upset and I snapped.”
“Remember how your grandpa always told jokes that weren’t funny, but you laughed anyway?”
“Yeah.”
“And just a few months ago, you canceled your spring break plans and stayed home to help your mom because the twins had chicken pox,” Bill continued. “Did I tell you how proud I was of you for doing something so selfless and mature?”
Charles blushed.
“The point I’m trying to make, Charles, is that your anger isn’t something that’s natural to your personality.” Bill placed a hand on his son’s shoulder. “If it was, you could act that way any time you wanted to. Keep that in mind the next time something’s getting the better of you - or else your allowance could become the ‘broken door’ fund!”
Friday, September 26, 2008
Be an Overcomer
“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world-- our faith.” I John 5:4
How to be an overcomer. This is the theme of numerous volumes available at your local bookstore.
How to overcome bad eating habits, financial problems, smoking...
Much is spent each year by consumers for hospital care, psychoanalysis, seminars, cults, and paperback books - just to learn how to be an overcomer.
What a waste - when you consider they could listen freely to any evangelist, read a Gideon Bible at no charge, or at least, find a Christian analyst, and through the power of God become an overcomer.
“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world-- our faith.” I John 5:4
Faith is what exists in the heart of the one who knows Jesus as Lord and Savior. The faith you exercised when you yielded yourself to God and asked for forgiveness of sins based on what Jesus had done, is the faith you exercise daily as you yield yourself to His Spirit.
How do you live like who you are - someone who is free from bondage?
By considering yourself to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus - Rom 6:11. You can literally do this through the power of the Holy Spirit Who lives in you.
“But if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” Romans 8:13
What area of your life are you ready to yield to the Spirit of God so that you can be an overcomer?
How to be an overcomer. This is the theme of numerous volumes available at your local bookstore.
How to overcome bad eating habits, financial problems, smoking...
Much is spent each year by consumers for hospital care, psychoanalysis, seminars, cults, and paperback books - just to learn how to be an overcomer.
What a waste - when you consider they could listen freely to any evangelist, read a Gideon Bible at no charge, or at least, find a Christian analyst, and through the power of God become an overcomer.
“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world-- our faith.” I John 5:4
Faith is what exists in the heart of the one who knows Jesus as Lord and Savior. The faith you exercised when you yielded yourself to God and asked for forgiveness of sins based on what Jesus had done, is the faith you exercise daily as you yield yourself to His Spirit.
How do you live like who you are - someone who is free from bondage?
By considering yourself to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus - Rom 6:11. You can literally do this through the power of the Holy Spirit Who lives in you.
“But if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” Romans 8:13
What area of your life are you ready to yield to the Spirit of God so that you can be an overcomer?
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Love is a Fruit
“But now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” I Cor 13:13
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love...” Galatians 5:22
For a time the biblical expression “born again” was popularized and worn by everyone from politicians to college professors.
The expression was meant to identify those who truly had been born into God’s family by the Spirit of God.
“No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” I John 3:9
A truly born again or regenerate person cannot continually practice sin. Neither can he/she please God or be fruitful apart from the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus said, “By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.” John 15:8
Love is a fruit of the Spirit. Unconditional love exclusively belongs to God. For this reason John wrote: “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.” I John 4:7
Maybe you are a Christian but recognize a lack of love in your life, even for other believers. What to do? “The love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” Romans 5:5
Continually yield yourself to the Spirit of God and He will produce God’s love in your life. That’s a promise.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love...” Galatians 5:22
For a time the biblical expression “born again” was popularized and worn by everyone from politicians to college professors.
The expression was meant to identify those who truly had been born into God’s family by the Spirit of God.
“No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” I John 3:9
A truly born again or regenerate person cannot continually practice sin. Neither can he/she please God or be fruitful apart from the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus said, “By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.” John 15:8
Love is a fruit of the Spirit. Unconditional love exclusively belongs to God. For this reason John wrote: “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.” I John 4:7
Maybe you are a Christian but recognize a lack of love in your life, even for other believers. What to do? “The love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” Romans 5:5
Continually yield yourself to the Spirit of God and He will produce God’s love in your life. That’s a promise.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
A New Creation
“Therefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” II Cor 5:17
That is a precious truth. To be made new. To be endowed with the very nature of God.
“For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, in order that by them you might become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.” II Peter 1:4
This divine nature in you, provides the capacity to please God and to reflect the very person of Christ. Previously this was impossible. The Bible describes those who have not been born again as - slaves to sin.
But in Christ the bondage to sin is broken. Now you are free to choose obedience to God. The power to be obedient is available only to those who walk in the Spirit’s control.
“For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.” Romans 8:3-4
Believers who do not yield control of their lives to the Holy Spirit are no more able to please God than non-believers.
This is why Paul says, “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16
Whether or not his is a new concept to you, be sure that today you give control of your life to the Spirit of God so that you can please the Father.
That is a precious truth. To be made new. To be endowed with the very nature of God.
“For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, in order that by them you might become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.” II Peter 1:4
This divine nature in you, provides the capacity to please God and to reflect the very person of Christ. Previously this was impossible. The Bible describes those who have not been born again as - slaves to sin.
But in Christ the bondage to sin is broken. Now you are free to choose obedience to God. The power to be obedient is available only to those who walk in the Spirit’s control.
“For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.” Romans 8:3-4
Believers who do not yield control of their lives to the Holy Spirit are no more able to please God than non-believers.
This is why Paul says, “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16
Whether or not his is a new concept to you, be sure that today you give control of your life to the Spirit of God so that you can please the Father.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
New Life in Christ
“While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening to the message.” Acts 10:44
Most testimonies your will hear about how someone came to believe in Jesus Christ will include a series of events and people whom God used to draw that person to Himself.
Usually a new Christian can look back over a period of time (particularly adults) and recognize God at work in their lives. Think of your own salvation and see if this was not your experience.
Though God may use people, circumstances, and His written Word to draw you, it is the Holy Spirit, Who at a specific point in time, gave you new life in Christ.
It is important for people, especially “church people” to realize that becoming a Christ is not a process.
Though your decision may have followed months, even years, of deliberation there is a time when faith is exercised and instantaneously the Holy Spirit applies the work of Jesus Christ to your heart.
“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” John 1:12-13
To receive Christ is not a process, but a single act through which you were adopted into God’s family.
Now! to live like who you are - a child of the heavenly King.
Most testimonies your will hear about how someone came to believe in Jesus Christ will include a series of events and people whom God used to draw that person to Himself.
Usually a new Christian can look back over a period of time (particularly adults) and recognize God at work in their lives. Think of your own salvation and see if this was not your experience.
Though God may use people, circumstances, and His written Word to draw you, it is the Holy Spirit, Who at a specific point in time, gave you new life in Christ.
It is important for people, especially “church people” to realize that becoming a Christ is not a process.
Though your decision may have followed months, even years, of deliberation there is a time when faith is exercised and instantaneously the Holy Spirit applies the work of Jesus Christ to your heart.
“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” John 1:12-13
To receive Christ is not a process, but a single act through which you were adopted into God’s family.
Now! to live like who you are - a child of the heavenly King.
Monday, September 22, 2008
It is Your Choice
“And do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.” Romans 6:13
God the Father had the plan.
God the Son paid the price.
God the Holy Spirit supplied the power for you salvation.
The price of your salvation: “You were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:18-19
The power of your salvation: “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.” Romans 8:2
When the Israelites were delivered from Egypt, the price of their redemption was the death of a spotless lamb with its blood applied by faith to the doorposts of their houses.
The power that delivered them was something altogether different, for it was the power that opened the Red Sea and made a way of escape.
In the same way, the price of your salvation was paid by Christ. The Holy Spirit makes your salvation applicable to your daily experience.
Without the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ you would still be lost.
You can yield yourself to the work of the Spirit in your life and know His power or you can struggle over the directorship of your life and never experience the peace that is the fruit of the Spirit.
It is your choice. Give Him control of you life today and every day.
God the Father had the plan.
God the Son paid the price.
God the Holy Spirit supplied the power for you salvation.
The price of your salvation: “You were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:18-19
The power of your salvation: “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.” Romans 8:2
When the Israelites were delivered from Egypt, the price of their redemption was the death of a spotless lamb with its blood applied by faith to the doorposts of their houses.
The power that delivered them was something altogether different, for it was the power that opened the Red Sea and made a way of escape.
In the same way, the price of your salvation was paid by Christ. The Holy Spirit makes your salvation applicable to your daily experience.
Without the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ you would still be lost.
You can yield yourself to the work of the Spirit in your life and know His power or you can struggle over the directorship of your life and never experience the peace that is the fruit of the Spirit.
It is your choice. Give Him control of you life today and every day.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
We Are in the People Business
“...and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And it came about that for an entire year they met with the church, and taught considerable numbers; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.” Acts 11:26
If you intend to build a teaching ministry based on the example of Jesus Chris, you will note that Jesus never stopped teaching. His school, His marketplace of learning, knew no boundaries.
No matter who came to Him, Jesus started where people were and then ministered to them.
Because the ministry of teaching God’s Word has power to transform lives from spiritual lostness to spiritual life, teaching God’s Word in other places - including apartment complexes, office settings, campus equal access clubs, or wherever people can be gathered - becomes a powerful strategy to fulfill the Great Commission. Matt 28:18-20
The principle is clear: Teaching people God’s Word bears fruit when the teacher relates to the people in language, terminology, and concern enough to be creative.
Teachers who instruct others in such a way that God transforms lives, must connect not only to the learner’s head - but also to the learner’s heart.
The church is in the people business, and the day we stop relating and ministering to people, is the day we are out of business.
If you intend to build a teaching ministry based on the example of Jesus Chris, you will note that Jesus never stopped teaching. His school, His marketplace of learning, knew no boundaries.
No matter who came to Him, Jesus started where people were and then ministered to them.
Because the ministry of teaching God’s Word has power to transform lives from spiritual lostness to spiritual life, teaching God’s Word in other places - including apartment complexes, office settings, campus equal access clubs, or wherever people can be gathered - becomes a powerful strategy to fulfill the Great Commission. Matt 28:18-20
The principle is clear: Teaching people God’s Word bears fruit when the teacher relates to the people in language, terminology, and concern enough to be creative.
Teachers who instruct others in such a way that God transforms lives, must connect not only to the learner’s head - but also to the learner’s heart.
The church is in the people business, and the day we stop relating and ministering to people, is the day we are out of business.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Our Responsibility
“...teaching them to observe all that I commanded you.” Matthew 28:20
The church is commissioned by Jesus Christ and empowered by the Spirit to teach people to know and understand God’s Word, to challenge them to obey it, and integrate it into their lives.
Spiritual transformation through Bible teaching will occur within the fellowship of the church as people interact with each other in the presence of the Holy Spirit in groups conductive to facilitating relationships.
Teachers, who want God’s message to connect with the lives of learners, can enhance the environment for the work of the Holy Spirit if they will give attention to being an authentic witness of Christ in their daily living.
You can set the example for teachers in your church through your own walk with God and your commitment to be a man or woman of God. So many times we compartmentalize our teaching to a particular time and place. We think about coming away from our “normal life.”
When we enter a classroom, we assign our identity as a teacher to that setting. We identify the people who are in that room as the people we are responsible for teaching.
Teaching the ‘Jesus way’ changes that thinking. Whether the setting is a classroom, coffee break at work, lunch with someone in the neighborhood, or a game of tennis or golf, teaching can and does occur.
God is not limited. Teachable people with teachable moments are precious to Him.
The church is commissioned by Jesus Christ and empowered by the Spirit to teach people to know and understand God’s Word, to challenge them to obey it, and integrate it into their lives.
Spiritual transformation through Bible teaching will occur within the fellowship of the church as people interact with each other in the presence of the Holy Spirit in groups conductive to facilitating relationships.
Teachers, who want God’s message to connect with the lives of learners, can enhance the environment for the work of the Holy Spirit if they will give attention to being an authentic witness of Christ in their daily living.
You can set the example for teachers in your church through your own walk with God and your commitment to be a man or woman of God. So many times we compartmentalize our teaching to a particular time and place. We think about coming away from our “normal life.”
When we enter a classroom, we assign our identity as a teacher to that setting. We identify the people who are in that room as the people we are responsible for teaching.
Teaching the ‘Jesus way’ changes that thinking. Whether the setting is a classroom, coffee break at work, lunch with someone in the neighborhood, or a game of tennis or golf, teaching can and does occur.
God is not limited. Teachable people with teachable moments are precious to Him.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Power to Witness
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.” Acts 1:8
You know one of the problems we face in our churches, we have people who have been saved so long, they really don’t know anyone who is lost. All their friends are saved. All their social functions are at the church. When they go out, it’s with church friends.
The only way to reach the lost is intentionally. Go to them - or at least be looking.
Look at the Acts 1:8, Jesus didn’t give us the spirit for enjoyment, but for employment. It’s not either/or, it’s both. I’m convinced most people don’t turn down Jesus. They turn down those who are supposed to represent Jesus.
“Southern Baptist’s are a ‘harvest’ oriented people, living in an ‘unseeded’ generation.” – Chuck Kelly
The day the farmer fails to plant seeds - is the day the harvest begins to diminish.
Right Climate + Right Seed + Cultivate = Harvest
Jesus never asked His disciples to do anything He did not do or show them how. And neither did Peter, James, John, or the Apostle Paul.
What stops us? –
In Matt 28 we have the promise of His presence.
In Mark 16 we have the promise of His protection.
In Luke 24 we have the promise of His program.
In John 20 we have the promise of His peace.
In Acts 1:8 we have the promise of His power.
We have all we need, if we will just be obedient to go!
You know one of the problems we face in our churches, we have people who have been saved so long, they really don’t know anyone who is lost. All their friends are saved. All their social functions are at the church. When they go out, it’s with church friends.
The only way to reach the lost is intentionally. Go to them - or at least be looking.
Look at the Acts 1:8, Jesus didn’t give us the spirit for enjoyment, but for employment. It’s not either/or, it’s both. I’m convinced most people don’t turn down Jesus. They turn down those who are supposed to represent Jesus.
“Southern Baptist’s are a ‘harvest’ oriented people, living in an ‘unseeded’ generation.” – Chuck Kelly
The day the farmer fails to plant seeds - is the day the harvest begins to diminish.
Right Climate + Right Seed + Cultivate = Harvest
Jesus never asked His disciples to do anything He did not do or show them how. And neither did Peter, James, John, or the Apostle Paul.
What stops us? –
In Matt 28 we have the promise of His presence.
In Mark 16 we have the promise of His protection.
In Luke 24 we have the promise of His program.
In John 20 we have the promise of His peace.
In Acts 1:8 we have the promise of His power.
We have all we need, if we will just be obedient to go!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
To Be Saved Means...
“...And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.” Acts 2:47
We looked yesterday at what it means to be lost. What does it mean to be saved?
To be saved means:
1. To trust Christ as Savior.
2. To be forgiven.
3. To be no longer condemned.
4. To be in a right relationship with God.
5. To be born again.
6. To be a new creation.
7. To be a child of God.
8. To be free indeed.
9. To be a disciple of Christ.
10. To have a life of peace.
11. To be assured of eternal life.
Now I want to ask you a question - name one thing you are dong in your church, week after week that you can’t do better in Heaven?
There is only one - That’s win a sinner to Christ.
Folks, we are the church. We are commanded to ‘Go’ to the lost. We are empowered to GO to the lost. And yet, 92% of all believers have never led anyone to Christ.
Jesus was in the people business, and he didn’t go to the religious folks... He went to the lost folks. Jesus didn’t condemn the lost; He loved the lost.
“People don’t care how much we know. Until they first know how much we care.” – Chuck Swindoll
Christians hide behind: Being busy, being righteous, being tired, being different.
But they don’t tell people about Christ.
We looked yesterday at what it means to be lost. What does it mean to be saved?
To be saved means:
1. To trust Christ as Savior.
2. To be forgiven.
3. To be no longer condemned.
4. To be in a right relationship with God.
5. To be born again.
6. To be a new creation.
7. To be a child of God.
8. To be free indeed.
9. To be a disciple of Christ.
10. To have a life of peace.
11. To be assured of eternal life.
Now I want to ask you a question - name one thing you are dong in your church, week after week that you can’t do better in Heaven?
There is only one - That’s win a sinner to Christ.
Folks, we are the church. We are commanded to ‘Go’ to the lost. We are empowered to GO to the lost. And yet, 92% of all believers have never led anyone to Christ.
Jesus was in the people business, and he didn’t go to the religious folks... He went to the lost folks. Jesus didn’t condemn the lost; He loved the lost.
“People don’t care how much we know. Until they first know how much we care.” – Chuck Swindoll
Christians hide behind: Being busy, being righteous, being tired, being different.
But they don’t tell people about Christ.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
To Be Lost Means...
“For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10
Do you remember what it means to be lost?
The word ‘lost’ means having gone astray - no longer possessed or known - not capable of being found or recovered. The word conveys the sense of a haunting void, darkness, loneliness, or regret.
Most, if not all, parents have either experienced or, at least, worried about a child’s becoming lost or separated from them. The thought is terrifying to any parent. The horror of physical lostness pales in comparison to the reality of spiritual lostness. People who remain spiritually lost will spend eternity in the torment of hell, separated from God.
To be lost means:
1. To be trapped in sin. --- Rom 3; Rom 6
2. To be spiritually dead. --- Eph 2:12
3. To live under God’s wrath. --- Eph 2:3
4. To be separated from Christ. --- Eph 2:12
5. To live without God.
6. To live without hope. --- Rom 5
7. To be already condemned. --- John 3:18
8. To live against Jesus. --- Matt 12:30
9. To be dying in sin. --- John 8:24
10. To live as a child of the Devil. --- John 8:44
11. To live as God’s enemy. --- Rom 5:10
12. To live without peace. --- Rom 5:1
13. To be spiritually blind. --- 2 Cor 4:3-4
It is a fearful thing to be lost! How grateful should we be that Christ came to seek and save us?
Do you remember what it means to be lost?
The word ‘lost’ means having gone astray - no longer possessed or known - not capable of being found or recovered. The word conveys the sense of a haunting void, darkness, loneliness, or regret.
Most, if not all, parents have either experienced or, at least, worried about a child’s becoming lost or separated from them. The thought is terrifying to any parent. The horror of physical lostness pales in comparison to the reality of spiritual lostness. People who remain spiritually lost will spend eternity in the torment of hell, separated from God.
To be lost means:
1. To be trapped in sin. --- Rom 3; Rom 6
2. To be spiritually dead. --- Eph 2:12
3. To live under God’s wrath. --- Eph 2:3
4. To be separated from Christ. --- Eph 2:12
5. To live without God.
6. To live without hope. --- Rom 5
7. To be already condemned. --- John 3:18
8. To live against Jesus. --- Matt 12:30
9. To be dying in sin. --- John 8:24
10. To live as a child of the Devil. --- John 8:44
11. To live as God’s enemy. --- Rom 5:10
12. To live without peace. --- Rom 5:1
13. To be spiritually blind. --- 2 Cor 4:3-4
It is a fearful thing to be lost! How grateful should we be that Christ came to seek and save us?
Monday, September 15, 2008
The Word is ‘GO!'
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
God gave us the church to help us become more like Christ and to give us an opportunity to be involved in the work of God’s kingdom.
By worshiping with other Christians, studying God’s Word together, and encouraging one another as we ourselves are encouraged, we can move toward what God desires us to be.
The church also serves as the natural vehicle for sharing Jesus with others, and for ministering to both Christians and non-Christians.
Through the church, believers can work together to make an eternal difference in countless lives, but it must be understood - All the functions of the church involve people. Without people you can not have a church. And without reaching new people...the church cannot grow.
Note: Scripture does not say, “You all come!” - It says, “GO!”
Jesus was always going...
Jesus was always with people...
Jesus was always there to meet needs...
If we’re going to reach people, then we have to be like Jesus.
How much like Jesus are you? Do you have a heart for the lost?
Do you care? Do you pray for the lost?
Are you actively trying to reach the lost?
God gave us the church to help us become more like Christ and to give us an opportunity to be involved in the work of God’s kingdom.
By worshiping with other Christians, studying God’s Word together, and encouraging one another as we ourselves are encouraged, we can move toward what God desires us to be.
The church also serves as the natural vehicle for sharing Jesus with others, and for ministering to both Christians and non-Christians.
Through the church, believers can work together to make an eternal difference in countless lives, but it must be understood - All the functions of the church involve people. Without people you can not have a church. And without reaching new people...the church cannot grow.
Note: Scripture does not say, “You all come!” - It says, “GO!”
Jesus was always going...
Jesus was always with people...
Jesus was always there to meet needs...
If we’re going to reach people, then we have to be like Jesus.
How much like Jesus are you? Do you have a heart for the lost?
Do you care? Do you pray for the lost?
Are you actively trying to reach the lost?
Sunday, September 14, 2008
The Church
“And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades shall not overpower it.” Matthew 16:18
Christ said, “I will build my church.” It’s not just your church or my church - it’s His church, and He loves His church so much He died for it.
Question - What is a church?
By definition it is a called out body of baptized believers.
1. The church is the body of Christ. I Cor 12:12-27
▸ Christ is the head of the church. Eph 4:14-16
▸ The church is a unity. I Cor 12:12-13
▸ Each church member has a purpose. I Cor 12:14-20
▸ Church members are interdependent. I Cor 12:21-27
2. The church is the people of God. I Pet 2:9-10
3. The church is a family of believers. Gal 6:10; Eph 2:19
4. The church is the bride of Christ. Luke 5:34-35
5. The church is an expression of the kingdom of God.
6. The church is responsible for fulfilling God-given functions.
A. Evangelism -- Matt 28:19-20; Acts 1:8
B. Discipleship -- Matt 28:19-20; Eph 4:12-16
C. Fellowship -- Acts 2:42-47; Heb 10:25
D. Ministry -- Acts 2:45; 4:32-35; Eph 4:11-12
E. Worship
Christ said, “I will build my church.” It’s not just your church or my church - it’s His church, and He loves His church so much He died for it.
Question - What is a church?
By definition it is a called out body of baptized believers.
1. The church is the body of Christ. I Cor 12:12-27
▸ Christ is the head of the church. Eph 4:14-16
▸ The church is a unity. I Cor 12:12-13
▸ Each church member has a purpose. I Cor 12:14-20
▸ Church members are interdependent. I Cor 12:21-27
2. The church is the people of God. I Pet 2:9-10
3. The church is a family of believers. Gal 6:10; Eph 2:19
4. The church is the bride of Christ. Luke 5:34-35
5. The church is an expression of the kingdom of God.
6. The church is responsible for fulfilling God-given functions.
A. Evangelism -- Matt 28:19-20; Acts 1:8
B. Discipleship -- Matt 28:19-20; Eph 4:12-16
C. Fellowship -- Acts 2:42-47; Heb 10:25
D. Ministry -- Acts 2:45; 4:32-35; Eph 4:11-12
E. Worship
Friday, September 12, 2008
Unblamable
“So that He may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints.” I Thess 3:13
God has promised to hear your prayers when they accord with His will. One way to know how to pray His will is to pray with Paul through the New Testament.
Paul’s prayer for love among the believers at Thessalonica was with special design.
Ask the Lord to establish your heart and the hearts of your loved ones in Him. All of us need His help. As the hymn writer put it, 'without His help we are prone to wander.'
Notice Paul did not pray that the Thessalonians would be sinless. He asked that they be unblamable. Perfection will not be your daily experience, but you can ask God to help you (and others) deal with sin as He wants you to. Confession and restoration are a part of God’s will.
Holy living is impossible without the love of God in your heart - first loving Him and then exhibiting His love to others. This request for love was paramount in Paul’s prayer. The result of such love will be personal holiness.
Remember - God’s Promise “And may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith.” Philippians 3:9
God has promised to hear your prayers when they accord with His will. One way to know how to pray His will is to pray with Paul through the New Testament.
Paul’s prayer for love among the believers at Thessalonica was with special design.
Ask the Lord to establish your heart and the hearts of your loved ones in Him. All of us need His help. As the hymn writer put it, 'without His help we are prone to wander.'
Notice Paul did not pray that the Thessalonians would be sinless. He asked that they be unblamable. Perfection will not be your daily experience, but you can ask God to help you (and others) deal with sin as He wants you to. Confession and restoration are a part of God’s will.
Holy living is impossible without the love of God in your heart - first loving Him and then exhibiting His love to others. This request for love was paramount in Paul’s prayer. The result of such love will be personal holiness.
Remember - God’s Promise “And may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith.” Philippians 3:9
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Love that Overflows
“And may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all men, just as we also do for you.” I Thessalonians 3:12
The believers at Thessalonica were already known for their loving spirit. Paul started his letter with a reference to their labor of love. Yet Paul prayed that their love would increase and abound.
The Greek word translated “abound” also means to overflow. Love is something that starts on the inside and reaches others only when there is an overflow.
Such an abundant source of love is found only in Jesus Christ. It is the Lord Who causes such an increase and Paul acknowledges this in his petition.
The believers were to love each other first, but that was the beginning. From there, their love was to reach all men. Paul’s own love served as an example to them of Christ’s love.
This prayer had a definite answer. In Paul’s second to the Thessalonians he says, “We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the love of each one of you toward one another grows ever greater.” II Thessalonians 1:3
The same God Who answered the Apostle’s prayer is available to hear yours today.
“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you.” John 15:7
The believers at Thessalonica were already known for their loving spirit. Paul started his letter with a reference to their labor of love. Yet Paul prayed that their love would increase and abound.
The Greek word translated “abound” also means to overflow. Love is something that starts on the inside and reaches others only when there is an overflow.
Such an abundant source of love is found only in Jesus Christ. It is the Lord Who causes such an increase and Paul acknowledges this in his petition.
The believers were to love each other first, but that was the beginning. From there, their love was to reach all men. Paul’s own love served as an example to them of Christ’s love.
This prayer had a definite answer. In Paul’s second to the Thessalonians he says, “We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the love of each one of you toward one another grows ever greater.” II Thessalonians 1:3
The same God Who answered the Apostle’s prayer is available to hear yours today.
“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you.” John 15:7
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Supernatural Love
“ And may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all men, just as we also do for you.” I Thessalonians 3:12
This is what Paul requested for the believers at Thessalonica, and this is what we must ask God for today. It is not difficult to love the Christians who are gentle, thoughtful and always ready with a cheerful handshake.
These things, however can be found at the local civic club and do not require the presence of God.
It is when Christians begin to look beyond natural temperament to see Jesus Christ in others and to love them right through their faults, that something supernatural happens.
Why is this supernatural love so unusual? Jesus said the greatest commandment was, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your soul, and with all your mind.”
The second: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Matt 22:37-39
It is the lack of love for God Himself that leaves us short on love for one another. When we truly fall in love with Jesus Christ we will love those for whom He came to earth.
Pray today for an increase of love among the believers in your fellowship. Keep in mind that the love of God is foundational to loving one another.
This is what Paul requested for the believers at Thessalonica, and this is what we must ask God for today. It is not difficult to love the Christians who are gentle, thoughtful and always ready with a cheerful handshake.
These things, however can be found at the local civic club and do not require the presence of God.
It is when Christians begin to look beyond natural temperament to see Jesus Christ in others and to love them right through their faults, that something supernatural happens.
Why is this supernatural love so unusual? Jesus said the greatest commandment was, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your soul, and with all your mind.”
The second: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Matt 22:37-39
It is the lack of love for God Himself that leaves us short on love for one another. When we truly fall in love with Jesus Christ we will love those for whom He came to earth.
Pray today for an increase of love among the believers in your fellowship. Keep in mind that the love of God is foundational to loving one another.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Finding God’s Direction
“Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus our Lord direct our way to you.” I Thessalonians 3:11
“Be as sure of God’s leading out of a situation as you were of His leading you into it.” These words of counsel from a Bible teacher form a helpful rule by which to sort through confusing circumstances.
Finding God’s direction is not always easy. Even the Apostle Paul, on occasion, made plans, only to have them changed by the Spirit of God.
Because Paul’s plans were sometimes discarded, does not mean he was walking in the flesh. The proof would be that he continued to seek God’s guidance and when he received it, he yielded his plans - to God’s.
God did not provide Paul with all knowledge of the future. Like us, Paul set goals and hoped and prayed toward their accomplishment. “Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus our Lord direct our way to you.” I Thessalonians 3:11
Paul helped to establish the church at Thessalonica, and desired to return there to witness their progress. As Paul wrote this prayer, his attempts to visit them had been thwarted. Paul did not give up hope of seeing them or lose interest in their spiritual well being however.
Even as Paul prayed, he recognized his total dependence upon God.
As you pray today for those things you hope to accomplish for God, do it with a deep awareness of your total dependence upon Him.
“Be as sure of God’s leading out of a situation as you were of His leading you into it.” These words of counsel from a Bible teacher form a helpful rule by which to sort through confusing circumstances.
Finding God’s direction is not always easy. Even the Apostle Paul, on occasion, made plans, only to have them changed by the Spirit of God.
Because Paul’s plans were sometimes discarded, does not mean he was walking in the flesh. The proof would be that he continued to seek God’s guidance and when he received it, he yielded his plans - to God’s.
God did not provide Paul with all knowledge of the future. Like us, Paul set goals and hoped and prayed toward their accomplishment. “Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus our Lord direct our way to you.” I Thessalonians 3:11
Paul helped to establish the church at Thessalonica, and desired to return there to witness their progress. As Paul wrote this prayer, his attempts to visit them had been thwarted. Paul did not give up hope of seeing them or lose interest in their spiritual well being however.
Even as Paul prayed, he recognized his total dependence upon God.
As you pray today for those things you hope to accomplish for God, do it with a deep awareness of your total dependence upon Him.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Caring for New Believers
“Therefore when we could endure it no longer, we thought it best to be left behind at Athens alone; and we sent Timothy, our brother and God's fellow worker in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you as to your faith.” I Thess 3:1-2
Early in Paul’s missionary work he made a short stopover in Thessalonica. Though Paul spent only three weeks preaching and teaching there, a number of people became believers.
Two of Paul’s letters to this church in Thessalonica are recorded in the New Testament.
It is significant that although Paul was but a short time in the city, he did not abandon the believers there. He agonized over them as a parent would for a child.
When his concern over their spiritual welfare became too heavy, Paul sent Timothy to encourage them and to bring back information about their progress in the faith. Timothy’s report brought joy to the Apostle’s heart, for the believers at Thessalonica had grown in both faith and love.
In chapters 1 and 3 of his first letter, Paul mentioned his earnest prayer (day and night) for these believers. How different from what happens often to many who make professions now. Once baptized and added to church roles they are dropped from the prayer list.
The Apostle did not leave his spiritual children as orphans but strove in prayer for them and encouraged others to do the same. Such intensity please God and it tests our faith to its limits. But such intensity brings results.
Whom do you know who has recently accepted Christ?
Pray for these new believers today.
Early in Paul’s missionary work he made a short stopover in Thessalonica. Though Paul spent only three weeks preaching and teaching there, a number of people became believers.
Two of Paul’s letters to this church in Thessalonica are recorded in the New Testament.
It is significant that although Paul was but a short time in the city, he did not abandon the believers there. He agonized over them as a parent would for a child.
When his concern over their spiritual welfare became too heavy, Paul sent Timothy to encourage them and to bring back information about their progress in the faith. Timothy’s report brought joy to the Apostle’s heart, for the believers at Thessalonica had grown in both faith and love.
In chapters 1 and 3 of his first letter, Paul mentioned his earnest prayer (day and night) for these believers. How different from what happens often to many who make professions now. Once baptized and added to church roles they are dropped from the prayer list.
The Apostle did not leave his spiritual children as orphans but strove in prayer for them and encouraged others to do the same. Such intensity please God and it tests our faith to its limits. But such intensity brings results.
Whom do you know who has recently accepted Christ?
Pray for these new believers today.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Hello!!?
"Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are you when men cast insults at you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of Me.” Matthew 5:10-11
This came across my desk and I think you need to read and heed !
‘Gay Activists want Dobson booted from Radio Hall’
(EP News) – It looks like there will be a few uninvited guests when James Dobson officially is inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in November.
Gay activist Wayne Besen, who reportedly preferred Howard Stern to win the popular vote, plans to protest the Chicago event. He called Dobson “an extremist who has built his empire on the backs of gays and lesbians” and “a bigot who distorts scientific research.”
Dobson’s radio broadcast came in first in the Hall of Fame’s “national active” category, beating out Bob Costas, Laura Schlessinger and Stern. To qualify, a broadcaster must have contributed to the radio industry on a national level for at least 10 years.
Bruce DuMont, chairman of the Hall of Fame, said, “Dobson’s been broadcasting more than 15 years on more than 3,000 stations. He’s qualified.”
Two very important thoughts, you must consider -
1. What distorted scientific research?
We have No, None, Not any scientific proof that anyone is ‘born’ gay. Homosexuality is a moral issue, not a rights, or birth, or a minority issue !
2. What about our right to proclaim the Word of God?
Hear me, the gay agenda is not about rights or freedom - it’s about silencing the morality of the church.
The freedom that is in danger, is that of moral religious people!
This came across my desk and I think you need to read and heed !
‘Gay Activists want Dobson booted from Radio Hall’
(EP News) – It looks like there will be a few uninvited guests when James Dobson officially is inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in November.
Gay activist Wayne Besen, who reportedly preferred Howard Stern to win the popular vote, plans to protest the Chicago event. He called Dobson “an extremist who has built his empire on the backs of gays and lesbians” and “a bigot who distorts scientific research.”
Dobson’s radio broadcast came in first in the Hall of Fame’s “national active” category, beating out Bob Costas, Laura Schlessinger and Stern. To qualify, a broadcaster must have contributed to the radio industry on a national level for at least 10 years.
Bruce DuMont, chairman of the Hall of Fame, said, “Dobson’s been broadcasting more than 15 years on more than 3,000 stations. He’s qualified.”
Two very important thoughts, you must consider -
1. What distorted scientific research?
We have No, None, Not any scientific proof that anyone is ‘born’ gay. Homosexuality is a moral issue, not a rights, or birth, or a minority issue !
2. What about our right to proclaim the Word of God?
Hear me, the gay agenda is not about rights or freedom - it’s about silencing the morality of the church.
The freedom that is in danger, is that of moral religious people!
Friday, September 5, 2008
To Be Holy
“...And put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Eph 4:24
To be holy is to reflect the image of the holy God. To be holy is to be spiritually healthy or whole.
Who is spiritually whole? The one who is properly related to the Spirit of God. He is the One Who energizes you to live righteously.
God is holy.
“The Lord is righteous in all His ways, And kind in all His deeds.” Psalm 145:17
He Himself is the standard of holiness. We, on the other hand, can make no such claim apart from Him.
“...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:23
This moral and terminal disease from which we all suffer must be treated by a holy God.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23
“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death." Romans 8:1-2
Positioned in Christ you stand before the holy God spiritually whole. By His Spirit you can realize practical spiritual health daily.
“For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority." Col. 2:9-10
To be holy is to reflect the image of the holy God. To be holy is to be spiritually healthy or whole.
Who is spiritually whole? The one who is properly related to the Spirit of God. He is the One Who energizes you to live righteously.
God is holy.
“The Lord is righteous in all His ways, And kind in all His deeds.” Psalm 145:17
He Himself is the standard of holiness. We, on the other hand, can make no such claim apart from Him.
“...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:23
This moral and terminal disease from which we all suffer must be treated by a holy God.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23
“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death." Romans 8:1-2
Positioned in Christ you stand before the holy God spiritually whole. By His Spirit you can realize practical spiritual health daily.
“For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority." Col. 2:9-10
Thursday, September 4, 2008
To Know God
“Make me know Thy ways, O Lord; Teach me Thy paths. Lead me in Thy truth and teach me, For Thou art the God of my salvation; For Thee I wait all the day.” Psalm 25:4-5
How holy is God?
If you were to think of the very best individual you know and magnify their personal holiness to the limit of your comprehension - still, you would miss the essence of His holiness.
Why is it important anyway? Why bother to try to understand Him - Who is impossible to understand? Because, although He cannot be known completely, it is His joy and it is our privilege to know God at all.
Because the knowledge of the Holy God will change you, the seeker. As you behold the glory of God, you are transformed into His likeness. II Corinthians 3:18
Though in Adam you were created in the image of God, in Adam also that image was marred. But you have been restored in Jesus Christ.
“And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach.” Colossians 1:21-22
Why attempt to know God?
Because, the knowledge of the “Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10And because only those who know their God are able truly to praise Him.
“Sing praise to the Lord, you His godly ones, And give thanks to His holy name.” Psalm 30:4
For this you were created - to reflect His image and to praise Him.
How holy is God?
If you were to think of the very best individual you know and magnify their personal holiness to the limit of your comprehension - still, you would miss the essence of His holiness.
Why is it important anyway? Why bother to try to understand Him - Who is impossible to understand? Because, although He cannot be known completely, it is His joy and it is our privilege to know God at all.
Because the knowledge of the Holy God will change you, the seeker. As you behold the glory of God, you are transformed into His likeness. II Corinthians 3:18
Though in Adam you were created in the image of God, in Adam also that image was marred. But you have been restored in Jesus Christ.
“And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach.” Colossians 1:21-22
Why attempt to know God?
Because, the knowledge of the “Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10And because only those who know their God are able truly to praise Him.
“Sing praise to the Lord, you His godly ones, And give thanks to His holy name.” Psalm 30:4
For this you were created - to reflect His image and to praise Him.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Be Holy, for I Am Holy
“As in water face reflects face, So the heart of man reflects man.” Proverbs 27:19
Created in His Image
That was God’s plan, that mankind should reflect His character.
Restored through faith in Christ you reflect the very character of God to a lost and hungry world. The Lord spoke to the Israelites: “Be holy; for I am holy.” Leviticus 11:44
Jesus renewed the command, Therefore you are to be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matt 5:48
Peter wrote, “But like the Holy One Who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am Holy.’” 1 Peter 15-16
God has always intended that you should walk in holiness just as He is holy. It follows naturally that your reflection of His holiness in a fallen world is also His purpose. “That you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world.” Philippians 2:15
The Bible contains one exhortation after another to live holy lives which bring glory to God because they reflect His character. How do you do this?
“Lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:22-24
Created in His Image
That was God’s plan, that mankind should reflect His character.
Restored through faith in Christ you reflect the very character of God to a lost and hungry world. The Lord spoke to the Israelites: “Be holy; for I am holy.” Leviticus 11:44
Jesus renewed the command, Therefore you are to be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matt 5:48
Peter wrote, “But like the Holy One Who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am Holy.’” 1 Peter 15-16
God has always intended that you should walk in holiness just as He is holy. It follows naturally that your reflection of His holiness in a fallen world is also His purpose. “That you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world.” Philippians 2:15
The Bible contains one exhortation after another to live holy lives which bring glory to God because they reflect His character. How do you do this?
“Lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:22-24
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Created in His Image
“For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the first-born among many brethren.” Romans 8:29
“Created in His image.” What does it mean?
Mankind was created in Adam to resemble the Creator God. People are unique in all of God’s creation, for they have intellect, emotions, will - and were created for eternity.
It was God’s plan that mankind would glorify Him and that His character would be reflected in us.
The story is familiar. Adam and Eve chose disobedience to God. Their sin marred the reflection of Gods image in them and in all their descendants. The good news is that you can be restored to what God intended you to be, through Jesus Christ.
To be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ is to be restored to God’s intended position for men and women, for the Bible teaches that He is the image of the invisible God. All that is good in you - your kindness, patience, gentleness - everything is just the reflection of the character of God.
“But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.” II Cor 3:18
Be restored to His image.
“Created in His image.” What does it mean?
Mankind was created in Adam to resemble the Creator God. People are unique in all of God’s creation, for they have intellect, emotions, will - and were created for eternity.
It was God’s plan that mankind would glorify Him and that His character would be reflected in us.
The story is familiar. Adam and Eve chose disobedience to God. Their sin marred the reflection of Gods image in them and in all their descendants. The good news is that you can be restored to what God intended you to be, through Jesus Christ.
To be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ is to be restored to God’s intended position for men and women, for the Bible teaches that He is the image of the invisible God. All that is good in you - your kindness, patience, gentleness - everything is just the reflection of the character of God.
“But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.” II Cor 3:18
Be restored to His image.
Monday, September 1, 2008
In His Image
“Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." And God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:26
Not long ago the late Dr. Francis Schaeffer spoke at a memorial service for unborn children killed through abortion. He eloquently defended their right to life. As he finished speaking, he arrived at the heart of the matter.
Dr. Schaeffer asked a small boy to come out of the crowd and sit on a stool where all could see him. Across his chest the child wore a banner which read, “created in his image.” It was a moving experience.
You are somebody. Your life counts because you have been created in the image of God. What does that mean?
Well, first of all understand, it is not talking about your physical appearance. God is spirit, and it was not until He became a man in the person of Jesus Christ that we can talk about physical appearance. His likeness that you bear is personhood. Personality is generally defined as a combination of intellect, emotion and will. This is what separates human beings from the rest of God’s creation.
God created Adam and Eve - and God created you ... all for the same purpose. You were made to have fellowship with Him. Through Jesus Christ, you can have that fellowship with your Creator God and know the satisfaction of total fulfillment.
Praise Him today - and enjoy His fellowship.
“Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” Romans 11:33
Not long ago the late Dr. Francis Schaeffer spoke at a memorial service for unborn children killed through abortion. He eloquently defended their right to life. As he finished speaking, he arrived at the heart of the matter.
Dr. Schaeffer asked a small boy to come out of the crowd and sit on a stool where all could see him. Across his chest the child wore a banner which read, “created in his image.” It was a moving experience.
You are somebody. Your life counts because you have been created in the image of God. What does that mean?
Well, first of all understand, it is not talking about your physical appearance. God is spirit, and it was not until He became a man in the person of Jesus Christ that we can talk about physical appearance. His likeness that you bear is personhood. Personality is generally defined as a combination of intellect, emotion and will. This is what separates human beings from the rest of God’s creation.
God created Adam and Eve - and God created you ... all for the same purpose. You were made to have fellowship with Him. Through Jesus Christ, you can have that fellowship with your Creator God and know the satisfaction of total fulfillment.
Praise Him today - and enjoy His fellowship.
“Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” Romans 11:33
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