Clare De Graaf's Blog, page 31
May 4, 2015
“I’m Saved, So I’m Safe.” Is God’s Love Really Unconditional?
This is the second blog in a series entitled, Playing King of the Mountain with God. We’re exploring why we Christians would risk disobeying God, which is in effect, saying to him, “ I know what’s best for me.” It’s an attempt to be co-king at least.
When I came to faith over 30 years ago, I was told that because of the cross, all my sins, past, present and future were now forgiven. I’m saved, so I’m safe from the judgment. Putting it crassly, I figured, “because of Jesus, God the Father can no longer touch me!”
Oddly, that notion led me in two opposite directions, almost simultaneously. In the same day, I’d feel such gratitude to Jesus, for my salvation that I literally burst into tears with joy. An hour latter I’d do or think some sinful thing, generally with some guilt, but no real fear of God, because his love for me was “unconditional.”
Is God’s Love Unconditional?
“God’s love for us is unconditional. It never changes regardless of what we do or don’t do.” I recently heard a pastor I respect a lot make that statement on the radio, and I’ve heard variations of it all my Christian life. But is it true?
I had the same misgivings when I read this quote from the bestselling book, Jesus Calling. (A book I do like by the way.) Here’s a portion of the reading for December 26. In it, the author assumes the voices of Jesus and says, “I am the Gift that continuously gives – bounteously, with no strings attached. Unconditional love is such a radical concept that even my most devoted followers fail to grasp it fully. Absolutely nothing in heaven or on earth can cause me to stop loving you. You may feel more loved when you are performing according to your expectations. But my love for you is perfect; therefore it is not subject to variation.”
Both of these quotes leave the distinct impression that God doesn’t love us or like us any differently whether we’re good or bad. Is that really true? If it is, it may be an explanation why so many Christians are behaving badly – thankful for God’s love, but without any fear of him at all.
Is that really the God of the Bible?
When I came to faith over 30 years ago, I was told that because of the cross, all my sins, past, present and future were now forgiven. I’m saved, so I’m safe from the judgment. Putting it crassly, I figured, “because of Jesus, God the Father can no longer touch me!”
Oddly, that notion led me in two opposite directions, almost simultaneously. In the same day, I’d feel such gratitude to Jesus, for my salvation that I literally burst into tears with joy. An hour latter I’d do or think some sinful thing, generally with some guilt, but no real fear of God, because his love for me was “unconditional.”
Is God’s Love Unconditional?
“God’s love for us is unconditional. It never changes regardless of what we do or don’t do.” I recently heard a pastor I respect a lot make that statement on the radio, and I’ve heard variations of it all my Christian life. But is it true?
I had the same misgivings when I read this quote from the bestselling book, Jesus Calling. (A book I do like by the way.) Here’s a portion of the reading for December 26. In it, the author assumes the voices of Jesus and says, “I am the Gift that continuously gives – bounteously, with no strings attached. Unconditional love is such a radical concept that even my most devoted followers fail to grasp it fully. Absolutely nothing in heaven or on earth can cause me to stop loving you. You may feel more loved when you are performing according to your expectations. But my love for you is perfect; therefore it is not subject to variation.”
Both of these quotes leave the distinct impression that God doesn’t love us or like us any differently whether we’re good or bad. Is that really true? If it is, it may be an explanation why so many Christians are behaving badly – thankful for God’s love, but without any fear of him at all.
Is that really the God of the Bible?
April 27, 2015
Playing King of the Mountain with God
I’m willing to bet, you and I have something in common. Many days it feels like I’m playing king of the mountain with Jesus.
The words King and Lord rolled off my tongue so effortlessly in worship, prayer and with other Christians. But in practice, in the simple everyday things of life, I often act like I’m co-king at least. Of course I want his glory to be made known and his will be done “on earth as it is in heaven” – and mine as well, far too often.
I truly do love God. I’m eternally grateful to him and long for his friendship and wisdom. He’s my Savior and the Creator of the Universe, for heaven’s sake! I need him. So, I’d never actually think of tossing him off “my mountain.” But, I often live as though I preferred he stay on his side – close enough for me to call when needed. I often act as though he was the one who I preferred stayed in the cleft – just out of eyesight, while I grazed fat on his grace. Based on my behavior some days, I must think there’s room enough at the top for both of us.
He doesn’t.
Now, tell me we have nothing in common.
If that’s true of you as well, occasionally, why is it we’d even dare play this deadly game with God in the first place? (I’ll get to that later.)
The words King and Lord rolled off my tongue so effortlessly in worship, prayer and with other Christians. But in practice, in the simple everyday things of life, I often act like I’m co-king at least. Of course I want his glory to be made known and his will be done “on earth as it is in heaven” – and mine as well, far too often.
I truly do love God. I’m eternally grateful to him and long for his friendship and wisdom. He’s my Savior and the Creator of the Universe, for heaven’s sake! I need him. So, I’d never actually think of tossing him off “my mountain.” But, I often live as though I preferred he stay on his side – close enough for me to call when needed. I often act as though he was the one who I preferred stayed in the cleft – just out of eyesight, while I grazed fat on his grace. Based on my behavior some days, I must think there’s room enough at the top for both of us.
He doesn’t.
Now, tell me we have nothing in common.
If that’s true of you as well, occasionally, why is it we’d even dare play this deadly game with God in the first place? (I’ll get to that later.)
April 20, 2015
Why Church Membership?
Where in the Bible are we commanded to be members of, or to join a local church?
This question came from a 30’s something guy who had grown up in the church, but obviously didn’t see the point of formal membership for himself. He’s not alone! There are lots of younger Christians who just don’t see the point in becoming a church member. It may be because they change churches every 6-8 years, depending on the pastor or the student ministries programs available, or they just haven’t found the right church yet. Perhaps you’re one of these Christians, or your adult child is.
But here’s the great irony. People who don’t value church membership, still want “their church” to teach their children in Sunday School, provide inspiring worship every Sunday, to marry their children, bury their loved one and provide counseling when their marriage or family is in trouble. They want these services provided, without the bother of committing to a local church.
Here’s the way I approach the “why join” question.
This question came from a 30’s something guy who had grown up in the church, but obviously didn’t see the point of formal membership for himself. He’s not alone! There are lots of younger Christians who just don’t see the point in becoming a church member. It may be because they change churches every 6-8 years, depending on the pastor or the student ministries programs available, or they just haven’t found the right church yet. Perhaps you’re one of these Christians, or your adult child is.
But here’s the great irony. People who don’t value church membership, still want “their church” to teach their children in Sunday School, provide inspiring worship every Sunday, to marry their children, bury their loved one and provide counseling when their marriage or family is in trouble. They want these services provided, without the bother of committing to a local church.
Here’s the way I approach the “why join” question.
April 13, 2015
“On Our Mission Trip, 132 People Got Saved!” (And Other Preposterous Evangelistic Claims)
Not a week passes, that I don’t hear reports on Christian radio, in church, or in a ministry newsletter about how many people “got saved” or “gave their lives to Christ” at some evangelistic meeting somewhere.
At best, those claims are made because that’s just the way we speak in the evangelical world. At worst it’s a falsehood. Personally, I believe it’s the former. Church and missions groups have used this language so long that they don’t even think about what a preposterous and presumptuous claim they’re making.
Every single person who came forward, or signed a card, or raised their hand in response to the gospel being preached, was actually, truly, born again? Really?
At best, those claims are made because that’s just the way we speak in the evangelical world. At worst it’s a falsehood. Personally, I believe it’s the former. Church and missions groups have used this language so long that they don’t even think about what a preposterous and presumptuous claim they’re making.
Every single person who came forward, or signed a card, or raised their hand in response to the gospel being preached, was actually, truly, born again? Really?
April 6, 2015
Do You Dare Pray the “Other” Lord’s Prayer?
Last week as I re-read the story of Jesus arrest, crucifixion and resurrection in preparation for Good Friday and Easter, I was struck by Jesus prayer in the Garden, as recorded in Matthew.
“Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.’” Matthew 26:39
Most of us have been praying the original Lord’s Prayer so long, to our shame we barely even think about the words. So perhaps this year we ought to commit ourselves to praying this other Lord’s prayer.
Not my will. But may your will be done. (My paraphrase)
Peter had the same problem you and I have. He had a will of his own. And while at some level he wanted to do God’s will, he apparently wanted his own will done as well. So, after Jesus’ resurrection, he had breakfast with Peter beside the Sea of Galilee.
“Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.’” Matthew 26:39
Most of us have been praying the original Lord’s Prayer so long, to our shame we barely even think about the words. So perhaps this year we ought to commit ourselves to praying this other Lord’s prayer.
Not my will. But may your will be done. (My paraphrase)
Peter had the same problem you and I have. He had a will of his own. And while at some level he wanted to do God’s will, he apparently wanted his own will done as well. So, after Jesus’ resurrection, he had breakfast with Peter beside the Sea of Galilee.
March 30, 2015
Are You Sure Your Family is Prepared to Take Communion?
With Good Friday coming up this week, it’s a great opportunity to teach your children, grandchildren and those you spiritually mentor, about communion. I’m sure they know what it is, but have they prepared spiritually for it?
When I grew up, my church observed Preparation Sunday. The Sunday prior to communion, we were reminded to prepare ourselves, so we were ready to take communion a week later. Communion in our church was serious business. I’m concerned that too many Christians today do not take it seriously enough. What follow is something you might consider reading to your family this week, or forwarding this blog to your friends, to read to their families.
When I grew up, my church observed Preparation Sunday. The Sunday prior to communion, we were reminded to prepare ourselves, so we were ready to take communion a week later. Communion in our church was serious business. I’m concerned that too many Christians today do not take it seriously enough. What follow is something you might consider reading to your family this week, or forwarding this blog to your friends, to read to their families.
March 23, 2015
A Simple Vow That Can Change the World
Your children, grandchildren and those you spiritually mentor, will have heard a hundred sermons and may have forgotten every one. But a simple, four-word sentence just could be the rock that re-directs the river of their life.
For as long as young Count Zinzendorf could remember he had a heart to live for God. Born into a noble Prussian family in the 1700’s, Zinzendorf’s family had his comfortable life of law all planned out for him, so they sent him off to Halle Academy, a boarding school in Germany. But, while other students lived to excel at sports and academics, he regularly gathered students to pray and seek God for the will to live radically and boldly.
His obvious love for God and devotion to prayer galvanized this pampered student body to live with greater kindness. The mistreatment of younger students all but ceased. Lonely, homesick students were comforted instead of ridiculed. The school was transformed!
At the end of his time at Halle, Zinzendorf and five of his privileged friends decided to do what millions of young people dream of today – they decided to start a band! But this band was to be of a radically different sort.
Two years after graduation, on a cold winter’s night, they gathered at an inn from all over Germany. They all knew what they were about to do. They had written and spoke to each other about this moment for years. The vow they were about to take was not an impetuous promise made in a moment of youthful enthusiasm. This vow would change their lives.
For as long as young Count Zinzendorf could remember he had a heart to live for God. Born into a noble Prussian family in the 1700’s, Zinzendorf’s family had his comfortable life of law all planned out for him, so they sent him off to Halle Academy, a boarding school in Germany. But, while other students lived to excel at sports and academics, he regularly gathered students to pray and seek God for the will to live radically and boldly.
His obvious love for God and devotion to prayer galvanized this pampered student body to live with greater kindness. The mistreatment of younger students all but ceased. Lonely, homesick students were comforted instead of ridiculed. The school was transformed!
At the end of his time at Halle, Zinzendorf and five of his privileged friends decided to do what millions of young people dream of today – they decided to start a band! But this band was to be of a radically different sort.
Two years after graduation, on a cold winter’s night, they gathered at an inn from all over Germany. They all knew what they were about to do. They had written and spoke to each other about this moment for years. The vow they were about to take was not an impetuous promise made in a moment of youthful enthusiasm. This vow would change their lives.
March 16, 2015
Does Wealth Disqualify You From Heaven?
“It’s easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for someone who is rich to enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 19:24
(This is part II of my blog last week. If you’ve not read it, you may want to, for it sets up this discussion.)
Here’s the first important question to ask about this teaching: Is Jesus disqualifying “the rich” from heaven, or are many, perhaps even most rich people, disqualifying themselves? Let me rephrase that question: Is the possession of wealth the disqualifying factor, or is there something about wealth or money that keeps the rich from God?
I believe it’s the later.
As I pointed out last week, there are many wealthy individuals in the Bible, Old Testament and New, who had great wealth and who also loved God and were loved, by God. So, clearly the two are not mutually exclusive.
I believe Jesus’ warnings on wealth can be boiled down to these three dangerous traps for the wealthy.
(This is part II of my blog last week. If you’ve not read it, you may want to, for it sets up this discussion.)
Here’s the first important question to ask about this teaching: Is Jesus disqualifying “the rich” from heaven, or are many, perhaps even most rich people, disqualifying themselves? Let me rephrase that question: Is the possession of wealth the disqualifying factor, or is there something about wealth or money that keeps the rich from God?
I believe it’s the later.
As I pointed out last week, there are many wealthy individuals in the Bible, Old Testament and New, who had great wealth and who also loved God and were loved, by God. So, clearly the two are not mutually exclusive.
I believe Jesus’ warnings on wealth can be boiled down to these three dangerous traps for the wealthy.
March 9, 2015
What Jesus Meant to Say
I was discussing a hard teaching of Jesus, regarding rich people, the other day with a mature Christian.
He then made a statement, I’ve used myself on occasion, “What Jesus really meant to say was…” Apparently, the Son of God can’t seem to find the words to state clearly what he wants to communicate and therefore, needs us to help clarify his statements!
Does the Son of God have a flaw?
If you’ve been in a Bible study for any length of time, you’ve undoubtedly heard or said yourself, “what Jesus meant to say was…” Why do we Christians do that, and are there ever times it’s appropriate?
He then made a statement, I’ve used myself on occasion, “What Jesus really meant to say was…” Apparently, the Son of God can’t seem to find the words to state clearly what he wants to communicate and therefore, needs us to help clarify his statements!
Does the Son of God have a flaw?
If you’ve been in a Bible study for any length of time, you’ve undoubtedly heard or said yourself, “what Jesus meant to say was…” Why do we Christians do that, and are there ever times it’s appropriate?
March 2, 2015
Are You, Your Brother’s Keeper?
Last week, I had to make a hard call to a Christian guy I didn’t know all that well. This man is active in his church (not my church), has a great family and has a good reputation in the Christian community. But, a non-Christian man who I was meeting with, casually mentioned that he saw this guy at a social gathering having too much to drink and acting inappropriately with a woman, not his wife. “I thought you Christians didn’t do things like that,” was his stinging observation.
It hurt.
So, I called the man, introduced myself and passed on to him what I‘d been told. Fortunately, he took it very well and owned up to what had happened. He was clearly embarrassed by my call, but knew he was wrong.
But, he asked these questions, “How did you have the guts to call me? I could have just told you it was none of your business and I’m not accountable to you. What’s the difference between just being a Christian busy body and being your brother’s keeper?” Great questions!
It hurt.
So, I called the man, introduced myself and passed on to him what I‘d been told. Fortunately, he took it very well and owned up to what had happened. He was clearly embarrassed by my call, but knew he was wrong.
But, he asked these questions, “How did you have the guts to call me? I could have just told you it was none of your business and I’m not accountable to you. What’s the difference between just being a Christian busy body and being your brother’s keeper?” Great questions!
