Bill Thomas's Blog, page 2
June 28, 2013
What is the right question to ask?
Judges 21:25 says, "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit." This occurs between the death of Joshua, the leader of the Israelites, and the time of the judges. Of this time, Wesley wrote in his commentary, "What wonder was it then, if all wickedness overflowed the land?" I can't help but think of this passage as I read about and hear discussed the events of this week in our country. One of the editorials in today's edition of USA Today discusses the issue of same-sex marriage in terms of "who is it going to hurt." I get from the editorial that Justice Kennedy, who is considered by many the "swing vote" in the Court, used this principle in reaching his decision. I don't really want this post to be a discussion of that Supreme Court ruling as much as I want to consider the idea of "who does it hurt."
The question of "who does it hurt," bothers me. As I see it, that question leads us back to the days between Joshua and the judges in which people did what was right in their own eyes. I suppose as long as no particular group was "hurt" by an action, then it could be called "OK" to do. However, for this to work, there has to be someone who decides who, if anyone, is hurt and by how much. It seems to me that using this question to determine a course will only lead to confusion, chaos and ultimately a sliding standard (what doesn't affect someone today, may tomorrow, etc). As I look back over the lines that I just typed on the screen I have to ask myself "Isn't that what happens when each person gets to decide what is right for him/herself?"
It seems to me that there has to be a better way to establish what is right or wrong. Is it possible that there is a moral absolute? Is it possible that some actions are right and some are wrong regardless of what people might think of them? I know that I am begging the question here, a bit. The Bible, though, talks about right and wrong in terms of absolutes.
Isaiah 5:20
Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!
2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.
1 Peter 1:23 Since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God;
To see the world in terms of moral absolutes, in my opinion, allows for more certainty and confidence. It provides hope that even when evil is having its day, right will win out. As I see it, moral absolutes point directly to God. The absence of moral absolutes, seems to me, to leave God out of the picture. What does all of this philosophizing mean? I think simply this. No matter what others may say, some things are always inherently right and some are inherently wrong. Though we might like the ability and authority to determine the rightness and wrongness of actions, that prerogative is purely God's. He determines the nature of all activity. Our best course of action is to follow what he has already set out. With regard to doing something, don't ask yourself whether or not anyone will be harmed by what I do. Ask yourself is what I am about to do the right thing to do.
Thanks for reading and have a blessed day...
The question of "who does it hurt," bothers me. As I see it, that question leads us back to the days between Joshua and the judges in which people did what was right in their own eyes. I suppose as long as no particular group was "hurt" by an action, then it could be called "OK" to do. However, for this to work, there has to be someone who decides who, if anyone, is hurt and by how much. It seems to me that using this question to determine a course will only lead to confusion, chaos and ultimately a sliding standard (what doesn't affect someone today, may tomorrow, etc). As I look back over the lines that I just typed on the screen I have to ask myself "Isn't that what happens when each person gets to decide what is right for him/herself?"
It seems to me that there has to be a better way to establish what is right or wrong. Is it possible that there is a moral absolute? Is it possible that some actions are right and some are wrong regardless of what people might think of them? I know that I am begging the question here, a bit. The Bible, though, talks about right and wrong in terms of absolutes.
Isaiah 5:20
Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!
2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.
1 Peter 1:23 Since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God;
To see the world in terms of moral absolutes, in my opinion, allows for more certainty and confidence. It provides hope that even when evil is having its day, right will win out. As I see it, moral absolutes point directly to God. The absence of moral absolutes, seems to me, to leave God out of the picture. What does all of this philosophizing mean? I think simply this. No matter what others may say, some things are always inherently right and some are inherently wrong. Though we might like the ability and authority to determine the rightness and wrongness of actions, that prerogative is purely God's. He determines the nature of all activity. Our best course of action is to follow what he has already set out. With regard to doing something, don't ask yourself whether or not anyone will be harmed by what I do. Ask yourself is what I am about to do the right thing to do.
Thanks for reading and have a blessed day...
June 22, 2013
Do it now...
Garrison Keillor once said, "They say such nice things about people at their funerals that it makes me sad that I'm going to miss mine by just a few days." That quote seems to fit what I'm thinking this weekend. I reread a book this week that I've had on my shelf for quite a while, For One More Day by Mitch Albom. It's a story about a guy whose life is not what he had hoped for getting the chance to get one more day with the person that loved him the most and the one he took most for granted. This statement from the book expresses what it's about; "Have you ever lost someone you love and wanted one more conversation, one more chance to make up for the time when you thought they would be here forever? If so, then you know you can go your whole life collecting days, and none will outweigh the one you wish you had back.”
I wondered how many of us wish we had "one more day" with someone we love. Maybe that someone has already died. Maybe that someone now lives far away and is immersed in a different chapter of life. Maybe that someone is simply estranged and is no longer close. The circumstances may vary greatly, but the desire is the same. If I could have just one more day then I could say how I really feel. I could share what is most important. If I...
I really like the book For One More Day, but if you're looking for it, you'll find it in the fiction section. You see, life's not like that. We don't get to go back. There are no mulligans or do-overs. We have to pick up where we are and do the best we can. That's why I think the message of this book is important and, in some ways, Biblical. Albom seems to be saying it's not too late to tell folks that you love them and to share with them things that are meaningful. Paul wrote to the Ephesians and to the Christians scattered throughout Asia Minor, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" (Ephesians 4:32 NIV). Paul's message is a simple one here. In the context he's written about getting rid of bitterness, anger, brawling, slander and rage. He wants his readers to be overflowing with kindness, compassion and forgiveness. In doing so, they become "imitators of God."
What is the "take away" from this devotional? I think it is pretty straight-forward. Don't wait until someone you love dies before sharing what is meaningful. Talk to them today. Write a letter or an email. If you've lost track of someone and feel the prompting to reach out to them, do it. Don't wait. It is heart-breaking to see someone at a funeral grieve and plead for "one more day." You have a day right now; today. Use it. Thanks for reading and may God bless....
I wondered how many of us wish we had "one more day" with someone we love. Maybe that someone has already died. Maybe that someone now lives far away and is immersed in a different chapter of life. Maybe that someone is simply estranged and is no longer close. The circumstances may vary greatly, but the desire is the same. If I could have just one more day then I could say how I really feel. I could share what is most important. If I...
I really like the book For One More Day, but if you're looking for it, you'll find it in the fiction section. You see, life's not like that. We don't get to go back. There are no mulligans or do-overs. We have to pick up where we are and do the best we can. That's why I think the message of this book is important and, in some ways, Biblical. Albom seems to be saying it's not too late to tell folks that you love them and to share with them things that are meaningful. Paul wrote to the Ephesians and to the Christians scattered throughout Asia Minor, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" (Ephesians 4:32 NIV). Paul's message is a simple one here. In the context he's written about getting rid of bitterness, anger, brawling, slander and rage. He wants his readers to be overflowing with kindness, compassion and forgiveness. In doing so, they become "imitators of God."
What is the "take away" from this devotional? I think it is pretty straight-forward. Don't wait until someone you love dies before sharing what is meaningful. Talk to them today. Write a letter or an email. If you've lost track of someone and feel the prompting to reach out to them, do it. Don't wait. It is heart-breaking to see someone at a funeral grieve and plead for "one more day." You have a day right now; today. Use it. Thanks for reading and may God bless....
June 14, 2013
Reflection on when things don't go as planned...
Theodore Roosevelt once said, "Nothing in the world is worth having or worth doing unless it means effort, pain, difficulty… I have never in my life envied a human being who led an easy life. I have envied a great many people who led difficult lives and led them well.” Edgar Allan Poe wrote, "Never to suffer would never to have been blessed.” I thought both of these statements were revealing, and, as I have been working with the book of Acts in Bible Bowl, I found them to reflect what I think may have happened in Acts 16.
Let me set the context in this passage. Paul is traveling with Silas and they are preaching and teaching Jesus as the Christ. They are in Philippi, a leading city of Macedonia, and meet Lydia and her family. It is a wonderful time of teaching and many come to the Lord. I imagine it to be a sweet, encouraging time. However, as they continue in Philippi, they encounter a slave girl that is demon-possessed. Throughout the time they are in Philippi, Paul and Silas encounter this girl and her "captor." Paul becomes greatly annoyed at this situation and commands the demon to leave this girl. The demon is rebuked and leaves and with him goes the girl's ability to make money for her owners. They are outraged. They haul Paul and Silas before the authorities and accuse them of stirring up trouble. The crowds turn against them and the magistrates order them to be beaten and imprisoned. Then we see verse 25. "But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God and the prisoners were listening to them"(NKJV). I want to pause the story there for a moment. I went back and read that again. What began as a good trip to Philippi, turned ugly quickly. Paul and Silas are beaten and jailed. It has to be a miserable experience, but what are they doing? Praying and singing hymns to God.
That was humbling to me and I thought it might be a challenge for all of us. Adversity comes in many ways and takes different shapes. Things may be going great, but we all know that tough times will also come. The fact that we are Christians does not prevent us from going through the challenges of life. The question is how do we respond when things get hard? I suppose there are all kinds of ways we can answer that. One of the first that comes to my mind is to whine about how unfair it is to have to endure whatever it is that challenges me at the moment. Another response might be to throw up my hands in frustration and despair and give up. I think it is possible, too, to get angry at God and allow hurt and bitterness to build up in my soul. Maybe you're familiar with these responses, too. Perhaps there are other ones just as ineffective. The challenge is for us to praise him in the darkness, uncertainty and chains. Will I be able to see beyond the suffering to glimpse the savior? Will I be able to praise in the presence of problems? Will I worship in the face of worry?
The rest of the story? God delivered Paul and Silas and the message of Jesus Christ continued to spread and touch hearts and lives. God uses all kinds of circumstances to deliver his message. Our challenge is to have an attitude of praise. Thanks for reading...
Let me set the context in this passage. Paul is traveling with Silas and they are preaching and teaching Jesus as the Christ. They are in Philippi, a leading city of Macedonia, and meet Lydia and her family. It is a wonderful time of teaching and many come to the Lord. I imagine it to be a sweet, encouraging time. However, as they continue in Philippi, they encounter a slave girl that is demon-possessed. Throughout the time they are in Philippi, Paul and Silas encounter this girl and her "captor." Paul becomes greatly annoyed at this situation and commands the demon to leave this girl. The demon is rebuked and leaves and with him goes the girl's ability to make money for her owners. They are outraged. They haul Paul and Silas before the authorities and accuse them of stirring up trouble. The crowds turn against them and the magistrates order them to be beaten and imprisoned. Then we see verse 25. "But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God and the prisoners were listening to them"(NKJV). I want to pause the story there for a moment. I went back and read that again. What began as a good trip to Philippi, turned ugly quickly. Paul and Silas are beaten and jailed. It has to be a miserable experience, but what are they doing? Praying and singing hymns to God.
That was humbling to me and I thought it might be a challenge for all of us. Adversity comes in many ways and takes different shapes. Things may be going great, but we all know that tough times will also come. The fact that we are Christians does not prevent us from going through the challenges of life. The question is how do we respond when things get hard? I suppose there are all kinds of ways we can answer that. One of the first that comes to my mind is to whine about how unfair it is to have to endure whatever it is that challenges me at the moment. Another response might be to throw up my hands in frustration and despair and give up. I think it is possible, too, to get angry at God and allow hurt and bitterness to build up in my soul. Maybe you're familiar with these responses, too. Perhaps there are other ones just as ineffective. The challenge is for us to praise him in the darkness, uncertainty and chains. Will I be able to see beyond the suffering to glimpse the savior? Will I be able to praise in the presence of problems? Will I worship in the face of worry?
The rest of the story? God delivered Paul and Silas and the message of Jesus Christ continued to spread and touch hearts and lives. God uses all kinds of circumstances to deliver his message. Our challenge is to have an attitude of praise. Thanks for reading...
May 31, 2013
When you have to rebuild...
It has been my experience that the book of Nehemiah is not one of the most widely read books of the Bible. I'm not sure why that might be the case (or even if it actually is the case), but I suppose there might be a lot of reasons. It doesn't have the story of Jesus like the gospels. It doesn't have a well-known main character like Moses. It has a lot of hard names like Hallohesh, Sanballat and Tabbaoth. However, I think there are some good lessons in this book and one of them struck me this week.
I'm back to work at Northridge and working with young people preparing for the summer Bible Bowl season. It's been a challenging time of getting everything in that needs to be done. Working more hours and sleeping less has been an adjustment. The truth is, though, I like doing it. I like it a lot, actually. That's not the message today. The message from Nehemiah today is simply this. Rebuilding can be tough, but stay with it. Don't get distracted. It can be done.
At the beginning of Nehemiah, the prophet gets this message, "Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down and its gates have been burned with fire" (Nehemiah 1:3). For Nehemiah, this is troubling news. He wept, sought the Lord and was convicted to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. So, Nehemiah petitions the king to go back to his home, Jerusalem, and rebuild it. This story is a wonderful read and I encourage all of you to check it out, but the point for today is that Nehemiah did just that. He went home and began the arduous task of rebuilding. Along the way he faced the challenge of criticism, distraction and daunting nature of the task, but he persevered. The walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt. The words of God were once again read to the people; God had given them great joy and "the sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away" (Nehemiah 12:43).
I know what you're thinking. OK, that's a nice story but how does that affect me today? I think there might be quite a few things that need to be rebuilt in our lives. I'm working with young people learning the book of Acts for Bible Bowl competition. They will memorize it word for word and be able to quote verses by the mention of a single word. It is a tough process to get to that point. Some of them have allowed the work they did during the year to "fall into disrepair." They have to rebuild it. It's not easy. Other folks may have some even more serious rebuilding challenges. Maybe what needs to be rebuilt is...
A broken relationship
A reputation
A business or a career
A life shattered by disease, death or divorce
The point of Nehemiah and this message is that it can be done. How? Nehemiah 4:6 is the key. "So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart." That's how it gets done. You work at it. You begin in the middle of ruins and one stone or brick at a time, you put it back together. It's not easy and you'll be challenged by opposition and distractions. Follow, though, the example of Nehemiah.
Thanks for reading...
I'm back to work at Northridge and working with young people preparing for the summer Bible Bowl season. It's been a challenging time of getting everything in that needs to be done. Working more hours and sleeping less has been an adjustment. The truth is, though, I like doing it. I like it a lot, actually. That's not the message today. The message from Nehemiah today is simply this. Rebuilding can be tough, but stay with it. Don't get distracted. It can be done.
At the beginning of Nehemiah, the prophet gets this message, "Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down and its gates have been burned with fire" (Nehemiah 1:3). For Nehemiah, this is troubling news. He wept, sought the Lord and was convicted to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. So, Nehemiah petitions the king to go back to his home, Jerusalem, and rebuild it. This story is a wonderful read and I encourage all of you to check it out, but the point for today is that Nehemiah did just that. He went home and began the arduous task of rebuilding. Along the way he faced the challenge of criticism, distraction and daunting nature of the task, but he persevered. The walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt. The words of God were once again read to the people; God had given them great joy and "the sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away" (Nehemiah 12:43).
I know what you're thinking. OK, that's a nice story but how does that affect me today? I think there might be quite a few things that need to be rebuilt in our lives. I'm working with young people learning the book of Acts for Bible Bowl competition. They will memorize it word for word and be able to quote verses by the mention of a single word. It is a tough process to get to that point. Some of them have allowed the work they did during the year to "fall into disrepair." They have to rebuild it. It's not easy. Other folks may have some even more serious rebuilding challenges. Maybe what needs to be rebuilt is...
A broken relationship
A reputation
A business or a career
A life shattered by disease, death or divorce
The point of Nehemiah and this message is that it can be done. How? Nehemiah 4:6 is the key. "So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart." That's how it gets done. You work at it. You begin in the middle of ruins and one stone or brick at a time, you put it back together. It's not easy and you'll be challenged by opposition and distractions. Follow, though, the example of Nehemiah.
Thanks for reading...
May 24, 2013
Wedding Thoughts...
For the last year or so, I have been thinking about a wedding. In the past twenty-four hours, it has become even more real. Kimber Lane is going to marry Sean Gilbert tomorrow. I'm excited and happy for both of them. I have had the distinct honor and privilege to play a small part in Kimber's life as she has grown into a lovely and gracious young woman. Now, she and Sean have allowed me to have a small part tomorrow which makes me happy beyond what words can express. Being a part of this wedding means a lot to me.
Revelation 19 mentions another wedding that is to come. John writes, "'Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean was given to her to wear.' (Fine linen stands for the righteousness of the saints)" (Revelation 19:7-8 NIV). He continues in verse 9, "Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb."
The "wedding" that John mentions in Revelation is the wonderful union of Jesus Christ and his precious bride, the church. Though there is much debate and discussion over the particulars of the end times and how it will unfold, there can be no doubt that the wedding of the Lamb of God and his bride will be extraordinary and wonderful. As is the case at weddings in our world, I think there will be....
--Unrestrained and unbounded joy
--Reuniting and remembering with loved ones and friends
--Caring, laughing, dancing and, yes, eating!
It will be an event we won't want to miss. And that's the point. I don't think there's anything that would prevent me from missing what is going to happen tomorrow. I've looked forward to being a part of the wedding. But there is another comparison that needs to be made. There is a guest list for Kimber and Sean's wedding. You have to be on the list. There's also a guest list for the Lamb's wedding. He's already sent the invitation and you are invited. To be on the list, though, you must RSVP. How? Receive the free gift that he offers. Become a follower of Jesus Christ. In doing so, you can be a part of the greatest wedding celebration ever.
I hope that you will consider what it might mean to be a part of the Lamb's wedding. As much as I will enjoy tomorrow, I look forward to that one even more.
Thanks for reading and I hope to see you at the glorious reception!
Revelation 19 mentions another wedding that is to come. John writes, "'Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean was given to her to wear.' (Fine linen stands for the righteousness of the saints)" (Revelation 19:7-8 NIV). He continues in verse 9, "Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb."
The "wedding" that John mentions in Revelation is the wonderful union of Jesus Christ and his precious bride, the church. Though there is much debate and discussion over the particulars of the end times and how it will unfold, there can be no doubt that the wedding of the Lamb of God and his bride will be extraordinary and wonderful. As is the case at weddings in our world, I think there will be....
--Unrestrained and unbounded joy
--Reuniting and remembering with loved ones and friends
--Caring, laughing, dancing and, yes, eating!
It will be an event we won't want to miss. And that's the point. I don't think there's anything that would prevent me from missing what is going to happen tomorrow. I've looked forward to being a part of the wedding. But there is another comparison that needs to be made. There is a guest list for Kimber and Sean's wedding. You have to be on the list. There's also a guest list for the Lamb's wedding. He's already sent the invitation and you are invited. To be on the list, though, you must RSVP. How? Receive the free gift that he offers. Become a follower of Jesus Christ. In doing so, you can be a part of the greatest wedding celebration ever.
I hope that you will consider what it might mean to be a part of the Lamb's wedding. As much as I will enjoy tomorrow, I look forward to that one even more.
Thanks for reading and I hope to see you at the glorious reception!
May 18, 2013
Thoughts on Doing for Others
I came home from Indianapolis today and found that the grass had been cut in both the church yard and the parsonage. I know that might not sound like a "big deal" to you, but it was to me. You see, for the last few weeks, I've been cutting both. Some of the guys at church had cut it before, but I had been doing it for the last few weeks. This week, though, we got quite a bit of rain early on and I had a busy Friday and Saturday. I thought I would have to mow on Monday, a short week before I go back to Kansas City for a wedding. However, as I pulled into the lot a few minutes ago, I saw that the grass was looking better than ever. I appreciate those who did it and I think I know who it was. In addition to be grateful, I was also reminded of a passage in James 2. James wrote, "If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, 'Love your neighbor as yourself,' you are doing right" (James 2:8 NIV).
James is quoting this passage from Leviticus 19:18 in which God gives this command to the Israelites. He is urging them to not hold a grudge or to seek revenge. Instead, he challenges them to love. I realize this is not a "new idea" or a "revolutionary concept." I did think of it, especially tonight, in a practical way, though. How do we, as followers of Christ, show that we "love our neighbors as ourselves?" You see, as I read through James 2, "loving" is more than just a feeling or an emotion. It is an action. If you love, then you show it. How?
--Send a card to someone who's lonely
-- Visit the nursing home, even when you don't have a family member there
-- Spend time with the people around you
-- Go on date nights with your spouse
-- Play catch with your child or the neighborhood kid
-- Visit the sick in the hospital
Yes, cut the grass for a neighbor who just can't get it done this week. I appreciate those who helped me. I hope to be a blessing to others. Maybe you can, too. Thanks for reading...
James is quoting this passage from Leviticus 19:18 in which God gives this command to the Israelites. He is urging them to not hold a grudge or to seek revenge. Instead, he challenges them to love. I realize this is not a "new idea" or a "revolutionary concept." I did think of it, especially tonight, in a practical way, though. How do we, as followers of Christ, show that we "love our neighbors as ourselves?" You see, as I read through James 2, "loving" is more than just a feeling or an emotion. It is an action. If you love, then you show it. How?
--Send a card to someone who's lonely
-- Visit the nursing home, even when you don't have a family member there
-- Spend time with the people around you
-- Go on date nights with your spouse
-- Play catch with your child or the neighborhood kid
-- Visit the sick in the hospital
Yes, cut the grass for a neighbor who just can't get it done this week. I appreciate those who helped me. I hope to be a blessing to others. Maybe you can, too. Thanks for reading...
May 10, 2013
Motivation for Persuasion
A Cleveland man kidnaps and holds three women captive for over a decade. A Philadelphia abortion doctor is on trial for unspeakable acts of brutality and murder. There is a "back and forth" discussion in our nation's capital about whether or not there was a "cover up" in the tragic attack on the consulate in Benghazi. These are headlines for actual stories that I pulled off of news websites today. It seems that bad things are occurring and being reported more than ever. In one of the Bible study groups I lead, we had a discussion recently about whether or not the current times are more "evil" than previous ones. I don't know for sure if things are more "evil" now or if we are simply getting more of the stories. I do know, though, that the world in which we live is not really getting much "better."
What is a Christian to do in an increasingly messed up world? I was reading through 2 Corinthians this morning and came across a verse that, I think, people read through on their way to other passages without really stopping to consider what it says. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:11 "Since then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men" (NIV). To put the verse in its context, we need to note the "Since then." Since what? In the passages prior to this one, Paul has been writing about his goal and that of his fellow-workers. He has noted that "heavenly bodies" await the followers of Jesus, but until we meet the Lord at the end of this life, we live in these mortal bodies with the Holy Spirit as a deposit of what is to come. Because of this, Paul states that their goal is to please the Lord. He writes, in verse ten, that all will appear before the judgment seat of Christ. That is where the "Since then" comes in.
Since all will appear before Christ at judgment, Paul says we know what it is to "fear the Lord." This phrase, too, is an interesting one. In our small group this week at Northridge we were discussing what it meant to "fear the Lord." I don't know if I have one "great" answer, but I think in this context and in others, to "fear the Lord" might mean to recognize that I am going to be accountable to him for what I've done and the choices I've made. It combines, I think, respect for who the Lord is, acknowledgment of his power, recognition of his purity and an awareness of my shortcomings.
Paul says, "Since the, we know what it is to fear the Lord," we do something. What does he say we do? He says, "we try to persuade men." The word there for "persuade" is one that means to "influence" or "convince." It seems to me that one of Paul's motivations for trying to influence others is that he understand what it is like to "fear the Lord."
What does that mean for the Christian in 2013? I suppose it means the same thing it meant to Paul. If we know and believe that all will appear before Christ in judgment, then that can be our motivation to influence or convince others to turn to Jesus Christ. I'm not saying in any way that should be the only motivation. I don't know that people can be "scared" into heaven. Just a few verses from this one, Paul writes, "For Christ love compels us..." I do believe that love is a much greater and meaningful motivator than fear. Having said that, though, there does seem to be a place for "fearing the Lord."
Perhaps in a world saturated by evil, a healthy "fear of the Lord" might be a welcome reminder. I believe we always lead with the love of God and Christ. John 3:16 still stands as the most powerful verse in my opinion. Just keep in mind 2 Corinthians 5:11. It is worth reading, too. Thanks for reading and have a blessed day...
What is a Christian to do in an increasingly messed up world? I was reading through 2 Corinthians this morning and came across a verse that, I think, people read through on their way to other passages without really stopping to consider what it says. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:11 "Since then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men" (NIV). To put the verse in its context, we need to note the "Since then." Since what? In the passages prior to this one, Paul has been writing about his goal and that of his fellow-workers. He has noted that "heavenly bodies" await the followers of Jesus, but until we meet the Lord at the end of this life, we live in these mortal bodies with the Holy Spirit as a deposit of what is to come. Because of this, Paul states that their goal is to please the Lord. He writes, in verse ten, that all will appear before the judgment seat of Christ. That is where the "Since then" comes in.
Since all will appear before Christ at judgment, Paul says we know what it is to "fear the Lord." This phrase, too, is an interesting one. In our small group this week at Northridge we were discussing what it meant to "fear the Lord." I don't know if I have one "great" answer, but I think in this context and in others, to "fear the Lord" might mean to recognize that I am going to be accountable to him for what I've done and the choices I've made. It combines, I think, respect for who the Lord is, acknowledgment of his power, recognition of his purity and an awareness of my shortcomings.
Paul says, "Since the, we know what it is to fear the Lord," we do something. What does he say we do? He says, "we try to persuade men." The word there for "persuade" is one that means to "influence" or "convince." It seems to me that one of Paul's motivations for trying to influence others is that he understand what it is like to "fear the Lord."
What does that mean for the Christian in 2013? I suppose it means the same thing it meant to Paul. If we know and believe that all will appear before Christ in judgment, then that can be our motivation to influence or convince others to turn to Jesus Christ. I'm not saying in any way that should be the only motivation. I don't know that people can be "scared" into heaven. Just a few verses from this one, Paul writes, "For Christ love compels us..." I do believe that love is a much greater and meaningful motivator than fear. Having said that, though, there does seem to be a place for "fearing the Lord."
Perhaps in a world saturated by evil, a healthy "fear of the Lord" might be a welcome reminder. I believe we always lead with the love of God and Christ. John 3:16 still stands as the most powerful verse in my opinion. Just keep in mind 2 Corinthians 5:11. It is worth reading, too. Thanks for reading and have a blessed day...
May 4, 2013
Beautification: Weeding and Mulching
Today was "Beautification Day" at Northridge. I hadn't heard that term used to describe what I had previously known as "Work Day." However, after looking at the results, I think it may be an apt description. Several of the faithful here at Northridge gathered at 9:00 this morning to spruce up the church grounds for summer. All who attended had some gardening skill or tool proficiency, well, nearly all. I was there, too. With the tool talent and skill that I have, I was given the task of first pulling weeds and then spreading the mulch. It was a job that required desire, but very little talent. In other words, it was right up my alley. Our work crew labored hard and when we finished, the church looked, I think, a little nicer.
Later, on my way to a hospital visit in Columbus, I was thinking about "Beautification Day" (as well as how my Bible Bowlers had performed today, but that's for another time). I thought about how we spend quite a bit of time making things look nice around our houses and yards. There were a lot of people out on Wil Mar Drive today working. I am positive that throughout the city, state and in many parts of the country people spend a lot of money, time and effort to make houses and yards look as nice as they can. I don't see anything wrong with this (other than I have limited ability). I was wondering, though, how much time and effort we spend on "Beautification Day of the Soul." Do you like that term? I hope so. Do we concern ourselves as much about the condition of our spiritual lives as we do about the flowers and the grass? Do we spend our time and treasure in an appropriate proportion to how much we value our walk with the Lord?
Paul writes in Colossians 3, "If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God" (Colossians 3:1 NKJV). Jesus says, as found in Matthew 10:28, "And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both body and soul in hell" (NKJV). In both of these passages, the emphasis is on prioritizing the things that have eternal significance. Make sure that you're taking care of the things that will last.
What would "Beautification of the Soul Day" look like? I'm not sure, everyone's yard is different and everyone's life is, too. However, it probably begins with a thoughtful look at your walk with Jesus Christ. It may involve prayer, spending time in His Word, being in church, worship, serving and a host of other things.
I thought "Beautification Day" at Northridge was a success. I hope that you'll try a "Beautification of the Soul Day." Thanks for reading....
Later, on my way to a hospital visit in Columbus, I was thinking about "Beautification Day" (as well as how my Bible Bowlers had performed today, but that's for another time). I thought about how we spend quite a bit of time making things look nice around our houses and yards. There were a lot of people out on Wil Mar Drive today working. I am positive that throughout the city, state and in many parts of the country people spend a lot of money, time and effort to make houses and yards look as nice as they can. I don't see anything wrong with this (other than I have limited ability). I was wondering, though, how much time and effort we spend on "Beautification Day of the Soul." Do you like that term? I hope so. Do we concern ourselves as much about the condition of our spiritual lives as we do about the flowers and the grass? Do we spend our time and treasure in an appropriate proportion to how much we value our walk with the Lord?
Paul writes in Colossians 3, "If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God" (Colossians 3:1 NKJV). Jesus says, as found in Matthew 10:28, "And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both body and soul in hell" (NKJV). In both of these passages, the emphasis is on prioritizing the things that have eternal significance. Make sure that you're taking care of the things that will last.
What would "Beautification of the Soul Day" look like? I'm not sure, everyone's yard is different and everyone's life is, too. However, it probably begins with a thoughtful look at your walk with Jesus Christ. It may involve prayer, spending time in His Word, being in church, worship, serving and a host of other things.
I thought "Beautification Day" at Northridge was a success. I hope that you'll try a "Beautification of the Soul Day." Thanks for reading....
April 26, 2013
Does it matter if I go to church?
I've heard quite a few folks say "I don't have to go to church to be a Christian" and, for the most part, I agree. Being in church no more makes you a Christian than standing in a garage makes you a car. Having said that, though, there are some good reasons why a person should be involved in and going to church. Hebrews 10:24-25 say, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This passage is a powerful reminder of why Christians
need
to meet together. Let's look at a few of the reasons noted here.
First, we are to "spur" one another on toward love and good deeds. The word "spur" in the Greek is a word that means "to sharply provoke or jab." The idea I think the Hebrew writer is expressing is that Christians need to meet together to challenge and inspire each other to love more and do good. Meeting together allows us the opportunity to sharpen one another as "iron sharpens iron" (Proverbs 27:17). Coming to church is a chance to be motivated for service. I think, many times, we can become complacent in our faith. We do what we always do and we often to it without thinking. It is good, sometimes, to be challenged and stimulated to serve the Lord in new and creative ways.
Second, we are to meet together to encourage one another. The implication here is that we need to meet together to get strength to face the challenges of daily living. Meeting together with other Christians (going to church in the American vernacular) is a way to get "filled up" with the love and courage needed to face the struggles of life. This works both ways. If you are down and discouraged, you can come and allow the love of Christ and others to fill you. If you are doing all right, you can come and be a part of helping one who isn't doing as well.
Finally, we need to be meeting together because the "Day" is approaching. The "Day" here, is one that Bible scholars have debated, but, as I see it, "the Day" here is a reference to the "day of judgment." We need to be in the habit of meeting together to celebrate Jesus, to praise, worship and thank him for all he's done. We need to do it to encourage and stimulate each other.The time of Jesus' return is coming. When he comes, all things will be new and different. Until then, though, meet together.
I hope that this Sunday finds you meeting with some brothers and sisters in Christ. You need them and they need you. See you Sunday and thanks for reading....
First, we are to "spur" one another on toward love and good deeds. The word "spur" in the Greek is a word that means "to sharply provoke or jab." The idea I think the Hebrew writer is expressing is that Christians need to meet together to challenge and inspire each other to love more and do good. Meeting together allows us the opportunity to sharpen one another as "iron sharpens iron" (Proverbs 27:17). Coming to church is a chance to be motivated for service. I think, many times, we can become complacent in our faith. We do what we always do and we often to it without thinking. It is good, sometimes, to be challenged and stimulated to serve the Lord in new and creative ways.
Second, we are to meet together to encourage one another. The implication here is that we need to meet together to get strength to face the challenges of daily living. Meeting together with other Christians (going to church in the American vernacular) is a way to get "filled up" with the love and courage needed to face the struggles of life. This works both ways. If you are down and discouraged, you can come and allow the love of Christ and others to fill you. If you are doing all right, you can come and be a part of helping one who isn't doing as well.
Finally, we need to be meeting together because the "Day" is approaching. The "Day" here, is one that Bible scholars have debated, but, as I see it, "the Day" here is a reference to the "day of judgment." We need to be in the habit of meeting together to celebrate Jesus, to praise, worship and thank him for all he's done. We need to do it to encourage and stimulate each other.The time of Jesus' return is coming. When he comes, all things will be new and different. Until then, though, meet together.
I hope that this Sunday finds you meeting with some brothers and sisters in Christ. You need them and they need you. See you Sunday and thanks for reading....
April 19, 2013
Do you really know Jesus?
I don't know if you have ever heard of Matthew Staszak. I doubt it, unless you are a model train enthusiast who is "in the know." Staszak, who passed away in February of this year, was a leader in the St. James Model Railroad Club in St. James, New York, a small town near Long Island. I ran across an article that spoke of Staszak's love for model trains this week and was impressed by it. Fellow club members spoke of his passion for model trains. He loved sharing his knowledge and collection with his grandsons and with other members of the club. In the article, club members referred to how much Staszak was "the backbone of the club" and how much he knew about them.
Though I had a train set as a boy, I would not call myself a model train person. I admire, though, someone who is so into something that they really know it and are passionate about it. I have been reading through and studying the book of Philippians for the last several weeks. Philippians 3:10-11 really struck me this week. Paul writes there, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow to attain to the resurrection from the dead." The word for "know" in the verse is the Greek word "gnonai" which means to ascertain, especially from personal experience. Paul's desire in this passage is to really, personally know Jesus Christ. Involved in that would be the power of his resurrection and the connection of sharing in his sufferings. There are quite a few things that could be pulled from this passage, but for the moment, I want to focus on Paul's desire to "know Jesus." I wonder sometimes how many Christians really want to "know Jesus." I am confident that several know about Jesus. I am certain that there are people who really want to feel Jesus in their lives. I am sure that quite a few want to be able to call on Jesus when trouble hits. I dont' know, though, how many really desire to know Him. What does it mean to know him?
Looking at what Paul wrote, I think it is clear that to know him means to experience the power of his resurrection. I think this might mean to have the resurrection be real in your life. Have you died to sin and been resurrected a new person? Do you know what it means to become a "new creation?" Are you living for Christ or do you still tend to live for yourself? Paul continued to say to know "the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings." I think this might mean that we need to be so changed from the rest of the world that we might actually suffer for his name.
This is a real challenge, I think. I want to know Jesus, too, but when I write or say that, I ought to be aware of what that means. It is more than just having knowledge of Him. It involves being so "into Him" that my life is changed from the inside out and I am willing to suffer because of my faith.
I hope that all of us will consider our own walk with the Lord and honestly desire to "know Jesus." Thanks for reading and have a blessed day....
Though I had a train set as a boy, I would not call myself a model train person. I admire, though, someone who is so into something that they really know it and are passionate about it. I have been reading through and studying the book of Philippians for the last several weeks. Philippians 3:10-11 really struck me this week. Paul writes there, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow to attain to the resurrection from the dead." The word for "know" in the verse is the Greek word "gnonai" which means to ascertain, especially from personal experience. Paul's desire in this passage is to really, personally know Jesus Christ. Involved in that would be the power of his resurrection and the connection of sharing in his sufferings. There are quite a few things that could be pulled from this passage, but for the moment, I want to focus on Paul's desire to "know Jesus." I wonder sometimes how many Christians really want to "know Jesus." I am confident that several know about Jesus. I am certain that there are people who really want to feel Jesus in their lives. I am sure that quite a few want to be able to call on Jesus when trouble hits. I dont' know, though, how many really desire to know Him. What does it mean to know him?
Looking at what Paul wrote, I think it is clear that to know him means to experience the power of his resurrection. I think this might mean to have the resurrection be real in your life. Have you died to sin and been resurrected a new person? Do you know what it means to become a "new creation?" Are you living for Christ or do you still tend to live for yourself? Paul continued to say to know "the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings." I think this might mean that we need to be so changed from the rest of the world that we might actually suffer for his name.
This is a real challenge, I think. I want to know Jesus, too, but when I write or say that, I ought to be aware of what that means. It is more than just having knowledge of Him. It involves being so "into Him" that my life is changed from the inside out and I am willing to suffer because of my faith.
I hope that all of us will consider our own walk with the Lord and honestly desire to "know Jesus." Thanks for reading and have a blessed day....
