Michael Duncan's Blog, page 2

The Lighthouse

I heard an interesting tale today, a story concerning a lighthouse. And though I don't know who the original source could be, I would like to take a little time and share it with you.

It concerns a lighthouse. Once, the image of safety and security, the lighthouse would shine its brilliant beam across the dark oceans to ward off wayward ships and to guide the lost safely into the harbor. Through storms and fog and all the hazards of the elements, the lighthouse stood strong--a beacon of hope and promise of home.

However, time and change happens to many things and the lighthouse was no exception. For decades--even centuries--it stood in constant vigil against the dark. But modern technologies and new-fangled gadgetry changed the way people looked at the lighthouse and, slowly, the ancient towers were forgotten. Some tried to "modernize" the ancient spires--to make them attractive again for a new generation. Yet ships captains no longer looked to the lighthouse to guide their crafts. Old mariners slipped into history and the new sailor who took his place never considered the lighthouse more than a relic--an ancient reminder of things past.

So, now, the lighthouse is little more than a museum for the wandering tourist, a haven for the nostalgic and nonchalant. The light has dimmed and no beacon shines forth into the vast darkness to guide the lost and wayward.

Why do I tell this tale? Because I fear that the church today faces the same dilemma. Many consider the church to be little more than a relic, an ancient bastion of moral and spiritual illumination that does not fit in with the modern world. Long-standing believers slowly slip into history with very few to fill their place. Some have tried to "modernize" the church, to make it more agreeable to the current culture, in the hopes of attracting the next generation. Others are simply happy to see a goodly amount of tourists stop in for a quick look around.

But, unlike the lighthouses of the past, the church still must be the shining light in a dark world. The church must radiate with all the brilliance of truth and love, holding fast to the knowledge that without its light multitudes will find themselves shipwrecked, broken upon the rocks of sin.

Now is not the time, my friends, to dim the lights. Our world is in ever-increasing darkness and there must be some beacon that still shines - and that beacon is the church. Filled with the power of the Spirit and lit with the fires of faith, the church must continually blaze forth with the Word of God.


Will you allow the culture dictate whether the church is needed? Will you listen to the modern voices that demand no more illumination from the body of Christ? Or will you listen to the ancient voice of Christ Jesus who clearly says, "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14).

Faithfully yours,

Michael

A Week in Paradise

Okay... technically, not a week - only four days. And, of course, not in Paradise (the eternal home of the saints in Christ) but in Asheville, NC. Billy Graham's retreat and conference center known as The Cove, to be specific. But for Patty and me, it was a tremendous place of renewal.

Our church family (http://www.mountianviewbaptistchurch.org) lovingly gave us the time to go and enjoy these days of grace. They watched out over our children while we were away and prayed for us during this time. What a joy it is to serve such a church family as Mountain View Baptist!

While in North Carolina, we were blessed with the music of Aaron Shust (http://aaronshust.com/site/). We had the opportunity to fellowship with tremendous friends with the Rapid Response Team (RRT) of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (http://billygraham.org/what-we-do/evangelism-outreach/rapid-response-team/about/). These were the same chaplains who deployed to my hometown of Darrington and blessed us with the love and compassion of Christ (http://billygraham.org/video/washington-mudslide-compassion-for-the-scattered-and-the-weary/).

In a remarkable act of grace, they brought us out to their retreat and conference center in North Carolina (http://www.thecove.org/) in order to give us a chance to rest and refresh. And what a refreshing time it was! We spent four beautiful days together, more time than we've spent together in the past three months, and found our hearts renewed in the wonderful mercy of God. On our last night with them (Wednesday), they allowed me to share with all who had gathered for the RRT conference and close out the session in prayer.

This letter is just a simple thank you to our Lord Jesus Christ for His incredible grace and love, to our church who lives the love of Christ, and to the members of the RRT. You have blessed us and truly reflect the heart and life of the Lord Jesus Christ. In Who's Name we glory.

In Christ,

Michael

From a Distance

The old church building sat perched atop a hill on the outskirts of town. From a distance, it looked like any of a number of Christian tabernacles, a hall for the faithful to gather. But, drawing closer to the structure, it became evident that the walls were broken, the paint was faded and peeling, windows were boarded up and weeds grew where there was once a gravel parking lot. The old building was dead.

I fear that there are those who claim to belong to Christ who are much like that old church building. From a distance, they seem to share the same faith as illuminated in the Word of God. From a distance, they appear to have been baptized, occasionally attend a church gathering, have a moral code that keeps them from too many outlandish sins and a host of other expressions--from a distance.

But draw closer to them and what do you see? Is there a love for God that dominates heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30). Is there a love for others that is sacrificial (1 John 3:16). Is there an active faith (James 2:18). Is there a desire for real forgiveness of sins and a delight in the opportunity to forgive others (Matthew 6:14-15). Is there a willingness to face the backlash of a public faith (Luke 21:17).

Jesus warned the Pharisees of their impending doom. He told them, "...you are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones" (Matthew 23:27). Isn't it time that this reality be dealt with? From a distance, there are many who look the part. But draw closer, examine more fully, and you might discover something entirely different.

Paul tells us what to do in 2 Corinthians 13:5. "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you--unless, of course, you fail the test?" And, ultimately, the question is not whether someone else is in the faith - but whether YOU are in the faith. An outward, religious life, no matter how good it might appear, will not prove enough in the end. Are you really willing to risk your eternal life, hoping that you look good enough on the outside? Don't be a Christian only from a distance.

Is Christianity in Crisis?

I know it’s late, but I’ve been following a stream of conversations online. As I investigate the matter, it’s begun to frustrate me more and more. It started when I read a blog post that shows a very prestigious Christian publishing house (Waterbrook Multnomah) now publishing material that supports – even defends – gay marriage. I’m glad it’s not MY publisher! You can read the blog here: http://www.charismanews.com/opinion/in-the-line-of-fire/43537-a-shameful-day-in-evangelical-christian-publishing. Then, as my ire finally subsided, I read a stream of posts from the lead singer of a Christian band (Jars of Clay) defending the call for gay marriage. You can read it here: http://www.glaad.org/blog/christian-band-jars-clay-frontman-comes-out-ally-3-days-tweeting. So the question was posed to me: Is Christianity in crisis? My answer – no, but truly some Christians are. The Word of God will either save or condemn. John 12:48 says, “There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day.”

When we see these high-powered Christian entities turning away from the pure word of God and embracing a worldly tolerance of sin, don’t be surprised. The pressure from the world to conform to the standards of the world in order to maintain a level of acceptability by the world drives most of these situations. Christianity is not in crisis because Christ is not in crisis. He is still the Lord of lords and King of kings. And the great hope that all mankind has, whether gay, straight, or somewhere in between, is that when we repent and turn to God in humble reception of His salvation in Christ, we have everlasting life. Not one person on this planet of over seven billion have ever been qualified to stand before God because of their own righteousness. Even as Paul said in Acts 26:20, “First to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the Gentiles also, I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds.” This message has never changed. Thanks for reading, may it lead you to prayer.

Your Servant in Christ,

Pastor Michael

In the Day of Disaster

I have the privilege of serving in a community that knows itself and how to cope in days of distress. I have seen around me great acts of courage, the indomitable spirit of human determination, and faith in God that reflect the pure belief that the Holy One can do anything.

Sweeping generosity has filled up a town that has been drained with the pain and sorrow of loss. Despite the anguish, men and women are rising up to serve each other and walk together through tremendous tragedy.

I took the opportunity to make my way into the debris field of the 530 slide area. With a bold and determined friend, we worked, walked, crawled and climbed through massive devastation--always with an eye and ear out to try and locate a potential survivor. We saw houses that were obliterated, mangled and twisted cars--all filled in with thick mud and rock. The entire scene was one of apocalyptic destruction.

We commandeered a canoe, and paddled across the water. We navigated our way to his home, which sat in more than four feet of water, to rescue important, even critical, artifacts for his family.

In these days I and the other pastors of our town have spent countless hours counseling, comforting young and old alike. The common question: "What can I do?" I spoke with a young student who shared a solution--invented in the imagination of a child. I have spoken with men and women who would dig with their bare hands to find their friends. Tears of anguish and anger have flowed from the hearts and souls of everyone.

Many friends have been lost--some have been saved. And life will be forever changed.

I love my town for its resiliency and determination to do what is needed in the day of disaster. And this brief letter is to tell you about the heart of the people of Darrington.

Take Refuge - and Laugh

"The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them; but the LORD laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming." ~ Psalm 37:12-13

Why? Why do we allow our hearts such distress concerning the evil days in which we live? Plots and schemes are being carried out against God's people across our nation. The Air Force Academy forbids Scripture being posted, crosses that mark the place of accident victims are being removed. Christians are persecuted around the globe and the efforts to silence their voices is at a fevered pitch.

But God knows what is happening. In fact, he laughs about it. Oh, if only we would have such faith in God that we could laugh at the wickedness of men. Let us not cringe when such days come, when evil schemes seem to flourish, for we have more hope than can be measured. Our hope cannot be stolen. God, Himself, would have to be destroyed before my hope is lost!

Take refuge in God and you will know a security that can never be breached by the schemes of men.

"The salvation of the righteous comes from the LORD; he is their stronghold in time of trouble. The LORD helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him." ~ Psalm 37:39-40

The Damage of a Critical Spirit

How do you use your words? With what purpose do you use the voice that God gave you?

Multitudes of people believe that they are "right" in how they express themselves, thinking that their harsh sentiments and cruel comments will, invariably, turn the hearts of those who disagree with them. Consider this from Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This is what Paul says to the Corinthian church, "This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority--the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down" (2 Corinthians 13:10). He didn't want to be harsh, he wanted to build up the church - to encourage and lift them - not tear them down.

Yet, today, many will use their words for that very thing--to tear down others rather than build them up. And it all flows from a critical spirit that dwells within them. Like a nuclear bomb that has yet to detonate, these people harbor an explosive temperament that will, ultimately, be unleashed with destructive force. Yet Paul warns the church in Galatians 5:15, "If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other." That is what a critical spirit does, however. It continues to "bite" until it "devours."

But we've all be there at one point or another. We hold a certain view of Christianity that is limited to our own experiences so we begin to evaluate those around us, not by God's word but by our own point of view. Jesus had to deal with this, even among some of His closest friends: Mary and Martha. You know the story (Luke 10:38-42). Martha was busy, working hard, and certain that her sister Mary was completely wrong for her failure to help. With a critical eye upon her sister, Martha interrupted the teaching moment of Jesus to demand Him to order Mary to help.

You and I have done similar things. We go to Jesus in prayer and tell Him how unspiritual a person is because they don't tow the same line that we do. Their house is not tidy, they don't wear the right clothing to church, they fail to participate in some "pet" project at the church, and a host of other issues too numerous to name. In fact, I knew a man who was angered and critical of another Christian because that other Christian had never heard of the ministry "World Vision."

But, more than just telling Jesus about it, the grinding wheels of gossip and slander begin. "Those people" get talked about in the hushed corners of the church building--and all of a sudden, "those people" leave. I have met, in my travels as a Christian and pastor, more disenfranchised Christians than I care to count. They are hurt, wounded, broken, frustrated and uncertain that the church is a place where the love of Christ is truly alive.

Is there a cure? YES! It's simple: love as God has loved you! Be patient with one another in brotherly love. Colossians 3:13, "Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Show mercy. Live compassionately. Give generously. Forgive freely. Love willingly.

Let me leave you with the warning that is found in the book of James. "Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!" ~ James 2:12-13

The Scrutiny of the Word

Are you willing to face the scrutiny of the Word of God? For many, they approach the Holy Scriptures in a similar fashion as they listen to the news – in merely sound-bites and snippets. They read the Bible with shallow deference, only giving attention those things that will “tickle the ears” (see 2 Timothy 4:3). They only value the Bible for that which they already agree with or have grown accustomed to, not knowing that God is speaking in deep tones and powerful volumes.

But the Word of God is more than the tome of information that can garner a Sunday school lesson or a sermon point. God’s word is a mirror – giving a clear and potent image of the reality of life. It shows all the marks of failure, all the sins and all the damage of the human condition. This is the point where people get scared of God’s Word because it is relentless in its scrutiny. It does not give quarter; it will not muddy the waters or fail to expose the truth.

So, I ask you again, are you willing to face the scrutiny of the Word of God? Remember what Hebrews 4:13 says, “For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Do you love others the way God requires that you love? 1 Corinthians 13 exposes it. Do you forgive as you have been forgiven? Matthew 18 demands it. Are you sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ as you have received it? Acts 1 expects it. In every aspect of life, the Word of God will stand as judge over every thought and every attitude.

So, do as James 1:22 says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

I challenge you to stand in the light of God’s Word. It might hurt. Let it scrutinize you and reflect back to you the very truth of your life. It could be painful. But the hurt and pain are the tools of God’s Spirit to bring you to repentance and restoration. “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death” (2 Corinthians 7:10). Humbly acknowledge the truth and know that as you stand and look at the mirror of the Word, it gives you the clearest view of your life.

Self-Evaluation

One of the concerns I have in today’s self-centered social dynamic is a willingness to self-evaluate. It seems like a wise thing to do, and many would say that it is a necessary part of development and productivity to always be on the lookout for problem areas and challenges through self-evaluation.

However, there is a danger. It is found in 2 Corinthians 10:12.


We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.

The danger is this: by what measure or standard do you evaluate your life?

It is easy to measure up to the standards of self-imposed qualifications. I have no trouble judging myself by my own set of values and principles because I will always measure up. Most people will evaluate themselves based upon the preconceived notion that they are good in heart, always striving with noble motives and intentions. But who are they comparing themselves to… yes, you got it… themselves.

For example, if I determine that all good, qualified men in life should be six-feet, two-inches tall, then I go and look in the mirror – behold! I measure up! I know that this is a ridiculous illustration, but the same can be said of measuring up to our own moral and spiritual standards.

Consider what is said in 1 Corinthians 4:3-4.

I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me.

Just because you might have a clear conscience, it does not mean you are innocent. If the only measure you use to judge your own life is self-imposed standards, then you run a great risk and are in danger of proclaiming yourself innocent, all the while being guilty. It must be the Lord who is the final judge.

So, then, where do you go to get the standard? You must go to the authority that is over your life. At work, it was my employer. In the military, it was my commanding officer. And in all of life, it is the Word of God.

Read this passage from Hebrews 4:12-13

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

If you are going to practice self-evaluation then you must measure yourself by the standards set in God’s Word and nothing else. Abandon the notion that you are even remotely qualified to stand as the magistrate over your own or anyone else’s life.

Stand and face the penetrating light of Scripture and let it reveal every dark and sin-stained element of your life. Then, in that moment, let godly sorrow overwhelm you and lead you to repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10). Then confess your sins and let the wonderful grace of Christ wash over you as He forgives and cleanses (1 John 1:9).

Only when you let the standard of Christ be the measuring line, will you be able to evaluate your own life correctly.

Ambition vs. Faith

I think that there are many who confuse selfish ambition with faith. And I have been one of them.

Years ago, when I first stepped into ministry, it was a very heady experience. I enjoyed the approval of those around me and received praise from my peers. Like a strong intoxicant, I began to crave it more and more – so much so that I found myself in emotional withdrawals if I didn’t get my “fix.” I wanted to be the next great voice for the Kingdom of Christ – not because of Jesus, but because of personal ambition.

You see, I failed to understand what Paul meant when he said: “Am I now trying to win the approval of men or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:10, NIV).

It’s that last statement that gripped me: “If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” I wanted those around me to think well of me, to approve of me. I wanted to be admired by men and this led me down a path where I no longer served the Lord Christ but my own ambition. However, I didn’t see it that way.

I looked upon what I did as advancing the cause of Christ. If I could become well-known, if I could be great in the eyes of men and be accepted as an influential voice, then I could REALLY serve the Lord. I transposed faith with ambition and deceived myself into believing my life was pursuing Christ. It didn’t work. And, let me tell you, the humbling power of God was on the way.

If you are a born-again believer in Jesus, and you have confused faith with selfish ambition, rest assured that God will humble you. Peter reiterates this, saying: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5b, NIV). I won’t go into the details of how God humbled me because it will be different for everyone. Suffice it to say, it works.

As I look back, now, on the vanity and pride during the early days of my service to Jesus, I wonder how God could ever have chosen such an arrogant, self-serving person like me. I have learned what Paul meant in the text above. Personal ambition is no substitute for faith. True faith seeks the will of God and the delight of the Savior. True faith is satisfied when service is rendered, even when no applause are forthcoming. And, true faith does not seek to please men but to please God.

In the Gospel of John 5:44 (NIV), the Lord Jesus said this: “How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God?” The answer is: you can’t. 

Let me conclude from the book of James: “But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such ‘wisdom’ does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice” (James 3:14-16, NIV).