FIFLO

Blessings Continued

2012-02-27T14:49:00.002-08:00

In one of the halls at the Hardin Center of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary is a statue which I have admired for many years. While it is not a large statue or overly impressive in nature, its simplistic art work and yet depth in meaning captivates me. The statue is a visual image of Abraham making the trek to the land of Moriah for the purpose of offering a sacrifice. The stature beautifully portrays Abraham with his son Isaac, the donkey, and all of the necessary supplies for the sacrifice. As many will remember the sacrifice Abraham is to make is his only son by Sarah, Isaac.

Over the years many people have raised questions regarding this story. Many have wondered why God would have asked Abraham to sacrifice his son. Others have wondered why Abraham would have been willing to do such a horrific task. Still, others have asked would Abraham have followed through with this deed had God’s angel not stopped him. While these highly debatable thoughts are great to ponder, there is a fact we can rely on, God is sovereign and only asks us to do that which would bring honor to His name and draw us closer to Him.

Just as God blessed Abraham with this gift of a son in the form of Isaac, He often blesses us with people and things which He desires us to have for various reasons. However, the primary reasons are to glorify God and draw us closer to Him. I wonder if God were testing Abraham in this time to see if he truly trusted God in ALL things. I wonder if God wanted to see if Abraham desired the blessing more than the One offering the blessing.

Too often we are prone to act as little children and desire something from God only to have selfish motives mixed with our desires. Then just as a child who receives his request, we forget to be thankful and forget the source of our gift, God. In the scriptural account of the sacrifice God wanted to remind Abraham that all blessings are a gift from God and to be used for His glory. In addition, we should never put more value and love in the gifts than we do into God. God has commanded us to have no other gods before Him. When we take a blessing from God and put more devotion into it than we do into the Giver then we have misplaced devotion and priorities. We must be careful that we do not put our blessings before our God.

This week take time for be thankful for the Giver of all blessings for He is God!

Whatever it takes,

Pastor Ric

What is It? Part Two

2012-02-20T08:49:00.004-08:00

Taylor Fields tells the story of a homeless man in New York City’s Lower East Side by the name of George. This man had been living on the streets since he was 13 years old when he ran away from home. Although he was a man of the street he also had a passion for people. Fields relates that George had ordered an ordination certificate from the back of a magazine, though he never received it. However, this didn’t stop George from attempting to carry out ministerial duties. In fact, Fields would often find George counseling individuals and discovered that George wanted more than anything to have a place of his own in order to help those less fortunate than he. He wanted an apartment with running hot and cold water, a heater for the winter months, a shower, and a stove for him to cook on. George wanted out of the street life in order to serve the street life.

The day came for George when he received word from the Housing Department that he had been approved for housing assistance. George moved into that dream apartment of his. When he received the blessing of his own place he did not forget what his dream had been. He made his place available to friends in need. The irony of the situation is George called his apartment the Sanctuary of Hope. In fact, George had business cards printed bearing his name, address, and The Sanctuary of Hope offering the cards to his friends old and new as a way of introducing them to a place of hope. George recognized his blessing and offered that same blessing to minister to those in need.

Last week I shared a thought on the blessing of Israel when they received the manna from heaven. Their question was “What is it?” I asked how many times we receive a blessing from God only to ask the same question as the Israelites. In the same line of thinking I wonder how many times we receive a blessing from God only to forget the reason God blessed us. His blessings are for a purpose. However, we often forget that the purpose is to bring glory to God rather than to prompt us with comfort and pleasure. Those are a by-product of God’s blessings. When God blesses us materially we should use it for God’s glory. When He blesses us emotionally or spiritually we should in turn use that blessing for God’s glory and to give praise to him. There is a song often sung in churches titled Blessed Be the Name of the Lord which part of it says, “Every blessing You pour out, I'll turn back to praise.” This is the intent of our Lord Jesus Christ when He offers blessings unto us; we must turn them back to Him in praise.

As I think about the blessings God has offered unto this great church and unto each of us individually I wonder how we are doing in the praise department. Have we given back to God an offering of praise? Have we offered up a Sacrifice of Praise unto our great and giving God? Today why not stop where you are and take an evaluation of the ways in which God has offered blessings unto you. When you have your inventory list ask two questions. First, have I offered these blessings back to God in praise? Secondly, how have I used the blessings which God has given unto me?

Whatever it takes,

Pastor Ric

What is It?

2012-02-15T07:21:00.000-08:00

The children of Israel had recently left Egypt and the bondage which they had faced for an extensive period of time. At God’s gracious hand they had successfully crossed the Red Sea leaving a trail of dead Egyptian soldiers in the vast expanse of water. Going farther into the wilderness they complained that they had no water to drink when the Lord led them to Marah. However, now they complained that the water was bitter so God instructed Moses to have trees thrown into the water making it drinkable. Now they had moved from Marah and Elim (an Oasis) to a point of complaining that they had no food to eat. God instructs Moses to tell the people of the offering of food at night via quail and in the morning via manna. When they saw the manna in the morning they looked at one another and asked one question, “What is it?” (Ex. 16:15)

Here the children of Israel are blessed by God with not one offering of food for their hunger but two. However, the scripture does not say they worshipped God, is does not say that they thanked God, or even offered a sacrifice to God for this blessing. Instead the scripture simply says they asked what is it. How could the children of Israel, God’s anointed group of people miss recognizing God’s blessing? How could they miss the opportunity to thank God for this bountiful blessing? Could they have already become accustomed to God giving to them in their time of need and have become complacent? Did they miss the blessing of God by overlooking and being calloused to what God had to offer unto them?

“Andrew Carnegie, the multimillionaire, left $1 million for one of his relatives, who in return cursed Carnegie thoroughly because he had left $365 million to public charities and had cut him off with just one measly million.” (Homemade, Dec. 1984) How often do we complain to God because we compare what He has done for others with what He has done for us? How often to do think God has forgotten us because we tend to overlook the bountiful blessings of each day? As a devotional I read recently stated,

Ingratitude denotes spiritual immaturity. Infants do not always appreciate what parents do for them. They have short memories. Their concern is not what you did for me yesterday, but what are you doing for me today. The past is meaningless and so is the future. They live for the present. Those who are mature are deeply appreciative of those who labored in the past. They recognize those who labor during the present and provide for those who will be laboring in the future. Homemade December 1984

What constitutes a blessing? One dictionary stated that a blessing is help which one believes has come from God. A blessing is anything which God offers unto us in a form which He sees best fitted for us! How often have we received a blessing from God and yet we failed to offer up thanks for that which God has given unto us? How often have we failed to even recognize what God has done for us as a blessing from above? James stated that “every good and perfect gift comes from above.” (James 1:17) Why not stop today and ponder the blessings which God has given unto you, blessings you might have overlooked but God has given on a continual basis? Why not stop and offer thanks unto God for every good and perfect gift He has poured out on you! I challenge you to try this approach and see what God does when His children come to Him with a grateful heart.

Pastor Ric

Giving to Get or Getting to Give

2011-12-12T13:07:00.000-08:00

Recently I was watching an old episode of Everybody Loves Raymond. In this particular one Raymond and Robert are plotting for an opportunity to go away for a weekend of golf. However, Ray does not feel as though he can just ask Deborah to let him go so he begins to plot a scheme to butter up Deborah. Since it is Christmas time Ray decides to use his gift to Deborah as a perfect opportunity to guilt her into letting him go play golf. His plan is to give Deborah a gift so nice that she will feel obligated to let Ray go on the outing. As the time approaches to exchange gifts, Ray has discovered, with the help of Robert that Deborah is “supposed” to be giving him a tie. Therefore, Ray plans to give Deborah the Crockpot she wants but also add in a side gift of nice cookware. When the exchange of gifts takes place Deborah is ecstatic over her gifts but Ray has a surprise waiting for him. When Deborah hands him his gift it was not the perceived tie but rather an expensive DVD player and movies. (The tie was actually for Robert.) Needless to say much turmoil and chaos erupted when the truth was revealed on the presents and the purpose behind them.

This sitcom episode makes me ask the question, “Why do we give gifts to one another?” Do we give out of obligation or do we give out of love? By obligation I am referring to the thought of they gave me a gift last year or I have a feeling they plan to give me a gift this year. The word obligation does not lend itself to the feeling of generosity. Instead, it gives a sense of necessity or requirement, neither of which conveys the feeling of love and generosity. Obligation is defined as something that must be done because of a legal or moral duty. This should have no part in gift giving. We must be compelled to give out of love not an obligation. When I give gifts to my family I do not think in terms of “having to give.” Instead I look at the opportunity to give in order to express my love to those I cherish.

In the same sense when Jesus came to earth in the form of a baby, God’s gift to each of us was not obligatory but instead it was compelled by His great love for each of us. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His Son…” God has set the great example of giving. Just as Jesus is recorded as saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” we too should follow this example. (Acts 20:35)

This Christmas as you make out your Christmas list examine your heart and ask, “Am I giving out of obligation or love?” You will find your joy is enhanced when you learn to give out of love more than obligation.

May God bless you this Christmas in ways you never expected!

Pastor Ric

Faithfully Giving Back to God for the Blessings He Gives

2011-11-02T08:54:00.000-07:00

One of the hardest subjects for me to preach is stewardship. This is not because I don't give of my tithes and offereings but because this is one area which people get very sensitive. I love what a pastor friend calls this issue, "Cirrohsis of the Giver." Whether this is original with him or not does not matter. The weight of the issue is that we have a giving problem in the church today. When only 3-5% of church attenders give a tithe of their income, then we have a problem. Who is to blame for this problem? The leadership of the church for not teaching the proper way to give? Dave Ramsey says, "Don't tell your church to give; teach them how to give!" Is the problem the economy? I have a tough time believing that because we find ways to continue to eat out, go to movies, buy new things, and the list could go on and on. I tweeted a quote which I recently read that said, "If it is important to you then you will find a way; if not you will find an excuse." We like to make excuses for not tithing more than actually tithing. Is it the person's fault? Well in my house, if I don't set my alarm the night before to awaken me the next morning, I can blame my wife and kids, but the truth is I am an adult with responsibilities; therefore, I must "man-up" to my shortcomings.

In Ps. 24:1 David writes, "The earth and everything in it, the world and its inhabitants, belong to the Lord." How much are we taking from God's treasury by not giving back to God of His tithe and His wealth? Malachai tells us to "Bring the full ten percent into the storehouse...Test me in this way says the Lord of Hosts. See if I will not open the floodgates of heaven and pour our a blessing for you without measure."

Why not give it a shot? God has never been unfaithful! Give Him your tithe and see how He blesses you.

Pastor Ric

Prayer

2011-10-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

I am wondering about Prayer and how we respond to prayer. Would you give me your thoughts on the following questions regarding prayer?

When do you pray most? (Not just time of day but occasions)
What enhances your prayer time?
What restricts your prayer time?
How do you approach God when you have prayed for something but not received the answer you desired?
How do you feel when you have prayed but your answer was not what you desired but other people have received the answer to their prayer?

I would love your feedback. Have a great day and may God bless you greatly this day.

Pastor Ric

Philippians 4

2011-06-30T07:18:00.000-07:00

Philippians 4

I love chapter four of Philippians. I know I really stressed how great chapter 2 is, but the reality is that I just love the book of Philippians. Paul writes with such practical advice for the church. In chapter four alone I find six different verses which are stand out verses, meaning they really pack a punch for each of us in our Christian walk. These verses have been quoted time and again by numerous believers from all walks of life. Let's look at each of these with a brief explanation.

Verse 4: Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!--I once heard Dr. Mark Foley speak on this passage to which he reminded us that Paul is stating that we must rejoice not in circumstances for they will change but to rejoice in the only true constant, our Lord Jesus Christ. By the way, Paul really wanted to stress this by repeating himself!

Verse 6: Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving; let your requests be made known to God. Paul continues the thought of rejoicing in spite of circumstances by saying not to worry about anything. He tells the reader to take the burden or worry to God through prayer. I think the major problem we see in situations where we worry is not that we don't pray, but that we pray without leaving the problem in God's hands. We lay it at His feet but pick it up before we leave. In addition, we also fail to trust God is listening, caring, and working the situation out to our best in the way we want.

Verse 7: And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Here Paul is carrying out the thought of submitting our worries to God by stating that WHEN we leave our cares with God we will experience such a peace that only God can bring. This peace will not only be indescribable but liberating from the anxieties of life on this earth.

Verse 8: Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things. Paul recognizes the mind is a powerful weapon for or against us depending on how it is utilized. What we find is that Paul is stressing the importance of understanding the correlation between the things we think about compared with the way we act. If we think on worldly things dwelling on them, then our attitude and actions will reflect the world. Additionally, he recognizes that if we think on God and His realm then we are more likely to take on the attitude and activities of God. As the mind thinks, so the person shall act. There was an old saying years ago about the dangers of drugs that went like this, "The mind is a terrible thing to waste." I think this statement is equally true, "The mind is a terrible thing to misuse!"

Verse 13: I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me. At Faith Academy Christian School where Raegan attended in Mobile they asked the student athletes and cheerleaders who were graduating to give their favorite Bible verse. When they responded, the majority of the students quoted this verse. Raegan had on her megaphone for cheerleading this verse. I have heard many people quote and use this verse in trying times. What makes it so powerful and widely quoted? There seems to be a correlation between accomplishing great things in the power of God. However, if we look at the context Paul is stating that regardless of what state of circumstances he has been in, he has found that through the power of God he could succeed. Paul reminds us that he has plenty and he has had little to nothing, but regardless God has strengthened him to succeed in the mission to which God has called him.

Verse 19: And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Like many other verses in the Bible, this one is often misquoted. I hear people say, and my God will supply all MY needs...when the verse really says all YOUR needs... We like to think that God is going to supply our needs, and he will but the context of the verse deals with Paul's encouragement to the Philippians for giving generously to his mission endeavors while in Thessalonica and Macedonia. He wants them to understand that as they have sacrificially given, God will supply for the needs they encounter. Therefore, be cautious in claiming this verse out of context. Paul states that because of their generosity, God will supply their needs.

While I have listed several primary verses, I would love to hear your thoughts on which verse means the most to you and why. Please post your comments here for a source of encouragement to all of us.

Philippians 3

2011-06-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

I remember this passage well from a time years ago when a lady looked at me and sad she was tired to which I replied that I understood for I was also tired. She gave me one of those looks like yea right. I replied that it had been a long hard week and I had put in a lot of hours. She very pointedly told me she could work that many hours too if she were pressing. I asked, "What do you mean by pressing?" She told me, in no uncertain terms, "Pressin' yo bottom on that chair." Well Paul talks about pressing but not pressing a portion of one's anatomy to a chair. He encourages the church of Philippi to press on to the mark of the high calling in Christ Jesus. Before we can press on though we must forget the past! Some of us are weighed down so heavily by our past that we cannot move forward adequately. Many times in my life I have allowed Satan to beat me up over past mistakes, of which I had already been cleansed, but could not forgive myself. These mistakes had become a burden which the enemy kept me from pursuing the calling of Christ in my life. Other times people allow their past accomplishments to keep them from pursuing the goal set before them by God. I think of one friend in particular whom God had called to life at a young age but my friend would not surrender. He went out on his own made a mark in the business world and continued to run from God's calling. It wasn't until later that God got his attention through a tragic accident that he forgot the accomplishments of self and sought out the prize of God.

After we forget the past, we must then press on reaching forward to what is ahead. While in high school I played wide receiver for our football team. One of the things our coach taught us in running our routes for pass plays was not to look back for the ball until the right time. One of the reasons for this technique was because when we look back it slows us down. The race we run as a Christian requires that we not allow anything to slow us down from pursuing the directions of God. We must continue to work at keeping our velocity at a pace to run so as to win the prize of God. Another reason we are told not to look back is that we could miss the goal. While running track, I ran the 220 low hurdles race. In one race I lost my focus and had to choose between hitting a hurdle and going around it. I chose to run around the hurdle so as not to fall. Although I crossed the finish line first, I was disqualified because I missed one of the goals. When we lose our focus and do not finish the race of God's because we took our eyes off of the goal, then we can lose the race and not finish strong as God desires. God's desire is for us to finish the race by glorifying Him in all we do and sharing His Good News with all we meet. I like Paul's way of thinking when he says, "Not that I have already reached the goal or am already fully mature, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus." Here is the question for the day, "Have you been taken hold of by Jesus Christ?" When Jesus gets a hold of us, our passion will be to compete in such a way as to honor Him and finish the race for Him well. How are you running?

Philippians 2

2011-06-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

As I read this great chapter from Paul's letter to the Philippians, I remember my first semester in seminary as I was working on my master's degree. I was an unknowing first year student and did not realize the enormity of my load in one class in particular until it was too late. We sat and listened to the syllabus for the class and discovered that one assignment was to exegete the first eleven verses of chapter two. What I discovered is that this passage would become one of my favorites from Paul's writings and one of the most prolific in describing the divinity and humanity of Christ explicitly detailing His heart of generosity and love for mankind. In detailing this chapter I want to share two thoughts regarding the portions that stand out to me so greatly.

First, as we look at verses 1-4 once again we see the theme Paul stressed to the church of Corinth and Dr. Luke stressed to the early church in Acts, be united in all things. If these two men find this matter to be of such importance to the early church I believe strongly that we should make it a matter of urgency in the postmodern day church. Keep in mind the first four statements in the passage appear to questions in the English language, but are really statements of affirmation in the Greek. When Paul writes "If then there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if an affection and mercy...", he is really saying "since there is encouragement, consolation, fellowship, and affection" make my joy complete by thinking the same way...focusing on one goal! He further details the manner of fulfilling his joy by saying put aside selfish ambitions and ways of thinking by putting others first in how you think and behave. This parallels what we have been discussing on Sunday mornings about the "Contextual Church." The contextual church puts aside her personal desires for the betterment of the kingdom of God and the advancement of the Gospel. The contextual church wants to see things done in such a way to draw in those who do not know Christ. The contextual church is less concerned with the consumer mentality of the church and more concerned with the best way to reach to the unregenerate community. Unfortunately we have allowed the worldly mindset to creep into the church of saying, "What does the church have for me!" I am reminded of the words of John F. Kennedy as he made his inaugural speech in January of 1961 when he said, "Ask not what your country can do for you but what can you do for your country." An interpretation of this statement for the church could be, "Ask not what the church can do for you, but what you can do for the church." Could this be what Paul is implying here as well? Could this be the mindset of unity? Could this be what we must do in God's church today?

Paul continues this thought of self-abandonment by giving the greatest example for us which is found in Jesus Christ. He states, that though Jesus was in the very same nature and form as God did not see that as something He could clutch but abandoned His rights for the sake of mankind. I like the way the HCSB states this, "He emptied Himself." How much different God's church would be if we all "Emptied Ourselves." Paul doesn't leave it at that statement but also adds, "He Humbled Himself" to the very lowest form of mankind at the time, a servant. Here the King of Kings and Lord of Lords became a servant for those who had (and continue to) wronged Him. I think of what the first nature and first thoughts we have when wronged. Too often we want to think, "How dare them treat ME that way." We also begin to think of revenge in some manner. However, Christ chose to become their servant out of love. How we act when treated wrongly manifests a sacrificial heart or a selfish heart. Which do you have? Do you want retaliation or reconciliation? Do you seek to serve or seclude yourself in self-pity?

If we are going to manifest the very nature and attitude of Christ, we must think of others before ourselves, how we can advance the Kingdom of God, and how we can Glorify God and share His love. Today let us make the Joy of Christ complete by being of the same mind, sharing the same love, sharing the same feelings, and focusing on one goal. Let us glorify God today in our attitude and actions.

Philippians 1

2011-06-27T08:37:00.001-07:00

As we look at the book of Philippians we need to understand that Paul writes to the church of Philippi from a prison cell. In addition, as he sits in the jail his fate is uncertain, at any moment he could be sentenced to death/execution. However, during this time Paul does not become bleak or dismayed. Instead, he opens his heart to extend the gracious love of God to the jailers, the church of Philippi and even unto his enemies. Paul shows forth a masterful display of the attitude we should, no must, exhibit when our life path suddenly turns to a stony path lined with briars, thorns, and even ravenous animals. His heart is bent on what Warren Wiersbe described as rejoicing in spite of life’s hardships. Wiersbe says, “Paul rejoiced in spite of his circumstances, because his circumstances strengthened the fellowship of the Gospel (Phil 1:1-11), promoted the furtherance of the Gospel (Phil 1:12-26), and guarded the faith of the Gospel (Phil 1:27-30).”

Paul’s demeanor is not set by a determined will or a disciplined mind alone, though these two factors were necessary for his time. Instead, Paul was engulfed with what we discussed yesterday in our study of “The Contextual Church.” He was devoted single-mindedly to two critical components. First, he wanted his life to glorify God in every aspect. Secondly, he sought to share the Gospel with as many people as possible in all ways of life. Wiersbe says that single-mindedness is the attitude that says, "It makes no difference what happens to me, just as long as Christ is glorified and the Gospel shared with others." Is this attitude the one we carry each day? Do we care not what happens to us so long as God is glorified and Christ is shared? This is the mind of Paul. While some may have contended Paul to be suicidal when he made the statement in verse 21, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain,” that could not be farther from the truth. Paul simply longed to do the will of Christ, yet he knew that if he died in the process his life would then be spent in eternity with the One whom he loved and adored. However, until that day when Christ summoned him home, he would live to share the Gospel in every situation of every day.

The opening verses of the book share with us the intense joy of Paul to have partners in his ministry to advance the Gospel. The church of Philippi had been tremendous avenues of support and encouragement. Paul acknowledges that their support, both material and emotional, were of tremendous encouragement. He considers them to be his partners in advancing the kingdom. While they may not have been with him physically, they were spreading the Gospel in their world and sending him support for his ministry, which they felt strongly regarding. This approach is not different than that of the ministry which we do at FBC with regards to local ministry and support of international ministry. Not all of us can go, as Paul did, but we can support and encourage, AS WE DO LOCAL MINISTRY. So here is the question? How are we doing in supporting missions abroad? Financially? Prayerfully? Encouraging through emails, letters, care packages? How are we doing in sharing the Gospel at home? Today, let us evaluate and do what God has called us to do! In the words of Josh Wilson’s song “I Refuse”

'Cause I don't want to live like I don't care
I don't want to say another empty prayer
Oh, I refuse
To sit around and wait for someone else
To do what God has called me to do myself
Oh, I could choose
Not to move but I refuse

As we live, can we say, “For me to live is Christ?”

New Blog Coming

2011-06-23T06:42:00.000-07:00

I hope you have enjoyed the blogs to this point. So far we have covered the books of Acts, 1 and 2 Corinthians. Beginning Monday we will dive into another of Paul's writings as we look at the book of Philippians. Until then continue to study the Word of God each day. A couple of great online devotionals are David Jeremiah's Turning Point and Ron Hutchcraft's A Word with You. Of course the old tried and true My Utmost for His Highest is challenging and great.

May God bless you today as you seek to follow and serve Him,

Pastor Ric

2 Corinthians 13

2011-06-22T07:32:00.000-07:00

In the closing chapter of 2 Corinthians Paul deals with two major issues. Warren Wiersbe approaches these issues with a very practical approach. Wiersbe implies that Paul is basically saying, "Prepare yourself and examine yourself." The prepare yourself references that Paul intends to come for a third visit and he will deal with the sinful nature of the Corinthians. Their sinful propensity was varied from disunity to accepting false theology. Some of the matters which caused the disunity were trivial and should have been considered non-essential matters but became issues of grave concern because the church did not practice the Biblical mandate of Jesus referenced in Matthew 18. In addition, Paul still has to deal with the matter of his apostleship. He likens himself to the manner with which Jesus displayed his power. While Jesus was most powerful, he was meek in His approach. The best definition of meekness I have heard says, "Meekness is strength under control." Yet, Paul is in essence telling the church, "If you need to see power, I can bring it."

The second issue Paul addresses is 'examine yourself.' Paul recognizes that much of the manner with which the Corinthians were displaying in their activities and attitudes were not Christ like. Therefore, he questions their spiritual foundation and maturity. He asks the church members to examine themselves for whether they are of the faith and whether their walk is deep or shallow. Often in the church this mantra could be the basis for many of the problems which arise. If our walk is genuine and deep then we are not going to be as concerned with what "Our Desires and Insistents" are but with seeing the greater vision or bigger picture for the sake of the kingdom of God. Too often the church family can become embroiled in a matter that really does not matter to greater vision in God's mission. However, because the matter is personal to some it becomes emotional and therefore becomes a distraction to what really matters. We must come to the point where we are more concerned with following Jesus, obeying His commands and commissions, and reaching the lost with the Gospel than we are with "what I want."

Paul closes the letter with one of the greatest concluding remarks of all the epistles. He says, "Finally, brothers, rejoice. Be restored, be encouraged, be of the same mind, be at peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of you." Oh that we could have these closing remarks as the great efforts of our lives. Oh that we would be of the same mind and at peace with one another so that the God of love and peace would be exalted among us and pleased with our efforts.

2 Corinthians 12

2011-06-21T08:10:00.000-07:00

While I should not be after having served in the local church for the past 28 years either part-time or full-time, I am amazed at how much effort Paul has put forth in defending his apostleship and dealing with petty issues in the church of Corinth. In this chapter he continues to address and defend his rights of being an apostle of Christ. As reluctant as he is to boast about his "rights" he chooses to do so from a different point of view. Rather than speaking of being strong, eloquent, creative, and powerfully elite Paul chooses to take the approach of his weaknesses. His reasoning is quiet simple, he does not want the glory for what he might have accomplished but rather he wants all glory and honor to go unto God. Paul states in verses 9-10 "Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may reside in me. So because of Christ, I am pleased in weaknesses, in insults, in catastrophes, in persecutions, and in pressures. For when I am weak, then I am strong." He recognizes that through the weaknesses Christ is exalted rather than him and that through the weaknesses God's strength is bequest to him making him strong enough for all situations he faces. Paul recognizes he will face adversity, but through the adversity God's delivering power is sufficiently displayed.

While this route of hardships and difficulties was not Paul's chosen path as we see in verse 7-8 where Paul says, "Therefore, so that I would not exalt myself, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to torment me so I would not exalt myself. 8 Concerning this, I pleaded with the Lord three times to take it away from me." In this we see that Paul was not a sadist nor was he a martyr for his glory. He desired that God would make his path lighter, but succumb to the thorn in the flesh because he recognized there was a great plan at stake. (As to the exact nature of the thorn in the flesh we do not know. There is a myriad of potential interpretations ranging from a disease to a wife [don't shoot the messenger.] but we do not know exactly. We do know it was a burden to Paul but he willingly endured for the sake of Christ.)

In closing, let's examine our lives. What issues do we face where we could surrender them to God and allow His glory to manifest in our weaknesses? Are there people in our lives opposing us causing us to want to retaliate out of the flesh? Could we be better servants by simply boasting about our weaknesses to see God's strength displayed in the situation? Do we have a "thorn in the flesh" as Paul which could project the power of God to work in our weaknesses allowing others to see the glory of God revealed? Today let us walk humbly before God with a intentionality of seeing God glorified in all we say and do.

2 Corinthians 11

2011-06-20T07:49:00.000-07:00

Let me give a big thank you to Bryan Austin for covering the blog on Friday. I thought I would be able to handle it on Saturday and Sunday but between the move and church my schedule did not allow nor was my brain in the right mind. No comments on the brain please. LOL. Thank you for understanding the absence of posts the last two days.

As we look at chapter 11 Paul is continuning to give a defense for his apostolic position. We can even see a bit of his personality come out in the writing as he uses irony and a hint of sarcasm to get his point across. He makes an opening statement which references the allegations from the false apostles. He says, "I wish you would put up with a little foolishness from me. Yes, do put up with me." He even calls them a cutting name in verse 5 where he says, "Now I consider myself in no way inferior to the 'super-apostles.'" Paul acutally gives a detailed account of why he has the right to be an apostle, a listing of what he has endured for the glory of Christ, and reminds the Corinthians that he has purposefully chosen not to be a burden on the church. Paul does all of this to confront the church on their "wishy-washy" and "immature" nature. If you recall in 1 Cor. 3:2 Paul told the church that he had to feed them with milk instead of meat because they were not spiritually mature. Paul does not hold punches in addressing their immaturity, their lack of discipline in their walk with God, and their willingness to tolerate false teachings.

Let's play a game of imagination. Let's imagine Paul is writing a letter to each of us. What type of letter would we receive from him? Would Paul write encouragement? Would he write to confront us on immaturity? Would he write to let us know of his disappointment for tolerating ungodly practices in our lives? Would he write with words of commendation or condemnation?

Let's also imagine that we had to defend our Christian walk? How well could we defend it? Would our list simply say "I attended church and gave a token offering"? Would we be able to list a defense similar to Paul's? Let's us "conduct yourselves honorably among the Gentiles, so that in a case where they speak against you as those who do evil, they may, by observing your good works, glorify God in a day of visitation." (1 Peter 2:12)

June 17, 2011 2 Corinthians 10

2011-06-17T15:29:00.000-07:00

Hey Folks, Bryan Austin here today, in for Pastor Ric. Pastor Ric and his family are enroute to Florence from Mobile at this time probably following an 18 wheeler moving van. Please keep them in your prayers as they travel and unpack at their new home in Florence this weekend. So, I am the guest blogger today. Before you start wondering what you are in for....wait, you could be the next guest blogger.

Here we go. Encouraging words shared by Paul in chapters 8 and 9 have come to a close. Paul is now defending his ministry against a few Corinthian critics. One thing for sure in 2011, as followers of Christ, we are certainly not immune from criticism. As I think about a Christian's response to criticism, a few things jump from the pages of chapter 10:

1) Verse 3 -- For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.
2) Verse 5b--We should take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
3) Verse 8 -- The authority the Lord gave us is for building up rather than pulling down.
4) Verse 15 --As our faith grows, our area of Christian influence should expand.
5) Verse 17 --Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.

I would like to share some thoughts on the subject of criticism from one of my favorite Christian authors, John C. Maxwell.

1) Do not take yourself too seriously.
2) Watch your own attitude toward the critic.
3) Recognize that good people (even Jesus) get criticized.
4) Learn a principle. Thank the critic for what you learn.
5) Concentrate on your mission of making and encouraging disciples.

There it is. My first post on a blog ever ( as a guest blogger or even making a comment). It was not so bad. Let me know your opinions on some of the above thoughts. I hope to see you this Sunday at FBC and Happy Fathers Day weekend to all and especially my Dad, Glenn Austin ( who I get to spend Saturday morning with digging post holes). Talk about some quality male bonding time ! Blog away fellow bloggers !

In Christian love -- Bryan Austin

2 Corinthians 9

2011-06-16T17:16:00.000-07:00

We find that chapter 9 is a continuation of the discussion on giving from the previous chapter. Paul actually speaks specifically about an offering the church of Corinth had promised to give. In fact, Paul had bragged to the Macedonians regarding this offering so he wants to insure the church had followed through and everything is in order to prevent any embarrassment on their or his part. The part of his encouragement which is so striking to me is where Paul gives his famous words regarding a cheerful giver. In verse 7 Paul says, "You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” Keep in mind Paul is not referring to the tithe offering but a benevolent offering to fellow believers in need. He reminds the Corinians to do so with a grateful heart of the privilege to give. By privilege I mean these people have the means to give and the ministry opportunity. When we give to those in need we are fulfilling the responsibility to help a fellow believer but we also receive a tremendous blessing in giving. In addition, we will be rewarded for the acts of kindness which we bestow. An added benefit which Paul mentions in verse 12 is that "For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing in many acts of thanksgiving to God." Could it be we praise and thank God for His blessings on our life as we give out of our abundance to those in need? Could it be that as we give rejoicing and cheerfully unto those in need that we bring honor to our God and shall receive His approval and greatest blessings? Keep in mind this is not a mandate or a tax but a benevolent offering unto the needy believers. How joyfully and generously to we give in times of great need? I will commend FIFLO for their generosity in recent weeks to give to Annie, Disaster Relief for Japan and those fellow Alabamians affected by recent storms. Thank you for being a faithful and giving church.

2 Corinthians 8

2011-06-14T23:13:00.000-07:00

So how should we give? Paul gives instructions to the church in Corinth on how they should approach this topic by reminding them of how our Lord gave and how they began this movement. In the address of Paul he reminds them of what the matter was concerning our Lord's origins and how He willing forsake what He had to give for what our need was. The critical element in this dealt with the doctrine of grace. While this element has been explained in many ways such as God's riches at Christ expense I tend to shy away from the novelty approach and simply define grace as 'receiving what we do not deserve yet what we desperately need.' We did not deserve God's gift of love yet we needed His offer of reconciliation for we were separated hopelessly from our Creator. Therein lies God's grace extended to us. Paul wants the Corinthians to have the same approach in dealing with the collection for the churches of Macedonia who now needed their assistance. Paul reminds the church that the Macedonians "are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity." There have been times when I have watched the joy resonate within individuals despite great poverty. They find a sense of joy not in the material but in the depth of a relationship with God. What joy could we all find if we looked to Jesus as our 'all in all."

The word which Paul spoke that struck me hard in particularly was, "Since you excel in so many ways—in your faith, your gifted speakers, your knowledge, your enthusiasm, and your love from us—I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving." As I reflect on this passage found in verse 7 I find conviction on how many times I could have given or given more to a cause or a need. God has blessed me greatly. Now Lisa and I give but do we give as God desires? Do we give graciously as our God gave to us? Do we see a need and think this is something someone else will meet? I am so thankful that our Lord did not withhold, neglect, or shirk in giving to me in my great need. May I be found faithful to give as our Lord gave to me.

2 Corinthians 7

2011-06-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

As I write the new several posts, I do so from the SBC Annual Meeting in Phoenix. Therefore, the posts may be altered by the surroundings or the speakers. Regardless the posts will continue as usual.

Paul opens the chapter with a remarkable verse which could serve as a personal mission statement for each of us. He says, "Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God." There are two incredible phrases in this passage. First, we see Paul encouraging the Corinthians to cleanse both their body and spirit. His intent is to not merely do the right things and forsake the wrong things but also to let all of their actions be for the right reason. Too often in the early Christian era, as in now, people felt as though they were justified if only their external actions were cleansed. However, Paul takes the inner attitude and spirit into consideration as well. The second phrase Paul uses is that we must "work toward complete holiness." This attitude which Paul implores is one, as we discussed earlier, of discipline. We must discipline ourselves for holiness. This entails hard labor and a deterministic spirit to rid ourselves of all unrighteousness to "work toward holiness.".

2 Corinthians 6

2011-06-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

Once again we see Paul is having to defend himself for what he does and who he is! I wonder why the Corinthian church continued to question Paul for his motives and his apostolic position. However, Paul must state the obvious by saying, "In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind.". He then goes on to give defense for his actions by a summation of the type of troubles, hardships, and calamities which he has faced. Additionally, he says, "We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love.".

As Paul makes his defense, it makes me wonder at what point would Paul break? Apparently from this list he wouldn't. For his tenacity and endurance I applaud him but wonder if I would be as stoic and strong to remain loyal in the midst of such atrocities. Honestly, there are times when I (we) are less thuan stoic and strong. In fact, too often as the tough times roll on we tend to cower under the weight becoming overwhelmed and even bitter. However, I cannot forget the words of Paul to the church of Philippi as he said, "I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us." Paul recognizes the temporal nature of these hardships and the eternal bliss of what is to come. Therefore he willingly endures the toils and troubles to discipline himself for what lies ahead. The critical word is discipline which requires commitment. Do you have discipline? Are you committed to our God?

Takeaways
1. Hardships will always accompany our trek in life.
2. Hardships are not overcome without discipline and commitment.
3. Hardships are temporal but God is eternal.

2 Corinthians 5

2011-06-10T09:48:00.000-07:00

There are several verses in this passage today which stand out, but two in particular are very riveting. The first is verse 9 which states, “Therefore whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to be pleasing to Him!” When I contemplate this logic of Paul shouldn't this be our motive for life as well. This simple statement sums up the way we should approach life and in so doing we will fulfill the greatest and second greatest commandment of all. (Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength and love your neighbor as yourself.)

If our ambition is to please God in all things and in all ways, we should be compelled to do so out of love. That is what Paul said in the second verse I find riveting from chapter 5. He stated in verse, "For Christ's love compels us." I recognize I just said we should be compelled to please God out of love but you must remember that scripture says we can only love because He first loved us.(1 Jn. 4:19) You see we do not know how to love. We do not know what love is. And we are not capable of true love alone. Therefore, God's love shows us the way and literally compels us to move forward to serve Him wholeheartedly out of a reciprocal love. All we can do is emulate the Father in loving Him and others.

So the question is, "How well are you doing in making your ambition to please God, compelled by His love? How are you doing in living for Him and loving Him? How well are you doing in loving one another, not just the loveable but even the unlovable? We cannot expect to have a strong relationship with God if we do not have a strong relationship with His children and His creation!

I remember hearing a preacher use this illustration one time. Suppose I walked up to your front door to ask a favor of you and along the way your child came up to me and tried to talk with me. However, I was annoyed and yelled at the child, even pushing the child aside. All the while you had been observing this from your front window. How likely would you be to oblige to the favor knowing I had treated your child this way? Then why do we expect God to oblige our requests when we treat His children with disrespect and disdain?

Takeaways:

1. Christ's love is our compelling factor for all we do to please Him.

2. Our ambition should be to please God in all we do.

2 Corinthians 4

2011-06-09T17:15:00.000-07:00

Whenever I have a person approach me asking for direction regarding whether God is calling that individual into the ministry I always remember the words given to me thirty years ago by my pastor. He said, “Make sure you know that God is calling you into this ministry. Write it down! There will be days when you feel as though giving up. However, if you know without a doubt that God has called you to the ministry then you will never be able to give up that calling.” What my pastor was saying is you will have days when things are tough and you want to give up. However, you will not be happy doing anything but what God has called you to do.

I wonder if this is what Paul is going through as he writes chapter 4. In the first verse he writes, “Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not give up.” He cannot give up on the High Calling of Christ Jesus on his life because of the calling but also because of the great mercy given unto him. Each of us has a calling from God; some are called to vocational ministry and others to lay ministry. However, the calling is still on our lives as children of God and we cannot abandon this call or our lives will be unfulfilled and miserable. Are you fulfilling your calling? Are you serving God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength? Are you giving unto God your best in all things? Winston Churchill told the Harrow School on October 29, 1941, “Never give in. Never give in. Never, never, never, never -- in nothing, great or small, large or petty -- never give in, except to convictions of honor and good sense. Never yield to force. Never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.” This quote is very apropos for what Paul is stating in chapter 4, especially as he moves into the next section dealing with the treasures in clay jars.

We see Paul giving a detail to which many fellow believers could probably relate; "We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair; we are persecuted but not abandoned; we are struck down but not destroyed." maybe you have had one of those days where you feel as though you have been pressured from all sides. Maybe you have felt as though you have been beaten up everywhere you turn. Remember our Lord promised us that if we served Him we would be enemies to the world which would hate and persecute us. What a privilege that we could and should bear the persecution and hardships for being a servant of God! Remember the words of Paul in v. 16-17, "Therefore we do not give up. Even though our outer person is being destroyed, our inner person is being renewed day by day. For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an absolutely incomparable eternal weight of glory.".

Takeaways
1. Our afflictions and hardships should be a badge of honor for serving our Lord.
2. Our afflictions and hardships are but temporary.
3. Never quit or give up!

2 Corinthians 3

2011-06-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

Paul is once again battling a problem that will not go away, his credibility. Apparently there were a group of individuals in the church who carried letters of approval and recommendation for their services, speaking, and character. They insisted that Paul must not be qualified to conduct the ministry. (I find that extremely humorous especially since we have no record of these others.) However Paul makes a defense again regarding his competence and his ministry, even among the people of Corinth. Paul even makes a statement that appears to place a dagger in the hearts of his accusers. In verses 5-6 Paul says, "But our competence is from God. He has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter from men." In other words, I don't need the approval of men to carry out the ministry assigned by God. While this statement must be seasoned and we must not take it to an extreme and become boastful, Paul is saying I can walk in confidence knowing that God has given me my assignment, my agenda, and my ability.

Too often we can become enamored with the praise, or lack of, from mankind regarding our efforts and work for God. We have not been called to please mankind but to bring honor to God. Our mentality has become distorted to believe that because we live in a democratic society, that we must allow everything to be based on the consensus of mankind. However, at the end of time on earth we will stand before our Creator to give an account for the way we conducted ourselves regarding His directives. At that point, it will not matter if we made everyone happy or not. All that will matter is that we were obedient and walked in complete confidence that we sought to honor Him above all things.

Paul closes the chapter dealing with the transition from the Old Law to the New Law. This transition was not easy then just as change is difficult now. However, Paul reminds the reader that the New Law is not a temporal or condemning issue. Instead the new law brings freedom and life to all who accept it. Paul reminds the Corinthians that those who hold to the Old Law do so with a limited scope of what God offers and are bound to a law. However, through Christ, the New Law offers liberty and life to all who will accept it. He even makes the statement of the supremacy of the New Law by stating, "For if what was fading away was glorious, what endures will be even more glorious."

I want to hold to the glory and greatness of God in the present not living in the past. God offers us each day an opportunity of abundant life. Unfortunately we too often hold onto the days of long ago and remember the "When" rather than experiencing the "Win" of now!

Takeways:
1. Our confidence and competence lies in God not man.
2. Our God offers us a life of freedom if we are willing to follow after Him.
3. Live in the Present not the Past!

2 Corinthians 2

2011-06-07T19:57:00.000-07:00

2 Corinthians 2

There are two words we could use to characterize chapter two: forgiveness and fragrance. Paul speaks very clearly to the church regarding the individual who had committed grave immorality addressed in 1 Corinthians. This immorality, if you do not recall, was sleeping with his step-mother, a sin even the pagan world denounced. In the beginning Paul had stated to disassociate with the individual who had created such a stir and committed this sin. The reason was two-fold: not allow him to influence others to sin and secondly to hopefully encourage the fallen believer to repent and return to a rightful walk with God. Apparently this had been the case because now Paul says offer forgiveness to the man. He writes in verses 7-8
"...So now you should forgive and comfort him instead; otherwise, this one may be overwhelmed by excessive grief. Therefore I urge you to confirm your love to him."

Who is there in your life to which you need to offer for forgiveness? Maybe the person has wronged you? They may not even know they have wronged you? Maybe it is someone, like the individual in the Corinthian church which has sinned against the church. Paul encourages us to offer forgiveness for the complete healing in our lives and the restoration of the fallen believer. Someone once said that when we offer forgiveness, even if it is not requested, we act more like Christ than any other time. Be that person today.

The second word, fragrance, really is a sweet aroma of forgiveness. Paul uses an interesting analogy of our being the sweet fragrance of Christ to those being saved. However, he also states that we are the scent of death to those who reject the Gospel. We must understand that when we bear the Spirit of Christ we are either joy or heartache to other people. The great question is, “Are you aromatic of God? Do you bear the aroma of Jesus or are you just stinking up His kingdom? Just a thought!

Takeaways

1. When we are wronged we must forgive!
2. When someone has wronged the church we must forgive them as well!
3. We are the aroma of Christ when we offer forgiveness and bear His image.

2 Corinthians 1

2011-06-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

The key word for 2 Corinthians according to several commentators is "encouragement." Paul had received word that the church had received his first letter and had taken the necessary measures to deal with the issues which he addressed in the first letter. In the opening chapter we find this theme of encouragement to be addressed during the customary salutation and greeting. Paul specifically addresses the issues of discomfort in life while finding comfort in God. As he addresses the cold hard facts of life, Paul gives specific examples in his own life of where he has faced hardships, trials, tribulations, and afflictions. In verse 8 Paul states, "For we don't want you to be unaware, brothers, of our affliction that took place in the province of Asia: we were completely overwhelmed—beyond our strength—so that we even despaired of life." While he does not go into the complete details at this point, there is speculation as to whether he references a particular uprising, the incident where Jews sought to ambush and kill him, or a person who was working against him. We do realize the incident was severe enough in nature that Paul wrote "we despaired of life."

How many times in our own life have we felt as though we faced situations beyond our ability? Were there times when you felt as though the perilous times were abounding so great that the waves which surrounded you seemed destined to drown you? Maybe you are in such a time now. Paul gives great words of encouragement for the Corinthians and us. In verses 3-4a Paul states, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. He comforts us in our entire affliction..." But doesn't stop at that point he goes on to say there is more than one reason I bring you comfort. First, everything God does is to bring glory to His name. Secondly He is our Father and thus wants to relieve our suffering. But in addition He offers us comfort "so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God." I am a firm believer that to whoever comfort has been given, he then better knows how to comfort others. When we have gone through adversity and trials we have a better perspective to offer to those in pain.

Takeaways:
1. The Bible does not promise that afflictions and hardships will disappear when we trust in Christ, but God does promise to comfort and strengthen us in such times.
2. God offers relief and comfort to His children when they face hardships in life for His name.
3. We are expected to offer comfort to others after having received it ourselves.

New Blog

2011-06-02T20:37:00.000-07:00

The next blog will begin Monday, June 6. We will be reading through 2 Corinthians. Join us for the continuation of these Pauline Epistles.

1 Corinthians 16

2011-06-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

As we look at the last chapter of 1 Corinthians we see much of the normal concluding statements of Paul. He talks about housekeeping matters and his plans to visit the church in the near future. However, in the midst of all of these formalities Paul gives us a nugget of advice and wisdom. In verses 13-14 we read where Paul states, “Be alert, stand firm in the faith, be brave and strong. Your every action must be done in love." Paul wants the church to understand that their hopes for salvation are not found in anyone such as Apollos or Paul but instead they rest in their response to the work of Jesus Christ. This is the reason for his exhortation to be alert and stand firm in the faith. He also says, to put it in the modern vernacular, "Man up!" Apparently Paul is tired of seeing these church members be less than bold in Christ. He alludes to the fact that they are acting effeminate so he challenges them to be strong. Adam Clark says, the church has many enemies thus she must be on guard and watch out for the destructiveness they can afford. However, he is also urging the church to be alert to opportunities of ministry. Clark also effectively states that we must "Let love to God, to man, and to one another, be the motive of all our conduct."

The question we must answer today is how do we stand in relation to this command? Are we alert to the enemies tactics in leading us astray, no matter how subtle? Are we approaching each day with an opportunistic eye to ways to share God's love both verbally and actively? Do we seek to resist the tendency to speak out in harshness and with unkind words? We are to remember out of the overflow of the heart do our words speak! I must reprint the words of verse 14 for it must become our mantra for living each day! "Your every action must be done with love." If we allow this to be our overriding motive for life then we can become more attune to living as Christ and honoring His commands "To love your neighbor as yourself."

Takeaway:

1. Let love be the overarching principle for live.

2. Look for opportunities to lovingly serve one another.

3. Lookout for the enemy seeks to take us down from serving our God.

1 Corinthians 15

2011-05-31T19:37:00.000-07:00

Paul takes an entire chapter to deal with a false theology the Corinthian church had allowed to creep into her thinking. Like the Sadducees a group within the church had begun to promote there was no resurrection of the dead. The last verse of the chapter does a great job of summing up what Paul is saying to the fellow believers. "Therefore, my dear brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the Lord's work, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." Paul has spent the majority of these verses in chapter 15 detailing a case for the resurrection of the dead. His supreme example is Jesus Christ himself. Paul states that if Christ were not raised from the dead then their sins have not been erased and their hope is in vain. He also preaches that unless Christ had been raised from the dead then their preaching is in vain and makes no sense. He even speaks with a sense of sarcasm and rhetoric by saying, "If I fought wild animals in Ephesus with only human hope, what good did that do me? If the dead are not raised, Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die." The bottom-line is that Paul passionately offers a strong apologetic for the reason to believe in a resurrection of the dead.

So what does this mean to us? Does it matter if we believe or even think about a resurrection of the dead? Absolutely! While we may not actively discuss this subject on a regular basis our actions and our urgency in sharing Christ vocalize our beliefs. Tim McGraw sings a song titled, "Live Like Your Dying." While this may make for a great song title, there is another side to that, "Live Like Your Dying and Can Live Again." I believe that is what Paul is urging the early church to do in verse 58 when he says, "Therefore, my dear brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the Lord's work, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."

Takeaways

1. If we are in Christ we will live again after a physical death.
2. Live as though you will live again in Christ after death.
3. False theology is always prevalent to combat the Lord's work; therefore, recognize it as of Satan and rebuke it!

1 Corinthians 14

2011-05-30T15:42:00.000-07:00

As one continues to read through First Corinthians the theme of the book continues to be evident, church unity. The church is so embroiled in a fight and even lust for the quest to be and have the best at the expense of other people; Paul begins to sound like a broken record. He continues his insistence that the church be united by love and the desire to have the gift of prophecy over their desire for the showy gift of speaking in tongues. Again Paul reminds the church if the purpose of spiritual gifts as being for the edification of the church and the glory of God by spreading the Gospel. However, the church is not listening to this point so Paul must continue to press the issue.

In the concluding verses Paul deals with the issue of what elements are necessary for the edification of the church in a worship service. In verse 26 he says, "Whenever you come together, each one has a psalm, a teaching, a revelation, [another] language, or an interpretation. All things must be done for edification.". Paul does not lay out a specific order be merely the necessary elements for the proper building of a service. He ends the section by reminding the reader that because God is One of order not chaos that all services should reflect order and respect to honor our God.

Takeaways
1. Love is the method for all endeavors.
2. Order and decency must prevail in all worship services.
3. Gifts of the Spirit are for edification of the church not self-promotion.

1 Corinthians 13

2011-05-28T19:25:00.000-07:00

The Love Chapter! Why do you think Paul takes a break from speaking about spiritual gifts and sandwiches the now infamous chapter on love between the dissertation on the manifestation of gifts and the exhortation on gifts? Several reasons come to my mind.

First, Paul recognizes the infighting which is taking place at Corinth over the superiority of certain gifts in their minds. He also recognizes that gifts can become very divisive and seeks to diffuse the situation immediately. He also understands that the proper use of these gifts must be grounded in love for a proper handling and implementation. For without love as the foundation and motivation of each gift they can become prostituted and manipulative in human nature. Therefore Paul implores the Corinthians to allow love to be the overriding principle for the use of each gift.

Paul continues in describing more on the superiority of love by giving the fundamental elements of love. In a nutshell Paul reminds the reader that love is not egocentric but rather is other focused. In each of the words/phrases Paul chose to describe love he emphasizes the well being or betterment of the object of the love. Paul helps us to understand that love is more concerned with the wants and needs of the object of love than his/her own desires.

Paul uses a great analogy to help us understand that love is a process by stating that he only now sees and understands partially but one day his seeing and understanding will be clearly developed. Love is a process that should be growing and developing. However, as Paul stated very eloquently, love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things for love never ends. The reason it cannot end is that it is the greatest of all things especially as Paul points out, it should be the overarching principle of everything.

So how does this help in the church of the twenty-first century? With love as the foundational element then egocentricity should never be a driving force within the church. As we have discussed before,"It is not about me, but it is all about Thee!" When we come to the point where we are more concerned with allowing others to have there needs met than demanding our own then we have comprehended the joy of love. When we come to the point where we are more concerned with leaving a strong legacy for the kingdom of God than we are of leaving a mark on society for our own sake then we have grasped the joy of love. When we want to base all of our decisions on reaching those who are not yet Christians with the Gospel of Jesus Christ then we have reached the joy of love. In short love reaches out for the betterment of the object of love. Do you love?

Takeaways Reread the last paragraph.

1 Corinthians 12

2011-05-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

In looking at chapter 12 we see a great explanation of why there was such disunity and disfunction in the church of Corinth. The people fought, bickered, and boasted over their spiritual gifts and they envied, even lusted for the gifts others possessed. Therefore we find Paul giving a lengthy explanation in the form of a metaphor using the human body to expound on the spiritual gifts found within the church.

Paul is quick to remind the Corinthians that their possession of any gift, regardless of which one, is a blessing of God distributed by the Spirit as He sees best. He is the one who chooses who receives which gift and for what purpose. The distribution of gifts is not for our glory and benefit but for the edification of the church and for the glory of God alone.

These gifts, while greatly diverse should never become a source of division but should be a unifying factor for each gift is complimentary of the other in the function of the church. That is the reason Paul continues stating the essential relationship which must take place within the body. He reminds the church of the special love which should be evident by rejoicing and weeping with one another in respective times.

Unfortunately, this was not the manner of love demonstrated within the Corinthian church. Rather than caring for the interest of one another they chose to be self-promoting and self-centered. Therefore Paul passionately reminds the fellow believers to not lose perspective in what is the greater vision and purpose.

Takeaways
1. Each person is uniquely gifted as the Spirit sees best.
2. We each need the giftedness of one another.
3. We must encourage one another to not boast in our uniqueness but rather rejoice in our unity through our diversity.

1 Corinthians 11

2011-05-26T12:20:00.001-07:00

Apart from chapters 12 and 13 this chapter (11) is probably one of the most used passages in Corinthians due to its dealing with the Lord’s Supper. Of course chapter 12 deals with the Spiritual Gifts and chapter 13 is the infamous “Love Chapter.” When we evaluate chapter 11 Paul begins by dealing with some regulations regarding worship, prayer in particular. We must remember as Paul discusses the matters of male/female head coverings he is addressing a cultural issue in reference to a woman with her head covered and uncovered. The greater issue in the chapter deals with the matter of divisions in the church based on insensitivity by the affluent towards those with lesser means. This is addressed in the matter of taking the Lord’s Supper and the Communal Meal. Paul sees a lack of concern by many within the church in that when the communal meal is taken, those who arrive first make a glutton and drunkard of themselves leaving none for those arriving late, who were generally the lower class.

Paul’s intention seems to be two-fold. First, he wants to instruct the church in the proper disbursement of Communion. Secondly, he wants to see a greater sensitivity of the church for one another. These actions of “self-first” create a great divide in the church causing a lack focus on the greater matters of the church’s mission to share the Gospel. Whether the matter is covering of the head, eating before the others arrived, saving the best food for yourself (ouch!), or isolating yourself from those of lesser means, the division in the church is prevalent and problematic.

Paul closes the chapter with a methodology of how to deal with such matters. In verse 28 Paul says, “So a man should examine himself…” This is the critical component. We must do a thorough analysis of where we stand in relation to our walk with God and our relationship to one another. This is a matter which should use only one person as the standard, Jesus Christ. Any other standard will be inferior. Many people prefer to compare themselves to other believers and non-believers; however, that standard is inferior and will not give a valid picture of who we really are in Christ. We must rely on the old letters on the bracelet of times past, WWJD. (What Would Jesus Do?) So here is the question, according to God’s standard of Jesus Christ, how do we measure up to the examination? Do we pass or fail? Unfortunately we all would fail but thank God there is grace available through Christ Jesus.

Takeaways

1. Divisions are caused by selfishness.

2. Our standard of evaluation must be the model of Jesus Christ.

3. Our evaluation will never pass of our own merit but thanks be to God who offers us grace through Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 10

2011-05-25T07:15:00.001-07:00

Whenever I read this chapter or even think about it my mind goes back to the days as a young preacher boy (as my pastor called me) when he was discipling me for a deeper walk and ministry. Along with several other factors such as quiet times, sermon note taking, and prayer Bro. David stressed the importance of scripture memory. He had us make note cards and memorize scripture each week at our accountability meetings. The verse he gave me to memorize which I thought I would never conquer was 1 Corinthians 10:13. At that time the only translation we really knew much about was the King James, so that is what I memorized. The verse to this day is still etched in my mind. “There hath no temptation taken you but such is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that you are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” (KJV) While that was memorized initially some 30 plus years ago, it still sticks in my mind.

Why this verse, because at the time my life was in need of a constant, just as now. I needed to know that temptation is not something I must face alone. Temptation is not something exclusive to just me. That God is faithful to enable a way for us to escape temptation, if we are willing to walk through the door of opportunity which He provides. Why scripture memory, because the Psalmist said in Psalm 119:11, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart that I might not sin against Thee.” (KJV) Part of the way to escape temptation is the quoting of scripture just as Jesus did when He was tempted in the wilderness by Satan. (Side Note: Satan will misquote scripture to you so make sure you know the Word of God.)

What is Paul saying through all of this passage, in particular with this verse? We will all face the temptation of a variety of things in our lives. The constant is that we do not have to face it alone because we have the joy and assurance of the Word of God that we do have an option. The problem lies in that we often love the sin more than we love the opportunity to escape the sin. This all boils down to a love problem, we love our sin more than we love our Savior. How will you face your temptations today? Will you see them as powerless against the Great God we serve? Will you see them as more alluring than a relationship with this Great God? Let’s walk through the door of opportunity for victory over temptation today.

Takeaways:

1. Victory over temptation is available through Jesus Christ our Lord.

2. Scripture memory is one way of the great ways of victory over temptation

3. The constant we need in our lives is God for He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

1 Corinthians 9

2011-05-24T06:29:00.000-07:00

The Corinthian church is a tough group. After Paul has been the founding pastor/evangelist he now has to defend his apostleship with the church. He begins the chapter by giving a dissertation on his right as an apostle, especially his right with them. However, the crux of the chapter is not about his defense but about his aim at evangelism. Paul begins in the latter half of the chapter to share his strategy of evangelizing both the Jew and the Gentile. His purpose or mission in life is to win as many as possible to Christ. This is not a selfish or boastful goal of Paul but rather he recognizes that his main purpose of existence is to glorify God by proclaiming the Good News to as many as possible. In verse 19 Paul makes this goal very clear by stating, “For although I am free from all people, I have made myself a slave to all, in order to win more people.”

As humans we spend much of our time trying to free ourselves from bondage and tyranny. However, Paul willingly submits to this servitude in order for Christ and His principles to be advanced and that many, from all nationalities might receive the same forgiveness which he has experienced. While this self-imposed slavery is defined by Paul in a way that he states, “I have become all things to all people, so that I may by all means save some” (v. 22) he recognizes this is not a license to break the laws of God in evangelizing people. Paul would not break the commands of God, but rather he is cognizant of the self-imposed laws of the religion which has held many of the Jews in bondage and he recognizes the superior attitude the Jews took against all other nationalities. He therefore says I will not be bound by human traditions or prejudices in seeking to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Paul closes the chapter with an analogy of an athlete in training. Paul takes this form of discipline and training into the realm of his preparation for the day he must give account for his actions and his walk with God. He makes the statement in the final verse that “I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” Paul in essence is saying, I will walk the talk! I will live my life in complete obedience to my Lord because of my love for Him and my desire to please Him in all things. Can we say the same about our lives?

Takeaways:

1. We are commanded and expected to share the Good News with ALL people in such a manner that they understand and desire to receive our Lord’s forgiveness.

2. We must make the presentation of the Gospel contextual for the people or individual with which we share this precious gift.

3. We must discipline ourselves to obedience in all areas in order to not lose our own qualification in God.

1 Corinthians 8

2011-05-23T07:49:00.003-07:00

Once again the apostle Paul is addressing an issue of division within the Corinthian church. This time the object of discussion is whether it is lawful to eat meat sacrificed to idols. In this period and place many temples existed where idol worship was a common occurrence. Because of the frequency of idol worship coupled with the sacrifice of animals meat was plentiful in the homes of those who participated in the ritual and the meat was plentiful in the market place. Generally, the cost of the meat which had been sacrificed was a lesser price making it very tempting to purchase for those with lower means. The question of debate was whether the devout Christian should indulge in such meat whether purchased or in the homes of idol worshippers.

Paul reminds the early church that they are not justified by whether they eat this meat or abstain from eating it. Instead, their justification is found in Christ alone. In verses 6-8 Paul states, “Yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and we through Him…Food will not make us acceptable to God. We are not inferior if we don't eat, and we are not better if we do eat.” From this passage we ascertain two things. First, our existence and justification is found in Christ alone. Secondly, the food is not the major issue for neither abstention nor participation removes or draws us to God. The greater issue is found in our witness to those not in Christ and those weak in Christ. Paul reminds the Corinthians in verse nine that while we might have the “right” we must be judicious in our execution of this privilege. For the greater issue comes in how we draw or push away people to Christ. Our purpose in life should be to point people to Christ. Therefore, when we, by participation in cultural norms, actions, attitudes, or endeavors, cause people to lose their faith in Christ or hinder their walk in Christ, then we have sinned and will have to account for such actions.

Takeaways:

1. My privileges as a believer must be tempered by my responsibilities as a follower of Christ.

2. I must be conscious of how my actions can gather people to Christ or scatter them from Him.
3. There are greater depths than surface issues in our walk with God; therefore, we must seek God’s grace and wisdom in all decisi

1 Corinthians 7

2011-05-22T17:32:00.000-07:00

I remember when the summer between college and seminary as I worked for a manufacturing company. We built potato and onion bins. The man I worked next to at my station was a preacher as well. However, he had not been formally trained. I distinctly remember a conversation he and I had regarding this chapter. He was taking one verse, actually only a part of one verse to build an false theology. That is a dangerous way to build one's convictions and pattern for living. Anytime we come to the scripture it is imperative that we read the context of the passage, understand who the author is addressing, and what he is stressing in the chapter and book as a whole.

In this chapter we do not find Paul giving a license for sexual immorality or divorce. Instead, he adresses issues which were prevalent within the church at Corinth. The church was living in the midst of a hotbed for sexual devance and immorality. This was not an exception in the community but the rule. Therefore, he wants the church to understand the importance of living a holy life. Additionally Paul wants the fellow believers in Corinth to live a life sold out to Jesus. Paul goes to the extreme of encouraging celibacy for all people for the purpose of having a greater focus on serving God. While he does not make this a mandate he does recommend it for those still single or who have become a widow/widower. In the same vein he does not encourage divorce even in the case of unequally yoked relationships. This union, Paul explains, could be the very catalyst to draw the unbelieving spouse into a relationship with Christ. Paul's greater emphasis is a life wholly surrendered to God without distractions.

Takeaways.

1. Nothing should distract us from serving God with complete surrender.
2. Be cautious in studying the scripture in isolation from the total context.
3. Relationships can be used for evangelistic purposes but should not be the pattern in choosing a mate.

1 Corinthians 6

2011-05-21T15:48:00.000-07:00

If we could learn to adhere to one principle from this passage today then verse 12 would have to rank at the top. "Everything is permissible for me," but not everything is helpful. "Everything is permissible for me," but I will not be brought under the control of anything." I have heard people say to me in argument/defense of their position things like, "The Bible doesn't say not to.... While this may be true in relation to many "grey" areas this verse seems to give much wisdom in making decisions. While the act in question may be "grey" in our eyes the question we must not ask is "Can I?" Instead we should more likely ask, "Should I?" This begs us to consider the question, "Is this the best course of action for me? How does this affect the BIG picture in the grand scheme of life?" Recently Raegan asked me what to say to people who respond to the issue of alcohol with, "What does one drink hurt?" In the case for her friends first and foremost it is illegal. However, in the case of all people, what benefits are there from such an action? Many would and have debated over this topic. My response has often been what benefits has this divisive element brought to your life? For every benefit that some could express I can list numerous damaging effects. So the questions are, "Is that beneficial for my life? Is that something which can master my life?" Whether the issue is alcohol or some other action or attitude our desire should be to do only that which is beneficial for the greater picture.

Takeaways
1. My decisions should be based on the big picture.
2. My decisions should be based on what is beneficial.
3. My decisions should be based on whether that in question will master me.

1 Corinthians 5

2011-05-21T05:40:00.000-07:00

Please forgive the delay of this post. Yesterday was filled with family time and I did not get it up until now.

Paul comes straight to the point of church discipline in chapter 5. The matter at hand in the discussion revolves around a man committing an act of sexually immorality. Making matters worse is that he is doing so with his step-mother. This type of behavior was apparently even condemned among the Gentiles, of which the Jews had little to no tolerance. In addition Paul states that the church is doing nothing to disciple or even disassociate with the person. Therefore Paul strongly urges the church to excommunicate the guilty party and have nothing to do with him.

This makes me ask myself a question. What actions and attitudes do we tolerate within the church which God abhors? Do we overlook certain behaviors as acceptable or even tolerable based n "who"? Do we make allowances on incidents for saying, "That is just the way they are?". Paul is very clear that when there is sin in the church we must deal accordingly with the offense and the offender. His judgment is "Do not associate with that person!" The purpose is dual fold: First, we must exercise discipline with the goal of redemption. The second is to not allow further corruption in the church.

In closing ask yourself, "Is there anything which I tolerate which God has condemned?" "Am I guilty of an attitude or an action which God despises and is detrimental to the body?"

Takeaways
1. Church disciple must be a staple for redemption and protection
2. We have the task of redeeming our fellow believers through God
3. Where do I fall in the scheme of tolerating sin?

1 Corinthians 4

2011-05-19T06:44:00.000-07:00

Paul continues his teachings to the Corinthian church in moving from the evaluation of the church to the evaluation of the ministers overseeing the church. In this passage he uses three analogies of a minister: a steward/manager, a humble person, and a father figure. His purpose seems to be to encourage the Corinthians to imitate his model of ministry, which he portrays in Christ. In fact, in verse 16 Paul says, "Therefore I urge you to be imitators of me."

His intent is to help the church see their responsibility to go beyond the superficial issues and deal with the weightier matters such as the disbursement of the Gospel. In the opening verse of chapter 4 Paul reminds the church to consider themselves as servants and managers. A servant is one who looks to the interest of others above their own. Too often we are much like those who were the contemporaries of Copernicus. These individuals believed the earth was the center of the universe and that everything revolved around them. However, Copernicus made a bold statement by walking out into the middle of the city, looking up to the sun and saying, "Behold the center of the universe." Several years ago Max Lucado wrote a book titled, "It’s Not About Me." In this book he uses the account of Copernicus to remind us that the "SON" is the center of all things! We are not the center of any universe. Therefore as servants of Jesus Christ we must remember it is not about my desires, my ways, or my thoughts. Instead, it’s all about Jesus Christ. We must focus on what He desires and what glorifies Him. This is what Paul is trying to get the early church to grasp. In essence, the only way we can truly comprehend this is by understanding our mission is to be one in purpose and mind. This can happen only when we realize that we glorify God when we put Him first and the sharing of His Good News through ministry and evangelism.

Takeaways:
1. Jesus Christ should be the center of our universe, not us.
2. We are called to be servants of Christ.
3. To be a servant we must walk in humility.

1 Corinthians 3

2011-05-18T06:43:00.000-07:00

Wow! Paul really knows how to use the art of tact! Not at all! While we can read the statement from two polar opposite views, the point is that he begins this chapter with a direct statement telling the Corinthians that they are still immature in their faith. This statement takes me back to the statement that has been circulating in my mind for several weeks now which Chuck Colson made regarding the state of the church. A paraphrased version of his statement is that the church is one inch deep and three thousand miles wide. Paul is challenging the church to take a hard look at their condition of spiritual depth. His basis for this accusation stems from their divisive discussion on who baptized them and whose disciple they are considered. Of course, Paul wants nothing to do with such immature talk. He recognizes that anytime an issue of minimal importance arises to become a matter of major discussion the church's focus and ministry is diminished and redirected. This results in the church not fulfilling her mission of making disciples; therefore, not being obedient. When the church, or an individual, is not obedient to our Lord then we, according to John 14, do not love God.

Paul takes the majority of the remaining portion of chapter three to talk about the foundation of our Christian walk as being based on Jesus Christ, not any particular person, work, material, or philosophy. He wants the church to understand that ALL works will be tested and refined by our Lord Jesus Christ himself. If that work proves to be inferior it will not survive. Keep in mind this is not referring to our salvation, but instead the ministry which we do for our Lord to one another and for the church. This premise is born out of verse fifteen which states, "If anyone's work is burned up, it will be lost, but he will be saved; yet it will be like an escape through the fire." Be cautious not to read into this passage the ability to live as we want and then we all will find salvation freely at the end as some misguided theologians and preachers ascribe. This is not referring to salvation but to the ministry and work after salvation. Salvation is found in Jesus Christ alone and must be received through the acknowledgement of Jesus Christ as Lord, the repentance of our sins, and the submission of our lives.

Paul closes the chapter as strongly as he opened it. In verses 16-17 he says, "Don't you know that you are God's sanctuary and that the Spirit of God lives in you? If anyone ruins God's sanctuary, God will ruin him; for God's sanctuary is holy, and that is what you are." To borrow a phrase from the state of Texas, Don't Mess with God's Children. The reference is different than from the earlier statement regarding the foundational elements of our ministry works. Here the inference is those seeking to destroy the temple of God, which is the believer himself. Those who spread malicious gossip, knowingly teach false doctrines, intentionally stir up strife, and/or injure the fellowship of the body.

Takeaways:
1. Don't Mess with God's Church.
2. Spiritual maturity is a process but must be a priority.
3. God uses mankind to perform His ministry, but He provides the resources and the growth.

1 Corinthians 2

2011-05-17T07:24:00.000-07:00

Paul begins chapter 2 with a continuing thought from the end of the previous chapter, discussing the method of his proclamation of the Gospel in an ordinary manner. In verse 5 he explains his reasoning for a simplistic approach by saying, "So that your faith might not be based on men's wisdom but on God's power." I have often said when sharing the Gospel with a pre-Christian convert that I will not attempt to manipulate or persuaded unduly a person to be a Christian, for that is the work of the Holy Spirit. Instead, my duty is to share the Good News faithfully. If I can persuade someone to become a Christian in my own merit, then someone else can persuade them otherwise. God's Spirit should always bring the conviction.

There is one phrase in this chapter which might be overlooked if we are not cautious. At the end of verse 16 Paul makes a statement which is, "But we have the mind of Christ." This phrase is a part of an argument/defense that the natural man cannot know the ways of the Lord. I often find myself frustrated with the actions of people, in particular those who have never accepted Christ. Years ago God revealed to me a thought along the lines of this passage. How can we expect a person who does not know Christ to act in godly manners when he or she does not know God? This is in essence what the passage is revealing to us. We cannot expect that a person who does not know God can understand Him, know His plans, or act accordingly. However, we, as children of God who have received His Holy Spirit, can understand Him, know His plans, and should act accordingly because "we have the mind of Christ."

Several years ago, T. W. Hunt wrote a book titled, The Mind of Christ. In this book Hunt sought to remind people that God is not satisfied with external actions, but with the internal transformation which will dictate the external actions. In the opening chapter Hunt says, "Most of us, most of the time, are satisfied if we satisfy the expectations of society and the requirements of God by our outer, visible actions." Unfortunately, we fail to understand that God would rather see us transformed inwardly in order to see a renewing of the mind and a transformation of the heart. God does not want external robotic activity. He desires that we have the Mind, Heart, and Soul of Christ.

Takeaways
1. In sharing the Gospel, remember that our job is to share and the Holy Spirit is to bring conviction.
2. God desires internal transformation resulting in external godly actions.
3. If we are a child of God, we should have "The Mind of Christ."

1 Corinthians 1

2011-05-16T07:28:00.000-07:00

Originally I wanted to begin this new blog on May 1st but was delayed for several reasons. However, God in His providence has determined this to be the best of timing. Some of the reasons we will understand and others we will not, but God is sovereign and His wisdom is far above that of any of ours. Paul attests to this fact in the first chapter of our book to review for the next several weeks. As we read through a chapter each day, I will post a review with comments regarding the chapter. I encourage you to add in your thoughts at the end of the blog. I would love to see how God is speaking to each of you through this incredible book which Paul wrote to a church in Corinth which struggled with issues of unity, theological depth, and understanding of spiritual gifts.

In the first chapter Paul gives his customary address along with matters of affirmation and thanksgiving. Each book which Paul writes is done so with a fond address for the subjects. He will always begin by sharing his love and connection through Christ along with thanking them for various items of which they have been faithful throughout their ministry and partnership with Paul.

Paul doesn't wait long to dive into the heart of the matter for his letter to this church. One of the greatest issues among the church of Corinth is the divisions prevalent. The members are more concerned with the tertiary issues than with the matters of the importance such as proclaiming the Gospel and making disciples thus fulfilling the Great Commission. Paul even addresses the matter pointedly by saying, "That there be no divisions among you, and that you be united with the same understanding and the same conviction." The church was divided over issues ranging from who baptized whom to who had the greatest spiritual gifts. Paul reminds the church of His purpose and the purpose of the church by saying, "For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel--not with clever words, so that the cross of Chris will not be emptied of its effect." In other words, we must preach Christ life, death, resurrection, and ascension. For this is the Power of the Gospel to save all mankind!

Paul also points out that we seem to think in many occasions that we are wise and strong, but that God's wisdom and strength at its weakest point is still far superior to anything we can offer. Therefore, He chooses to use our weaknesses and insufficiencies to bring glory to His name rather than our name. This is the matter with which I wrestled as a young man when I sensed God calling me to ministry. I felt as though God only used "Super Christians" of which I was not. However, God chooses to use those who are weak or foolish in the world's eyes for those are the ones who He can display His might and power.

Takeaways:
1. Focus on the most important issues and do not be derailed by the tertiary issues
2. Be united in all things
3. The Message of the Cross is the Power of Salvation.

Challenge Update

2011-04-30T19:45:00.000-07:00

BEGINNING MAY 1ST I WILL OFFER THE NEXT CHALLENGE FOR OUR CHURCH IN OUR DAILY WALK WITH GOD. THAT CHALLENGE WILL VE TO READ 1 & 2 CORINTHIANS. JOIN US IN THIS ADVENTURE TO A DEEEPER WALK WITH GOD AND OUR FELLOW BELIEVERS.

Acts 28

2011-04-24T19:06:00.003-07:00

We have seen throughout the book of Acts the establishment of the church, the formation of deacons, and the sending out of missionaries. In addition, we have seen the greatest evangelist and missionary in history transform from a Christian hating, church destroying Jew to a fearless and faithful follower of Jesus Christ. Here the book closes with Paul shipwrecked on Isle of Malta. However, that is not where the ministry of Paul ends. While on the island Paul keeps ministering and healing while proclaiming the gospel. After securing passage on another ship and arriving in Rome, Paul makes his defense before Caesar which resulted in Paul staying in Rome for two more years but not in prison instead in his own house. During this time Paul has the ability to continue sharing the hope of Jesus and the urgency of salvation through Jesus alone. Earlier Paul traveled extensively to share the Gospel but now the Holy Spirit drew people to him for the opportunity to heal through Jesus and share the name of Jesus.

What we find through this great historical account is that regardless of the opposition before or around us, we must "press-on" with the intent of sharing the message of salvation through Jesus alone. The Alabama State Board of Missions has a mission statement that says, "We have One Mission - The Great Commission, One Program - The Cooperative Program and Many Ministries - Great Commission Ministries." This statement focuses on one purpose resulting in many achievements regardless of setbacks or difficulties. That is what we learn from Acts. The next great lesson is the our power to accomplish and succeed is not based on who we are but who fills us. Acts 1:8 said, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Our power is from the gift of God. The final great lesson is that faithfulness to God will result in opposition from the world but also from the people inside the church who are not walking in the Spirit of God, but we must press on!

I hope this blog, though new has been a great experience for you these last 28 days. We will begin a new blog in the next week. I will announce Sunday where this new blog will focus. Thanks for the encouraging comments and support. May God bless you in your quest to be more like Jesus.

Acts 27

2011-04-23T20:01:00.000-07:00

We see a vivid description of how Paul is aboard the ship sailing toward Italy for his appointment before Caesar. During the course of the trip they encounter preventive winds and storms. While Paul offers advice for the safe passage of the crew, ship, and cargo those making the decisions of whether to harbor for the winter or sail on farther go against Paul's direction. However, during the time of the journey the crew feared losing the passengers, many of which were prisoners. Once again Paul gives advice as well as testimony of what God had spoken to him. he states, "Now I urge you to take courage, because there will be no loss of any of your lives, but only of the ship. For this night an angel of the God I belong to and serve stood by me, and said, 'Don't be afraid, Paul. You must stand before Caesar. And, look! God has graciously given you all those who are sailing with you.' Therefore, take courage, men, because I believe God that it will be just the way it was told to me." Although the journey was not easy, the result was just as the angel of God spoke, the ship was lost but all lives were spared.

When I compare the journey of Paul to my life I find parallels and encouragement in the midst of what can often be discouraging. For we see that Paul new what God spoke, but I wonder if he ever had doubts as I often find myself experiencing. Were there times when Paul quipped, "God are you sure this is going to work out as you promised? God are you still there? God did I misread your instructions?" As humans we often question God when the storms approach or when we face a challenging wind in our face. In times of such as this I am grateful for the testimony and accounts of Paul and others like him. I find myself quoting Proverbs 3:5-6 which says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths."

Is there a situation you face today in which you wonder where God is? Trust that he is wise in all ways. Is there a storm within which you are struggling to survive? Allow God to be your anchor and hope! Does it seem like every way your turn you find roadblocks? Seek God and trust His providential care.

Acts 26

2011-04-22T21:29:00.001-07:00

Once again Paul gives testimony to his life before Christ, the crisis which lead him to Christ, and how his life has changed since meeting Christ. His defense is given to King Agrippa and his court. Agrippa listens intently as Paul describes the dynamic transformation which has taken place in his life. However, Agrippa explodes and asks Paul, "Are you going to persuade me to become a Christian so easily?" Paul tells Agrippa, "I don't care if it is easy or hard, I just want to see people changed and surrendered to Christ.". Paul's defense, is very compelling and passionate. The reason being is that he experienced what few people do, a transformational change. Many people if they were ever changed in the beginning have lost their edge. I remember as a kid watching my dad cut firewood with his chainsaw. Ever so often he would stop cutting and tinker with his saw. I didn't really understand why or what dad was doing until one day he explained how the teeth on the chainsaw would get dull aft a while. Therefore dad would have to sharpen the chainsaw blades to be effective in his task. Too many Christians are trying to cut wood with a dull and useless blade. We have seen too many interruptions and allowed to many distractions. Vance Havner explained it in no uncertain terms when he said, “We (Christians) are so subnormal that if we came up to normal, the world would think we were abnormal.” Interpreted this quote means in simplistic terms, "We aren't cutting the mustard!" The issue is that too many Christians would rather blend into their surroundings rather than stand up for what they believe is the true Word of God and all that it requires of godly believers. I recall the prophet Ezekiel referencing the search by God asking and looking for someone who would stand in the gap for His people. The nation was in an uproar because of corruption in leadership of the city and the church, not to mention throughout the land. However, He found no one willing to intercede for the lost. They would rather blend into the world than set themselves apart for Holy service! God is still looking for those who will stand in the Gap of this world; will you be that one who goes against the flow of the world?

Lessons Learned:
1. Be on guard at all times to share who God is and how He changed your life.
2. Today's normalcy by Christians is not the desired requirements of God, but His requirements are an abnormality to the World.
3. Go against the flow!

Acts 25

2011-04-21T07:29:00.001-07:00

In chapter 25 we find the Chief Priests are still intent on killing Paul for speaking boldly about the salvation found in Jesus Christ. They appear before Festus, who has replaced Felix as procurator of Judaea to secure Paul for the purpose of trying him and putting him to death through the Roman governmental rule. The purposed method was to have Paul transferred to Jerusalem where he would stand trial. However, they had plotted to have Paul killed in an ambush as he traveled from Caesarea to Jerusalem. What an evil plot and evil intent is instilled inside of these supposed men of the Jewish leadership in the church. No wonder Jesus called them a brood of vipers, serpents, wolves in sheep’s clothing, and even ascribed them as whitewashed tombs. These men no more had their relationship with God driving and determining their lives than a snake is a vegetarian. They had turned God’s religion into their religion of rituals, codes, and traditions. This in turn bound them to perform a task rather than to seek a intimate personal relationship with God. Therefore, they had no problem with hiring an assassin to execute Paul in a staged ambush as he travels.

While we, as a civilized church and good Christian men and women, would never think to stoop to such a low level. We have a much more palatable scheme. Instead of outright killing our opposition, we needle them to death through gossip, rumors, and subservient tactics. However, does God look at this manner of activity any differently than that of the Chief Priests? Absolutely not! In fact, scripture is bountiful in dealing with gossip, malice, divisive spirits, and strife inducing activity. If we recall the beginning of the church in the early part of Acts, we see that church’s success was based on selfless acts of benevolence toward one another, unity of spirit, prayer, and submission to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. I contend that for the church to continue to see success in the 21^st century we must follow the same formula.

In closing, Paul stands firm in his defense that he had not done anything wrong to this point. In fact, Paul states in verse 8 that, “Neither against the Jewish law, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar have I sinned at all.” In verse 10 he reiterates that he had done no wrong to the Jews. Paul has a clear conscience that in all of his actions, he had been just and righteous seeking to be loyal to the leading of his Lord Jesus Christ. The question for us today is, “Can we state that we are of a clear conscious in our acts toward God and one another?”

Lessons We Learned:

1. People will always seek to usurp their desires over those of God.

2. We must be faithful to live a life of holiness towards God and man!

3. Our manner of success in God’s mission is dependent upon selfless acts of benevolence toward one another, unity of spirit, prayer, and submission to the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 24

2011-04-20T22:15:00.001-07:00

The dispute between Paul and the Jewish leaders continues, this time is before Felix the governor. Ananias the high priest along with some of the Jewish elders came seeking to procure Paul for the purpose of disposing of him in order to put a stop to the sect they called The Way. However, Felix did not allow the manipulation of these Jewish leaders to cause him to release Paul from prison. While we would like to think that Felix's motive was pure, he had an ulterior motive. From time-to-time Felix would call for Paul and he would take this time to share the gospel with Felix. Scripture tells us, "As he spoke about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix became afraid and replied, 'Leave for now, but when I find time I'll call for you.'"

Unfortunately, this is the reply we often see in the church,"When I find time." The truth is we find time for everything we want but rarely make time for God. I recently read where the average person reads the Bible roughly 3 minutes a day compared to watching television for an average of 5 1/2 to 6 hours per day. There is no doubt that the statement Chuck Colson made regarding the church is true. Colson is quoted as saying, "The average church is 3,000 miles wide and one inch deep." At what point is the church going to realize that Christianity is not about what I want but about what God wants me to do and give. We have become a self-serving and self-promoting social club which doesn't care that people are dying and going to a sinner's hell every second. I shutter to think what God would say if He were to write a new set of letters to the churches of America. I believe the first thing He would say is what Alexander the Great told a young soldier he caught napping on duty who also was named Alexander. He said, "Son either change your name or change your ways!"

Lesson We Learned: We must grow deeper in order to grow up!

Acts 23

2011-04-19T21:04:00.001-07:00

As Paul stands before the Sanhedrin once again he begins to speak boldly regarding his commitment and relationship with God. He states, "I have lived my life before God in all good conscience to this day." With this statement he infuriated Ananias the high priest who "ordered those who were standing next to him to strike him on the mouth." Paul's response was less the flattering or apologetic in the sorrowful state of the word. He gives Ananias a piece of his own medicine saying, "You whitewashed wall! (You hypocrite!) You are sitting there judging me according to the law, and in violation of the law are you ordering me to be struck?" You judge me for breaking the law yet you are just as guilty of breaking the law. Then Paul makes a strategic move after recognizing that both the Sanhedrin and the Pharisees were present, for these two divergent groups opposed one another on serious theological doctrines such as the resurrection and the existence of angels and spirits. He cried out, "Brothers, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees! I am being judged because of the hope of the resurrection of the dead!". With this well pointed statement he created a divided house among these two religious groups. What a great principle we should all learn. As a group divided and fighting among ourselves we are useless in accomplishing any task. Yet, we allow our stance and often stubbornness to divert us from our appointed responsibilities.

While the two groups were fighting the centurion recognized the need to protect Paul from the groups and secured him in the barracks. Scriptures says God took time to encourage Paul the next evening by saying, "Have courage! For as you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome." This promise was to confirm that Paul would leave Jerusalem for Rome. God still had great plans for Paul. The moral of this portion of scripture teaches us that even in our darkest hour God can reach down and carry us through the difficulties life. There are not any people or problems from which God cannot deliver us, especially when He has great plans to use us. Let us claim Jeremiah 29:11 which says, "For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." Amen!

Lessons We Learned:
1. Regardless of how intimidating our circumstances might be, walk strong and be bold for God will not abandon His children.
2. In the opportune moment God will give us the needed words when we face opposition, trust in Him.
3. When God has plans for us, sit back and trust He will deliver you!

Acts 22

2011-04-18T20:48:00.001-07:00

As we open this chapter we find that Paul is beginning his address before the Jewish leaders of Jerusalem. They had been riotous before but now began to quiet when they heard Paul begin to speak, especially when they heard him speaking in their own language. This makes me wonder if they had heard rumors of this man, Paul but not knowing the truth about him. I wonder if they assumed him to be a Gentile/Greek who was leading the Gentile people, and some Jewish people to forsake their Mosaic laws and adhere to a new way. As I mentioned yesterday, assumptions create discord and strife within the body and confusion to those outside of the body. I wonder how many people have been turned off to Christianity because of the disunity within the church or because of the infighting as a result of assuming.

Paul continues to speak to the crowd giving testimony of how God had radically transformed him from a Jesus hating, Christian slaughtering, and church disseminating man to a wholly surrendered and Gospel sharing passionate follower of Jesus Christ who was willing to die for His Lord and Savior. But isn't this the radical transformation we all must encounter. Although we may not be a Jesus hating, Christian slaughtering, and church disseminating person if we are not a wholly surrendered and Gospel sharing passionate follower of Jesus Christ who was willing to die for his/her Lord and Savior then we are still an enemy of God. The scripture says in Matthew 12:30 "Anyone who is not with Me is against Me, and anyone who does not gather with Me scatters." James says in 4:4, "Don't you know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? So whoever wants to be the world's friend becomes God's enemy." Who is your friend? Would you be classified by Jesus as one of His? Would you be labeled as a person who is wholly surrendered and Gospel sharing passionate follower of Jesus Christ who was willing to die for His Lord and Savior? Alignment with God requires a radical change from who we were to whose we are!

Lessons We Learned:
1. Assumptions still cause great strife.
2. An encounter with Jesus requires a radical change in who we are and whose we are!

Acts 21

2011-04-17T21:19:00.000-07:00

Paul's itinerary increased dramatically in chapter 21 as he makes his way steadfastly to Jerusalem. Some may think that he was suicidal or even stubborn for not listening to the many people who sought to persuade him not to go to Jerusalem. However Paul's emotions were neither of the aforementioned. Instead, he was intent on being obedient to the call of God on his life. If you were in the service at FBC Florence today, you may remember the verse from which Tim preached or you may recall this is listed as one of my favorite verses on the website, Acts 20:24. In this previous chapter Paul gave his reasoning for pressing on toward Jerusalem in spite of the opposition and hints of execution which lay ahead. He stated, "I count my life of no value to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God's grace.". He continues in chapter 21 with the same sentiment by saying, "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."

After arriving in Jerusalem it did not take long for the staunch Jewish leaders to seek a manner to overtake Paul. They began shouting, "Men of Israel, help! This is the man who teaches everyone everywhere against our people, our law, and this place. What's more, he also brought Greeks into the temple and has profaned this holy place." They looked for every occasion to destroy Paul. However, they missed the point that they might silence Paul but they could never silence the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

One other matter which the Jewish leaders used in seeking to destroy Paul is found in verse 29 which states, "For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him, and they supposed that Paul had brought him into the temple complex." The word Luke uses in the verse which intrigues me is "supposed." Another way of translating this word is "assumed." When we assume we run the risk of miscalculating, misjudging, misappropriating, and even misunderstanding. Each of these words are preceded by the prefix "mis" as in missed the intended meaning or missed the correct answer or even missed the mark, which in Greek is the definition for harmatia, the word for sin. Too often when we assume we run the risk of sinning against man and God alike. Therefore, be very cautious in making assumptions. In the church of today we often suppose/assume the negative when we hear certain rumors or half-truths. These innuendos are damaging and deadly, in addition to being ungodly and unethical. Paul told the young Timothy in 1Tim. 4:7 "Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly." Therein is the key to obedience and faithful living in God, train yourself unto godliness.

Lessons We Learned:
1. True commitment comes at the risk of sacrificing one's life, which is what Jesus did for us.
2. People may silence one proclaimer of the Gospel but they can never silence the Message of Jesus Christ.
3. Never assume! This act can misguide you in practicing godly living.
4. Finish strong for Jesus!

Acts 20

2011-04-16T14:33:00.001-07:00

The chapter begins with a travel itinerary for Paul and a few other disciples. But interwoven among the verses we see that the persecution began to intensify, partly because of the legendary work of Paul. It seemed that Paul was passionate about sharing the Gospel with those who had not heard the Good News to this point, starting churches along his missionary journeys, and preaching the Word to strengthen the new believers and new churches. At one point as Paul preached Luke said, "Paul spoke to them, and since he was about to depart the next day, he extended his message until midnight." Yes, it is true that this was a special evening for Paul is about to leave them for Jerusalem, but one can sense that the people were eager to hear what Paul had to say and likewise Paul was determined to proclaim all he could for he knew his time was short. This is confirmed later in the chapter when we read where Paul, while addressing the Ephesian church's elders said, "And now I am on my way to Jerusalem, bound in my spirit, not knowing what I will encounter there, except that in town after town the Holy Spirit testifies to me that chains and afflictions are waiting for me. But I count my life of no value to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God's grace."

There are several factors which we should consider regarding this chapter. First, do we have the same eagerness about hearing the Word of God proclaimed? They were determined to stay there until past midnight. We are often misplaced if our service goes past the one hour mark. While time has become the most precious commodity in society, we are reluctant to give God much of our time. Secondly, where are we in our eagerness to serve God in the face of opposition. If you recall Paul was eager to get to Jerusalem for Pentecost in spite of the great persecution which he knew awaited him. Do we embrace what lies ahead of us regardless of good or bad so that we may advance the kingdom of God or do we avoid, delay, or deny the tasks which God has charged to us? I find it easy to say the task is too much to ask of us and to toy with the idea of giving up on the assignment. But I have to remind myself to push through the barriers, rely on the strength of God, and to not forget the calling of God. As Paul told the church at Philippi, "Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God's heavenly call in Christ Jesus." While I am out running when the run seems difficult I keep saying to myself, "Push through, push through!" I think that is what Paul was saying and living. He wouldn't back down from any earthly or satanic oppression for he knew Who had called him and Who protected him. Let that be our goal as well.

Lessons We Learned:
1. We cannot cower under the pressures of this world when God calls us to a mission.
2. Those before us set the standard for a passionate pursuit of serving God.
3. Our service to God should strike fear in the lives of God's (our) opposition.

Acts 19

2011-04-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

The very beginning of the chapter is quite surprising in that there were early disciples who had not heard of the Holy Spirit. Apparently these were second hand converts, those who were converted by some other than the original disciples. However, they did trust in Jesus but had not yet been discipled. This confirms the urgency of evangelism being a process not just an event. Once a person has trusted Christ, they must be taught the matters of doctrine and practices of the faith. This is similar to the process of education. Just because one has enrolled in school/college they do not have the knowledge or experience of the educational process. They must be instructed or taught. The same is true for new believers; they must be taught what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ and what He expects from His followers.

Just as in the churches of today, there were individuals in the early church which sought to use the church and Christ for their advantage rather than to serve God from the heart of purity or from the practice of a true follower. This matter happens in that the person has not experienced a true conversion for when one encounters Christ he or she will be changed. Luke describes by saying, "Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists attempted to pronounce the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, 'I command you by the Jesus that Paul preaches.'...The evil spirit answered them, 'I know Jesus, and I recognize Paul-but who are you?' Then the man who had the evil spirit leaped on them, overpowered them all, and prevailed against them, so that they ran out of that house naked and wounded." I actually find both justification and humor in this passage. The justification is that God will, in His time, deal with those who claim to be of Him but are not. The humor is that the demons turned on their own who sought to exercise authority over them. (I love to see the humor in scripture! It confirms another range of emotions within our God).

Earlier I mentioned the changes which takes place when one encounters God. Luke gives details of the change which took place among the early converts from Ephesus. Their encounter with God came after the above mentioned issue of those whom professed Christ but were not true believers. Luke says, "And many who had become believers came confessing and disclosing their practices, while many of those who had practiced magic collected their books and burned them in front of everyone. So they calculated their value and found it to be 50,000 pieces of silver." This is a major issue among many professing believers today, the desire to follow Christ but hold on to their former worldly practices and indulgences. Christ does not call us to come and retain whatever we desire from the world. He calls us to come, abandon our self/desires and follow Him. He calls us to have no other gods before Him, beside Him, or behind Him. He expects a devotion of the whole heart. He expects that we love, obey, and serve Him with every part of our lives and forsake all worldly desires. The question we should ask of ourselves is, "If we faced a demon such as those who professed Christ in Acts 19 would the demon ask,'I know Jesus, and I recognize Paul-but who are you.'"

Lessons We Learned

1. Discipleship is a vital part of the process of evangelism.
2. God will judge those who profess Him but have never experienced Him.
3. God expects that when we profess Him we give up the ways/practices and indulgences of the world.

Acts 18

2011-04-14T06:53:00.001-07:00

As we look at the chapter for today we find a continuation of what had been occurring in the previous chapters, Paul encounters unbelieving Jews, he preaches the message, they listen, but then they resisted and blasphemed. Scripture continues and tells us that Paul had enough of the ways of the Jews and their stubborn hearts so "he shook his robe and told them, 'Your blood is on your own heads! I am innocent. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.'" Paul saw the reality that often those who are ingrained in religion miss the true nature of Christ and His ways. We see the same thing in the church today where we become so engrossed in our traditions that we miss the message of Christ and even often ignore His words, commands, and even wishes. Lord help us not replace religion for relationship for in so doing we miss the meaning of Christianity.

While Paul was preaching he apparently sensed the danger around him but the Lord spoke to Him offering reassurance. "Then the Lord said to Paul in a night vision, 'Don't be afraid, but keep on speaking and don't be silent. For I am with you, and no one will lay a hand on you to hurt you, because I have many people in this city.'" How often I have needed those same Words. I do recall a time in a previous church where there arose a dispute between the senior pastor and several key lay leaders while I served as an associate pastor. Because of the dispute the lay leaders decided to cut staff salaries. As I sat in the meeting I recall vividly hearing a voice from God inaudibly say to me, "These men can only cause you temporary discomforts, they can never harm you eternally." (If you recall I shared this statement in yesterday's blog.) When God speaks in such a way what comfort and joy it brings to your life. In fact, I remember sitting there and a smile came across my face as I rejoiced in my Lord's provision and protection. Whatever you are experiencing today rest in the promise of our God that He will never leave or forsake us! Moses reassured a worried young leader named Joshua with these words in Deuteronomy 31:8 "The Lord is the One who will go before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.". Make this a life verse for you today.

Lessons we Learned

1. When we face opposition we are not alone for our God walks with us and protects us.
2. Religion should never replace a relationship for religion is cold and calloused where a relationship is personal, provisional, and protectional.

Acts 17

2011-04-13T06:51:00.000-07:00

Once again we see the disciples entering city after city with one intention, preach the Gospel to all who will listen. Each time they know what they will face, persecution. In fact, they realize they will most likely be imprisoned, beaten, or have to escape the city under the cover of night. Yet, they go into the city's synagogue to preach openly of the Savior. What determination and boldness these men possess! What an example of determination, passion, and commitment! Oh they I would have such perseverance.

The result of Paul have to leave Berea placed him in the Greek city of Athens. This was a hotbed for philosophers and men who loved to debate and discuss new forms of religion. I can almost see Paul salivating as he approaches the synagogue and temples. As he enters the area he notices and shrine to the "Unknown God.". This becomes the springboard for Paul's sermon. I love these verses Paul speaks to those listening. He says, "The God who made the world and everything in it-He is Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in shrines made by hands...Being God's offspring then, we shouldn't think that the divine nature is like gold or silver or stone, an image fashioned by human art and imagination." Paul cuts to the point saying the God of all gods isn't fashioned by man but instead made man in His own image. He is more powerful than we can imagine or concoct. Which makes me wonder, what "unknown god" do we create and or serve in our own lives. While we may not literally fashion an idol or statue too often we raise up people, positions, or things in our lives to which we mentally and emotionally bow down. This is a dangerous route we often take, even unintentionally in the beginning, for our God is a jealous god and will not have any idols or God's before Him. What "unknown god" do we need to destroy? What "known God" do we need to destroy? In the words of Paul, ""Therefore,...God now commands all people everywhere to repent, because He has set a day when He is going to judge the world in righteousness by the Man He has appointed. He has provided proof of this to everyone by raising Him from the dead."

Lessons We Learned
1 We should never cower to the ways of God's enemies for while they may cause discomfort in this life, they can never harm us eternally.
2. There are people eager to hear the Good news; therefore, we must share the Message passionately and faithfully.
3 God calls us to cast down our idols and worship only Him.

Acts 16

2011-04-12T07:15:00.000-07:00

This is probably one of the most memorable chapters in Acts concerning Paul for many people. In chapter 16 we see where Paul and Silas are imprisoned by the magistrates because of the course of action they took regarding a young slave girl who was hindering their ministry attempts. The young girl, filled with an evil spirit was a fortune teller and earned money for her master. When she continued to speak out against Paul he cast the demon out of her leaving her unable to continue soothsaying. The owner raised she a stir among the magistrates that they beat Paul and Silas and had them cast into prison. Once again we see God taking improbable circumstances and turning them into divine encounters. As Paul and Silas sat in chains, having bodies hurting from the beatings they still sang praises and prayed unto God. Oh Lord, let us all have such a close walk with you that we rejoice in our times of affliction and pain. Let us seize the moments to offer praise to our God who is still in control. Because of the might of our great God, the chains were released and the doors were opened from an earthquake; yet Paul and Silas nor any of the other prisoners left. This act of God drew the jailer to a moment of crises and allowed Paul and Silas to lead him to salvation, along with his entire family. Oh that we all would see the divine moments in our times of crises surrendering unto God our entire lives.

Earlier in the chapter we see a seeming contradiction from the decision of the Jerusalem Council. Paul decides to take young Timothy with him to mentor him for ministry. However, Timothy being from a Jewish mother and a Gentile father had not been circumcised. This could present a matter of division among some of the Jewish people. Therefore, Paul circumcised Timothy. Why? Didn't the Council say this was not necessary? Yes! However, Paul takes upon himself to become all things to all people in order that he might win one to Christ. What a humble lesson we must learn, yet what a state of those in the church. Yes, we should do all we can to lead others to Christ but this was a matter of those inside the church. How sad when the church becomes so focused on legalistic matters that we miss the joy of Christ.

Lessons We Learned:
1. Any moment, good or bad, could result in divine encounters.
2. The act of praise in the midst of calamity is the mark of a mature believer and allows the power of the Holy Spirit to draw others to Christ.
3. We must become all things to all people to win them to Christ, yet we do not have a license to sin or break the Word of God in so doing.

Acts 15

2011-04-11T07:20:00.000-07:00

Acts 15

Even in the early church there were incidents of those who wanted to insist on extra-biblical requirements for salvation. As Paul and Barnabas were establishing churches on their missionary journey certain men without any authority came in behind them to insist that the new Gentile converts submit to circumcision just as the Jews had this requirement under the old covenant. However, Paul insisted this wasn't necessary but that their confession of Christ as Lord was sufficient. This dispute resulted in Paul and Barnabas going to Jerusalem to confer with the elders of the church. This conference, known as the Jerusalem Council debated the matters and then listened to Paul's appeal. Afterwards James stated, "Therefore, in my judgment, we should not cause difficulties for those among the Gentiles who turn to God, but instead we should write to them to abstain from things polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from eating anything that has been strangled, and from blood.". The Council then sent letters of confirmation on their decision to churches through Paul and Barnabas along with chosen men as confirmation.

As I think of this matter, I often wonder how much we place on the church members as a burden which is extra-biblical? Although we do not emphasize the necessity of these matters overtly as requirements for salvation we do include them in consideration of a person's spiritual depth. I recall a discussion in one of my doctoral seminars regarding church attendance. The professor made the comment that we look at individuals and rank them in spiritual depth based on the number of times they attend each week; the Sunday AM only were are ranked least spiritual while those who attend both Sunday services and the midweek service as the most spiritual. This erroneous application does not consider various factors such as work schedules nor other commitments. In addition, there were times when I had conversations with people about the church I served in Mobile. When they discovered that we did not have a Sunday evening service, you could tell some were almost judgmental while others were jealous! We would be wise to not consider extra-biblical matters in determining a person's relationship with Christ.

Lessons we Learned:
1. Many times we like to play the role of God and add requirements beyond those of God for our spiritual walk.
2. Even in the midst of God moving in His church, Satan loves to created divisions and distractionoddly.
3. Godly council coupled with prayer and searching the scripture is the best manner to understand the answer to disputes in the church and life.

Acts 14

2011-04-10T07:40:00.000-07:00

Throughout the book of Acts we see the persecution of the early church and disciples continue and even intensify. The church and the Jews who did not succumb to the teachings of the disciples were divided greatly, so much that the persecution became intense. Paul and Barnabas would often have to escape under cover of night to avoid being stoned. In one instance Paul was stoned and left for dead. However, the disciples surrounded him, prayed, and he rose going back into the city. Can you imagine the surprise of any which stoned him who might have seen him?

The major implication from chapter fourteen for me is the continued opposition which the disciples faced. This opposition was from the staunch believers of the the Jewish system and the ways of Moses. They refused to believe that Jesus was the true Messiah. They wanted to continue in the ways of old and stay content in the comfortable ways of life. Because of this mindset of the old guard the early church faced a choice, do we cower under pressure or do we press on with the mission which God has placed before us. Thankfully for you and me they didn't stop preaching Jesus Christ risen and glorified. They stayed true to the mission and many came to faith. How many times do we face the same choice as Paul and Barnabas? How often must we decide between cowering or pressing on? Let us hold to the words Paul spoke to the church of Thessalonica which say, "Brothers, do not grow weary in doing good."

Lessons we Learn:
1. Persecution will continue to come so we must not grow weary, just press on.
2. Not everyone will welcome the new ways of God, but I am not responsible for their actions just for being faithful to my calling.
3. God will raise me up when I am beaten down by the weight of life.

ACTS 13

2011-04-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

Chapter 13 is filled with many incredible verses and great affirmations of the power of God and the conviction/passion of the early disciples. Lest I get bogged down and make this blog extremely lengthy. I will briefly touch on several verses which caught me attention.

In the opening statements we read, "As they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work I have called them to.'" We see the church appointing their first missionaries, sending them out to serve the Lord by sharing the Gospel to pre-Christians. The church should make her ambition to equip, commission and send out those who God is calling to serve Him in the mission field. We read just a bit farther in the chapter that the church made fasting and praying a matter of importance in the selection and ordination of these men to go forth with the Good News. We must take our charge to send out missionaries with great sincerity and fervor. Their mission is the Great Commission. As they go, they go in the name of our Lord from His church in Florence. How much emphasis do we put on this charge? How much emphasis do you put on this charge? While we would tend to think this is a mission for someone else, could God be calling you?

As these men went out they encountered nay-sayers along the way. The scripture tells that Paul refused to allow someone to hinder or dissuade those God was calling to Him.
In fact, Paul was very bold in his confrontation. "Then Saul-also called Paul-filled with the Holy Spirit, stared straight at the sorcerer and said, "You son of the Devil, full of all deceit and all fraud, enemy of all righteousness! Won't you ever stop perverting the straight paths of the Lord?" Go Paul! What boldness this new missionary possessed from the Spirit of the Lord. How often we should be filled with the Spirit and call out those who seek to discredit our Lord and prevent others from coming to His salvation. How often we should exercise the discipline of the Lord, in His name, even among those of the church who seek to stand in the way of God performing a great work in His church! In fact, Paul quoted the prophets as he said, "Look, you scoffers, marvel and vanish away, because I am doing a work in your days, a work that you will never believe, even if someone were to explain it to you." Oh how bold Paul was, but why not God appeared to him in a miraculous way and called him out of a life of sin! But wait, God has done that to each of us! So, why are we so timid in the face of those who seek to oppose our God?

As the chapter closes these men preached the message with such passion and authority that they "the people begged that these matters be presented to them the following Sabbath." Oh my Lord please give me that same passion, power and authority. "So the message of the Lord would spread through the whole region of Florence." And may our God give us each the joy through the Holy Spirit as these men, even in the face of opposition and persecution. "And the disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit."

Lessons we Learned:
1. The church has a commission to send out missionaries.
2. We must confront those in the Name of God who seek to discredit God or dissuade others from following after Him
3. We can experience great joy because of our Lord, even in the face of opposition.

Acts 12

2011-04-08T14:12:00.001-07:00

As we look at the next chapter we see where persecution continues and even intensifies, coming from King Herod in particular. Herod has James killed and puts Peter in prison. As these attacks occurred the church continued in prayer, praise God. However, when the prayers were answered they were not ready to see God answer. For instance as Peter was in prison with guards on both sides and outside the gate an angel delivered him from the imprisonment and impending execution. After his release Peter went to the home of Mary, the mother of John Mark. As a young woman answered the knock at the door of Peter the others in the room praying said, "You're crazy!...It's his angel!". Why is it that we pray asking God for help, asking Him for a miracle, or seeking His intercession yet never prepare for God to respond to our supplications. Why should God answer when we ask but do not have the sufficient faith to prepare for His response. If we ask, let us expect God to answer if we are praying in His will.

Toward the end of the chapter we see the final demise of Herod. If it were not enough for Herod to persecute God's people he now begins to act as if he were a god. A dispute had arisen between Herod and the Tyrians and Sidonians. The people sought favor form Herod and asked for peace. As Herod sat on the throne in his royal attire he gave an oracle. At that point "the people began to shout, 'It's the voice of a god and not of a man!'". The result was an angel of God struck him because "he did not give the glory to God, and he became infected with worms and died.". Beware when we begin to claim glory which should be attributed to God.

Lessons to Learn:
1. When we pray asking for God's help, get ready for Him to answer. Don't just sit there.
2. It is a dangerous thing to assume any praise or glory intended for God.

Acts 11

2011-04-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

When God begins to work and do marvelous and miraculous things in the lives of new believers and the church Satan begins to look for ways to infiltrate the camp and seek to divide the troops. This began to take place in the churches throughout Judea. A dispute arose between the church leaders and Peter over whether these "uncircumcised" converts had the right to be considered believers. Peter took the time then to describe with explicit detail what had taken place with the vision he received regarding unclean and clean animals with the reference being in relation to Cornelius, a Gentile. Peter's defense was the vision had stressed to him the matter of clean versus unclean animals. This vision of course was to describe the manner in which God sees all mankind. Let me take a minute to interpret this vision. People have tried to take this of out context and use it to justify certain actions in regard to alcohol and foods. Peter didn't receive this dream to allow him to partake of forbidden food but to show him the value of all mankind in relation to salvation. When we seek to manipulate scripture for our own means we are walking on dangerous ground. God did not give Peter the vision to allow him to eat or drink certain things but to bring salvation to all mankind. The result of Peter's obedience in taking the message to the very people whom the Jews despised resulted in controversy at first among the church leaders but fortunately the Spirit of God prevailed and unity was restored. Luke records the reaction of the leaders like this, "When they heard this they became silent. Then they glorified God, saying, 'So God has granted repentance resulting in life even to the Gentiles!'"

As the chapter comes to a close we discover that a man by the name of Agabus predicted a sever famine was to come over the whole region. When this natural disaster occurred the church banded together to send relief and assistance to those who were affected the worst. Thus the first Disaster Relief organization was formed. With that let me brag on our church family. This past Sunday we collected a relief offering for those affected with the recent disaster in Japan. The offering, even though it was on a Sunday affected by one of the Spring Break weekends still netted over $2000. Thank you FBC Florence for being a compassionate and giving church. To God be all of the glory!

Lessons Learned from Today's Chapter:

1. When God acts in and among His people always look for Satan to attempt to counter God's ways and plans.
2. The church should be sensitive to the leadership of the Holy Spirit to avoid potentially damaging divisions.
3. One of the missions of the church should be compassionate assistance during times of great need.
4. God's provision of salvation is for all people. (Who have you shared His love with today?)

Acts 10

2011-04-06T17:55:00.001-07:00

In Chapter 10 we see the fullness of God's Message of Salvation delivered. Through the dreams of both a Gentile, Cornelius and a Jew, Peter we find that God loves all people and desires all mankind to have the offer of reconciliation. However, often we see in the church a desire for salvation to come to people who are like us. We want to see the baptistry stirred, the seats filled, and the church overflowing with people, as long as they act, look, talk, and think like us. Through vision shown to Peter we find him grasping to width and complexities of his appointed mission. At first, he is resistant to God's charge but then the Holy Spirit guides him to confess, "You know it's forbidden for a Jewish man to associate with or visit a foreigner. But God has shown me that I must not call any person common or unclean.". Oh that God would not only show us this great truth, but that our hearts would be broken to the point of going as Peter without hesitation or doubt to share the message of hope to all people. Oh that our conviction would be as Peter when he confessed, "Now I really understand that God doesn't show favoritism, but in every nation the person who fears Him and does righteousness is acceptable to Him...Can anyone withhold water and prevent these people from being baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?"

Every minister that ever speaks wants to experience what happened with Peter as we see in verse 44. The scripture says, "While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came down on all those who heard the message." Regardless of great oratory skills or charisma a speaker may or may not possess the impacting changes on people are dependent on the Holy Spirit moving in a person's heart. As a pastor who speaks three different messages per week, this is what I pray happens each time I stand before a group of people. This is the reason I have a group of people we call the Pastor's Prayer Partners. They spend time praying for me each week as I prepare the messages and as I deliver them to the respective services. I am extremely grateful for the prayer support of these men and women. They are servant minded in prayer. What a joy to know they are praying for the church, the services, and me.

Lessons we learn from this chapter:
God desires all people to come to salvation. He is not a respecter of race, gender, socio-economics, or prestige.
We cannot manipulate the church or the message in the church, we must understand all movements must be of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 9

2011-04-05T18:11:00.000-07:00

One of the most infamous chapters in Acts is our topic for the day. The chapter begins with the account of Saul on the Road to Damascus. Most all of us are familiar with the way Saul had persecuted the church and sought to destroy all who claimed to be followers of Jesus as well as how God intervened in his plans while Saul traveled to Damascus for the aforementioned purpose. My point of interest in this story is how God will only allow a person to do so much to His bride. Many people have met with the wrath of an individual when that person’s beloved is belittled, attacked, or hurt in some way. This classic story reminds me, to a degree, of the account of Lee Strobel, author of The Case for Christ and many other books. While serving as a journalist for the Chicago Tribune, Strobel, a proclaimed atheist at the time, determined to write a series of articles to discredit the Christian faith. However, during his research and investigation Strobel began to discover the truths about Jesus Christ and Christianity. This revelation converted Strobel from a devout anti-follower, to an avid preacher/teacher of the Gospel as well as a renowned author for Christian apologetics.

We see the same pattern in the life of Saul. He wanted nothing more than to discredit and dissuade the early church and Christians by using the tactics of persecution and threat of jail and/or death. This method, while effective to a degree all came to a stop when Saul encountered the “Real Jesus.” From that point forward Saul became known as Paul and passionately gave of himself to the point of persecution, torture, beatings and eventual death to spread the saving message of Jesus Christ. He was radically transformed by the One True God.

After his conversion, as you can imagine, Paul had a tough time persuading the disciples/apostles and early church of his conversion. Even Ananias (a different man than in chapter 5) when commanded by an angel of God had questions about the safety of approaching such a man in the name of Jesus. Fortunately for Ananias and Saul he was faithful to his commissioning in spite of the perceived danger. How often do we shy away from an appointment by God for fear of our reputation, commitment level, of resources, rather than what Ananias perceived? When God calls us to a task, rest assured He will protect you during the task and He provide for you as well. A side note to the previous point of God's protection is that while we may experience difficulties in this life this who oppose God and His children can never cause eternal harm or damage.

In the remainder of the chapter we see more of the power the disciples received from the Holy Spirit as Peter continues to teach and heal. Two people are mentioned in particular. The first, Aeneaus whom Peter healed of paralysis. The second was a disciple known as Tabitha translated as Dorcas whom became ill and died. After her friends summoned Peter he resurrected this faithful saint. These two miraculous events resulted in many coming to believe in Christ as the true Messiah.

Lessons we can learn:
1. While we may be opposing God He will go to great lengths to get our attention and to protect His bride the church.
2. All of God's miraculous acts are for His glory and to bring others to faith in Him.
3. We should never fear God's appointments for our life, even when they appear against the instincts we may have.

Acts 8

2011-04-04T14:13:00.001-07:00

A first glance at chapter eight would give one the impression that the church was facing a difficult road and losing a strategic component of their ministry by dispersing. However, I learned many years ago through the trials of life that what seems as a matter of destruction by Satan, God will use for construction in His kingdom. The persecution against the early church ramped up considerably after the death of Stephen. One would think the hungry wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing had tasted blood and were out for much more. Because the religious leaders, which included Saul of Tarsus. This organized and systematized attack on the early Christians spread the apostles throughout Judea and Samaria. While there move did disband the early church which had grown strong and large, the flip side shows the Gospel being spread to people of Judea and Samaria who had not yet be converted to the Christian faith.

Two specific examples are mentioned in chapter 8 regarding these conversions. The first is a man by the name of Simon. While scripture records that Simon did believe in the name of Jesus and was baptized in His name also, one has to wonder if his motive was pure since we see him attempting to secure favors and abilities from the apostles by means of his wealth. Many people misconstrue their relationship with Jesus and think their wealth is sufficient to buy them any means which they desire. Peter and John take time to rebuke Simon, even to the point of pronouncing a judgment upon him unless he became repentant of his corrupted heart. The second example is the Ethiopian Eunuch which the Spirit of the Lord led Philip to encounter. As the man was reading scripture, he could not understand the context or meaning. As Philip approached and asked if the Eunuch understood the passage, this opened the door for Philip to share the Gospel to a ripened heart. I wonder how many people we encounter daily which are searching for the answers to spiritual connection yet we miss the opportunity or we ignore the signs. Do we ever miss that person who is saying, "How can I understand who God is," he said, "unless someone guides me?" Oh that we would walk with such a sensitive Spirit that we would not miss the promptings of the Holy Spirit as He guides our paths.

As a side note there are two verses in this chapter which might create a bit of concern at a casual reading. In verses 15-16 Dr. Luke appears to state that the Samaritan converts did not receive the Holy Spirit at conversion, much like some denominations of today believe in conversion and then the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. These statements in Acts 8 do not refer to the presence of the Holy Spirit which renders regeneration but instead tend to align with a thought of a supernatural and extraordinary anointing by the Holy Spirit to speak in the different languages of the early disciples as mentioned earlier or of the ability to perform miracles which we saw the disciples do. We also must note that in verse 15 we read that Peter and John prayed for them to receive this anointing. This statement is indicative that the power did not rest in the disciples to disperse this gift. That came only from God and His selection and anointing.

Lessons from Acts 8:

1. What Satan intends for destruction, God wants to use for construction. (How do we see the difficulties of life? Ouch that one hurts!)

2. We cannot rely on our own resources to secure favor from God; that comes only from walking humbly before Him, committed to follow His path.

3. We must be prepared at all times for the Lord to place someone in our paths who is seeking for answers to life, to peace in confusion, or forgiveness of sin.

Acts 7

2011-04-03T20:31:00.000-07:00

Acts 7 is a continuation of the previous chapter. We see Stephen giving a defense of who he is and what his mission was in the face of the false testimonies supplied by the religious leaders. Stephen goes forward to give a detailed account of the history of his ancestors from Abraham to Solomon. As he closes his sermon, Stephen then moves to a point of conviction based on the actions of those in the court of the Sanhedrin. He speaks boldly and brashly by saying, "You stiff-necked people with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are always resisting the Holy Spirit; as your ancestors did, so do you...You received the law under the direction of angels and yet have not kept it." Stephen probably never took a course on how to win friends and influence people but he did follow the example of consummate leader, Jesus Christ. Upon concluding his defense, the leaders took him outside the city for the purpose of stoning him. Yet, Stephen was not through. As they stoned him he, still filled with the Holy Spirit continued to give testimony to the glory of God and divinity of Jesus Christ which only served to enrage the leaders more. Yet at the end of his life we see Stephen repeat a phrase uttered by Jesus on the cross as he said, "Lord, do not charge them with this sin!". Oh to have the spirit of forgiveness which Stephen displayed even in his death.

Lessons learned from Acts 7
1. When God gives a message to be delivered faithfulness must prevail even in the face of persecution.
2. Persecution should bring out the glory of God in our lives rather than the revenge of self.
3. The only way to survive persecution honorably to God is by being filled with the Holy Spirit.
4. Forgiveness of those who persecute is not an option but has been modeled by both Jesus and Stephen.

Acts 6

2011-04-02T18:35:00.000-07:00

In chapter 6 we find the first dispute in the church. While some would say that Ananias and Sapphira offered the first dispute, they simply offered the first corruption/deception. Here there appears to be a racial bias between the Greeks and the Jews. The Grecians felt as though their widows were not receiving the same attention as the Jewish widows. As in any church disagreement this could have worked into a matter of significance causing the disciples to lose their focus of priority which was prayer and preaching the Word. This is not any different than what happens in every church around the world. Satan will take matters which may or may not be significant or even worthwhile and create an issue within the church. His hope is to divert the church and her leaders from the main mission, prayer and preaching the Word for the purpose of evangelism and edification. As I mentioned in Wednesday night's message, Stan Makita, a former professional hockey player postulated a question his then 8 year old daughter asked regarding his reputation of a frequent fighter in games. His daughter asked, "How can you score goals if your always in the penalty box?" As commissioned evangelist and missionaries how can we effectively share Christ if our attention is allowed to be distracted from our primary objective. In the early church the disciples decided wisely to set up the first deacons in order to meet the needs of the widows along with the dispersement of the distraction from the priority.

One of the most well-known of these early deacons was Stephen. As the chapter closes we see where this new deacon, being filled with grace and power performed miraculous deeds. Because of these great feats God was doing through Stephen, the religious leaders were irate and secured men to lie about the actions and messages of Stephen. Yet as the chapter closes, the Sanhedrin, which were trying Stephen for blasphemy looked at him and we read of the great testimony given of Stephen. "And all who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at him and saw that his face was like the face of an angel." Oh that we all could walk so holy and powerfully that we face the anger of Satan and display the glory of God.

Lessons we can learn from Acts 6

We must be cautious to meet the needs of all groups equitably in the church.
We must not allow distractions to divert us from our primary mission of evangelism and missions
We must display the glory of God when falsely accused and before our enemies.

Acts 5

2011-04-01T19:38:00.000-07:00

As we move to chapter five we see two sets of circumstances arise in early church. If you remember chapter 4 ended with the members caring for one another's needs by selling property to care for those who needed assistance. This act of benevolence is circumvented in the next chapter by arrogance and greed. Ananias and his wife Sapphira decided to sell a piece of property they owned in order to give the money to the church. Although the act seems quite generous the motivation and implementation are less than admirable. This couple allowed their hearts and actions to be swayed by the thoughts of pride. Scripture reminds us that the act of charitable giving was not a required part of the early church for this was over and above the tithe. Therefore the couple did not have to give the entire amount earned from the sell of the property. They could have given as little as they desired. The sin was not that they gave only a portion of the sell. The sin was the deceptive and lying heart. They used their contribution as a way of elevating their standing in the church instead of a compassionate donation. Our giving should never be done for public display but for honor to our Lord and to assist in missions and ministry. God cannot and will not bless a giver who does so from an impure motive.

The second aspect we find in the fifth chapter is a repeat of what we have seen in the previous chapters. We find Peter and John again refusing to allow public opinion or worldly pressure to dissuade them from preaching the message of Jesus Christ. Once again we see these men threatened and imprisoned for boldly preaching the redemption story. Again I applaud these two for they did not allow who was in their presence to change their appeal for repentance. In fact, they appear to gain more boldness with each passing chapter. As a result, they see even greater things take place throughout their trials. People are coming and seeking out these men hoping for the grace of God to fall on them. They are bringing their sick and crippled. They are coming from outlying areas for the chance to find healing. Because of the notoriety they have gained they are again commanded to not speak of this man Jesus. But because they have no doubts regarding their calling and commissioning they proclaim, "We must obey God rather than men." My hearts desire is to have their confidence in knowing God's commissioning and not allow negative voices to dissuade His mission for me. My desire is to remember His calling trumps the threats of worldly demands. My heartbeat must grow stronger as I see God work great deeds in my life.

Lessons from today's reading:
1. God will deal severely with deceptive and prideful acts within His church.
2. God honors, empowers, and uses hearts which are wholly submitted unto Him.
3. Our attitude should always be that we obey God over man!

Acts 4

2011-03-31T14:28:00.000-07:00

This has to be one of the most inspirational chapters in the book of Acts for me. Every time I read it my admiration for the early disciples, especially Peter and John, go through the roof. These two had transformed from being timid at times, to other times boastful, while other times impetuous to become to great evangelist on a mission to transform the world. Yet, here we find them meet with a great host of opposition from the Jewish people and leaders. At this pivotal point in history they could have chosen to abandon ship, forsake the mission, and return to a life of great comfort. Instead, they dug down deep and found the strength of the Holy Spirit and preach yet another powerful sermon to the religious leaders on the foundation beliefs of Jesus Christ, which they rejected and crucified. Although they are arrested, held overnight and commanded not to speak or preach in the name of Jesus again they stood tall and gave a their great confession. They did not cower under the pressure of conformity nor cowardice. Instead they cried, "Whether it's right in the sight of God for us to listen to you rather than to God, you decide; for we are unable to stop speaking about what we have seen and heard." In our vernacular they simple said, "Not gonna happen!" Oh that we could have such a close and intimate fellowship with Jesus that we the critics try to silence us from speaking the name of Jesus we boldly say, "Not gonna happen!"

As the chapter continues we see where Peter and John are released and they return to the remainder of the disciples. In this they joined together to, once again, PRAY! Do you notice that the early formation of the church took the matter of prayer with great sincerity and did not seek to move forward without any direction from their Leader, Jesus Christ. They did not pray, "Lord take away the opposition, smooth our paths, or make our job easier." Instead, they prayed for the ability to speak God's message with great boldness. In the midst of their prayers, because they were prayed with sincerity, urgency, and fervor the presence of the Holy Spirit overwhelmed the place causing the very building to shake and once again filling the people with the Holy Spirit empowering them to do even greater things.

In the closing section we find that the people, as a result of being filled with the Holy Spirit began to take their eyes off of themselves, their desires and self-promotions, attending to the needs of one another. They had a compassion and love for each other like no other time before. They provided for the needs of one another, they were of one mind and accord, they did not allow anyone to go without a need being met! They were the epitome of the Church!

Lessons to Glean:
1. When faced with opposition, do not lose heart, PRAY!
2. When faced with an uncertainty, PRAY!
3. When we surrender to the leading of the Holy Spirit, everything about who we are changes!

Acts 3

2011-03-30T06:53:00.001-07:00

When we move into Chapter 3 we see a continuation of what has been taking place from the beginning, people praying. While the scripture does not outright saying that Peter and John were going to the temple to pray, it does tell us that they were going there at the “Hour of Prayer.” There is little doubt in my mind that these men are going about their daily lives in a constant state of prayer. The world as they have known it has changed and they now seek God constantly because they do not know any other way to turn. Formerly, they had Jesus there each moment teaching and guiding them. However, they now face a life alone. I am reminded of how many times I have spoken with church members who have lost a loved one, whether father, mother, or spouse, and they acknowledge the difficulty of day-to-day operations. They state their condition of uncertainty because that loved one who has now passed was their counselor, their sounding board, and/or their confidant. Imagine the lives of these men, whom for the last 3 years have had the greatest counselor, teacher, sounding board, and/or confidant of all time yet now He is no longer at their beckon call, so they think. So what do they do? PRAY!

As they approach their destination, they are met with a divine moment. Divine moments are those times when God places someone or something in our paths to either teach or encourage us but also to use as a method of showing His glory, might, and power. In this case, the divine moment was a man who had been lame since birth. Through the Power of the Holy Spirit in the name of Jesus, Peter and John brought healing to this man, this act of healing providing a platform for these weak men to showcase the power of God. In addition, this allowed Peter to deliver his second great sermon, here in Solomon’s Colonnade. Peter, the brash and ashamed disciple now the bold and apologetic (defensive), disciple states with great boldness and authority, “This Jesus, WHOM YOU CRUCIFIED, is the One who has made this man whole. So you should repent of your actions and seek His forgiveness determining to live for Him.” Go Peter, preach it with unashamed and unapologetic boldness!

Lessons from Chapter 3

1. Prayer must be constant to drive away self-doubt, self-help, and self-centeredness.

2. Only through the Power of God can we change from inadequate and inconsistent followers of God to Empowered Ones Proclaiming the His greatness.

3. We are commanded to speak with boldness and clarity the message of saving grace through Jesus Christ to an unregenerate world.

Acts 2

2011-03-29T18:12:00.000-07:00

To the great amazement of the early church they saw for the first time the power of the Holy Spirit displayed in their lives. In verse four we read that after being filled with the Holy Spirit they received the ability to speak in other languages. This feat gave the disciples the ability to spread God's holy Word to those who had gathered in Jerusalem from other nations. This divine intervention not only empowered the disciples to share the Word but it displayed the might of God to both the early disciples and to those who had gathered in Jerusalem for Pentacost. At this point I have to stop and ask myself, "What task has God given me which I might question, wondering from where the ability, resources, or support will come?". "Lord, please forgive me for the doubts and disbelief I often harbor as to WHAT You can and cannot do!".

As we go farther into chapter two, we read the greatest sermon ever delivered, aside from the Sermon on the Mount. Peter, once impetuous and ashamed, now stands and boldly delivers a message that doesn't hold back any punches. He is an equal opportunity offender as he tells of the Holiness of Jesus and of His divine nature to the demise of the Jewish leaders and people. Peter brings the message to a close by stating in verse 36' "Therefore let all the house of Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah!" This closing statement from Peter, inspired by the Holy Spirit caused the people to ask, "What will it take for us to be forgiven, what must we do?" To which Peter replied with great certainty, "Reverse your course!" Through this we again see the power of the Holy Spirit displayed as 3,000 people were saved and the church was united seeking to learn more by devoting themselves to God's teachings through the apostles. Because they submitted themselves to the teachings of the apostles and did not seek to usurp their desires on the church, God blessed the church, grew the church, and enjoyed the great fellowship with the church.

I wonder, do we come to the church each week with the same intensity and seeking heart asking questions such as: What must I do to align with God's desires? What is God asking me to do? Am I willing to submit to the Word of God, regardless of what it might cost me or ask of me?

Lessons from Chapter 2
1. When God initiates an assignment, no obstacle of man or this world can prevent His will from being accomplished!
2. Even though we offend God greatly, His forgiveness is offered to each of us and He desires to give us mighty blessings when we are submissive and seeking of Him.
3. The blessings of God are beyond our comprehension but within our grasp though submission and prayer.

Acts 1

2011-03-28T19:08:00.000-07:00

Well today is the first official day of the blog on the book of Acts. As per usual, it has been a very unusual day for me. Ordinarily I will post each morning to the blog. However, today I had to travel to Atlanta for a series of meetings with NAMB which began tonight. Therefore, today's review had to wait until late this evening.

As I have read over the first chapter of Acts several times, like many of you, my favorite part of the chapter is verse eight. Jesus is preparing to ascend into Heaven and wants to give His disciples one final word of encouragement. What a great word it was! "You shall receive POWER after the Holy Spirit has come upon you." Jesus is reaffirming the first followers that He is not leaving them alone or helpless. His intention is to continue to give them the necessary strength to face a monumental task ahead of them, missions. These rag tag men are to be His missionaries to carry the Gospel to all the parts of the World beginning at home and spreading out. I can't help but think of the task He is laying before First Baptist Florence of developing a balanced strategy to be on mission locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. But at the very thought of this task, I must admit that it can be overwhelming and intimidating. The part which is reassuring is that Jesus has offered that same word of encouragement to each of us to face the mission before us; you shall receive POWER after the Holy Spirit has come upon you. Thank you for those words of encouragement to continue to pursue the High Calling.

As we go a little farther in the chapter, we read where the angel of the Lord appeared to the disciples after Jesus had ascended and asked them a simple question, "What are you doing standing around looking at the clouds?" (paraphrased) In the words we have heard before, "Don't just stand there, get busy!" What the Holy Spirit is emphasizing is that Jesus does not expect us to stand by idly waiting for His return. He has given us a task, be His missionaries to the ends of the earth! We must get busy.

While the end of the chapter deals with the replacing of Judas of Iscariot, the operative passage is found in verse 14. "All of these (the disciples) were continually united in prayer along with the women, including Mary the mother of Jesus and His brothers." The early formation of the church recognized they must stand grounded in the divine communication with the Father, which Jesus had demonstrated to them continually. They understood they would receive the POWER from the Holy Spirit but they did not want to misunderstand or misuse that POWER. Too often we are guilty of running head first into OUR plans not taking the time to seek the Father's will meticulously and submissively.

Let us remember the take aways from Chapter One.
1. Our assignments are precipitated by the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit.
2. We must not stand around looking heavenward without seeking to share His offer of hope to an unregenerated world.
3. Only through a constant effort of united prayer can we hope to hear, understand, and fulfill the Father's wishes.

Go Be A Blessing to Others for Jesus,

Pastor Ric

First Post

2011-03-26T10:25:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog. In the next 28 days I will be blogging about a chapter from the book of Acts. This is a part of a challenge to get more of the church to have a daily quiet time. We cannot expect to know God much less draw closer to Him without spending time each day reading His Word and communicating with Him through prayer and meditation. Through this experience my prayer is that we will grow deeper in our Walk with God and closer with our fellow Church family.

FIFLO

Blessings Continued

What is It? Part Two

What is It?

Giving to Get or Getting to Give

Faithfully Giving Back to God for the Blessings He Gives

Prayer

Philippians 4

Philippians 3

Philippians 2

Philippians 1

New Blog Coming

2 Corinthians 13

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2 Corinthians 11

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June 17, 2011 2 Corinthians 10

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New Blog

1 Corinthians 16

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1 Corinthians 10

1 Corinthians 9

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Challenge Update

Acts 28

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Acts 19

Acts 18

Acts 17

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