I love books that encourage folks to go beyond what they think is possible, and Mark Batterson's press into a deeper understanding of the core of our Christian walk is just one of those books.
In the same gutsy but friendly tone of his, "In A Pit with A Lion On A Snowy Day", and "Wild Goose Chase", Batterson encourages us to look beyond our supposed weaknesses and restrictions to the strength of the Great Commandment.
"Primal" is different because it doesn't build with more theories or a new set of practices, but digs down to the center of what really matters - the same "mattering" that Jesus laid out: To love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength.
He addresses each of these sources of our love for God in the four sections of the book, intertwining natural and spiritual examples as well as giving us quite an impressive overview of the physical function of the brain - increasing our awe for Our Creator.
At this Primal core, what he refers to as "the Lost Soul of Christianity" we find our greatest meaning and are both convicted and released to find that place of God's bidding out of which we can live at our best, bringing glory to our God.
If we are to pursue God entirely, the launching spot must be the Great Commandment, and "Primal" gives us both the language and the understanding to pursue with everything we have.
You can purchase a copy at, www.RandomHouse.com .
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Secrets 2 - repost
I'm not sure when or from whom we learned this exercise, and it has become so much a part of our lives that it doesn't seem to be so intentional anymore as automatic.
That's ironic because the whole intent is to avoid the automatic, the status quo, the ordinary, and the mundane.
We call it "STOP. NOTICE. AND DECIDE."
We invoke this occasionally to make sure that our lives haven't found a rut. That we are actively and in a meaningful way pursuing the plan of God for our lives. I love the quote, "A rut is just a grave with both ends kicked out of it." It speaks for itself. We don't want to be "the walking dead".
So first, we STOP.
In the busy-ness, crowds, and noise of our culture we can forget to just take a break. A day or two, or maybe an afternoon or an hour together when we purposely unplug and clear out the cobwebs. We position ourselves to hear each other and to hear the voice of God through each other.
And then NOTICE.
We turn that break into something more than an escape. We turn it into an intentional and fearless review of what we are doing. Are we in God's plan? Is there eternal significance to what we are putting our hands to? Is it good for God? For people? For our family? For our community?
And then DECIDE.
This is where the rubber meets the road. What will we do with what we have just heard and noticed? This is the gutsy, full-on, step-up-to-the-plate part of living that makes it really living.
We've closed businesses, fed the homeless, started new ministry tracks, opened businesses, bought airline tickets, fostered the abused, enrolled in universities, sold houses, had children, retired, re-hired, bought houses, changed careers and a whole lot more out of these "STOP. NOTICE. AND DECIDE." moments.
I don't have specific scripture for this, but I can tell you that the fruit has been lasting. And the adventures with God have been thrilling, fostering a relationship with Him that is alive, relevant, and head-over-heels full of love.
That's ironic because the whole intent is to avoid the automatic, the status quo, the ordinary, and the mundane.
We call it "STOP. NOTICE. AND DECIDE."
We invoke this occasionally to make sure that our lives haven't found a rut. That we are actively and in a meaningful way pursuing the plan of God for our lives. I love the quote, "A rut is just a grave with both ends kicked out of it." It speaks for itself. We don't want to be "the walking dead".
So first, we STOP.
In the busy-ness, crowds, and noise of our culture we can forget to just take a break. A day or two, or maybe an afternoon or an hour together when we purposely unplug and clear out the cobwebs. We position ourselves to hear each other and to hear the voice of God through each other.
And then NOTICE.
We turn that break into something more than an escape. We turn it into an intentional and fearless review of what we are doing. Are we in God's plan? Is there eternal significance to what we are putting our hands to? Is it good for God? For people? For our family? For our community?
And then DECIDE.
This is where the rubber meets the road. What will we do with what we have just heard and noticed? This is the gutsy, full-on, step-up-to-the-plate part of living that makes it really living.
We've closed businesses, fed the homeless, started new ministry tracks, opened businesses, bought airline tickets, fostered the abused, enrolled in universities, sold houses, had children, retired, re-hired, bought houses, changed careers and a whole lot more out of these "STOP. NOTICE. AND DECIDE." moments.
I don't have specific scripture for this, but I can tell you that the fruit has been lasting. And the adventures with God have been thrilling, fostering a relationship with Him that is alive, relevant, and head-over-heels full of love.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
"Well DONE, Good and Faithful Servant"
I love this scripture (Matthew 25:21, 23) and the encouragement it brings in knowing that, as we exercise the talents He has given us, we are sure to be pleasing to Our Father.
It reminds me of how important DOING is. Sure, His grace has saved us, but serving the Lord in DOING because of His Grace for us is a high form of worship, acknowledging that what He has done for and in us is worth putting into action. We were saved to save others and DOING something is a powerful way to influence your world.
The parable doesn't state, "Well SAID, good and faithful servant", or "Well LEARNED...", it says, "Well DONE...".
The exercise of our talents according to our differing capabilities, giftings and opportunities is critical to our active service in Him.
Some may pray, some sing, some write, some love, and some may give food to the hungry. Some may never leave their city and some may traverse the globe. Certainly we can't judge others for how the Lord uses the talents He has invested in them.
I have met beautiful believers in China, Japan, Africa, Russia, Italy, France, Central and South America and other parts of the world who would all define service different because of their culture and opportunities; but the Lord, Who looks on their hearts, knows the worth of their doing.
The fastest growing and largest body of believers is in China. And they are doing this without a single street preacher! Imagine if we were so narrow-minded to think that is the only way to be faithful!
In much of the world, we seem to focus on service through the church, the local gathering of believers. There is strength in these numbers, as well as a diversity that brings multiple giftings together for good. A lot is accomplished through local churches. I pray each one does its part in DOING.
In your service to the Lord, don't let anyone judge you based on what they are doing and you are not. But be certain that you are doing something that magnifies Him by exercising what He has invested in you.
Our "saying" and "learning" must be exercised through our "doing". And in this, He is pleased.
It reminds me of how important DOING is. Sure, His grace has saved us, but serving the Lord in DOING because of His Grace for us is a high form of worship, acknowledging that what He has done for and in us is worth putting into action. We were saved to save others and DOING something is a powerful way to influence your world.
The parable doesn't state, "Well SAID, good and faithful servant", or "Well LEARNED...", it says, "Well DONE...".
The exercise of our talents according to our differing capabilities, giftings and opportunities is critical to our active service in Him.
Some may pray, some sing, some write, some love, and some may give food to the hungry. Some may never leave their city and some may traverse the globe. Certainly we can't judge others for how the Lord uses the talents He has invested in them.
I have met beautiful believers in China, Japan, Africa, Russia, Italy, France, Central and South America and other parts of the world who would all define service different because of their culture and opportunities; but the Lord, Who looks on their hearts, knows the worth of their doing.
The fastest growing and largest body of believers is in China. And they are doing this without a single street preacher! Imagine if we were so narrow-minded to think that is the only way to be faithful!
In much of the world, we seem to focus on service through the church, the local gathering of believers. There is strength in these numbers, as well as a diversity that brings multiple giftings together for good. A lot is accomplished through local churches. I pray each one does its part in DOING.
In your service to the Lord, don't let anyone judge you based on what they are doing and you are not. But be certain that you are doing something that magnifies Him by exercising what He has invested in you.
Our "saying" and "learning" must be exercised through our "doing". And in this, He is pleased.
Monday, November 30, 2009
When Right is Wrong
I love the account of Paul and Silas singing at midnight in the inner prison when the earthquake frees their bonds (Acts 16:25-34).
Then, released by the word of the magistrates, they refuse to leave the prison secretly even after this miraculous event. They knew that this "right" to leave was "wrong", claiming that their public imprisonment and beating demanded a public release. They required the magistrates to come in person to let them go (Acts 16:35-40).
It takes faith to resist a favorable right when the conditions are wrong.
It is noteworthy that the reason they were in prison in the first place also speaks to this lesson.
The slave girl with a spirit of divination cried out, "These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation" (Acts 16:16). This is an indisputable truth. And it is right.
But Paul rebuked the spirit out of which she spoke.
He rejected the favorable right because the conditions were wrong. It was not fitting that the source of truth (the spirit) was the deceiver. And Paul was dragged to the authorities and wrongly accused, beaten, and imprisoned.
Eventually, God got the glory.
We should be so full of faith as to be willing to reject the favorable right and to wait, patiently and in joy, for the proper solution as God moves, with His earth-shaking force, in favor of fully-right.
We may be tempted to enjoy the praise in our ears from an ill source, or to complain when falsely accused, or to stomp out of a difficult situation with a chip on our shoulder because the whole injustice wasn't accounted for - but a steady, trusting confidence in Our Maker-Redeemer is the only right that ends in right, bringing glory to Our God.
Then, released by the word of the magistrates, they refuse to leave the prison secretly even after this miraculous event. They knew that this "right" to leave was "wrong", claiming that their public imprisonment and beating demanded a public release. They required the magistrates to come in person to let them go (Acts 16:35-40).
It takes faith to resist a favorable right when the conditions are wrong.
It is noteworthy that the reason they were in prison in the first place also speaks to this lesson.
The slave girl with a spirit of divination cried out, "These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation" (Acts 16:16). This is an indisputable truth. And it is right.
But Paul rebuked the spirit out of which she spoke.
He rejected the favorable right because the conditions were wrong. It was not fitting that the source of truth (the spirit) was the deceiver. And Paul was dragged to the authorities and wrongly accused, beaten, and imprisoned.
Eventually, God got the glory.
We should be so full of faith as to be willing to reject the favorable right and to wait, patiently and in joy, for the proper solution as God moves, with His earth-shaking force, in favor of fully-right.
We may be tempted to enjoy the praise in our ears from an ill source, or to complain when falsely accused, or to stomp out of a difficult situation with a chip on our shoulder because the whole injustice wasn't accounted for - but a steady, trusting confidence in Our Maker-Redeemer is the only right that ends in right, bringing glory to Our God.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
"The devil Made Me Do It!" A Convenient Untruth
Each of us has had the opportunity to hear someone credit the devil for his influence over something they have done wrong.
This is an acceptable claim for the unredeemed, but for a believer to make such a proclamation it must ring as the highest of insults to our King of Glory.
Jesus died a tragic, painful, shameful, inglorious death. He went to heaven and sprinkled His blood in the Most Holy Place (Hebrews 9:11-14). He "...disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it" (Colossians 2:13-15). His victory is complete and redemption, for the believer, is a fact!
Do we really want to credit the devil, this defeated foe, with a "victory" in our redeemed life? The enemy is a "...prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience..." (Ephesians 2:1-3). But he doesn't work in me. Not in a believer.
Here's the point: When we acknowledge God as the One Who gives us victory, we are giving Him glory for what He is able to do in and through us.
Tragically, when we credit the enemy for our sin we are glorifying him and minimizing the absolute victory obtained for us on the cross, through the Most Holy Place, and at the throne.
What an insult to the One Who gave it all for us! Shame on us when we glorify the enemy for our sin! In this, we are proclaiming the enemy's power and greatness in our lives! We are elevating him to a position to which he has no right!
If Jesus saved us, sanctified us, healed us, delivered us, redeemed us, why can't we accept that He has disallowed any influence by the enemy toward us?
Peter instructs us to, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8). This is wise instruction. We must remain sober and vigilant. But a lion "walking", "roaring", and "seeking" never made anyone bleed! And this "disarmed" foe is helpless in devouring a believer!
So why do we confess such foolishness?
Because in our pride, our laziness, our immaturity, and our resistance to acknowledging our sin, it is much easier to blame someone else. Adam's weak excuse in the garden ("The woman...gave me of the tree, and I ate"), along with Eve's weak excuse in the garden, (“The serpent deceived me, and I ate”) is our weak excuse today ("The devil made me do it!").
As long as we have someone to blame we escape accepting our part, and we avoid making the necessary changes or making right where we've made wrong.
God has nothing to give us in exchange for our excuses. But for our repentance He has forgiveness.
Take responsibility for your sin. Don't blame a foe that was defeated for you.
Sound the A.L.A.R.M.
Accept your part in your sin and face the truth squarely. No excuses. It is the first step toward changing.
Lift it up to God, don't deflect it to your enemy.
Ask for forgiveness. Absolute repentance before God and to anyone you've harmed.
Repay what you owe, where possible. Maybe up to seven times.
Move on. The same One Who saved you made the way for your return to right-standing.
This is an acceptable claim for the unredeemed, but for a believer to make such a proclamation it must ring as the highest of insults to our King of Glory.
Jesus died a tragic, painful, shameful, inglorious death. He went to heaven and sprinkled His blood in the Most Holy Place (Hebrews 9:11-14). He "...disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it" (Colossians 2:13-15). His victory is complete and redemption, for the believer, is a fact!
Do we really want to credit the devil, this defeated foe, with a "victory" in our redeemed life? The enemy is a "...prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience..." (Ephesians 2:1-3). But he doesn't work in me. Not in a believer.
Here's the point: When we acknowledge God as the One Who gives us victory, we are giving Him glory for what He is able to do in and through us.
Tragically, when we credit the enemy for our sin we are glorifying him and minimizing the absolute victory obtained for us on the cross, through the Most Holy Place, and at the throne.
What an insult to the One Who gave it all for us! Shame on us when we glorify the enemy for our sin! In this, we are proclaiming the enemy's power and greatness in our lives! We are elevating him to a position to which he has no right!
If Jesus saved us, sanctified us, healed us, delivered us, redeemed us, why can't we accept that He has disallowed any influence by the enemy toward us?
Peter instructs us to, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8). This is wise instruction. We must remain sober and vigilant. But a lion "walking", "roaring", and "seeking" never made anyone bleed! And this "disarmed" foe is helpless in devouring a believer!
So why do we confess such foolishness?
Because in our pride, our laziness, our immaturity, and our resistance to acknowledging our sin, it is much easier to blame someone else. Adam's weak excuse in the garden ("The woman...gave me of the tree, and I ate"), along with Eve's weak excuse in the garden, (“The serpent deceived me, and I ate”) is our weak excuse today ("The devil made me do it!").
As long as we have someone to blame we escape accepting our part, and we avoid making the necessary changes or making right where we've made wrong.
God has nothing to give us in exchange for our excuses. But for our repentance He has forgiveness.
Take responsibility for your sin. Don't blame a foe that was defeated for you.
Sound the A.L.A.R.M.
Accept your part in your sin and face the truth squarely. No excuses. It is the first step toward changing.
Lift it up to God, don't deflect it to your enemy.
Ask for forgiveness. Absolute repentance before God and to anyone you've harmed.
Repay what you owe, where possible. Maybe up to seven times.
Move on. The same One Who saved you made the way for your return to right-standing.
Monday, August 31, 2009
As He Was, Pt. 3 - The Bridge
"On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, 'Let us cross over to the other side.' Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him."
Mark 4:35-36
Mark 4:35-36
I am focusing on the words, "...as He was" from this passage recognizing that, in order to represent Him to the world, we must understand "how He was".
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Jesus straddled the 2 covenants, which is why He was constantly challenging their way of thinking. If you can challenge a way of thinking you can open a mind.
Too often we are caught in our own doctrine or ways of thinking. Religion vaccinates us (indoctrinates us) against the truth. We stop thinking. When the truth finally invades us, we reject it like an infection. How many times did someone preach to you before you finally HEARD the truth? Your mind had to be opened.
Jesus would say, “You heard it THIS way, but I say it’s THIS way” over and over, trying to bridge them to the new covenant, using His time here, in the flesh, to introduce them (and us!) to a new way of thinking that would be necessary in order for us to represent Him after He left. He came to break us from our old way of thinking.
They looked to an Old Testament God Who was distant and only reachable through a sacrifice and a priest. Jesus changed that. He makes God available to ANY who believe.
They tried to convince Jesus that He wasn’t able to do what He said He could do, but He proved them wrong. “The man who was demon-possessed is now sitting and in his right mind”. Prove them wrong! Don’t let anyone put you down. You’re a believer! You are God’s best!
You’ll always be opposed when you seek to bring the truth. A storm arose when He got in the vessel to go to the other side
We’ve got to take Him to the world “as He is”.
The power is in the declaration of the Good News!
Preach the Gospel and see people saved.
Preach the Gospel and see people set free.
Preach the Gospel and see people healed.
Preach the Gospel and see people loved.
Preach the Gospel and see people empowered.
Preach the Gospel and see people lifted up.
Preach the Gospel and see people encouraged to love and move in His power to take this Gospel – this Good News – to the world!
Cross over out of an Old Testament model into the New Testament miracle life. Take it to the crazy people – wherever you go.
This is a new life. A new day. You can carry Him as He is.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
As He Was, Pt. 2 - The Mandate
"On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, 'Let us cross over to the other side.' Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him."
Mark 4:35-36
Mark 4:35-36
I am focusing on the words, "...as He was" from this passage recognizing that, in order to represent Him to the world, we must understand "how He was".
Today we focus on His role in restoring our mandate.
God set us in His beautiful creation with a mandate. It is found in Genesis, Chapter 1:28 “Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, subdue, and have dominion”. It was a mandate that expressed God’s heart in involving man in His conquest to fill the earth with His glory. God was counting on man to do his part. He trusted Adam to take the instruction he was given and to faithfully conduct himself.
Our authority to carry out this mandate was forfeited when, in the Garden, Adam submitted to the serpent ("You are slave to him whom you obey" - Romans 6:16).
The Old Testament laws were enacted to teach us about the need for redemption and to begin our way back to partnership with God. Blood became necessary. A precious and perfect sacrifice was necessary. One could only be made clean through an act or ritual conducted by a priest and a blood sacrifice declared to be perfect.
But the priests made it a business. They set themselves up to be the ones to benefit from the plan of God. THEY were the important ones. THEY were the holy ones.
Religion prospered. But the people lost sight of God. And, distant from their Creator, they lost sight of themselves and their purpose.
From Isaiah Chapter 1:“To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices to Me?” says the LORD.
“I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams and the fat of fed cattle.
I do not delight in the blood of bulls, or of lambs or goats.
When you come to appear before Me, who has required this from your hand,
To trample My courts?
Bring no more futile sacrifices; Incense is an abomination to Me.
The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the calling of assemblies—
I cannot endure iniquity and the sacred meeting.
Your New Moons and your appointed feast my soul hates;
They are a trouble to Me, I am weary of bearing them."
Thankfully, “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). “God was manifested in the flesh” (1 Timothy 3:16). For 33 years He walked in the flesh as our example. And then He fulfilled His role as Redeemer - the Perfect Sacrifice, once and for all. His blood was shed to provide access to God for every Believer, not just the privileged.
Our mandate is restored as we re-engage in His purpose, understanding the weight of the matter that God has set upon us.
Jesus is our example. He shows us the way. What He did - AS HE WAS - we can do AS HE IS, because the same Spirit lives in us.
More tomorrow.
As He Was
"On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, 'Let us cross over to the other side.' Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him."
Mark 4: 35-36
Mark 4: 35-36
This is a familiar account that shows the magnificent freeing power of Jesus. It can be read in full at Mark 4:35 - 5:20.
Why must we cross over? Because there are crazy people out there who are unable to free themselves from their bonds. Their behavior and their spiritual condition bind them to themselves.
We must cross over to the other side. What is on the other side for you? What person? What neighbor? What fellow worker? What family? What people? What nation?
And what will you bring with you?
From Mark chapter 4, verse 36: "They took Him along…as He was."
There is great confusion in the church world over “how Jesus was”.
In the 2,000 years since God was with us in Christ, religion has re-shaped His image.
It’s not a new strategy of the enemy. It’s straight from the Garden. If the enemy can get us to question what God has said or done (Genesis 3:1), he will be successful at compromising the truth in us. And compromised truth will only bring a compromised victory, which is what we have today. Sure we have had some success. We have vibrant music and meetings and great preaching. Beautiful buildings and TV shows and church programs. But it’s hard to accept this as the life for which Jesus died. I may be willing to give MY life for what we have in the church today, but I don’t think I would give my son’s life.
It is the same for God. I believe He envisions something more. And if we can find our way back to the Truth, we will finally be set free - and be alive enough to set others free.
If His seed in us is virtuous, the fruit is virtuous. And we will cross over our boundaries of religion and philosophy and man-made doctrine and see the demoniac set free. If we are going to do this, we must do as the disciples did in Mark, Chapter 4 and take Jesus along "…as He was”.
More on this tomorrow.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Do We Need the Holy Spirit?
"Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth:
for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak:
and he will shew you things to come.
He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.
All things that the Father hath are mine:
therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you."
(John 16:13-15)
for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak:
and he will shew you things to come.
He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.
All things that the Father hath are mine:
therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you."
(John 16:13-15)
"And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit..." (Acts 2:4).
Jesus taught us that the Holy Spirit would come and that he would glorify Jesus.
In the Book of Acts we see the day of Pentecost - and the promise is fulfilled.
The coming of the Holy Spirit is not celebrated as a "second-coming" of God in another form, but as the provision for our very present revelation of Christ.
The Holy Spirit did not come as a replacement for Christ, but as a Revealer of Christ - to us and through us. He came to show us that the same Spirit that raised Christ Jesus from the dead could live IN US! (Romans 8:11).
His coming established us as the place out of which God would operate. No longer in a Temple made of hands (Mark 14:18), or in a single flesh man, but in a many-membered Body (1 Corinthians 12:20).
If you are a member of the Body of Christ, by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8) you are a Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16) by whom Christ is revealed to and through you.
Yes. We need the Holy Spirit.
In the Book of Acts we see the day of Pentecost - and the promise is fulfilled.
The coming of the Holy Spirit is not celebrated as a "second-coming" of God in another form, but as the provision for our very present revelation of Christ.
The Holy Spirit did not come as a replacement for Christ, but as a Revealer of Christ - to us and through us. He came to show us that the same Spirit that raised Christ Jesus from the dead could live IN US! (Romans 8:11).
His coming established us as the place out of which God would operate. No longer in a Temple made of hands (Mark 14:18), or in a single flesh man, but in a many-membered Body (1 Corinthians 12:20).
If you are a member of the Body of Christ, by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8) you are a Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16) by whom Christ is revealed to and through you.
Yes. We need the Holy Spirit.
Monday, August 17, 2009
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit IN Us
We must take care not to reduce the ministry of the Holy Spirit only to speaking in other tongues. Or to experience the Holy Spirit as a distant dove that will occasionally light on us - if we pray really hard.
Jesus said of the Holy Spirit:
Jesus said of the Holy Spirit:
"It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away,
the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
Of sin, because they believe not on me;
Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth:
for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak:
and he will shew you things to come.
He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.
All things that the Father hath are mine:
therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you."
(John 16:7b-15)
the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
Of sin, because they believe not on me;
Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth:
for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak:
and he will shew you things to come.
He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.
All things that the Father hath are mine:
therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you."
(John 16:7b-15)
Jesus gave us commandments through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:1-3).
We receive power through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:7-9; Romans 15:19; Ephesians 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 1:5).
We understand things to come through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:16; 4:25).
The Holy Spirit is witness to things with us (Acts 5:31-33; 15:28; Romans 9:1; Hebrews 2:4; 10:14; 1 John 5:6-8).
The Holy Spirit IN us validates us for service (Acts 6:3, 5; 18:25; 20:28; 1 Corinthians 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:8-11; 2 Corinthians 1:22; 3:3; 5:5; Ephesians 1:13).
The Holy Spirit opens our eyes (Acts 7:55; 1 Corinthians 2:10; Ephesians 3:5).
The Holy Spirit speaks to us (Acts 8:29; 10:19; 11:12; 13:2; 16:6-8; 20:23; 21:4; 21:11; 1 Corinthians 2:13; 1 Timothy 4:1; Hebrews 3:7; Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22; 14:13; 22:17).
The Holy Spirit translates us (Acts 8:39).
We are comforted by the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:31; Ephesians 1:19).
We are led by the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:4; Romans 8:1-9, 14, 26-27; Galatians 5:16, 18; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 6:18; Jude 1:20).
The Holy Spirit empowers us to love (Romans 5:5; 15:30; 2 Corinthians 6:6; Colossians 1:8).
The Holy Spirit carries righteousness, peace, hope, and joy (Romans 14:17; 15:13; Galatians 5:5, 22; 1 Thessalonians 1:6).
We are taught by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:13; Ephesians 4:30; Hebrews 9:8).
We are united in the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 13:14; Ephesians 2:18, 4:3-4).
The Holy Spirit frees us (2 Corinthians 3:17).
Our offerings are sanctified by the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:16).
We receive power through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:7-9; Romans 15:19; Ephesians 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 1:5).
We understand things to come through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:16; 4:25).
The Holy Spirit is witness to things with us (Acts 5:31-33; 15:28; Romans 9:1; Hebrews 2:4; 10:14; 1 John 5:6-8).
The Holy Spirit IN us validates us for service (Acts 6:3, 5; 18:25; 20:28; 1 Corinthians 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:8-11; 2 Corinthians 1:22; 3:3; 5:5; Ephesians 1:13).
The Holy Spirit opens our eyes (Acts 7:55; 1 Corinthians 2:10; Ephesians 3:5).
The Holy Spirit speaks to us (Acts 8:29; 10:19; 11:12; 13:2; 16:6-8; 20:23; 21:4; 21:11; 1 Corinthians 2:13; 1 Timothy 4:1; Hebrews 3:7; Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22; 14:13; 22:17).
The Holy Spirit translates us (Acts 8:39).
We are comforted by the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:31; Ephesians 1:19).
We are led by the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:4; Romans 8:1-9, 14, 26-27; Galatians 5:16, 18; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 6:18; Jude 1:20).
The Holy Spirit empowers us to love (Romans 5:5; 15:30; 2 Corinthians 6:6; Colossians 1:8).
The Holy Spirit carries righteousness, peace, hope, and joy (Romans 14:17; 15:13; Galatians 5:5, 22; 1 Thessalonians 1:6).
We are taught by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:13; Ephesians 4:30; Hebrews 9:8).
We are united in the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 13:14; Ephesians 2:18, 4:3-4).
The Holy Spirit frees us (2 Corinthians 3:17).
Our offerings are sanctified by the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:16).
The Holy Spirit will show us Christ (Romans 1:4).
We are sanctified/justified by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:13; 1 Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:2).
The Holy Spirit quickened the body of Christ (1 Peter 3:18).
The Old Testament prophets and Gospel-period believers experienced a Holy Spirit that was UPON, AROUND, or THROUGH them.
We, after the cross and Pentecost, experience a Holy Spirit that is IN us (Romans 8:11; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19; 2 Timothy 1:14; 1 John 3:24; 4:13).
The Holy Spirit doesn't seek glory, but points us to and reveals the ministry of Jesus IN us. And we will do greater things.
We are sanctified/justified by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:13; 1 Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:2).
The Holy Spirit quickened the body of Christ (1 Peter 3:18).
The Old Testament prophets and Gospel-period believers experienced a Holy Spirit that was UPON, AROUND, or THROUGH them.
We, after the cross and Pentecost, experience a Holy Spirit that is IN us (Romans 8:11; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19; 2 Timothy 1:14; 1 John 3:24; 4:13).
The Holy Spirit doesn't seek glory, but points us to and reveals the ministry of Jesus IN us. And we will do greater things.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Yielding to God
It is necessary, when yielding to God, to yield completely to God.
There's a wonderful illustration of this in the 12th and13th chapters of Genesis.
God's instructions were clear, including the dictate to "Get out...from your family". But Abraham didn't yield completely to this command. He took both his father and Lot, and paid dearly for each offense.
He only got as far as Haran, which is halfway to Canaan. He could go no further until his father died.
How many times do we drag something or someone along on our way to pursuing what God has for us? Only absolute yielding will bring complete fulfillment of the promise.
And, as for Lot, strife arose between Abraham and Lot as they prospered. Abraham yielded to Lot (Genesis 13:7-9) and, after this yielding, God showed Abraham his inheritance:
There's a wonderful illustration of this in the 12th and13th chapters of Genesis.
"Now the LORD had said to Abram:
'Get out of your country,
From your family
And from your father’s house,
To a land that I will show you.'"
(Genesis 12:1)
'Get out of your country,
From your family
And from your father’s house,
To a land that I will show you.'"
(Genesis 12:1)
God's instructions were clear, including the dictate to "Get out...from your family". But Abraham didn't yield completely to this command. He took both his father and Lot, and paid dearly for each offense.
He only got as far as Haran, which is halfway to Canaan. He could go no further until his father died.
How many times do we drag something or someone along on our way to pursuing what God has for us? Only absolute yielding will bring complete fulfillment of the promise.
And, as for Lot, strife arose between Abraham and Lot as they prospered. Abraham yielded to Lot (Genesis 13:7-9) and, after this yielding, God showed Abraham his inheritance:
"And the LORD said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him: “Lift your eyes now and look from the place where you are—northward, southward, eastward, and westward; for all the land which you see I give to you and your descendants forever."
Genesis 13:14-15
Genesis 13:14-15
As long as we cling to what we think is ours, we won't realize what we are promised. We think we are prospering because of what we can cling to, when we are lacking because of what we aren't willing to yield.
It is the yielded spirit that gets the inheritance.
Yield to the Spirit of God. Hold, with a light touch, what you claim to be yours.
Discover as Abraham did that, when you yield, what He has for you is far greater.
It is the yielded spirit that gets the inheritance.
Yield to the Spirit of God. Hold, with a light touch, what you claim to be yours.
Discover as Abraham did that, when you yield, what He has for you is far greater.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
The Practice Field - repost
I think one of the most helpful things we can do for the next generation of leaders is to allow them to express their sense of what God is doing in their lives and to practice what they have learned from scripture.
I am finding that people, especially young people, are not interested in what you have to say until they are sure they have said- or will be able to say - what they want to say. It's a by-product of a generation that, for the most part as children of the Boomers, has been indulged or over-indulged.
I know this: God expects a lot from them. So much has been given (Luke 12:48).
In giving them a place to practice what they know, we provide an opportunity to succeed. A place where the principles that scripture is instilling in them get tested and pass, building faith and confidence in the character of God.
And practice isn't the same as observing. They have far too many opportunities to just be an observer. Practice means walking in the place where THEY are responsible for recognizing what God wants to do AT THAT MOMENT.
Dr. TL Osborn once told me that most of what we call the "anointing" comes from having experienced God's Presence in a similar way or circumstance. The more we see God move through us, the more sensitive we are to recognize what He is doing and what He wants to do next. That prepares us for expecting the miraculous on a regular basis. You know where He's going because you've been there before. That confidence comes from seeing Him move and looks like spiritual insight.
Are you in position to encourage a young person out of their comfort zone and into a place where they can learn to recognize how God moves - in and through them? You are in position to shape the next generation.
I am finding that people, especially young people, are not interested in what you have to say until they are sure they have said- or will be able to say - what they want to say. It's a by-product of a generation that, for the most part as children of the Boomers, has been indulged or over-indulged.
I know this: God expects a lot from them. So much has been given (Luke 12:48).
In giving them a place to practice what they know, we provide an opportunity to succeed. A place where the principles that scripture is instilling in them get tested and pass, building faith and confidence in the character of God.
And practice isn't the same as observing. They have far too many opportunities to just be an observer. Practice means walking in the place where THEY are responsible for recognizing what God wants to do AT THAT MOMENT.
Dr. TL Osborn once told me that most of what we call the "anointing" comes from having experienced God's Presence in a similar way or circumstance. The more we see God move through us, the more sensitive we are to recognize what He is doing and what He wants to do next. That prepares us for expecting the miraculous on a regular basis. You know where He's going because you've been there before. That confidence comes from seeing Him move and looks like spiritual insight.
Are you in position to encourage a young person out of their comfort zone and into a place where they can learn to recognize how God moves - in and through them? You are in position to shape the next generation.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Our Sinless Life?
Paul, in the ninth chapter of his second letter to the church at Corinth, is reminding the Corinthian churches of a gift they had proposed for the believers in Jerusalem. He ends this reminder with the declaration: "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (2 Corinthians 9:15).
His reference to God's grace and the gift of Christ as "indescribable" is a powerful reminder to us of what was done to release us from our weighty sin.
There is much theological debate on original sin and on the subject of whether or not a believer can/should/must live without sin. I don't intend to resolve that debate. If the theologians have been (for centuries!) struggling with the apparent contradictory scripture on this subject, I can only conclude that this debate, like a parable, will serve to cause us to dig deep and examine the matters of our own heart.
If we side with those who say that a sinless life is necessary for salvation, perhaps our hearts demand an accounting of others' actions as we stand in judgment. Clearly, Jesus cautioned against this (Luke 6:37). This could serve to shame us in our own faults or lead us to pride. Many seem to fall (publicly) because of this stance. However, if we favor an acceptance of sin in the life of a believer, we settle for a lower nature. This liberality is dangerous, too.
I bear witness to the writings of one of Jesus' dearest friends, the Apostle John, in his discussion on the matter (1 John 2). He, at once, recognizes the pursuit of holiness as good while acknowledging our Advocate in the case that we fail in the pursuit.
At any rate, our gift to Him of a sinless life (however possible!) can never compare to the "indescribable gift" of His Son to us.
His reference to God's grace and the gift of Christ as "indescribable" is a powerful reminder to us of what was done to release us from our weighty sin.
There is much theological debate on original sin and on the subject of whether or not a believer can/should/must live without sin. I don't intend to resolve that debate. If the theologians have been (for centuries!) struggling with the apparent contradictory scripture on this subject, I can only conclude that this debate, like a parable, will serve to cause us to dig deep and examine the matters of our own heart.
If we side with those who say that a sinless life is necessary for salvation, perhaps our hearts demand an accounting of others' actions as we stand in judgment. Clearly, Jesus cautioned against this (Luke 6:37). This could serve to shame us in our own faults or lead us to pride. Many seem to fall (publicly) because of this stance. However, if we favor an acceptance of sin in the life of a believer, we settle for a lower nature. This liberality is dangerous, too.
I bear witness to the writings of one of Jesus' dearest friends, the Apostle John, in his discussion on the matter (1 John 2). He, at once, recognizes the pursuit of holiness as good while acknowledging our Advocate in the case that we fail in the pursuit.
At any rate, our gift to Him of a sinless life (however possible!) can never compare to the "indescribable gift" of His Son to us.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Missions Change the World, Starting with You
It's remarkable to me how people setting out to change the world are deeply changed by it.
There's something about lifting our eyes and seeing the field that alters our perspective on our own life.
Mission trip after trip, whether I've gone myself or heard testimonies from others, I grow in suspicion over Jesus' motivation for sending us "...into all the world (to) preach the Gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15). Could it be He was doing that for our sake?
The same dynamics that operate THERE operate HERE. The giving of our time, the attention to a new face, the unselfish gesture, the leading of the Holy Spirit, the unrushed pace.
Surely, we CAN change nations; but what of the thought that nations can change us - making us more loving, compassionate, focused, grateful, effective, fervent - and powerful - at home?
The mission field is a great training ground for how we should live at home.
Go.
There's something about lifting our eyes and seeing the field that alters our perspective on our own life.
Mission trip after trip, whether I've gone myself or heard testimonies from others, I grow in suspicion over Jesus' motivation for sending us "...into all the world (to) preach the Gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15). Could it be He was doing that for our sake?
The same dynamics that operate THERE operate HERE. The giving of our time, the attention to a new face, the unselfish gesture, the leading of the Holy Spirit, the unrushed pace.
Surely, we CAN change nations; but what of the thought that nations can change us - making us more loving, compassionate, focused, grateful, effective, fervent - and powerful - at home?
The mission field is a great training ground for how we should live at home.
Go.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
The Way of the Unfaithful... - repost
Solomon, in his Proverbs, tells us that, "...the way of the unfaithful is hard" (Proverbs 13:15). The whole book of Proverbs is like a song of praise, declaring the merits of the path of the righteous, as compared to the path of the wicked.
Kierkegaard said, "It costs a man just as much or even more to go to hell than to come to heaven". I am sure that is true. I can't imagine negotiating the questions and issues of this life without Christ.
Just the nuclear question of purpose, around which the matter of our lives circulates, hangs unstable without the core element of Creator.
There is none more lost than a man without Christ.
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30).
The way of the unfaithful is hard. But His yoke is easy.
Preach the Gospel. We have Good News.
Kierkegaard said, "It costs a man just as much or even more to go to hell than to come to heaven". I am sure that is true. I can't imagine negotiating the questions and issues of this life without Christ.
Just the nuclear question of purpose, around which the matter of our lives circulates, hangs unstable without the core element of Creator.
There is none more lost than a man without Christ.
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30).
The way of the unfaithful is hard. But His yoke is easy.
Preach the Gospel. We have Good News.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Prayer That Changes Things
Indeed, prayer has a powerful effect on how we carry out our lives. Jesus advised us to, "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation" (Matthew 26:41), indicating that there is an effect that prayer has on our ability to stand strong in a contrary world. There is a direct and indirect influence on our conduct that comes through conversing with God on a regular basis.
But this profound influence on ourselves is not the only aim of prayer.
Prayer as a discipline, without the objectives of improving our fellowship with the Father and positioning ourselves to be His instruments in advancing the purposes of His Kingdom, would be a dry and selfish thing.
Praying regularly makes us ready to pray in an instant. The more we pray, in an ongoing way, the more we think to pray and the more we make ourselves available to draw on the spiritual reserve that has been laid up to bring about His will here on Earth ("After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven").
To "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Philippians 4:6) is the key. To train ourselves to be in an attitude of prayer at all times means we can invoke the very Presence of God in every situation.
Prayer that we "disappear into", as in a closet, becomes training for prayer that is "without ceasing". And this is relevant, productive prayer that makes us active in the spirit and agents of change in the natural.
But this profound influence on ourselves is not the only aim of prayer.
Prayer as a discipline, without the objectives of improving our fellowship with the Father and positioning ourselves to be His instruments in advancing the purposes of His Kingdom, would be a dry and selfish thing.
Praying regularly makes us ready to pray in an instant. The more we pray, in an ongoing way, the more we think to pray and the more we make ourselves available to draw on the spiritual reserve that has been laid up to bring about His will here on Earth ("After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven").
To "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Philippians 4:6) is the key. To train ourselves to be in an attitude of prayer at all times means we can invoke the very Presence of God in every situation.
Prayer that we "disappear into", as in a closet, becomes training for prayer that is "without ceasing". And this is relevant, productive prayer that makes us active in the spirit and agents of change in the natural.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
On "Not Being Fed Meat"
Recently I heard two teachings from unrelated ministries that, at first glance, had nothing to do with each other. But when considering the picture as a whole, it was like superficially contrary verses that suddenly bring revelation when viewed in a proper Light.
One message had to do with a survey that concluded that the overwhelming number of people leaving a church are leaving because they claimed they were "not being fed enough meat".
The other message had to do with the will of the Father as our "meat".
There are many references to "meat" in the New Testament. Most are referencing meat that is consumed at a meal.
Other times it is a spiritual reference. Several by Paul (1 Corinthians 10:1-4; 1 Corinthians 3:1-2), by the writer of Hebrews (5:12-14), and several times by Jesus (John 4:30-34; 6:26-27).
I want to look at Jesus' use of the word in John 4:34:
One message had to do with a survey that concluded that the overwhelming number of people leaving a church are leaving because they claimed they were "not being fed enough meat".
The other message had to do with the will of the Father as our "meat".
There are many references to "meat" in the New Testament. Most are referencing meat that is consumed at a meal.
Other times it is a spiritual reference. Several by Paul (1 Corinthians 10:1-4; 1 Corinthians 3:1-2), by the writer of Hebrews (5:12-14), and several times by Jesus (John 4:30-34; 6:26-27).
I want to look at Jesus' use of the word in John 4:34:
"Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work."
When we are mature (read Paul's "meat" scriptures) we understand "meat" in the context that Jesus spoke of it. We change our expectation of a church providing a "meal" for us and we turn from wanting more and more in order to be satisfied to looking inward to discover what God is requiring of us. Then we go to work.
We don't leave the church, we leave our excuses.
That is where we are satisfied with mature food, by fulfilling His will for us.
If we want more meat, perhaps we should stop demanding more from a teaching or a Pastor or a conference, and we should commit ourselves to getting fed how Jesus got fed - by doing the will of God.
We don't leave the church, we leave our excuses.
That is where we are satisfied with mature food, by fulfilling His will for us.
If we want more meat, perhaps we should stop demanding more from a teaching or a Pastor or a conference, and we should commit ourselves to getting fed how Jesus got fed - by doing the will of God.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Start at the beginning - repost
Sometimes we want things really really badly. But, even when it comes to the things of God, we've got to start at the right place. It's a heart-issue.
If we want grace we begin by loving God. That produces humility, and humility brings grace (Proverbs 3:34).
If we want financial security we begin by loving people. That leads us to giving and giving secures our receiving (Luke 6:38).
If we want a guarantee of eternal life, we begin by loving God and loving people.
From the Gospel of Luke...
"And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, 'Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?'
He said to him, 'What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?'
So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘your neighbor as yourself’” (Luke 10:25-27).
Start at the beginning. Love God. Love people. The rest will take care of itself.
If we want grace we begin by loving God. That produces humility, and humility brings grace (Proverbs 3:34).
If we want financial security we begin by loving people. That leads us to giving and giving secures our receiving (Luke 6:38).
If we want a guarantee of eternal life, we begin by loving God and loving people.
From the Gospel of Luke...
"And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, 'Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?'
He said to him, 'What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?'
So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘your neighbor as yourself’” (Luke 10:25-27).
Start at the beginning. Love God. Love people. The rest will take care of itself.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Samson's Demise - repost
The Philistine's sought to find Samson's strength, but their victory was assured when they exploited his weakness (Judges 16).
It's wonderful to recognize our strengths. But when we begin to think that we are invincible because of them, we enter dangerous territory unless we are wide-awake to our weaknesses.
After we are alert to them, we must then exercise self-control, pursuing righteousness through the Word, Godly counsel, and humble fellowship with our Father.
Lead with your strengths. Grow in them. Let the Lord and the Word mature you in these. He can use you mightily.
But don't neglect dealing with your weaknesses. Seek the Lord with a humble heart and close the door on the Philistines.
It's wonderful to recognize our strengths. But when we begin to think that we are invincible because of them, we enter dangerous territory unless we are wide-awake to our weaknesses.
After we are alert to them, we must then exercise self-control, pursuing righteousness through the Word, Godly counsel, and humble fellowship with our Father.
Lead with your strengths. Grow in them. Let the Lord and the Word mature you in these. He can use you mightily.
But don't neglect dealing with your weaknesses. Seek the Lord with a humble heart and close the door on the Philistines.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Boldness, Confidence, and Anointing
"...having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus..." (Hebrews 10:19).
"Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise..." (Hebrews 10:35-36).
The same Greek word, "parrhēsia", is translated into these two English words, "boldness" and "confidence"."Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise..." (Hebrews 10:35-36).
This is one disadvantage with which we are left when reading the Bible in a translated language - which most of us must do!
When we link these two thoughts - Paul's encouragement to enter boldly and his counsel to retain confidence - we understand the power of our association with God.
When we can enter the Holiest boldly, we can walk in His will confident. Not in arrogance, but in awe.
Dr. TL Osborn once told me that what most of us call anointing in others is actually experience with and confidence in God. Once we have seen God do something, we recognize when He is about to do it again, and we help to facilitate the environment to produce the same result.
Our entering boldly helps to establish our affiliation (fellowship and experience) with Him. Our confident pursuit of His will positions us to receive the reward - the privilege of bringing Him glory.
Enter boldly and carry the confidence.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
His Work, His Glory, Our Hands
What a privilege to be called into His service! It is still remarkable to me that God uses us for His purposes.
"Let Your work appear to Your servants,
And Your glory to their children.
And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us;
Yes, establish the work of our hands." (Psalm 90:16-17)
We are truly, as Dr. TL Osborn says, "partners with God in BIG KINGDOM BUSINESS".
But we must remember that it is His work, His glory, and our hands.
In our empowerment culture it seems that we can, at times, ask Him to put His hands to our work, instead of the opposite - as if we are owed His participation in what we are working on.
It is His work - and we participate with our hands. Then He establishes the work as His for His glory.
What are you believing Him for right now? Whose work is it?
"Let Your work appear to Your servants,
And Your glory to their children.
And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us;
Yes, establish the work of our hands." (Psalm 90:16-17)
We are truly, as Dr. TL Osborn says, "partners with God in BIG KINGDOM BUSINESS".
But we must remember that it is His work, His glory, and our hands.
In our empowerment culture it seems that we can, at times, ask Him to put His hands to our work, instead of the opposite - as if we are owed His participation in what we are working on.
It is His work - and we participate with our hands. Then He establishes the work as His for His glory.
What are you believing Him for right now? Whose work is it?
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Defending One's Self - remix
Jerusalem was rife with drama as the Man (Whom many were proclaiming to be King) was brought before the authorities.
False accusations and lies were thrust at Him, "But Jesus kept silent." (Matthew 26:63).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Defense of one's self, particularly in our culture, has become somewhat of a right. But the higher way is the way that Jesus showed us.
Much of the time our words are used to create, correct, or restore our own public image. It can be difficult to resist the temptation to defend, to explain, or to return a barb.
In our defense of self, our words, unless spoken from absolutely pure motive can only inflame.
In our silence, God will speak.
How much do we trust God? Will we let Him speak in the silence? Or will we fill it with our words? Jesus showed us the way:
Jesus, perfectly fit to "cast the first stone", didn't cast it.
The late Ed Cole, teacher and mentor to men, said, "Knowledge of God's Word is a bulwark against deception, temptation, accusation, even persecution. "
When accused or slandered, know what God says about you and believe it. In this way, He speaks in your silence. To you. And the voice of the accuser is silenced.
Occasionally, you might even find elements of truth in the accusation. The enemy, in his rush to condemn, can bring conviction that can lead to Godly repentance. "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). In quiet, allow the Holy Spirit to use the words to speak to your heart about what is true and to nullify what is false. The Holy Spirit is the Great Teacher and Counselor, and will lead you into truth (John 16:13).
What about what others think? God will take care of them. Remember Psalm 62:5-7,
Christ was accused that we might not be condemned; and if at any time we find ourselves in this same position, we should remember that we cannot expect to manage with our words what He managed with His silence.
False accusations and lies were thrust at Him, "But Jesus kept silent." (Matthew 26:63).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Defense of one's self, particularly in our culture, has become somewhat of a right. But the higher way is the way that Jesus showed us.
Much of the time our words are used to create, correct, or restore our own public image. It can be difficult to resist the temptation to defend, to explain, or to return a barb.
In our defense of self, our words, unless spoken from absolutely pure motive can only inflame.
In our silence, God will speak.
How much do we trust God? Will we let Him speak in the silence? Or will we fill it with our words? Jesus showed us the way:
Sometimes the accusation can even come through a believer. Paul, talking to those "who are loved by God and called to be saints" (Romans 1:7), said:1 Peter 2:20 "For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. 21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:
22 “ Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth; 23 who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously;"
Romans 2:1 "You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. 2Now we know that God's judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. 3So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God's judgment? 4Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?"Understand that each of us is tragically capable of joining the accuser (Revelation 12:10) in passing judgment on someone else. Even under the most clear circumstances, this is a chancy habit. We're probably best-served by applying the accusation to ourselves to see if there is anything that can be found, first, in us.
Jesus, perfectly fit to "cast the first stone", didn't cast it.
The late Ed Cole, teacher and mentor to men, said, "Knowledge of God's Word is a bulwark against deception, temptation, accusation, even persecution. "
When accused or slandered, know what God says about you and believe it. In this way, He speaks in your silence. To you. And the voice of the accuser is silenced.
Occasionally, you might even find elements of truth in the accusation. The enemy, in his rush to condemn, can bring conviction that can lead to Godly repentance. "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). In quiet, allow the Holy Spirit to use the words to speak to your heart about what is true and to nullify what is false. The Holy Spirit is the Great Teacher and Counselor, and will lead you into truth (John 16:13).
What about what others think? God will take care of them. Remember Psalm 62:5-7,
"My soul, wait silently for God alone,
For my expectation is from Him.
He only is my rock and my salvation.
He is my defense;
I shall not be moved.
In God is my salvation and my glory;
The rock of my strength,
And my refuge, is in God."
For my expectation is from Him.
He only is my rock and my salvation.
He is my defense;
I shall not be moved.
In God is my salvation and my glory;
The rock of my strength,
And my refuge, is in God."
Christ was accused that we might not be condemned; and if at any time we find ourselves in this same position, we should remember that we cannot expect to manage with our words what He managed with His silence.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Found in Translation - The Mind of Christ
"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross" (Phillipians 2:3-8).
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross" (Phillipians 2:3-8).
I was listening to a friend the other day who is fluent in several languages. He was talking about how he has trained himself to think in English, since that is the primary language with which he is surrounded. He has found himself struggling, however, with his native language - having a difficult time finding the right word or phrase because it just isn't as available as it used to be.
We - who have the mind of Christ - should be so lucky! What would it be like to forget our first-nature mind language and to only speak out of our Christ-mind?
When we speak out of the language of the mind of Christ, our lives speak the Kingdom language - LOVE, and He is found in the translation our lives speak.
Be a faithful translation, speak the truth in LOVE.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Found in Translation - Sons and Heirs
I've had opportunity to minister using interpreters in at least 7 different languages. There have been times where my words have been accurately translated and others where this hasn't been the case.
When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.
It is this way with our representation of Christ. People see Him in us. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.
When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.
It is this way with our representation of Christ. People see Him in us. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.
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"For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise"
(Galatians 3:26-29).
(Galatians 3:26-29).
This amazing proclamation secures our place in Him.
We aren't His children by nature (Jesus is the only begotten) or by creation (as Adam, the angels, and all mankind) but by divine adoption. We are made legitimate in Him by His sovereign act of grace in accepting us in the Beloved (Ephesians 1:6)!
Because we are children of God we are heirs of God. And because we are spiritual children of Abraham we are heirs of the promise!
Represent Him as His son and heir to the promise. In this spiritual posture - recognizing His sovereign act of grace in us, not by our works - He can be found in us.
Be a faithful translation. Walk as His son and heir.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Found in Translation - Our Meat is His Will
I've had opportunity to minister using interpreters in at least 7 different languages. There have been times where my words have been accurately translated and others where this hasn't been the case.
When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.
It is this way with our representation of Christ. People see Him in us. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.
When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.
It is this way with our representation of Christ. People see Him in us. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.
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To be a faithful translation of Him we must abandon the search for knowledge for the sake of knowledge and understand the call to seek His will.
Paul writes that we "...might be filled with the knowledge of His will..". There is no greater knowledge than to understand His will for us! Then, after this is secured, there must be a practical carrying-out of what we know as we "...walk worthy...". It isn't enough to know His will. We then must be willing to walk in it!
This produces fruitfulness in every good work and causes an increase in our knowledge of God.
Many seek greater and greater knowledge of Him. That is a good thing. But our walk is affected by our knowledge of His will. And the fruitfulness will bring a greater knowledge of Him as the manifestation of His will in our lives produces fruit that represents Him.
We have a common cry for "more meat", meaning we want more knowledge. But Jesus said, "My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work" (John 4:34).
Be a faithful translation by seeking the will of God and walking in it. Make your meat His will and work.
"For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;..." (Colossians 1:9-10).
To be a faithful translation of Him we must abandon the search for knowledge for the sake of knowledge and understand the call to seek His will.
Paul writes that we "...might be filled with the knowledge of His will..". There is no greater knowledge than to understand His will for us! Then, after this is secured, there must be a practical carrying-out of what we know as we "...walk worthy...". It isn't enough to know His will. We then must be willing to walk in it!
This produces fruitfulness in every good work and causes an increase in our knowledge of God.
Many seek greater and greater knowledge of Him. That is a good thing. But our walk is affected by our knowledge of His will. And the fruitfulness will bring a greater knowledge of Him as the manifestation of His will in our lives produces fruit that represents Him.
We have a common cry for "more meat", meaning we want more knowledge. But Jesus said, "My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work" (John 4:34).
Be a faithful translation by seeking the will of God and walking in it. Make your meat His will and work.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Found in Translation - Walking in Him
I've had opportunity to minister using interpreters in at least 7 different languages. There have been times where my words have been accurately translated and others where this hasn't been the case.
When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.
It is this way with our representation of Christ. People see Him in us. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.
When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.
It is this way with our representation of Christ. People see Him in us. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.
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The receiving of Christ is a heart matter. It is a complete reception of Christ as fully God and fully man. It is surrender to Him in all his offices, as Prophet, Priest, and King and the acknowledgment and entire acceptance as Savior and Redeemer.
We also receive all blessings of grace along with Him, from Him, and through Him; as a justifying righteousness, the remission of sins, our adoption as children, and as an inheritance among all them that are sanctified.
Paul's instruction to walk in Him in this same way means, not only an imitation of Him as He walked (in grace, love, patience, humility, meekness, and obedience) but by faith in Him - always looking to Him, leaning on Him, and receiving strength from Him, so that we CAN walk in Christ, under His influence, by His direction, and through His assistance.
We then have what we need in order to have what others need.
Be a faithful translation by walking fully in Him.
"As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving" (Colossians 2:6-7).
The receiving of Christ is a heart matter. It is a complete reception of Christ as fully God and fully man. It is surrender to Him in all his offices, as Prophet, Priest, and King and the acknowledgment and entire acceptance as Savior and Redeemer.
We also receive all blessings of grace along with Him, from Him, and through Him; as a justifying righteousness, the remission of sins, our adoption as children, and as an inheritance among all them that are sanctified.
Paul's instruction to walk in Him in this same way means, not only an imitation of Him as He walked (in grace, love, patience, humility, meekness, and obedience) but by faith in Him - always looking to Him, leaning on Him, and receiving strength from Him, so that we CAN walk in Christ, under His influence, by His direction, and through His assistance.
We then have what we need in order to have what others need.
Be a faithful translation by walking fully in Him.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Found in Translation - Christ in you
I've had opportunity to minister using interpreters in at least 7 different languages. There have been times where my words have been accurately translated and others where this hasn't been the case. This has been clear to me as I observe the response of the people as they receive the translated words.
When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.
It is this way with our representation of Christ. People see Him in us. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.
When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.
It is this way with our representation of Christ. People see Him in us. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.
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"To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Colossians 1:27).
This first chapter of Colossians speaks to the faith of God's people, the preeminence of Christ, His victorious reconciling death, and the sacrificial service of His followers - the church.
This particular verse in context, above, when translated properly through our living, shows Him not only as the omnipresent God, but as the Source of special grace. The phrase communicates the full range of a revelation of Him in us, of our possession of Him, and of His dwelling in us by His Spirit.
It is a representation of His grace, since by works we cannot attain His indwelling.
But, in an accurate translation of His glory, His works will be manifest in us.
He is being translated by you to a world that primarily speaks in works. Your works are not your salvation - only by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8) - but they may be the salvation of another as His grace is translated into love by your works.
Be a faithful translation.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Found in Translation - Ambassadors
I've had opportunity to minister using interpreters in at least 7 different languages, that I can think of. There have been times where my words have been accurately translated. And others where this hasn't been the case (one translator actually told the people that a minister I was referring to was a Buddhist!). This has been clear to me as I observe the response of the people as they receive the translated words.
When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.
It is this way with our representation of Christ. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.
When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.
It is this way with our representation of Christ. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.
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"Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God." (2 Corinthians 5:20)
This potent verse, teeming with God's confidence in us, speaks to the power of His love and the depth of His grace. He pleads through us.
What Christ committed to Paul, He committed to us.
He writes, just 6 short verses before this, "...the love of Christ compels us...". This is the prerequisite to representing Christ as His ambassador (entire passage here).
If people are to find Christ, they will find Him through us. Our translation of His Spirit-life into a flesh-form, once again, is the greatest hope for the reconciliation of all.
Be a faithful translation of the Word. Be compelled by the love of Christ.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
"Yes - but it is not I!" - repost
The story is told of Augustine, after his conversion, passing a former mistress on the street.
The mistress, in an attempt to lure him, said, "Augustine! It is I!".
Augustine's response, without even stopping, was, "Yes - but it is not I!"
The mistress, in an attempt to lure him, said, "Augustine! It is I!".
Augustine's response, without even stopping, was, "Yes - but it is not I!"
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." (2 Corinthians 5:17)
If we are truly born-again, we will allow God to change us. It is inevitable and welcomed in the heart of anyone desiring to be more like Him.
We can accommodate His work in us by submitting to His Word and to the Greater One Who lives in us.
We can accommodate His work in us by submitting to His Word and to the Greater One Who lives in us.
"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me." (Galatians 2:20)
Monday, July 13, 2009
A Word on Perfection and Persecution
The Apostle Paul penned a number of scriptures that encourage us in pursuit of perfection (Ephesians 4:13; Colossians 1:28; Colossians 4:12). James had some things to say, too (James 1:4; James 3:2).
I'd like to focus on something that Jesus said about perfection.
I'd like to focus on something that Jesus said about perfection.
"Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect" (Matthew 5:48).
As with all scripture, we must look at this in context. What is the "therefore" there for?
This verse is one scripture from Jesus' "Sermon on the Mount", (Matthew 5, 6 and 7). This particular verse ties up 6 verses on the subject (as titled in my Bible), "Love Your Enemies".
To be perfect as Our Father in Heaven is perfect means that we shine on the just and the unjust. And that we bring refreshment to the just and the unjust.
Jesus is emphasizing that it isn't fit for us, in representing Him, to do anything but bless, do good, and pray for those who hate, curse, or persecute us.
Persecution is a different subject completely. We don't see persecution in the United States in the way that scripture talks about persecution, but we may someday. Believers in the early church or today in China and some Middle East nations would laugh at what we call persecution. We, in our entitlement-culture, just get offended because people don't agree with us - and call that persecution.
Here's the point: Live like the King. He rules over His whole Kingdom. Some people don't serve Him, some may even curse and hate Him, but He shines on and sends rain to them anyway.
And many, as they awaken to His goodness as manifest in His Body, will come to repentance (Romans 2:4).
In this way, according to Jesus, you can be perfect, as He is.
This verse is one scripture from Jesus' "Sermon on the Mount", (Matthew 5, 6 and 7). This particular verse ties up 6 verses on the subject (as titled in my Bible), "Love Your Enemies".
"You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect" (Matthew 5:43-48).
To be perfect as Our Father in Heaven is perfect means that we shine on the just and the unjust. And that we bring refreshment to the just and the unjust.
Jesus is emphasizing that it isn't fit for us, in representing Him, to do anything but bless, do good, and pray for those who hate, curse, or persecute us.
Persecution is a different subject completely. We don't see persecution in the United States in the way that scripture talks about persecution, but we may someday. Believers in the early church or today in China and some Middle East nations would laugh at what we call persecution. We, in our entitlement-culture, just get offended because people don't agree with us - and call that persecution.
Here's the point: Live like the King. He rules over His whole Kingdom. Some people don't serve Him, some may even curse and hate Him, but He shines on and sends rain to them anyway.
And many, as they awaken to His goodness as manifest in His Body, will come to repentance (Romans 2:4).
In this way, according to Jesus, you can be perfect, as He is.
Friday, July 10, 2009
The Value of Submission
In considering fellowship, we understand that there are different types of relationships between members of the Body of Christ. My relationships with younger college-age folks are much different than with elders in the Body of Christ.
A specific level of fellowship is submission.
Peter urges Elders to:
Peter goes on to encourage the young to submit to this shepherding oversight.
And to the young, the writer of Hebrews says:
A specific level of fellowship is submission.
Peter urges Elders to:
"Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away." 1 Peter 5:2-4
Peter goes on to encourage the young to submit to this shepherding oversight.
And to the young, the writer of Hebrews says:
"Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you." Hebrews 13:17
And the community functions as designed - a family atmosphere with loving elders who have experience and wisdom that only comes from time in faithful service to the Lord, and those younger submitting to their care, not out of obligation, but willingly.
It is not a concrete pecking order, but a living expression of life in an ordered Kingdom with God as our King.
In submission we entreat the influence of those who have gone before us who, by reason of experience, are equipped to help us because they've been there.
Mutual submission is the overriding principle (Ephesians 5:21; Philippians 2:3).
Enjoy and value submission. Recognize the worth of this Godly discipline.
It is not a concrete pecking order, but a living expression of life in an ordered Kingdom with God as our King.
In submission we entreat the influence of those who have gone before us who, by reason of experience, are equipped to help us because they've been there.
Mutual submission is the overriding principle (Ephesians 5:21; Philippians 2:3).
Enjoy and value submission. Recognize the worth of this Godly discipline.
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