02/28/2011
Good Morning!
When was the last time you walked on water? You can, you know! Peter did! Why can’t we?
Mr. Pennington’s last job before retiring was that of being the caretaker of Camp J.K Orr off of Freeman Road in Clayton County Georgia. In the era of segregation, Camp Orr served as the “black” camp. I have been to both Camp Bert Adams and to Camp J.K. Orr and in my opinion, Camp Orr was the better of the two, although the facilities were not quite as plentiful. It has a great mess hall (that’s where you eat, for the uninitiated) and some nice Adirondacks (sleeping huts); a great fishing dock and a wonderful lake full of fish. I spent quite a number more than one weekend down at the lake fishing. Many times I was by myself … but Mr. P joined me occasionally and sometimes one of his sons would join us.
One March day, Mr. P, his son David and I were down at the lake in Mr. P’s fishing boat. It was on that day I decided to “walk” on the water. Well, actually, I fell out of the boat – if I were being truthful – and I must. Mr. P sprang into action – guiding the bow of the boat to my grasp, pushing me toward shore. David ran up the hill to get the Ford Bronco, turned the heat on full blast, and got me back to safety before I froze. It was quite an exhilarating afternoon.
But enough about my escapades … let’s read Matthew’s account of Peter walking on the water:
Matthew 14:25-33 (New Century Version)
25 Between three and six o'clock in the morning, Jesus came to them, walking on the water.26 When his followers saw him walking on the water, they were afraid. They said, "It's a ghost!" and cried out in fear.
27 But Jesus quickly spoke to them, "Have courage! It is I. Do not be afraid."
28 Peter said, "Lord, if it is really you, then command me to come to you on the water."
29 Jesus said, "Come."
And Peter left the boat and walked on the water to Jesus. 30 But when Peter saw the wind and the waves, he became afraid and began to sink. He shouted, "Lord, save me!"
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught Peter. Jesus said, "Your faith is small. Why did you doubt?"
32 After they got into the boat, the wind became calm.33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped Jesus and said, "Truly you are the Son of God!"
After Jesus fed the 5,000 men (not counting the women and children), He told his disciples to take a boat to the other shore. He went off to pray. While the disciples were making their way across the lake, a storm came up and they really struggled. After nine hours of struggling, they look up and see Jesus strolling across the lake towards the boat. I agree with them. … I would have been frightened. No …. I probably would be petrified. Jesus acts immediately to calm their fears. And that’s where the story gets good … Peter asks to step out of the boat.
You know, if we are going to accomplish anything for the Lord, we are going to have to step out of the boat. We are going to have to put aside our fears and trust God for the result. The disciples were fine in the boat even though they were battling the storm … and so are we. As long as we are on familiar territory, we can “handle” the storms of life. But when we see the opportunity and it’s not in our comfort zone … we become a little relctant.
I love Peter. I love his enthusiasm. And I love his failures because those serve as teaching points to me. Peter was willing to step out of the boat. But then he began to look at his circumstances. Had he kept his eyes on Jesus, he never would have sunk. But when he began worrying about where he was and what he was doing, he sunk like a stone. So that teaches me to keep my eyes on Jesus and trust Him. As Jesus says “why did you doubt?”
Today’s a good day to step out of the boat – not fall out of the boat like I did. Trust Jesus for your today … you might just walk on water!
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Monday, February 28, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Good Morning!
I have been watching Lee and Rodney as they work to get my new roof installed. I haven’t been there every minute, mind you, but I have been around most of the time. (I imagine they are thankful that I have a job and have to be gone most of the day … although I don’t say much.) People who work with their hands intrigue me because that is something I could never master. I guess I didn’t have the patience and the courage to do so. And, yes, working with one’s hands does take courage. One has to assume he CAN DO IT … rather than to fear that he cannot. I fit in the second category.
Wednesday evening, after the sun had set, I stood in the driveway with Lee. At first we were talking about what he needed to do inside the house to fix the ceilings that had water damage. He then began to talk about Friday night when he goes to training to work with people in the Clayton County jail … to tell them about Jesus. We talked about his past … and his future. We talked about the weaknesses he has in his life … the touch points where Satan will attack. I told him that he should expect to have more occurrences … not because of Satan but because God will be “proving” him … making Lee stronger in that area … teaching Lee to turn to God in times of temptation. I shared with Lee the following Scripture which seems to cross my lips more and more frequently these days:
James 1:2-4 (English Standard Version)
Testing of Your Faith
2 Count it all joy, my brothers,[a] when you meet trials of various kinds, 3for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Footnotes:
a. James 1:2 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God’s family, the church; also verses 16, 19
I likened the trials we go through to football. Okay, ladies, I know … football?!!! Well, I asked Lee if the coach just began walking them through plays and told them to go execute them on the first day. The answer is “No”. The first thing the coach does is put you under physical stress. And he does it daily so that your body becomes strong and able to withstand the physical effort of the game. After you are worn out physically, you welcome learning the mental aspects of the game as a relief from your effort. As practice goes on, the coach teaches the player new techniques to lessen the physical stress.
God does the same thing for us. We have to learn to trust God in all aspects of our life – not just the Sunday morning, Sunday night, Wednesday night routine. We have to trust God for our 24/7 lives … where temptation does enter and the sin choices beckon. It is not an overnight affair … but a daily walk learned.
Before Lee left, he asked that we pray. And we did. Right there in the driveway as the darkness fell. What a joy.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
I have been watching Lee and Rodney as they work to get my new roof installed. I haven’t been there every minute, mind you, but I have been around most of the time. (I imagine they are thankful that I have a job and have to be gone most of the day … although I don’t say much.) People who work with their hands intrigue me because that is something I could never master. I guess I didn’t have the patience and the courage to do so. And, yes, working with one’s hands does take courage. One has to assume he CAN DO IT … rather than to fear that he cannot. I fit in the second category.
Wednesday evening, after the sun had set, I stood in the driveway with Lee. At first we were talking about what he needed to do inside the house to fix the ceilings that had water damage. He then began to talk about Friday night when he goes to training to work with people in the Clayton County jail … to tell them about Jesus. We talked about his past … and his future. We talked about the weaknesses he has in his life … the touch points where Satan will attack. I told him that he should expect to have more occurrences … not because of Satan but because God will be “proving” him … making Lee stronger in that area … teaching Lee to turn to God in times of temptation. I shared with Lee the following Scripture which seems to cross my lips more and more frequently these days:
James 1:2-4 (English Standard Version)
Testing of Your Faith
2 Count it all joy, my brothers,[a] when you meet trials of various kinds, 3for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Footnotes:
a. James 1:2 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God’s family, the church; also verses 16, 19
I likened the trials we go through to football. Okay, ladies, I know … football?!!! Well, I asked Lee if the coach just began walking them through plays and told them to go execute them on the first day. The answer is “No”. The first thing the coach does is put you under physical stress. And he does it daily so that your body becomes strong and able to withstand the physical effort of the game. After you are worn out physically, you welcome learning the mental aspects of the game as a relief from your effort. As practice goes on, the coach teaches the player new techniques to lessen the physical stress.
God does the same thing for us. We have to learn to trust God in all aspects of our life – not just the Sunday morning, Sunday night, Wednesday night routine. We have to trust God for our 24/7 lives … where temptation does enter and the sin choices beckon. It is not an overnight affair … but a daily walk learned.
Before Lee left, he asked that we pray. And we did. Right there in the driveway as the darkness fell. What a joy.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Good Morning!
Thursday … Bible study night. I really enjoy gathering with the group on Thursday for in depth study of God’s Word. We just started Paul’s first letter to the church at Corinth. I hope we can get through the passage below tonight … but won’t be disappointed if we don’t. This passage is chock full of good stuff for the Christian. Give a listen:
1 Corinthians 1:10-31 (English Standard Version)
Divisions in the Church
10I appeal to you, brothers,[a] by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. 11For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers. 12What I mean is that each one of you says, "I follow Paul," or "I follow Apollos," or "I follow Cephas," or "I follow Christ." 13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? 14I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, 15so that no one may say that you were baptized in my name. 16(I did baptize also the household of Stephanas. Beyond that, I do not know whether I baptized anyone else.) 17For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
Christ the Wisdom and Power of God
18For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19For it is written,
"I will destroy the wisdom of the wise,
and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart."
20 Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? 21For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. 22For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, 23but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, 24but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
26For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards,[b] not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 27But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 28God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, 29so that no human being[c] might boast in the presence of God. 30And because of him[d] you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, 31so that, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."
Footnotes:
a. 1 Corinthians 1:10 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God’s family, the church; also verses 11, 26
b. 1 Corinthians 1:26 Greek according to the flesh
c. 1 Corinthians 1:29 Greek no flesh
d. 1 Corinthians 1:30 Greek And from him
First, Paul calls for the church to be unified. And that’s what we should be … one people committed to the task of sharing the Gospel message, going and growing daily. Unfortunately the people of the world don’t see us in that light. No … a number of people see us in our failures and denounce us for our “hypocrisy”. And we help them along by trying to cover our sins rather than stating the plain truth that we are sinners, redeemed by the grace of God.
Second, Paul encourages us to trust God … not our worldly wisdom. God does use that which doesn’t seem wise to teach us the true wisdom of trusting God for the answer. Take a few moments to think about that … we who think we are so smart often find ourselves being taught life’s lessons by someone who we would never guess could teach us.
Finally, Paul tells us to think about our calling … how God has blessed us in what He has called us to do, I often tell my fellow Bible students that I am truly an introvert. Actually I am! I have a deep seated inferiority complex that I believe comes from my upbringing. I would have never have guessed that God would have put me in front of people to sing … to teach … or to write. Yet in each of these endeavors, God has worked miraculously. I cannot tell you how often I sit in front of the screen with absolutely nothing in my brain and the words flow. That is a testimony … not a boast. As Paul says “Let one who boasts, boast in the Lord.
Good stuff for tonight … and today too.
Just one other word … tomorrow my brother Bruce returns to Viet Nam. He and several of his veteran buddies are returning to build a library where they fought over forty years ago. Bruce is a double Purple Heart winner … and a hero to me. Please pray for his safety while away. I appreciate it.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Thursday … Bible study night. I really enjoy gathering with the group on Thursday for in depth study of God’s Word. We just started Paul’s first letter to the church at Corinth. I hope we can get through the passage below tonight … but won’t be disappointed if we don’t. This passage is chock full of good stuff for the Christian. Give a listen:
1 Corinthians 1:10-31 (English Standard Version)
Divisions in the Church
10I appeal to you, brothers,[a] by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. 11For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers. 12What I mean is that each one of you says, "I follow Paul," or "I follow Apollos," or "I follow Cephas," or "I follow Christ." 13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? 14I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, 15so that no one may say that you were baptized in my name. 16(I did baptize also the household of Stephanas. Beyond that, I do not know whether I baptized anyone else.) 17For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
Christ the Wisdom and Power of God
18For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19For it is written,
"I will destroy the wisdom of the wise,
and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart."
20 Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? 21For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. 22For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, 23but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, 24but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
26For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards,[b] not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 27But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 28God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, 29so that no human being[c] might boast in the presence of God. 30And because of him[d] you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, 31so that, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."
Footnotes:
a. 1 Corinthians 1:10 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God’s family, the church; also verses 11, 26
b. 1 Corinthians 1:26 Greek according to the flesh
c. 1 Corinthians 1:29 Greek no flesh
d. 1 Corinthians 1:30 Greek And from him
First, Paul calls for the church to be unified. And that’s what we should be … one people committed to the task of sharing the Gospel message, going and growing daily. Unfortunately the people of the world don’t see us in that light. No … a number of people see us in our failures and denounce us for our “hypocrisy”. And we help them along by trying to cover our sins rather than stating the plain truth that we are sinners, redeemed by the grace of God.
Second, Paul encourages us to trust God … not our worldly wisdom. God does use that which doesn’t seem wise to teach us the true wisdom of trusting God for the answer. Take a few moments to think about that … we who think we are so smart often find ourselves being taught life’s lessons by someone who we would never guess could teach us.
Finally, Paul tells us to think about our calling … how God has blessed us in what He has called us to do, I often tell my fellow Bible students that I am truly an introvert. Actually I am! I have a deep seated inferiority complex that I believe comes from my upbringing. I would have never have guessed that God would have put me in front of people to sing … to teach … or to write. Yet in each of these endeavors, God has worked miraculously. I cannot tell you how often I sit in front of the screen with absolutely nothing in my brain and the words flow. That is a testimony … not a boast. As Paul says “Let one who boasts, boast in the Lord.
Good stuff for tonight … and today too.
Just one other word … tomorrow my brother Bruce returns to Viet Nam. He and several of his veteran buddies are returning to build a library where they fought over forty years ago. Bruce is a double Purple Heart winner … and a hero to me. Please pray for his safety while away. I appreciate it.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Coming Home
Good Morning!
I was off work Monday – “President’s Day – a national holiday in which we honor nothing. There aren’t any parades. As far as I know, no ceremonies take place at the White House or in Congress or anywhere else. About the only mention you see is on the History Channel where they run the eight-part series on Presidents and some other programs about the Presidents. But it’s a day off for a lot of people – like me.
My holiday was spent thusly:
1. Sent out a Good Morning
2. Composed the Good Morning for the next day
3. Watched a little part of a movie
4. Took the Sonata to be repaired
5. Welcomed the roofers to the house
6. Studied my lesson for Sunday morning Bible study
7. Thought about today’s Good Morning
8. Made some lunch for the roofers
9. Helped move shingles to the roof
10. Got my rental car – a bright red HHR
11. Grilled some great hamburgers, steaks, and Nathan hot dogs
12. Fell asleep watching something on TV
I am sure that you really aren’t interested in all the above but here are some good things that come from my day off.
First, Norma commented after lunch how she was impressed when Lee, my roofer, blessed the food – out loud – before he ate it. Lee is a golf buddy – and once was just one of those neighborhood kids that caused problems. Lee has had some problems in the past … but that is where those problems are … in the past. And, by the way, who doesn’t have a “past”? Somehow I just believe that God is more interested in what we have learned than in what we have done; and more concerned about our tomorrow than our yesterday. You know, any time you hire somebody to do something, there is always that skepticism about what you are getting. Miss N and I had discussed this … but I think Miss N was won over when he said grace aloud, thanking God for his food, before he ate.
So what did I think about for this morning’s Good Morning? Well, our Sunday morning Bible study has been in Hosea. If you will recall, God told Hosea to take Gomer, a prostitute, as his wife. In this God was pointing out how Israel had offered itself to strange gods. Well, Sunday we take up the following passage:
Hosea 14 (English Standard Version)
A Plea to Return to the LORD
1 Return, O Israel, to the LORD your God, for you have stumbled because of your iniquity.
2Take with you words and return to the LORD; say to him, "Take away all iniquity; accept what is good, and we will pay with bulls the vows[a] of our lips.
3 Assyria shall not save us; we will not ride on horses; and we will say no more, 'Our God,' to the work of our hands. In you the orphan finds mercy."
4I will heal their apostasy; I will love them freely, for my anger has turned from them.
5 I will be like the dew to Israel; he shall blossom like the lily; he shall take root like the trees of Lebanon;
6his shoots shall spread out; his beauty shall be like the olive, and his fragrance like Lebanon.
7They shall return and dwell beneath my[b] shadow; they shall flourish like the grain; they shall blossom like the vine; their fame shall be like the wine of Lebanon.
8O Ephraim, what have I to do with idols? It is I who answer and look after you.[c] I am like an evergreen cypress; from me comes your fruit.
9 Whoever is wise, let him understand these things; whoever is discerning, let him know them; for the ways of the LORD are right, and the upright walk in them, but transgressors stumble in them.
Footnotes:
a. Hosea 14:2 Septuagint, Syriac pay the fruit
b. Hosea 14:7 Hebrew his
c. Hosea 14:8 Hebrew him
Maybe it is just me, but the first few verses reminded me of Christ’s story of the prodigal son. I know I have written of this in the past, but it is always good to remember. So here goes:
Luke 15:11-24 (English Standard Version)
The Parable of the Prodigal Son
11And he said, "There was a man who had two sons. 12And the younger of them said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.' And he divided his property between them. 13Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. 14And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. 15So he went and hired himself out to[a] one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything.
17"But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! 18I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants."' 20And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. 21And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.'[b] 22But the father said to his servants,[c] 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. 23And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. 24For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate.
Footnotes:
a. Luke 15:15 Greek joined himself to
b. Luke 15:21 Some manuscripts add treat me as one of your hired servants
c. Luke 15:22 Greek bondservants
There is more to the story – how the older brother reacted – but let’s just concentrate on the father today. You see I know what it is like to have a child who makes decisions that can place him or her in harm’s way.
I know how the father worried over his son because I have been there. And I know many of you have been as well.
I can imagine how often he looked up from his work, hoping to see his child coming home.
I know the disappointment he felt day after day … until one day he saw the familiar silhouette coming down the road.
And I know the joy when the child chooses to come home.
Imagine, if you can, the joy God feels when one of us makes the choice to return to Him … to come with a broken heart and a contrite spirit and ask Him to forgive us. God doesn’t wait for us to get to the front door … no, He has already sprinted to us, ready to embrace us at our first word.
I know some of you are going through this heartache in your lives today. All I can say is “hang on” because there will come a time when this too shall pass. Keep trusting God … lifting your loved one up in prayer each day. Don’t give them up for someday you will see their silhouette coming down the road … coming home to you.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
I was off work Monday – “President’s Day – a national holiday in which we honor nothing. There aren’t any parades. As far as I know, no ceremonies take place at the White House or in Congress or anywhere else. About the only mention you see is on the History Channel where they run the eight-part series on Presidents and some other programs about the Presidents. But it’s a day off for a lot of people – like me.
My holiday was spent thusly:
1. Sent out a Good Morning
2. Composed the Good Morning for the next day
3. Watched a little part of a movie
4. Took the Sonata to be repaired
5. Welcomed the roofers to the house
6. Studied my lesson for Sunday morning Bible study
7. Thought about today’s Good Morning
8. Made some lunch for the roofers
9. Helped move shingles to the roof
10. Got my rental car – a bright red HHR
11. Grilled some great hamburgers, steaks, and Nathan hot dogs
12. Fell asleep watching something on TV
I am sure that you really aren’t interested in all the above but here are some good things that come from my day off.
First, Norma commented after lunch how she was impressed when Lee, my roofer, blessed the food – out loud – before he ate it. Lee is a golf buddy – and once was just one of those neighborhood kids that caused problems. Lee has had some problems in the past … but that is where those problems are … in the past. And, by the way, who doesn’t have a “past”? Somehow I just believe that God is more interested in what we have learned than in what we have done; and more concerned about our tomorrow than our yesterday. You know, any time you hire somebody to do something, there is always that skepticism about what you are getting. Miss N and I had discussed this … but I think Miss N was won over when he said grace aloud, thanking God for his food, before he ate.
So what did I think about for this morning’s Good Morning? Well, our Sunday morning Bible study has been in Hosea. If you will recall, God told Hosea to take Gomer, a prostitute, as his wife. In this God was pointing out how Israel had offered itself to strange gods. Well, Sunday we take up the following passage:
Hosea 14 (English Standard Version)
A Plea to Return to the LORD
1 Return, O Israel, to the LORD your God, for you have stumbled because of your iniquity.
2Take with you words and return to the LORD; say to him, "Take away all iniquity; accept what is good, and we will pay with bulls the vows[a] of our lips.
3 Assyria shall not save us; we will not ride on horses; and we will say no more, 'Our God,' to the work of our hands. In you the orphan finds mercy."
4I will heal their apostasy; I will love them freely, for my anger has turned from them.
5 I will be like the dew to Israel; he shall blossom like the lily; he shall take root like the trees of Lebanon;
6his shoots shall spread out; his beauty shall be like the olive, and his fragrance like Lebanon.
7They shall return and dwell beneath my[b] shadow; they shall flourish like the grain; they shall blossom like the vine; their fame shall be like the wine of Lebanon.
8O Ephraim, what have I to do with idols? It is I who answer and look after you.[c] I am like an evergreen cypress; from me comes your fruit.
9 Whoever is wise, let him understand these things; whoever is discerning, let him know them; for the ways of the LORD are right, and the upright walk in them, but transgressors stumble in them.
Footnotes:
a. Hosea 14:2 Septuagint, Syriac pay the fruit
b. Hosea 14:7 Hebrew his
c. Hosea 14:8 Hebrew him
Maybe it is just me, but the first few verses reminded me of Christ’s story of the prodigal son. I know I have written of this in the past, but it is always good to remember. So here goes:
Luke 15:11-24 (English Standard Version)
The Parable of the Prodigal Son
11And he said, "There was a man who had two sons. 12And the younger of them said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.' And he divided his property between them. 13Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. 14And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. 15So he went and hired himself out to[a] one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything.
17"But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! 18I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants."' 20And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. 21And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.'[b] 22But the father said to his servants,[c] 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. 23And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. 24For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate.
Footnotes:
a. Luke 15:15 Greek joined himself to
b. Luke 15:21 Some manuscripts add treat me as one of your hired servants
c. Luke 15:22 Greek bondservants
There is more to the story – how the older brother reacted – but let’s just concentrate on the father today. You see I know what it is like to have a child who makes decisions that can place him or her in harm’s way.
I know how the father worried over his son because I have been there. And I know many of you have been as well.
I can imagine how often he looked up from his work, hoping to see his child coming home.
I know the disappointment he felt day after day … until one day he saw the familiar silhouette coming down the road.
And I know the joy when the child chooses to come home.
Imagine, if you can, the joy God feels when one of us makes the choice to return to Him … to come with a broken heart and a contrite spirit and ask Him to forgive us. God doesn’t wait for us to get to the front door … no, He has already sprinted to us, ready to embrace us at our first word.
I know some of you are going through this heartache in your lives today. All I can say is “hang on” because there will come a time when this too shall pass. Keep trusting God … lifting your loved one up in prayer each day. Don’t give them up for someday you will see their silhouette coming down the road … coming home to you.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
New Life; New Power
Good Morning!
One of the passages in the Sunday night Bible review that struck me was the story of Dorcas. Here is the account as given by Luke:
Acts 9:36-43 (English Standard Version)
Dorcas Restored to Life
36Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas.[a] She was full of good works and acts of charity. 37In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, "Please come to us without delay." 39So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics[b] and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. 40But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, "Tabitha, arise." And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 43And he stayed in Joppa for many days with one Simon, a tanner.
Footnotes:
Acts 9:36 The Aramaic name Tabitha and the Greek name Dorcas both mean gazelle
Acts 9:39 Greek chiton, a long garment worn under the cloak next to the skin
So what do we know about Dorcas? Well, we know that she was loved and that she loved. She cared about people and let them know it by deeds as well as words. She was industrious. And she got sick and died. The people whose lives she affected took care of her body (honored her) and sent for Peter to come. Now that is interesting … why would they send for Peter when she was already dead? Perhaps they wanted him to conduct the funeral services … if they had a funeral service like we know back then. She was dead … there was nothing Peter could do … or was there?
Walk with me back to John 14 for a second. Jesus is talking with His disciples on night before He was crucified. Here is a smattering of what He told them:
John 14:1-14 (English Standard Version)
I Am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life
1 "Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God;[a] believe also in me. 2In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?[b] 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. 4And you know the way to where I am going."[c] 5 Thomas said to him, "Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?" 6Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you had known me, you would have known my Father also.[d] From now on you do know him and have seen him."
8 Philip said to him, "Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us." 9Jesus said to him, "Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father'? 10Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. 11Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves.
12"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. 13 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask me[e] anything in my name, I will do it.
Footnotes:
a. John 14:1 Or You believe in God
b. John 14:2 Or In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you
c. John 14:4 Some manuscripts Where I am going you know, and the way you know
d. John 14:7 Or If you know me, you will know my Father also, or If you have known me, you will know my Father also
e. John 14:14 Some manuscripts omit me
So I am sitting there listening to the preacher speak and the portion of the verse that I bolded is going through my head. “…whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do …”. I can still hear my brother in Christ, Keith Brewer, reciting this verse with conviction because it is true. Just look at what Peter did that day in Joppa. He knelt beside Dorcas and prayed and then instructed her to rise. And she did! From the dead … and I mean very dead because her body had already been prepared for burial. Peter … yes, the same Peter who denied Christ; and who preached Christ; did the very things that Christ did … healed the sick and the lame … and raised the dead!!!
So what does that have to do with you and me on this day in history? Well, let’s read verse 12 again and determine who can do these things.
Is the power to do these things limited to the Apostles? No … okay, how about just to Jesus’ close followers of that time? No… Jesus says “whoever believes in me…” That includes you. And it includes me. We limit God’s power by our own unbelief. We think of the things that we believe God cannot do rather than stride forward knowing that God can do anything. Am I suggesting you make a visit to the funeral home this afternoon … no, not unless God leads you to do that … but I am suggesting that if God leads you to do so, His power is effective in you to do so.
What a great story to be found in the book of Acts. Have a great day today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
One of the passages in the Sunday night Bible review that struck me was the story of Dorcas. Here is the account as given by Luke:
Acts 9:36-43 (English Standard Version)
Dorcas Restored to Life
36Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas.[a] She was full of good works and acts of charity. 37In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, "Please come to us without delay." 39So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics[b] and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. 40But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, "Tabitha, arise." And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 43And he stayed in Joppa for many days with one Simon, a tanner.
Footnotes:
Acts 9:36 The Aramaic name Tabitha and the Greek name Dorcas both mean gazelle
Acts 9:39 Greek chiton, a long garment worn under the cloak next to the skin
So what do we know about Dorcas? Well, we know that she was loved and that she loved. She cared about people and let them know it by deeds as well as words. She was industrious. And she got sick and died. The people whose lives she affected took care of her body (honored her) and sent for Peter to come. Now that is interesting … why would they send for Peter when she was already dead? Perhaps they wanted him to conduct the funeral services … if they had a funeral service like we know back then. She was dead … there was nothing Peter could do … or was there?
Walk with me back to John 14 for a second. Jesus is talking with His disciples on night before He was crucified. Here is a smattering of what He told them:
John 14:1-14 (English Standard Version)
I Am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life
1 "Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God;[a] believe also in me. 2In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?[b] 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. 4And you know the way to where I am going."[c] 5 Thomas said to him, "Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?" 6Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you had known me, you would have known my Father also.[d] From now on you do know him and have seen him."
8 Philip said to him, "Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us." 9Jesus said to him, "Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father'? 10Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. 11Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves.
12"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. 13 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask me[e] anything in my name, I will do it.
Footnotes:
a. John 14:1 Or You believe in God
b. John 14:2 Or In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you
c. John 14:4 Some manuscripts Where I am going you know, and the way you know
d. John 14:7 Or If you know me, you will know my Father also, or If you have known me, you will know my Father also
e. John 14:14 Some manuscripts omit me
So I am sitting there listening to the preacher speak and the portion of the verse that I bolded is going through my head. “…whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do …”. I can still hear my brother in Christ, Keith Brewer, reciting this verse with conviction because it is true. Just look at what Peter did that day in Joppa. He knelt beside Dorcas and prayed and then instructed her to rise. And she did! From the dead … and I mean very dead because her body had already been prepared for burial. Peter … yes, the same Peter who denied Christ; and who preached Christ; did the very things that Christ did … healed the sick and the lame … and raised the dead!!!
So what does that have to do with you and me on this day in history? Well, let’s read verse 12 again and determine who can do these things.
Is the power to do these things limited to the Apostles? No … okay, how about just to Jesus’ close followers of that time? No… Jesus says “whoever believes in me…” That includes you. And it includes me. We limit God’s power by our own unbelief. We think of the things that we believe God cannot do rather than stride forward knowing that God can do anything. Am I suggesting you make a visit to the funeral home this afternoon … no, not unless God leads you to do that … but I am suggesting that if God leads you to do so, His power is effective in you to do so.
What a great story to be found in the book of Acts. Have a great day today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Monday, February 21, 2011
We Are One
Good Morning!
I spent Friday morning with Norma as she visited Eye Consultants of Atlanta. I has now been a little more than a year and she still doesn’t have clear vision in her eye. So Dr. Mohney and Dr. Frank spent a good bit more time with her than usual. We have to go back March 3rd for a field of vision test … and then go from there. Norma commented that she now has four doctor appointments in March … with Dr. Mohney; with a gastroenterologist; with her primary care physician, and with her oncologist. All points of prayer for us … for which I am quite grateful.
Sitting in the waiting room can be more worrisome than being the patient. I took along a book I had read and studied several (was it eight or ten years) ago written by Charles Colson and Ellen Vaughn. For those who do not remember, Chuck Colson was one of the people convicted in the Watergate Scandal. He went to prison … and while there he received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Now I know some of us think that jailhouse conversions are suspect … but when a person comes out of prison and devotes his life to spreading the Gospel, I don’t think I am going to challenge his conversion. It is not for me to judge anyway.
The title of the book is Being the Body. The subject matter is the 21st century church. Now, when we talk about church, we are not about the physical plant. We are talking about people who have committed to the Lord Jesus Christ. All of us who have made that life commitment are members of the body. We are one – whether we be Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Catholic, Church of Christ, Church of God, and so on. We are joined together in the blood of Jesus Christ. We are not in competition with each other; we are not exclusive of each other. We are one. Here’s what Paul says:
Ephesians 4:1-7 (English Standard Version)
Unity in the Body of Christ
1I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.
How do we walk in a manner worth of the calling to which we have been called? We start with love. We have a desire to have oneness in the bond of peace. We care about our brothers and sisters in Christ – regardless of their denomination; regardless of our differences in culture or race or color. We love each other and seek unity in Christ.
So today, let us seek to be one together.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
I spent Friday morning with Norma as she visited Eye Consultants of Atlanta. I has now been a little more than a year and she still doesn’t have clear vision in her eye. So Dr. Mohney and Dr. Frank spent a good bit more time with her than usual. We have to go back March 3rd for a field of vision test … and then go from there. Norma commented that she now has four doctor appointments in March … with Dr. Mohney; with a gastroenterologist; with her primary care physician, and with her oncologist. All points of prayer for us … for which I am quite grateful.
Sitting in the waiting room can be more worrisome than being the patient. I took along a book I had read and studied several (was it eight or ten years) ago written by Charles Colson and Ellen Vaughn. For those who do not remember, Chuck Colson was one of the people convicted in the Watergate Scandal. He went to prison … and while there he received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Now I know some of us think that jailhouse conversions are suspect … but when a person comes out of prison and devotes his life to spreading the Gospel, I don’t think I am going to challenge his conversion. It is not for me to judge anyway.
The title of the book is Being the Body. The subject matter is the 21st century church. Now, when we talk about church, we are not about the physical plant. We are talking about people who have committed to the Lord Jesus Christ. All of us who have made that life commitment are members of the body. We are one – whether we be Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Catholic, Church of Christ, Church of God, and so on. We are joined together in the blood of Jesus Christ. We are not in competition with each other; we are not exclusive of each other. We are one. Here’s what Paul says:
Ephesians 4:1-7 (English Standard Version)
Unity in the Body of Christ
1I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.
How do we walk in a manner worth of the calling to which we have been called? We start with love. We have a desire to have oneness in the bond of peace. We care about our brothers and sisters in Christ – regardless of their denomination; regardless of our differences in culture or race or color. We love each other and seek unity in Christ.
So today, let us seek to be one together.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Friday, February 18, 2011
1st Corinth ... A Church In Trouble
Good Morning!
Friday!!! Whew! I never thought it would get here. But today is Friday … the weather is gorgeous … the weekend is supposed to be gorgeous as well. And it’s February! We are blessed.
Now I know some of my readers live in other parts of the U.S. where the weather isn’t quite as pleasant … and I don’t mean to brag … but WOW!!! Let’s enjoy the weekend.
Our Thursday night Bible study group began the study of Paul’s first letter to the church at Corinth. The church at Corinth had a number of problems. Bickering, fighting, factions, immoral living – all were problems at this church that Paul helped to found. Unfortunately, this sounds all too familiar in the 21st century churches. We have come a long way in some aspects of life … but the old problems seem to want to remain with us. Still, though Paul was aware of all the stuff that was going on, Paul said the following:
1 Corinthians 1:4-8 (English Standard Version)
Thanksgiving
4I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus, 5that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge— 6even as the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you— 7so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, 8 who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
How could Paul make this statement about a church in such turmoil? How could Paul be grateful to God for these obviously unholy people? How can we?
Well … perhaps Paul knew something we don’t know. Perhaps Paul knew the inner core of these people and knew that they could turnaround and be what God wanted them to be. Perhaps we should view those around us similarly. You see, this letter wasn’t written to the heathen … no, it was written to believers … people who had placed their trust in Jesus Christ. They were saints but they weren’t perfect people. They were redeemed but they were in the process of being set aside for the work of ministry for the Lord, Jesus Christ. And Paul knew that! And Paul had the confidence – not in the people – but in the Lord, Jesus Christ, that He would change their lives.
How about our faith in Christ Jesus? Do we trust Him to make a difference in our brothers and sisters in Christ? Are we willing to hang tough even when offended by something a brother or a sister might say or do? Can we be patient in the growing process?
Do we thank God for those who seem to be failing? Paul did. And history tells us that his letter had a tremendous impact on the church, leading to great reform. We just have to be a little patient…
Well, have a great weekend. Be safe and enjoy the weather if you are down South. And, oh yeah, give the preacher a heart attack … show up for Sunday school! (just teasing)
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Friday!!! Whew! I never thought it would get here. But today is Friday … the weather is gorgeous … the weekend is supposed to be gorgeous as well. And it’s February! We are blessed.
Now I know some of my readers live in other parts of the U.S. where the weather isn’t quite as pleasant … and I don’t mean to brag … but WOW!!! Let’s enjoy the weekend.
Our Thursday night Bible study group began the study of Paul’s first letter to the church at Corinth. The church at Corinth had a number of problems. Bickering, fighting, factions, immoral living – all were problems at this church that Paul helped to found. Unfortunately, this sounds all too familiar in the 21st century churches. We have come a long way in some aspects of life … but the old problems seem to want to remain with us. Still, though Paul was aware of all the stuff that was going on, Paul said the following:
1 Corinthians 1:4-8 (English Standard Version)
Thanksgiving
4I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus, 5that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge— 6even as the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you— 7so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, 8 who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
How could Paul make this statement about a church in such turmoil? How could Paul be grateful to God for these obviously unholy people? How can we?
Well … perhaps Paul knew something we don’t know. Perhaps Paul knew the inner core of these people and knew that they could turnaround and be what God wanted them to be. Perhaps we should view those around us similarly. You see, this letter wasn’t written to the heathen … no, it was written to believers … people who had placed their trust in Jesus Christ. They were saints but they weren’t perfect people. They were redeemed but they were in the process of being set aside for the work of ministry for the Lord, Jesus Christ. And Paul knew that! And Paul had the confidence – not in the people – but in the Lord, Jesus Christ, that He would change their lives.
How about our faith in Christ Jesus? Do we trust Him to make a difference in our brothers and sisters in Christ? Are we willing to hang tough even when offended by something a brother or a sister might say or do? Can we be patient in the growing process?
Do we thank God for those who seem to be failing? Paul did. And history tells us that his letter had a tremendous impact on the church, leading to great reform. We just have to be a little patient…
Well, have a great weekend. Be safe and enjoy the weather if you are down South. And, oh yeah, give the preacher a heart attack … show up for Sunday school! (just teasing)
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Opening Our Eyes and Our Hearts
Good Morning!
I want to expand a little bit about my thoughts on Peter’s characteristics. Yesterday I said the following:
So what do I mean when I talk about Peter’s characteristics? Well, the best couple of parallels I can think of are seen in the reality shows “Deadliest Catch” and “Ax Men”. If you study the characters on these programs, you will find that they make straightforward decisions and don’t alter them. Why? Well, the work they do requires the person to think a certain way … stepping out of that thought pattern leads to danger and possibly death. So when they make up their minds, it is hard to change them.
Peter, James, John and Andrew were fishermen. They probably had been taught their trade by their fathers and grandfathers. They were also taught the Jewish ways and customs. In their mind there was no other way than the Jewish way. As I mentioned, Jews hated Samaritans because they were “half breeds”. For Peter and John to lay hands on these half breeds was more than just choosing to put their hands on them. It broke with custom. It broke with tradition. But when Peter and John recognized that Christ had come into the lives of these Samaritans, and the Holy Spirit had come upon them, they realized the power of God.
But there was another hurdle that Peter would face. That hurdle was accepting Gentiles into the Christian brotherhood. Let’s read that passage:
Acts 10 (English Standard Version)
Peter and Cornelius
1At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort, 2a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. 3 About the ninth hour of the day[a] he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God come in and say to him, "Cornelius." 4And he stared at him in terror and said, "What is it, Lord?" And he said to him, "Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. 5And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. 6He is lodging with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea." 7When the angel who spoke to him had departed, he called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him, 8and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.
Peter’s Vision
9The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour[b] to pray. 10And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance 11and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. 12In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 13And there came a voice to him: "Rise, Peter; kill and eat." 14But Peter said, "By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean." 15And the voice came to him again a second time, "What God has made clean, do not call common." 16This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven.
17Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon’s house, stood at the gate 18and called out to ask whether Simon who was called Peter was lodging there. 19And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Behold, three men are looking for you. 20Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them." 21And Peter went down to the men and said, "I am the one you are looking for. What is the reason for your coming?" 22And they said, "Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say." 23So he invited them in to be his guests.
The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. 24And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. 26But Peter lifted him up, saying, "Stand up; I too am a man." 27And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered. 28And he said to them, "You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. 29So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me."
30And Cornelius said, "Four days ago, about this hour, I was praying in my house at the ninth hour,[c] and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing 31and said, 'Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. 32Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.' 33So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now therefore we are all here in the presence of God to hear all that you have been commanded by the Lord."
Gentiles Hear the Good News
34So Peter opened his mouth and said: "Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, 35but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ ( he is Lord of all), 37you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: 38how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39And we are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree, 40but God raised him on the third day and made him to appear, 41 not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead. 43 To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."
The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles
44While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. 45And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. 46For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, 47 "Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?" 48And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days. Footnotes:
a. Acts 10:3 That is, 3 p.m.
b. Acts 10:9 That is, noon
c. Acts 10:30 That is, 3 p.m.
A quick synopsis is that God moved in the lives of Cornelius (a Gentile) and in Peter make Peter aware that the Gospel was for everyone … not just the Jews and not just to those people who followed Jewish customs. Later we see Paul confronting Peter when Peter doesn’t take a stand against people who are attempting to say a person had to follow Jewish customs to be saved. And I am convinced that is because Peter was Jewish through and through and because he thought like a fisherman.
God has opened the floodgates of love to all who will believe. We do people a disservice when we try to attach our own denominational beliefs to the simple Gospel message that He who has the Son has life. Let us honor God by presenting the simple Gospel simply.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
I want to expand a little bit about my thoughts on Peter’s characteristics. Yesterday I said the following:
“(5) Lastly – but very important – is trying to understand why the Holy Spirit did not descend on the new converts in Samaria right away but that Peter and John had to lay hands on them for the Spirit to come. Well, we could argue about it … but here is what I think. Peter and John were fishermen. What does this have to do with anything, one might ask? Well, we already know that Peter has characteristics that parallel those of many people who do hard physical labor. In many instances, their thinking is very simple and direct. Now, that is not a bad thing! The Gospel is very simple and very direct. It is a good thing to hear God and just believe. Anyway, Peter and John were Jewish through and through. They didn’t want to go to Samaria. They didn’t want to believe that God would save these “dogs” even though they had seen Jesus do this before. God had to open their eyes to His mercy reaching beyond the Temple, beyond the court of the Gentiles and even to a place like Samaria. I believe that the laying on of hands by Peter and John was for Peter and John’s benefit so they might expand their vision. Sometimes God has to expand my vision to reach beyond my familiar place so that I might see His mighty hand at work.”
So what do I mean when I talk about Peter’s characteristics? Well, the best couple of parallels I can think of are seen in the reality shows “Deadliest Catch” and “Ax Men”. If you study the characters on these programs, you will find that they make straightforward decisions and don’t alter them. Why? Well, the work they do requires the person to think a certain way … stepping out of that thought pattern leads to danger and possibly death. So when they make up their minds, it is hard to change them.
Peter, James, John and Andrew were fishermen. They probably had been taught their trade by their fathers and grandfathers. They were also taught the Jewish ways and customs. In their mind there was no other way than the Jewish way. As I mentioned, Jews hated Samaritans because they were “half breeds”. For Peter and John to lay hands on these half breeds was more than just choosing to put their hands on them. It broke with custom. It broke with tradition. But when Peter and John recognized that Christ had come into the lives of these Samaritans, and the Holy Spirit had come upon them, they realized the power of God.
But there was another hurdle that Peter would face. That hurdle was accepting Gentiles into the Christian brotherhood. Let’s read that passage:
Acts 10 (English Standard Version)
Peter and Cornelius
1At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort, 2a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. 3 About the ninth hour of the day[a] he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God come in and say to him, "Cornelius." 4And he stared at him in terror and said, "What is it, Lord?" And he said to him, "Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. 5And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. 6He is lodging with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea." 7When the angel who spoke to him had departed, he called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him, 8and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.
Peter’s Vision
9The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour[b] to pray. 10And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance 11and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. 12In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 13And there came a voice to him: "Rise, Peter; kill and eat." 14But Peter said, "By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean." 15And the voice came to him again a second time, "What God has made clean, do not call common." 16This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven.
17Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon’s house, stood at the gate 18and called out to ask whether Simon who was called Peter was lodging there. 19And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Behold, three men are looking for you. 20Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them." 21And Peter went down to the men and said, "I am the one you are looking for. What is the reason for your coming?" 22And they said, "Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say." 23So he invited them in to be his guests.
The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. 24And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. 26But Peter lifted him up, saying, "Stand up; I too am a man." 27And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered. 28And he said to them, "You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. 29So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me."
30And Cornelius said, "Four days ago, about this hour, I was praying in my house at the ninth hour,[c] and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing 31and said, 'Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. 32Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.' 33So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now therefore we are all here in the presence of God to hear all that you have been commanded by the Lord."
Gentiles Hear the Good News
34So Peter opened his mouth and said: "Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, 35but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ ( he is Lord of all), 37you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: 38how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39And we are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree, 40but God raised him on the third day and made him to appear, 41 not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead. 43 To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."
The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles
44While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. 45And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. 46For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, 47 "Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?" 48And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days. Footnotes:
a. Acts 10:3 That is, 3 p.m.
b. Acts 10:9 That is, noon
c. Acts 10:30 That is, 3 p.m.
A quick synopsis is that God moved in the lives of Cornelius (a Gentile) and in Peter make Peter aware that the Gospel was for everyone … not just the Jews and not just to those people who followed Jewish customs. Later we see Paul confronting Peter when Peter doesn’t take a stand against people who are attempting to say a person had to follow Jewish customs to be saved. And I am convinced that is because Peter was Jewish through and through and because he thought like a fisherman.
God has opened the floodgates of love to all who will believe. We do people a disservice when we try to attach our own denominational beliefs to the simple Gospel message that He who has the Son has life. Let us honor God by presenting the simple Gospel simply.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Good Morning!
The Bible review at Miss N’s church is currently in the book of Acts. Now the reason I call it a review instead of a study is because the material covered in any given session may be as many as ten chapters. We are taking big bites, just hitting a point or two along the way. Anyhow, one of the chapters we looked at Sunday evening follows:
Acts 8:1-25 (English Standard Version)
Saul Ravages the Church
1And Saul approved of his execution.
And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. 2Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him. 3But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison.
Philip Proclaims Christ in Samaria
4Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. 5 Philip went down to the city[a] of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ. 6 And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. 7For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8So there was much joy in that city.
Simon the Magician Believes
9But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great. 10They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, "This man is the power of God that is called Great." 11And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic. 12But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles[b] performed, he was amazed.
14Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. 18Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, 19saying, "Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit." 20But Peter said to him, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23For I see that you are in the gall[c] of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity." 24And Simon answered, "Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me."
25Now when they had testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel to many villages of the Samaritans.
Footnotes:
a. Acts 8:5 Some manuscripts a city
b. Acts 8:13 Greek works of power
c. Acts 8:23 That is, a bitter fluid secreted by the liver; bile
There are several highpoints in just this passage that I want to share quickly this morning.
(1) Saul – whom we will come to know as Paul – was a willing participant in the stoning of Stephen. Not only that, Saul embraced the opportunity to persecute the church. One would imagine that such a man would be consigned to the depth of hell for his activities … instead God made Paul one of Christianity’s greatest spokesmen. What does that tell you and me? We can never be so bad that God cannot redeem us. I know all of us, when we get into our secret worlds of our minds, cannot imagine ever being worthy. But God made us worthy in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
(2) God used Saul to get the church growing. The church in Jerusalem was growing by leaps and bounds BUT God’s intention was that the message be spread to all the world – not just Jerusalem. It is easy to fall into the trap of familiarity. How many times have we objected to the creation of a new Sunday school class because it would take some of our friends “away”? How often have we resisted reaching out in the community because it might affect our “mix”? Our task from day one has been and remains to preach the Gospel and to edify the believer. And we either do it willingly … or God will intervene and help us do it.
(3) Phillip went to a place where good Jews don’t go. Samaritans weren’t just a different culture – they were mixed breed. They were Jews who had been left when Babylon conquered them who had intermarried with the foreigners that Nebuchadnezzar had sent into the region. The Jews tolerated the Gentiles … but they hated the Samaritans – even choosing to go around the region as they made their way from Galilee to Judea or vice versa. What does that say to me? I need to take a close look at my “preferences” and realize God has sent me to where He wants me to go – not to where I want to be – because there are people who will listen and will hear the Message of Christ Jesus.
(4) I am not skipping Simon because his story is important. You see, Simon viewed the power of Christ as a means for monetary enrichment. Peter recognized his motive and corrected him. I want to note though that Simon appears to have repented. We don’t know the rest of the story … I guess we will find out in glory. But what it says to me today is that I should understand why I am doing what I do – including the reason I write the Good Mornings.
(5) Lastly – but very important – is trying to understand why the Holy Spirit did not descend on the new converts in Samaria right away but that Peter and John had to lay hands on them for the Spirit to come. Well, we could argue about it … but here is what I think. Peter and John were fishermen. What does this have to do with anything, one might ask? Well, we already know that Peter has characteristics that parallel those of many people who do hard physical labor. In many instances, their thinking is very simple and direct. Now, that is not a bad thing! The Gospel is very simple and very direct. It is a good thing to hear God and just believe. Anyway, Peter and John were Jewish through and through. They didn’t want to go to Samaria. They didn’t want to believe that God would save these “dogs” even though they had seen Jesus do this before. God had to open their eyes to His mercy reaching beyond the Temple, beyond the court of the Gentiles and even to a place like Samaria. I believe that the laying on of hands by Peter and John was for Peter and John’s benefit so they might expand their vision. Sometimes God has to expand my vision to reach beyond my familiar place so that I might see His mighty hand at work.
Well, I guess today’s Good Morning has been a little long. I hope it will be a blessing for you as you go about your day to day. And I welcome your comments.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
The Bible review at Miss N’s church is currently in the book of Acts. Now the reason I call it a review instead of a study is because the material covered in any given session may be as many as ten chapters. We are taking big bites, just hitting a point or two along the way. Anyhow, one of the chapters we looked at Sunday evening follows:
Acts 8:1-25 (English Standard Version)
Saul Ravages the Church
1And Saul approved of his execution.
And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. 2Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him. 3But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison.
Philip Proclaims Christ in Samaria
4Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. 5 Philip went down to the city[a] of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ. 6 And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. 7For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8So there was much joy in that city.
Simon the Magician Believes
9But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great. 10They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, "This man is the power of God that is called Great." 11And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic. 12But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles[b] performed, he was amazed.
14Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. 18Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, 19saying, "Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit." 20But Peter said to him, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23For I see that you are in the gall[c] of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity." 24And Simon answered, "Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me."
25Now when they had testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel to many villages of the Samaritans.
Footnotes:
a. Acts 8:5 Some manuscripts a city
b. Acts 8:13 Greek works of power
c. Acts 8:23 That is, a bitter fluid secreted by the liver; bile
There are several highpoints in just this passage that I want to share quickly this morning.
(1) Saul – whom we will come to know as Paul – was a willing participant in the stoning of Stephen. Not only that, Saul embraced the opportunity to persecute the church. One would imagine that such a man would be consigned to the depth of hell for his activities … instead God made Paul one of Christianity’s greatest spokesmen. What does that tell you and me? We can never be so bad that God cannot redeem us. I know all of us, when we get into our secret worlds of our minds, cannot imagine ever being worthy. But God made us worthy in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
(2) God used Saul to get the church growing. The church in Jerusalem was growing by leaps and bounds BUT God’s intention was that the message be spread to all the world – not just Jerusalem. It is easy to fall into the trap of familiarity. How many times have we objected to the creation of a new Sunday school class because it would take some of our friends “away”? How often have we resisted reaching out in the community because it might affect our “mix”? Our task from day one has been and remains to preach the Gospel and to edify the believer. And we either do it willingly … or God will intervene and help us do it.
(3) Phillip went to a place where good Jews don’t go. Samaritans weren’t just a different culture – they were mixed breed. They were Jews who had been left when Babylon conquered them who had intermarried with the foreigners that Nebuchadnezzar had sent into the region. The Jews tolerated the Gentiles … but they hated the Samaritans – even choosing to go around the region as they made their way from Galilee to Judea or vice versa. What does that say to me? I need to take a close look at my “preferences” and realize God has sent me to where He wants me to go – not to where I want to be – because there are people who will listen and will hear the Message of Christ Jesus.
(4) I am not skipping Simon because his story is important. You see, Simon viewed the power of Christ as a means for monetary enrichment. Peter recognized his motive and corrected him. I want to note though that Simon appears to have repented. We don’t know the rest of the story … I guess we will find out in glory. But what it says to me today is that I should understand why I am doing what I do – including the reason I write the Good Mornings.
(5) Lastly – but very important – is trying to understand why the Holy Spirit did not descend on the new converts in Samaria right away but that Peter and John had to lay hands on them for the Spirit to come. Well, we could argue about it … but here is what I think. Peter and John were fishermen. What does this have to do with anything, one might ask? Well, we already know that Peter has characteristics that parallel those of many people who do hard physical labor. In many instances, their thinking is very simple and direct. Now, that is not a bad thing! The Gospel is very simple and very direct. It is a good thing to hear God and just believe. Anyway, Peter and John were Jewish through and through. They didn’t want to go to Samaria. They didn’t want to believe that God would save these “dogs” even though they had seen Jesus do this before. God had to open their eyes to His mercy reaching beyond the Temple, beyond the court of the Gentiles and even to a place like Samaria. I believe that the laying on of hands by Peter and John was for Peter and John’s benefit so they might expand their vision. Sometimes God has to expand my vision to reach beyond my familiar place so that I might see His mighty hand at work.
Well, I guess today’s Good Morning has been a little long. I hope it will be a blessing for you as you go about your day to day. And I welcome your comments.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
How About Some Fruit...
Good Morning!
Don’t you love the crunch of a fresh apple? Just the sound of it makes my mouth water. Of course, since my front teeth aren’t my own, it is an enjoyment from long past. I could tell you how I lost my front teeth … but you really don’t want to hear that story.
How about the firmness of a perfectly ripe banana? Not too ripe, though – those are only good for banana pudding. And not green either. But just perfectly ripe.
And then there is the sweet smell of a cantaloupe freshly cut. Again, the thought of the sweetness lingering over my tongue moves me. Ahhh … good fruit produced by God for me and for you.
Paul talked about fruit in his letter to the church in Galatia. He called it the “fruit of the Spirit”. And the Holy Spirit does produce fruit in us. Here… let’s take a gander at the passage that surrounds it:
Galatians 5:13-25 (English Standard Version)
13For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. 14For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." 15But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.
Walk by the Spirit
16But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21envy,[a] drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
25If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.
Footnotes:
a. Galatians 5:21 Some manuscripts add murder
Paul’s letter to the church at Galatia was dealing with the problem of people coming along and teaching that the new Christian converts had to follow the ritual of the Jews. When Paul talks about “freedom”, he is talking about being free from the curse of the Law. Now, let’s understand that the Law is still effective … but it has no hold over the believer. We are free from the curse of the Law.
In verses 13-15, Paul is admonishing his readers (listeners) to not use this freedom as a carte blanche to commit sin … no, we are to be aware of the impact of our sins upon our fellow man / woman who is watching us. We need to love each other enough to consider each other as we make our journey through this earthly life.
So how do we go about doing this? Well, I can tell you for a fact that this believer struggles … I guess there is just a flaw in me. But God has made provision. He came and took up residence in my life … yours, too … so that He can direct me in the right things to do. This is what Paul means by “walk by the Spirit”. Now when I fail to walk by the Spirit, there is a lot of junk that can pop up in my life – Paul enumerated these and they aren’t pretty. And we see evidence of these in a lot of the folks around us who don’t believe in Jesus.
But look at the fruit:
The first is Love. You know, if we learn to love each other, we go a long way towards solving the personal problems that beset us. And it leads to …
Joy … now we aren’t talking about a constant laugh fest. We are talking about a feeling of happiness even in the midst of trouble. And that gives us ….
Peace … not the absence of war, but a calm assurance that God has everything in control. And that allows us to have …
Patience … because we know that God does things on His timetable … not ours. We have given Him the authority and that allows us to exhibit …
Kindness and goodness and faithfulness and gentleness and self control. Just because we are walking by the Spirit and He is producing good fruit in our lives.
So, let’s live and walk by the Spirit. It beats every other way.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Don’t you love the crunch of a fresh apple? Just the sound of it makes my mouth water. Of course, since my front teeth aren’t my own, it is an enjoyment from long past. I could tell you how I lost my front teeth … but you really don’t want to hear that story.
How about the firmness of a perfectly ripe banana? Not too ripe, though – those are only good for banana pudding. And not green either. But just perfectly ripe.
And then there is the sweet smell of a cantaloupe freshly cut. Again, the thought of the sweetness lingering over my tongue moves me. Ahhh … good fruit produced by God for me and for you.
Paul talked about fruit in his letter to the church in Galatia. He called it the “fruit of the Spirit”. And the Holy Spirit does produce fruit in us. Here… let’s take a gander at the passage that surrounds it:
Galatians 5:13-25 (English Standard Version)
13For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. 14For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." 15But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.
Walk by the Spirit
16But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21envy,[a] drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
25If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.
Footnotes:
a. Galatians 5:21 Some manuscripts add murder
Paul’s letter to the church at Galatia was dealing with the problem of people coming along and teaching that the new Christian converts had to follow the ritual of the Jews. When Paul talks about “freedom”, he is talking about being free from the curse of the Law. Now, let’s understand that the Law is still effective … but it has no hold over the believer. We are free from the curse of the Law.
In verses 13-15, Paul is admonishing his readers (listeners) to not use this freedom as a carte blanche to commit sin … no, we are to be aware of the impact of our sins upon our fellow man / woman who is watching us. We need to love each other enough to consider each other as we make our journey through this earthly life.
So how do we go about doing this? Well, I can tell you for a fact that this believer struggles … I guess there is just a flaw in me. But God has made provision. He came and took up residence in my life … yours, too … so that He can direct me in the right things to do. This is what Paul means by “walk by the Spirit”. Now when I fail to walk by the Spirit, there is a lot of junk that can pop up in my life – Paul enumerated these and they aren’t pretty. And we see evidence of these in a lot of the folks around us who don’t believe in Jesus.
But look at the fruit:
The first is Love. You know, if we learn to love each other, we go a long way towards solving the personal problems that beset us. And it leads to …
Joy … now we aren’t talking about a constant laugh fest. We are talking about a feeling of happiness even in the midst of trouble. And that gives us ….
Peace … not the absence of war, but a calm assurance that God has everything in control. And that allows us to have …
Patience … because we know that God does things on His timetable … not ours. We have given Him the authority and that allows us to exhibit …
Kindness and goodness and faithfulness and gentleness and self control. Just because we are walking by the Spirit and He is producing good fruit in our lives.
So, let’s live and walk by the Spirit. It beats every other way.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Monday, February 14, 2011
Every Once In A While...
Good Morning!
Well, I am kind of mad at myself. After I posted Friday, I realized that I had complained without really addressing the issue and attempting to come up with a solution. Anybody can complain … but how does one make that complaint a positive rather than a negative. And, of course, after I posted “something” kept bugging me until I spent a few minutes thinking through my complaint and its impact. (That “something” I believe to be God the Holy Spirit speaking to my reborn spirit, guiding me into ALL truth.)
So, here’s my thoughts on addressing the issue. Let’s begin with a base Bible passage:
Ephesians 4:11-16 (English Standard Version)
11And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds[a] and teachers,[b] 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood,[c] to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.
Footnotes:
a. Ephesians 4:11 Or pastors
b. Ephesians 4:11 Or the shepherd-teachers
c. Ephesians 4:13 Greek to a full-grown man
Now, if this passage sounds familiar, you will recall it as being a passage just a few days ago. I don’t know why God has led me back here … except He wants me to spend a few more minutes thinking through what Paul is saying to both the church at Ephesus and to the “church” today.
God has endowed all believers with supernatural gifts provided by the Holy Spirit. Some of these gifts are “silent” gifts in that it can go unnoticed if a person is exercising one of these gifts. For example, a person with the gift of mercy can be visiting people in the home or the hospital and no one ever recognize he or she is doing so. Or, a person exercising the gift of helps can be helping a widow or a shut in with some home repair task and no one ever know he or she was there. All of the “silent” gifts are equally as important as the “visible” gifts that Paul enumerates in verse 11. But the visible gifts have the responsibility to instruct the church which is the theme that follows in verses 12 through 16.
Now I believe every person who believes in Jesus Christ … and thus is indwelt with the Holy Spirit … has access to all the twenty or so gifts of the Spirit. Paul points out the other gifts in his letters to the church at Rome (Romans 12) and at Corinth (1st Corinthians 12). Every believer has access but each believer has one or more gifts prominent in his or her life. And those who have the visible gifts prominent take on the responsibility of edifying (building up) the body (Christian brothers and sisters).
One of the prominent gifts in Mr. Jim’s life is that of teaching. Note that this is a visible gift – which means I am charged with the obligation (and the joy) of building up my fellow believers. Sooooo… when I whine about something and don’t offer a solution … I am tearing down, not building up. In short, I am not doing my job.
Instead of whining about how no one greeted me, I should apologize for not reaching out to them. And I should spend a few minutes with the teacher and the preacher to talk about how we can make the climate more conducive for encouraging people to feel welcomed and begin to become friends.
And I should apologize to you for being a whiner. I mean to encourage you … not depress you. And so, for this morning and today, let us praise God for all the great things He teaches us each day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Well, I am kind of mad at myself. After I posted Friday, I realized that I had complained without really addressing the issue and attempting to come up with a solution. Anybody can complain … but how does one make that complaint a positive rather than a negative. And, of course, after I posted “something” kept bugging me until I spent a few minutes thinking through my complaint and its impact. (That “something” I believe to be God the Holy Spirit speaking to my reborn spirit, guiding me into ALL truth.)
So, here’s my thoughts on addressing the issue. Let’s begin with a base Bible passage:
Ephesians 4:11-16 (English Standard Version)
11And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds[a] and teachers,[b] 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood,[c] to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.
Footnotes:
a. Ephesians 4:11 Or pastors
b. Ephesians 4:11 Or the shepherd-teachers
c. Ephesians 4:13 Greek to a full-grown man
Now, if this passage sounds familiar, you will recall it as being a passage just a few days ago. I don’t know why God has led me back here … except He wants me to spend a few more minutes thinking through what Paul is saying to both the church at Ephesus and to the “church” today.
God has endowed all believers with supernatural gifts provided by the Holy Spirit. Some of these gifts are “silent” gifts in that it can go unnoticed if a person is exercising one of these gifts. For example, a person with the gift of mercy can be visiting people in the home or the hospital and no one ever recognize he or she is doing so. Or, a person exercising the gift of helps can be helping a widow or a shut in with some home repair task and no one ever know he or she was there. All of the “silent” gifts are equally as important as the “visible” gifts that Paul enumerates in verse 11. But the visible gifts have the responsibility to instruct the church which is the theme that follows in verses 12 through 16.
Now I believe every person who believes in Jesus Christ … and thus is indwelt with the Holy Spirit … has access to all the twenty or so gifts of the Spirit. Paul points out the other gifts in his letters to the church at Rome (Romans 12) and at Corinth (1st Corinthians 12). Every believer has access but each believer has one or more gifts prominent in his or her life. And those who have the visible gifts prominent take on the responsibility of edifying (building up) the body (Christian brothers and sisters).
One of the prominent gifts in Mr. Jim’s life is that of teaching. Note that this is a visible gift – which means I am charged with the obligation (and the joy) of building up my fellow believers. Sooooo… when I whine about something and don’t offer a solution … I am tearing down, not building up. In short, I am not doing my job.
Instead of whining about how no one greeted me, I should apologize for not reaching out to them. And I should spend a few minutes with the teacher and the preacher to talk about how we can make the climate more conducive for encouraging people to feel welcomed and begin to become friends.
And I should apologize to you for being a whiner. I mean to encourage you … not depress you. And so, for this morning and today, let us praise God for all the great things He teaches us each day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Friday, February 11, 2011
Simple Things
Good Morning!
Driving home last night I began to reflect on my Sunday morning experience. I attended a traditional church – and a traditional Sunday school for the first time in a number of years. The church is one of many that are struggling with attendance due primarily to its location. I have been at this church a number of times … but as I was thinking about it, I began to realize something – while the people are “friendly”, none has really asked me to be a friend.
As I mentioned earlier this week, I believe the majority of people who receive Christ after the age of fifteen or so do so because a friend shares Christ with them. Bible preaching, for all of its benefits, just isn’t quite as effective as a friend sharing Christ. When you think about it, the preacher can be pretty intimidating … some can be down right overbearing. But a friend is someone in whom a certain amount of trust has been developed. And that trust allows the nonbeliever an opportunity to listen to the Gospel.
There are some simple steps that a church can do that will encourage the development of friendship. A very simple step is to introduce oneself. When I got to Sunday school last Sunday, I knew I was going to the older men’s class – I fit that category now – but I didn’t really know the teacher’s name. The teacher had invited me to attend his class the preceding Sunday evening … but he never told me his name. So for a few minutes, I was perplexed. I asked a person at the door – and he didn’t know the name of the teacher. Later, we were all in the same class.
Now I don’t want to be a complainer. I just think that telling someone who you are is the first step to gaining a friend. And that friendship can lead to some very good things.
Jesus taught His disciples about God’s love using the value of a friend. Here’s the passage for consideration:
Luke 11:1-13 (English Standard Version)
The Lord’s Prayer
1Now Jesus[a] was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples." 2And he said to them, "When you pray, say:
"Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily bread,[b] 4and forgive us our sins,
for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And lead us not into temptation."
5And he said to them, "Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, 'Friend, lend me three loaves, 6for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him'; 7and he will answer from within, 'Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed. I cannot get up and give you anything'? 8I tell you, though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his impudence[c] he will rise and give him whatever he needs. 9And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 10For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. 11What father among you, if his son asks for[d] a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; 12or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"
Footnotes:
a. Luke 11:1 Greek he
b. Luke 11:3 Or our bread for tomorrow
c. Luke 11:8 Or persistence
d. Luke 11:11 Some manuscripts insert bread, will give him a stone; or if he asks for
God wants to give us the best things in life. He wants to give these things to everyone … but many have not yet come to know Him. We can play an integral part by doing a simple thing … being a friend.
Have a great weekend.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Driving home last night I began to reflect on my Sunday morning experience. I attended a traditional church – and a traditional Sunday school for the first time in a number of years. The church is one of many that are struggling with attendance due primarily to its location. I have been at this church a number of times … but as I was thinking about it, I began to realize something – while the people are “friendly”, none has really asked me to be a friend.
As I mentioned earlier this week, I believe the majority of people who receive Christ after the age of fifteen or so do so because a friend shares Christ with them. Bible preaching, for all of its benefits, just isn’t quite as effective as a friend sharing Christ. When you think about it, the preacher can be pretty intimidating … some can be down right overbearing. But a friend is someone in whom a certain amount of trust has been developed. And that trust allows the nonbeliever an opportunity to listen to the Gospel.
There are some simple steps that a church can do that will encourage the development of friendship. A very simple step is to introduce oneself. When I got to Sunday school last Sunday, I knew I was going to the older men’s class – I fit that category now – but I didn’t really know the teacher’s name. The teacher had invited me to attend his class the preceding Sunday evening … but he never told me his name. So for a few minutes, I was perplexed. I asked a person at the door – and he didn’t know the name of the teacher. Later, we were all in the same class.
Now I don’t want to be a complainer. I just think that telling someone who you are is the first step to gaining a friend. And that friendship can lead to some very good things.
Jesus taught His disciples about God’s love using the value of a friend. Here’s the passage for consideration:
Luke 11:1-13 (English Standard Version)
The Lord’s Prayer
1Now Jesus[a] was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples." 2And he said to them, "When you pray, say:
"Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily bread,[b] 4and forgive us our sins,
for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And lead us not into temptation."
5And he said to them, "Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, 'Friend, lend me three loaves, 6for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him'; 7and he will answer from within, 'Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed. I cannot get up and give you anything'? 8I tell you, though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his impudence[c] he will rise and give him whatever he needs. 9And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 10For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. 11What father among you, if his son asks for[d] a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; 12or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"
Footnotes:
a. Luke 11:1 Greek he
b. Luke 11:3 Or our bread for tomorrow
c. Luke 11:8 Or persistence
d. Luke 11:11 Some manuscripts insert bread, will give him a stone; or if he asks for
God wants to give us the best things in life. He wants to give these things to everyone … but many have not yet come to know Him. We can play an integral part by doing a simple thing … being a friend.
Have a great weekend.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Giving Thanks for ...
Good Morning!
“I just don’t get anything out of church!” Far too often I have heard this lament from a person who chooses to stay away from Bible study and from church. Not that church attendance is a cure all - it isn’t. But there is great profit in assembling together with people of like mind – especially as we go through the ups and downs that life brings.
The fact is that many who are dissatisfied with what church offers offer nothing to the church. I am not talking about money … that’s a different story altogether. What I am talking about is bringing to the body of believers an attitude of joy and openness. People gravitate to people who are willing to those who exhibit joy. And, yes, we can have joy in the midst of suffering. We just have to adopt the attitude that God has everything in His control … and add a smile to our face.
I was reading the verse of the day for yesterday on BibleGateway. Here is what it said:
2 Thessalonians 1:3 (English Standard Version)
Thanksgiving
3 We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers,[a] as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.
Footnotes:
a. 2 Thessalonians 1:3 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God’s family, the church
Do you often think of your church friends as a brother or a sister? Do you give thanks to God for them? Do you think of all the good things they bring into your life … and thank God that He has introduced you to them? As I write this, I am thinking of Norma’s deacon who calls her frequently … always speaks to her at church … and makes sure that Norma feels welcome. I thank God for her.
I also think about my church buddies who bring their specialness to my life. God placed each of these special people in my life to add “flavor”. And then there are my golf buddies – Joe, TeeItUpMichael, Tim, Kelvin and more. Again, special people made special by God from whom I gain encouragement and joy.
I could go on … work, play, business contacts … all people who are uniquely special … all for whom I can thank God as I see their faith grow … and my faith grow as well. Look around you today. Spot those special people in your life … and give thanks to God for them.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
“I just don’t get anything out of church!” Far too often I have heard this lament from a person who chooses to stay away from Bible study and from church. Not that church attendance is a cure all - it isn’t. But there is great profit in assembling together with people of like mind – especially as we go through the ups and downs that life brings.
The fact is that many who are dissatisfied with what church offers offer nothing to the church. I am not talking about money … that’s a different story altogether. What I am talking about is bringing to the body of believers an attitude of joy and openness. People gravitate to people who are willing to those who exhibit joy. And, yes, we can have joy in the midst of suffering. We just have to adopt the attitude that God has everything in His control … and add a smile to our face.
I was reading the verse of the day for yesterday on BibleGateway. Here is what it said:
2 Thessalonians 1:3 (English Standard Version)
Thanksgiving
3 We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers,[a] as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.
Footnotes:
a. 2 Thessalonians 1:3 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God’s family, the church
Do you often think of your church friends as a brother or a sister? Do you give thanks to God for them? Do you think of all the good things they bring into your life … and thank God that He has introduced you to them? As I write this, I am thinking of Norma’s deacon who calls her frequently … always speaks to her at church … and makes sure that Norma feels welcome. I thank God for her.
I also think about my church buddies who bring their specialness to my life. God placed each of these special people in my life to add “flavor”. And then there are my golf buddies – Joe, TeeItUpMichael, Tim, Kelvin and more. Again, special people made special by God from whom I gain encouragement and joy.
I could go on … work, play, business contacts … all people who are uniquely special … all for whom I can thank God as I see their faith grow … and my faith grow as well. Look around you today. Spot those special people in your life … and give thanks to God for them.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Saved?
Good Morning!
I was wondering what it took to be “saved”. “Saved” is a church term that refers to when a person comes to the realization that he /she cannot measure up to God’s requirement of perfection and chooses to place his or her trust in the completed work of Jesus Christ at Calvary.
A lot of folks think that the most common place a person gets saved is listening to a preacher preach. I beg to differ. As a matter of fact, I think that listening to a preacher preach is the least common motivation – no offense intended to my brothers who are preachers. You see I think that most people are influenced by the everyday believer who lives his or her life before the person. What a nonbeliever sees when you or I am under the stresses of the day has a much greater impact – because we are demonstrating the Gospel – not just talking about it.
We also have an impact when build relationships with people … even those who are not currently believers. And that can include some people who are involved in some unsavory practices. Our willingness to reach out to a person who is not doing the right things rather than to criticize and condemn can make a life changing difference. Look, all of us are sinners – even us “saintly” people. Our only claim to righteousness comes in the person of Jesus Christ … no one else. And at one time in our life, someone took the risk to share the love of Christ with us. Now it is our turn to share Christ with another.
And for those who think you don’t know what to say … don’t worry about it. Your life is a testimony … the words will come.
So what verse would be good to memorize today:
Matthew 28:18-20 (English Standard Version)
18And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Footnotes:
a. Matthew 28:19 Or into
Agape’
Mr. Jim
I was wondering what it took to be “saved”. “Saved” is a church term that refers to when a person comes to the realization that he /she cannot measure up to God’s requirement of perfection and chooses to place his or her trust in the completed work of Jesus Christ at Calvary.
A lot of folks think that the most common place a person gets saved is listening to a preacher preach. I beg to differ. As a matter of fact, I think that listening to a preacher preach is the least common motivation – no offense intended to my brothers who are preachers. You see I think that most people are influenced by the everyday believer who lives his or her life before the person. What a nonbeliever sees when you or I am under the stresses of the day has a much greater impact – because we are demonstrating the Gospel – not just talking about it.
We also have an impact when build relationships with people … even those who are not currently believers. And that can include some people who are involved in some unsavory practices. Our willingness to reach out to a person who is not doing the right things rather than to criticize and condemn can make a life changing difference. Look, all of us are sinners – even us “saintly” people. Our only claim to righteousness comes in the person of Jesus Christ … no one else. And at one time in our life, someone took the risk to share the love of Christ with us. Now it is our turn to share Christ with another.
And for those who think you don’t know what to say … don’t worry about it. Your life is a testimony … the words will come.
So what verse would be good to memorize today:
Matthew 28:18-20 (English Standard Version)
18And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Footnotes:
a. Matthew 28:19 Or into
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Loving One Another
02/08/2011
Good Morning!
I spent a good portion of yesterday evening watching the movie “South Pacific”. I know there are a number of people who do not like Rogers and Hammerstein productions, but I am not one. I enjoy watching their productions. South Pacific is one of my favorites … dealing with Americans facing their own racism … and overcoming it.
Let’s face it … racism remains a problem for folks in America today. As I have said before, I believe the root of the problem comes from fear. We look at a person from a different culture or a different skin coloring and immediately begin to draw conclusions based on our fears. That’s kind of dumb ... don’t you think?
Jesus does not want us to live by fear but by faith. Think about the conclusions we often draw about our Heavenly Father:
Is God the one who causes bad things to happen to us? Some of you might think so … but I don’t. I do know that God uses the bad things that happen to us to build our faith in Him … but I don’t believe for a moment that He is the source.
Is God ready to strike us down when we do something wrong? Well if that were true, I might never get up! No – God patiently waits on us to realize the error of our ways and turn back to Him. And He even lets some of us go, knowing we will never return to Him. I assure you that it breaks His heart when even one of His creation rejects Him.
I could go on … but as you can see there are some misconceptions about who God is and what He does. Just like the misconceptions we have about other folks … you know, the ones that aren’t quite like us. But here’s the watchword for us: love one another. Many of the people who are different from me have something very in common with me. They have trusted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. That makes them a brother or a sister in Christ. And there is no room for fear amongst brothers and sisters – is there?
Jesus says it simply:
John 13:34 (English Standard Version)
34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
What a good verse to remember … right brother / sister?
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Good Morning!
I spent a good portion of yesterday evening watching the movie “South Pacific”. I know there are a number of people who do not like Rogers and Hammerstein productions, but I am not one. I enjoy watching their productions. South Pacific is one of my favorites … dealing with Americans facing their own racism … and overcoming it.
Let’s face it … racism remains a problem for folks in America today. As I have said before, I believe the root of the problem comes from fear. We look at a person from a different culture or a different skin coloring and immediately begin to draw conclusions based on our fears. That’s kind of dumb ... don’t you think?
Jesus does not want us to live by fear but by faith. Think about the conclusions we often draw about our Heavenly Father:
Is God the one who causes bad things to happen to us? Some of you might think so … but I don’t. I do know that God uses the bad things that happen to us to build our faith in Him … but I don’t believe for a moment that He is the source.
Is God ready to strike us down when we do something wrong? Well if that were true, I might never get up! No – God patiently waits on us to realize the error of our ways and turn back to Him. And He even lets some of us go, knowing we will never return to Him. I assure you that it breaks His heart when even one of His creation rejects Him.
I could go on … but as you can see there are some misconceptions about who God is and what He does. Just like the misconceptions we have about other folks … you know, the ones that aren’t quite like us. But here’s the watchword for us: love one another. Many of the people who are different from me have something very in common with me. They have trusted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. That makes them a brother or a sister in Christ. And there is no room for fear amongst brothers and sisters – is there?
Jesus says it simply:
John 13:34 (English Standard Version)
34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
What a good verse to remember … right brother / sister?
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Monday, February 7, 2011
Loved By God
Good Morning!
I love the writings of Paul – especially the letter he wrote to the church at Rome. Here is a sample of one of the themes:
Romans 5:6-11 (English Standard Version)
6For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— 8but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. 10For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. 11More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
Paul describes our sinfulness as being “weak”. And quite frankly, sin is a symptom of weakness. Think about it – when I take over the reins of my life and indulge in those things that I would rather you not know about, I am pretty weak. But even when I was “weak”, God revealed His great love for me by offering Himself for me. That makes me feel special … even when I am not so much.
You, too, are special because Jesus died for you as well. And He rose again to give us hope of eternal life. It is a good thought for a Monday morning…
Agape’
Mr. Jim
I love the writings of Paul – especially the letter he wrote to the church at Rome. Here is a sample of one of the themes:
Romans 5:6-11 (English Standard Version)
6For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— 8but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. 10For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. 11More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
Paul describes our sinfulness as being “weak”. And quite frankly, sin is a symptom of weakness. Think about it – when I take over the reins of my life and indulge in those things that I would rather you not know about, I am pretty weak. But even when I was “weak”, God revealed His great love for me by offering Himself for me. That makes me feel special … even when I am not so much.
You, too, are special because Jesus died for you as well. And He rose again to give us hope of eternal life. It is a good thought for a Monday morning…
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Friday, February 4, 2011
Praising God
Good Morning!
I wonder how many of my readers are parents? I was thinking this morning about the number of people I see who are afraid to sing out in a traditional church setting. Oh, I know you are self-conscious … but I think when we are praising God we shouldn’t be bashful or reticent. I think we should sing by letter … you know “open up and let her fly”.
But what if the sound you make isn’t pretty? Well, that is why I asked how many of you are parents. You see, as a parent I know that when it’s our child, our hearing / seeing changes. We want to encourage our child so we overlook the off key; the misstep; the foible and find the place for applause and encouragement. We enjoy seeing our child try to do his or her best … and it is good enough.
Well, remember, God is our Father. He sees our heart – He recognizes when we are doing our best. And He loves the effort. So don’t be afraid to praise God with all your heart and soul.
Isaiah 12 (English Standard Version)
The LORD Is My Strength and My Song
1You[a] will say in that day:"I will give thanks to you, O LORD,
for though you were angry with me,
your anger turned away,
that you might comfort me.
2"Behold, God is my salvation;
I will trust, and will not be afraid;
for the LORD GOD[b] is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation."
3 With joy you[c] will draw water from the wells of salvation. 4 And you will say in that day:
"Give thanks to the LORD,
call upon his name,
make known his deeds among the peoples,
proclaim that his name is exalted.
5 "Sing praises to the LORD, for he has done gloriously;
let this be made known[d] in all the earth.
6Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,
for great in your[e] midst is the Holy One of Israel."
Footnotes:
a. Isaiah 12:1 The Hebrew for you is singular in verse 1
b. Isaiah 12:2 Hebrew for Yah, the LORD
c. Isaiah 12:3 The Hebrew for you is plural in verses 3, 4
d. Isaiah 12:5 Or this is made known
e. Isaiah 12:6 The Hebrew for your in verse 6 is singular, referring to the inhabitant of Zion
Agape’
Mr. Jim
I wonder how many of my readers are parents? I was thinking this morning about the number of people I see who are afraid to sing out in a traditional church setting. Oh, I know you are self-conscious … but I think when we are praising God we shouldn’t be bashful or reticent. I think we should sing by letter … you know “open up and let her fly”.
But what if the sound you make isn’t pretty? Well, that is why I asked how many of you are parents. You see, as a parent I know that when it’s our child, our hearing / seeing changes. We want to encourage our child so we overlook the off key; the misstep; the foible and find the place for applause and encouragement. We enjoy seeing our child try to do his or her best … and it is good enough.
Well, remember, God is our Father. He sees our heart – He recognizes when we are doing our best. And He loves the effort. So don’t be afraid to praise God with all your heart and soul.
Isaiah 12 (English Standard Version)
The LORD Is My Strength and My Song
1You[a] will say in that day:"I will give thanks to you, O LORD,
for though you were angry with me,
your anger turned away,
that you might comfort me.
2"Behold, God is my salvation;
I will trust, and will not be afraid;
for the LORD GOD[b] is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation."
3 With joy you[c] will draw water from the wells of salvation. 4 And you will say in that day:
"Give thanks to the LORD,
call upon his name,
make known his deeds among the peoples,
proclaim that his name is exalted.
5 "Sing praises to the LORD, for he has done gloriously;
let this be made known[d] in all the earth.
6Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,
for great in your[e] midst is the Holy One of Israel."
Footnotes:
a. Isaiah 12:1 The Hebrew for you is singular in verse 1
b. Isaiah 12:2 Hebrew for Yah, the LORD
c. Isaiah 12:3 The Hebrew for you is plural in verses 3, 4
d. Isaiah 12:5 Or this is made known
e. Isaiah 12:6 The Hebrew for your in verse 6 is singular, referring to the inhabitant of Zion
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Thursday, February 3, 2011
He's Been Faithful
Good Morning!
As I type today’s Good Morning, I am listening to Damaris Carbaugh and the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir sing “He’s Been Faithful To Me”. The song is one of my many favorites … one I used to sing when I was in a traditional church setting. The message is just so good … so true … so right on for every one of us as we journey through this life. Through the many years of ups and downs of this life, I could and can always count on the faithfulness of God to me. Here’s the lyric:
In my loneliness and fear, through every pain every tear
There's a God who's been faithful to me
When my strength was all gone, when my heart had no song
Still my God has been faithful to me
Every word He promised is true
What I thought was impossible
I've seen my God do
He's been faithful, faithful to me
Just looking back His love and mercy I see
When in my heart I have questioned
And failed to believe
He's been faithful, faithful to me
When my heart looked away, the many times I could not pray
Even then He's been faithful to me
The days I've spent so selfishly, reaching out for what pleased me
Still in love He's been faithful to me
And every time I come back to Him
I see Him waiting with His open arms and I know once again
He's been faithful, faithful to me
Just looking back His love and mercy I see
When in my heart I have questioned
And failed to believe
He's been faithful, faithful to me
God is always faithful even when we are not. He preserves us. He watches over us. He loves us. Here’s a portion of a Psalm that talks about God’s faithful and steadfast love for us.
Psalm 25:9-11 (English Standard Version)
9He leads the humble in what is right,
and teaches the humble his way.
10All the paths of the LORD are steadfast love and faithfulness,
for those who keep his covenant and his testimonies.
11For your name’s sake, O LORD,
pardon my guilt, for it is great.
Psalms like these makes me feel kind of special … you, too.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
As I type today’s Good Morning, I am listening to Damaris Carbaugh and the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir sing “He’s Been Faithful To Me”. The song is one of my many favorites … one I used to sing when I was in a traditional church setting. The message is just so good … so true … so right on for every one of us as we journey through this life. Through the many years of ups and downs of this life, I could and can always count on the faithfulness of God to me. Here’s the lyric:
In my loneliness and fear, through every pain every tear
There's a God who's been faithful to me
When my strength was all gone, when my heart had no song
Still my God has been faithful to me
Every word He promised is true
What I thought was impossible
I've seen my God do
He's been faithful, faithful to me
Just looking back His love and mercy I see
When in my heart I have questioned
And failed to believe
He's been faithful, faithful to me
When my heart looked away, the many times I could not pray
Even then He's been faithful to me
The days I've spent so selfishly, reaching out for what pleased me
Still in love He's been faithful to me
And every time I come back to Him
I see Him waiting with His open arms and I know once again
He's been faithful, faithful to me
Just looking back His love and mercy I see
When in my heart I have questioned
And failed to believe
He's been faithful, faithful to me
God is always faithful even when we are not. He preserves us. He watches over us. He loves us. Here’s a portion of a Psalm that talks about God’s faithful and steadfast love for us.
Psalm 25:9-11 (English Standard Version)
9He leads the humble in what is right,
and teaches the humble his way.
10All the paths of the LORD are steadfast love and faithfulness,
for those who keep his covenant and his testimonies.
11For your name’s sake, O LORD,
pardon my guilt, for it is great.
Psalms like these makes me feel kind of special … you, too.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Groundhog Day
Good Morning!
No matter what happens with Punxsutawney Phil or General Lee or any of the other myriad of groundhogs today, all us golfers know it’s just six weeks to Daylight Savings Time!!! I can’t wait to see some of my afternoon golf buddies.
I didn’t take up golf until I was in my fifties. Prior to that, I spent my time with my children as they grew up. It was a joy – on I missed after the last one had moved away and there was just me and Miss N. I know she missed her children as well. We enjoyed our children when they were children. And we enjoy them now as well – just differently.
God wants us to be good parents. He has appointed us with not only seeing after their physical and emotional needs but also seeing to their spiritual development. Father especially have an obligation. Look at the following passage:
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (English Standard Version)
4"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.[a] 5You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Footnotes:
a. Deuteronomy 6:4 Or The LORD our God is one LORD; or The LORD is our God, the LORD is one; or The LORD is our God, the LORD alone
Moses was addressing this to fathers. Granted it is harder for parents to do this today – fathers in that day and time spent most of the day with their children. In today’s world, fathers and mothers are pulled away to work – and consequently much of their children’s guidance comes from other people. That is why it is vitally important that we make the most of the time we do have with our children – teaching them about the great God that we love.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Prayer Need:
Terri’s daughter Rachel who was attacked by a Rottweiler last Friday and is experiencing emotional distress.
No matter what happens with Punxsutawney Phil or General Lee or any of the other myriad of groundhogs today, all us golfers know it’s just six weeks to Daylight Savings Time!!! I can’t wait to see some of my afternoon golf buddies.
I didn’t take up golf until I was in my fifties. Prior to that, I spent my time with my children as they grew up. It was a joy – on I missed after the last one had moved away and there was just me and Miss N. I know she missed her children as well. We enjoyed our children when they were children. And we enjoy them now as well – just differently.
God wants us to be good parents. He has appointed us with not only seeing after their physical and emotional needs but also seeing to their spiritual development. Father especially have an obligation. Look at the following passage:
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (English Standard Version)
4"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.[a] 5You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Footnotes:
a. Deuteronomy 6:4 Or The LORD our God is one LORD; or The LORD is our God, the LORD is one; or The LORD is our God, the LORD alone
Moses was addressing this to fathers. Granted it is harder for parents to do this today – fathers in that day and time spent most of the day with their children. In today’s world, fathers and mothers are pulled away to work – and consequently much of their children’s guidance comes from other people. That is why it is vitally important that we make the most of the time we do have with our children – teaching them about the great God that we love.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Prayer Need:
Terri’s daughter Rachel who was attacked by a Rottweiler last Friday and is experiencing emotional distress.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Grumblers; Leavers; Believers
Good Morning!
Pastor Jim Holmes preached a really good sermon Sunday. His text is below. The title of his message was: Grumblers, Leavers and Believers.
John 6:60-71 (English Standard Version)
The Words of Eternal Life
60 When many of his disciples heard it, they said, "This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?" 61But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples were grumbling about this, said to them, "Do you take offense at this? 62Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? 63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 64But there are some of you who do not believe." (For Jesus knew from the beginning who those were who did not believe, and who it was who would betray him.) 65And he said, "This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father."
66 After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. 67So Jesus said to the Twelve, "Do you want to go away as well?" 68Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, 69and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God." 70Jesus answered them, "Did I not choose you, the Twelve? And yet one of you is a devil." 71He spoke of Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the Twelve, was going to betray him.
One of the things that strikes me about this passage is the word “disciples”. I don’t know about you but usually when I think of “the disciples” I think of the twelve men Jesus called. But in this passage a distinction is made between the disciples and the Twelve. What I failed to comprehend was that Jesus had a whole lot more followers that I gave Him credit for having. It is obvious here that Jesus has quite a following … even excluding the Twelve.
The second point that becomes clear to me is that not all “disciples” were true disciples. The word disciple means basically a follower. What we see here is the separation of the true followers and the tag-a-longs. You know what I mean – people who just follow because there is a big crowd that looks interesting or fun or entertaining. But when the message gets tough … the journey gets long … the tag-a-longs get going … headed on to another fancy. True followers hang in. Jesus was challenging what people had learned all of their lives … and it was uncomfortable. So the “disciples (tag-a-longs) began to grumble … “it is a hard saying … who can listen to it?” Making a life change is hard. Realizing that one has been headed down the wrong path isn’t fun … but it is necessary. So the grumblers became leavers – they just didn’t have the spirit to follow.
Jesus then turned to the Twelve that He had called to follow. They had to make a decision either to stay or to go. Jesus already knew that one would betray Him … but He pointed out that He had chosen each of them to be His followers. And Peter acknowledged that they could do no more because of who Jesus was.
Sometimes we have to take a step back and think about who we are. Are we grumblers and leavers? Or are we true believers? That is not a question for me to answer of you – I need to ask it of me. I hope that Christ will always find me as a true disciple, following Him wherever He leads.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Pastor Jim Holmes preached a really good sermon Sunday. His text is below. The title of his message was: Grumblers, Leavers and Believers.
John 6:60-71 (English Standard Version)
The Words of Eternal Life
60 When many of his disciples heard it, they said, "This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?" 61But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples were grumbling about this, said to them, "Do you take offense at this? 62Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? 63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 64But there are some of you who do not believe." (For Jesus knew from the beginning who those were who did not believe, and who it was who would betray him.) 65And he said, "This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father."
66 After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. 67So Jesus said to the Twelve, "Do you want to go away as well?" 68Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, 69and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God." 70Jesus answered them, "Did I not choose you, the Twelve? And yet one of you is a devil." 71He spoke of Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the Twelve, was going to betray him.
One of the things that strikes me about this passage is the word “disciples”. I don’t know about you but usually when I think of “the disciples” I think of the twelve men Jesus called. But in this passage a distinction is made between the disciples and the Twelve. What I failed to comprehend was that Jesus had a whole lot more followers that I gave Him credit for having. It is obvious here that Jesus has quite a following … even excluding the Twelve.
The second point that becomes clear to me is that not all “disciples” were true disciples. The word disciple means basically a follower. What we see here is the separation of the true followers and the tag-a-longs. You know what I mean – people who just follow because there is a big crowd that looks interesting or fun or entertaining. But when the message gets tough … the journey gets long … the tag-a-longs get going … headed on to another fancy. True followers hang in. Jesus was challenging what people had learned all of their lives … and it was uncomfortable. So the “disciples (tag-a-longs) began to grumble … “it is a hard saying … who can listen to it?” Making a life change is hard. Realizing that one has been headed down the wrong path isn’t fun … but it is necessary. So the grumblers became leavers – they just didn’t have the spirit to follow.
Jesus then turned to the Twelve that He had called to follow. They had to make a decision either to stay or to go. Jesus already knew that one would betray Him … but He pointed out that He had chosen each of them to be His followers. And Peter acknowledged that they could do no more because of who Jesus was.
Sometimes we have to take a step back and think about who we are. Are we grumblers and leavers? Or are we true believers? That is not a question for me to answer of you – I need to ask it of me. I hope that Christ will always find me as a true disciple, following Him wherever He leads.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
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